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The Ex-Fiancée (CEO!Lucifer x Reader)

Title: Counterattack of the Tyrant CEO’s Ex-Fiancée

Word count: 14.4 K

Pairing: Lucifer x FMC, Lucifer x F!Reader

***

You awoke to a mechanical voice greeting you cutely, [Greetings, Host!].

Never mind where that disembodied computer-like voice came from, you looked around with wide eyes. A second ago you were eating fries while waiting for the traffic light to turn green but now you were standing in a soulless room with white walls and a white floor. There was no sign of a door or piece of furniture anywhere.

[Host seems confused] the voice pointed out the obvious.

Maybe you were so shocked that you couldn’t bring yourself to freak out. With a steady voice, you asked aloud, “Um … who are you? And where am I?”

There was a ding inside your head almost like the voice was expressing delight at being acknowledged. [Answering the Host, I am the Secondary Character Grievance Delivery System No. 00143 and currently, you are in the White Space.]

You didn’t know what to say.

To start … “Okay, why … why am I here?”

[Host has died and because you fit the criteria, you are now here with me!] It sounded very happy and very proud of its explanation.

A vein throbbed in your skull as your patience waned. You wanted to hit this … whatever this thing was.

[Huhu,] it sounded like it was sobbing [Host is being mean to me, I am not a thing!]

Oh, did you say that aloud?

[Yes!] It yelled [Host and the Secondary Character Grievance Delivery System No. 00143 are now bound, like two fated lovers, so please be more gentle with me.]

“ ... ”

[ … ]

“... Look, Secondary System number whatever,” you spoke as you paced around the spacious room, “I clearly remember buying French fries from a stand near work and waiting to cross the road. I close my eyes for a moment and now that I open them I’m here. I don’t remember dying.”

[Ding. Please direct your attention to the screen.] A flat screen made of light flashed right in front of you and it began playing a first-person film. It didn’t take long for you to see the familiar red traffic light and your apartment building from across the road. This was a recording of your memories.

The memory played as you remembered it, with you even eating the fries and checking your phone. But then a volleyball bounced into the road, an event which you could not recall. Suddenly, a little boy, probably no more than six years old, ran forward with arms reaching for the ball. The light was still red and a six-wheeler truck was speeding right towards the kid. You dropped your things and dove forward. You threw him out of the way then the screen went black.

You put a hand over your mouth. Did you really die?

[Yes, the Host’s body was crushed under the truck and died instantly.] The oblivious system agreed with a light, childish tone.

“No, I can’t be dead. I’m not dead, I’m still ... ”

[Ding. The Host’s body definitely died, but the soul is immortal and so here you are.]

“No, wait! If I really am dead then what’s my purpose coming here?” This so-called White Space and this annoying, bodiless, insensitive system were too shady.

[Huhuhu, the Host called me shady...]

“Tell me the situation again, and don’t be stupid when you do it.” Who had time to be polite when they were dead?

[Q.Q]

After “crying,” the system finally explained: [Most souls are moved to limbo after death. There they are judged whether they reincarnate as a newborn human or a newborn animal, with no memory of their past lives. In special cases, one soul out of 300 trillion is chosen to bind with systems such as I.] Seeing your unimpressed expression, the system hurriedly expounded, [The fiction-loving, food-obsessed otaku Host selflessly sacrificed her life for someone else but still has many regrets and a powerful tie to her original world. It just so happens that Lord God was searching for new recruits and found your soul before it could enter limbo. After reviewing your life, Lord God assigned you to the Secondary Character Grievance Delivery System No. 00143 ].

You tapped your foot.

[Q^Q] The system shivered. [Er, many systems exist to prevent the destruction of different universes--]

“And judging from your name, these universes are fictional?” Otherwise, the term secondary character would be asinine.

[In a sense, yes. What may be classified as a soap opera drama or a game in your reality could actually be a thriving universe in another, hence, the saying ‘writers are gods’. These alternate worlds are extremely fragile compared to yours and one wrong move may lead to its collapse. However, this system is not concerned with world-saving.]

“Let me guess, you and your chosen Host are in charge of avenging the secondary character?”

[Ding! Ding! Host is super-smart]

This idiot system ... “Then that contradicts with your previous statement about fictional worlds being extremely fragile, doesn’t it? Even if you’re not concerned with world-saving, wouldn’t the act of going off script alone tamper with the story and therefore destroy the reality? Why would such a system exist in the first place?”

[...]

[.......]

The system with no body wanted to roll around hitting its head and pulling its hair. Why did its new Host ask so many questions? And why did it sound like you were insulting its existence?

[Host, please spare this system! I really don’t know anything! The information I’ve shared was pre-programmed.]

“So you truly are just a system with no mind of your own.”

[QAQ]

“What do I get for ‘avenging the secondary character’?”

The system perked up with the change of subject. [Ding. The Host can return to her original world. Rest assured, even if the body has died, Lord God can reverse time and make sure you survive.]

“And if I reject?”

[Then Host will be sent to limbo to be judged whether she will be reborn human or a cockroach. Your memories will be wiped clean either way.]

“I see.” You went quiet.

[What will the Host do?]

You smiled. “If there’s a chance I encounter beautiful men then obviously, I accept.”

[Ding! The Secondary Character Grievance Delivery System No. 00143 formally welcomes you as its new Host!]

“But first things first,” you crossed your arms. “I’m giving you a new name.”

[Ding. Ding. Yes, of course! Host and this system are now bound, Host can assign me whichever name you choose. I even have a book for naming babies--]

“Uwak.”

[?.?]

“Your new name will be Uwak. It’s Tagalog and means ‘raven’ or ‘crow’.”

[Both birds are very clever! It is a great name.]

You nodded, “Yes, I hope by naming you after them you can become smarter.”

[...]

[...!]

Host has known the system for less than an hour and yet you have broken its heart dozens of times now. Uwak wanted to go on strike.

Uncaring of the system’s plight, you stretched your arms upward. “I want to know, how many worlds must I go through before I can return?”

[Ding. That depends on the Host’s performance in each world. Please direct your attention to the screen.] A light screen appeared again, this time showing the criteria and grading for each world.

[The grades you can achieve by doing your mission are listed from lowest to highest: C, B, A and S. Each character has different requests and therefore success differs for each world. You must achieve a hundred S-graded missions in order to return to your original world.]

[Host, please remember that you must keep your character settings above 80%. That means--]

“I know. It means that I can’t act too differently from the original personality, right? I understand.”

[Does Host have any further questions?]

“Do I have access to any special abilities?”

The system ding-ed and the light screen disappeared as the White Space morphed into the inside of what appeared to be a convenience store. You would’ve mistaken it for just another 7-Eleven if not for the ... unusual products.

[The Host can purchase items in the system store using reward points, which are awarded after each mission. Many variables affect the amount you’re given, such as the mission difficulty and your overall performance.]

You gazed over the fridge and saw a green bottle marketed as “The Little Mermaid’s Voice in a Bottle. One sip and you can make any man, woman, or sea creature do your bidding!” It was priced at ... 2500? Talk about stingy.

[Rest assured, using an item to achieve a task will not affect your grade.]

“Okay.”

[Does Host have any further questions?]

“No more.”

[The system has already received information on the next world. Would Host like to transmigrate now?]

After saying yes aloud, your figure floated in the air.

[Synchronizing souls ... ]

The convenience store dissolved back into the White Space and a young woman hovered in front of you. Her eyes were closed and her hands were clasped together almost like in prayer. This was the second female lead.

[Sharing character memories ... Sharing novel details … ]

[Reminder: so that our readers will not get confused, the secondary characters will always be named MC.]

The White Space’s walls, ceilings and floor began to play different snippets of the woman’s memories.

This lady before you was named MC just like you and she had the unfortunate fate of being engaged to the male lead, Lucifer. Unfortunate because they belonged in the world of “The Tyrant CEO has a Soft Spot for Me,” a typical Cinderella romance novel about a working-class college student who meets and falls in love with the eponymous CEO.

Our female lead was named Lotus, who is young, wide-eyed and honest. This hardworking student recently became an intern at MC’s office and worked as her personal assistant. However, no amount of Lotus’ prettiness or personal integrity could make up for her clumsiness; she often spilled coffee, got lost while doing errands, and spaced out.

This klutziness is essential to the plot because Lotus gets lost while delivering coffee to the MC and bumps into her fated one, Lucifer. Not knowing that this was the Devil Tyrant of the Business World, she offers to clean his suit for him and buy him lunch as compensation. For some reason, this moronic male lead agrees. Lotus takes him to a fast food restaurant where she cuts the food of an elderly struggling with his meal. This machine of a man witnesses her kindness and his interest deepens. He learns that Lotus is working for the MC but fails to mention the engagement.

From then on, he begins to pursue her, asking her to eat with him, surprising her with bouquets and personally escorting her home from school in his limo. At first she refuses but eventually relents, touched by his persistence.

For a time, the two were on cloud nine.

But then MC found out about them. Shocked by Lucifer’s infidelity, naturally, she goes to confront him but he brushes her off, so she meets with the girl. MC addresses her problem; that she is Lucifer’s fiancé and politely but firmly asks Lotus to break up with him. Lotus, being the oh-so-holy person that she is, cuts off contact with Lucifer.

Lucifer finds out the reason why his beloved Lotus began giving him the cold shoulder so he officially breaks off the engagement. This bastard then proceeds to propose to Lotus in public and guess what, she actually agrees and they get married in a spectacularly funded wedding. They have their honeymoon abroad where they make mind-blowing love so many times that she ends up pregnant after three days.

While all this happened, the second female lead’s family business crumbled, the MC was inexplicably labeled a homewrecker, and her parents criticized her for not working hard enough to hold onto Lucifer. She was disowned, ostracized by the public, and then evicted from her home. Unable to deal with these life-changing events, MC threw herself off a bridge.

Nevermind that Lotus wasn’t even out of college during the events of the novel, nevermind that the 30-something male lead was a work-obsessed, scandal-hating man who was likely a virgin, and don’t ask why the boss of a respected company would agree to go to a McDonald’s with this complete stranger when he has a thousand responsibilities at his own office on his own floor with his own meticulously-made lunch waiting for him. Let’s ignore that insanity and instead ask this: why kill the second female lead so harshly? What did she do other than be righteously mad at this complete stranger for stealing her fiancé?

[Initializing transfer ... 30%, 42% ... ]

As you tread through the novel’s plot, you can’t help but think to yourself: how stupid was the author who wrote this?

[... 59% ...]

The light in the White Space dimmed until you could no longer see anything.

[... 99% ... Transfer complete.]

[Ding. World of “The Tyrant CEO has a Soft Spot for Me” welcomes you. Mission Difficulty: Novice.]

[Main Mission: Save and protect grandfather’s company. Side Task: Prevent the male lead and female lead from getting together. Time limit: one month. Friendly reminder from the system: keep your character settings from collapsing.]

[Good luck, Host.]

You opened your eyes and found yourself in a new body, sitting in what appeared to be an office. You stood up and walked towards a mirror. This woman could have easily become a model.

You didn’t spend too much time admiring your new face though and immediately called for the system, “Uwak, how far along the plot are we?”

[Ding. Answering the Host, the novel’s events are about to begin. Lotus is currently buying your coffee and the male lead has just left his car.]

You made your way inside your private lift.

[Host, what’re you planning?]

“I’m going to catch a snake, of course.” The novel didn’t explain why the allegedly cold-hearted CEO was in your company building in the first place, but since he had no official business here, you believed that he was here to see you. Even though the book didn’t touch upon their relationship, according to the original host’s memories, she and Lucifer had an amicable engagement up until Lotus’ intervention.

Actually, the original host’s memories filled in a lot of gaps. Lucifer got engaged when his dying grandfather insisted on it, claiming that he wouldn't die peacefully if his only grandson continued to live lonely. MC fit all of the old man’s criteria: she was well-mannered and intelligent, she came from a respectable family, and most importantly, she was clear-headed.

Leading her on for a year and then leaving her behind for her assistant, this man can’t be forgiven.

You smiled, feeling like you could take on the Devil right now.

[Host, your smile is terrifying.]

“Thank you.” A vengeful woman’s aura shouldn’t be underestimated. You glanced at your watch and asked where the two protagonists were.

[Ding. The female lead is on the elevator while the male lead is taking a phone call in the lounge on the fifth floor.]

You exited your personal lift just in time to catch the leading lady in the hallway. Reeling your desire to walk over and slap this homewrecker, you leaned over the wall.

[Host, why are you hiding? Why aren’t you stopping the female lead!?]

“Hush. Let them meet.” You watched as the girl turned around, seemingly confused, and stumbled into another hallway.

[Host, why!? Your side task is to make sure the male lead never pursues the female lead!]

“Don’t you think it’s too convenient?”

[???]

After receiving the original host’s memories, you discovered an important piece of information. “It’s true that Lotus often got lost, but that was always when she was outside, she never lost her way inside this building.”

The system scratched its head and when it said nothing, you sighed.

“... Maybe I should rename you Baka.”

[?.?]

[Tagalog term for “cow?”]

“No, baka, as in Japanese for ‘idiot’.”

[T.T]

“This meeting between lovers has nothing to do with destiny.” Because this was a novel everything could be excused simply because the author willed it so, but using logic on this particular plot hole, there was only one explanation: “It was planned.”

You then ordered Uwak to livestream the two protagonists.

The male lead just finished his phone call. He glanced at his watch, clicked his tongue, then exited the lounge just as when Lotus walked past the entrance, causing her to spill the coffee on his suit.

What the novel didn’t mention was that Lotus actually stood beside the door and waited for the right time to bump into him.

Dropping the coffee cup and letting the leftover coffee stain the hardwood floor and carpet, the female lead put a hand over her mouth and fluttered her eyelashes bashfully but her stare locked firmly on the male lead’s eyes.

Lotus took out her handkerchief, though it was clean the faded white fabric couldn’t hide the fact that it was old and worn. In one smooth motion, she was all over Lucifer. She dabbed the hankie on the jacket while her free hand gave him light, fleeting touches on the shoulder and arm. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you there. I’m such a klutz, MC will get angry at me for sure! I’ll pay for, er, I’ll do the cleaning myself. Please don’t get mad, and definitely don’t tell MC. She’s been so patient with me but I know that she might actually fire me now. I’ve been doing my best but I’m always getting in her way and if she finds out I’ve disturbed a guest, she might actually … she might … oh, huhuhu… ” Tears spilled out from her eyes and, turning around, she wiped them with her fists.

Lucifer: …

System: …

You: …

You wanted to clap your hands. The female lead could win an Oscar with those skills.

“Uwak, do you know why that performance is so amazing?”

[There are many things to say about what just happened, but I wouldn’t call it amazing.]

For the first time, you actually laughed at the system’s reply, so you decided to be kind and not insult it. “By spilling coffee on him, she gets him to look at her. Using the coffee as an excuse, she cleans him and touches him, not too much that it becomes grating, but just enough to make him subconsciously think of her as a tender person. She pretends to have a breakdown so he can pardon her suddenly sharing her life story while simultaneously giving him an idea about her relationship with me. Also, while she acts like we’re close her wording makes it seem like I’m an impatient, unreasonable boss.”

The original MC wasn’t as merciless as her fiancé. The second female lead scolded Lotus for her mistakes but seeing the girl’s desire to work on herself, MC doesn’t fire her. Instead MC teaches her the ropes of the business like a mentor. At some point, this “honest but ditzy” student decided to refer to her by her first name.

“What a talented girl,” you nodded. She worked fast so that the normally guarded Lucifer was caught off guard.

[Isn’t Host going to stop them?]

“Hush and let me watch.”

On the other side of the monitor, Lucifer was wondering how the hell he ended up with a soaked suit and a weeping woman.

Following his secretary, Simeon’s advice, he personally came to this establishment so he can invite MC to a lunch date. Usually, you were the one to ask him to eat together but because your business hasn’t been doing well you’ve been too busy to contact him. Your last message to him was over four months ago and his grandfather was complaining how he missed you. He ordered Simeon to do it but his longtime friend refused, claiming that Lucifer himself should visit you after so long.

“It’s what a good husband-to-be should do,” Simeon added with a smile.

Back to the situation at hand, Lucifer tried to calm down the girl. As he reassured her that she didn’t need to clean his suit, he finally realized how she referred to you by your name. Lucifer scanned the person in front of him. Clean and put-together, this girl was pretty. But Lucifer has seen his fair share of gorgeous women from all parts of the world and so he no longer notices these things unless he was actively appreciating them. The only thing worth noting about her was the name tag on her left breast.

“You’re an intern, I see.”

That line finally got this girl to stop her tears. “Ah, yes, I’m Lotus. I’m MC’s personal assistant.”

“Correct me if I’m wrong but did you just call your boss by her first name?” Lucifer rarely inquired about your business, let alone relationship with your subordinates, but he’s known you to be a strict person so this was a surprise.

Lotus smiled, flashing too-white teeth. “Yes, she’s usually very nice.”

“I see … so you’re close to her?”

Her smile faltered but she fixed it before Lucifer would notice. “Yes, very much! I get her coffee, steam her work outfits, buy her groceries, … ” she listed several menial tasks that were not remotely related to officework, “... but it’s all right. I don’t mind since she’s usually very generous.”

This supposedly genius male lead who became chief executive officer when he was twenty-four didn’t find anything wrong with the way this girl talked and continued to humor her.

“Ah, listen to me ramble. I wouldn’t want you to think too badly of me or my company so how about I treat you to lunch?”

Lucifer was about to say no because … huh? His mind fogged up for a second and he staggered.

Lotus tilted her head in worry. “Are you all right?”

“Yes, I’m fine … ” What was he going to say?

Oh.

“... and I’ll take you up on your offer.”

The female lead clasped her hands in delight and they walked to the lift together.

