On The Grounds Of Hell – Episode 6

On The Grounds Of Hell – Episode 6

  {•𝑩𝒍𝒖𝒆𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑯𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒔•}

𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞: 𝑰’𝒍𝒍 𝑳𝒆𝒕 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅 𝑩𝒖𝒓𝒏 𝑭𝒐𝒓 𝑯𝒆𝒓.

ʙʏ ʙᴀʀʙɪᴇʟʟᴇ 

  -ʟᴜᴄᴋ ɪs ᴀɴ ɪʟʟᴜsɪᴏɴ-

♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤

It was 4 a.m., the sky still pitch-black, and the faint thump of distant music echoed from the pool area. 

The once-loud party had quieted down to scattered laughter and the shuffle of drunken feet returning to dorms. 

Some students were too wasted to walk straight—one even crawled across the lawn, giggling to himself.

Nia was out cold, her arm slung limply over Loci’s shoulder as he carried her toward her  dorm room. 

“She’s heavier than she looks.” He muttered under his breath, earning a half-snorted laugh from Natalie, who was swaying beside them, clutching a cup that had long been empty.

Zayne walked ahead of them, completely steady. He’d downed more drinks than anyone else tonight, but not a single trace of drunkenness showed on his face.

 His gaze stayed forward, calm, almost unreadable.

“You guys go ahead and check on Bluey.”Loci said, walking towards the Hearts Dorm.

When they reached Bluey’s room, Zayne knocked once before pushing the door open.

The room was dimly lit, and there, sitting on the edge of her bed—was Bluey.

Her head was bowed, shoulders trembling. The sound of her quiet sobs filled the silence. Her phone was clutched in one hand, her knuckles white, her mascara smudged beneath red, swollen eyes.

“Bluey?” Natalie slurred softly, stepping forward, concern flickering through her drunken haze.

Bluey flinched, wiping her face quickly, but her voice cracked when she tried to speak.

 “I’m fine,” she whispered.

Zayne stepped closer, his tone low but sharp. “You don’t look fine.”

She shook her head, trying to compose herself, but tears kept falling.

“Bluey—” Zayne started, but she was already heading for the door, barefoot, her hair disheveled and her eyes set with desperate determination.

Bluey’s voice trembled as she told them everything—every cruel word, every threat Morgan hissed into her ear. 

How she’d made her kneel on the floor and reminded her that her parents worked for her family. How she warned her to stay away from Hades or face the consequences.

By the time Bluey finished, her eyes were glassy again, her hands twisting nervously in her lap.

Natalie sighed, slumping back against the wall, her makeup smudged and hair messy from the party.

 “Like I knew this would happen. But honestly, I get it,” She said, rubbing her temples. 

“Your parents work for her family, so automatically it’s wrong for you to be associating with Hades. You’re caught between two fires, Bluey.”Natalie said.

Bluey’s lip quivered.

 “But… I don’t want to stay away from him,” she said softly. “What if he gets mad at me or… Am I supposed to disobey him? He’s already scary as it is.”

Natalie exchanged a glance with Zayne, who stood silently by the door, arms crossed. His face was calm, but his eyes were sharp and calculating.

He finally spoke.

 “Just think of it as a blessing in disguise,” He said quietly, his tone low but firm. “But Hades…” he paused, meeting her gaze. “Hades is going to be a problem if he refuses to stay away from you.”

 “Then what do I do?”Bluey swallowed hard, staring at the floor.

 “You keep your distance,” He said. “For now. Let him cool off. If he comes to you, I’ll deal with it.”

Natalie groaned, sitting up straighter. “Zayne, you’re not about to go pick a fight with Hades—”

“I’m not,” he cut in coldly. “We’ll just simply plead with him to respect Bluey’s decision.”

Bluey looked between them, her chest tight, fear and confusion tangled in her eyes.

Natalie sighed and scooted closer, wrapping an arm around her. 

“Hey, stop crying now. We’re here, okay? You’re not alone in this.”

Zayne nodded, his tone calm but serious.

 “Yeah, no matter what happens, we’ve got your back. Hades might be powerful, but he’s not untouchable—and you’re not facing him alone.”

Loci leaned against the wall, his voice firm. “Exactly. Whatever happens between him and Morgan, it’s their mess, not yours. You’ve got us, Blue.”

Nia, already half-asleep on the couch, mumbled softly, “We’re with you, Bluey. Always.”

