As Rafael and Kanna strolled through the corridors of their school, they relished each other's company. Their fingers intertwined as though they were inseparable. The air was filled with love so palpable that some students couldn't help but stare in envy. Suddenly, without any warning, a group of students cleared the hallway for an unknown being approaching them from afar. As Rafael and Kanna got closer to this mysterious creature, at first sight it seemed like an angel descending from the heavens above! She had a height similar to that of Kanna's but not quite as towering as Rafael's tall build stood out predominantly among everyone else. Her face shone brightly more radiant than anybody they ever saw before; she embodied beauty beyond comprehension - Jiena or Kyoko would have been put to shame if compared amidst her aura! Her movements resembled those seen in Grand Gala Beauty Pageants around the world- smiling graciously while exuding an undying energy felt by many people within walking proximity. Her curvaceous body could attract every man on earth instantly just by one look. She walked elegantly throughout her path towards them gracefully The girl eventually drew near enough to be recognized, and despite how beautiful everything looked with all lights shining over her, Kanna sensed something amiss.
"Hey, Rafael! Long time no see," the lady greeted him casually.
"Hey, sorry to bother you. What's your name?" Kanna said in a friendly tone as Jiena surprised her out of the blue.
"Hey, Emily! Long time no see," Rafael's sister said with a smile and handshake.
"You still look great Nozomi," replied Emily shaking her hand. Rafael didn't say anything as Jiena teased him about his "old flame", but she invited both of them to lunch anyway.
"Hey, check it out!" Gene appeared out of nowhere with his girlfriend Casey in tow. "Emily came here too! She used to be such an ugly duckling before, but man has she changed."
"She wasn't transferring, just visiting," Jiena cut in.
"Who was she?" Casey asked curiously. "Oh, just Rafael's ex-girlfriend who went abroad. Her name's Emily Takashiro," Eugene replied.
"Come on guys, let bygones be bygones," Rafael said as he walked away from the group of friends.
Rafael was surprised when his ex showed up, but Kanna pulled him to class. He remained confused even after he went home and found Karl and Riko being held at gunpoint.
"What's that man doing?! Stop him!" screamed Riko.
"Let's talk this out. No need for violence. What's your problem?" persuaded Karl.
"I lost my job and partner! I've got nothing left," the man cried as Rafael burst through the door, slamming him into the wall. Quickly jumping in, Karl and Riko tied up the attacker until police arrived to help them out.
"Are you still surprised?" Jiena asked her twin brother.
"Yeah, I don't get why she left and came back," Rafael replied. "She just wanted to study here and win you over again. You know they own the Takashiro enterprise," Jiena explained.
"But out of all places, Nozomi?"
"You said you were in love with Kanna Fontierra now and moved on from Emily. Don't tell me it's not true."
"It is true but if Emily sees us together she might think differently," "If you really moved on then take a step back dude." Bianca stepped into the room as Jiena finished speaking.
"We have a visitor, Mom wants us to meet her," she told her siblings.
"Why? To show off our skills?" Jiena chuckled.
"I'm not sure. But the woman looks stunning."
"What do you mean by beautiful? Is she super hot?"
"Prawn Star." Bianca teased. Her siblings gave her disgusted looks and they all went to the living room with their younger brothers and sisters.
Rafael and Jiena were surprised that it was the Takashiro family who visited them., Emily hugged both of them, feeling happy about seeing each other again.
"Isn't this nice? The three amigos reunited in an instant!" Karl said with delight
"Look at Jiena? She wasn't very attractive before but now...she's like Aphrodite or something," Mr.Takashiro remarked while looking at Jiena attentively.
"Thanks, Mom! I'm gonna grab some water," Jiena said as she headed into the kitchen.
"Dang, guys! Did you know Jiena, Muro and Marla are ranked in the top 100 child prodigies? And wowza –– Jiena is even one of the top 50 geniuses at number forty-four!" Mr.Takashiro exclaimed excitedly.
"I mean sure my kids deserved it cause they work hard but me??? My IQ's only like a hundred and nineteen so Idk what their standards are for calling me a genius," Karl shrugged off before giving his neck a scratch.
Mr. Takashiro replied with "There's this legend that when you're drunk your IQ increases by twenty percent".
Karl laughed and waved it off saying "That's just an old myth dude. There's no proof".
But then he heard his own kids say otherwise which made him conclude quickly "NOPE not possible" closing up the conversation once and for all."
"I'm curious, are you planning to stay here for good?" asked Riko handing out snacks and drinks.
"Not exactly, I've built a resort in the south and I'm inviting my children there," Mr. Takashiro replied addressing the couple. "It would be wonderful if both of you could join us."
"Will I have work that day?" Karl silently whispered while sipping tea with calmness
"It's recess time during your schedule", reassured Riko without opening her eyes.
"So we can go then?", queried Karl excitingly but Riko gestured by closing her eyes.
"The little ones can definitely go since it's their vacation time; just remember that your brother will become a Cardinal we need to visit Rome to witness this event," reminded Riko referring to her husband
"That's right! You take them along as they were eagerly waiting for this trip whereas younger ones will remain local under our supervision because attending my brother's appointment is an obligation on me.", confirmed Karl apologetically completing his appointments' discussion with companionship.
"I'll surely respect whatever decisions you make regarding your family affairs." said Mr.Takashiro graciously which made them feel at ease about their decision
"You have a resort in Babuyan Island, right?" Karl chuckled.
"Babuyan Island is up north, or shall I say it's the island that belongs to your congressmen friends," Riko retorted and chuckles at her own witty remark while her husband looks at her cluelessly.
"I'm thankful I married you for your laugh," Karl whispered "but not quite for jokes."
At the patio, Rafael sat by himself until Emily plopped down next to him. She made a move for his hand, but he brushed her off.
"Why did you even bother coming back?" asked Rafael.
"I hoped we could make things right," replied Emily. "It was tough leaving you since you were my first love and guy I lost my virginity to."
"But yet here we are; why'd ya leave me hanging like that?"
"Believe it or not, I felt just as bad about splitting up."
"Well, unfortunately it's done now." Emily hugged Rafael from around his waist striving for their old sparkle to miraculously come back. Sadly though, the man she had been into found someone new who gave him everything he yearned for in a relationship.
---------------
The morning after, the Marinos were munching on their breakfast when the subject of Rafael and Emily's relationship came up. Jiena brought it to everyone's attention and Bianca chimed in with a compliment towards Emily, calling her sweet and gentle. That's when Jiena whipped out her phone displaying an amusing video of Emily screaming at something trivial. Karl took notice of the commotion and watched along with his son, only to realise that it was actually Rafael who had recorded the embarrassing footage.
"Is this you?" enquired Karl teasingly while raising an eyebrow at his mischievous offspring.
"Yeah Dad," replied Rafael as he snatched back his mobile from Jiena's hands before adding sarcastically "your favourite wild child." The remark caused their father to erupt into uncontrollable fits of laughter whilst shaking his head good-humouredly at.
"Oh, I had no idea yours was that large! Charlie mentioned it when he went with you to get circumcised at nine years old. He said it's as big as a bottle of probiotic drink," commented Karl in a joking tone, causing his son to blush. Riko quickly intervened and warned her husband to stop or she would reveal his embarrassing secret. She then turned her attention towards the children and happily announced that they were going on an instant vacation down south at Mr Takashiro's resort - Kyoko, Bianca, Rafael,Jiena,and Mako all included.
After getting the announcement, Jiena and Bianca got super excited as their complaint was finally resolved. Meanwhile, at the University, Kanna had loads of questions which gave her stomach cramps that Jiena noticed.
"Hey are you okay?" asked Jiena.
"Yeah but I have a question," replied Kanna before being interrupted, "Who is Emily Takashiro?" enquired Jiena again "Rafael's ex-girlfriend who dumped him three years ago but don't worry he should be happy with you"
"Why did she come back though?"
"She wants to make amends with Rafael but relax everything will be fine."
"The good news is his father offered my family stay in their resort for the grand opening."
"That's awesome! We're going too; Mom and Dad can't join us cause they're busy packing up Penthouse Seven,"
"So we get to hang out there together then?" said an overjoyed Kanna.
"My brother is too," Jiena comforted Kanna, comforting her and easing her fears. Rafael has moved on from Emily's hurt; he loves his life now. Karl and Riko were at the airport with their kids for their first flight alone. Charlie, Kenneth, and Gustav brought their families to celebrate the grand opening with Mr.Takashiro providing plane tickets.
"Muro and Marla got lucky coming thanks to Charee," Riko said tapping her children playfully .
"I need you to watch my kids. I really wish I could come to the event, but unfortunately, I'm hosting one with some former colleagues," Karl said.
"Don't worry about your kids; it's part of my responsibilities. You focus on your event," Charlie assured him.
"Mom, thank you for letting us go on vacation! You're seriously the best!" Bianca exclaimed as she hugged Riko tightly.
"As long as you're happy, dear," Riko replied warmly.
"When are you headed to Boston?" Sylvia Ojeda inquired curiously
"I think next week so that we can fix our visas and prepare properly." Riko answered with a smile.
-----
At the Marino's house, Riko and Karl were having tea. They talked about their upcoming trip to Rome and Boston but felt concerned about something else.
"The Seven Sages will arrive anytime soon," said Karl worriedly, "Jamie declined the invitation too."
"Because she works for you?" asked Riko as she poured coffee into her husband's cup.
"I spotted Fontierras at the airport. I think they got invited by Takashiro himself," he added with concern.
"I feel uneasy letting our kids go there because all guests are affluent businessmen; it must be a trap in some way." remonstrated Karl "But everything is paid for so what could be wrong? Besides, maybe Takashiro made his fortune now that's why he can afford such impressive events."
"Saying we're rich? Nah, we just live in a cozy home," scoffed Riko.
"I made myself a house worth eleven million bucks at an exclusive village but that's as far as it goes."
"But where'd you get all the dough for it?" asked Karl incredulously.
"Stocks and selling some gold bars paid for most of it. You only have to declare it on your form."
"But what do I tell them exactly?" fretted Karl.
"Just say your talent fee covered majority of the cost and maybe add 'gold poaching' if they ask any further," shrugged Riko while rolling her eyes. This stress was giving Karl a headache so he closed his eyes momentarily to compose himself.
----
At Takashiro resort, all the big shots showed up except for Charlie. Teddy Boy Lagman, Ojedas and Amanos were among the attendees along with their rivals who quickly picked up on Karl and Riko's absence. Erina welcomed Rafael and Jiena when she saw them there, giving them a kiss on each cheek. Jiena returned it happily. Looking curious while looking around at everyone present Erina asked Jiena: "Hey where is Mr. and Mrs. Marino?"
Jiena replied back informing that they couldn't come as Russian prime minister was going to be here this week & having guests from SGS & Japanese Diet; therefore soon after leaving for Rome or Boston made more sense given busy circumstances.
Rafael interrupted saying "If you don't mind Nozomi, I am heading towards seaside".
------
The guy strolled near the beach where Kanna had followed, Rafael paused and waited for her.
"I'm happy you're here. I'd be so bored staying at this resort without you," Rafael grasped Kanna's hand and pecked her forehead.
"Same! Me too. I'm thrilled that you were with me," said Kanna as they walked together towards a hill
"Check out the stars; they are shining brightly." Rafael took something from his pocket; a golden locket." My dad uncovered this while exploring Transylvania, he instructed to present it to my beloved woman," he explained when he placed the locked around Kanna's neck.
"Woah, this locket from Transylvania is kinda eerie don't you think?" Kanna asked while side-eyeing the initials engraved on it.
"Don't worry babe, my dad and Father Julio got rid of any evil mojo in there." Rafale assured her with a chill demeanor.
"Aww, I'll keep this forever then. You're so thoughtful," replied Kanna as she hugged him tightly. The Fontierras were lurking around along with Erina and Emily who were still vying for Rafael's affections.
The next day, the youngsters were having a great time swimming at the beach and enjoying the view. Meanwhile, Mr. Takashiro was having breakfast with some important people like businessmen and politicians before heading to an enormous castle nearby.
"It's unfortunate that Senator and Mrs. Marino couldn't make it, but we have a new Cardinal in our country," said Mr. Takashiro casually.
While sipping his coffee Gustav remembered Father Julio who only had Karl And Riko as family. Albert Fontierra commented on how magnificent looking the big castle is sitting on its own island. They all got ready for boarding the cruise ship to go towards that grand structure. But Gustav & Charlie felt strange about visiting it- getting chills down their spine as if something peculiar could happen there.
"Hey guys, could this be...?" wondered Gustav voicing out everyone else's thoughts ,as they approached closer .
-------
The guest arrived at the seaport near the castle. They walked for ten minutes and found Mr. Takashiro waiting at the entrance facing a grand staircase, as they arrived in the castle grounds. Charlie and Gustav sensed something was wrong just before Bernard Auvergne, the master of the estate appeared.
"Welcome to Auvergne Estates!" he exclaimed
"Bernard Auvergne!" cried out Charlie and Gustav while moving into defense mode by clinching their fists and crouching down, readying themselves for an attack. Auvergne asked after their boss saying "Gustavo Ojeda, Charlie Ong it's been a long time where is your boss?"
Gustav & Charlie to leap forward trying to attack him but were easily blocked by his guards who threw them both back from Aurvegenue with measurable force!
"Hey Gustav, Charlie, my power is way stronger than what you've seen before when your boss defeated me," the castle master said. Everyone was shocked by the commotion. Soon soldiers surrounded them and took everyone to prison.
"What's going on Takashiro?" Albert Fontierra nervously asked as he kicked the cell.
"We're taking all of you hostages because I know your companies and the government will pay a lot for your release," answered Takashiro who stood behind Bernard Auvergne.
"That's insane! They'll never give in to terrorists like us!" yelled one diplomat furiously.
"Well, with their weak President and lousy Vice President, it won't be hard for them to cave in," mocked Auvergne while taking puffs from his cigarette.
"You'll never succeed with your schemes," Gustav said. Then, three enforcers appeared out of nowhere and pushed them away from him.
"Svetlana, Rodal, and Shrimpo," he identified them. "You're working for this guy even after killing Rusty?"
"Money talks," Svetlana shrugged.
"We wanted power and money like Rusty's other seven didn't."
"And who are you anyway?" Rodal sneered at Gustav as they were being taken to prison.
"We might not be enough but someone will stop you eventually," replied Gustav calmly.
"I can't believe this is happening!" cried one guest in panic.
"Don't worry the government must have a solution." piped up another businessman only to disappoint those around him when Charlie corrected: "Our government lacks resources; defeating these guys won't be easy especially with their henchmen."
"Who's gonna save us now?" a businessman asked Charlie.
"Someone really skilled," Gustav replied confidently, "and once he shows up, we're good."
"Well I guess we'll just have to wait for that in heaven," Albert joked as Rafael was taken away by the guards.
Bianca and Kanna were stunned and tried to intervene but it was no use.
"I wonder where they're taking him," Jiena pondered, checking her watch.
"Why are you looking at your watch?" Bianca questioned curiously.
"It's nothing important. We'll find someone who can rescue us anyway!" Jiena declared while Kanna and Erina worried about what would happen next to Rafael.
"What's going to happen to him?" Kanna asked Jiena about Rafael.
"I don't know, maybe something bad will happen," Jiena answered honestly.
"Why would Emily do that?" Erina inquired.
"She's obsessed with my brother," Kyoko replied as she checked the time on her watch like Jiena. Rafael was taken to a room overlooking the sea. He had no idea what was going on and feared for his life; he didn't think his father could save him. The door locked behind him, so Rafael looked out of the window at the sky until someone entered. That person turned out to be Emily wearing a velvet robe.
"I'm sorry, I didn't know it was my dad's plan," said Emily. Rafael asked why she was doing this while standing near the window.
"We believe Auvergne's plan and he never fails us," replied Emily as she slowly undressed herself and moved closer to Rafael.
"They're terrorists!" exclaimed Rafael, trying to reason with his ex-girlfriend by holding her shoulders.
"Yes, they are but do you know why I'm here? It all has to do with you! My father wanted our family name higher than yours. You live in a house of legends: your mom is a famous actress; your dad is powerful- politician, corporate sage, Kensei; Sage." explained Emily.
"My Father doesn't make his status a big deal so how kidnapping us helps him?" responded back Rafeal
"Forget about them! The only thing that matters for me right now is YOU" whispered emily as she hugged him tightly.
As the tension between Emily and Rafael intensified, she had one last trick up her sleeve. With a swift move of her hand, she blew a fine white powder in his direction causing him to drift into peaceful slumber. This was the moment that Emily had been waiting for - an opportunity to seduce him without any resistance. Emily's lips pressed against Rafael's with fiery passion as he lay still under her embrace. Every inch of his body felt electric, yet he remained motionless except for his rapidly hardening manhood which grew bigger by each passing moment. With anticipation blaring in every beat of their heartbeats intensified; there was no going back now - both were consumed by raw desire and lustful thoughts that knew no bounds. Feeling empowered by Rafael's helplessness beneath her grip; Emily moved closer towards him, delicately rubbing herself onto his fierce rod feeling it pulse inside as if it wanted more from what little attention it got earlier on before being caught unawares. She then took hold of his solid length thrusting continuously until all strength left them both spent from this unforgettable encounter they have just shared together.
--Chapter End---