Valley View Royal – Spicy High School Love Story

Chapter 16 : A New Day at Valley View

NIGHT BAR HOUSE*
the sleek lines and vibrant colors of the modern clubhouse enveloped the place. The airy space was filled with natural light pouring in through floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating the polished concrete floors and minimalist decor.
A state-of-the-art sound system pulsed with a lively beat, setting the tone for creativity and collaboration.
Julian and his friends could be seen seated in a corner round a table discussing.

“So you mean, your dad arranged an engagement for you” Stanley asked after julian narrated what happened.
“You’re stuck bro” Kingsley chuckled.
“This isn’t something you should laugh at Kingsley” Caleb muttered.
“Seriously it funny, Julian would be first to get married in our midst” he chuckled.

“Stop kings, you are making things hard here” Stanley narrowed his eyes.
” Sorry, sorry” he stops laughing.
“Dude, that crazy!, Your dad can’t just decide who you are going to marry” he added.
“I feel trapped, I don’t want to be engaged to someone I don’t love” Julian leaned back on the chair.

“I thought Evelyn was your childhood friend” Stanley asked.
Julian signed frustratingly.
A bartender came towards them to ask for their orders.
“Good evening gentlemen, what can we offer you” she smiled at them.

“You” Kingsley bit his lips and she frowned.
“Meee” she muttered knowing immediately that he is a player.
“Yes you, can you give me your digit” he winked.
“What will you like to take” she asked others ignoring Kingsley and they took their orders.

“I’m talking to you baby” Kingsley held her hand and she yanked it off.
“Sorry!!.., I don’t do small boys” she muttered and left.
Kingsley words hanged in the air as he became speechless, he looked at his friends and they turned away chuckling loudly.

“Did she just…. rejected me” he widened his eyes.
“Sorry bro” Caleb chuckled.
“Your charm didn’t work today” Stanley laughed loudly as julian watched.

Julian got home to meet Ariana in his doorstep.
“What are you doing here, I thought you’ll be asleep already” he asked.
“I just wanted to talk to you” she muttered.

“Just go to your room Ariana” he pushed her lightly not looking at her
“Julian…”
“Just go please, I need some space” with that he entered his room.
Ariana signed sadly and left for her room.

NEXT MORNING 7AM
Julian got down the stairs ready for school to see his parents taking breakfast.
He joined them and the maids served him his.
“Julian, I hope you’ve thought about it” Gabriel asked and Julian narrowed his eyes not replying.
“I’m talking to you Julian” He banged the table.

“Honey calm down” Cecilia said.
“I don’t see any reason why I should get engaged, I have the right to choose who I want” julian spoke up.
“Is it because of her, Ariana” Cecilia frowned.
“That not it..”

“Then what, I don’t want to see you with that girl again, she shouldn’t come back here today” Gabriel muttered and Julian felt dumbfounded.
“Dad, I thought you’ve always wanted my happiness” Julian said, calmly.
“But we’re doing to this for your sake julian” Cecilia muttered.
“Then why are you saying she shouldn’t come here again” he asked.

“Evelyn might come here anytime and she won’t like seeing Ariana here” Gabriel said.
“You once said, she can stay as long as she want” he mumbled.
“Now, I’m changing it, she shouldn’t stay here anymore” he ordered.
“You have to stick with Evelyn” he added.

“Dad you know what, I’m outta here” he mumbled and stormed out of the house.
“Julian, come back here” Gabriel shouted but he didn’t respond.
He met Ariana inside the car who was looking outside the window. The drive was silent as no of them spoke to themselves till they got to school.

✨ VVRHS ✨
Lyra could be seen in the cafeteria eating her lunch alone while checking her phone repeatedly.
“Why are they not here yet” she mumbled.
Stanley came to the seat and she frowned.
“What are you doing here, are you stalking me” she said loudly.

“No, I’m not cutie, I thought of joining you since you’re alone” he smiles.
“Don’t smile at me, it sucks” she rolled her eyes and he smiles again.
Lyra hit the table “I said don’t smile at me” she muttered.
“Why?.., you look cute while angry” he chuckled.

“Whatever” she glared at him.
“So, what your name” he asked sweetly.
“I don’t tell jerks my name” she mumbled.
“Ok, I’ll introduce myself instead..” he muttered “I’m Stanley what’s yours” he winked and she raised an eyebrow.
“It sounds like Stanalot” she thought.
“Seriously..”

“Like a whimsical novel” she muttered and glanced at her phone again.
“Since you don’t want to tell me your name, I’ll just call you sweetpea then”
“What!!!”
Ariana and Helena came to join them with their lunch too.
“Finally gosh” Lyra sign in relief.

“I can see your friends are here” he sent a smile at her and she rolled her eyes.
“Stop smiling at me” she half yelled and he chuckled standing up.
“See you later bye” he said and left their table.
Helena stared at his retreating back admiringly. Ariana tapped her and she jolted back to life.
“What!!!!” She asked.

“You were staring hard” Lyra muttered and she smiled.
“Who’s he” Helena asked Lyra.
“He was the one who bumped into me the other day” Lyra frowned.
“What his name” she asked further.
“Stanalot!”

“Stanalot!!!, What the heck, I’m sure it is called Stanley” Ariana muttered.
“Whatever” Lyra waved her hands dismissively.
“What class is he” Helena asked and Lyra raised a brow.
“Why asking all these questions, I just met him yesterday or do you admire that jerk” she muttered.
Helena narrowed her eyes, “No, just asking” she smiles and they faced their lunch while chatting loudly.

Ariana went to the garden hoping to meet julian there. She saw him sitting on a bench while staring at the sky.
She joined him and he faced her then turned back to the sky.
“What are you doing here” he asked.
“What is going on, you’ve been shunning me” she muttered.
“Just go Aria” he faced somewhere else not looking at her.

“When are you going to tell me” she asked and he raised a brow.
“Tell you what” he faced her.
“You seriously don’t know what I’m talking about” she asked hurting inside.
“How did you know about it”.

“I overheard it, are you just going to get engaged to her” she asked.
“What do you want me to do exactly.., I can’t go against my dad” he muttered trying not to look at her.
“Will you just keep pushing me away” she almost teared up.
“Ariana stop, I can’t possibly do anything right now, I’m confused” he said skeptically.

“I guess I’ll just leave, I might be a distraction to your relationship with Evelyn” she felt a drop of tear slip from her eyes.
“Ariana listen…..” He wanted to complete but she cut him off and stood up.
“Good luck in your relationship” she mumbled sadly, with that she left.
“Ariana wait” he called out to her but she left already.
“Shit Julian, didn’t you see that you’re hurting her” he hit his head repeatedly.

LIBRARY
Lucas was seen seated in the library with his hands on his jaw as if he is thinking of something, someone came to sit beside him and he turned to see Genevieve.
“What the fvck are you doing here” he fumed curiously.
“Keep calm, Lucas” see assured.
“What do you want” he asked. “do you even like the way Julian is becoming close to Ariana, won’t you do anything about it” she said and his curiosity turned to disgust.

“and how is that your business” he asked.
“I was thinking you join hands with me and we separate them, I need your expertise” she said determined.
Lucas blazed his gazed fuming at her. “You want me to join your silly games” he narrowed his eyes.
“I’m not playing games, if we could join hands together, I get Julian and you get Ariana” she convinced.

“You know what…, I’m not interested just go with your useless brain” he pointed at the door standing up.
“You’ll still come back to me” she smirked and left the library fuming.
She got outside to see her friends.

“Did he agrees to it” Sloane asked.
“That stubborn jerk, he didn’t” she replied.
“He’ll surely come back, I’m sure” Rose said
“We’ll see about that”.

✨ ANDERSON MANSION ✨
Stephen checked the time as he just borrow 15million won from his bank.
“You have 10 minutes left Stephen, don’t waist time to send the money” Stephanie said worries filled on her face.
“I’m doing it right away” he muttered and proceed to send the money but it is not working.

“What happening to this network, is not going” Stephen muttered as the money didn’t send.
“What is it” Stephanie asked.
“Have you sent it” she added.
“No, the network is fluctuating” he mumbled.
“Do something Stephen, maybe go outside, I don’t want my daughter’s sold” she barked at him.

✨ SLAVE PORT ✨
Kiara and Karen were dressed as slaves. They have been crying knowing their parents didn’t do anything about them. They were lead with other girls to the ship.
Immediately the sailor wanted to start the engine, the slave trader stopped him.
“Wait” he muttered and walked into the ship.

“Come out” he gestured to Kiara and Karen and they stood up quickly to avoid been beaten.
Their body were full of scars as the heavy bodied men beat them up for being stubborn.
“Now, go down there pick up your dresses and get meet your greedy parents” he yelled at them and they flinched rushing down.

They put on their dresses and went out to see Stephanie and Stephen waiting for them.
“Dad, you’re almost late” Karen cried bitterly.
“I’m sorry princess, I had to get a loan from the bank” he hugged her.

“Kiara” Stephanie called.
“What!!!!, You fvcking left us to suffer in the hands of these crazy people” she hissed.
“I’m sorry you had to go through this” he signed sadly.

✨ VVRHS ✨
“There are so many activities we’ll do before graduating. I can’t believe this, the school announced a trip to Jeju island” Lyra gushed.
“Wow, I love that place” Helena smiled.
“How much is the fee” she asked further.
“It is 1million won per student, I must go to this trip” Lyra squealed.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to go, I’m a scholarship students” Helena faked a smile knowing she can’t pay the fee.
“Oh sorry” Lyra pouted sadly.
They noticed Ariana hasn’t been saying anything and they turned to her.
“Ariana”
“Ariana”
They chorused and she jolted back from her thought.

“What are you thinking” Lyra asked and she shook her head “nothing….”.
“Just….” Ariana shook her head while closing her eyes tightly.
“Is okay, come over here” Helena muttered and they sat down when they got to class.
“What going on Ariana, you seem confused” Lyra asked.

Ariana went ahead to tell them about Lucas confession and Julian engagement.
“Seriously and you kept it away from us” Helena frowned.
“Aren’t we your friend, we share secret to each other but you kept yours” she added.
“I can’t bring myself to tell you guyz” she muttered sadly.

“So what are you going to do now” Lyra asked feeling pity already.
“I’ll just leave the place and find a suitable place to stay” Ariana mumbled.
“Where will you stay, will you rent an apartment” Helena asked.
“I’ll do that, I can’t go back to my aunt and uncle” she muttered and she remembers how she escaped the slave port.

“Don’t worry Ariana, we are here for you, I’ll help you in anything you want” Lyra assured her and she smiles at her.
“Thank you” Ariana mouthed.
“I really can’t believe my brother had a thing for you” Lyra narrowed her eyes.
“But why did you turn him down, we thought you liked him” Helena asked.

“I only like him as a friend, I did not see him the other way” she bowed her head and Lyra just stared intensely at her.
“I really don’t want to believe Evelyn could go that far to make herself engaged with Julian” helena muttered in disgust.
“She irritate me seriously ever since she came to this school” Lyra rolled her eyes.
“You girls should just stop”.

Meanwhile someone stood at the doorstep nodding her head as she overheard everything they said.
“So Evelyn is getting engaged wow” she smirked darkly and left.

✨ SEOUL AIRPORT ✨
The airport erupts in a symphony of activity as planes touch down on the runway, their tires screeching in a familiar rhythm. The air is filled with the roar of engines reversing thrust, and the sweet scent of jet fuel wafts through the terminals.
A figure could be seen just coming out of the plane as it landed. She removed her dark shades and smiled darkly.

“I’m back” she smirked and climbed down the plane stairs.
Someone came to her and she turned to him.
“Have you gotten any info yet” she asked her manager.

“I haven’t found her” he responded and she frowned immediately.
“What about others” she asked.
“I have many information about the Norman’s family” the manager responded.
“That good!!!.., dear best friend, I’m coming for you” she smiled dangerously and left the airport with her manager.

Chapter 17 : Standing Up to Bullies

✨ VVRHS ✨
The news of the trip to Jeju island spread like wild fire as students talked about it which will take place in a week.
The classroom was abuzz with excitement as the final year students chattered about their upcoming trip to Jeju Island. Lyra pulled out her phone and started showing her friends pictures of the island’s stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.

“Guys, look at this!” she exclaimed, her eyes shining with enthusiasm “We’re going to explore the beach” she squealed.
“Not like am going” Ariana rolled her eyes.
As Ariana chatted with her friends in the class, a junior student, Emily, approached her nervously. “Senior A-Ariana?” Emily stuttered, fidgeting with her hands.

Ariana turned to her, curious. “Hey, any problem”
Emily took a deep breath. “The principal wants to see you in her office.”
Ariana’s eyes widened slightly. “Oh? Did she say why?”

Emily shook her head. “No, she just told me to come find you and bring you to her office.”
Ariana’s friends exchanged curious glances, but Ariana just smiled calmly. “Thanks you can go”
Ariana turned back to her friends.

“Why is the principal calling for you Helena asked curiously.
“I really don’t know”.
“or the bitch perhaps reported you again” Lyra squeezed her face.
Ariana frowned at the thought of it “her wish, daddy’s girl” Ariana mumbled.
“I’ll be right back” she added and left the class.

✨ UNKNOWN LOCATION ✨
A female figure eyes were fixed on her manager, her heart racing with anticipation. “What is it, John? You have news about my daughter?”
John nodded, his expression solemn. “Yes, boss. I’ve found her. Your daughter, Juliet… she’s alive.”
Her breath was caught in her throat, her eyes welling up with tears. “Where is she? Is she safe?”

John handed her a folder, his eyes sympathetic.
Her hands trembled as she opened the folder, her eyes scanning the photos of Ariana and documents inside. Her heart swelled with emotion as she saw her daughter’s face, her features a mix of hers and her father’s, she remembers Gabriel and she squeezed her face.
Her eyes further devoured the photos and documents in the folder, her heart overflowing with emotion. She saw Ariana’s bright smile, her sparkling eyes, and her dark hair, and she felt a surge of love and longing.

As she delved deeper into the folder, she saw photos of Ariana with Stephen, Stephanie Kiara and Karen. She saw images of Ariana’s school, her friends, and her life in Korea.
“She’s here in Korea. From what I gathered she once lived under her uncle but now she lives alone”
“Which uncle, Juliet does not have an uncle” she muttered suspiciously.

“Erm…. That day, Cecilia threw her away in the dustbin in front of the Anderson’s home, the Anderson’s saw her and they took her in as their daughter since they’re barren” he hesitate.
She folded her fist tightly. “That bitch, she won’t see what is coming for her” she mumbled under her breath.

She turned back to the photo In front of her and she felt calm immediately “Oh, Juliet,” she whispered, her voice cracking with emotion. “My baby girl, I’m sorry for not being strong for you” she bursted in tears while caressing the photos.

✨ VVRHS ✨
PRINCIPAL OFFICE
Ariana took a deep breath before entering the office after knocking.
She approached the principal “Mrs Meyers, I heard you called for me”.
Mrs Meyers looked up from the table adjusted her glasses.
“Ok Ariana, you’ve heard about the trip to Jeju island right” She asked and Ariana nodded.

“Ok so.., I just want to inform you that someone paid for your trip already” she blurted and Ariana curiosity turned to surprise.
“Some.. someone paid” Ariana asked thinking she heard it wrongly.
“Yes”.
“Sorry to ask Mrs meyers but who is the person” she asked further, her mind racing with possibilities.

Mrs. Meyers smile grew wider. “That’s the surprising part. The person wishes to remain anonymous.”
Ariana’s eyes widened in disbelief. “Anonymous?” she repeated, her surprise turning to astonishment. “But why? And how did they even know about my trip?”

Mrs. Meyers shrugged. “I’m afraid I don’t have any answers. But I do know that this person wants you to have an unforgettable experience in Jeju Island.”
Ariana’s mind was reeling with questions and theories. Who could this mysterious benefactor be? And what motivated them to be so kind? She left the principal’s office with a mix of gratitude and wonder, her surprise still lingering on her face.

Ariana went to the garden immediately to see julian on his favorite seat. He looked up from his book.
“Ariana” he called surprisingly.
“I need to clarify something from you” she frowned deeply.
“What is it?..” he hesitate, his expression guarded.

“Are you the one that paid for my trip to Jeju island” she blurted and his eyes widened in surprise.
“No I didn’t.., why would think I did” he answered.
“or are you keeping it from me” she pointed her index finger up.
“No Ariana, I don’t even have such amount” he soften his voice.
“Fine….” She muttered turning to leave.

Julian held her hand and she stopped.
“What is it” she asked coldly.
“Ariana, we really need to talk” he signed.
“About what” she crossed her arms.
“Ariana…” He played with his fingers.

“You know what… Just stay away from me and stick to your so-called Evelyn” she rolled her eyes and left the garden.
She didn’t know when a tear escaped from her eyes. She stopped by the rails and held her chest as she thought of him getting engaged to Evelyn.
“It hurt.. it does hurt” she clamps her lips tightly. She soon cleaned her tears and signed.

“Just forget about him, maybe give Lucas a chance” she mumbled inwardly and walked away
She met with Evelyn on her way back to class.
“Well, well, well. Look what we have here. The little girl who thought she had Julian’s heart,” Evelyn said, her voice dripping with condescension.

Ariana’s eyes narrowed, her heart racing with anger, but she remained silent. She refused to give Evelyn the satisfaction of getting a rise out of her.
Evelyn laughed, her eyes gleaming with amusement. “Cat got your tongue, Ariana? Can’t handle the truth?”
Ariana’s face remained expressionless, her silence a defiant shield against Evelyn’s taunts.

Evelyn’s smile turned cruel. “You’re just a pathetic little girl who can’t even fight for what she wants. Julian deserves someone like me, someone who can match his sophistication and wealth.”
The silence between them was oppressive, the tension palpable. Evelyn’s words hung in the air like a challenge, but Ariana refused to take the bait. She turned to walkaway, leaving Evelyn’s mocking laughter behind.

Ariana turned back immediately with a scoff on her face
“You know, Evelyn,” Ariana said, her voice low and even, “you can have Julian’s ring, but you’ll never have his heart. And that’s what truly matters.”
Evelyn’s face reddened with anger, but Ariana just turned and walked away, leaving Evelyn seething with frustration.

