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Adeline Kiramman is a bartender in the Last Drop, the establishment was owned by Silco. She works there for nearly one year. Many customers and Silco’s followers fancy her, because of her attractive features, and her gorgeous hourglass body. They describe her as being an erotic, gorgeous and dangerous woman. Many men fall for her, but she doesn’t let them get to her. She taught herself how to fight. So when the time comes, she could save herself from any harm coming from her. Despite her being such a dangerous and mad looking woman; deep down she’s just a sweet innocent, and loving person. She pretends to be tough in front of other men, because if she doesn't they’ll mistreat her, or even worse, take advantage of her. Despite all of her effort putting up the mask, there is someone where she could slip off her mask and be her. Without being afraid of being judged and being lusted. Adeline has a strong connection, or should I say strong bond with Jinx. She treated her like her own daughter. Adeline working in The Last Drop had made her and Jinx close together. The bond between Jinx and Adeline tied Silco and Adeline. Even from the very beginning Silco secretly observed her. How she treated her customers. But Silco paid little attention to her from the past month. He’s busy minding his Business, and his daughter, Jinx. Silco heard rumors about Adeline. But he paid no attention to her. Until, one-day he met her unexpectedly and not at the right time. Silco saw her with Jinx, he thought for a second she’s an intruder, trying to steal her daughter. Sevika was also friends with Adeline. In Adeline's 20th year, she smokes, and drinks a lot. Her backstory has never been uncovered. She lives with Jericho for at least 6 good years. Sevika knew why people buy ale from the Last Drop. Well, not because of the drinks, or The Famous Eye of Zaun, Silco. But because they’re willing to take the chance of meeting Adeline, or even court her. And of course, Adeline used her Charm to lure people from the Bar. Adeline was let's say not like the rest of the ladies who’s indulging themselves on people like them. She's more calculated and smart. She and Sevilla became friends because of Adeline’s witty personality and charms. Even if Sevilla wouldn’t admit it, she knew she and Sevilla are good friends. After working for the last drop for nearly an year she had only one chance of seeing silco. She sometimes sees him when he’s going out. They two never talk much. She even guessed that Silco didn’t even know he had a girl bartender. Adeline and Vander are both close to each other. Adeline spent most of her days in The Last Drop, stopping by to say Hi to her friend. But when her friend falls she wasn’t there to save him. And that hunts her for the rest of her life. This Fanfic is also available on Wattpad 😁
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[ ~°• Adeline POV •°~ ]
Working at The Last Drop as a bartender was pretty much as Adeline expected it. Unfulfilling, tiring, and much to her dismay boring. She’d think a place owned by the ruler of Zaun, that blared music throughout the night, coating the wet alleys of Zaun with not only purple and green lighting but with shimmer and alcohol sales would be just a little more exciting.Adeline thinks it would be a thriving spot, sure to get anyone's blood pumping. However, now a year into her time here as a bartender things have gotten bland.Adeline supposed that could just be a problem however, she couldn’t help but wonder why she had stayed.Huffing out a breath Adeline was unknowingly holding, she finished up the last row of drinks she was serving for the night.It was close to 4:00 AM now, due to the increase of shimmer sales, the man upstairs had so kindly put in motion that Saturday’s would have a later close than what Adeline were used to. Resulting in her untypical weary state. Refusing to let her exhaustion get to her, Adeline pushed the drinks towards the last of her guests, and turned away to begin the closing of her bar.Sevika would be making her rounds any moment now, Adeline didn’t bother trying to usher any warning of closing out. Restock, dishes, sweeping, trash, mopping, and finally money count. The usual routine. Taking into account what Adeline had enough of, she made her way to the back closet to grab her restocks.Technically, Adeline didn’t have to do restocks for the morning shift. However, the new bartender boy, Thierm her mind provided, was a skittish one, typically forgetting quite a lot. It’s not that Adeline took pity on the boy, but she did notice that when she initially began restocking for him, sales increased considerably.Walking back out of the closet as Adeline balanced a box of granita cherries and a few specific mixers and liquors, she sat down on the back counter.To Adeline’s satisfaction Sevika had already cleared out the last of the guests. Adeline couldn’t help but chuckle at the mad lad that had tried to flirt with her on his way out, wobbling on his uncooperative legs. Her eyes shot towards Adeline at the sound, her glare met with a large helping of your shit-eating grin spread from ear to ear. Rolling her eyes back towards her lover of the night, she practically grabbed him from the neck and threw him out. Locking the door and dusting off her hands for good measure.Adeline didn’t miss the tiny curve of her lips.Sevika raised an eyebrow at Adeline as she approached, “Would you put that stupid grin away.”Adeline chuckled a little more with her chest at her exasperated expression. “Aw, but you two looked so good together.”Adeline leaned up against the bar counter, nodding her head, beckoning Sevika to take a seat.Sevika scoffed but caved, plopping herself heavily onto the stool. She dug into her pocket and pulled out a cigarette and stuck it between her teeth as she began to pat herself down for a lighter. Swiftly Adeline stepped in with her own, offering her regularly alongside it. Moments like these reminded her of how she and Sevika started off. Practically at each other’s throats, Adeline hadn’t wanted anything to do with her. Adeline smiled to herself knowingly. She’d been stubborn enough that Adeline refused to leave or quit in determination that Sevika would not best her.“Heading back to the misses then?” Adeline offered an easy conversation. Sevika had confided Adeline with information about her little love-bird blondie. Sevika had even shown Adeline a photo of her before, they were an odd, but cute couple nonetheless.Sevika grunted in affirmation, downing her drink in a single go. “She’ll have my head if I wait any longer,” she paused “Daliha gets out early on Saturdays.” Sevika sighed out.Adeline could only nod in understanding. These time changes had really fucked with everyone. “Well then, grab your shit and get outta my bar. Thanks for the quick round-up tonight by the way.”She tossed Adeline a side look as she got up. “You look like shit, feel bad for ya’”. Now it was her turn to grin.It’s not like Sevika was wrong. Adeline had caught a look at herself earlier while passing a cup. Let’s say Adeline decided to use the darker tinted cups for the rest of the night.“Yeah yeah, your not looking to hot yourself princess. Do me a favour and turn off that fucking music on your way out would you? I swear my head is throbbing to the same beat.”All she got was one more grunt in response as Sevika made her way out.With her leave came a blissful silence. Sighing with slight relief, Adeline turned off the harsh lights and instead replaced them with the dimmer built-in bar lights. Finally satisfied, she set out to work. It was around 4:45 AM. Adeline was finally done drying the dishes. All she had left was to bring the nights count up to The Industrialist that sat upstairs. Setting down the last glass of the night on an overhead rack, Adeline couldn’t help the languid movements her body began to toll out. It seems that her body had finally decided to clock out for the night. She wasn't too irritated by the sudden tiredness however, she knew that the more exhausted she was, the more likely she’d be able to sleep without interruption.Adeline hadn’t admitted to anyone that she had extreme issues with sleeping, but then again, didn’t everyone who lived in Zaun have them? It’s hard to relax in a world that is constantly trying to kill you before you have the time to realize it.Lost in her thoughts, Adeline turned away from the sink to collect tonight’s cash, only to be met with a small blue figure sat on-top of her just cleaned bar top. Nearly screeching, Adeline's brain provided familiarity; it was only Jinx.Adeline sighed, “Jinx, hon. You really need to stop sneaking up on me. Honestly, it’s almost 5AM!” She chastised quickly. Jinx shifted under her look, she seemed fidgety.“Couldn’t sleep..” Jinx murmured, eyes darting anywhere but to Adeline's own. She slowly walked over to Jinx, leaning herself against the countertop in what she hoped was a casual manner. Here she was complaining about her sleep, only to be met with a doe-eyed thirteen year-old girl that had Adeline’s issue, honestly, probably worse. Adeline's heart ringed with guilt.“It’s alright lovely,” She absentmindedly reached her small hand to tuck her ruffled hair behind her ear, before continuing. “Let me get you some water and then I’ll walk you back to your bed, hm?” Adeline cupped her cheek as she immediately leaned into the small gesture.Ugh, Adeline’s heart-melted.Although Sevika hated Jinx. Adeline never shared the sentiment. The blue haired doll had buried herself into Adeline’s heart from the very first time she had met her. Adeline enjoyed Jinx company, gifts and drawings. Adeline even enjoyed her messes, her pranks, and her trouble. That was just Jinx. In a way, Adeline thought of her as a daughter, though she never told her.“Alright, big girl hands please” Adeline lowered the large cup into her hands and watched her drink greedily. Jinx typically had a problem with providing her body with basic necessities such as water and healthier food items, oftentimes she found herself bargaining with the younger girl with takeout just so she would eat something.Sometimes, she’d even say no to that.Jinx handed Adeline back the large glass and Adeline snuck a peek when she turned to wash it out.Half empty. Adeline considered that a win.Returning, Adeline noticed although she had relaxed quite considerably, she still twitched it every second or so.“Hey,” Adeline paused, honestly when had she gotten so soft. “Wanna have some fun?”Jinx’s eyes widened excitedly, nodding her head furiously. Adeline's soft smile turned wicked at the confirmation, and before she had the time to process Adeline scooped Jinx up and over her shoulder. Adeline spun herself around as Jinx squealed with newfound giddiness.Both giggling now, Adeline fixed the tiny girl so she was draped against Adeline’s back, arms around Adeline’s neck comfortably. She started her departure down to Jinx room. Jinx hung loosely around Adeline, tiredness seeping into her small form with each step Adeline took. Adeline couldn’t help but let the smile on her face grow.Opening Jinx door with Adeline’s hip, she danced around Jinx room, consciously avoiding any of Jinx possible artworks or new tinkering objects. Making it to her bed with little disruption, Adeline lowered herself and Jinx on the bed. Quickly as to not disturb the sleeping girl, Adeline tucked Jinx in. Lingering a hand on jinx cheek, Adeline pulled away to remove herself from Jinx room.“Wait,” A small voice called out suddenly. Jinx’s eyebrows were knitted together in slight fear of what she had to say. “M-maybe…maybe stay?” She peaked through her eyelashes.Adeline sucked in a breath and considered her options. This was definitely a line Adeline hadn’t crossed. “With your boss’ daughter”, Adeline mind hissed. She looked back up at Jinx.
Silco could have my head for this. He doesn’t know me. Doesn't trust me. But
But. I couldn’t just leave Jinx. Honestly, hadn’t Jinx been toeing this line for a year now? Hadn’t I crossed multiple times? If he wants to break his daughter’s heart by firing me or… killing me, that wasn’t my problem. And with that she made her way back to Jinx.She had stopped looking at her now. Seemingly already shot down. Before she felt Adeline’s weight dip her twin bed. Her eyes widened in her presence. She raised an eyebrow at her.“Well? Scootch,” she waved her hand at her, “Can’t invite a lady to your bed and hog the sheets.” She joked half-heartedly.A soft, quick gasp left her shocked expression as she quickly made room for Adeline. Now tucking herself alongside her, she curled into Adeline as she laid down. Resting comfortably now, Adeline stared up at the ceiling, she couldn’t help the creeping thought that rested into her mind as she felt the young girl beside her begin to even out her small breaths.Adeline lived for moments like these. Not with just Jinx, but with Sevika and even a handful of other coworkers. When all of it just fell into place. Jinx was just the cherry on top of it all. Jinx murmured Adeline's name, and she arose out of her thoughts.“Thank you.”Ah.She couldn’t help but sigh at her newfound discovery, turning her body towards the girl, stroking her hair on her forehead.
That’s why.
Why I stayed.
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Adeline groaned as her limbs popped, maybe sleeping on a twin sized bed with another person wasn’t her brightest moment.Although cramped and stiff, that was possibly the most restful sleep Adeline had in what felt like years now.Jinx was still curled into Adeline's side, no sign of her waking anytime soon.Distracted by her peaceful figure, Adeline didn’t notice the other looming presence in the room, until it grabbed her from the back of Adeline's neck.Immediately Adeline tensed as she fought or flight kicked in. Grabbing what felt like an arm, she yanked harshly, whatever…whoever had grabbed her stuttered from the yank, losing their balance.Letting fight take over her body. Adeline collided with the back of her head with the person behind her. Rewardingly, she answered with a deep grunt and a thud on the floor.Quickly Adeline shifted off the bed and made a barricade between the bed behind her and the intruder.
If this person thought they were getting anywhere near Jinx, She'd be damned.
Trying to prevent any panic before Jinx woke up she grabbed the hissing-kneeling figure from the collar and quickly made for the door.
This would be dealt with outside.
Heavy.
Although slender, whoever Adeline was dragging out the door had mass. She managed however to toss the now apparent man into the hallway, before silently shutting the door to Jinx’s room. Finally she took in her intruder. Adeline might as well have shit her pants and called herself a dead woman.There in the hallway, cupping his nose as he tried to raise himself from the floor was no other than the infamous Eye of Zaun.Silco.Oh, she were fucked. So, so, so fucked.“Sir! Oh my god.” Adeline shot across the hallway, helping him off the floor. After helping him however, he immediately grabbed her by the throat again, pinning her against the wall in the process this time.“Would you like to explain yourself!” He snarled. Blood still leaking freely down his lower face. What a sight.Hand tightening around her neck from the lack of an answer, she quickly provided one.“I- I thought you were someone trying to take Jinx! I’m so sorry.” Her own hands now clawed on his wrist, panic setting in.“And what,” he spit “were you doing in her room in the first place?” His nails were now digging into her throat, at this point, probably drawing blood. Adeline hissed from the pain.“She-” Adeline gasped, she was going to run out of oxygen before she could even explain. Silco didn’t loosen his grip even a minuscule. Adeline swore she felt him tighten. She was going to die from a misunderstanding.When Adeline said she would be killed for this, hadn’t actually meant it. Dread filled her from the bottom up. Black spots begin to cloud her vision. Still gasping for a breath. Slowly losing consciousness, she barely heard a door cracking open, before slamming against a wall.“Dad, wait!” A sob ripped through the plea. “I’m sorry! Please don’t hurt Adeline Please!”Silco, obviously startled by the reaction, dropped Adeline to the floor. Thudding against the wood, she heaved through her bruised throat, wrapping her hand softly around it. Tears of shock formed in Adeline's eyes however, she dared to not let them drop.“Adeline!” Jinx cried. Running over to her and placing her small hands onto Adeline's curled up form on the floor. Jinx hurriedly explained to her father.“It’s my fault! I asked her to stay with me! I didn’t mean to make you angry! I—I-” panicked sobs shook through her small figure. “I didn’t mean for anyone to get hurt!”Catching Adeline breath finally, she looked up to Jinx seeing her tiny shaking figure. Adeline felt horrible. Those couple of hours of comfort she had provided Jinx had now seemingly vanished. This wasn’t anyone's fault but Adeline's own. She knew what would happen, and yet she had chosen to stay anyway.Adeline hauled herself up quickly, dropping her hand from her throat in an effort to feign calmness, despite what just occurred.“Hey… It’s okay, Jinx. I’m okay!” Adeline provided hoarsely. “It’s not your fault, love. I hit your father first, it’s just–” taking a steadying breath and shooting a glance at Silco trying to convey a message to just follow along however, Adeline met with his own terrified expression. She realized he felt just as horrible as Adeline did. “It's just a big misunderstanding, hon.” Adeline added. Jinx looked up from her hands that had sneaked up to her face, seemingly surprised by the information.“R-really?” She hiccuped out.“Yup. Clocked your old man right on the nose. I know where you get your sneakiness from now.”Jinx turned towards her father now, likely inspecting the damage. She eyed him silently, head filled with thoughts. Adeline nudged her slightly, providing her a stupid grin.“Got 'em good, didn’t I?” Adeline provided lamely, grinning anyhow. Jinx giggled at that. “There we go, I promise we’re fine, love,”Adeline said. Jinx looked at her questioningly.“Pinkie promise?” Her voice cracked slightly. Adeline raised her pinkie in response, hooking it softly with her smaller one. “Pinkie promise, hon.” She smiled a little, before turning to her father, holding up her pinkie towards him as well. Regaining his composure quickly, he sighed and knelt down to her level. Hooking his own long, skinny pinkie to her own.“I apologize for frightening you Jinx, me and Miss Adeline,” he shot her a glance “Just woke up on the wrong foot.”Seemingly satisfied, she gave a quick hug to Silco, before turning to Adeline and repeating the action. A little selfishly, Adeline wraps her own arms around her to keep her longer. Looking up at Silco for a fraction before averting her gaze. Jinx pulled back.“Jinx,” Silco called for her attention, “I’m canceling your lessons for the day.”“Really?” Jinx squealed “Why?”Silco softened ever so slightly, something Adeline had never imagined seeing. Maybe it was because he planned on getting rid of Adeline anyways.“Consider it a day off, now go back to bed, if what you told me is true, you’ve only gotten around four hours of sleep.” He raised his good brow expectingly. Jinx bounced on her feet, scurrying back to her room. Before she closed the door, she shot Adeline one last look.“Thank you, Adeline” Finally she closed the door.
Damn my softness.
As soon as the door closed, Silco rounded on Adeline. She tensed immediately, pointedly avoiding his gaze and making her figure as small as possible.Although, she had put on a brave front for Jinx, Adeline was terrified and frankly, still in shock.The entire situation reminded Adeline too entirely of another situation that she hadn’t been as lucky to get out of. Adeline pushed those thoughts away as hard as possible.She couldn’t afford to break down right now.Silco stepped closely towards her. Chewing on words, as the silence set in like a thick fog.“Go home. You will not be returning for your shift tonight.” Adeline winced that. That most likely meant tonight or ever.Without waiting another moment, she walked hurriedly down the hallway.Adeline just wanted to get home now.
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Adeline couldn’t breathe.The pressure of a sharp limb pressed against her throat hard, pinning her against something. A wall? It was cold.She couldn’t see. But she could feel it.Adeline could feel the way her throat burned against the pressure and how raw it felt from her screams. Adeline could feel wandering hands, grabbing and kneading against her body. She could feel chills against exposed skin. She could feel the pain as fresh bruises bloomed against her body.She could feel it. And she wished she couldn’t.Slowly the once sharp pain that had pinned her against the wall faded. Only for it to begin to squeeze. Adeline was being choked, she realized.With this new revelation, slowly her sight returned only to be met with a black pool of an eye, glowing red with fury.In her panic, she hadn’t really paid attention to Silco’s face from the events that took place yesterday.His face had been flushed red, eyebrows pitched tightly together. Thin lips stretched around a snarl as he bared his teeth at her. Adeline could see how tightly his jaw clenched together, gums white from stress. His usually well-kept hair was messy, falling on his forehead in thick strands. She had guessed that had happened when she quite literally head-butted him.She couldn’t forget the blood.The same color of his undershirt. Adeline slightly wondered if he took a sample of it when describing the color to his stylist. It ran down his mouth, smeared from his previous attempts to wipe it off, dripping steadily from his chin. It hadn’t looked like she had broken it; however, his nose still looked the same.His grip got tighter. Tighter. Tighter. Until finally–Adeline woke up with a burning fever. Heaving against her grey sheets, trying to calm down. Her hand had automatically shot up to her throat, pressing down on the fresh bruises.Adeline hissed in pain. She hadn’t even checked the damage when she had gotten home. She opted to just throw herself into bed. Scared of seeing the results.Taking a steadying breath, she pushed off her mangled sheets, heading towards her bathroom. Eventually she would need to take care of herself, she had to suck it up.Pushing open the bathroom door, she faced the only mirror in her apartment, which was cracked and dirtied from lack of consistency with homeowners.Hesitating, Adeline slowly reached out with shaking hands to swipe on her lights.
God, why was this so hard.
Adeline patched herself before, in arguably worse conditions. Being a bartender at The Last Drop– she winced at her words.She wasn't a bartender at The Last Drop anymore.She flipped on the switch, finally.Taking in her appearance, she stifled any chance of breaking down.“You’re stronger than that.” Adeline persuaded herself.She could trace two long hand prints around her neck. Purples, blues, and reds bloomed against her neck. She swore she could feel throbbing.Turning half-way around Adeline could recognize reddening indents where his fingernails had dug into her skin.She had been right about drawing blood as well it seems. Although now they were crusted over, healing slowly.Adeline couldn’t help the wave of nausea that hit her. Seeing herself like this, again. She didn’t want to even look at herself anymore.Hardening her face into a neutral expression, she turned on her faucet and grabbed the nearest towel.
Unfortunately, Adeline has to settle for tap water.
Although she turned the water to its hottest temperature, it was lukewarm at best. Slowly, she began dabbing the towel as gently as possible, onto her swollen neck.Hissing instantly at the contact, Adeline couldn’t help the tears that began to prick at her eyes.Her job was gone, she looked pathetic, and she definitely didn’t have enough money to cover rent or food.But above all, knowing she wouldn’t be seeing Jinx again ate her heart.She felt stupid for caring for this kid so much. Here she was, on the verge of becoming homeless and yet she's worrying over the reason she got fired in the first place.No. Adeline knew the consequences. She's not going to blame her newfound problems on a kid.At least she can say she was above that.Finishing up, Adeline washed her face and patted herself dry. She had cried but only a little. Slowly, she made her way to the hole in the wall she had the audacity of calling a closet.She desperately wanted to cover up as much as possible.Out of sight, out of mind.The comfort that derived from those words are immense. They had gotten her through some rough shit in the past.Silently Adeline picked out a white altered turtle neck, and a soft grey pajamas. Adeline half-heartedly decided to leave her hair down, it’s not really like she had anywhere to go, so she dressed for her own comfort for once. She huffed as she finally sunk into her bed once more, with the resolve of not moving this time.And then Adeline heard a rough knock at the door.Eyebrow twitching in annoyance, she continued to lay in bed, deciding to ignore it. Adeline had a fucked up day and she deserve no interruptions.The knock came again, louder and more insistent.Groaning out loud, Adeline begrudgingly makes her way out of bed towards her door.“Fucking asshole! I swear people these days–” a knock again sounded from her door, cutting Adeline off.The audacity. “I’M–” she sigh, “I’m fucking coming! Just hold onto your ego for a second!”Finally Adeline reaches the door and swings it open.Adeline met face to face with none-other-than Sevika.And she looked rough.Dark circles had deepened their reddish-brown color. And her face was stuck in a permanent snarl, as her cigarette hung loosely from her lips. Most-likely her stress reliever of the night.Adeline's mind flooded with the events that took place only a day ago.“Sevika! What are you doing here? Don't tell me… Are you here to kill me?!”Adeline knew it was too good to be true, honestly she decked Silco in the face in front of his daughter and then she cried. Putting it that way made Adeline cringe, it sounded bad.A snort sent Adeline's head flying up to the source. Sevika, despite herself, had the smallest turn of her lips grow onto her face.“Gotta say even though you’ve made my life a living hell for the past day, I missed your comedic-effect, sunshine.” Sevika said gruffly.Adeline's eyebrows raised at the confession.“So… you're not here to kill me?” Adeline smiled uncertainty. More trying to convince her than a statement.“If I was ordered to kill you, I wouldn’t be wasting my time talking to you.” She deadpanned.Adeline nodded slowly. “Okayyy well, if you aren’t here to kill me,” her confidence rebooting at the information, Adeline let herbest shit-eating grin take over the frown that had been sitting on her face, “Did you come on your own accord?”Adeline looks up at Sevika through her lashes, innocently.Sevika rolled her eyes, she crossed her arms firmly. “Don’t get your hopes up Silco did send me, but he didn’t send me to kill you.”
That. That did not help ease any problems.
“Should I even ask what he wants?”Sevika laughed, quick and short.“I couldn’t tell you even if I wanted to. I have no clue.”Adeline was surprised by this. “You're his right hand man. Everyone and their mothers know that Silco tells you everything but you're trying to tell me that he didn’t tell you anything concerning one of his ex-employees?” Adeline didn’t try to hide the suspicion oozing from her words.Sevika’s eyebrows also shot up momentarily. “Since when are you an ex-employee?”“Since I decked Silco.” Adeline deadpanned.Sevika quietened for a moment.“Your joking?” She said ridiculously. “You? punched Silco?”Adeline sucked in a breath.“I wouldn’t say punched–” she began.“Then what?” Sevika interrupted, annoyed.“More like… I purposefully crashed the back of my head into his face and made his nose bleed…?” Adeline winced slightly at the sharp pull of air Sevika made.Looking up at her once more, Sevika’s eyes were practically bulging out of her head. Adeline could see the cogs turning as she pieces together her own information.The next few moments were quiet as Sevika stomped out the rest of her cigarette.“Look, all I know is that I’m supposed to bring you to Silco. Said he wanted to have a meeting.” She sighed. “I don’t know what he wants but I doubt he’d make me bring you back to his office to kill you, it’s not like he’s making an example out of you.”This was ridiculous. A meeting? Did he just expect me to walk right back into the lion's den? I wasn't the brightest in the box but I had survival instincts at the very least. I wanted to trust Sevika but I also didn’t want to die, and I was already been almost-dead yesterday.Sevika must have caught onto her hesitation. “Ya’know, whether you like it or not, you have to come with me. Because if you deny this meeting, your question’s answer will change from a non-definite to a definite.” She finished, looking at her expectantly.
Right. No one says no to Silco. Adeline sighs, defeated.
“Okay. I’ll come.”The walk over to The Last Drop had her jittery with nerves. Honestly, what was stopping this man from slitting her neck as soon as she pushed her way through the door? Maybe he wouldn’t even be that merciful, maybe he’d draw out her death in front of Jinx to make an example out of her… Adeline's mind flooded back to the girl with braids. The way she had sobbed in that hallway had broken her heart, Adeline didn’t want to see her like that again.Making her way to the front door, Sevika slowly yanked open it, holding it for Adeline. It was a Monday now, 6 PM. Familiarity filled Adeline’s senses. Right now she'd be clocking in for her shift, sliding into her worn out apron and chatting up her regulars. Adeline couldn’t help but slide her gaze over to the bar, only to be met with a gut twisting sight. There a beefy, tatted-out man stood in her place. He was getting ready to clock in, and Adeline had never seen him before. Gut-twisting tightly, she realized that she had been replaced in no less than twenty-four hours. She felt like she could sob all over again, that same feeling of dread settling over her like a weighted blanket.Sevika cleared her throat from behind her, pointedly avoiding what Adeline was looking at as she ushered her up the stairs. Before Adeline knew it, she was already at Silco’s door waiting to enter. Sevika tapped the door twice with her mental arm, the sound distinct against the fine wood door. A couple of moments passed before any confirmation was responded.“Come in.” Silco drawls out, seemingly bored.Sevika, again, holds open the door for Adeline. Only this time, she doesn’t follow her in. She nods at Silco before shooting Adeline one last glance that seemed to translate into “good luck” before shutting the door.Hesitantly, Adeline turned towards Silco. Standing tightly. Silco slowly takes her into account, raising his good brow. He was perched at his desk, arms crossed serenely. He extends his hand, obviously gesturing to a chair. “Do take a seat, we have much to go over.” He says simply.Adeline didn’t reply, instead opting to just do whatever he said. Rigidly, she placed herself in the seat provided in-front of his desk. Wring her hands on her lap. Waiting for him to speak. He seems to be observing Adeline with slight interest. Adeline makes a good point of avoiding his gaze once again. Even if Adeline wasn't looking at Silco. She could feel the man's eyes were on her. “Jinx tells me that you helped put her to sleep.” Adeline nods, still avoiding his gaze. “She also told me that when you were asked to stay, you stayed.” Adeline nodded againHis gaze narrows in consideration.“Why exactly did you attack me that morning?” He could not be serious. Hot anger-seared through her at the question.“You grabbed me,” Adeline nose flared “from my neck,” she noticed that her neck burned from that statement, “At 9 o’clock in the morning in Jinx’s room!” The ridiculousness of the question was mind blowing. “I thought you were an intruder! I thought you were gonna hurt or take Jinx!” Adeline was yelling now, hands flailing animatedly. “And then!” The air was leaving her out of exasperation. “As a reward for my efforts I was choked out, and I almost died that morning, and I was terminated from my job!” Adeline got out of her chair and began pacing, as if she were pleading her case before execution.“I’ve worked here for little over a year now, your bar was barely selling before I showed. I raised your sales by 50% in my time here, and you replace me in twenty-four hours? And now what, you're going to have me killed? Most of you employees treat Jinx like shit, to be frank. And unfortunately for me, I care about Jinx! I just wanted her to sleep comfortably, a lot of us don’t get that down here and–” Suddenly, her pacing is stopped by two hands catching her wrists gently.Silco had, at some point, gotten up from his desk and now she was no more than two inches from his body. His brows furrowed as he looked down at her. Adeline quickly realized this was the first time she had looked him in the eye since the incident.Both of them froze only for a couple moments longer before Silco removed his hands from Adeline, stepping-back a safe distance. She mimicked his actions, tearing her gaze away from him.“I don’t recall firing you.” He voiced. He walked over to his desk once more and fiddled around in his drawer.“You told me, and I quote, “You will not be returning for your shift tomorrow.” End quote.” She deadpanned. “Excuse me if I assumed you never wanted to catch me in the Lanes again, let alone The Last Drop.” Her voice was evidently smaller than before as she returned to her seat.Slowly Silco retrieves a tin box that he flips open. Inside, laid out on plush velvet fabric, laid a handful of pricy cigars.Instantly the room was flooded with the scent of woody tobacco. The smell deep and rich.It embodied Silco all too well.He simply hummed in response to her explanation. He reached again into his drawer to pull out his cigar trimmer. Lining it up with a finely chosen cigar, the device snipped away at it cleanly.“Everything you’ve stated is true, and I do hope you know it hasn’t gone unnoticed.” He paused, eyes snapping up at Adeline. “However, with your recent displays, I’d like to offer you a different job. I’d pay you twice the amount you were making as my night-shift bartender and–” He checked her with a narrowing of his eye. “It would involve Jinx.”Adeline couldn’t help the confusion that flooded her features. She had been so sure that she was going to die no more than two minutes ago. Now, Adeline was being offered a new job that paid twice as much? What the fuck was going on.At her lack of response, Silco’s features tightened. “Listen, girl.” He sneered. “The actions you displayed are hard to come by. They are exactly what I need however, for this position. I know you are more than capable of handling this.” He finished, raising his brow in impatience.“W-what” she huffs “What is the job, exactly?” Obviously pleased, Silco explains.“You’d be somewhat of my personal assistant. You can read and write, yes?”“Of course,” Adeline nodded quickly.“Good. In the evenings you will be joining me in my office to deal with paper work, meetings and documentations. However, your main task will be assigned to Jinx. Consider yourself as Jinx’s personal bodyguard. You’ll see to it that she is well-protected. You’ll also be in charge of her day-to-day items as well. Including her studies and outings.”Adeline sat in silence. This all sounded too good to be true. She loved Jinx. She had no issue with being paid to basically hang out with her. Basically, Adeline was a glorified babysitter. She knew she could also handle the assistant position, even though it was daunting. Adeline being in the same room as Silco, leader of Zaun, helping him with paperwork. That aside however, everything else sounded fine, and she knew she'd eventually got used to it. Okay. Yeah okay.“… Alright, I’ll do it.”Silco’s lips somewhat upturned at the confirmation. Adeline also noted that his shoulders sag slightly. He finally takes a long drag from his now-lit cigar, almost as a toast.“Lovely, you’ll be starting Wednesday. Come in around 2:00 pm.” The words roll off his tongue languidly.Adeline let any ounce of professionalism wash over her. “Of course, thank you for the opportunity, sir.” She stands to make her leave.“Adeline” Silco called out. She pauses at the door.
This is the very first time he called her by her name…
God, now what?
Adeline turned half-way. “Yes, Sir?”He rolled the words in his mouth for a couple of moments, seemingly still deciding, before looking up once more. He had that same softness she had seen him look at Jinx with, her nerves melted instantly with the look.“... Ice your neck every fifteen minutes or so, any irritation or bruising should fade out by your next shift.”If he had said it any softer she would have thought she had imagined it.Absent-mindedly, she tugged at the collar of her white altered turtleneck. Why did he care? She could feel her defences rise quickly once more, eerily, like a provoked feline.With the snarkiest voice she could muster, Adeline uttered, “Right back at you.” She tapped her nose three times. She bit and left without another word.If he said anything in turn, she didn’t hear it.
The audacity of that man.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
It wasn’t that she necessarily thought Jinx would have a bad reaction to her new position. Frankly, she would have been a little hurt if that had been the case.Still, Adeline wasn't expecting this big of a reaction.It was a lot earlier than 2pm as Silco had requested, Adeline had wanted to stop by Jinx to tell her the news and gauge her reaction, but at her arrival. Silco had decided he’d like to have a last minute conversation with you.According to Silco, it was simply ironing out any final queries she needed answered and going over standard procedures.Adeline wearily believed it was just one last intimidation tactic.Now, Adeline made her way to Jinx’s room, still wiping the grog off her exhausted face.Unsurprisingly, she hadn’t slept at all.With her already pre-existing sleeping issues, she had long since gotten prescription sleeping medication to soothe her troubles, and in preparation for today Adeline had taken them early the previous night. Though Adeline has been using the same dosage for around a decade now, the medication always seemed to pull through, even on the worst of her nights.However, for the first time in nearly a decade, she considered a higher dosage.The medication never worked, though she had a slight idea as to why.It was the promotion. Definitely, the promotion. At the time of accepting the new title, Adeline had rationalized the idea so thinly, she hadn’t let herself mull over the idea. Adeline hadn’t had the chance to recognize any sort of cons.Now however, now it was a completely different narrative.In her idiocy, she had accepted a bodyguard position from possibly the most wanted, as well as potentially dangerous man in Zaun. Hell— in Piltover, and had compared it to that of a babysitter position. Not to mention the addition of “personal assistant”. She handled and retained some of Silco’s most important documents.She’d be over-seeing shipments, meetings, official cash-counts, and reading into any and all discrepancies.Adeline may have as well stripped naked and painted herself a moving target.She sighed animatedly.That’s not what scared Adeline though. None of it scared her. She grew up in Zaun, she knew that seated underneath Silco would probably be the best position that could be offered to her down here, than in Piltover. Adeline rationality wasn’t in vain. The pay was good, and Silco treated his workers well for the most part.How fearsome could one be if he let his employees die or become injured with out outside consequences?Adeline had gotten this position served to her on a silver plate. It couldn’t be simpler.No, none of that was the part that scared her. It was her own relentlessness that did. She knew subconsciously that as Jinx’s bodyguard you’d be responsible for her at all times outside of her fathers reach. She knew the lengths she would go to make sure Jinx was okay. It was displayed during their… “confrontation” with Silco three days ago. That’s why he had hired her in the first place. No one else was willing to put themselves into harm's way for the blue haired miscreant. Yet, Adeline had chosen to do so without pay.Just to get it off her chest, Adeline actually felt quite conscious about receiving pay for hanging out with Jinx. What if Jinx found out and took it to heart?Silco had rolled his eyes when you had slyly mentioned it during your morning check-in.“Would you rather I didn’t pay you? I expect you have some sort of other income that comes in after your full-time, twelve-hour shifts?“ He deadpanned, looking entirely too done with the conversation.Even going as far to pinch the brim of his nose in frustration.“Please, don’t let your heroism get in the way of your rationalism. You’ve already kept Jinx company without the additional pay for a year now.”The memory filled Adeline's mind vividly. Silco had almost looked angry at Adeline for the mere suggestion of no-pay. She didn’t understand the rudeness honestly. Just one less person to pay, right? It almost felt like she was being chided by a parent.
It felt dehumanizing.
Adeline bristled suddenly. That was the second time he had done that. She could take care of herself, if she couldn’t, she wouldn’t be here looking after his daughter.Adeline snapped back to her original contemplation. Heaviness seeping into her chest where the short-term annoyance had once been settled.Silco. She huffed at the name momentarily, and explained further that morning of her duties and expectations. He had begrudgingly, much to your glee, that Jinx already “tolerated” her. You believed that it was a smidge more than just toleration by the envy dripping from his voice at the confession, but Adeline made no voice of her thoughts.He had suggested to continue as she had previously.Slight problem was Silco wasn’t completely aware of Adeline's affections for Jinx. All he knew was that Jinx liked her and trusted her enough to comfort her through her worst.If he was already angst over the minimal affections Adeline gave, and received from Jinx. Adeline could only imagine his attitude towards her if she two got even closer.Adeline pushes the thoughts away for the moment, finding herself in front of Jinx’s room.Before Adeline's knuckles can even hit the wood of the little girl’s door, it swings open with vigour, and she is met with two very excited blue orbs and a loud, long, squeal. The girl immediately pounced to Adeline, wrapping her pale, speckled arms around her tightly, as if she'd vanish if Jinx didn’t.“I was so sure dad fired you! I missed you so so so so so so much!” Jumped up and down with each “so”.Adeline’s heart immediately swelled at the sentiment.“Thank you for confirming that. I had every right to believe I was fired,” Adeline giggled. “But I missed you a lot too, hon. And–” Adeline pulled her back slightly to meet her eyes. “I have some really exciting news.”Adeline displayed a toothy grin at the girl as her eyes seemed to glimmer with excitement.“What! What! Did you get me something? WAIT- wait don’t tell me–” Jinx bounced up and down on the pads of her feet circling around Adeline. All she could do is follow her movements with her eyes, fairly amused by her hyperactivity.Jinx gasped and pointed at Adeline accusingly, “You got me a puppy! No, no! A kitten!”“Woah, woah, woah, are you telling me you only want me if you get something out of it?” Adeline raises her eyebrow playfully at the jittery girl.“Nooooo,” she said mischievously “It wouldn’t hurt though?” She peered up at Adeline, a smirk playing on her tiny lips.Adeline laughed, “I’ll keep that in mind, but no I don’t have a gift unfortunately, unless you’d consider my company one?”Jinx squealed. “You mean your hanging out with me today? For how long? All day?!” Her smile looked like it would break her face.Adeline put her hand up to her own cheek, faking a pondering expression, trying her best not to smile and give herself away. “Wellllll,” She dragged out the syllable to add suspense. Adeline was definitely having way too much fun with this.“More like, everyday. Until you, or your dad—” Adeline added pointedly, “—get sick of me that is.”“So, you're like, my personal best-friend?” Jinx’s smile was so wide that she was barely able to get her sentence out.“Pft,” Adeline rolled her eyes playfully. “Unless there’s another person I didn’t know about, I’ve always been your best friend, sucker.”Jinx softened for a mere moment, eyes meeting her's with something indescribable swimming with the deep pools. Before Adeline could identify it however, it was gone, replaced with sheer energy.“Let’s go hang out! Please? Pretty please? I’m hungry! We could go to Jericho’s, or, or–”Unfortunately, you had to cut her off before she went on a tangent of places to eat.“Woah woah, hold your horses baby blue,” Adeline giggled at the nickname. She quite liked that for Jinx.“It’s barely 9:30pm, how about I whip something up in the kitchen? Don’t forget you’ve got studies.” Swiftly Adeline turn to begin her departure, alluding to the kitchenJinx groaned, long and irritably.“Ughhhh, I don’t wanna! Classes are boring! And my teacher is mean!” She pouted, crossing her arms.Both Adeline's eyebrows raised slightly at the confession. She really hoped that it was an exaggeration.“Well, good for us then. Your teacher won’t be coming in today. He had a some other concerns, which means today, you get good ole’ me. Does that sound a little better?” Adeline holds out her hand slightly, inviting her to come with her.Jinx visibly deflated, sighing. She grumbled something that sounded like a, “I guess” before she walked over and grabbed Adeline's hand.“Don’t pout baby blue, tell you what, if you can stand me as your teacher and do well today,” Adeline paused, shooting her a look “–and I mean really well! Then I’ll see what I can do about some Jericho’s.”Jinx swings her connected arm excitedly, in turn swinging Adeline's.“Okay!”Adeline smiled outwardly, unable to regret her promise at Jinx excitement. Still, Adeline was not looking forward to meeting with Silco about potential Jerichos. I can't meet him… not after what happened lately… Adeline placed two plates on the table, and immediately Jinx began to dig in.“This is so good!” Jinx says, a mouthful of french toast.Or what Adeline could get closest to that of french toast.“Thank you but don’t choke, your dad will have my head!” Adeline says softly, setting down a cup of water next to the girl.Adeline reached for the math books that had been assigned to her for today, flipping them open. Adeline set up quickly, hoping that eating and studying would be casual enough for Jinx.“Alright, so it looks like you need some work on your current math unit.” Adeline squinted at the notes. They seemed rushed and bored.These had been the teacher’s notes that Silco had handed to Adeline and she couldn’t help but look over them with critique. There were harsh comments at the end of each day, scolding Jinx in writing.Won’t sit still, keeps bringing in outside distractions, will not allow her interference, will not learn if energy isn’t handled, etc, etc.Adeline looked over at Jinx curiously, she supposed all she could do is observe and find out for herself.“Alright, how about you work independently for the time being, and if you need my help just ask, okay?” Adeline closed the notes and sat on them.Adeline didn’t want Jinx to see the rude comments.“Wait really?” Jinx leaned forward, somewhat surprised. “I can do it by myself?”Confused, Adeline confirmed, “Of course? Just make sure you ask questions when you have them. There’s one lesson after this which, I mean I’ll have to butt in for, but then we can go back to independent work if you get the media.”And with that Jinx got right to work. Completely focused.Adeline looked over the lesson plans as she dug into her own plate.Adeline could definitely get used to having most of the ingredients she wanted for breakfast, she thought amusingly.These plans were written out in the curved, slanted, slow font she was all too familiar with. Adeline found it funny that Silco took it upon himself for Jinx’s literature portion. English and History were his own lesson plans, and the teacher, from his notes, Adeline had finally gotten the name Mr. Ruddson, only handled math and science.Silco had assigned a couple of recognizable books, others not so much.Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet, The Giver, and Lord of the Flies— all books she’d been able to snag in her own youth.Silco had assigned, however, a 500 page workbook called “The Big Book of Cursive”, all pages were writable in, and each page would have a pangram printed on the top, in perfect cursive. Each sentence had to be copied down a total of ten times, and a minimum of five pages had to be completed every lesson.Adeline smiled to herself, finding humour in the sternness communicated through the lesson plans.The lessons weren’t for nothing though, Jinx’s handwriting was coming along nicely. It looks as though Jinx had already gotten through half of the book, although some pages had been ripped out, the evidence apparent via harsh jagged edges in the book.A pen slamming down the table snapped Adeline out of Adeline thoughts momentarily.“Done!” Jinx held up the the math workbooks triumphantly, chest puffed out.Adeline's eyebrows raised in surprise, but decided to indulge her anyways. “Alright, you mind if I check that over, speedster?” She held out your hand expectantly and Jinx confidently handed her the workbook.As Adeline flipped open the book and looked it over, your jaw fell slightly open. Not only had Jinx answered all the questions, correctly you may add, but she also double checked with the provided method for each problem. Her graphs were neat, and her points were plotted expertly. You fought back the concern from showing on your face, if Jinx could do this all by herself, why were the grades recorded so low?“This…this is really good Jinx. I mean, you didn’t even miss one. Do you know what you did differently this time?” Adeline questioned, trying to seem positive.Jinx’s smile faltered a little before she sunk back into her chair.“I know I’m not supposed to do it that way but the other equation just doesn’t work.” She confessed as she picked around her plate.Confusion fully swept Adeline. Eyebrows knitted together. Sure, Jinx had done the initial equation in a different way, but it worked. It’s not like she made it up either, it’s just a simpler method.Jinx catches notice of your expression, worry eating at her face.“I- I can do it the other way, it’ll just take me longer b-but I can do it–” Jinx goes to reach for the workbook but Adeline quickly slides it away from her.“Woah hey, I’m not gonna make you re-do all these problems. You did them perfectly the first time.” Adeline assured her.Adeline is not allowing her to fix her “mistakes” however, seemed to slightly set her off further.“N-no! I can do it, I promise. Please, I don’t want bad grades anymore, I want to do good.” She pleaded, trying to pull the workbook from Adeline's grasp.Adeline starts to click together the pieces slowly, so instead of denying the blue haired girl again Adeline gently pry her hands back and open the book to her most recent page.Grabbing Adeline's pen, she writes her grade at the top of her paper fluidly and slides the book towards her.Jinx snatches the book reading it over quickly. Her once scared face now confused.“I got an A? B-but–” She starts.“No buts. You got them right didn’t you?”Jinx nods slowly.“Jinx,” Adeline says, a serious tone edging at your voice. “Does your teacher mark you down because you didn’t do it the harder way?”Again she nods.“Mr. Rude–” You blink at nicknames. “Says if it’s not done his way it’s not right. He says I’m taking the easy way out just like everything else I do.”Adeline notices that Jinx’s vision seems to be focusing and unfocusing. Her lips moved in silent words as if she was replying to something silent. Her hand came to rest against her forehead as she muttered and nodded. She was debating something, to someone.Jinx chews on her lip, obviously wanting to say more.Adeline reaches across the table and gently encases her hand on her own.“Go on love, I’m listening.”Jinx breaks then. She tells Adeline that Mr. Ruddson talks down to her regularly. Apparently he believes that Jinx gets everything handed to her and that she’s been regularly yelled at, berated, and called names.Brat, lazy, and idiot are the most common.The pages that were missing in the cursive hand book?Mr. Ruddson would tear out any pages he disliked and made her do more to make up for them, even though the textbook is clearly stated as casual practice in Silco’s Ed plan.As a result of Jinx’s natural talent to work smarter and not harder, Mr. Ruddson would not allow Jinx to work independently, instead he’d hover over her, assuring she was doing the lesson his way.He had also threatened her with making up stories of her disobedience, saying he would tell her father.It seems Mr. Ruddson has taken Jinx’s disciplinary education into his own hands as well.Adeline felt horrible for Jinx but she decided to replace it with the hot-searing anger that was building up in her stomach instead.Adeline was gonna make this guy wish he had just quit and she was gonna do it through the man he’d be threatening Jinx with.For now however, Adeline sat by Jinx looking over her as she practiced her cursive, every now and then correcting her form gently and letting write once more without interruption.She leaned into you as she hummed to herself and swung her legs back and forth, obviously relieved to let go of the secret.Adeline's apprehension about approaching Silco no longer revolved about the said man, now Adeline just wanted to see him sooner. Adeline gave the door three swift knocks before immediately entering.“I need to speak with you.”Silco looks up slowly from his paperwork, taking in her, he looks at Adeline up and down before looking back down, scribbling away.“Didn’t we agree to have our first check-in tomorrow evening?” He drawls, obviously hinting that he did not appreciate the interruption.“We did.”Adeline plopped herself down onto the seat directly in-front of him, throwing the grade folder on top of the paperwork he was currently immersing himself with.He shot Adeline a quick glare as warning, however it slightly faltered as it met her expression. Only for a moment however, as he quickly recovered and turned his attention towards the file.Slowly, he opened the file and peered inside, eyes darting over the information printing inside. His eyebrows furrowed momentarily, a slight frown tugging at his carefully neutral face.“Jinx’s scores seem to have dramatically improved since yesterday,” Silco’s eyes narrowed at Adeline.“I will have you know, I don’t appreciate free-handouts for Jinx. There will be consequences next time.” He sneered, throwing the file back to Adeline, it landing uselessly in-front of her.Adeline couldn’t help but scoff.“Jinx doesn’t need me to go easy on her,” she shot back. “She’s a genius kid, perfectly capable.”Silco opened his mouth to make the point that her past grades. Adeline held a finger up, effectively cutting him off.“I’m not finished.”Adeline took a deep breath.“I don’t need to go easy on Jinx, and she certainly doesn’t need a teacher going purposely out of their way to make things harder on her either,”Pausing, she met his eyes once more.“Especially just because she’s your daughter.”Silco’s teeth gritted, chiseling out his cheekbones quite nicely. “What are you implying, exactly?”Exasperatedly, Adeline flip open the file once more and turn to the grades that Mr. Ruddson had so graciously recorded.Adeline also pulled out Mr. Ruddson’s personal notes that had been scribbled down on Jinx’s lesson plans.Carefully, she slid both back towards Silco.“This teacher you hired, Mr. Ruddson, has been berating Jinx behind your back.”Silco picks up the personal notes then, eyes sliding robotically over the scrawl. Anger setting in.“He’s taken it upon himself to proceed with any disciplinary measures without your consent. He thinks–” Adeline pauses for a moment, tasting the words in her mouth. Saying this could mean life or death really for Mr. Ruddson. Silco catches her eye at her hesitation.“He thinks, what?” Silco is waiting for her answer with a careful expression. Adeline swallows before continuing, finding her anger once more.“He believes that Jinx is misbehaved because you don’t know how to parent. He writes about it in page twenty-seven of his journal.”Silco is practically fuming. His fingers diligently flip over to what she believes is page twenty-seven, and he begins his study.
Seriously, who kept a journal of shit talking about students? Who was dumb enough to shit-talk the leader of Zaun and then leave the journal lying around?
Adeline was seriously beginning to question if this so-called “teacher” was even qualified to be teaching.Adeline sits there for around ten minutes as he flips through the book. In the silence opting to study the man.Silco’s form was hunched now, his head being held up by the two languid fingers on his forehead, twitching slightly at the skin every moment or so. Although his mouth was closed tightly. Adeline could still identify his tongue, rolling around in his mouth, poking out through his cheek. His other arm was stretched across the fine oak desk, tapping an unlit cigar in a rhythmical beat.Tap. Tap tap tap. Tap tap. Tap. Repeat.Although Adeline would guess any other person would find the beat somewhat unsettling, she found it oddly familiar, grounding. Adeline couldn’t place it though.Her eyes rake down the rest of the man. Finely dressed, layers of deep red and browns brought out his skin nicely, pairing well with his left side. Slim wrists were adorned with heavy cuffs, that were embellished in fine designs of gold.Silco’s style was much more premeditated, designed to symbolize power in a way that didn’t seem too garnish, but still recognizable. Compared to some of other Chem-Barons Adeline had the displeasure of meeting. She found it tasteful. Mature. Attractive.Adeline wasn't blind. She could recognize that Silco was attractive, somewhat unconventional, but attractive nonetheless. It could have been the confidence and the way he carried himself. He was the epitaph of what a man of Zaun should be, though she’d never admit it out loud, fretting the man’s head would only get larger. Although she found Silco to be somewhat of a pain in the ass. She did remind her that he was the father of the little girl that she was all too fond of, who was currently taking a nap in her room after the exhausting conversation.Adeline rubbed her neck subconsciously. She slowly set her head backwards. Resting her head to the chair. She had carried Jinx back to her room again, trying to get her mood up. The bruises, blooming in blue and purple, did not appreciate the pressure of the small hands and arms.Suddenly, Silco snapped the notes closed with one hand. Although he played a neutral expression. She peered at him, she noticed the occasional twitch of his brows.He was fuming. He turned his attention to Adeline. “Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I intend to have a heavy word with Mr. Ruddson.” His voice was near that of a whisper, all the more threatening. He turned his attention back to his paperwork, finally. Shuffling the papers together, and tapping them against the desk, seemingly ending the conversation.Adeline sat in silence for a mere few seconds, she didn’t want just one word. She didn’t want Mr. Ruddson anywhere near Jinx, and she didn’t want to give Silco the impression that there was room for second chances.“I do hope it is more than just a word, especially with your reaction with me going too easy on Jinx.”Adeline could help but add the last part, maybe just as a pointed reminder. She makes her point to stand, reaching for the textbooks and notes to collect and return to Jinx. Silco rests his hand on top of one of the last books; her hand had been going to grab, in result Adeline's hand laid on top of his own. It took her a fleeting moment to process what was happening, she was so tired, and sleepy, before she shivered at the contact and pulled her hand back in a way that symbolized a flinch.“I… I'm sorry. I didn't…” Adeline nervously uttered. God his hands were incredibly cold.Silco, also seemingly stunned by the contact for a moment, clears his throat and awkwardly pushes the book towards her, looking back at his papers once again. “Rest assured, Mr. Ruddson–” He hisses the name, as though it’s gone sour in his mouth.“–Will be dealt with.”Malice. She recognizes it in the last part of the sentence. She wondered what exactly was wrong with her, as she found comfort in it. Adeline can only nod as she picks up the book, and makes way for the door.“Ah, and Adeline,”“Yes, sir?”Adeline turns at the call of her name, hand resting gently against the handle. Meeting his narrowed, striking blue eye.“Send Jinx up on your way down, I’d like to check in with her.”Adeline softened at the sentiment. Although he had said it sternly, she could identify the worry lilting at his voice.“Of course Sir.” she whispered.Adeline opened and shut the door behind her; the door clinking softly.The door swings open, her head peeking in again. Silco was startled by her action.“By the way Sir, I’m bringing take-out for Jinx, from Jericho’s, would you like anything?” she smiled.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Adeline's bruises are now healed. She can now wear her usual clothes. Sando with straight cut out, and blue jeans.Suddenly, a snort ripped its way through the deadly silent room.Adeline's eyes widened at the sound, staring at the man seated in-front of her with wonder.Immediately his hand flew up, palm facing her as he composed himself. It was only after his own gesture before she also tried to regain her own composure.Silco’s laugh was scarily human, it made all the weight and apprehension that Adeline previously had been carrying dissipate into something that felt more familiar. More casual.God did it feel freeing.Adeline flushed feeling somewhat accomplished, she didn’t overlook her twinge of embarrassment as well. After all, Silco was laughing at her and her query. Still, she could help the grin that overtook her face quite giddily. At the same time she decided to steal a glance at the man he had also tried doing the same, her eyes met and instead of her walls building up, all she could do was smile at the man cheekily. Silco stared back at her, mirth dancing within his own eye.Finally, he laid his hand down.The silence that followed wasn’t uncomfortable, or heavy. Instead it was used as a time for observation. A way to follow up. Adeline could observe that Silco was visibly rolling his choice of words on his tongue, although it seems he’s been faced with a standstill. She took pity.“Well, who knew the man upstairs could laugh.”The statement came out a little more airily than she would have liked, it mimicked some type of disbelief in the situation that had just occurred. Adeline looked at Silco, a smile playing at her lips.“Let alone snort.” She added.Silco sighed, somewhat defeatedly as he looped his fingers together, leaning on his desk. Although his neutrality had been flipped back on, Adeline could still see the amusement laid out on his features. She wished she could know what he was thinking about, as he stared her down, brows knitting and unraveling.Silence followed for awhile longer, before Silco spoke.“Let’s…” He starts somewhat unsure, before he settled.“Let’s keep this between us, hm?” Silco shot Adeline a wolf-ish grin at the proposal, head tilting slightly. It only lasted a moment, and she was sure she'll never be able to get that image out from within her memory again. Heat rising up her neck steadily.Adeline quite liked this casual Silco. She chuckled in response. She didn't know what he meant by that. Does he mean to keep his previous actions to me?... Or something more?“Of course, sir.” She added slyly.Pleased, Silco begins to scribble down something quickly, and he also fiddles around in presumably a drawer, blindly. He stands slowly, closing the drawer, fist closed over an object.He looks quite good, propped up over his desk Adeline thought offhandedly. Smirk still ghosted over his lips. Tongue poking his cheek, he does that a lot. She had noticed weirdly enough.A distinct, low hum filled the room momentarily, before Silco began to stride over to her, note in hand.“This is the list of the entrées, it includes Jinx’s favourited items as well. Make sure they’re extra spicy.”“I didn’t know Jinx was partial to spicy foods.” Adeline says, taking the note gratefully from Silco and taking in the cursive. Jericho’s items were very spicy when labeled as such, so it struck her as a surprise when the entrees that were already spicy were labeled with tiny “extra’s”“A menace she is.”Silco hums, fisted hand coming up. A small velvet purple bag drops down, hanging by the tightening threads.“This will assuredly cover the expenses and then some. Do make sure to get yourself something as well.”“Thank you for the thought, but it was supposed to be my treat, Sir.” She smiled up at the man, who was a lot closer than she had previously presumed.Silco clicked his tongue in disapproval. She sucked in a quick breath.Smoothly, he picked her hand and placed the bag into her palm. Adeline didn’t dare move, afraid her body would betray her in this crucial moment. Silco closes her fingers over the bag before retreating.“I don’t typically make my employees pay out of pocket, especially for my lunch.”Adeline nodded, holding her breath. Keeping her eyes locked with his own.“Fly along now, and don’t forget about sending Jinx up.” The stool creaked under her weight. She shivered lightly, the warmth radiating off of the stand contrasting harshly with the wind whipping and weaving its way through the alley’s of Zaun.Just as Adeline seated herself comfortably, the smell of eccentric spices, oil, and mystery seafood took over her senses.Immediately her stomach growled.It was the afternoon now, though she couldn’t spy any type of sunlight thanks to the craters that shielded Zaun from the warming rays. Adeline had leisurely taken her time on her journey to Jericho’s, still flushed from her interaction with Silco.Only now, did the racing of her heart start to subside.Adeline couldn’t even get a word out to him in her departure. She had been practically shaking by the time she reached Jinx, flushed from head to toe. Jinx had observed you incredulously, taking in her shocked form.“Are you okay? You look weird” she retorted. She scrunched her nose up, sitting up and rubbing her eyes, gently.“Yup! Fine, perfectly fine. Dad wants to see you!”Adeline groaned and slid her hands to her face, effectively drowning out her verbal embarrassment, coming back down from the memory.
How could she even think that way of Silco? Since when did she find the man that had choked you her, attractive?
Silco was a murder. He has indirectly, and directly her mind provided insufferably, killed thousands of children, women, and men. Piltover and Zaun alike. Flooded the streets with shimmer, something she could never look over.
Right now though, the man she had spoken to a couple of hours ago was too charming for such activities. He had put Adeline at ease in the lion’s den, when she had been scared shit-less of the man no less than two days ago. He had stood so close to Adeline, she could feel his breath, warm and inviting, smell, Oh too familiar cigars.
The worst part? Adeline wanted him closer, the warmth that she had felt in his office was nothing but a memory now, sitting alone at a food stand.
Maybe he was just really good at manipulation. Yeah. Silco was manipulating her into getting him food. Or getting what he wants from her. That’s what she was going to go with.The makeshift wooden counter screeched wearily from the sudden weight of a chunky arm. Adeline looked up to meet her eyes to the offender. Jericho smiled, wide and sharp, greeting her in his familiar gibberish. She couldn’t help but return the smile, worries washing off of her easily. What could she really say? Jericho just seemed to have that effect on people.“Missed me, big guy?”The man laughed heartily, arm crashing down onto her head, ruffling her head quickly before she had the chance to swat him off.“Hey! Watch it! I work for the big guys now. You don’t want me to make a fool out of myself do you?”She huffed but was secretly delighted by the attention. Jericho had become somewhat of a father figure for Adeline growing up. Hell, he was the reason Adeline got the position as bartender at The Last Drop in the first place. If it wasn’t for his pushing and his greasy flyer, none of this would have really happened.Sbe handed the man the small note Silco had provided before explaining.“Gotta big order for his majesty, think you can handle it?”Jericho’s smirk only increased as he garbled some sort of agreement. Immediately he got to work, back turned to Adeline. She relaxed at the familiarity of it. She used to come here in her teen years, it was the only comfort she got. Jericho would whip up her favourite, knowing her gruesome hours and home life, and when she…left, Jericho was the one to find Adeline. Lost and wary in the alley’s of Zaun. And he took her in, fed her, and let her break down even though she hadn’t known how to at first. Ever the “don’t let them see weakness” stereotype. Nonetheless, he had comforted Adeline, given her a roof over her head, and even a temporary job. Jericho had become her parent-like figure and she held his word as such. Adeline almost wanted to ask him his thoughts on her recent issues, like a troubled daughter.She watched the man work, shuffling hot oils and tossing different dried herbs harshly in a pan. Although she knew each recipe by heart, her cooking could never measure up to Jericho’s cooking, no matter how much spice she added or time she spent. Maybe it was because it was his native food, but she reckoned it was intent, maybe even love. Though it was a childish thought, there was something about the way Jericho made his food. Precise but nonchalant. He always had a smile playing at his expression, as if he knew it’d just work out in his favour.Adeline slumped forward, chin resting on her forearms. She was content with closing her eyes, keen on listening to the sizzling and popping of oil. She was honestly considering dozing off right here, it’s a wonder how at ease she felt in the middle of a dinky stall in the middle of the bustling streets of Zaun. Remembering the bag of money Adeline carried on her person though, kept her aware enough to not make such a stupid decision. Imagining the look of fury on Silco’s face in the events of losing the money he had so graciously offered and trusted with Adeline was one you’d much rather avoid.Plus, Jinx would be very hungry and very sad.Soon enough the food had been packaged carefully by the lumbering man, and placed in front of Adeline, the warmth radiating off the bag causing goosebumps. Quickly, she fiddled around in her pockets, pulling out the velvet bag. Adeline fingered out a couple of the golden coins that shined keenly back at her, and reached out her arm to drop said coins into Jericho’s own grip. However the man smiled, he shook his head at the payment, crossing his arms defiantly.“Jericho, no. Take the money.” Adeline whined. She shook her fist at the man, though he just laughed. He picked up another bag from below him and pushed it toward you, your name written half-hazardously on the side. Immediately you recognized the scent and were more determined to pay.“Nope. It’s not even my money! Just take it, I might get mugged if you don’t!” Adeline bargained for her safety, knowing Jericho would be more inclined to accept.To her dismay however, his expression didn’t change, instead he extended out his arm, attacking her hair once more. Mouth slightly agape, he turned to attend to his next customer. Adeline's heart swelled immensely, and she swore she could feel tears beginning to prick at her eyes. Taking a sharp breath, Adeline leaned over the counter and placed the money on the lower shelf, and as quickly as possible she bounded down the street, food hanging pre-cautiously from her arms. Adeline toed open the door to The Last Drop, hands full of piping hot food. Carefully, Adeline slipped through the door, it was dark out now, which meant the bar was bursting with energy. Loud music spilled out of the establishment, and almost immediately after she entered Adeline were crashed into a multitude of different bodies, all too drunk to care or pay any mind. Thankfully, she had quite sturdy feet, and the men that had crashed into her fell, rather than herself.“Fucking bitch, watch where your going.”One of the men had gotten up hastily, immediately hostile. Now face to face, Adeline recognized the all too familiar purple irises, unfortunately these men weren’t just drunk. “Well, well, well. It's the bartender, girl. Long time no see, gorgeous.” The man winked at Adeline. She scrunched her face. Disgusted by him. The man now stood directly in-front of her, blocking her way. Obviously he wanted a fight, or something else. Adeline could give him one. She decidedly, set the food down behind her.“And you can watch your fucking mouth,” was her rebuttal. “I was just coming through the door, you know, the only entrance? You're the one who crashed into me. And for your information, I'm not a bartender anymore.” She shot her arms out, pushing the man in the chest away from her, he was way too close to her. He didn’t appreciate it. As he stepped back, obviously caught off guard by her confidence, the two other men that had taken their time to get up grabbed her arms, pinning her in their grasp.“Gotcha, gorgeous.” One purred. Roughly in her ear. The man who was holding her was smelling her scent. She finds it really disgusting.
