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