✨ ADS INVESTMENT ✨
Stephen’s eyes were fixed on the phone as it rang, his heart sinking with each passing moment. He knew who was on the other end, another investor demanding their money back. His company, once thriving, was now on the brink of bankruptcy.
He hesitated, his hand trembling as he reached for the receiver. “Stephen speaking,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Stephen, it’s Rachel from Golden Investments. We need to discuss our investment in your company.” The voice was firm but laced with a hint of urgency.
Stephen closed his eyes, bracing himself for the inevitable. “I know, Rachel. I’ve been expecting your call.”
“We need our money back, Stephen. We can’t afford to wait any longer. Your company is struggling, and we don’t see a recovery in sight.” Rachel’s words were direct and harsh, yet Stephen knew she was right.

He took a deep breath, the weight of his failure crushing him. “I understand, Rachel. I’ll do everything I can to arrange the payment. But I need some time.”
Rachel’s sigh was audible. “How much time, Stephen? We can’t wait forever.”

Stephen’s mind raced, desperate for a solution. “Give me a week, Rachel. I’ll do everything in my power to secure the funds.”
The line went silent, and for a moment, Stephen thought he’d lost the connection. “Okay, Stephen. One week. But if we don’t see any progress, we’ll have to take further action.”

Stephen nodded, even though Rachel couldn’t see him. “I understand. Thank you, Rachel.”
As he hung up the phone, Stephen felt the weight of his world crashing down around him. He was out of options, out of time, and out of hope. His company, was slipping away, and he was powerless to stop it.
He even had to make Kiara and Karen change school because he can’t pay for the tuition fees anymore, he had loans and losses on his neck.

A Honda car surpassed Cecilia’s car and her car halted immediately.
She came out twisting her face in anger as her voice rised up. “Hey you idiot, why are you blocking my way” she yelled at the driver.
The back seat windows whined down and a face came to view, Cecilia looks at her familiarly.

“Hey bestie” her voice came from the car, removing her shades.
Cecilia eyes widened as she saw the unexpected.
“Ri….Riele”
“You surprised..huh” Riele smirked darkly and came out from the car still as young as ever.
“I thought you died, I saw you shot that day” Cecilia muttered, her heart beat rising to it peak.

“As you can see, I’m so much alive….. so, watch your back” Riele whispered inaudibly.
Cecilia mouth was wide opened in shock as Riele entered her car and drove off.
“No….no… this isn’t happening” she shook her head dismissively and ran back to her car driving off instantly.

Cecilia entered a dark building hastily as she met with Landon smoking dangerously from his pipe.
“What are you doing here?..” he snorted.
” Landon…, She is alive, Riele is Alive” she blurted.

“What, how can she still be alive after all the gunshots” He stood up surprisingly throwing away the pipe.
“Ion know, I saw her being killed right in front of me” she said her breathing repeatedly.
“is this any of your games Cecilia, I know what you are capable of” he said coldly.

“No Landon, I swear I saw her, she confronted me” she muttered at once.
“What are we going to do, we can’t just let her spoil our plans” she added.
“Well kill her again, for real this time” he folded his fist determined facing somewhere else.

“Are you able to get the documents” he asked her and she shook her head, he turned to her immediately.
“No, Gabriel hidded it perfectly… I can’t find it” she said.
“Then why are you his wife, don’t you have right to his entitlement” he barked at her.
“He doesn’t share secret with me, how do expect me to know where it is when he still loves Riele” she yelled back.

Landon swiftly grabbed her next tightly as she struggled to get free. “Lan..don”
“I don’t play child’s play Cecilia, I’m sure you know where it is, I swear to Gawd if you try any other games here, imma kill you” he said to her face before releasing her and she fell on her knees.

She coughed hard on the ground and swept her scattered hair backwards.
“Do you want to kill me” she mumbled caressing her neck.
“I’ll gladly do so if try any shit” he blurted and left.
Cecilia stood up still coughing, “that bastard” she gritted her teeth and took her bag then left too.

✨ DAYS LATER~NORMAN’S VILLA ✨
Gabriel and Cecilia stood by the car, their faces beaming with excitement. “Ah, Julian, Evelyn, you’re finally off on your trip! We’re so proud of you both,” Gabriel said, his voice booming.
Evelyn smiled sweetly, her eyes shining with false enthusiasm. “Yes, we’re so excited to spend some quality time together, aren’t we, Julian?” She asked him.

Julian’s face was a mask of resentment, his eyes flashing with anger. “Yeah, can’t wait,” he muttered, his voice dripping with sarcasm.
Cecilia eyes narrowed, her voice stern. “Julian, don’t be like that. This trip is a great opportunity for you and Evelyn to bond. You’re going to have a wonderful time, I’m sure.”

Julian’s laugh was bitter. “Yeah, right. Because nothing says ‘bonding’ like being forced into a relationship with someone I don’t even like.” He mumbled inwardly.
“Stick to Evelyn, julian….don’t hurt her” Gabriel warned as they entered the car.
He didn’t respond as Evelyn joined him excitedly. Gabriel and Cecilia waved at the car as it drove out of their sight.

While in the car, evelyn faced julian, her face beaming with excitement. “Hey, Julian! I’m so glad we’re finally doing this. Our trip to Jeju island together will be amazing!”
But Julian’s expression was cold, his eyes narrowed. “What are you doing, Evelyn? Why are you acting like everything is fine between us?”
Evelyn’s smile faltered. “What do you mean? Of course, everything is fine. Our parents arranged our engagement, and we’re going on this trip together. What’s the problem?”

Julian’s voice was bitter. “You know exactly what the problem is, Evelyn. You’re only here because our parents forced me to go with you. You’re not even giving me a choice.”
Evelyn’s eyes flashed. “So what if our parents arranged our engagement? It’s a great opportunity for both of us. And this trip will be a chance for us to get closer to each other better.”

Julian’s laugh was harsh. “Get closer to each other better? You mean, you want to pretend to be something you’re not, just to impress me? No thanks, Evelyn. I’m not buying it.”
“Julian, can’t you consider my feelings for once” she muttered calmly but he didn’t respond and he looked outside the window.
Evelyn bit her lips painfully. “I won’t let anyone have you except me” she muttered inwardly as silence erupted till they got to school.

✨D-DAY~VVRHS✨
The sun was shining bright as the students arrived at school, their faces filled with excitement and anticipation. Today was the day of the highly anticipated trip, and everyone was eager to get there.
Julian and Evelyn arrived first, Evelyn clinging to Julian’s arm as they walked towards away from the car, Julian’s face was expressionless, his eyes fixed on the ground.

His friends came after him and he moved away from Evelyn going to meet them.
“Julie are you leaving me alone” Evelyn stamped her feet.
Next, Ariana and Lyra pulled up in matching outfits, their smiles radiant as they hugged each other tightly. “I’m so excited!” Lyra squealed, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

Ariana grinned, her ponytail bouncing with each nod. “Me too! We’re going to have the best time ever!”
“It so sad, that Helena wouldn’t be joining us” Ariana pouted.
“How about we win a game for her, she’ll be so happy” Lyra suggested and Ariana nodded in agreement.
“Sure, that cool”.

As they approached the school Bus that will be taking them to Jeju island, Evelyn’s eyes narrowed, her gaze fixed on Ariana and Lyra’s matching outfits.
“How childish” she scoffed rolling her eyes.
Ariana’s eyes flashed with annoyance, but Lyra just rolled her eyes good-naturedly. “Hey, someone’s got to pay for this trip, did she perhaps sell her Pride to get the money” Evelyn said glaring at Ariana.

“Shut it Evelyn, it non of your business bitch” Lyra eyed her.
“Fvck off” Evelyn muttered and walked away.
Genevieve came into the school next with her friends, she was claded on a tight fitting dress, her hair on a ponytail with a make up on. She fixed a strand of her hair backwards and put on her shades.

She walked majestically to the School bus as it is about to start moving.
The school was filled already as students began to enter the bus.
Some took the first school bus according to their number while others took the second one.

Ariana and Lyra sat down together since their numbers are opposite each other, while julian number was opposite his friends.
Evelyn went to Kingsley who was sitting beside julian. “Hey Kingsley, can we exchange numbers” she winked.
“Sure” he replied and they exchanged their numbers, Kingsley stood up while Evelyn sat beside Julian and he scoff.

Lucas went to sit opposite Ariana and smiles at her, she smiles back too
“Oh, this is your number” she asked and he nodded.
“Hi, I didn’t know you’ll be coming” he waved his hands.

“well I did” she replied still beaming with smiles trying to forget about their occurrence.
Genevieve sat down alone with her friends and the bus started moving.

The drive to Jeju island took more than 7 hours as some were asleep.
Ariana head was placed on Lucas shoulder since she also fell asleep.
As the bus pulled into the campsite, the students’ excitement was palpable. They had been looking forward to this trip for weeks, and finally, they were here.

The teacher, Mrs. Kim, stood up at the front of the bus with other two teachers and clapped her hands to get everyone’s attention. “Okay, everyone! We’re here! Let’s get our tents set up and settled in for the night.”
The students cheered and started to gather their belongings. Mrs. Kim continued, “Remember, we have a big day tomorrow, so get plenty of rest. We’ll be having a campfire and making s’mores later, but for now, let’s focus on getting our tents up.”

