Ruining The Grounds Of Hell  – Episode 12

  –ɪs ɪᴛ ᴀ ʜᴀᴘᴘɪʏ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴀғᴛᴇʀ..–

♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤

Hades slammed his boot into the door and it exploded inward. He didn’t hesitate—he lifted his gun and fired at the shadow on the staircase.

Dean’s scream tore through the room.

“F+k!” He staggered back, clutching his ribs as blood soaked his shirt.

Capo leaned over the banister above them, unleashing a rain of bullets.

“Did you really think you’d leave here alive?” He fired nonstop, forcing Hades and Bluey to duck beneath the staircase for cover.

“Stop being damn weaklings and come out here!” Capo snapped, tossing Dean another gun as the two of them came down the stairs, ready to finish the job.

They reached the spot under the steps, guns raised—empty.

Bluey and Hades were nowhere in sight.

“Looking for me?”A voice slid through the silence like a blade.

Dean and Capo spun around.

Hades stood there, leaning against the wall with terrifying calm, gun hanging loose in his hand as if he wasn’t covered in blood.

Before they could fire, a shrill, furious scream sliced through the air.

“You damn pigs!”

Their heads shot upward just in time to see Bluey launch herself over the railing.

She dropped from the second floor crashing into both men with brutal force. They hit the ground hard, weapons scattering.

Hades immediately kicked their guns across the room and Bluey hauled both men up by their collars, smashing their heads together hard enough to daze them.

Capo staggered, but he still swung at her with a desperate snarl. Bluey ducked, grabbed his wrist, twisted until it cracked, and slammed her knee into his face.

Dean rushed her from the side, but she spun and drove her elbow into his jaw, sending him crashing into a table.

They both tried to get up again, groaning, stubborn, wild—but she didn’t let them.

She caught Capo by the neck, dragged him forward, and rammed his head into the staircase railing until blood smeared the wood.

Dean lunged again, but Bluey kicked his knee out, then punched him repeatedly until he dropped to the floor, barely breathing.

Capo spat blood and swung at her one last time, but she dodged effortlessly and slammed her fist into his face so hard his back hit the floor beside Dean’s.

Both men gasped, broken, sitting back to back, tied in each other’s blood. Dean was slumped, barely conscious.

“You guys got water here?” Hades asked, leaning on the wall, pale but smirking.

“I’ll check.” Bluey strode into the kitchen, grabbed a bottle, and returned, handing it to him.

Hades chuckled weakly. “Six minutes left. Make it worth it.”

“You can’t kill us!” Capo spat, wheezing. “I’ll haunt you! I’ll make you pay!”

Bluey slapped him so hard his head bounced off the floor. She grabbed his collar, fury trembling under her skin.

“How long?” she growled. “How long did you make him suffer like that? I can’t even imagine the pain you put him through.”

Capo chuckled through bloody teeth. “I loved it. Every second. And nothing you do will change that.”

Bluey smiled slowly. Dark. Breathless. Unhinged. “Sure. But your death won’t be so easy.”

“Two minutes, Bluey,” Hades murmured.

She looked at him, eyes burning, then exhaled.

Bluey dragged out the ties she’d taken earlier and bound them tightly together, back to back, ignoring their weak protests.

Then she walked to the cellar door, disappeared inside, and came back with crates of expensive alcohol—whiskey, vodka, rum…throwing each bottle onto the floor.

The glass shattered, shards slicing their legs and arms as alcohol soaked the floor and bodies.

“What are you doing?!” Dean choked.

Bluey tilted her head. “What does it look like?”

“You can’t!” Capo screamed, panic finally leaking through his voice. “You can’t do that!!”

She crouched in front of him, her smile the last thing a sane man should ever see.

“Burn in hell.”

Capo’s eyes widened with real fear.

She stood, took out the lighter, flicked it once, and dropped it.

The moment the flame touched the alcohol, fire rushed across the floor like a living beast, swallowing them.

Dean’s scream tore the room. “NOOO!”

Capo thrashed, flames crawling up his clothes. “I’LL HAUNT YOU!! I’LL KILL YOU ALL—”

His voice cut off in a choking shriek.

The fire roared. Their bodies writhed. The smell of burning skin filled the air.

