- 9 hours ago
You Want My Ring？Get on Your Knees AGS
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:00I'm the daughter of the most powerful Don in Corvina.
00:02My father worries I'll marry the wrong man on a whim,
00:05so he arranges for me to be engaged to Luca, the rising heir of the Marino family.
00:10It's an arranged marriage, but that doesn't mean I've lost all my say.
00:14The very least I can do is choose a ring I genuinely like.
00:17So, I go to the mafia auction.
00:19When the diamond ring appears as the final jewel of the night,
00:23I lift my paddle.
00:24Just before the gavel falls, an arrogant voice comes from behind me.
00:28A country bumplin' like you thinks you can compete with me?
00:32Do yourself a favor and leave.
00:35The auction hall goes quiet for a few seconds.
00:37The only sound comes from the camera shutters clicking around the hall.
00:41I turn and see a woman in a gold couture gown.
00:44Her mouth curves in a casual smile as if she owns the place.
00:47Before I can say a word, the auctioneer rushes to close the bid.
00:51Sold!
00:52Congratulations to Miss Sofia Lopez for winning the final lot, the Eternal Star.
00:57My brows pull tight, and a hot spike of anger rises in my chest.
01:02You ended the bidding early.
01:04Do you even follow the rules here?
01:06Sofia turns around and gives me a once-over, her gaze sharp as a blade.
01:10Rules?
01:11She lets out a cold laugh.
01:13Come on.
01:14I'm Luca Marino's favorite godsister.
01:17Around here, I make the rules.
01:19I can't help but laugh.
01:20What a coincidence.
01:22So, she's my fiancé's godsister.
01:25I pull out my phone and call him.
01:27Luca.
01:28Your godsister just snatched the engagement ring I picked out.
01:31How are you gonna handle this?
01:36It seemed like Sofia Lopez wasn't just a godsister to Luca Marino.
01:40If Luca couldn't give me a good explanation, this engagement was off the table.
01:44I called the number I'd saved, but never once dialed.
01:48Once the call connected, I went straight to the point.
01:51Your godsister is trying to snatch the engagement ring I chose.
01:55What do you have to say about that?
01:57Silence hung for a moment.
01:59Then, a cold, unfamiliar voice came through the line.
02:02Who is this?
02:03Whatever's going on between Sofia and me isn't something an outsider gets to question.
02:08Before I could say my name, he had already hung up.
02:11I stared at the dark screen for a second and let out an incredulous laugh.
02:15Obviously, he hadn't even saved my number.
02:18Sofia's laughter cut through the crowd, sharp with smug delight.
02:22Pathetic.
02:23You somehow got Luca's number and actually think that means he knows you?
02:28God, you're cracking me up.
02:30She tilted her chin and twisted a lock of hair around her fingers while looking me over again.
02:36Seriously, look at what you're wearing.
02:38Even the nannies in the Marino family dressed better than you.
02:41The lackeys around her couldn't hold back and burst into mocking laughter.
02:47I had always believed comfort mattered more than designer labels.
02:51But in a hall drowning in diamonds and custom gowns, no one here cared about that belief.
02:56I pressed my lips together, heat rising up my chest.
02:59So, you're still judging people by logos?
03:02You're unbelievably shallow.
03:04Lucas sure had special taste when picking his god sister.
03:08Thanks to her stunt, I wasn't in the mood for the auction anymore.
03:12I turned to the auctioneer and pointed straight at the eternal star ring in the display case.
03:16I want to activate the automatic bidding system.
03:19Whatever she offers, I'll pay double.
03:22Miss, our automatic bidding service is reserved for clients with VIP cards.
03:28Sofia gave a sharp little snort.
03:29She reached into her clutch, pulled out a gold VIP card, and slapped it onto the podium.
03:34I spend seven figures a year here.
03:37And you?
03:38How exactly do you compare to me?
03:41I drew in a slow breath, took out a plain black card with no logo, and placed it beside hers.
03:47Unlimited credit black card.
03:50Is that sufficient?
03:51Open the VIP account and restart the bid.
03:55A wave of startled whispers rolled through the hall.
03:59Sofia's smile faded, and her tone turned colder.
04:02This is Marino territory.
04:04If anyone sides with her, I'll make sure they never work in this city again.
04:09The auctioneer's face went chalk white.
04:11His voice shook as he said,
04:13Miss, I'm just a staff member.
04:16I really can't afford to offend the Marino family.
04:18Several guests who'd seen the whole thing started trying to persuade me.
04:22You just let it go.
04:24I've run into Miss Lopez before.
04:26Mr. Martino indulges her in everything.
04:29Someone crossed her last month, and his entire business was gone the very next day.
04:34Miss, even if you've got money, don't fight the Marino family.
04:38Their reach isn't something people like us can survive.
04:41Just apologize and ask Miss Lopez to forgive you before this gets worse.
04:46Under all those cautious glances and hushed warnings,
04:49Sofia only grew more pleased with herself.
04:52She crossed her arms and came closer, wearing a smug smile.
04:56The amusement in her eyes practically sparkled.
04:58You heard them.
04:59Get on your knees and shout.
05:01I'm broke, and I know I was wrong.
05:05Do that, and maybe I'll let you walk out of here.
05:11In all 26 years of my life, no one had ever dared to talk to me like that.
05:16Say that again?
05:18What exactly do you want me to shout?
05:20Are you deaf?
05:22I said, I'm broke, and I know I was wrong.
05:26Got it now?
05:26Loud and clear.
05:28Since you admit you're broke, hurry up and get out of here.
05:31Before you dragged down the Marino name.
05:34Sofia's face flushed as she finally realized what I'd done.
05:37You!
05:38You twisted my words!
05:39How dare you make fun of me!
05:41She screeched and hurled herself at me, arms flailing like a furious chicken.
05:45It would have been funny if she weren't so noisy.
05:48I had trained with my family's bodyguards in Corvina for 10 years.
05:52I wasn't about to be intimidated by a woman whose punches were nothing but a performance.
05:56I drove a clean sidekick into her ribs.
05:59Sofia went down hard, holding onto the carpet with a pained groan.
06:03Regret.
06:04Next time you open your mouth, remember whose territory you're standing on.
06:08Gasps rippled through the hall.
06:12Oh my god!
06:14She actually hit Mrs. Lopez!
06:16When Mr. Marino hears about this, he'll have her chopped up and thrown into the bay.
06:21She's done.
06:23Not even God can save her now.
06:25I tuned their chatter out.
06:26The Marino family only stood where they did today,
06:29because my father had pulled them up when they were nothing.
06:32In this city, there wasn't a single person I needed to be afraid of.
06:36I slapped my black card on the podium again.
06:39Like I said, whatever she bids, I'll pay double.
06:43Wrapped the ring and hand it over.
06:45The auctioneer's knees visibly buckled.
06:48Hands shaking, he hit the authorization button and personally presented the velvet box to me.
06:53I put it into a bag and turned to leave.
06:55Only for Sophia to drag herself upright and stumble back into my path.
06:59Don't you dare leave!
07:01I tapped the toe of my heel against the floor and glanced down.
07:05What is it?
07:06You want another practical demonstration?
07:09She instinctively took a step back.
07:11I let out a soft dismissive laugh and pivoted toward the exit.
07:16But I didn't get far.
07:18A wall of men in black suits suddenly filled the doorway, blocking every way out.
07:23Before the guests could even process what was happening, the line of bodyguards split cleanly down the middle.
07:28A man walked through the gap they made.
07:30I looked up, and for a second my heart actually skipped.
07:33The overhead lights fell across him, outlining every inch of his frame.
07:37He had the kind of build tailors dreamed about.
07:40Broad shoulders, narrow waist, long leg.
07:42His face was all sharp planes and clean edges.
07:45So perfect it looked like someone had carved it out of stone.
07:49Sophia immediately switched on the waterworks and ran to him, tears glistening.
07:53Luca, she stole my ring and hit me.
07:58So, this was my fiancé.
08:00No wonder my father had sworn up and down that I'd like him.
08:03He knew me too well.
08:04I was hopelessly shallow when it came to looks, and Luca fit my taste a little too perfectly.
08:09Seeing that face alone, I almost felt like forgiving his earlier attitude on the phone.
08:14I straightened, gave him my most confident smile, and introduced myself.
08:19Hi, I'm Isa Borgia, your fiancé.
08:24A ripple of shock moved through the crowd.
08:27What did she say?
08:28She's Mr. Marino's fiancé.
08:31Well, obviously, the fiancé matters more than a godsister.
08:35Not really.
08:36It depends on who Mr. Marino actually favors.
08:39Luca's cold gaze settled on me.
08:41Don't flatter yourself.
08:43That engagement was my father's decision.
08:45I never agreed to it.
08:46Sophia leaned into Luca with her head on his shoulder,
08:49her eyes sparkling with a challenge she wasn't bothering to hide.
08:52Look at you in those cheap clothes.
08:55You really think you deserve to marry him?
08:57You're not even qualified to shine my shoes.
09:00Someone in the crowd eagerly piled on.
09:03Exactly.
09:04If Mr. Marino ever gets married, it'll be to a real heiress.
09:08Why would he choose a nobody from the countryside?
09:10She looks dirty.
09:12I feel like the air smells worse already.
09:14She's nowhere near Miss Lopez's level.
09:17I'd worn something simple.
09:18There was nothing dirty about it.
09:20But in their mouths, I'd somehow turned into a walking trash heap.
09:24People always did love kicking whoever they thought was at the bottom.
09:30I lifted my eyes slowly and let my gaze sweep the entire auction hall
09:34before bringing it back to Luca's face.
09:36In that case, go home and tell your father to call off the wedding.
09:41And the reason?
09:42I don't want you.
09:44My father told me that Luca's father, Antonio Marino,
09:47had pulled every string he could to make this engagement happen.
09:50If he ever learned it all blew up because of Luca,
09:53I'd pay to see the look on his face.
09:55That thought eased my irritation.
09:57I couldn't be bothered arguing with this pack of idiots anymore,
10:00so I turned to leave.
10:01But Sophia wasn't done.
10:03She came stomping toward me in her stilettos like a hyena
10:06that had caught the scent of blood,
10:07with two bodyguards following closely behind her.
10:10The black pistols peeking from their holsters were enough to freeze the room.
10:14You bitch!
10:16You think you can just walk away?
10:18You snatched my ring and laid hands on me?
10:20We're not done!
10:22I gave her a cold look.
10:23So what exactly do you want to do?
10:25She mistook my patience for fear.
10:27Her hand snapped up toward my face.
10:30I'll hit you until I feel better!
10:35Before her palm could land,
10:37I caught her wrist,
10:38twisted,
10:38and slapped her across the face with my other hand.
10:41Sophia clutched her cheek,
10:42staring at me in disbelief.
10:44You lowlife!
10:45How dare you!
10:47Why wouldn't I?
10:48I cut her off,
10:49slapping her other cheek just as hard.
10:51Is this enough for you?
10:53The two slaps knocked the arrogance right off her face.
10:55Tears sprang to her eyes as she stumbled back and threw herself behind Luca,
10:59using him like a shield.
11:00Luca!
11:02She hit me!
11:03You have to stand up for me!
11:05Luca pulled her behind him and looked at me with a gaze so dark it could have dripped ink.
11:10How dare you slap her?
11:11You must really have a death wish.
11:13He gave his bodyguards a subtle hand signal.
11:16Several of the bodyguards lunged at me at the same time.
11:19I took down the first one who charged at me,
11:21but the rest came too fast.
11:23Hits rained on me from all directions.
11:25Pain tore through my ribs and back until my legs gave out.
11:29Two bodyguards grabbed me under the arms and hauled me over to Luca and Sophia.
11:36Luca stroked Sophia's swollen cheek and said softly,
11:39Do whatever you want with her.
11:40If anything happens, I'll take care of it.
11:42His words sent a spark through Sophia.
11:45She spat at me, her face contorting with cruel satisfaction.
11:49Bitch!
11:50Weren't you so bold just now?
11:52Come on, keep acting tough.
11:54You wanna fight me over a ring?
11:57Fine.
11:58I'll break your fingers.
12:00Let's see what you'll wear on them after that.
12:02At her nod, the two bodyguards pinned my shoulders
12:05before forcing my arm out in front of me,
12:07stretching my fingers over the polished floor.
12:09I lifted my head and stared straight at Luca and Sophia.
12:13If you go through with this,
12:14I swear I'll make you both pay for it.
12:17Sophia let out a sharp laugh.
12:19The Marino family is one of the five ruling houses in Norham City.
12:22And you?
12:23You're a nameless little stray from nowhere.
12:25You think you get to threaten us today?
12:27I'll make sure you never forget what happens when you cross me.
12:33Her stiletto drove down on my fingers,
12:35and pain ripped through my hand.
12:37I bit down so hard I tasted blood.
12:39I was pretty sure I heard something crap.
12:41Everyone around us looked away from the violence,
12:44but no one had the courage to step in.
12:46She shouldn't have picked a fight with a Marino.
12:48Her hands are done for.
12:50She'll be lucky if she can even feed herself after this.
12:52We're just civilians.
12:53People like us swallow our pride or end up dead.
12:56I had loved the piano since I was a child.
12:58I would be performing on stages all around the world.
13:01I couldn't lose my hands.
13:03The thought of losing them sent a cold, strangling fear through me.
13:07When Sophia lifted her heel again, my resolve collapsed.
13:10I was wrong!
13:12You can have the ring!
13:13Take it!
13:14Just don't hurt my hands!
13:16Revenge could wait, but fingers didn't grow back.
13:19However, Sophia didn't pause.
13:21Her heel pressed down again, harder this time.
13:23A metallic smell rose from my bleeding hand.
13:29Sophia finished grinding her heel into my fingers,
13:31then squatted down, pinched my chin tightly,
13:34and brought her face right up to mine.
13:36Her mascara was a little smudged,
13:38and fine lines were visible at the corners of her eyes.
13:41I noticed these details only because my face was pressed so close to hers.
13:45Do you actually think you're special?
13:47She whispered softly, as if sharing a secret.
13:50Let me tell you,
13:52Luca has already gone through three fiancées.
13:54I drove every single one of them away.
13:57You're the fourth, and by far the stupidest one.
14:00Blood seeped from the corner of my mouth, but I didn't talk back.
14:04It wasn't because I didn't dare it, was because I had no strength left.
14:07My right hand had already gone completely numb.
14:10I didn't dare look at it.
14:11That's right.
14:12Sophia laughed, her voice full of malice.
14:15The first one was dumped by him.
14:16The second left on her own.
14:18And the third, I personally made her disappear.
14:21Her eyes changed, turning dark and sinister.
14:24How long do you think you can hold on?
14:27She stood up and coldly ordered the bodyguard.
14:29Pin her other hand down too?
14:31Today I'm going to crush both of her hands.
14:34Let's see how she seduces him after this!
14:38You bitch.
14:40Oh, now you're scared.
14:43Too late for that.
14:45You're not leaving this place until I say so.
14:49A scream tore out of my throat.
14:51I turned my head to Luca.
14:53Luca, aren't you afraid of who I am?
14:56If you let her do this, you'll regret it.
15:00Who are you?
15:02You're nothing.
15:03Just a woman who tricked my father.
15:06Sophia saw his reaction, and her smile grew even more vicious.
15:10You're still trying to seduce Luca while I'm right here.
15:14If I don't break your hands, you'll never learn.
15:18No!
15:19Don't!
15:20Just then, my phone rang from inside my bag.
15:23I struggled against the men holding me trying to reach for it, but Sophia moved faster.
15:27She grabbed the phone, glanced at the screen, and answered it with a cold laugh.
15:32My father's voice came through at once, tight with worry.
15:36Iza, why aren't you home yet?
15:39Is the auction still going?
15:41I dragged in a breath, and shouted as loudly as I could.
15:44Papa, help me!
15:46They're going to destroy my hands!
15:53My father's voice went cold in an instant.
15:55What?
15:56Who is this?
15:57Sophia shouted into the phone.
15:59I'm Sophia Lopez.
16:00Your daughter's been acting like a slut with men, so I'm teaching her a lesson!
16:06I don't care who you are.
16:07Let my daughter go.
16:08Touch her again, and you'll wish you'd never been born.
16:11If you've got the guts, come over here.
16:13Her heel slammed into my hand once more, and I couldn't hold back a cry.
16:17I'm right here waiting.
16:19I'll break her hands first and let you hear it, and when you get here, I'll break yours too.
16:25She hung up and slammed my phone to the floor.
16:28It shattered into pieces.
16:30Then, she ordered the men around us to beat me.
16:32Five minutes passed.
16:34It wasn't long on a clock, but it felt like half a lifetime.
16:37At last, a familiar armored black sedan rolled to a stop outside the auction hall.
16:41The air itself seemed to tighten.
16:43My father stepped out of the car, his black coat still carrying the faint scent of gunpowder and blood.
16:52His eyes were cold with fury as he pushed the main doors open.
16:55His voice cut through the hall like a blade.
16:57Who dares to threaten to break my hands and my daughters?
17:03When my father stepped into the doorway, the air in the auction halls seemed to freeze.
17:08His sharp gaze swept the room once, then stopped on me.
17:10I was still being held down.
17:12Sophia still had no idea danger had just walked in.
17:15She even let out a dismissive laugh and stepped forward in her stilettos.
17:19So, you're this slut's father.
17:21Perfect.
17:22Your daughter snatched my ring and slapped me.
17:25You two had better apologize right now, or the Marino family won't let either of you walk out of here.
17:30The crowd rippled with whispers.
17:32A few guests edged toward my father, their voices low and nervous.
17:36Sir, you should back down.
17:38Miss Lopez is Mr. Marino's favorite god sister.
17:41In Norham City, no one dares cross the Marino family.
17:46For you RS safety and your daughters, just admit fault.
17:49There's no shame in it.
17:53My father didn't spare any of them a glance.
17:55He simply lifted his hand.
17:57The two men behind him moved at once, striding over to me.
18:01They kicked aside the bodyguards holding my shoulders and pulled me gently to my feet.
18:05I staggered into my father's arms.
18:07He caught me, pulling me close as he soothed me with a gentle hand on my back.
18:11Does it hurt my little princess?
18:13His voice sounded calm, but anyone who knew him could hear the storm gathering beneath it.
18:18I nodded, and tears slipped down my cheeks.
18:20They wanted to rip out my nails too, Papa.
18:23His eyes grew even colder.
18:24He turned to Sofia and Luca, his voice edged with undeniable authority.
18:29In my whole life, almost nothing has ever made me apologize.
18:33Sofia flinched under his stare, then quickly latched onto Luca's arm and tried to look composed.
18:38Luca, look at them.
18:40They really don't know their place?
18:42Luca finally spoke, his tone icy.
18:45Sir, you'd better do as Sofia says.
18:48In Norham City, going against my family is unwise.
18:53My father let out a mocking laugh.
18:55Your family.
18:56Which one would that be?
18:58The Madrine family?
19:00The Marniff family?
19:02He waved a hand dismissively.
19:04I don't bother remembering small families.
19:07Even if your father, Antonio, were standing in front of me, he wouldn't dare to speak to me like that.
19:14Luca's expression shifted in an instant.
19:17He said in a low voice, anger seeping through.
19:19Sir, even if you know my father, isn't that a bit too arrogant?
19:25My father didn't even look at Luca.
19:27He took out his phone, dialed a number, and raised it to his ear.
19:31The call connected almost immediately.
19:33Antonio, your son just asked me if I was being too arrogant.
19:39There was a few seconds of silence on the other end.
19:42Then Antonio's voice came through, trembling noticeably.
19:45Don Borgia, Luca, he doesn't know what you're talking about.
19:51He doesn't know.
19:53Father repeated, a cold smirk appearing at the corner of his mouth.
19:56There are so many things he doesn't know.
19:58For example, who dragged the Marino family out of the ruins of Corvola 20 years ago.
20:04Or how his father knelt in front of me back then, with snot and tears all over his face, begging
20:10me to take him in.
20:11Luca's face turned deathly pale in an instant.
20:14Father hadn't put the call on speaker, but the hall was deathly quiet.
20:17So Antonio's voice still came through intermittently.
20:20Don Borgia, I beg you, Luca is still a child.
20:24He doesn't understand.
20:25A child.
20:26Father cut him off.
20:27When your son ordered his men to gang up and beat my daughter, he wasn't acting like a child.
20:33Another heavy silence.
20:35Then Antonio's voice became even lower, almost a whisper.
20:38I, I will come and apologize in person tomorrow.
20:41Whatever conditions you want, I'll agree to all of them.
20:45Father didn't answer.
20:46He hung up the phone directly.
20:48He put the phone back in his pocket, then finally looked at Luca again.
20:51Did you hear that?
20:53Your father didn't even dare to ask what happened.
20:56He only knows one thing.
20:57He has offended someone he shouldn't have.
21:00Luca's lips were trembling, but he still gritted his teeth and said,
21:06Before he could finish, Luca's phone rang.
21:10He looked down at the screen, and his pupils shrank violently.
21:13Caller ID.
21:14Father.