As the students poured out of the bus, Mrs. Kim handed out tent assignments and showed them where to set up. “Make sure to work together and help each other out. And don’t forget to stay hydrated and wear your sunscreen tomorrow!” Another teacher Miss. Mina said loudly.
The students scattered across the campsite, chattering and laughing as they started to set up their tents. Mrs. Kim walked around, offering guidance and encouragement as needed.

As the sun began to set, the campsite was transformed into a colorful village of tents, with the sound of laughter and chatter filling the air. Mrs. Kim smiled, watching her students work together and have fun. “This is going to be a great trip,” she told Mr. Charles.
“Of course”.

Chapter 18 : Sebastian’s Desperate Measures

✨ NORMAN’S VILLA ✨
Cecilia’s eyes scanned the room frantically, her breath quickening as she searched for the document. She had been searching for what felt like hours, her frustration growing with each passing moment. Finally, her gaze landed on the wardrobe in the corner of the room. She strode over to it, her heart racing with anticipation.

As she flung open the doors, a file caught her eye. She pulled it out, her hands shaking as she opened it. The contents made her heart skip a beat. It was Gabriel’s copy of his will, and the distribution of assets was not what she had expected. Juliet, who was Riele’s daughter was to receive 70%, while Julian, her son, was only allocated 30%.
Cecilia’s mind raced as she felt a surge of anger and disbelief. How could Gabriel do this to their son? She knew she had to act quickly to change the situation.

“I’ll need the original” she muttered as she thought of the family lawyer.
Her heart skipped a beat as she heard Gabriel’s footsteps approaching. She swiftly tucked the documents behind her back, her eyes darting around the room for a place to hide them. She spotted a nearby bookshelf and quickly slid the documents between two books, just as Gabriel entered the room.

“Hey, I thought you’ve gone out?” Gabriel asked, oblivious to the hiding documents.
Cecilia forced a smile, trying to appear nonchalant. “I don’t… Feel like, what about you, didn’t you go to the office?”
Gabriel shrugged. “Just forget something from the shelf. What’s with the books?”

Cecilia laughed nervously. “Oh, just trying to find something interesting. You know me, always looking for a good read.”
Gabriel nodded and headed towards the wardrobe, unaware of the hidden documents mere feet away. Cecilia breathed a sigh of relief, her heart still racing from the close call.
Gabriel took a file and left the room, immediately Cecilia let out a sign of relief.
“Phew, I’ve almost got caught”.

✨ JEJU ISLAND~CAMPSITE ✨
Evelyn was walking around the campsite not paying attention to where she was going, and before she knew it, she collided with a tall figure.
“Watch where you’re going!” she snapped, her anger spilling over.
The person she bumped into raised an eyebrow. “Actually, you’re the one who bumped into me,” Evander said calmly.
Evelyn’s eyes narrowed. “Apologize,” she demanded coldly.

Evander shrugged. “I’m not apologizing when you’re the one who ran into me. You should be the one apologizing.”
Evelyn’s face flushed with anger. “You’re impossible!” she exclaimed, her voice low but fierce.
Evander smirked. “And you’re reckless. Maybe you should pay attention to where you’re going next time.”

As Evelyn continued to fume, a stray object whizzed through the air, heading straight for her. Evander saw it, he reached out and grabbed Evelyn’s arm, yanking her out of the way just in time. The object harmlessly hit the wall behind her.
Evelyn’s eyes widened in shock, but her expression quickly turned icy again. “Let go of me,” she demanded, her voice cold.

Evander released her arm, his eyes never leaving hers. “You’re welcome,” he said, his tone neutral.
“I never said thank you” she rolled her eyes.
“But you just did” he smirk.
Evelyn’s gaze narrowed. “I didn’t need your help” with that, she walked away.

Ariana and Lyra were seen walking towards their tent after breakfast, they saw Genevieve alone and they glanced at themselves.
“Genevieve has been laying low these days, she is not the type to do such” Lyra wondered.
“Is she planning something” Ariana raised a brow and Lyra bit her fingers.
“She is mostly dangerous when quiet, she’ll probably have a plan for this trip” Lyra muttered.

The teachers assembled all the students for the first activity of the day.Mrs. kim, Mr. Charles, and Ms. Nana, stood before the assembled students, their faces beaming with excitement. “Welcome, young adventurers!” Mrs. Kim began. “Today, we embark on a hunting quest. Your mission is to find diamonds hidden on a tree in a nearby forest.”
The students’ eyes widened with anticipation.

Mr. Charles held up a stack of maps. “You’ll work in pairs, using these maps to navigate the forest. Each map has a unique coordinate, leading you to the treasure.”
Ms. Nana explained, “The diamonds are hidden on a specific tree, marked with a distinctive symbol. You’ll need to work together, use your problem-solving skills, and trust your maps to find the treasure.”

Mrs. Kim’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Here’s the twist: there are multiple trees with diamonds, but only the first pair to return with a diamond will win the grand prize!”

The students’ eyes widened, and murmurs of excitement spread through the group.
Mr. Charles revealed the prize: “The winning pair will receive a brand new laptop and a special parking spot for the rest of the terms!”
The students cheered, their competitive spirits ignited.

Mr. Charles eyes twinkled mischievously. “And, if you thought the previous prize was amazing, we have a special surprise for the winning pair. They will not only receive the laptop and parking spot, but also… a brand new car!”
The students’ jaws dropped, their eyes wide with disbelief. “A car?!” someone exclaimed.

Ms. Nana nodded, a smile spreading across her face. “Yes, a car! Courtesy of our school Authority, the winning pair will drive away in a brand new vehicle, perfect for cruising around town or heading to college.”
Mrs. Kim laughed, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. “So, are you ready to find those diamonds and drive off into the sunset?”
With a chorus of “Yes!” and “Let’s do this!”

“So Mr. Charles would read out the list” Mrs Kim said and gestures him to go on.
“I’ll be starting from students in the VIP class”.
“Stanley & Lyra.
Julian & Evelyn.
Lucas & Caleb.
Kingsley & Evander.
and lastly, Genevieve and Ariana” .
“But Ariana is not in the VIP class” Evelyn snapped.

“Well some anonymous person registered her”.
Lyra faced Ariana who was taken aback by what she heard.
“How come you’re in the VIP class” she asked.
“I don’t know, this mysterious sponsor must know so much about me” she wondered.

Her eyes met with Julian and she looked away, Evelyn followed his gaze and frowned.
“Julie, Julie” she called trying to get his attention.
“I’m sure mum and dad would be proud if we win this adventure together” she smiles but he didn’t respond.
“Julian” she tapped him.
“What!!!!!” He snapped.

“Are you now getting angry at me because of her, I’ll tell dad once we get home” she pouted sadly knowing he can’t disobey his parents.
“I don’t care”.
With a flourish, the teachers handed out the maps, and the students eagerly formed pairs, their eyes scanning the terrain, planning their strategy.
Stanley walked towards Lyra smiling widely showing off his dimples.
“Hey sweetpea” he winked.

“Stop showing those holes, it’s ugly” she muttered disgustingly.
“Seriously” he chuckled and she rolled her eyes.
“I have the map with me, let check ours” he stretched out the map as they checked the location of theirs.
Genevieve approached Ariana smiling differently.

“Hi Ariana, guess we’re paired together” she moved her eyebrows.
Ariana stared at Genevieve suspiciously “she is surely planning something” she thought and shook out of her thought.
“Of course” Ariana let out a smile.

“Remember, teamwork and clever thinking will lead you to the diamonds!” Ms. Nana encouraged.
“Since we have our maps, some will go to the east, west, north or the south part of the forest, everything is indicated in the map, so…….Let’s go!” Mrs. Kim muttered loudly , and the students took off into the forest, their laughter and shouts fading into the distance as they raced to find the diamonds.

The teachers watched with smiles as the students dispersed immediately.
“We just hope nothing bad happens.”

A car stopped by Cecilia’s car, the owner stepped down and walked towards Cecilia car entering the front seat.
“I need the original will of Gabriel” she said forward.
“Why?” The lawyer raised a brow.
“Just hand it over to me” she muttered.

“Cecilia, I can’t just hand over the original will, Mr. Norman….” the lawyer said firmly, his eyes narrowing.
“Forget about Gabriel instructions” she cut him off.
Cecilia’s voice was laced with determination. “I’m willing to make it worth your while. Name your price.”
The lawyer hesitated, his gaze flicking to the briefcase on his lap.

” 10 million won,” he said finally, his voice low.
Cecilia’s eyes locked onto his. “Done. But I need it now.”
She pulled out her phone and made a transfer. The lawyer’s eyes widened as he saw the alert, his face pale.
“A minute please” he pleaded and she nodded. He left for his car and came back with a file.

“Okay, here’s the original,” he said finally, handing it over.
Cecilia’s eyes gleamed with triumph as she snatched the document. “Thank you. Our little transaction will remain confidential, I assume?”
The lawyer nodded, his eyes darting around the environment. “Of course. Discretion is my specialty.”

Cecilia smiled, tucking the file into her bag. “I knew I could count on you.”
The lawyer walked back to his car and drove off the street.
Cecilia’s eyes narrowed as she compared the original will to the copy, her mind racing with deceit. She had to ensure that both documents aligned with her new plan.
With a smooth smile, she drove away, leaving behind a trail of deceit and a web of lies. The game had begun, and Cecilia was determined to emerge victorious, no matter the cost.

“This is crazy, why would Gabriel willed 70% to Juliet, isn’t she dead” Landon muttered as Cecilia gave him the will.
Cecilia narrowed her eyes, looking away.
“Cecilia” he called when he noticed Cecilia’s expression.

“Did you eliminate the baby like I asked you to” he asked his tone dangerous.
Cecilia knew he can be dangerous at times and she is always scared of his at those times.
“I…I… Just threw her away in a dustbin” she stuttered.
“Damnit Cecilia, she might still be alive” he spat.

“We can trace her from where I threw her in” she suggested.
“Do you remember that location” he asked, calmly.
“I still do, I’ll just inform sky to investigate……I don’t want Riele to meet Gabriel not now or ever” she muttered.
He picked up a pipe as he dialed a number.
“Boss, we’ve found her”.

“Do it now” he ordered and soon a sound of gunshots could be heard while Landon smirk.
“What that” Cecilia asked, curious.
“Bring her here” he said to the person on phone and hung up.

✨ JEJU ISLAND ~ FOREST ✨
Evelyn’s words were met with a frosty silence, Julian’s eyes fixed on the path ahead. She tried again, her voice a little brighter. “Julian, don’t be like that. We’re stuck together for this hunt, might as well make the most of it.”
His response was curtly. “We’re not stuck, Evelyn. We’re here to find diamonds. That’s all.”

Evelyn’s smile faltered. She tried once more, her tone light. “Well, I think it’s lovely to have some company. Don’t you?”
Julian’s gaze didn’t move. “No, I don’t.”
The silence that followed was oppressive, Evelyn’s words hanging in the air like a challenge. She knew she was fighting a losing battle, but she refused to give up. Not yet.

She mistakenly stumbled on a stone and she let out a Yelp.
“Arghhhh” she screamed and Julian rushed to her.
“Are you alright” he asked and saw her bleeding feet.

Evelyn’s heart skipped a beat as he gently lifted her foot, his fingers wrapping around her ankle with a tender touch. She felt a shiver run down her spine as he examined her bruise, his eyes narrowed in concern.
He brought out his handkerchief and tied the wounds so it won’t release more blood.

As he probed the area with a gentle touch, Evelyn’s admiration for him grew. She couldn’t believe how attentive he was, how caring. His eyes, once cold and distant, now shone with a warmth that made her heart race.

As he stood up, helping her to her feet, Evelyn felt like she was floating on air. She knew, in that moment, that she was irretrievably lost to him. She would do anything to be with him, to be the object of his care and attention.
“You need to go back Evelyn, you can’t join me with a wounded feet” he muttered.
“Don’t worry, I’ll be fine since you are on my side” she smiles at him.

Stanley and Lyra has been checking everywhere for the diamonds since they’ve gotten to their location already.
“It right there, that the tree” Stanley pointed and they approached it.
Lyra wanted to pick up the diamond which was stuck to the tree but it seems impossible.
She shakes the huge tree but she is powerless.

Stanley just watched smiling as she tried numerous ways to remove the diamonds.
“Won’t you help, why are you just standing there” she muttered breathlessly.
“I prefer watching you” he said and she scoffed.
“Jerk” .
Without stress, Stanley picked up a big stick and hit it on the tree hard. The diamonds fell and he picked it up.

She squeezed her face while he chuckled.
“You should have done this earlier” she rolled her eyes taking the diamonds from him.
“Should I just fixed it back” his eyes narrowed wanting to take the diamonds but Lyra hid it at her back.
“You dare not, let go back” she muttered.

Suddenly they heard a growl from a distance and Lyra shivered in fear.
“Don’t tell me it what I’m thinking” she said her voice barely above whispers, the sound sends shivers down their spines as their eyes were fixed on where the growl came from.

A bear emerged from the thicket, its eyes fixed on the pair.
Without a word, Stanley grabbed Lyra’s hand, and they sprinted away from the tree, their feet pounding the earth. They dashed towards a nearby thicket, diving into its cover just as the bear gave chase.

Panting, Lyra held onto Stanley tightly like a lost puppy, listening as the bear snuffled and snorted mere feet away. Stanley’s eyes locked onto Lyra’s as she held him, his face set determined.
“We need to get out of here, now,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Lyra nodded, her eyes wide with fear. Stanley slowly began to crawl through the thicket, pulling Lyra behind him. They moved as quietly as possible, their hearts racing with every snap of a twig.
As they emerged on the other side, they saw a narrow path as they run quietly down the path.

The bear’s roars grew fainter, and they quickened their pace, their breathing labored. Finally, they reached a small clearing and saw a ridge in the distance.
With one last glance at the bear, now a distant speck, they scrambled up the ridge, their legs aching. Only when they reached the top did they dare to look back, their hearts still racing from their narrow escape.

The bear was nowhere to be seen, they heaved in relief as Lyra checked her backpack.
“What is it” he asked.
“I can’t find the diamonds” she mumbled.
“What!!!!” He exclaimed and then his eyes caught a shimmy light from afar.

He walked closer to it and saw it was the diamonds, he picked it and dropped it in his backpack instead.
“I thought we’ve lost it” she held her chest.
“Seriously, I’m still scared we need to get out of here” Lyra said as they used their maps to get out of the forest.

Meanwhile Genevieve and Ariana were busy checking the maps for the next route to go to.
“I think is here” she pointed at a direction.
“Lemme see” Genevieve collected the map from her as she checked thoroughly. “Okay”.

As they walked towards the path, Genevieve gasped as she checked everywhere.
“What wrong?” Ariana asked curiously.
“I lost the map, I can’t find it anymore” She replied checking herself.
“How could the map slip off your hands… I should have hold it, now we won’t find the way to the treasure even back to the campsite” she frowned.

“It not really my fault Ariana, I think the breeze blew it away off my hands”.
“Are your hands that sweaty” she snapped.
“You shouldn’t be talking to me like that, I’ll just go back” Genevieve glared at her and walked away.
“Where are you going, do you know the way” she asked, rolling her eyes.

Ariana checked the environment to see if she could still find the map, she moved forward and saw a cliff.
“Wow, there is a cliff here too” she muttered admiringly.
Before she could turn back, she felt a presence on her back.
“Are you…..” She didn’t complete her sentence when she lost her balance.
She fell off the cliff.

Chapter 19 : Sebastian’s Desperate Measures

✨ NG GROUP OF COMPANY ✨
Gabriel was seen sitting on a swivel chair in his luxurious furnishing office flipping a document after signing each of it.
A soft chime sounded in the office and Gabriel looked up, he signaled for the person to enter and his personal assistant, Jason entered the office.
“Any news” he asked.

“Sir, the award ceremony is coming up next week” He reported.
“That too sudden” Gabriel raised an eyebrow.
“What are my schedules for today” he asked further.
“You are free for today” Jason muttered.

“How many companies are invited for the award ceremony” Gabriel asked.
“Just 10 companies, only the best growing company get to be awarded”
“You know R & J has been at the top for years now.” Gabriel said.
“I know, they are legendary” Jason muttered.

“The owner has been hidden, I wondered if it a woman or a man”
“I heard of rumors that it a man, it can’t be easily managed by a woman” Jason muttered and Gabriel nodded.
“I need you to make an appointment with the assistant of that company, I want to make a partnership with them” Gabriel said and dispersed him.

✨ JEJU ISLAND ~ FOREST ✨
Ariana held the branches dangling while holding the branches tight.
“Help, help” she screamed.
A student saw her and her eyes widened, she screamed for everyone else in the forest to hear. Julian heard the voice and stopped, he had reach where the diamonds were when he heard the voice.

“Someone might be in danger” he said hoping it not Ariana.
Someone saw him and told him that Ariana is almost falling off the cliff, his eyes widened as he raced down to the east path ignoring Evelyn calls.
He got there and saw Lucas telling her to hold on.

Ariana’s fingers tightened around the branch as she felt herself slipping off the cliff. Julian’s voice rang out, calm and steady. “Ariana, hold on! Don’t let go!”
With renewed strength, Ariana clung to the branch, her arms trembling with effort. Julian quickly assessed the situation, his eyes scanning the area.

He spotted a nearby rope, partially hidden in the underbrush. With lightning-fast reflexes, Julian grabbed the rope and tossed one end towards Ariana.
“Ariana, grab the rope! I’ve got you!” he shouted.

Ariana’s eyes locked onto the rope, and with a surge of hope, she released one hand from the branch. Ariana’s fingers brushed against the rope, but she was too far gone, her body already falling towards the ground. Time seemed to slow as Julian’s eyes widened in horror, his mind racing with a desperate plan.

With lightning-fast reflexes, Julian sprinted towards the edge, his arms outstretched. He managed to grab Ariana’s wrist, her weight pulling him forward. Julian’s feet skidded on the ground, his body straining to hold onto her.
Ariana already went unconscious when Julian landed, he carried her in a bridal way and took the mountains back to the top.

Lyra and Stanley got to the campsite first, they were overwhelmed.
“Yay, we are the first” she did a high five with Stanley as the teacher came out .
They brought out the diamonds and the teachers smiled.
“Congratulations, you just won the grand prize” Mrs. Kim smiles at them.

Soon, others started coming disappointed that they were not the first.
“Where could Ariana be” Lyra wondered. Suddenly a student came rushing to them.
“Mrs. Kim…. Ariana is in trouble, she fell off a cliff” she reported.
“What!!!!!” They exclaimed.
“What Noooo… Not Ariana” Lyra gasped in shock.

Immediately, Julian rushed to the campsite with Ariana unconscious body, her hands were bleeding because of the thorns in the branches.
He was led to her tent as Ms. Nana brought out the first aid kit to treat her hands first.
Ms. Nana bandaged her hands immediately she is done and turned to see julian, Lucas and Lyra in the room.
“You guys should go rest, she is going to be fine, the shock and fear made her fall unconscious” she muttered and left and Ariana signed in relief.

Lyra went to stay on the side of the bed while julian stood at the other side.
Ariana opened her eyes and glanced at the room, she saw Lyra and blinked.
“I’m still alive” She mumbled.
“Thank Goodness Ariana, I thought I’ll lost you” Lyra hugged her immediately.

She broke it and turned to the other side to see Julian and Lucas.
“How are you feeling” Lucas asked and she nodded.
“What are you doing here, are you not supposed to be with Evelyn?” she asked Julian on seeing him.
“Ariana” he called.

“Just go go, you are making it hard for me to forget you” she said with a cracked voice.
“Just go Julian” Lucas told him and he glanced at her one last time because leaving the tent.
“Ariana….. who pushed you because I’m sure someone did that” Lyra asked and Ariana thought for a while.
“Is it Genevieve” Lyra blurted.

“I’m not sure, I didn’t see the person”.
“It definitely her” Lyra folded her fist standing up.
“What are you going to do” Ariana raised a brow sitting up.
“Teaching someone a lesson” she muttered as she folded her sleeves, before Ariana could tell her not to go, she dashed out of the tent.

Genevieve was busy chitchatting with her friends as they watched the students in relief that Ariana isn’t dead.
“I wish she was brought with a broken head” Sloane frowned.
“She should have died” Rose added.
“I should have strangled her before pushing her, I really don’t want to believe she is still alive” Genevieve stood up angrily walking out of the tent.

Before she knew it, someone landed a slap on her face and she staggered before falling.
“Arghhhhh” she yelped as she saw Lyra walking towards her.
“You had the gut to push someone down the cliff without remorse, what kind of a being are you” Lyra grinned folding her fist.
“what if I do, she should have died” Genevieve gritted and Lyra charged towards her.

Before Genevieve could stand up, Lyra pounced on her giving her multiple slaps and punches while Genevieve cried and Yelp until Caleb came and carried her away from Genevieve.
She was struggling from his hold but he didn’t let her.
“Let me go, I need to deal with that bitch” She kicked his groan and he releases her.

She charged towards Genevieve again and started beating her, Caleb groaned in pain but he still went to move Lyra away from Genevieve.
By that time, Genevieve face was bruised and red all over already as students gathered to watch, Her friends pulled her up and she gritted her teeth angrily.

“You’ll regret bruising my face Lyra, you’ll do” she grinned and left for her tent.
“Caleb released Lyra as Genevieve walked away and she turned to him.
“Why are you holding me back, you should have allowed me to deal with her, I feel like crushing her” She fumed.
“Lyra stop….arghh” he groaned as he held his torso.

“What!!!!”
“You kicked me Lyra!!” He muttered and she felt calm immediately.
“You shouldn’t have carried me in the first place” she rolled her eyes and left.

✨ ANDERSON MANSION ✨
“No dad, I’m not going to America I’ll stay here” Kiara folded her arms under her boobs stubbornly.
“That my decision and you won’t change it, you and your twin sister are going to meet grandma tomorrow,.. Period” Stephen said Sternly and left the study room.
“I don’t want to leave Korea, I won’t” she stamped her feet on the floor.

Meanwhile a figure could be seen outside the mansion putting on a face cap and a shade leaning on a car like he is waiting for someone.
Minutes later, Stephanie came out with a bag on her hands, she actually got a text from someone to meet up and she found herself outside, she saw the figure outside and moved closer to her.
“Who are you” she asked and the figure removed the shade and face cap, it turned out to be Cecilia and Stephanie covered her widened mouth in shock.

“Cecilia” she exclaimed
“What do you want, I thought I cut ties with you” Stephanie added disgustingly.
“I just want to get something from you” Cecilia muttered.

They soon settled in a coffee shop.
“What do you actually want Cecilia” Stephanie asked.
“Do you adopt a child” Cecilia asked and Stephanie frowned.
“No I didn’t, I had mine, why are you asking” Stephanie raised a brow.

“Let me tell you a secret, promise me you won’t tell anyone” Cecilia said firmly.
“Sure, I promise….. but I still don’t trust you”
Cecilia look around and moved her face closer to Stephanie.”I actually dropped a baby by the dustbin in front of that mansion many years ago” she whispered and Stephanie eyes widened.

“How could you do that?, a baby!!!”
“C’mon, I found out recently that you lived there, do you perhaps saw her” Cecilia asked.
“No I didn’t, we inherited the mansion from my husband’s younger brother” she said sternly.
“Do you remember who lived there, I need to know” Cecilia urged.

Stephanie thought for a while and she gasped.
“Do you..mean. Ariana is the baby” Stephanie stuttered as she remembered that Ariana is the only child of her parents.
“So she was adopted, Sheila never had her own child” she mumbled under her breath.
“Stephanie, do you know where this Ariana might be” Cecilia asked.
“I….I…. She…arghh” she groaned not wanting to say the part that she was once almost sold.

“What is it”
“All I know is that she attends valley View” Stephanie signed.
“Can you give me her photo so I can recognize her”
Stephanie frowned suspiciously.
“Cecilia, you sound desperate.., what do you actually want with her” Stephanie frowned.
Cecilia bit her fingers looking keenly at Stephanie.

✨ JEJU ISLAND ~ CAMPSITE ✨
Ariana was seen with Lyra as they strolled around the campsite.
“You shouldn’t have done that to her” Ariana said as Lyra told her everything.
“Why shouldn’t I, she messed with my friend, what if you had died…. I should have crushed her to death” Lyra squeezed her hands like she had Genevieve life on her hand.

Ariana chuckled. “C’mon Lyra I didn’t know you are this crazy seriously”
“I’m crazy when it comes to people I care about” she muttered.
“Did you get the diamonds” Ariana changed the topic.
“Sure, don’t you trust me anymore, it’ll be a surprise to Helena” she smiled.
“I can’t wait to see how she’ll look when she sees it” Ariana gushed.

Lyra felt pressed immediately “Ariana just go further, I wanna use the restroom'” she said and left.
Ariana was walked down the campsite exploring everywhere until someone pulled into a corner and she came face to face with Julian. She pushed him away from herself .

Julian’s face fell as Ariana pushed him away, her eyes cold and distant. “Ariana, what’s wrong?” he asked, his voice laced with concern.
“Just stay away from me, Julian,” she spat, her voice venomous.
Julian’s eyes narrowed, confusion etched on his face. “What’s going on? You’re acting like I’m a stranger.”

Ariana’s laugh was bitter. “You might as well be. You’re getting engaged to Evelyn soon, Julian. Why are you still pursuing me?”
Julian’s eyes dropped, his shoulders dropping in defeat. “Ariana, I…I didn’t mean to hurt you. That betrothment, it’s just a facade. My heart belongs to you, always has.”

Ariana’s expression softened slightly, her eyes searching his face. “What do you mean?”
Julian took a step closer, his voice filled with emotion. “Because I can’t keep pretending anymore. I love you, Ariana. I want to be with you, not Evelyn”
Ariana’s eyes welled up with tears, her voice barely audible.

Julian’s face contorted in anguish. “I know, I know. I was a coward. But please, Ariana, don’t try to forget me. Give me a chance to make it right.” He muttered and hugged her.
Ariana’s arms hesitated for a moment, then wrapped around Julian’s back, her head burying into his chest. Julian’s eyes closed, his arms encircling her, holding her close. They stood there, locked in a warm embrace, the world around them melting away.

As they hugged, the tension and anger melted away, replaced by a deep longing and love.
Ariana’s tears soaked into Julian’s shirt, her body shaking with sobs. Julian’s hands stroked her hair, his lips pressing into her forehead. “I’m so sorry, Ariana,” he whispered. “I was so blind, so stupid. I won’t leave a precious jewel like you never.”

Ariana’s arms tightened around him, her voice muffled against his chest. “Evelyn” she mumbled.
“She is not part of this, I’ll find a way to get out of this pending engagement” he assured.
Julian’s heart soared, his eyes opening wide with joy. “I love you too. Always have, always will.”
Ariana hesitated for a moment and clamps her lips tightly.

“I love you too Julian, I’ve always do” she muttered and his head sparkled in excitement.
Ariana couldn’t believe a day like this would come but it will sure comes with difficulty, Challenges and obstacles to their relationship.
As they broke the hug, the tension between them palpable, their lips finally met in a passionate, long-awaited kiss. The world around them melted away, leaving only the two of them, lost in the depths of their love.

Chapter 20 : Family Secrets Revealed

Julian took Ariana hands and left the corner.
“Where are you taking me?” Ariana asked, her curiosity pinned as Julian led her through the winding path.
“It’s a surprise,” Julian replied, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “But trust me, you’ll love it.”