Great, they were friends.
“Let go of me!” She snapped. “How about I show you who's the real boss, gorgeous?… Let's see if you could still fight me,” The man swayed back into her vicinity, she caught a glimpse of something in his hand, but couldn’t recognize it. “Maybe this’ll loosen you up a bit.” He murmured.Adeline's heart began to race, she wasn't scared of the men but the situation she was in, and the contact didn’t sit well with her. She needed to end this quickly.Just as the first man got close enough, Adeline bent forward with as much force as possible, stealing her arms. The two men pinning her, both grips impossibly tight, flung forward with her but not with the same grace. Losing their balance, Adeline quickly stirred to the side, pulling her left arm underneath her, effectively pulling off the third man’s grasp, as he flew against the first. With sounds of a loud crash into the wooden floor being her only indication of defeat, Adeline turns her focus on the second man. Although he had lost his footing, he still held her right arm determinedly. With her arm outstretched, Adeline pulled him towards her, elbowing him in the gut while ramming into him with enough force to break a rib. Considering the crunching sound and the shriek that expelled, Adeline considered the job done. Now, all three men laid on the floor too high and hurt to move. Adeline huffed hotly, her heart beating too quickly, and the ringing in her ears only getting louder as she observed the scene in-front of her. It was only then did she finally realize that the object in the first offending man’s hand, was now injected to her waist. Adeline pulled it out. She stared at it. It was a golden rectangular syringe. It wasn't Shimmer as Adeline thought to herself. But An opaque white liquid. Half of the white liquid was already injected to her. Some left liquid slipped out of the needle. As Adeline held it on her hand.
What the hell is this?
She didn’t hear the several calls of her name as she crouched to her knees, as her body became numb. Gingerly, she held it up and turned the vial in her fingers, watching the liquid fizz and pop menacingly. Her hands shook violently, as nausea swept her fully. Any previous comfort or sentiments had completely disappeared from her person, and she desperately wanted it back. Adeline's composure abandoned, her body began its violent tremors as well.
Why? Why did they have this? How did they have this? Were they here? Had they come back for more? Why did it have to be me?
In Adeline's daze, she didn’t hear the metal tipped dress shoes approach. She didn’t hear any call or mention of her name. Adeline didn’t even notice the three bodies being dragged out underneath her vision, her focus solely on that of the needle encased in her trembling figure. It wasn’t until a hand, cautiously laid, fell on the back of her neck did she look up, eyes falling on that of a tall figure. Silco’s features were tight and calculating. He dissected her form in an instant, however it almost seemed shocked by her disheartening state. A rush of hot white embarrassment flooded her, and she could only do so much to stop the already pre-existing pin-pricking in her eyes. Still calculating, Silco’s features softened ever so slightly. She almost didn’t notice as the man bent down to his knee, matching her height and keeping eye contact. Almost. It was shocking to see The Eye of Zaun bend the knee, especially for Adeline. In her transfixion, the man picked at her hand, prying it open from her iron grip, it wasn’t until the needle had already been removed that she had noticed. Eyebrows pinched, he studied the object just as she had done, he kept his face carefully neutral for the minutes that followed. His focus turned to the men for half a moment, before looking at Adeline. It was a confirmation, she noticed, and nodded slowly. The man stood, and handed the vial to Sevika, before barking out orders, steely and heated. Silco was mad, and it was oddly comforting in a sick, morbid sense. It wasn’t until he was crouched down in-front of Adeline again that she noticed he was talking. Ears still ringing, she tried to focus in.“—ou hear me?” The man’s voice harshly contrasted his features. The soft voice was startling paired with his furious expression.“huh?” She answered dumbly. The ringing subsided momentarily.“Little dove, I asked if you could hear me.”Adeline blinked slowly, for a moment as she considered telling him no, as she is not sure if she's hearing things from the pet name that seemingly dripped from his mouth like he’s used it all his life.“Y-yes. Yes. I can hear you.” she saidHe nodded in relief. “Silco…” she added, she brought her wiggling hand to Silco’s forearm, gripping his forearm, her head was spinning, “The syringe… I… I think it's affecting me.” Adeline absentmindedly muttered. Silco held her shoulders, “Listen to me, I need you to go upstairs and wait in my office. Are you able to walk?”“I–yes I can walk.” She flushed, she hadn’t been injured.He nodded again, slowly he guided Adeline up as he rose himself. She spotted the bags of food behind him, and tried to walk to retrieve them. He squeezed her arm and steered her towards the stairs instead.“I’ll have someone else bring those up, it’s just food.” He stated dismissively. “Go up, and wait on the couch. Jinx is waiting for you.”All Adeline could do is nod, gripping the stair railing tightly. Thinking if she didn't grip it tight she might lose her balance. At his release, she noticed the heavy lack of warmth. Adeline wanted to stay there, just to have him hold her a little longer for her own sick satisfaction, however Adeline embarrassed herself quite enough. She moves up the stairs, one step at a time. Her journey through the hallway and towards the familiar dark hard-wood door must have been quick as she noticed, Adeline made her destination already. Or maybe she had been that dazed. Taking an awfully long and deep breath she steadied herself. Jinx was behind the door and out of everyone, Adeline didn’t want her seeing her so weak. Jinx deserved as many strong role models as possible, she deserved Adeline in her prime state. So she wiped her hands on her blue jeans like she was wiping off blood and fixed her Black sleeveless shirt, and pushed her way through the entrance.Immediately a blue bound of energy bolted at Adeline. Screaming her name as she hugged Adeline tightly. Jinx bounced up and down, she looked excited.“I didn’t know you could fight!” Jinx said, grabbing Adeline's hand in her bouncing fit. “You were so cool down there!”
Adeline’s stomach dropped pitifully. Jinx had seen her fight, did she see her after?
“O–oh. You saw all that?” Adeline's voice faltered.Jinx’s faced pouted immediately. “Nuh-uh. I ran to get dad so he could see you kicking ass–” Jinx giggled at her own language. “but he told me to stay here and left! It’s not fair! You gotta tell me what else happened! Please, pleaseeee.” She whined. She was moving a million miles per second and Adeline could only keep up by maybe one-millionth of that speed and that was being generous. The emotional toll had completely sucked her dry and Adeline honestly felt really dizzy and lightheaded. Everything was happening too quickly.“Hey, are you okay? You didn’t lose didja’?” Jinx smirked playfully teasing.“Ah, no of course not. Just…” Adeline hesitated a moment. “Just been out of commission for awhile, it happened very quickly.” Adeline looked at the girl with what Adeline hoped was apologetic. Jinx seemed to pick up on Adeline's exhaustion and moved out of Adeline's way cheerily.“Fiiiine! But you have to tell me later!”Adeline sighed, and made her way to the couch as direct. She sat, she leaned forward, elbows rested on her knees and Adeline held out her pinkie. Jinx squealed delightedly and bounded over, hooking her own soft pinkie with hers. Immediately afterward Jinx threw herself at Adeline and climbed over to seat herself. Adeline couldn’t help but giggle at her youth. Jinx dug her hand into the side cushion and pulled out a sketch pad that had been terrorized with bright neon purples, pinks, and blues, along with the sketch pad came a package of crayons. She leaned against Adeline and started scribbling away, if Adeline squinted just enough, she could make out a figure throwing two other figures in the air.“Is that me?“ Adeline beamed. Jinx nodded sharply, chin bumping her chin into her chest. Her tongue stuck out in her concentration.“Uh-huh. And then that guy flew up and the other one went “Arghh!!” and then they both fell, and I was like “woahhh!!!” And–” Jinx recalled the story animatedly, stabbing her crayon into her paper. Her musings helped Adeline to relax a lot quicker than Adeline had anticipated, and though Adeline was still anxiously wringing her hands together, she couldn't help but to giggle here and there. She almost wanted to thank Jinx. Adeline hoped she knew just how much she cared for her.Soon, the door creaked open and in stalked Silco, though differently than before. His dress shirt was rolled up above his elbow, his bare arms exposed. Silco was carrying the food Adeline had previously tried bringing up. Adeline could feel her ears heat up quickly at the sight. Jinx immediately abandons her crayons however, bounding over to her father.“FOOOOOOOOOD!” Jinx swiped at the bag, although her efforts in vain.Silco tutts softly.“Jinx, be careful, these are hot.” Despite his warnings however, he lowers the bags into her hands. Jinx bounds over back to Adeline then, placing the food on the coffee table in-front of her. Too caught up in the domestic scene, Adeline barely notices Silco placing her own brown bag in front of her, before returning to his desk. Adeline turned to see Jinx unpacking and trying to plate the food that was still steaming. Catching her almost dropping the hot carton onto her arm. Adeline shoot up.“Woah! Okay, let’s do it together hm?”. Jinx only giggles in response, and all Adile can do is smile.After a quick set up, the food is plated prettily and Silco finally returns. Still standing. Adeline grabs her own brown bag, taking her completion as a sign to exit. She turned for the door only to stop midway.“Adeline.” Silco calls absentmindedly.“Ah, yes?” Adeline turns, swallowing lightly and avoiding eye contact. Adeline was still mortified that Silco had caught her so disruptive.“Do join us, will you? I’m sure Jinx would love to have you.”Jinx springs up immediately.“Yes! Stay! I wanna color after!”The pair looks at Adeline expectantly. She shifted her weight on her legs in anticipation, she didn’t know what exactly Silco’s aim was. Maybe he needed to question her afterwards. Hesitantly, Adeline walks back over to the couch, seating herself next to Jinx.“I can’t say no to colouring.” Adeline shrugged.The girl squeezed Adeline's arm before turning to the food and immediately digging in. Adeline thought she hadn’t eaten in weeks let alone in the past couple of hours. She smiled to herself, pleased that the girl was indulging.The soft clink of glasses brought her attention back to Silco. He held a tumbler and began pouring a smooth amber liquid into the cup before him leisurely before shifting to fill another. To Adeline's shock, the man plucked the glasses off the table and rounded the table. Curtly, he slid opposite to her, taking his seat at the right side. Silco held out one of the glasses in a silent, yet intimidating, invitation. Adeline is lying if she said she didn’t want a drink right now, she's sure her desperation was a tall-tell sign displayed as her expression. Eyes locked on the glass. Adeline reached up hesitantly before resting her fingers on the underside, gripping it gently. She eyed it, before bringing it to her lips, soaking them in the rich liquid before pulling her lips slowly into her mouth.
It was good.
Adeline's expression must have been enough as Silco chuckled lightly.“It’s a WL Wellers,” he swirled his own liquid mesmerizingly, “Single Barrel… seven-fifty.” He eyed Adeline curiously before turning to her slightly. “I wasn’t sure that you partook in whisky, but you do seem accustomed.”Adeline sighed at that. “You do remember I was originally your bartender right? Drinks do hold a reserved place in my interests…” Adeline dazed off, focusing on Jinx as she coloured and ate. “Though I am partial to wine, usually I just stick to the cheap stuff.” Adeline clicked her tongue resolutely. Honestly she didn’t even know where to go to buy such high quality, and she knew it wouldn’t have brought much good to her or her dingy one bed apartment. An invitation to get sacked.A deep hum vibrates through Silco’s chest at the mention of wine. “I’m sure wine would definitely pair better with seafood.” His gaze fixed on his globe cart in consideration. Adeline flushed automatically, she’d hadn’t meant to criticize. As he made a move to stand, Adeline's hand flung out grabbing his bicep to stop him.“Oh no, it’s alright! The bourbon is fine, I was just making conversation…”Silco’s gaze drifted to where her hand was firmly settled, only looking up at her to cock an eyebrow silently. Almost immediately her hand flung back and off Silco’s arm, like she’d been burned. Adeline mumbled an apology and began unpacking her dinner, directing her attention to anything other than Silco.Jericho, as predicted, had made her childhood soup. Adeline regulars should call it. Hot and sour soup. No carrots because she's despised them, and extra sesame oil as Jericho would always notice she’d add more. Adeline was ecstatic to have such a comfort so available to her after such an extreme experience and thought she was still shaken up, she’d bask in what little she had left of her comforts. Pouring the soup out of the container and into a suitable bowl. Adeline's mouth practically watered. She let the heat of the bowl warm her hands before placing it ceremoniously into her lap.Jinx seemed to smell the soup as she curiously glanced over.“Hey that’s dad’s soup!”The spoon that had been brought up in her hunger faltered slightly.“What?”Jinx only grinned at her obvious confusion.“Yeah! It’s the only thing he actually eats.” She chirps before stabbing back into her own entree.Curiously, Adeline turned to the mentioned man, just as he was pulling out his own container of soup. Silco peers over into her own bowl for a moment, before frowning at his own bowl.“Your looks ... different.”Adeline blinked, before looking at his bowl.“Ah, mine just doesn’t have carrots. It also has sesame oil, like a lot of it.” Adeline grinned sheepishly.He seemed a little more pleased with the explanation. Finally settling in to dig into his own bowl.“How come she doesn’t have to eat carrots!” Jinx whined, stabbing at the orange sticks uselessly.“Well, because I’m allergic.” Adeline said absentmindedly. The statement made her smile however. “Actually its sort of a funny story.”Jinx immediately puts down her colouring book, giving Adeline her full attention.“So, when I first started living with Jericho–”“You lived with Jericho?” Jinx shouted, interjecting her.“I did, I had just turned eighteen at the time and I had just left home–”Jinx interrupts her again.“You left home? Why?”The question fazed her more than it should have. It wasn’t until Silco cleared his throat that another noise sounded through the room.“Jinx stop interrupting Adeline, unless you didn’t want to hear the story?”Jinx’s face fell a moment before shaking her head vigorously.“Good, I was quite intent on hearing it.” Silco looks over at Adeline giving her the push needed to continue. She offers a smile of thanks, and she almost sees one replicated back. Almost.“Continuing, yes I had just left home that night, I had no one to run to or crash at, so for the night I just wandered Zaun alone. Something…very bad had happened to me and I didn’t know what to do. That’s when Jericho found me against an alley wall, drenched in rain. He took me in that night, I’d always seen Jericho as a father figure so…I just trusted him. It’s not like I had anywhere to go really. When we got back to his place and I had cleaned myself up, he had made me some soup. This soup to be exact. I had liked it so much I ate the first bowl in complete silence and I only spoke to ask for seconds…and thirds.” she added sheepishly.“Well, fresh produce was really hard to come by so I had never gotten the chance to try carrots before, my mother always told me to stay away from carrots, but I didn’t listen to her, because I’m stubborn,” Adeline shot Jinx a look of awkwardness, “and the soup of course had carrots. After my third bowl, well, I straight up passed out.” Adeline snorted at the memory.“Jericho had been so worried he had killed me that he rushed me to a his doctor, another fish fellow. I couldn’t tell you what exactly went down, but eventually I woke up and I was handed an epi pen and told I was deathly allergic to carrots!” Adeline giggled and Jinx mirrored her lightly. Adeline was surprised to hear the deep rumbling beside her as well, no matter the softness.For the rest of the evening, Adeline all ate in relative silence, the occasional conversation floating up here and there. Jinx enjoyed her food thoroughly, and now was drifting off on Adeline's lap with a full belly. Adeline carded her fingers through Jinx hair lightly, unable to stop herself from the surprising softness. The only sounds heard were Jinx’s small sighs and Silco’s occasional ice, being swirled around in his cup languidly. Just as Adeline herself was beginning to relax almost too comfortably, she heard Silco set his cup down before rising to his feet. Approaching Adeline, he bent down, obviously beginning to cautiously pick Jinx up.“I could carry her, you know, it’d be easier in my position.” Adeline whispered.Silco only shook his head, efficiently picking up Jinx softly enough as to not wake her.“I’ll take Jinx to bed, stay put.” With that Silco leaves with Jinx, leaving Adeline alone with her thoughts. She was too tired to begin thinking about the events of today. Adeline didn’t want to honestly. She went years without a damn trace of the monsters that had almost raped and almost killed her that night. Did she really want to reopen that wound now?
May Janna punish them for what he did to me…
Even now, I could still feel his touch…
I don't really want to think about him…
Adeline sighed half-heartedly, suddenly craving another drink. Glancing at the door, she decided to take the risk, rising from her position on the couch and nursing her cup on her journey to the globe cart that held the goods she all too much craved. Opening the lid, her finger grazed over the top of each bottle, every now and then picking one up and observing it closely before setting it back down again. Adeline took her time choosing, before her mind wandered back to the early evening mention of wine. Eyes sliding over to the section. She bent down slightly, observing her options. Now, any other wine critic or alcohol enthusiast would definitely laugh at her wine system, but it worked so she didn’t care. A rosé was for bubbly, feel good moods, while a white was for those more pensive events, and she saved the red for her more moody moments. Adeline was definitely in a moody tone right now. Fingers dancing lightly, she dipped over a red tipped bottle, pulling it out slowly before standing, holding her chosen victor.“For someone that claims they stick to the cheap stuff, you do seem keen on the best selection.” The deep voice startles Adeline, her grip slipping on the bottle before she graciously grabs the neck of the bottle once more.“Silco! God, you scared me.” Adeline sighed. “How long have you been there for?”He stood, leaned against the door with his arms crossed against his lean form. Clicking his tongue he pushed himself off the wall towards Adeline, holding out his hand for the bottle. She slid the end into his hands, obeying without a word. He turned the bottle smoothly, humming to himself.“A Dominus Estate, only four thousand cases were made of these. I was told to keep it in my cellar for around four years after the purchase.” His gaze met hers, “Shall we?”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“So, does this count as my fis-first, evening check-in?”Adeline tongue ran across her teeth, stressing her words terribly. She couldn’t really remember how many glasses she had, probably nine or so now. All Adeline knew was that a bottle of wine had been worth every penny, not that she had bothered to ask the price. Sadly, the bottle now laid abandoned and baron, but not forgotten, on the exquisite wooden coffee table. Silco had gone to retrieve another bottle from his luxurious collection almost immediately after finishing off his last glass of the pre-departed bottle.He hummed questioningly from his station, Adeline didn’t bother to turn, in fear of her own motion sickness. Instead, she dropped her head against the couch, it was amazing how a couple of drinks could relax someone even in a kingpin’s lair.“Remember?–” Adeline masked her best Silco impression, “Evening check-in will be for paperwork–blah blah–finances–blah..” She trailed off, brows furrowing at her murky memory.Silco chuckled from the station, the sound of clinking glasses matching that of his shoes as he approached. Smoothly, he dangled a golden drink into her wobbly hands, she brought the drink immediately to her lap, readily nursing it.“I’m not complaining ya–know? I’m all for paperwork if this is what it’s usually like.” She sighed contently, finger rimming the shiny glass rhythmically.“If it were like this I wouldn’t have hired help.” Silco sat, leg crossed loosely over the other, bouncing lightly as he indulged in his drink. Adeline wondered how much liquor it took for this man just to get tipsy.Adeline hummed, slightly dazed, “Should have figured,” she gazed up, a smile eating at her lips. “You seem like the type to keep all the fun to yourself.”She reckoned herself a mess. When she drinks, she looks drunk. Flushed cheeks, loose hair, sprawled and comfortable. That’s how people had liked her in her youth. So much so, she’d often find herself in the hours she had to spare, far from sober. Whether it was drinks or smoke, Adeline had found herself more sociable under the influence. Peppy, fun, and lighthearted. Some called her inviting, and open. Even soft. It showed itself now in her loose mouth and nature.Silco, she observed, did not replicate her status. His head was held high and pointed, he almost looked bored of the situation though his right side held more colour than usual, and his posture more open. His arm stretched behind the sofa’s back, showcasing his narrow yet demanding, frame. His right eye drooped slightly, whether from the alcohol or from pure exhaustion could be up for debate. His left however, burned brightly, constantly moving and analyzing. Right now, it seemed to be bouncing between his drink and none other than Adeline. Her body slid down the sofa slowly, enjoying the slight widening of his good eye on her frame before it disappeared.
Oh god… I forgot I was wearing a sleeveless shirt. I'm half exposed to this position.
“So..” Adeline drawled the “o” out languidly.Silco raised his brow, amusement glaringly obvious in his features. Adeline wondered inwardly if it was just easier to read him drunk.“So?” Silco repeated.Adeline leaned forward, her drink precariously loose in her slender fingers. From this angle, her cleavage was slightly exposed, accentuated by the black sando she wore, paired casually with blue jeans.“So, why tonight?” she asked, her voice curious but laced with suspicion. “Why are you indulging your ex-bartender of all people with your most expensive liquors?”Silco raised his glass, savoring the last drops with deliberate grace. His movements, though nonchalant, had an oddly mesmerizing quality. Adeline found herself unable to look away, watching intently as the amber liquid disappeared in sync with the bobbing of his Adam’s apple. It was hypnotic like a clockwork in motion. Her gaze lingered, heated and unashamed, but Silco’s own stare met hers with an intensity that easily outmatched her curiosity. His eyes roamed her form, studying her unabashedly. Adeline, caught in his scrutiny, couldn’t muster the wits to look away or even close her parted lips.Instead she offered something like a smile. Adeline hoped it favoured warm and inviting rather than the itching feeling that she had looked none other than dopey, and of course drunk.Ripping his gaze from her and uncrossing his lean form, Silco leaned forward to presumably refill his drained cup. Dancing his pale fingers gripped the neck of the chiseled bottle, popping open the fine glass cork with ease.With little interest in the pouring liquor, Silco instead gazed up at Adeline. “To be frank my dear, was it not your own idea?” His words dripped with amusement. His voice only sent riveting shivers through her spine.
Janna! Has his voice always been so… rough?
“Mmmmmm,” Adeline tapped her finger against her stuck out lip, thinking out loud, “Did I?”“You did.” Adeline smiled, widely, “I don’t think I did.”Silco snorted, exasperation evident. Adeline placed her hands on top of one another, upon her now crossed posture.“Is that so?” Silco purred.“Mhm.” Adeline stated the sound matter-of-factly.Silco spread his lengthy form, elbows resting on knees. Adeline could have sworn his corner lip twitched slightly to something akin of a smile.“If I may recall–”“You may.”Silco’s good eye widened to something that could very much rival that of his scarred one. Adeline smiled wolfishly in return, an obvious message of got you being clearly displayed. Silco blinked, once, twice at her, before his head bowed and shook side-to-side.“You,” he sighed, before looking up, eyes peering with something that hadn’t be there before, “…have definitely had too much.”Out of pure nerves, Adeline raises her glass, tilting it slightly towards the hunched man across from her, before downing her drink in a silent victory toast. Out of curiosity, Adeline shot the suspiciously silent kingpin a cautious glance. What she was met with, was a sight that she was unsure whether even the gods could rival.Silco sat across from Adeline, his posture calm and open, but his gaze was fixed on her. He watched her closely, clearly impressed by her victory. Even with Adeline’s blurry vision, the admiration on his face was easy to see. His mouth was slightly open, his tongue briefly running over his lips to moisten them. His eyes moved over her face and figure, but she couldn’t tell exactly what he was looking for. His hand tightened and loosened on his knee, the movement catching her attention. Maybe she was imagining it, reading too much into things in her tired state, but his focus on her felt unmistakable.Adeline forced herself to close her eyes again, even though it felt like a struggle to look away from something so perfect.Adeline played with the now empty glass, tapping it with both hands. It is either a thinking tactic or a nervous tic. Either way, it proved to be efficient enough.“Really though, why?” The clink of glass beneath her nails only continued, even faster now. “I mean, I doubt you drink with… hmm…” Adeline giggled lightly, before continuing “... Thierm?” Silco also chuckled at this, the once tense mood settling into something comforting.“That wouldn’t be much company would it?” He stated, as though it’d be obvious.“Ah, so I’m company then?” Adeline teased lightly.Silco’s expression tightened slightly, and Adeline instantly worried she might have crossed the line. She held her breath, the seconds dragging on endlessly as she waited for his response. But then, after a moment of quiet thought, his face relaxed, smoothing back into a neutral look as if nothing had happened. “It seems it's a rare occurrence to scout for a decent drinking company. Especially one with a taste for the eccentric side rather than just the expensive.” He added the ladder rather moodily.“Ahh, so who did you meet with?” Adeline set down the empty glass she had been previously balancing on her knee, onto the fine oak that laid across from her. Her head felt as though it was swimming.Silco’s brow raised momentarily.“Everyone knows you and the Chem-barons are not... let's say close.” Adeline muttered. “So, who riled up my boss huh?”Silco’s expression eased at the mention, a faint smile playing on his lips. “I wasn’t aware my employees were so well-informed about my business partners,” he said, his smile growing mid-sentence as if the thought amused him. “I had an earlier conversation with the owner of Slickjaws, Finn.” He spoke the name with a hint of disdain, as though the mere mention left a bad taste in his mouth.“That’s the loud, flashy one, right? Can’t believe I missed that.”Adeline definitely had her own thoughts about the Chembarons or if “thoughts” meant joking with coworkers about their over-the-top outfits and dramatic exits, then yes, she had plenty. Finn, in particular, had a style all his own during his frequent visits. He never arrived alone, always bringing along two large men who acted as bodyguards, though sometimes they’d be swapped out for other barons. But one thing Finn never left behind was his lover of the week. Every time he showed up, there’d be a barely dressed woman clinging to his arm, parading around like she wasn’t a completely different brunette the last time he’d been there.Silco sighed rather loudly. “I wouldn’t agree with the term flashy, more…barbaric, idiotic, garnish…”Adeline giggled at his tone, the man clearly despised the boy, it was fairly funny. Silco smirked at her interruption nonetheless.“However, loud is definitely something I can concur with.” He sipped the liquor languidly.“Hmm, was he here on business terms, or was it rather negative connotations?” Adeline pried, she did always consider herself well versed in drama.“Business,” Silco’s eyes met with her own. “I know, rather surprising isn’t it?”“I take it, that it didn’t go to plan?”Silco’s form seemed to lean toward her, placing his glass once again on the table. “I was going to save it for tomorrow’s briefing during our actual evening session,” He shot Adeline a knowing glance, confirming that this was not in-fact counted towards that session. She sagged a little at the information. He seemed slightly amused before continuing.“However, since you seem so keen on this topic for now, I suppose I could converse.”As though Adeline could feel the atmosphere change, she also picked herself off from where she laid on the extremely comfortable sofa, trying to match Silco’s form to herself. Her head felt incredibly dizzy.“Finn’s purposal was entertaining a new drug, one he had already invested in without my approval, he informed me that this new drug could even rival with Shimmer.”Adeline spin crawled. Shimmer was already highly addictive, she saw from a personal perspective what Shimmer addiction can do, what it can turn someone into, it can and will consume anyone.“What could even possibly… what kind of drug is it?”Silco's eyes narrowed as he broke eye contact, which only made her anxiety grow. He seemed hesitant, and Adeline couldn’t shake the feeling that it was because of her.“Listen Silco,” It came out more softly than intended, Adeline wanted to muster some type of confidence. “I… I know I reacted heavily with the situation downstairs, truth be told I’ve had some… experiences that weren’t uhm…”Adeline's hands were fidgeting, picking at the tiny healing wounds there. She spared a glance at the man, finding that his attention had now shifted to her entirely. Adeline took a big breath before continuing, choosing to keep her stare in place. “I just want you to know that I can handle it. If you could ignore what happened downstairs earlier, and just judge me off my interest I’d appreciate that.”Finishing, she can only stare back at Silco, hoping her little speech had done something for what little dignity you had left.Silco’s response only seemed to surprise her, however. “Something I will never do is judge someone from their past.” His tone sullen and serious, Silco seemed to be in his own mind. He stood from his seat, and made his way over to her side, finally stopping inches away from Adeline, peering down from his languid frame.“We all come from something, my dear. Usually our own nightmares, that is no easy feat. It will never be considered as weakness, not in my perspective or experience.”Adeline met his gaze, although his recent position posed a threatening aura, she continued on anyway. His speech was definitely better than her own, it had made Adeline feel more capable than she had in years, finally finding something worthwhile in her past. It hadn’t been anything she had imagined finding, in that hellhole she had crawled herself out of so many decades ago.
And my Mother…
How could she leave her own daughter?!
But now, as Adeline stared at the man above her, she viewed her battle as an experience that many had been deprived of, something that no one else could master, a skill that she taught herself and it had been recognized by the king of the Undercity.That moment felt like a decade within its seconds, until finally Silco swept up the empty cups and headed in the direction of the cart. A shallow breath of air escaping her, finally being released from his glance.Now at the cart, he continued once more, “The drug is basically a date-rape drug. To put it gently, it's a narcotic designed to slow down both the victim's physical and mental state.” Silco poured something behind Adeline, though it didn’t have the same effect on her.Although nausea has fully swept Adeline in those two sentences, she continued to push. “What could a drug like that possibly be used for in a business environment?” Adeline's question clearly held her feelings toward the idea, though she could hardly care.“The drug was specially designed to chemically enforce the truth, and only the truth, and use it…” Silco stopped mid sentence, and he didn't know whether to continue his next words, “... and use it for people's pleasure,” Silco’s steps could be heard behind Adeline, looming in from his previous distance. Finally rounding the corner of the sofa, he held out a new glass holding a deep red wine. Adeline supposed it was again, a moody moment. Catching the glass from the bottom, where the stem met glass.“Finn, proposed the drug as usage in interrogation sessions, and people’s pleasures,”Adeline shot Silco an exasperated look. He only nodded.“Obviously, Finn being the main attendant of my many brothels, the drug is fit to be advertised in many other areas.” Silco took his seat next to Adeline, rather than his usual spot across from her. Body turned towards her completely.“That’s sick.” Silco only hummed.“What’s the drugs current state? Like what does it look like? How long does it take effect? And what are the side effects?”“The drug has already previously adopted a liquid form, however it is now available in pill, powder and newly added gas forms. The data he had provided during our meeting displays that the drug had been tested through years of experimentation, it now performs in under a half-an-hour time period. The side effects of the date-rape drug was the person feeling dizzy, and their body shutting down. Moreover lust for the other person.” Adeline noted that thoroughly. Even in her alcohol ridden state, she refused to not remember how to identify the source. Adeline peered into her cup, feeling paranoid.Silco immediately noticed, much to her discomfort. “Although the drug is extremely evolved, it cannot be excused that it is and will always be a date-rape drug. That is something I will never associate my establishment with. I refused his offer, and sent him away.”Adeline just stared at him, still uncertain.“Oh come on, we’ve been drinking for two hours. Why would I spike your drink now?”She blinked, then slowly set her drink down.Silco set his own drink down before Adeline however, rolling his good eye for good measure. He closed the distance between him and Adeline, before grabbing her drink that was still hovering between air and table, and her hand in the process. Now, Adeline could only stare dumbfounded as the man brought her hand to his lips and sipped at the drink graciously.However, the only thing she could note during the experience was his own hand that was currently wrapped loosely around her own. The once previously frigid temperature of the ligament now warm.She squeezed the glass tighter in her observation.“There,” Silco’s lips parted into a half-smile, his eye staring at Adeline with a half-lidded gaze. “Is that enough proof?”Her hand was still held out towards him, holding the glass, half unsure that had actually just happened. Adeline could still see the imprint of his mouth on her glass.Silco leaned back, satisfied. His hand ran through his hair. Adeline couldn’t help but find it so condescending.“Cat still got that tongue of yours?” He smirked, again. Oh, that's it! Adeline turned the stained side of her glass toward her, keeping her gaze steady. With her tongue as her guide, she took a slow sip of the wine.Now it was Silco’s turn to stare. Openly, she noted. Finished with her little show, she set the glass gently in her lap.“I suppose it was enough proof,” Adeline said, meeting his gaze. It was so intense, but as for that "tongue of hers," well, it never knew when to stop. "To answer her earlier question."Silco only stayed quiet. A first on his part.Adeline couldn’t help it, she giggled. That seemed to snap him out of it.Clearing his throat throughly, he broke his trance and looked through the large pane window.“... It’s late. I didn’t realize I had kept you for so long, I apologize.” He stood, sparing Adeline a glance.In her best effort Adeline tried to follow suit, only to stand and immediately fall onto her ass again with a pathetic flop.“Uhmmmm,” Adeline laughed nervously. “Hold on, let me try again.”This time she stood, for like two seconds before her body began to lean forward towards the table rather than the couch. Swiftly, Silco grabbed her from her waist, and sat her back down on the sofa. She didn’t even have time to process the movement.“M–maybe some water would help–”“I won’t allow you to walk home after midnight in this state nonetheless, little dove. Stay put for a moment.”And with that, Silco made his way across the room into the gray door that sat opposite of the door leading downstairs. Swiftly shutting the door after him.
There it was again… That nickname…
The door creaked open as quickly as it was shut. Turning slowly, Adeline watched as Silco made his way over to her, carefully holding a grey pillow along with a matching grey blanket. Adeline's reaction was almost immediate.“Silco, you don’t have to really. I can just stay here for a few more minutes, actually I can try again now–”The man only peered down at her, offering the sleeping items.“It’s fine, stay here for the night, you would have had to be here early tomorrow anyways.” He spoke carefully, like trying to coax a frightened animal out of hiding.He nudged at her with the pillow, before she hesitantly took both items carefully from him, murmuring some type of gratitude. “Make yourself comfortable, I expect you up and early, Jinx will have much in store for you.” He returned towards the grey door, slowly.Adeline nodded, waving her hand at the man from his door.“Goodnight Silco, thank you…”The door shut softly, though she could make out a muffled sound. Probably returning the goodnight.Adeline placed the pillow at the headrest of the couch arm, and threw the delicate blanket over her. The fine texture of the linen brought immediate comfort, this couch and these extra linens were better than her own mattress. She sunk into the sofa, sighing, her bones creaked in awe and her head swam deeply, easing her into a deep sleep.For the first time in years, Adeline fell asleep without her medication....As much as she’d like to say she awoke to an empty office to the sound of singing songbirds and a chilly office breeze, this wasn’t a movie.Instead, she awoke violently to a weight jumping onto her chest, giggling, to what she could only imagine to her pain.Groaning in pain, she opens her eyes to her giggling offender in blue.“Adeline! adeline! You’re here!” Jinx screamed with delight.“Yes, yes! I’m here! You’re squishing my insides dear.”“Nu-uh!”“Yeah-huh!”“Nooo, because Dad says I’m lighter than a feather!” She giggled profusely.“Oh did he?” Adeline groaned from the pain, “I feel bad for your old man’s bones.” she muttered. “Nu-uh! Because he says I’m just as tough as he is! And Dad is super strong!”She posed flexed, checks glowing.“Oh really? Well if you’re so strong, then I guess you must be immune to my special attack…” Adeline sighed.“Special attack?” Jinx titled her head questioningly. She was so animated.“Yeah… it’s called tickle attack!”Adeline swooped the girl under the blanket, attacking her tummy. Jinx squealed and kicked, unable to escape her grasp. Her screams of delight and infectious giggles only spread. Eventually both of them were laughing giddily in unison. It was a sound that no songbird could rival.It was a perfect start to her morning.Suddenly the blanket was lifted from both her and Jinx mid-laughter, Adeline looked up carefully at her second opposer of the morning, smiling ear to ear. Only to be met with the sight of her boss, in a robe.“Pardon the intrusion, but I do have a meeting this morning,” He shot a look at the clock. “... and I’d prefer if both of you were away from the office before they arrive.”Adeline's brow raised at the statement, “You’re wearing that? For a meeting?”Silco’s face bloomed slightly at that, he threw the blanket away from her, leaving it piled up at the opposite end of the couch and turned opposite from Adeline and Jinx.“Excuse me, I heard you and Jinx, and I came out to see the commotion. I apologize for my appearance.”“Oh don’t apologize, it’s a very nice robe.”Adeline sat upright, Jinx still on her lap. She had taken fascination on her hands, playing with her left at the moment.“We’ll be out of your hair in a moment, boss,” Adeline muttered the word boss with a hint of teasing. Silco however looked back at her, amused by her. “Was there anything scheduled for Jinx today?”Silco made his way to his desk to retrieve a file.“Just her lesson plans,” He removed a notebook, which Adeline recognized as Mr. Ruddson’s notes. “I’ll be keeping this for the mean time, and I’ve provided an empty notebook for your own concerns or comments during the lessons.”He handed Adeline the thick file, she reached out to take a hold of the file. However, he brought the file back to him shortly. “Do be careful what you write, you may end up in my office early in the morning.” He hinted slyly.Adeline only smiled.“Seeing as I’m already sleeping here, that won’t be a problem.” Adeline snatched the file, and patted Jinx to stand. “Alright Jinx, time to play teacher again.”“Yay! I like teacher Adeline!” She jumped off her lap and sprung around the room happily.Taking her hand, she made her way to the door, leaving Silco to get ready.“Adeline.”“Ah yeah?” She turned towards the man.“I’d like you to be present for the meeting. After breakfast please return upstairs, leave Jinx under Sevika.” He directed nonchalantly.“Will Sevika be directing her lessons today?”Jinx’s face scrunched at that, obviously displeased by the amount of quality time she’d be spending with Sevika.“You’ll be back in time to preform her lessons yourself. Any other questions?”Adeline bumped Jinx with her hip, smiling at her.“No sir, I’ll be back shortly.”He simply nodded. “Oh, and change your clothes, when you get back,” he added. “K,” Adeline rolled her eyes. With that Adeline exited the room, hand in hand with Jinx as she made her way down the stairs towards the kitchen. Anticipation throbbing in wait for the next meeting.“Hey Adeline!” Jinx pulled on her jeans slightly.“Hm?” Adeline looked down at Jinx, she seemed happy.“Do you think you could make my hands pretty like yours?”“Pretty?” You were fairly surprised.“Yeah! I want cool colors too!” She grasped Adeline's hand, turning the palm away from her, obviously showcasing Adeline's dark blue nails.“Sure kid, what cool colors do you want?”“Blue! Like yours!” She shouted happily.“Oka–”“--Oh, Pink!”“Sure–”“--Oh no, I changed my mind. Blue!”“Are you sure–” “--No pink! Wait no, maybe–” “--Why don’t we do both?” Adeline offered. “A different color on each finger, that way she get both.”Jinx’s smile only widened.“Adeline you’re agenius!”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Silco •°~ ]
He couldn’t sleep last night. He finds himself turning around his massive bed. Thinking he might fall asleep while doing so. Adeline's words keep flooding back in his head.
You may…
Who riled up my boss huh?
God, how powerful those words were. He didn’t even understand what Adeline was implicating. Yet he was thinking of something else. Silco remembered how intense her stare was. The look on Adeline's face… and how beautiful she was. Silco didn't know whether it was only the effect of alcohol on him. But he couldn't stop thinking about Adeline last night. Adeline's features keep coming back to him.
Black sleeveless shirt…
Blue jeans…
Hair naturally falls loosely behind her.
It was the very first time Silco saw Adeline dressed up like this; and adding to his satisfaction, Adeline's hair was down this time. For Silco, it was very attractive to him. In Silco’s perspective; Adeline often wears her usual clothes when she was still working as a bartender; she often wears a pair of pants and an oversized T-Shirt. Or sometimes a black t-shirt and black shorts. She always tied her hair in a knot, or sometimes, a messy tight bun. And here he was, couldn't stop thinking about his ex-bartender. Silco stood up from his bed. He needed to clear his head for a moment. Instead he checks on Adeline first. He peered out the grey door, and saw Adeline sleeping very peacefully.
She’s as quiet as a mouse…
Silco chuckled at the sight of Adeline. He stepped in closer to her, and gazed down. He crouched down, picked up the grey blanket he gave to Adeline earlier, and placed the blanket on top of her. He stared at her face for a fleeting moment, before going back to his room. As he stood up, Adeline groaned. He looked back at her, her eyes halfway open, “Silco?” She muttered. He walked slowly towards her and placed a hand on her waist. “Adeline,” he answered, his words came out too sweet. Although, he expected she didn’t notice that, due to her drunkenness. “What time is it…?” She croaked Silco gaze up at the clock, “4:30am,” Adeline hummed and closed her eyes once again. He removed his hand from her, and turned back to his room. He laid down on his bed, the moment he closed his eyes he was sleeping like nothing happened. Seeing Adeline must’ve made him feel better and comfortable.
Four and a half hours later…
The next moment Jinx was jumping up and down on his chest. “Ohhh… Jinx” Silco groaned, hissing from the pain, “Your up so early,” he added. “Why didn’t you tell me she’s going to stay here last night?” Jinx eyes glisten with joy. “I didn’t—get the chance to tell you,” His voice trembled slightly before he sat up. Jinx stepped away from him and started bouncing with enthusiasm on his bed, “iiihhhh! I’m going to wake her up!” She claps her hand while jumping out of his bed. She ran as fast as Silco could notice she’s gone. He glanced over the clock and saw it was almost 9am. He remembered his meeting with the Chem-Barons at 9am also. He immediately stood up and put on his robe. While he was preparing for the meeting, he heard two people laughing and giggling inside his office. He went to speculate what was happening there. That’s when he saw Adeline and Jinx under the cover of the Grey blanket; laughing and giggling together. He smiled at the sight of them. He walked towards them and pulled the blanket from them. He saw Jinx lying backwards on Adeline. While Adeline holds Jinx down using both her hands. “Pardon the intrusion, but I do have a meeting this morning,” He shot a look at the clock. “... and I’d prefer if both of you were away from the office before they arrive.” He saw Adeline's brow raised at his statement, “You’re wearing that? For a meeting?” She said, His face bloomed slightly at that, he threw the blanket away from her, leaving it piled up at the opposite end of the couch and turned opposite from Adeline and Jinx.“Excuse me, I heard you and Jinx, and I came out to see the commotion. I apologize for my appearance.” He explained. Trying to suppress his smile.“Oh, don’t apologize, it’s a very nice robe.” Adeline smiled. He saw her eyes roam over his head to toe. Examining his robe. He immediately blushed at her statement, despite him blushing he managed to keep it together. He cleared his throat and pretended to look for something at his desk. “We’ll be out of your hair in a moment, sir,” Adeline muttered the word sir with a hint of teasing. Silco however looked back at Adeline, amused by that. “Was there anything scheduled for Jinx today?”Silco made his way to his desk to retrieve a file.“Just her lesson plans,” He removed a notebook, which he knew Adeline recognized as Mr. Ruddson’s notes. “I’ll be keeping this for the meantime, and I’ve provided an empty notebook for your own concerns or comments during the lessons.”He has been thinking of giving it to Adeline from the beginning, but he never thought she’ll last long with Jinx. He handed Adeline the thick file he had prepared, and she reached out to take a hold of the file. However, he brought the file back to him shortly. He told her to be careful what he writes in the file. Because he’ll be reading it at the end of the day. He was glad to see Adeline smile at his statement. She took the file and left with Jinx. Although, he called Adeline, like a desperation. He told Adeline to be present at his meeting. He wanted Adeline to be present at his meeting. He wants to hear what she thinks about his Chem-Barons. And also… he wants to see her every minute… In his relief, Adeline accepted his request. Well, technically it wasn’t a request, more like an invitation for her to attend, and she doesn’t have any authority to decline because he is her boss. And no one can say no to him. Minutes later, five people entered his office. Silco saw smeech first to enter his office, the next person who walked up was the obnoxious lad he despises, none other than Finn. He caught a glimpse of the person beside Finn; a blonde girl, wearing almost nothing on her. Silco rolled his good eye and turned to his paper he’d been reading lately. He didn’t bother looking at the rest of the people who entered. Everyone sat silently at their respective chairs. Silco finally turns his attention to them. He placed the paper aside and moved his stare to face them, “Any news from the Topsides?” He asked nonchalantly. Hands clasped in front. None of them answered. They looked up at each other and some cleared their throats. Silco sighs, “You're telling me, you’ve come here for nothing?” “There are some enforcers roaming around our lane,” Smeech uttered. Lighting up his small brown cigar, “What are they doing here?” Renni asked. “They seem to be looking for something, or should I say someone.” Corina replied, shooting a knowing look on Silco. Silco on the other hand, knew what Corina was implicating. “No one will dare take Jinx away from me!” Silco hissed. Flicking his eyes at them. He saw Finn paid little attention to him, Finn only smiled mischievously at him. While turning back to his girl. Another silence erupted in the office. Until the oak wood door creaked open once again. All the attention was focused on the person who entered, except for Finn who’s indulging himself to his whore. Silco darted his gaze at the person who entered, irritated by the sudden interruption. His eyes narrowed, eyebrows pulled together, his lips tightened into a thin line. Until the person came to his view. The person who entered was none other than his personal assistant. He saw Adeline wearing a black cargo pants with multiple pockets and straps; her top is a strapless black wrap around her chest, exposing her pale abdomen and paired with a cropped jacket with long sleeves. Her hair was worn down, cascading freely at her back. Silco's face altered, his eyes widened at the sight of his assistant. His mouth slightly opened. Adeline caught his stare, she smiled awkwardly at him. Adeline felt scared with a mix of confusion. She was surprised to see everyone was looking at her, “Ohh! I’m so sorry for the intrusion, y-you go ahead,” Adeline uttered. She made her way to the couch she was previously sleeping on. She sat down and pulled out a thick file she was previously holding, and she started writing down in it. Silco noticed the thick file Adeline was holding. It was the file he gave to her earlier. Everyone nervously glanced back at Silco.“It’s alright…” Silco asserted, breaking his stare to Adeline. “She’s my assistant,” he added. The word assistant caught the attention of Finn. He immediately looked back and saw Adeline sitting on the couch, “Well, well, well! Look who it is… the famous bartender, who defeated two of my finest men.” Finn bellowed. He pushed the half-naked blonde girl away from him. “I’m curious, how did you manage to fight them, gorgeous? It's not that I'm doubting you but how can a person such as yourself defeat them?” Finn said, while his eyes roaming all over Adeline's body. Adeline brought her eyes to Finn; who was looking quite excited to see her, she stared at him at first, before answering him. “… I’ll leave it to your own imagination,” she bluntly said, and turned back to her writing. If he wouldn't stop talking Adeline might've smacked the shit out of him.Finn chuckled faintly. Silco's clenching his fist out of frustration, barely keeping it together. He saw how Finn looked at Adeline… and he didn't like that. He once again called their attention by simply clearing his throat. The meeting went on, Silco telling all his plans to them, and telling them to keep their mouth shut, or else he’ll be the one who’ll silence them. Adeline might seem not paying too much attention, but the truth is she’s listening to them, she’s observing everyone. Taking all the notes she needs. The meeting ended at 2:36pm. All of the Chem-barons left one by one. Until the only people left were Silco, Finn and Adeline. “Is there any reason why you're still here, Finn," Silco hissed. He glanced over to Finn who’s mindlessly fidgeting his metallic gold lighter.
Clink… Clunk… Clink…
The sound of the metallic lighter added to Adeline's discomfort, the intense stare of Silco and Finn was enough to say ‘it's about to go down’“I’m curious,” Finn said, still fidgeting, “why hire an assistant if you have Sevika as your right hand man? I don’t seem to quite understand your motive.” Adeline stared at Silco to Finn. She didn’t know whether to leave the room to not witness the incident that’s about to happen. Silco’s stare was enough to say he was really pissed, and didn’t like to be questioned by his motives.“That curiosity of yours will lead to something you’ll soon regret,” Silco stated. Finn smirked, and stared at Silco for a few moments,
Clink…
Clunk…
Clink…
Finn thinks he knew why Silco hired her. Leaving Adeline perplexed by their intimate stares.
Clunk…
For the last time, he snapped the lid of the lighter roughly this time. “Good…! I’ll be off.” Finn stood up and turned to the oak wood door. He stopped in front of Adeline. Adeline, who was sitting on the couch, glanced up to him, and met his flirty stare. “See you around, gorgeous” Finn winked at her. Adeline’s response was to raise her eyebrows, not in conformation but a look of ‘are you fucking serious?’ She scrunched her face and at the same time rolled her eyes. Finn chuckled and finally left. Adeline didn’t dare meet Silco’s eyes. She knew the man was pissed. She grabbed her things and quickly stood from the leather couch.Suddenly, Silco spoke. “Not you...” He uttered.
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
She, who'd already held the doorknob, stopped. She didn’t know what to do, or what to say to him. She breathed heavily before turning to face him. “Ah, yes…?” She asked, her voice barely even audible. She stood up there fidgeting her feet, waiting for her boss to speak. Silco is not even looking at her, he’s more preoccupied by the paper he’d been reading. “Is… is there something you want to talk about—”“—I have a meeting next week, at exactly the same time but in a different place. I’m going with Sevika,” He says nonchalantly. “Oh, sure I’ll write it down—”“—And next time wear something that doesn’t call for attention!" He said the word ‘attention’ more aggressive. Adeline only stared at him. She didn’t know what he meant or what his problem was.
What?
“I… I don’t understand…? Is there something wrong I did?” She mindlessly asked. Silco loudly sighed, “I had enough of people whose brains aren’t working,” “Look, I don’t know why you are acting like this, I don’t even know why your being angry at me for no reason—”Silco slammed the paper on the table more viscously. Adeline flinched from his sudden action; she stopped mid sentence. She gripped the thick file so hard.
What’s wrong with him…
Silco ran his hand through his hair; opened his small box that contained his expensive cigar, and took one out, “That will be all…” he says, nonchalantly.Adeline immediately turned around, hiding her almost falling tears. “take note that our midnight season will not partake later.” He added. Adeline nodded in response and quickly left this office. After leaving his office, tears started to fall from her eyes. She quickly wipes it off, as soon as a little blue headed girl walks towards her. “Adeline…?” Jinx's voice wavered, tinged with sorrow. “Hey…! Have you finished your homework?” Adeline asked cheerfully. “I did. Adeline, are you crying?” Jinx asked. “What? No! I’m not crying, it’s just… there’s a bug got inside my eyes, hon.” Adeline asserted,“Mhhh, ok.” Jinx said, finally convinced by Adeline. “Will you be sleeping here again tonight?” “I… uhm—”“—ohhh! Let’s have a slumber party, you and me,” Jinx clapped her hands, “ohh! and maybe we invite dad to come, what do you say?!” Jinx beamed.“Ohh, sorry kiddo, but Adeline can't stay here tonight, besides I have sooooo much work to do. Maybe next time” Jinx was sad to hear her excuse. Her enthusiastic face altered. Adeline quickly felt sorry. “Hey,” Adeline soothed, “how about we color instead?” Jinx crossed her hands and turned away from Adeline. Stomping her feet while doing so, “Mhhh,” Adeline tapped her chin with her index finger, while looking at Jinx's face. “How about we go to Jericho today? My treat?” She uttered, she saw Jinx face change into a surprise look. “Mhhh no? Well I guess I’ll be going home, doing my work while at the same time eating my delicious soup from Jericho.” Adeline peered at Jinx who’s still looking away from her. “Mhhh, ok. I’ll leave now, since you don’t want to—” Adeline was halfway walking away from her when Jinx suddenly held her hand upright. Holding Adeline’s arm, stopping her from leaving. “… your treat? At Jericho?” Jinx wondered. “Yep, unless you don’t want to it’s fine—”“No! I really want to! Wait let me get my minigun… wait for me!” Jinx bellowed. “Hurry up…!” Adeline smiled. Her little tricks worked again.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Jinx walks hand in hand with Adeline, while holding out her minigun, pointing at every person that we’re passing by. Adeline found herself smiling down at her. As they approached Jericho's shop, Jinx pulled away from Adeline, ran towards the shop. “Jinx!” Adeline shouted. She immediately ran to Jinx, pulling her small hand back. “Jinx! You almost gave me a heart attack… Don't ever do that again,” she mumbled. “Sorry,” Jinx said apologetically. Adeline's face softened. Her lips curve gently into a quiet, almost hesitant smile. Adeline clicked her tongue “If only you weren’t cute, you little rascal,” she pinched Jinx's cheek lightly. “Adeline…?” A soft, calm, and slightly raspy voice with a distinct Eastern European accent questioned with a smile. Adeline turned to see who the person was. As she turned, Adeline saw a man with pale skin, sharp cheekbones, and hollowed cheeks. His large, golden brown eyes were grinning at her; his dark hair was short, neatly combed. The man is dressed in a refined yet practical outfit, featuring a maroon and cream long coat with gold accents. “Viktor!?” Adeline blurred out joyfully. “I can’t believe you're here!” Viktor exclaimed. Adeline pulled Viktor in an embrace. “Oh, Janna! I’ve miss you, Viktor!” Adeline teared up a bit, while Viktor was hugging her tightly. It has been nearly a decade since they’ve seen each other. The last time they met was on Adeline’s 18th birthday. Now that Adeline is 24 years old. “Hey, you might wanna lessen your grip a bit, or else you’ll end up breaking my bones,” Viktor chuckles. “Sorry,” Adeline smiled, she wipes her tears. “What are you doing here?” “Oh, I was just visiting an old friend,” he replied, Viktor noticed a blue headed girl behind Adeline. “Who’s this?” Viktor smiled at Jinx. “Oh, this is…” Adeline peered over Jinx, “… this is Jinx, she’s the little girl I’ve been looking after these days.” Adeline placed her hand on Jinx's head. “Uhm, Jinx. This is Viktor, my long time friend, he's from Piltover.” Adeline saw Jinx's body movement, it was clear to Adeline that Jinx doesn’t like Viktor. “Hello, Jinx.” Viktor smiled at her. He noticed the silver minigun on Jinx’s left hand. “What’s that thing on your hand?” He asked. “My minigun…” she whispered, she didn’t make eye contact. “May I?” Viktor asked. Jinx shot a glance at Adeline before handing over her minigun. Adeline nodded. Jinx didn’t hesitate to give Viktor her minigun. Adeline left the two of them to order food from Jericho. “Mhhh,” Viktor hummed as he examined it. “You build it yourself?” “… yes,” Jinx answered. “It’s extraordinary,” Viktor said, “Would you like it if I fix it for you?” “No.” Jinx took her minigun out of Viktor's hands. “You're smart for your own age, Jinx,”“What do you know about being smart?” Jinx shot Viktor a viscous look. “Well, I’m an inventor.” He stated. Jinx eyes widened. “Really?” She asked. “Yeah. I’m a student of Professor Heimerdinger.” “Coooool” Jinx gaped. “Cool isn’t it?” Viktor smiled. Jinx nodded at him. “Hey guys, food is ready. You don’t want it to get cold, would you?” Adeline shouted at them. “Cooooming!” Jinx ran towards Adeline and sat next to her. “Viktor!” Adeline shouted, Viktor looked up and smiled at her, then he proceeded to Jinx and Adeline’s table. Jinx eats in silence. She was too preoccupied with her food. While Adeline kept telling Viktor how she had been living down in The Undercity for nearly six years. “How did you manage to get a decent job? It's not that I'm questioning your… abilities–it's just that… in a place like this, people find it really hard to get a job like yours,” Viktor stated, pushing aside a deep blue slug that appears to be the tongue of the fish. Adeline saw him and rolled her eyes, and grabbed her fork and stabbed it on Viktor’s plate and put it in her mouth.Seafoods from Piltover and Undercity are different from one another. In Piltover, the seafood is well cleaned and seasoned. There are different kinds of seafood in Piltover; lobster, shrimp, crabs, oysters and octopus. While here in the Undercity, the seafood is halfly cooked and without proper seasoning and cleaning. Jericho's seafoods are; tentacle, fish eye balls/tongue, and a weird looking fish they called halminggo, only this kind of a fish found in Undercity.People down here like it more when it's raw and when it's wiggling around, and paired with a yellow sauce, made from crushed internal parts of a halminggo. “I'm surprised you haven't got yourself in trouble here, especially to someone who owns this place,” Viktor's upper lip lifts, exposing his teeth slightly. He was taken aback by her action, it's been a long time since he had eaten Jericho's food, especially seafood. Adeline immediately changed the subject, “Oh, don't look at me like that,” Adeline sneered, she saw Viktor was disgusted by her; eating the bluish tongue. “you and I used to visit down here, to eat seafoods when we were little, remember?” she said, pointing her hand towards him, while holding out a violet tentacle, taking a huge bite on it. “Yes, but how–” “–It doesn't matter, at least I'm still alive,” Adeline shoved another tentacle in her mouth. Viktor places a hand on Adeline's shoulder, “your father misses you terribly.” he said. He saw Adeline hesitate to put the tentacle in her mouth. He saw how her face shifted from depression.“You visited him?” Adeline uttered.Viktor nodded. “When?”“Last week. He… always drinks,” Viktor hinted, glancing at Adeline to see her reaction. He saw Adeline's eyes glimmering with tears, “Luckily your sister, Lyn-lyn, was always there for him. Always accompany him so he'll stop drinking. She's a good kid. Always following your father everywhere he goes.” Viktor stated, trying to cheer Adeline up.“That's good news,” Adeline smiled. Wiping the tears from her eyes, “What was my little sister like?” Adeline asked. “What does she like?”“Well, you know, blue hair, bright blue eyes, like yo–” Viktor said“–No, what I meant was how is she? What does she like? What kind of a person is she? Is she like my greedy mother?” Adeline spat the word ‘mother’ like she was spitting nasty food in her mouth. Viktor's face altered. “Your mother–” “Don't!... Even start, Viktor.” Adeline fumed. “Don't want to hear what she has to say about me. Don't want to hear ‘Adeline has no decency!’ Yes! I know! I get it! Ok!... I'm her stupid daughter! Who always rebels against her! Always chasing her stupid dream! And look what happened to me!” Adeline hissed, she saw Jinx look at her with horror with a mixture of sadness. “She didn't even do anything when the council banished me! I know I made a mistake! Only one mistake and they threw me out of the bus! Like I'm just a piece of shit!” Adeline threw her hand in the air. She then ran her hands on her hair, fixing it. “You knew as well as I am that your mother didn't have a choice, Adeline. She knows what will happen if she gets involved. The council members would not think twice or even blink to order for your execution.” “Yeah… Better let her daughter banished from Piltover than be executed. I wished she could've at least let me die that night then all this would be over,” Adeline jugged her ale down in one go. “You know… your mother misses you too. The look in her eyes, the agony..." “Oh, yeah?” Adeline huffed, “as much as I want to believe you, Viktor. But I don't. My mother?” Adeline sneered, “finally cared for her daughter?” Adeline laughed and shook her head.She saw Viktor's ale untouched, she quickly grabbed it and drank it. “Hey!” Viktor uttered. Adeline smiled and wiped her mouth by the back of her hand, “you're too slow,” Adeline smiled. Viktor smiled as well. “Are… are you really ok down here?” Viktor croaked. “I like it down here,” Adeline smiled, she glanced over to Jinx and smiled at her. “I've never felt so… alive,” Adeline added with a whisper.Jinx on the other hand, had trouble with her seafood; it kept slipping through her fork and mouth, and it irritated Jinx. Adeline chuckled at the sight of Jinx.After a long conversation with Viktor, Adeline saw Jinx and Viktor getting along. She smiled at the sight of them, and she drank another ale. Like she didn't even care if she was drunk. Adeline gazed up at Jericho’s wall clock and saw it was almost 7pm. Adeline hasn’t noticed the time.
Holy shit!
Is that the time!
How long have we been here?!
She remembered Jinx needed to be home, or else her boss would kill her. “Hey, sorry to break it but we need to get home, I have important work to do,” Adeline said. Reaching for her pocket money. She stumbled upon reaching her money due to her being drunk. “Thanks for the food, big guy, it was delicious as always,” Adeline placed the money on Jericho's box. “Oh, well I’ll walk you guys home,” Viktor suggested. “Oh! No! It’s fine, we can manage,” Adeline smiled, “come now, Jinx” Adeline held out her hand for Jinx to grab into. Jinx held Adeline’s hand, “bye, Viktor.” Jinx waved her hand. “It’s so nice to see you again, Viktor.” Adeline once again hugged Viktor before leaving. “You too, Adeline.” “I'll see you around,” she said. “When will I see you again?” Viktor uttered. “I don’t know, I’ll check my schedule,” Adeline replied. “Sure, you know where to find me,” Viktor hinted. Adeline waved her hand, leaving Viktor to Jericho's shop. Adeline and Jinx were now near the bar. Adeline pushed the door open using her forearm. The Last Drop was completely empty. No sight of people drinking pretty heavily and no loud music… and most of all. No Sevika.
Strange…
She wondered why the bar was empty. It wasn't closing time. It's only 7pm when Adeline and Jinx left Jericho's shop. Adeline saw the bartender restocking. She faintly smiled at him, the man didn’t do the same but Adeline doesn’t blame him, being a bartender is really hard and a lot of struggles to deal with. They climb up the stairs. Adeline and Jinx are now near Jinx room. Adeline hoped they wouldn’t run into her boss, Silco. Because if they did, she's really dead. Adeline turned the doorknob with ease, “Ok, here we are little munchkins.” Adeline announced. She walked Jinx back to her room. She tucked Jinx into her bed, she took Jinx minigun and placed it upon the table, Adeline spread the blanket and placed it on Jinx, “See you tomorrow morning, hon” Adeline caressed Jinx head and kissed her forehead. Adeline began to walk towards the door when she heard a small sweet voice say, “Adeline…?” Jinx spoke up, rubbing her eye, “can you at least stay for a moment, until I fall asleep?” She begged.
Damn the cuteness!
“Sure, hon” Adeline smiled, and laid down on her bed once again. She placed her hand on Jinx's head while she softly hummed. From her recent actions and humming, Adeline remembered her own mother, caressing her head until she fell asleep and at the same time humming to soothe her. Adeline thought to herself if her mother even cared to find her, or to even look for her daughter.
Did she even care about me? Was she even looking for me?
What does my little sister look like now?
Could dad still forgive me? As he always does?
I know I crossed the line… but…
But I can’t stand and watch as my mother does what she thinks is best for the family…
Especially to me…
These words kept playing inside Adeline’s head. These words hunted her every night. Her nightmare was to never be able to see her little sister again. Adeline knew she couldn't go back home. After all what she had done. Maybe it’s for the best that she stays out of them. After all, here in this state of life she is in, is more than she had expected. She knows money is hard to come by, but at least she’s trying hard to earn it. Unlike her previous life with her family. Living with her mother was like she didn’t have any purpose, or her purpose is written for her, and she needs to follow it. Even if she doesn’t want to. Adeline wants to follow her own path, not the path her mother or her family made for her. Only if mother would’ve listened to me, maybe things got even better…Finally, Jinx falls asleep. Adeline took notice, she carefully removed her hand from Jinx. She carefully stood up gently. She opened Jinx sparkling lights, adding to her comfort. Adeline turned to the door, before stealing another look at Jinx, she smiled softly before closing the door. Adeline gently closed the door, she signed in relief then turned only to see her boss waiting patiently at her. Silco was leaning over the hallway, holding a glass cup. “Oh, God-!” Adeline immediately cupped her mouth, preventing herself from screaming, to not wake Jinx. She then placed her hand on her chest, calming herself. “I didn’t notice you there, sir.” Adeline explained. “Do you know what time it is?” He replied, he brought the cup on his lips. Adeline didn’t know what time it is right now, “I… I don’t know, sir. I lost track of time.” “Exactly,” He claimed, he stared at her. Although, his stare seemed more intense than the previous night. “Do you know how sick! I was when I couldn’t find Jinx in her room?” growled Silco, he rounded Adeline, walking slowly towards her, while Adeline stepped back from him. “I… w-we just went out to… to eat at Jericho’s” Adeline quavered in fear. “I… I’m sorry, I didn’t tell yo—” Adeline gasped as she noticed she had bumped flatly on the wall. Silco on the other hand, didn't stop walking towards her, he stared down at her. Putting down his drink in his hand. He once again pinned her against the wall. Hot sweat started to fall from Adeline's body.