Bluey laughed. Hades watched her, proud even as his strength drained.

Bluey turned to him, her chest rising and falling with the heavy breaths she had been holding for hours.

The fire behind them crackled, swallowing Capo and Dean’s screams until nothing was left except the echo of their own exhaustion.

“It’s over… it’s finally over,” she whispered, her voice trembling as she cupped Hades’s cheek.

“Yes… we… made it out. I… love…” Hades tried to smile, but the expression faltered as a sharp pain cut through him.

His head jerked downward and he pressed a hand to his temple. His breath hitched. His vision clouded. His knees buckled.

“Hades?” Bluey grabbed him, but his weight crashed into her, knocking both of them to the floor outside the burning building.

She pulled him close, her fingers shaking as she tried to steady him.

Cough.

Hades’s hand slid away from her arm.

“What if… I feel like… I’m not going to… make it,” he said weakly, his voice barely a whisper.

“No. No. No, don’t say that. Don’t do this to me. Hades—look at me.” Bluey forced him upright, her hands framing his face.

“I… I can’t. The pain… it stopped but… it’s not good. I feel numb… everywhere… I…” His body convulsed and he coughed again—this time blood spilled from his mouth, dripping down his chin.

More blood trickled from his ears. The veins on his neck and arms bulged, dark purple, as if poison were crawling beneath his skin.

“Hades…” Bluey’s voice broke as his pupils slowly widened.

He tried to raise his hand to touch her, but it trembled and fell halfway.

“Mi Ruina…” His voice was soft, fading. “Don’t… cry. I’m just… tired. Just… tired, Bluey.”

“Hades, stay awake…stay awake for me, please. Don’t close your eyes.” Her tears dropped onto his cheek.

He blinked slowly, his gaze softening as if memorizing her face.

“If I fall asleep… wake me… okay?.” His lips curved into the smallest, weakest smile.

“I want… you to be… the first thing I see…”

His eyes fluttered… once… twice…

Then closed.

“Hades…? Hey… stop that. This isn’t funny. Hades… look at me. Hades!” Bluey shook him frantically, her voice breaking into sobs.

“Bluey!!” Hugo shouted from behind her as Hyce and Sergio ran toward them.

Bluey didn’t look away from Hades.

“We need to leave—the hospital—please. Hades… Hades…” Her voice crumbled.

Hyce and Hugo lifted him, but Bluey tried to stand and follow. Her legs gave out, numb from shock and blood loss.

“Don’t… don’t let him die on me… please…” she whispered before her body collapsed.

Sergio caught her instantly, lifting her into his arms as they rushed toward the gates.

Gomez punched in the passcode and the massive iron gates swung open.

—–
★𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥★5AM

It had been three hours.
Three long, dragging, suffocating hours since Hades was taken into surgery, and still no doctor had stepped out.

Bluey, already awake, couldn’t sit still for even a second. She paced up and down the hallway, fingers trembling, eyes burning, breathing uneven. Every other student was there too—some with their parents—silent, scared, waiting. The air felt like grief itself had taken a seat among them.

At the academy grounds, Raul and Anthony had finished their work. Every building in MIA had been rigged with bombs and blown into nothing but ash and smoke.

MIA no longer existed.

Robert sat on one of the metal chairs, elbows on his knees, face buried in his hands. Iris stayed beside him, but she wasn’t crying quietly—she was breaking.

“This is my fault…” Iris whispered, shaking her head as tears spilled freely. “I should’ve… I should’ve protected him. I should’ve taken him away sooner.”

Robert lifted his head, jaw tight, eyes red. “No. Iris… stop. None of this was your fault, nobody wanted this to happen.” His voice cracked on the last part.

Iris trembled. “But he’s our only son… I can’t lose him. I can’t—Robert, I can’t breathe.”

Robert wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close. He wasn’t doing much better—his leg bounced uncontrollably, his breath heavy.

“He’s strong. Stronger than both of us combined. He’ll make it.”

Bluey stopped pacing and stared at them, guilt crashing down on her. She swallowed hard, walked over, and bowed her head.

“Aunty Iris… Uncle Robert… I’m so sorry,” she whispered. “If anything happens to him… I—”

Maureen quickly stepped beside her. “Bluey, sweetheart, you need to rest. You’re hurt too.”

“No,” Bluey said immediately, shaking her head. “I’m not moving from here. I need to know how he’s doing. I can’t just sit somewhere and pretend I’m okay.”

Maureen sighed softly but didn’t push further. She understood the desperation in Bluey’s voice—everyone did.

Then suddenly—

The operating room doors swung open.

Iris gasped so loudly it echoed.

“Doctor!” She and Robert bolted forward, practically stumbling over each other to reach the surgeon.

Bluey froze, her heart slamming against her chest so hard it hurt.

The doctor removed his mask, exhaustion written across his face. Everyone froze. Iris and Robert rushed toward him first, clinging to each other as though the air had been ripped from their lungs.

“The surgery went well,” the doctor said. “We removed the device lodged in his brain. The bleeding was controlled, and the infection around the chip has been cleared. But…” He exhaled heavily.

Bluey’s heart stopped. The hall felt too quiet.

“But he was greatly affected. For one, his sight has been partially compromised. He will need glasses from now on.”

Iris covered her mouth, nodding quickly, desperate. “That’s fine. That’s fine as long as he’s alive.”

The doctor hesitated… then dropped the real blow.

“And… he’s prone to have permanent amnesia.”

Silence slammed into the hall.

Iris blinked. “A… amnesia?”

“Yes,” the doctor replied. “The memories formed after the chip was installed will be wiped out. Everything after that period… is gone.”

Bluey froze as if someone had shot her straight through the heart. Her hands trembled, her breath stuttering in her chest.

She staggered backward until her shoulder hit the cold wall.

Memories after the chip was installed.

Everyone who started MIA with Hades had been with him from the beginning.

Except her.

She came later.

She came after.

“He’s… he’s going to forget me?” her voice cracked, barely holding itself together. “Everything? Every moment? Every thing we’ve been through?”

Her knees wobbled, and Iris immediately caught her hand, squeezing it tight.

“Oh, sweetheart…” Iris whispered, tears filling her eyes.

Bluey forced in a shaky breath, swallowing the pain clawing its way up her throat. Her eyes burned, but she refused to let a single tear fall.

“It’s fine,” she whispered, even though it shattered her. “As long as he’s okay… I won’t complain.”

But her voice broke on the last word, betraying the truth she was trying so hard to hide.

—–
★𝐓𝐰𝐨 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫- 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐲’𝐬 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞★

They all sat around the breakfast table, the morning light spilling softly through the floor to ceiling windows.

Bluey and Trevor had just joined, the quiet hum of the house filling the pauses between the clinking of cutlery.

“Good morning, Dad,” Trevor said, giving Anthony a small nod.

“Good morning, Mom, Dad,” Bluey greeted, her tone careful but polite.

Anthony and Corazon exchanged a glance and smiled, a moment of unspoken understanding passing between them.

“Why are you smiling?” Bluey asked, eyeing them curiously as the maid served the first plates.

“Nothing… just happy that you chose to live here,” Anthony said gently. “And… that you’re opening up to us.”

Bluey shrugged, a small smirk forming. “It’s no big deal. Not like I can change reality, right?”

Corazon’s eyes softened as she looked at Bluey. “Bluey… I’m sorry. For the way I treated you, even after I found out you were my daughter… I still… I still insisted on hating you.”

Bluey shook her head lightly. “It’s not your fault. Honestly, I didn’t like you either.”

Anthony leaned forward slightly. “But… we can give our family a chance, right?”

Bluey studied them for a moment before nodding. “Sure. Why not.”

Corazon turned her gaze to Trevor, who had been quietly observing. “Trevor… you’re awfully quiet.”

“Am I supposed to say anything?” he muttered, shrugging.

“C’mon,” Corazon pressed with a gentle smile. “Can we… get along? Your dad and I are going to get married soon, and… I’ll automatically become your mom.”

“Stepmom,” Trevor corrected, a small smirk tugging at his lips.

“I just want us to get along as a family,” Corazon said softly. “I’ll do my best, I promise.”

“Sure… whatever,” Trevor replied with a casual shrug, but the faint smile in his eyes betrayed a softening.

