- 2 days ago
You Want My Ring？Get on Your Knees. Hot
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Short filmTranscript
00:00I'm Issa Borgia, the daughter of the most powerful Don in Corvina.
00:03My father worries I'll marry the wrong man on a whim,
00:06so he arranges for me to be engaged to Luca, the rising heir of the Marino family.
00:11It's an arranged marriage, but that doesn't mean I've lost all my say.
00:15The very least I can do is choose a ring I genuinely like.
00:18So, I go to the mafia auction.
00:20When the diamond ring appears as the final jewel of the night,
00:24I lift my paddle.
00:25Just before the gavel falls an arrogant voice comes from behind me.
00:30A country bumplin' like you thinks you can compete with me?
00:33Do yourself a favor and leave.
00:36The auction hall goes quiet for a few seconds.
00:39The only sound comes from the camera shutters clicking around the hall.
00:42I turn and see a woman in a gold couture gown.
00:45Her mouth curves in a casual smile as if she owns the place.
00:49Before I can say a word, the auctioneer rushes to close the bid.
00:52Sold! Congratulations to Miss Sofia Lopez for winning the final lot, the Eternal Star.
00:58My brows pull tight, and a hot spike of anger rises in my chest.
01:04You ended the bidding early.
01:05Do you even follow the rules here?
01:07Sofia turns around and gives me a once-over, her gaze sharp as a blade.
01:12Rules?
01:12She lets out a cold laugh.
01:14Come on.
01:15I'm Luca Marino's favorite godsister.
01:18Around here, I make the rules.
01:20I can't help but laugh.
01:22What a coincidence.
01:23So, she's my fiancé's godsister.
01:26I pull out my phone and call him.
01:28Luca, your godsister just snatched the engagement ring I picked out.
01:33How are you going to handle this?
01:36It seemed like Sofia Lopez wasn't just a godsister to Luca Marino.
01:41If Luca couldn't give me a good explanation, this engagement was off the table.
01:45I called the number I'd saved but never once dialed.
01:49Once the call connected, I went straight to the point.
01:52Your godsister is trying to snatch the engagement ring I chose.
01:56What do you have to say about that?
01:57Silence hung for a moment.
01:59Then, a cold, unfamiliar voice came through the line.
02:03Who is this?
02:04Whatever's going on between Sofia and me isn't something an outsider gets to question.
02:09Before I could say my name, he had already hung up.
02:12I stared at the dark screen for a second and let out an incredulous laugh.
02:16Obviously, he hadn't even saved my number.
02:19Sofia's laughter cut through the crowd, sharp with smug delight.
02:23Pathetic.
02:23You somehow got Luca's number and actually think that means he knows you?
02:29God, you're cracking me up.
02:31She tilted her chin and twisted a lock of hair around her fingers while looking me over again.
02:37Seriously, look at what you're wearing.
02:39Even the nannies in the Marino family dress better than you.
02:42The 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.
03:05Lucas sure had special taste when picking his god sister.
03:09Thanks 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.
03:28Sophia gave a sharp little snort.
03:30She reached into her clutch, pulled out a gold VIP card, and slapped it onto the podium.
03:35I spend seven figures a year here.
03:37And you?
03:39How 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.
03:59Sophia'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.
04:15I really can't afford to offend the Marino family.
04:18Several guests who'd seen the whole thing started trying to persuade me.
04:22Just let it go.
04:23I've run into Miss Lopez before.
04:26Mr. Martino indulges her in everything.
04:28Someone crossed her last month, and his entire business was gone the very next day.
04:33Miss, 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.
04:45Under all those cautious glances and hushed warnings, Sophia only grew more pleased with
04:50herself.
04:51She crossed her arms and came closer, wearing a smug smile.
04:55The 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.
05:04Do that, and maybe I'll let you walk out of here.
05:10In all 26 years of my life, no one had ever dared to talk to me like that.
05:15Say that again?
05:17What exactly do you want me to shout?
05:19Are you deaf?
05:21I said, I'm broke, and I know I was wrong.
05:25Got it now?
05:25Loud and clear.
05:27Since you admit you're broke, hurry up and get out of here.
05:30Before you drag down the Marino name.
05:33Sophia's face flushed as she finally realized what I'd done.
05:36You!
05:37You twisted my words!
05:38How dare you make fun of me!
05:40She screeched and hurled herself at me, arms flailing like a furious chicken.
05:44It would have been funny if she weren't so noisy.
05:47I had trained with my family's bodyguards in Corvina for 10 years.
05:51I wasn't about to be intimidated by a woman whose punches were nothing but a performance.
05:55I drove a clean sidekick into her ribs.
05:57Sophia went down hard, holding onto the carpet with a pained groan.
06:02Regret.
06:03Next time you open your mouth, remember whose territory you're standing on.
06:07Gasps rippled through the hall.
06:11Oh my god!
06:12She actually hit Mrs. Lopez!
06:14When Mr. Marino hears about this, he'll have her chopped up and thrown into the bay.
06:20She's done.
06:22Not even God can save her now.
06:24I tuned their chatter out.
06:25The Marino family only stood where they did today because my father had pulled them up
06:30when they were nothing.
06:31In this city, there wasn't a single person I needed to be afraid of.
06:35I slapped my black card on the podium again.
06:38Like I said, whatever she bids, I'll pay double.
06:42Wrapped the ring and hand it over, the auctioneer's knees visibly buckled.
06:46Hands shaking, he hit the authorization button and personally presented the velvet box to me.
06:51I put it into a bag and turned to leave, only for Sophia to drag herself upright and stumble
06:56back into my path.
06:57Don't you dare leave!
07:00I tapped the toe of my heel against the floor and glanced down.
07:03What is it?
07:05You want another practical demonstration?
07:08She instinctively took a step back.
07:10I let out a soft dismissive laugh and pivoted toward the exit.
07:14But I didn't get far.
07:16A wall of men in black suits suddenly filled the doorway, blocking every way out.
07:21Before the guests could even process what was happening, the line of bodyguards split
07:25cleanly down the middle.
07:26A man walked through the gap they made.
07:28I looked up, and for a second my heart actually skipped.
07:31The overhead lights fell across him, outlining every inch of his frame.
07:35He had the kind of build tailors dreamed about broad shoulders, narrow waist, long legs.
07:40His face was all sharp planes and clean edges, so perfect it looked like someone had carved
07:45it out of stone.
07:47Sophia immediately switched on the waterworks and ran to him, tears glistening.
07:51Luca, she stole my ring and hit me.
07:56So, this was my fiancé.
07:58No wonder my father had sworn up and down that I'd like him.
08:01He knew me too well.
08:02I was hopelessly shallow when it came to looks, and Luca fit my taste a little too perfectly.
08:07Seeing that face alone, I almost felt like forgiving his earlier attitude on the phone.
08:12I straightened, gave him my most confident smile, and introduced myself.
08:17Hi, I'm Isa Borgia, your fiancé.
08:22A ripple of shock moved through the crowd.
08:25What did she say?
08:26She's Mr. Marino's fiancé!
08:28Well, obviously, the fiancé matters more than a god sister.
08:32Not really.
08:33It depends on who Mr. Marino actually favors.
08:37Luca's cold gaze settled on me.
08:39Don't flatter yourself.
08:40That engagement was my father's decision.
08:42I never agreed to it.
08:44Sophia leaned into Luca with her head on his shoulder, her eyes sparkling with a challenge
08:48she wasn't bothering to hide.
08:50Look at you in those cheap clothes.
08:53You really think you deserve to marry him?
08:55You're not even qualified to shine my shoes.
08:58Someone in the crowd eagerly piled on.
09:00Exactly.
09:01If Mr. Marino ever gets married, it'll be to a real heiress.
09:05Why would he choose a nobody from the countryside?
09:08She looks dirty.
09:10I feel like the air smells worse already.
09:12She's nowhere near Miss Lopez's level.
09:14I'd worn something simple.
09:15There was nothing dirty about it.
09:17But in their mouths, I'd somehow turned into a walking trash heap.
09:21People always did love kicking whoever they thought was at the bottom.
09:27I lifted my eyes slowly and let my gaze sweep the entire auction hall before bringing it
09:32back to Luca's face.
09:33In that case, go home and tell your father to call off the wedding.
09:38And the reason?
09:39I don't want you.
09:41My father told me that Luca's father, Antonio Marino, had pulled every string he could to
09:46make this engagement happen.
09:47If he ever learned it all blew up because of Luca, I'd pay to see the look on his face.
09:52That thought eased my irritation.
09:54I couldn't be bothered arguing with this pack of idiots anymore, so I turned to leave.
09:58But Sophia wasn't done.
10:00She came stomping toward me in her stilettos like a hyena that had caught the scent of blood,
10:04with two bodyguards following closely behind her.
10:07The black pistols peeking from their holsters were enough to freeze the room.
10:11You bitch!
10:13You think you can just walk away?
10:15You snatched my ring and laid hands on me?
10:17We're not done!
10:19I gave her a cold look.
10:20So what exactly do you want to do?
10:22She mistook my patience for fear.
10:24Her hand snapped up toward my face.
10:27I'll hit you until I feel better!
10:32Before her palm could land, I caught her wrist, twisted, and slapped her across the face with
10:36my other hand.
10:37Sophia clutched her cheek, staring at me in disbelief.
10:40You lowlife!
10:41How dare you!
10:43Why wouldn't I?
10:44I cut her off, slapping her other cheek just as hard.
10:48Is this enough for you?
10:49The two slaps knocked the arrogance right off her face.
10:52Tears sprang to her eyes as she stumbled back and threw herself behind Luca, using him
10:56like a shield.
10:57Luca!
10:58She hit me!
11:00You have to stand up for me!
11:02Luca pulled her behind him and looked at me with a gaze so dark it could have dripped ink.
11:06How dare you slap her?
11:08You must really have a death wish.
11:10He gave his bodyguards a subtle hand signal.
11:12Several of the bodyguards lunged at me at the same time.
11:16I took down the first one who charged at me, but the rest came too fast.
11:20Hits rained on me from all directions.
11:22Pain tore through my ribs and back until my legs gave out.
11:26Two bodyguards grabbed me under the arms and hauled me over to Luca and Sophia.
11:31Luca stroked Sophia's swollen cheek and said softly,
11:35Do whatever you want with her.
11:36If anything happens, I'll take care of it.
11:38His words sent a spark through Sophia.
11:41She spat at me.
11:42Her face contorting with cruel satisfaction.
11:45Bitch!
11:46Weren't you so bold just now?
11:48Come on.
11:49Keep acting tough.
11:50You wanna fight me over a ring?
11:53Fine.
11:54I'll break your fingers.
11:56Let's see what you'll wear on them after that.
11:58At her nod, the two bodyguards pinned my shoulders before forcing my arm out in front of me,
12:03stretching my fingers over the polished floor.
12:05I lifted my head and stared straight at Luca and Sophia.
12:08If you go through with this, I swear I'll make you both pay for it.
12:13Sophia let out a sharp laugh.
12:14The Marino family is one of the five ruling houses in Norham City.
12:18And you?
12:19You're a nameless little stray from nowhere.
12:21You think you get to threaten us today?
12:23I'll make sure you never forget what happens when you cross me.
12:28Her stiletto drove down on my fingers, and pain ripped through my hand.
12:32I bit down so hard I tasted blood.
12:34I was pretty sure I heard something crack.
12:37Everyone around us looked away from the violence, but no one had the courage to step in.
12:41She shouldn't have picked a fight with a Marino.
12:44Her hands are done for.
12:45She'll be lucky if she can even feed herself after this.
12:47We're just civilians.
12:49People like us swallow our pride or end up dead.
12:52I had loved the piano since I was a child.
12:54I would be performing on stages all around the world.
12:57I couldn't lose my hands.
12:58The thought of losing them sent a cold, strangling fear through me.
13:02When Sophia lifted her heel again, my resolve collapsed.
13:05I was wrong!
13:07You can have the ring!
13:08Take it!
13:09Just don't hurt my hands!
13:12Revenge could wait, but fingers didn't grow back.
13:14However, Sophia didn't pause.
13:16Her heel pressed down again, harder this time.
13:19A metallic smell rose from my bleeding hand.
13:23Sophia finished grinding her heel into my fingers,
13:26then squatted down, pinched my chin tightly, and brought her face right up to mine.
13:31Her mascara was a little smudged, and fine lines were visible at the corners of her eyes.
13:36I noticed these details only because my face was pressed so close to hers.
13:40Do you actually think you're special?
13:42She whispered softly, as if sharing a secret.
13:45Let me tell you, Luca has already gone through three fiancées.
13:49I drove every single one of them away.
13:51You're the fourth, and by far the stupidest one.
13:55Blood seeped from the corner of my mouth, but I didn't talk back.
13:58It wasn't because I didn't dare it, was because I had no strength left.
14:02My right hand had already gone completely numb.
14:05I didn't dare look at it.
14:06That's right.
14:07Sophia laughed, her voice full of malice.
14:09The first one was dumped by him, the second left on her own.
14:13And the third, I personally made her disappear.
14:16Her eyes changed, turning dark and sinister.
14:19How long do you think you can hold on?
14:22She stood up and coldly ordered the bodyguard.
14:24Pin her other hand down too?
14:26Today I'm going to crush both of her hands.
14:29Let's see how she seduces after this!
14:32You bitch!
14:34Oh, now you're scared.
14:37Too late for that.
14:39You're not leaving this place until I say so.
14:43A scream tore out of my throat.
14:45I turned my head to Luca.
14:47Luca, aren't you afraid of who I am?
14:50If you let her do this, you'll regret it.
14:55Who are you?
14:56You're nothing.
14:58Just a woman who tricked my father.
15:00Sophia saw his reaction, and her smile grew even more vicious.
15:05You're still trying to seduce Luca while I'm right here.
15:08If I don't break your hands, you'll never learn.
15:12No!
15:13Ah!
15:13Don't!
15:14Just then, my phone rang from inside my bag.
15:17I struggled against the men holding me trying to reach for it, but Sophia moved faster.
15:22She grabbed the phone, glanced at the screen, and answered it with a cold laugh.
15:27My father's voice came through at once, tight with worry.
15:30Isa, why aren't you home yet?
15:34Is the auction still going?
15:35I dragged in a breath, and shouted as loudly as I could.
15:39Papa, help me!
15:40They're going to destroy my hands!
15:46My father's voice went cold in an instant.
15:49What?
15:50Who is this?
15:50Sophia shouted into the phone.
15:52I'm Sophia Lopez.
15:54Your daughter's been acting like a slut with men, so I'm teaching her a lesson!
15:59I don't care who you are.
16:01Let my daughter go.
16:02Touch her again, and you'll wish you'd never been born.
16:05If you've got the guts, come over here.
16:07Her heel slammed into my hand once more, and I couldn't hold back a cry.
16:11I'm right here waiting.
16:13I'll break her hands first and let you hear it, and when you get here, I'll break yours too.
16:19She hung up and slammed my phone to the floor.
16:21It shattered into pieces.
16:23Then, she ordered the men around us to beat me.
16:26Five minutes passed.
16:27It wasn't long on a clock, but it felt like half a lifetime.
16:31At last, a familiar armored black sedan rolled to a stop outside the auction hall.
16:35The air itself seemed to tighten.
16:37My father stepped out of the car, his black coat still carrying the faint scent of gunpowder and blood.
16:45His eyes were cold with fury as he pushed the main doors open.
16:48His voice cut through the hall like a blade.
16:50Who dares to threaten to break my hands and my daughter's?
16:56When my father stepped into the doorway, the air in the auction halls seemed to freeze.
17:01His sharp gaze swept the room once, then stopped on me.
17:03I was still being held down.
17:05Sophia still had no idea danger had just walked in.
17:08She even let out a dismissive laugh and stepped forward in her stilettos.
17:12So, you're the slut's father.
17:14Perfect.
17:15Your daughter snatched my ring and slapped me.
17:18You two had better apologize right now, or the Marino family won't let either of you walk out of here.
17:23The crowd rippled with whispers.
17:25A few guests edged toward my father, their voices low and nervous.
17:29Sir, you should back down.
17:31Miss Lopez is Mr. Marino's favorite god sister.
17:35In Norham City, no one dares cross the Marino family.
17:39For you RS safety and your daughters, just admit fault.
17:42There's no shame in it.
17:46My father didn't spare any of them a glance.
17:48He simply lifted his hand.
17:50The two men behind him moved at once, striding over to me.
17:54They kicked aside the bodyguards holding my shoulders and pulled me gently to my feet.
17:58I staggered into my father's arms.
18:00He caught me, pulling me close as he soothed me with a gentle hand on my back.
18:04Does it hurt my little princess?
18:06His voice sounded calm, but anyone who knew him could hear the storm gathering beneath it.
18:10I nodded, and tears slipped down my cheeks.
18:13They wanted to rip out my nails too, Papa.
18:16His eyes grew even colder.
18:17He turned to Sophia and Luca, his voice edged with undeniable authority.
18:22In my whole life, almost nothing has ever made me apologize.
18:26Sophia flinched under his stare, then quickly latched onto Luca's arm and tried to look composed.
18:31Luca, look at them.
18:32They really don't know their place?
18:35Luca finally spoke, his tone icy.
18:37Sir, you'd better do as Sophia says.
18:40In Norum City, going against my family is unwise.
18:45My father let out a mocking laugh.
18:47Your family.
18:48Which one would that be?
18:51The Madrine family?
18:52The Marneth family?
18:54He waved a hand dismissively.
18:56I don't bother remembering small families.
19:00Even if your father, Antonio, were standing in front of me, he wouldn't dare to speak to me like that.
19:07Luca's expression shifted in an instant.
19:09He said in a low voice, anger seeping through.
19:12Sir, even if you know my father, isn't that a bit too arrogant?
19:17My father didn't even look at Luca.
19:19He took out his phone, dialed a number, and raised it to his ear.
19:23The call connected almost immediately.
19:25Antonio, your son just asked me if I was being too arrogant.
19:31There was a few seconds of silence on the other end.
19:34Then Antonio's voice came through, trembling noticeably.
19:37Don Borgia, Luca, he doesn't know what you're talking about.
19:43He doesn't know.
19:44Father repeated, a cold smirk appearing at the corner of his mouth.
19:48There are so many things he doesn't know.
19:50Antonio, for example, who dragged the Marino family out of the ruins of Corvola 20 years ago.
19:56Or how his father knelt in front of me back then, with snot and tears all over his face, begging
20:02me to take him in.
20:03Luca's face turned deathly pale in an instant.
20:05Father hadn't put the call on speaker, but the hall was deathly quiet, so Antonio's voice still came through intermittently.
20:12Don Borgia, I beg you, Luca is still a child.
20:15He doesn't understand.
20:17A child.
20:18Father cut him off.
20:18When your son ordered his men to gang up and beat my daughter, he wasn't acting like a child.
20:25Another heavy silence.
20:26Then Antonio's voice became even lower, almost a whisper.
20:30I will come and apologize in person tomorrow.
20:33Whatever conditions you want, I'll agree to all of them.
20:36Father didn't answer.
20:37He hung up the phone directly.
20:39He put the phone back in his pocket, then finally looked at Luca again.
20:43Did you hear that?
20:44Your father didn't even dare to ask what happened.
20:47He only knows one thing.
20:49He has offended someone he shouldn't have.
20:51Luca's lips were trembling, but he still gritted his teeth and said,
20:55You...
20:55You're bluffing me.
20:56You faked that call!
20:58Before he could finish, Luca's phone rang.
21:01He looked down at the screen, and his pupils shrank violently.
21:04Caller ID.
21:05Father.
21:06Luca's finger hovered over the answer button, refusing to press it for a long time.
21:10My father glanced at him and said indifferently.
21:13Answer it.
21:15Listen to what your father has to say.
21:17Gritting his teeth, Luca finally pressed the answer button.
21:20Antonio's voice exploded from the receiver, loud enough for everyone within three meters to hear.
21:25You animal!
21:26Do you even know what you've done?
21:27If Miss Morgia loses even a single hair, I'll pretend I never gave birth to a son like you!
21:33Luca's face went from white to ashen gray.
21:35He opened his mouth, but not a single word came out.
21:41My father set the tip of his cane against the marble floor.
21:44The tap rang clear in the hush of the hall as he stepped forward.
21:48His eyes fixed on Luca, like a hawk sighting prey.
21:51Arrogant.
21:52He scoffed coldly.
21:54One of my daughter's fingers is worth more than the head on your shoulders.
21:58And you dared to touch her!
22:01He paused, then spoke each word as if he were nailing it into the floor.
22:05My daughter has never accepted a rose that still had its thorns.
22:09Anyone who dares hurt her, I'll make them pay for that a hundred times over.
22:14Almost on the last word, the main doors of the auction hall slammed open.
22:20A line of men in black suits filed in, their movements clean and coordinated.
22:24In just a few minutes, every bodyguard Luca had brought was disarmed and pinned to the floor,
22:29their arms locked behind their backs.
22:31Everything turned around in an instant.
22:32Two men stepped up behind Luca and Sophia, grabbed their shoulders and forced them down
22:37to their knees in front of my father.
22:39Sophia tried to twist away, panic wiping the arrogance from her face.
22:43Her makeup had streaked down her cheeks and she turned to Luca in desperation.
22:47Luca, help me!
22:49Luca tried to wrench free, veins throbbing at his temples.
22:52Let me go!
22:54I swear, you don't know the price you're about to pay.
22:58My father looked down at Luca and Sophia like they were nothing more than insects crawling
23:03on the floor.
23:04Pay the price.
23:05His voice stayed eerily calm, making the hall feel even colder.
23:09When you ordered my daughter beaten, did you ever stop to think about the price you'd pay?
23:14Then he turned to me, and that killing frost in his eyes softened.
23:19Issa, how do you want to deal with you?
23:21I walked toward Sophia.
23:22The ache in my fingers turned every step heavy, but the anger burning in my chest kept me moving.
23:28I fisted a hand in her perfectly styled hair and yanked her head up so that she had to look
23:33at me.
23:33Whatever you did to me, I will return to you!
23:37I kept slapping her until her cheeks puffed up and flushed an angry red.
23:42Sophia glared up at me, eyes burning with hate and lips smeared with blood.
23:46Even then, she kept spitting curses.
23:48You bitch!
23:49Just wait!
23:51Luca will make you wish you were dead!
23:53Luca lunged, trying to get up.
23:55Stop!
23:57I turned and drove my heel into his chest, sending him right back down.
24:01I had put everything into that kick, and the impact shot a fierce pain up my injured fingers.
24:06Clutching his ribs, Luca sucked in a breath, but he still tried to threaten us.
24:12The iron door slammed shut behind them with a deafening bang.
24:16Luca and Sophia were shoved into a pitch black basement.
24:19Sophia's footsteps came to an abrupt halt.
24:21Her voice shot up, sharp enough to shatter glass.
24:24What's that sound?
24:26What the hell is that?
24:28Three wolf dogs.
24:29Not very large, but their ribs were clearly visible.
24:32They hadn't been fed for three days.
24:34The sound of iron chains dragging across the floor was like the grim reaper's scythe.
24:39Luca whispered urgently.
24:40Don't move.
24:41Sophia let out a piercing scream and staggered backward.
24:45Don't move.
24:46Don't run.
24:48Don't!
24:48Her high heel stepped on something wet and slippery, and she fell hard to the ground.
24:53All three wolf dogs lunged forward at once.
24:56Luca.
24:57Her voice became tiny, almost like she was talking to herself.
25:00Are we going to die here?
25:02Luca didn't answer.
25:04His hand fumbled in his pocket for his phone.
25:06The screen lit up for a second, no signal.
25:09It won't happen.
25:10He said, but his voice lacked any conviction.
25:13My father will come save us.
25:15Another hour passed.
25:17Footsteps sounded outside the iron door.
25:19Sophia jerked her head up, hope flashing in her eyes.
25:22A small window on the iron door opened, and a bowl of water along with a few pieces of dry
25:28bread were pushed inside.
25:29Sophia scrambled over, her voice hoarse.
25:32Let us out!
25:34Do you know who I am?
25:36I'm the eldest daughter of the Lopez family!
25:39If you dare!
25:41The small window slammed shut.
25:42The footsteps faded away.
25:44Sophia stood frozen in place, clutching the bowl of water.
25:48Tears fell pathetically into it.
25:50Drop after drop.
25:52Luca had barely slept all night.
25:55He kept staring at those three pairs of green eyes until his own eyes were dry and burning.
26:00Sophia curled up beside him, burying her face in his chest.
26:04Her expensive custom dress was torn in several places, and her nails were caked with dirt.
26:09She suddenly spoke, her voice raspy.
26:11Luca, is your phone still working?
26:13No signal.
26:15I don't want to make a call.
26:16Sophia lifted her head.
26:17There was a strange gleam in her eyes that he had never seen before.
26:21Let's take a selfie.
26:22When we get out, I'm going to post it everywhere and let everyone know what that Borgia bitch
26:27did to us.
26:28Luca was stunned for a second, then laughed.
26:31It wasn't a happy laugh.
26:32It was a laugh of utter absurdity.
26:34You're thinking about taking photos at a time like this?
26:36I'm not willing to accept this.
26:38Sophia's voice suddenly rose.
26:40I've never suffered like this in my entire life!
26:43Who does she think she is?
26:44Just some wild bastard who appeared out of nowhere!
26:47A low growl suddenly came from the wolf dogs.
26:50Sophia's voice cut off abruptly.
26:53Three pairs of green eyes locked onto her at the same time.
26:55She slowly shrank back into Luca's arms and stopped talking.
27:00The bread was gone.
27:02The water was gone.
27:03The wolf dogs began pacing restlessly, their chains scraping loudly against the floor.
27:09Sophia leaned against the wall, her lips cracked, her hair a complete mess.
27:12Her eyes were unfocused, like a phone that had run out of battery.
27:16Her voice was as light as a wisp of smoke.
27:19Luca, do you think your father will really come to save us?
27:23Luca remained silent for a long time.
27:26He will.
27:27He's my father.
27:28He didn't say it out loud, but he was starting to feel afraid.
27:33Not of the wolf dogs, but of a deeper fear.
27:36What if his father had already given up on him?
27:38Finally, footsteps sounded outside the iron door again.
27:41This time there was more than one person.
27:43The iron door was opened.
27:45Blinding light flooded in.
27:47Both Sophia and Luca instinctively raised their hands to shield their eyes.
27:51The wolf dogs were led away.
27:53Several men in black suits walked in expressionlessly and dragged them up.
27:57Sophia's legs had gone completely limp.
28:00She was supported by two men as they dragged her out.
28:03Luca staggered, barely able to stand, his legs also trembling.
28:06The moment they stepped out of the basement, fresh air rushed toward them.
28:10Sophia gasped greedily, like a drowning person finally pulled ashore.
28:14I won't let this go.
28:16She whispered hoarsely.
28:17Borgia, just you wait.
28:20Luca didn't speak.
28:22He stared straight ahead, his face ashen.
28:24What he was thinking was something else in these three days.
28:27His father hadn't made even a single phone call.
28:31I woke to the sting of antiseptic.
28:33The first thing I saw was my father's face above me, drawn tight with worry.
28:38My right hand was wrapped in thick bandages.
28:40A dull pain throbbed through each finger.
28:43Your fingers are saved.
28:44My father said, brushing the hair away from my forehead.
28:47But they'll need time to heal.
28:48Just then the door eased open.
28:50Antonio stood at the threshold.
28:52The man who usually dominated headlines as an untouchable mafia, he said hoarsely.
28:57Don Borgia, my son was reckless.
29:00He offended Mrs. Borgia.
29:02My father looked at him coldly and said nothing.
29:05Antonio turned to me instead and bowed deeply.
29:07Mrs. Borgia, Luca was ignorant.
29:09He had no idea who you were.
29:11Everything our family has today came from Don Borgia's support years ago.
29:14This engagement was us reaching far of our station.
29:16We won't mention it again.
29:17I only beg you to spare his life.
29:19I looked at Antonio, who seemed to have aged overnight and felt nothing at all.
29:24Fine.
29:25I said my voice weak but clear.
29:27I'll give you a choice.
29:29You can keep your son or you can keep your entire family.
29:34His body visibly swayed, his lips trembled, and pain flickered across his eyes as he fought
29:40with himself.
29:40After a long silence, he lowered his head.
29:43I'll accept whatever you decide.
29:45This was how our world worked.
29:47In the mafia world, family interests always sat higher than a single individual.
29:52I'm not asking for his life.
29:53I said, turning my gaze toward the window.
29:56But I have one condition.
29:57At the five families gathering, he has to apologize to me in front of everyone.
30:03Antonio let out a long sigh of relief.
30:05Of course.
30:06I'll make sure Luca apologizes sincerely, Mrs. Borjara.
30:10He left with shaky steps, his back slumped in defeat.
30:13The day of the five families gathering finally arrived.
30:17It was held at the same auction house.
30:19The moment my father and I walked into the hall, every gaze in the room swung toward us.
30:26I wore a deep red gown that brushed the floor with every step.
30:30A matching velvet glove covered my injured right hand, an elegant mask for the damage
30:35that still hadn't fully healed.
30:37Antonio hurried over to greet us, his face pale and strained with nerves.
30:41Don Borgia.
30:43Miss Borgia.
30:44Thank you for gracing us with your presence tonight.
30:47I gave him a small, polite nod and slowly scanned the crowded hall.
30:51All eyes were already on us.
30:52Father's voice was low and commanding.
30:55Bring them up.
30:56Several bodyguards wheeled a heavy iron cage into the center of the room, right under the
31:01bright spotlight.
31:03The moment the cage came into view, a wave of shocked murmurs swept through the crowd.
31:08Inside, Luca and Sophia were huddled together like trapped animals.
31:12Their clothes were torn and filthy.
31:14Sophia's once glorious gold gown hung in ragged strips, while Luca's expensive suit was covered
31:21in dirt and dried blood.
31:22Bruises and cuts marred their faces and arms.
31:25Whatever they had endured these past few days, it had clearly been hell.
31:30The bodyguards unlocked the cage and dragged them out roughly, showing no mercy.
31:34Sophia's legs gave out instantly.
31:36She collapsed to her knees, staring at me with wide, terrified eyes.
31:40Lisa, please.
31:44Lisa!
31:46We were wrong.
31:47I was wrong.
31:49Just let us go.
31:51Luca lifted his head.
31:52Miss Bourga.
31:54I beg you, have mercy.
31:57My family will compensate you however you want.
31:59Just don't do this in public.
32:02I looked down at them coldly, my injured hand resting lightly on my father's arm.
32:07Public? You humiliated me in public first.
32:11Did you show me any mercy then?
32:12I took one slow step forward, my voice clear enough for the entire hall to hear.
32:17You wanted to break me.
32:19Now the whole of Norum gets to watch as I break you.
32:26Luca staggered, swaying on his feet.
32:28His eyes darted wildly over the crowd until they locked on Antonio.
32:32Dad!
32:33He shouted hoarsely, his voice cracking with despair.
32:37You have to help me.
32:39They don't respect the Marino family at all.
32:42He jabbed a shaking finger at my father and me, his eyes burning with hatred.
32:47Antonio's face went white.
32:48He strode forward and in front of everyone slapped Luca so hard that the sound cracked across the hall.
32:54You ungrateful brat.
32:56Get on your knees and apologize to Mrs. Borgia.
33:02Now.
33:02Sofia jerked her head up, her voice sharp with outrage.
33:06Don Marino, you must be joking.
33:09You want Luca to apologize to those two noblies?
33:12Shut your mouth!
33:14Antonio snapped, turning on her with a glare sharp enough to scorch.
33:18This all started because of you.
33:20If not for you, Luca would never have offended Don Borgia.
33:24And Ms. Borgia!
33:26Luca stared at Antonio as if he didn't recognize him.
33:32Antonio, you still haven't told them the truth, Don of the Corfioni family.
33:37Mr. Rossif Borgia is the most powerful Don in Corvina.
33:40Years ago when the five families rebuild our power here in Norham City,
33:43it was only possible because he backed us and shielded us.
33:47Vito said slowly, his voice carrying clearly through the silent hall.
33:51If he so much as lifts a finger, he can erase an entire family from Norham City overnight.
33:57Luca snapped his head toward Antonio, his eyes filled with frantic desperation for an answer.
34:02Antonio pressed his lips into a tight line and gave a stiff, reluctant nod.
34:07That can't be true.
34:09Luca said, stumbling back a step.
34:11If it is, why have I never heard about it before?
34:14Vito let out a humorless laugh.
34:16That secret is known only to the heads of the families.
34:19You haven't even officially taken over yet.
34:22What makes you think you had the right to hear it before this incident?
34:26As soon as Vito finished speaking, the entire hall fell into silence.
34:31I was about to speak when my phone vibrated inside my bag.
34:34It was an encrypted message.
34:36The sender field showed an internal code from the Corleone family.
34:40Miss Gorgia, tomorrow night at the Norham Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala,
34:44the Lopez family's collateral branch and Elena Lopez will both be attending.
34:49If you wish, you may collect some interest there first.
34:51I turned the phone screen toward my father.
34:54He glanced at it and the corner of his mouth lifted slightly.
34:57Elena Lopez, father murmured the name,
35:00Sophia's mother.
35:02She's been pulling strings behind the scenes quite a bit.
35:05I know.
35:06I said, putting the phone away.
35:08The golden custom gown Sophia wore at the auction was ordered by Elena from Milan a month in advance.
35:14Mother and daughter, one plays the good cop, one plays the bad.
35:18They've been running rampants in Norham for years.
35:20Father looked at me without saying a word, but his eyes were clear.
35:23It's your decision.
35:25It's your decision.
35:25I'll go.
35:26But only after we settle matters here first.
35:30The evening after the five great families meeting ended at the Imperial Banquet Hall,
35:35the crystal chandeliers lit up the entire hall as brightly as daylight.
35:38Not only were the collateral representatives of the five great families present,
35:43but also dozens of heads of mid-tier families.
35:46They usually couldn't even get close to the core meetings of the five families.
35:50But tonight, everyone wanted to fish for benefits amid the toasts and deals.
35:55I wore a dark wine red velvet gown.
35:57The long sleeves concealed the bandages on my right hand.
36:00On my left ear, I wore a single pigeon blood ruby earring gifted by my father, only one.
36:05This was an old Borgia family tradition.
36:08When a daughter has been provoked, but has not yet fully avenged herself,
36:13she wears only a single earring.
36:15The moment I stepped into the hall, I felt countless gazes stabbing into me like needles.
36:20Is that the Borgia family's eldest daughter?
36:23I heard the Marino family heir was expelled because of her.
36:27Shh!
36:29Lower your voice.
36:31The Lopez family people are here tonight, too.
36:34I walked straight ahead without looking sideways and headed directly for the main table.
36:39Seven people were already seated at the main table.
36:41The center seat was empty.
36:43Beside it sat a middle-aged woman in a deep purple gown, Elena Lopez.
36:47She looked 70% like Sophia, but more cunning and gloomier.
36:51She was twirling a glass of red wine in her hand.
36:54When she saw me approaching, she didn't even bother to stand up.
36:57She drawled, looking me up and down.
37:00So you're the little bitch who got my daughter kicked out of Northam.
37:06The entire table fell silent.
37:08I didn't sit down.
37:09Instead, I looked down at her from above.
37:11Your daughter brought it upon herself.
37:13I simply didn't stop her.
37:16Elena's face instantly flushed red.
37:18She shot to her feet and slammed her wine glass onto the table, splashing wine everywhere.
37:23Don't get cocky!
37:24Borgia!
37:25I don't care who you are!
37:27In Norak, the Lopez family has the Marino family behind us.
37:32Well, not anymore.
37:34But mark my words, whatever my daughter lost, I will take back tenfold for her.
37:39She deliberately raised her voice so that the surrounding tables could hear.
37:43Several merchants who did business with the Lopez family immediately chimed in.
37:47Exactly.
37:49Some outsider family?
37:51What right do they have to sit at the main table?
37:53Even if the Marinos aren't pursuing this, it doesn't mean Mrs. Lopez is easy to bully.
37:58Little girl, apologize while things haven't blown up yet.
38:01I smiled slowly.
38:04Apologize.
38:04I repeated, then glanced at the two bodyguards standing behind Elena.
38:08When your daughter crushed my fingers under her heel, did she ever apologize?
38:14Elena's lips twitched, but she quickly regained her vicious expression.
38:18You deserved it.
38:19Seduxing someone else's fiancé, crushing your fingers was going easy on you.
38:24I didn't argue with her.
38:26I simply took out my phone from my handbag, played a recording, and turned the volume to maximum.
38:32Antonio's voice rang out clearly in the quiet hell.
38:35My son was too reckless.
38:37This marriage was us reaching above our station.
38:41I only beg you to spare his life.
38:44The recording ended.
38:45The hall was deathly silent.
38:47Elena's hands began to tremble.
38:49Merchants beside her quietly shifted their chairs half a step back.
38:53It's fake!
38:55You forged it!
38:56I put away my phone and looked down at her, my voice calm but loud enough for the first three
39:01rows to hear clearly.
39:02Mrs. Lopez, your daughter once said something at the auction.
39:05In here, I make the rules.
39:07I raised my bandaged right hand and gently tapped above the wrappings.
39:11Now, I'd like to return the favor with a message of my own.
39:15Your daughter and the Merino family, in front of me, they don't even qualify as rules.
39:21Elena's face went from red to white, then to a sickly green.
39:24She suddenly grabbed the wine glass in front of her and hurled its contents at me.
39:27Red wine flew straight toward my face.
39:29I didn't dodge.
39:30The wine slashed across my face, hair, and wine-red gown, almost blending in.
39:35Only a few drops slid down my chin and fell onto the marble floor.
39:39The entire hall gasped.
39:41Elena stood holding the empty glass, chest heaving violently, her eyes filled with mad triumph.
39:48You whore!
39:49That's what you get for being arrogant!
39:52I slowly raised my hand and wiped the wine from my face.
39:56Then I smiled.
39:58Mrs. Lopez, do you know what you just did?
40:01I took one step forward.
40:03My voice wasn't loud, but it pierced every ear like a nail.
40:06You just attacked the sole heir of the Borga family, in front of more than 30 family representatives.
40:11Everything that happened tonight, I will report it to my father in full detail.
40:17Elena's wine glass slipped from her hand and sat it on the floor.
40:23You're laughing.
40:24I didn't answer her.
40:25I turned around to face the entire banquet hall, my voice clear and calm.
40:29From tonight onward, any family that does business with the Lopez family will automatically be considered unfriendly to the Borga
40:36family.
40:38Gasps rippled across the hall.
40:40Elena's face turned completely white.
40:43You wouldn't dare!
40:44She screamed, but her voice had already lost all confidence.
40:49I gave her one last look, then turned and walked toward the exit.
40:53Behind me came Elena's hysterical shriek.
40:55Stop that bitch!
40:57But no one moved.
40:58The allies, she thought she had all lowered their heads like frostbitten eggplants.
41:03As I walked out the main door, Vito Corleone was already standing by the entrance.
41:07He held a glass of whiskey and gave me a slight nod.
41:11Miss Borgia, you're even more ruthless than your father was at your age.
41:16Vito paused, his lips curving into a soft, genuine smile as he looked at her.
41:20And I'm liking you more and more, my lovely lady.
41:24I glanced sideways at him.
41:26Don Correano, did you already know this would happen tonight?
41:30He smiled without answering, simply raising his glass.
41:34Welcome to the real Norton.
41:35I didn't clink glasses with him.
41:37I walked straight to the elevator.
41:39The moment the elevator doors closed, I let out a soft breath.
41:43My right hand hurt badly, but my heart felt incredibly satisfied.
41:48I walked forward slowly.
41:49The fingers beneath my velvet glove still throbbing with a dull ache.
41:53I've changed my mind.
41:54After what I just heard from Luca, I'm very disappointed.
41:58He doesn't look guilty at all.
42:01Antonio, is this the apology the Marino family is giving me?
42:04Every pair of eyes turned to Antonio.
42:07The man who usually ruled the room now looked pale.
42:10He drew in a deep breath, and at that moment he seemed to age a decade.
42:14From this moment on, Luca is no longer my son.
42:17He is no longer heir to the Marino family.
42:20He is officially stripped of his name and cut off from all family assets.
42:26Dad, you can't do this to me.
42:28I'm your son.
42:30Luca shouted, his eyes full of despair and disbelief.
42:32No!
42:34That's impossible!
42:35How could she have that kind of power?
42:37Why didn't anyone tell us earlier?
42:39This has to be fake!
42:41You're all being fooled!
42:42Sofia's shriek cut through the hall like broken glass.
42:46One of Vito's men stepped out of the crowd and slapped her across the face several times
42:50until she finally shut up.
42:52That's enough!
42:53Luca suddenly snarled.
42:55He wrenched himself free from the men restraining him,
42:57and threw himself in front of Sofia.
43:00This has nothing to do with Sofia.
43:02I was a blind fool.
43:04I'm the one who offended Ms. Borjan.
43:06This is my fault.
43:09If you want revenge,
43:11take it out on me.
43:12And let Sofia go.
43:14Sofia leaned against his chest,
43:16her eyes glistening with tears.
43:18Luca,
43:19I knew you were the only one who really cared about me.
43:22The scene was almost touching in a tragic, ridiculous way.
43:26I couldn't help but lift my hands and give them a soft, slow clap.
43:29How touching.
43:31Since you're so devoted to each other,
43:33I'll let you go.
43:34Under everyone's stunned gaze,
43:36I went on.
43:36You can leave with her now.
43:38In the name of the Borgia family,
43:40I give you my word.
43:42No one will stop you.
43:45Luca stared at me in disbelief,
43:47while a spark of hope lit Sofia's eyes.