The light screen vanished and the system bawled. [They’re going now, they’re going now! Host, do something!]

You sighed. “How many times must I tell you to stay quiet?”

[But--]

“I’m thinking so make yourself useful and stay muted.”

[...]

You wordlessly entered your elevator. The system panicked inwardly, the side task was for you to stop the two main characters from hooking up but you just let them go!

“Hey,” you called softly.

[?!]

“If the red string of fate were real, do you think it can be cut?”

Your suspicion of Lotus being less-than-pure was proven right. But just because she and Lucifer weren’t brought together by heaven didn’t mean the thing called “fate” did not have some weight in this world. You needed to tread carefully. Ah, just thinking about what to do made you tired.

You exited the elevator and stepped into the parking lot.

[Host?] The system was getting worried. Were you terrified? Did you finally realize your mistake? Was this mission too hard? Ah, but this was just a novice-level mission world!

Uwak silently lit a candle for you. Hopefully, the Lord God would give you an even easier novice-level mission next time.

If you could hear the system’s inner thoughts you’d scold it three times. Who was panicking?

You made your way to the original’s car. A silver sedan, inconspicuous and practical.

“You never answered me, stupid system.”

Its Host finally spoke but the system was not happy.

“But anyway, it doesn’t matter. Guessing is no good, we need to try it for ourselves. Cutting the red string, that is.” You leaned back on the leather chair and smirked.

The system trembled. [W-what is my Host planning?]

You didn’t give it a proper answer. “The fastest route to success while using the least amount of effort-- that is my life motto.”

After making a few phone calls, you put on your seatbelt and started the car.

Let the two lovebirds have their fun for now.

Speaking of, Lucifer and his three-piece suit were completely out of place in the fast food joint.

Lotus finished helping an old man cut up his food and returned to her table with a smile.

Then she furrowed her brows and her lip bulged out to give the impression of a cute pout. She gazed at the untouched burger and soda. “Aren’t you hungry?”

Lucifer didn’t say anything.

She waved her hand and he blinked.

Not letting his embarrassment show, Lucifer cleared his throat. “Beg your pardon, what did you say?”

She giggled, giving the impression of a carefree youth, which Lucifer admittedly hasn’t witnessed in a long while. “I asked if you’re not hungry, or …” She shyly brushed her back, “do you not like the food? I’m kinda tight on money now, I’m sorry.”

“No, I’m … I’m all right. Thank you for buying me food.” He straightened his posture.

Lotus slowly unwrapped her burger, observing him, and when it didn’t look like he'd be initiating a conversation, she went to work. “That reminds me, I’ve already told you my name but I haven’t heard yours. I can’t just keep calling you, sir.”

“Lucifer,” he answered, not sounding interested or hostile.

Lotus grinned. “Nice to meet you, Lucifer.”

Even if he did just say his name, why call him so intimately? Wasn’t she under the impression he was an important guest? Lucifer frowned. He wanted to lecture this girl, but he wasn’t her employer. Thinking this, he finally remembered why he agreed to go with this girl.

“Miss Lotus--”

“Just Lotus will do,” she cut him off.

“Lotus, earlier you said you and MC are close.”

She nodded.

“Is she close with all of her employees?”

Lotus pinched her thigh to keep her carefree expression. “Not really.”

Lucifer cocked an eyebrow. Hm. To think you would be close to someone like this. Nonetheless, she probably had other talents to make up for the poor coffee-fetching.

And just like that, this “sharp, clever and kingly” male lead completely ignored the inconsistencies in the female lead’s story.

Lotus was glad.

Two months of pretending to be a naive and aspiring student, dropping things but looking cute doing it, and sucking up to the boss but getting no benefits, she was starting to lose hope of ever getting a chance to meet Lucifer. But the gods finally saw her hard work and sent the man straight into her arms.

He was better than the rumors. His pictures did no justice to the real thing. Tall with long legs, wide shoulders and a thin waist. A flawless face and to top it all off, an aura that screamed “classy.” He was the perfect man.

It took all her nerves not to freak out and let him know that she definitely knew who he was.

It was shockingly easy getting him to eat with her. She didn’t like eating junk food but she wanted to give him an impression of a frugal working young lady.

However, even though she finally got him alone, he was inattentive. She went out of her way to grab his attention, going so far as to help cut some wrinkly old man’s food.

But the only times he was remotely interested were when you were involved.

Lotus huffed. So many men in her university and even in the company yearned for her but the one man that deserved her was playing hard to get.

No matter, she’ll play along.

First she’ll get close to him, then force him to break up with his aging fiancee.

You may be pretty, but Lotus was beautiful and five years younger. You may be rich now but--

Lucifer’s phone started ringing. He excused himself and went to take the call.

Lotus discreetly spat out her burger in a napkin and thought to herself, Just you wait, MC, I’ll take everything you have.

Inside the men’s washroom, Lucifer’s face was without expression.

“I see. Did grandfather call? … I understand. Wait for me.” He hung up on Simeon and went back to the table. He spotted the phone in Lotus’ hand and the baffled look on her face.

“Better get ready,” he said. “MC will be calling soon.”

The internet was abuzz. A few minutes ago a video was released anonymously; this video was of MC’s father, CEO of your company, and a rising starlet tangled in the sheets.

Sitting alone in a private room of a high-class lounge, you praised Uwak for getting the job done but the system wasn’t the least bit pleased. You only had two tasks and you managed to not only stop either but even pushed one into happening. (You even forced this virgin system to record such a dirty scene!)

In contrast to the system that ran around in circles like a chicken with no head, you calmly thanked the waiter that brought in your coffee.

You took a sip of your coffee then startled.

The system cheered. Did you finally come to your senses?

You raised the cup. “That’s some good coffee.”

System: (╯°□°)╯︵ ┻━┻

It thought its Host was competent, turns out she’s just crazy!

[Host, please, this is no time for drinking coffee. You only have a month before this body perishes!]

You let out a deep, winding breath, almost in a mocking fashion. The system prepared itself for another insult.

Instead you took another sip of coffee.

“In the novel, the company failed out of the blue. No discussion, no reason. The second female lead graduated at the top of her business class and was personally taught by her grandfather, the man who started the family business. She was talented, so why the sudden collapse? The simple answer is because that’s what the author wanted. The true answer is because there are three people leeching off the company resources.

“Leech number one is the father. He’s a useless man whose talent lies on spending money on booze and women.” According to the memories, he holds 30% of the shares while his daughter, who does the actual work, only holds 28%. The rest were divided among the board.

“Leech number two is the mother. She spends more in a day than what most people do in a lifetime.” Her bank records from last night alone had a bill for a 5 million USD custom-made pearl necklace. You already froze all her accounts. She’s been calling you nonstop ever since, so you blocked her number.

“The third leech is still under investigation but—” Your phone buzzed. “Oh, speak of the devil. Our P.I. works fast.” You opened the email they sent you.

[This is…!]

“Yep. I suspected that there’s a rat in the firm and had someone look into it. The chief information officer is working with a rival company. All the proof we need is right here.”

[Perfect then that means we can finish this mission quickly!]

“Eh, why the rush, I’m still savoring my coffee.”

[...]

“I’m kidding. We can’t kick her out yet, we’re not done investigating.”

[You said all the proof was in that email.]

“Yes, proof about her embezzlement and dealings with the rival, I have another hypothesis that needs to be confirmed. But more than that, I still need people to think that the business is in trouble, especially Lucifer.”

You finished the rest of the coffee and went back in the car. Instead of turning on the radio, you had Uwak play AC/DC’s greatest hits.

Once a magnificent, world-hopping system, now a freaking MP3 player; the system wept soundlessly.

While you sang Highway to Hell, the male lead was currently being bombarded. He wanted to go straight to your office but was caught by paparazzi that were soon joined by journalists. He hid himself in the restroom and tried calling MC but kept getting voicemail. Then he tried calling his grandfather but he didn’t pick up either. He debated whether to call your mother, to ask about you, but that woman always gave him a bad feeling. She openly gaped at him and when she shook hands with him, she would hold on a little longer than necessary.

Just thinking about her, Lucifer’s hairs stood. Luckily, he was saved by another call from Simeon.

“Lucifer, where are you?”

“I’m inside a McDonald’s restroom stall.”

The other line went silent.

“Simeon?”

“I’m sorry, I think I just heard you say that you were in a McDonald’s restroom stall.”

“That’s right.”

“ … You took MC to a fast food joint?”

“No, I didn’t get to meet her. I went with one of her interns. Send me a car.”

“Wait a minute. What? One of her interns?”

“Yes, a kid named Lotus. Now, the car--”

“Lucifer, why on Earth would you go to a McDonald’s with one of your fiancée interns? And Lotus? A female intern?” Only Simeon, who he’s known since kindergarten, would talk to bigshot Lucifer like this.

“She wanted to treat me to lunch after spilling coffee on me.”

“And you just … went?” Simeon sounded out of breath, like he couldn’t believe that this machine of a man would do that.

Lucifer was about to say something in return, but stopped. Why did he go? He originally believed that he went with Lotus because the girl kept mentioning MC intimately and he wanted to ask more about his future bride. But thinking now with a clear mind, he knew that reason made no sense. What compelled him to go with her?

Simeon snapped him out of his thoughts, “Nevermind, we’ll talk about this later. I already sent a car for you. Your grandfather called. He wants you to come over.”

Lucifer knew why, and as he sat in the back of his limo, he wondered if he’d be forced to dissolve the engagement. He prided himself in knowing what his opponents and allies will do next, but frankly, the old man was an exception. His grandfather was silly, sometimes traditional, sometimes radical.

Lucifer leaned back in his seat.

Grandfather wanted him to get married or at least get engaged. He kept dropping hints that he wanted Lucifer to choose you, the granddaughter of a deceased friend. And “hints” here involved sending your pictures all over Lucifer’s condo.

Lucifer actually knew who you were before the old man’s meddling. You were a fellow member in the student council in high school. He could tell that you were ambitious without being greedy, so he chose you, putting his grandfather at ease.

But even after the engagement, your relationship remained static. Lucifer had no real feelings of attachment towards you.

So break up or not, he really didn’t care about what the old man would do.

“Sir, we’re here,” informed the chauffeur.

The car parked right outside ginormous white gates, where the old man’s secretary was already waiting for him.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Lucifer.”

“Good afternoon, how is he?” The only thing Lucifer was worried about was the man’s health.

The secretary smiled. “This way, sir.”

Lucifer’s grandfather lived in a Greek-inspired estate outside the city. One day wouldn’t be enough to tour the entire place, and it took an awkward twenty-minute walk inside the mansion before they reached their destination.

The secretary stopped walking and gestured at the dining room door.

Lucifer nodded and went inside, not expecting to hear his grandfather’s lively laughter. The old man was speaking with a woman faced away from Lucifer but he knew who it was.

“Ah,” his grandfather saw him and waved for him to come closer, “welcome, son.”

You moved to stand up but the old man raised his palm. “Don’t bother, dear, this cold husband doesn’t deserve to be greeted standing up.”

You obediently stay seated.

“Grandfather, what is going on?” Lucifer tried to make eye contact with you but you kept your eyes on your plate.

“Your wife called to ask me how I was doing, and I invited her over. She told me why she hasn’t been for dinner in the past months.”

“Is that so.” Lucifer narrowed his eyes at your form. He instantly knew what this was about. Now that your company was in trouble you wanted to get in his good graces and secure the marriage. So you turned out to be another greedy, scheming person.

“Wipe that dirty look out your eyes, Lucifer!” The old man reprimanded. “This child’s been nothing but kind to our family so you better straighten yourself out.”

You smiled secretly.

The old MC was close to her grandfather and so she bonded with his best friend after he died. She visited without Lucifer’s knowledge and when she was busy, still found the time to ask about his health.

Right now, this overbearing CEO, who grew up surrounded by gold diggers, was probably thinking that you came here to make sure he won’t leave you.

Well, he was right to some extent.

“Wait, grandfather,” you interrupted the old man’s rambling. “Don’t get angry with Lucifer. He’s probably upset because I still haven’t told you.”

The old man waited for you to continue. Lucifer waited as well, wondering what creative lie you prepared.

“Actually, I … ” You put your hand over your mouth, breathed, then lowered your fist over your chest to look dainty.

[Host, please mind your character settings.]

“Shut up. Even if the original MC was a professional woman, who wouldn’t be affected by all this?” You replied in your head.

Seeing your hesitation, the old man got worried while Lucifer wanted to roll his eyes.

You took another breath. You fluttered your eyelashes several times, and that’s when the old man saw your barely-moist eyes. He leaned over the table. “What’s wrong, my dear?”

“I decided to break off the engagement.”

There was a pause.

The old man blinked. Once. Twice.

Slowly, his neck cranked upward.

Then he raised an angry, shaking finger towards Lucifer, “Y-y-you, you … what did you do!?”

You rose and hurried to the grandfather’s side. “Please, calm down for a moment. Lucifer did nothing, everything’s my fault.” Your voice was steady and resolute. You already blinked away all the tears and stood tall. “I made a few mistakes in my decisions for the firm and I don’t want to implicate either of you by staying engaged.”

You took the old man’s hands in your own. “My grandfather believed in taking responsibility and paying back kindness. I won’t disappoint him by taking you down with me.”

You let go and then turned towards Lucifer. You walked up to his taller figure.

Lucifer didn’t say anything. Though he has known you from way back, you two weren’t exactly close. But he remembered his impression of you very well: “diligent and reserved.” Now, he saw something else.

There was a fire in those eyes that looked straight at him.

And finally, Lucifer, the unfeeling, finally felt something in his chest.

On the other hand, you were close to breaking down. You ranted at the system, “Holy bananas, this guy is something else. I’ve seen him in memories and through the monitor but wow, this is … whew, if angels were real this must be what they look like. Look at that poreless face, those sexy lips, and oh, I just know he’s the ‘lean with clothes, hot without’ type. As expected of the male lead, I can see friendships getting destroyed for even just one hot, steamy, passion-filled--”

[Host, please focus. And please, do not taint this innocent system with your perverted fantasies.]

You closed your mouth, which had gotten loose during your spiel, an action not missed by the man in front of you.

Your lips look soft, Lucifer thought. He can’t remember the last time he appreciated a woman’s appearance like this.

“Lucifer … ” There was a near-inaudible crack in your voice, but Lucifer heard and his heart ached.

You smiled at him. “It’s a shame that we have to part ways like this.”

He felt something touch him and when he saw that you were holding his hand, his chest throbbed. You unfurled his fingers, never losing eye contact. “I really do like you.” You then pulled away, warm hands leaving a cold ring behind.

You bade goodbye to his grandfather one more time before making your way out.

[There has been no notification for any character collapse, thank goodness.]

“And I told you, it’s normal to show a tiny bit of weakness. The important thing is to make sure people think you’re doing your best to hide it. That’s what the original MC would have done.”

[I see, I see. The Host is a genius.]

“Nah, I just read a lot of cliche. Anway, what do you think he looks like fresh out of the shower?” That raven-black hair wet and messy and brushing those eyes. Those sadistic eyes. Oh.

[Reminding the Host that this system is a newborn.]

“ … Maybe I’ll take a cold shower when we get home.”

Lucifer was still standing in the dining room. When the old man recovered from shock, he massaged his temples. “I have nothing to say other than this: I can’t control your life, but you will regret not holding onto that woman.”

The entire drive back home, Lucifer never once let go of the ring, your engagement ring. He examined it from every angle. When he bought this ring he didn’t think about how it would look on you, he simply opened a catalogue and pointed at the priciest item.

He pictured your face and those fiercely strong eyes. He imagined your pretty fingers, calloused from work. He thought of your perfect posture, your arms and legs that ran straight to his grandfather to comfort him.

Then he looked at the jewelry on his palm. Its stone was too big, the metalwork was too plain, and the band was too thick. Generic and tacky, Lucifer thought.

You deserved a better ring.

… And a better fiancé.

He clenched his fist and ordered the car to turn around.

You observed Lucifer from the system monitor and snickered, leaning on your porcelain tub. “Hm … Let’s hope he doesn’t mess up my plans.”

You buried yourself in soap bubbles. “It’s nice to be rich.”

Just as you were about to fall asleep, the doorbell rang incessantly. At first you ignored it, but when your unwelcome visitor shamelessly continued, you sprang up and slipped on a silk bathrobe.

You opened the door to the original host’s mother. The woman was in her late forties but tried too hard to look 22.

You almost blurted out “I was expecting you” but instead asked, “Mom, what brings you here?”

She sneered. “What do you think?”

You pretended to be coy. Then you mumbled, “If it’s because of dad … ”

“As if I care about that bastard. I’m talking about my credit cards. You cut me off!”

“I don’t understand. I’m not in charge of your money.” Technically, that was the truth.

The woman went from mad to enraged. “I know you’re lying, that lazy good-for-nothing doesn’t care about how much I spent, and I know he leaves all the work to you.”

“Mom, please calm down.” You sighed. “Do you want to know the truth?”

Her scowl deepened.

You invited her inside and explained, “The truth is … the truth is dad’s been rethinking things.” You intentionally sounded ambiguous. “He found a girl … I’m not sure if it’s the one in the video but he told me that he got one girl pregnant and that this time … this time he -- ”

“That ingrate!” She started this delusional speech about how she’s tolerated his behavior and patiently stood by him all these years.

It seems like this woman has forgotten how she stole this man from someone else and intentionally got herself pregnant.

You didn’t want to hear any more of her nonsense so you interrupted her. “Mom, don’t worry. If he did get that starlet pregnant and wants to marry her, then wouldn’t getting rid of her solve the problem?”

The self-centered mother quieted down and paid attention.

“I can’t do anything about your credit card right now, but” you handed her a small envelope “how about I give you a check?”

You didn’t have to spend much time on convincing her to agree. This cannon fodder’s IQ was inversely proportional to Lucifer’s looks.

She didn’t even ask why you already had a single check prepared in an envelope.

After reminding her to wait until the scandal is settled, you sent her off and slid back inside your bath. “Eh, Uwak, wanna make a bet?”

[On what?]

You gently scrubbed your leg with a loofah. “Whether that starlet lives or dies.”

[ … ]

“Seriously? Have you ever seen a soap opera?”

[I deeply apologize for being stupid.]

“A mistress cannon fodder is usually killed off.”

[ … Wait, that check was for that?! Host, when the truth of the matter comes out you can--no, you will definitely be blamed by that mother!]

“When did I give her instructions to commit murder? All I said was to get rid of the girl.” You were very careful with your wording. “If that horrible mother is even a tiny bit smarter than I give her credit, then that mistress will live and no one goes to jail.” You turned the tap and washed the loofah. “If.”

You finished your bath and fell asleep too fast to properly treasure the first-class bed. Dreaming of money and food and hot guys. You never wanted to leave this dream.

[Ding. Ding. Ding. Host, wakey-wakey, eggs and bakey!]

You begrudgingly peeked at the digital clock on the nightstand. It was already seven a.m.

[So many things happened in one day. My Host is truly gifted, a saint among mortals, a prodigy!]

Irritated by the burst of energy, you recalled that this system called itself a newborn. “ … Must be nice to be young.”

You washed up and, after thirty minutes, finally decided on a formal black and purple dress. You liked seeing this body try on different designer clothes, you felt like a Sim with control over your outfits.

Your phone buzzed, surprising both you and the system.

You searched the original’s memories. “Does he ever call us the day after he met the female lead?”

[Scanning … No, the plot never mentioned this. He should be focusing on the female lead.]

Looks like this guy decided to flip fate a big finger and go off script. And he did it earlier than you predicted.

Meh.

You hit ‘answer’ and spoke first, “Lucifer?”

“Good morning, MC. I trust you’re getting ready for work.”

“Yes, I’m actually on my way right. Hate to be frank, but why are you calling me?” Translation: Bro, our engagement is over so why are you talking to me now?

Lucifer chuckled. (You almost melted.) “I’m actually outside your condo right now.”

Eh?

“Pardon?” Translation: Yo, what the frack?!

“Let’s have breakfast together then I’ll drive you to work. See you, okay?” He hung up. The handsome bastard didn’t even wait for your reply.

You gripped your phone tightly and began cursing Lucifer, You may be filthy rich, you may be gorgeous as hell, and you may have the voice of a heavenly choir but you’re still a jerk!

You then smacked your hands over your furious-red cheeks. “And you’re exactly my type, too!”

The system genuinely worried over its Host’s mental state.

[Host … ]

You smoothed your fingers over your dress and pouted.

The system quivered. This psychotic Host did not look good pouting like a grade-schooler.

“Hey, Uwak, you can forgive me if I played around here for a while, right?”

[Host!]

Actually, it was no problem if the Host decided to stave off accomplishing her tasks as long as she gets them done before the time limit ends. But the system heard countless stories of other hosts falling in love with characters that belonged in alternate realities. Every single story ended in tragedy.

“Don’t worry. I promise to get work done, but let me have some fun first. There’s no telling when I’m gonna meet another looker like this guy.”

You ignored the system’s pleas and went to greet Lucifer. Wearing a grey shirt folded up to his elbows and dark pants, he stood outside his sleek, liquid-onyx car. Fine as hell from the ground up.

It took everything you had not to swoon on the spot. “System, take pictures! Take pictures!”

First a video recorder, then a music player, now a camera. [Host, I’m not your smartphone!]

You brushed back a strand of hair. “Hey.”

Lucifer nodded. “Good morning. You look nice. Let’s go?” He opened the passenger door.

Coming and going as he pleases, not leaving a chance to reject, this is the epitome of an overbearing president! You fangirled inside but remained cool on the outside.

“I appreciate you picking me up … ” You trailed off.

Lucifer fixed his seatbelt. “It’s nothing.”

You didn’t want to remind him of Lotus so you did the opposite of what she would’ve done. You kept to yourself. Occasionally, you’d sneak a peek of his profile and hide your squealing, but most of the time you were staring at the window.

In the driver’s seat, Lucifer wondered what went wrong. He followed Simeon’s advice to a T: he dressed up, asked you out and offered to take you to work. He even opened the door like a gentleman.

Did he miss something? Why were you so quiet?

He coughed. “MC, about the engagement.”

That caught your attention. Your eyes were finally on him.

Lucifer gave himself a pat on the back. “I’ve thought about it and wouldn’t it be a bigger shame to break up?”

You were still silently looking at him.

“I … ” He observed your reaction. “I told my grandfather about your father’s scandal.”

Your lips parted and you turned away so he quickly added, “I’m sorry. You didn’t tell him because you wanted to protect him but he’s more resilient than you think. He’s angry but not at you.”

You exhaled softly. “I understand.”

“He thinks we should still get married.”

You blinked and faced him again. Lucifer was thankful that the traffic light was red because those eyes were too good to not look at.

“What about you, Lucifer?” You asked, “What do you think?”

“I think it wouldn’t be so bad to get married.”

Your eyes flickered with disappointment, but not for long. You turned to the window. “I see.”

Lucifer was taken aback, wondering what was wrong with his answer. Yesterday you told him you “really do” like him.

“MC--” the light flashed green and the car behind them honked impatiently.

“If grandfather insists, then I have nothing else to say,” you uttered.

Lucifer’s heart sunk. That was a ‘yes’ but why did it not feel right?

The rest of the ride was spent in silence.

The hostess in the restaurant Lucifer booked greeted you two with a practiced smile and took you to your table. A waiter brought in two menus and two glasses of lemon water. As professionals, they didn’t let the awkward air affect them. It wasn’t the same for the other patrons.

Random stranger #1: Holy cow, that’s the city’s richest man, Lucifer! He just opened another resort in Dubai.

Random stranger #2: The woman with him is the CFO for the company that’s under hot water right now.

Random stranger #3: I hear her father is sleeping with that new actress, the one starring in that drama, I Accidentally Summoned Seven Demons.

Lucifer watched you discreetly. As usual, you were the picture of calm, but looking closely, he could see you bite down on your lip.

Random stranger #4: They’re engaged but with the scandal and the company in trouble, do you think they’ll still get married?

Lucifer raised his chin and glowered at the perpetrator. A black aura surrounded the entire room and even some of the waiters shivered. This man, this so-called Devil Tyrant of the Business World was terrifying! They saluted the lady sitting pretty across him. She didn’t look afraid, but she did look lethargic.

You sipped on the lemon water like none of this concerned you.

Who said they weren’t getting married? This woman obviously had the devil on a leash.

The stranger forced out a laugh, “Then a-again she’s such a beauty, who wouldn’t want her--Eh?”

For some reason, rather than ease the devil, his words worked against him and the oppressive aura thickened. The other people in the room wanted to strangle this idiot who recklessly sprouts nonsense.

“Lucifer,” you called, and the aura dissipated as the man gave you his full attention.

“What is it?”

You put your hands on the table and pushed yourself up. “I’ve decided … we definitely can’t get married.”

Waiters and patrons: …

“I’m sorry.” You grabbed your purse and dashed out the restaurant.

Waiters and patrons: (⊙⊙)(☉_☉)(⊙⊙)

Waiters and patrons: Apologize to us! Don’t leave without this devil tyrant!

Lucifer didn’t follow, instead he reached inside his jacket and pulled out a velvet box. His expression soon turned dark.

No one dared to move.

Now outside, you couldn’t hold it in anymore and burst out laughing. “Did you see their faces? Jeez, you’d think he was some sort of almighty emperor.” You covered your stomach, your insides hurt.

[Host, wasn’t it part of your plan to play hard to get and catch Lucifer’s attention? He already wants you and even prepared a new ring so why did you reject him?]

You wiped away a tear. “Guys like Lucifer are used to having women throw themselves at him or at least show interest. He’s desensitized to the opposite sex but not only did I break off the engagement, I even rejected him for the second time.”

[Why reject him twice? And in public too, aren’t you afraid he’ll get angry?]

“He’s definitely pissed, but that’s because he’s found something he can’t have. Also, rejecting him twice is important. Remember, I’m not the only one playing mouse. Don’t underestimate the female lead. By rejecting Lucifer’s second proposal in public, I accomplish two things: 1) completely capture his interest, and 2) establish to the public that he is definitely smitten with me, which will shake Lotus’ own strategy of playing hard to get. Best case scenario, she’ll panic and actively chase after him.”

[I see, I see now. The Host is truly--]

“Did you do what I asked?”

The system tried to not sound too hurt as it reported, [Ding. Everything is in place.]

“Good.”

You joked about fooling around and while it was a good thing Lucifer pursued you sooner than expected, you had your doubts.

With Uwak’s help, you avoided reporters and paparazzi, safely entering your company building through a back door.

The executive team were seated in the main conference room, trying to outshout each other. They simmered down when you stepped inside. “Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.”

While the officers struggled to keep their composure out of respect, one man dared to yell at you. Why, it was dear old dad.

“You idiot! Why are you late? We need to fix this right now! Did you know what I just read right now? ‘Two Company Bigshots on a Breakfast Date!’” (The paparazzi work fast.) “Freaking moron, you still have time to blah blah blah”

Everyone scowled at him. Even the youngest officer in this room knew who was the true backbone of this firm, and that was you. This man you called a father, who pushed his work to you while he went on “business” trips, who started this whole mess in the first place, actually had the audacity to call you an idiot?

“Dad, please--”

“Don’t you dare look at me like that, like I’m the crazy one here! It’s not my fault that we were caught.”

The officers with children of their own gave you their sympathies and silently reprimanded your father.

“Dad … ”

“That damn manager swore there were no cameras, I swear to god if I see that bastard again, Imma punch him in the--”

“Chief executive officer,” you warned, “I may be your daughter but in this room I’m your colleague and right now I politely ask you to sit. Your. Ass. Down.”

[SYSTEM WARNING: Character settings dropped by 10%. SYSTEM WARNING: Host must keep character settings above 80%.]

Dear father was obviously taken aback, so much that he almost fell backwards. The other officers, however, began to applaud. Your father, red-cheeked but with no other choice, sat down.

You remained on your feet as you addressed the entire room. “I’ll cut to the chase. This situation isn’t the first sex scandal to affect a company but it is the first to affect ours. You all know that we haven’t been meeting the numbers and this video has decreased our sales by half. Firstly, we need to wash ourselves clean with this scandal by getting rid of the man responsible.” Murmurs echoed in the room. The man in question shot up, redder than pepper. “How dare you, you insolent, worthless, piece of trash--”

You didn’t interrupt him, you already risked your character settings. Luckily, the COO, an elderly woman and friend of your grandfather, told him to can it. “Let her finish,” she shot him a ferocious glare before grinning sweetly at you. “Go ahead, dear.”

You thanked her with a nod and continued, “ My father is still our biggest shareholder so I suggest we send him away and bring in a puppet CEO.”

The meeting went on without a hitch.

You left for your office where you were free to kick off your heels and stretch. “The original was an admirable woman.”

[What does Host mean?]

“She died when the company died. She tolerated her father’s abuse and her mother’s neglect because she wanted to stay and run the company her grandfather built. Even now, her request isn’t ‘to get revenge’ but to save the business. Well, it doesn’t matter. I’ll do both for half the price.”

[Host, you’re too kind.]

“I know, right?”

[ … ]

Kind but not humble, it told itself.

After loosening your muscles you sat down and powered the computer. With the night-omniscient system, you spent the next three days doing paperwork.

In these three days, a lot of things happened.

Your “father” was publicly fired and was instructed to hide in a different city while your PR team handled the scandal. The news about what happened in the restaurant with Lucifer spread and the rumor was reinforced when he started sending you gifts. However, you politely declined each present, this of course, only made him send bigger and more expensive items.

“You know what to do with that.” You didn’t even raise your head when Lotus entered your office. This was the fifth time today.

When you didn’t hear her leaving you, you turned away from your computer. “Is there something wrong?”

Lotus’ expression gave nothing away but her hands trembled, slightly shaking the extra large bouquet.

“Nothing, I … ”

“Speak up.”

“Isn’t it rude to keep rejecting him like this?”

“Not at all. Actually, I’ve grown tired of roses.” It was the same bouquet every time, composed of Rosa 'Mister Lincoln' flowers. They were expensive and beautiful and made every woman stare with envy.

Right now, Lotus looked like she wanted to say more but gritted her teeth and stomped away.

[How rude! You are her employer, aren’t you?]

You watched the petite figure disappear in the elevator. “Let her be.”

You resumed with your work until seven p.m.

“Already this late … ”

[Ding. Host, the male lead’s limo is out the main entrance.]

“Ah.” About time.

You made yourself as presentable as possible and went out the front doors.

But instead of Lucifer, it was his secretary Simeon who greeted you. “Hello, Miss MC. It’s been a while since we last spoke, hasn’t it?”

You: …

Simeon: … ?

Simeon then brought out a handkerchief. “Miss, your nose is bleeding.”

You almost forgot about this guy, Lucifer’s only friend.

When you read this novel you were surprised (but pleased) that the author didn’t make Simeon fall for the protagonist. Fluffy hair that made your fingers tingle to touch …

“Thank you, Simeon. Sorry about this.” You accepted the blue silk handkerchief and dabbed your nose.

“No worries.” He tilted his head and an arrow shot through you.

That sweet smile and blue eyes was an instant K.O. Forget about Lucifer, this was a true angel! This was your ultimate type! Forget about going back, you wanted to spend the rest of your days with this man!

The system wanted to ask someone for help: My Host is a face-loving pervert. What should I do?

Unaware of the true thoughts going on in your head, Simeon helped you inside the car.

“I’m sorry for not calling, Lucifer wanted to surprise you. He reserved a private room in your favorite restaurant.”

You recovered from the initial attack of this celestial beauty and inquired, “How long have you been waiting for me?”

Simeon chuckled. “It’s not important.” And then smoothly changed topics to your favorite pieces of literature. The ride with Simeon was filled with talks about books you read, food you like, flowers you prefer and other seemingly trivial things.

Completely enamored by Simeon’s pretty face, you didn’t notice his phone was on or that Lucifer was currently on the other line.

You parted from Simeon with hidden regret and made your way inside the restaurant. You haven’t even gone through the private room’s door when your sadness transformed into pleasure.

Lucifer sat cross-legged on the red velvet sofa, one arm sensually stretched over the backrest while his other hand held a glass of brandy. His hair was now splayed across his forehead, drawing attention to his troubled brows and dark circles. His scarlet tie was strewn across his lap, his collar opened and two buttons were undone to reveal ivory skin and protruding collar bones.

His attention was elsewhere before your heels tapped on the hardwood floor.

He put down the brandy before standing to face you. You couldn’t talk even if you wanted so for a good two minutes, you just stared at each other.

Then he crossed the room in fast, large strides. Startled, you stepped back until your back hit the wall.

He slammed his palms on the wall.

“You … ” he began.

He ran a hand through his hair. “Dammit. Why can’t I stop thinking about you?”

Wow.

If he weren’t so darn seductive you’d be on the floor laughing right now. It didn’t even take a week to snatch this oppressive CEO and reduce him into a lovesick fool. And for him to use such cheap lines too …

[Host, don’t laugh.]

You pinched your thigh.

“I sent you flowers, I sent you jewellry, what do I have to do to get you to look at me?”

He cupped your chin, his touch not too soft or too firm, and soon you were staring straight into his eyes. His calculating gaze has been reduced to a dazed, affectionate look. He smelled the brandy on him but didn’t mind.

“I want you, MC.”

“Lucifer … ”

“I’ll help with your company, I’ll--”

Why did you stop, big boss? I wanna hear more of your lines.

[Host, your nose is bleeding.]

You reflexively covered your face.

Lucifer frowned and asked, “Where did you get that handkerchief?”

“Simeon gave it to me.”

He glared at the piece of fabric like it was the most offensive thing he’s ever seen. This outwardly-cold but secretly-immature character type got jealous over the silliest things. But that’s why you love his kind so much.

Thankfully, your bleeding didn’t last long and you were able to return to the previous conversation, though the sexy vibes were gone. (Darnit!)

“Lucifer, about this … I actually … ”

“You told me you like me, didn’t you? Don’t even deny it.”

“... It’s true. I like you, Lucifer. I've liked you since back in high school.”

“Then why do you keep pushing me away?” His voice was softer this time.

“Because I knew you only proposed to me because of your grandfather. I accepted because I thought that maybe … ” Every word was spoken clearly but with a certain edge to it. Contrary to Lotus’ performance, you voiced your thoughts with obvious reluctance.

Lucifer waited patiently.

“ … maybe we’d actually move past the wall that’s between us.”

Strong arms wrapped around you and you met with a hard chest.

“I understand,” Lucifer whispered. “I promise I’ll work at it.”

You returned his embrace and hid your smirk.

[Ding. Host, I’ve already captured enough photos. As per your instruction, I will upload them in one hour.]

In a villa on the opposite side of the city, Lotus was throwing a fit.

“You said they weren’t a real couple!”

Sitting next to her on the couch was her sister and your chief information officer, Ann.

“They’re not.”

“Oh, please. You should see the gifts he sends her.” Lotus recalled the envy that twisted her insides as she returned every single one, from the newest Prada bag to the most sought after necklace in the country.

“They’re just gifts, his secretary probably picked them,” Ann muttered, typing away on her laptop.

Lotus sneered and pushed her phone forward. Her browser showed the top trending hashtags: #deviltyrantfinallyfallsinlove, #luciferandmc, #ceofindslove, and such.

Lines formed between Ann’s eyebrows as she came across pictures of you and Lucifer, all uploaded five minutes ago.