Corazon’s smile widened, warm and hopeful. “That’s all I ask.”

Bluey glanced down at her plate, a quiet sense of ease settling in the room, the tension slowly easing into the gentle rhythm of a family finding its way.

—–
-𝐆𝐚𝐞𝐥’𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧-

Gael and Maureen sat together in their room, Morgan perched on the edge of the bed, her eyes wide with curiosity.

“You guys… are getting married?” she asked, a teasing smile tugging at her lips.

“Yes,” Gael said with a soft smile. “Corazon and I finalized our divorce, and there’s nothing standing in the way now.”

“Wow, congratulations, Dad. I’m happy for you,” Morgan said, glancing at Maureen with a bright grin. “And you too… Mom.”

“Thanks, Morgan,” Maureen replied, reaching over to squeeze her hand. “I’m glad you’re in support of this.”

“Of course I am,” Morgan said, rolling her eyes playfully. “I mean… Dad was always meant to be my daddy anyway. And Mom… well, I guess you get to deal with us now.”

Maureen laughed, ruffling Morgan’s hair gently.

“Deal with you? Girl, I’ve been dealing with you and your dad for years. This is a bonus challenge,” Maureen said with a grin.

Morgan turned toward Gael, raising an eyebrow. “Oh yeah? And how do you think you’re going to survive being married to Mom? She’s tough, Dad. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

Gael chuckled, shaking his head. “I’ve survived worse. Besides, I’ve got my favorite daughter on my side now.”

Morgan gasped dramatically, pretending to clutch her chest. “Favorite? Dad! I’m your only daughter….well for now. Can’t wait to be a big sister!”

“Soon Morgan,” Gael said, smirking.

Morgan laughed, her eyes sparkling, and Maureen smiled, watching them. “Looks like our family is going to be full of teasing and chaos,” she said softly.

“Bring it on,” Morgan said, throwing her arms around both of them. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Gael chuckled again, holding both Maureen and Morgan close for a moment, feeling the warmth of a family finally coming together.

—–
★𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐧’𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞★

Natasha was lying down in her room when she heard a knock on the door.

“Tasha…” her mom called.

“What is it, mom?” Natasha replied lazily.

“Someone’s downstairs looking for you. Said he’s your boyfriend.” Her mom’s voice made her sit up immediately.

“Boyfriend? I don’t have a boyfriend,” she muttered as she rushed to the door and opened it.

“What boyfriend?”

“So you had a boyfriend and you didn’t tell me? You’re keeping secrets from me now?” her mom asked suspiciously.

“Mom, I’m not,” Natasha said, already hurrying down the stairs.

She froze halfway down when she saw Gomez standing in the living room, his back turned to her.

“Gomez?” Her voice cracked slightly.

He turned, and the small smile that formed on his lips made her heartbeat jump. She walked toward him, and for a moment they just stood there, quietly taking each other in.

His eyes softened as they traced her face, lingering like he had missed her more than he wanted to admit.

She swallowed and looked down shyly.

“Hi. How are you?” he asked, his voice gentler than usual.

“I’m fine. It’s been a while since I heard from you,” she said.

“It’s been just two days,” He replied.

“Yeah, right. Just two days. I thought you forgot about me,” she murmured, trying not to look directly at him again.

“Why would I?” he asked, and the way he looked at her made her chest feel warm.

“Um… why are you here?” she finally asked.

“Because I want to take you out. On a date.” Her breath hitched.

“A date?”

“Yes. Why? Don’t you want to?” She shook her head quickly.

“I do… I just… I’m feeling kinda shy right now.”

“I know. Your face is all red,” he teased.

She groaned. “You’re not helping matters.”

“Fine, I’ll stop. Go get changed, let’s go. I already asked your mom for permission. She told me to be a good boy.”

“Okay then. I’ll be ready in a few minutes,” she said and walked away, her cheeks burning.

While she was upstairs, Gomez looked around the large living room. His eyes landed on Natalie’s picture, framed with candles and fresh flowers around it.

He stared at it quietly, the weight of everything that had happened settling heavily on him. When Natasha came back down, he turned at the sound of her voice.

“Honestly, when my parents found out…” She whispered, walking closer.

“It’s been endless nights of tears. The last two days I’ve been back, mom tries so hard to look okay, but I know she’s not. Between Natalie and I, she was the one closest to mom.”

Her voice cracked and Gomez gently took her hand.

“Hey…” he whispered. Natasha’s eyes dropped.

“I really miss her. I feel so sad because all we ever did was fight. It hurts so much.”

“Shh,” he said softly.

“I’m sure wherever she is right now, she forgives you. She loves you. And she probably wants you to move on.”

Natasha nodded weakly. Gomez brushed his thumb across the back of her hand.

“Don’t cry. Pretty girls shouldn’t cry all the time.”

“Stop teasing me…” she mumbled.

“So, you ready to leave?” he asked. She nodded.

He held her hand gently—carefully, like she was something precious and led her out of the house.

—–
-𝐑𝐚𝐮𝐥’𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚-

Bluey sat at the far end of the sofa, her fingers twisted together so tightly her knuckles were white.

The house was quiet, too quiet, and every tick of the wall clock reminded her that Hades still hadn’t woken up.

Noah walked in and stopped when he saw her expression.

“You’re thinking about what the doctor said,” he said softly.

Bluey didn’t answer at first. She stared ahead, breathing unevenly.

“Permanent amnesia…” her voice cracked. “Noah… what if he wakes up and he looks at me like I’m a stranger? What if he doesn’t remember anything we went through? Us… what we are?”

Noah sat beside her.

“Bluey, listen to me. Hades is alive. He survived something none of us ever thought was possible. Memory or no memory, he’s still here. And you’re still here. You’ll help him remember again.”

“But what if he doesn’t want to?” she whispered. “What if this… this version of him— the one who loves me— disappears forever?”

Noah placed a steady hand on her back. “You’re stronger than you think. And Hades… even with half his memories missing, that man you loved and loved you will always be there deep down.”

Bluey’s throat tightened. “I’m scared, Noah. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do when he opens his eyes.”

“Then stay by his side,” Noah said. “Ypu promised him you would, right?.”

Bluey swallowed hard. The silence settled again, heavy but somehow comforting with Noah sitting there.

He glanced at her.

“Hey… remember the plan? Japan. The trip we planned we were going on after the mission?.” His smile was small but sincere. “You said you wanted to see cherry blossoms and drag me through anime stores.”

Bluey let out a shaky breath. “How can I think about Japan now?”

“Because life doesn’t stop,” Noah replied gently. “Hades would be pissed if you put your world on hold. And when he recovers, we’ll still go. All of us. You, me, Hades… even if I have to drag him onto the plane myself.”

She finally looked at him. Her eyes were wet, but a tiny smile tugged at her lips. “You’re trying too hard to make me feel better.”

“Someone has to,” he shrugged.

Bluey leaned her head on his shoulder, exhausted. “I just hope… when he wakes up… he still chooses me.”

“He will,” Noah said firmly. “You like to worry yourself too much.”He flicked her forehead.

“Ouch..”

—–
-𝐊𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞’𝐬 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞-

Nadine was in the kitchen, humming softly as she cooked lunch with the maids, her mood impossibly light.

Upstairs, Hyce stepped out of the bathroom, shirtless, a towel tied low around his waist.

Water dripped down his chest, glinting in the sunlight streaming through the window. Sergio, sitting on the bed, couldn’t take his eyes off him.

“Stop looking at me like that,” Hyce said, a teasing edge in his voice as he moved toward his dresser.

He began pulling on his shirt when a hand suddenly slipped around his waist.

“Sergio…” Hyce moaned softly, startled, as warm lips pressed against his neck from behind.

“It’s been a long time, hasn’t it?” Sergio murmured, his breath hot against Hyce’s skin.

“F+k… I know, but… Mom’s around. We can’t fuck right now… not here.” Hyce twisted, trying to free himself, but his protest only seemed to amuse Sergio more.

Sergio laughed, low and teasing, making Hyce spin around.

“Did you just laugh at me?” Hyce frowned, a flush creeping over his chest.

“Silly you,” Sergio whispered, stepping closer. “Did you really think I’d fuck you in your own house?”

“Then… what…” Hyce started, voice rough with desire, but before he could finish, Sergio pressed himself against Hyce, capturing his lips in a fierce, insistent kiss.

It was demanding yet tender all at once—Sergio’s hands framed Hyce’s face, thumbs brushing over the jawline, lips moving with precision and heat.

Hyce’s knees nearly buckled as the kiss deepened, a mixture of passion and playful dominance making his heart race.

“I… I just wanted a kiss, you dummy,” Sergio finally whispered, pulling back slightly, his forehead resting against Hyce’s.

Hyce bit his lip, a mixture of embarrassment and longing flooding his senses, unable to do anything but stand frozen, breathless.

Sergio’s hands slid lower, teasing along Hyce’s sides, fingers tracing under the waistband of the towel, making him shiver and press closer.

Hyce groaned into Sergio’s mouth, fingers tangling in his hair as they kissed with a mix of desperation and playfulness, neither willing to break the heat between them.

“God… I’ve missed this,” Hyce moaned, voice rough, as he tilted his head, giving Sergio better access, their bodies pressed flush, the warmth radiating between them.

Sergio smirked against him, teasingly biting Hyce’s jaw, whispering, “You’re being impatient, lover boy.”

Hyce’s hands roamed, exploring, gripping Sergio’s hips, pulling him impossibly closer, their breaths hot and ragged.

Every brush of skin against skin, every small gasp only fanning the fire higher.

Before things could escalate further, a sharp knock echoed through the hallway.

“Boys… lunch is ready,” Nadine’s voice rang cheerfully.

Both froze mid-motion. Hyce let out a frustrated, almost needy groan.

“Umm… sure… Mom… we’ll be right… there… fuck…” Hyce moaned as Sergio squeezed his ass.

Sergio chuckled, lips still brushing Hyce’s ear, letting a teasing shiver run down his spine.

“Guess we’ll have to continue this later,”

Sergio whispered, hands reluctantly letting go as they straightened themselves, cheeks flushed, hearts racing, the lingering heat between them impossible to ignore as they made their way downstairs.

—–
-𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭-

Loci and Nia sat at the airport, waiting for their flight.

They had both decided to enroll in a private university in Cambodia, a choice that offered them the independence and opportunities they wanted.

Additionally, Nia’s family was based in Cambodia.

Their goal wasn’t just to finish college; they planned to start their own company together once they graduated.

Alongside their professional ambitions, they had quietly discussed the possibility of marriage, a shared future that made every step of this journey feel purposeful.

“I already texted Bluey and told her we’re about to leave,” Nia said, checking her phone one last time.

“Okay,” Loci replied, a small smile tugging at his lips.

🔊 “Flight 428 to Phnom Penh Cambodia is now boarding.”

“You didn’t forget anything, right?” Loci asked, glancing at her with a teasing lift of his eyebrow.

“Yeah,” Nia replied, looping her arm through his as she stood.

Loci grabbed both of their suitcases, lifting them with ease. “Gate’s this way. Let’s get moving.”

Side by side, they weaved through the crowd, their hearts already set on the new chapter waiting for them on the other side of the flight.

—–
-𝐕𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧-

Hugo sank into the sofa in the living room, Dawn sitting close beside him. Across from them, his parents, David and Rose, lounged in their own chairs, cups of coffee in hand, their eyes sharp yet warm as they looked at their son.

“I’ve decided,” Hugo said, his voice steady but nervous, “I’ll attend the business classes you recommended. I want to be fully prepared to take over the company in two years.”

David raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. “Finally! Took you long enough, Hugo. You do realize this is a serious commitment, right? No slacking off.”

“I know, Dad,” he replied, rubbing the back of his neck.

Dawn leaned forward, a sly smile on her face. “And I’m going to take business classes too. If he’s going to study, I’m not going to let him have all the fun.”

David chuckled, shaking his head. “Good girl. Someone’s got to keep him on track. Hugo, you better not let her outperform you—or you’ll never hear the end of it.”

“Ha! As if he could ever keep up with me,” Dawn teased, nudging Hugo’s shoulder playfully.

Hugo groaned, burying his face in his hands. “You two are impossible.”

Rose’s laugh filled the room. “Impossible? You mean exactly the way a good future husband should be.”

“Future… husband?” Dawn teased, her eyes sparkling.

“Um… he…” Hugo started, but faltered.

“Mom,” he added quickly, glancing at Dawn, who shyly looked away, cheeks tinged pink.

Rose chuckled softly, but David leaned forward. “But seriously, Hugo… if you plan on building a future with Dawn, you have to be great. That starts with your work ethic. I’m not going to make everything easy for you just because we’re rich.”

“I hear you, Dad,” Hugo said, nodding.

“So, when are you two planning on getting ready?” Rose asked, eyes glinting.

“In three months,” Dawn said confidently, brushing a strand of hair from her face.

The moment felt light, warm, and full of quiet laughter as they all smiled at one another. Just then, the sound of a car horn outside signaled the driver.

“The car is ready, sir, ma’am,” came the polite voice from downstairs.

“Alright, we should get going,” David said, standing. Rose followed, giving Hugo a pointed look before they left.

As the front door clicked shut, Dawn stood, preparing to follow.

Hugo didn’t let her. He reached out, sliding his hands around her waist, pulling her back against him.

“Where are you going?” he asked, his voice low, teasing.

Dawn’s lips curved into a shy smile. “What was your mom saying? About future husband and stuff…”

Hugo’s grin widened as he leaned down, brushing his forehead against hers.

“Why? Don’t you want to stay with me forever? You’re not planning on breaking up, are you?” he asked, eyes soft but playful.

“No… it’s just… too early for marriage talks,” she admitted, a shy smile tugging at her lips.

He grinned, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “I’m not pressuring you right now, relax. Just… telling you about my plans.”

Before she could respond, he scooped her up effortlessly, her laughter spilling out as she squirmed in his arms.

“Hey! Put me down!” she protested, though the sound of her own giggles made her pause.

“Nope,” he whispered, tickling her sides gently as he carried her toward his room. “You’re mine, and I’m going to enjoy this while it lasts.”

She tried to wiggle free, but his hold was firm yet tender.

Her laughter filled the space between them, light and musical, as he spun her around once before setting her down on the bed.

“You…stop it…” she gasped, trying to catch her breath, cheeks flushed.

“No,” he said, his eyes glinting with mischief.

She shot him a playful glare, but the smile creeping across her face betrayed her.

—–
-𝐀 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐇 𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑- 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥-

Hades woke up slowly that morning, his head heavy and foggy. The sunlight filtering through the curtains did little to clear the haze in his mind.

Iris sat beside him, her hand resting gently on his arm, keeping a quiet vigil.

Robert had come by earlier, exchanging a few words before leaving, and now Hugo and Hyce lingered nearby, joined by Morgan and Trevor.

“I’ll step out for a while,” Iris said softly, rising from the chair.

“Okay, Aunt,” Trevor replied, his tone careful, almost hesitant.

Hugo leaned forward slightly. “Bro… you… remember us, right?”

Hades squinted at them, trying to focus as he adjusted his glasses. “What’s with the ridiculous question? I know y’all. Is there a reason I shouldn’t?”

Hyce crossed his arms. “Identify us then. I’m waiting.”

Hades’ eyes scanned the room, landing on each of them.

“Hyce, Hugo, Morgan, and Trevor. By the way… Trevor and Morgan, what are you two doing here? We’re supposed to be enemies.”

“Enemies? Us? I don’t think so,” Trevor said smoothly, though Hades’ sharp gaze made him shift slightly.

Hades narrowed his eyes.

“Dude, you haven’t changed one bit, but… what’s with the ridiculous glares?”Trevor said.

“Whatever,” Hades muttered, rolling his eyes.

Morgan stepped closer. “Don’t you remember anyone else?”

“Who else?” Hades asked, his tone cautious, almost fragile.

They glanced at each other, unsure how to proceed. The weight of unspoken truths hung in the air.

“Is there someone else I should remember?” Hades finally asked. “And… also, how’s MIA so far? I bet I’ve dropped in the rankings.”

Hugo’s shoulders tensed. “MIA… closed down. It’s not a functioning school anymore.”

Hades’ brow furrowed. “What do you mean? What happened?”

“You should focus on recovering first,” Morgan said gently, a rare softness in her voice.

Hades’ lips twitched, a wry smirk forming despite his confusion. “Since when did you start being nice to me?”

