Ruining The Grounds Of Hell  – Episode 13

  –ɪs ɪᴛ ᴀ ʜᴀᴘᴘɪʏ ᴇᴠᴇʀ ᴀғᴛᴇʀ..–

♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤♤

𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐒 𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑

-𝐖𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞- 8 AM

Iris was lounging on the relaxation chair by the poolside, sunglasses sliding down her nose as Robert sat dutifully at the far end of the bench, massaging her feet like a devoted servant.

A maid pushed in a trolley stacked with plates—fresh fruit, pancakes, omelettes, pastries.

“Ma’am, sir… breakfast is ready,” the maid announced politely.

Iris lifted her head instantly.

“Darling, you’ll feed me, right?” she asked with an exaggerated pout.

“Yeah, sure,” Robert replied, already adjusting himself.

“Yay!” she squealed like a child, clapping softly.

Robert coaxed her into sitting properly before picking up a fork and feeding her bite after bite.

Nagging.
After nagging.
And even more nagging.

Ever since Iris got pregnant, it had been an endless rollercoaster of mood swings, demands, cravings, and crying spells.

Yes—pregnant. You heard right.

When Hades found out, he nearly fainted. Not out of joy, but pure fury. He had made it very clear he didn’t want any sibling.

But when the gender reveal was held and livestreamed, the entire country practically exploded with excitement.

Everyone was counting down to the baby’s arrival… honestly, even more than Iris herself.

Iris chewed slowly, her lips trembling.

“Darling… do you think you can talk to your son? He barely visits us. Does he hate me? Doesn’t he want to meet his baby brother?” Her voice cracked, and then came the tears.

Robert instantly wiped her cheek with his thumb. “Shh, shh. Our son is just busy with a lot of stuff. He doesn’t hate you.”

“But he doesn’t visit,” she sobbed, sniffing dramatically.

“Alright,” Robert exhaled. “Here’s what I’ll do. I’ll call him and see if he can visit tonight.”

Iris gasped, clutching his arm. “Really?!”

“Yeah,” he nodded, kissing her temple. “So stop stalking—”

“I don’t stalk him!” Iris snapped.

Robert raised a brow. “Baby… you installed a tracker on his car.”

“Well I’m his mother!” she yelled.

“And you hacked his security cameras.”

“I needed to make sure he wasn’t drinking those horrible energy drinks or loading on junks! They’re bad for his health!”

“And you paid a private investigator to follow him around for a week.”

Iris rolled her eyes. “Ugh, you men are so dramatic.”

Robert fought a laugh. “Alright, alright. I’ll call him. Just relax, okay?”

“Fine,” she mumbled, wiping her tears. “Feed me again.”

Robert picked up the fork.

She opened her mouth.

“Who’s acting like a baby this morning?” Corazon’s voice floated into the pool area, amused and affectionate.

“Corazon! Thank God you’re here,” Iris sighed dramatically as Robert stood up.

“I’ll leave you ladies to chat,” he said, leaning down to kiss Iris’ head before walking off.

Corazon pulled a chair closer and sat beside Iris. “So… how’s our mommy doing?”

“This baby is giving me a worse headache than Hades ever did,” Iris groaned, rubbing her temples.

“I bet he is,” Corazon replied with a laugh. “Your kids have a habit of coming in strong.”

Iris let out a deep pouty breath. “By the way… how’s Bluey? Any news on her return?”

Corazon’s smile softened. “She hasn’t said anything yet. She’s so busy these days, she’s never in one place. She’s hopping from one country to another with Noah. I can’t even visit her if I wanted to.”

Iris’ face fell a little. “I really hope she comes home soon. I miss her so much.”

“Yeah,” Corazon nodded gently, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Me too.”

Iris sniffed, leaning her head against the chair. “It’s like everyone’s leaving me.”

“Oh, sweetheart, no one’s leaving you,” Corazon said, squeezing her shoulder. “Bluey’s just living her life. And trust me, she’ll be running back home soon enough.”

“You think so?” Iris looked up with big, hopeful eyes.

“I know so,” Corazon smiled.

Iris’ eyes watered again. “Ugh, why am I crying over everything?”

“Because you’re pregnant.” Corazon laughed. “And also… because you’re dramatic.”

“I am dramatic,” Iris admitted with a giggle, wiping her cheeks. “But Robert loves me for it.”

“He really does,” Corazon said. “Now come on, tell me what this new baby has been doing to you this morning.”

—–
-𝐒𝐞𝐨𝐮𝐥 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲- 𝐊𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐚- 𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐄𝐋

Bluey groaned as she peeled her eyes open, the hotel curtains letting in soft morning light.

The first thing she saw was Noah’s face hovering barely an inch from hers, his messy hair sticking out in every direction.

“Rise and shine, sleeping beauty,” Noah said, voice low and annoyingly cheerful for someone awake this early.

Bluey blinked, unimpressed. “Is it morning already?” she muttered, dragging the covers over her head.

“Yes it is.” Noah tugged the blanket down gently, grinning. “And before you complain—again—I already ordered room service.”

“Mhm.”

She finally sat up, hair tousled, eyes half-closed. Noah watched her shuffle off toward the bathroom like a zombie, shaking his head with a quiet laugh.

When she returned, she looked slightly more alive. The dining table was set—pancakes, eggs, fruit, everything she liked.

Noah was already seated, phone in hand, but he put it down when she approached.

He pulled her chair out without thinking. She plopped onto it.

“So…” Noah leaned back, stretching his arms behind the chair in that casual, relaxed way he always had around her. “What are your plans today? Want to go anywhere?”

Bluey stabbed a strawberry with her fork. “Yh. I want to go shopping.”

“Sure,” he replied immediately, no hesitation, like it was obvious he’d go with her.

She nudged his leg under the table. He nudged back—gently, like it was a reflex.

“After shopping,” Noah said, eyes on his food but smile tugging his lips, “we can get ice cream. Or whatever you want.”

Bluey rolled her eyes lightly. “I wasn’t asking for a date.”

“I didn’t say it was one,” he said, leaning forward and flicking a crumb off her cheek with his thumb. “You’re just messy.”

She swatted his hand away, cheeks warming. “Shut up.”

He chuckled and took the plate closest to her, slicing her pancakes the way she liked them—small pieces, because she hated when they soaked up too much syrup.

“You’re welcome,” he teased.

“I didn’t say thank you.”

“You didn’t have to.”

*

Noah was sitting comfortably on the bed, already dressed, scrolling through his phone while waiting for Bluey.

The bathroom door opened.

“How does this look?” Bluey stepped out, twirling lightly. The short black gown clung to her curves, showing off miles of legs.

Noah slowly lifted his gaze, eyes dragging all the way up before meeting hers.

“Damn…” he muttered under his breath, then cleared his throat.

“I mean— it’s nice. But don’t you think it’s a little too short? You’re showing a lot of skin.”

Bluey smirked. “That’s the point. I like it. It’s sexy.”

He stood and walked toward her, stopping just close enough for her to feel his breath on her cheek.

“Well… if you like it,” he said softly, “…then it’s perfect. You look good in anything. But you look dangerous in this.”

Bluey’s cheeks warmed.

“Dangerous?” she repeated with a grin.

He nodded, brushing a strand of her hair to the side. “Yeah. The type of dangerous that makes people stare.”

“Then maybe you should stay close,” she teased. “You know… to protect me.”

“Oh, I plan to,” he murmured.

His phone suddenly rang, breaking the moment.

He checked the caller ID and sighed before answering.

“Annyeong, Yuna.” Noah said flatly.

“Noah-ya, eodiya? Oneul mannalkka?”
(“Noah, where are you? Can we meet today?”)

“Um… anim. Na geunyang sanggwan eopseo.”
(“Um… no. I’m just not interested.”)

“Wae geurae Noah? Nawa hang-aetgo sipeojanha?”
(“Why, Noah? Don’t you want to hang out with me?”)

“Yuna-ya, manyaegihaetji. Naneun jigeum yeonae hal saenggak eopseo.”
(“Yuna, I already told you. I’m not thinking about dating right now.”)

“Geuraedo—”
(“But—”)

Noah hung up before she could finish.

Bluey raised a brow. “Yuna. The girl you hooked up with last week?”

“Yeah.” He slipped his phone into his pocket. “No idea why she’s still calling.”

“You done?” she asked, grabbing her purse. “Because I want to shop.”

“Yeah, I’m done.”

He reached for her hand without thinking twice, fingers lacing with hers.

“Come on,” he said, tugging her gently toward the door. “Let’s go before someone else calls me and ruins the moment.”

Bluey smiled and let him lead her out.

—–
-𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐫’𝐬 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞-

The living room was a disaster zone of scattered toys, blocks, and stuffed animals. In the middle of the chaos, Morgan sat cross-legged on the soft carpet, an action figure in each hand.

Across from her, Mason, who was barely 2 years old, waved his tiny arms around, gripping his own set of toys with a fierce little determination.

“Okay, Mason! Captain Thunder is gonna take down the evil Dragonon!” Morgan declared in an exaggerated, playful voice, crouching low so her action figure could ‘jump’ at his.

“Nuh-uh! Dragony nooo! He fite Captain Thun-da!” Mason squealed, his toddler voice thick with excitement, his little fists banging his toys against hers.

“Whoa, careful! Watch out for his fire blast!” Morgan gasped, leaning back as though she was avoiding an invisible flame, making Mason giggle uncontrollably.

“Fire… nooo! Boom! Boom!” he shouted, making his toy jump on hers.

Morgan deliberately let her figure fall dramatically, letting Mason’s toy ‘win.’

“Oh nooo! My hero’s down! You did it, Mason! You’re the strongest warrior ever!” she cheered, clapping her hands and bouncing slightly to keep the energy high.

Mason threw his head back and laughed, squealing, “I win! I win! He no mo’ strong!”

“Yes, yes! You’re super duper strong, Mason! Captain Thunder goes bye-bye!” Morgan laughed, using her toy to tap Mason’s gently, letting him declare the victory.

“Again! Again!” Mason insisted, flopping onto his belly and reaching for the toys on the floor.

“Okay, okay, let’s battle again! But this time, Mason, you have to use your super jump powers!” Morgan said, raising her eyebrows in mock seriousness.

“Jump! Jump!” Mason repeated, his little arms flailing, as he made his action figure leap high, knocking over Morgan’s carefully posed figure.

“Ahhh! Nooo! He’s flying! Mason, you’re unstoppable!” Morgan exaggerated, letting him cheer like a true winner, her own laughter mixing with his.

They continued like this, back and forth, Morgan speaking in her best toddler voice to match Mason’s babbles, using silly words like “boom-boom,” “zappy zap,” and “uh-ohie,” encouraging him at every move.

By the end, Mason was rolling on the carpet, laughing so hard he could barely breathe, while Morgan sat back, grinning, letting him feel like the hero of the day.

“You the best, Mason! Bestest fighter ever! I’m gonna go tell Daddy and mummy how strong you are!” She said, ruffling his hair affectionately.

“Yeah! Mason strong! Uh-oh! Boom!” he giggled, throwing a block into the pile of scattered toys, completely content with his victory.

“Aren’t you guys tired?” Maureen walked into the living room, smiling at the mess of toys scattered everywhere.

“You bet I am, Mom. Mason’s like a little hurricane,” Morgan groaned, flopping onto the carpet with her phone still in hand.

“Mommy, big sis so fun to play with!” Mason’s baby voice bubbled, and he wiggled happily in her direction.

“I know, big boy! But it’s time to wash up—you’re all sweaty and sticky,” Maureen said, scooping him up.

“Okay, Mommy!” Mason planted a quick kiss on Morgan’s cheek before following Maureen out of the room.

Morgan exhaled, resting her head on her arm. She grabbed her phone and tapped Trevor’s name, starting a video call.

“Hey, what’s up, my love? Miss me already?” Trevor asked, his shirtless torso coming into view, a grin spreading across his face.

“Miss you? Never,” Morgan replied, smirking, though her cheeks flushed just a little at seeing him.

“I’m hanging up,” he teased, raising an eyebrow.

“Don’t you dare,” she shot back, reaching out to tap the screen playfully.

Trevor giggled, his eyes softening. “Wanna hang out?”

“Mmm… nah, I’m wiped. Might just take a nap. I just wanted to see your face,” she admitted, her voice quieter, more intimate.

Trevor leaned closer to the camera, his expression tender.

“Well, lucky for me, I get to see it everyday. Look at you, all tired and cute. Makes me wanna be there to hold you.”

Morgan bit her lip, smiling shyly.

“You’d better not start making me fall in love with you all over again over the video. I want to kiss you.” she whispered, her heart fluttering.

“Me too,” he said softly, his voice low and warm. “But no, I don’t think I want to.”

Morgan’s breath caught, and she leaned back against the couch, staring at him.

“You’re so full of yourself,” she murmured, but there was no real anger in her tone—only affection.

Trevor grinned. “I’ll take that as a compliment. Now, try to rest a little, okay? Dream of me.”

“Hmm… maybe I will,” she whispered, letting her eyes soften as she watched him smile.

For a few quiet minutes, they simply looked at each other through the screen.

“See you later.”She winked and ended the call.

—–
-𝐇𝐮𝐠𝐨’𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧-

Hugo was buttoning his shirt in the bedroom when Dawn walked in, her expression sharp and eyes narrowed.

“Hugo… what’s going on between you and your secretary?” she asked, her voice low but edged with hurt.

Hugo froze, tilting his head. “What do you mean?”

Dawn walked closer, holding her phone up.

“I mean this,” she said, showing him a picture of his secretary leaning close to him, laughing at something he said, her hand almost brushing his arm.

Hugo’s brow furrowed. “Are you… spying on me?” he asked, a hint of disbelief in his tone.

“Spying?” Dawn’s voice cracked slightly.

“No! I… I just want to know if you’re cheating on me!” She paused, taking a shaky breath. “I can’t help but notice the way she acts around you.”

Hugo softened immediately, stepping toward her.

“Dawn… I swear, nothing’s going on. You’re the only one I care about. You always have been. Dawn, come on. It’s work. She’s doing her job.”

“Doing her job?” Dawn’s voice wavered, her lip trembling. “You laugh at her jokes, you let her sit too close. And I can’t help but notice it!”

Hugo sighed, running a hand through his hair. “You really think I’d… I don’t know, cheat on you? Is that it?”

“Of course I don’t think that,” she whispered, voice breaking slightly. “I just… I hate seeing other women hover around you.”

Hugo’s expression softened instantly. He closed the distance, cupping her face in his hands.

“Dawn, look at me. You’re more than enough. You’re everything to me. Don’t let a little insecurity ruin what we have. You’re my wife, aren’t you?”

Tears spilled down her cheeks, and Hugo pulled her into his arms, holding her tight. She clung to him, burying her face in his chest.

“I hate when we fight like this,” she murmured.

“I hate it too,” Hugo whispered, pressing kisses to her temple, then to her forehead.

“But I promise, when I get home from work, I’ll take you out. Okay?.”

Dawn tilted her head back slightly, meeting his eyes, still shimmering with tears but now softened by affection.

“Okay…”

Hugo smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “You’re mine, Dawn. Always.”

She melted into his embrace again, her heart finally settling as she whispered,

“I know, Hugo. I know.”

“I’m leaving now.”He said.

“Okay, don’t let her flirt with you.”Dawn pouted.

—–
-𝐇𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬’ 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧- 6PM

Hades was already ten minutes into his run, the treadmill humming under his feet as sweat rolled down the line of his spine.

His headphones drowned out the world, loud enough to make the floor vibrate. He didn’t even notice his phone ringing until the screen lit up insistently on the table.

He slowed the treadmill, ripped off his headphones, and grabbed a towel.
The moment he put on his glasses and checked the caller ID, he sighed.

He answered anyway.

“What is it?” he said, still breathless.

“Bro, where are you?” Trevor’s voice came through immediately, loud like he was yelling over music.

Hades frowned. “I’m at home. Where else would I be at—”

Trevor didn’t let him finish. “Okay, well, we’re at the club right now.”

Hades blinked. “Good for you?”

“You should come join us!” Hugo’s voice jumped in like he was snatching the phone. “You haven’t stepped outside in days, no Weeks. I don’t know. You’ve become a myth.”

“I’m good,” Hades muttered, reaching for his water bottle.

“Don’t be a killjoy,” Sergio said, his tone dramatic. “Get your ass here before Trevor orders another bottle we don’t need. He’s already acting like he’s celebrating something.”

“I am celebrating,” Trevor called from the background. “I found my favorite charger after three days. This is a big moment.”

“Bro…” Hades rubbed his forehead. “That’s not a reason to be at the club.”

“Everything is a reason if you try hard enough,” Hugo replied.

Then a calmer voice slipped in.

“Hades,” Hyce said. Just his name. Nothing else.

Hades closed his eyes. “Don’t do that.”

“Do what?” Hyce asked, innocent.

“That quiet disappointed tone. Like I’m rejecting a family dinner.”

“Then stop rejecting a family dinner,” Hugo said.

“We literally ordered wings,” Trevor added. “Real ones, not your healthy nonsense. The kind that could stop a man’s heart. You love those.”

Hades internally winced because… yes, he did.

“Guys,” he said slowly, “I just want one peaceful evening. One. I’m begging.”

“You can have peace when you’re dead,” Sergio said cheerfully.

“That’s… not comforting,” Hades muttered.

“Come on, man,” Hugo insisted. “We’re bored. Trevor is starting to ask philosophical questions—”

Trevor yelled in the background, “WHAT IF DOORS ARE JUST LAZY WALLS?”

Hades sighed so deeply it shook his ribcage.

“Fine,” he said at last, grabbing his shirt. “Whatever. I’ll come.”

“Atta boy!” Sergio cheered.

“Bring your wallet,” Trevor added.

“Why?”

“Because mine is missing. Probably with my charger.”

Hades hung up.

He stared at his reflection for a second, shook his head, and grabbed his things.

“I can’t have my own peace of mind anymore,” he muttered, walking out of the gym. “Geez.”

—–
-𝐂𝐥𝐮𝐛-

Hades walked into the club adjusting his glasses, the bass thumping through the floor as the lights washed over him.

The boys had taken over one of the VIP booths, already loud and chaotic.

“Hades my man!” Trevor yelled the moment he spotted him.

Hades raised a brow. “Trevor, are you drunk?”

“Me? Drunk? Na…” Trevor slurred, waving a hand like a malfunctioning ceiling fan.

“Right.” Hades took the empty seat beside him and reached for the whiskey, pouring himself a glass without asking anyone’s permission. He really needed it.

Hyce leaned forward, elbows on the table. “Guys, Gomez emailed me his wedding invitation yesterday.”

“Wedding what?!” they all screamed at the same time—except Hades, who just sipped his drink.

“You don’t look surprised,” Sergio said, narrowing his eyes at him.

“He told me,” Hades replied casually. “He proposed to Natasha last week. Cute proposal. He even sent me the video.”

Trevor groaned. “Of course he did. Dude falls in love like it’s a sport.”

“Talking about marriage—Hugo, how’s Dawn treating you?” Trevor asked, poking Hugo’s arm.

“Man…” Hugo rubbed his face. “It’s war every day. I can’t get a rest. Women are so needy… but I love her, I’m not complaining.”

“Of course you must love her,” Sergio said. “You cried on your wedding day. A grown ass man.”

The table burst into laughter.

“Stop teasing me!” Hugo whined. “It was a rare moment. My baby was so pretty.”

“Yeah, yeah…” Sergio waved him off. “Trevor, you’re the only one left who hasn’t gotten married.”

“What do you mean I’m the only one?!” Trevor protested immediately.

Hyce leaned back with a smug look. “When are you going to propose to Morgan? You two have been in love the longest. Literally since middle school.”

“Aunt Maureen said I’m too immature to be a family man.”Trevor wailed.

“I support her,” Hades said, raising his glass.

Trevor pointed at him. “Look who’s talking. You single freak.”

“I never told you that I wanted to get into a relationship, did I?” Hades muttered, swirling the whiskey in his glass.

Trevor blinked at him, already flushed. “And why is that? You’re not interested in anyone yet?”

Hades made a face like he’d just smelled something foul. “Can we not talk about my love life? It gives me the ick.”

“Sure, whatever…” Hugo chuckled, leaning back and stretching his legs out under the table.

Trevor suddenly raised his glass like he was making some grand announcement. “Here’s a toast to a long life friendship… cheers!!”

“Cheers!” everyone echoed, knocking their glasses together.

One hour later, Sergio and Trevor were gone—absolutely gone.

Trevor was slumped across the booth, dramatically humming some love song off-key, while Sergio argued with an empty bottle about how it “didn’t pour more drink.”

Hades looked at them like they were stray animals he refused to claim.

“Guys,” he said, standing and adjusting his glasses, “I need to go. Dad called, said Mom wants to see me.”

Hyce nodded, the only one still remotely sober. “Sure, man. Be careful while driving.”

“Yeah.” Hades grabbed his jacket. “See you idiots later.”

Trevor lifted his head weakly. “Hades… tell your mom I love her—”

“Go to sleep, Trevor,” Hades said, already walking away.

—–
-𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭-

🔊 “Flight 6A2 from Osaka has arrived. Passengers may now proceed to the baggage claim.”

Bluey stepped through the automatic doors, dragging her suitcase behind her. For a moment, the airport noise softened—heads actually turned.

Three years had done more than change her.

She wasn’t just beautiful now. She was sexier and even hotter than boiling point.

She was dangerously breathtaking—the type that made strangers look twice and still feel it wasn’t enough.

Outside, a sleek black car was already waiting. The driver quickly took her suitcase and placed it into the trunk.

Bluey slipped into the driver sear, the door shutting with a quiet thud as she pulled away from the airport.

The city faded behind her, replaced by long stretches of quiet highway. The route leading to the Prestige Villa was always lonely—endless trees, empty road, the wind brushing against the windows.

Then—

Thud.
The car jerked violently.

“What the hell?” Bluey muttered, sitting forward.

Another sputter, louder this time, and the car slowly rolled to a stop on the shoulder of the deserted highway..

Bluey exhaled, annoyed.

“Perfect. First day back and my stupid car wants to act up.”

She pushed the door open and stepped out onto the empty road, her hair whipping around her face as she glanced at the smoke faintly rising from the hood.

Bluey tried to call Trevor, but the screen only flashed No Signal.

She groaned and lowered the phone. “Seriously? Now?”

A distant engine hummed. She looked up.
A car rolled toward her along the empty stretch of highway before pulling to a slow halt right in front of her broken-down vehicle.

Two guys stepped out.

“Pretty miss, what happened?” Boy 1 asked, his eyes already doing a slow, shameless scan of her legs.

“Um… my car broke down,” she said, hugging her jacket tighter. “Can you guys please give me a lift to the main city? I’ll pay if you charge me.”

“No need to pay, s+×y lady,” Boy 2 said, licking his lips. “You’re payment enough.”

Their eyes dropped again to her outfit—a tiny mini skirt hugged at the waist with a belt, sneakers, and a white crop top under her leather jacket.

Too revealing for the middle of nowhere. She instantly regretted not wearing something longer.

Boy 1 stepped closer, smirking. “Don’t be shy. We’re friendly.”

“Back off.” Her voice shook but stayed firm. “You both better leave me alone.”

Boy 2 chuckled darkly. “Don’t resist. It’ll make things easier.”

He reached for her wrist.

She stepped back, resisting the urge to hit them.

Just then, the low growl of another engine approached. A sleek black car slowed as it neared the scene.

Inside, Hades narrowed his eyes.
“…Are they harassing that lady?”

He pulled over immediately.

The moment he stepped out, the air changed—calm, cold, controlled danger. He walked toward them, glasses glinting, expression flat.

“Hey,” Hades called, voice deep. “Will you keep your hands off her?”

Boy 1 snorted. “And if we don’t?”

Hades didn’t answer.

He simply grabbed Boy 1 by the collar and slammed him against the car door. Boy 2 lunged, but Hades’ fist met his jaw first.

A sharp kick to the ribs sent him stumbling back. Another punch—clean, efficient, merciless.

Within seconds, both men scrambled away, tripping over themselves as they ran to their car and sped off in pure panic.

Bluey stood frozen.

Hades.

But not the guy she remembered—this was a man now. Taller, broader, sharp-jawed, hair slicked back, glasses framing his cold eyes.

And God… he was handsome as ever.

Hades turned to her, breathing steady as if he hadn’t just manhandled two grown men.

“Miss,” he asked quietly, “..are you okay?”

“Um… yes I am. Thank you so much,” Bluey said, offering a small, grateful smile.

Hades felt a strange feeling tightening in his chest. Wow… she was stunning, hot and for a moment, he couldn’t focus on anything else.

Then he squinted, trying to place her face. “Hold on… you look familiar,” he said, voice low, cautious.

Bluey straightened, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

“I’m Bluey, Trevor’s sister,” she said, calmly.

Hades blinked, a slow smile tugging at his lips.

“Yeah… you’re even prettier in person,” he admitted, and the words sounded almost foreign coming from him.

“Huh?” Bluey asked, eyebrows raised in surprise.

“Nothing… never mind,” Hades murmured, clearing his throat. Then, his tone softened, more considerate.

“I can give you a ride home.”

Bluey hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “Sure, I’ll just get my things.” She reached for her suitcase, struggling slightly with the handle.

“Let me help,” Hades said, stepping forward.

He lifted the suitcase with ease, his hands brushing hers for a second that lingered longer than necessary.

They moved toward his car, the night air cool around them.

Bluey slid into the passenger seat, adjusting herself as she watched him close the door and get behind the wheel.

Hades started the engine, the low rumble filling the quiet night.

*

The drive was quiet, the kind of silence that felt thick—charged.

Bluey sat with her cheek leaned against the window, watching the blur of trees and streetlights, but her mind was nowhere near the view.

Hades kept stealing glances at her. Quick ones. Careful ones. Ones he hoped she didn’t notice.

But she did. Every single time.

“Trevor didn’t say anything about you coming home… to Sweden,” Hades finally said, his deep voice breaking the silence.

Bluey smiled faintly. “My return was supposed to be a surprise.”

He nodded, lips pressed into a line, glancing at her again.

Bluey turned her gaze from the window to him. And oh God… seeing him up close, seeing how much he changed—how broad his shoulders were now, the neat trim of his hair, and the tattoos stretching across his hand and forearm.

She wanted to hug him, to crawl right into his arms, to hold him like she didn’t lose three years.

Hades cleared his throat. “We’re here.”

“Oh.” She blinked, snapping out of her thoughts. She got down quickly to hide her fluster.

Hades stepped out too, lifting her suitcase from the trunk with zero effort. He handed it to her gently.

“Thanks,” she said softly.

“Sure.”

Bluey turned and started walking into the estate. Her heart was racing—she could feel his eyes on her back.

Then—

“Bluey…”

She turned, suitcase wheels stopping.

Hades stood there, hands in his pockets, looking like he was fighting himself.
He still couldn’t remember.

Not the way he once held her like she was fragile glass. Not the way he kissed her like she was the last person on Earth.

But Trevor’s words lingered in his mind—

“My sister? Trust me, you fell in love with her at first sight. You got so gagged. Even if you don’t remember anything about her or your love story with her, when you meet her again, it’ll hit you all over.”

“You’ll fall for her again. Trust me.” Trevor said.

*

Hades swallowed. His heart was doing that annoying pounding thing again.

“Tomorrow… are you busy?” He asked.

Bluey shook her head slowly. “No.”

“Um… then can we hang out?” His voice dipped, almost shy. “I mean… just to get to know each other.”

Bluey stepped closer, eyes slightly narrowed.

“Are you asking me out on a date? When we just met?”

Hades felt his throat tighten.

Damn.

Why was he nervous? Since when did he ever get nervous?

“Yeah,” He forced out.

“Why?” she asked, hands on her suitcase handle, leaning in just enough to make his brain go blank.

He froze.
Paused.
Thought.

Then, voice low, almost a whisper..

“Cause I….” He paused.

She arched her brow.

“I think… I like you, Bluey.”

Instantly, her face, her ears, her cheeks, even her neck…. flushed bright red. It worsened when he reached out and held her hands in his.

“I want you…..Bluey.”Hades’ voice dropped to an insanely low pitch.

.

.

»𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐝 ✰