Chapter 3 0003

The first dance class had just ended, and while everyone else went off to socialize, not me. I had more important things to do-like planning how to get close to Matteo for the information I needed, even though my heart was heavy.

I went back to the room and pulled out my family album, hoping it would give me the motivation I needed. But tears fell uncontrollably as I stared at the wedding photo of my parents-the only picture I managed to save that fateful night.

The burnt edges were enough proof of the explosion that had taken everything.

My father was a loyal employee of the Castelio family, working as a financial advisor, while my mother worked as a stylist for Viviana. Our families had a great bond, and that's how Matteo and I met-as friends. But it blossomed into something spectacular.

From sneaking out to parties, to helping each other with assignments... I still remember the day I messed up badly and he took the punishment for me. He even stood up to my bullies back in high school.

We did everything together-even learned to dance, which led us to this dance school in the first place.

But everything changed the day Mr. Castelio found out my father had discovered his embezzlement and had even gathered files of evidence against every crime he committed.

My father had no choice but to flee, taking us with him for our safety. But no one hides from the Castelio family-not for long. They had eyes everywhere. I tried writing letters to Matteo, but no reply. He didn't even pick up my calls.

Until one night, while we were sitting down to dinner, I heard my dog Becky barking ferociously outside. I went to check-just a few steps, while my parents smiled at each other at the table.

Barely ten seconds after I stepped outside, the explosion hit. It threw me nearly five meters away, slamming me against a tree.

I woke up in a hospital bed. My uncle was beside me, sleeping in a chair, clearly having stayed by my side for long. My hands were in plaster.

Physically, I recovered thanks to my uncle. But mentally, I never did. I even refused to dance again-the steps reminded me too much of the Castelios.

I hated them. I still do.

And that hate drives me. I will go to any length to see them fall.

I wiped my tears away, refusing to let anyone witness my weakness. When I sat up, I noticed Agatha standing there. I hadn't even realized when she entered the dorm. But it wasn't time for chit-chat.

It was time to get Matteo's attention. And what better way than reminding him who I used to be?

For the first time in three years, I took off my hoodie.

Would you look at that-my teenage body had blossomed, and I hadn't even noticed. I put on a short skirt and a crop top, just like I used to.

But I had forgotten how to do my hair and makeup.

"Would you help me?" I asked softly, looking at Agatha.

"Where are your manners, girl?" she said, walking over to the dressing table.

"Please," I said.

She smiled and didn't hesitate. She started doing my hair and makeup. When she finally turned me toward the mirror, I could barely recognize myself. I was beautiful-but my eyes were empty. Lonely.

"I hope this isn't because of Matteo," she said as she adjusted my hair. "He's... he's seeing someone."

I wasn't expecting that.

"Who?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me.

"Selene," she whispered, as if scared someone might hear her.

But I knew one thing for sure-Selene was no match for me. I didn't know her. I'd never met her. But she wasn't going to stand between me and my mission. Even if I had to lose my dignity to get Matteo, I would.

I walked out of the dorm, full of determination. As expected, Matteo was surrounded by girls-but that didn't discourage me. I was beautiful now, and I knew it.

When I reached where he sat, I took the chair opposite him, crossing my legs and sitting with just enough seduction to make sure he saw me. I pulled out my lip gloss and began applying it with a small mirror.

Through the mirror, I saw it-his eyes were on me.

Exactly what I wanted.

But I wouldn't give in so easily. I wanted him to chase me. So I stood up and, with a classic move, dropped my lip gloss on purpose and walked away, hoping he'd take the bait.

But Matteo might be ruthless, just not foolish. I didn't hear any footsteps.

Frustrated, I headed to the bathroom.

That's when I heard footsteps-and smelled a heavy, rich cologne. One that awakened too many memories.

A knock. Twice. Then the door opened-he didn't wait for an invitation.

He stepped forward. I tried to stay busy, pretend he wasn't there, but then he stood behind me. I could see him clearly through the mirror.

"What do you really want?" he asked.

"I don't remember saying I needed anything," I replied, trying to keep my cool.

He turned me around, and I stumbled into his chest.

"Now can you answer me?" he repeated, his eyes more sincere than I expected.

"Like I said, I came to dance," I said simply.

Then he leaned closer, his breath warm near my ear.

"This school isn't safe for you," he whispered. "You need to leave."

"I did leave three years ago and ended up being hunted instead," I snapped, tears threatening to fall.

"I can't protect you anymore... So please. Just leave. At least wait," he said.

From his voice, I could tell-he knew something. Something he wasn't saying.

This wasn't the time to corner him. I had to be patient.

I stood on my toes and kissed him lightly on the chin. When he tried to close the gap, I turned my face away and walked out.

At the door, someone was waiting.

Viviana Castelio.

Always graceful, always in black. A woman who wore power like perfume.

"Well... so the rumors are true," she said, her voice as cold and commanding as ever.

"I didn't know you listened to rumors," I replied, summoning my courage.

"Welcome back. Be safe," she said as she turned to walk away.

"Always watch your back," I muttered, heading in the opposite direction.

I was playing with danger-and I was very ready for it.