Oh God…
He's getting closer and closer…
Silco barely left any space between them. Silco took notice of Adeline's unease. He noticed how her body tense, her eyes hardly met his. Silco’s next move was not what Adeline had expected. He slammed his hand against the wall, caging her in like a predator trapping his prey. Leaning in close, his breath brushed against her ear as he growled, “The next time this happens again, there will be consequences.” Despite his blood boiling from anger, he managed to softly whisper to her ear, sending another shiver down her spine. Adeline couldn't move, her body instantly froze. Adeline could tell the man was very angry, … by the look on his face, the way he slammed his hand against the wall. His face remained impassive. His breath was hot against Adeline’s neck. Silco didn't withdraw himself from Adeline, “Do you understand me?” Silco added. His lips slightly touch her cheek. It took a moment before Adeline could answer. “Y-yes” she muttered. Silco hummed against her neck. His face mere inches from hers. Slowly, he inhaled, the scent of her skin stealing the air from his lungsAdeline closed her eyes, the tension was so unbearable. Gripping her hand even more firmly; her biting her bottom lip.
Oh God…
Seconds turn to minutes. Minutes turned to hours. As they stayed there for a while, Silco finally decided to withdraw himself. “Go home. It's late.” Silco said with indifference, as he walked away from her.Adeline nodded in response and proceeded to walk downstairs. Before leaving she stopped mid staircase and said, “I'm sorry… it won't happen again, Silco.” She didn't even bother to turn around to face him. Adeline quickly walked away from him, and left.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
"Adeline!” A pale woman who’s dressed in a blue and gold uniform screamed. Holding out a gun pointing out from the other person who appears to be standing mere inches from the her.His veins are bulging out, with a color of bright violet. His eyes were violet also. His body was not normal as usual. His other arm was bigger than the other. He took charge and began stabbing the woman with his sharp nails. “RUN!” The pale woman screamed at Adeline, tears streaming down her face as she looked down at Adeline. The monster dug his nails pretty deep into the woman’s body. “NOOOOOOO!” Adeline screamed at the top of her lungs. Her friend's lifeless body falls down from her, as the attacker looks down at Adeline. Ready to attack her, his hand was covered in the blood of her best friend. Adeline glanced at the paled woman, her eyes were still opened, her tears slightly falling from her opened eyes. Adeline let out an ugly cry and reached out for her friends gun and— Adeline was awoken by the loud banging sound from her door. She immediately sat up, and tried to not to think of her dream. She buried that horrible day a long time ago. Along with her best friend's body. She saw herself panting, her body full of her sweat. Hot tears begin pouring from her eyes.
I should’ve known better…
Another loud knock on her door. Adeline swiftly wiped the tears away, and rushed to the door to see who it was. She saw none other than Sevika, her mouth twitched, while holding her cigar in place. “The hell are you doing here?” Adeline abruptly asked. “Come to take you to work, dumbass!” She retorted. Adeline sighs, “when will you ever! Stop knocking so loud!” “When you stop being so late!” Sevika sarcastically says. “It’s 12pm! Don’t tell me you’re still asleep,” Adeline tense up. She secretly looked up to her wall clock and saw how late she was. Sevika already knew what she was secretly looking for, she rolled her eyes. “What?! God no! I was… I was cleaning my… my house.” She said, trying to sound casual. “Cut the bullshit and let’s go!” Sevika spat, “I have work to do, and so do you,” she exclaimed. “Oh! Right!… Work!” Adeline shouted and quickly slammed the door shut, not even inviting Sevika in. Adeline quickly took a shower and pulled out some decent clothes out her cabinet. She pulled out a black long sleeve shirt, paired with messy grey shorts. She knows how impatient Sevika is. 30 mins have passed and Adeline is out in her house. She saw how impatient Sevika was. Sevika’s eyes moved up and down to her, and her brow raised as if she’s about to protest about her clothes. Adeline smiled in response to her silent expression. Sevika rolled her eyes on Adeline. Sevika waited for so long, and she’s going to see Adeline dressed up like… that and the fact that it took Adeline about an hour to prepare herself?…Sevika grunted and turned her back on Adeline, and began to walk away from her. “Hey! Ok, I’m sorry!” Adeline shouted, smiling at her furious friend. Adeline grabbed her keys, and locked her door. “Hey! Hey wait up!” She shouted again, running towards Sevika’s side. She and Sevika walked side by side. Adeline couldn’t stop thinking about her dream lately. All those years she spent trying to forget that day, and now it started to come back into her head. She closed her eyes and pretended that it never happened.
It’s not your fault…
…It’s not your fault…
It’s not your fault…
IT’S NOT YOUR F—
“—Did someone steal that big mouth of yours?”
Huh?
A sudden voice pulled her out of her thoughts. Adeline looked up to her shoulder and saw Sevika looking down at her. A worried look appears on Sevika’s face, but she quickly hides it with a ugly smirk of hers. “It’s a first on your part,” she says, still wearing her ugly smirk“What first on my part?” Adeline asked curiously, trying to match Sevika’s smirk. “You said nothing all the way,” Sevika hinted, “because in a moment now you’ll be bombarding me with a lot of questions. Questions that neither I could answer,” Sevika raised her other brow to make a point. Adeline chuckled, “well… isn’t this what you want?” Adeline smiled, “me, finally shutting my big trap, just to not to annoy my friend right here,” Adeline pulled Sevika’s arm and she started wagging it around. Just to annoy Sevika. “Stop that!” Sevika hissed, “and we’re not friends,” Sevika pointed out. Pulling her arm back to her. Adeline continued to tease her, “Ohhhh, don’t say that lefty. You're breaking the poor woman’s heart,” Adeline brought her hands to her chest, gesturing that Sevika just broke it by saying they’re not friends. Sevika shook her head, as a small smile crept over her lips, she found it very silly for Adeline.Adeline laughed in response, she considered it a victory for herself that she made Sevika laugh, or should I say chuckle in her silly acts. “I still don’t understand why you need to pick me up, like I can’t do it by myself?” Adeline says jokingly, Sevika scoffed, “neither do I," ...Adeline and Sevika entered The Last Drop. Sevika held out the door for her, as always. Adeline smiled and glanced over inside, and saw multiple people dancing to the beat of the song. Some others are indulging themselves with Shimmers. Adeline closed her eyes and pretended she didn't see that. The violet liquid and smoke reminded her of her best friend's death.
Adeline!
RUN!
Adeline cupped her head, shaking her head. The voice of her friend lingered in her head. “Stop!” Adeline hissed to herself, she smacked her head multiple times before the voices finally disappeared. Adeline didn't see where she was heading, she bumped into a tall muscular man. She knocked off his drink, and it splashed down on his chest. “Fuck—Watch where ya going!” He grunted. “Uh, sorry.” Adeline said, taking a few steps back from him. Adeline took a deep breath, before walking towards Jinx room.
Focus, Adeline!
Take a deep bre—
A big, heavy hand pulled Adeline’s shoulder, and turned her away from Jinx's room.
Huh?
“Silco, wants a word with you,” Sevika uttered, gesturing her head to Silco’s office.
Right…
What now?
Guess I’ll just have to lie… again
Adeline nodded and shrugged Sevika’s hand off her shoulder. Sevika turned to her desk near the bar, her desk was a bit small for her size, and it barely fit her things on it. Adeline stops when she is now facing Silco’s oak wood door. Adeline brought her knuckles up, but she hesitated to knock. Until the door swung open, she came face to face to a blue haired girl, who opens the door as if she’s been waiting for Adeline to come. “Adeline!” Jinx jumps up to hug her. “Where have you been?!” She looks up to her. Adeline crouched down to Jinx, “Oh, I… got lost, hon” she said, rubbing the back of her neck as she tried to come up with another lie. “You?… Lost?” Jinx raised an eyebrow, clearly not believing her. “Well…” Adeline let her words hang in the air, she knew silco was listening over his desk. Adeline leaned in, pulling Jinx close to her, and whispered in her ear, “I had too much sleep. Luckily Sevika was there to wake me,” Adeline pulled back with a smile, watching as Jinx’s mouth opened and closed in surprise. Jinx glanced at her father figure, then back at Adeline. A smile spread across her face as she pressed a finger to her lips and nodded, silently signaling her that she understood. Adeline winked at her, and rubbed Jinx's head. “You may go Jinx,” Silco said, “I need to talk to Adeline...” He hinted. Jinx nodded and looked back to Adeline, and winked back at her. Jinx finally left his office. Awkward silence erupted in the room. Adeline didn't know what to do. Should I sit… or I'll just wait till he invites me too? She glanced at Silco's desk. He's more busy reading his paper.
Great…
Now what do I do?...
Silco wasn't even looking at her.
God! This man is driving me crazy!!!
Fine!
I'll just tell him the truth!
She cleared her throat, “Ehem,” trying to get his attention. But Silco didn't budge, he ignored her and continued reading his paper. “Ehem!” Adeline cleared her throat again, but this time more roughly than she intended, “Ehem!–”“–Will you please stop…that!” Silco hissed from his paper. Bringing his full attention to Adeline. “Good!... I now have your full attention.” Adeline smiled slyly, she sat in front of Silco’s desk, and looked him straight in the eye. “Look, boss. I'm sorry if I didn't get here in time, I was too drunk last night. I drank three… four–Urghhh–whatever, I was drunk last night! I had little sleep! And forgive me if I have made you angry again.” Adeline exclaimed. Silco wasn't saying anything. He just stared at her, no hint of anger, frustration, or irritation… None. And that scared Adeline even more. Silco broke his trance, and grabbed his cigar out of the ash tray and lit it on, he took a deep breath on his cigar, and finally let out the smoke, “you done talking?” He asked, boring his eyes on Adeline. Silco broke his trance, and grabbed his cigar out of the ash tray and lit it on, he took a deep breath on his cigar, and finally let out the smoke, “you done talking?” He asked, boring his eyes on Adeline.
What?
“I don’t give a damn about your reasons. You being here is enough! Don’t want to hear the whole story, Jinx already told me about it.” Silco rubbed his forehead, while his lit cigar was between his index and middle finger. “Now, help me get these documents finished. The Chem-Barons are growing anxious about the enforcers invading the lanes.” Silco added, tapping his other hand on the tons of papers. Adeline was silent for a moment, mouth slightly open as she processed what she just heard. “Enforcers?” She asked dumbfounded, “wha–what are they doing here?” “I don't know… They are probably investigating, or looking fo–” Silco let out a heavy sigh, before continuing, “... but I already have someone who'll be taking care of that matter.” Silco reassured her Adeline stared at the wall blankly. Thinking about it. Silco noticed her and pulled her out of her thoughts, he then crossed his legs, “–since when are you going to tell me about your friend from topside?” “Pardon?” Adeline was surprised, she has a lot to say but no decent words come out of her mouth. “Viktor…? Was it?” he asked, taking another deep inhale on his cigar. “I–uh…” “You didn't think I wouldn't know, did you?” He blew the smoke out of his mouth, “Wh–no. I was going to tell you, but I… it slipped through my mind. Viktor is my childho–” “–Jinx already told me all about him…” Silco pointed out, “–she seems happy to talk about…Viktor,” there was no secret that Silco despised–or should we say jealous of Viktor.
Mhhh…
Someone is getting jealous
Adeline laughed at her own thoughts. She let out a soft chuckle. On the other hand, Silco spotted her grinning from ear to ear. “Is there something funny?” He asked, his face stoned. “I… No. No. Sir. It's just… nothing.” Adeline saw in the corner of Silco's mouth a slight twitch. She then smiled softly, just to ease the tense. She then turned her head to the piling papers and started separating them–Not sure what the hell she is even doing. Adeline continued separating the documents, she took another risk of glancing up at Silco, and was surprised to see the man staring at her. Adeline's eyes widened and she immediately looked down again at the documents. She awkwardly cleared her throat. “This is a… lot of paperwork,” Adeline laughed, trying to lighten up the mood. Silco hummed in response, grabbing his wooden clipboard. “Uhm, hey,” Adeline spoke up, placing the last document on the other side. “I uh…” Adeline uttered, she wasn't sure how to tell Silco that she'll be not going to work tomorrow because she’ll be meeting Viktor–for some important matters. “I will leave Jinx to Sevika tomorrow,” she said. She saw Silco placing his clipboard down on his desk, as if he already knew what Adeline was going to say, or where and who she was going out with. “I… have important things that I must do, and I'll be gone for a day, but I'll be back,” she reassured, Adeline got no response from Silco. “I told–” “–I have appointments with Renni this afternoon…” Silco implied, he then stood up from his chair, walking slowly away from his desk.
So???
“And?” Adeline replied, trying hard not to sound sarcastic. She follows his features, not sure why all of a sudden announcement.
Oh…!
Wait!!!
Don't tell me–!
“I’ve been thinking… if you would be the one to attend my appointments,” he finally stopped in front of Adeline, putting out his lit up cigar on the ashtray next to Adeline's arm.
Shit!
I knew he'd asked me to do it!
“Wha–why me?” She asked, her brows knitting together. “Because it’s your job.” he stated, Adeline scoffed, and ran a hand down her face, “My job is to protect Jinx from any harm!” Adeline stated back. “Exactly, but it's also your job because you're my assistant, and the assistant will do what her boss tells her.” Silco claimed. Savoring every words he spat out. Adeline was sure she saw a malicious smirk on his face, when he spat his words. God I swear if he wasn't my boss I'd probably have broken his nose by now…Adeline nodded abruptly, “Sure. sure… sure!” Adeline fumed, fidgeting her feet. “What exactly do you want me to do?” He walks back to his chair. “You'll find out soon enough when you get there,” He said. “Wha–?” Adeline scoffed. “That will be all. The appointment would take place in her factory, at 4pm sharp.” Silco stated. Sitting back to his chair. Adeline stumped her feet and walked away from Silco.
God!
I can't, BELIEEEEEVE HIM!
As much as Adeline wanted to–or as tempted as she was to slam the door, she instead closed it the way other normal people would.
Ok!
Let's get this over with!
What time is it–
Adeline glanced at the wall clock and saw it was almost 3pm.
Good!
I still have one and a half hours to get there!
She wanted to go to Renni’s factory right away, but she was held up by Jinx. “Adeline!” Jinx beamed. “Uh, hey Hun,” Adeline uttered, “Come and see my new invention! It's called tickler,” Jinx grabbed Adeline's hand and pulled her across her room. “Oh, uh. Jinx…? I have important business to attend, maybe when I get bac–” “Oh, please! It will only take a minute…!” Jinx pleaded, not even letting go of Adeline's hand. “But–” “Pretty please!” Adeline couldn't refuse her, she always has a soft spot when it comes to Jinx. “Ohhh, alright.” Adeline sighs, “if only I weren't too damn soft!” Adeline said jokingly.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
Adeline grew anxious as she kept glancing up the wall clock. It was already 3:28pm. She should be out by now, the walk from here to Renni’s factory would take 30 mins or so.Adeline tapped her feet every second the clock ticked, she didn’t want to be seen uninterested by Jinx gadgetry. Meanwhile, she looked back at Jinx with a smile on her face, praising every work Jinx showed her. Adeline grabbed the so-called tickler bomb Jinx had been telling her, she examined her fine work. “Pretty cool, huh?” Jinx said, her eyes gleaming with joy as she watched Adeline inspecting her work. “Well…who would’ve thought that the blue headed girl could make a bomb?” She declared joyfully, handing her over the tickler. Jinx smiled and bit her lower lip, she set aside her tickler and pulled out one of her new inventions. Adeline followed her movement, “Oh!..This is for the enforcers!” Jinx reached out her hands from her massive brown box, she was about to pull it out when Adeline stopped her.“—Hey, maybe we could save it for later,” Adeline uttered, “I have a meeting to attend and… maybe if I get there now, we could have all the fun later? what do you say?” Adeline saw the excitement fading into Jinx's face; her shoulders slumped ever so lightly, and the light in her eyes dimmed. The pride Jinx had felt moments ago in her work crumbled, replaced by a hollow ache that she masked with a faint, unconvincing smile. Jinx movements were slow as she turned away from Adeline, facing her table instead of her. Adeline felt bad for her, she thought that Jinx must’ve felt as if she is not being heard or valued. “Hey,” Adeline soothed, placing her hands on Jinx's shoulders. “I’ll be back, I promise. I just need to attend your old man’s meeting and I’ll be back before 5pm.” Adeline uttered, “or maybe before 5pm…and you and I would build lots of loooooots of bombs for the enforcers,” Adeline smiled, but despite her effort to cheer Jinx, she didn’t earn any smile from her. “Just… go.” Jinx replied, her voice almost broke, as if she was trying to hold back her tears. Adeline felt her heart broke into pieces, “Jinx—”“Just go! Ok?!” Adeline removed her hands from Jinx's shoulders, she didn’t intentionally want to hurt her feelings, she just wanted to explain to her that she has important things to do. With that Adeline left her room without a word. She gently closed her door. Adeline walked away from Jinx room, she languidly walked out of the hallway, as the loud music from the bar started to be audible. Adeline let out a heavy sigh. She looked up again to the wall near Sevika’s desk and saw it was 3:44pm
Oh! Shit! Shit! Shit!
She immediately stormed out of the bar. ...Adeline couldn’t remember which way she should be going, she couldn’t recall the instructions Sevika told her. The fact that she’s already late and couldn’t remember which way to Renni’s raw factory is. Making Adeline pissed.
Damn!
I’m lost…
Adeline had reached the dead end of the Undercity.
Wait…
Which way will I go again?
Left?
Or right?
Adeline ran down a hand to her face.
Fuck!
Adeline turned her head and saw an alleyway on her left side. She quickly walked towards the alleyway and just when she was about to enter, she immediately stopped, covering her nose.
Oh!…by Janna!
It really smells like shit!
Adeline almost puked from the horrible smell that was coming from the alleyway.
Even worse than the actual shits!
Before entering the alleyway she covered her nose with her handkerchief; tied it around her face, enough to cover her nose and mouth.
Ok…
Here goes
Adeline now entered the alleyway, not even sure if she could even handle the smelly raw materials from Renni’s factory. Even with her handkerchief, the fetid stench was too unbearable, penetrating through the fabric. She snorted, coming to a realization, “Huh... now I see why you sent me instead of yourself you clever shit!” Adeline continued to follow the path on the ground,
No wonder why Renni got those shiny light green strap thingy on her nose.
She had finally reached the entrance of Renni’s factory. Although it was heavily guarded by two strapping lads were standing near the gate. She hastened her walking, and paid little attention to her path, and just when she was about to take another step, she squashed something on the ground and made a loud squishy sound.
Ohhhh, my…
Adeline’s eyes widened; she didn’t even dare to look down, fearing she couldn’t handle the thing she had just stepped on.
Fuck!
She could feel a hot, moist liquid dripping down from her calf.
Ew! Eww! Ewwwwww!
Adeline dry-heaved, trying hard not to vomit.
Oh God!
Her eyes are now watering. She took another step to get away from the thing she just stepped on. But Adeline ended up stepping on another squishy thing! But this time it let out a reeking stench!
Hoooly shi—
BLAAAAAAACCCHHHH!!!
Adeline once again dry-heaved. “Fuck you, Silco!” She let out an angry scream, wiping her saliva off on the corner of her mouth.
It is really your lucky day!
The two strapping lads noticed her presence. “Oy! You there!” the other guy shouted, Adeline tried to speak, but she couldn’t; her stomach churned, and she felt like she was about to vomit. “This alleyway is off limits!” He added, walking towards Adeline with a metal bat in his hand.Adeline raised her hand in defense, “Furgiv mhi—” she muttered, as she quickly steady herself, swallowing hard, “I’m—Silco’s… assistant.” She said, trying hard not to throw up. The two guys shared a look, before turning back to Adeline. “State your business…” the tall dark-haired man uttered beside the man who’s holding a metal bat. “I… I’m here for my boss' appointment.” she stated firmly.The two men exchanged a glance and laughed. “There are no appointments. Get out of here before you piss us off,” one of them said, turning back to their station.“Wha—? No! I didn’t come all this way for nothing! Call your boss, Renni! Tell her Silco’s assistant is here for their meeting!”One of the men raised a brow. “A meeting, you say?”“Yes!” Adeline exclaimed, her voice sharp with urgency.The taller, dark-haired man leaned over and whispered something to his companion. The other man nodded, his face turning back toward Adeline.“The meeting’s already over,” he said flatly.“What?” Adeline’s voice rose in disbelief.“You’re late,” he added with a shrug.“Wha—no! Please! It’s only 4:20 p.m. I can still—”“No,” he cut her off, his tone final. “You’re really late. The meeting took place at 3 p.m.”Adeline was confused, “woah—wait…there must be a mistake, ” Adeline shook her head, “Silco told me his appointment with Renni was 4pm.” “Don’t know what you're talking about, Renni was pissed when you didn’t show up.” “Huh…?" Adeline muttered, trying to figure out what the hell was happening.
Did Silco forget?
No… it’s impossible for him to forget that, unless…
Ohhh…
Adeline had finally connected the dots. She now understands why—or at least, she thought she did. Silco had intentionally made her miss the appointment. Why? Because if she missed it, she’d have to return to meet Renni at another time. And the fact that he knew how awful the smell was down there only made it even worse. He must have enjoyed seeing how pissed Adeline was, knowing she’d have to endure it all over again.
So… you liked to play it dirty, huh? This is how you retaliate, because your own pride was hurt, and jealous!
Adeline let out a loud laugh, as she finds it funny that she’d easily fallen from Silco’s trap. Silco, you clever son of a bitch…. The two men stared at her, thinking of what got into her. Adeline continued to laugh, bringing her attention to the two confused men, “Do you by any chance have a small bag?” Adeline asked, her eyes still gleaming, “Just need to give the old man a taste of his own medicine.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Adeline left Renni’s foul-smelling factory with a bright smile on her face, the small brown bag resting carefully in her left palm. She couldn’t wait to deliver the little gift she had prepared for Silco. The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, painting the streets in shades of orange and purple, as she made her way silently through the city. Adeline observed every person who was passing by, their hurried movements or suspicious glances; some other lads were running as if they were being chased by a dog, with armfuls of various fruits. Adeline had already guessed that they stole it, and that also explained why they’re running and a worried look on their faces. She’s still about 1 kilometer away from the last drop, she quickened her pace, just to get there in time. She walked past the one and only brothel in the Underground, she noticed the familiar chaos there, a drunken brawl had broken out over a woman, the idiot man didn’t have any trousers, he only wore a top clothes that barely hide his private part, shouts and curses were heard from the outside. Adeline wasn’t surprised by the chaos that was happening out there. Even from a distance, Adeline could still hear the unmistakable sounds of pleasure and screams coming from inside the brothel. Grimacing, Adeline shook her head and hastened her steps, not wanting to hear another loud scream and moaning of the people. Just as when Adeline moved past the brothel, she caught a glimpse of a man leaning casually against the brothel wall, his arms crossed in front of him. The man appears to be in an enforcer uniform, though Adeline had suspected it must be his costume for tonight. His posture was lazy confidence. Catching her eye, he winked and puckered his lips, blowing a kiss in her direction.Adeline’s expression twisted in an instant. Her brows furrowed, her eyes slightly narrowed, with raised lower lid, and her nose wrinkled in clear disgust. She scoffed audibly, turning her head away with a flick of her hair before striding off, leaving the man and his foolish antics behind. Minutes later, the sounds of the brothel faded into the background as Adeline approached Jericho’s shop. The familiar atom of his food made her stomach rumble hungrily, and she could practically taste the menus in her mind. She decided to stop for a second and have some dinner. Her smile grew even wider when she sat up in Jericho’s chairs. “I’ll take the usual, big guy,” Adeline said with a playful grin, placing aside the small bag on the chair. She leaned casually against the counter. She knew Jericho’s food well, and today, she was craving the comfort of his familiar dishes. Her smile softened as she waited, her mind briefly wandering to other things
Wonder if Jinx is still angry at me…
Maybe I’ll buy her some of her favorite foods…
The smell of her meal brought her back to the present. Adeline hadn’t expected her meal so early. Jericho placed her meal in front of her, two bowls of her usual soup, and he paired it with big deep fried toad legs, and raw fish eyes on top of her soups. Adeline couldn’t help it but to giggle, her mouth watered at the sight of her meal. She immediately pulled the bowls in front of her and she quickly dug in.
Mhhhh…
Adeline didn’t mind slowing down, shoving more food into her mouth. She didn’t care that it was still popping hot; the warmth only made it more satisfying as she devoured each bite, her hunger was too unbearable. Just when she was about to eat the last raw fish eye, scooping it out of her wooden bowl, a man appeared on her right side. Adeline turned her head and was surprised to see the enforcer costume guy standing beside her. Leaning over the counter, while wearing his ugly smirk. “Eyy, gorgeous” he said, placing his hand lightly on Adeline’s shoulder.
Oh, brother…
Adeline tried to ignore him, as she’s still trying to focus on her food. She didn’t want him to ruin her moment of happiness. Adeline grabbed the fried toad leg and she bit it hard, as she was getting irritated by the man, staring at her while she ate. “Gosh, gorgeous, slow down. No one is taking your food.” He said, flicking his tongue out.
Urgh!
Adeline turned away, and shrugged his hand off her shoulder. But the man brought it back to her shoulder once again. Adeline slammed the spoon onto the counter with a sharp clang. Her jaw tightened as she quickly wiped her mouth with the back of her hand.She turned slowly into the man, “Take your filthy hand off my shoulder,” she hissed, her voice low and venomous, “or I'll break it like a fucking twig!” Adeline snapped.The man did what she said, and raised his hand in defense. “Ok…” he smiled. Taking a few steps back. Adeline wanted nothing more than to finish her meal. She still had one bowl left to go. But the man didn't leave. Instead, he stood there, staring at her with an irritating persistence. “The fuck do you want?” Adeline sneered, “Uh–uh,” He said, wagging his index finger side to side with a smirk. “Honey, it's not about what I want, it's about what you want,” “Ok,” Adeline pushed her meal roughly aside, the moment he said the word ‘Honey’ she had already lost her appetite.She then held up her index finger, pointing at the man's face, “First… don't call me honey, and second… Really?” Adeline flicked her eyes to his costume.She placed her elbow on the counter, and she put her hand on her forehead, as she began to massage it as the headaches were already forming. “Do you know how stupid you look? Dressing up as an enforcer you think you'll get a customer for wearing that!” Pointing her fingers to his body. “People down here hate enforcers!” “Then what do you want me to wear for tonight?” He smiled mischievously. Adeline ran a hand through her long wavy black hair.
God!
I don't even know why I'm still talking to this idiot…
Adeline let out a heavy sigh, and grabbed her pocket money. She didn't even waste to look back again to the man, she immediately placed the money in Jericho's box, “Look, I don't want anything from you… nothing… at all!” She snapped, “Now… why don't you just go back to your fantasy world, and I'll be on my merry way,” Adeline smiled slyly, she grabbed the small bag and pushed herself up away from the counter. “Fine…” he said, as his words sounded more boring, “I guess Marcus will have all the fun then,” he said, turning his back on Adeline.
Wait–What?!
Adeline turned her face to the man, who appears to be waiting for her to talk, as he slowly walked away from her. “Marcus? W–who are you talking about?” She asked, “Mhhh, some guy–who always visits the brothel with his enforcer friends.” Adeline wasn't sure if she should believe what he was saying to her. She called it a bluff, as if Marcus would let himself into the brothel, that guy has a reputation to uphold. Adeline scoffed, as she realized it must be another trap, and she wouldn't let herself fall for another trap… not again. Adeline's face remained blank, “Ha.ha.ha, jeez you're really funny.” she said flatly, her face remained impassive, “you should leave the brothel,” she suggested with a little bit enthusiasm, “your jokes are reaaaaally funny, you should be a joker, instead of sucking cocks, and cunts.” “Why don't you come to the brothel and meet him sometimes… Marcus always brought his friends with him.” he suggested. Clearly this man wouldn't stop! What does he really want from her?...“Urgh, not a fucking chance.” she uttered, she finally turned her back. “I'm sure he'll be glad to see a familiar face!” He uttered, enough for Adeline to hear his words. Her body immediately turned to face him, the man smiled at her and winked at Adeline. She was taken aback, she wasn't sure what the hell he was talking about. The fact that he knew about Marcus knowing her, scared Adeline even more.
He knows something… A secret she buried so deep and long before–
…This man looks vaguely familiar
Adeline took moments to examine his face.
He looks like…
“–Anyway, I have to go. Madam would be furious if she saw me out again.” He hinted, pulling out a small brown cigar, and placed it between his lips. Before the man lit the cigar, he paused and looked back to Adeline, “You know where to find me, gorgeous.” he once again winked at her, and strode off. Leaving Adeline perplexed by his actions. The mysterious man left Adeline completely confused.Adeline made her way back to The Last Drop, her thoughts tangled in confusion. The man’s words and features lingered in her mind, a shadow she couldn’t shake. He knew something—something he shouldn’t. Her past? Perhaps, her family? Maybe. But worse, he might know the truth about her—who she really was beneath the careful mask she constructed. She pushed open the door of the dimly lit bar. The usual crowd was scattered all around the bar and small tables, lost in their own dramas. When Adeline came to view, she was surprised to see all of them stop everything they were doing in a minute the moment she entered. Her eyes lingered on them for a moment.
The hell…?
She slammed the door shut and walked slowly to the barstool. Even if Adeline wasn’t looking at them, she knew they were still staring at her. Adeline slid onto the barstool chair and rested her arms on the counter. She ordered a bourbon, neat. The bartender nodded and quickly grabbed a glass cup and poured her drink. Her hands trembled slightly as she wrapped them around the glass. She had spent years burying her secrets, covering every trail, yet that man had unnerved her. Was he a threat? Who sent him? Who is he working for? Or was he just some guy who pretends to know something?…“Rough night, huh?” a person asked from behind. Her voice pulled her back to the present. Adeline turned and saw her bad-ass friend, Sevika. Adeline scoffed, “You should say that,” she said, as she sipped her drink, her mind raced. She needed answers… No… she needs to know about this man, or else he’ll ruin her plan that she had been working for nearly 6 years.
Who is he? He looks familiar but I couldn’t figure it out… How much does he know about me?
“Thought something bad had happened to you little shit,” she said, her voice low and gravelly. Adeline huffed, “yeah,” “Didn’t think you'd have a stomach for it,” Sevika smiled, and drank her big glass of alcohol. Adeline only hummed in response, and took another sip to her drink. Just when Adeline was taking another shot of bourbon, a thin, greasy haired man appeared to her left. “I’ll pay for her,” he said, placing his coin on the counter. Adeline rubbed her forehead and looked up to meet the man’s eyes, “How generous of you,” she admitted, offering a smile and raised her glass and drank her drink. “Anything for you, gorgeous” he said as he sat down next to Adeline. Adeline completely ignored the man. Turning her gaze at her friend. Sevika on the other hand, eyed the man like she was about to beat him. Adeline brought her eyes to Sevika and shook her head, saying that she got this. Sevika rolled her eyes in response. “Is he still up?” Adeline asked. “Yeah, he’s been waiting for you. Jinx has been acting… wild lately.” Adeline nodded, finishing her last drink in a single, deliberate motion before sliding off the barstool. Before leaving she turned to the man who paid for her drink.
Well… we need to thank the generous man, don’t we?
“Hey, thanks for the drink.” She said, tapping the man’s shoulder as she passed. “Anytime, gorgeous,” the man smirked, his eyes glinting with misplaced confidence. Then, with a smug audacity, he slapped her buttocks. Hard enough to make a loud smack sound. “You—!” Sevika growled, already halfway from her seat. Her mechanical arm twitching as she’s eager to grab the man by his collar. But Adeline raised her hand, stopping Sevika from what she was about to do to the man. “I’ve got this,” she said, her voice calm but laced with steel. She turned back to the man, her expression unreadable.She slowly sat on his lap and cupped his face with both her hands, leaning in close as though sharing an intimate moment. The man grinned, leaning into her touch, he was clearly pleased with himself. Without his knowledge, he didn’t notice that Adeline grabbed something and smacked it to his face, hard. A violet moist liquid was smudge on his face. The man immediately dried heaved. He tried to push Adeline’s away from his face but Adeline grip tightened, firm, unrelenting. His grin faltered as her nails dug into his skin. “Oh, you’re such a generous guy!” She said sweetly, her voice dripping with mock affection, “This is my payment for your generosity. I took this all the way to the factory.” She hinted, as she pulled away from the man, “Smells good doesn't it?!” She retorted, as she quickly took the bartender's rag towel. Sevika's face was purely shocked, she stared at the greasy haired man to Adeline, thinking if that just really happened. “Fucking cunt!” The man shouted, wiping off the stinky liquid on his face. Adeline smiled slyly, with a sudden burst of energy, she spun toward the crowd, “Hey, everyone!” She called out, her voice carrying through the bar. “This fine gentleman right here brought me a drink! And guess what? He’s so generous, he’s going to buy round two for all of you!” The bar erupted in cheers and laughter, patrons raising their glasses in mock gratitude. The man’s face still covered in violet stinky liquid tried to speak as he stammered protests, but the noise drowned him out. Adeline threw the rag towel away, “Don’t you ever touch me again, because if you do, it will be the last time you’d have a hand,” she snapped. She straightened and cast Sevika a wry smile. “Let’s go see our boss,” she said casually, brushing past her. Sevika shook her head, suppressing a smirk as she followed Adeline out of the bar. “Remind me never to get on your bad side,” Sevika muttered. Adeline laughed, her lips curling into a sly grin. ...Adeline and Sevika had reached Silco’s door. They could hear a loud screaming inside his office. Adeline wasn’t sure if she should leave and talk to him another day, or she’ll just have to wait until the fighting is over. Sevika had already left her, leaving her all alone outside Silco’s door.
Great…
Adeline could hear Jinx and Silco fighting and shouting. She didn’t know what got into her, so she immediately twisted the doorknob and went inside. As she entered the room, he saw how messy his room was, papers all on the floor. Jinx on the other hand sits uncomfortably on Silco’s desk; her back facing Silco, while he tries to braid her hair. “Adeline!” Jinx shouted, she pulled away from Silco and ran towards Adeline. Silco let out a loud sigh, and he massaged his forehead. He was almost finished braiding her hair but Jinx pulled away and it irritated him.He wasn’t good at braiding her hair. Adeline hugged Jinx, she missed her terribly. “What took you so long?” Jinx asked, her face gleaming with joy. Adeline was surprised that Jinx wasn’t angry at her. “Well… I got lost on my way to the stinking factory… and someone told me to be there at exactly 4pm… and when I got there the meeting was already over,” Adeline shot Silco a look.She saw a small smirk on his face but he quickly turned his gaze to the mirror behind him. “Bummer” Jinx retorted, a mischievous smirk playing on her face. Adeline nodded in response. “Thank you for your help, Jinx. You may go, Adeline and I had so much to talk about… this meeting” Silco uttered, “I’ll braid your hair after,” he added. Jinx let out a loud sigh as if she didn’t want him to braid her hair. “Please braid my hair after your conversation with him,” Jinx whispered to Adeline while she passed by Adeline, and left the office. Adeline suppressed her laugh and turned her gaze back to Silco. He gestured his hand to Adeline to sit. She walked over to the usual chair she’d been sitting on. “How was the meeting?” Silco asked, both his eyes staring at Adeline. “Oh, pissed off,” Adeline uttered, her face saying it all. She wasn't in the mood for a joke. She has a lot in her mind right now. Silco couldn’t help but laugh at her response.Adeline was surprised, she scoffed at him and turned her gaze away from him.His laugh wasn’t loud or carefree but a quiet, throaty thing, as though he rarely indulged in such moments. “How long have you figured it out?” He asked. Adeline turned to look at Silco, and for a moment, it felt as though she was seeing him for the first time. There was no anger in his tone, no edge of annoyance. Only his eyes held a softness she hadn’t expected, a quiet vulnerability that made her pause.“a minute,” she said, smiling softly, “and now… I just figured that you used Jinx to make me stay a little bit longer…” She hinted, placing her hand on his table.Silco raised his good brow, as a hint of confirmation, while his mouth twitched. “I just figured it out when she acts pretty strange around me, and that also explains her reaction today,” she added. “I didn’t used her,” Silco reassured, "she agreed to help me with my plan,” he uttered, Adeline hummed, “huh…” she tapped her feet, “Too bad I gave away the small gift I prepared for you,” she smirk,Silco only hummed, “Quite a party you did down there,” he said.
Shit…
He saw that?
“Ah, yeah? You saw that?” Adeline asked, “Saw what?” Silco asked her back. Adeline let out an awkward laugh, “Ah just nothing… I just forgot I have to go. Need to scrub this stinky smell on me,” Adeline said jokingly.
Shit!
What the fuck is wrong with me?
I'm acting pretty weird!
Adeline stood up from her chair, “I probably should go. After all, I still have a meeting to attend tomorrow.” Adeline hinted. She looked up to Silco and was surprised to see the man was staring blankly at her. Adeline's heart immediately stops.
Shit
I must've pissed him off…
With that Adeline turned to the Oakwood door. “You don't have to go back there tomorrow,” Silco announced. Adeline was surprised, she turned her face to Silco.“I'll be going with Sevika to attend the meeting. You'll stay here and keep an eye on Jinx.” He commanded. “Ah, sure.” She said, and for the first time he saw a genuine smile on Silco's face.She could feel her face turning red, she smiled back, “Glad to see you smiling,” she winked at him and turned her head back to the door. As she closed the door her heart was beating so fast.She steady herself before walking away from the door.
Oh, what the actually fuck!
Why did I say that?!
What is wrong with you!?
Keep it together!
It's all but an act!
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
Adeline spent most of her time in Silco’s office, poring over his endless stacks of paperwork, while Jinx lounged casually on top of her father’s desk, doodling in her oversized white sketchbook; her coloring materials spread across the table, leaving little enough space for Adeline to do her work. Adeline sat on her boss’ hulking chair of dark leather and cold steel, and its high, pointed back looming behind her. Adeline paused for a second, rubbing her forehead and the nape of her neck as the ache from hours of work set in. Tilting her head sideways, while at the same time closing her eyes, her neck gave a sharp crack, she exhaled softly, letting a moment of relief wash over her before diving back into the task at hand.
That feels good…
She struggled to open her eyes, the weight of exhaustion making it feel like a monumental task. With a soft sigh, she managed to lift her eyelids, her vision blurry for a moment, as she gently placed the paper on the far side of the desk, where a small mountain of completed documents had begun to form. Adeline reached to her right, her hand brushing against the stack of papers; Pulling another thick document from the pile, she felt the weight of it in her hand—a painful reminder of the work still ahead.
Arghhhh!
When will this dreadful paper ever end!?
I have been reading all these shits for hours! Adeline flipped the page with a quick, frustrated motion, her eyes scanning the text with little patience. Her attention soon shifted to the little blue headed lady across from her; Jinx appears to be so absorbed in her sketching that she hardly seemed aware of Adeline’s presence. A mischievous grin curled at the corner of Adeline’s lips as she saw the opportunity to mess with her, with a swift, deliberate tap, she pushed Jinx notebook down onto her little skinny lap. Jinx paused, “Hey!” She uttered, and looked up at Adeline, her wide, confused eyes locking to her.“Hey,” Adeline uttered back, but with a soft tone on her voice, “you’ve been quiet since you stepped in here,” “Well… I’m busy,” Jinx replied nonchalantly, she grabbed a new neon color and started doodling hard in her notebook. Adeline made a low chuckle, “Wanna grab something to drink?” She asked, her eyebrows raised as she’s waiting for her to answer. Jinx swayed her head slightly, “No.” She said, looking down again at her sketch pad, “maybe later,” Adeline hummed in disappointment as she glanced back again to her own work. She let out an irritated sigh as she looked at the stacks of papers waiting for her to read them. She caught a glimpse of a rich white envelope underneath the thick documents.
Huh…
Adeline slid the envelope out effortlessly, her breath hitching as her eyes fell on its intimate details; The soft, creamy off-white of the envelope contrasted sharply with the elegant black wax seal and ribbon, exuding an air of sophistication.
Well…
This one is worth my time…
Just when she was about to crack the dry seal. Her gaze was drawn to the seal, a striking emblem pressed into the wax; Two crossed, ornate keys with angular, claw-like ends stared back at her, their design unmissable. Her heart pounded as memories surged forward, unbidden and relentless. The symbol was tied to her past, a past she had once buried deep inside her. The past she has to outrun. House Kiramman The name whispered through her mind like a ghost. She had once told herself that she didn’t want to see any more symbols of the topside council's. After what they did to her. Adeline’s fingers quivered as they brushed the raised emblem. Her throat tightened, her resolve wavering. Did she have the strength to open it and face whatever message the Kirammans had sent for her boss? Does she have to read the letter, even if it’s addressed to Silco? For a long moment, she just stared, caught between the past. Jinx was also staring at her and to the fancy envelope, “Adeline…?” she called out, “ar—are you alright? You seem like you’ve seen a ghost,” she added with a little tease. Adeline gripped the envelope pretty tightly, she steady her breathing and mastered her way through the situation, “Uh—no, it’s uhm—I thought I…” she stuttered her words, she couldn’t say much, as she couldn’t even utter anything properly.
Adeline!
RUN!
The desperate cry echoed in her mind, shaking her to the core. Memories came crashing down like a relentless tide, flooding her senses. Her friend's face appeared vividly, a face once filled with belief and encouragement. The only person who saw her potential, who had stood by her side when no one else would. But now, the face was twisted in pain, lifeless, a victim of her own mistakes. Adeline’s chest tightened as guilt clawed at her insides like a relentless monster. Her friend’s face flashed vividly in her mind—the long pink hair, the piercing screams, the chaos that had consumed everything in an instant. She could still hear it all, feel the moment everything fell apart. The weight of the memories threatened to crush her, her breath hitching as the room seemed to spin around her.With trembling hands, she shoved it to the far side of the table as if trying to push away the memories that had gripped her so fiercely. But the past wasn’t so easily cast aside. It lingered, a shadow she couldn’t escape, whispering her failures and feeding her doubt. She gritted her teeth, her fists clenching at her sides as she forced herself to focus.
I’m not—
I shouldn’t…
It’s not my business…
Its address to Silco not from you… and he’ll be the one to open it…
Adeline turned her attention to the thick file she had been reading, forcing herself to focus on its contents. Yet, the lingering presence of the rich envelope nagged at her, stirring an uneasy feeling she couldn’t shake.
But what was inside that letter?
Moreover, what business does House Kiramman have with Silco?!
Can’t it be some sort of conspiracy theory?
No…
It can’t be...
But—
What if they’re looking for me?!
And… my mother…
Oh God—!
Did Viktor told her where I was?!
Panic surges to Adeline’s head. She stood abruptly from the chair, and started pacing around the office. Jinx was beginning to worry about her, she was scared of what was happening to Adeline, she didn’t understand why she was being like this.
No…!
I trust Viktor…
He wouldn’t…
Adeline raked her fingers through her hair, frustration building as she placed both hands on her hips. Her mind raced, each thought faster than the last. She knew exactly what would happen if they found out where she was. They'd probably kill her—or worse… a quiet assassination, orchestrated by the bloody council. Especially now, with her working alongside Silco.
I haven’t stepped foot in Piltover for years!
I did exactly what they asked me to do!
Her fists clenched, her voice rising in anger. And now I have to do whatever it takes to survive down here. What do they expect me to do?! Sell a fucking flowers?–Or even worse! Sell my own soul to the brothel in exchange for a scrap of coin?! She let out a long sigh, rubbing her nape as the weight of the situation settled in.
It must've been my mother...
She froze for a moment, the thought sending a chill down her spine.All these years…! What does she fucking want from me now?!Adeline let out a sharp scream, the sound echoing in the quiet room. Her mind raced as she began pacing in frantic circles again. Every movement felt heavy with consequences as she replayed the past days in her head, scrutinizing each of her actions. Have I been too careless? Too visible? She chewed her lip, her thoughts spiraling, she didn’t realize the several calls of her name, maybe someone from my mothers spies saw me out? The day I went to Renni’s factory? Or she knew where I was from the very beginning?! Her heart pounded as the possibility piled up.
Hold on!
The man…?
The man from the brothel…!
He knows something about me!
What if she’s one of my mother’s spies?
I have to go to the broth—
“ADELINE!” Jinx shouted from behind, “YOU'RE SCARING ME!” Adeline was pulled away from her mind and she turned to face Jinx; she was cupping her knees together, while she sat on the desk, trembling with fear. Adeline came back to her senses, she slowly stride towards her just to not scare her off again. “I… I’m sorry hun. I didn’t mean to scare you. I got stressed, that's all.” Adeline soothed, holding up her arms for her to hug her back. Jinx immediately pulled Adeline in an embrace. “I’m so sorry.” Adeline added, cupping the back of her small head; squeezing tight. Jinx cried out, gripping her shoulder blades very firmly. Jinx nails barely dig into her back. But Adeline didn’t protest, after all, this was her fault. Adeline mustered every ounce of strength she had, carefully lifting Jinx into her arms and carrying her to the worn leather sofa. She moved with a tenderness that belied her exhaustion, gently lowering Jinx onto the cushions as though she might shatter. Adeline kneeled beside her, she brushed a stray strand of her blue hair behind Jinx’s ear, her fingers trembling slightly as she did. She began to hum softly, a melody from distant memories, the same humming sound that her own mother used to make when she put Adeline to bed when she couldn’t sleep every night, because she’s craving her mother’s presence and her soft angelic humming. Adeline hated herself for doing it the way her mother does. Even if Adeline wouldn’t admit it, she missed her mother so badly. She found herself now thinking of her mother, thinking what she might look like now.
Bet she’s still wearing her fancy white gloves…
Her beautiful diamond earrings…
She wouldn’t leave the house without those shiny earrings
Adeline let out a soft chuckle, though it carried an undercurrent of sadness. The thought of her mother always seemed to evoke a whirlwind of emotions. Even in her anger, she couldn’t stop thinking about her. How could she do this to her own daughter? The woman who raised her, and abandoned her own child to protect her position?—Her family position? It had left an indelible scar on Adeline’s heart. The memory made her feel small, unloved, and achingly unvalued. Her vision blurred as tears welled up, spilling over before she could hold the back. She tried to wipe them away, but a small, gentle hand reached up first. Adeline was startled, she looked down to see Jinx brushing her tears away with surprising tenderness. “I don’t know why you’re acting so weird lately,” Jinx whispered softly, her voice filled with quiet strength, “but I just want you to know that I’m here for you. It’s okay. You’ll get through this. You’re stronger than you think.” She cupped Adeline’s face with gentle touch, her small small fingers warm against Adeline’s skin. Adeline’s lips curved into a trembling smile as fresh tears rolled down her cheeks. This time, they weren’t from sorrow alone but from the unexpected comfort from Jinx. Adeline reached for Jinx’s hand, wrapping her own around it and giving it three soft squeezes—a silent signal that she was okay. Jinx’s eyes softened at the small gesture, her worry melting into a quiet calm. Carefully, Adeline placed Jinx’s hand back against her chest, tucking it close to her heart. She leaned down and whispered her voice barely audible, “Thank you, Jinx.” Her hand lingered on Jinx’s cheek, her thumb brushing away the last traces of tears. As she began to hum softly, the soothing melody wrapped around them like a protective cocoon. Adeline stayed by Jinx’s side, her own heart aching yet comforted, as she watched the girl’s breathing slow and her eyelids grow heavy, finally drifting into a peaceful slumber. Adeline rested her chin on the couch as she began to close her eyes too.
[ ~°• Silco •°~ ]
Minutes turn to hours—hours turn to days. Silco had wanted to leave Renni’s factory the moment Finn slithered into the shadowy corner of her office; his presence as unwelcome as rust on steel. Yet here Silco was forced to endure the meeting. His patience was already paper-thin, frayed further as Finn lounged against the wall, exuding a smug confidence that grated against Silco’s nerves. Silco was mildly surprised to see Finn alone for once, unaccompanied by his usual arm, blonde candy draped over him like a cheap jewelry. Silco’s sharp gaze cut toward him. “I still don’t understand why he’s here.” He muttered, voice low and venomous. There was no secret that Silco's disdain for Finn was palpable, coiling in the air between them like smoke. Renni seated behind her polished desk, her face remained impassive, her fingers steepled as she weighed the tension in the room. “Finn is here because his investments entangle him in this… negotiation,” she said smoothly, her tone calm but edged with finality. Silco’s lips curled, barely suppressing a sneer. How many times do I have to explain it to him, so that my words could reach his puny brain!He composed himself, trying hard not to say it loud, despite the aching feeling of spatting it at his face. He had no patience for Finn’s antics, nor for Renni’s diplomacy. Honestly, what kind of businessman sent an errand boy to represent him?Finn smirked, as if reading Silco’s thoughts—Or he thought so. “Oh, come now, Silco,” he drawled, his tone casual but laced with mockery. “I thought you’d be thrilled to have me here. Though, I must admit. I'm a bit dejected by Adeline’s absence.” He let his words hang in the air like smoke, his gaze locked on Silco, studying his reaction—which he hoped to see one.Silco, on the other hand, refused to give him the satisfaction of a response. His face remained cold, carved from stone. Men like him thrived on a reaction, and beautiful women. He knew Finn was waiting for his reaction, and he wasn’t about to offer one freely. His tongue poking inside his cheek. Finn’s grin widened, undeterred by Silco’s silence, “After all,” he continued, his voice laced with feigned sincerity, “someone has to ensure we keep things… balanced.” The mention of Adeline’s name is enough for Silco to be pissed, but Finn’s reluctant side comments chipped at Silco’s composure. “Balanced?” Silco echoed, his voice cutting through the room like a blade. Even Renni didn’t protest, she sat there looking at them. “You wouldn’t know balance if it struck you across the face.” Finn chuckled, clearly savoring the moment. He leaned back lazily, exuding an insufferable confidence that only stoked Silco’s nerves further. “And yet, here I am. Still standing,” he quipped, his grin sharp as a knife. The room grew heavy with silence, thick with tension that threatened to snap at any moment. Silco’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t move. The game was far from over, and he wasn’t about to fold his hand—not to Finn, and if he likes to play his little game a little further, then he would. “I must say,” Finn continued, his voice dripping with false innocence, “I’m a little disappointed you brought the big ugly ogre with you—no offense by the way,” Finn gestured his hand to Sevika, who’s hulking presence at Silco’s side. Although, the woman only rolled her eyes. “—I thought you’d bring your hottie assistant with you,” He said, “Honestly, I was looking forward to this meeting. I’ve always liked her attitude. Her sharp tongue, and even her sharper features—mhm… truly something to admire,” Silco’s jaw tightened even more, “I wonder where’s your usual lap ornament?” He asked, his tone sharp, cutting through the air like a glass, “Did you finally bore her to death?” Finn let out a soft chuckle, unfazed by his jape. “Nuh—grew tired of her… I want something fresh, and new. Someone who’s beautiful enough to fall into your knees for her. Although… I like someone who has long wavy black hair.” Finn took his time saying his words more slowly than he should. ‘Struck another nerve’ Finn thought to himself. Silco’s single good eye fixed on Finn, his expression unreadable. Finn smirked, clearly enjoying himself, as though he’d already won. “You should learn to tread carefully, Finn. The edge you’re walking is sharper than you think.” Silco’s voice was quiet but lethal. The grin faltered on Finn’s face, just for a second, but his arrogant ass quickly masked it with a nervous laugh, “Oh, Silco, always so dramatic. Relax—we’re all but good friends here, aren’t we?” Silco didn’t respond, but the temperature in the room seemed to drop as he stared Finn down, making it clear just how thin the line of the ‘friendship’ truly was. Silco rose slowly from his seat, the deliberate movement silencing the room. Each step he took toward Finn was measured, his presence looming larger with every inch closed between them. When he finally stopped just in front of the ignorant boy, his gaze bore into him, unblinking and cold… For a brief moment, Finn’s amirk faltered.Silco could see the boy’s confidence wavering, his body tensing, bracing for whatever punishment might come from him. Finn was calculating his next move, readying himself for violence. But Silco didn’t strike him—he didn’t need to. His menacing presence was enough to shut his fucking trap. “This meeting is over,” Silco said firmly, his voice steady and… cold. He watched as Finn sank back to his chair, exhaling slightly, the smallest hint of betraying his facade. Silco leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a low, menacing whisper, “Oh, and you’re welcome to visit my assistant anytime you like. Adeline would be thrilled to see you again. Of course, this time only some of you might leave in one piece.” Finn stiffened, his smirk replaced by a grimace. There was no mistaking Silco’s threat. Without waiting for a response, Silco turned on his heel, with Sevika trailing behind him, leaving Finn and Renni to stew in the aftermath of their exchange. Silco stormed out of Renni’s factory, his strides quick and deliberate, as though walking faster could help him outrun his rage. Finn’s smug words echoed in his mind, his mocking undertone gnawing at his composure. The foul stench of raw materials clung to the air, sharp and acrid, but Silco didn’t bother with his mask this time. Fury burned hotter than his distaste for the filth around him. Sevika trailed close behind, struggling to keep pace with her boss’ relentless march. Silco’s single visible eye burned with purpose, his jaw clenched tight as they exited into the grimy streets of Zaun. He didn’t stop moving, his voice cutting through the dim light as he turned to Sevika. “The man from the bar,” he began coldly, “what’s his status?” Sevika didn’t miss a beat, “The greasy fucker put up a fight,” she said with a crooked grin, “One small punch, and he was spitting his tooth across the damn floor.” “Dead…?” Silco asked, his stone flat, as though the answer was already obvious. “Aye,” Sevika confirmed, “Dumped his body at the riverside.” She added with a shrug. Silco hummed in response, a brief satisfaction with his tone. “The one with the enforcer costume?” He pressed. Sevika hesitated to answer, her expression darkened, “Couldn’t find the bastard. Probably ran back to his mother’s skirt the moment he saw us comi—”Silco stopped abruptly, his piercing gaze locking onto Sevika. “Are you telling me he’s still out there? Alive and well?!”Sevika shifted uncomfortably under his scrutiny. “I couldn’t find him—”“I don’t care for your excuses,” Silco interrupted, his voice rising with sharp intensity. “I don’t care if you have to storm into the brothel or turn the entire undercity upside down! Find him!” His voice dropped to a low, menacing growl. “Find him before Adeline does. If she gets to him first…” He let the implication hang heavy in the air, his gaze hard as steel. “the consequences will be on your head.”Sevika straightened, nodding with grim determination. “Understood,” she said before turning on her heel and heading into the night. Silco remained rooted in place for a moment, his thoughts a storm of anger and calculation. Adeline was fierce, relentless when wronged, but that very fire was dangerous. He couldn’t risk her taking matters into her own hands—not with someone who has bad intentions towards her. But who could the man be? Well–yeah he works in the brothel, but does he really work there? Is he a spy? Why was Silco so determined to find him at all cost? Who was he? What do Silco want from him?
Do you think Silco wants to find the man because of what happened back to Jericho's shop? Or is there something more between him and Silco? What makes Silco fear the man? Would he say something about Silco to Adeline?–Something dark hidden from the past?
His fists clenched at his sides as he muttered to himself, “I'll find you–you bastard…!” Then, with purpose in every step, he began walking back towards The Last Drop, the weight of vengeance propelling him forward.Silco reached The Last Drop, the familiar green glow of its neon sign casting an eerie light on his sharp features. His single eye burned with fury, a storm that simmered just beneath his composed exterior. He walked alone, while Sevika was off cleaning up the latest mess. The smooth flow of his velvet coat trailed behind him, every step punctuated by the sharp click of his boots against the pavement.As he approached the entrance, one of his guards moved swiftly to push the door open for him. Silco stepped inside without a glance. His presence commanded the room instantly. The atmosphere shifted the moment he crossed the threshold. Conversations died mid-sentence, and all eyes dropped to the floor. Each and everyone of them were desperate to avoid his gaze. No doubt words had already spread through the undercity: The Eye of Zaun was furious. The patrons shrank in their seats, fearing that even a glance might seal their fate and send them to their early graves. Silco didn’t linger. He moved through the room with a deliberate pace, heading straight for the staircase. His footsteps were heavy, each one a declaration of his wrath. The sound of boots striking metal reverberated, marking his ascent as he climbed to his office.When he reached the office door, Silco roughly twisted the knob, pushing it open with no regard for subtlety. The door swung open. His eyes burned with anger, his mind preoccupied with plans for retribution. But as he stepped inside, the sight before him brought him to an abrupt halt. Adeline and Jinx were there, both fast asleep. Jinx’s small figure was curled up on the couch; her chest rising and falling in the rhythm of deep sleep, her wild blue hair spilling over her face. While his eyes moved to the person next to her. Black haired woman, wearing black jeans and an oversized white T-Shirt; Adeline sat on the floor beside her, leaning against the couch. Both of her hands rested protectively over Jinx’s. Adeline's head tilted slightly as she too had succumbed to exhaustion. Silco stood frozen for a moment, his fury momentarily tempered by the unexpected serenity of the scene. His gaze lingered on the two of them for a moment. The sight of Jinx, vulnerable and untroubled, paired with Adeline’s unwavering presence, stirred a feeling he couldn’t quite name. Perhaps it was relief, perhaps frustration at his own momentary weakness. Whatever it was, it momentarily stayed his anger. The soft light of the room cast a warm glow over them, highlighting the stark contrast between this moment of peace and the storm raging within him. He exhaled slowly, his shoulders relaxing slightly. He closed the door without making a noise, to avoid waking up the two. Moving quietly, as he stepped deeper into the office, his boots no longer clacking against the floor. For a moment, The Eye of Zaun wasn’t the imposing figure who struck fear into the hearts of the undercity. He was simply… Silco, watching over those he cared for in his own guarded way.He averted his gaze, then walked to his desk and sank heavily into his chair, the weight of the moment pressing down on him. He massaged his forehead, trying to clear the fog in his mind. His desk was cluttered—neon crayons scattered haphazardly across the surface, and piles of separated documents. He remembered this is not the way he left the documents earlier. A small sticky note caught his eye, perched at the top of one of the piles. With a sigh, he reached over to the far side of the desk, pushing papers aside to grab it. His fingers lingered on the note, the handwriting was beautiful but unfamiliar, a sharp reminder that someone had left this message with purpose.He peeled it off the paper, unfolding it slowly, his brow furrowing as he read the cryptic words scrawled across the bright surface. What–
_____________________________________________
This doc is all about your business, the last drop had increased its sales in the last few months. And I've seen that in the last few weeks the sales drop off. Anyway, I've already highlighted the importance of this docs, so you don't need to read it all.
- Adeline ____________________________________________ A small smile tugged at the corner of Silco’s lips as he set the note aside. He picked up the document, letting the weight of it rest in his hands for a moment before glancing at Adeline. His smile deepened, spreading to the other corner of his mouth. he unfolded the document, his sharp eyes immediately drawn to the bold, neon blue markings that circled the key details. A deep, satisfied smile crept across his face, spreading from one corner to the other.However, something else caught his attention. Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted a pristine white envelope resting on the table, its elegant appearance standing out against the dimly lit room. Intrigued, Silco reached for it, his fingers brushing over the fine paper before lifting it to inspect. His gaze darkened the moment he saw the symbol embedded in the black wax seal—a crest he recognized all too well. His smile faded, replaced by a hard, calculating expression. Memories flickered in his mind, memories of deals, alliances, and betrayals tied to that symbol. Silco’s jaw tightened as he turned the envelope in his hands, weighing its significance. The seal wasn’t just a mark—it was a message, a challenge? perhaps, even a threat? His crimson eye flicked back to Adeline, sharp and searching, as if trying to piece together why this had surfaced now and what it could mean for the fragile balance they both carefully maintained. Thankfully, Adeline hadn't opened the envelope. He was surprised to receive another letter from House Kiramman. He wondered, what could this letter impossibly contain?
Maybe the deal was struck…
Or worse… she’s finally decided to turn against me.
Silco’s thoughts churned as he stared at the envelope in his hands, the weight of its implications pressing heavily on him. His mind played out scenarios, each one darker than the last. The Kirammans were not a house to act without precision; if this letter had made its way to him, it was by design.Without even thinking further, he cracked the dry seal and opened the envelope with a swift move. His eyes darted to the beautiful writing on the thick paper. He leaned back slightly in his chair, his fingers idly drumming against the armrest as his green eye scanned the letter’s contents. “Interesting.” he murmured under his breath, his tone tinged with both amusement and suspicion. But as his gaze reached the final sentence, the smirk faded from his lips. His eyes widened, the weight of the words sinking in like a stone in his gut. His grip on the paper tightened, the once-pristine letter now wrinkling under his fingers. A sharp exhale escaped him, and without a second thought, he crushed the letter into his fist, the crumpled paper a reflection of his inner turmoil. With a quick, violent motion, he tore the envelope into shreds, the fragments falling to the floor like snow. Silco sat in silence for a moment, his jaw clenched as he processed the implications.Whatever this letter contained, it had struck a nerve—a rare feat in the world of cunning and calculated moves he thrived in. “So, that's how you want to play it,” he muttered, his voice icy and dangerous. “Well then. Let’s see who breaks first.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
*****There is nothing more satisfying than eight uninterrupted hours of sleep after a grueling enforcer shift. But for Adeline, rest was a luxury, not a reward. Her days were spent patrolling the spotless streets of Piltover—everyday routine, mundane and devoid of the excitement she craved. Adeline had long suspected her mother had pulled strings to ensure her daughter stayed away from any real danger. Adeline wanted to be in the thick of crime–like her Sheriff Grayson. However, even without her real mother's interference, Grayson wouldn't let her be in a dangerous position.Adeline sat sprawled in Grayson’s high-backed chair, her head tilted back; blue hair cascading down the sides. She twirled a gold metallic pen between her fingers, her patience wearing thin.
Another dull patrol…
Honestly, would it kill her to assign me to a crime scene?
At last, the door creaks open. Adeline sharp eyes darted towards the dark Oak Wood door. And the person within. A middle-aged woman came in; her short, neatly cropped silver-gray hair, her strong features—sharp jawline, and piercing blue eyes, is none other than the infamous Sheriff Grayson. Her eyes immediately locked onto Adeline as if she had already expected this–Perhaps a little bit annoyed. Grayson pinched the bridge of her nose, while she exhaled loudly. “Ms. Adeline, what are you doing in my office?” Grayson asked, striding to the small bar in the corner. Without sparing Adeline another glance. She poured herself a glass of red wine and downed it with ease.“I want to ask you for a favor.” Adeline replied, a sly smile tugging at her lips as she leaned forward, resting her chin on her forearm.Grayson raised a brow, “Haven't you already asked too much?” Grayson hinted. She grabbed another empty small glass and poured sparkling water–Adeline's favorite drink. While she turned her body and walked towards Adeline.She stopped just in front of her and handed the glass to her. Adeline took it with a big smile on her face. While Grayson sat across from her, cradling her own wine glass. “Besides, your mother would have my head if I put you in any danger.” Grayson brought her glass cup to her mouth and drank the remaining wine in her cup.“Patrolling the streets is soooooooooo boring,” Adeline sank back to her chair, while her small glass cup made a pathetic flop, a little bit of sparkling water fell from the ground. Adeline's eyes widened and tried to hide it by stepping on it. Although Grayson saw it, trying to pretend she didn't see it. Instead, Grayson stifled a laugh as Adeline unsuccessfully attempted to cover it with her boot.“Listen hon,” Grayson settled her glass cup on the table, “You’re a bright kid–Smarter than any average kid I have ever encountered. I really want you to help me solve the case I've been previously working on. But I can't. I would spend hours, and my work with you more than those bunch of stupid idiots in there,” she jerked her head towards the other room that was linked to Grayson's office which was full of other enforcers. Adeline smiled softly, she was moved by Grayson's words. “But you're too young to be handling those kinds of things. I don't want you to see such things that would hunt you for the rest of your life.” Adeline protested, “I’m eighteen–!”“–Doesn't mean that you're ready.” Her voice dropped, hoarse with weariness.Adeline averted her eyes from Grayson, she muttered under her breath. “I saw a dead corpse one time.” Grayson sighed slightly, she stood from her seat and went back to the small table and poured herself again a red wine and retrieved the sparkling water bottle. She was going to fill Adeline's small cup but Adeline covered it up using her palm. “I'm no longer thirsty,” Adeline uttered, not looking at her. Grayson sat back down on her chair, “I’m sorry hon,” Grayson said gently. “But I will not put you in any job that could cause you harm. Even with or without your mother's consent. My duty is to protect my people–and that includes you.” she exclaimed. Setting down the bottle next to her. Adeline sat in silence, her frustration boiling just beneath the surface.“Moreover,” Grayson added, her tone growing firm, “I won’t be taking you any longer with me to the Undercity.” she stated, she didn't even look at Adeline when she said it. “What?!” Adeline bellowed. Shifting her position. “Things are… complicated,” she explained. Adeline raised a brow. Grayson sighed, she didn't want to tell it to anyone–not yet. Not until she's positively sure about it. “Someone was plotting against the leader of Zaun. Rumors have been spreading that someone wants to out-throw Vander… and If they succeeded in killing Vander–Any minute the Undercity will fall into complete Chaos.” Adeline shifted her gaze, processing the information she had just heard. “Who?! Do you have any leads?” she asked. Grayson hesitated, then shook her head. “I'm still working on it. For now, Marcus will accompany me, and from this day, you’ll be staying here in Piltover. You'll not leave this city without my permission.” Grayson stated, Adeline wanted to protest but Grayson stopped her by continuing her speech. “–You'll be staying here,” she repeated, her voice more firm than the last. “until I figure out how to keep the peace with the Undercity, and that is a command not just from me, but from your sheriff.” Grayson ordered, raising her eyebrow to make a point. Adeline slammed her glass onto the desk, a small chunk of sparkling water poured out of the impact. The clang echoing through the office. “Another patrolling to do? Honestly, can my life get any more perfect–controlled by everyone around me!” Grayson ran a hand down her face, “Adeline, It's for your own safety,” she insisted. “Safety?!” Adeline scoffed, “Great! Now you've just proven to me that you're no different from my mother!” Adeline stood from her seat and stomped her way to the door. Ignoring Grayson’s repeated calls of her name.She slammed the door shut. And continued walking away from her office. She put her hands inside her enforcer uniform. She didn't even bother looking back. She walks back to her home. Adeline reached her family’s estate, her frustration had only grown. The golden gate loomed before her, and she shoved it open, slamming it shut behind her—That made a loud bang sound. Her abrupt arrival drew the attention of the maid, Anica, who had been working for her family for nearly five years. She hurried out to meet Adeline. “Ms. Kiramman!” Anica gasped. “We’ve been so worried. Your shift ended hours ago—"“I’m fine, anica.” Adeline snapped, brushing past her. “You don't need to worry about me,” she added, and just when she's about to climb up the stairs on the entrance door, she immediately stops–And it only irritated Adeline even more when Anica kept following her. “Mr. And Mrs. Kiramman has been looking everywhere for you. I should inform them you're here–” Adeline sigh, “Tell them I'm tired, I don't want–”A furious voice boomed from inside the house, cutting her off. “Adeline Kiramman!” Adeline froze, her heart sinking as her mother's imposing figure appeared in the doorway, her expression a storm of anger and concern. The air seemed to thicken as her voice echoed through the courtyard, and Adeline steeled herself for the confrontation she couldn’t avoid.“Mothe–” “–Inside. Now.” Cassandra’s voice cut through the air, sharp and laced with icy authority. Her piercing gaze lingered on Adeline for only a moment before she turned on her heel, her emerald gown sweeping dramatically across the marble floor. Without another word, she strode away, the rhythmic click of her heels echoing in the grand foyer. Adeline remained rooted at the doorstep, her fists clenched at her sides, her jaw tightening. Beside her, Anica shifted uncomfortably, glancing between the retreating figure of Cassandra and Adeline’s tense frame.Anica placed a hand on Adeline's shoulder, “Ms. Kiramman–” Anica began hesitantly, but Adeline silenced her with a raised hand.“–It’s ok. I can handle it from here. You can go back to your station, Anica. Thank you,” Adeline muttered, her voice low and strained. Adeline squeezed her hand in reassurance. Anica gave a quick nod and disappeared, leaving Adeline alone in the quiet courtyard. With a sharp exhale, Adeline pushed open the massive front door, the weight of it heavy in her hands. Once she's inside, she closes it behind her with a low thud, resting her forehead against the cool wood for a moment. The silence of the grand hall pressed in around her, broken only by the faint clink of metal echoing from the staircase–When she turned, her gaze was drawn upward to the two spiral staircases framing the room. At the center of one, her mother stood poised on the landing. The emerald-green silk of her gown spilled down the stairs like water, the gold embroidery shimmering under the light of the ornate chandelier above. One hand rested lightly on the polished gold handrail–waiting patiently for her daughter to follow her. Although, Cassandra has barely a minimum of patience nowadays—Thanks to Adeline's stubbornness. Her stance radiates both elegance and authority. Adeline’s eyes lingered on the delicate brooch at her mother’s throat and the gold diamond earrings that caught the flickering chandelier light with every slight movement of her head. Her hair, as always, was pinned back in an impeccable style, not a single strand out of place. Cassandra sighed internally–Not wasting a moment to look away from Adeline. Yet it was her expression that caught Adeline most: brows arched sharply, lips pressed into a firm line, and eyes narrowing with a mix of frustration and restrained anger. Cassandra began to descend, her heeled shoes clicking softly against the polished marble. “Come inside, Adeline,” Cassandra said at last, her tone laced with both irritation and a faint trace of worry. It was a command, not a request, and Adeline knew better than to argue—at least, for now. Adeline’s jaw clenched, but she obeyed, trailing reluctantly behind as her mother led the way, her gown brushing softly against the steps. Each step felt heavier than the last, the air between them tense with the unspoken words that would surely follow.Adeline stomped up the stairs, each step a loud, deliberate thud echoing through the grand hall. When she reached the landing, she pushed open her mother’s office door with more force than necessary. Her irritation faded slightly as her eyes landed on the unexpected sight of her father and younger sister waiting inside. “Adeline!” a little blue-haired girl with wide, sky-blue eyes cried out, running toward her with unbridled excitement. Catelyn threw her small arms around her sister’s waist, clinging to her as though they hadn’t seen each other in years.“Thank goodness you’re here,” their father said, his tone warm and affectionate as he approached. “Catelyn refused to go to bed until she saw you.” His smile was genuine as he enveloped both his daughters in a comforting embrace. Despite the weight of her day, Adeline couldn’t help but feel her heart lighten. It didn’t matter how bad things got—seeing her little sister’s joy and her father’s calm presence always managed to soothe her frayed nerves. “How was work?” Catelyn asked eagerly, her bright eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Did Sheriff Grayson take you to the Undercity again?” She squeezed Adeline’s hands excitedly, her enthusiasm almost contagious. Adeline hesitated for a moment, then mustered a small smile. “Ah—no, not this time,” she said, ruffling her sister’s hair. “She told me there’s a lot of paperwork to get through first, but maybe next time.” The lie slipped out smoothly, and she hoped her sister wouldn’t notice. Catelyn’s face lit up even more, and she started bouncing on her toes. “Oh! Can you take me with you next time? Please, Adeline? I promise I’ll be good!” Before Adeline could respond, Cassandra’s voice cut through the room with its usual commanding authority. “Catelyn,” she said firmly but not unkindly. “It’s past your bedtime. You can talk to Adeline tomorrow. Right now, your sister and I have something important to discuss.”Catelyn’s excitement dimmed, replaced by a pout of disappointment. “But I just—” “Now, Catelyn,” Cassandra said, her tone softening. Catelyn sighed dramatically but nodded in resignation. “Goodnight, Adeline,” she said, her smile returning as she grabbed her beloved pink rabbit teddy.“Goodnight, little munchkin,” Adeline said, leaning down to kiss her sister’s forehead. Catelyn turned to her mother, standing on her tiptoes to reach up. “Goodnight, Mother.” Cassandra bent slightly, allowing the small girl to press a kiss to her cheek. “Goodnight, my darling,” she murmured, her voice unusually tender as she smoothed a hand over Catelyn’s hair. Their father chuckled softly, placing a hand on Catelyn’s shoulder. “Come on, sweetheart. Let’s get you to bed before you turn into a pumpkin.” With one last wave to her sister, Catelyn allowed herself to be led out of the room, her small feet padding lightly against the polished floor. The door clicked shut behind them, leaving Adeline alone with her mother.The warmth of her family’s presence faded as quickly as it had come, and the tension in the room returned. Cassandra’s piercing gaze locked onto Adeline, her expression unreadable as she gestured for her daughter to sit. “We have much to discuss,” she said coolly, her tone leaving no room for argument.Adeline sighed and sank into the chair opposite her mother’s imposing desk, bracing herself for what she knew was going to be another exhausting conversation. Adeline’s voice filled the office, cutting sharply through the heavy silence. Every word she spoke carried anger, frustration, and defiance, a storm Cassandra could feel brewing before the first syllable left her daughter’s lips.Cassandra stood by the window, her fingers pinching the bridge of her nose as if trying to stave off an oncoming headache. When she turned to face Adeline, her tone was sharp, trembling slightly with restrained emotion. “You think you’re invincible, don’t you?” Cassandra said, her voice rising with barely contained anger. “That your badge and your precious ideals will protect you from any harm that could cause you out there?!” She exhaled sharply, her voice softening but still laced with irritation. “Piltover isn’t the haven you seem to think it is, and the Undercity? That place is a death trap. Going down there with Sheriff Grayson might seem noble to you, but what happens if something goes wrong? What happens if you get hurt, or worse kidnapped?!—and you're out of my reach?!” Adeline clenched her fists at her sides, her nails biting into her palms. “You don’t have to worry about me, Mother! I can handle myself!”Cassandra’s eyes flashed with a mix of anger and desperation. “I’m your mother, Adeline. It’s my job to worry. And when you disappear without a word, risking everything we’ve worked for, what am I supposed to think? That you're being reckless, or that I might lose you?” she stated, “Do you even understand the risks you’re taking? The Undercity isn’t just dangerous—it’s chaos! It’s a place where people like us don’t belong down there.”Adeline let out a bitter laugh, her voice thick with disdain. “You know what I don’t want? Is you controlling my life! Every decision I make, every step I take—it’s like I’m not even allowed to be me! It’s like my life belongs to you!”“Controlling?” Cassandra snapped, her composure cracking as she slammed her teacup onto the side table, the sound echoing through the room. Her anger bubbled to the surface, raw and unfiltered. “I let you join the enforcers, even when it went against everything I believed in! Against me! And now you’re accusing me of controlling you?” She shook her head, her voice rising with each word. “This isn’t the life you were meant to have! You’re a Kiramman, Adeline! Your place is by my side! You're the future of our House!... And Kirammans don’t stoop to this level—we don’t do dogs work!”Adeline’s jaw tightened, her breath hitching as the words sank in. For a moment, she stared at her mother, her expression a mixture of hurt and fury. “Oh, I’m sorry,” she said, her voice trembling as she fought to keep it steady. “I’m sorry if I trampled on your perfect little dreams. I’m sorry if I’m such a disappointment to you. And I’m sorry if I’m not the flawless daughter you’ve always wanted.” The words hit Cassandra like a slap, and for a moment, the room fell silent. She stared at Adeline, her chest rising and falling as she struggled to formulate a response. Her lips parted, but no words came. Instead, the weight of the unspoken hung between them, heavy and suffocating. Adeline halted abruptly, her boots striking the polished floor with a sharp echo that broke the stifling silence of the office. Her hand hovered over the gilded doorknob, but she didn’t turn it. Instead, she glanced back over her shoulder, her voice trembling with a mix of bitterness and pain. “You know,” she began, her tone quieter than usual, as if forcing herself to speak, “for a moment… I thought you were proud of me. When I got my position as an enforcer, I thought I had finally done something that mattered to you. That for a second... I have finally made you proud...” Her voice faltered, the edge of a sob curling around her words.Adeline’s grip on the doorknob tightened as she struggled to keep her composure, her head bowing slightly. “But I guess I was wrong... I shouldn’t have expected so much from you, mother.” she added, her tone hardening into something colder—like frost forming over an open wound. Adeline turned the doorknob with a sharp twist, the creak of the door sounding almost deafening in the tense stillness. Without waiting for a response, she stepped through, her silhouette framed for a moment against the dim light beyond before the door slammed shut behind her. Cassandra stood frozen, the words lingering in the air like a blade pressed against her chest. Her breath hitched, but she remained silent, her hands clenching at her sides as her daughter’s parting words echoed in her mind. Her gaze fixed on the now-closed door, her chest tight and her mind racing with emotions too tangled to unravel. The teacup on the side table wobbled slightly from the impact, a faint ripple disturbing the cooling liquid inside. Slowly, Cassandra sank into the chair, her posture stiff as though she were trying to keep her composure intact. Her hands reached for the teacup, trembling slightly, but she stopped midway. Instead, her eyes fell to the surface of the tea, where her blurred reflection stared back at her—a distorted, tired image that seemed to mock her. And then, the tears came. Quiet at first, as she pressed her palm to her mouth in an attempt to stifle the sob that escaped her throat. But the floodgates had opened, and soon, Cassandra was crying openly, her shoulders shaking as she leaned forward, her elbows resting on her knees. Her daughter’s words echoed in her mind, each one striking her heart like a hammer.
I’m sorry if I’m a disappointment to you… if I’m not the perfect daughter you wanted.
You know… For a moment… I thought you were proud of me. When I got my position as an enforcer, I thought I’d finally done something that mattered to you. That for a second... I have finally made you proud...
But I guess I shouldn’t have expected so much from you, mother…
The pain in Adeline’s voice had been undeniable, and it cut Cassandra deeper than she cared to admit. She wiped at her tears, but they continued to fall, hot and relentless, streaking her cheeks as she tried to steady her breathing. She didn’t blame Adeline for her anger—at least, not entirely. Cassandra had always been firm, sometimes harsh, in her attempts to guide her daughter. But her intentions had always been rooted in love. Why can’t she see that? Cassandra thought, her chest tightening with the weight of unspoken emotions. Why can’t she understand that all I want is to protect her? Her gaze drifted to the golden picture frame on her desk. She reached out with trembling fingers and picked it up, cradling it in her hands as though it were something fragile.The photograph inside was old, taken years ago during a council meeting. In it, Cassandra held a baby Adeline in her arms, her expression softer than the one she wore now, her eyes filled with pride and hope. Adeline’s tiny hand clutched at the fabric of her mother’s dress, her face alight with innocent curiosity. A bittersweet smile tugged at Cassandra’s lips as she stared at the photo, tears slipping silently down her cheeks. She remembered that day vividly—how she’d carried Adeline into the council chamber, determined to show that her role as a mother was just as important as her position of power. She had wanted to set an example for her daughter, to prove that one could balance family and duty, that both could coexist. But now, as she sat in the quiet of her office, the rift between them felt insurmountable. Cassandra traced a finger over the edge of the frame, her voice barely above a whisper. “I just wanted you to have a better future,” she murmured, her voice breaking. “I wanted to keep you safe… to protect you from everything that could hurt you. Was that so wrong?” She set the frame back down on the desk, her hand lingering on it for a moment before pulling away. The silence of the office was almost unbearable now, broken only by the faint rustle of fabric as Cassandra leaned back in her chair, staring up at the ceiling with tear-filled eyes. Somewhere in her heart, she knew Adeline loved her, even if it didn’t feel like it in moments like these. How I wish I could go back in time, she thought bitterly. Back to when things were simpler, when Adeline would crawl into her lap with a book or beg her to stay with her for the night, because Adeline couldn't sleep. Back to when their bond was unshakable, untainted by resentment and distance. But those days felt like a distant dream now, one she could never reach again. A shaky exhale escaped her lips as she closed her eyes, a single tear slipping down her cheek. It pained her deeply that Adeline couldn’t see the sacrifices she’d made for her family—the sleepless nights, the compromises, the constant worry. “I’m trying, Adeline,” she whispered to the empty room, her voice cracking. “Even if you don’t see it… even if you never see it… I’m trying.” The weight of her daughter’s words lingered, but so did the hope—fragile, yet persistent—that someday, Adeline would understand.The words Adeline had thrown at her echoed in her mind over-and-over, each one a fresh wound. But beneath the hurt, there was a stubborn flicker of hope—fragile yet unyielding. Maybe not today, or even tomorrow, but someday, Cassandra believed her daughter would understand.If only Adeline knew. If only she could have seen the tears her mother shed that night, alone in the quiet solitude of her office. Cassandra's shoulders had shaken with silent sobs, her carefully composed exterior crumbling the moment the door slammed shut. If only Adeline understood the weight her mother carried—the sacrifices, the sleepless nights, the constant battle between protecting her daughter and letting her find her own path. Perhaps, if Adeline had known, things might have been different. Maybe there would have been less distance between them, fewer sharp words exchanged, and more understanding. But instead, the chasm grew wider, each of them retreating into their own world of hurt and unspoken truths. And yet, even as Cassandra wept, she held onto hope. Because that’s what mothers do. They hope that one day their children will see the love behind the rules, the fear behind the sternness, and the sacrifices hidden in the silence. If only Adeline knew… but for now, Cassandra carried that pain alone, wishing for a future where her daughter would understand.
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
Adeline stirred awake, the dull ache in her neck immediately making itself known as she attempted to lift her head. She winced, groaning softly as she realized the awkward angle she'd been sleeping in. A stiff neck was forming, and every slight movement sent a sharp reminder of her poor choice in nap positions.
Shit.
How long had she been out? The room felt eerily still, the only sound being her soft breathing. Her neck burned like hell, the muscles tight and unyielding as she rubbed the sore spot gingerly.Her fingers brushed against something soft and warm draped over her body—a velvet coat. She blinked in confusion, peering down at it. The texture was unmistakably expensive, the kind of luxury she'd never drape over herself voluntarily. Adeline lifted it slightly, her nose catching the scent clinging to the fabric—whiskey, rich tobacco, and the faint, smoky hint of bourbon. Her breath caught.
This is Silco's coat.
The realization sent a strange shiver down her spine, a mixture of unease and something she couldn’t quite place. She ran her fingers over the material again, lingering longer than she intended. Why had he covered her? Why had he even bothered? Adeline’s gaze shifted toward the couch, instinctively searching for the volatile presence of Jinx. The spot where the girl had been lounging earlier was now empty, her absence immediately setting off alarms in Adeline's head. “Jinx?” she called, her voice cutting through the quiet office.Panic flared as she stood abruptly, the coat slipping from her shoulders and pooling at her feet. Her movements were clumsy as her stiff neck protested, but she didn’t care. “Jinx!” she called again, louder this time, stumbling toward the center of the room.Her steps faltered when she caught sight of him. Silco sat in his usual high-backed leather chair, his silhouette outlined against the faint green glow of the stained-glass window. His posture was as regal as ever, his back straight and his head tilted slightly, as if in deep contemplation. In his left hand, he held a small, ornate mirror, the kind that seemed more fitting for a vanity than a warlord’s office. The glass reflected the dim light, casting fractured patterns across the desk. Adeline froze, unsure whether to speak or retreat. Silco’s presence had a way of commanding attention, of making the air feel heavier the moment he entered a room. He didn’t look at her, his sharp features illuminated by the emerald hue of the glass behind him. Instead, his gaze was fixed on his own reflection in the mirror, his expression unreadable.The silence stretched between them, thick and uncomfortable. She swallowed hard, her earlier frustration with her neck momentarily forgotten. “Silco,” she finally managed, her voice quieter than she intended. Silco didn’t answer right away, his focus unmoving as if searching for something hidden within his reflection. When he finally spoke, his voice was low and deliberate, carrying that distinct edge that always left her on edge. “Adeline,” he said, his tone unreadable, “Finally you're awake. Thought you'd be spending your night here again.” There was something in his voice, a subtle undercurrent of amusement or perhaps curiosity, that made her pulse quicken. She wasn’t sure if it was the coat, Jinx’s absence, or the man himself, but something about this moment unsettled her in a way she couldn’t quite explain. She forced a small, wry smile. “Sorry if I dozed off on your couch again,” she said, attempting a lighthearted tone, though her voice wavered slightly. Her eyes darted around the room before she asked, “Where’s Jinx?” Silco didn’t move at first, but then he shifted slightly, his gaze sliding from the mirror to her. His reflection—a piercing combination of black and fiery orange met her through the glass. “She’s in her room,” he said simply.Relief flooded her, and she sank back into the chair, the tension in her shoulders easing for a moment. She glanced at Silco, who had now turned his attention back to the mirror. Then, with a slow, deliberate motion, he adjusted his hand, his fingers drumming lightly against the arm of his chair. “Since you’re awake,” he said, his words trailing off in a way that immediately caught her attention,“be a useful assistant and patch my face with powder, will you?”The request, or rather the command—hung in the air. Adeline blinked, taken aback. “Huh?” she said, her brow furrowing. Silco finally turned to face her, his expression unreadable, but his eyes held that cold intensity she had learned to both fear and respect. Adeline hesitated, then let out a soft, incredulous laugh. “For all I know, my job is to organize your documents and protect Jinx,” she said, her tone cheeky. A dangerous edge of defiance crept into her voice, though she wasn’t entirely sure why she was testing him. Maybe it was the residual irritation from her nap or the unease that lingered in his presence.Silco said nothing, but the silence that followed was deafening. His gaze didn’t waver, his mismatched eyes boring into her with a weight that made her skin prickle. He didn’t need to speak; the intensity of his stare was enough. The heat rose to Adeline’s face, her bravado crumbling under the pressure. “Fine,” she muttered, pushing herself to her feet. The room was cloaked in a silence so thick it seemed to press against her skin. Adeline stepped closer to Silco’s desk, each step measured, her posture tense as she maintained what little distance she could. The weight of his gaze bore into her, making her feel like prey inching toward a predator. Silco extended the small mirror toward her, his arm outstretched just far enough that she was forced to bridge the gap between them. She hesitated, but there was no escaping it. With a barely audible sigh, she moved closer. Their fingers brushed as she took the mirror, the brief contact sending an icy jolt up her spine. She froze for a fraction of a second, her breath catching, but Silco remained perfectly composed. “Patch it with powder,” he said, his voice low and smooth, but carrying an unmistakable edge of command. Adeline glanced down at the mirror and the sponge nestled inside. Taking a steadying breath, she dipped the sponge into the powder.She stepped closer, hesitating as his knees brushed against her thighs. The proximity was unnerving; she could feel the warmth radiating from him, despite his cold demeanor. Her breath hitched, a sound she immediately regretted, as Silco tilted his head slightly, an almost amused smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. “This feels…unnecessary,” she muttered under her breath, averting her gaze as she raised the sponge toward his face. “How come?” Silco replied smoothly, his voice laced with teasing amusement. Then, in a deliberate motion, he adjusted his chair, closing the space between them. His knees pressed firmly against her thighs. Adeline gasped, her eyes darting down to where they touched before flicking back up to his face. Her cheeks burned, but she forced herself to focus. With no other choice, she began dabbing the powder onto his skin, the act strangely intimate given how close they were. Her hands trembled, though she willed them to steady as she worked. “Do be careful,” Silco said, his tone softer but no less commanding. “We wouldn’t want you to botch this, would we?” The casual brush of his knee against her thigh made her flinch, the movement almost making her drop the sponge. Her grip tightened, and she clenched her jaw, refusing to give him the satisfaction of a reaction. “... No,” she replied curtly, her voice strained. “Now, be a good boss and lower your knee, because it’s distracting me,” For a moment, she thought he wouldn’t comply–of course, why wouldn't he? Adeline is in no position to demand. And her audacity to say it to Silco. But then he leaned back slightly, lowering his knee with a faint smirk. The tension between them didn’t lessen, but at least she had room to breathe.She dabbed more powder onto his cheek, the room growing unnervingly quiet save for the soft patting sound. She felt his eyes on her, the intensity of his mismatched gaze making her stomach twist in knots. “So,” she began, her voice hesitant as she tried to break the silence, “how’s your meeting with Renni?” Silco didn’t reply immediately. A low, rumbling hum was his only response, the sound vibrating in his chest.
Well, guess it didn’t go according to plan.
Her eyes flicked upward briefly, meeting his. His mismatched stare was unwavering, and it sent a jolt of nervous energy through her. She quickly cleared her throat, focusing on the scar near his jaw. “Any particular reason you asked me for this… makeup treatment?” she quipped, trying to infuse her voice with lightness. “Isn't part of your job?” he asked playfully.Adeline scoffed softly, unable to help herself. “Oh, really? What’s next then, boss? Tie your necktie? Comb your hair?” she asked, her tone playfully sarcastic. Silco’s lips curved into a faint smirk. “Perhaps,” he said smoothly, his voice teasing but carrying a darker undertone. “You’ve certainly given me plenty of ideas,” he added, his mismatched eyes trailing down to her lips before flicking back up to meet her blue ones. “Maybe something we’d both enjoy more than this mundane task.”Adeline’s breath caught, a quick retort forming on her tongue, but before she could speak, his knee shifted again, brushing the inside of her thigh. The motion was subtle yet deliberate, and it sent a jolt of heat coursing through her body. Startled, her hand jerked, and the sponge smeared powder across his lips. “Oh! Shoot!” she exclaimed, her voice a mixture of frustration and embarrassment. She immediately placed the sponge and mirror to the desk. Her hands instinctively flew to his face, cupping it gently as her thumbs moved to wipe the powder from his lips. The contact was unintentional but far too intimate for her liking—or perhaps it was too intimate for her comfort. The air between them thickened, charged with a tension neither dared acknowledge out loud. Silco didn’t flinch or pull away. Instead, he watched her with a steady, piercing gaze, his expression unreadable. A flicker of something passed through his eyes—amusement? Curiosity? Whatever it was, it made her pulse race.Adeline’s breath hitched, her heart hammering in her chest as her thumbs carefully brushed his lips. She could feel the softness of his lips beneath her touch, a detail that unnerved her more than it should have.Her gaze lingered too long on his mouth before darting up to meet his mismatched eyes. “If you hadn’t kept brushing your damn knee against me, none of this would’ve happened,” she murmured, her voice soft but edged with irritation.Silco’s lips twitched, his smirk returning. “If you weren’t so easily flustered, none of this would’ve happened,” he countered, his voice low and smooth, with just a hint of mockery. Adeline let out a short, amused chuckle through her nose, shaking her head slightly as she pulled her hands back. It wasn’t until she felt the lingering warmth on her palms that she realized just how long she’d been holding his face. “Sorry,” she said quickly, stepping back and wiping her hands on her trousers to rid herself of the sensation. “Just wanted to make sure my work was flawless.” She glanced down at him, her eyes scanning his face as she assessed her handiwork.“Mhm, what do you think?” she asked, handing him the mirror, her tone casual but masking the lingering tension in her voice.Silco leaned back in his chair, taking the mirror from her without breaking eye contact. He studied his reflection for a moment before his lips curled into another faint smirk. “Not quite as good as I’d hoped,” he murmured, the amusement in his tone unmistakable.Adeline huffed loudly, crossing her arms over her chest. Ay, this bastard, she thought. I agreed to help, and he’s going to criticize my work?“Oh, don’t give me that attitude,” she shot back, her voice dripping with playful defiance. She leaned against the edge of his desk, her posture bold as she tilted her head to the side. “If you hadn’t been distracting me with your damn knee, I would’ve nailed...” Before she could continue, Silco moved.His abruptness startled her, and she barely had time to react as he rose from his chair and closed the distance between them in one fluid motion. He planted his hands firmly on the desk beside her, the sound of his palms hitting the wood reverberating through the room–caging her in, like a predator was cornering his prey.Adeline’s breath hitched as he loomed over her, his mismatched eyes burning into hers with an intensity that made her heart race.She leaned back slightly, her body instinctively pressing against the desk behind her, but there was nowhere to go.Silco’s torso brushed against hers, the closeness almost unbearable. He tilted his head, his gaze dropping to her lips before trailing back up to meet her wide-eyed stare. The triangle of attention was deliberate, calculated.“You were saying?” he murmured, his voice a dangerous whisper that sent a shiver down her spine.Adeline’s mouth opened, but no words came out. She wasn’t sure if it was his proximity, his gaze, or the featherlight brush of his knuckles against her waist that left her speechless.Her head tilted slightly to the side, her eyes fluttering shut for a moment as she tried to collect herself. “Silco,” she finally managed, her voice barely above a whisper.“Mhm?” he prompted, his smirk deepening as his fingers lightly traced the curve of her hip.Her breath hitched again, her fists clenching at her sides as she fought to maintain composure. “You’re pushing boundaries,” she said, her voice steadier now, though still tinged with nervousness.His smirk widened, his expression one of smug satisfaction. “And yet, here you are,” he replied, his tone dripping with amusement. Adeline’s jaw tightened, and for a moment, she considered snapping back, but the fire in his gaze held her captive. Her heart thudded painfully in her chest as the silence stretched between them. She hated the effect he had on her, hated the way her body betrayed her resolve. The moment Adeline had been dreading was here, and it was worse than she’d imagined. Silco leaned in, his face so close that she could feel the warmth of his breath ghosting over her lip. His mismatched eyes locked onto her, drifting slowly to her lips. They were just inches apart, and the space between them seemed to hum with tension. His lips hovered dangerously close to hers—too close. Adeline’s chest tightened as her heart thundered in her ears. She felt paralyzed, trapped between fear and temptation.Her mind screamed for her to retreat, to break the tension and reestablish the line she swore she’d never cross. But her body betrayed her, rooted in place as though tethered by some invisible force. For a moment, it felt as if the world had slowed down. Silco didn’t move, his gaze fixed on her mouth with an intensity that made her pulse quicken. Seconds stretched into what felt like hours, the silence between them heavy and unyielding. That neither one of them wanted to pull out. And then, just as suddenly as he had closed the distance, he slowly pulled back. Leaving her wanting for more. Adeline exhaled sharply, her breath rugged and uneven. She hadn’t realized she’d been holding it in, and now her lungs ached from the strain. Her fingers gripped the edge of the desk tightly, as though it were the only thing anchoring her to reality.Silco straightened, his expression unreadable but for the faint smirk playing at the corner of his lips. He seemed almost satisfied, as though he had proven a point only he understood.“I–I’ll finish the rest of my work now,” Adeline stammered, her voice firmer than she felt.She pushed herself upright, putting just enough distance between them to feel like she could breathe again. Her eyes darted away, unable to meet his gaze for fear of what she might find there.Silco inclined his head, his movements slow and deliberate. He stepped back, granting her space but not relief. “Of course,” he murmured, his tone smooth and laced with amusement.His mismatched eyes glinted in the dim light of the room, as if savoring the moment. “But remember, Adeline… sometimes, boundaries are meant to be tested. It’s only fair to see how far they can hold before they break.”Adeline’s breath hitched at his words, her hands trembling as she reached for the papers scattered on the desk. Her focus wavered, her mind replaying the scene that had just unfolded, her body still buzzing with residual tension. Turning away from him, she tried to will herself to concentrate, sorting through the documents with unsteady hands. But no matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t shake the weight of his gaze. She could feel it—sharp, unrelenting, and all too knowing.Her jaw clenched as she forced herself to maintain composure, though her pulse betrayed her calm exterior. Why had he done that? Was it just another one of his games, or was there something more sinister—or perhaps personal—beneath the surface?
Whatever it is, I do not want to play in his games.
Silco’s voice broke the silence again, cutting through her chaotic thoughts. “You seem… distracted,” he said, his tone light, almost mocking.Adeline didn’t look up, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing her flustered. “I’m fine,” she said, her voice clipped. She shuffled the papers more aggressively than necessary, anything to keep her hands busy.“Good,” Silco said, his smirk audible in his voice. “Distraction can be… dangerous, especially in your line of work.” She froze for a split second before continuing her task, the implication of his words hanging heavily in the air.“I’m not distracted,” she snapped, turning sharply to glare at him. “I’m focused. If anything, it’s you who seems determined to derail my focus.”Silco chuckled softly, a deep, rumbling sound that made her stomach twist in ways she didn’t care to acknowledge. He stepped closer—not as close as before, but enough to remind her of his presence, his dominance in the room. “I merely observe,” he said, his tone maddeningly calm. “And perhaps… nudge when necessary.”Adeline scowled, her frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. “Well, consider your nudging noted,” she retorted, turning her back on him. She slowly walked back towards the sofa while her hands were full of papers and she dropped it on the coffee table with a loud thud. Adeline exhaled, ok… now. Back to work. She thought to herself, trying to get away from what happened lately.
Focus Adeline!
Focus! For a moment, neither of them spoke, the room filled only with the sound of shuffling papers and the faint creak of leather as Silco shifted in his chair.But even as she worked, Adeline couldn’t shake the feeling that this wasn’t over—not by a long shot. Silco had pushed her, prodded at her carefully constructed boundaries, and she knew without a shadow of a doubt that he wasn’t finished. He was testing her, like a predator circling its prey, gauging just how far she could bend before she broke. And Silco didn’t seem like the type of guy who wouldn't stop until he had what he wanted.Her fingers fumbled with the papers in her hands, her usual precision faltering under the weight of his lingering presence. The faint creak of leather as he leaned back in his chair sent a shiver down her spine, though she forced herself not to react. Silco was always watching, waiting, playing his games with a precision that was as terrifying as it was maddening.Adeline gritted her teeth, willing herself to focus, but her thoughts betrayed her. The way he had looked at her—so unyielding, so predatory—was seared into her mind. His words, low and deliberate, echoed in her ears like a haunting refrain. “Sometimes, boundaries are meant to be tested. It’s only fair to see how far they can hold before they break.”Adeline exhaled sharply, her breath shuddering as she tried to shake off the weight of his gaze. But even without looking, she could feel him. His presence was overwhelming, like a shadow that refused to be ignored. Silco wouldn’t stop. That much was clear. He was the kind of man who didn’t just push—he obliterated. He wouldn’t stop until she was at her wit’s end, until she was standing on the edge of her own resolve, teetering between defiance and surrender.And yet, somewhere deep down, a part of her hated how he made her feel. Hated the way her pulse quickened when he leaned in, the way his low, teasing words sent shivers racing across her skin. She hated how, despite herself, she felt drawn to him—a dangerous allure that she couldn’t quite banish.The game had begun, and she had no choice but to play. But Adeline wasn’t naive. She knew what kind of man Silco was. He played to win, and he didn’t care how many pieces were shattered in the process. You're crossing the line, she thought to herself, You're playing with fire–You'll end up getting burned you fool. What's life without a little risk? Right? Adeline exhaled a breath, and ran a hand down her face.
Game on.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
Adeline glanced at the clock mounted on the wall near Silco's door. Almost 10 p.m. The weight of the hour pressed down on her shoulders as she carefully gathered the scattered documents. Her hands trembled, betraying the storm of frustration and confusion swirling in her mind. The heat of their earlier interaction lingered like an ember, refusing to die down.
Snap out of it, Adeline.
She yawned and stretched her arms overhead, the satisfying crack of her joints drawing a small sigh from her lips.
That feels better.
Once the papers were in order, she rose from her seat and approached Silco’s desk. Her boots tapped softly against the floor, but she avoided looking up, focusing instead on the dark grain of the wood beneath her fingertips. She set the documents down carefully at the farthest edge of his desk, maintaining as much distance as possible.
Just don’t look into his eyes… You’ll be fine.
Silco hadn’t moved. Seated in his high-backed chair, he faced the large green-tinted window, the flickering light casting sharp shadows across his angular profile. His left hand toyed idly with a wooden clipboard, the rhythmic drumming of his fingers filling the silence.Adeline swallowed hard, steeling herself. Just say you’re leaving. Be professional. Don’t make it worse.“I–ah—” she began, clearing her throat. “I’ve finished reviewing these papers.” She tapped the stack lightly, keeping her gaze firmly fixed on her boots.The sharp creak of his chair startled her as he turned slowly to face her, his movements deliberate. His mismatched gaze bore into her, green and orange eyes glowing with dangerous amusement.“Pardon?” he drawled, his tone deceptively calm.Adeline’s throat tightened. “I’ll… finish the rest tomorrow,” she managed to say, though her voice wavered under the weight of his scrutiny.Before she could retreat, Silco moved with predatory precision. The edge of the clipboard pressed firmly against her throat, tilting her chin upward, forcing her to meet his gaze.“Look at me when you’re speaking,” he commanded softly, his tone a silk-wrapped blade.Her breath hitched as her eyes flicked upward, meeting his. The intensity of his stare was unbearable, a smirk ghosting across his lips as he studied her reaction. The clipboard’s pressure wasn’t the real restraint—it was him, his unyielding dominance, his calculated dismantling of her composure. “You were saying?” he murmured, his gaze dropping momentarily to her lips before locking onto her eyes again.“I–I’ll finish the rest tomorrow,” she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.Silco tilted his head, the smirk deepening. The silence stretched taut between them until he finally withdrew the clipboard and leaned back into his chair. “Good,” he said simply, his tone dismissive. He turned away from her, his attention returning to the window. “You may leave.”Adeline staggered back, her hand instinctively brushing her throat where the clipboard had been. Without a word, she turned and hurried to the door, gripping the handle and slipping out into the hallway.She stopped just outside, her breathing shallow, her free hand pressing lightly to her neck.
Breathe, Adeline. Just breathe.
As she tried to steady herself, a voice cut through the tension in the hallway. “You alright, candy?”Adeline spun on her heel to see Sevika approaching, her heavy boots echoing off the walls. Her tattered coat bore fresh bloodstains, the dark streaks smearing the already worn fabric.Adeline narrowed her eyes. “Your japes are not appreciated,” she muttered, dropping her hand from the doorknob and crossing her arms.Sevika smirked, her scarred face twisting into something close to amusement. “Who said I was joking, candy?” Her tone was teasing, though there was an edge to it—always an edge.“Stop calling me that,” Adeline snapped, her tone laced with irritation as she rolled her eyes.“What? ‘Candy’?” Sevika drawled, savoring the way the nickname grated on Adeline. She leaned casually against the wall, her height and presence taking up more space than seemed necessary.Adeline scowled. “Cut it out, buttercup.”Sevika’s expression darkened, her smirk fading as she cocked her head. “Keep it up, and I might just start liking the nickname you hate so much,” she said, her voice low and warning.Adeline ignored the jab, her gaze dropping to the fresh blood on Sevika’s coat. “What’s with the blood?” she asked, tilting her head toward the crimson streaks.Sevika straightened, her smirk returning but without the humor. “Some idiot who thought it’d be smart to piss the Eye of Zaun,” she replied curtly, stepping past Adeline toward Silco’s office door.“Who?” Adeline pressed, moving to block Sevika’s path with surprising boldness. She planted herself firmly in front of the other woman, her curiosity outweighing her common sense.“None of your business.” Sevika’s voice was sharp, her patience visibly wearing thin as she reached for the doorknob.Adeline grabbed Sevika’s wrist mid-motion, her grip firm. “Why?” she demanded, her voice unwavering.Sevika glared, trying to free her hand, but Adeline held on. “Let go, Adeline,” Sevika growled, her voice dangerously low. “Or I’ll move your hand for you.”“Answer the question first,” Adeline countered, her gaze locking with Sevika’s in a silent challenge.Sevika sighed, her frustration evident as she jerked her arm free. “Fine,” she snapped, her voice dripping with annoyance. “The idiot crossed Silco—did something he wouldn’t tolerate. It pissed him off enough that he sent me to find him and kil—”The door to Silco’s office swung open with a sharp creak, cutting Sevika off mid-sentence. Silco stood in the doorway, his gaze sweeping over the two women with cool amusement. “Am I interrupting something?” he asked, his voice smooth yet carrying an undercurrent of menace.Sevika straightened immediately, stepping back from the door and lowering her head slightly in deference. “No,” she said simply, her tone sharp but respectful.Silco’s gaze lingered on Adeline, his mismatched eyes gleaming faintly in the dim light. For a moment, the tension in the hallway thickened. Then, with a small, almost imperceptible smirk, he gestured toward Sevika. “Inside,” he said, his tone commanding.Sevika nodded, brushing past Adeline without another glance and disappearing into the office. Silco turned his attention back to Adeline, studying her with an inscrutable expression. “You look tired, Adeline,” he said finally. “Get some rest.”Before she could respond, he closed the door behind him, leaving her standing alone in the empty hallway.Adeline exhaled shakily, her hands trembling as she let them drop to her sides. Her mind raced as she replayed Sevika’s words. Silco’s wrath was no secret—she’d seen its effects firsthand—but hearing about it so plainly unsettled her.He killed a man… just because he pissed him off. What if I’m next? she thought, the idea sending a shiver down her spine. What if I say something wrong? Do something wrong? Would he send Sevika after me too?The thought tightened her chest, and she quickly turned on her heel, heading for the bar. Her satchel strap dug into her shoulder as her pace quickened, her footsteps echoing down the corridor.The raucous energy of The Last Drop hit her before she even reached the main room. Music thumped through the walls, drowning out the chatter and laughter of drunken patrons. When she stepped inside, the overwhelming noise did little to ease her nerves.Adeline made a beeline for the bar, barely glancing at the faces she passed. Her mind was a chaotic mess, filled with questions she dared not ask and fears she couldn’t shake. When she reached the counter, Thierm, the bartender, looked up from polishing a glass. To her surprise, he nodded at her—a small acknowledgment that she didn’t expect.She managed a faint smile in return. Didn’t think he even noticed me. The thought was fleeting, a small distraction from the storm brewing in her mind. But even that glimmer of warmth faded as her unease resurfaced.Out of the corner of her eye, Adeline caught a flicker of movement—a figure standing unnaturally still amidst the chaos of the bar. Her heart jolted. It was that person again. The same hooded figure, always draped in an ominous black coat, their face obscured by a smooth, featureless mask. The faint gleam of their eyes beneath the shadowed hood sent a chill crawling up her spine. They were watching her. Her pulse quickened, her thoughts racing. She wanted to dismiss it as paranoia, just another trick of her overworked mind. But this figure—this haunting presence—had been following her for days now. She had seen them lingering near Renni’s factory, blending into the crowds but always positioned just close enough to catch her eye. And now, here they were, a solitary, unmoving silhouette in the middle of The Last Drop’s chaos.Adeline’s stomach twisted into knots. She turned abruptly, her movements sharp and deliberate as she pushed through the crowd toward the exit. Her chest tightened as she shoved open the heavy metal door, stepping into the biting cold of Zaun’s night air.Leaving The Last Drop was reckless, she knew that. No one would dare touch her there, not under Silco's protection. But the weight of the hooded figure’s gaze had become suffocating, and staying any longer had felt unbearable.Her boots struck the cobblestones with quick, uneven clicks as she hurried toward her apartment. Every few steps, she glanced over her shoulder, scanning the shadows for any sign of pursuit. The streets of Zaun were dimly lit, bathed in the flickering glow of neon signs that painted eerie, shifting patterns across the walls. The usual hum of distant machinery was drowned out by the pounding of her heart.By the time she reached the brothel, her breaths came in shallow, anxious bursts. The building loomed ahead, its gaudy entrance alive with movement. Patrons came and went, their faces rough and worn, etched with the harshness of Zaun's life. Adeline averted her gaze, quickening her pace. She didn’t belong here—not tonight, not ever.But she froze mid-step. A memory surfaced, as vivid and sharp as broken glass. The man’s words from days earlier replayed in her mind: Come to the brothel and meet him sometime.Her foot tapped nervously against the uneven cobblestones, her inner voice warring with itself. This is reckless. What am I even hoping to find? Answers? Closure? Or am I just walking into another nightmare? And moreover what if he's lying? Curiosity and the need for answers clawed at her. She clenched her jaw. Fine. I need to know who he is. And why Marcus—of all people—would visit here.With a deep breath, she turned sharply and headed toward the brothel. Her boots felt heavier with each step, her hesitation growing as she approached the door. By the time she reached it, her hand trembled as she raised it to knockThis is a mistake. I should leave now. But her hand didn’t lower. She needed to knowShe rapped her knuckles against the wooden door, the sound muted against the oppressive stillness of the street. A tense few moments passed before a small, square viewing panel slid open. Two piercing green eyes stared at her from behind the panel, studying her with an unnerving intensity.A few tense moments passed before a small viewing panel slid open, revealing a flash of green eyes behind it.The man said nothing, but the click of locks echoed faintly as the panel slid shut. Moments later, the heavy door creaked open, revealing a tall, broad-shouldered figure. He had a scar running the length of his cheek and eyes that seemed to weigh her presence silently. He didn’t speak, didn’t offer so much as a greeting. Instead, he stepped aside, his towering frame making the narrow doorway feel even more foreboding.Adeline hesitated. Every instinct in her body screamed at her to leave, to turn around and run as fast as she could. But she forced herself to take a steadying breath, squared her shoulders, and stepped inside.The door groaned shut behind her, the sound sealing her in as if it had swallowed her whole. The air inside was thick, almost oppressive, filled with the cloying scent of cheap perfume. Muffled conversations buzzed faintly through the walls, punctuated by bursts of laughter and the occasional shout.The scarred man gestured wordlessly toward a dimly lit hallway, his green eyes locking onto hers with unsettling intensity.Adeline’s gaze followed the direction he pointed, landing on a corridor shrouded in shadows. She hesitated, her pulse quickening as unease crept through her.“Oh… no,” she blurted, her eyes widening as realization struck. “No, I’m not here for…Uhm,” Her voice trailed off as her cheeks flushed crimson. She averted her gaze, nervously clearing her throat before looking back at him. “I’m… I’m looking for someone. A man. He works here, and he told me I could—”“Keep walking,” the man interrupted gruffly, his tone brooking no argument.Adeline blinked, thrown off by the abruptness of his response. She glanced back at the hallway, then at him again, her uncertainty written plainly on her face. “Ahh…?” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.The man sighed, his frustration palpable, and tilted his head toward the end of the hallway. Then, without another word, he turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving her alone in the oppressive quiet.Adeline exhaled shakily, swallowing her nerves. “Okay… thank you,” she mumbled under her breath, her words more to herself than anyone else.She turned toward the hallway and began walking, each step feeling heavier than the last. The dim light cast long, flickering shadows on the peeling walls, and the muffled sounds of laughter, murmured conversations, and occasional moans grew louder as she advanced.Curtains hung in place of doors on either side of the hall, swaying faintly with the movement of air. As she passed the first room, her eyes flicked involuntarily toward the gap between the fabric. Her breath hitched at the sight—a man reclined in a clawfoot tub, water lapping at his chest, while a woman who wore completely nothing, perched on the edge, whispering something in his ear that made him laugh softly.Adeline snapped her gaze forward, her cheeks burning.
Don’t look.
Don’t look at anything… But with each step, Adeline’s resolve weakened further. The air in the corridor seemed to grow heavier, thick with other scents of perfume, wine, and something else she couldn’t quite name. She passed another room where a couple lay entwined on a low bed, their whispered words punctuated by soft laughter. The intimacy in their shared space felt almost sacred, and Adeline averted her gaze, heat rising to her cheeks. Further down, a curtain shifted slightly, revealing two women lounging together on a worn chaise. One held a bottle of wine, its neck tilted lazily in her hand, while the other leaned close, her lips brushing the rim of a shared glass. Their giggles were light and conspiratorial, the kind that carried the weight of secrets shared in confidence. Adeline tried to look away, but the woman with deep purple hair turned her attention to her. Her striking brown eyes caught the flicker of the hallway’s dim light, and she smiled—a soft, knowing smile that sent a chill down Adeline’s spine. Slowly, she extended a graceful hand toward Adeline, her fingers curling in a silent invitation.For a moment, Adeline froze, the pull of the woman’s gaze holding her in place. The smile was gentle, almost kind, but there was something disarming in its confidence. “Care to join us?” the woman murmured, her voice low and honeyed, carrying just enough to reach Adeline’s ears.Adeline’s heart raced. She quickly shook her head and broke eye contact, mumbling an incoherent apology under her breath as she sped up her pace. She didn’t dare look back, but she could feel the weight of the woman’s gaze lingering on her until she rounded the corner.The further she went, the louder the muffled sounds of laughter and whispered promises seemed to grow, blending with the rhythmic thud of her boots on the floor. She focused on the sound, letting it drown out the gnawing anxiety clawing at her chest.Finally, by the time she reached the end of the hallway, her face felt like it was on fire. She stopped in front of a door—not a curtain this time, but an actual wooden door, its surface scarred and worn. The dim light above flickered, casting an eerie glow that made the hallway feel even narrower.With a deep breath, Adeline steadied herself. She knocked on the door, and a woman responded to her and invited her to come inside. Adeline pushed the heavy door open, stepping into the dimly lit office. Her eyes quickly landed on the brothel owner, seated with effortless poise at an ornate desk. The woman’s sharp features were illuminated by the soft glow of a nearby lamp, her sleek dark hair falling neatly to one side. Her pen glided across a sheet of paper with precise, deliberate strokes. Draped in a tailored suit that radiated authority, she sat upright, exuding control even in stillness.Adeline cleared her throat, hoping to catch the woman’s attention. Slowly, the brothel owner’s gaze lifted, sharp eyes locking onto Adeline. She hummed softly to herself, her gaze sweeping up and down the intruder before returning to her work.“Do you have any experience?” she murmured, her deep, calm voice filling the room as if she hadn’t a care in the world. She didn’t spare Adeline a second glance.“Wha—no. No, I’m not—” Adeline stammered, confused.The woman let out an exasperated sigh, setting her pen down. “Girls like you will get me into all kinds of trouble,” she muttered. The woman opened a drawer, she retrieved a piece of paper and slid it onto the desk. “Sign here,” she said firmly. “I’ll have someone teach you the ropes. Miguel is good with new girls. Pay attention to everything he tells you.”Adeline’s mouth opened to protest, but the brothel owner cut her off with a raised hand. “Room zero three is free. I’ll have someone clean it before you enter,” the woman purred, already returning to her writing. “My boys will come by, and you can choose which one you prefer. Feel free to pick a theme while you’re at it. Although, it would only cost you a bit of money,”“Madam,” Adeline said sharply, stepping forward. She placed a firm hand on the contract and slid it back toward the woman. “You’re mistaken. I’m not here for a job, nor am I seeking my pleasures and…other services.”The brothel owner’s pen halted mid-stroke. She leaned back slightly, raising an eyebrow as she studied Adeline more closely. “No?”Adeline moved to the sofa on the right side of the room, lowering herself onto the plush seat. Her posture was composed, but her words carried an edge. “I’m here for a different matter,” Her fingers trailed lightly along the back of the sofa as she spoke.The brothel owner paused, her expression shifting. Understanding flickered in her eyes. Gently, she set her pen on the desk, rose from her chair, and strode toward the opposite sofa. With practiced elegance, she pulled a long, red cigarette from her pocket, lighting it with a flick of a silver lighter. Crossing her legs, she exhaled a thin stream of smoke, her gaze never leaving Adeline.“I’m surprised you’ve lasted this long, Adeline,” the woman said, her voice now laced with intrigue. “I’m Babette. Though I suspect you already knew that. We’ve met before, haven’t we? Back at The Last Drop. When Vander was still alive then.” Her eyes softened briefly as the weight of old memories settled over her.Adeline smiled faintly. “Aye, I remember. And I’m relieved you haven’t forgotten me.”Babette’s lips curved into a wry smile. “Forgotten you? Hardly. Trouble like you is hard to forget.” She leaned back, taking another drag of her cigarette, the smoke curling lazily into the air. “So, tell me, Adeline. What exactly brings you here after all these years?”Adeline leaned forward slightly, her voice steady and deliberate. “I’m searching for answers, Babette. Answers that someone under your roof might have… and I believe you can help me find him.”Babette tilted her head, studying Adeline intently, her sharp eyes searching for the truth behind the words. After a long pause, she nodded slowly. “Perhaps I can. But I can’t promise you anything. Samuel has been… difficult to track since the incident.”Adeline’s brow furrowed. So that's his name… Samuel “What incident?” Adeline asked. Babette’s lips tightened, her gaze dropping briefly before meeting Adeline’s again. “He disappeared after Silco started hunting him.” Her voice softened but carried a weight that made Adeline lean in closer. “Last night, Silco’s second-in-command came down here, storming through the brothel like a whirlwind. She was looking for Samuel. I tried to stop her, but Sevika doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer, nor does Silco. She left the place in shambles—broke a couple of cabinets, smashed up a few rooms.”Adeline’s stomach tightened. “Why? Why would Silco go after Samuel?”“I don’t know the full story,” Babette admitted, a flicker of unease crossing her face. “But Sevika let something slip… Silco was furious. Or rather jealous, maybe. Jealous in a way I never thought I’d see from him.” Babette paused, her gaze flickering to Adeline, measuring her reaction.Adeline’s mind raced. So, that explains the blood on Sevika’s coat. But whose blood was it?Before she could ask, Babette’s voice broke the silence. “Has he been treating you well?”Adeline blinked, startled by the shift in tone. “Silco?”Babette nodded, her expression unreadable but her intent clear.“I…” Adeline hesitated, the memory of Silco’s proximity flashing through her mind. His knee brushing hers. The low rasp of his breath ghosting over her lips. The way his presence seemed to both infuriate and disarm her. “He was… nice.” Adeline began, “He hasn’t hurt me… yet…physically or mentally.”Babette’s brow lifted, her skepticism apparent. “That’s not the Silco I know. Cruel, selfish, manipulative—those are words that describe him. He craves power and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. But nice? That’s far from the truth.”Adeline stiffened, her jaw tightening. Babette didn’t miss it. “Adeline, listen to me very carefully,” Babette continued, her tone softening but laced with urgency. “Silco doesn’t take without giving something in return—but his gifts are always poisoned. Vander made me promise to protect you from him. He knew Silco would use you. That he wouldn’t stop until he got what he wanted.”Adeline’s stomach churned at the mention of Vander. She crossed her arms, her voice low and firm. “I don’t need a reminder of who he is.”Babette studied her for a long moment, then sighed. “Silco will push you until you’re at his mercy. He thrives on control, on breaking people down until they’re nothing but pawns on his board.”Adeline narrowed her eyes. “And what exactly am I supposed to do to avoid pissing him off?”“You need to play the game,” Babette said, leaning in conspiratorially. “But being a player doesn’t mean surrendering. You need to make him chase you. Silco loves the hunt, the challenge. Act like you’re hard to get—someone who won’t easily fall into his web.”Adeline’s curiosity flared. “You know a lot about his games,” she remarked, her tone edged with suspicion.Babette’s lips curled into a bitter smile. “He came to me once, asking for… dessert. I sent him a girl—sweet, innocent, half his age. Just the way he likes it.” Babette smiled, but her smile became a bit bitter. “She didn’t last long. She made a mistake, and Silco doesn’t tolerate mistakes.”Adeline didn't say anything. She blinked a couple of times. Processing everything Babette told her. Adeline imagined what Silco could've done to that poor girl as punishment for her mistakes. “I hate to say this but… there is no doubt why Silco took you, and made you his…assistant. You are a very–very attractive young woman, Adeline. No doubt you’re an easy target… He is toying with you, Adeline. Playing you under his chest board.” Adeline’s stomach knotted. “Even Jinx?”Babette nodded grimly, her expression heavy with caution. “Be careful with her. She’s just as dangerous as he is—perhaps even more so. She has a knack for manipulating people, bending them to her will with ease. And her loyalty to him? It’s unwavering, almost feral. If she even suspects you might be a threat…” Babette let the words hang, her silence speaking louder than anything she could say. Finally, her gaze sharpened. “Silco is a bit… possessive and overprotective of anything–or anyone he considers… his.”Adeline squared her shoulders. “I don’t belong to anyone.”Babette’s gaze softened with pity, though her tone carried a firm edge. “You do now, whether you like it or not. Taking the job Silco offered you… that was your first mistake. The smartest thing you could have done was to decline, but it’s too late for that now.” She paused, her words hanging heavy in the air before continuing, “And about Seraphine and Sheriff Grayson…” Adeline froze, the names cutting through her like a knife.“I’m so sorry, child. Truly.”The mention of Grayson’s name etched into her head, that made Adeline’s heart twist with pain. Her voice echoed in Adeline’s mind, warm and steady: You’ve been an excellent shot, Ms. Kiramman.The memory of those words brought a bittersweet smile to Adeline’s lips, but it was what Grayson had said next that truly lingered: You know… if I ever had a daughter, I’d want her to be like you—smart, sweet, funny… and maybe a little less stubborn.Adeline chuckled softly at the thought, the sound laced with sorrow. She laughed now just as she had back then—bright, genuine, unguarded. That moment was etched into her soul, every word, every gesture, every kind look Grayson had given her.She could almost feel Grayson’s steady hand on her shoulder, grounding her, encouraging her. Adeline closed her eyes, letting the memory wash over her like a warm breeze on a cold night. But another memory flashes into Adeline's head.
Adeline!
RUN!
The echo of Seraphine’s voice roared in her mind, pulling her back to that moment. Her heart pounded as she remembered the sight she could never erase—the lifeless body of her dearest friend, Seraphine. Blood pooled beneath her, her once-bright eyes dull and empty. The metallic scent filled Adeline’s nose as if it were happening all over again.Her breathing quickened, panic clawing its way to the surface. Adeline clenched her fists, nails biting into her palms as she tried to push the memory away. But it wouldn’t relent.The sound of tearing flesh. The guttural growl of a monster. The inhuman brutality of it all.Adeline’s voice trembled as she spoke, barely above a whisper. “I should have saved her… I should have known better,”Babette stepped closer, her expression softening further, though her voice remained steady. “You did everything you could, Adeline. No one could have stopped what happened to Seraphine, and to Sheriff Grayson. Blaming yourself will only destroy you, child.”Adeline shook her head, her voice rising with raw emotion. “They weren't just a friend, Babette. Sheriff Grayson and Seraphine were everything to me, they're my family. And now they're gone. Taken from me. They were both killed by the monster–a shimmer addict! Butchered—like they weren't even human!”The room fell silent except for the ragged sound of Adeline’s breathing. Babette reached out, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. “I understand your pain, but listen to me. Whoever did that to them… they’re not someone you can face alone. They’re dangerous. Vicious. And if Silco’s involved, you know it’s even worse. Let it go, Adeline.” Babette shook her head lightly, “Let them go. It’s the only way you’ll survive this.” Adeline’s eyes snapped to Babette, fire and anguish swirling within them. “I don’t care. I need to find them. I need to make them pay.”Babette sighed, shaking her head. “Revenge won’t bring them back. It’ll only pull you deeper into the darkness. Into this cruel world. And once you’re in, Adeline… there’s no way out.”Adeline’s jaw tightened. Her voice was resolute, cutting through the thick air. “I don’t care how dark it gets. I’ll walk through hell if it means getting justice for them.”Babette sighed deeply, her voice lowering with empathy. “I know you were close to them. Closer than your actual family. But their death wasn’t your fault. You did what you thought was right at the time. But you need to wake up now, Adeline. You can’t change the past. Clinging to it, letting it weigh you down—it’s only going to get you killed.”Adeline’s jaw clenched, “I'm already in this mess!” “Then be careful, Adeline. Be smart. Don’t let Silco or his games twist you into something you’re not. Promise me you’ll tread lightly.”Adeline glanced back, her eyes hard but glimmering with a hint of vulnerability. “I’ll do what I have to do. For them.”“You think they would want you in this suicide plan?” Adeline scoffed, reaching into her pocket and pulling out a heavy brown wallet. She tossed it onto Babette’s table, the clink of coins punctuating the moment. “Nice seeing you again, Babette… Nothing comes for free, right?”Babette shook her head. “I don’t want your money, Adeline. All I want is to keep my promise to Vander… and to keep you safe.”“And what promise would that be?” She asked. But Babette didn't answer her.
That's what I thought…
Adeline hesitated at the door, turning back with a defiant glint in her eyes. “You’re wrong about Silco. He’s not what you think he is, and…” she tightened her grip, “I don't think he's involved in Seraphine’s death. And to…” Adeline shook her head. “I’ll prove that you're wrong.”Babette closed the distance with an unsettling calm, her hand resting on Adeline’s waist like a warning. Her voice dropped to a low, razor-sharp whisper, each word slicing through the fragile silence. “Be wary, Adeline. Silco deals in shadows, and his gifts always come with strings—strings he’ll pull when he senses your weakness. His generosity is a trap, a snare designed to bind you without mercy. The price he demands isn’t paid in coins; it’s far more insidious.” Babette's words weren't meant to frighten her, but she could see the slight tremor in Adeline’s hands, the fear that had begun to take root. “He takes—slowly, completely—your will, your soul, your very essence. At first, he’ll ask for nothing, let you believe you’re the one in control. That’s the game he plays.” She leaned in closer, her voice lower, more intense. “He’s the spider, Adeline. And his web is already around you. And when he comes to claim what’s his, you won’t even see it. And by the time you realize it, it’ll be too late. You’ll have given away pieces of yourself without even realizing, until there’s nothing left… and when he’s finished, you won’t even remember what it felt like to be whole.” Babette’s gaze sharpened, her eyes dark with warning and something else—pity, perhaps, for the innocence she feared was about to be lost. Her words dug into Adeline’s mind, each one like a thorn too deep to pull free. “So tread carefully,” she continued, her voice steady and unyielding. “Once Silco sets his sights on you, there’s no escaping him.” The weight of her warning hung in the air, as suffocating as it was inescapable.Adeline swallowed hard, pushing down the unease that threatened to rise. Without another word, she turned and left, the door swinging shut behind her.Babette watched her go, a sense of foreboding settling in her chest. As the door closed behind Adeline, Babette whispered to herself, “I hope you know what you’re doing, child… Because Silco won’t show you mercy.”Adeline couldn't sleep that night. Babette's words echoed in her mind, each syllable carving itself deep into her thoughts. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't shake the weight of what had been said.When she finally arrived at her small apartment, the familiar sight offered little comfort. Her hand trembled slightly as she reached into her pocket and pulled out her keys. She stood there for a moment, staring at the chipped paint of the door, her breath uneven. Instead of turning the doorknob right away, she let out a deep, heavy sigh, as if the simple act of opening the door was too much to bear.When she stepped inside, the dim light from the hallway spilled across the floor, highlighting the unkempt state of her home. She flicked the light switch, but the bulb barely flickered, casting a dull yellow glow over the room. She hadn’t bothered to change it in months—she didn’t see the point. The apartment was as tired as she felt.Adeline dropped her keys onto the small, wobbly table near the door, the clink of metal echoing in the silence. Her boots thudded against the wooden floor as she trudged to the bed. Without a second thought, she collapsed onto the mattress, face-first, letting the day’s exhaustion swallow her whole.She didn’t bother to remove her boots, or even change her clothes. Everything felt heavy—her body, her mind, her heart. The lingering scent of the brothel and Madam Babette's cigarette clung to her clothes, but she didn’t care. All she wanted was oblivion.Her eyes fluttered shut, though her mind refused to quiet. Babette’s words replayed over and over, like a haunting melody she couldn't escape. Each thought swirled into the next until, slowly, the weight of exhaustion pulled her into a restless sleep.In the dim silence of her apartment, the faint hum of the city outside seemed to mock her, as though the world kept moving forward while she remained trapped in the stillness of her own despair.By 7 a.m., the sharp chaos of her neighbors' shouting jolted Adeline from her restless sleep. The muffled sounds of arguing seeped through the thin walls of her apartment, growing louder by the second. Groggy and irritable, she groaned, pulling her pillow over her head in a desperate attempt to block out the noise.It didn’t help. Their voices pierced through the feeble barrier, every word like nails on a chalkboard. “Unbelievable,” she muttered, throwing the pillow aside and sitting up. Her eyes, heavy with exhaustion, darted toward the window where the commotion seemed to grow louder. Clenching her jaw, she marched toward it, throwing it open with more force than necessary. The cool morning air hit her face, but it did nothing to soothe her fraying nerves. “Oy! It’s seven in the bloody morning, you bastards! Some of us are trying to sleep!” she shouted, her voice cutting through their argument like a whip.The shouting from below paused for a moment. A flicker of hope stirred within her, but it was quickly dashed when one of her neighbors fired back with a slew of curses.Adeline gritted her teeth, resisting the urge to escalate the situation. She’d learned long ago that shouting matches with her neighbors only fed their energy. With a frustrated sigh, she slammed the window shut, muting their voices—but only slightly. The shouting continued, louder and more relentless, as though they were deliberately provoking her.Her head throbbed with a dull, persistent ache. Sleep was no longer an option. Adeline sank back onto her bed, but the noise from her neighbors seemed to amplify, each shouted insult or crashing sound hammering into her skull like a relentless metronome of chaos.She grabbed her pillow again, clutching it tightly as though it might somehow silence the world outside. Pressing her face into its softness, she let out a long, muffled scream—raw, frustrated, and desperate. Her voice vibrated against the fabric, releasing some of the tension coiled tightly in her chest. But the release was fleeting, and the noise persisted, seeping into her like a poison she couldn’t escape. With a sharp sigh, she threw the pillow across the room, the force knocking over a half-empty mug on her bedside table. It clattered to the floor, joining the clutter already scattered there. She swung her legs off the bed, her feet landing on the cold, uneven floor with a determined thud. “If I can’t sleep, I might as well get moving,” she muttered to herself. The thought of heading to work—despite the early hour—offered a sliver of relief. Silco’s office was quiet, his couch inviting. Maybe she could sneak in a nap there. The idea brought a flicker of hope to her otherwise sour mood. Adeline stood, running a hand through her tangled hair as she surveyed the mess of her apartment. The sight only deepened her irritation. “I should just move,” she muttered under her breath as she stomped toward the bathroom. “Or invest in soundproofing. Or—” her voice sharpened, dripping with dark humor, “just burn this whole damn place down.”The absurdity of the thought brought the faintest twitch of a smile to her lips, though it was quickly replaced by a scowl as another burst of shouting erupted from outside. She shook her head and stepped into the bathroom, shutting the door behind her. It wasn’t much, but it was her sanctuary—a small, cramped space where the world outside couldn’t quite reach her.She turned on the shower, the old pipes groaning in protest before releasing a steady stream of water. Steam began to fill the room, curling around her like a warm embrace. The sound of the water hitting the tiles was soothing, drowning out the muffled chaos from her neighbors.Adeline leaned against the cool bathroom wall, closing her eyes as the warmth of the steam enveloped her. She took a deep, measured breath, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. For a moment, the noise outside faded into insignificance, replaced by the steady, rhythmic hiss of the shower.Here, in this small, imperfect space, she found a fleeting sense of peace. The water felt cleansing, not just for her body but for her frayed nerves. Adeline lingered, letting the heat and the quiet settle over her like a balm, reluctant to leave the sanctuary she’d carved out of the chaos.But even as she stood there, she knew the day ahead would come for her, relentless as ever. With a resigned sigh, she grabbed the soap, letting the simple, familiar routine ground her. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to keep her going—for now. ...It took Adeline nearly an hour to leave the sanctuary of her bathroom. The steam still lingered as she stepped into her small apartment, her gray towel wrapped snugly around her body. Her feet padded across the worn floor until she stopped in front of her unpolished wooden cabinet.With a sigh, she pulled it open, revealing her modest collection of clothes. Most were wrinkled, some faded, and others clearly past their prime. She scanned the contents, her brow furrowing as she realized that her nicer clothes were in a heap across the room—the dreaded pile of dirty laundry she’d been neglecting for weeks.“Fuck,” she muttered under her breath, her frustration palpable. She should’ve done the laundry days ago, but the thought of dragging her things to the laundromat after work was always too daunting.Adeline tipped her head back, eyes closed for a moment. Guess I really should’ve done it, she thought bitterly. Shaking off the self-reproach, she dug her left hand into the cabinet, sifting through the mismatched garments while her other hand clutched her towel tightly in place.Finally, she pulled out a white sando and a pair of black leggings. The outfit was simple, practical—a reflection of her mood. She dried herself off quickly and slipped into her clothes, the familiar fabric clinging to her damp skin.Grabbing a comb from the cabinet, she worked through the tangles in her hair before tying it up in a sleek ponytail. Her reflection in the small, cracked mirror above the cabinet stared back at her, tired but determined.Her gaze shifted to the elegant perfume bottle sitting atop the cabinet.She reached for it gently, holding it in her palm as if it were a precious artifact. The perfume was one of the few luxurie Adeline had held onto since leaving her parents’ home—a lingering piece of a life she’d long since left behind. This perfume bottle was more than just a luxury item; it was a piece of her past, a tether to a life Adeline had long left behind. It was one of her mother’s gifts—Cassandra Kiramman’s way of blending sentiment with sophistication. Cassandra had commissioned the perfume herself, ensuring that it would be unique, something no one else in the world would own. But the design? That was all Adeline.She still remembered the day she’d sat in the sunlit parlor with a brush in her hand, carefully painting delicate violet roses along the edges of the crystal bottle. Her mother had watched with a rare softness in her eyes, praising the steady precision of Adeline’s strokes. It had been a collaboration of sorts—Adeline’s artistry and Cassandra’s refinement.The bottle itself was exquisite, crafted from high-quality crystal that shimmered in the light. The violet hue at its base deepened toward the bottom, giving the impression of a blooming rose. A delicate silver cap, engraved with intricate floral patterns, completed the look. Best of all, the bottle was refillable—a detail Adeline had insisted on. She remembered the day very vividly.“A thing of beauty should never run out,” she’d told her mother back then with a grin, and she remembered how her mother had laughed, indulging her daughter’s practicality.Adeline’s fingers brushed over the bottle, tracing the painted roses that had faded slightly with time, but still held their charm. The scent inside was a fresh refill—a gift she’d saved up for herself, knowing she couldn’t let this piece of her past fade away entirely. This perfume wasn’t just about the smell or the luxury; it was about memories. It reminded her of the rare moments when her mother seemed genuinely proud of her, when their bond felt less like a battle and more like a partnership. Now, as she held the bottle in her hands, she felt a pang of longing for those days, even if they hadn’t been perfect. A part of her wondered if her mother ever thought about her, if she still kept the same bottle. Thinking if it's still sitting on her vanity back at the estate.
Wonder if she still kept it…
With a soft sigh, she squeezed the purple braided air bag, releasing a soft mist of the intoxicating scent, and let the familiar fragrance envelop her. She closed her eyes, letting herself be transported back to that sunlit parlor, back to a time when things felt simpler, even if only briefly. The fragrance filled the room almost immediately. It was the smell of elegance and affluence, a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Notes of jasmine, bergamot, and vanilla swirled together, underpinned by the warmth of amber and a hint of sandalwood. The scent was addictive, alluring—one that turned heads and left an impression long after she was gone. It reminded her of champagne toasts, gilded chandeliers, and late nights in grand halls filled with laughter and music. Adeline squeezed the air bag again on her neck–this time. She breathed it in, letting the familiar aroma ground her. For a moment, she wasn’t in her dingy apartment but back in her parents’ sprawling estate, dressed in silks and surrounded by opulence. It was a memory she rarely indulged in, but today, she needed the boost.Placing the bottle back on the cabinet, she squared her shoulders and took a deep breath. The scent wasn’t just a memory—it was a reminder of who she was, of the strength she carried even when the world around her felt like it was crumbling. With one last glance at the bottle, she turned and walked out the door,Satisfied, she grabbed her bag, slipped on her worn boots, and headed for the door. Today wasn’t going to be easy, but at least she’d face it smelling like a queen.Adeline walked briskly toward The Last Drop, her hand clutching the strap of her satchel like a lifeline. Her thoughts churned with uncertainty, but she kept her pace steady. As she approached the familiar metal door, she hesitated, the weight of her nerves pressing down on her. What am I so nervous about? she chided herself. Shaking her head, she pushed the feeling aside and strode forward, shoving open the door with more force than she intended.Inside, the air was still and quiet, the kind of silence that felt out of place in the usually raucous bar. It was too early in the morning for the usual crowd—or Silco’s guards, for that matter. Her gaze swept the room, landing on Thierm, the bartender, who stood alone behind the counter, polishing a glass. The place was eerily empty, save for him.Adeline closed the metal door with a loud thud, the sound echoing through the quiet space. Thierm’s head shot up at the noise, his eyes widening slightly when he saw her.“Hey, Thierm,” she called, her voice breaking the stillness. But the man didn’t respond. Instead, he turned his back to her, pretending to be engrossed in his task.Adeline’s brows knit together. She walked toward the counter, her boots clicking softly against the floor. Setting her satchel on a barstool, she leaned forward, her arms resting on the counter. “Bourbon. Neat,” she said, her tone firm but casual.Without a word, Thierm reached for a glass and poured her drink, sliding it across the counter with a nervous flick of his wrist.Adeline took the glass but didn’t drink immediately. “Is the big boss up yet?” she asked, watching him carefully.Thierm flinched slightly, his hand gripping the towel he’d been using to polish the glass. He tossed her drink over without meeting her gaze, then resumed his pointless polishing, rubbing the same spot over and over.Adeline’s eyes narrowed. What’s with him today? She took a deliberate sip of her bourbon, savoring the burn as it slid down her throat.Placing the glass back on the counter. “Hey,” she snapped her fingers to get his attention. “You’ve been polishing that glass for ten minutes straight.” she teased, her voice laced with faux amusement. Finally, he spoke, though his voice was shaky. “I… he went out,” Thierm stammered, his words rushed.Adeline raised an eyebrow. Weird. She tilted her head, scrutinizing him. “When will he be back?” she asked, her tone light but probing.“I don’t know,” he muttered, still avoiding her gaze.Adeline hummed thoughtfully, leaning back slightly. “Is Jinx up?”“No,” he said quickly, too quickly.Her suspicion deepened, but before she could press further, Thierm added, “She went out with, boss.”“Oh.” Adeline swirled the remnants of her bourbon in the glass before finishing it in one smooth motion. She set the empty glass on the counter with a soft clink. “Thanks,” she said, slinging her satchel over her shoulder. “I’ll just head upstairs now.”“No!” Thierm’s voice cracked, his sudden outburst startling her.Adeline turned to him, her brow furrowed in confusion. “Why not?”“You… you should probably wait until, boss comes back,” he muttered, his voice low and nervous.She arched an eyebrow at him. “I’ve got a lot of paperwork to catch up on,” she said casually, offering him a sly smile. “Let me know when the big boss gets back.” Without waiting for a reply, she turned and headed for the stairs.... Silco’s office was steeped in its usual haze of cigar smoke, the faint scent lingering heavily in the air. Adeline pushed the door shut behind her and took in the room. The cigar resting in the ashtray on his desk was still faintly smoldering. He must’ve left recently.Her gaze shifted to the documents scattered across his desk. She walked over and gathered the files, carrying them to the coffee table. Dropping her satchel onto the floor, she sank into the worn leather couch with a sigh.Alright, she thought, rubbing her palms together. She picked up the largest file and placed it on her lap. Flipping it open, she began reading, her brow furrowing as she skimmed the dense text.Minutes turned into an hour, and Adeline’s focus began to waver. The words blurred together on the page, her eyes heavy with fatigue. She stifled a yawn, glancing up at the wall clock. Almost 9 a.m.Her body protested against her determination. She sighed, closing the file and placing it back on the table. “Guess I should’ve started with a thinner one,” she muttered, rubbing her temples.Adeline leaned back against the couch, letting her head rest against the worn leather. Maybe just a quick rest… she thought, closing her eyes. The quiet hum of Zaun beyond the office walls was oddly soothing, and before she knew it, sleep began to pull her under.Adeline had almost drifted back into unconsciousness when a loud commotion from outside the office jolted her awake. Groaning, she stretched and blinked her bleary eyes open, her gaze fixed on the ceiling. The stiff leather of the couch creaked as she shifted, leaning forward with her elbows resting on her thighs.How long have I been out? she wondered, her mind hazy from sleep. Judging by the lack of stiffness in her neck, she hadn’t been out for too long. She glanced toward Silco’s desk and was surprised to find it still unoccupied. He’s still out?Adeline dropped her head back down, running her hands over her face. Blindly, she reached out for the thick file she had abandoned earlier. She had just placed it on her lap when a low, gravelly voice startled her.“You snore like a pig.”Adeline bolted upright, her heart racing as she turned toward the source of the voice.There, leaning casually against the armrest of the couch, was Silco. His arms rested lazily along the back of the sofa, his gaze fixed on her with unsettling intensity.“Silco!” she gasped, clutching the file against her chest. “You scared me.”Silco smirked faintly, his good eye gleaming with amusement, though his expression remained largely unreadable. “Is there a particular reason why you’re here, Adeline?” he asked, his tone calm but laced with curiosity.“Uhm, I’m finishing my work,” she replied quickly, holding up the thick file as evidence.“Clearly, that’s not the case,” he remarked, his voice dry. “Here you are, sound asleep on my couch.”Adeline scoffed, narrowing her eyes at him. “I do not snore.”“Oh, but you do,” he countered, leaning slightly toward her.Despite knowing he was teasing, his face remained a mask of stoicism, which only fueled her irritation. She rolled her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest.“Exhausted, are we?” he inquired, tilting his head slightly to the side.Adeline let out a small, tired laugh, leaning back against the couch. “You could say that.” She closed her eyes again, letting her head rest against the back of the couch.“How was your time at the brothel?”Adeline’s eyes snapped open, her heart dropping. She turned to look at him, his face calm and unreadable, but there was a sharpness in his gaze that made her stomach twist. Babette’s words echoed in her mind: Silco is a bit… possessive and overprotective of what he considers…his.She swallowed hard, trying to maintain her composure. You need to be the player. Don’t let him intimidate you.“It seems to me you spent nearly an hour there,” Silco continued, tapping his fingers idly against the couch. His voice was deceptively casual, but Adeline could hear the faint edge beneath it. “Tell me, what exactly brings you to such an establishment?”Adeline’s mind raced. How the fuck does he know that? Keeping her expression neutral, she shifted slightly, angling her body toward him.“Why do you think people go to brothels?” she asked, mimicking his tapping motion with her own fingers against the couch’s armrest.Silco arched an eyebrow at her, intrigued but unimpressed–no doubt he didn't expect her witty comebacks. He didn’t respond immediately, so she pressed on, a coy smile playing on her lips. “You wouldn’t assume I went there to discuss their sales figures, would you?” she teased, her voice light and playful.His tapping paused mid-motion, his gaze sharpening. “So, you’re telling me you went there for… something of the matter?” he asked, his voice low, laced with something darker.Adeline smiled sweetly, masking her unease with feigned innocence. “That’s right. Been craving it for months,” she said, her tone almost flippant. “I had a great time, by the way. An hour wasn’t nearly enough, but, well… priorities.” She shrugged, feigning nonchalance, though she didn’t miss the way Silco’s jaw tightened or how his hand curled slightly into a fist.“Really?” he said, his voice dangerously soft. “I never thought you would indulge yourself with… whores.”Adeline’s cheeks burned, his words landing like a slap, but she forced herself to maintain her composure. The twisting in her stomach was undeniable, but she pushed it aside, lifting her chin as a smirk curved her lips. “What I do in my spare time is none of your concern,” she replied smoothly, her voice laced with teasing confidence.Without hesitation, she moved toward him, her movements slow and deliberate. Crawling across the couch, she stopped just in front of him, sitting down close enough to test his boundaries but far enough to leave room for him to decide. Her white sando clung to her figure, the neckline dipping just enough to reveal a hint of cleavage that she knew had caught his attention.She didn’t miss the way Silco’s eyes flickered down for a brief moment, betraying a hunger he clearly didn’t want to acknowledge. His gaze was back on hers in an instant, but the damage was done. The tension between them tightened, a string pulled taut, threatening to snap.Adeline leaned back slightly, resting one arm on the back of the couch, her expression playful and smug. “Unless, of course, you’re jealous,” she added, her tone dripping with feigned innocence. Her smirk deepened as she leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. “You wouldn’t be jealous, would you?”Silco’s lips twitched into a small, humorless smile, but the tightness around his mouth betrayed the restraint he was holding onto. “Jealous? Hardly,” he said, his voice calm, yet tinged with an edge of defensiveness that didn’t escape her notice.Adeline tilted her head, studying him with an almost predatory gleam in her eyes. “Really?” she asked, her voice lilting as if teasing a secret out of him. “Because the way you’re gripping the couch right now says otherwise.”Silco’s jaw tightened, his fingers flexing against the worn fabric before he deliberately released his grip. Slowly, he leaned forward, closing the small gap between them. His face was now mere inches from hers, and his voice dropped to a dangerous growl. “Do not play games with me, Adeline,” he warned. Her heart pounded, the tension between them suffocating, but she refused to falter. Her smirk remained, through her eyes softened with a flicker of vulnerability—a calculated move. “Who says I’m playing?” she challenged, her voice low and daring as she inched closer to him, her breath brushing against his cheek. The air between them grew heavier, charged with tension that neither seemed willing to break. Silco’s jaw clenched, his good eye narrowing slightly as if calculating his next move. But Adeline saw it—the faintest flicker of restraint in his expression. He was holding himself back, and she knew it. Adeline smirked, pushing the boundaries further. She leaned in just enough for her perfume to trail toward him, a soft, intoxicating scent that hung in the charged air between them. She didn’t miss the way his nostrils flared ever so slightly, how his head tilted the barest fraction toward her, as if drawn by instinct to the scent.She knew what he was doing—fighting himself. Silco was a man of control, someone who never surrendered to anyone, least of all in his own game. But right now, it was clear to Adeline that she had the upper hand, if only for a fleeting moment.“Careful, Silco,” she murmured, her voice teasing but edged with confidence. “You look like a man on the verge of breaking his own rules.”His lips twitched, not quite a smile, but enough to show he wasn’t immune to her taunts. “You overestimate your influence,” he replied, his tone smooth yet taut, as though every word was measured to conceal the war waging beneath his composed exterior.“Oh, do I?” Adeline tilted her head slightly, exposing the soft curve of her neck just enough to catch his eye. She saw it—the briefest flicker of desire that crossed his face before he masked it once more.Silco leaned back slightly, as if putting distance between them would fortify his resolve. But the grip he tightened on the armrest of the couch betrayed him. He was unraveling, and it thrilled her to know she was the one pulling at the threads.“Maybe it’s your game, Silco,” she continued, her tone playful yet laden with challenge, “but it seems like I’m the one making all the moves.”For a brief moment, his expression darkened, and she wondered if she had pushed too far. But then he leaned forward, just enough to close the distance she had created. His gaze bore into hers, sharp and unyielding.“Don’t flatter yourself, Adeline,” he said, his voice low, almost a growl. “A predator doesn’t lose control. He waits… watches… until his prey makes a mistake.”Her breath caught in her throat, but she refused to let him see her falter. Instead, she leaned in closer, until their faces were mere inches apart. “Then maybe the predator needs to realize,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper, “that this prey knows exactly what it’s doing.”The tension between them was unbearable now, the air thick with unspoken challenges and desires. Silco’s hand twitched, as though he was fighting the urge to reach for her. His gaze flicked briefly to her lips before returning to her eyes, his restraint a palpable force.Adeline smirked, leaning back just enough to leave him wanting more. “Well,” she said, breaking the silence with a feigned casualness, “I should get back to work. Some of us have responsibilities, after all.”She picked up the thick file from her lap and opened it, her movements deliberately slow and nonchalant. But she felt his gaze linger on her, burning like fire against her skin.Silco didn’t move for a moment, his silence louder than words. Then, without a word, he leaned back against the couch, his smirk returning.“You’re an enigma, Adeline,” he murmured, his tone almost admiring. “But don’t mistake my interest for leniency. I don’t tolerate deceit.”Adeline’s pulse quickened, but she kept her expression calm, her smirk unwavering. “Good thing I’m not lying, then,” she said lightly. He studied her for a long moment, his silence louder than any words. Then, without another word, Silco stood, his coat billowing slightly as he turned toward the door.Adeline remained on the couch, her gaze following him, her smirk still firmly in place. “Leaving already?” she called after him, her tone playful.Silco paused, his hand resting on the doorframe. He glanced back at her, his expression unreadable. “Carry on, then. But do remember, Adeline—I always find out the truth. One way or the other. And let me remind you that every game has consequences. You best prepare yourself when it comes to… losing.”The door clicked shut behind him, and Adeline exhaled, her confidence wavering for just a moment. She leaned back against the couch, her heart still pounding in her chest.She smiled to herself, a mix of triumph and unease. Silco wasn’t an easy man to rattle, but she had managed to push him to the edge. The question now was whether she could handle the consequences when he decided to push back.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Silco •°~ ]
Silco steadied himself as the door clicked shut behind him, his breathing sharp and uneven. The tension from moments earlier still clung to him like smoke, refusing to dissipate. Her words—Oh her words—rang in his ears, each syllable an intoxicating taunt that ignited a fire he struggled to contain. And the way she had crawled toward him, predatory and bold, had shattered the last fragments of his composure.The burning sensation within him was unbearable, a relentless ache he could neither deny nor satisfy. Silco prided himself on his control, his ability to dominate every situation, but in that moment, her presence unraveled him. He hadn’t expected her to behave like that—wild, playful, and dangerous in a way that made his blood surge. She had been a storm, and he’d been caught in the center of it, helpless to escape her pull.He exhaled sharply, his jaw tightening as his mind betrayed him with visions of her. Her black leggings clinging to her legs, the soft curve of her hips, the way her white tank exposed just enough to drive him mad—it was maddening. He could still feel the phantom weight of her hand brushing against his thigh, her teasing smirk burning itself into his thoughts.All he had wanted in that very moment was to grab her hips, to pull her into him, to tear away the barriers between them and lose himself in her. The thought of stripping away that white tank, exposing her to him fully, and claiming her against the worn leather of his couch had sent a surge of need through him so intense it bordered on painful. His arousal was undeniable, his body betraying him in ways that left him frustrated and infuriated.Her eyes had been the worst of it—those sharp, enigmatic eyes that carried the promise of danger and a challenge he wasn’t sure he could win. She had stared at him like she knew, like she had seen through the layers of control and calculation to the man beneath, the man who wanted her in ways he couldn’t articulate.This was supposed to be his game. His rules, his control. He had planned to push her limits, to watch her falter beneath his dominance, and watch her beg for mercy. But she had flipped the table with a single move; Her confidence, her audacity, had silenced his sharp tongue and left him grasping for his usual composure. He couldn’t think properly–couldn’t speak, and most damning of all, couldn’t trust himself to stay.He clenched his fists, his nails biting into his palms in a desperate bid to ground himself. The war between his restraint and his desire raged on, and he hated how thin the line had grown. She had tested his limits, and though he refused to admit it aloud, she had come dangerously close to breaking him.Silco turned sharply, forcing himself to step away from the door and down the dimly lit hallway. He needed distance, air, anything to cool the fire raging inside him. Staying in that room, alone with her, would have been his undoing. He could still feel her presence, her scent lingering on his skin, her voice echoing in his mind.But it wasn’t just desire that gnawed at him—it was admiration. He liked her this way, challenging him, testing his dominance with a dangerous playfulness that mirrored his own. She was a worthy opponent, a partner in a game of power and control that he had always craved. There was something thrilling about the way she met him head-on, refusing to back down, forcing him to adapt, to strategize, to feel.And yet, that thrill terrified him. Silco wasn’t the type to lose control—not even for a second. Control was everything to him. It wasn’t just about power or pride; it was survival. To let go, to falter, even slightly, was to invite chaos, the kind of chaos that could tear down everything he’d built. And Adeline… Adeline was chaos wrapped in silk, a storm masquerading as a woman.She’d always worn her masks so well, only removing her mask when she's around Vander–Silco took note of that, slipping between her mask like second nature. But this… this wasn’t the Adeline he thought he knew. This wasn’t the clever pawn he had positioned carefully on his board, the one waiting for his direction, for his command. No. The woman in his office today had upended the board entirely. She wasn’t a piece to be moved. She was a player, bold and calculating, staring him down with a smirk that set his blood on fire.At the end of the hallway, Silco pressed his back against the cool stone wall, exhaling slowly. His chest rose and fell in sharp, deliberate movements as he tried to reclaim the composure she’d so easily shattered. He flexed his fingers, forcing them to still, but the faint tremble refused to be ignored. That damn woman. The way she looked at him, the way her words coiled around him like smoke, the way her scent lingered—it was maddening.He clenched his jaw, narrowing his good eye as the faintest smirk ghosted across his lips. She thought she’d won. She thought she’d unsettled him. But she didn’t know him. She didn’t understand the depths of his resolve, the lengths he would go to remind her exactly who she was dealing with.
Because this was his game. His board. His rules.
Straightening, Silco adjusted his coat, every movement deliberate as he pushed off the wall. He couldn’t deny that she intrigued him, that her audacity and wit had sparked something primal within him. But that spark? He would turn it into her undoing. He would break her apart, piece by piece, until she was stripped of all her defenses.Adeline thought she could stand against him, thought she could challenge him in his own domain. But Silco would show her otherwise. He would make her beg, make her surrender, not because she had no choice but because she wanted to. Because she needed to.She's his assistant right? The assistant will do what your boss tells you… and saying no to Silco is like digging your own early grave. She’d flipped the board today–yes, but Silco wasn’t finished. Not even close. She’d started a game she didn’t know how to win, and he would take great pleasure in teaching her just how dangerous it was to challenge him.
Fair play little dove…
But sadly your little game has to end…because I do not intend to lose, nor do I want to.
But you?
Oh, You wouldn't stand a chance with me, love…
[ ~°• Adeline •°~ ]
Adeline wasted no time the moment Silco left the office. She darted to his desk, her fingers swiftly sorting through the scattered documents, her gaze sharp and calculating. These weren’t just papers to her; they were potential answers. Weeks of sifting through Silco’s meticulous records had yielded nothing concrete about his shimmer operations. He was too careful, too precise. But desperation fueled her now—she needed proof. Solid, irrefutable evidence that Silco was the mastermind behind the shimmer production and its distribution across borders. Her fingers stilled as she flipped through another stack of ledgers, her frustration mounting. How did he manage it? How could he slip gallons of shimmer through Piltover’s tightly controlled trading stations, even the Hexgates, without leaving a trace? There had to be someone—a contact, a collaborator, someone who ensured his shipments passed unnoticed… But who? She ran a hand down her face, the weight of her predicament pressing heavily on her chest. She needed to think, to find a way to piece together the fragments of evidence she already had. If only she could retrieve the documents she’d hidden in her family estate in Piltover. Those papers held critical information, evidence she’d been collecting long before she infiltrated Silco’s inner circle. But returning to Piltover was out of the question. It was too dangerous, too risky. The council’s suspicions about her intentions could jeopardize everything, and if she lost the documents, her entire mission would crumble.Her thoughts swirled like a storm until a spark of inspiration lit her mind. Her eyes widened as the idea crystallized.Viktor.Of course. Viktor could help her. With his genius and knowledge of Piltover’s labyrinthine systems, he could slip into her family estate, retrieve the hidden evidence, and return without raising suspicion. He was her best chance—no, her only chance.Need to set a meeting with him…Adeline’s pulse quickened as she leaned back, her mind racing with possibilities. She’d have to plan carefully, ensuring no one, especially Silco, caught wind of her intentions. She glanced at the mess she’d created on his desk and scrambled to gather the papers, stacking them neatly as if nothing had been disturbed. The last thing she needed was to arouse Silco’s suspicions.Her gaze drifted to the thick file on the couch, her fingers tightening around the edges. Stay focused, she reminded herself. She couldn’t afford to rush. For now, she needed to finish this task, maintain the facade of the diligent assistant Silco trusted implicitly.But deep down, a fire burned in her chest. The game she was playing with Silco had grown more dangerous by the day, but she was determined to see it through. He might think he held all the cards, but Adeline had her own moves to make. And with Viktor’s help, she might just be able to turn the tide.“Just a little longer,” she murmured to herself, sinking back into the couch with the file in hand. Her heart raced, not from fear, but from the thrill of knowing she was one step closer to unraveling Silco’s empire. “I've got you now, Silc—”Adeline’s triumphant whisper was cut short as the door to the office slammed open, revealing a blue-haired whirlwind storming in.“Daaaaad! My…” Jinx’s loud voice echoed in the room, but her words faltered when her wild eyes scanned the space and landed on the high-back chair. Empty.She froze mid-step, surprised to find her father figure absent. Her gaze shifted across the room until it landed on Adeline, sitting with a thick file in her hands.“Adeline!” Jinx shouted, her tone shifting from demanding to excited as she bolted across the office. Before Adeline could react, Jinx threw herself onto her lap, her arms wrapping tightly around her. The sudden weight made Adeline blink, and she quickly set the file aside.“Whoa, hey. You alright?” Adeline asked, her voice soft as her hands instinctively went to Jinx’s thin shoulders. But something was off. Jinx’s small body was trembling, and when Adeline glanced down, she noticed hot, wet streaks staining her chest. Jinx was… crying.“Hey, what’s wrong, mhm?” Adeline’s brows knitted in concern.Jinx buried her face deeper into Adeline’s chest, her muffled sobs growing louder. “It hurts!”Adeline froze. Her heart quickened as panic edged into her voice. “What? Where does it hurt?” She gently pushed Jinx back, holding her by the shoulders to get a better look at her.Jinx sniffled, tears streaking down her flushed face. She pointed a shaky finger to her lower belly. “It hurts here. I’m bleeding to death!” she wailed, clutching Adeline’s arms. “I don’t want to die, Adeline! Please, make it stop!”For a moment, Adeline’s mind raced through worst-case scenarios, but as she looked at the distraught teen and caught the meaning behind her words, realization struck. Jinx was fourteen now. Of course.
Oh, shit!
Her first period.
Adeline bit her lip, suppressing the laugh threatening to bubble up. “Hun,” she said, her voice calm but laced with a hint of amusement. She reached up, brushing Jinx’s unruly blue hair from her tear-streaked face. “You’re not dying. You’ve just got your period.”Jinx’s watery eyes widened in horror. “My what?!”“Your period,” Adeline repeated gently. “It’s normal for girls your age. It means your body is growing up, and this happens as part of the cycle. It’s nothing to be scared of.”Jinx blinked at her, processing the words. “So… I’m not bleeding to death?”Adeline couldn’t stop the small chuckle that escaped. She quickly coughed into her hand to mask it. “No, sweetheart, you’re not dying. I promise. It’s just a little blood. You’ll be fine.”But Jinx wasn’t convinced. Her voice dropped to a whisper, her expression still wary. “Sevika said I was dying. I asked her why I was bleeding, and she told me I was losing all my blood and it was the end!”Adeline’s hand froze mid-pat on Jinx’s head, and her jaw dropped slightly. “Sevika said what?”“She said I’d better say goodbye to everyone before I run out of blood,” Jinx added, her pout deepening.Adeline groaned, pressing her fingers to her temple. Sevika… of course. That woman had a way of turning everything into chaos, and now Jinx was genuinely traumatized over a perfectly natural occurrence.“Listen,” Adeline said, her tone firm but kind as she cupped Jinx’s cheek. “Sevika was wrong. She probably thought she was being funny, but this is nothing to joke about, okay? You’re perfectly fine. You’re not going to run out of blood.”Jinx sniffled again, her tear-streaked face looking up at Adeline. “You promise?”“I promise,” Adeline said, brushing away the last of her tears. “Now, here’s what we’re going to do. We’ll get you some supplies to help with the bleeding, and I’ll explain everything. And next time, you come straight to me. Don’t listen to Sevika, alright?”Jinx nodded slowly, her grip on Adeline’s arm finally loosening.“And one more thing,” Adeline said, leaning in close, her voice dropping conspiratorially. “If Sevika tries to scare you again, you let me know. I’ll take care of her.” Jinx’s lips quirked into a small smile, and for the first time, her eyes shone with something other than fear.Adeline smiled back, relieved to see the spark returning to the girl’s expression. “Alright, let’s go sort this out. We’ve got this, okay?”Jinx nodded again, her confidence slowly returning as Adeline wrapped a comforting arm around her shoulders, guiding her toward the door. “How about we stop by Jericho’s for some spicy tofu with a lot of toad scales?” Adeline suggested, her tone light and encouraging.Jinx’s eyes lit up instantly, her earlier distress fading as her mouth curved into an eager grin. “Yes! Oh, I’ve been craving it since last night!” she exclaimed, her voice carrying a hint of excitement now.Adeline chuckled, giving Jinx a gentle nudge as they walked. “Well, you’ve earned it, kid. Spicy tofu and some chocolate after—because that’s the only cure for a rough day like this.”“Chocolate too?!” Jinx’s face brightened even more, her earlier tears now completely forgotten. “You’re the best, Adeline!”Adeline smiled warmly, ruffling Jinx’s blue hair affectionately. “What can I say? I aim to please. Now, let’s go before Sevika decides to give you any more helpful advice.” Jinx laughed at that, a genuine sound that made Adeline’s chest lighten. Together, they stepped out into the corridor, leaving the weight of the earlier moment behind....On their way to Jericho’s shop, Adeline struggled to keep her focus on Jinx’s enthusiastic chatter. The young girl was bounding ahead, her energy boundless as she recounted the explosion of her latest invention. She waved her arms wildly, mimicking the blast, and laughed with a giddy excitement that could only belong to someone who saw the world as a playground.Adeline nodded and smiled whenever Jinx glanced back at her, making sure to offer the occasional “That sounds amazing!” or “You’re really talented, Jinx.” But beneath her smile, her mind was clouded. A whisper of unease gnawed at her, a lingering echo of Babette’s warning.
“Be careful with her. She’s just as dangerous as he is—perhaps even more so. She has a knack for manipulating people, bending them to her will with ease.”
Adeline shook her head slightly, trying to banish the thought. Jinx wasn’t like that. She was just a kid—a spirited, impulsive, slightly unhinged kid, sure—but a kid nonetheless. She’s not dangerous, Adeline told herself. She’s just misunderstood.“…And her loyalty to him? It’s unwavering, almost feral. If she even suspects you might be a threat…”The voice in her head wouldn’t stop. Adeline didn’t notice Jinx calling her name until the girl was tugging at her sleeve. “Adeline!” Jinx’s voice was sharp, and her bright blue eyes glared up at her. “You’re not even listening to me!”Startled, Adeline blinked down at her. “Ah—no, I was listening,” she lied quickly. “It’s just… I couldn’t remember where I put my satchel.”Jinx crossed her arms, unconvinced, but her irritation faded when Adeline nudged her playfully with her hip. “You know, I’d love to see your new bomb later,” Adeline said with a small smile, trying to lighten the mood.Jinx’s eyes lit up, and she broke into a wide grin. “Really? Oh, it’s gonna blow your mind—literally!” she giggled, spinning on her heel and skipping ahead toward Jericho’s shop.Adeline exhaled softly, watching her bounce along the cobbled street. The kid was infectious in her enthusiasm, her joy bright enough to dim the shadows of Zaun. And yet, a quiet voice in the back of Adeline’s mind whispered that Jinx wasn’t as innocent as she seemed.As they reached Jericho’s shop, Jinx scrambled onto a high stool, swinging her legs as she surveyed the menu. Adeline stayed back, placing the order with Jericho, her thoughts still lingering on the child’s unpredictability.
Jinx isn’t like that, she told herself again, glancing at the girl’s beaming face. She’s just a lovely, excitable kid. But…
Adeline’s thoughts churned, a storm of unfinished plans and half-formed worries swirling in her mind. All–“Adeline,” Jinx’s voice finally broke through the haze. The girl was tapping her fingers on the counter, her bright eyes fixed on her. “You gonna order or what?”Adeline blinked, realizing she had been staring at the menu far too long. “Right,” she muttered. “Two spicy tofu bowls—extra spice on one.” She handed the menu to Jericho, who nodded and shuffled back to his cooking station.Adeline perched on the wooden high chair next to Jinx, but her mind was still scattered. Thoughts of Silco, the hidden evidence back at her family estate, Babette’s warnings, and her next steps all jumbled together in a tangled mess. She barely noticed Jinx bouncing beside her, her words a rapid-fire stream about explosives and her latest project.Adeline managed a few half-hearted smiles and nods, but she was elsewhere, her mind caught in an endless loop. Be careful with her, Adeline shook the thought away. No, she told herself. Jinx is just a kid. She’s wild, sure, but she’s not like him.A sharp jab to her side pulled her out of her spiraling thoughts. She turned to find Jinx grinning up at her, eyes sparkling with mischief.“Mhm?” Adeline asked, raising an eyebrow.“So,” Jinx began, drawing out the word, “what do you think about Silco?”Adeline’s breath caught. “Excuse me?”“You know,” Jinx said, leaning in conspiratorially. “What’s it like working with him? Just you and him in that office, all serious and intense…”Adeline’s face flushed, and she raised a hand to stop her. “Nope. Not having this conversation.”Jinx’s grin only widened. “Why not? What’s the big deal?”Adeline opened her mouth to respond but was saved by Jericho, who placed two steaming bowls in front of them. Jinx eagerly grabbed hers, immediately digging in, but her mischievous gaze never left Adeline.“So,” Jinx said between bites, “do you think he’s hot?”Adeline choked on a mouthful of tofu. “What?!”“I mean,” Jinx said, her tone far too casual, “Dad’s got that whole mysterious, broody thing going on. You must’ve thought about it.”Adeline stared at her, dumbfounded. “Jinx, you’re—”“A kid? Yeah, yeah, I’ve heard this kind of talk before,” Jinx interrupted, waving a dismissive hand. “But I’m not stupid. I see the way he looks at you.”Adeline froze, her spoon hovering mid-air. “What are you talking about?”Jinx leaned in, lowering her voice like she was sharing a secret. “I overheard him talking to Sevika. He said you’re… what was the word? Oh, right---Captivating.”Adeline’s stomach flipped, and she quickly stuffed another bite of tofu into her mouth to hide her reaction. “He probably meant something else,” she said, her voice muffled.Jinx snickered. “If you say so.”Adeline tried to maintain her composure, but Jinx’s pointed gaze was hard to ignore. There was something else in her expression, something calculating and… guarded. Jinx wasn’t just teasing—she was testing Adeline. “Why are you so interested in what I think about Silco anyway?” Adeline asked, setting her spoon down and leaning toward Jinx.“No reason,” Jinx said too quickly, her gaze darting away. “Just curious.”Adeline tilted her head, studying her. “Is that so?”Adeline narrowed her eyes at Jinx, but the younger girl’s smirk only widened, practically daring her to keep pressing. Whatever game Jinx was playing, Adeline wasn’t about to take the bait. Not yet–at least.“Did Silco send you to interrogate me?” Adeline teased, keeping her tone light.She expected Jinx to laugh it off, maybe throw a playful jab back at her. But instead, the girl’s expression shifted. Her smirk faltered, replaced by a flicker of something unreadable. Hesitation, perhaps? Guilt? It was gone as quickly as it came, but not before Adeline caught it.Jinx’s fingers toyed with the frayed hem of her shirt, her restless movements betraying an unease she wasn’t ready to voice. For a moment, it looked like she might say something—her lips parted, a shadow of a confession hanging on the tip of her tongue. Then, just as quickly, she shoved a piece of tofu into her mouth, chewing noisily to fill the silence.“Mhm, this is really good!” Jinx declared, her voice overly enthusiastic as if to drown out the moment that had just passed.Adeline leaned back in her chair, arms crossed as she studied Jinx. The girl was clever, no doubt about it. Too clever for her own good sometimes. But she was still a kid—or at least, that’s what Adeline kept telling herself.And yet, the shift in Jinx’s demeanor gnawed at her, a faint unease settling in her chest. Silco’s name hung in the air like a loaded gun. She had been joking, sure, but what if there was some truth to it? What if Jinx really had been sent to… what? Test her? Distract her?Adeline shook the thought away, forcing a smile as she grabbed her own bowl of tofu. She couldn’t afford to overthink things, not when there was already so much weighing on her mind.But as Jinx chattered on about something else entirely, her earlier nervousness replaced by her usual frenetic energy, Adeline couldn’t help but wonder what had almost been said—and why it had been swallowed down.Jinx was an open book most of the time, but there were pages she kept tightly shut. Pages Adeline couldn’t help but want to read.For now, though, she’d let it go–for now. As their conversation at Jericho’s shop came to a close, Adeline slid a few coins into the tip jar. She glanced at Jericho, the hulking, fish-like figure behind the counter, whose unblinking eyes tracked her with the same stoic expression he always wore. His silent presence had a strange way of grounding her—solid and dependable in a city built on shifting alliances and chaos.Jinx, however, was less sentimental. She bounced to her feet, tugging Adeline’s arm. “C’mon, Addy! Let’s go! I’ve got a great idea for a new bomb design, and I need to show you my sketches before I forget!”“Addy?” Adeline echoed, raising an eyebrow as she grabbed her coat.“Yeah, it suits you!” Jinx grinned. “You’re like my cool big sis now, so you get a nickname. Be honored.”Adeline chuckled, shaking her head as they stepped out into the crowded streets. The air outside was thick with the distinct mix of Zaun: the metallic tang of machinery, the scent of fried food from nearby stalls, and the underlying staleness of the lower city. Neon signs buzzed faintly overhead, their glow reflecting in puddles scattered across the cobblestones.“So, what’s the plan?” Jinx asked, skipping ahead, her boots splashing water as she hopped over puddles.“Finish your dad’s paperwork, I suppose,” Adeline replied absently, her eyes scanning the crowd.“Ugh! Work, work, work. That’s all you grown-ups ever talk about.” Jinx folded her arms dramatically, walking backward to face Adeline. “You should be more like me—blow off steam, have some fun, make things go boom!”“I think Zaun has enough explosions for one day,” Adeline teased, sidestepping a street vendor who was yelling about half-priced scrap metal.Jinx stopped suddenly, her expression thoughtful. “You know, if you’d let me help, I could finish all that paperwork in, like, two seconds. All you need is some glue, scissors, and maybe one of my bombs to—”“Stop right there,” Adeline interrupted, holding up a hand. “I’m not letting you anywhere near the paperwork. Or glue. Or scissors.”“Party pooper,” Jinx muttered, sticking her tongue out before skipping ahead again.Adeline was about to reply when a man brushed past her, hard enough to knock her off balance. She stumbled and hit the ground, a small gasp escaping her lips.“Hey!” Jinx’s voice cut through the din of the street like a knife. She whirled around, her blue braids flying. “Watch it, dumbass!”The man stopped but didn’t turn. “Apologies,” he said, his voice muffled by the gas mask covering his face. His ragged coat and hood obscured most of his features, but something about him set Adeline on edge.Jinx clenched her fists, ready to lunge. “Apologies? How about I—”“Jinx, no,” Adeline said firmly, grabbing her wrist before she could escalate the situation. “It’s fine. Let it go.”The man lingered for a second longer, his eyes flicking to Adeline’s pocket before he disappeared into the crowd without another word.Adeline’s heart raced. Something wasn’t right.“You okay?” Jinx asked, her earlier anger replaced with concern.“Yeah,” Adeline replied, brushing dirt off her coat as she stood. But as her fingers brushed her pocket, she froze.There was something there that hadn’t been before.Her fingers closed around a folded piece of paper, her pulse quickening. She glanced at Jinx, who was watching her closely, and forced a smile. “I’m fine,” she said, tucking the note deeper into her pocket.Jinx wasn’t convinced. “If you’re sure…” She narrowed her eyes at the crowd, muttering under her breath about punching the guy if she ever saw him again.Adeline forced a laugh, placing a hand on Jinx’s shoulder to steer her toward their destination. “Let’s just get back to the Last Drop, okay? Your dad’s probably wondering where we are.”Jinx shrugged, her mood lightening as quickly as it had darkened. “Fine, but only if you promise to look at my sketches later!”“Deal,” Adeline said, though her thoughts were far from Jinx’s latest creation.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Adeline liked to think she was clever—and in truth, she was. Surviving the Undercity demanded wit and resilience, and she had both in spades. She knew how to navigate danger, how to read people, and how to play her cards close to her chest. And when it came to Silco, she believed she had mastered the delicate dance of manipulation, tiptoeing along the edge of his temper with practiced ease—but did she truly know how to play him?She liked to think she did. That every subtle smile, every carefully chosen word, every calculated move was enough to unnerve him, to worm her way beneath his skin. Yet, deep down, there was a gnawing doubt—a flicker of uncertainty that grew stronger with every lingering glance from his sharp eye. Silco was not like the others she’d outmaneuvered. He was always watching, always calculating, always two steps ahead of anyone who dared enter his game—including her.Thoughts turned to the documents hidden in her family estate. If Silco ever found them—if he uncovered the truths she had buried so deeply—it would be over. Everything she’d fought for, everything she’d clawed her way to protect, would unravel in his hands—she prayed they were safe. Out of his reach.But prayer meant little in the Undercity, where survival was earned, not granted. Dealing with the devil himself was always a gamble, and Silco wasn’t one to leave loose ends. He had a way of knowing things—secrets you thought you’d buried, weaknesses you swore you’d hidden.Adeline would have to tread carefully, more carefully than she ever had before. Because if Silco knew—if he had even the faintest inkling about her past, about Vander and her connection to him—she would lose.Her cleverness, her sharp tongue, her feigned confidence—it would all mean nothing in the face of Silco’s relentless pursuit. He didn’t just break his enemies; he dismantled them, piece by piece, until nothing remained.Adeline took a steadying breath, forcing herself to focus on Jinx's voice. She couldn’t afford to falter now. If Silco was the devil, then she would have to become the flame that burned just as fiercely.She wondered if she’d already been caught in his web.
Silco always knew. And worse—he always knew how to win.
Adeline and Jinx walked back to The Last Drop, their footsteps echoing softly against the worn streets of Zaun. The towering building loomed ahead, its faint neon glow cutting through the haze of smog. A guard stationed at the entrance gave them a nod before pushing the door open, allowing the two to step inside.The air inside was thick with the smell of smoke, alcohol, and the faint metallic tang of oil. Patrons filled the dimly lit space, their laughter and conversation blending into a low hum of chaos. Adeline glanced around briefly, her thoughts elsewhere, while Jinx seemed more at ease in the familiarity of her father's domain.They climbed the creaking staircase to the upper level, the noise from below muffling as they ascended. Just as they reached the top, Jinx turned to Adeline, a wide grin spreading across her face.“So, do you have any guesses about my new inven—” She stopped mid-sentence, realizing Adeline wasn’t following her to her room. She frowned and called out, “Addy?”Adeline had paused near the landing, her hand subconsciously brushing the edge of her pocket where the crumpled note rested. She looked up, startled, as Jinx’s voice broke her train of thought.“My room is this way,” Jinx teased, pointing her thumb toward her door, though there was a hint of confusion in her eyes.Adeline hesitated. “Oh, I... I don’t think I can stay much longer,” she said softly, forcing a smile. “Duty calls.”Jinx's grin faltered, her blue eyes narrowing slightly as she studied Adeline’s face. “Duty, huh?” she said, crossing her arms.Adeline stepped closer, trying to sound reassuring. “Hey, how about this? I’ll finish my work, and when I’m done, we can have all the fun together. Whatever you want. I promise.” She beamed, hoping to smooth over the tension.But Jinx’s expression didn’t brighten. Instead, her shoulders slumped, and she turned her gaze to the floor, scuffing the toe of her boot against the wood. “You always say that,” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.Adeline blinked, the guilt hitting her square in the chest. “Jinx, I—”“You’re always busy,” Jinx interrupted, her tone sharper now. “Ever since you started working for Dad, it’s like… like I don’t matter anymore.” Her voice wavered, and she glanced up briefly, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. “You never spent your time with me. You used to visit me, hang out with me. Now it’s always 'work this' and work that.”Adeline’s heart ached at the hurt on Jinx’s face. She reached out, resting a hand on the younger girl’s shoulder. “Jinx, you know that’s not true,” she said gently. “I care about you more than you realize. I just have a lot on my plate right now, but that doesn’t mean—”“It doesn’t mean what?” Jinx snapped, shrugging off Adeline’s hand. “That you’re not ignoring me? That you’re not choosing your work over me every single time?”Adeline stepped back, stunned by the outburst. She wasn’t sure what to say. She knew why Jinx is acting like this–it's because of her period. Her emotions are high right now–very sensitive. “I’m not choosing my work over you,” Adeline said finally, her voice soft. “I’m trying to keep things together—for all of us. For you.”Jinx shook her head, her messy blue pigtails swaying. “I don’t need you to fix things for me, Adeline. I just… I just want you to be here.” She sniffed, wiping at her nose with the back of her hand.Adeline felt her resolve waver. She crouched down slightly to meet Jinx’s gaze. “You’re right,” she admitted. “I’ve been caught up in everything, and I haven’t been here for you the way I should. I’m sorry for that.”Jinx looked at her, the hurt still lingering in her eyes but softened by the sincerity in Adeline’s tone. “You mean it?” she asked quietly.Adeline nodded. “I do. And I’ll make it up to you, I swear. Starting tomorrow, we’ll spend the whole day together. No interruptions, no excuses.”Jinx’s lips twitched into a small, hesitant smile. “You better keep that promise, Addy. Or else.”Adeline laughed softly, ruffling Jinx’s hair. “Or else what?”Jinx smirked. “Or else I’ll blow up your favorite boots.”Adeline rolled her eyes playfully. “Noted. Here,” Adeline said, she placed a huge chocolate bar on Jinx's hand. “Eat this, it will help you feel better,” she smiled. Jinx looked down and was surprised to see a huge chocolate bar wrapped in red and black wrappings. She smiled and looked up again to Adeline. “I thought you'd forgotten,” she uttered. “One thing about me is that I don't easily forget a thing,” she said, and kissed Jinx on her forehead. “Now, go get some rest, okay? I’ll see you in the morning.” Jinx stared at her for a moment, her lips quivering before she suddenly lunged forward, wrapping her arms tightly around Adeline’s waist. The force of the hug nearly knocked Adeline back, but she caught herself, her arms instinctively curling around the younger girl.“Thank you, Addy,” Jinx mumbled into Adeline's side, her voice muffled but full of emotion.Adeline felt a pang of warmth and guilt as she held Jinx close. The kid’s grip tightened, almost as if she was afraid to let go. “You’re welcome, hun.” Adeline replied softly, resting her chin on Jinx's head.As they stood there in silence, Jinx murmured something faintly under her breath—words so quiet that Adeline couldn’t catch them. She tilted her head slightly. "What was that, Jinxie?"Jinx pulled back, a mischievous yet shy smile spreading across her face. “Nothing! Just… this chocolate better be the good kind.”Adeline raised a brow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. “Oh, it’s the good kind. Now go on. Get some rest. I’ll see you in the morning, okay?”Jinx hesitated before nodding, her usual bravado returning as she waved the chocolate in the air. “Alright, alright, but don’t you dare forget your promise, Addy!” She turned and bounded toward her room, pausing briefly at the door to glance back. Her gaze softened. “Night, Addy.”“Goodnight, Jinx,” Adeline replied, watching as the girl disappeared into her room.The moment Jinx's door clicked shut, Adeline exhaled deeply, the weight of the day—and the note in her pocket—settling heavily on her shoulders. She reached into her pocket, her fingers brushing the crumpled paper again. Before she pulled it out, she glanced at the hallway, observing if there were other people around. Coast is clear. She pulled it out and opened the crumpled paper. Her eyes darted towards the letters.___________________________________________________
The moon returns, bold and blue,
Brighter now than it once knew.
Surrounded by stars, it takes the night,
A fleeting glow before their flight.
At ten, the moon will fade away,
The stars will vanish, ending their stay.
But they'll soon appear again. Time can only tell us when.
From the horizon, the sun may rise,
Yet its return is cloaked in lies.
Beware, for the monster lurks unseen,
Its shadow hides where none intervene.
Be careful not to be seen.
- MB
___________________________________________________ Adeline processed the letter in her head. She knew pretty well we're–or who this letter comes from. It's from Madam Babette. The madam’s choice of words was deliberate, veiled in riddles only Adeline could decipher. In case the letter fell into the wrong hands, its true meaning would remain hidden. Babette knew Adeline is smart. And she coded the letter so in case the letter is lost no one will suspect anything. Marcus is back, she thought to herself. She immediately went straight to the office. She needs to get her things.Her chest tightened as she considered her next move. She had to act quickly. The brothel wasn’t far, but hesitation tugged at her. Could she risk it? Could she uncover why Marcus had returned and what Miguel's potential connection could mean? She needed evidence, more than scraps of paper and fleeting whispers. She needed something concrete.The sun may rise, yet its return is cloaked in lies, she figured it must be Miguel. No doubt the monster Babette implicated was Silco. The corridor to Silco’s office felt longer than usual, every step accompanied by the sound of her racing heartbeat. She hesitated outside the door, her hand hovering over the knob. If Silco was inside, she’d have to think fast. If he wasn’t… well, she’d be in and out before anyone noticed.Steeling herself, she exhaled and pushed the door open.Relief washed over her when she saw the office was empty. She stepped inside and quickly scanned the room. Her satchel rested on the floor beside the couch, just where she had left it.Adeline moved with purpose, slinging the bag over her shoulder and glancing at the coffee table. Papers were scattered across its surface—documents she had barely begun to read. “I’ll deal with this tomorrow,” she muttered, hurriedly stacking them into a neat pile.Just as she turned to leave, the door clicked shut behind her.Her breath caught as she spun around. Silco stood leaning casually against the doorframe, his mismatched eyes gleaming in the dim light. Smoke curled lazily from the cigar in his hand, framing his sharp features like a halo of shadows.“Leaving already?” he asked, his tone smooth, laced with curiosity and just a hint of amusement.Adeline froze, gripping the strap of her satchel so tightly her knuckles turned white. “It’s late,” she replied evenly, her voice careful, measured. She glanced at the clock on the wall. 8:41p.m.
Damn it.
She wouldn’t make it in time.“If I recall,” Silco began, taking a leisurely drag from his cigar, “your duties start at eight in the morning and end at ten in the evening. What’s the rush?”Her lips pressed into a thin line. “I’m tired,” she said, her voice clipped but neutral. She stepped toward the door, hoping he’d move aside, but Silco remained planted, blocking her path with an air of unshakable authority.“Tired,” he echoed, as if testing the word. His eyes narrowed slightly, the predatory glint in them sharpening. “Or is it something else?”Adeline’s heart pounded, the letter in her pocket feeling like a lead weight. She forced a tight smile, tilting her head in mock nonchalance. “Just tired. It’s been a long day.”“Hmm.” He tapped the ash from his cigar, his gaze never leaving hers. “Long enough to warrant skipping your final hour of work?”Her frustration flared, but she kept it buried beneath a mask of calm. “Long enough to not want to collapse on your couch,” she retorted, her tone edged with a subtle bite.To her dismay, Silco chuckled—a low, rumbling sound that sent a shiver down her spine. He stepped aside, just enough to let her pass, but his presence was still a wall of authority. “Fair enough,” he said, though his tone suggested he wasn’t convinced.Adeline moved to leave, but his voice stopped her. “I have important matters to discuss with you.”Her steps faltered, irritation simmering beneath her skin. She turned, her eyes narrowing.Silco crossed the room with a fluid grace, lowering himself onto the couch with an air of ease that only heightened her annoyance. He gestured to the empty spot beside him. “Sit,” he said, the command subtle but unmistakable.A frustrated sigh escaped her lips as she marched over to the couch. With a deliberate lack of care, she dropped herself onto it, the motion sharp, and tossed her satchel onto the floor with a thud. Her eyes narrowed, focusing on him. “So? What is it that you want?”Silco’s gaze darkened as he leaned back, letting the smoke from his cigar curl around him like a shadow. He didn’t answer immediately, taking his time with a slow, deliberate inhale before letting the smoke drift lazily from his mouth.“I see you’ve been helping Jinx with her… problem,” he finally said, the implication hanging in the air. There was no need to elaborate. He knew, and she knew, exactly what he was referring to.Adeline huffed, the frustration clear on her face, but there was a hint of something else beneath it—tiredness, maybe even resignation. “Yeah, no biggie. She’s just a kid. She needs help.” She slouched further into the leather couch, crossing her arms over her chest, accepting that the evening she had planned was slipping away.“Indeed. For that, you have my gratitude,” Silco said, his tone sincere but laced with an edge that was unmistakable. He took another long drag from his cigar, holding the smoke in for a moment before releasing it with a soft exhale.Adeline watched him, her gaze unwavering as she noticed the way he savored the cigar, as if it was more than just a simple indulgence. He was watching her now, too, a strange amusement flickering in his eyes.She had been staring, she realized. And Silco, ever the observant one, had noticed.He tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing in that unnerving way of his, a predatory glint in his gaze. “Here,” he said, holding out the cigar to her, his fingers delicate but firm.Adeline blinked, caught off guard. “No. I don't smoke cigars,” she replied, shaking her head.“Try it,” Silco urged, his voice low and coaxing. “You’ll love it.”Adeline hesitated, her mind racing for an excuse, but something about his expression, the way he looked at her, kept her still. It wasn’t just the cigar he was offering. It was something more.She thought of the promises she had made, the reasons why she had quit. She’d smoked cigars once before—back at her family estate, with Seraphine at her side. The memories were bittersweet, but that was before everything had fallen apart. She’d promised herself she wouldn’t touch another cigar, not after everything that happened, not after losing Seraphine.But now, here she was, staring at the cigar in Silco’s outstretched hand. The smell of tobacco, rich and earthy, mixed with the unmistakable scent of bourbon and whiskey that lingered in the air. She could feel the weight of his gaze, heavy and intense, like he was watching her every move.It didn’t take long for her resolve to slip. She reached out and took the cigar from him. Their hands brushed briefly—an electric spark of contact—and she fought the involuntary shiver that ran down her spine. She brought the cigar to her lips, the heat of it lingering from where his mouth had touched it, and something in her stomach twisted.The taste of the cigar hit her immediately—bold, strong, with the deep flavor of the tobacco mixed with the remnants of Silco’s own taste. A heady combination. She closed her eyes and leaned back into the couch, allowing the smoke to fill her lungs. It was more than just the taste. It was the act itself—the rebellion, the defiance. The feeling of indulging in something dangerous.Her head spun slightly as the smoke swirled in the air, and for a moment, she forgot where she was. Forgotten were the walls she’d built around herself, the promise to her dear friend Seraphine. Everything blurred in the haze of smoke and the strange intimacy of the moment.But then, Adeline was pulled back to reality by the cold, sharp awareness that Silco was watching her, his eyes glinting with amusement. He knew what this was—he knew what he was doing to her. She could feel it in the weight of his gaze, the way he was drawing her in with a deliberate slowness.She opened her eyes and darted her eyes towards Silco. The man tried to hide the satisfaction in his face. But Adeline knew what she was doing. She knows the game has already begun and she needs to master herself. She intends to win–whatever deem necessary she needs to do. Adeline handed the cigar back to Silco, her lips curling into a faint smile as she savored the lingering taste it left behind—a mingling of tobacco and him.Silco accepted it without a word, his piercing gaze fixed on her.She tilted her head slightly, curiosity sparking in her eyes as she watched him. With measured calm, he brought the cigar to his lips, inhaling slowly, deeply, before exhaling a perfect ring of smoke in her direction. The delicate swirl drifted toward her face, brushing against her skin like a ghostly caress.Her eyes fluttered shut as she tipped her head back, breathing in the warm, smoky aroma.“How do you do it?” she asked softly, her voice almost dreamy, her eyes still closed.“Do what?” he replied, his tone laced with amusement.Even with her eyes shut, she could feel the smirk pulling at his lips, the subtle vibration of his words.Adeline opened her eyes, turning to face him fully, her body shifting slightly closer. “The rings,” she clarified, her tone light but curious. “I’ve smoked for years, but I’ve never figured out how to make them.”Silco smiled faintly, his sharp features softening into something more teasing. He lifted the cigar, taking another drag before releasing yet another flawless ring.“It’s all in the tongue,” he said, his voice low and deliberate, the emphasis on the last word enough to send a spark down her spine.Heat blossomed in Adeline’s chest, pooling low in her belly despite her effort to remain composed. The knowing look in Silco’s eye told her he’d noticed.But she wouldn’t let him win that easily. Leaning forward just a fraction, she tilted her head coyly. “Care to teach me?” she asked, her voice honeyed, laced with challenge.His good eye darkened, flicking down to her lips and back up. He rested his free hand on the back of the couch, his fingers idly tapping against the worn fabric. “First,” he began, his voice smooth, “make an O shape with your lips.”Adeline’s tongue flicked out to wet her lower lip before she formed her mouth into the instructed shape. Silco’s low chuckle reverberated between them, rich and dark.“A little wider, little dove” he murmured, his gaze locked on her mouth, studying her every move.She adjusted slightly, suppressing the urge to smirk as her lips parted further.“Perfect,” he murmured, his tone carrying a quiet edge of approval.Adeline mirrored his smile, a mischievous glint in her eye. “And next?” she asked, her voice soft, her gaze flicking briefly to his lips before returning to his eye. “You mentioned the tongue, didn’t you?”Silco’s smirk deepened, his amusement unmistakable. “You push the smoke out with the back of your tongue,” he explained, his voice dipping even lower.Adeline’s lips twitched upward. “That doesn’t sound too hard,” she replied. A pause, then her tone turned more teasing. “Although, this is my first time. Never done this before.”His smirk curled into something darker, more predatory. Without a word, he handed her the cigar, leaning back slightly as if to observe her attempt.She took the cigar, inhaling deeply. The smoke curled in her mouth, thick and warm. Following his instructions, she pursed her lips and tried to push it out. But the smoke dispersed in an uneven puff.A soft laugh escaped her. “Guess I’ll need more practice.”Silco leaned forward, closing the space between them. Instead of reaching for the cigar, his fingers wrapped around her wrist, holding her hand steady.“Try again,” he said, his voice a low command.Adeline’s breath caught at the sudden closeness, but she didn’t back down. She brought the cigar back to her lips, inhaling deeply once more. This time, the smoke drifted out in an imperfect, almost-ring.“Better,” he murmured, though his sharp eyes glinted with amusement.Adeline laughed softly, nerves slipping into her tone. She moved to hand the cigar back to him, but Silco caught her chin instead, tilting her face toward his.“I didn’t take you for a quitter, little dove,” he murmured, his grip firm but not harsh.He took the cigar from her hand, bringing it to his lips. He inhaled slowly, savoring the smoke before exhaling it directly toward her. The warm tendrils washed over her skin, intoxicating her senses.Adeline’s eyes fluttered shut again, her body instinctively leaning toward his. When his knee brushed against the inside of her thigh, she stilled, heat flaring where they touched.Silco watched her closely, a cruel smile tugging at his lips. “Try again,” he commanded, “used the back of your tongue to push the smoke out,” pressing the cigar back into her hand.Adeline’s eyes snapped open, defiance flickering in their depths as she accepted the challenge. She brought the cigar to her lips, inhaling deeply, her focus on his instructions. But just as she prepared to exhale, Silco’s fingers brushed down her jawline, his touch feather-light.The smoke left her lips in a soft, unshaped breath, her concentration shattered.She tipped her head slightly to her left side, exposing her soft curved neck to Silco. Silco, however, stops when he reaches her hollow neck. Adeline could feel Silco's hand closing to her neck, as if he was going to strangle her. “Not close enough,” he said, as he slowly tightened his grip to her neck. “got distracted,” she uttered, her eyes carrying a hint of pleasure. Silco hummed, “Years of practice, little dove,” he gripped her neck even more tighter.“Perhaps,” she admitted, her voice carrying a dangerous edge of pleasure.Silco’s hand tightened around her neck, firm but calculated. “I’ve imagined wrapping my hands around your pretty neck more times than I care to admit,” he murmured, his voice velvety and menacing. “Especially when you’re being an insufferable brat.”Her lips parted, a soft gasp escaping as the pressure on her throat. His fingers and thumb pressed ever so lightly, and squeezed a little tighter.Adeline is still able to breathe, but the consistent pressure on her neck is quick to heighten her other senses.The heat of his fingers soaked into her skin, the sharp press of his knee against her thigh drawing every nerve to attention.“It would only take one minute for you to become unconscious,” he said quietly, his grip tightening. “and another four or so to kill you… Although, I tend to wait five, just to be sure.”Adeline’s lips curved faintly, her voice breathy. “You wouldn't miss me?”Silco raised the cigar to his lips and drew deeply, taking his sweet time as the edges of her vision began to curl into darkness. He looms closer, until only an inch separates the tip of his nose to hers. And he finally exhaled. Perfect tandem with the release on his hand to her neck. The smoke poured directly into her parted mouth.Adeline’s deprived brain has her inhaling automatically, and his smoke floods into her mouth, tasting even richer coming from him. It's an obscenely sensual display, and leaves adeline reeling and panting beneath his lingering touch, peering up at him through heavy-lust eyes. The evil smirk on his lips still displays on his face. He knew he was closer to breaking Adeline. Just one last act and the game is over–she will be at his mercy–in his twisted control. Silco’s hand shifted from her throat, trailing with deliberate slowness to the back of her skull. His fingers threaded through her hair, the motion deceptively tender, though the subtle pull that followed hinted at the restraint of a predator playing with its prey.“Perhaps,” he drawled, his voice smooth and taunting, “I might miss you a little.”Before she could process his words, he tightened his grip and guided her head downward, forcing her chin high and baring the vulnerable expanse of her throat to him.Adeline gasped, the sharp tug at her scalp igniting a burst of exquisite pain that sent sparks of heat racing through her body. Her eyelids fluttered shut as a wave of pleasure crashed into her, leaving her trembling, raw, and utterly consumed by the intensity of the moment. Her heart pounded in her chest, a wild rhythm that echoed in her ears.She had never felt so alive.And he had only laid a single hand on her.The realization left her breathless, her lips parting in a soft, shaky whimper that escaped before she could suppress it.Her hands rested uselessly in her lap, trembling slightly as she tried to steady herself. Her body was no longer her own; it had become a vessel for the inferno he so effortlessly stoked within her.Silco watched her with a dark, knowing intensity. His single eye gleamed in the dim light, its piercing focus fixed on her as though he could see every tremor, every unspoken thought, every flicker of surrender she fought to hide.The tip of his cigar flared with a brief orange glow as he took a slow, deliberate drag. The faint crackle of the burning tobacco seemed deafening in the heavy silence between them. He exhaled softly, lowering the cigar, his knuckles brushing lazy circles against the outside of her thigh. The faint contact sent a jolt through her, her breath hitching as his casual touch ignited a deeper ache.He leaned closer, the heat of his presence enveloping her. The faint, smoky scent of him–tobacco, leather, and something sharper, more dangerous—seeped into her senses, making her head spin. When he finally ducked his head, his breath ghosted against her exposed throat.Adeline’s skin prickled with anticipation, a shiver cascading down her spine as he released the next plume of smoke directly onto the curve of her neck. The warm tendrils curled around her skin, a sensual caress that seemed to burn and soothe all at once.Her entire body reacted—her breathing hitched, her chest rising and falling unevenly as a wash of goosebumps swept over her. Every nerve felt alive, every sensation amplified as her muscles tensed and melted simultaneously.Silco watched her unravel beneath him, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips. He was utterly calm, his movements measured, controlled, and deliberate—a stark contrast to the storm of emotions he stirred in her.“You’re trembling, little dove,” he murmured, his voice a low rasp, a dark tease that sent another shiver through her.Adeline swallowed hard, her pulse fluttering wildly in her throat under the weight of his scrutiny. She couldn’t speak, couldn’t find the words to respond, even if she had dared. The hand in her hair shifted, his fingers tightening slightly, sending another jolt of pleasure-pain radiating through her scalp.“Do you enjoy this?” he asked, his tone soft but edged with something sharp, something dangerous. “This helplessness? This surrender?”Her breath stuttered as his words slid over her, a potent mixture of mockery and curiosity. She felt stripped bare, her body betraying every hidden thought and desire under his unrelenting gaze.Silco’s knuckles brushed higher against her thigh, the teasing motion deliberate. He tilted his head, his lips hovering just shy of her ear. “It’s intoxicating, isn’t it?” he whispered, his voice like silk laced with poison.Adeline’s heart thundered in her chest, the relentless pull of his presence drowning out any rational thought. She nodded faintly, unable to muster the strength to deny it, though the movement was as much a plea as it was an admission.He chuckled softly, the sound low and dark. “You’re so pliant,” he mused, his fingers trailing down the curve of her neck. “So eager to be devoured.”Adeline smirked, breathless but resolute, masking the swirling heat that clawed at her composure. She tilted her head slightly, her hair brushing Silco’s wrist as his fingers remained tangled at the base of her skull. “Careful now, Silco,” she teased, her voice a soft drawl, her confidence feigned but effective. “You wouldn’t want to hurt me, would you?”The tension between them was electric, a game of cat and mouse played with wicked precisionThey were both players in this dangerous game—calculating, maneuvering, testing each other’s boundaries. But if Silco intended to take her down, Adeline vowed to drag him with her, burning everything between them in the process.She leaned in closer, the space between them shrinking as her voice softened to a conspiratorial whisper. “I bruise easily,” she hinted, the subtle undertone of vulnerability mingling with her coy tone. Her lips curled into a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “My time in the brothel was… unpleasant.”Silco’s jaw tightened, his grip on her head firming ever so slightly. She noticed it—the subtle flare of his nostrils, the dangerous narrowing of his eye.“The men there had no restraint,” she continued, her tone deliberately light, though each word was designed to cut. “One of them gripped me so firmly… left a mark… Actually,” She tilted her head just enough to watch his reaction, savoring the subtle crack in his carefully constructed mask. “Do you want to see it?” she added playfully, letting her hand drift downward, her fingers trailing over his abdomen and even lower still, skimming the edge of his hip.Silco’s hand snapped to her head, gripping her hair harder, forcing her head downward again with a deliberate motion that was far from tender. “Enough,” he growled, though his voice carried the simmering edge of tightly controlled anger rather than the outright fury she might have expected.Adeline bit back a gasp, the sharp tug at her scalp only fueling the heat simmering beneath her skin. She smirked faintly, determined to keep playing. “It’s way, way down here,” she purred, her hand brushing the fabric of his trousers with maddening slowness.There was no mark, of course. She’d never set foot in a brothel–which is a lie, nor had she ever been with a prostitute. The entire tale was a fabrication—a weapon crafted to provoke him, to peel back his composure and see what lay beneath. And it was working.Silco’s eye darkened, his pupil dilating until the vivid inferno of his iris was nearly eclipsed by obsidian black. He exhaled slowly, his chest rising and falling with a tension, she could feel through the scant inches separating them.“Really?” he asked, his voice low and dangerously even.Adeline’s lips twitched into a faint smile. She leaned closer, her eyes locking onto his. This was the moment—the kill she’d been setting up. “You know,” she murmured, her voice syrupy and laced with wicked intent, “when I fucked with him, I closed my eyes… and pretended he was you.”Silco froze, the tension in the room snapping taut. The cigar slipped from his fingers, hitting the floor with a forgotten thud. His jaw tightened so visibly it looked as though the effort of containing himself caused him physical pain. His gaze burned into hers, dark and consuming, and she knew she’d struck a nerve.Her eyes flicked downward, drawn helplessly to the undeniable evidence of his reaction—the impressive tent in his trousers. A sharp breath escaped her lips, her body betraying her as a fresh wave of desire coursed through her veins.Before she could think, her hand slid lower, brushing over his groin with a boldness that surprised even her.Silco’s hand shot out, capturing her wrist in an iron grip. “You’re breaking the rules, Adeline,” he growled, his voice rough with suppressed emotion.She tilted her head, feigning innocence. “Is that a cigar in your trouser? Or are you just happy to see me?”His grip tightened. “You’re infuriating,” he snapped, his voice sharper now, edged with frustration.Adeline smirked, undeterred. “Am I? I thought I was…captivating.”“Maddening,” he sneered, though the word carried the weight of a confession.Her free hand grazed his thigh as she shifted closer, until their noses were nearly brushing. “I’ll take that as a compliment,” she whispered, her voice soft and teasing.“I should have killed you years ago,” he muttered, though the heat in his voice betrayed the truth of his restraint.“But you didn’t,” she countered, her tone almost sing-song. Adeline had no idea what he meant by ‘years ago’ right now she didn't paid too much attention to his words. Her eyes flickered with challenge as she leaned in further. “And now look at us.”Silco’s face tightened, the war between control and desire playing out in the lines of his expression. Each labored breath brushed warm against her lips, the space between them charged with unspoken tension.“Don’t,” he snapped suddenly, the word sharp and biting. His fingers dug into her wrist and hair, holding her in place with a strength that made her shudder.Adeline swallowed hard, her pulse roaring in her ears as she stared into his darkened gaze. The warning in his tone was clear, but she couldn’t resist pushing further. She didn’t just want to provoke him—she wanted to shatter him, to see him lose that ironclad composure that so infuriatingly mirrored her own.She leaned closer, her lips brushing the shell of his ear as she whispered the forbidden syllables, the word dripping with deliberate defiance. “Silco—”His restraint snapped.With a low growl, he collided his lips with hers, the force of it stealing the breath from her lungs. The kiss was hard, bruising, a clash of teeth and heat and desperation that left no room for thought.Adeline melted against him, her body surrendering completely to the inferno they’d unleashed. The world around them disappeared, consumed by the raw, unrelenting intensity of the moment. And in that instant, there was no game, no pretense—only them, lost in the fire they’d created.Silco’s hand slid up her waist, his grip firm and possessive, anchoring her to him. His other hand found her jaw, tilting her head upward with calculated precision, granting him full access to her mouth. There was nothing hurried about his movements—every touch, every shift, was deliberate. He was devouring her, consuming her piece by piece.Adeline let out a soft, involuntary moan against his lips, the sound slipping out before she could stop it. Silco responded with a low, guttural growl that reverberated against her mouth, the vibration sparking heat that pooled deep within her.When he released her head, his hand began a slow descent, tracing her curves as though committing them to memory. His fingers brushed over the arch of her waist before settling firmly at her hip. With one strong tug, he pulled her closer, adjusting her position so that she was flush against him, leaving no room for air between their bodies.Her hands, trembling slightly, slid up his chest. The coarse texture of his vest beneath her fingertips contrasted sharply with the molten heat radiating from him. She gripped his shoulders tightly for stability, her breath hitching as his lips left hers to explore the sensitive skin of her neck.When his lips left hers, they didn’t go far. He shifted to her neck, his kisses a mix of reverence and conquest. Each press of his mouth to her skin sent shivers down her spine, and she tilted her head to grant him full access, submitting to the fire coursing through her veins.“Silco…” Her voice was breathless, his name spilling from her lips in a tone that was both plea and prayer. It was the only word she could manage, her mind too clouded by the dizzying sensations he evoked to muster a single coherent thought.He hummed against her neck, the vibration drawing a gasp from her. When his teeth grazed the column of her neck, her breath caught, and her nails dug into his shoulders through the velvet fabric. His hands, calloused yet oddly gentle, traced the outline of her body with an unhurried deliberation. When his fingers brushed the hem of her white tank top, he paused, glancing up at her with a flicker of wicked intent in his gaze.Slowly, deliberately, he tugged the fabric upward, revealing inch by tantalizing inch of her skin.When her tank top was gone, Silco’s good eye roamed over her. His gaze was intense, unwavering, and for a moment, she felt utterly exposed, as though he could see beyond her flesh and into the very core of her. His lips parted slightly, and though he said nothing, the darkened glint in his eye spoke volumes.Adeline tilted her head to the side, her lips curving into a sly smile. “Do you like what you see?” she asked, her voice teasing but low, thick with anticipation.Silco didn’t respond right away. Instead, he slid his hand to the curve of her back, his fingers spreading wide as though to memorize the shape of her. When he finally spoke, his voice was a rough whisper, laden with desire. “More than I imagined,” he admitted, and for a brief moment, there was something unguarded in his expression.Her heart pounded at his words, but before she could respond, his hand found the clasp of her bra. With the same precision that marked all his movements, he unhooked it, his gaze never leaving hers. Slowly, he drew the fabric away, revealing her fully to him.The cold air hit her skin, pulling a soft gasp from her lips. She could feel his gaze on her, heavy and consuming, and when his hand moved to the curve of her breast, his thumb brushing lazily against her skin, her eyes fluttered closed.Silco leaned in again, his mouth leaving a trail of heat along her neck and collarbone, down to her chest.Each kiss sent sparks shooting through her, and her hands instinctively found his chest, her fingers curling into the fabric of his vest.Adeline’s head tipped back, her eyes fluttering closed as she gasped softly. Every nerve in her body was alight, responding to him in ways she couldn’t control.Adeline’s breath hitched, her chest rising and falling in shallow, uneven bursts. Her hands moved instinctively, reaching for the buttons of his vest, but before she could begin undressing him, Silco caught her wrist in an iron grip. “Ah-ah,” he chided, his tone playful but firm. “My clothes stays, little dove.”Adeline opened her mouth to protest, but the words died on her lips as Silco shifted, pushing her gently but firmly back onto the couch. He straddled her, his thighs bracketing hers, and pinned her wrists above her head with one hand. The weight of him, the intensity in his gaze, and the effortless control he exerted over her left her breathless.She stared up at him, her chest rising and falling rapidly, her pulse hammering against the grip of his fingers. There was a flicker of defiance in her eyes, but it was tempered by the unmistakable heat pooling low in her belly.“My little dove,” he said, her name a low growl that sent a thrill racing down her spine. “Are you sure you're ready to face the consequences?” Her lips parted, a mixture of anticipation and defiance flashing in her eyes. “Yes,” she whispered, her voice trembling but resolute.Silco’s gaze darkened further, his grip on her wrists tightening slightly as he leaned in, his lips hovering just above hers. “Careful what you wish for,” he murmured, the warning laced with promise.Adeline’s heart raced as she pushed herself up, trying to close the space between them, her lips aiming to meet his. But Silco leaned back, just out of reach, his mismatched eyes glinting with amusement. A smirk curled on his lips—playful, but edged with something sharper. “Be a good assistant,” he murmured, his voice smooth and commanding, “and lay back. Relax, and let your boss decide what to do with you.” His hand brushed over her radial pulse, his touch deliberate, teasing. “And if you behave…” He paused, letting the tension stretch like a taut string. “I might just grant you what you’re so desperate for.”Adeline swallowed hard, torn between rebellion and the aching desire that pulsed through her. Pride whispered for her to push back, to deny him the satisfaction of her compliance. But her body betrayed her. With a trembling sigh, she leaned back against the couch, her head tipping back in reluctant surrender.But it wasn’t enough for him. Silco’s expression darkened, a flicker of impatience crossing his face as he pressed his hips against hers, his movements firm and deliberate. A sharp gasp escaped her lips, her body jolting at the unexpected force.“Words,” he hissed, his tone carrying the weight of a command.“Y-yes,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.For a moment, his smirk returned, his expression softening into something almost approving. Then, without warning, his lips captured hers, the kiss fierce and consuming. It wasn’t gentle; it was a claim, and Adeline could do nothing but melt beneath him. Her body arched instinctively, molding to his as she surrendered completely. This wasn’t a game anymore. This was raw, unfiltered submission.But even as her legs wrapped around his hips, pulling him closer, her defiance flickered like a dying ember. Silco felt it—the subtle shift in her movements, the way she tried to regain control. His lips left hers, his mismatched eyes narrowing as he growled low in his throat.“What did I just say?” he demanded, his tone sharp with irritation.Adeline tilted her head, a daring smile tugging at her lips despite the heat in her cheeks. “Oh, I’m sorry,” she said, her voice dripping with playful defiance. “I don’t play by the rules.”“Patience, little dove,” he said, his voice a dangerous whisper. “I want to touch you,” He growled, his voice low and guttural, filled with restraint and hunger.Adeline’s breath hitched as his gaze raked over her, the weight of his authority pressing down on her like a physical force. And yet, her pulse quickened, her defiance only spurring her desire. Adeline didn’t argue. She tilted her head upward, her breath hitching as her hair black hair cascading freely on the couch, exposing the delicate curve of her throat. The gesture was one of surrender, though her heart thundered against her ribs. Her pride screamed at her to pull back, but something deeper—something primal—told her to stay. A mix of anticipation and trepidation rippled through her as she granted him exactly what he wanted.Silco’s eyes darkened, the predator in him awakened by her silent submission. He didn’t hesitate. Leaning forward, he pressed his lips to her neck, his breath hot against her skin. His mouth moved with a deliberate hunger, leaving a trail of heated kisses that sent shivers coursing through her body.Then his teeth grazed her skin, and she tensed, a sharp gasp escaping her lips as his bite broke through the haze of pleasure. The sensation wasn’t painful—not quite—but it was enough to set her nerves alight. Adeline’s hands clenched uselessly on the top of her head. She has nothing to hold on to; her nails dug into her palms as she arched against him.Silco’s smirk widened against her neck, his satisfaction palpable. He wasn’t gentle—he didn’t want to be. Each mark he left on her pale skin was deliberate, a declaration of ownership. He wanted her to feel it, to carry his claim long after this moment ended. His mouth worked methodically, biting and sucking until faint bruises began to bloom on her neck.Adeline’s head fell back further, her chest rising and falling as she tried to steady her breathing. She didn’t know if it was the roughness of his touch or the possessiveness in his actions, but something about it made her body hum with need. Her mind was a mess of conflicting thoughts—she should have felt humiliated, angry even, at how easily he was unraveling her. But instead, she felt a strange, exhilarating thrill coursing through her veins.“Silco,” she murmured, his name slipping from her lips like a prayer, her voice shaky and uneven.He pulled back slightly, just enough to meet her eyes. His mismatched gaze locked onto hers, his pupils blown wide with desire. “What is it, little dove?” he asked, his voice low and gravelly, a dangerous edge to it.Her throat bobbed as she swallowed hard, her lips parting as if to answer, but no words came. She wasn’t sure what she wanted to say—wasn’t sure if she could articulate the storm of emotions inside her.Silco chuckled softly, the sound vibrating against her skin as he returned his attention to her neck. “Not so witty now, are we?” he teased, his tone dripping with amusement and dark satisfaction.Adeline could only whimper in response, her fingers curling tighter into his coat. Each bite, each kiss, felt like it was pulling her deeper into something she couldn’t escape. Her body was betraying her completely, responding to his every touch with an eagerness she couldn’t suppress.Silco’s control was absolute, and he reveled in it. The way her body arched into his, the breathless sounds she made, the way she surrendered without even realizing it—all of it fed his ego, stoking the fire of his own desire. Yet beneath his control, there was a possessive need, an unspoken promise that he would ruin her for anyone else.As he pulled back to admire his handiwork, his fingers trailed over the fresh marks on her neck, the faint bruises standing out against her pale skin. “Perfect,” he murmured, his voice low and almost reverent. “Now everyone will know who you belong to.”Adeline’s chest heaved, her eyes half-lidded as she looked up at him. Her pride was shattered, her walls torn down, but in their place was something she couldn’t name—a desperate longing that she didn’t fully understand.“I hate you,” she whispered, though her voice lacked any conviction.Silco chuckled darkly, his smirk returning as he leaned in, his lips brushing her ear. “No, you don’t,” he purred. “You hate that you want this as much as I do.”He released his grip on her. And as his hands slid down her sides, pulling her hard, closer once more. His groin pressing hard on her inner thigh. Adeline realized he was right. She didn’t hate him. She hated how completely he had unraveled her—and how much she wanted him to keep going.Adeline's body trembled under Silco's deliberate touch. His hand hovered just above her leggings, as though waiting for her to make the next move, to make her surrender more explicit. But then, he paused—his elbows pressing down on her thighs, forcing her to feel every inch of his weight, every part of him that lingered too close for comfort.Adeline's breath hitched. The pressure was almost unbearable, yet she couldn’t move away. Her thighs quivered beneath him, a clear sign of the tension and anticipation building in her. Silco saw it, of course—he saw everything. His eyes darkened with amusement, knowing how much power he had over her, how much control he held over the situation.“Now,” he murmured, his voice low and taunting. “What's the magic word?”The question was a challenge, and Adeline bristled. She bit her lip, her mind racing with frustration. She wanted to push back, to take control, but the pressure he placed on her, both physically and emotionally, left her unable to think clearly. Every instinct inside her screamed for release, for him to just take the next step. But she couldn’t find the words. The game, the dance they were engaged in—it was maddening.Her heart pounded in her chest as she searched for something to say. For a moment, a sharp impulse to fight back flickered in her mind, but nothing came to her. She could feel the heat between them, the undeniable need that pulsed beneath her skin. Her breath came faster as she whispered, “Please, Silco.”His gaze sharpened, though his smile never faltered. He knew exactly what she was doing. He was watching her, enjoying her struggle—how badly she wanted to take control, but how utterly helpless she was in that moment.“What?” he asked, almost lazily, swirling his elbows across her thighs in a maddening rhythm that sent tremors up her spine. The sensation was cruel in its playfulness, teasing her senses until she was almost out of control.“I can't quite hear you, little dove,” he added with a hint of mockery, knowing full well that his teasing only heightened the tension between them.Adeline clenched her fists, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. She knew he was playing with her, enjoying how much she needed him. She hated how much power he had over her. But her body had already betrayed her, aching for him in ways she couldn't ignore.“Please, Silco,” she said, her voice tight. The words escaped her before she could stop them. But it wasn’t enough. Not for him. Silco chuckled, a low, dark sound that vibrated against her skin. He could see the way she was crumbling, how her resolve was weakening. She wanted him—he knew it, and that knowledge only made him more determined to keep her on edge. He loved this, loved the way she wanted him so badly but couldn’t have him entirely. Not yet.Adeline’s frustration grew, her mind clouded with desire. She couldn’t stand the distance between them, the game they were playing. “I want you to fuck me!” she snapped, her voice rough with need. “I want you. I want this. I want you to ruin me.” The words were out before she could think, raw and desperate. A small, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of Silco's lips. Her defiance, her vulnerability—it only made him crave her more. He leaned in closer, his breath brushing against her ear.He could feel her breaking, piece by piece, and he reveled in it. But he also knew that maintaining control over this moment was key. He couldn’t give in just yet—not fully. In truth, all he wanted right now was…this. It's a rare sight for him to see such a beautiful woman in front of him, laid almost naked–well…yes, he's been with other prostitute before but…it was only for his release, and he needed that. But this…Ohhhh, this was different. He only meant to play with her, to toy with her. But the turn of tide was soooo unexpected. He would let her believe she was on the brink of getting what she wanted, but he wouldn’t grant her release so easily—He likes to play with his…meals. Her frustration was a delicious thing, and Silco wasn't done playing. He pulled back slightly, just enough to see the look in her eyes—the mix of need and anger, of surrender and defiance.“You’re so cute when you beg,” Silco murmured, his voice a low, dangerous rasp that sent a shiver down Adeline’s spine. His mismatched gaze burned into her, full of smug satisfaction. “I’m afraid I’m deeply moved by your… confessions.”Adeline’s breath hitched, her chest rising and falling as she tried to calm herself. She hated the smugness in his tone, the way he reveled in her vulnerability. Yet, beneath her frustration, a dangerous truth stirred—she craved his attention, even when it left her unsteady and exposed.But she wasn’t about to let him see that. Swallowing her nerves, she forced a smile onto her lips, her defiance flickering back to life. “Oh, no Silco,” she said, her voice steady but laced with sarcasm. “I’m not confessing anything I only meaaarghh,” Her words broke off in a sharp gasp as Silco’s hand moved with deliberate slowness, brushing across her chest. His fingers curled around her breast, his touch both firm and maddeningly gentle. Adeline’s composure shattered. A low, trembling moan escaped her throat as he lazily, slowly, softly circled his thumb over her sensitive nipple. The sensation shot through her like a lightning bolt, her body arching involuntarily toward him, betraying her attempt to maintain control.Silco smirked, his satisfaction deepening as he watched her unravel. “What was that?” he asked softly, his tone dripping with mockery. “You were saying something about…confessing?”Adeline clenched her teeth, trying to suppress the rush of heat that coursed through her. She wanted to snap back, to throw his smugness back in his face, but her body refused to cooperate. Her traitorous limbs felt heavy and sluggish, her focus splintering under the slow, deliberate movements of his hand.“Fuck you, Silco” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper, her head tipping back against the leather couch.“Is that all?” Silco purred, leaning closer, his breath ghosting over her ear. “You can do better than that.” His voice was calm, but beneath it was a quiet intensity—a man who knew he was winning and enjoyed every second of it.Adeline’s thoughts spiraled, torn between the urge to push him away and the undeniable pull that tethered her to him. She hated how effortlessly he could reduce her to this—shaking, breathless, utterly at his mercy. But what unnerved her most was how much she wanted him to keep going.Adeline’s hand darted to Silco’s shoulder, her grip firm, as if grounding herself against the storm raging inside her. His mismatched eyes flicked to hers, sharp and unwavering, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. “It would only take two words,” he said softly, as he gently moved his hand away from her breast; his fingers trailing featherlight touch down to her crotch. Adeline froze, her breath catching in her throat, her heart pounding so loudly she was certain he could hear it.“‘I’m yours,’” he softly whispered to her ear. While he slowly slid his hand on her black leggings. “Say it,” he commanded, his tone low but firm. Silco had reached her folds, and he lazily circled her small pearl. “I…” she started, her voice barely audible, trembling with too much pleasure at once. Silco tilted his head, his smirk deepening. He could see the battle playing out behind her eyes, the struggle between pride and submission. He pressed his fingers slightly on her entrance, teasing her, in a way that has her rolling her eyes back. His fingers brushed her folds in a way that was maddeningly slow, almost cruel in its precision. “Two simple words, Adeline,” he murmured. “And I’ll give you what you want.”Adeline’s chest tightened, the weight of his words pressing down on her. Her pride screamed at her to resist, to deny him the satisfaction of hearing her say it. But the need coiling in her stomach was impossible to ignore, a fire that burned hotter with every second he made her wait.Silco’s patience, however, was razor-thin. He thrived on control, on seeing her brought to this edge. But even he couldn’t deny the anticipation that simmered beneath his calculated calm. He wanted to hear her give in, to watch her fall completely into his grasp.The silence stretched between them, thick with tension, until Adeline finally met his gaze. Her eyes burned with a mix of frustration and longing, her body trembling with the weight of the moment.“I’m yours,” she whispered, the words falling from her lips before she could stop them.The satisfaction that lit Silco’s face was immediate, a dark and triumphant gleam in his eyes. “Good girl,” he murmured, his tone carrying both praise and possession.Silco’s lips found her neck again, his touch both commanding and electric, drawing soft gasps from Adeline. His hand moved deliberately, sliding her leggings down inch by inch as she arched her hips upward, granting him silent permission. There was no hesitation between them, only the magnetic pull of shared desire.The room was filled with the quiet symphony of their breathing and the faint rustle of fabric. Everything else seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in this stolen moment. But thenThe door swung open with a loud creak.Adeline’s head snapped to the side, her heart stopping as she caught sight of a hulking, all-too-familiar figure in the doorway. Sevika stood frozen, her expression one of sheer disbelief, her mouth slightly agape.“HOLY SHI—” Sevika’s voice cracked, but she stopped herself mid-curse. Her eyes darted sideways, as though attempting to look anywhere but at the scene before her.Silco turned his sharp gaze toward Sevika, his annoyance palpable. “Of all the goddamn timing, Sevika,” he hissed, his voice low and venomous. His body shifted instinctively, shielding Adeline from view with his own.Adeline’s cheeks burned with humiliation. She clutched at her chest, her breaths coming in shallow, panicked gasps. She could feel Silco’s irritation radiating off him like heat.Before Sevika could attempt an explanation, another voice echoed from the hall.“You better watch it, Sevika! If you want to keep your other arm, you might as well—”Adeline’s heart sank as she recognized Jinx’s unmistakable voice.Jinx rounded the corner, but Sevika acted quickly. She grabbed the younger girl by the waist and hoisted her onto her shoulder.“Hey! Put me down!” Jinx shouted, her legs kicking wildly in protest.Sevika ignored her, slamming the door shut behind her as she carried Jinx away. Their voices faded, leaving only the sound of Adeline’s ragged breathing and the oppressive silence of the room.The room fell silent again, save for the faint echo of footsteps receding down the hall. Adeline’s pulse thundered in her ears.“Oh my god,” she whispered, her voice trembling. She covered her face with her hands, mortified.Silco slowly pulled himself away from her, his expression unreadable. He mumbled something under his breath, his tone too low for her to catch.Straightening his posture, he adjusted his clothes with calculated movements, his composure returning piece by piece. “Our business here is over,” he said, his voice cool and detached.Adeline felt like the air had been knocked out of her lungs. His sudden shift in demeanor struck her like a blow. She scrambled to her feet, clutching her arms across her chest to cover herself.Silco walked to his desk, his steps slow and deliberate. Without looking at her, he retrieved his coat from the back of his chair and returned to her. Gently, he draped it over her shoulders. The act was tender, but his silence was cutting.Adeline froze, unsure of how to interpret the gesture. The scent of him clung to the fabric, wrapping around her like an invisible tether.While she fumbled to gather her clothes and put them back on, Silco sank back into his chair. His expression was inscrutable, his mismatched eyes fixed on her as she moved about the room. The weight of his gaze made her feel small, vulnerable, but she couldn’t bring herself to meet it.When she was dressed, she hesitated, gripping the edges of his coat as though it were her lifeline. Slowly, she approached his desk and laid it down carefully.Silco’s eyes flicked to the coat, then back to her. His tone was even, but there was an undercurrent of insistence as he spoke. “You won’t be walking back to your apartment in just that,” he said, his gaze trailing pointedly to her disheveled state.Adeline glanced down at her clothes, her face flushing anew. She didn’t look at him as she reached for the coat again, pulling it on like a shield.“Good,” Silco murmured, his voice softer now, though still guarded.She stood there for a moment, fidgeting with the lapels of the coat. Finally, she mustered a faint smile. “See you tomorrow.”Silco didn’t respond, but his eyes lingered on her as she turned and left the room, closing the door quietly behind her.As she walked down the dimly lit corridor, the scent of him wrapped around her like a memory she couldn’t shake. The embarrassment still burned, but beneath it was a strange warmth—something she couldn’t quite name.Back in his office, Silco remained seated, the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. Despite the interruption, despite his irritation, one thought lingered in his mind:
She’d worn his coat.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~°• Cassandra Kiramman •°~ ]
Cassandra Kiramman sat at the grand council table, her gaze fixed on the intricate carvings etched into the polished wood. The swirling designs seemed to pull her in, but her mind was far from the council chamber. The low murmur of voices faded into a meaningless drone as her thoughts strayed to her daughter, Adeline.It had been weeks since she’d received any word from her informant in Zaun. The silence gnawed at her, each passing day tightening the knot of anxiety coiled in her chest. Her fingers twitched restlessly against the table, betraying her calm façade. What if something had gone wrong? What if Silco had discovered the spy? The potential consequences were too horrifying to dwell on, yet she couldn’t shake the images flashing through her mind.Adeline's face filled her thoughts—a mixture of defiance and vulnerability, framed by the unruly, fiery spirit that had always defined her. That same spirit had driven her daughter to challenge the boundaries of Piltover's rigid society, to fight against the injustice that festered beneath its polished surface. But it had also made her a target.Her fingers tapped softly against the table’s edge, an unconscious rhythm born of her inner turmoil. She was so lost in her spiraling thoughts that she didn’t notice when her name was called.“Councilor Kiramman?”A sharper voice pierced through her haze, yanking her back to the present. Cassandra blinked, her focus snapping to the center of the table. Mel Medarda’s golden eyes were fixed on her, the faintest crease of concern on her brow.“Do you have any further concerns about Jayce Talisman?” Mel’s tone was measured, probing, but not unkind.Cassandra straightened in her seat, smoothing a stray strand of hair with a practiced motion. “No,” she replied, her voice even but clipped. “He’ll do fine. With enough time, he and Viktor will master this… Hextech innovation.”“The boy is certainly gifted,” Salo interjected, leaning forward with a self-assured smirk. “You were right to supply him with what he needed.”Cassandra turned her attention to him, her expression impassive but her tone edged with subtle disdain. “Jayce and Viktor are indeed bright. Their potential is evident to anyone paying attention.”“Just like your daughter,” Salo added, the words dripping with pointed implicationThe comment struck a nerve. Cassandra’s composure faltered for the briefest of moments, her lips pressing into a thin line as her sharp gaze locked onto him. The room seemed to grow colder, the tension thickening as her irritation became palpable.“I suggest you keep your comments minimal, Salo,” she said, her voice icy. “My daughter is not a topic for your petty provocations, especially not from someone as intimately familiar with failure as you.” Her words were enough to silence him. Salo didn't reply back. Nor does Cassandra wait for any idiotic comments he has to say. The silence that followed was heavy, the tension thick enough to choke on. Salo shifted uncomfortably in his seat, but said nothing further, his confidence momentarily shaken by her sharp retort.Cassandra turned her attention back to Mel, dismissing him entirely. “If there’s nothing further, I believe our business here is concluded.”Mel inclined her head, a faint smile playing at her lips. “Indeed. Your continued support for Jayce and Viktor is noted and appreciated. They currently have all they need with Professor Heimerdinger’s lab, but your generosity will not go unnoticed. I’ll be sure to inform them of your offer.”Cassandra nodded curtly. “Very well. I’ll leave you to it, then.”Cassandra rose with deliberate grace, her heels clicking against the polished floor as she made her way toward the chamber’s massive double doors. She didn’t look back, even as she heard Mel’s quiet but cutting voice directed at Salo.“How thoughtful of you, Salo,” Mel murmured, her tone like a blade wrapped in silk. “To invoke Adeline Kiramman—the daughter we unanimously agreed to banish from Piltover.”Cassandra froze mid-step, her heart tightening in her chest.“I wasn't speaking ill of her,” Salo muttered defensively, though his voice rose slightly.“The implication was clear enough,” Mel retorted, her golden eyes narrowing. “You may as well have said it outright.”Salo’s voice rose in indignation. “Her recklessness cost us one of our strongest allies. Camille wouldn’t have left if Adeline hadn’t involved Seraphine in her schemes.”“Adeline tried to warn us,” Mel interrupted sharply. “she begged this council to listen, to act! She tried to reason with us. But we dismissed her, branded her defiance as foolishness. And when things fell apart, we punished her for our own failings.”“Punished?” Salo laughed bitterly. “We banished her because she deserved it. Because her reckless defiance cost us one of our strongest allies. Camille left because Adeline is the reason her daughter, Seraphine, is dead. If Adeline hadn’t dragged her into that ill-conceived plan to investigate the Undercity for Sheriff Gra—”“Enough,” Mel interrupted sharply, her voice cutting through the room like a blade. “Camille’s departure was not a total loss. We can still summon her if we need her. I was the one who told her to leave this council.” She stated. Salo was a bit shocked by her revelation. “You?” He uttered“Because I couldn’t bear to look at her rage every time she saw Cassandra.”Cassandra’s breath hitched, the weight of Mel’s words settling heavily on her shoulders. It had been a calculated betrayal, the council had said. Necessary, they had argued. But Cassandra had never believed that. Adeline’s fiery defiance had been her greatest strength—and her greatest vulnerability.When her daughter had crossed the council’s invisible line, they had acted swiftly and without mercy. And Cassandra, outvoted and outmaneuvered, had been powerless to stop them.Even now, years later, the guilt lingered like a shadow, creeping into her every thought. She had done what she could to protect Adeline from afar, but it was never enough. The risk, the secrecy, the helplessness—it all weighed heavily on her.Adeline’s name would not be used as a weapon for political games. Cassandra would not allow it. And she would not stop until she had ensured her daughter’s safety—even if it meant defying the very council she had once sworn to uphold.Drawing a steady breath, Cassandra resumed her exit. Her expression remained perfectly composed as she descended the grand staircase outside, but beneath the surface, her thoughts churned. The Kiramman estate was bathed in a soft, golden glow as Cassandra arrived, her heels clicking against the polished stone path leading to the grand entrance. The ornate lanterns lining the courtyard cast elegant shadows over the meticulously maintained gardens, but she paid them no mind.The butler opened the door as she approached, bowing slightly. “Good evening, madam.”“What news from our affiliate in Zaun?” Cassandra asked curtly, not bothering to elaborate.The butler hesitated, an uncommon pause that immediately put her on edge. His hands folded behind his back “He hasn’t been seen since the fortnight,”Cassandra froze, her grip tightening on the coat draped over her arm. “And why,” she began, her voice low and simmering with restrained fury, “was I not informed immediately?”The butler flinched but recovered quickly, his expression carefully neutral. “I believed the delay to be inconsequential at the time. My deepest apologies, madam.”Her heels clicked sharply against the marble floor as she strode toward the grand staircase, her coat slipping from her arm to be caught by a maid scurrying in her wake. Cassandra held out her hand, indicating for her maid, Anica, that she didn't need to take her coat. The girl nodded silently. “Unacceptable,” Cassandra snapped, her voice rising. “I rely on you to keep me informed of every detail—every whisper. If something has happened…” She trailed off, brushing past him as she strode into the foyer. The tension coiled in her chest spilled over into her movements, each step purposeful and unyielding. Her coat hung loosely over her arm as she ascended the sweeping staircase.The butler followed, his footsteps soft but persistent.“My orders were clear,” Cassandra continued, her voice echoing through the expansive space. “You are to inform me immediately of any developments, no matter how trivial. This isn’t just about business—this is my daughter’s life at stake. Do you understand?” Cassandra ascended the staircase with purpose, her mind already turning to contingency plans.“Yes, madam.” the butler replied, bowing his head. “I will redouble my efforts to locate him.”“See that you do,” she said coldly, dismissing him with a wave.At the top of the stairs, she paused. The weight of the situation pressed heavily on her chest. Her grip on her coat tightened, her knuckles pale against the rich fabric. For a moment, the poised and calculated Cassandra Kiramman faltered. Her carefully constructed composure was beginning to unravel, her mind racing through contingencies and worst-case scenarios.As she turned toward her private office to think and plan, something caught her attention. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Adeline’s old bedroom door slightly ajar.She frowned. That door was never left open. Cassandra always ensured it was closed when she revisited the room—her ritual on days when loneliness weighed heavier than usual. She’d walk inside, linger among her daughter’s belongings, and let herself imagine Adeline as she had been: vibrant, determined, alive.Tension coiled in her chest as she strode toward the door, her hand hovering over the knob. She could sense movement inside—something or someone was there. Her instincts sharpened. With practiced precision, she slipped her hand inside her coat pocket, a silver dagger, the cool metal reassuring in her grip.In one swift motion, she swung the door open, her blade ready. Her eyes scanned the room, taking in every detail.Empty. No signs of intrusion. The breath she had been holding escaped her in a shaky exhale.She flipped the dagger back into her coat and stood at the threshold, letting the stillness of the room wash over her. It was just as she had left it—immaculate yet untouched, like a shrine to a life that no longer occupied it.Slowly, she stepped inside, closing the door behind her. She hung her coat on the rack near the wall, her movements deliberate.Her gaze swept over the familiar space: the desk where Adeline had once poured over case files, the chair that had held her daughter’s focused form. Cassandra could almost see her there, the way Adeline’s brow would furrow in concentration, her hand resting on her chin.A soft, wistful smile tugged at Cassandra’s lips. Her fingers brushed against the cool floor where Adeline had often crouched, surrounded by notes and sketches. How I wish I could have been there for her more, she thought bitterly. I should have seen the weight she carried.She moved to the bed, trailing her hand over the rich, fancy sheets. She had ordered the maids to clean the room regularly, but forbidden them from changing the bedding. She couldn’t bear to lose the faint traces of Adeline’s presence—the scent, the essence of her daughter that lingered there.Sitting on the edge of the bed, Cassandra clutched the fabric tightly in her hands. Memories flooded her mind: the mornings spent waking Adeline for her enforcer shifts, the playful battles with pillows when words alone failed to rouse her sleepy daughter. A chuckle escaped her lips, soft and fleeting. But the warmth of those memories was quickly overwhelmed by a flood of grief. Hot tears welled in her eyes, spilling over and streaking her cheeks.“I’m sorry, Adeline,” Cassandra murmured, her voice breaking. She clutched the sheets as if holding onto them could bring her daughter back. “I’m so, so sorry I couldn’t protect you that day. I should have done more. I should have been stronger.”Her shoulders shook as the sobs overtook her. The weight of guilt and longing pressed down on her, heavy and suffocating. She buried her face in her hands, the polished image of Lady Kiramman crumbling in the privacy of her daughter’s empty room.“I’ll make it right,” she whispered through her tears, her voice trembling but resolute. “Whatever it takes, Adeline. I’ll make it right.”For a moment, she allowed herself to grieve, to feel the depth of her loss. But even as the tears fell, a steely determination began to harden in her chest. She wouldn’t let this be the end. The room was still as Cassandra sat on the edge of Adeline's bed, her tears quietly streaking her face. She felt the emptiness around her more profoundly than ever, her thoughts swirling with grief, guilt, and longing.“It’s not your fault, Mother,” a voice spoke from behind her, soft but clear.Cassandra’s breath hitched. She turned sharply toward the sound, quickly wiping away her tears with the tips of her fingers. Her white gloves hovered over her lower lids as she worked to compose herself. “Caitlyn?” she murmured, blinking in disbelief.There, peeking out from the other side of Adeline’s bed, was her youngest daughter, Caitlyn. Only her small head and wide blue eyes were visible as she partially hid behind the furniture.“What are you doing here, darling?” Cassandra asked gently, her voice laced with concern.“I…” Caitlyn fidgeted, twisting her fingers together nervously. “couldn’t sleep,” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.Cassandra’s expression softened. She extended her arms toward Caitlyn, beckoning her closer. “Come here, sweetheart.”The little girl hesitated for a moment but then climbed onto the bed, clutching a small pink rabbit plush tightly in her arms. She crawled toward her mother, her movements tentative, as if unsure of how her presence would be received.Cassandra gathered her daughter into a warm embrace, pulling her close and running her hand gently through Caitlyn’s soft, blue hair. “You thought seeking your sister's warmth would put you to sleep?” she asked softly, a bittersweet smile playing on her lips.Caitlyn shook her head, her grip tightening on her mother. “No,” she said, though her voice wavered. “I just… miss her. Terribly.”The words struck Cassandra like a blow to the chest. She swallowed hard, willing herself not to cry again. She didn’t want Caitlyn to feel the full weight of her sorrow. Instead, she kissed the top of her daughter’s head and rubbed her back soothingly. “Me too, darling,” she whispered, her voice trembling despite her efforts to remain composed. “I miss her too.”Caitlyn tilted her head back to look up at her mother, her eyes brimming with innocent curiosity. “Do you think she misses us too?”Cassandra hesitated, her heart aching at the question. Did Adeline miss them? She didn’t know for certain, but she couldn’t bear to let Caitlyn think otherwise. She placed a tender kiss on her daughter’s forehead. “Of course, she does,” she said softly. “She loves us more than anyone.” more than anything. Caitlyn frowned, her small brows knitting together. “Then… Why doesn’t she come back? If she misses us too, why doesn’t she come home?”The question pierced through Cassandra’s carefully guarded composure. How could she explain the complexities of Adeline’s situation to a child? How could she tell Caitlyn about the dangers, the enemies, the uncertainty? Instead, she sighed and cradled Caitlyn closer.“It’s… complicated, sweetheart,” Cassandra said finally. “There are things you’re too young to understand right now.”“But I do understand!” Caitlyn protested, pulling back slightly. “I’ve been reading her notes!”Cassandra blinked in shock. “What? Her notes?”Before Cassandra could stop her, Caitlyn wriggled out of her grasp and darted to the side of the bed. She reached underneath, pulling out a large wooden box. With a determined look, she heaved it onto the bed and flipped it open, revealing a trove of Adeline’s sketches, notes, and case files.“Caitlyn! Where did you get this?” Cassandra demanded, her voice rising in alarm.“I found it!” Caitlyn beamed, her tone defensive. “And I’ve been reading it. I think I know how to help her!”Cassandra’s stomach churned as she watched her daughter excitedly sift through the papers. This was the very thing she wanted to protect Caitlyn from—the chaos, the danger, the obsession that came with Adeline’s work.“Look!” Caitlyn exclaimed, holding up a series of sketches and handwritten notes. “Adeline said it all points to someone in the Chem-Barons. But she didn’t have enough proof! If Adeline could find a document, or a signature, or something that ties them to the ambush, then her case could be reopened!”“Caitlyn, stop,” Cassandra said firmly, placing her hands on her daughter’s small shoulders. “These are your sister’s confidential records. You shouldn’t be touching them, let alone reading them. Her case is already closed.”“But if we help her find hard-solid proof, she can come back home!” Caitlyn insisted, her blue eyes shining with determination. “We can help her, Mother! We have to!”Cassandra shook her head, her heart aching as she tried to reason with her daughter. “It’s not that simple, darling. Finding solid proof is difficult, and dangerous. The people your sister was investigating are powerful. They don’t play fair. If you’re not careful, they’ll come after you.” she exclaimed. “It easy at it seems, darling. But it's hard than you think. Getting hard-solid proof is difficult, especially when your opponent is unknown. You may not know your opponent but your opponent knows you. And that is even more dangerous, because it could tract your movements unnoticed.”Caitlyn’s lip quivered, but her eyes were defiant. “Then I’ll become an enforcer someday,” she declared with startling conviction. “I’ll help her, and I’ll bring her home.”Cassandra’s heart ached at the determination in her daughter’s voice. “Caitlyn,” she said gently, shaking her head. “You’re too young to understand what being an enforcer means. It’s not just solving cases—this job involves risking your life. It's a lifetime job, Caitlyn. And I couldn’t bear to lose you too.”“But if I don’t help, who will?” Caitlyn countered, her voice rising with frustration. “I’ll be a good enforcer, Mother–I promise. I’ll be like Adeline. And oneday, I'll become a commander. I will lead our people for the sake of our city–our home. I will be doing my duty as a member of House Kiramman for our house.” Caitlyn added with a smile. Cassandra was taken aback by her daughter's sweetness, and honest words. She didn't expect her to be so determined and so motivated. Pride and joy was the first thing she felt when Caitlyn said those words. But, the only thing that was bothering her was her little Caitlyn following Adeline's footsteps–by becoming an enforcer too. Cassandra sighed, pulling her daughter into another embrace. “Your place is here, darling, by my side. Let me protect you. Let me keep you safe.”For a moment, neither of them spoke. The room was silent except for the soft rustle of the papers Caitlyn had pulled from the box. Cassandra held her daughter close, her mind racing. I can’t lose her too. Not my sweet, Caitlyn.“I’ll find a way,” Cassandra whispered to herself, her resolve hardening. I’ll protect them both, no matter what it takes. “I'll find a way to bring her back,” she added, as if she is telling it more to herself than to Caitlyn. Cassandra and Caitlyn lingered in the dimly lit room, neither willing to let go of the other. The faint smell of Jasmine lingered in the air, remnants of Adeline's favorite scent that Cassandra insisted on keeping in her daughter's room, even after all these years.Caitlyn’s arms were wrapped tightly around her mother, her young face buried in Cassandra’s shoulder. She refused to let her go, as if clinging to her would somehow keep the lingering shadows of their fractured family at bay.“Is she really in Noxus?” Caitlyn asked softly, her voice trembling with uncertainty. “I heard Adeline is hiding in the Undercity.” Her words hung in the air, laden with the fragile hope that her sister could still be found.Cassandra’s heart sank. “Where did you hear that?” Cassandra asked, her voice steady but her pulse racing.Caitlyn pulled away just enough to reach into her sister's wooden box. She retrieved a folded paper, worn from being handled, and placed it carefully on her mother’s lap.Cassandra unfolded the document with trembling hands. Her sharp eyes scanned the text, her breath catching when she saw the unmistakable name: Adeline. It was a record detailing her eldest daughter’s exile from Piltover. It even mentioned Noxus—where she had supposedly fled after the banishment–of course, the same document the council gave her and her daughter, Adeline. The final verdict of the council members to Adeline Kiramman. Cassandra swallowed hard, her throat dry. “I... I don’t know,” she lied, her voice betraying a flicker of hesitation. “But I’ll find out soon enough. Albert is tracking Diego, and he’ll know where Adeline is.” she lied–again. Cassandra already knew where Adeline was. She just didn't want to tell Caitlyn because she's afraid of what her little daughter would do if she found out her sister is hiding at the Undercity. No doubt Caitlyn would probably visit her–or worse! Try to solve the case by herself. Caitlyn said nothing, but her eyes searched her mother’s face, silently pleading for reassurance. Instead of words, Cassandra wrapped her arms around her daughter again, holding her close. For a fleeting moment, she let herself breathe in the warmth of Caitlyn’s presence—the reminder that not everything had been lost.Their moment was broken by the faint creak of the door. Both turned to see Anica, the family’s loyal maid, standing at the threshold. Anica had been with them since Adeline was a teenager, and her expression was always gentle, though now tinged with hesitance.“I’m sorry to disturb you, madam,” Anica said gently, her voice careful yet firm. The weight of her presence drew them both from the depths of their thoughts, grounding them back to reality. “you have a visitor,” she added, a subtle hint in her tone. “Marcus is waiting for you in the living room.” Her words lingered in the air. Cassandra’s brows furrowed. Marcus? Why on earth is he here? she wondered. A knot of unease settled in her stomach. “Tell him I’ll be down in a minute,” Cassandra replied, her tone brisk but composed.Anica nodded and left, closing the door with a swift motion.Caitlyn tilted her head, her youthful curiosity etched across her face. “Why is Marcus here?” she asked, her small brows knitted in confusion.“I’m not quite sure,” Cassandra murmured, standing from the bed and smoothing out her dress. She glanced back at the document still resting on Adeline's bed—the reminder of the daughter she couldn’t stop thinking about. Her gaze drifted to the wooden box on top of her bed–a chest that once held Adeline’s treasured keepsakes, but now…it carried her darkest secrets.“Darling,” Cassandra said, turning to Caitlyn, her voice softer now. She placed a hand on her daughter’s shoulder, feeling the weight of responsibility settle on her like an anchor. “I need you to take your sister’s confidential documents out of here. Place them inside your room and hide them somewhere safe. Somewhere no one will think to look.”Caitlyn blinked up at her mother, wide-eyed but determined. She nodded without hesitation, her small hands already gathering the scattered papers and tucking them into the wooden box. The sight of her daughter carrying such a burden made Cassandra’s chest tighten with guilt. Caitlyn was too young for this. Too innocent to be swept into the chaos of her family’s secrets.“You’re a brave girl,” Cassandra whispered, brushing a kiss onto Caitlyn’s head. “Now, go to your room and don’t let anyone see you with that box.”Caitlyn hugged the box tightly to her chest, her pink rabbit teddy dangling from one arm. She paused at the door, glancing back at her mother as if awaiting further instructions.For a fleeting moment, when Caitlyn turned back toward her mother, Cassandra’s breath caught in her throat. In the dim light of the room, the tilt of Caitlyn’s head and the soft curve of her profile mirrored another face—the face of the daughter Cassandra had lost.It was as though the younger version of Adeline herself was standing there, her eyes alight with the same determination Cassandra used to know so well. For a heartbeat, Cassandra almost whispered her name. Her lips parted, the word hovering on the edge of her tongue.But reality settled back in, heavy and unyielding. It wasn’t Adeline. It was Caitlyn, her youngest, carrying a burden she should never have had to bear. The vision fractured as quickly as it had come, leaving only the aching reminder of how much Caitlyn resembled her sister in ways both haunting and beautiful.Cassandra pressed a hand to her temple, her head swimming. Perhaps it was the lack of sleep—the endless nights spent wrestling with regret and the gnawing fear of what might come next.Cassandra forced a reassuring smile. “Go on, darling. I’ll handle Marcus.” she said softly, her voice catching just a little.With a small nod, Caitlyn slipped out of the room, the weight of the wooden box seeming almost too heavy for her small arms. Cassandra watched her go, a pang of guilt and pride warring within her. Caitlyn reminded her so much of Adeline, not just from physical, but at that age—both strong-willed, both fiercely loyal, and…sweet. Alone now, Cassandra turned her attention to the mirror above Adeline’s old dresser. Her reflection stared back at her, tired but resolute. She adjusted her dress, smoothing the fabric over her shoulders as if it could shield her from whatever Marcus had come to say–or to demand. But he is in no position to demand. Her status is higher than Marcus. But her gaze drifted back to the box Caitlyn had just carried out. The secrets it held were too dangerous, too damning. If Marcus was here because of Adeline’s confidential documents…Cassandra pushed the thought away. Whatever it was, she’d deal with it. She always did.Taking a deep breath, Cassandra left the room and descended the stairs, her heels clicking softly against the polished marble floor. Each step felt heavier than the last, as though the weight of the impending conversation dragged her down. By the time she reached the living room, her composure was carefully constructed, her mask firmly in place, braced for the worst.Her gaze swept over the elegant furniture she had so painstakingly chosen—an odd comfort in its familiarity—before it landed on Marcus. He stood by the fireplace, his broad shoulders casting a looming shadow across the room. The flickering flames played tricks with the light, painting his face with alternating warmth and shadow. When he turned toward her, his expression was unreadable, though there was a heaviness in his eyes that set her nerves on edge.“Councilor Kiramman,” Marcus greeted, his voice low but charged with purpose.“Marcus,” Cassandra replied, her tone measured and steady, though her pulse quickened. She gestured toward the chair opposite her usual seat, inviting him to sit. “Care to explain why you're here, and so late this evening?”Marcus hesitated for a moment, his eyes flicking toward the staircase as though he expected someone else to descend. His unease did not go unnoticed. “I was hoping we could continue our discussion from earlier,” he said at last, lowering himself into the chair opposite her.Cassandra raised an eyebrow, her lips pressing into a thin line. “Haven’t we already discussed this matter thoroughly?” she asked, a hint of impatience creeping into her voice.Just as Marcus opened his mouth to protest, the soft clink of porcelain announced the arrival of Anica, one of Cassandra’s most trusted—or so she hoped—maids. The woman moved with quiet efficiency, carrying a golden tray adorned with two elegant white teacups, each paired with a delicate saucer. Anica placed one cup in front of Cassandra and the other before Marcus, her movements precise and unobtrusive.Cassandra, however, remained acutely aware of her presence. Despite Anica’s years of loyal service, trust was a fragile commodity in Cassandra’s world. She never allowed herself to fully lower her guard—not with her maids, not with anyone.“That will be all, Anica,” Cassandra said, her tone dismissive but polite.The maid nodded, retreating silently from the room. It wasn’t until Cassandra heard the soft click of the door shutting that she allowed herself to relax, if only slightly. She picked up her teacup, the delicate porcelain warm against her fingertips, and turned her gaze back to Marcus.“I will not allow my shipments to be delayed.” she began, “As much as possible don't ever delay my shipments.” Her voice was firm. “My…customers are very impatient when it comes to shipments and spices. They do not tolerate delays, and neither will I.” Marcus inclined his head in acknowledgment. “Aye, we’ve ensured your shipments are secure and on schedule,” he assured her. Then, leaning forward slightly, he added, “But that’s not the reason I’m here, councilor.”A chill ran down Cassandra’s spine, though she kept her face carefully composed. She had known, of course, that his presence wasn’t simply about logistics. Marcus wasn’t the type to bother her over trivial matters.“We need to talk about your daughter, Adeline,” he said, his tone grave.For a moment, Cassandra’s breath hitched, but she quickly masked her reaction with a polite smile. The teacup in her hand felt heavier than it should, but she lifted it to her lips regardless, sipping as though she had all the time in the world. Her free hand, however, clenched into a fist against the armrest of her chair.“Of course,” she said smoothly, though her mind was already racing. What does he know? What has he uncovered? And, more importantly, how far will I go to protect my family this time?“During my team's recent visit to the Underground,” Marcus began, “I heard… rumors.” He said. “Rumors about your daughter’s presence there.”Cassandra’s stomach twisted, but she forced herself to remain calm. She exhaled a bitter laugh. “Rumors,” she echoed, her voice cool. “Surely you don’t take gossip from the Underground at face value, Marcus.” He hesitated, his gaze flickering with uncertainty. “It’s only a matter of time before the other council members hear the same whispers,” he pressed. “And when they do, questions will be asked—questions about what-or-why was Adeline Kiramman in the Undercity, you know–we know she was banished to Noxus in the first place,” he clasps his hand in front of him. “And you know what will happen if they find out about it. Especially Camille.” “Marcus,” Cassandra said, her tone laced with warning. “You said it yourself: these are nothing but rumors. Unsubstantiated hearsay from the very people who thrive on lies and deceit,” she exclaimed, as she tried to hide her reaction to him by simply drinking her tea. “Where, exactly, did you hear this nonsense?” Marcus shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his fingers tightening around his hand. “Some workers in an establishment,” he admitted reluctantly.Cassandra arched an eyebrow, her suspicion sharpening. “And, which establishment is it?” she demanded, her eyes never leaving Marcus, not even for a second. Marcus chewed the inside of his cheeks, as though he were debating whether to answer, or it was best to tell her. He didn't know if it would help the situation. It would cost his reputation and his image. Finally, he slowly sighed, setting his teacup down on the marble coffee table. “A brothel,” he said, his voice low.The word hung in the air like a thunderclap. Cassandra’s eyes widened, her composure cracking for the first time. “A brothel?” she repeated, her voice rising in disbelief and disgust. She stops stroking her tea with her spoon. She couldn't believe what she just heard–and she didn't want to either. “What kind of nonsense is this?! You mean to tell me that you’ve based these ridiculous accusations on the word of… of brothel workers?” Cassandra fumed. “Do you realize how absurd this sounds, Marcus?...You expect me to believe that the people who frequently work in such a…place like that could possibly know anything about my daughter?!”Marcus flinched at the venom in her tone, but he didn’t retreat. “I don’t take every rumor at face value, Councilor,” he said cautiously, the weight of his words deliberate. “But these whispers—they’re persistent. When stories echo through the Undercity’s alleys and climb their way to Piltover’s gilded halls, it’s only a matter of time before they’re treated as fact.”Cassandra set her teacup down with a careful, measured grace, though the storm inside her threatened to burst free. “So you come into my home, slandering my family’s name on the strength of gutter gossip?” she shot back, her voice edged with icy disdain. “Do you have any proof, Marcus, or is this merely idle speculation from the mouths of brothel workers?” She leaned forward, her eyes narrowing into slits. “And forgive my curiosity, but why, exactly, were you and your men in such an establishment to begin with?”The accusation hung heavily between them, charged with a challenge that Marcus couldn’t easily dismiss.He hesitated, and in that fleeting moment of silence, Cassandra’s heart lifted, a spark of hope igniting in the darkness. Perhaps he’s unsure. Perhaps there’s nothing to these accusations after all.But the resolve in his eyes betrayed him, dousing that hope with a chilling certainty.“Our job is to ensure peace with the Undercity. Besides, I don’t have proof,” he admitted, his voice weighed down by the gravity of his words. “Not yet. But rumors left unchecked can grow teeth. I thought it would be best if you heard it from me first—before this becomes a problem you can’t control.”
Peace? Is that what they call it? Cassandra scoffed inwardly. How exactly does one make peace with the Undercity while indulging themselves in its brothels?
