Mine

Dami’s POV

“Well, that food was so yummy. I really enjoyed it,” Sophia muttered with a satisfied smile as we entered the room.

I couldn’t help but agree. The food was delicious, and it took me back to old times. It was Axel’s favorite dish. He made me love it once, cooking it for me on special nights. The memory stung, and the food reminded me of old times.

“You seem lost in thought. What’s happening?” she asked, snapping me out of my reverie.

“I’m just thinking about something, but it’s nothing important,” I said lightly.

Sophia didn’t buy it. She set her hand over mine. “You’re thinking about him, aren’t you? Feelings like that don’t just disappear. I knew something like this would happen eventually.”

I exhaled, weary. “Please stop, Sophia. I don’t want to think about it. Anyway, I didn’t see Doman tonight. He said he would come back or text me if he couldn’t make it.”

She rolled her eyes, pulling her hand back. “I’m glad he isn’t here. I hope he disappoints you because you don't even want to listen. That guy, there is something off about him."

“Get out, Sophia. You’re only making things worse. The room next to this is yours. Be comfortable," i said, switching off the lights.

She left without another word. I let out a shaky breath. So many feelings, all crowding in but I refused to let them swallow me tonight. Sleep would have to do.

Next Morning

I woke up clearer than yesterday. Yesterday had been heavy but today promised worse. I said my prayer then did some yoga to calm my mind further.

I chose a brown body-hugging dress after my shower. It clung to me like a second skin, showing every curve. My makeup sharpened my features and it made me look more mature like a boss lady.

Axel will crumble when he sees me, I thought. Soon, he’ll be the one begging for me to take him back. That was the goal, isn't it?

A noise rose from downstairs, low voices, and a thud. My pulse jumped. I grabbed my phone and stepped into the hall just as Sophia emerged, already dressed and made up, her eyes bright but cold.

“Good morning, Dami. Am I the only one hearing noises?” she asked, brows arched.

“I hear it too. And you look gorgeous. Competing with me?” I teased.

She rolled her eyes but smirked faintly. “Don’t even start. Let’s see what’s going on.”

We hurried down the stairs and froze.

Doman stood over Axel, fists clenched, his posture coiled like a predator ready to strike. Axel’s jaw was tight, his fists balled.

“Doman! What the hell are you doing?” I yelled.

He straightened, smile flicking across his face like a mask. He turned to me, took my hand, and kissed it softly. “Hello, my queen. You look so good this morning I could eat you for breakfast.”

Heat flared under my skin despite myself. Why did his touch feel both sweet and dangerous?

“Why didn’t you come last night?” I asked, trying to steady my voice.

“I’m sorry for not calling. I had serious issues to sort out. That’s why I came here early to see you,” he murmured, pulling me closer. His scent wrapped around me, it was very strong and intoxicating.

“You should be asking why Doman had Axel on the floor,” Sophia cut in, voice sharp and bitter. This girl couldn't even hide her hatred towards Doman. What did he even do to her?

Doman’s eyes snapped to her. “Who is this one? Why is she meddling in our affairs, babe?” he asked, anger evident in his tone.

Sophia hissed. “I’m someone who actually cares about her,” she shot back before turning on her heel and walking off.

Axel got to his feet, glaring at Doman. “He barged in and I told him to stay away from us. That’s all!”

Doman shrugged, casual menace in the movement. “He disrespected me when I came in. I had to teach him a lesson, and I didn’t even touch him.”

“You’re twisting it,” Axel snapped. “I warned you to stay away and you pushed me to the floor, threatening to kill me.”

“Listen to the tone, babe,” Doman said smoothly, eyes still locked on Axel. “That’s disrespect and why would i want to kill a person not to talk of my brother huh?”

I folded my arms, letting my voice turn cold. “Doman is my man. I won’t tolerate any form of disrespect. Axel, this is your last warning.”

Axel’s eyes flashed with hurt and fury, but he said nothing. "Drive Sophia to the company,” I ordered. “Show her the meetings and everything she needs. I’ll call you to pick me up.”

I needed time alone with Doman to see what kind of man he really was. "Babe, let’s go,” I said sweetly, and followed Doman out.

His car wasn’t expensive but it was neat, with a faint scent of leather and cologne.

“Where are we going? Shouldn’t we head to the company together?” he asked, starting the engine.

I chuckled. “To the company together to do what? This is my business. Don’t forget this is a revenge plan.”

“I haven’t forgotten.” His voice softened.

“Revenge or not, I like you, Dami. You’re bold, beautiful, smart and soft. You're everything. I don’t want to be a pawn in your game. I want us to be real. I want you to be mine, and me to be yours.”

His words pressed against the walls i had built for three years. Axel still haunted me, but this man, my supposed ally was offering something else entirely.

“Do you really mean that?” I asked quietly. “Or is this just another way to hurt your brother?”

“I don’t give a damn about him anymore. All that matters is you and me. Let’s make this work. Be my girlfriend, my real girlfriend. Please.”

My breath caught. For three years i had orchestrated every move of this game. Now, in one morning, my pawn was asking to become my king. And for the first time, I wasn’t sure whose game I was playing anymore.