Ariana playfully rolled her eyes, but her heart raced with anticipation. She had no idea what Julian had planned, but she was eager to find out.
As they turned a corner, a picturesque garden came into view. Colorful flowers bloomed around them, and a small table for two sat nestled in the middle of the garden. A soft breeze carried the sweet scent of roses and lavender through the air.

“Wow,” Ariana breathed, her eyes wide with delight. “This is beautiful.”
Julian smiled, pleased with himself. “I knew you’d like it,” he said. “I wanted to share this special spot with you.”
Ariana gazed around at the tranquil setting. “It feels like a secret hideaway,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Julian’s eyes locked onto hers, his gaze filled with warmth. “It’s our own little sanctuary,” he said, reaching out to take her hand. “Just for us.”
Ariana’s eyes widened as Julian led her to the table, where a delectable spread of food awaited them. A basket filled with fresh fruit and cheese sat alongside a plate of pasta, and a small vase held a single red rose.

“Wow, you went all out!” Ariana exclaimed, impressed by the thoughtful gesture.
Julian chuckled, looking pleased with himself. “I wanted to make it special,” he said, pulling out her chair. “I hope you’re hungry!”
Ariana’s stomach growled in anticipation as she sat down. “Famished!” she replied, reaching for the pasta.
As they ate, Ariana was humming to the taste of the pasta.

“I can’t believe you did all this,” Ariana said, her eyes shining with delight. “You’re really something special, Julian.”
Julian’s face lit up with a warm smile. “I wanted to make it special for you,” he said. “You deserve it.”
Ariana’s heart skipped a beat at his words. “You’re making me feel like a queen already” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Julian’s eyes locked into hers, his gaze filled with sincerity. “That’s exactly what you are,” he said. “My queen.”

Ariana’s cheeks flushed with pleasure, and she looked away, trying to hide her smile. But Julian reached out and gently turned her face back towards him.
“Hey, don’t hide from me,” he said, his voice soft. “I love seeing that face.” He smiled.
Their eyes met, and Ariana felt like she was drowning in the depths of his gaze. She knew in that moment that she was falling for him, hard.
She continued eating while julian watched her as she ate.

“Won’t you eat” she asked when she felt his piercing gaze on her.
“I’ll” he picked the cutleries.
As she continued, she stained her lips with a sauce, she wanted to use a tissue but Julian leaned closer and licked it off her lips and she giggled.

They soon settled under the sunset staring at the sky.
Julian smiled, his eyes shining with love. “I want a special name for you, something that’s just between us.”
Ariana’s heart fluttered. “I’d like that,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
“How about… Lovebug?” Julian asked, his voice filled with excitement.

Ariana’s face lit up with a smile. “I love it!” she exclaimed. “And I have the perfect one for you too.”
“What is it?” Julian asked, his curiosity piqued.
“Sunshine,” Ariana replied, her eyes sparkling. “You light up my world, Julian. You’re my sunshine.”
Julian’s heart melted at her words. “I love it,” he said, his voice filled with emotion. “I’m your Sunshine, and you’re my Lovebug.”

At night time, they went back to the campsite and saw the students setting the campfire.
Lyra waved at Ariana and she went to her.
The six VIP students except Genevieve settled in around the crackling campfire, sharing stories.
“Can’t believe we are leaving this campsite tomorrow” Lyra pouted “I love this place”.

Kingsley, always the instigator, grinned mischievously. “How about we make tonight fun, Time for a game, guyz! Never Have I Ever!”
Julian raised an eyebrow. “Oh, this should be interesting.”
Ariana blushed, but Lyra nudged her playfully. “Come on, it’ll be fun!”
“Everyone, pick your drinks”.

Kingsley, ever the charming one, smiled. “I’ll start. Never have I ever… had a secret crush on someone in this circle.”he said and everyone except Kingsley didn’t take his drink.
“Lyra, you have a crush here, who is it” Caleb teased when he saw her take the drink.
Lyra rolled her eyes funningly “not your business”.

Evelyn giggled beside Julian and Ariana scoffed. She never wanted to make their relationship public yet.
She glared hard at Julian, he saw it and noticed Evelyn hands on him, he slightly push it down and Evelyn frowned.
“Can’t I hold you anymore” she mumbled.

“Just leave me” he muttered looking at Ariana cold gaze.
Lucas noticed the connection between them “is there something going on between them” he muttered inwardly.
Evelyn frowned turned into a smile as she spoke up “Okay, my turn. Never have I ever had a one night stand” she said and everyone drank at once.
“Not me, I’m romantic at heart” Stanley touched his chest.

Lyra continued. “Never have I ever fallen in Love with someone here”
Everyone took a sip of their drink except Kingsley and Caleb.
“I don’t do love” Caleb muttered and Lyra felt a thorn pierced in her heart. She hurtfully bowed her head and Stanley saw it.
“So Caleb is her crush” Stanley mumbled inwardly.

“I’ll go next” Ariana said and continued “never have I ever sent a dirty text to a wrong person”.
Everyone took a sip except Kingsley. “Tell us about it” Evelyn nudged.
“I kinda mistakenly sent a dirty text to my mum instead of my girlfriends” he mumbled and everyone chuckled.
“That crazy, how many girlfriend do you have” julian asked.
“I can’t count, let continue”.

“Jeez, Kingsley you’re a bad boy but don’t forget to take responsibility if any of them get pregnant” Ariana added.
“Pregnant!!!!!…… impossible”.
“My turn, Never have I ever……….” Julian looked around and saw them staring at him waiting for his questions.
“Never have I ever tried to get someone phone number in a bar” he asked and everyone took a drink except Kingsley.
“Are you mocking me now” Kingsley snapped.
“Sorry dude” julian chuckled.

Lucas who has been silent cleared his throat “I’ll go next, never have I ever made out in public place” he muttered and everyone took a drink.
“Seriously Caleb, I thought you make out everywhere” Stanley asked.
“I’m the next, never have I ever have a girlfriend or boyfriend here” Kingsley asked and everyone took a drink except Julian and Ariana.
“Julian, why did you not take your drink” Evelyn asked until she saw Ariana staring at him.

“Are you two…” Evelyn pointed at the both of them and ran off with tears welling up in her eyes.
Lucas folded his fist in frustration and left the campfire fuming to his tent.
“So you guys are dating, since when? why didn’t you tell me” Caleb muttered.
“It just today, I don’t want to make it public yet because of my scandal”.

Lyra stared at Ariana shockingly “you two are dating….OMG”.
Ariana shrugged “I was planning to tell you after the game but…”.
Lyra hugged her playfully “I can’t believe you have a boyfriend while I remain single” she mumbled.
“Julian, what about the upcoming engagement, your dad…..” Stanley muttered.
“I’ll get out of this trust me” julian let out a sly smile.

Genevieve’s friends surrounded her, concern on their faces.
“Genevieve, let us help you treat those bruises,” rose said, reaching for her face.
But Genevieve’s anger flared. “Don’t touch me!” she yelled, slapping rose’s hand away. “Just leave me alone!”

Her friends exchanged worried glances. “Genevieve, we just want to help,” Sloane coaxed.
But Genevieve’s fury boiled over. “I said no! Get away from me!”
Rose hesitantly held out a mirror. “Genevieve, maybe you should see…….”

Immediately Genevieve’s gaze fell on her reflection, and she let out a horrible scream. The bruise on her face was worse than she had imagined, a deep purple spreading across her cheekbone. Lyra’s handiwork was evident, and Genevieve’s shame and anger overwhelmed her.
Her friends rushed to calm her down, but Genevieve shoved them away, stumbling backward. “Get away! The two of you!” she screamed, her eyes fixed on the mirror as if it were a window to her own personal hell.

As rose and Sloane retreated, she gritted her teeth angrily.
“I swear to gawd Lyra, you’ll pay for doing this to my face”

NEXT DAY
The students all went back to Seoul while missing their moments in Jeju island.
Ariana and Lyra waved themselves goodbye as soon as they depart from the bus.
“Bring the car to school Tomorrow” Ariana said and Lyra nodded.
“Ok, See you tomorrow sweetheart” Lyra blew her a kiss and left in her car.

✨ NORMAN’S VILLA ✨
Julian walked into the living room, greeted by the sight of Evelyn sobbing in front of his parents. Their faces were stern, their eyes cold.
“Come back here young man,” Gabriel said, his voice firm when Julian attempted to leave
“What’s going on?” Julian asked, feeling a sense of unease.
“You know exactly what’s going on,” Cecilia replied, her voice icy.

“Evelyn has told us about your little fling with Ariana.”
Julian sighed, knowing this conversation was inevitable. “Mom, Dad, I……”
“No, Julian, you listen,” his father interrupted. “You are getting engaged to Evelyn, and you will not embarrass us by dating someone else. It’s unacceptable.”

“Julian, how could you do this to me?” Evelyn wailed, her tears flowing anew.
“I understand that you’re upset, but I have the right to choose who I want to be with,” Julian said, his voice firm but respectful. “And I choose Ariana. I know this may not be what you wanted for me, but I can’t help how I feel.”