The warning from earlier was clear, but it was the unspoken threat beneath Marcus's words that truly set her on edge.“If the other councilors hear it,” Marcus continued, his tone grim, “it won’t matter whether it’s true or not. They will be forced to investigate… And should Camille catch wind of this? She’ll drag your daughter to Stillwater, banishment be damned.”The mere mention of Camille—ruthless, unwavering Camille—sent a shiver down Cassandra’s spine. Stillwater Prison was no place for her daughter, a living hell from which few emerged unscathed. The thought of Adeline trapped within its walls twisted Cassandra’s stomach into painful knots.She drew a breath, steadying herself as she leaned back in her chair, forcing her composure into place like armor. “If you have no proof, Marcus,” she said, voice hard as steel, “then we have nothing more to discuss. I will not entertain rumors that sully my daughter’s name based on your indiscretions in the Undercity.”He opened his mouth, but Cassandra raised a hand, silencing him.“Should you discover actual evidence,” she continued coldly, “then, and only then, will I grant you another audience.”Marcus inclined his head, though the tension in his shoulders betrayed his frustration. “Understood, Councilor. But I hope, for your sake, that there is nothing to find.”Cassandra’s mind reeled. She carefully closed her eyes, forcing herself not to say whatever cursed words inside her mind out loud and completely lost herself in front of Marcus. She had worked too hard, sacrificed too much, to let whispers from the Undercity threaten everything she’d built.Marcus seemed to be inspecting her reaction. Cassandra slowly opened her eyes. Her voice were cold as steel as she spoke. “Then let me make this clear for you, Marcus. My daughter’s exile to Noxus was final. She's not in the Undercity! She's at Noxus! You're welcome to visit her there if you're not believing every word I'm saying… She has no reason to be in the Undercity, let alone a… a brothel.” She spat her last word with disdain. As if saying those words makes her sick. She stood up from her chair, her presence commanding as she stared at him down. She then clasped her hands together in front of her. “And I will not entertain any further discussion of baseless rumors.”Marcus stood as well, his towering frame imposing but no match for the sheer force of her will. “If that’s your position, Councilor Kiramman. I’ll respect it…for now. But I suggest you look into this yourself, before others do.”“Thank you for bringing this to my attention,” she snapped, her tone cold and formal. “I will handle it from here.” dismissing Marcus entirely. Marcus nodded, though his expression suggested he wasn’t entirely convinced. Without another word, he turned and strode from the room, the echo of his footsteps a stark reminder of the precarious line Cassandra walked.Cassandra’s eyes followed him, her thoughts a whirlwind of fear, anger, and determination.When the door finally closed behind Marcus, Cassandra allowed herself a moment to exhale, her composure momentarily slipping. Her shoulders sagged, and her carefully maintained mask of control cracked, if only for a fleeting second. The flickering light of the fireplace danced across her face, casting shadows that felt heavier than ever.The room, so meticulously arranged to reflect her authority and grace, now felt suffocating, its walls closing in as the weight of Marcus’s words sank deeper. She clenched her fists, her nails digging into her palms as her mind churned.Adeline. Her daughter’s name echoed in her thoughts like a whispered accusation.Rumors, Cassandra reminded herself. Just rumors. Yet, the gnawing unease refused to be silenced. Marcus wasn’t the type to be swayed by idle chatter, and if he had heard these whispers, others surely had as well—or soon would.She slowly moved from her chair, the weight of her gown pulling her down like chains as she paced the length of the living room. Her footsteps were muffled against the thick, fury dark blue rug, but her thoughts thundered in her mind.
I have to act quickly. Decisively.
Adeline had always been her weakness, her soft spot in a world that demanded steel. She had sacrificed so much to protect her, to shield her from the harsh realities of their world. And when the council’s judgment had fallen on her daughter, Cassandra had made the hardest decision of her life: banishment.But now, it seemed even that wasn’t enough.Her gaze drifted to the darkened window, her reflection barely visible in the glass. She stared at the shadowy outline of herself, a woman who had clawed her way to power, who had built a legacy of strength and cunning. And yet, when it came to Adeline, she felt like a desperate mother clinging to the fraying threads of control.Her hands trembled as she pressed them against the windowsill, her breath fogging the glass. She could almost see the paths before her, laid out like a chessboard. Each move was fraught with danger, each decision a potential misstep that could destroy everything she had built.There was one path, though, that loomed darker than the rest. A path she had sworn never to tread again.
Another deal with the devil.
The thought sent a shiver down her spine. She had promised herself—no, vowed—that she would never return to him. The first deal had been dangerous enough, a carefully calculated gamble that had cost her more than she cared to admit. But it had saved her daughter's then, as it could now.And yet, she knew the truth: one deal with the devil was already too much. To make another was to invite ruin. Double-crossing him was tantamount to suicide, a slow, excruciating demise that would ripple through her family, her reputation, her very soul.
But what choice did she have?
She turned from the table near the window, her steps deliberate as she moved to the table tucked into the corner of the room. Her fingers brushed over the rich, hard, light Oakwood table, the table was full of thick old books–neat stacks of correspondence, the symbol of her carefully constructed life. But none of it mattered if this threat went unchecked.Her family’s name. Adeline’s safety. Everything she had fought for hung in the balance.Cassandra sank her lower back into the Oakwood table, her hand resting lightly on her sides. Her mind racing. She could feel the weight of the decision pressing down on her, the gravity of what she was about to consider. To save Adeline, she might have to sell herself to the very forces she had spent years avoiding.Her thoughts turned to him—the devil. Not a literal demon, but a man who might as well have been one. He was powerful, cunning, and ruthless, the kind of man who thrived on desperation and leverage. And Cassandra knew she would be handing him exactly what he wanted to see from her: her desperation.
But I have no other choice.
Her resolve hardened, the fear in her chest transforming into something colder, sharper. If she was going to do this, she would do it on her terms. She would craft a deal so irresistible, so ironclad, that even he couldn’t refuse it.But she would have to tread carefully. One wrong step, one moment of weakness, and the deal could spiral out of her control.Cassandra straightened in her position, her mind beginning to draft the terms even as her stomach churned. She would offer him something he couldn’t resist, but she would guard her family’s secrets with everything she had.For Adeline’s sake, and for the sake of the Kiramman name, she would do what needed to be done. She had clawed her way out of worse before.Her lips pressed into a thin line, determination overtaking the fear that had gripped her moments ago. If it meant saving her daughter, she would sell her soul—or what was left of hers.But this time, she vowed, she would not walk into the deal blindly. This time, the devil would not have the upper hand.The fire crackled softly in the background as Cassandra sat there, alone with her thoughts. The shadows on the walls seemed to stretch and twist, as if mocking her resolve. But she refused to let them sway her.Her mind was made up.Tomorrow, she will write to him. She will set an appointment. But first she needs to attend her council's meeting–just to avoid them getting suspicious of her actions. Especially Salo. And this time, she would make the devil himself bow to her terms.
[ ~°• Silco •°~ ]
The soft creak of the office door pulled Silco’s attention away from the meticulous notes he’d been scribbling. His amber eye flicked upward, narrowing ever so slightly as a familiar figure stepped into the threshold. There she stood—a blue-haired menace with her hands planted firmly on her hips—yet today her usual irreverent grin was replaced by a sullen pout.“You’re up early,” Silco remarked in his gravelly tone, his pen continuing its deliberate scratch across the paper. He made no effort to pause his work; experience had taught him that giving Jinx too much attention when she was in one of her moods was a mistake he couldn’t afford. Jinx, however, was not pleased. In fact, she looked dangerously close to bored, and Silco felt a pang of irritation settle behind his eyes. Boredom, for Jinx, was a dangerous state—one that usually resulted in chaos. Explosions. Endless, nonsensical chatter. And Silco had neither the time nor the patience to endure it today.She leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed as her foot tapped against the floor. “Thought Adeline would be here by now,” Jinx said, her voice carrying an exaggerated drawl of disinterest.At the mere mention of the name, Silco tensed imperceptibly, though he kept his gaze fixed on his papers. A low hum of acknowledgment escaped him—a silent concession that she’d hit a nerve. He hoped, however, that she would let the matter drop. Deep down, he knew better.Clearly unsatisfied with his silence, Jinx huffed and, without waiting for an invitation, sauntered purposefully into the room. Her boots clacked rhythmically against the polished floor as she made her way to his desk. In one fluid motion, she clambered onto its surface, sending a carefully arranged pile of documents scattering in a miniature flurry across the floor.Silco’s pen stuttered to a stop. His jaw tightened visibly as he slowly lifted his gaze to meet hers, the severity of his good eye sharpening into a near-glacial glare. “Jinx,” he said, his tone gentle yet laced with barely concealed fury, “you’re making a mess.”But Jinx, ever the defiant child, only grinned mischievously in response. “Why so grumpy, boss?” she teased, swinging her legs idly as if the disruption were nothing more than a harmless dalliance.He pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling slowly to temper his frustration. “I’m busy,” he muttered, his voice low and terse. Jinx leaned back on her hands, her grin widening as she leaned toward him, her mischievous eyes scanning the room. “Hey,” she said, tilting her head, “isn’t that Adeline’s coat?”Silco froze. His eye darted toward the coat rack near the door, where his dark leather coat was supposed to be hung neatly.Jinx erupted into laughter before Silco could muster a response, throwing her head back as a sharp, almost manic cackle filled the room. She slapped her knee for dramatic effect, her whole body shaking with exaggerated glee. “Oh, you should’ve seen your face!” she howled, her high-pitched laughter grating against the tense silence that had settled moments before.Silco closed his good eye briefly, running a calloused hand over the familiar scars etched into his face in a vain attempt to conceal his mounting exasperation. Despite the predictability of her antics, Jinx always managed to fray the last threads of his patience.“Jinx,” he growled through gritted teeth, his voice low and edged with irritation, “if you’ve come here to waste my time—”“Oh, come on,” Jinx cut in, interrupting him as she sprang upright from her perch. With a careless flick, she sent a loose scrap of paper swirling into the air. “Don’t be so boring! You’re always so serious. No wonder Adeline doesn’t stick around long. You’re like a big ol’ buzzkill.”At the mention of Adeline again, Silco’s eye narrowed dangerously. He leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers as he regarded Jinx with cold calculation.At the mention of Adeline again, Silco’s good eye darkened with something sharp and unreadable. He leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled beneath his chin as he regarded Jinx with cold calculation.“Adeline has responsibilities,” he stated, his voice measured, deliberate. “Unlike you, she understands the value of discipline.”Jinx let out a dramatic gasp, placing a hand over her chest in mock offense. “So do I! I’ve got loads of discipline,” she countered, swinging her legs idly off the edge of his desk. “I just… don’t like using it.” A mischievous grin stretched across her lips, clearly pleased with herself.Silco exhaled sharply through his nose, unimpressed. “That much is evident.”Instead of being deterred, Jinx only leaned in closer, her elbows resting on his desk as she propped her chin in her hands. “Y’know, you get all serious whenever her name comes up,” she mused, tilting her head. “Makes me think someone’s got a liiittle soft spot.”Silco’s expression remained impassive, but Jinx caught the brief flicker of annoyance in his eye. She grinned wider.He turned his attention back to the papers before him, lifting his pen as if to dismiss her entirely. “If you have no purpose here, Jinx,” he said coolly, “I suggest you sit there quietly and stop annoying me. Otherwise, I might just tell Adeline to start spending more of her time with me… rather than with you.”Jinx’s smile faltered for just a second—just long enough for Silco to notice. Then, just as quickly, she scoffed, crossing her arms. “Pfft. Please. Like I’d be jealous of her.”A rare smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. Finally, But Jinx wasn’t done. She leaned closer, invading his personal space as her voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. “What happened yesterday, anyway?” she mused, her mismatched eyes gleaming with mischief. “You’ve been all grumpy since then. And Sevika? Oh, don’t even get me started on her. She’s been acting weird. All tight-lipped and twitchy.” Jinx squinted, tilting her head. “I mean, sure, I did land a good punch on her yesterday, but… She couldn’t even look me in the eye last night.” Jinx thought out loud. Silco stilled, his grip on his pen tightening. The memory of the previous day crept back, unbidden and unwelcome. The confrontation. The tension. The moment of pure lust and pleasure turned into a façade that had been shaken by Sevika. “Nothing that concerns you,” he said curtly, forcing his focus back onto the papers before him. Jinx tilted her head, her curiosity only deepening at his evasiveness. “Hmm. Sure doesn’t look like nothing.” Her sharp gaze studying him like a puzzle she was determined to solve.Her gaze flitted around the room, pausing on the coat rack in the corner. She frowned, noticing the absence of his usual velvet coat. Though her earlier jest about Adeline’s belongings had been a lie, she seemed to realize she’d stumbled onto something real. Silco followed her line of sight, his stomach twisting as he realized what she was looking at—the coat rack.“Wait a second…” she began, her grin fading into something softer, almost thoughtful. “You’re not…” she said, her eyes widening. Silco stomach flipped. The moment he had been avoiding has come. He didn't know how to explain it to her. Didn't know what he would be saying about the incident yesterday. Of course, how can a father explain to her daughter that he is almost having a sex with his assistant, but they were interrupted by his right hand man. And for the record, Jinx almost saw them, if it weren't from Sevika. His pulse thrummed behind his temple. He swallowed hard, his mind already working to spin a lie, a deflection—anything to steer her away from the truth.Jinx squinted at him, studying him like a cat watching a cornered mouse. Then, her expression shifted.“You’re not… mad at her, are you?” she asked slowly.Silco blinked.Relief coursed through him, swift and unexpected.It wasn’t the question he’d been dreading.He seized the opportunity, forcing himself to exhale, to ease the tension from his shoulders.“Mad at her?” he echoed, settling into his chair. He scoffed, tilting his head slightly. “No. There’s nothing to be mad about.”At least, that much was true.Jinx didn’t buy it. Not for a second. Her smirk returned, sharp and knowing, her eyes glinting with mischief. She gasped, clasping her hands together as if she’d just uncovered the grandest of secrets. “Uh-oh,” she teased, dragging out the syllables. “You’re thinking about her, aren’t you?”“Jinx,” he uttered. Her grin stretched wider—almost manic. She leaned in, her voice a singsong whisper. “Silco has a soft spot. Silco has a crush on his assistant!”Silco exhaled sharply. “Jinx.”But she was already throwing her arms into the air, spinning theatrically like she’d just won a prize. “Oh, finally! This is huge! Adeline’s totally gonna move in, isn’t she?” She shot him a cheeky grin. “She’ll be here all the time! Dad, you can’t hide it now!”Silco’s eye twitched“Oh, finally!” she crowed, throwing her arms into the air like she’d just won a prize. “Adeline’s gonna move in, isn’t she? She’ll be here all the time, Dad! You can’t hide it now!” she smiled. “Why didn't you tell me?!” Silco pinched the bridge of his nose, his patience fraying with each word that spilled from her mouth. “Jinx,” he repeated, more firmly this time. “I don’t have a ‘soft spot,’ nor do I have any intention of entertaining this nonsense conversation.”But Jinx just laughed, “Fine, fine, keep your secrets. But you might wanna work on that scowl, boss. It’s a dead giveaway.” she said. “Don’t worry—I won’t tell her. Yet.” She winked. Silco caught himself before he could launch into an argument—he knew fighting with Jinx was like arguing with a tempest. Slowly and deliberately, he looked up at her, his gaze sharp and unamused. “Must you?” he muttered, his voice low and threaded with irritation.Jinx only smirked in response, casually leaning back and swinging her legs as if she’d never heard his protest. “Yup. Can’t let you work yourself to death, boss. Gotta keep things lively,” she quipped.With a casual air, she reached for something on his desk—a gleaming gold syringe. Silco’s eyes followed her hand, and his irritation softened into weary resignation. He sighed deeply, setting his pen aside as if to tether the last strands of his dwindling patience.Grinning mischievously, Jinx held up the syringe so its polished surface caught the low light. “Time for your daily poke,” she announced cheerfully. With a playful hop off the desk, she circled him like a cat toying with its prey.Silco leaned back into his chair, his shoulders tensing yet obedient. This ritual was one they both knew too well. He despised the vulnerability it forced upon him—this dependence on the shimmering liquid that coursed through his veins—but he loathed the alternative even more.Jinx positioned herself directly in front of him, her mismatched eyes dancing with mischief as she gently cupped his chin with her small hand. Her grip was firm but not harsh, tilting his head ever so slightly upward so she could achieve the perfect angle.“Hold still,” she instructed, her tone unusually focused—a rare seriousness surfacing amidst her usual chaotic energy.For a moment, Silco locked his good eye on hers, narrowing it as he braced himself. Then, he settled into stillness, allowing the cool metal of the syringe to meet the scarred edges of his ruined eye. The first sting came quickly—a sharp, precise prick that sent a jolt of pain rippling through his skull. Silco gritted his teeth, letting out a low grunt as the violet liquid began to seep into the damaged tissue.Jinx’s hands never wavered. Her playful demeanor gave way to an almost unsettling focus as she completed the injection, ensuring every drop of the shimmering liquid was administered. With a flourish, she pulled the syringe away and twirled it between her fingers like it were a prized trinket.“Done!” she declared, stepping back with a satisfied grin.Silco exhaled slowly, reaching up to wipe away the small trace of violet liquid that had leaked from his eye. The shimmer’s heat flared briefly before melding into the familiar hum that pulsed under his skin. Straightening his posture in his chair as if reclaiming control, he regarded Jinx with a measured calm. “Don't you think Adeline should be doing this instead of me?” she teased, shrugging as she plopped herself back onto the edge of his desk. “After all, she’s your assistant.”Silco knew exactly what game Jinx was playing. He rolled his good eye, his fingers drumming idly against the armrest of his chair. “I don’t need her for this kind of treatment,” he said curtly, dismissing the jab with practiced indifference.“Mhm, yeah,” Jinx hummed, a teasing lilt in her voice. “Almost forgot you have other treatments with her,” she added with a wink and a bright, impish smile.Silco resisted the urge to argue; he refused to let her see even a hint of satisfaction. Instead, he offered a low chuckle that barely reached his eyes. In truth, he despised how dependent he had become. The shimmer that coursed through his veins kept him alive—but at a cost. Every dose was a stark reminder of his fragility and the perilous consequences of his ambition.And yet, as much as he resented the ritual, he allowed it. Jinx was the only one he trusted with such a delicate task—her uncanny blend of recklessness and precision made her uniquely suited for it.After a long, measured pause, Jinx leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees as she fixed him with an uncharacteristic look of sincerity. “You know,” she began softly, her voice dropping to something quieter, “you don’t have to look so grumpy all the time. Sometimes, you just have to show your soft spot for someone. Not just for me…but for her. For Adeline.”Silco’s good eye snapped up to meet her gaze. His expression was unreadable, yet every muscle in his face tensed with caution. For a long moment, silence stretched between them like a fragile thread. Finally, he leaned back in his chair, and for just an instant, a shadow of a smirk flickered at the corner of his mouth. “It’s easy to say, child,” he replied, his voice low and measured, “but far more dangerous to do. Once you show weakness, the world will use it against you.”Jinx tilted her head, caught between defiance and doubt. “I don’t think Adeline is like that,” she murmured, her voice trembling just enough to betray uncertainty. “She doesn’t seem like a threat–not to us. Not to…you.”Silco’s lips twitched into something resembling a humorless smile. “Always remember, Jinx: a wolf can wear the skin of a sheep to confound its prey. It takes true cunning to see through their disguise.”“Arghhh I know,” Jinx muttered, her gaze falling to the floor. Her small hands fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, exposing a rare moment of vulnerability in the usually irreverent girl. “It’s just… I don’t think she’s like that. I mean, sure, she’s sharp and all, but I don’t think she’d—Ohh! I don’t even know!”He softly smiled. “One day, you will,” He said quietly. For a man as calculated and composed as he was, a flicker of warmth softened his tone—fleeting, but unmistakable.Jinx’s big blue eyes met him once more, and in a voice barely above a whisper, she asked, “Do you…like her?”Silco froze. The question was unexpected, sharp—a direct challenge that cut through the carefully constructed walls of his composure. Like her? The word reverberated in his mind, absurd and yet all too real. For a moment, his world narrowed to that single query, leaving him to confront emotions he had long kept at bay.His mind raced, tangled in a web of thoughts he had long avoided. Adeline was more than just an assistant—far more. She challenged him in ways no one else dared, her presence both a storm and a sanctuary. With a sharp tongue that cut through his defenses and a quiet strength that grounded him, she was an enigma he found himself unwilling—perhaps even unable—to resist.He pressed his lips together, inhaling deeply before speaking. “Like is a poor choice of words,” he said, his voice measured, deliberate. “Let’s say…I admire her boldness and wit. Adeline is…well, she’s intelligent, resourceful, skilled, and…”Jinx tilted her head, her grin creeping back into place. “And…beautiful?” she prodded, her voice laced with teasing but her eyes gleaming with genuine curiosity.Silco hesitated just long enough for the silence to stretch between them. He exhaled slowly, tilting his head ever so slightly. “Yes,” he admitted, quieter now, almost as if the word was a reluctant truth pulled from the depths of his thoughts. “Yes, she’s beautiful.”Jinx’s face lit up with unrestrained glee, as if she had just uncovered the world’s greatest secret. “Ha! I knew it!” she exclaimed, hopping to her feet with an energy that instantly shattered the tension in the room. “Good! That’s all I needed to hear.” She spun on her heel, practically skipping toward the door.Silco watched her go, his good eye narrowing slightly. Just as she reached the threshold, he spoke again, his voice cutting through her jubilant escape.“Jinx.” He called after her. She paused mid-stride, turning to face him with wide, expectant eyes. “Yeah?”His expression remained impassive, but his words were deliberate. “Try to keep Adeline company this morning. I imagine you’ve missed her.”Jinx blinked once before her grin widened into something almost childlike, her blue eyes alight with excitement. “Really?!”He nodded, a small, almost imperceptible gesture.Without warning, she bolted back across the room and flung herself at him, wrapping her arms tightly around his shoulders. Silco stiffened, caught entirely off guard. Affection—genuine, unrestrained affection—was not something he was accustomed to, not anymore. He hesitated, then slowly raised a hand, resting it lightly against her back in a rare, fleeting moment of warmth.The embrace was brief but oddly grounding. As much as Jinx’s chaos tested his patience, her loyalty and care were an anchor in the storm of his life.“Thanks, Dad,” Jinx chirped, pulling away with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure she doesn’t run away. She’ll have so much fun!”Silco arched a brow, the corner of his mouth twitching upward ever so slightly. “Don’t scare her off, Jinx.”“No promises!” she sang as she bounded toward the door. With a click, it closed behind her, leaving Silco alone once more.For a long moment, Silco sat motionless, his temple resting against his knuckles as he stared at the empty space Jinx had vacated. The quiet in her absence was deafening, pressing against him like a weight rather than offering any semblance of peace.His fingers drummed a slow, steady rhythm against the desk. Jinx’s words still echoed in his mind, needling at him like a persistent itch he couldn’t scratch.
A soft spot? For Adeline?
Ridiculous.And yet, his thoughts betrayed him.They wandered—unbidden, unwelcome—to her. To the sharp glint in her eyes when she challenged him, never foolish enough to overstep but bold enough to remind him she was no pawn on his chess board. To the way she moved, composed and deliberate, a stark contrast to the chaos that surrounded them both. To the way her touch had lingered, just for a fraction too long, during their last encounter.He exhaled sharply, shaking his head. This was a dangerous road to tread. He only meant to break her–not him breaking his own. Dependence was weakness. And weakness was a luxury he could not afford.He had built his empire on control—control of Zaun, control of his men, control of himself. Every decision, every action, every calculated word was a move in a larger game. He could not afford to falter, not even for a moment.And yet, Adeline was beginning to feel like a crack in that foundation. He couldn't get off this feeling of losing himself. He too would want to, but is afraid to show it as his own ruin will be used against him—this feeling of longing and…lust! Adeline is just a mere distraction—a distraction he needed. Silco leaned forward, bracing his forearms against the desk. His gaze fell to the scattered papers before him, reports that needed his attention, plans that required his precision. This was what mattered. Not fleeting thoughts. Not foolish distractions.But no matter how much he tried to force his focus elsewhere, his mind betrayed him once more.He thought of yesterday.Of the tension between them, the heat, the way her breath had hitched when he had leaned in just a little too close. The way his own resolve had nearly wavered. The moment had been fleeting—interrupted before it could spiral into something irreversible—but it had left its mark.And worse, Sevika had seen it.Silco clenched his jaw, inhaling sharply through his nose as if that alone could rid him of the thoughts creeping into his mind like a slow-acting poison.He had been careless. He had let something slip—something that should never have existed in the first place.And yet, he couldn’t help himself.
She was too damn irresistible.
God, those sleeveless tops she always wore, fabric clinging to her frame in ways that tested his restraint. Those tight leggings that left nothing to the imagination, teasing every line, every curve. It was maddening.
It was infuriating.
Because all he had wanted to do in that very moment—when she stood so close to him, her voice a hushed murmur, her breath ghosting against his skin—was to grip her by the waist and rip those leggings from her.And her scent—fuck! That faint trace of something floral and warm, mixed with the ever-present hint of ink and parchment, had buried itself into his senses. It haunted him. He could still smell it, even now. Even in her absence, it lingered, taunting him like a whisper against his skin.Dirty thoughts came flooding inside his head, and he allowed it. Imagining her sitting on his lap, and having nothing on gorgeous body, feeling her warm thighs on him, his own thoughts were driving him to madness.He shut his eyes, just for a second, letting the image of her seep into his mind. Even though he tried to push his thoughts away, the incident yesterday came flooding inside his mind. Her, pressed against him, perched on his lap, skin bare and inviting beneath his touch. The way her lips would part, the way her breath would hitch—Silco exhaled sharply through his nose, cutting the thought off before it could spiral further. His fingers curled into a fist against the desk, nails pressing into his palm.
This is absurd.
Silco steepled his fingers, staring blankly at the papers before him, though he hadn’t read a single word in the past few minutes. His mind was elsewhere—on her. To Adeline.
Damn it all.
Adeline was useful. Essential, even. She was sharp, efficient, and calculated. A rare breed of competence that made his life infinitely easier. Having her under his employ was an advantage he had no intention of losing.
That was all.
That had to be all.
And yet, there were moments—dangerous, fleeting moments—where he could feel the lie twisting in his gut. Where he caught himself watching her for too long, listening too intently, allowing his thoughts to stray into places they had no business being. He had spent years ensuring that nothing—no one—could be used against him. That every potential weakness was either removed or reshaped into something he could control.
Adeline could not be an exception.
He would not let her be an exception.Silco exhaled slowly, rolling his shoulders in an attempt to dispel the tension coiling in his muscles. He was a man of discipline. A man who had built his empire on control, on calculated risks, on knowing precisely when to push and when to hold back.And yet, the thought of her—of having her—made control feel like a fragile thing, slipping between his fingers before he could tighten his grip.
It wasn't a weakness.
It couldn’t be.
He refused to name it as such. Refused to acknowledge the way she lingered in his thoughts, how the very scent of her had embedded itself into his senses.Adeline was a tool, a means to an end. He reminded himself. And if she ever became anything more than that—… He’d have to make a choice. Silco reclined against the leather of his couch, fingers idly sifting through the small collection of cigars in his grasp. The scent of burnt tobacco and faint traces of whiskey clung to the air, mingling with the ever-present tang of oil and damp stone. In his other hand, a sheaf of papers rested against his knee, though he had long since stopped reading them.A knock at the door broke through the silence.Silco didn’t bother to look up. Sevika knows better than to let in anyone unimportant. He took a slow, deliberate drag from his cigar before exhaling through his nose, the tendrils of smoke curling in the dim light.“Come in,” he murmured.The heavy oak door swung open, and at last, he lifted his gaze. As expected, Sevika stood in the doorway, her imposing frame blocking out most of the light from the hall. But it was the man behind her that drew Silco’s attention.The blue and gold uniform was unmistakable, as was the gas mask covering his face. Even without seeing his features, Silco could feel the tension radiating from him—the nervous energy of a man balancing on the edge of a blade.Marcus.The enforcer stepped inside, boots scuffing slightly against the floor as he moved toward the chair in front of Silco’s coffee table. With a practiced efficiency, he removed his mask, revealing a face paler than usual, his jaw tight with unease.Silco observed him for a moment, fingers tapping lazily against the armrest. Beside him, Sevika moved without a sound, taking her usual position at his side—watchful, silent, but ever-present.Silco took another slow drag from his cigar before speaking. “Well?” His voice, smooth as oil, carried a quiet command. “What news from the topside?”Marcus swallowed the lump on his throat. “The council members haven't been informed about her presence here,” he reported, his voice steadier than his posture.Silco hummed in approval, the sound low and thoughtful. “Good,” he uttered.He shifted slightly, crossing one leg over the other and resting his free hand along the back of the couch in a display of effortless control. The enforcer’s discomfort was plain as day, and Silco savored it. A man like Marcus—caged by his own choices, squirming under the weight of obligation—was a useful pawn, but a pawn nonetheless. It’s funny how Marcus would avert his gaze every time Silco would look straight into his eyes. It was too intimidating to watch—Silco’s presence was enough to scare a man. Marcus hesitated, then spoke again, his voice edged with concern. “I don’t know how long we can keep this from them. The other council members are getting suspicious—they’re talking about bringing Camille back.”At that, Silco’s brow lifted slightly.Camille, Now that was interesting.His fingers tapped against his knee as he considered the implications. Camille was a ghost of the past, a relic of Piltover’s ruthless efficiency. If the council was even considering her return, it meant they were growing uneasy—grasping for stability where they feared it was slipping.“Let them talk,” Silco said smoothly, exhaling another plume of smoke. “Talk is cheap. Actions, however… those are expensive.” He leaned forward slightly, gaze sharp as a knife. “And convincing them not to act? That’s your job, isn’t it, Marcus?”Marcus stiffened. “I am doing everything I can,” he said—too quickly. “If that were true, they wouldn’t be thinking about bringing back Camille,” Silco countered, his tone silken but cutting. Marcus clenched his jaw. For a moment, Silco could see the frustration brewing behind his eyes, the desire to push back, to insist that he wasn’t failing. But Marcus knew better. Knew that arguing would do him no good. So instead of arguing, he swallowed his pride along with whatever words he might have said. “… I spoke to Councilor Kiramman last night,” Marcus admitted. That piqued Silco’s interest. He arched his brow. “And?” Marcus hesitated, then let out a breath. “She bought it. She believes every word I say. It worked.” Marcus exclaimed. “Expect her to visit you within the fortnight. I assume she’ll be proposing a deal with you this time.” A slow, knowing smirk ghosted across Silco’s lips. Of course. There was always a deal to be made. A price to be paid. Silco let the silence settle, allowing Marcus to squirm under its weight.“Very good,” Silco finally said, his voice smooth as silk. “Well done, Marcus.” His smirk lingered, a thin, knowing thing. “This is the best report I've heard from you today.” He added, a touch of mockery in his voice.It was a subtle jab, but one that landed. Marcus merely nodded, his shoulders stiff, his hands clenching against his knees. The man was wound too tightly, as always. Fear and obligation kept him tethered, made him pliable. Silco preferred it that way.“Our bargain?” Marcus intoned, his voice controlled, though Silco could hear the hesitation beneath it.
Ah. There it is.
The man was afraid to name his price aloud, as if doing so might shatter the illusion of control he clung to so desperately.Silco didn’t answer right away. Instead, he turned his gaze lazily to the side, giving Sevika the smallest nod. He didn’t need to explain. She knew what to do.She didn’t need further instruction. Without a word, she strode toward his desk, her metal arm glinted in the dim light, her heavy boots thudding softly against the floor. She reached for the red velvet pouch resting atop the polished wood.Sevika stopped behind him, looming like a storm cloud.Marcus tensed as she moved behind him. Silco noticed the way his fingers twitched, his back stiffening ever so slightly. The man was always on edge, like a stray dog never sure if the hand reaching for it would feed or strike.And then—without warning—Sevika didn’t spare him a glance. With a deliberate motion, she let the pouch drop into his lap.The weight of it landed with a distinct clunk, the unmistakable sound of coins scraping together.Marcus reacted instinctively, hands darting to steady it before it could slip. His fingers gripped the velvet tightly, hesitating for a moment before pulling the drawstrings apart.His gaze dropped to the contents inside.Silco watched as Marcus’s expression flickered—first relief, then confusion.The sum was larger than expected. Far larger.“You deserve it,” Silco remarked, his tone light, almost dismissive. He took another drag from his cigar, savoring the slow burn of the tobacco.But Marcus did not relax.Silco blew the smoke out—slow and deliberate, allowing the moment to stretch. Then, in a voice as smooth as the smoke curling from his lips, he remarked, “That is more than we agreed upon.”Marcus’s brow furrowed slightly. Gold. Not silver. But gold. Not just his usual cut—more. Far more.Marcus swallowed. This should have pleased him, should have been a relief, but instead, it sent an uneasy ripple down his spine.Silco saw it in the way his jaw tightened, the way his fingers curled slightly against the pouch as if weighing its true cost.
Good. He should be suspicious.
Excess generosity was rarely a kindness. It was a calculation. A game. And nothing comes for free. Silco leaned forward slightly, elbows resting on his knees, his cigar held between his fingers. He studied the enforcer, letting the moment stretch.“You seem troubled, Marcus,” he mused. “Did it not suit your expectations?” Marcus quickly shook his head. “No. I just… didn’t expect this much.” Marcus knew—he knew how these things worked—knew that men like Silco never gave anything freely. If there was more money, it meant there was more expectation. More control.Silco hummed, “A man in your position should learn to enjoy rewards when they come.”Marcus’ throat bobbed as he swallowed. His fingers tightened around the pouch before slipping it inside his uniform.“You have my gratitude,” he said carefully.Silco exhaled smoke and tilted his head ever so slightly, a lazy, predatory amusement flickering in his sharp eye.“Of course,” Silco murmured. “Just remember, Marcus—this isn’t generosity. It’s an investment. And I expect my investments to yield… returns.” Marcus’s stomach twisted. He held his gaze for a beat longer than usual before nodding stiffly.Sevika smirked from her place beside Silco, arms crossed over her chest. “Run along now, Marcus.” she said, her tone laced with amusement.Marcus pushed himself up from the chair, adjusting his uniform as if trying to shake off the weight of the conversation.Silco watched him leave, his smirk lingering.The enforcer was useful. And like any mongrel fed from the master's table, the more Silco fed him, the fatter he became—comfortable, complacent, and utterly dependent.But Silco understood hunger. A starving man was dangerous, unpredictable, willing to bite the hand that denied him. Hunger drove men to desperation, to recklessness. It made them foolish.No, Silco had no intention of letting Marcus starve—not yet. He would keep him well-fed, just enough to make him crave more, just enough to ensure that the thought of losing his place at the table terrified him more than anything else. Because Silco knew Marcus was ambitious, he knew Marcus too well. Silco knew that the moment he stopped feeding Marcus, the man would have no choice but to crawl, to beg, to bare his throat in submission. And when that time came, there would be no need for bribes, no need for whispered threats.By then, Marcus would understand.There was no escaping the leash once it tightened.And when that moment arrived, Marcus would have no choice but to obey. Not out of loyalty. Not out of duty.But because starvation was far worse than servitude. … Silco exhaled slowly, watching the tendrils of smoke curl and dissipate against the dim light of his office.The moment Marcus had slinked out, tail between his legs, Silco had moved, restless energy thrumming beneath his skin. He strolled toward his desk with practiced ease, his cigar balanced lazily between his fingers. Settling into his high-backed chair, he drummed his free hand against the polished wood, letting his mind weave through the possibilities.Everything was in motion. Every piece carefully set on his chess board, the game unfolding exactly as he had envisioned. Yet, the moment a plan begins to bear fruit is also the moment it becomes most fragile.It was the nature of power—one never truly held it, only borrowed it for as long as they could maintain control.And then there was her.Adeline. The unforeseen complication.Silco narrowed his good eye, staring at the deep amber glow of his cigar’s burning tip. Any obstacle to his vision, to his dominion over Zaun, was swiftly eliminated. He had done it before, and he would do it again.But Adeline was not so easily discarded.Sevika’s voice pulled him from his thoughts. “You were right to trust him.”He tilted his head slightly, acknowledging her words but not breaking his train of thought.“Marcus is no fool. He understands how my games work.” His voice was smooth, measured. “He wouldn’t risk his daughter’s head for… stupidity.”Sevika scoffed. “Yeah, well, I never thought he had the guts to go through with it.”“He’ll do anything I say if he wants to be Sheriff. And he does. Desperately.” Silco took another long drag, letting the smoke slither from his lips like a whisper of amusement. His words echoed in his mind. Power is a funny thing. It makes men believe they have control, when in reality, it is only a leash they’re too blind to see.Sevika hesitated. “So… are you sure about this?”His eye flicked toward her, the edge in her tone piqued his curiosity. He had chosen his inner circle carefully, but even the most loyal needed to be reminded of their place.“I don’t need to elaborate every detail of our plan,” he said coolly, rolling his cigar between his long fingers. “We’ll stick to it.”“And… her?”There it was.She was asking about Adeline.He turned away from her, his gaze drifting toward the massive green-tinted window overlooking the city. Zaun. His Zaun.“No,” he finally said, his voice quiet but firm. “For now, we need her. We need her trust and competence.”Sevika didn’t immediately reply, but he could feel her skepticism hanging in the air like a blade waiting to drop.Slowly, he turned his chair back toward her, catching the way her brows pinched slightly.“I’m merely using her, if that’s what you’re wondering.” His lips curled into a smirk, his tone laced with amusement. “Besides, why waste such an opportunity? She’s… quite open-minded. And, well, lovely.” Sevika rolled her eyes. The previous night incident came flooding inside her head. She tried to shrug it off. It made her uncomfortable, and embarrassed at the same time. “And if the woman finally flipped? What then?”Silco held her gaze, unbothered.“She won’t.” he replied. Sevika exhaled sharply, unconvinced.“You heard it from Marcus,” Silco continued. “Mrs. Kiramman is desperate. We’ve backed her into a corner again, and desperate people make for easy negotiations. She’ll be back, crawling, proposing a deal for her precious daughter.”Sevika’s jaw tensed. “And if she does find evidence against us? From the ambush?”Silco let out a low chuckle. “Then I’ll expose her.”“And if that doesn’t work?”He leaned back, his smirk widening. “Then we revert to the old ways. Kill her. Kill the lot of her family—end the Kiramman bloodline.”Sevika’s frown deepened. “And Adeline? Making her your personal assistant is a risk. If she starts digging, starts putting the pieces together…”She let the words hang in the air, waiting for his reaction.Silco shifted his hold on his cigar. He wasn’t surprised by her concern—Sevika had always been cautious, always looking for cracks before they could turn into something irreparable.But Silco?
No.
He welcomed the game.
He leaned back in his chair, fingers playing with his cigar as he studied her. “If she starts finding evidence, then I’ll know before she even realizes what she has.” His lips curled into a knowing smirk. “And by then, it will already be too late for her.”Sevika’s expression remained unreadable, but he could see the doubt simmering beneath the surface. “You trust her too much.”Silco chuckled, low and amused. “Trust?” He exhaled a slow stream of smoke, his good eye gleaming in the dim light. “No, I don’t trust her. I study her. I guide her.” He tapped his cigar on his table to make a point. “I give her just enough to feel important, just enough to keep her from turning against me. She thinks she’s making her own choices, but really…” He flicked the ash from his cigar, his smirk deepening. “… I’m the one making them for her.”Sevika leaned forward slightly. “And if you’re wrong?”Silco let out a quiet laugh. “Then she’ll learn the hard way what happens to those who step out of line.” His voice was calm, unshaken—because that was the truth of it. If Adeline was smart, she would play her role without question. If she wasn’t? Well, he had always believed in efficiency when it came to consequences, and Silco doesn't show mercy to those people who dared push his limits too far. Silco exhaled a slow stream of smoke, watching it rise. “She is a means to an end, Sevika. If it comes to it, I’ll deal with her myself.” he reassured. The words came easily, as if they meant nothing. But they weren’t nothing.Adeline was far too entangled now, her influence spreading like ink through the cracks of his foundation. She had a way of getting under his skin, of challenging him in ways few dared to. She was useful. Sharp. Dangerous.But not dangerous enough.Not yet.Still, he doubted Cassandra would be reckless enough to work against him. Not when he held the most valuable piece on the board—her daughter.Silco let out a quiet chuckle. “If Mrs. Kiramman does decide to turn against me… well, then I’ll use her beloved daughter against her.”Sevika’s gaze darkened. “How?”His smirk deepened. “You’ll see.”A flicker of something unreadable crossed her face.And then, she spoke again—hesitant, almost reluctant.“Jinx…”Silco’s brow furrowed slightly. “What about her?”“She…” Sevika exhaled sharply, crossing her arms. “She’s grown attached to Adeline. If you kill her, it’ll take more than an apology to calm her nerves down.”Silco didn’t immediately respond.He knew Jinx better than anyone. He knew her mind, the way it fractured and mended itself in strange, chaotic patterns. Her loyalty was unwavering, but Jinx was unpredictable.Sevika wasn’t wrong. If Adeline was removed, Jinx would notice. She would question. And that, more than anything, could become a problem.Silco hummed, taking another drag of his cigar, letting the silence stretch between them.Then, at last, he spoke.“That, Sevika… is a bridge I’ll cross when I get to it.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
*********The Last Drop was thick with smoke and the stench of cheap liquor—the kind that clung to the walls and seeped into the bones of those who lingered too long in its decaying embrace. The murmur of drunken conversation, the scrape of dice against wood, the occasional burst of laughter—it all wove together into the steady rhythm of Zaun’s underbelly.Until the door creaked open.The noise stuttered, not quite dying, but shifting. A pause. A hesitation.Dice tumbled to a stop. Cards hanging in their hands. A smuggler at the back of the room tightened his grip on his coin purse. The bruiser near the bar, a towering man with a jaw that had been broken one too many times, flexed his fingers.Two figures stepped inside.Their deep blue coats, lined with gold embroidery, stood in sharp contrast against the grime and rust of Zaun. The rich fabric clung to their frames in sharp, tailored cuts—too clean, too precise. But it wasn’t just their clothes that made the room tense.It was the gas masks. Sleek. Mechanical. Utterly out of place.The air thickened.The Last Drop had an unspoken understanding—outsiders were unwelcome. And nothing screamed “outsider” quite like someone who reeked of Piltover.A whisper passed between two smugglers at the back. A woman nursing a bruised jaw slowly shifted her chair, her hand brushing against the hilt of a knife strapped to her thigh.The two figures moved forward.Their boots struck the wooden floorboards with deliberate weight, each step carving a path through the sea of wary gazes. The taller one walked with purpose, her posture steady, while the smaller figure behind her hesitated—just for a moment—before pressing forward.They reached the bar.The smaller figure fumbled onto the stool, nearly slipping before catching themselves.A low chuckle broke the silence.Behind the bar stood a broad-shouldered man, his presence as solid as the city around him. A thick, scruffy beard framed his weathered face, and graying brown hair hung in loose, careless strands. He looked like a man who had seen everything the world had to offer—and remained unimpressed.He crossed his arms, leaning against the counter with an air of patient curiosity. His sharp eyes, shadowed beneath thick brows, swept over the newcomers with slow deliberation. “What can I get you?” His voice was deep, gravelly, carrying the weight of someone who had lived too many years in Zaun’s filth.A moment passed. Before the taller figure reached up and unfastened her gas mask with practiced ease. The sound of metal releasing echoed faintly. When she removed it, the dim barlight caught on sharp features, the hard lines of experience etched into her face. Blue eyes, piercing and calculating, scanned the room before settling on the bartender.
Sheriff Grayson.
Her piercing blue eyes met the bartender’s. There was steel in them, but also exhaustion, as if she had carried the weight of the world for far too long.“A double shot of whiskey for me,” she said, her voice hoarse but firm.The bartender grunted, nodding. “Comin’ right up.”As he turned to pour the drink, Grayson let her gaze shift sideways. The smaller figure beside her remained unmoving, their own gas mask still firmly in place. The sheriff exhaled softly through her nose, a slight smile tugging at her lips.“It’s alright,” she murmured, voice softer now. “You can take off your mask.”The person beside her stiffened but made no move to comply. Instead, they shook their head—Firm. Absolute.Grayson let out a quiet chuckle, shaking her head slightly. Still Stubborn, she thought to herself. Her face, lined with years of experience, was calm, unreadable. But her sharp blue eyes held an edge as they swept across the room, taking in every gaze, every potential threat.She pulled out a barstool next to her companion and finally sank onto it with the kind of confidence that said she knew exactly where she was and didn’t give a damn if anyone had a problem with it.The bartender returned, setting a glass in front of her with a faint clink. As he straightened, his sharp eyes flicked toward the silent figure beside her.And he watched.The way she sat too still. The way her gloved hands remained tense in her lap.He took out his metallic pipe and lit it up with his matches and took a slow drag from his metallic pipe, letting the smoke curl from his lips before finally speaking again. “Who's this?” He asked. “New one of yours?” He added as he studied the person who didn't even move an inch to her seat. Grayson hummed. “She's one of my kids that I've been telling you about,” she answered, swirling her whiskey in the glass.“You mute, kid?” he finally asked, leaning against the bar. His tone was rough, but not unkind. “Or just hiding an ugly mug under there?”Grayson let out an amused snort.“She’s just quiet,” she replied for her, though the smirk tugging at her lips suggested she was more than happy to let the exchange play out. The bartender huffed. “Quiet, huh?” He tilted his head. “What’s wrong, lass? Got nothin’ to say? Or just don’t like the air down here?”Nothing.Then, in a sharp motion, she moved.The straps of her mask were yanked free. The gas mask hit the bar with a dull thud.Long, wavy blue hair spilled over her shoulders.And then there were her eyes…Deep blue, burning bright with something sharp and hot.Fury.Vander didn’t react at first. Didn’t speak. Didn’t move. He just… watched.Because now that he could see her, he knew.She wasn’t just some enforcer.She was young, too young for the job. She was tense, ready to snap like a pulled wire. And she wasn’t afraid. No, she was angry.“Well,” he muttered, tapping his pipe against the bar again. “Ain’t you full of surprises.”She squared her shoulders, her jaw tightening. “You might be big,” she said, voice edged like a blade, “but I can take you.”A beat of silence.Then the bartender exhaled a slow chuckle, shaking his head. “Oh, I wouldn’t if I were you, girl,” he mused, tapping the ash from his pipe. The girl didn’t respond. She simply stared, her jaw tight, her hands curling into fists atop her lap.Grayson placed a hand on her arm, a grounding touch. “Relax kid,” she murmured. “He’s just running his mouth.” she chuckled. The bartender’s lips twitched. “Besides, It wouldn’t be wise to threaten the guy who pours the drinks, right?” His voice is deep and rough, carrying an amused, gravelly warmth. There’s a slight chuckle in his tone, the kind that makes it clear he’s teasing, but not unkindly.And just like that, she realized.This wasn’t just some bartender.This was Vander.The Hound of the Undercity.The man they were supposed to meet. The name that carried weight in every darkened alley and hushed conversation. The one who owned this place.Adeline’s fingers twitched at her sides.
Shit!
But Vander? He was already shifting his focus—to Grayson.“Didn’t know you started a job in babysitting,” His tone was easy, amused, but when his gaze flicked back to Adeline, something in his expression changed.Grayson took a slow sip of her whiskey. “Figured she could use some fresh air.”Vander snorted, arms folding across his broad chest. “Fresh air’s hard to come by down here.”Then came the pause. The flicker of recognition.His teasing demeanor faded, replaced by something quieter. Something unreadable. His sharp gaze studied her—deep lines etching his face, exhaustion lingering beneath the surface, but his eyes…They knew her.No smirk. No jest.Just a slow, knowing smile.And then—just as quickly—he turned back to Grayson, picking up their conversation where it left off. As if nothing had happened.But something had.Adeline felt it in the way his eyes lingered when he thought she wasn’t looking. The way his expression had shifted the moment he saw her.She stayed silent, listening to the exchange but barely absorbing the words. She had spent years learning how to read people, how to navigate the spaces between them. And Vander? He was watching her just as much as she was watching him.A silent question hung between them, unanswered. ... Even now, Adeline couldn’t shake it.The memory of that first meeting clung to her like smoke—thick, stubborn, impossible to ignore. She hadn’t expected much that night. Just another tense encounter. Another place she didn’t quite belong.And yet… the way he had looked at her.Not with fear. Not with contempt.Just recognition.It had been unnerving.She let out a low chuckle, shaking her head as she walked. Challenging Vander—the Hound of the Undercity. What a fool she had been.Well, I didn’t know, she thought wryly. Besides, I was in no mood for a jape that day.But now?Now she had so many questions for him. She made a promise to Vander. Her…friend. Promised that if things ever went sideways, if the peace between Zaun and Piltover cracked and crumbled, she would be there. She would look after his kids.And she had failed him.She lost them.The realization settled in her stomach like lead. Vander’s kids were gone. And the worst part? She didn’t even know where to start looking.Because she had never met them.Vander had kept them hidden from her, always offering some excuse whenever she asked. They’re out right now, or It’s late, they’re already asleep. A quick shrug, a change of subject. He had always been careful, always kept a wall between her and that part of his life.And she got it.Of course Vander wouldn’t want an enforcer anywhere near his kids. Trust had always been a delicate, fragile thing between them, and maybe—despite everything—they had never really reached that point. Maybe he had wanted to believe in her, but he couldn’t take the risk.And now?Now, it was too late.If she had just seen them—just once—maybe she’d have something to go on. A face to remember, a name to whisper through the cracks of Zaun. But all she had were stories, secondhand mentions, a vague knowledge of their existence.And it wasn’t enough.She adjusted the weight on her arm, shifting the long, dark coat draped over her forearm. Silco’s coat. The fabric was smooth beneath her fingertips, the scent of Silco clinging to it—smoke, metal, whiskey with a mixture of bourbon something faintly chemical. She had carried it with her as she is now going to return it to her, boss. She didn't know she had carried it absentmindedly, though she wasn’t sure why. Maybe it was a habit. Maybe it was just easier than leaving it behind.Adeline carefully lifted the fabric on her nose, as she inhaled his lingering scent. Call it weird, but she didn't mind. She pressed it firmly to her face. Burying her face deep on his coat.
God… it's so intoxicating
The streets of Zaun stretched before her, alive with noise and movement.She had reached the boundary. Her destination. Here, where Piltover and Zaun met, the air was different. Not quite Piltovan—crisp, calculated, pristine—but not fully Zaunite either. The scent of rust and machinery still clung to the streets, but it was interwoven with something else. Perfume, perhaps, or the faint tang of polished brass and freshly printed paper.The Boundary Markets thrived here, built on uneasy compromise. It was the one place where Piltover’s residents dared to tread into Zaun’s filth—though they did so with thinly veiled disgust, their gazes flicking warily at every shadow, every unfamiliar figure.Inventors, traders, and smugglers alike gathered in this in-between space. Some came for rare materials, others for illicit deals. And some—like Adeline—came for something more mundane.A gift.She had promised Jinx something.The vendors called out their wares, their voices blending into a cacophony of sound.“Fresh imports from the Sun Gates! Finest silks, finest dyes!” “Mechanical parts—Piltovan-grade! You won’t find ‘em cheaper!” “Lenses, crystals, hand-crafted filaments! Come and see!”Adeline wove through the crowd, her presence neither welcome nor shunned.Some recognized her—or rather, recognized what she was. The Eye of Zaun’s assistant. Some Piltovian must’ve mistaken her for a gang. The way she carried herself, the sharpness in her gaze, the tension in her movements—it was enough to scare them. She ignored the stares, pressing forward.Most of the Piltover residents here were lower-ranking merchants, tinkerers, and scholars. The higher-ups—the ones who sat on their golden thrones, sipping their imported wine and whispering about Zaun from a distance—would never set foot in a place like this. And that includes my mother. They were too proud.Too proud to step on Zaunite ground.As if the mere act of touching this soil would taint them.Adeline scoffed under her breath, shaking the thought away. Right now they didn’t matter to her.She focused on the task at hand, scanning the rows of stalls.Jinx had wanted something specific—something colorful, something mechanical.Something that sparked.Adeline had sifted through the crowded stalls of the Undercity, weaving between vendors hawking scrap metal, illicit contraptions, and half-functional Hextech knockoffs. Most of it was junk—shoddy craftsmanship, overpriced gimmicks that wouldn’t last a day in Jinx’s hands.But then she saw it.A small display, tucked between a rusted gear collection and a set of fragile glass vials.The merchant behind the stall was an older man, his hands worn from years of meticulous work. He adjusted a row of delicate mechanical birds, each perched atop small pedestals. Their wings gleamed with iridescent paint, thin gears visible beneath their carved feathers.One twitched. Then another.Then, with a soft whirring sound, they moved—wings fluttering in slow, hypnotic motion.Adeline paused.
This would do.
She stepped forward, her fingers brushing against the smooth metal body of one of the birds. It was well-made—Zaunite ingenuity with a Piltovan touch. The kind of thing that wouldn’t last long in Jinx’s hands before she inevitably took it apart, but it would delight her all the same.A shadow fell over her.Someone was too close.Her muscles tensed, instincts kicking in before reason.Adeline’s fingers tightened around the metal bird, her free hand drifting subtly toward the knife strapped at her hip. The Undercity didn’t forgive carelessness. Neither did she.She turned—slow, deliberate. And locked eyes with the last kind of person she expected to find down here.A Piltovian.Not a merchant. Not a scholar. But an inventor.Adeline had seen enough of their type before—the self-important engineers who wore their prestige like a second skin, always reeking of metal shavings, oil, and ink-stained calculations.
And this one?
He looked the part. Practical, well-fitted attire. Dark trousers, a high-collared undershirt, and a deep red vest embroidered with gold—a design she recognized from the upper circles of Piltover’s Academy. Someone with money. Someone who didn’t belong here.His sharp blue eyes flicked down to the mechanical bird in her hand.“Hey, uhm… I was going to buy that,” he admitted, his tone polite but firm.Adeline arched a brow.
Oh, really?
Before she could respond, he reached forward—his fingers brushing dangerously close to the metal piece still in her grip.She pulled it back before he could touch it.His lips pressed together in frustration. “Please,” he said, straightening. “I need this for my invention. I’ll pay double.”Adeline rolled her eyes. Oh, boy…She turned slightly, angling her body away from him in a silent dismissal.But he wasn’t done.“Triple,” he blurted out, desperation creeping into his voice. “I'll pay triple, please.”That got her attention.She halted, casting a sideways glance at him. Her eyes dragged over him again, this time with scrutiny. He had the money—triple the price wouldn’t even put a dent in his pocket. But the way he held himself, the slight tension in his posture, told her he needed this piece.Desperation makes people stupid.She smirked. “No.” The answer came easily.His brows furrowed, clearly not expecting resistance. “Wha—?”“–I got it first,” she said, flipping the mechanical bird between her fingers before slipping it into the folds of Silco's coat pocket. “There’s plenty of them here, find another one,”“I can’t,” he said quickly. “This is the only model that is unique. It’s part of—” Adeline cut him off with a grin, stepping closer. Just enough to invade his personal space. She can tell that he was so shocked by her sudden movements. “I suggest you start rounding this place, pretty boy,” she murmured, voice dripping with amusement. “Wouldn’t want to be snubbed again, would ya?” She winked and turned on her heel, slipping into the shifting crowds of Zaun before he could say another word.
What a bummer…
Behind her, she could hear him mutteringsomething under his breath, but she didn’t care.Sorry, I got it first, she laughed and left him completely on his own. Adeline had scoured nearly every stall in search of something special—some scrap, some mechanism, anything—that would satisfy her and, more importantly, impress Jinx. But nothing had caught her eye. The metal bird she had found earlier? It wasn’t enough. Jinx needed something better. Something that screamed BOOM!Her patience was wearing thin. She wasn’t about to return empty-handed.Then, she spotted it.The last stall.It was tucked into a quieter corner of the market, nearly swallowed by the towering shelves of discarded junk around it. A young boy sat behind the small wooden counter, swinging his legs idly as he watched passersby not stop at his stall. His clothes were threadbare, his face streaked with grime, and his sign—One silver piece for one metal scrap—stood crooked against a stack of rusted gears.Adeline’s chest tightened. The kid was just trying to scrape by, and no one was giving him a chance.Well, that wasn’t about to be her.She approached the stall with an easy smile, and as soon as the boy noticed her, his whole face lit up. He practically launched himself from his tiny chair, his grin so bright it momentarily cut through the murk of the market.“Good morning, madam!” he chirped, his voice high-pitched with youthful enthusiasm. “What are you looking for today?” His face was streaked with muck, making his bright eyes stand out even more.Adeline chuckled. Cute.“Good morning to you too!” she greeted, leaning against the stall. “I’m looking for tubes—any size, really. You got any?”The boy perked up. “Oh! Wait! Just gimme a second, mada—”She laughed as he stopped himself, suddenly looking self-conscious.“You don’t have to be so formal,” she said, waving a hand. “Just call me Addy.”The boy’s smile returned, a little shyer this time. “Sure, mada—uh, Addy!” He stammered, then immediately turned and began sifting through the mess of metal behind him. “I know I got some tubes here somewhere…”Adeline grinned, as she watched as he started shifting through the mess, his little hands working quickly.“Mind if I take a look in the other box?” she asked, already stepping toward it.“No. Not at all! Go ahead, Addy,” he said, still enthusiastically searching. “Oh, and my name’s Theo, by the way!”“Theo, huh? That’s a great name.”“Yeah, people just started callin’ me that, and it stuck.” He shrugged, as if it didn’t really matter, and motioned toward another box. “I got loads of silver metal in there too. Feel free to dig around.”Adeline nodded and crouched beside the other container, rolling up her sleeves. As she sorted through the scrap, her fingers quickly became coated in rust and grime. Jinx is gonna love this. A pipe here, a metal string there—she grabbed anything that looked like it had the potential to turn into something explosive.But even as she worked, a nagging thought pressed at the back of her mind.I should’ve brought Jinx with me… She’d know exactly what to look for. She frowned slightly but shook the thought away. No use dwelling on it now.Just as she reached for another piece of scrap, a shadow loomed over her.A person cleared his throat. “Uhm… excuse me.”The voice was odd. Offbeat. Tinged with an accent she didn’t immediately place—Southern, maybe? And somehow… familiar.Adeline blinked, slowly looking up.A tall man stood above her, dressed far too well for a place like this. His deep red and cream-colored coat, adorned with gold accents, practically glowed against the grimy backdrop of the market. His dark brown hair was slightly tousled, and his golden-brown eyes—sharp, curious—studied her with a mixture of amusement and something else she couldn’t quite name.Then, the smirk. “My… didn’t think I’d see you here,” he mused, voice laced with unmistakable amusement.Adeline’s mind stalled.Then restarted.Then completely derailed.“Oh my—Viktor!” she blurted, eyes wide.“Hello to you too, Adeline.”Before he could say anything more, she launched herself up and threw her arms around him, completely ignoring the dirt and rust smeared all over her hands.Viktor let out a small laugh but returned the embrace, burying his face in her shoulder.For a brief moment, Adeline just held on, savoring the familiar presence. It had been too long.But then—SMACK!“Ow!” Viktor winced as she punched his shoulder, though he still grinned through the pain. “What was that for?”Adeline scowled, crossing her arms. “I wrote to you, dammit! And you didn’t even respond!”Viktor blinked. “You did?”“Yes!”“I didn’t know you sent a letter,” he defended, looking genuinely confused. “Ms. Young must’ve forgotten to give it to me.”Adeline frowned. “Ms. Young?”“My assistant,” he said.She raised an eyebrow. “Oh, you have an assistant now?”“Well, not just me,” he corrected. “She works with my partner as well.”Adeline tilted her head. “Partner?”“Yes. You should meet him,” Viktor said, eyes gleaming. “I’ve been telling you about him for weeks. He’s been eager to meet you too—I think you two would get along just fine.”Adeline hesitated, but before she could respond—“Found it, Addy!” Theo piped up, proudly holding out several copper tubes. “Told ya I had loads of ‘em!”“Wow, Theo!” Adeline grinned, reaching up for a high five. The boy hesitated at first, then, after a second, slapped her palm with enthusiasm.Viktor chuckled. “Addy?... That’s new.”“Oh, shut up, Vik,” she muttered, rolling her eyes as she returned to her search.Still, curiosity itched at the back of her mind. “So… this ‘partner guy,’” she started, dragging another heavy box toward the counter. “What’s he like?”Viktor hummed in thought. “He’s… kind. A little shy sometimes. But brilliant. A bit stubborn, too. He's like a brother to me.”Adeline smirked. He sounds so dreamy.“Oh, yeah?” she mused. “Well, can’t wait to meet him, Viktor—” She stopped mid-sentence.Her breath caught as another figure approached.
Him.
A man with broad shoulders and a confident stride. His neatly trimmed beard and sharp features were instantly recognizable.“Hey, there you are,” he said. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you.”Viktor turned, and he was… smiling!The man’s gaze flickered toward her. His brows furrowed.“Oh, yeah, pretty boy? Got lost, have you?” Adeline quipped, crossing her arms.The man’s irritation flared. “Forgive me, but… I wasn’t talking to you,” he snapped.Adeline’s arms fell to her sides.
Wait…
Wait just a damn minute–!
Viktor cleared his throat. “Oh! This is Jayce, my partner. Jayce this is–” before Viktor could finish his sentence he was cut off both Jayce and Adeline. “You?!” they both shouted in unison.Adeline and Jayce stared at each other. Their glares locked.Oh, what a perfect way to start my day. Viktor, still amused, gestured between them. “Uhm… this is my friend I’ve been telling you about, this is Adel—”“Addy!” Adeline cut in, a little too quickly.She shot Viktor a quick look—a silent signal. Don’t say my full name.He raised a brow, but didn’t question it.Jayce’s gaze flicked between them, then settled on her. “Well… pleasure to meet you, Addy.” His voice carried a polite chill, as if he was forcing himself to be cordial. He extended his hand toward her, waiting.Adeline’s eyes dropped to his outstretched palm.
Should I?
Everything about this man already rubbed her the wrong way. He looked like the kind of guy who took himself too seriously, with his pristine coat. The kind of guy who strutted through life expecting people to fall in line behind him. But something about him was very familiar to Adeline. His name? Maybe? His face? Perhaps. Whatever it was she tried to think it through, but no memories came to her. But—he was Viktor’s partner.And Viktor seemed to like him.So, after a moment, she adjusted the weight of Silco’s coat on her left forearm and took his hand, giving it a firm shake. “Same as well,” she said, though the smile she wore was anything but genuine.Their grips lingered a beat too long, tension crackling in the space between them. Then, at the exact same moment, they let go and looked away, almost as if touching each other had been some kind of offense.Jayce cleared his throat. “Nice coat.”Adeline blinked, her fingers tightening slightly around the thick fabric in her arms.
Her coat.
No…
Silco’s coat.