“I can see you’re still a real pain in the ass,” Morgan replied with a faint grin.

Hyce leaned back, exasperated. “But dude… did you really forget everyone else?”

Hades ran a hand through his hair. “If there’s something—or someone I should remember, then tell me.”

Trevor exchanged a glance with the others. “You… have a girlfriend. My sister.”

Hades froze, his eyes widening, his chest tightening as if someone had slammed a door against it. “Stop with the prank. It’s not funny. I don’t… do love.”

“But—”

“You guys expect me to believe that I fell in love with someone? Hell no.” His voice cracked, his hands clutching his head as pain rippled through him.

“Just rest. Stop talking,” Trevor said quietly, sensing the storm of confusion and frustration building inside Hades.

He gave a final nod and left the room, leaving the others behind.

Bluey stood outside the door, her back against the wall. She had been listening, hearing every word, feeling her chest tighten with each revelation.

Trevor reached her first, gently touching her shoulder.

“Hey… you heard all that?” he asked softly.

She looked away, biting her lip to keep herself from trembling.

“Just… how? Why? Why does he have to forget? It’s unfair! It’s so unfair!” Her voice cracked, the bitterness of helplessness and grief spilling out.

“I know,” Trevor said, lowering his voice.

“The cold-hearted Hades is back, at least for now. And… his parents want everyone to bury whatever happened in MIA. Hades shouldn’t find out about it—it’s best that the memories go away too.”

Bluey’s eyes glistened with tears. She swallowed hard, the pain of losing the part of him that loved her already feeling like a wound that wouldn’t heal.

“I… I understand that… but it doesn’t make it any easier. He… he’s forgot every moment we shared, not knowing any of it. And I… I’ll still remember everything.”

Trevor hesitated, then gently placed a hand over hers. “ Bluey… you’ve been through so much. But he’s going to need you… even if he doesn’t remember. Be there for him, okay?”

Bluey shook her head, her hands trembling.

“No… I can’t. Not yet. I can’t face him knowing he won’t remember. I can’t… I can’t deal with being the only one who remembers everything. I just…” She pressed her forehead against the wall, trying to steady herself, her body shaking.

Trevor’s voice softened. “It’s okay. You’ll be ready. You just need time.”

Bluey drew a shaky breath and straightened.

“I have other things I need to do… things I can’t put on hold. He should… he should focus on recovering. I’ll be fine.” Her voice was firm, but her quivering lips betrayed the truth.

“See you at home,” she said softly, turning away and walking down the hall, each step heavy with the weight of what she had lost and what she had yet to face.

As she disappeared from view, Trevor watched her go, a quiet understanding in his eyes.

Bluey’s heart was breaking, but she held onto the last shred of control she had, forcing herself to move forward even when every part of her wanted to collapse.

—–
★A WEEK LATER- 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭★

Noah handed Bluey a lollipop, and she accepted it with a faint smile, twisting the stick between her fingers.

“So… when are you coming back? Will you ever come back? Must be painful that he forgot about your existence,” Noah asked quietly, watching her closely.

Bluey sighed, eyes distant. “Yeah… but it’s better this way. I think it’s best that he forgets everything about MIA. Everything. Even the toxic way we fell in love.”

“I hope… he finds real happiness and healing,” she added, voice soft but resolute.

Noah hesitated. “So… you’re just going to disappear from his life? And your family? Your brother’s going to miss you really badly.”

“They know where to find me in Osaka,” Bluey replied, her tone firm.

Noah nodded, trying to lighten the mood. “Okay… then we’ll have lots of fun in Osaka City,” he chuckled, nudging her gently.

🔊 “Flight 206 to Osaka now boarding,” the loudspeaker announced.

Bluey’s eyes flicked toward the gate.

“That’s our flight.” She grabbed the handle of her suitcase and started toward the boarding line, her steps purposeful.

Noah hurried after her, his own bag bouncing against his side.

“Ready for an adventure?” he asked with a grin.

Bluey glanced back briefly, a small, bittersweet smile tugging at her lips.

“Always.”

Together, they moved toward the plane, the hum of the terminal around them fading as the promise of a new beginning in Osaka awaited.

.

.

»𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐝 ✰