When Blood Turns Cold

Alex stayed at Emerald's apartment until lunchtime, reluctantly staying long enough to be coaxed into eating before taking his leave.

With the apartment quiet again, Emerald and Amy decided it was time to be productive. Emerald busied herself preparing her class schedule for the upcoming week, her mind shifting into teacher mode. At the same time, Amy dived into her responsibilities as the Fashion Director at the Dawn Group, her laptop open and her focus unwavering.

The room hummed with the quiet sounds of typing and the occasional rustle of papers, a perfect balance of companionship and purpose.

Since Alex usually had free time on the weekends, he decided to visit David. It had been a while since the two best friends had caught up, and Alex figured it was long overdue.

Meanwhile, David loosened his tie with a sigh of relief as he wrapped up one of the most tedious meetings he'd attended in a while. The room had been filled with back-and-forth arguments over something trivial, leaving him drained.

Even though it was the weekend, the demands of business showed no mercy. Luxuries came at a cost, and David knew better than anyone that success required sacrifices—his time, his energy, and sometimes even his peace of mind.

Knock, knock.

"Come in," David called out, his voice heavy with exhaustion.

The door opened, and Alex stepped inside with his usual laid-back air. "What's up, David?" he greeted, making his way to the chair across from David's desk before settling in comfortably.

David leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples. "I'm exhausted," he admitted.

Alex raised an eyebrow, leaning forward slightly. "It's been a while since we've seen each other. You seem to have forgotten about me, huh?" he teased, a smirk playing on his lips. "What happened? Did you meet someone more important, and now you don't care about me anymore?"

His playful tone didn't hide the mischievous glint in his eyes, but David could tell he was fishing for something. Alex's attempt at feigning ignorance was too deliberate to go unnoticed.

David hesitated. If he told Alex the truth now, there was a real risk Alex might spill it to his parents, and David had made a promise to Emerald—he wouldn't share anything until she was truly ready. Deciding it was best to keep up appearances, he leaned back casually, a small smile tugging at his lips.

"Come on, Alex, you know no one can replace you," he said with a teasing tone. "And no, I haven't met anyone special enough yet to knock you off your pedestal." He grabbed a file from his desk, flipping it open as though to shift focus.

Alex raised an eyebrow, but he didn't push. Emerald had already hinted to him that David might be keeping things under wraps, so Alex wasn't surprised by his deflection. If anything, it confirmed his suspicion.

Still, Alex chose to bide his time. He knew David would eventually need his help, especially with the growing complexity of the situation involving Emerald. For now, though, Alex would let him keep his secret. After all, David was still completely in the dark about the looming threat of Luke.

Instead, Alex decided to let the matter rest for now. Shifting gears, he leaned back in his chair with a casual air. "Alright, let's talk about something you do want to discuss," he said with a grin.

David caught the change in tone and smirked slightly. "Business it is, then," he replied, closing the file in front of him and reaching for another.

The two quickly fell into their familiar rhythm, diving into a discussion about market strategies, upcoming ventures, and the latest challenges facing their respective domains. For a moment, the tension in the room eased, replaced by their shared focus and mutual respect for expertise.

...

At the grand Rosewood mansion, Diamond stood poised at the main entrance, exuding elegance and confidence. A few domestic staff members flanked her, all waiting attentively as the sleek Mercedes C-Class rolled smoothly up the driveway, its glossy finish reflecting the golden hues of the afternoon sun.

The car came to a halt, and Diamond, ever the epitome of grace, held her chin high, her radiant smile widening. With a welcoming air, she opened her arms just as the car door opened.

A slender, strikingly beautiful figure stepped out, her blonde hair catching the light. She moved effortlessly, her fitted dress accentuating her silhouette, while her high heels clicked softly against the pavement. Her makeup was understated yet flawless, highlighting her natural beauty.

As the woman approached, Diamond stepped forward, enveloping her in a warm embrace.

"Alina, darling, how are you?" Diamond asked warmly, stepping back just enough to take a good look at the young woman before her.

Alina's face lit up with a smile. "I'm fine, Auntie. It's been so long since I last saw you, and yet you still look so young and beautiful," she said sincerely, taking Diamond's hand and pressing a gentle kiss to the back of it.

Diamond chuckled softly, shaking her head as she intertwined her arm with Alina's and began leading her inside the opulent Rosewood mansion. "Oh, stop praising me, Alina. I'm an old woman now," she said, though her voice held a playful lilt. "But look at you—the little girl I remember has grown into such a stunning young lady."

Her gaze softened as she glanced at Alina, her tone filled with affection and pride. Alina smiled modestly in response, feeling the warmth of Diamond's doting attention as they walked together.

Alina Rosewood, a vibrant 23-year-old, was the only daughter of Richard and Rebecca Rosewood. Richard, Andrew's younger brother, had moved abroad with his family when Alina was just eleven years old. Now, over a decade later, Alina had returned to visit her aunt and uncle, eager to reconnect with her roots.

Recently graduated from the prestigious Fashion University, Alina was brimming with ambition and dreams of making her mark in the fashion industry. Her return wasn't just a family visit—it was also an opportunity to share her aspirations with those who had always believed in her potential.

They settled into the lavishly furnished living room, where the maids quickly brought out tea and an assortment of delicate snacks. Diamond and Alina began chatting, their conversation flowing easily as they caught up on the years that had passed.

As they talked, Diamond couldn't help but feel a growing admiration for her niece. Alina was everything one could hope for in a young woman—graceful, intelligent, and effortlessly elegant. In Diamond's mind, Alina was perfect for David.

The idea took root firmly, and Diamond found herself mentally congratulating her own matchmaking instincts. She knew David wouldn't agree to such a suggestion without resistance, but she believed wholeheartedly that Alina was the ideal match. After all, they were family, and such a union would be both fitting and harmonious.

Unaware of her aunt's plans, Alina remained engrossed in their conversation, her laughter and warm presence filling the room. For now, Diamond kept her thoughts to herself, choosing instead to savor the moment and enjoy their time together. There was much to catch up on, and she didn't want to rush what felt like the start of something promising.

When they finished their tea, Diamond led Alina upstairs to her room. As the door swung open, Alina's face lit up with delight.

"Auntie, you still remember my favorite color?" she asked, her voice tinged with surprise and warmth as she took in the beautifully decorated room. Diamond stepped closer, gently brushing a strand of Alina's blonde hair aside with a smile. "Of course, my dear. You're my daughter in every way that matters, and a mother never forgets what her child loves."

Their gazes met, Diamond's soft and maternal, as she marveled at the kindness reflected in Alina's sparkling blue eyes. To Diamond, Alina was nothing short of an angel—a vision of grace and purity.

Alina giggled, her laughter light and melodic. "Guess that means I have two mothers and two fathers," she teased, her words wrapped in affection.

Diamond chuckled, her heart swelling with pride and love. "Indeed, my darling. And we're all lucky to have you."

"Alright, enough with the jokes," Diamond said, her tone firm yet filled with warmth. "I want you to freshen up and rest. You must be exhausted after your journey. Take a nap, and I'll wake you up in time for dinner."

Her words were both commanding and nurturing, a perfect balance that made it impossible to refuse.

Alina smiled and nodded obediently. "Okay, Auntie. I'll do just that."

With that, she stepped into her room, ready to follow her aunt's instructions, grateful for the loving care that made her feel so at home.