chap 11 The Appetite for Truth
The silence that followed the slamming door was heavy, ringing in Aika's ears like the aftermath of an explosion. She sat propped up against the pillows, her eyes fixed on the empty space where two grown men had just been acting like "psycho-idiots."
Seriously? she thought, rubbing her temples. Who was that Helena? Why was she so desperate for a glance from people who treat her like a nuisance? And Airon... he isn't just a jerk; he's actually creepy. Watching a girl eat poison and staying on the phone? That's not just cold. That's calculated.
She realized with a jolt of anxiety that she had almost no information. She was living in a house full of vipers, and she didn't even have the "Viper's Manual" to know which ones were venomous.
"Go Aika, go," she whispered to herself, trying to pump some courage into her shaky chest. "You can do this. You survived your side gigs along studies and your personal hobby as well so i can surely going to survive this book "
Then, her stomach gave a loud, treacherous growl.
"Darn it," she hissed, clutching her midsection. "Fighting for your life is a workout. How rude can they be? They spend twenty minutes shouting about 'protecting' me, but not one of them brought a sandwich? No manners. Not even bring fruit to sick person ."
She looked at the bedside table. Empty.
Then her eyes fell on the small, crumpled paper tucked into her personal belongings bag—the contract she'd signed to move far away and manage an orphanage. It was her "get out of jail free" card. Her escape plan.
I already signed it, she thought, her fingers hovering over the paper. I was so ready to leave. But if I leave now, I leave as 'Helena the Crazy.' I'll be running away with a target on my back. If I don't find out what these people are hiding about her past... I'll never truly be free.
She looked at the door. She was hungry, she was weak, but for the first time, she was curious.
"First, I get rid of this hunger," she muttered, swinging her legs over the side of the bed. Her feet hit the cold floor—not with a stumble this time, but with a firm thud. "Then, I figure out how to get rid of that contract. I'm not running. I'm investigating."
She stood up, pulling her hospital robe tighter. She needed to see if anyone was left in the hallway. Maybe Vahn was still lingering. Or maybe she'd have to hunt down a nurse and demand a meal. The Only Person Who Remembers
Aika reached for the door handle, her stomach still grumbling in protest, but the heavy wood moved before she could touch it. She flinched back, expecting another round of shouting from Airon or Noel.
Instead, the door swung open with a quiet, controlled grace.
Standing there was a man who looked like he belonged in a different world than the chaos she had just witnessed. He was dressed in a sharp, impeccably tailored black suit that made him look like a shadow in the brightly lit hospital. His dark hair was pulled back neatly into a low ponytail, revealing a face that was calm, observant, and—for the first time since Aika had woken up—devoid of any hidden agenda.
He was adjusting his lapels, a small, habit-like gesture of a man who valued order. Unlike the brothers who barged in like they owned the air she breathed, he stood at a respectful distance, his gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that wasn't frightening, but grounding.
Who is this? Aika wondered, her breath catching.
He didn't look at her with the "annoyance" of Airon or the "guilt" of Noel. He looked at her as if he were checking to see if a precious piece of glass had been repaired correctly.
"You're awake," he said, his voice low and steady. He didn't wait for her to apologize or explain. Instead, he reached into the pocket of his blazer and pulled out a small, wrapped item—a high-quality protein bar and a bottle of water. "I assumed they forgot to feed you. They usually do when they're busy listening to their own voices."
Aika stared at the food, then back at his calm eyes. For the first time, she felt like she wasn't just Helena the "Villainess" or Helena the "Patient." To this man, she was just... Helena.
His hands paused on his jacket and he is looking straight at her . A flicker of something—was it sadness? or just realization?—crossed his face before his mask of professionalism returned.
"Who are you?" she asked, her voice sharp and guarded. "And why are you in my room?
The man paused. He didn't look offended by her suspicious tone. Instead, he gave a small, respectful bow—the kind of bow a true gentleman gives to someone he deeply cares for.
"It's understandable that you don't recognize me, Miss Helena," he said. His voice was like silk—deep, gentle, and incredibly soothing. "I've been abroad for the last three years, managing your father's interests in Europe. I only landed an hour ago i am an loyal person ."
Aika blinked, surprised. "You came straight from the airport?" her thoughts be like suspicious this person is both creepy and kinda weird he is so much suspicious.
"I heard the news from Airon the moment I touched down," he explained, stepping closer but keeping a respectful distance. He reached into his coat and pulled out a small, warm bag and a bottle of mineral water. "I assumed that amidst all the shouting and 'protecting,' no one actually bothered to ask if you were hungry. Please, eat this."
The way he spoke was so different from the others. He wasn't demanding she eat; he was offering it like a gift.
"I am Ren," he introduced himself, his eyes softening as he looked at her. "Your father's personal assistant, and... if you'll allow it, someone who would like to be your friend again. I'm sorry I wasn't here when things got difficult. The Calculated Welcome
Aika watched as the man—Ren—stepped into the room with an aura of calm that felt almost alien in this hospital. Despite his gentle expression, Aika's instincts screamed at her to stay guarded. In her old life, she had learned that the most dangerous people were often the ones who smiled the most politely.
Instead of softening, she straightened her posture. She didn't know him, and in this world of vipers, "friends" were just enemies you hadn't caught yet.
With a practiced, elegant movements, Aika offered a shallow, formal bow in return. "I apologize for the sudden interrogation, Sir," she said, her voice cool and perfectly polite. "I've had a lot 'unexpected' guests today. My mind is a bit crowded." her brain already calculating just play along with him
Ren's eyes flickered with a hint of surprise—perhaps the old Helena never apologized—but he quickly masked it with a respectful nod.
"It is quite alright, Miss Helena," he said softly.
Aika accepted the warm bag of food, careful not to let her fingers touch his. "Thank you. I'll make good use of this. " she thought its okie first eat if he did something so u got energy to run at least
She walked back to her bed with a steady gait, sat down, and began to eat. She didn't invite him to sit; she simply ate in silence, watching him over the rim of her water bottle like a hawk. She was listening, waiting for him to trip over his own words.
he began speaking , standing comfortably with his hands clasped behind his back. "I am your father's personal assistant. I've spent the last three years overseas handling the D'Arven Group's European mergers.
Aika paused, a piece of food halfway to her mouth. She arched an eyebrow, her gaze turning suspicious again.
"My father's assistant?" she repeated, her tone skeptical. "Then, Sir, what exactly are you doing here? If you just landed after three years, surely you should be reporting to the Chairman's office. My father isn't in this hospital room, is he?"
Ren didn't flinch at her coldness. Instead, a very light, genuine smile touched his lips—the kind of smile a man gives when he's found something far more interesting than a business report.
