ElenaMarvin couldn’t wait to kick out Misty after lunch, showing me how much he respected our relationship.I knew he couldn’t be too unfriendly with her because their dads were business partners, but I did appreciate him for trying.Other than Misty, no one had left, not even Mario, but deep down, we all knew that was only because of Lucas. Whenever Lucas was present, that man would turn into the biggest show-off and be desperate enough to appear as normal as possible.“Mom, this hair color looks so good on you!” Karina hugged Linda, giving me enough time to escape as I didn’t want to be the awkward third wheel.I settled in a corner, mainly so I could observe everyone. Mario was making a call, Panther was playing with Cisco, while Marvin and Lucas, who looked as if they had known each other their whole lives, were laughing. Victor had also settled himself in a corner, making me realize just how much

Elena“So, where were you today?”I looked at Marvin with wide eyes. After spending our day together at the house, he surprised me with a homemade dinner and ended our evening in the kitchen. Who would’ve thought all of this was to interrogate me?“I was at this hotel with this guy from my work.” I teased him, avoiding an answer. Other than these stupid, obvious jokes—I couldn’t keep lying to him.“No, seriously.” Marvin raised his brow.“You nosy pig.” I punched his shoulder. “Did I ask what you were doing today, hm?”Marvin rubbed the back of his neck and smiled shyly. “You’re right.” He spoke. “It’s not really my business. I just thought maybe you met up with your dad—““Well, I didn’t.”With a look of pity, Marvin propped his chin on his hand, observing the look

LucasI turned my back and walked inside as my body shook with anger. How dare she? She had some nerve.“Hey, you!” Panther leaned against the door, stopping me just as I was about to leave the mansion.I met his eyes. “Yes?”“I don’t know what your problem is, but Linda is still the lady of the house—and you’ve just arrived here, so you should show her some respect.”Once again, I was at a loss for words. It was almost scary how fast he had turned on me. He only hung out with me because I was new and loved, a threat to this household, but now that he knew I wouldn’t let anyone walk over me—I was suddenly an issue.I hadn’t forgotten about Mario’s indirect warning. This man was dangerous and ever since, something about him bothered me.“Since you know everything so well, please tell me,” I spoke, not in the mood

ElenaI held my phone in my hands—waiting for Victoria’s text. It had been days, but there was still no message about the stick.“Lena.”I flinched hearing the voice of the person I despised the most and almost jumped from my chair. “P-Panther?” I brushed my hair to the side, appearing as casual as possible. “I thought you were…out.”“Yes, out.” He slowly stepped closer and released a chuckle. “You would like that, wouldn’t you?”“I-I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I held in my breath as Panther stood in front of me with only a few inches between us.“Did I do something to make you feel uncomfortable?” Panther’s finger moved to a strand of my hair. “Elena, do I seem scary to you?”“No, of course not!”He shot me a strange look and knocked his fist on my forehead. “So all this time, I’ve been worrying over nothing? I’m glad to hear that.” He said. “Especially since I’ve had your back since the beginning and kept your secret for a long time.”A shiver curled down my spine.What

Elena“I’m here to make it up to you.” He spoke. “I’m ready to listen to you, trust you—and I’m ready to take you home.”Not knowing what else to do, I took a step back and shook my head. “N-no.” I breathed, looking dad in his eyes. “I’m not going anywhere—I’m not!”“Elena—““I’m not.”“Just hear us out, please.” Alex jumped in. He didn’t raise his voice, he didn’t look at me the wrong way, and it almost seemed as if he was afraid I could run out any second. “Please.” He pleaded.I folded my arms and looked at Lucas, who shrugged his shoulders.How the hell did he get involved anyway?That’s what I would like to know.“You know what, I’ll hear you guys out—but that’s it,” I spoke before hearing three relieved sighs.As promised, I sat beside Lucas with dad and Alex on the opposite side. My previous thoughts, occupied with Marvin’s terrifying persona, had suddenly vanished.What was up with these three, and why were they together?Perhaps to take down Marvin?Or maybe it was nothing ot