Rika's POV
At night, I ate dinner with my parents and Marlon.
They were still talking about targets and strategies. Dad talked about his assets. Mom talked about legacy. And Marlon… just kept glaring at me in silence, though he still joined their conversation.
I stayed quiet and ate, thinking about Clarissa.
I slowly shook my head to clear my thoughts and reached for my glass of water—when suddenly, Marlon aimed his gun at me.
I calmly tilted my head to the left to dodge the bullet, then threw my fork at him, knocking the gun from his hand and sending it skidding across the floor.
Marlon stood up, gripping his wrist, eyes burning into me.
I looked back coldly, leaned into my chair, and casually took a sip of my water—like nothing had happened.
He tried to lunge at me, but my dad raised his hand, still chewing.
Father: "Stop. It's not good to play in front of the food."
My mom nodded and wiped her mouth with elegant control.
Mother: "Marlon, please don't point a gun at Rika during dinner.
And Rika, try to control your strength when it comes to your cousin."
Under the table, I clenched my fists.
But I stayed stoic on the outside.
I stood up and bowed politely.
Rika: "Thank you for the food, Mother. Father."
I glanced at Marlon one last time before heading upstairs.
---
In my room, I locked the door and unsheathed the knife at my waist, throwing it at the wall.
It sparked lightly against the concrete—
Then sank into it.
I leaned on the drawer, head bowed, breathing hard. My fists clenched until my knuckles turned white.
Rika: "I'm so tired of this mess..."
I ran my hand over my face and whispered again—
Rika: "Do what we do. Don't let emotions con—"
I froze.
Shinji's gentle smile suddenly flashed in my mind.
I leaned my head back against the drawer, gritting my teeth.
My lips trembled, and a single tear rolled down my cheek.
Rika (softly): "If you were just here... I wouldn't feel so alone."
I swallowed my sobs, wiped my face, and picked up my phone.
I dialed Clarissa's number.
After a few rings, she answered.
Clarissa: "Hello… who is this?"
I didn't answer. I just listened.
Clarissa (teasing): "Hmmm... that breathing... I see. It's Rika, isn't it?"
I looked at my phone, then brought it back to my ear.
Clarissa: "Bingo!! Haha. So you did call me. Don't worry—I'll tell you the first command tomorrow."
Rika: "I don't have time for your twisted game. Tell me now."
Clarissa: "Shhh... calm down. I will.
Meet me tomorrow at the back yard of the school. Near the swimming pool.
Alone. Okay?"
I frowned, but before I could say anything more—
She already hung up.
I gripped my phone and walked to the window.
I looked up at the moon and the stars that lit up the dark night.
Rika: "Shinji... why did you know a strange girl like her..."
I gently touched the knife strapped to my hip and sighed.
---
Meanwhile…
Clarissa's POV
I smirked after hearing Rika's voice on the phone.
Walking to my nightstand, I brushed my hair in front of the mirror.
Clarissa: "Hmmm… her voice is sweet. Even through the phone."
I traced the edge of my pendant and slowly opened it.
Humming the soft melody my sister used to sing to me,
I looked at Shinji's photo inside.
Clarissa: "Shinji… you were right.
She's so hard to handle...
But don't worry. I'll manage it."
Just then, a knock came at the door.
I snapped the pendant shut and wore it again.
Clarissa: "Come in."
Butler Lauren: "Young Miss… the leaders are here."
I nodded and slipped on my earrings.
Then I stood, composed, and left the room.
---
In the living room, several powerful turf leaders had gathered.
Clarissa: "Good evening, gentlemen.
I'm Clarissa Locsmen, daughter and heir of Nicolas Locsmen."
The men looked skeptical, some clearing their throats.
Marcus: "We're not interested in childish games, Clarissa.
So I hope you didn't gather us here to waste time."
I smiled and calmly walked to the table, pouring a glass of wine and offering it to Marcus.
Clarissa: "Mr. Marcus. I wouldn't dare. Please—have a sip."
I snapped my fingers. My maids came in and poured drinks for everyone.
I sat down gracefully.
Marcus: "Hmm… then tell me. What is this about?"
Clarissa: "I need your support for something."
They glanced at one another, frowning.
Mr. Cliffston: "And if we decline?"
I took a sip of my juice and smiled slowly.
Clarissa: "In three months, I turn eighteen.
That means I gain full access to my late father's assets.
And that means...
I can take back all our investments—
especially from you, Mr. Cliffston.
And you, Mr. Marcus."
I tucked my hair behind my ear and gently touched my pendant.
The room went quiet. The leaders exchanged glances.
I tilted my head slightly and raised my glass.
Clarissa: "So? Will you support me?"
Marcus sighed and stood, raising his wine.
Marcus: "You have my support."
One by one, the others followed.
I stood, smiled confidently, flipped my hair—
and turned toward the door.
Clarissa: "Then… I'll look forward to it."
---