"You are correct, Miss Helena. The Chairman is currently at the office," Ren replied, his voice dropping into a tone that was dangerously kind. "But you are here, Madam. And after three years away, I found that my priority had shifted before I even cleared customs." The Memory of a Gentleman
Aika's jaw stopped mid-chew. She stared at him, her eyes wide, a piece of the protein bar still tucked in her cheek just like a shocked squirrel. she be like he is laying for sure who stupid calculate that much before speak huh are you taking me a dumb The "cool, collected CEO" persona she was trying to build crumbled instantly under the weight of his words. her brain be like he is way to creepy i can't pretend any more
"Huh?" she blurted out, the word muffled by her food. "What?"
She didn't notice how ungraceful she looked in that moment, but Ren certainly did. His eyes crinkled at the corners—not with mockery, but with a deep, hidden fondness.
"I was your personal attendant long before I became your father's assistant, Miss," Ren said, his voice dropping into a gentle, nostalgic tone. He stepped forward, not to crowd her, but to offer a clean linen tissue from his pocket. "I've known you since you were very young. Seeing you like this... I think Master Airon was right for once. You really have lost your memory."
Aika took the tissue, her fingers trembling slightly. She quickly wiped her mouth and swallowed, trying to regain her dignity.
"An attendant?" she whispered.
"I was the one who taught you how to hide your tears so your father wouldn't see them," Ren added, his gaze dropping to her hands. "And the one who promised to come back for you. It seems I took too long to return."
Aika looked down at the tissue in her hand. This wasn't in the book. Or if it was, it was a detail so small she had missed it. She looked at Ren again—this man wasn't just a "gentleman"; he was Helena's only ally. she thought He is helena ally may or may be not should i take a risk i have to there is no other option and its just a novel lets see what happen play along i think is better then being look i don't believe in his any single word
"I don't remember," she said honestly, her voice losing its sharp edge. "I don't remember anything about you, Ren."
"That's alright," he replied, his light smile returning as he adjusted his lapel. "I remember enough for the both of us. And I remember that the Helena I knew would never agree to be sent away to an orphanage without a fight."The Title of a Gentleman
Aika's jaw remained frozen, her cheek puffed out with the half-chewed protein bar. She looked exactly like a startled forest animal caught in a flashlight—eyes wide, frozen, and completely losing her "ice queen" dignity.
She swallowed hard, the food feeling like a lump in her throat as she processed his words. Her attendant? Since she was little? This wasn't just a stranger; he was a piece of Helena's soul she didn't know existed.
"Huh?" she finally managed to squeak out, her voice a octave higher than usual.
Ren didn't laugh. He simply watched her with that calm, patient gaze, as if he had seen her look this way a thousand times before. He took the tissue back after she used it, his movements fluid and silent.
Aika cleared her throat, trying to force her face back into a neutral expression, though her ears were still pink. She looked him up and down, taking in the expensive suit and the way he held himself with more authority than her own brothers.
"So..." she started, leaning back against the hospital pillows to create some distance. "If you've known me that long, and you're my father's right hand... what am I supposed to call you? I mean, you're clearly older than me."
She tilted her head, a spark of her modern, playful sarcasm returning to her eyes. "Should I call you 'Sir'? Or maybe 'Uncle'? Or 'Brother'?" she teased, though the word Brother felt bitter on her tongue after dealing with Airon and Noel. "What exactly would you prefer, considering you've seen me cry into my sleeves for ten years?"
Ren's expression remained composed, but a flash of something warm—almost a challenge—danced in his dark eyes. He took a step closer to the bed, bowing his head just enough to be at her eye level.
"I am neither your uncle nor your brother, Miss Helena," he whispered, his voice vibrating with a gentle authority that made her heart skip a beat. "And 'Sir' feels a bit too distant for two people who have shared as many secrets as we have."
He stood up straight again, adjusting his tie. "You used to call me 'Ren.' I would prefer you keep doing so. Unless, of course, you'd rather call me 'yours'?"
Aika nearly choked on her water. The Night Shift
Seeing her still struggling to find the right words and clearly flustered by his "call me yours" teasing, Ren let out a soft, melodic chuckle. He reached out and adjusted the tray over her lap, his movements steady.
"Feel free to talk to me formally if it makes you comfortable, Miss Helena," he said, his voice returning to its professional silkiness. "But for now, please finish your food. You need your strength. You're going home tonight."
Aika paused, her fork halfway to her mouth. She looked toward the window, where the orange glow of sunset was fading into a deep, bruised purple. It was almost night.
"Home?" she repeated, her voice small. She thought of the cold, massive manor she had read about. "I mean... why? Why would I go with you?"
Ren's expression faltered for a fraction of a second, a look of genuine confusion crossing his handsome features. He looked at her as if she had just asked why the sun rose in the east.
Aika quickly realized her mistake. To everyone else, Ren was the trusted assistant; of course he would be the one to take her home. "I mean... right. Yeah. I'm going back 'home,'" she corrected herself, trying to sound confident. "I just... I forgot the procedure."
Ren's gaze softened. He seemed to realize she was just overwhelmed. "The doctors have confirmed you are stable. There is no reason to keep you in this sterile place any longer. Pack your bags; I am going to complete the discharge procedures now."
He turned to leave, but stopped at the door, looking back over his shoulder.
"And don't worry," he added, his dark eyes locking onto hers. "Your brother Julius specifically told me to stay next to you. He was quite adamant that I don't leave your side until you are safely inside your room."
Aika watched him walk out, the door clicking shut behind him. Julius? She racked her brain. That was another brother—one she hadn't met yet. If Julius was the one who sent Ren, then maybe she had more than one ally in that house.
She looked at the crumpled orphanage contract sitting on the bedside table. She had one hour before she was trapped in that manor. One hour to decide if she was going to be a victim, or the new boss of the D'Arven family.
"Alright," Aika whispered, shoving the last of the protein bar into her mouth. "If I'm going into the viper's nest, I'm going in with my head held high."Ren watched as Aika finished the food, his expression unreadable but attentive. As he turned to handle the paperwork, Aika looked at her reflection in the darkened hospital window.
"Julius sent you," she murmured, testing the name. Julius was her blood brother, yet in the novel, the relationship had been strained. If he was the one looking out for her now, she needed to know why. "And what about Marcus? Or Clara? Are they also 'anxious' for my return?"
Ren paused at the door, his hand on the silver handle. "Your brother Marcus is currently with the Chairman. As for Madam Clara... she is busy preparing the manor for your 'recovery.' Whether that is a welcome or a cage, I believe you already know the answer."
Aika stood up, smoothing out her hospital gown. "A cage only works if the bird inside is willing to stay small, Ren."
She looked at the orphanage contract on the table. In her mind, she saw the faces of this complicated family: Noel's guilt, Airon's creepiness, and the unknown faces of Marcus and Clara waiting in the shadows.
"Let's go," Aika said, her voice firm. "I don't want to keep my 'loving' family waiting."
Ren bowed deeply, stepping aside to let her pass. "The car is waiting downstairs, Madam. I've taken the liberty of ensuring the drive is smooth."
As they walked down the sterile hospital hallway, Aika didn't look back. She was leaving the "Quiet Aika" behind in that hospital bed. The girl walking toward the elevator was someone the D'Arven family wouldn't recognize.Ren stood by the door, his hand on the handle, waiting for her to move. Aika looked at him, her expression innocent but curious as she tried to piece together her family tree.
"And what about... stepmother Clara?" Aika asked, tripping over the name for a second. ". Did she also say anything about me coming home?"
Ren's hand tightened almost imperceptibly on the door handle. His eyes widened for a split second—a rare break in his perfect mask. In all the years he had known Helena, she had never called Clara "step mother." She had called her a gold-digger, a snake, and a home-wrecker, but never something like that.
He quickly recovered, his face returning to its calm state, but his heart was likely racing. Who is this girl? he must have wondered.
"Madam Clara has been... occupied," Ren replied carefully, his voice a bit more formal than before. "She is currently supervising the staff. But I suspect she will be quite surprised to hear you refer to her as 'Aunt' when you arrive."
Aika noticed the slight shift in his tone. Did I say something wrong? she wondered. In the novel, wasn't she the stepmother? Isn't calling her 'step mother' a polite way to handle a new wife?
She didn't realize that in Helena's world, The True Master
Aika reached for her small bag, but Ren was faster. His fingers closed around the strap with a firm but gentle grip, pulling it away from her.
"I'll be okay, Ren," Aika said, watching him. "It's not heavy at all. I can carry my own things."
Ren paused, looking at her with an expression that was both respectful and deeply serious. "Please, Miss Helena. Let me."
He lowered his voice as he stepped closer, ensuring no nurses or lingering family members could overhear. "I think, since you don't remember anything, I should clarify something. We are not going to the Chairman's house."
Aika froze. "We aren't?"
"No," Ren replied. "I am not actually your father's assistant. I serve your Grandfather. He is the one who returned with me from abroad today. It is his direct order that I bring you to his estate, not the D'Arven Manor."
Aika's heart skipped. A grandfather? In the books, the elders were often the most terrifying and he is so much confusing now his words making me confuse—or the most powerful allies.
"He has been worried sick since he heard about your accident three days ago," Ren continued, his eyes searching hers for any sign of pain. "He knows you have lost your memories, and it has pained him deeply. So please... if you are feeling well enough, could you pretend for a moment? Even if you don't remember him, please act reassured so he doesn't collapse from worry. He needs to see that you are okay."
Aika swallowed hard. The pressure was mounting. She wasn't just going to a house; she was going to meet the "Final Boss" of the family—the only man her father probably feared The Truth and the Tingle
Aika's playful mood vanished. She looked at Ren, her expression turning sharp and serious. "Why didn't you tell me this earlier, Ren?" she asked, her voice dropping an octave. "When you first walked in, you said you were my father's assistant. Why lie?"
Ren didn't flinch. He adjusted his cufflink, his eyes remaining steady on hers. "Because, Madam... in the memories I have of you, you were always so desperately attached to the Chairman. You craved his approval above all else."
He took a step closer, his voice softening into that silky, dangerous gentleman tone.
"I feared that if I told you directly that we weren't going to his house, you would be disappointed. You would look at me with sadness... and that is a look I never want to see on your face again."
Processing... Processing... System Error.
Aika's brain hit a wall. In her previous life, through twenty years of school and work, she had been a ghost. No one had ever said something so... cheesy... so protective... so direct to her. She hadn't even had a best friend to share a snack with, let alone a handsome man in a suit telling her he lived to keep her from being sad.
Her reaction was immediate and uncontrollable.
"Ah..." she squeaked. Her eyes squeezed shut, her head tilted, and a strange, frozen smile stretched across her face. She looked like a cartoon character that had just been hit with a "Confusion" spell. Her heart wasn't just fluttering; it was doing a drum solo against her ribs.
Stop it! Stop it right now, Aika! she screamed internally. He's just an NPC! He's just being a professional! Don't let your 20-year-old virgin soul crumble just because a guy in a ponytail used a nice adjective!
But she couldn't help it. The "cheese" was too strong. She was completely paralyzed by the sheer kindness of it.
Ren blinked, looking at her tilted head and squeezed-shut eyes. "Miss Helena? Are you... having a migraine?"
"I'm fine!" she shouted, perhaps a bit too loudly, finally opening her eyes. Her face was flushed pink. "I'm perfectly fine! I just... I had a bit of... hair in my eye. Yes. High-speed hospital hair."
Ren didn't look convinced, but he was too much of a gentleman to call her out on it. Too Many Men, Too Little Time
Aika took a deep breath, forcing her face to turn cold despite the pink blush still dusting her cheeks. She stood up straight and looked Ren right in the eye, her "Boss" persona snapping back into place.
"Sir, please be respectful," she said, her voice sharp and formal. "Stay in your line. I really do not like it when people use those types of cheesy lines on me. Remember your position. It's not even appropriate for an attendant to speak that way to me, okay? I would appreciate it if you do not do that again."
Ren's eyebrows shot up. He hadn't expected the "Cold Helena" to return so quickly, especially after her "system crash" a moment ago. He bowed his head, his face a mask of professional calm once more.
"I apologize, Miss Helena," he replied smoothly. "As you wish."
[Aika's Inner Monologue: SOS!!]How many more?! Aika screamed in her head. How many more men is this author going to add? Did this girl Helena even have a single normal bestie? Or a female friend? Or just a normal dog?! No! It's just handsome man after handsome man!
She started counting on her fingers mentally, her eyes twitching.First, I met Mr. 'Creepy' Airon. Then Mr. 'Stable' Julius and Marcus. Then there's the kid Ethan, and that emotional mess Noel. Then Vahn shows up acting like a CEO from a K-Drama. And now? Now I have a 'Gentleman Assistant' who is basically a walking flirtation machine!
What was I thinking when I read this type of shitty novel? It's not a story; it's a series of 'Too Many Men'! She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. Thank God Ren is just a background character. I don't remember reading about him at all in the original book. He's probably just a side character who disappears after I meet the Grandfather.
Her thoughts were suddenly broken as Ren stepped toward the door, holding it open with one hand while holding her bag with the other.
"The car is ready, Madam," he said, his voice back to its neutral, servant-like tone. "If you are quite finished with your... internal reflections, we should depart."The Silent Descent
The walk through the hospital felt like a blur of sterile white walls and the squeak of Ren's polished shoes on the linoleum. Aika followed a half-step behind him, her mind swirling in the silence. Ren didn't try to fill the air with more "cheesy" lines, which she appreciated, but the quiet gave her too much room to think.
How am I supposed to greet a grandfather? she wondered, her fingers twisting the hem of her sleeve.
In her previous life, "family" was a word found in books, not in her living room. She had grown up without parents, navigating the world as a solo act. She had survived twenty years of cold winters and lonely birthdays by being tough, by being smart, and by never needing anyone.
I didn't have parents, and I still made it, she told herself, trying to steady her breathing. A grandfather is just... an older boss. Yeah. That's it. He's just a CEO with more white hair. I can handle a CEO.
But as they reached the ground floor and the automatic glass doors slid open, the cool night air hit her face, and her stomach did a nervous flip. This wasn't a business meeting. This was a man who apparently loved the "old" Helena enough to be "worried sick."
"Miss Helena," Ren said, stopping beside a sleek, black car idling at the curb. He didn't open the door immediately; instead, he turned to her, his expression unreadable in the moonlight. "We are here. Remember... he only wants to see that you are safe. You don't need to be perfect. You just need to be you."
Aika looked at the tinted windows of the car. But which 'me' does he want? she thought bitterly. The 'me' that died ten minutes ago, or the 'me' that's trying to survive now?
She straightened her shoulders and gave Ren a sharp nod. "Open the door, Ren. I'm ready."The Gates of the Ancestors
The car ride was a blur of city lights fading into the dark, quiet suburbs. Aika stared out the window, her mind spinning. No parents in my first life, and now a whole army of family in this one. Life really has a sick sense of humor. When the car finally slowed, it wasn't a modern gate that greeted them. Instead, they pulled up to a massive, traditional estate. The dark wood of the gates and the curved tiled roofs looked like something out of a history book. It was beautiful, but it felt like a fortress.
Ren stepped out and opened her door, his movements back to being perfectly robotic. "We have arrived, Miss Helena."
Aika stepped out, the gravel crunching under her feet. At the top of the stone steps, the wide doors were already open. A row of servants stood perfectly still, but in the center was an elderly man leaning on a cane. Even from a distance, Aika could feel the "weight" of his presence. This wasn't a man who begged for respect; he was someone who defined it.
"He's waiting," Ren whispered behind her. "Remember, just be yourself... or at least, the version of you that is 'okay.'"
The car rolled to a stop in front of the towering wooden gates. Aika stared out the window at the traditional architecture, her hands cold and clammy.
My heart is literally pounding at 100 BPM. I can feel it in my throat. How am I supposed to meet a grandfather? I'm nervous as hell! All those novels I read made it look so easy to just slip into someone else's life and play the part. 'Oh, I'll just pretend to have amnesia and everyone will believe me!' Hell no. This sucks. Everyone feels like a total stranger, yet I have to act like I've known them for years. I'm stuck in a nightmare where I can't even ask for directions because I'm supposed to own the map!
She took a series of sharp, jagged breaths, trying to force the oxygen into her panicked lungs.
Okay. Focus. Whatever happens now, I have to face it. I can't give up. I don't even know if dying here means I go back to my old life or if it's just... game over forever. It's okay. Gwenchana. Gwenchana... Ding! Ding! Ding! Time to enter the ring.The Smiling Villainess
As the car door opened, Aika felt the bite of the cold night air. But it wasn't the cold making her teeth chatter; it was the sheer adrenaline .aika thought be like
Stop it. Stop smiling! Why can't I stop this stupid habit? She felt her lips curling into a stiff, nervous smile. In her past life, she smiled when she was scared to hide her weakness, but here, in the body of a "Villainess," a smile looked like a death threat. Aika, be calm. This isn't a dream. If you keep smiling like a psycho, they're going to throw you in a psych ward instead of a bedroom!
She took one step out of the car, trying to look "Boss-like," but the sight that met her made her brain short-circuit again.
Standing in the courtyard wasn't just the Grandfather. There were rows upon rows of servants, guards, and maids, all bowing their heads so low they were practically folding in half. It looked like a scene from a historical movie.
"Welcome home, Young Miss!" they shouted in unison, their voices echoing off the traditional tiled roofs.
Aika's foot hit the gravel, she took one look at the small army of people, and her survival instincts took over. Nope. Absolutely not.
Without a word, she spun around on her heel and scrambled back into the car, slamming the door shut.
Ren, who was standing by the door to escort her, froze in a trance-like state. The Grandfather blinked, his hand still reaching out in the air. The entire courtyard went dead silent.
[Inside the Car]
Aika pressed her back against the leather seat, clutching her chest. Damn it! Why are there so many?! Is this a house or a kingdom? What is this?! I can't face a hundred people while my heart is doing 120 BPM!
Outside, she could hear Ren's muffled, confused voice. "Miss Helena? Is... is there a problem with the temperature?"
Aika rolled down the window just an inch, her nervous smile still plastered on her face, making her look incredibly suspicious. "Ren," she whispered harshly. "Tell them to go away. All of them. Or I'm staying in this car until morning!": Walking on Glass
Aika finally stepped out of the car, her fingers digging into the fabric of her skirt. She had tried to prepare herself, but as she looked at the man standing at the center of the entrance, her blood felt like it had turned to ice.
He was terrifying. The Grandfather didn't look like a "hugging" type of old man; he looked like a statue carved from granite. His face was set in a deep, grumpy scowl, and his eyes were so sharp they seemed to pierce right through her "Aika" soul.
Ren walked a few paces ahead of her, carrying her small backpack with that effortless, floating grace he always had. Aika hurried to catch up, leaning in to whisper urgently.
"Ren," she hissed, her eyes darting toward the old man. "Who is that?"
Ren didn't stop, his voice a low murmur. "That is your Grandfather, Madam."
"I mean... why is he looking at me like that?" she whispered, her heart doing a frantic 110 BPM. "Did I do something wrong already? He looks like he's about to fire me from existence."
Ren glanced back at her, his expression unreadable. "I don't know," he replied simply. "You should probably ask yourself that. Your history with him is... complicated."
Aika gulped. Great. Just great.
As they reached the top of the stone steps, she stopped before the old man. She forced her lips into that nervous, shaky smile again. "Good evening, Grandfather," she managed to speak
The Warmth Behind the Stone
The moment the last servant pulled the sliding door shut, the atmosphere in the room shifted violently. Aika stood stiffly near the entrance, her hands clasped in front of her, waiting for the "Granite King" to take his seat. Her heart was still thumping, her eyes darting between the grumpy old man and the silent, watchful Ren and Noel.
But as the Grandfather sat down, the cold, terrifying mask he wore outside shattered. His face softened, the deep wrinkles around his eyes crinkling with genuine, raw pain.
"Helena... my dear child," he breathed out, his voice no longer like grinding stones but like a worried parent. "How have you been? Are you truly alright?"
Aika's brain hit another "System Error." She stared at him in shock, her mouth slightly agape. Wait, where did the scary CEO go? Who is this sweet old man?
"I... I am okay, Grandfather," she stammered, her voice small.
"Why are you standing there like a stranger? Sit. Sit here beside me," he commanded, but this time it was a request of love, not an order. He patted the space right next to him.
Aika moved toward him, her feet still a bit shaky on the floor. As she sat, she realized the room was much warmer than the hallways—almost as if it had been pre-heated just for her. She took a deep breath, the scent of expensive sandalwood calming her nerves. Okay. He loves her. I can work with love. Love is easier to handle than hate.
"Have you eaten anything?" he asked, leaning in to inspect her face for any paleness.
"Yes," Aika nodded, thinking of the protein bar Ren gave her. "I've eaten."
The Grandfather's eyes flickered with relief for a split second before turning ice-cold again. He looked past Aika, his gaze landing on Ren and Noel like a pair of twin daggers.
"And as for you two," he barked, making Noel flinch and even Ren stiffen his posture. "Where were you? How did you clearly fail to care for your sister? Did I not leave her in your care before I left for Europe?"
He slammed his hand lightly on the low table, the sound echoing in the silent room. "Ren. Noel. I am asking you something. How did she end up in a hospital while I was gone?" The Wrath of the Patriarch
Noel stood his ground, though his jaw was tight. He looked at the Grandfather with a flicker of defiance. "She is not a child, Grandfather," he replied coldly. "And besides, she is under the care of her father while you are away. Why would I interfere in the Chairman's household? I have my own responsibilities."
The Grandfather's eyes darkened, a dangerous glint appearing in them. The room felt like it dropped ten degrees.
"So, you are still holding onto your old grudges, huh?" the Grandfather's voice was a low, vibrating growl. "She was in a life-threatening accident, and today I find out she suffered from food poisoning as well. And I also discovered that you were present when it happened, Noel. Is this how you take care of her? By standing by and watching her suffer?"
Aika sat frozen, watching the fire in the old man's eyes. She had never seen someone defend her with such ferocity.
"Even her engagement was broken off right after the accident," the Grandfather continued, his voice rising in anger. He gestured toward Aika, his hand trembling with rage. "What are you all doing?! My granddaughter is being treated like a nuisance in her own home, and you—her own family—act as if it's none of your business!"
He turned his piercing gaze toward Ren, who remained stoic but alert. "And you, Ren. I trusted you to keep me informed. Why am I only hearing the full extent of this mess now that I've stepped off a plane?" The Softness of a Lion
The roar in the room was so sudden that Aika—now Helena—couldn't help it. She flinched, her shoulders jumping and her eyes widening as the Grandfather's voice thundered against the walls. For a second, she wasn't the 20-year-old CEO; she was just a girl startled by the raw power of the old man's protective rage.
Noel and Ren both saw it. The flinch was clear, a small crack in her "Ice Queen" mask that made them both go silent.
Seeing her reaction, the Grandfather immediately checked himself. His face, which had been a mask of fury, melted into deep regret. He lowered his voice until it was a gentle hum, the kind of voice one uses to wake someone from a nightmare.
"Helena... my dear child," he whispered, leaning closer. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to frighten you."
He reached out, his weathered hand hesitating before lightly patting hers. "Tell me... have you remembered me at all? Is your memory truly a blank slate? Have you been taking the medicine for your amnesia, or..."
A small, sad smile touched his lips, one that reached his tired eyes. "...or have you gone and forgotten your old Grandpa too, huh?"
My heart is still thumping from his shouting, but the way he's looking at me now... it's making my throat feel tight. In my past life, if I made a mistake, people yelled to hurt me. But he's yelling because he's scared for me.
She looked at the old man, seeing the genuine fear in his eyes—the fear of being forgotten by the only person he seems to truly love in this cold house.
"I..." she started, her voice a bit shaky. "I remember that you are someone important to me, Grandfather. Even if the specific memories are blurry, my heart feels... safe here."
She wasn't lying. For the first time since she "woke up" in this novel, the 100 BPM heart rate wasn't from fear. It was from the shock of finally being home. The Truth Behind the Masks
The Grandfather stood up, his heavy robes rustling. "I'm going to my study to fetch the specific medicine the doctor in Europe gave me. Stay here. And you two," he pointed a stern finger at Noel and Ren, "don't you dare upset her while I'm gone."
As the door slid shut, the heavy, formal atmosphere evaporated. Aika didn't wait. She dropped the "scared granddaughter" act, her eyes turning sharp as she looked at the two men sitting across from her.
"Okay, enough," Aika said, her voice firm. "My head is spinning. I've met too many people today, and half of you are giving me different stories. If I'm going to survive in this house, I need the truth. Right now."
She looked at Ren, then at Noel. "Who are you? Really? And what is this family?"
Noel sighed, his "serious" mask finally cracking into a look of slight exhaustion. Ren, on the other hand, let out a loud, bright laugh—not the silky, polite chuckle from before, but the laugh of a mischievous boy.
"I told you she really forgot, Noel!" Ren grinned, leaning back and stretching his arms. "The 'Old Helena' would have thrown a tea cup at me for calling her 'Madam' by now."
Ren turned to Aika, his eyes sparkling. "I apologize for the prank, Helena. I'm Ren, and this grumpy guy next to me is my twin brother, Noel."
Aika blinked. "Twins? But you look..."
"He's the 'serious' one who inherited all the gloom, and I'm the 'fun' one," Ren teased, ignoring Noel's glare. "We were the ones no one wanted—the last kids left behind at the orphanage. Your Grandfather didn't just 'adopt' us; he picked us out of the dirt himself and raised us to be the shield of this family. We don't share your blood, but we owe him everything.". Your real brothers—the ones sharing your blood—are Marcus and Julius. They stay at the Chairman's house."
Aika felt a weight lift off her chest. So Ren isn't a mysterious servant, and Noel isn't just a random mean guy. They're her adopted brothers.
"And Vahn?" she asked.
"Just a childhood friend," Ren shrugged. "And as for my 'Sir' and 'Assistant' act in the hospital? I just wanted to see if you were faking the amnesia. You were so polite and confused, I knew for sure the 'Ice Queen' was gone."
He gave her a playful wink. "Don't be mad. I'll make it up to you!"
Aika couldn't help it. For the first time, a real, genuine smile spread across her face—not a nervous one, but a relaxed one. "You're a brat, Ren. But fine. I accept the apology."The Secret Behind the Vipers
"Okay," Aika said, rubbing her temples as she looked at Ren and Noel. "So everything is different. What Airon told me and what is actually happening... it's like two different stories. And... I'm sorry. For not recognizing you."
Noel looked away, his expression softening just a fraction. "It's okay," he muttered.
Finally! He spoke! I thought he is still angry on me on making him vahn bf oh my foul stupid mouth now i am gonna think 2 times before speaking and he was a statue programmed only to look annoyed. "Whatever you want to know, just ask," Ren said, leaning forward. He jokingly elbowed Noel in the ribs, trying to break the heavy tension. "Right, Noel? We're your favorite brothers, aren't we? Much better than those stiff-necks Marcus and Julius."
Aika looked at them, her heart finally slowing down. In her previous life, she was a 20-year-old science student buried in books. She had parents back then, but she had zero experience with "socializing" or "sibling banter." She thought she was being a mature "Boss," but to Ren and Noel, her wide-eyed confusion and polite apologies made her look like a completely different person.
She wasn't the 23-year-old "Ice Queen" Helena who ran businesses and insulted people for fun anymore. She was just Aika—a girl out of her depth.
"Airon... he told me things were different," Aika said, trying to use her 'science brain' to logic this out. "He made it sound like I was alone. Why would he do that?"
Ren's smile faded slightly. "Airon has his own games. He likes to see people isolated. But you aren't alone here. Grandfather brought us into this family because your mother wanted us to have a home. We might not share blood, but we've seen you at your worst—and your worst was pretty bad, Helena." He chuckled. "You used to be so rude. If a servant breathed too loud, you'd have them fired."
Aika felt a cold sweat. The real Helena was a nightmare! No wonder I'm struggling. I'm a science nerd trying to play a ruthless CEO.
"Well," Aika said, squaring her shoulders. "Since I don't remember being a 'rude' person, let's just start over. I'm... I'm glad you're here."
Noel looked at her, truly stunned by her kindness, while Ren just beamed. The Bitter Pill of Reality
The sliding door opened, and the Grandfather walked back in. Behind him followed a servant carrying a silver tray with a crystal glass of water and a single, intimidating pill.
"Here, Helena, my child," the Grandfather said, his voice warm but firm. "Take this. It was specially prescribed by the doctors in Europe for memory recovery and amnesia. It will help clear the fog in your head."
Oh, no. Anything but medicine. Aika felt a shiver run down her spine. In her previous life as a student, she could handle complex chemical equations and 10-hour study sessions, but she hated swallowing pills with her whole heart. Damn it! Why is everything I hate coming at me at once? Creepy brothers, slippery floors, and now this? I can't say no to Grandpa, but I definitely don't want to say yes.
She gave a small, stiff nod. "Okay..."
As the servant approached, Aika reached out to take the tray herself. The servant flinched and pulled the tray back quickly, looking terrified, as if expecting Helena to slap her for getting too close.
"It's okay," Aika said gently, giving the servant a small, reassuring smile. "I can take it."
She took the tray and whispered a quiet, "Thank you," which left the servant standing there in a complete trance of shock. No one had ever heard Helena D'Arven thank a servant before.
Aika placed the tray on the low table, staring at the pill like it was a tiny explosive. The Grandfather settled back into his seat and gestured toward it. "Go on, dear. Eat it."
Aika's eyes widened. She pointed a finger at herself, her face a mask of disbelief. "Right now?" she squeaked. "I mean... can't I take it later? After... after I settle in?"
Noel and Ren watched from the side, Ren trying to hide a smirk at her obvious stalling. The "Ice Queen" was officially terrified of a tiny pill.: The Bitter Gulp
"Okay... I really have to do it right now?" Aika asked, her voice hovering an octave higher than usual.
The Grandfather gave a firm, slow nod. "Right now. Your health is the most important thing."
Aika looked down at the small pill. In her past life, she could memorize periodic tables and complex formulas, but she couldn't overcome her childhood fear of medicine. She picked it up with trembling fingers, looking at it like it was a poison dart.
"Right now?" she asked one last time, hoping for a miracle.
"Yes," the Grandfather insisted, his eyes warm but unmoving. "Eat up, child."
Okay, who cares? Just close your eyes and do it. It's just chemistry in a tiny package. It's fine. Everything is fine. She looked at the Grandfather and gave a jerky nod. "Okay... here goes."
"Yes, yes," he encouraged, leaning forward as if his moral support would help it go down easier. "Eat up. Then we are having dinner."
Wait... what?! Aika froze. Who eats a full dinner right after taking medicine? You're supposed to eat first so you don't get an upset stomach! Grandpa, your logic is scientifically flawed! But she looked at the scary-yet-sweet old man and the silent twins, Ren and Noel, and realized she didn't have the courage to start a lecture on pharmacology.
She squeezed her eyes shut so tightly her eyelashes hurt. With a desperate breath, she tossed the pill into the back of her throat and followed it with a massive, frantic gulp of water. She drained the whole glass in seconds.
As the pill went down, her face immediately contorted. The bitter, medicinal aftertaste exploded on her tongue, and the smell hit her nose—a sharp, herbal scent that made her eyes water. Her expression turned into a hilarious mask of disgust, her nose scrunching up as she tried not to gag in front of the most powerful man in the family.
"Ugh..." she whispered, her voice strained. "That was... very 'effective' medicine."
Ren let out a snort of laughter, quickly turning it into a cough when the Grandfather glared at him. Even Noel had a slight twitch at the corner of his mouth. The Bitter Test
As Aika stood there with her face scrunched up from the bitter taste, she realized the room had gone from tense to... lighthearted? The Grandfather was chuckling, and even the "Stone Wall" Noel had a visible smile on his face.
"My granddaughter really has lost her memories," the Grandfather said, shaking his head with a fond smile.
Aika looked around, her eyes wide and confused. "What? Why is everyone laughing? Did I swallow it wrong?"
The Grandfather didn't answer; he just gestured for them to start moving toward the dining room. As they walked down the long, polished hallway, Aika hurried to catch up with Ren. She nudged his arm with her elbow.
"Hey," she hissed. "Why were you all laughing? Did I do something embarrassing?"
Ren glanced down at her, his eyes dancing with mischief. "Yeah, you did. Grandfather was testing you. He wanted to see if you were really suffering from amnesia or just playing a very long, boring trick on us."
Aika stopped in her tracks. "Testing me? With medicine?"
"It wasn't medicine, Helena," Ren laughed. "That was a bitter appetite supplement. The 'Old' Helena would never, in her entire life, have eaten that before a meal. You used to throw a tantrum if someone even suggested a vitamin. You were a nightmare about bitter things. But you just sat there, asked three times if you had to eat it, and then gulped it down like a brave soldier."
He patted her shoulder. "You passed the test. He's convinced now."
Aika's face didn't soften. Instead, a spark of genuine anger lit up her eyes.
Are you kidding me? Are they treating me like a lab rat or a student in a psych exam? Who tests their own family members like this? She felt a wave of disgust. What a typical, messed-up, psychological nightmare of a family. This is why people in these novels are always so crazy! I'm out here struggling to survive, and they're playing 'Gotcha!' with bitter pills.
"Are you all taking me for a toy?" Aika snapped, her voice louder than she intended. "Is this family just a series of tests? Eww. My mouth still tastes like I ate a rotten tree branch, and for what? A prank?"
Ren and Noel both paused, surprised by the sudden bite in her tone. The "Innocent Aika" was gone for a second, replaced by a very annoyed 20-year-old who was tired of being manipulated.The Leak
The words had left her mouth before she could catch them. Ren and Noel both stopped dead in their tracks, staring at her with wide eyes. Even a few servants at the end of the hall paused, their heads tilting in confusion.
Aika froze. The silence of the hallway felt heavy.
Oh, no. Did I just say 'rotten tree branch' and 'messed-up family' out loud? She felt the heat rush to her face, turning her ears a bright, tell-tale pink. She cleared her throat loudly, looking anywhere but at Ren's amused face.
"Oh..." she squeaked, her voice dropping back into that polite, "innocent" tone. "I... I didn't mean to say that out loud. Just... ignore me. My brain is still a bit... bitter."
She didn't wait for them to respond. She turned on her heel and continued walking toward the dining room, her steps a little too fast, her shoes scuffing against the wood.
Great job, Aika. Real professional. You're supposed to be a mysterious amnesiac, not a grumpy teenager complaining about her vitamins. Just keep walking. Don't look back. If you don't look back, the embarrassment can't catch you.
Behind her, she heard Ren let out a soft, genuine snort of laughter. "She's definitely different," he whispered to Noel.
Noel didn't respond, but he didn't look angry either. For the first time, he looked... curious.
They reached the massive double doors of the dining hall. The scent of rich, savory broth and roasted meats began to replace the bitter taste of the supplement. Aika took a deep breath, trying to reset her "Boss" persona. Food. Just focus on the food. If I'm eating, I can't accidentally insult anyone else.The Silent Feast
The dining hall was less of a room and more of a cathedral of food. As the doors opened, the sheer scale of the spread made Aika's eyes widen. It wasn't just a dinner; it was a feast. Silver bowls glinted under the warm chandelier light, filled with steaming broths, colorful seasoned vegetables, and marinated meats that smelled heavenly.
Aika took her seat, her movements careful.
Is this for four people or forty? she wondered, scanning the table. Her eyes landed on a dish of stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables—her favorite from her previous life. Her stomach gave a traitorous growl, but she suppressed it. Stay calm. Don't look like a glutton. You're a 'lady' now, remember?
She picked up her rice bowl and used her chopsticks to place a single small piece of vegetable on top. Across from her, Ren and Noel had already started. Ren was digging in with his usual casual energy, and Noel was eating with silent, mechanical precision.
But Aika didn't move. She held her bowl, her back straight, looking toward the head of the table where the Grandfather sat.
In her old life, even without parents, she had been taught that you never start until the eldest does. It was a habit etched into her soul. So, she sat perfectly still, waiting for the Grandfather to pick up his spoon.
The silence at the table began to stretch. Ren stopped chewing, his chopsticks frozen halfway to his mouth. Noel looked up, his brow furrowed in confusion.
The Grandfather, who had been about to reach for his water, stopped. He looked at Aika, then at her full bowl, then back at her eyes. A strange, heavy emotion crossed his face—surprise mixed with a deep, aching sadness.
"Helena?" he asked softly. "Why aren't you eating? Is the food not to your liking? I made sure they prepared your favorites."
Aika blinked, realizing everyone was staring at her. "Oh... no, it looks delicious, Grandfather. I was just... waiting for you to start."
The clatter of Noel's spoon hitting the ceramic bowl was the only sound in the room. Ren actually choked slightly on his rice.
"Waiting... for me?" the Grandfather repeated, his voice barely a whisper.
Oh, crap. Did the old Helena used to start eating before him? Was she that rude? Aika felt the cold sweat returning. I'm trying to be polite, but apparently, being a decent person is the most 'suspicious' thing I can do in this house! The Price of a Signature
The Grandfather smiled at her, a genuine, warm expression that reached his tired eyes. "Child, start eating. You don't need to wait for me."
Aika nodded and finally took a bite. As she ate, she didn't realize that three pairs of eyes were fixed on her. To the Grandfather, she looked like a different girl entirely—not the arrogant granddaughter he used to know. To the twins, Ren and Noel, she was a complete mystery. She only ate the vegetables, picking at her food with a quiet, thoughtful grace that was the opposite of "Chaebol" luxury.
When she finished, Aika did it again. She sat perfectly still, slowly sipping her water, waiting for the eldest to stand. When Ren finally pushed his chair back, Aika moved to stand as well, but the Grandfather's voice stopped her.
"Sit back down, Helena. I need to talk to you."
Talk at the dinner table? Is this a family meeting or an interrogation? This is new. She sat back down, her hands folded neatly in her lap.
The Grandfather wiped his hands with a silk tissue, his expression turning grave. "So, what have you decided? I've been informed that your shares in the company have been frozen. Your main project was taken from you and handed over to Marcus. And I heard... you actually signed over the Orphanage project."
He looked her in the eye, his voice heavy with disappointment—not in her, but in the situation. "Helena, what were you thinking? Why didn't you oppose them?"
Aika took a breath, her "Science Student" logic taking over. "As you know, Grandfather, I don't remember anything. If they froze my shares because I have amnesia, they have a logical reason. It's not safe for an 'unaware' person to manage millions in assets. I can't work if I don't know the business."
She paused, her voice dropping. "And about signing the orphanage project... it was a trade. The Chairman told me I had to sign it if I ever wanted my other projects back. I didn't have a choice."
The room went deathly silent. The Grandfather's eyes turned into cold flint. He looked as if he wanted to burn the whole world down.
"That brat..." he hissed, referring to his own son, the Chairman. "He is tormenting you far too much. He took advantage of your memory loss to rob you?"
Noel and Ren looked at each other. They knew the storm was coming. The Grandfather wasn't just angry; he was ready for war.The Shield of the Patriarch
The Grandfather slammed his hand onto the table, though his eyes remained fixed on Aika with deep sympathy.
"You don't have to listen to a single word he says anymore," he declared, his voice echoing with authority. "Now that I am back, I want to see who dares to oppose you. You are staying here, in this house. You don't need to go back to that man's home ever again. Do you understand?"
Aika felt a lump in her throat. Stay here? In this warm, traditional house with the slippery floors and the twins? Instead of that cold mansion with Clara and the Chairman?
"And that woman... Clara," the Grandfather's eyes narrowed. "Did she do something to you while I was away?"
Aika shook her head quickly. "No... nothing I couldn't handle."
The Grandfather sighed, his shoulders dropping as he looked at her with regret. "I also... I want to apologize, Helena. I am the one who set you up with Airon. I thought he was a good match, a man who could support you. If I had known he was going to use your situation and treat you like a tool, I never would have allowed it."
Wait, the 'Great Emperor' of this family is apologizing to me? Aika's -brain struggled to process the emotion. In her past life, adults never admitted they were wrong. Seeing this powerful old man look so small out of guilt for her sake made her heart feel heavy.
"No, no!" she said, waving her hands slightly. "Grandfather, you don't have to apologize. It already happened. It's in the past now. We can't change the chemistry of what's already reacted, right? We just... move forward."
Ren and Noel exchanged a look. "Move forward," Ren whispered, smiling. "I like the new Helena's vocabulary."
The Grandfather reached across the table and patted her hand. "You are far too kind now, child. It worries me. But don't worry. Tomorrow, we begin the process of taking back what belongs to you." The Burden of the Crown
The Grandfather looked at her, his fork pausing in mid-air. He hadn't expected this response. He expected her to be happy about getting her power back.
"Grandfather," Aika said, her voice steady but filled with genuine concern. "I appreciate you wanting to help me, but... I don't remember anything. From A to Z, the business world is a complete blank to me. How can I just take back authority? Marcus and Julius have been working hard. If I take over without knowing what I'm doing, I'll lead everyone wrongly. It wouldn't be fair to the employees or the company."
i used to be student, not a CEO! in a science lab, if you don't know the properties of the chemicals you're mixing, you cause an explosion. Business is the same. If I walk in there and start signing papers I don't understand, I'm going to blow up this entire 'Chaebol' empire. I don't want to be a fraud.
Noel, who had been silent, looked up at her with a look of genuine respect. He had always thought Helena was power-hungry, but this girl was... different.
The Grandfather leaned back, a proud smile spreading across his face. "You worry about being fair? Helena, most people in our position would trample over anyone to get their shares back. The fact that you're worried about 'leading wrongly' proves you are exactly the person who should have the authority."
He tapped the table. "You aren't going to lead alone. I will be your teacher. And Ren and Noel will be your shadows. You don't need to know everything on day one. You just need to have the heart to do it right."
Ren leaned in, grinning. "Besides, Helena, Marcus didn't 'work hard' for your project. He stole it because he knew you were in a coma. Taking it back isn't being unfair—it's called justice."
Aika bit her lip. Justice, huh? Or is it just another prank they whole novel writer is playing with me?: Starting from Zero
Aika put down her glass, her expression becoming dead serious. The "innocent girl" was gone, replaced by the logical, hardworking student she had always been.
"Grandfather," she said, her voice clear and firm. "I really appreciate you offering to be my mentor. But I don't want you to give me special treatment just because I'm your granddaughter. It wouldn't be right."
The table went silent. Ren stopped mid-sip, and Noel's eyes narrowed in pure disbelief.
"I want to start from zero," Aika continued. "I'm ready to work as an intern. No salary, no special title, just a normal employee. Everyone starts from the bottom to learn the foundation, and that is the only fair way. If I just jump into a high position, I'm just a puppet."
She turned her gaze to Ren and Noel. "And as for Noel and Ren... they have their own lives and their own work. I don't want to interfere with their careers or take up their time just because I'm 'family.' I need to stand on my own two feet."
In science, you don't start by running the lab; you start by cleaning the test tubes. If I want to survive this 'Viper' nest, I need to know how the building breathes from the basement to the roof. Besides, if I'm just an intern, Marcus and Julius won't see me as a threat yet. I can study them while they think I'm 'nobody.'
The Grandfather stared at her for a long time. Then, a booming laugh erupted from his chest, shaking the table. It wasn't a mocking laugh; it was a laugh of pure, unadulterated pride.
"An intern?!" he laughed, wiping a tear from his eye. "A D'Arven working for no salary? The board of directors will have a heart attack!"
He leaned forward, his eyes shining. "Fine. If that is what you want, that is what you shall have. But remember, Helena—even an intern needs a place to study. Noel," he glanced at the serious twin. "Since you're so worried about 'interference,' you will be the one to oversee her internship placement. Make sure she's treated like any other worker. No more, no less."
Noel looked at Aika, a strange flicker of interest finally appearing in his cold eyes. "As you wish, Grandfather."The Intern's Vow
Aika's face lit up, a brilliant, beaming smile stretching across her lips. It wasn't the practiced, cold smile of a socialite; it was the spark of a girl who had finally found a challenge she was excited to solve. In her previous life, she was always the one who wanted to learn every part of the experiment, from the setup to the cleanup.
"Yes!" she said brightly, her eyes sparkling with determination. "I'll do my best! I'll work so hard that I won't give you even a single reason to complain, Grandfather. Just watch me!"
Finally! A goal! If I can treat this business world like a giant chemistry project, I can solve it. I'll start as an intern, gather the data, observe the 'elements'—a.k.a. my crazy relatives—and eventually, I'll find the formula to live my own life. This is way better than just sitting around waiting for someone to poison my tea.
The Grandfather watched her, his heart swelling. He had never seen her look so... alive. "I don't doubt it for a second, child."
Ren leaned over and whispered to Noel, "I give it three days before she accidentally takes over a whole department. Look at those eyes. She's dangerous."
Noel didn't say a word, but for the first time, he didn't look at her with suspicion. He looked at her like a challenge he was actually interested in