Cynric's POV

[16TH DECEMBER, 20XX]

"She...cut the call," I said sadly to Aria. I gulped heavily and took a minute to myself.

"It's so hard trying to get over her. I like her so much but...she's not reciprocating." I told Aria. Of course, I didn't tell her about Amy's reverse harem with her adopted brothers and that I manipulated her.

Suddenly, the memories from the other night flashed before my eyes.

[FLASHBACK...]

It was probably the best night of my life. Ever. I was done making her love to her and even then, I couldn't stop smiling like a maniac. In reality, I had seventeen pictures of them sleeping together, in compromising positions. Every angle.

But something in me just...changed one night. I realized I didn't want Amy just for a fling. To empty my balls in her. She's way pretty for that. I want to make her mine and heck! I didn't even mind if I had to share her with her adopted brothers. All that mattered was that I craved her love.

Her skin, her hair, her smile..it attracted me superficially. But as I spent time with her - even if it was just for our flings - I saw the person in her. She is such a pliant, sweet person behind the facade of a 'Frostbite'. Maybe the elite and rich like her keep up a tough personality to ward off ill-wishers.

I don't remember the words that came out of my mouth, but that night, I begged her to stay with me. She rejected me outrightly, and I knew I couldn't get a 'yes' from her any time soon. I gave up that night, even if it hurt like hell, I chose to give up...and try again.

I have an elaborate plan to make her fall in love with me. But first, I need to start courting her, discreetly.

[FLASHBACK ENDS...]

Aria, my sweet neighbour, noticed I hadn't gone to college either. She suggested that I open up. And when I did, she couldn't believe it in the beginning.

"You...love her?" She asked, flabbergasted.

"Yes. I do. Very much." I answered honestly.

"Then you have to make her yours. You seem serious about her." Aria said.

"Yes. That's what I intend on doing." Aria didn't have to know how I'd be going about that. Hence, I have no explanation to give when she knows so little about me. Aria walked out of my house and I watched her leave with sad eyes. It's a pity that we can't hang out while my parents will be coming soon.

My parents, Maya and James Zelinsky are very strict. I lead a very different life compared to the others. I'm an engineering major at the campus, and my keen interest in engineering has made me drift apart from my family of businessmen and businesswomen. I had no interest nor will I ever have interest in business. They can do whatever they want for their company because I won't be in this country after graduation. I'd have moved to Germany or something.

As soon as my parents got back home after a few minutes, I shut myself in my room. I instructed my butler not to let anyone interrupt me while I was 'working'.

That was just to make sure I kept my privacy and not have them eavesdrop on me talking to someone. Moreover a girl.

It took Amy three calls and a dozen texts from me as I pleaded to let me talk to her. At that point, I was just so desperate to hear her voice.

"Why the fuck are you bothering me?" My heart felt like it was pounding out of my chest.

"Amy, just listen to me. I don't care whether you tell your brothers about me. Just please, give me one chance. I'll take such good care of you. Didn't you see how good I can be?"

"Are you trying to fucking manipulate me?" Her question made me realize this was going in the wrong direction. I could feel her fuming rage even through the phone call.

"No, Amy. Please, just one chance. I'll promise to love you like no one else can. I'll leave everything behind for you if you want." That made her go silent on the other end of the line.

"Leave everything behind? What do you mean?"

"I'll not be a Zelinsky anymore."

That wasn't an impulsive statement. I've got nothing to lose, that's why I said it.

"...You're crazy, Cynric. Leave me the fuck alone. I can't reciprocate your feelings. And we have exams coming up, don't lose your life for me - I'd hate it. Goodbye." And she cut the call. Well, I see why I've fallen for her in the first place. She was thinking of my well-being, urging me to study rather than spend time with her.

Even I figured that I'd concentrate on my studies before that and maybe then, start courting Amy.

[THE NEXT DAY]

It was our first paper of the semi-annuals. I was totally unprepared for this exam. There was quite a commotion outside, but I've got used to that by now. Even during exam days, Nick and Dane - the Frostbite brothers got attention from the ladies. I get attention like this too, but not to that extent.

Our seats were alloted and I had to sit next to Winter. I could already feel the glare of Dane drilling a hole in my head from behind. I looked over my shoulder, and there he was. I simply rolled my eyes, conveying that his jealousy was unreasonable.

That's because I wasn't attracted to this lover of his. I was attracted to his other lover. The one who didn't look as intimidating and cared for other people like they were her children.

The exam began, and I knew I was set for doom when the first question didn't even get registered in my head. They all looked fumbled, the letters were dancing.

Well, this was going to disappoint the hell out of my parents.