Erika's father, the leader of the Devil Iris organization, was a man who lived by a strict code.
He never took in any works that offered no profit, but he took what he wanted through fair, albeit overwhelming, force.
The absolute authority over other syndicates wasn't just due to his wealth.
It was because of his legendary ruthlessness and lightning-fast combat skills. He was a master of martial arts, a trait he had passed down to his daughter, Erika.
At university, Erika maintained a low profile, hiding her true identity and formidable skills behind a modest facade.
The bond between Erika and Rosalie had its roots in an elective martial arts class. While others saw a quiet girl, Rosalie saw a disciplined warrior. Erika, in turn, respected Rosalie's focus. In a world where Ethan ruled through fear and deceit, Erika and her father stood as titans who ruled through strength and calculated fairness—a bridge Rosalie knew she would eventually need to cross.
Just as Julian was preparing to take Rosalie to their usual trip to the secret house, Isabella blocked his path with a forced, sweet smile.
"Julian, dear... are you going out somewhere? Is there something very important?"
She asked, her voice lowing with softly warmth.
Julian, knowing her plans but remaining polite, replied,
"Isabella, is there something you need?"
He knew she was likely trying to keep him away from Rosalie, but he waited for her to speak.
"There's a company gala tomorrow, and I need to pick up a few things like some jewelry, perhaps,"
She said, looking pitiful.
"Ethan hasn't been home since last night, so I was hoping you wouldn't mind taking me? It would be such a help."
Her attempt at a graceful smile was unsettling, like a demon trying to act like an angel. Julian checked his watch.
"Alright, I can spare about an hour."
He quickly sent a text to Rosalie, letting her know he'd be slightly late.
....
While waiting at the mall, his eyes caught a glimpse of a delicate, elegant hand-chained bracelet at a jewelry counter. It was simple yet stunning perfect for Rosalie.
He purchased it immediately, having it gift-wrapped while Isabella skimmed the jewelrys nearby. He sat in the waiting area, put the small box into his pocket, thinking only of getting back to his Rose.
While Rosalie sat in front of her house, waiting for Julian, Ethan reached up with his car. With a charming facade, he greeted her parents and asked for permission to take her out for a while.
He drove her to a five star restaurant, attempting to start the conversation while they had lunch. Rosalie, sensing his every move, skillfully changed the talk back to university matters, giving him no opinion.
Suddenly, she announced she already had a matter to attend to at Mia's house. Ethan, left with no choice, drove her there. Mia greeted her happy.
"Rosalie! I've been waiting for you!"
She then turned to Ethan with a polite smile.
"Thanks for dropping her off. My car broke down this morning, so I couldn't pick her up myself. We have some 'girl talk' to catch up on, so I won't invite too. Bye then!"
As Mia pulled Rosalie inside, Ethan stood by his car, scratching his head in frustration. He pulled out his phone and called Isabella.
"The plan failed, Mom. "
Once Ethan was safely out of sight, Rosalie quickly called Julian to let him know she was waiting at Mia's. Mia, never one to miss a chance to tease, couldn't stop grinning.
"So, Rosalie... care to tell your best friend where you're really heading? What kind of 'date' are you and Julian planning today?"
she winked. Rosalie laughed, a soft blush creeping up her cheeks.
"Stop it, Mia! It's for work, I told you. And don't you dare go around telling people... zip it, sister! I'll buy you your favorite snacks, okay?"
Mia's eyes lit up at the mention of food.
"I just love seeing you this happy, Rosie! But wait, did you say snacks? Deal! I'll call Lily and the others, too. Let's have a sleepover at your place tonight. What do you think?"
"Sure, bring them over,"
Rosalie agreed with a smile. "I'll ask Julian to help us with."
Just then, her phone ringed. Julian's warm voice came through the speakers, clear enough for Mia to overhear.
"My love, I'm right outside of your friend's house. Come out now..."
Mia burst into a fit of giggles, teasingly echoing his words, while Rosalie quickly grabbed her bag, her heart fluttering at the sound of his voice.
Julian held the car door open for Rosalie, ensuring she was settled comfortably in the front passenger seat—the seat reserved only for his love. After that, say bye wave to Mia, they driveed away.
As he steered with one hand, Julian reached over to clasp Rosalie's hand, pulling it to his lips to press a lingering kiss against her palm.
"Are you alright, my love?"
He asked softly.
"Are you hungry? Should we dine at a restaurant, or would you prefer to grab something to take to the house?"
Rosalie clung to his arm, leaning her head against his shoulder.
"Let's eat at the house, Julian. We're already running late, so we don't have much time to spare. What would you like to eat?"
She asked, her eyes wide and playful.
Julian couldn't help but chuckle, his focus momentarily wavering from the road as he looked at her with pure adoration.
"Whatever you want to eat, Rosie. Just make sure it's something nutritious, alright?"
He replied, steering the car toward a well-known shop famous for its clean and delicious meals.
....
As soon as they arrived at the secret house, they shared their lunch, exchanging stories about the day's events. After finishing their meal, Julian peeled the fresh fruits he had handpicked, gently feeding it to Rosalie.
"The fruit is so fresh... so sweet and juicy. You should have some too, Julian,"
Rosalie said, picking up a slice and feeding it back to him.
Julian, his hands still busy with the fruit, suddenly looked at her with a soft, slightly nervous smile.
"Rosie... close your eyes. And give me your hand."
Rosalie smiled, resting her chin on his shoulder playfully.
"Why, Julian? Are you going to kiss my cheek?"
Her teasing words sent a crimson flush crawling up Julian's neck and face.
"Ah... no, it's... it's a secret!"
He stuttered, his bashfulness on full display. Rosalie giggled, closed her eyes tightly, and gave her slender hand toward him.
Julian reached into his pocket and pulled out a small gift box, placing it gently into her waiting palm.
"Okay... you can open them now,"
He whispered, his eyes shining with anticipation as he moved her hand away from her face. When Rosalie opened her eyes, she saw a beautiful yellow box adorned with a silk black ribbon resting in her hand.
When Rosalie opened the box, her eyes widened at the sight of the hand chain bracelet nestled inside.
"Wow... Julian! It's absolutely stunning. It's so beautiful!"
She exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy as she held the delicate piece of jewelry.
Julian beamed, his heart swelling with happiness at her reaction.
"Let me put it on for you,"
He whispered, gently taking the bracelet and securing it around her slender wrist.
Rosalie immediately threw her arms around his neck, pulling him close.
"Thank you so much, Julian. I do love it,"
She murmured, before pressing a soft, lingering kiss against his cheek.
As she moved back, Julian turned his face toward hers, his gaze darkening with sudden intensity. He pulled her petite frame into a firm embrace, anchoring her against his chest, and lowered his head to capture her rosy lips in a deep, passionate kiss. In that quiet room, surrounded by her secret machines and the echoes of their shared future, nothing else mattered but the warmth of each other's touch.