43:49From this moment on,
43:51you have no connection to the Marino family.
43:53You walk away with nothing.
43:55Luca clenched his jaw,
43:56then bent to help Sofia steady herself.
43:58We're leaving.
43:59Everyone watched them limp out of the hall while leaning on each other.
44:02My father asked in a low voice.
44:05Are you really gonna let them walk away like that?
44:07I smiled.
44:08You'll see soon enough.
44:10Three months later,
44:10a headline shook the entire upper circle of Norham City.
44:14Former Marino heir Luca Marino killed his girlfriend Sofia Lopez in a run-down motel,
44:19then tried to take his own life.
44:20He was now in police custody.
44:22Word had it that after losing his status,
44:25Luca was penniless,
44:26and took Sofia to live with him in a shabby motel on the edge of the slums.
44:31Having grown up pampered and overindulged,
44:34neither of them could tolerate the hardships of an ordinary life.
44:38Sofia complained every day.
44:40She called Luca useless
44:41and blamed him for dragging her from the clouds into the mud.
44:44She could no longer afford designer clothes or fancy goods.
44:48Even a proper dinner had become a luxury.
44:50Three days before the murder,
44:52someone had spotted Sofia in an upscale restaurant,
44:55linking arms with a middle-aged businessman.
44:57After that, she stopped going back to the motel at night.
45:00When she did show up,
45:02her attitude toward Luca was cold.
45:04On the night of the incident,
45:06neighbors heard them shouting through the thin walls.
45:08You think you're still the heir of the Marino family?
45:11You can't even buy me a new lipstick!
45:14I gave up everything for you!
45:15Luca roared back.
45:17If I'd known you were so useless,
45:19I never would have left with you!
45:21Then came the sound of things being smashed.
45:23After that was an eerie, heavy silence.
45:25The next morning,
45:27the cleaning staff opened the door and almost fainted.
45:30Sofia was lying in a pool of blood,
45:32having been stabbed over and over.
45:34Luca was on the floor beside her with his wrist slashed,
45:37barely alive.
45:38I heard the news while I was at home,
45:40sitting at my piano.
45:41Although my fingers hadn't fully healed,
45:43I could already play a few simple pieces.
45:46Just then,
45:47my father walked in
45:48and placed a folded newspaper on the piano.
45:51You saw this coming,
45:54didn't you?
45:54I took my hands off the piano
45:56and glanced at the newspaper's front page.
45:58It showed Luca being shoved into a police car.
46:01Sofia never loved Luca.
46:03What she loved was his status and his money.
46:06Once he lost those,
46:08her betrayal was just a matter of time.
46:11As for Luca,
46:12I went on,
46:13letting my fingers drift lightly over the keys.
46:16He was born into wealth.
46:18He was never going to survive losing everything.
46:22Especially after the woman he loved cheated on him.
46:25My father studied me for a long moment.
46:28You gave them the cruelest punishment.
46:30I shook my head.
46:32No,
46:32they chose their punishment.
46:34I just handed them the knife.
46:36Sunlight poured through the windows,
46:38warm and bright.
46:39Their tragedy had no effect on me.
46:41In our world,
46:42the strong preyed on the weak.
46:43Mercy toward an enemy only ever led to destruction.
46:47Luca and Sofia's ending only proved that truth once again.
46:50They were nothing more than stepping stones on my way to the top seat in Corvina's mafia world.
46:56The sunlight was beautiful,
46:58but my hand still throbbed with dull pain.
47:00The doctor said the nerves had been damaged.
47:03Even after recovery,
47:04it would never be as flexible as before.
47:06I might never be able to play those difficult pieces again.
47:10I sat in front of the piano,
47:12placed my right hand on the keys,
47:13and gently pressed a single note.
47:15A clean, lonely sound rang out.
47:17The door was pushed open.
47:19Father walked in.
47:20He was wearing a deep gray suit.
47:22His tie knotted perfectly.
47:23Sofia's funeral is at 2 o'clock this afternoon.
47:27Are you going?
47:28I thought for a long time,
47:29so long that Father thought I wouldn't answer.
47:32Yes.
47:33Father nodded,
47:34turned to leave,
47:34then stopped.
47:35Isa,
47:36this isn't your fault.
47:37I didn't speak.
47:39Only after he walked out,
47:40did I whisper to the empty room.
47:42I know.
47:42But what I knew wasn't just that.
47:44I knew Sofia would die.
47:46From the moment she crushed my fingers under her heel,
47:49from the moment she answered my father's call,
47:51she was already dead.
47:52I simply didn't stop it.
47:54I didn't stop it,
47:55because I didn't want to.
47:57This thought was like a thorn lodged in a corner of my heart.
48:00It didn't hurt,
48:02but it was always there.
48:03The church was small,
48:05so small that even from the last row,
48:07you could clearly see the white flowers on the coffin.
48:10Not many people came.
48:11Sofia's parents sat in the front row.
48:14Her mother was crying so hard she couldn't sit straight,
48:16while her father sat rigidly like a stone statue.
48:19Luca didn't come.
48:21He was in the hospital with more than a dozen stitches on his wrist,
48:24under police guard.
48:25They said he wasn't in danger of dying,
48:27but his mental state was very poor.
48:29I stood at the very back,
48:31leaning against the wall.
48:33Father didn't come inside.
48:34He waited for me in the car.
48:36While the priest was reading the eulogy,
48:38Sofia's mother suddenly stood up and staggered toward me.
48:42Everyone was watching.
48:43She stopped in front of me.
48:44Her tears had ruined her makeup,
48:47leaving streaks down her face.
48:49Are you satisfied now?
48:50Her voice was hoarse,
48:52like sandpaper scraping glass.
48:54I said nothing.
48:55My daughter is dead,
48:58and you still come to her funeral.
49:00She grabbed the sleeve of my coat,
49:01nails digging into the fabric.
49:03Are you here to watch the show?
49:05Her husband rushed over and pulled her away from me.
49:08He glanced at me.
49:09That look contained hatred,
49:11fear,
49:12and deep exhaustion.
49:13I'm sorry.
49:14She didn't mean it.
49:16I nodded,
49:16then turned and walked out of the church.
49:18The sunlight was blinding.
49:20I stood at the entrance for a while,
49:22taking a deep breath.
49:24Father got out of the car and stood beside me.
49:26Let's go.
49:27I got into the car,
49:28leaned back in the seat,
49:29and closed my eyes.
49:30Outside the window,
49:31the church bells rang twice.
49:33Two o'clock and one minute.
49:34Sofia Lopez,
49:3522 years old.
49:36A short life,
49:38an ugly death.
49:39I silently recited these words in my heart,
49:41then opened my eyes.
49:42There was still a long road ahead.
49:45Three months later,
49:46Luca's case went to trial.
49:48I didn't go.
49:50Father sent a lawyer to observe,
49:52who came back and reported the result.
49:55Luca Marino was sentenced to 12 years in prison
49:57for manslaughter.
49:58The wound on his wrist left a permanent scar.
50:01The psychological evaluation stated he had severe depression
50:05and post-traumatic stress disorder.
50:08The lawyer said Luca didn't speak a single word
50:11throughout the entire trial.
50:13When the judge asked if he pleaded guilty,
50:15he simply nodded.
50:16The lawyer also said that Antonio Marino sat in the gallery,
50:20his hair completely white.
50:23When the sentence was announced,
50:25he didn't cry.
50:26He just closed his eyes
50:28and didn't open them for a long time.
50:32Later, at a gathering,
50:33Vito Corleone told me,
50:35Antonio is finished.
50:38He saved his son's life,
50:40but the Marino family is done for.
50:42I held my wine glass and said nothing.
50:44You know,
50:45in Luca's first week in prison,
50:47someone asked if he wanted to see a lawyer.
50:49He said no.
50:51Someone asked if he wanted to see his father.
50:53He stayed silent.
50:55Finally,
50:56the person asked,
50:57who do you want to see?
50:59He said he wanted to see you.
51:01My hand froze.
51:03He found out you stay at the manor every day
51:05and wanted to ask if you could visit him.
51:08Vito looked at me.
51:09You won't go,
51:10right?
51:11I put down the wine glass and stood up.
51:14No.
51:16Some people once missed are missed forever.
51:21Half a year later,
51:22my fingers had recovered most of their function.
51:25The doctor called it a miracle,
51:27saying my recovery speed far exceeded his expectations.
51:30I knew it wasn't a miracle.
51:33For the past six months,
51:34I had done three hours of rehabilitation training every day.
51:38Even when the pain made me sweat,
51:40I didn't stop.
51:41Father would sit beside me,
51:43saying nothing,
51:44only handing me a towel.
51:46Can you play the piano yet?
51:47I tried.
51:52I placed my right hand on the keys and ran through a scale.
51:55It was slow and clumsy,
51:57but every note came out.
51:58Soon.
51:59Father didn't smile,
52:01but his eyes brightened.
52:02That night,
52:03I sat alone in the piano room
52:04and played a very simple piece,
52:05Debussy's Claire de Lune.
52:07My left hand carried the main melody,
52:09while my right hand only added a few occasional notes.
52:13I closed my eyes and imagined myself standing on stage,
52:16spotlights shining on my face,
52:19the audience packed below.
52:21That feeling was still there.
52:23The desire to stand at the very top was still there.
52:26Sophia was dead.
52:28Luca was in prison.
52:29The Marino family had fallen,
52:31but they were not my destination.
52:33They were just stones on the road.
52:35I stepped over them,
52:37got a little mud on my shoes and wiped it off.
52:42One year later,
52:43the power structure in Norum had completely changed.
52:46The Marino family had been squeezed out
52:48of the five great families.
52:50The Corleone family had taken the top seat.
52:54And I,
52:55Isa Borgia,
52:56was no longer just Don Borgia's daughter.
52:59I began taking over the family's businesses.
53:02Not all at once,
53:03but gradually,
53:04father handed them to me piece by piece.
53:07First a few small casinos.
53:10Then a port.
53:12Then control of the entire northern district of Corvina.
53:15Every time he transferred power,
53:18father stood behind me without speaking,
53:20but always present.
53:22Once,
53:22when Vito was drunk,
53:24he put his arm around my shoulder
53:25and said to the whole table,
53:28This little girl
53:29is even more ruthless
53:31than her father.
53:33I smiled and removed his hand from my shoulder.
53:36It wasn't because I was ruthless.
53:39It was because I had no way back.
53:41I was the only daughter of the Borgia family.
53:45This entire empire would eventually be mine.
53:47The power structure in Norum had finally settled
53:51and life seemed to have returned to a certain calm.
53:54Every week,
53:55I would spend three afternoons in the piano room.
53:58Sunlight poured in through the floor-to-ceiling windows,
54:01illuminating the black and white keys
54:02and my right hand,
54:04the hand that had nearly been destroyed.
54:06Footsteps stopped at the doorway.
54:08I didn't turn around,
54:09but my fingers paused on the keys for a moment.
54:12Your piano skills are much better than your acting.
54:15His voice came from the doorway,
54:17slightly hoarse,
54:18carrying a lazy smile.
54:20I turned my head.
54:22Vito stood leaning against the doorframe.
54:24Instead of his usual signature dark suit,
54:26he wore a charcoal gray thin sweater
54:29with the sleeves rolled up to his forearms.
54:31He was holding a long, slender black box in his hands.
54:34Don Corione,
54:35has no one ever taught you to knock before entering?
54:38Has no one ever taught you
54:39not to be so cold toward a guest who came from afar?
54:43He walked in.
54:44His leather shoes stepped lightly,
54:46yet heavily on the wooden floor with every step.
54:50Isis,
54:51for the past year,
54:53I've been looking for the right moment.
54:55He paused,
54:56the corner of his mouth lifting in a self-mocking smile.
54:59But I realize that with you,
55:00there will never be a right moment.
55:02He opened the black box.
55:04Inside was a necklace.
55:06It was an exact match to my single earring.
55:09Your father told me about this Borga family tradition.
55:12His voice grew lower.
55:13When a daughter has been provoked,
55:15but has not yet fully taken revenge,
55:17she wears only one earring.
55:19Once revenge is complete,
55:21she wears the other.
55:22I stared at the gemstone,
55:24but didn't reach out.
55:25So,
55:26Vito took a deep breath.
55:28In this moment,
55:29one of the most powerful men in Norum
55:31looked like someone standing on the edge of a cliff.
55:34So I wanted to ask,
55:36if one day you decide to wear the other earring,
55:39could that spot
55:41be left for me?
55:43Silenced.
55:43The only sound in the piano room
55:45was the occasional chirping of birds
55:47outside the window.
55:49My heartbeat was slow and steady.
55:51Do you know what you're saying?
55:53I know very clearly.
55:55Issa,
55:55I don't need a woman who stands behind me.
55:58And you're not that kind of woman anyway.
56:00The Corcioni family and the Borja family
56:02don't need to swallow each other.
56:03But I'm willing,
56:05for a lifetime,
56:07to stand in the place closest to you.
56:09The sunlight outside the window grew brighter,
56:12falling on his face
56:13and illuminating details
56:14I had never noticed before.
56:16There was a tiny mole at the corner of his eye.
56:18A faint scar on his left eyebrow.
56:21The fingers holding the necklace
56:23were long and strong,
56:24yet they were trembling slightly right now.
56:27This man,
56:28who didn't even blink
56:29during the five great family summit,
56:31was trembling.
56:34Suddenly,
56:34I felt the urge to smile.
56:37It's okay.
56:39I told you.
56:40I can wait.
56:42I didn't say I wouldn't accept it.
56:43My fingers still rested on the edge of the box.
56:46But I need to think about it.
56:48How long?
56:50Maybe a year.
56:51Maybe two.
56:53Maybe after I finish thinking,
56:55I'll return this box to you completely untouched.
56:58Then I'll wait.
56:59He turned and walked toward the door.
57:01At the doorway,
57:02he stopped without turning back.
57:04By the way,
57:05what piece were you playing just now?
57:07De Bossy's Claire de Lune.
57:09Next time,
57:10if I hear you stop playing this piece again,
57:16consider that your answer.
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