5

Cherry

I walked into the mansion and watched as they got into their cars and drove off. I thought I was strong enough to accept that Xavier liked Gueneve, but right now, seeing the both of them together, I can’t help but stop lying to myself—they look good together. Of course they do. Who wouldn’t love Gueneve when everyone probably adores her? I leaned against the door, fighting my tears and telling myself that this is nothing and nobody is worth my tears—not those two, not Xavier.

I blinked back my tears, refusing to let them fall. Of course, it’s not that easy. I’m fucking human too. After what felt like forever, I finally felt better and found the energy to walk back to my room upstairs. I got in and tiredly dumped my bag on the bed. I honestly lost all the energy I had while coming home. Initially, I wanted to film a video for my fans, but right now it felt like I was no longer in the mood, so I decided to soak myself in the bathtub. Who knows, I might feel better after.

I stripped off my clothes and walked into the bathroom, where I gently entered the bathtub. I closed my eyes, allowing the water to seep into every part of my body. After what felt like forever, I felt better and came out of the bathtub. I wrapped a towel around my body and walked back into my room. I dried my body and wore my pajamas, after which I sat in front of the mirror to dry my hair.

For some reason, I reminded myself that just because a man did not choose me does not mean that I should pause my life because of him. I love him, yes, but did he choose me? No. Should I cry because of that? Yes, crying is not a weakness—but I already promised myself not to shed any tears for someone who’s not worth it. Weakness is placing my happiness solely on someone else and giving them control over me, which I’m never going to do.

So even though I’m sad and feel like crying because I kept on wondering if he’s smiling at her, if they are probably kissing, or if they are hugging, I decided to busy my mind by shooting a video for my fans instead. I can’t pause my life because of Xavier and Gueneve.

I picked up my phone, set up my tripod stand and UV lights, and began to film a skincare promotional video. In two hours, I was done with my videos and went ahead to reply to emails and some collaboration messages. I was almost feeling sleepy at this point when I heard a knock at my door. My eyes lit up because, of course, I knew it was my brother. I placed my laptop on the table and happily went to open the door, but as soon as I did, my expression changed instantly.

“Hey, little sister,” Gueneve’s annoying face popped up.

I wanted to slam the door on her face, but then, wouldn’t that be overreacting and giving her a clue that whatever she has going on with Xavier is affecting me? I already told myself that I’m never going to give her that luxury, so instead, I put on a smiling face.

“Why are you here?” I asked, even though I was gripping the doorknob so tight it felt like my life depended on it.

“Can I come in?”

I was about to answer when she pushed past me and made her way into my room.

“Wow, Cherry, I must commend aunt and uncle, because you’re living in pure luxury. I mean, this is more than a princess room. Back at home, I don’t even have this kind of luxury,” she pouted.

“Maybe you should work as hard as I do, then you can try comparing yourself to me,” I blurted straight up. Her eyes changed into a glare, but she was quick to replace that with a fake smile and went ahead to sit on my working table.

“Come on, sis. It’s not like I can’t work as hard as you. It’s just that I’m too preserved. I mean, I can’t sell my body just for collaborations and deals, allegedly.”

I smirked. Obviously, I’m not taking the bitch seriously.

“Well, if you think I exchanged my body to get to where I am today, maybe you should try exchanging yours. Let’s see where it gets you. But I bet you can’t even make it, even if you spend your whole life selling your body.” I smiled with a dirty grin and raised my eyebrows.

I watched as she gritted her teeth, balled her fists, and acted like she was about to jump on me.

“What happened? Are you okay? It’s just that you’re sweating. Should I get Xavier to come check on you?” I made a mocking look.

“Of course not. I mean, he’s probably so tired right now. You know, we did a lot today,” she made a daydreaming face.

“Oh, okay. Then why are you here in my room? You should probably go to him so you guys can continue from where you stopped.”

“That? Oh, please. Xavier is a rough type. I think I need a rest.”

I rolled my eyes, waiting for her to leave already. It’s obvious the bitch is trying to get on my nerves. I watched as she stood up.

“Here, have this. It’s one of the flowers that Xavier got for me. He bought a lot, and I figured I might share the ones I don’t like with you, my loving little sister.”

“Ohhh….” I stepped closer and stretched out my hand, acting like I was about to take the bag from her, but as soon as it was about to touch my finger, I withdrew my hand and let the flower fall.

“Oops, sorry, big sister. I’m just not used to cheap stuff.”

At this point, she was fuming and growling inside but still putting on a smiling face.

“Goodnight, sis,” she forced a smile and tried to leave.

“Sis?” I called, and she stopped.

“I think you’re forgetting something.”

“What?”

“Here….” I pointed at the flower on the floor.