Gabriel’ faces turned red with anger. “You’re being selfish and foolish,” his father thundered. “You’re throwing away a great future with Evelyn for some stinking feeling for Ariana.”
Julian stood his ground. “It’s not just feelings, and it’s not just an infatuation. I love Ariana, and I have the right to pursue a relationship with her if that’s what I choose.”

Cecilia voice was cold. “You’re not thinking about the consequences of your actions, Julian. You’re not thinking about how this will affect our family, our reputation, and your future.”
Julian took a deep breath. “I am thinking about the consequences, Mom. And I’m willing to face them if it means being with the person I love. I’m not a kid anymore, and I have the right to make my own decisions.”

Julian’s parents turned to him, their eyes blazing with anger. “You will have stay away from that girl, effective immediately. And until you can learn to respect your commitments, you are grounded. No phone, no friends, no leaving the house. You will stay in your room until the day of your engagement ceremony on Saturday.” Gabriel muttered and left the living room while Cecilia followed.
“What!!!!!?” Julian exclaimed.

Julian felt a surge of anger immediately “this is bullshit” he hit the wall angrily.
“Julian” Evelyn called.
“Don’t fvcking call me” he spat and left for his room furiously.

Meanwhile, Gabriel entered the bathroom when he coughed hard and blood camo out from his mouth.
He coughed more and more with more blood coming out. “This is getting much” he mumbled. Cecilia who has been noticing it smirked inwardly.
“Very soon, soon Gabriel” she smirked dangerously.

< SEOUL NATIONAL HOSPITAL>
Gabriel was seen with the family doctor signing heavenly.
“Mr Norman, you have a very short period to live” The doctor shook his head.
“How, what is wrong” Gabriel muttered as he collected the results from the doctor.
“You have lung cancer and you just have two months to live” the doctor muttered and his eyes widened in shock.

✨NEXT DAY~VVRHS ✨
Ariana and Lyra dragged Helena to the brand new car,
“Woah, this ride is really beautiful” Helena exclaimed.
“I won it” Lyra gushed and gestures for Helena to enter the car.
Helena sit on the driver seat admiring the interior. “Wow”.
“It’s for you” Ariana muttered and Helena was taken aback by what she said.

“Huh” Helena mumbled surprised.
“We won it for you, I had to beg Stanley to take the laptop while I take the car” Lyra muttered.
“are you playing jokes right now” Helena asked to be sure.

“No, it yours” Lyra threw her the keys.
Helena screamed in excitement and got out then hugged her friends.
“I love you, I love you, I love you guys, I really can’t believe you did this for me” Helena giggled.

Ariana searched the school hallways, her eyes scanning the crowds for a glimpse of Julian’s familiar smile. She hasn’t seen him in school as he was nowhere to be found. She had checked the classes and his favorite spot in the garden but she couldn’t find him.
She checked her phone Maybe he has replied to her text but he didn’t even read it. She approached his friends, who were huddled in a corner, looking concerned.

“Hey, have you guys seen Julian?” Ariana asked, trying to keep her worry in check.
“He has not been replying my text”
Caleb shook his head. “Nah, he didn’t come to school today. He’s been grounded.”
Ariana’s heart sank. “Grounded? What happened?”

Stanley leaned in, lowering his voice. “His parents found out about you two. They’re not happy.”
Ariana’s eyes widened in disbelief. “They’re keeping him like a prisoner?”
Kingsley nodded. “Basically. He’s not allowed to leave his room until the engagement ceremony tomorrow.”
“What!!!!!… Engagement ceremony” Ariana eyes widened.
Stanley nodded. “Don’t worry, We’ll help you, Ariana. We’ll figure something out.”

Ariana was summoned to the principal’s office, wondering what it could be about. As she entered, she saw a woman sitting in front of the principal.
“Ariana, this is Ms. Riele,” Mrs Meyer’s introduced. “She has something important to share with you.” She added and gave them privacy.
Riele’s eyes locked onto Ariana’s, filled with a mix of emotions. “Ariana, my dear, I have been searching for you for so long,” she said, her voice trembling.

Ariana’s confusion grew. “Who are you?” she asked, her voice firm but polite.
Riele took a deep breath. “I am your mother, Ariana. Your real mother.”
Ariana’s eyes widened in shock. “That’s not possible,” she said, her voice shaking. “My parents are dead. They died in a car accident when I was a young.”

Riele’s face contorted in pain. “I know you’ve been told that, but it’s not true,” she said. “I was attacked and left dead, but I survived. You were taken away from my hold when you were three months old.”
Ariana’s mind raced, trying to process this revelation. “No, that’s not true,” she insisted. “My parents loved me, they would never leave me.”
Riele’s eyes filled with tears. “I am your mother, Ariana. I have proof, photos, and memories of when you were still a baby. I can tell you stories about your childhood, about your father and me.”

Ariana’s world was spinning out of control. She didn’t know what to believe. Part of her wanted to deny it, to hold onto the life she knew, but another part of her was curious, wanted to know the truth.
“Tell me,” she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper.

Riele took a deep breath and began her story. “I was attacked by my best friend who was jealous of my achievement, she wanted to take you away from me, you were still three months old then. I fought with all my might, but she had people working for her and she succeeded. I thought I had lost you forever.”
Ariana’s eyes widened in horror. “What happened next?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I was left almost dead, but I managed to be saved by a woman who took me to a nearby hospital. I spent years in recovery, in a coma actually, but by the time I was well enough to search for you, you were gone. I had no idea where you were or who had taken you.”
Ariana’s mind was reeling. She couldn’t imagine what this woman must have gone through.

“I searched for years, but every lead ended in a dead end. I had never given up until I found out about you recently. You were a student at this school, and I knew I had finally found you.”
Ariana’s eyes filled with tears and hurt as she looked coldly at Riele.

Her face suddenly twisted in anger and hurt. “How dare you,” she spat, her voice trembling. “You expect me to just believe you and fall into your arms like a long-lost daughter? After all these years, you just show up out of nowhere and claim to be my mother?”
Riele’s face contorted in pain, but Ariana didn’t care. She was too angry, too hurt.

“You have no idea what my life has been like,” Ariana continued, her voice cold and detached. “You have no idea how many times I’ve wished for a mother, how many times I’ve cried myself to sleep wondering why my parents didn’t love me enough to stay. And now you just show up and expect me to believe you?”

Tears streamed down Ariana’s face, but they were cold tears, tears of anger and betrayal. Riele reached out a hand, but Ariana slapped it away.
“Don’t touch me,” she hissed. “You have no right to touch me, to claim me as your own. I don’t know you. You’re a stranger, a stranger who’s trying to disrupt my life and claim a place in my heart that you haven’t earned.”

Riele’s face was a mask of pain, but Ariana didn’t care. She was too busy fighting her own pain, her own anger.
“Leave me alone,” Ariana said, her voice barely above a whisper.
“Leave me alone and don’t come back.”
And with that, she turned and walked away, leaving Riele standing alone in the principal’s office, her heart broken and her eyes filled with tears.

Riele’s eyes followed Ariana as she walked away, her heart heavy with sorrow. She had expected anger, expected hurt, but she had never expected this level of venom. She knew she had hurt Ariana, knew she had abandoned her instead of saving her and when she needed her most. But she had hoped, hoped that Ariana would see the love in her eyes, the love that had never faded.

As Ariana disappeared from view, Riele slumped against the wall, her legs giving way beneath her. She felt like she had been punched in the gut, like all the air had been sucked out of her lungs. She knew she had to give Ariana space, knew she had to let her process this new information. But it was hard to walk away from the daughter she had longed to hold for so long.

As she stood there, trying to gather her strength, Mrs Meyer’s approached her. “Ms. Riele, I’m so sorry,” she said, her voice soft and sympathetic. “I had no idea it would go like this.”
Riele shook her head, her eyes filled with tears. “It’s not your fault,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I knew it wouldn’t be easy. I just had to try.”

Mrs Meyer’s nodded, her eyes filled with understanding. “You can try again,” she said. “When she is ready, she’ll come to you.”
Riele nodded, a small smile on her face. “I hope so,” she said. “I hope so.”

✨ NORMAN’S VILLA ✨
Julian rolled onto his bed, staring blankly at the ceiling. He felt trapped and suffocated by his parents’ rules. Being grounded meant no phone, no friends, and no escape from his thoughts.
He thought of Ariana constantly, wondering if she was thinking of him too. He longed to talk to her, to hear her voice and reassure himself that their love was still alive. But his parents had taken away his phone, and he was a prisoner in his own room.

Julian’s eyes prickled with tears as he felt the weight of his situation. He felt like he was being punished for falling in love with the wrong person.
He tossed onto his side, burying his face in his pillow. Why did his parents have to be so controlling? Why couldn’t they just let him be happy?
As the hours ticked by, Julian’s frustration and sadness only grew. He felt like he was losing himself, like he was disappearing into the darkness of his room.

But then, he remembered Ariana’s words: “You’re my sunshine, Julian. You light up my world.”
He held onto those words, letting them warm his heart. He knew that he and Ariana would find a way to be together, no matter what obstacles lay ahead.

“We have gone too far to stop Landon, we must win this” Cecilia said determinedly.
Landon just sit smoking dangerously from his pipe.
“Should we start with Juliet, I’ve found her” Cecilia blurted and Landon dropped the pipe.
“What about Riele, you won’t know what she might be planning right now” Landon muttered.
“I have a plan………..”