♥ Chapter 2♥
Asher Bennett.
It has been five years since I arrived in Elyssia, a small country that became my home—even though, at first, it didn’t feel like it. When Nick and I landed here, we knew no one and barely spoke the language. Every day was a struggle to find work, to understand the street signs, to not get lost in a city indifferent to our problems. But, like everything in life, things eventually fell into place.
Nick and I found our place here. Even though the memory of what I left behind still hurts, Elyssia gave me a chance to start over. Castellano City is beautiful in its own way, and now I can finally see it clearly.
Over the years, I’ve gone out with a few people. I never deluded myself with promises of love or lasting relationships. Maybe I’ll never be ready for that. I just enjoy a night, and the next day, I move on. My life revolves around work, home, and occasionally, a night of no-strings-attached sex.
We share an apartment. It’s not the most expensive, but it has a touch of luxury that still surprises me. Polished wooden floors, large windows that let in plenty of sunlight. Everything has a refined look. This city is well maintained, and I can’t deny that I’m grateful to have found a place like this.
Of course, Castellano City has its dark rumors. People talk about a leader who controls everything—a cruel and dangerous man. According to the whispers, walking alone at night could mean abduction and an uncertain fate at some secret auction. At first, Nick and I believed every word. We were newcomers, and fear kept us cautious. But after five years, we’ve never seen anything with our own eyes.
I spend my days working at the diner. Nick works at TechNova Solutions, a tech company, where he’s a systems' analyst. He loves what he does, and his dedication to his job is admirable. We’ve always supported each other, and that partnership has been the foundation of our life here.
6:30 AM – Diner – Castellano City
Friday
In the employee break room, I put on my uniform for another day of work. This isn’t just any diner—it’s one of the most famous in the city, always packed. The rush never stops, and I like that. Keeping busy prevents my mind from wandering to places I’d rather forget.
I take a moment to look in the mirror. Light brown eyes stare back at me, holding an intensity that sometimes unsettles me. My recently dyed gray contrasts with my tanned skin. I like the look. I chose it for myself—a way to express the control I now have over my life.
At five foot five, I was always one of the shortest among my friends, but it never bothered me. My body, once skinny, has gained definition over the years. The physically demanding jobs when I first arrived here shaped my muscles, giving me a stronger appearance. I’ve gone from an insecure boy to a man who understands his own worth.
I adjust my shirt, making sure it looks perfect, and take a deep breath. Time to face another day.
The break room door swings open as my coworkers start to filter in. Liam, always the first to arrive, walks in with that mischievous grin of his.
"Hey, Asher! Ready for another chaotic day?" He laughs.
"As if we had a choice, right?" I reply, chuckling as well.
Sophia and Jack walk in right after him, animatedly debating some TV show. The room quickly fills with voices and laughter.
"You have to watch this show, Asher! It’s amazing!" Jack says enthusiastically.
"If it’s as good as the last one you recommended, I think I’ll pass," I reply, remembering that terrible experience.
"Hey! That one had its charm!" He protests, laughing.
Sophia puts her bag in the locker.
"Since it’s Friday, how about going to a club after work?" she suggests, excited.
"Yes! It’s been a while since we all went out together," Liam agrees.
"I’m in," Jack responds instantly.
They all turn to me, waiting for my answer. I think for a moment. It’s been months since I last went out. Inviting Nick sounds like a good idea.
"Why not? I’ll invite Nick. He’ll like it," I say, and they all cheer.
Nick was of course very happy to go to the club with me, so when I told him the news, he agreed without hesitation.
At night, Nick and I dressed up and got in a taxi to the club.
As the car began to move, I gazed out the window, feeling the anticipation build.
The night was just beginning—and little did I know, it was about to change my life forever.