Axel's PovThe Russo Empire, Axel's office"They sent the letter again? Is this person actually a ghost that bro Axel couldn't catch?" Tony's frustration punctuated the air in the room.Marvin sighed and added, "This mysterious person sent the letter five years ago, and now they sent it again. I think this person is actually watching you even in the dark."I stood up and walked to the ceiling-to-floor window in my office, staring at the cityscape below as I clenched the crumpled letter in my hands.I received this same letter of threat five years ago when Louisiana just woke up from a coma, I was torn between my love for Leah and Louisiana. I wanted to break my engagement with Louisiana because I found myself falling for Leah, but I got this threat stating that if I should break the engagement, my mom will be killed, and Leah will also be in danger. A mom I have never known in all my life.This person is hidden in the dark. I can't risk my mom's life because there are some questions

Axel's Pov"Better than when I was with you," Leah stated nonchalantly, and I felt my grip tighten on the glass cup. Watching her lower her head as if I didn't matter made my smile alter. "Doesn't she miss me even for a second during these five years?" I pondered. "I'm sorry, Leah," I said, pausing to meet her eyes, which widened in shock. "For all the pain I caused you..."There was a profound silence as Leah lowered her head and said, "What's the use when the deed has been done?"I could sense the pain in her voice, despite her nonchalant demeanor. Gently rubbing the cup of coffee before me, I pleaded, "Give me the chance, Leah, to make up for all the wrongs I've done."Leah looked at me and uttered, "Axel Russo, I only allowed you to stay here because of Jasper. Do not ask for more than the limit I've given you.""Leah, please listen to me. I know I wronged you, but please give me the chance," I implored gently.Leah slammed her hands on the table in anger. "Do you think coming her

Welcome contestants to the 9th edition of the fashion gala competition.... Please settle in your workstation as the first round of the competition will begin in an hour's time," the MC's voice resounded through the speaker.I carefully placed the last piece of pin on the cloth I was designing. Each workstation had been assigned to the ten contestants as a preparation area before the competition. The format had three stages, where only six contestants moved on to the second segment, and then just three contestants for the final round."Each brand line here is well-known in the country, except for ours. How we even got a slot was a miracle," Mia remarked as she dropped the last batch of materials on the floor. She pointed to the workstation next to ours, which was empty. "I wonder who owns this workstation," Mia mused.I shrugged my shoulders and continued with what I was doing. "I wonder who is so lucky to be our next-door neighbor," Jack said, joining in the conversation.Just then,

Leah Pov"Mummy, mummy, mummy," Jasper's voice shook me from my slumber, and I jolted up and sat on the bed, immediately regretting it as a splitting headache throbbed in response. I held my head in my hands and groaned, "Oh my, why didn't someone tell me hangovers are really this bad?"Jasper looked at me with concern and said, "Some strange-looking men are at the door, and they asked to see you, mummy."I nodded, trying to shake off the grogginess as I grabbed my slippers and staggered out of the bedroom. "Where is Axel?" I asked, hoping that he could handle whatever the situation might be. Jasper spread out his hands and replied, "I didn't see him this morning."I nodded in understanding and walked towards the door, reaching out to open it. True to Jasper's words, there were four men in black suits standing in front of the house. "Good morning, Miss Leah," the leading man greeted me with a respectful tone.I looked at him and returned the greeting, "Good morning. How may I help

Louisiana's Pov"Can't you be with a more sensible girl like Louisiana," Grandpa scolded Axel. I clenched my fists, feeling the familiar sting of hurt and betrayal. I glanced at Axel, whose gaze was lowered, his expression unreadable. So Leah had really been seeing Axel behind my back – that wretched girl. I stood up and picked up the glass cup which lay on the rug. "Grandpa," I said gently, trying to maintain composure, "Don't blame Axel, okay? He might have his own reasons." I knew I had to stay calm and composed at all times, especially with my impending role as the Mistress of the Russo family, which I was certain of. My place in Grandpa's heart was already stable."Master, the meal is ready," the butler announced, interrupting the tense atmosphere.***"Here Axel, have some meat," I said as I placed a piece in Axel's bowl. Axel continued to eat slowly, his thoughts still a mystery to me. I bit my lip in frustration, unable to read his expression. People thought that being the