Bluey looked at them one by one, her lips trembling. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Natalie hugged her tighter. “That’s what friends are for. No one’s hurting you while we’re around.”

Bluey nodded slowly, her tears finally easing as she let out a shaky breath, comforted by the warmth of the people around her.

——-

★ 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠- 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐨’𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 ★

Hyce blinked a few times, his head pounding. He sat up slowly, hair messy, vision still blurry from sleep. 

The sheets slipped from his chest, and he froze—bare chest, nothing underneath. His pulse quickened.

He glanced around. The room wasn’t his. 

“What the hell…” He muttered, looking down again. 

He quickly grabbed the duvet, wrapping it around himself just as the sound of running water stopped.

The bathroom door opened. Steam rolled out, and Sergio stepped into view, shirtless, towel hanging loosely around his neck, water glistening on his skin.

“You’re awake,” Sergio said calmly, walking toward the dresser.

“Uh—I… what’s—where are my clothes?” Hyce stammered.

“You puked all over them last night,” Sergio replied, glancing at him with that usual unreadable expression. “I took them off so you wouldn’t sleep in the mess..”

 “Wait… you saw me n+ked?!!”Hyce’s eyes widened.

“I practically removed your clothes. Not like I haven’t seen you n+ked before.”Sergio raised a brow, unfazed. 

Hyce’s jaw dropped.

 “What the f+k—did anything happen between us last night?”

Sergio paused mid-step, towel slung over his shoulder, water still dripping from his hair. 

His gaze flicked toward Hyce—flustered, clutching the duvet to his chest, cheeks burning red.

“Nothing happened,” Sergio said simply, his voice low and even. “You were drunk out of your mind. I just cleaned you up and made sure you didn’t choke on your own vomit.”

 “So… I didn’t— we didn’t—”Hyce blinked, still frozen.

“No,” Sergio interrupted, running a hand through his wet hair. “You tried to kiss me though.”

 “I— what?!”Hyce’s face went crimson.

Sergio smirked faintly, leaning against the wall.

 “You said I was your type. Then you passed out two seconds later.”

Hyce groaned, burying his face in the pillow. “Oh my God, kill me now.”

Sergio chuckled softly. 

Hyce shifted on the bed, trying to get down, but the duvet was heavier than he expected.

 He tugged it along anyway, the soft fabric dragging behind him and hanging loosely around his waist. His hand clutched it tight as he moved, careful not to let it slip.

Sergio’s gaze followed every step he took.

“Stop staring at me,” Hyce mumbled, cheeks faintly pink.

Sergio took a step closer, then another, until the space between them thinned. He leaned in, his height casting a faint shadow over Hyce. 

With one slow motion, he brushed a few loose strands of Hyce’s blonde hair from his face, his fingers grazing his skin.

Hyce’s breath hitched as Sergio’s hand moved to his chin, tilting it up gently. Their eyes locked—his hazel ones steady, Hyce’s wide and uncertain.

Sergio slowly reached out, his fingers brushing against the soft fabric of the duvet. He grasped the hem just at Hyce’s hips, gently pulling it away, inch by inch.

 The cool air kissed Hyce’s skin, making him shiver despite the warmth lingering in the room.

“Ser…gio,” Hyce’s voice wavered, eyes flickering with a mix of surprise and something deeper—uncertainty, maybe longing.

Sergio’s expression softened, the usual calm replaced by something raw and urgent. He hesitated for a heartbeat, then groaned low in his throat.

 “I can’t hold it anymore, Hyce.” His voice was rough, as he grabbed Hyce roughly pulling him closer.

“Ser…gio,” Hyce whispered, his voice barely steady. 

Then, with a sudden surge of courage, he reached out, his fingers brushing Sergio’s wrist.

 “Touch me… just a little.”Hyce moaned, giving his approval.

“Really?” 

“I said…just a little.”Hyce bit his lips. 

Sergio’s eyes darkened with something fierce, slow passion. His fingers traced the curve of Hyce’s hip, sending an unexpected thrill through him. 

Hyce’s body trembled, pleasure rippling beneath the gentle touch.

Sergio’s hand moved deliberately, wrapping his palm around Hyce’s already hard length.

 A deep, involuntary moan escaped Hyce’s lips as he rested his forehead against Sergio’s warm chest, grounding himself in the overwhelming sensation. 

Sergio’s fingers traced slow, teasing patterns over Hyce’s skin, sending shivers through him.

Without breaking eye contact now, Sergio knelt down. His mouth found Hyce with urgent tenderness, lips wrapping around his dick as he sucked with expert care.

 Hyce’s breath hitched, and a sharp moan tore from his throat. 

His hands tangled in Sergio’s hair, urging him deeper, lost in the rush of pleasure.

“F+kkk!!”

Suddenly, Hyce pulled back, breath heavy, eyes dark and resolute. His cock was still painfully hard, throbbing with need.

 “You should get ready for training,” Hyce said, voice low but steady. “I’m in charge of the knights’ training today.”

Sergio groaned, eyes closing in frustration as Hyce walked away toward the bathroom.

 “What was that?” He murmured.

“Why did he make me stop? I’m so f+king hard right now,” Sergio whispered to himself, the ache already lingering.

—–

★ 𝐃𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐥 ★

The morning light streamed through the wide glass windows, filling the dining hall with a soft golden hue. 

Loci, Nia, Zayne, Bluey, and Natalie sat together at one of the long tables, trays of breakfast before them.

Zayne, however, wasn’t touching his food—his attention fixed on his phone.

“Aren’t you hungry, Zayne? You’ve not eaten since yesterday’s party,” Natalie asked, spoon halfway to her mouth.

“I’m not hungry,” he muttered, eyes never leaving the screen.

“Really? That’s weird,” Natalie mumbled, glancing at him suspiciously.

“Baaabee… my head still hurts,” Nia groaned dramatically, resting her head on Loci’s shoulder.

“I wasn’t the one who told you to drink carelessly last night,” Loci said, rolling his eyes, but his tone was soft. 

He reached for the carton beside his tray and handed her a small pack of milk. 

“Here. Drink this. It’ll help.”

Nia blinked up at him, a small pout forming. “You’re too sweet to me.”

“Or maybe I’m just too patient,” Loci teased, brushing his thumb against her cheek.

Bluey and Natalie exchanged looks across the table, giggling quietly.

“Ugh, you two are nauseating,” Zayne said, shaking her head with a grin.

Loci only smirked and slipped an arm around Nia’s shoulders, pulling her a little closer. “Get used to it.”

“Can you guys please stop infesting the air with your sweetness? I might get diabetes,” Natalie groaned, pretending to gag.

“Jealous much?” Zayne smirked.

“Me? Jealous? In their dreams.” She rolled her eyes, grabbing a handful of fries.

Nia leaned closer to Bluey, her eyes glinting with mischief. “So, Bluey… how about your lover boy?”

“Lover boy?” Bluey blinked.

“Hades,” Nia sing-songed. “I mean, you guys kissed, right?” She giggled.

“You’re giggling like it’s a good thing,” Natalie muttered.

“Well, duh. I’m officially Team Hades and Bluey.”

 “Well, I haven’t seen him since last night, and he hasn’t sent for me either.”Bluey sighed.

“That’s a good thing, right?” Zayne asked, arching a brow.

Before she could answer, her phone rang.

Loci leaned in. “Is he the one calling?”

“I don’t know. I don’t have his number.”

She stared at the screen for a second, then picked up the call.

—–

★ 𝐇𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 ★

“Crybaby.”

Bluey froze. That voice…. deep, velvety, unmistakable.

“Hades…” she breathed out.

“Come to my suite,” he said, calm but commanding. “I have a surprise for you.”

There was silence on her end. He could hear her breathing, light and uncertain.

“Bluey… hey—”

The line went dead.

Hades stared at the phone, his jaw tightening.

“So?” Hyce asked from the side of the room, smirking as he leaned against the counter.

“The line cut,” Hades muttered, pocketing his phone. “Must be the poor service.”

But his mind wasn’t on the call. He turned toward the pool shelter inside his suite, where the morning light filtered through the glass roof, glinting off the turquoise water.

The space was quiet, serene—the only sound being the gentle ripple of the pool. He’d spent the last hour making sure everything was perfect.

A small round table sat beneath the shelter, draped in white linen. Two plates were already set—his and hers. A tray of golden pancakes, strawberries, and whipped cream rested in the middle, beside a silver bucket holding chilled champagne.

He’d chosen white lilies and soft pink roses. They surrounded the table in small crystal vases, giving the air a sweet, calming scent.

On one of the chairs, he placed a small black box tied with a silk ribbon. Inside it, a delicate necklace shaped like a teardrop.

He adjusted the setting once more, stepped back, and exhaled slowly.

Everything was ready.

Now, all that was left was for his Crybaby to show up.

“Guys, I’m feeling nervous.” Hades ran a hand through his hair, pacing in front of the table he’d just set up.

“Goodness, Hades,” Hugo said, grabbing his jacket from the chair. “You saying you’re nervous sounds diabolical. Just do your thing.”

“What if she doesn’t like it?” Hades muttered. “What if she hates roses?”

Hyce snorted, sipping from his glass. “Girls love roses. I do too.”

“She’s not just any girl,” Hades said, his tone soft but firm.

Hugo raised a brow, exchanging a smirk with Hyce. “Wow. Gosh, Hades—you fell so deep for her.”

Hyce stood, fixing the cuff of his sleeve. “Anyway, try calling her again. Hugo and I are in charge of the knights’ training today, so we’re heading out. Lover boy.” He winked teasingly.

“Try not to mess things up with her,” Hugo added as they headed toward the door.

“I’ll keep you two updated,” Hades said under his breath as the door shut behind them.

The room fell silent. The faint sound of water lapping in the pool echoed softly. Hades pulled out his phone and stared at Bluey’s name on the screen.

He hesitated for a moment, then hit redial.

“C’mon, baby…” he murmured, pressing the phone to his ear.

One ring. Two. Three.

“Pick up.”

 “C’mon, Crybaby… pick up.”His thumb brushed his lower lip.

He exhaled, biting his lip as the call kept ringing into the quiet suite, the soft glow of the pool lights reflecting in his eyes.

——

★ 𝐃𝐚𝐰𝐧’𝐬 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐦 ★

Dawn sat on the floor, her back against the edge of her bed, eyes red and swollen from crying all night. 

The curtains were still drawn, the morning light barely slipping through the gaps. 

Tissues littered the floor around her, her phone discarded beside the bed, its screen still showing Hugo’s name in her last unanswered message.

Desiree sat beside her, holding out a glass of water that Dawn didn’t take.

 “You need to stop crying, Dawn,” She said softly, her tone firm but caring. “You’re not the only one who’s gone through rejection and heartbreak.”

Dawn shook her head, her voice breaking.

 “But you don’t understand, Des… I love him. I’ve always loved him.” Her fingers tightened around the hem of her shirt, tears streaming down her face again.

 “I prayed every night….that maybe, one day, he’d love me back. That he’d look at me and finally see me.”

Desiree sighed, running a hand through her hair. “Dawn… the signs were there, babe. You just didn’t wanna see them.”

Dawn looked up at her with trembling lips.

“He treats you like you’re disposable,” Desiree continued, her voice sharper now.

 “He fl¡rts with you, sleeps with you when he feels like it, and then f+ks other girls the next night. You call that love?”

Dawn shook her head in denial, covering her face with her hands.

 “Stop, please—”

“I’m not saying it to hurt you,” Desiree said, her tone softening again.

 She reached out and gently pulled Dawn’s hands away. 

“I’m saying it because I care. You deserve more than being someone’s convenient distraction.”

“But I can’t just stop loving him.”Dawn’s chest heaved as she tried to breathe through her sobs. 

“No one’s asking you to,” Desiree murmured. “But you can stop letting him break you.”

Dawn didn’t answer. She just leaned into Desiree’s shoulder, shaking quietly, as Desiree wrapped an arm around her and whispered.

“You’ll get through this. I promise.”

——

 ★𝐊𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐚★

Hyce was taking half of the knights in hand-to-hand combat while Hugo oversaw the students on the race track.

Sergio walked slowly towards Hyce who was standing and monitoring students sparring with each other.

“Hey, you left me hanging this morning. What was that?” Sergio’s voice interrupted him, and he looked at him.

“You’re in training class, and right now I’m your instructor. So enough with the side talks,” Hyce replied, keeping his tone firm.

“You know damn well I’m not going to leave you alone until you answer me, right?” Sergio stepped closer, eyes locked on him.

Hyce groaned, rubbing the back of his neck. “Fine. I said a little, didn’t I? I stopped before it could escalate more than that.”

Sergio’s smirk deepened. “So… why did you give me permission to touch you this morning? Lately, you’ve been trying to get rid of me.”

“Nothing… I was just—” Hyce started, but Sergio cut him off.

Sergio closed the distance, pressing Hyce against a pillar. “You said I couldn’t handle you… when in reality, it’s you who wants me so bad, and you can’t handle me.”

Hyce glanced around and noticed some students watching them, so he pushed off Sergio.

“Behave,” Hyce said, stepping away. 

But before he could walk away, Gomez grabbed his arm.

Hyce yanked it free.

“Hyce…” Gomez advanced toward him, a mix of guilt and defiance on his face. Hyce arched an eyebrow.

“You should be looking for someone to spar with. I don’t have time for you right now,” Hyce said coldly.

“Are you mad at me? I’m sorry about what happened last night,” Gomez mumbled.

“Last night? What… what happened last night?” Hyce’s eyes narrowed.

“I—I’m sorry. I tried to take advantage of you when you were drunk and… and you saw me with Juniper and—”

He trailed off as his eyes flicked to Sergio, who gave him a deadly glare.

“You didn’t tell him?” Gomez asked, panic creeping in.

“Why would I tell him something so stupid?” Sergio snapped.

 “You tried to take advantage of me last night?”Hyce faced Gomez, fists clenching at his sides.

Hyce’s hands balled into fists as he lunged at Gomez.

“Hyce, stop!” Sergio’s strong grip held him back, keeping him from throwing a punch.

“I didn’t let anything happen to you last night!” Sergio growled, his voice low and controlled.

Hyce froze for a moment, Sergio’s words sinking in. He took a deep breath, feeling his anger slowly fade.

Without another word, he stepped back, breaking free from Sergio’s hold, and turned away from Gomez. 

His footsteps were heavy as he walked away, leaving the stunned Gomez and a protective Sergio behind.

****

At the other side of the arena, Dawn panted, struggling to keep up with the others as they sprinted along the race track.

 Her legs burned, her lungs screamed for air, and her usual precision was gone. Four minutes behind already, she could feel every eye on her.

Hugo’s gaze pierced through her like ice. He didn’t even bother hiding his disgust.

“If you’re going to keep being so slow, you might as well get the fuck out of this hall!” He barked, his voice cutting across the track.

Dawn flinched at the words, pushing herself harder, but it only made her stumble slightly. Hugo’s sharp whistle pierced the air immediately.

“Pathetic. You call that running? You’re holding the rest of them back! Disgraceful!” he snapped.

He walked along the sidelines, arms crossed, his face twisted in impatience.

 Every time Dawn faltered, he shook his head, muttering under his breath:

 “Useless… can’t even do the basics.”

Dawn’s heart pounded, and her chest felt heavy, not just from exertion but from the sting of his relentless scorn. 

The words weren’t just criticism—they were venom, and it fueled a mix of anger, frustration, and shame inside her.

“I’m sorry, I just feel a little bit distracted.” Daen apologized.

“You’re distracted? Stop daydreaming, girl! You think I care about your excuses?” Hugo sneered, leaning forward to emphasize every syllable.

Dawn’s hands clenched into fists, her pride warring with her exhaustion. Every step felt like dragging her body through mud, but Hugo’s harshness left her no choice.

Everyone froze. The sharp crack of skin meeting skin echoed through the training hall.

SLAP!

And again—SLAP!

The sound reverberated, silencing every footstep, every breath.

Dawn stood trembling, her chest heaving, her fists still clenched. Her eyes widened in horror at what she’d just done. The sting on her palm felt unreal.

💬 “Did she just slap an Ace?”

💬 “No way… she didn’t.”

💬 “The guts of her… heard he dumped her last night.”

Whispers rippled like wildfire across the arena.

Hugo didn’t move at first. He just stood there, the side of his jaw slowly turning red. Then, his lips curved—not in anger, but in a dark, amused smile that made everyone’s stomach twist.

“Well…” He drawled, voice dangerously calm. “You’ve got guts, I’ll give you that.”

Hyce’s boots echoed against the floor as he approached, brows furrowed.

 “Did you just slap him?”Hyce asked.

“I— I didn’t mean to,” Dawn stammered, voice breaking. “I swear, I didn’t—”

Before she could finish, the academy’s automated voice thundered through the hall speakers.

🔊 “Player 008 has defiled Rule Number 2 of Maxwell International Academy…”

The entire hall went dead silent.

🔊 “Respect and obedience to higher-ranked students are required at all times, especially the Ace level. Punishment will be carried out in the Penalty Zone.”

Gasps filled the air.

💬 “She’s so done for.”

💬 “No one survives a penalty from an Ace.”

Dawn’s eyes darted to Hugo, who was still smiling faintly, his gaze locking with hers—cold, sharp, and unreadable.

Dawn’s knees hit the floor with a dull thud. Her hands clutched Hugo’s legs desperately, tears streaking down her face.

“No… no… Hugo… please! I’m sorry! I didn’t mean it! Please don’t… don’t punish me!” she begged, her voice trembling.

Her pleas only grew louder, “I swear, I’ll do anything! Anything! Please, forgive me!”

Hugo didn’t move. He watched her, silent and unmoved by her pleas.

Suddenly, the heavy thud of boots echoed behind her. Two masked guards appeared, their grip firm and unyielding. 

Before she could react, they lifted her off the ground, one under each arm.

“Hugo!! I said I’m sorry!!” Dawn screamed, kicking and thrashing as they carried her out of the training hall.

Desiree stepped forward, about to intervene, but froze. Any action would be suicidal. She swallowed hard, retreating silently.

Sergio’s gaze met Hyce’s across the hall. Hyce looked away instantly, guilt and helplessness in his eyes.

It wasn’t anyone’s fault. In MIA, the law was absolute. Even if Hugo didn’t want to punish her, the law will cause she broke the rule…. Cause in MIA, nobody is above the law, well except for that one dude of course.

“Back to training,” Hyce’s voice cut through the stunned silence.

Without another word, the knights resumed their exercises, the sounds of grunts, footsteps, and fists against mats filling the hall once more. 

—–

★ 𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐫’𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 ★

Trevor let out a long sigh as he finally walked out of the room after the nurse had left. 

Morgan was lying on his bed, wrapped in a soft blanket, her bruises still visible but her expression calm.

Despite making it through the duel yesterday, the pain hit her fully this morning.

 Every inch of her body from her waist and ribs to her hands, thighs, and head—throbbed like fire. She tried to stretch slightly but groaned at the sharp sting that ran through her side.

Trevor’s phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out to see his father’s name flashing across the screen. With a deep breath, he answered.

“Dad,” Trevor said.

“Trevor! How are you, and more importantly, how’s Morgan? I heard about the duel last night. Is she okay?” His father’s voice was tense, worry threading through every word.

Trevor ran a hand through his hair, glancing back at Morgan. She gave him a small nod, reassuring him.

 “We’re fine, Dad… well, Morgan’s fine, but she’s in a lot of pain this morning. Her waist, ribs, thighs… she’s bruised all over from the duel.”

Anthony’s voice tightened. 

“What? Trevor, who did she fight against!”Anthony asked.

“Hades.”Trevor said.

“Hope nothing bad happened. I’m really worried right now.”Anthony said.

Trevor nodded, even though his father couldn’t see him.

 “I know, Dad. Thankfully, nothing serious happened. “You are reading from www.mhiztaemy.com.ng” The duel got intense, but I stepped in when it was necessary. She’s tough, stronger than she looks, but right now the pain is catching up with her.”

“I need you both to be careful,” Anthony said, voice still heavy with concern. “I don’t care what this tournament or whatever that fight is about—she comes first. You hear me?”

“I hear you, Dad. I’ve got her. She’s resting now, and I’ll make sure she doesn’t push herself. I can’t stand anything happening to her. She means a lot to me.” Trevor assured him.

Anthony was silent.

“Good,” Anthony said, his tone softening slightly. “Keep me updated, okay? ”

“Of course, Dad. I’ll call you later.”

—–

★ 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫’𝐬 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 ★

Gael came downstairs, his tie slightly loosened and a serious expression on his face. The scent of fresh coffee filled the dining area, where Corazon was already seated, quietly eating her breakfast.

 Maureen moved efficiently between them, dishing out Gael’s meal and carefully pouring his coffee.

“About last night…” Gael started, his voice low but firm.

Corazon didn’t look up, taking a deliberate sip of her tea.

 “I’m trying to concentrate on eating. I have a long day ahead—Anthony and I are visiting the rural area for the development project,” she said sharply, cutting him off.

Gael’s jaw tightened. “Seriously, Corazon? What is wrong with you? We need to talk about what happened last night.”

She finally met his eyes, calm and unbothered. 

“It’s no big deal. I was tired, and I believe I have the right to my own comfort and privacy.”

Gael’s hands clenched around his coffee mug. “Comfort and privacy? Corazon, you’re acting like nothing happened. You can’t just ignore it!”

Corazon leaned back slightly, her tone measured. 

“I’m not ignoring it, Gael. I’m saying that my comfort and boundaries matter. If you can’t respect that, then there’s nothing more to discuss right now.”

 “Can’t I have a decent conversation with my wife?”Gael’s voice rose slightly, frustration evident.

Corazon didn’t even flinch, keeping her gaze fixed on her plate.

 “You can try, Gael, but clearly I’m not interested in whatever it is you want to talk about.”

He leaned forward, voice sharper now. “Corazon, this isn’t about interest. It’s about us—you being so distant from me—”

She cut him off with a flat, cold tone. “I said it’s no big deal. I don’t want to talk about it, Gael. Please respect that.”

Gael rubbed his temples, the tension in his shoulders growing. “Respect? You’re shutting me out completely!”

Corazon pushed back slightly from the table, her expression detached. “I am showing respect to myself. You should try it sometime.”

Before he could respond, Anthony entered the room.

 “Corazon,” he called gently, noticing the tension.

Corazon’s glare shot to Gael before she stood and grabbed her bag.

 “Anthony?”Gael turned to Anthony.

Anthony nodded, shaking Gael’s hand. “Picking her up. Was in the area and thought it might be best we leave early together since the location is a bit far. Is everything alright?”

Corazon glanced at Gael, already walking toward the door. “Everything’s fine. Let’s go, Anthony.”

Anthony followed quietly.

Gael exhaled deeply, sinking back into his chair. “Maureen.”

“Yes, sir?”

“Take the food away. I’ve lost my appetite.” Gael muttered, sipping his coffee, the weight of the morning pressing down on him.

***

—

In the car, Anthony drove smoothly, one hand on the wheel, the other brushing against Corazon’s as it rested on her lap.

“You had a fight with your husband?” he asked, voice low, teasing.

Corazon leaned slightly into him, enjoying the closeness. “It’s nothing. Gael just makes too much noise these days,” she murmured, a sly smile tugging at her lips.

Anthony’s gaze flicked to her, a slow, knowing smile forming. “How was your night? Want to go out later?” His fingers laced with hers, warm and possessive.

“Yeah,” Corazon replied, letting herself relax against him. “I could use that.”

Anthony’s thumb traced small circles on her hand. “A quick question… is Morgan in a relationship?”

Corazon arched an eyebrow, pretending to be curious. “Relationship? Why’d you ask?”

“Nothing. I just feel like…” His voice trailed, eyes flicking to hers with a heat that made her pulse quicken.

“Like she and Trevor are in a relationship?” Corazon finished for him, her tone teasing.

Anthony nodded, a little tension in his jaw. “Yeah…”

Corazon laughed softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face, deliberately close to him. “Impossible. Morgan tells me everything. They’ve been childhood friends—they’re obviously close. Stop worrying so much.”

Anthony exhaled slowly, turning his attention back to the road. “Okay.”

Their hands remained intertwined, the quiet hum of the car surrounding them, a charged, unspoken promise lingering in the space between them.

——-

 ★𝐌𝐈𝐀- 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐞𝐧 ★

The gambling den buzzed with energy. Dim golden lights cast long shadows across the room, reflecting off the polished mahogany tables where students leaned over chips and cards.

 Neon signs flickered along the walls, advertising high-stakes games and exotic bets. Somewhere in the corner, a roulette wheel spun relentlessly, while dice rattled across velvet felt on another table.

Bluey, Loci, Nia, Natalie, and Zayne stood near a long table, scanning the room for partners. 

Every week, they had to gamble at least once for Sigils, and today was no different. 

The tension in the air was almost tangible as students sized each other up, calculating odds and alliances.

“Natalie!” A sharp voice called out, cutting through the chatter.

Natalie turned, narrowing her eyes. 

“Who’s that loud dog?” she muttered, spotting Natasha striding in confidently, a smirk tugging at her lips.

She glanced at Bluey and gave her disgusting look before turning back to her twin.

“Don’t tell me you’re too scared to play with your own twin sister,” Natasha teased, sauntering closer. “Let’s gamble. Come on, it’ll be fun.”

“With you? No thanks,” Natalie said, folding her arms and glancing around for someone else.

“Oh, come on, Natty. Still holding grudges? Or are you scared I’ll wipe the floor with you?” Natasha’s grin widened.

“Scared? Please. You wouldn’t know strategy if it hit you in the face. I’d crush you in five minutes.” Natalie shot back, rolling her eyes.

“Ha! Keep dreaming. Remember last semester? I beat you twice in one night. Twice!” Natasha said, puffing out her chest.

“That was beginner’s luck! And you know it,” Natalie snapped.

“Beginner’s luck or not, I still beat you,” Natasha said, gesturing toward a nearby table.

“Come back and challenge me when you rank higher than me, then maybe I’ll yake your words seriously.”Natalie scoffed.

“Just play with me, So I can rub it in your face when you lose.”Natasha smirked.

Natalie huffed, glaring at her twin for a moment before sighing dramatically. “Fine. But don’t think for a second I’m going easy on you.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Natasha said with a wicked grin, already pulling out her chips as Natalie reluctantly followed her toward the table.

Loci and Nia wandered off to find other players, leaving Zayne and Bluey near an empty table.

“Want to gamble with me?” Zayne asked, glancing at her.

Bluey barely had time to respond before a student tapped her shoulder. “Excuse me, Bluey.”

She turned, raising an eyebrow. “Yes?”

“Hades is calling you. He said you should meet him in his suite,” the student said, eyes flicking nervously toward her.

Bluey bit her lip, caught between nerves and curiosity, then looked at Zayne.

 “Should I go or not?”

 “No.”Zayne’s eyes were firm.

“I’m not coming,” Bluey said, shaking her head, though her chest tightened.

The student stared at her weirdly but shrugged and left.

Bluey and Zayne remained behind a crowded table, waiting their turn. The den was packed, the air heavy with laughter, clinking chips, and the occasional shout of victory. 

Some groups were still deep in their games, rolling dice and flipping cards, oblivious to the tension building nearby.

Bluey fidgeted with her sleeve, her mind elsewhere. Zayne watched her carefully, sensing the storm of thoughts behind her eyes.

“Don’t worry about him,” Zayne murmured, almost to himself, though she heard him. 

“What games can you play? I think you should pick a simple one so you can win and earn extra Sigils,” Zayne murmured, trying to ease her nerves.

“Bluey…!!!”

Her name thundered through the hall, and she froze. 

She didn’t turn, though a few students’ eyes flicked nervously toward her and the source of the voice.

Hades stood at the entrance, eyes blazing, taking fast strides toward her. She tried to step back.

“Bitch, I’m talking to you!!” He yelled, gripping her elbow. 

She yanked it away instinctively.

“Hades, please… not now,” Bluey whispered, her voice trembling.

“Why the f+k are you ignoring me? Huh!” Hades shouted.

“Please… just stay away from me. I’m begging you. I can’t fight and win against you, so please, for the love of God, leave me alone, Hades!” she cried.

“Stay away? Why is that?” His voice softened ever so slightly, but his gaze didn’t waver.

“Can’t you just respect my decision and stay away from me!!” Bluey yelled, her fear pushing her courage to the edge.

Students gasped. She had dared to raise her voice at Hades. Everyone expected him to explode—but instead…

He reached for her hands, gently holding both of hers, and pressed a kiss to her knuckles. 

 “I can’t stay away from you. It’s going to kill me.”His eyes closed tightly as he murmured.

Bluey froze, her heart skipping a beat. No one moved. Not her. Not the students watching.

Did Hades just… indirectly confess his feelings?

She pulled her hands away, her mind spinning, unsure of what to do next.

“Looks like you want this the hard way,” Bluey said, her voice low but sharp, eyes daring him.

She scanned the crowded hall and spotted an empty seat, moving toward it with deliberate calm.

“Let’s gamble,” She continued, her fingers brushing the table. 

“I’ll bet my entire 10 Sigils on one game. If I win… you stay away from me.”

Hades froze, his dark eyes narrowing, shock mixing with something darker—something primal.

“You know what happens if you lose, right?” His voice was a low growl. “You’ll go below zero. And if you go below zero…” He leaned closer, letting the words linger.

“…expulsion.”

“I know,” Bluey said, unwavering, her gaze locking onto his. 

“It’s a win either way. You stay away, or I leave this school. Either way… it’s the same result.”

Hades’ chest tightened, and for the first time in his life, a girl made his blood run this hot. 

He had plans for her, every little detail, every thought, every move. And now she dared to challenge him to stay away? Is someone threatening her or what cause she’s such a pushover.

 The audacity made his pulse spike.

“Don’t make me hate you, Bluey,” He hissed, his voice low and dangerous.

“Don’t be a coward and accept the challenge,” she shot back, obviously shaking.

Hades circled her slowly, predator-like, each step measured, every inch radiating danger. He stopped behind her, leaning close enough for her to feel his breath against her ear.

“Fine then,” Hades whispered, dark and velvety.

 “I accept your challenge, crybaby. May the best player win.”

𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐝 ✰

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