“Still think they’re just playing around?” Lotus snarled. “You promised me, if I snooped around the firm and stole files for you, you’d get me Lucifer. Now he’s all over that old hag!”

“And whose fault is that?” Ann retorted. “I told you where you can find him. When I caught him entering the lobby the other day, I had to stop talking with an important dealer just so I can call you! You’ve had your chance. If you still want him, fine, go ahead but don’t bother me anymore.”

“Fine!” Lotus stormed back into her room.

The system reported everything that happened as you ate. You couldn’t help but snicker.

Across the table, Lucifer revealed a rare smile. “What’s so funny?”

“I was just thinking, it’s nice to eat with you. I wouldn’t mind doing it everyday.”

Lucifer coughed. There was a faint dust of pink on your cheeks as he spoke, “Then I’ll make arrangements to make sure of that.”

“I’m flattered. Your company is very lucky to have you,” you deliberately lowered your voice.

“MC … ”

“It’s fine, we’re both adults and it’s a fact that my company is under siege. Ah, I mean, my father’s company.”

Before the atmosphere could turn gloomy, you picked up the bottle of wine and grinned. “May I?”

“Yes, thank you.”

Lucifer watched you pour him a glass silently, then he excused himself to the restroom. You continued eating. You then hummed Can’t Help Falling in Love, mildly rocking your chair.

[Ding. Host, the male lead is currently on the phone with his secretary. He plans on buying the remaining shares that aren’t owned by members of your board.]

You sang, “Only fools rush in ~”

[ … ]

The system decided to quietly listen to Lucifer. The man was currently in the hallway.

“... I want it done by tomorrow.” He turned towards the door leading to the private room. “And while you’re at it, I want you to research every mansion in the countryside that is for sale. I want a report about each one on my desk tomorrow.” Lucifer’s expression was warm as he continued, “It’s for my wedding present.”

One was deeply in love and already making wedding preparations, while the other …

The system watched you pig out on the pasta.

Uwak lit a candle in condolence.

[Male lead, good luck] it whispered as Lucifer returned and you switched back into being a mature, well-mannered woman.

“How’s the pesto?”

“It’s perfect.”

“I knew you’d like it. It’s my favorite thing on the menu.”

“Really? Same here.”

You two spent the rest of the night talking about your interests. It was actually jarring what you had in common aside from the pesto: the books, the flowers, and other trivial things. It was like he read your mind.

(Instead of a pay raise, the MVP responsible, Simeon, was forced to work overtime. He sincerely wishes the couple happiness as he cries over the keyboard.)

Lucifer took you home in his own car.

“Good night.” He pressed his lips on your knuckles, then waited until you were inside your house before driving away.

You kicked off your heels and dropped down on the soft wool carpet. “What a man.”

[He isn’t the male lead for nothing.]

“Hm, but I must say, I only half-expected him to buy the remaining shares.”

[Host didn’t plan that?]

“‘course not. I was going to blackmail Ann into selling me her share. She holds 3% and if I add that to mine, I get 31% in total. I could officially kick that idiot father out of the company. But now it seems like the male lead is doing all the work for me.”

[Is that why you didn’t report Ann and Lotus?]

“Yup,” you yawned. “And to think, just when I received enough evidence to prove they were working together, Lucifer came and solved our problem.”

[Is Host upset that he stole your spotlight?]

“Nah. Who rejects free food? Free toys?” You rolled over. “We only have one problem left. Let’s hope she makes a move soon.” Everything has gone too smoothly for comfort and now you were bored.

[Host, if you want to sleep, move to the bed.]

“Eh, but this carpet feels nice … ” and soon you were snoring.

In your dream, Simeon was hunched over a desk, typing and crying at the same time. You wanted to comfort him but Lucifer blocked your way and knelt down to propose. He also had black horns for some reason.

[Ding! Host, wake up!]

[The mother delivered the cash. The starlet is currently being kidnapped by hired help.]

You sat up, still groggy, and stretched sideward.

[The starlet is now dead. Hurray!]

“Has anyone found the body?”

[No. It’s currently in a sack in a dumpster.]

You went to the bathroom as you ordered, “Upload pictures and video recordings of her getting kidnapped. Keep an eye on both parents.”

[Understood. What does the Host plan to do now?]

“Shower.”

[And then?]

“Sleep. It’s three in the morning.”

[ … ]

After washing up, you plopped down on the bed. You slept until seven, waking up to the system celebrating.

[We’re gonna finish the main task, we’re gonna finish the main task! ] It repeated.

The buzzing outside had you on your feet. You peeked through the curtains and saw numerous reporters crowding the gate.

Your phone, which you put on vibrate for the sake of sleep, had toppled off the end side table and landed on the floor. One call after another, sometimes your colleagues, sometimes it’s Lucifer.

“It’s hard being this popular.” You chuckled and then dialed Lucifer’s number.

He picked up on the first ring.

“Where are you?”

“I’m in my house. I just woke up, what’s going on?”

“MC, it’s about your father. It’s on the news. I’m … I’m sorry.”

You hit the remote and on the TV were the words: CEO suspected of murdering mistress.

You pretended to be stunned.

“MC?”

“I … ”

“It’s all right, MC. I’m coming over right now. Just … stay strong, okay, darling?”

You hung up. You did your morning stretches, sipped a glass of water, and then you faced a mirror.

You closed your eyes and took a deep breath.

The system waited.

Streams of tears poured from your eyes. You rubbed your face then tugged on your hair and pulled on your nightgown, crumpling the fabric.

[Ding. The male lead is five meters away.]

You wiped the tears away.

[Ding. The male lead scared away the reporters and entered the gates.]

You put on a wrinkled robe.

[Ding. The male lead is about to ring the doorbell.]

You checked your reflection. Your hair was a mess but it gave the impression that you desperately tried to comb it back. Your eyes were swollen and your clothes were disheveled. Perfect.

Then you went to open the door.

“Lucifer … ” you breathed.

Lucifer’s chest filled up with concrete when he read the news, but seeing you now, it was as if someone took a jackhammer and pounded on his ribs.

He took your hand and tugged you back inside the house.

“I can’t believe this, and just when things were starting to … ” You choked, turning away from him.

“It’s all right. I promise, your father--”

“It’s not about him!” You finally snapped. “It’s about my grandfather and his only legacy, the company, our company … now it’s … oh, god, what’s going to happen to it?”

Lucifer squeezed your hand then embraced you. “It’ll be fine. I won’t let anything happen to it, and I won’t let anything happen to you. I won’t.”

Lucifer led you back to bed and waited for you to sleep before making a call. He wanted this case dealt with as soon as possible.

When he returned to your side, you were awake.

“What’s wrong?”

“I have to go fix this mess. I need to call PR and the board and -- ”

Lucifer stopped you from getting up. “I already spoke with my team earlier this morning, they’re doing damage control as we speak. I’ll deal with this so you just rest. You won’t get any work done with those reporters chasing after you anyway.”

You examined him, then you nodded. “Okay … ”

He pulled the cover over your chest.

“Hey, Lucifer?”

“Yes, love?”

“Thank you.”

He grinned, then bent down to kiss your forehead. “Go back to sleep, I’ll be right outside if you need me.” He stepped outside, glanced at you one last time, then shut the door behind him.

You hugged the duvet. “Haaah, I wanna be pampered by this handsome sugar daddy in the real world, too!”

The system thought its Host dreamed too much.

[Is Host going to stay here for the rest of the day?]

“Why not? The male god insisted on doing the work for me already. You did make sure the hit could be traced back to the mother, right?”

[Ding. Rest assured, I already leaked incriminating evidence to both journalists and the police.]

“Then we don’t have anything to worry about. Today we just sit back and enjoy the show.”

The system prepared its all-seeing monitor.

With the male lead’s aid, the investigation moved fast. In no time at all, the cops located the hitmen, who then revealed that the woman who hired them was in fact the wife of the man who’d been sleeping with the murdered starlet. Unfortunately for both of them, your “mother” used the check you gave her to cash out. This particular check was from your “father’s” book and even had his signature. The two were believed to be in cahoots and Lucifer, who knew the truth of your relationship with them, wasted no efforts in taking them down.

Your father, who insisted that he was still the company CEO and held 30% of the shares, could do nothing. Lucifer forced him to give up his shares lest he faced a worse sentence. Your mother’s wails and attempts to put the blame on you were silenced under Lucifer’s oppressive glare.

In the end, everything happened as you planned. The husband-wife pair was now under arrest and while you played the role of a filial daughter, you didn’t go out of your way to give them a good lawyer. You visited them separately but Lucifer came with you to both (this way they’d be too scared to yell at you).

With this turn of events, you managed to smoke out the rat.

Ann, who believed that the company was now a sinking ship, put her shares on sale. You bought it before Lucifer could and then blackmailed her into leaving the city using evidence of her embezzlement.

Knowing her own limits, Ann packed up and booked the earliest flight away. The second her plane left the country, the system notified you:

[Ding. Main Mission: “Save and protect grandfather’s company” has been accomplished. Does the Host wish to stay and finish the side task?]