21:15Luca's finger hovered over the answer button, refusing to press it for a long time.
21:20My father glanced at him and said indifferently,
21:22Answer it.
21:23Listen to what your father has to say.
21:26Gritting his teeth, Luca finally pressed the answer button.
21:29Antonio's voice exploded from the receiver,
21:31Loud enough for everyone within three meters to hear.
21:34You animal!
21:35Do you even know what you've done?
21:36If Miss Morgia loses even a single hair,
21:39I'll pretend I never gave birth to a son like you!
21:42Luca's face went from white to ashen gray.
21:44He opened his mouth, but not a single word came out.
21:50My father set the tip of his cane against the marble floor.
21:54The tap rang clear in the hush of the hall as he stepped forward.
21:57His eyes fixed on Luca like a hawk sighting prey.
22:01Arrogant.
22:02He scoffed coldly.
22:03One of my daughter's fingers is worth more than the head on your shoulders.
22:08And you dared to touch her!
22:10He paused, then spoke each word as if he were nailing it into the floor.
22:14My daughter has never accepted a rose that still had its thorns.
22:18Anyone who dares hurt her, I'll make them pay for that a hundred times over.
22:23Almost on the last word, the main doors of the auction hall slammed open.
22:30A line of men in black suits filed in, their movements clean and coordinated.
22:34In just a few minutes, every bodyguard Luca had brought was disarmed and pinned to the floor,
22:39their arms locked behind their backs.
22:41Everything turned around in an instant.
22:43Two men stepped up behind Luca and Sophia,
22:46grabbed their shoulders and forced them down to their knees in front of my father.
22:49Sophia tried to twist away, panic wiping the arrogance from her face.
22:53Her makeup had streaked down her cheeks, and she turned to Luca in desperation.
22:57Luca, help me!
22:59Luca tried to wrench free, veins throbbing at his temples.
23:02Let me go!
23:04I swear, you don't know the price you're about to pay.
23:08My father looked down at Luca and Sophia like they were nothing more than insects crawling on the floor.
23:14Pay the price.
23:15His voice stayed eerily calm, making the hall feel even colder.
23:19When you ordered my daughter beaten, did you ever stop to think about the price you'd pay?
23:25Then he turned to me, and that killing frost in his eyes softened.
23:29Isa, how do you want to deal with me?
23:32I walked towards Sophia.
23:33The ache in my fingers turned every step heavy, but the anger burning in my chest kept me moving.
23:39I fisted a hand in her perfectly styled hair and yanked her head up so that she had to look
23:44at me.
23:44Whatever you did to me, I will return to you!
23:48I kept slapping her until her cheeks puffed up and flushed an angry red.
23:52Sophia glared up at me, eyes burning with hate and lips smeared with blood.
23:56Even then, she kept spitting curses.
23:58You bitch! Just wait!
24:01Luca will make you wish you were dead!
24:04Luca lunged, trying to get up.
24:06Stop!
24:07I turned and drove my heel into his chest, sending him right back down.
24:11I had put everything into that kick, and the impact shot a fierce pain up my injured fingers.
24:16Clutching his ribs, Luca sucked in a breath, but he still tried to threaten us.
24:23The iron door slammed shut behind them with a deafening bang.
24:27Luca and Sophia were shoved into a pitch black basement.
24:30Sophia's footsteps came to an abrupt halt.
24:32Her voice shot up, sharp enough to shatter glass.
24:35What's that sound?
24:37What the hell is that?
24:39Three wolf dogs.
24:40Not very large, but their ribs were clearly visible.
24:43They hadn't been fed for three days.
24:45The sound of iron chains dragging across the floor was like the grim reaper's scythe.
24:50Luca whispered urgently.
24:52Don't move.
24:53Sophia let out a piercing scream and staggered backward.
24:56Don't move.
24:57Don't run.
24:59Don't!
24:59Her high heel stepped on something wet and slippery, and she fell hard to the ground.
25:04All three wolf dogs lunged forward at once.
25:07Luca.
25:08Her voice became tiny, almost like she was talking to herself.
25:11Are we going to die here?
25:13Luca didn't answer.
25:15His hand fumbled in his pocket for his phone.
25:18The screen lit up for a second, no signal.
25:20It won't happen.
25:21He said, but his voice lacked any conviction.
25:24My father will come save us.
25:26Another hour passed.
25:28Footsteps sounded outside the iron door.
25:30Sophia jerked her head up, hope flashing in her eyes.
25:33A small window on the iron door opened, and a bowl of water along with a few pieces of dry
25:39bread were pushed inside.
25:40Sophia scrambled over, her voice hoarse.
25:43Let us out!
25:45Do you know who I am?
25:47I'm the eldest daughter of the Lopez family, if you dare!
25:52The small window slammed shut.
25:53The footsteps faded away.
25:56Sophia stood frozen in place, clutching the bowl of water.
25:59Tears fell pathetically into it, drop after drop.
26:04Luca had barely slept all night.
26:07He kept staring at those three pairs of green eyes until his own eyes were dry and burning.
26:12Sophia curled up beside him, burying her face in his chest.
26:15Her expensive custom dress was torn in several places, and her nails were caked with dirt.
26:20She suddenly spoke, her voice raspy.
26:23Luca, is your phone still working?
26:25No signal.
26:26I don't want to make a call.
26:28Sophia lifted her head.
26:29There was a strange gleam in her eyes that he had never seen before.
26:33Let's take a selfie.
26:34When we get out, I'm going to post it everywhere and let everyone know what that borgia bitch did to
26:40us.
26:40Luca was stunned for a second, then laughed.
26:42It wasn't a happy laugh.
26:44It was a laugh of utter absurdity.
26:46You're thinking about taking photos at a time like this?
26:48I'm not willing to accept this.
26:50Sophia's voice suddenly rose.
26:52I've never suffered like this in my entire life!
26:54Who does she think she is?
26:56Just some wild bastard who appeared out of nowhere!
26:59A low growl suddenly came from the wolf dogs.
27:02Sophia's voice cut off abruptly.
27:04Three pairs of green eyes locked onto her at the same time.
27:07She slowly shrank back into Luca's arms and stopped talking.
27:12The bread was gone.
27:14The water was gone.
27:16The wolf dogs began pacing restlessly, their chains scraping loudly against the floor.
27:21Sophia leaned against the wall.
27:22Her lips cracked.
27:23Her hair a complete mess.
27:24Her eyes were unfocused, like a phone that had run out of battery.
27:28Her voice was as light as a wisp of smoke.
27:31Luca, do you think your father will really come to save us?
27:35Luca remained silent for a long time.
27:38He will.
27:39He's my father.
27:41He didn't say it out loud, but he was starting to feel afraid.
27:45Not of the wolf dogs, but of a deeper fear.
27:48What if his father had already given up on him?
27:50Finally, footsteps sounded outside the iron door again.
27:53This time there was more than one person.
27:56The iron door was opened.
27:57Blinding light flooded in.
27:59Both Sophia and Luca instinctively raised their hands to shield their eyes.
28:03The wolf dogs were led away.
28:05Several men in black suits walked in expressionlessly and dragged them up.
28:09Sophia's legs had gone completely limp.
28:12She was supported by two men as they dragged her out.
28:15Luca staggered, barely able to stand, his legs also trembling.
28:19The moment they stepped out of the basement, fresh air rushed toward them.
28:23Sophia gasped greedily, like a drowning person finally pulled ashore.
28:27I won't let this go.
28:28She whispered hoarsely.
28:30Borgia.
28:30Just you, wait.
28:33Luca didn't speak.
28:34He stared straight ahead, his face ashen.
28:36What he was thinking was something else in these three days.
28:39His father hadn't made even a single phone call.
28:44I woke to the sting of antiseptic.
28:46The first thing I saw was my father's face above me, drawn tight with worry.
28:51My right hand was wrapped in thick bandages.
28:53A dull pain throbbed through each finger.
28:55Your fingers are saved.
28:57My father said, brushing the hair away from my forehead.
29:00But they'll need time to heal.
29:01Just then, the door eased open.
29:03Antonio stood at the threshold.
29:05The man who usually dominated headlines as an untouchable mafia, he said hoarsely.
29:10Don Borgia.
29:11My son was reckless.
29:13He offended Mrs. Borgia.
29:15My father looked at him coldly and said nothing.
29:17Antonio turned to me instead and bowed deeply.
29:20Mrs. Borgia.
29:21Luca was ignorant.
29:22He had no idea who you were.
29:24Everything our family has today came from Don Borgia's support years ago.
29:27This engagement was us reaching far of our station.
29:29We won't mention it again.
29:30I only beg you to spare his life.
29:32I looked at Antonio, who seemed to have aged overnight and felt nothing at all.
29:37Fine.
29:37I said my voice weak but clear.
29:40I'll give you a choice.
29:41You can keep your son or you can keep your entire family.
29:47His body visibly swayed.
29:49His lips trembled and pain flickered across his eyes as he fought with himself.
29:54After a long silence, he lowered his head.
29:56I'll accept whatever you decide.
29:58This was how our world worked.
30:00In the mafia world, family interests always sat higher than a single individual.
30:06I'm not asking for his life.
30:07I said, turning my gaze toward the window.
30:10But I have one condition.
30:11At the five families gathering, he has to apologize to me in front of everyone.
30:16Antonio let out a long sigh of relief.
30:19Of course.
30:19I'll make sure Luca apologizes sincerely, Mrs. Borgia.
30:23He left with shaky steps, his back slumped in defeat.
30:27The day of the five families gathering finally arrived.
30:30It was held at the same auction house.
30:33The moment my father and I walked into the hall, every gaze in the room swung toward us.
30:40I wore a deep red gown that brushed the floor with every step.
30:43A matching velvet glove covered my injured right hand, an elegant mask for the damage that still hadn't fully healed.
30:50Antonio hurried over to greet us, his face pale and strained with nerves.
30:56Don Borgia.
30:57Miss Borgia.
30:58Thank you for gracing us with your presence tonight.
31:01I gave him a small, polite nod and slowly scanned the crowded hall.
31:05All eyes were already on us.
31:07Father's voice was low and commanding.
31:09Bring them up.
31:10Several bodyguards wheeled a heavy iron cage into the center of the room, right under the bright spotlight.
31:16The moment the cage came into view, a wave of shocked murmurs swept through the crowd.
31:22Inside, Luca and Sophia were huddled together like trapped animals.
31:26Their clothes were torn and filthy.
31:28Sophia's once glorious gold gown hung in ragged strips,
31:32while Luca's expensive suit was covered in dirt and dried blood.
31:37Bruises and cuts marred their faces and arms.
31:39Whatever they had endured these past few days, it had clearly been hell.
31:44The bodyguards unlocked the cage and dragged them out roughly, showing no mercy.
31:48Sophia's legs gave out instantly.
31:50She collapsed to her knees, staring at me with wide, terrified eyes.
31:55Isa!
31:57Please!
32:00We were wrong!
32:01I was wrong!
32:03Just let us go!
32:04Luca lifted his head.
32:06Miss Borgia.
32:08I beg you.
32:09Have mercy.
32:11My family will compensate you however you want.
32:13Just...
32:14Don't do this in public.
32:16I looked down at them coldly, my injured hand resting lightly on my father's arm.
32:21Public?
32:22You humiliated me in public first.
32:25Did you show me any mercy then?
32:26I took one slow step forward, my voice clear enough for the entire hall to hear.
32:31You wanted to break me.
32:33Now the whole of Norum gets to watch.
32:36As I break you.
32:40Luca staggered, swaying on his feet.
32:43His eyes darted wildly over the crowd until they locked on Antonio.
32:47Dad!
32:47He shouted hoarsely, his voice cracking with despair.
32:52You have to help me.
32:54They don't respect the Marino family at all.
32:57He jabbed a shaking finger at my father and me, his eyes burning with hatred.
33:01Antonia's face went white.
33:03He strode forward and, in front of everyone, slapped Luca so hard that the sound cracked across the hall.
33:09You ungrateful brat.
33:11Get on your knees and apologize to Mrs. Borgia.
33:16Now.
33:17Sofia jerked her head up, her voice sharp with outrage.
33:21Don Marino, you must be joking.
33:24You want Luca to apologize to those two noblies?
33:27Shut your mouth!
33:29Antonio snapped, turning on her with a glare sharp enough to scorch.
33:33This all started because of you.
33:35If not for you, Luca would never have offended Don Borgia.
33:39And Miss Borgia!
33:41Luca stared at Antonio as if he didn't recognize him.
33:47Antonio, you still haven't told them the truth.
33:50Don of the Corfioni family.
33:52Mr. Rossif Borgia is the most powerful Don in Corvina.
33:55Years ago, when the five families rebuild our power here in Norham City,
33:59it was only possible because he backed us and shielded us.
34:02Vito said slowly, his voice carrying clearly through the silent hall.
34:06If he so much as lifts a finger, he can erase an entire family from Norham City overnight.
34:12Luca snapped his head toward Antonio.
34:14His eyes filled with frantic desperation for an answer.
34:17Antonio pressed his lips into a tight line and gave a stiff, reluctant nod.
34:22That can't be true.
34:24Luca said, stumbling back a step.
34:27If it is, why have I never heard about it before?
34:29Vito let out a humorless laugh.
34:31That secret is known only to the heads of the families.
34:35You haven't even officially taken over yet.
34:37What makes you think you had the right to hear it before this incident?
34:42As soon as Vito finished speaking, the entire hall fell into silence.
34:46I was about to speak when my phone vibrated inside my bag.
34:50It was an encrypted message.
34:52The sender field showed an internal code from the Corleone family.
34:55Miss Borgia, tomorrow night at the Norham Chamber of Commerce annual gala,
35:00the Lopez family's collateral branch and Elena Lopez will both be attending.
35:04If you wish, you may collect some interest there first.
35:07I turned the phone screen toward my father.
35:09He glanced at it and the corner of his mouth lifted slightly.
35:13Elena Lopez.
35:14Father murmured the name.
35:16Sofia's mother.
35:17She's been pulling strings behind the scenes quite a bit.
35:21I know.
35:21I said, putting the phone away.
35:23The golden custom gown Sofia wore at the auction was ordered by Elena from Milan a month in advance.
35:29Mother and daughter.
35:31One plays the good cop, one plays the bad.
35:33They've been running rampants in Norham for years.
35:36Father looked at me without saying a word, but his eyes were clear.
35:39It's your decision.
35:40I'll go.
35:42But only after we settle matters here first.
35:46The evening after the five great families meeting ended at the Imperial Banquet Hall,
35:51the crystal chandeliers lit up the entire hall as brightly as daylight.
35:55Not only were the collateral representatives of the five great families present,
35:59but also dozens of heads of mid-tier families.
36:03They usually couldn't even get close to the core meetings of the five families.
36:07But tonight, everyone wanted to fish for benefits amid the toasts and deals.
36:11I wore a dark wine red velvet gown.
36:13The long sleeves concealed the bandages on my right hand.
36:16On my left ear, I wore a single pigeon blood ruby earring gifted by my father, only one.
36:21This was an old Borgia family tradition.
36:25When a daughter has been provoked, but has not yet fully avenged herself, she wears only a single earring.
36:31The moment I stepped into the hall, I felt countless gazes stabbing into me like needles.
36:36Is that the Borgia family's eldest daughter?
36:39I heard the Mourinho family heir was expelled because of her.
36:50I walked straight ahead without looking sideways and headed directly for the main table.
36:55Seven people were already seated at the main table.
36:57The center seat was empty.
36:59Beside it sat a middle-aged woman in a deep purple gown, Elena Lopez.
37:04She looked 70% like Sophia, but more cunning and gloomier.
37:08She was twirling a glass of red wine in her hand.
37:10When she saw me approaching, she didn't even bother to stand up.
37:14She drawled, looking me up and down.
37:17So you're the little bitch who got my daughter kicked out of Northam.
37:22The entire table fell silent.
37:24I didn't sit down.
37:26Instead, I looked down at her from above.
37:28Your daughter brought it upon herself.
37:30I simply didn't stop her.
37:32Elena's face instantly flushed red.
37:35She shot to her feet and slammed her wine glass onto the table, splashing wine everywhere.
37:40Don't get cocky!
37:41Borgia!
37:42I don't care who you are!
37:44In Norak, the Lopez family has the Mourinho family behind us.
37:49Well, not anymore.
37:51But mark my words.
37:52Whatever my daughter lost, I will take back tenfold for her.
37:56She deliberately raised her voice so that the surrounding tables could hear.
37:59Several merchants who did business with the Lopez family immediately chimed in.
38:04Exactly.
38:05Some outsider family.
38:08What right do they have to sit at the main table?
38:10Even if the Marinos aren't pursuing this, it doesn't mean Mrs. Lopez is easy to bully.
38:15Little girl, apologize while things haven't blown up yet.
38:18I smiled slowly.
38:20Apologize.
38:21I repeated, then glanced at the two bodyguards standing behind Elena.
38:25When your daughter crushed my fingers under her heel, did she ever apologize?
38:31Elena's lips twitched, but she quickly regained her vicious expression.
38:35You deserved it.
38:36Seduxing someone else's fiancé?
38:38Crushing your fingers was going easy on you.
38:41I didn't argue with her.
38:42I simply took out my phone from my handbag, played a recording, and turned the volume to maximum.
38:49Antonio's voice rang out clearly in the quiet howl.
38:52My son was too reckless.
38:54This marriage was us reaching above our station.
38:58I only beg you to spare his life.
39:01The recording ended.
39:03The hall was deathly silent.
39:05Elena's hands began to tremble.
39:07Merchants beside her quietly shifted their chairs half a step back.
39:10It's fake!
39:12You forged it!
39:14I put away my phone and looked down at her, my voice calm but loud enough for the first
39:18three rows to hear clearly.
39:19Mrs. Lopez, your daughter once said something at the auction.
39:23In here, I make the rules.
39:25I raised my bandaged right hand and gently tapped above the wrappings.
39:29Now, I'd like to return the favor with a message of my own.
39:32Your daughter and the Merino family, in front of me, they don't even qualify as rules.
39:38Elena's face went from red to white, then to a sickly green.
39:41She suddenly grabbed the wine glass in front of her and hurled its contents at me.
39:45Red wine flew straight toward my face.
39:47I didn't dodge.
39:48The wine slashed across my face, hair and wine red gown almost blending in.
39:52Only a few drops slid down my chin and fell onto the marble floor.
39:57The entire hall gasped.
39:59Elena stood holding the empty glass, chest heaving violently.
40:03Her eyes filled with mad triumph.
40:06You whore!
40:08That's what you get for being arrogant!
40:10I slowly raised my hand and wiped the wine from my face.
40:14Then I smiled.
40:16Mrs. Lopez, do you know what you just did?
40:19I took one step forward.
40:21My voice wasn't loud, but it pierced every ear like a nail.
40:24You just attacked the sole heir of the Borga family,
40:26in front of more than 30 family representatives.
40:29Everything that happened tonight, I will report it to my father in full detail.
40:35Elena's wine glass slipped from her hand and shattered on the floor.
40:40You...
40:41You're bluffing.
40:42I didn't answer her.
40:43I turned around to face the entire banquet hall, my voice clear and calm.
40:47From tonight onward, any family that does business with the Lopez family
40:51will automatically be considered unfriendly to the Borga family.
40:56Gasps rippled across the hall.
40:58Elena's face turned completely white.
41:01You wouldn't dare!
41:03She screamed, but her voice had already lost all confidence.
41:08I gave her one last look, then turned and walked toward the exit.
41:11Behind me came Elena's hysterical shriek.
41:14Stop that bitch!
41:16But no one moved.
41:17The allies, she thought she had all lowered their heads like frostbitten eggplants.
41:22As I walked out the main door, Vito Corleone was already standing by the entrance.
41:26He held a glass of whiskey and gave me a slight nod.
41:29Miss Borgia, you're even more ruthless than your father was at your age.
41:35Vito paused, his lips curving into a soft, genuine smile as he looked at her.
41:39And I'm liking you more and more, my lovely lady.
41:43I glanced sideways at him.
41:44Don Corleone.
41:46Did you already know this would happen tonight?
41:49He smiled without answering, simply raising his glass.
41:52Welcome to the real Norton.
41:54I didn't clink glasses with him.
41:56I walked straight to the elevator.
41:58The moment the elevator doors closed, I let out a soft breath.
42:02My right hand hurt badly, but my heart felt incredibly satisfied.
42:07I walked forward slowly, the fingers beneath my velvet glove still throbbing with a dull ache.
42:12I've changed my mind.
42:14After what I just heard from Luca, I'm very disappointed.
42:18He doesn't look guilty at all.
42:20Antonio, is this the apology the Marino family is giving me?
42:23Every pair of eyes turned to Antonio, the man who usually ruled the room now looked pale.
42:29He drew in a deep breath, and at that moment, he seemed to age a decade.
42:33From this moment on, Luca is no longer my son.
42:37He is no longer heir to the Marino family.
42:40He is officially stripped of his name and cut off from all family assets.
42:45Dad, you can't do this to me.
42:48I'm your son.
42:49Luca shouted, his eyes full of despair and disbelief.
42:52No!
42:53That's impossible!
42:54How could she have that kind of power?
42:57Why didn't anyone tell us earlier?
42:58This has to be fake!
43:00You're all being fooled!
43:03Sophia's shriek cut through the hall like broken glass.
43:06One of Vito's men stepped out of the crowd and slapped her across the face several times
43:10until she finally shut up.
43:12That's enough!
43:13Luca suddenly snarled.
43:15He wrenched himself free from the men restraining him and threw himself in front of Sophia.
43:20This has nothing to do with Sophia.
43:22I was a blind fool.
43:24I'm the one who offended Ms. Borjan.
43:26This is my fault.
43:29If you want revenge, take it out on me and let Sophia go.
43:34Sophia leaned against his chest, her eyes glistening with tears.
43:38Luca, I knew you were the only one who really cared about me.
43:42The scene was almost touching in a tragic, ridiculous way.
43:46I couldn't help but lift my hands and give them a soft, slow clap.
43:49How touching.
43:51Since you're so devoted to each other, I'll let you go.
43:54Under everyone's stunned gaze, I went on.
43:56You can leave with her now.
43:58In the name of the Borgia family, I give you my word.
44:02No one will stop you.
44:05Luca stared at me in disbelief while a spark of hope lit Sophia's eyes.
44:10From this moment on, you have no connection to the Marino family.
44:13You walk away with nothing.
44:15Luca clenched his jaw, then bent to help Sophia steady herself.
44:19We're leaving.
44:20Everyone watched them limp out of the hall while leaning on each other.
44:23My father asked in a low voice.
44:25Are you really gonna let them walk away like that?
44:27I smiled.
44:29You'll see soon enough.
44:30Three months later, a headline shook the entire upper circle of Norum City.
44:34Former Marino heir Luca Marino killed his girlfriend Sofia Lopez in a run-down motel, then tried to take his
44:40own life.
44:41He was now in police custody.
44:43Word had it that after losing his status, Luca was penniless and took Sophia to live with him in a
44:49shabby motel on the edge of the slums.
44:52Having grown up pampered and overindulged, neither of them could tolerate the hardships of an ordinary life.
44:59Sophia complained every day.
45:00She called Luca useless and blamed him for dragging her from the clouds into the mud.
45:05She could no longer afford designer clothes or fancy goods.
45:09Even a proper dinner had become a luxury.
45:11Three days before the murder, someone had spotted Sophia in an upscale restaurant, linking arms with a middle-aged businessman.
45:18After that, she stopped going back to the motel at night.
45:21When she did show up, her attitude toward Luca was cold.
45:25On the night of the incident, neighbors heard them shouting through the thin walls.
45:29You think you're still the heir of the Marino family?
45:32You can't even buy me a new lipstick!
45:35I gave up everything for you!
45:37Luca roared back.
45:38If I'd known you were so useless, I never would have left with you!
45:42Then came the sound of things being smashed.
45:44After that was an eerie, heavy silence.
45:47The next morning, the cleaning staff opened the door and almost fainted.
45:52Sophia was lying in a pool of blood, having been stabbed over and over.
45:56Luca was on the floor beside her with his wrists slashed, barely alive.
46:00I heard the news while I was at home, sitting at my piano.
46:03Although my fingers hadn't fully healed, I could already play a few simple pieces.
46:08Just then, my father walked in and placed a folded newspaper on the piano.
46:13You saw this coming, didn't you?
46:16I took my hands off the piano and glanced at the newspaper's front page.
46:20It showed Luca being shoved into a police car.
46:23Sophia never loved Luca.
46:25What she loved was his status and his money.
46:28Once he lost those, her betrayal was just a matter of time.
46:32As for Luca, I went on, letting my fingers drift lightly over the keys.
46:38He was born into wealth.
46:39He was never going to survive losing everything.
46:43Especially after the woman he loved cheated on him.
46:48My father studied me for a long moment.
46:50You gave them the cruelest punishment.
46:52I shook my head.
46:54No, they chose their punishment.
46:57I just handed them the knife.
46:58Sunlight poured through the windows, warm and bright.
47:01Their tragedy had no effect on me.
47:03In our world, the strong preyed on the weak.
47:06Mercy toward an enemy only ever led to destruction.
47:09Luca and Sophia's ending only proved that truth once again.
47:12They were nothing more than stepping stones on my way to the top seat in Corvina's mafia world.
47:19The sunlight was beautiful, but my hand still throbbed with dull pain.
47:23The doctor said the nerves had been damaged.
47:26Even after recovery, it would never be as flexible as before.
47:30I might never be able to play those difficult pieces again.
47:33I sat in front of the piano, placed my right hand on the keys, and gently pressed a single note.
47:38A clean, lonely sound rang out.
47:41The door was pushed open.
47:42Father walked in.
47:43He was wearing a deep gray suit.
47:45His tie knotted perfectly.
47:47Sophia's funeral is at two o'clock this afternoon.
47:50Are you going?
47:51I thought for a long time so long that father thought I wouldn't answer.
47:55Yes.
47:56Father nodded, turned to leave, then stopped.
47:58Isa, this isn't your fault.
48:00I didn't speak.
48:02Only after he walked out did I whisper to the empty room.
48:05I know.
48:06But what I knew wasn't just that.
48:08I knew Sophia would die.
48:09From the moment she crushed my fingers under her heel, from the moment she answered my father's
48:14call, she was already dead.
48:16I simply didn't stop it.
48:17I didn't stop it because I didn't want to.
48:20This thought was like a thorn lodged in a corner of my heart.
48:23It didn't hurt, but it was always there.
48:27The church was small, so small that even from the last row you could clearly see the white
48:32flowers on the coffin.
48:33Not many people came.
48:35Sophia's parents sat in the front row.
48:37Her mother was crying so hard she couldn't sit straight, while her father sat rigidly like
48:42a stone statue.
48:43Luca didn't come.
48:44He was in the hospital with more than a dozen stitches on his wrist, under police guard.
48:48They said he wasn't in danger of dying, but his mental state was very poor.
48:53I stood at the very back, leaning against the wall.
48:56Father didn't come inside.
48:58He waited for me in the car.
48:59While the priest was reading the eulogy, Sophia's mother suddenly stood up and staggered toward
49:04me.
49:05Everyone was watching.
49:07She stopped in front of me.
49:08Her tears had ruined her makeup, leaving streaks down her face.
49:12Are you satisfied now?
49:14Her voice was hoarse, like sandpaper scraping glass.
49:17I said nothing.
49:19My daughter is dead, and you still come to her funeral.
49:23She grabbed the sleeve of my coat, nails digging into the fabric.
49:27Are you here to watch the show?
49:29Her husband rushed over and pulled her away from me.
49:32He glanced at me.
49:33That look contained hatred, fear, and deep exhaustion.
49:37I'm sorry.
49:38She didn't mean it.
49:39I nodded, then turned and walked out of the church.
49:42The sunlight was blinding.
49:44I stood at the entrance for a while, taking a deep breath.
49:47Father got out of the car and stood beside me.
49:49Let's go.
49:50I got into the car, leaned back in the seat, and closed my eyes.
49:54Outside the window, the church bells rang twice.
49:57Two o'clock in one minute.
49:58Sophia Lopez, 22 years old.
50:00A short life, an ugly death.
50:02I silently recited these words in my heart, then opened my eyes.
50:06There was still a long road ahead.
50:09Three months later, Luca's case went to trial.
50:13I didn't go.
50:15Father sent a lawyer to observe, who came back and reported the result.
50:19Luca Marino was sentenced to 12 years in prison for manslaughter.
50:23The wound on his wrist left a permanent scar.
50:26The psychological evaluation stated he had severe depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
50:31The lawyer said Luca didn't speak a single word throughout the entire trial.
50:37When the judge asked if he pleaded guilty, he simply nodded.
50:41The lawyer also said that Antonio Marino sat in the gallery, his hair completely white.
50:48When the sentence was announced, he didn't cry.
50:51He just closed his eyes and didn't open them for a long time.
50:56Later, at a gathering, Vito Corleone told me,
51:00Antonio is finished.
51:02He saved his son's life, but the Marino family is done for.
51:06I held my wine glass and said nothing.
51:09You know, in Luca's first week in prison, someone asked if he wanted to see a lawyer.
51:14He said no.
51:16Someone asked if he wanted to see his father.
51:18He stayed silent.
51:20Finally, the person asked,
51:22Who do you want to see?
51:24He said he wanted to see you.
51:26My hand froze.
51:27He found out you stay at the manor every day and wanted to ask if you could visit him.
51:32Vito looked at me.
51:34You won't go, right?
51:36I put down the wine glass and stood up.
51:38No.
51:41Some people once missed are missed forever.
51:46Half a year later, my fingers had recovered most of their function.
51:50The doctor called it a miracle, saying my recovery speed far exceeded his expectations.
51:56I knew it wasn't a miracle.
51:58For the past six months, I had done three hours of rehabilitation training every day.
52:03Even when the pain made me sweat, I didn't stop.
52:06Father would sit beside me, saying nothing, only handing me a towel.
52:11Can you play the piano yet?
52:13I tried.
52:17I placed my right hand on the keys and ran through a scale.
52:20It was slow and clumsy, but every note came out.
52:23Soon.
52:24Father didn't smile, but his eyes brightened.
52:27That night I sat alone in the piano room and played a very simple piece, Debussy's Claire
52:31DeLune.
52:32My left hand carried the main melody, while my right hand only added a few occasional notes.
52:37I closed my eyes and imagined myself standing on stage, spotlights shining on my face, the
52:44audience packed below.
52:46That feeling was still there.
52:48The desire to stand at the very top was still there.
52:51Sophia was dead.
52:53Luca was in prison.
52:54The Marino family had fallen.
52:56But they were not my destination.
52:58They were just stones on the road.
53:00I stepped over them, got a little mud on my shoes, and wiped it off.
53:07One year later, the power structure in Norum had completely changed.
53:12The Marino family had been squeezed out of the five great families.
53:16The Corleone family had taken the top seat.
53:20And I, Isa Borgia, was no longer just Don Borgia's daughter.
53:25I began taking over the family's businesses.
53:28Not all at once, but gradually father handed them to me piece by piece.
53:33First a few small casinos.
53:36Then a port.
53:38Then control of the entire northern district of Corvina.
53:41Every time he transferred power, father stood behind me without speaking but always present.
53:47Once, when Vito was drunk, he put his arm around my shoulder and said to the whole table,
53:53This little girl is even more ruthless than her father.
53:59I smiled and removed his hand from my shoulder.
54:02It wasn't because I was ruthless.
54:05It was because I had no way back.
54:07I was the only daughter of the Borgia family.
54:10This entire empire would eventually be mine.
54:14The power structure in Norum had finally settled, and life seemed to have returned to a certain
54:20calm.
54:21Every week I would spend three afternoons in the piano room.
54:24Sunlight poured in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, illuminating the black and white keys
54:29and my right hand, the hand that had nearly been destroyed.
54:32Footsteps stopped at the doorway.
54:34I didn't turn around, but my fingers paused on the keys for a moment.
54:38Your piano skills are much better than your acting.
54:41His voice came from the doorway, slightly hoarse, carrying a lazy smile.
54:46I turned my head.
54:48Vito stood leaning against the doorframe.
54:50Instead of his usual signature dark suit, he wore a charcoal gray thin sweater with the
54:55sleeves rolled up to his forearms.
54:57He was holding a long slender black box in his hands.
55:01Don Corione, has no one ever taught you to knock before entering?
55:05Has no one ever taught you not to be so cold toward a guest who came from afar?
55:10He walked in.
55:12His leather shoes stepped lightly, yet heavily on the wooden floor with every step.
55:18Isis, for the past year, I've been looking for the right moment.
55:22He paused, the corner of his mouth lifting in a self-mocking smile.
55:26But I realize that with you, there will never be a right moment.
55:29He opened the black box.
55:31Inside was a necklace.
55:33It was an exact match to my single earring.
55:36Your father told me about this Borga family tradition.
55:39His voice grew lower.
55:40When a daughter has been provoked, but has not yet fully taken revenge, she wears only
55:45one earring.
55:46Once revenge is complete, she wears the other.
55:50I stared at the gemstone, but didn't reach out.
55:52So?
55:53Vito took a deep breath.
55:55In this moment, one of the most powerful men in Norum looked like someone standing on the
56:00edge of a cliff.
56:01So I wanted to ask, if one day you decide to wear the other earring, could that spot be
56:08left for me?
56:10Silence.
56:11The only sound in the piano room was the occasional chirping of birds outside the window.
56:16My heartbeat was slow and steady.
56:19Do you know what you're saying?
56:20I know very clearly.
56:23Issa, I don't need a woman who stands behind me.
56:25And you're not that kind of woman anyway.
56:27The Corcioni family and the Borja family don't need to swallow each other.
56:31But I'm willing, for a lifetime, to stand in the place closest to you.
56:37The sunlight outside the window grew brighter, falling on his face and illuminating details
56:42I had never noticed before.
56:43There was a tiny mole at the corner of his eye.
56:46A faint scar on his left eyebrow.
56:49The fingers holding the necklace were long and strong, yet they were trembling slightly
56:53right now.
56:55This man, who didn't even blink during the Five Great Family Summit, was trembling.
57:01Suddenly, I felt the urge to smile.
57:05It's okay.
57:07I told you.
57:08I can wait.
57:09I didn't say I wouldn't accept it.
57:11My fingers still rested on the edge of the box, but I need to think about it.
57:16How long?
57:17Maybe a year?
57:19Maybe two?
57:20Maybe after I finish thinking, I'll return this box to you completely untouched.
57:25Then I'll wait.
57:27He turned and walked toward the door.
57:28At the doorway, he stopped without turning back.
57:32By the way, what piece were you playing just now?
57:35Debossi's Claire de Lune.
57:36Next time, if I hear you stop playing this piece again, consider that your answer.
57:45The way you're playing just now.
57:45The way you're playing just now.
57:46The way you're playing just now.
57:46The way you're playing just now.
57:48The way you're playing just now.
57:48The way you're playing just now.
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