“I’ll stay.” You were curious what cards Lotus had left to play. She refused to leave the city with her sister, still believing that you didn’t know about their relationship.

[Ding. Reminder: Time remaining: 29 hours]

“I know, I know.”

You said as you checked your makeup. Because of the previous incidents, you stayed in the house and lounged around to avoid the paparazzi. But tonight you can finally have some fun.

“You look beautiful tonight, love.” Lucifer kissed your cheek and helped you inside the passenger seat.

You can never get tired of that voice, or the curve of his lips, or those arching brows--

“What’re you doing?”

“Looking at you.”

He didn’t expect you to admit it … and with such a straight face too.

Lucifer cleared his throat. “Do you like my face that much?”

“Very much.”

His heart throbbed and his fists tightened on the wheel.

“Hey, Lucifer, I’ve already admitted how much I like you, but you never did.”

He was about to protest but now that he thought about it …

He fell quiet but you just grinned and continued to watch him until you reached your destination: his private beach.

The car stopped in front of a red carpet. Lanterns lit the way to a lone white table near the shore, decorated with roses and tiny candles.

Lucifer offered his hand and you accepted it with a smile.

Together you walked on the carpet but before you could completely reach the table, Lucifer gently tugged on your wrist.

You turned and saw him looking at you.

“MC, I was thinking about what you said, about me not saying I like you.”

“You don’t have to rush. I didn’t mean to pressure you, I was just teasing. Take your time, Lucifer. I’ll be waiting.”

He shook his head. “No, I’m sorry I didn’t say it sooner. I like you, MC. In fact, I love you.”

He pressed his lips on your knuckles before kneeling down. He reached inside his jacket and then held out a dark blue box, inside was an engagement ring. It was brand new and it was designed to suit the original MC’s taste.

“Back then, I gave you a sad excuse for a ring and sent my assistant to propose, but now I’m asking again, not as a business partner and not out of duty. I love you, MC. Will you marry?”

You covered your mouth and choked out a “yes.”

He slid on the ring and then rose up to cup your cheeks.

“I love you, too,” you said and soon found his lips on yours. Your fingers brushed his hair as you treasured every second.

The virgin system was forced to tape the entire ordeal.

Lucifer pulled away. “Where do you want to get married?”

You knew what he really wanted to ask: when can we get married?

“I’m not sure. I guess I haven’t thought about it.”

He squeezed your shoulders. “It can be as big as you want.”

“I don’t need a fancy wedding, I’m not royalty.”

“You are to me.”

You pinched your thigh and tried not to laugh. “Well, I’ll think about it, but I’d prefer a private wedding with few people.”

He nodded in understanding. You already had enough of the media’s attention in the past three weeks. But if you ever change your mind, then whatever you want is just a phone call away.

“As you wish, dear.”

As you snuggled into his chest you babbled to the system.

“If I gather enough reward points, can I buy myself a real-life sugar daddy like this one?”

[Host, do not ask for the impossible.]

“You’re no fun.”

[Host, what will you do about the side task?]

“I don’t have to do anything.”

[ … Your smile is horrible.]

You chose to ignore it and resumed indulging yourself in Lucifer’s biceps and well-toned chest.

The next day, you returned to the office to the applause of your coworkers. With your father’s arrest and Ann’s resignation, the board unanimously voted for you to become CEO.

You thanked everyone but one employee was indignant.

“You’re resigning?” You didn’t have to look at the papers that Lotus put on your desk.

“My … family is concerned that I’ll get roped into your company’s problems and asked me to quit.”

You didn’t point out that she could’ve quit before your return, you knew she was trying to get on your nerves, implying that the business would fail soon.

“There’s nothing I can do then. What a shame, I really liked you, Lotus. I would’ve given you a spot once you graduated.”

Lotus’ jaw clenched, “Thank you.”

“Goodbye, Lotus.” You raised your left hand and she finally saw it. The custom-crafted Verragio platinum ring.

She bit her cheek and strutted to the door. Then she stopped.

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s not fair.”

“Hm?”

“It’s not fair that you get him!”

You crossed your legs and said, “I’m afraid I don’t understand.”

Lotus stomped back and slammed onto your mahogany desk. “Don’t play dumb! I’m talking about Lucifer. I’ve known him for years, I studied him all my life, I know what he wants, I know what he needs,” she rambled.

You didn’t listen. You already knew her story thanks to your private detectives.

Once upon a time, a little Lotus got lost in the mall and encountered preteen Lucifer. He helped her find her parents. The end. That’s it.

She’s been obsessed with him for that single reason alone.

She approached him when she was in high school but he didn’t remember her and even accused her to be another groupie. She was a groupie but of course, the delusional Lotus thought she was special and studied her idol. She knew he hated gold diggers so she worked on herself and pretended to be a naïve, humble girl.

You shook your head, this kind of “love” was admirable in many ways.

“--I loved him first! I know him better than you do. He shouldn’t be with an aging workaholic, he needs someone sweet, someone gentle--”

“Someone like you, perhaps?” A third voice interrupted.

Lotus gasped. She couldn’t bring herself to turn around.

Lucifer’s lips were a straight line as he made his way inside, his steps were neither fast nor slow but each tap on the floor made the room grow colder.

He stopped right in front of you. In one single motion, he bent over the desk, grabbed your chin and kissed you.

As his tongue tickled your lips, he glared sideways at the intruder.

Lotus’ knees shook. “Lucifer … ”

Lucifer pulled away and stood straight to face her directly. “I don’t know who you really are and I don’t care. Anyone who insults the love of my life is just trash.”

Lotus bit her lip so hard blood flowed, and the tears that could touch most men had no effect on Lucifer. “This … this isn’t true … This is your fault!” She pointed at you.

You looked her in the eye and slowly licked your lips. Lips that her beloved just kissed.

Lotus screamed, “I’ll get you for this, just wait and see!” Then she sprinted away.

[Ding. Side Task: “Prevent the male lead and female lead from getting together” has been accomplished. Time remaining: 23 minutes. Does the Host wish to leave now?]

“Not yet.”

Lucifer found your fingers and squeezed them. “Are you all right? I’m sorry I took so long to get here.”

“Don’t worry, what haven’t I heard?”

He thumbed the corner of your mouth. “You’ll always be the only woman for me.”

“Thank you.”

“I already spoke with the best wedding planner in the country. He’s waiting to show us his portfolio.”

“You work fast.”

“Of course.”

When you two entered the lift, the system spoke.

[Host, how come the side task wasn’t considered accomplished when Lucifer proposed to you?]

“You really don’t know? You are the system here, right?”

[ … I’m sorry for being stupid.]

“It’s because even if Lucifer and I get married, that doesn’t guarantee he’ll stay loyal. It’s the same thing for when I die. Lotus could comfort him then, but since he has seen her true colors, there is now zero chance that he’ll fall for her.”

[I see now!]

You chuckled and Lucifer grinned.

“What is it?”

“Nothing, I was just thinking.” You leaned on his shoulder. “I can’t wait to marry you.”

When you reached the lobby, Lucifer was approached by a business partner. Before he could tell the man he was busy, you waved and said, “It’s okay. I’ll wait in the car.”

You gave Lucifer’s elbow a squeeze and walked away.

Lucifer was hesitant to let you go, seeing your back near the main doors, his scalp tingled with a sense of foreboding. But you were already out so he stayed to listen to the businessman.

[Ding. Time remaining: 3 seconds … 2 seconds … ]

[Initiating extraction … ]

You haven’t even stepped on the pavement before your soul was drawn from your body.

You floated upward and watched as passersby gathered around your corpse. Lucifer ran out the door, but before you could see more, the system dinged.

[Exiting mission world.]

You were back in the White Space, a light screen in front of you.

[Congratulations on completing the world of “The Tyrant CEO has a Soft Spot for Me”]

[Mission grade: S]

[Reward points: 1000]

You stared at the screen.

The system thought you were sad about leaving the big boss, but before it could say words of consolation, you growled.

“Hey, cheap-ass, why are my points only 1000?”

[ … ]

“Why aren’t you answering me?”

[I thought you were upset about leaving Lucifer.]

“Why would I be upset?”

[It looked like you loved him.]

You snorted, “It’s true that I thought he was attractive, but I’m not insane. Did you forget how he cheated on the original host?”

The system suddenly thought of something.

[Host, dying in front of him was part of the revenge?]

“Duh.” You twisted your torso and yawned. “To cheating scum like him, losing the first and only woman he has ever loved is the worst punishment.”

The system watched you stretch like a cat.

Then it promised never to make you angry.

--End of Arc 1: Counterattack of the Tyrant CEO’s Ex-Fiancée--

Author’s note: I may or may not write an after-story to show what happened to Lucifer after MC left. I’m still debating on which brother to write next and what kind of world.

If you guys see any grammar errors, please notify me.

Thank you for reading!

EDIT: Lucifer’s After-Story can be found here.

Arc 2 can be found here.

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