She had been carrying it absentmindedly for the past few hours, its familiar weight draped over her forearm.Jayce eyed it with curiosity. “Mind if I take a look?” He held out his hand again, waiting.Adeline hesitated.She didn’t want to hand it over. Something about the idea of him touching it made her bristle. But refusing outright would come off as defensive, and she didn’t want to seem like she was hiding anything.So, with reluctant fingers, she held the coat out.Jayce took it immediately, running his hands over the material. He inspected the seams, the inner lining, the embroidery along the lapel—like he was searching for something.Then, with a smirk, he said, “Huh. Where’d you even find this? Junk store?”Adeline’s breath caught.
Excuse me?!
She stiffened, her grip on the pouch at her waist tightening.It wasn’t the words themselves. It was the tone. The hidden edge behind the joke, like he wasn’t just teasing her—like he actually meant it.Her lips pressed into a thin line.She ripped the coat from his hands. “Nice one, Jake,” she shot back.Jayce narrowed his eyes. “My name’s not Jake.”“Oh, I’m sorry, what was it, Jake?”Viktor—who had been entirely too quiet—broke. A chuckle escaped him, and then another, until he was full-on laughing in the background, clearly enjoying every second of their exchange.Jayce let out a heavy sigh, rubbing the bridge of his nose.Adeline smirked. Yeah, that’s what I thought.She turned away from him, refocusing on what actually mattered—her purchase.Theo had been waiting patiently, watching the whole exchange with wide, fascinated eyes.“Is everything packed up, Theo?” Adeline asked, her voice shifting back to warmth.“Yup! Everything’s all set!” he beamed, standing proudly behind the now neatly stacked pile of scrap metal she’d chosen.“Perfect.” Adeline smiled and pulled out her brown pouch, ready to pay.From behind her, Viktor finally spoke up again. “What are you even going to do with all this stuff?”“It’s not for me,” Adeline answered as she counted out a handful of silver pieces. “It’s for Jinx."Viktor’s eyebrows lifted slightly. “Ohh. She’s inventing now?”“Yep,” Adeline said, handing the coins to Theo, who accepted them eagerly. “She’s obsessed with her little projects.”A brief pause.Then—“Oh,” Jayce muttered, almost to himself. “That’s… concerning.”Adeline’s head snapped toward him so fast she nearly got whiplash.“Excuse me?”Jayce exhaled, shifting his stance. “I mean, considering who she hangs around, it’s probably not just harmless tinkering, is it?”Adeline felt a sharp spike of irritation.
Who the hell did this guy think he was?
She squared her shoulders, meeting his gaze dead-on. “She’s brilliant,” she said, her voice carrying an unmistakable edge.“I never said she wasn’t.” Jayce didn’t back down. “Just that—in the wrong hands—brilliance can be dangerous.”Adeline’s fingers curled slightly at her sides.
The wrong hands?!
She knew exactly what he meant by that.Her stomach twisted, but she forced herself to relax, to keep her expression unreadable. She’d had years of practice.Theo, sensing the shift in mood, quickly cut in. “Uh, Addy! Here!” He handed her a small cloth bundle. “I packed the smaller pieces in this so they don’t fall out!”Adeline’s irritation cooled slightly as she looked down at him. “Thanks, kid,” she said, reaching out to ruffle his hair.Jayce folded his arms. “So… what exactly is she making?”Adeline turned back to him, eyes narrowing slightly. Oh my god, would he not shut the fuck up?!"Why do you care?” she mused “Just curious.”Somehow, she doubted that.She let a slow smirk pull at her lips. “Why? You worried, pretty boy?”Jayce rolled his eyes. “Not in the slightest.”“Good.” She took a step closer, tilting her head. “Then don’t worry your pretty little head about it.”Jayce opened his mouth to reply, but Viktor stepped in before the tension could escalate further.“Well,” he said, grinning between them. “I can see you two are getting along splendidly.”Adeline scoffed. “Yeah. Jake and I are just banting each other. It's just what friends do.” Adeline hissed. Jayce exhaled sharply through his nose, clearly trying to keep himself from saying something he’d regret. Adeline smirked. That’s right, pretty boy. Hold it in.Viktor, ever the peacemaker, clapped his hands together. “Alright, before you two start throwing punches, how about we take this energy somewhere else? Jericho’s? Spicy seafood? Maybe that’ll make you both shut up.”Adeline immediately shook her head. “No, thank you,” she said coolly, casting Jayce a sideways glance. “Another time, perhaps.”She turned fully to Viktor, tilting her head. “And next time? Try not to bring Jake along.”Jayce groaned, rubbing his temples. “It’s Jayce—”“Whatever you say, Jake.”Viktor sighed but didn’t bother stopping her. He was clearly amused.Adeline grinned mischievously, shifting her weight onto one hip as she studied Jayce.“Besides,” she continued, voice dripping with faux concern, “I highly doubt pretty boy here has the stomach for Undercity cuisine. I mean, have you seen the food we eat down here?” She tilted her head, lips curling into a smirk. “If he so much as glances at the menu, he might pass out. Or worse—throw up all over you, Viktor.”Jayce gave her a deadpan stare. “Oh, please. I’m not that soft.”“Really?” Adeline arched a brow, feigning intrigue. “What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten, then?”Jayce opened his mouth, hesitated, and then glanced at Viktor for help. Viktor merely watched, amused.“I had some, uh…” Jayce’s brow furrowed in thought. “Fried squid ink pasta once?” He said it like a question, then mumbled under his breath beside Viktor. “Was that what it was called?”Adeline gasped, pressing a hand to her chest in mock horror. “Oh, how brave.” Her lips twitched, eyes alight with mischief. “That must have been so difficult for you shallow it down.”Jayce scoffed. “It was fine.”“Oh, really?”“Yeah, well…” Jayce trailed off.Viktor smirked and, without missing a beat, interjected, “He did throw up after the first bite.”Adeline and Viktor locked eyes for a single beat—then burst out laughing.There was no need for further elaboration. As Adeline and Viktor knew each other pretty well. Their humor always clicks. The two of them patted each other and laughed their asses off. Theo was actually laughing quietly. Jayce scowled. “You both are insufferable.”“We try,” Adeline shot back with a wink.Jayce exhaled sharply, straightening his coat in an attempt to regain some dignity. “Yeah, well—I hope your boss fires you.”“Jayce,” Viktor sighed, half-scolding, half-exasperated.Adeline’s smirk widened. “You bet.”She turned back to Viktor, and her expression softened, the teasing edge melting away. “I’ll see you around, Vik.”Viktor, ever patient, sighed dramatically but opened his arms for a hug. Adeline stepped in, wrapping her arms around him. “Try to stay out of trouble,” he murmured.“You know I can't promise that,” she whispered back.Pulling away, she deliberately ignored Jayce and turned instead to Theo, ruffling his already-messy hair. “Thanks for the help, kid.”Theo grinned up at her, cradling the silver coins she’d handed him like a prize. “Anytime, Addy!”Adeline shifted the weight of Silco’s coat over her arm and turned to Theo, an idea sparking in her mind. “Why don’t you come with me and help me get this to Jinx?”Theo’s eyes widened. “Really?”She shrugged, playing it cool. “Yeah, if you don’t want to, it’s—”“What?! Of course, I would love to!” Theo practically shouted, already scrambling to close up his small shop.Adeline chuckled as he fumbled with the latch, rushing through his usual routine like he was afraid she’d change her mind.“Alright, alright—just don’t drop anything, alright?”Theo beamed. “I got this.” He reached for the nearest box, only for it to shift awkwardly in his arms.“Oh! Careful! That one’s mine, and it’s—”“Heavy, I know!” Theo huffed, adjusting his grip as he struggled under the weight. “It’s fine, I… I can do it.”Adeline raised a skeptical brow, ready to step in, but Theo straightened his back, determination etchedon his face. Fine, she thought. Let the kid have his moment.With that, she turned on her heel and strode off, the scent of metal and smoke still clinging to Silco’s coat. And she didn’t look back.But she did grin when she heard Jayce mutter something undoubtedly irritated under his breath.“Insufferable.”“Still hear you, Jake!” she called over her shoulder. ... The streets of Zaun were alive with their usual chaos—shouting vendors, clanking machinery, the acrid scent of smoke and oil lingering in the damp air. Adeline barely noticed. She had long since learned to move through the city without flinching, without hesitating. Theo, on the other hand, had a certain energy to him, weaving through the crowd with an ease that only a street-raised kid could manage. His steps were light, quick, as if the excitement in his chest made him float. Adeline envied that. As they passed Jericho’s food stand, the greasy, savory scent of frying meat hit her stomach like a punch. Shit, she thought. I haven’t eaten anything today. She glanced at Theo. The kid had been running around all morning helping her, and judging by the way his eyes lingered on the steaming plates of food, he probably hadn’t eaten either. Without a word, she grabbed his arm and pulled him toward the stall. “Alright, kid, pick whatever you want.” Theo blinked up at her. “Wait—really?” Adeline smirked. “What, you think I’d let you starve?” Theo didn’t waste time questioning her further. He practically launched himself toward the counter, eyes darting between dishes, indecisive yet eager. Adeline ordered her own meal, something quick and filling, before dropping a handful of silver coins into the glass tip jar. Theo, having made his choice, reached into his own pocket and tried to shove his coins onto the counter. “I’ll pay for mine,” he declared proudly. Adeline snorted. “No, you won’t.” “But I—” Before he could argue, she placed a firm hand on his shoulder. “You don’t pay me back, ever. You keep your money for yourself, understand?” Theo hesitated, his small fingers curling around his pouch. “But you’ve already given me so much…” Adeline didn’t waver. “And I’ll keep doing it.” The boy stared at her for a long moment before finally sighing in defeat. “Fine. But next time, I’m paying.” “Yeah, yeah,” she muttered, grabbing her food and heading for the nearest empty table. As they ate, Theo chattered on about the latest street rumors—who got into a fight with who, which vendor had the best bread this week, what the Chem-Barons were up to. Adeline let him talk, only half-listening as she focused on finishing her meal. When they finally finished, she wiped her hands on her pants, stood up, and gestured for Theo to follow. “Come on, let’s get this stuff to Jinx before she explodes something out of impatience.” Theo grinned and scrambled up after her, carrying one of the smaller boxes while she hoisted the heavier ones. When they finally reached The Last Drop, Theo slowed to a halt outside the entrance, his expression shifting into something unreadable.His gaze flicked between Adeline and the towering, rusted metal door. “Wait… you work here?” His voice was tinged with surprise—and hesitation.Adeline rolled her shoulders, adjusting her grip on the boxes. “Uh… yeah? I’m more like an assistant, really.”Theo blinked. Then, “So… you’re the mystery assistant of Silco?” His voice dropped to an urgent whisper, as if speaking the name too loudly would summon the man himself.Adeline nearly choked on air. “Mystery huh?”“Well…” Theo shuffled on his feet, avoiding her gaze. “It’s just… what people say.”Adeline hummed. Would you look at that? Now I’m famous…She crouched down so they were eye level. “I’m no mystery, Theo,” she said, voice softer now. “I’m just an ordinary person, like you. I'm no mystery. It's just what other people say, just to exaggerate things,” She rolled her eyes.But deep down, the rumors unsettled her.She had worked too hard to stay under the radar, weaving herself seamlessly into Zaun’s underbelly. If people were starting to talk about her, then she needed to be careful. Because if this reached the ears of the Council members—or worse, Camille—they would immediately investigate. Everything she had built would come crashing down.She was so close.So close to the next stage of her plan.So close to getting exactly what she wanted.And if things get out of hand. Well… she could kiss her entire plan goodbye.Adeline inhaled slowly and exhaled, shoving those thoughts aside for now.Pulling a small pouch from the belt strapped around her thigh, she grabbed Theo’s hand before he could react and pressed a dozen silver coins into his palm.The kid’s eyes went huge. “Addy! This is too much! You’ve already given me too much—”“Nah,” she cut him off, winking. “You earned it.”Theo gawked at the coins. “I—I’ll get so many sweets with this!”Adeline chuckled, ruffling his hair. “That’s the spirit.” She then bent down, reaching for the last of her boxes. “Alright, kid, run along.”Instead of obeying, Theo lunged at her and wrapped his small arms around her waist in a tight hug.Adeline froze for half a second before sighing and patting his back. Damn it. She always had a soft spot for kids.Theo beamed up at her. “Goodbye, Addy! Thank you so much!”She smiled down at him. “Take care of yourself, Theo!”As he finally pulled away and started to leave, she called after him, “And try not to get yourself into trouble!”Theo grinned over his shoulder. “Oh, I will!”Adeline rolled her eyes. Yeah, right.She turned toward the entrance of The Last Drop, squaring her shoulders. The guard at the door, a bulky man with a permanent scowl, wasted no time stepping forward and taking the heavier boxes from her.“Oh… uh, thanks,” she muttered, slightly caught off guard.The man just nodded and pushed open the heavy door for her.Taking a steadying breath, Adeline stepped inside. And just like that, she was back.Back in the den of devils.Back in his world.She needed to be here. Needed to get deeper. Needed Silco to trust her more than he already did—at least that’s what she thought…
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
“Well?”Jinx stood at the entrance of The Last Drop, hands planted firmly on her hips, one foot tapping against the floor in irritation. Her blue pigtails swayed slightly as she huffed, glaring up at Adeline like a child caught waiting too long for a promised treat.“You promised you’d be here early!” she accused, her voice sharp with frustration.Adeline, who had barely stepped inside, came to a sudden halt. Shit.“I—I’m sorry,” she stammered, momentarily caught off guard. She had expected to waltz in, drop off the supplies, and have at least a few minutes to breathe before dealing with anything else. But of course, Jinx had somehow managed to be right there, waiting.
Honestly… how the hell did she get here so fast?
Before Jinx could press further, Adeline hoisted up the boxes in her arms and tilted them forward. “Look, I just went out to get some things for your enforcer bombs, remember?”Jinx’s eyes immediately snapped to the metal scraps inside the box. In an instant, her annoyance vanished, replaced by wide-eyed excitement. “Oooooh,” she hummed, practically vibrating as she leaned in, fingers brushing over the gleaming bits of metal. Adeline smirked. Knew that’d work.“Fair enough,” Jinx muttered, stepping back as if that was all she needed to forgive the delay.With a relieved chuckle, Adeline reached out and ruffled Jinx’s hair. “See? Told you I wouldn’t forget my promise.”Jinx huffed, but there was the hint of a smile tugging at the corner of her lips.“Yeah, well…” Her grin widened mischievously. “Silco’s been looking for you. If I recall… he was really upset.”Adeline froze.
Oh, boy…
Her stomach twisted slightly, though she kept her expression neutral. “Really?” she asked, lowering her voice slightly.Jinx rocked back on her heels, all too pleased with herself. “W-e-e-e-ll…” she stretched out the word. “I know you can sort this one out.” Her smirk was almost smug. “But hey! That’s a problem for later. We got work to do!”Before Adeline could protest, Jinx grabbed her wrist and yanked her forward with surprising strength.“Whoa—slow down, kid,” Adeline laughed, stumbling slightly as she shot a glance at the guard nearby. The man simply nodded, already stepping in to pick up the remaining boxes.Jinx, of course, ignored her completely. “Oh! I already finished sketching the designs for the bombs!” she exclaimed, her voice practically vibrating with excitement as she dragged Adeline toward the stairs.Adeline raised an eyebrow. “Already?”Jinx scoffed. “Duh. You think I just sit around and wait for you all day?”“…Yes?”Jinx spun around mid-step, shooting her a playful glare. “Rude.”Adeline chuckled, but beneath the amusement, tension still sat heavy in her chest. Silco’s upset.
Shit!
She had no doubt she’d be able to talk her way out of whatever trouble she was in—she always did—but still. The man had a way of getting under her skin, in a way no one else could.For now, though, she focused on Jinx, who was already launching into a rapid-fire explanation of her latest designs, her hands flailing animatedly as they ascended the stairs.Whatever storm was waiting for her upstairs, Adeline would deal with it later. Right now, she had a little manic explosives expert to entertain. ... Adeline’s fingers ached.She had spent hours hunched over Jinx’s bed, carefully painting the bombs according to the kid’s meticulous sketches. The colors had to be exact, the details precise. Jinx moved with unrelenting energy, dashing around the room with little regard for the scattered metal scraps clattering to the floor.Meanwhile, Adeline sat cross-legged on the mattress, a paintbrush in one hand and a half-finished bomb in the other. Her knuckles were stiff, her wrist sore, and she could swear her fingertips had gone slightly numb from gripping the damn brush for so long.
Ah, shit.
She groaned, and carefully set the last painted bomb onto Jinx’s bed. Pain tingled up her palm, and she instinctively began massaging the joints.Jinx, of course, was completely oblivious to her suffering. The kid was in her own world, chattering about explosives and test runs, already planning how and where to set off her latest creations.Despite the pain, Adeline smiled. Jinx was happy. She liked the materials Adeline had picked out for her. And that—that was all that mattered. Her mind, however, wasn’t content to stay in the present.It drifted back to Viktor. Her thoughts wandered, unbidden, back to Viktor. She hadn’t spoken to him properly in weeks, and when she finally had the chance—Jayce had to be there, running his damn mouth.
That man could talk a corpse back to life with how much he yaps.
She exhaled sharply through her nose, a small smirk tugging at her lips as she recalled the way Jayce puffed up indignantly at their banter.She rolled her eyes at the memory, but she couldn’t deny the amusement curling at the edges of her lips. Jayce was frustrating as hell—too naïve, too stubborn—but, if nothing else, he was entertaining.Then, just as she was about to stand up and stretch, she remembered something.“The bird,” she muttered under her breath.Her eyes flickered toward the far end of the bed, where Silco’s coat rested, draped casually over the sheets. She frowned.She had picked up a small, metallic owl earlier that day, a gift she’d meant to give to Jinx. It should have still been in the coat’s pocket.Her fingers twitched.“Hey,” she called, her voice casual.“Mhm?” Jinx barely glanced up, focused on welding something together.“I just remembered—I got something else for you,” Adeline said with a small smile.Jinx’s head snapped up. “Ooohh! Another present?!”“Yep.”Adeline stood up off the bed. She made her way over to Silco’s coat, fingers slipping into the inside pockets. Empty.Her heart skipped a beat.Her brows furrowed as she quickly checked another pocket. Then another.
Where the hell is it?
Her hands searched frantically, patting down every inch of fabric until—finally—her fingers curled around something small and solid. She dug even deeper, her fingers finally touching the object, brushing against something cold and metallic—but the weight was wrong.But when she pulled it out, her breath caught in her throat.It wasn’t the owl—she picked. In her palm sat a small, mechanical crow.A chill ran down her spine. Jinx gasped dramatically, practically vibrating with excitement. “WOOOOAAAH!” She lunged forward, snatching the bird from Adeline’s hands. “Where did you get this?! It’s awesome!”Adeline barely heard her. Her brain was still processing.
This isn’t what I picked.
I bought an owl—not a crow!
A very distinct, very carefully chosen mechanical owl.So why was she holding a crow?Then, suddenly, an image flashed in her mind--Jayce.
“Nice coat. Mind if I take a look?”
Her blood ran cold.
That sneaky bastard.
She remembered it vividly now—she could still see the way he had run his hands over Silco’s coat, the way he had lingered just a bit too long—the way his hands hovered inside his coat, how he had so casually run his fingers over the coat’s fabric.It hadn’t been out of curiosity.It had been intentional.Adeline’s jaw clenched.Now she knew better.Not only is he an inventor, she thought to herself. But a thief as well. A sneaky, clever, smug little thief who had somehow managed to swap the birds right under her nose.Adeline clenched her jaw, resisting the urge to curse out loud.She had been so stupid not to notice his hands drifting toward the pockets. She had been too caught up in their stupid banter, too distracted by her irritation.And now?Now she had no idea what he had taken in return.Jinx, completely unaware of the storm brewing inside Adeline’s head, was still marveling at the mechanical crow, turning it over in her hands with a look of pure delight.“Oh man, this thing’s sick,” she gushed, pressing a finger to one of its gears. “I bet I can make it move if I tweak it a little…”Adeline forced herself to take a slow breath. Losing her cool wouldn’t solve anything.Instead, she smirked.“Glad you like it,” Adeline murmured, though there was an unmistakable edge to her voice.Jinx didn’t notice.She was already enthralled, her nimble fingers flipping the crow over, examining its intricate parts with wide, eager eyes. Her lips curled into an excited grin as she turned it this way and that, testing its joints, its weight.Adeline watched, arms crossed, her own amusement tainted by a lingering frustration.Next time I see Jayce, she thought darkly, I’m going to land a good punch on his pretty face—and I’ll make damn sure it bruises.She exhaled sharply through her nose, forcing the irritation down.There was no use brooding over it now.Jinx, at least, was happy. That was something.“Great choice, Addy!” Jinx beamed, flashing her a rare, genuine smile before skipping over to her small, cluttered work table. Without hesitation, she grabbed a screwdriver and started dismantling the crow, utterly engrossed in its mechanics.Adeline’s lips twitched.Jinx always had a way of getting absorbed in the smallest things. There was something oddly comforting about it—the way she lost herself in her work, how the whole world seemed to shrink down to nothing but gears, wires, and metal.Adeline turned away, shaking her head with a small chuckle.
Well… at least she liked it.
She strode toward her bed and carelessly dropped Silco’s coat onto it, rubbing her temple as she tried to shake off the day’s events. Her mind was still buzzing with unfinished thoughts, loose ends, unanswered questions.She let out a slow breath, stretching her fingers as she plopped down onto her usual spot.Well… I don’t have anything else to do, she mused.Except, that wasn’t exactly true.Because, no matter how much she tried to push it down, she couldn’t stop replaying Jayce’s face in her mind.The smugness in his expression. The way his hands had lingered on the coat. The way he had played dumb—acted like some innocent, clueless golden boy—when all the while, he had been stealing from her.The realization made her blood simmer.
Oh, I swear…
Her hands curled into fists, the tension coiling tight in her muscles, burning under her skin. She could practically see Jayce’s smug face, that infuriating little smirk as he ran his hands over Silco’s coat, pretending to be curious.
If I get my hands on him…
The thought trailed off, sharp and satisfying in her mind.
I’ll—
Without thinking, Adeline snatched the nearest thing within reach—Jinx’s pillow.Before her brain could talk her down, she was already swinging.WHUMP.The pillow took the hit like a champ, its soft body flattening under her knuckles.WHUMP.She punched it again, harder this time, as though Jayce’s stupid, handsome face were embroidered into the fabric.
That sneaky bastard.
WHUMP.
The pillow made for a pathetic opponent, but Adeline didn’t care. It was either this or putting a hole through the wall of The Last Drop.She grit her teeth, each hit releasing another wave of pent-up irritation.
How dare he.
WHUMP.
First, he plays the innocent inventor.
WHUMP.
Then he rifles through Silco’s coat like some street rat.
WHUMP.
“Uh… Addy?”Adeline froze mid-punch, pillow clenched tightly in her hands.Jinx was watching her, head tilted to the side, a curious, almost amused smile playing on her lips.“You, uh… got a vendetta against my pillow or somethin’?” Jinx asked, raising an eyebrow.Adeline blinked, her rage momentarily derailed. She stared at the now-misshapen pillow, its stuffing slightly askew.She coughed, setting the pillow down gently—as if that would somehow undo the fact that she’d just pummeled it half to death.“Uh… no,” Adeline muttered, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. “Just… stress relief.”Jinx didn’t buy it for a second.“You sure? ‘Cause you looked like you were about two punches away from killing it.”Adeline forced a laugh, but her hands still trembled faintly. “It deserved it.”The younger girl squinted at her suspiciously, but after a moment, she shrugged and returned to her mechanical crow, already halfway disassembled on her cluttered worktable.“Eh, fair enough,” Jinx muttered, tightening a bolt with intense focus. “Pillows can be jerks.”Adeline watched her for a moment, the corner of her mouth twitching upward. Jinx was… Jinx. Unfazed by the chaos around her, utterly lost in her work. The sight was oddly grounding.But beneath the fleeting warmth, the frustration still burned low and hot in her chest.Adeline let herself fall onto Jinx’s bed with a quiet plop, sinking into the soft, overused mattress. A heavy sigh escaped her lips as she rubbed her face with both hands, fingers pressing into the tired skin beneath her eyes.Her body ached in that deep, stubborn way exhaustion settles into bones—like a quiet promise that if she didn’t rest soon, it would drag her down whether she liked it or not.Stress is going to kill her at this stage.She let her arms drop limply to her sides, staring up at the dim ceiling of Jinx’s room, tracing invisible patterns between the cracks and shadows cast by the flickering lights.Jinx, who had been cross-legged on her table, tinkering with the crow, gave her a side glance. “Why don’t you, uh… sleep for a minute?”Adeline barely turned her head, just enough to see the girl tilting her chin toward her.Jinx jerked a thumb at the half-disassembled crow in her lap. “I’ll fix this first, and when I’m done, I’ll wake you up. Easy peasy.” She held up the mechanical bird as if proving her point.Adeline hesitated. She should be helping. The logical part of her brain whispered that there were still things to do—she needed to get the rest of the materials sorted, check in with Silco’s documents, and maybe, just maybe, track down the person who's helping him with his Shimmers shipments. But as she blinked slowly, her eyelids felt heavier than before, the weight of exhaustion pressing down like an iron chain.“You sure?” Her voice was softer now, slightly slurred at the edges.Jinx nodded, her expression unusually patient.Adeline released a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding and gave a tired nod in return.“…Alright,” she mumbled.The bed was old and slightly lumpy, but to her, it felt like heaven. She turned onto her side, one arm curling under her head as she felt her body start to surrender to the pull of sleep.The sounds of Jinx’s tinkering faded into background noise—the rhythmic clink of tools against metal, the occasional hum of thought, the quick zzzt of a wire being fused. It was oddly comforting.Her mind drifted, hovering somewhere between wakefulness and sleep.She thought of how dangerously close she was getting—how one wrong step could unravel everything she’d built.
Don’t think about that now…
For now, she let herself slip away. Adeline was violently yanked from the depths of sleep by an all-too-familiar voice.“Addy! Addy! Wake up!” The voice was sweet as sugar, but the enthusiasm behind it was anything but gentle.Adeline groaned as the mattress bounced beneath her, Seraphine’s weight shifting as she jumped up and down with far too much energy for this early in the morning.“WAKE UP!” Seraphine finally shrieked, and Adeline flinched, burying her face into the pillow.“Sera,” she grumbled, voice thick with sleep. “It's so early.”With a groan, she reached blindly for her pillow, yanking it over her head in a futile attempt to drown out her best friend’s relentless energy. But Seraphine was undeterred. In a swift motion, she snatched the pillow away.“Oh, really?” Seraphine teased. “You wouldn't want to miss your first shift, would ya?”Adeline's heart stopped. First shift?Her eyes snapped open, panic surging through her veins. She turned her head towards the small, brass clock on her nightstand. The hands pointed to 8 o’clock sharp.
Oh, shit.
“Shit! Shit! Shit!” she yelped, throwing herself out of bed.Adeline scrambled toward the bathroom, nearly tripping over a discarded shirt on the floor. She barely managed to fumble the door open before wrenching the shower handle to the coldest setting it could go.As the water roared to life, a sudden knock on her bedroom door made Seraphine perk up.“Adeline?” The voice was softer, more refined. A heartbeat later, the door swung open to reveal a poised, elegant woman with neatly combed chestnut hair and a sharp yet kind expression.
Cassandra Kiramman.
Seraphine gasped dramatically before bolting towards her aunt, throwing her arms around her in an eager embrace.“Auntie!” she exclaimed, squeezing tight.Cassandra, momentarily startled, chuckled lightly before returning the hug. “Good gracious, Seraphine, I didn’t know you were here.” Her sharp eyes scanned the room before flickering toward the open bathroom door. “You managed to wake her, I see?”“Of course! I had to barge in,” Seraphine grinned. “She was sleeping like a rock!”Cassandra smiled knowingly. “I was about to wake her myself, but luckily, you saved me the trouble.” She smoothed down the front of her dress, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.Seraphine’s excitement dimmed for a second. “Uhmm… don’t tell my mom I’m here,” she whispered, guilt creeping into her tone. “She’s too busy with work anyway.”Cassandra sighed but nodded. “I'll let her know you're safe, but next time, at least leave a note, dear.”Seraphine beamed, nodding rapidly.As Cassandra turned to leave, she suddenly hesitated, glancing back toward the bathroom door. “Oh, and Seraphine?”“Yes, Auntie?”“Tell Adeline not to forget to pack her bags—and to eat breakfast before she leaves.”Seraphine gave her a two-finger salute. “You got it, auntie!”Cassandra smiled, finally stepping out and closing the door behind her.The second she was gone, Seraphine turned back toward the bathroom door, hands on her hips.“Did you hear that, Addy?” she called out. “Pack your bags and EAT!”The only response was the sound of rushing water and a very frustrated groan from inside.Seraphine giggled to herself and flopped onto the bed, stretching out. Her powder pink hair cascading on Adeline's massive mattress. “Man, I'm such a great alarm clock.”
...
Adeline and Seraphine ran like hellhounds were snapping at their heels.Adeline, focused and determined, was already halfway to the office, her enforcer uniform perfectly in place despite the frantic sprint. Seraphine, on the other hand, was lagging behind, gasping for air like she’d just climbed all of Piltover’s spires in one go.By the time they reached the office steps, Seraphine was practically bent in half, hands braced on her knees.Adeline smoothed down her uniform, quickly adjusting the belt and fastening a stray button. “Okay! How do I look?” she asked, turning to her friend.Seraphine, still wheezing, barely managed a thumbs-up. “You—” she gasped. “You look great.” Adeline grinned and, without warning, threw her arms around Seraphine in a tight hug.“Thanks, Sera! I'll see you later, okay?”Seraphine barely had time to nod before Adeline slipped inside, the door swinging shut behind her.The moment she was gone, Seraphine let out a dramatic groan and collapsed onto the stone pavement, sprawled out like a defeated soldier.“Phew! Thought we wouldn’t make it,” she mumbled to herself, still trying to catch her breath.She closed her eyes for just a second, but before she could fully recover, a shadow loomed over her.A second later, a firm grip seized her wrist, yanking her up onto her feet with surprising strength.“Oh my—” she gasped. Seraphine’s stomach dropped.She knew that touch before she even looked.
Oh no.
Slowly, she raised her head—and sure enough, standing in front of her, piercing blue eyes narrowed, was none other than Camille Ferros.Her mother.Seraphine’s entire body stiffened. She forced a smile, though it wobbled slightly at the edges. “Mo–mother!” she stammered, her voice pitching higher than she intended. “Ohhh, god—what a lovely surprise.” she awkwardly smiled. Camille’s eyes flickered with barely restrained irritation. “Care to explain why you're out here—again?” she demanded, voice sharp as a blade.Seraphine winced. “I—was just—”Before she could fumble out an excuse, Camille exhaled sharply through her nose and released her wrist. She brought a hand to her temple, rubbing the bridge of her nose as if fighting off an oncoming headache.“How many times do I have to tell you, Seraphine?” she said, exasperation heavy in her tone. “Before leaving the house, always inform me of your whereabouts.”Seraphine swallowed hard, eyes darting to the ground. “I’m sorry… it won’t happen again,” she muttered, twisting the hem of her sleeve between her fingers.Camille studied her for a long time, “you always do that,” Camille smirked. Seraphine, who was confused, looked at her. “Do what?” She mumbled. “Twisting the hem of your sleeves–whenever you're lying,” Camille replied. “No I'm not!” Seraphine shot back. But continued to twist her sleeves. Camille chuckled, and a heavy moment before finally sighing. She extended a hand toward her. “Come now. I’ll walk you home.”Seraphine hesitated—but refusing wasn’t an option.Without a word, she placed her hand in Camille’s, and together, they disappeared into the bustling streets of Piltover.The dream started out so peacefully.Adeline stood in front of Sheriff Grayson’s office, bathed in golden sunlight. The streets of Piltover bustled behind her, full of life and laughter. Everything felt right—like the world had finally settled into place. She reached for the door handle, ready to step inside——when something yanked her backward.The warm glow of Piltover vanished in an instant, replaced by suffocating darkness.Adeline stood in the void.She stood on a pitch black stage, one light illuminating a mic stand and a chair. Her breath hitched. She remembered this place, this wasn't just a normal stage. This… this was Seraphine's performance stage. The only light that she had was the spotlight—lighting Seraphine's mic stand and wooden chair. The floor beneath her feet was gone. She was weightless—adrift in an endless void.She knew this place very well. This place carries so many memories with Seraphine. This wasn’t just any normal stage. This was a place where she and Seraphine met and became close. And now… the only place that gave her comfort was now hunting her. Then, a voice—Seraphine's voice. “You left me to die!” Her voice was hushed, enough to send a shiver down her spine. Adeline’s stomach lurched.
No. No, no, no.
Not again!
The mic stand and wooden chair was now missing. Dark shapes flickered in the shadows, swirling around her like phantoms. And then—like a spotlight cutting through the abyss—an image burned into view:Seraphine.Her body dangled midair, her limbs twitching in futile struggle. A monstrous hand was wrapped around her throat, squeezing. Her usual soft, bright eyes—so full of warmth in life—were now sharp with betrayal, burning with raw, seething hatred. Adeline’s heart stopped.“No! Please!” She tried to move—tried to run—but her feet were leaden, frozen in place.The darkness around her pulsed, suffocating.And then—She turned.A strangled gasp tore from her throat.Seraphine stood before her.Or what was left of her.Her once-bright eyes were now clouded, lifeless, the whites stark against the dark streaks of dried tears on her cheeks. Blood pooled at the corners of her lips, dripping down her chin in sickening rivulets.And her chest—A gaping hole yawned where her heart should have been.Her dress was soaked in red, shredded beyond recognition, the fabric clinging to her like a grotesque second skin. The edges of the wound were jagged, torn—like something had ripped into her again and again, carving through her flesh with cruel precision.Adeline couldn’t breathe.
No—no, this wasn’t real.
It couldn’t be real.
Her stomach twisted violently.Seraphine’s corpse swayed, a ragged, broken puppet still trying to stand.And then—she spoke.A wet, gurgling sound bubbled up from its ruined throat. “You... left me…”Adeline's breath came in frantic, shallow bursts. “No—I didn’t—I swear, Sera, I didn’t—”A slow, unnatural tilt of the head. A choked laugh, thick with blood. “You left me to die, Adeline.” Seraphine screamed, her voice cracking under the strain.Adeline's breath came fast and shallow. “No! I would never—!”“How could you?” Seraphine’s voice fractured like shattered glass, grief twisting into something venomous. Adeline's entire body convulsed with terror.She had to wake up.
Wake up, Adeline!
WAKE UP!!!
“You were my sister!”“Sera, please, stop—!”Seraphine’s eyes glowed with unnatural fury. The shadows wrapped around her, writhing like living things.“You were a bad friend, Adeline.”“No!”“You should’ve died instead!”“Please, stop!” Adeline covered her ears, squeezing her eyes shut. The words burrowed into her like thorns, wrapping tight around her ribs, suffocating.“Just DIE already!” Seraphine's scream ripped through the void—…and Adeline jerked awake.She gasped, sucking in air like she’d been drowning. Her chest ached, her heart pounding so hard it felt like it might crack her ribs.She was trembling.Her fingers dug into the sheets beneath her as she scanned her surroundings in a wild panic.Jinx’s room.She was in Jinx’s room.It was just a dream.Just a dream, she reminded herself. Adeline swallowed hard, trying to steady her breathing, but the weight of the nightmare still clung to her skin like oil.And that’s when she noticed it.A heavy warmth draped over her shoulders.Silco’s coat.Her breath hitched again—this time, for a completely different reason. She reached up, hesitantly running her fingers over the fabric. It smelled like smoke, leather, and something distinctly him. She buried her face to the fabric, clinging to it as if scared she might be still in her nightmare. Jinx must’ve put it on her.Adeline closed her eyes for a moment, letting the scent ground her. It was ridiculous how much that simple gesture meant to her right now.Slowly, she wiped the cold sweat from her brow.She could still hear Seraphine’s voice echoing in her skull.
You left me to die.
Adeline exhaled shakily and pulled the coat tighter around herself.She should’ve taken her medication today.The bitter thought gnawed at the edges of her mind as she sat there, wrapped in Silco’s coat like a lifeline. She let herself linger in that moment—clinging to the fabric, grounding herself in its weight, in the scent of leather and smoke that still lingered on it. Anything to push back the memory of Seraphine’s voice from her nightmare.
It wasn’t real.
It was just a dream… a nightmare
She repeated the words in her head like a mantra, but the lingering unease wouldn’t fade completely.At last, salvation came in the form of a familiar, impatient voice.“I see you're finally awake.”Adeline flinched slightly, snapping her head up to see Jinx standing in the doorway with her hands firmly planted on her hips. Her expression was unimpressed, but the mischievous glint in her eyes told Adeline she wasn’t actually mad—just being dramatic.“You slept all afternoon,” Jinx continued, rocking on her heels. “It’s practically noon now!”Adeline blinked, momentarily disoriented. “Already?!”“Yep!” Jinx hopped onto the bed beside her. “Been trying to wake you up for a minute, but you were out cold! I even tried poking you, but nooo, not even a twitch!”Adeline winced. “Oh… sorry.”Jinx waved it off. “Nah, it’s fine. Figured you needed the sleep. You looked real comfy cuddling Dad’s coat anyway,” she teased with a grin.Heat crept up Adeline’s neck as she quickly shrugged it off, clearing her throat. “I was just… cold,” she muttered, folding the coat neatly and setting it aside.Jinx snorted but didn’t comment further. Instead, she grabbed Adeline’s arm and tugged her up to her feet.“C’mon! Time to go!”Adeline blinked at her, still trying to shake off the grogginess. “Go where?”“Dinner, duh!” Jinx rolled her eyes.Adeline frowned. “Isn’t it kinda early for dinner?”“Well, yeah! But I’m hungry! I worked my butt off while you were passed out,” Jinx huffed, crossing her arms.Adeline chuckled, running a hand through her disheveled hair. “Right. Sorry about that.”Jinx shrugged. “Eh, I forgive you.” Then, without warning, she yanked Adeline forward. “Now hurry up!”“Whoa—Jinx, wait—!” Adeline barely had time to regain her balance—she quickly grabbed Silco's coat—as Jinx practically dragged her toward the door.She let out a breathy laugh, shaking her head. The tension from her nightmare wasn’t completely gone, but… with Jinx pulling her forward, talking a mile a minute, filling the air with her usual chaotic energy. It was easier to breathe.As Adeline and Jinx strolled down the dimly lit hallway of The Last Drop, Adeline instinctively turned toward the staircase, expecting to head downstairs to Jericho’s.Jinx, however, had other plans.Before Adeline could take another step, Jinx grabbed her arm and yanked her in the opposite direction.“Wha—?” Adeline stumbled slightly, blinking at the sudden tug.“Where ya goin’?” Jinx asked, a sly smirk tugging at her lips.“To Jericho’s?” Adeline said slowly, as if the answer was obvious.Jinx snorted. “Nah.”Adeline narrowed her eyes. “Then where—?”“Dad’s office, duh.”Adeline hesitated, her brows furrowing. “What? Why?”“To eat dinner, silly.” Jinx rolled her eyes dramatically, her grip on Adeline’s wrist tightening as she started pulling her forward.Adeline dug her heels in slightly. “Wait—why are we eating in Silco’s office? I thought we’d just go to Jericho's like normal thing.”Jinx let out an exaggerated sigh. “Pfft, normal? Boring. Besides, I already got food for us.” She puffed out her chest, clearly proud of herself. “All your favorites, too! And Dad’s been waiting, so let’s goooo!”Adeline hesitated for a second. Dinner. In Silco’s office.It wasn’t that she avoided Silco, but… spending time in his office felt like stepping into a different world. The dim lighting, the ever-present smell of cigars and whiskey, the heavy air of authority—it was a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of the bar. It was his space, and she was never quite sure how to act in it.Not to mention, she still wasn’t entirely sure where she stood with him. Sure, he tolerated her—maybe even trusted her a little. But Silco was a man who saw everything as a transaction.And yet…Jinx was looking at her expectantly, her grip still firm on Adeline’s wrist.Her stomach growled, betraying her.Jinx grinned. “See? Even your gut agrees! Now move it!”Adeline sighed in defeat, letting Jinx drag her forward.“Fine, fine,” she grumbled, though she couldn’t suppress the small smile forming on her lips. “But this better be good food, Powder.”Jinx gasped in mock offense. “Better be?! Excuse me, but I only get the best for my favorite person!”Adeline chuckled, shaking her head. She'd definitely planned all of this… Adeline stepped into Silco’s office, her boots clicking softly against the polished floor. The scent of smoke, ink, and aged leather filled the air. It was the scent of him.Her gaze landed on Silco immediately. He stood near his desk, sleeves rolled up to his forearms, fingers idly adjusting the tie that remained untied around his collar. His heterochromatic gaze flicked up the moment they entered, pinning her in place.“Adeline,” he drawled, his voice smooth, deliberate. “There you’re.”A slow turn, his hands slipping into his pockets. A smirk played at the corner of his lips. “I've been waiting for ages.” His head tilted slightly, the dim light catching on the sharp angles of his face. “It seems… I couldn't fix my necktie.” A pause, then a subtle tilt of his chin. “Be a useful assistant and help the old man with it.”Adeline stiffened.Of course. Of course this was what he wanted.She wasn’t in the mood to play whatever game he was trying to play, but Silco’s gaze was enough to make her move. Reluctantly, she stepped forward, closing the space between them. She could feel the weight of his eyes studying her—watching the small, telling hesitations in her movements.Jinx, oblivious, had already made herself comfortable on the leather couch. “Ooooh! I can't wait to try one of these!” she beamed, already tearing into the food, her legs kicking slightly in excitement.Adeline turned her focus back to Silco. She reached up, fingers brushing against the fabric of his tie.And then he spoke.“Was it clear to you that your job starts at 8 o’clock in the morning?”Her jaw clenched.“Crystal clear,” she murmured, concentrating on the knot she was forming.Silco hummed, amused. "And your job is… what, exactly?" A beat. "Sleeping all afternoon?"“I… I was just tired,” she admitted, her voice quieter than before.Silco leaned in slightly, voice dipping just enough for only her to hear. “Care to explain why you were late this morning?"Before she could answer, she felt it—His hands.Settling at her waist.Adeline flinched.And Silco noticed.A single brow lifted in mild curiosity, but he didn’t remove them.“What?” he asked, feigning innocence.Adeline swallowed, forcing herself to meet his gaze. “Please, Silco.” Her voice was barely above a whisper. “Place your hands somewhere else.”A flicker of amusement crossed his face.“Where else do you want me to put them, little dove?” he mused.His tone was calculated, measured—but beneath it, there was something else. Something she had recognized the night of their last tense encounter.Heat crept up her neck.She jerked her chin slightly toward Jinx—hoping, praying he’d take the hint. Indicating that the child is present–and she might see what they two are doing. Silco smiled at Jinx and went back to Adeline. He leaned forward to her. Adeline sucked in a sharp breath, catching the scent of smoke, perfume and aftershave—all mixed up together that made her mind go crazy.His lips brushed the shell of her ear as he whispered, “If it weren’t for her being here… I wouldn’t be able to stop myself from what I’m about to do with you.” A shiver traced its way down her spine.Silco’s hand moved—slowly, deliberately. His fingers tracing a path from her waist upward, dragging along the fabric of her clothes. Adeline’s breath hitched.She should move.
She should push him away.
Instead—her own body betrayed her.She leaned into his touch, heat pooling in her stomach against her better judgment.“Lately,” Silco murmured, burying his face in her hair, smelling her scent. His breath warm against her ear. His fingers slithered up from her waist to her breast, deliberate, slow. Testing.Adeline stiffened as she felt his hands move—tracing along the fabric of her clothes, brushing against her ribs, higher—Too high.“I’ve been thinking about you,” he continued, voice smooth as silk, dangerously soft. His fingers barely ghosted over her before retreating, a tease, a whisper of a touch.Adeline’s grip tightened on his tie.Hard enough to strangle him.Her pulse hammered against her ribs, her breath catching in her throat. Her body was betraying her—leaning in instead of pulling away. She should stop this. Should shove him back, should say something.But then—His next words nearly made her knees buckle. “I’ve been thinking about how glorious it would feel,” he murmured, “to have my assistant spread across my desk, wearing nothing but this necktie…”His grip on her tightened.And so did hers.Adeline froze.The words struck her like a lightning bolt straight to the spine, a sharp current of heat shooting through her veins.
Damn him.
She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to ignore the way her stomach twisted—the way her traitorous body reacted to his voice, to his touch. Her own body betrayed her as she leaned even more forward to Silco—chasing his touch as she anticipated more of his touch.Silco’s breath was right there, his lips just barely grazing the shell of her ear.Her heart was racing.She hated that it thrilled her.She hated the way she was leaning in, the way she wanted more.Silco chuckled, dark and knowing. “What’s wrong, little dove?” His voice was low, smooth—like a blade pressed just beneath the skin. “You seem… distracted.”
You are the goddamn distraction!
She bit her tongue so hard she tasted blood.From this angle, Jinx wouldn’t be able to see what was happening. She would assume Adeline was still fixing her father’s tie, completely unaware of the silent war raging between them.Then—A voice shattered the tension.“Uh… guys?”Adeline flinched like she’d been doused in cold water.Silco, infuriatingly, barely reacted.Jinx tilted her head, raising a brow. “What’s taking so long?” she asked, voice edged with mild suspicion. “Can you finish that later? I’m hungry.”Adeline swallowed hard, stepping back as quickly as she dared.Silco’s hands slipped away from her easily, gracefully—as if he hadn’t just spent the last minute whispering filth in her ear. As if he hadn’t just had his hands on her.Adeline barely resisted the urge to punch him.Instead, she forced herself to breathe.Silco shot her a smirk before turning on his heel, adjusting his tie as he strode toward Jinx.“Patience, child.” His voice was calm, even—like he hadn’t just been caught playing with fire.Jinx huffed. “I have patience,” she argued, pouting. “I just don’t have patience when it comes to food!”Silco chuckled, sitting next to Jinx–on her right. Adeline, meanwhile, stood frozen in place, fists clenched at her sides. Her skin still buzzed with the ghost of Silco’s touch.Her heart was still racing.She took a deep breath, willing her pulse to slow. You’re fine. You’re fine.As she watched Silco settle into his seat, cool, collected, completely unbothered, Adeline realized something.She was playing with fire… and she had almost burned herself—just like the other night. And it was only getting worse. But this time, the fire inside her wasn’t dying down. No—it was growing.
And it was all because of him!—Silco!
He was playing with her. Toying with her. Letting her taste something forbidden, just enough to leave her wanting. He was dangling temptation in front of her like a delicacy, promising something—but never quite giving it.Not unless she surrendered to him first.Adeline clenched her jaw.Bastard.She both hated and loved this game.She didn’t want to play, but there's a part of her wanting to play his twisted game. She didn’t and wanted to entertain whatever twisted amusement he got out of this.But the idea of Silco winning?That was something she couldn’t let happen.Her nails pressed into her palms.If he wants to play dirty…
Then she would, too.
Adeline rolled her shoulders back, tilting her chin up as she made her way to the table where Jinx had already started digging into the food.Silco glanced at her, and for the briefest second, his lips twitched in amusement—like he knew what she was thinking.Good.
Let him know.
Because if he thought he had her cornered, that he could pull the strings and make her dance for him?Then he was in for a rude awakening.She slid into her seat across from him, folding her hands neatly in front of her, her face carefully schooled into neutrality.“Did I keep you waiting too long, sir?” she asked, voice dripping with politeness.Silco’s gaze sharpened, flickering with interest. He reached for his already poured glass, swirling the amber liquid inside before taking a slow sip.“I’m a patient man, Adeline,” he mused, his voice like velvet and smoke. “but my patience has limits,” He set the glass down, fingers tapping lazily against the couch. “I can wait for the things I want.”Adeline fought back the shiver that threatened to crawl up her spine.Oh, so that’s how he wanted to play?Fine.She leaned forward slightly, resting her chin on her hand, and smiled. Sweet. Innocent.“Well,” she murmured, tilting her head just enough to let her hair cascade over one shoulder, exposing the column of her neck. “I’d hate to make you wait too long… sir.”For the first time that night, she saw it—A flicker.Something quick. Subtle. Barely there.But it was enough.The way his fingers paused against the couch. The slight tension in his jaw.It was small, but she had seen it.She had felt it.That wasn’t a victory.
Not yet.
Adeline hadn't hit the home run yet. Hadn't truly gotten under his skin.But she would.She reached for his glass, curling her fingers around the rim and pulling it toward her. The deep red liquid swirled as she brought it to her lips, letting the cool wine coat her tongue before swallowing.This game of his?She was in it now.And she wasn’t going to lose.She hummed, licking a stray drop from her lower lip. Let him watch.“Hmm,” she mused, pushing the glass back toward Silco. “Never tasted this kind before.”Silco hummed in response, his gaze locked onto her. He picked up the glass and finished the remaining wine in one smooth motion.Adeline swallowed down a smirk.She barely had a second to breathe before Jinx’s voice cut in.“Oooh, Adeline!” Jinx called, her words slightly muffled through a mouth full of food. “Try this! This one’s my favorite!” She shoved a box toward her.Adeline chuckled, taking the container. “Alright, alright,” she said, amused by Jinx’s enthusiasm.But then—Jinx turned to Silco. “Dad! Try this! This is one of Adeline’s favorites!”Adeline's eyes widened. Her stomach twisted as her head snapped toward Jinx. What?! Why would she—?She turned to Silco just as he opened the box, watching his expression closely.As Silco opened the box Adeline secretly peered at his food. Thinking what exactly could it be—as she had so many favorite foods—that she couldn't decide or know whatever was inside it—because what exactly did Jinx think was her favorite? She had too many to count.Silco arched a brow. “Spicy seafood?” He lifted a single octopus tentacle between his fingers before shifting his gaze to Adeline. “Mhm. Never thought you’d be a fan of spicy.”Adeline smirked, regaining her composure. “Well, there are a lot of things you don’t know about me.”Silco only held her gaze for a moment before turning his attention back to his food.Jinx, however, was practically bouncing in her seat, eyes darting between the two of them. “Come on, Addy, open yours!”Adeline shifted her focus to the box in her hands, flipping open the lid.Her breath hitch. Inside were small chunks of churros, golden and crisp, drizzled with glossy chocolate syrup.Her mouth instantly watered as it had been a year since she tasted Piltover foods.The scent alone sent her straight back to Piltover—the bustling streets, the bakeries lining the market, the carefree afternoons she had once taken for granted.She had forgotten how much she missed it.“You should try it, Addy!” Jinx grinned, popping another bite into her mouth. “It’s one of my best favorites! Dad always gets me some whenever he passes by Piltover.”Adeline looked up, startled.Silco had been quiet, but when she glanced at him, she found him already watching her.His expression was unreadable, but in his hand, he held the same tentacle from earlier. He hadn’t taken a bite yet. At Jinx’s words, his gaze flickered ever so slightly—something subtle, something thoughtful—but it was gone as quickly as it had come.Then, without a word, he finally took a bite.Adeline hesitated for only a second before doing the same.The moment the churro hit her tongue, a quiet moan of delight nearly escaped her lips. The texture of the churros was so good, moist and well cooked. The chocolate syrup only made it even BETTER. God! She had already forgotten how delicious the food was up there. It was perfect.For a few blissful seconds, she forgot everything else.The room fell into a comfortable silence, save for the sounds of Jinx noisily chewing her food, savoring every bite.Silco, on the other hand, barely touched his meal. He took one or two bites—just enough to satisfy appearances—but left the rest untouched.Adeline wasn’t stupid.She knew why.A man like him, one with so many enemies, couldn't afford to eat anything without suspicion. For all he knew, the food could be contaminated or it might contain poison. For someone who wants him dead. Paranoia.Yet, as she chewed her churro, she noticed something else.He wasn’t just watching his untouched plate.He was watching Jinx.Something in his expression shifted—subtle, barely noticeable. But Adeline saw it.She had never seen Silco like this. Not as the Eye of Zaun.No, this was different.
Who would’ve thought the great Silco had such a soft spot?
She caught herself staring—watching the way his features softened just slightly as Jinx happily stuffed her face with food, completely unaware of his gaze.And then—Silco’s gaze flicked to her.Adeline stiffened.They locked eyes.For a long moment, neither of them looked away.She raised an eyebrow, as if silently challenging him. What? Is it a crime to stare at you?But Silco’s lips twitched—amused but unreadable.Before she could say anything, Jinx reached for another box. “Ooooh! Try one of these!” she announced, suddenly grabbing a chicken wing and was ready to shove it into Silco's mouth. Adeline watched, curious.Jinx waved the wing in front of her father’s face. “Come on, now,” she said, as she forced the chicken wing into Silco's mouth.“Open up, big baby!” she added with a tease. Silco sighed. “No, Jinx I…” As soon as he opened his mouth Jinx didn't waste a moment to shove it inside. The poor man didn't have time to protest, the very moment he opened his mouth Jinx immediately shoved the chicken wing in his mouth—Jinx didn't even bother pulling out the bone.Adeline burst out laughing, covering her mouth just not to offend him. She just couldn't believe what just happened. She wasn’t sure what was funnier—the look of absolute betrayal on Silco’s face or the way Jinx was grinning ear to ear, proud of herself.Silco slowly chewed, yanking the bone from his mouth and setting it aside. Jinx leaned in eagerly. “Sooo? How was it?”Silco chewed a few more times, swallowing. “…It’s spicy.”Jinx’s eyes flicked to the box in her lap. Her lips curled in a guilty grimace.“Oooh,” she sucked in a sharp breath through her teeth. “yeah. I… I think this was supposed to be mine. Ooops, hehehe.” The laughter still buzzed in Adeline’s chest, warm and unexpected.She stole another bite of her churro, savoring the sweetness as she watched Jinx attempt to cool Silco's mouth with a glass of water. For once, the three of them almost felt… normal. Like a real family sitting down for a meal.And that thought was dangerous.Adeline broke the silence with a teasing lilt in her voice. “Not a fan of spicy food, I see?”She tilted her head slightly, eyes flicking to the smudge of sauce clinging to the corner of Silco’s lips. For a man who wielded control like a weapon, it was almost comical seeing him unaware of something so simple. Almost.Silco, who had been ready to shoot back with one of his usual sharp-witted remarks, paused as she suddenly rose from her seat. His sharp eyes tracked her movement, calculating, cautious.Adeline didn’t give him time to protest. She crouched down before him, her movements slow, deliberate—giving him ample opportunity to stop her if he wanted to. When he didn’t, she licked the tip of her thumb and reached for the dried streak on his cheek.Silco didn’t flinch. He didn’t move at all. Just watched her with that unreadable stare of his, like he was letting her play her little game—for now.Adeline smirked, brushing her dampened thumb against his skin, wiping away the evidence of his meal. “Can’t have you sitting here looking anything less than menacing,” she murmured, her voice laced with amusement. “Hard to intimidate people with a mess on your face, don’t you think?”Her tone was light, teasing, but beneath it, something crackled. A spark. A challenge.Silco remained unnervingly still. That sharp mind of his was undoubtedly assessing her every move, calculating the exact weight of her actions, but for once, he didn't retaliate.That was new.Adeline felt a thrill pulse through her veins.Silco was always careful, always composed. Every movement, every word was measured, precise. But here, now, with her?She was testing him.And the most dangerous part?She wanted to see him crack.Adeline pulled away slowly, savoring the way his gaze remained locked onto her. She could feel it lingering even as she returned to her seat, a smirk curling at her lips as she casually picked at the remnants of her meal.
Turnabout's fair play, after all.
Let him taste his own medicine.She popped the last piece of churro into her mouth, letting the sweetness linger. Then, almost as an afterthought, she sucked the last smear of chocolate from her thumb—deliberately slow.And she watched him while she did it.Silco’s gaze followed the movement, dark, intent, tracing the path from her lips to her thumb and back again.
Oh.
Oh, she had him.
She saw it—the flicker of something restrained, something simmering just beneath the surface.Adeline tilted her head, her smirk never wavering. “Enjoying the moment?”Silco exhaled slowly through his nose, but his eyes never left her lips. “Are you?”Her breath hitched, but she covered it quickly. “You seem… distracted,” she mused, watching him closely.A smirk pulled at the corner of his mouth. “I’m thinking,” he admitted, voice smooth, deliberate.A dangerous admission.Adeline’s fingers found the wine bottle on the table. Without breaking eye contact, she poured herself a small measure, the deep red liquid swirling in the glass.Silco didn’t move. Didn’t stop her.She lifted the glass to her lips, taking a slow sip, letting the bitter richness mix with the lingering sweetness on her tongue. And she knew—without even looking—that he was watching her mouth again.Adeline smiled against the rim of the glass before setting it down. “It’s really good,” she murmured, voice just above a whisper.Silco chuckled—low, dark, a sound that sent a shiver trailing down her spine.“Well,” he mused, “has anyone ever told you that wine is good for the game? That it keeps things going and… fun?”Adeline arched a brow. “You’re quite right,” she mused, leaning back in her seat, draping an arm over the backrest. “But in this game? I like to win.”Silco considered her for a long moment, fingers tapping idly against the table. Then, without a word, he reached for his glass.Her lips had barely left the rim before he turned it in his grasp, aligning his mouth precisely where hers had been.And then, he drank.Adeline felt the heat coil in her stomach.It was such a small thing. Barely a gesture at all.A subtle, unspoken claim.Her breath caught for just a second, her mind reeling, but she had no time to process it before…“Alright, alright!”Jinx’s voice shattered the tension like a bullet through glass.Adeline barely stopped herself from flinching as the younger girl crossed her arms and squinted at them both.“Enough with the weird eye thing you two keep doing.” She wrinkled her nose. “What game are you even talking about anyway?”Adeline barely resisted the urge to groan.She glanced at Silco, silently demanding help.He only raised a brow, sipping at his wine like this was all incredibly amusing.
Damn!
You started this. Now I have to clean up the mess.
Adeline turned back to Jinx with an easy—hopefully convincing—smile. “It’s, uh… a competition game.”Jinx’s eyes lit up with curiosity. “Ooooh! Can I join?”Adeline froze.
Shit.
Think, Adeline. Think.She scrambled for an excuse, any excuse, to shut this down before it spiraled.“Uhm,” she stalled, “this game is only for adults.”Jinx pouted. “What?! No fair!”“Yep!” Adeline nodded quickly. “No kids allowed.”Jinx groaned dramatically before flopping back into her seat with a huff, but thankfully, she seemed to accept the answer.Adeline exhaled, shoulders easing slightly.Crisis averted.But as she glanced back at Silco, she caught the faint smirk tugging at his lips, the knowing glint in his eyes.
Damn him.
He was enjoying this.And worse?She still wasn’t entirely sure if she was winning… or if she’d already lost.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ~•° Diego's POV °•~ ]
Weeks of torture had turned his body into a husk of itself—limp, aching, barely responsive.Diego had lost track of time, but he knew it had been weeks. The stench of mold and sweat clung to the damp air, thick and suffocating. His arms ached from being pulled behind his back, wrists raw from the ropes that had bound him for what felt like an eternity.He had long since stopped trying to fight the pattern. He knew it by heart. Knew the moment his ears would catch the soft creak of the heavy door, followed by the slow, deliberate footsteps of his captors. Knew exactly when the first splash of ice-cold water would strike his face, shocking his battered body into unwanted consciousness. Knew the questions they would ask—again and again. They never let him see their faces. A blindfold ensured that. The only thing he knew was their voices—harsh, amused, pitiless.And the questions. Always the same questions.His connection to Miss Adeline Kiramman. Where she was and why he was here in Undercity… and who he works for. If he refused to answer?They made sure he paid for it.The cold water would come first—shocking, merciless, drenching him to his bones. It jolted him awake, forcing him back into their cruel reality. And then the beatings followed—Fists, boots, blunt weapons—it didn’t matter. They worked him like a worn-out rag, tearing into him just enough to keep him alive but never enough to let him slip into the peace of death. Their fists landed like thunder, like a rhythm they had perfected. They knew exactly when to pull back to keep him from passing out—just enough to keep him aware. To make him suffer.And yet, Diego never spoke.Because if he did—if he gave them anything—he would be betraying not just House Kiramman. He would be betraying her. His friend. And that was something he would rather die than do. Upon my death, I will remain loyal. If it’s the last thing I’ll do. The words were carved into his mind, unwavering. His father had once sworn the same oath before his execution. And Diego would do the same.He barely registered the sound of footsteps this time.There were more than usual. Four, maybe five. It was hard to tell over the sound of his own breathing.The air changed. It felt… different.This time, Diego wasn’t sure he’d survive the night.He wasn’t a fool. He knew how these things worked. If a prisoner outlived their usefulness, the only thing left was disposal.Pity, he thought grimly. He’d always imagined he would die fighting. Not bound, beaten, waiting for the inevitable like some cornered dog. The realization settled over him like a weight. There was no fear, not really—just an aching sense of regret.He wished he could have seen his mother one last time. Wished he could have told her he loved her. That he was sorry for not listening when she told him to stay away from the Undercity, and to the Kiramman’s. He wished he could have spoken to her one last time--to Adeline. He could see her in his mind—the way her blue eyes gleamed with mischief when she was scheming, the way her soft smile could disarm even the coldest of hearts. The way she had always trusted him. “Come with me, Diego.” Her words echoed in his mind. Sweet and comforting. She had wanted him to go with her that night. The night she left for the Undercity.
I should have gone with her.
Maybe things would have turned out differently. Maybe she wouldn’t have been exiled. Maybe he wouldn’t be here, tied to a damn chair, waiting for a bullet to split his skull open.Diego exhaled slowly, his fingers curling into weak fists behind him.
No use thinking about ‘maybes’ now.
He heard them before—footsteps, heavy boots against concrete. Circling him like a pack of hungry hyenas ready to attack their prey, their presence thick and suffocating.This was it.Let’s get this over with.He kept his eyes closed beneath the blindfold. He could hear the sharp click of a gun being loaded—bullets sliding into place, metal scraping against metal. So that’s how it ends.Would they make it quick? A single shot to the head? Merciful. Efficient.Or would they aim for his chest, drawing it out? Watching as he choked on his own blood, gasping for air that would never come?He forced his breathing to steady, even as his heart pounded against his ribs.Then the gunshot rang out. A deafening crack that shattered the air around him. His body tensed, his breath stalling in his lungs. But…He was still here.Still breathing.Diego’s entire body tensed.For a split second, his life flashed before his eyes.Without even a warning. A bucket of freezing water slammed into him, tearing a choked gasp from his lips. The ice-cold liquid bit into his already shivering body, shocking his system. Jolting his body upright. He gasped, shivering violently as the ice seeped into his already aching bones.A voice—mocking, childlike—cut through the haze. “Wakey wakey, little sunshine.”Diego groaned, his body screaming in protest as a dull, throbbing pain pulsed at the back of his skull.A low chuckle follows. “Oohhh, did my brother Michael scare you, sunshine?” The man asked, with a voice of a playground bully—the one who enjoyed this the most.“Piss off!” He snapped. The bastard gasped dramatically. “Oohh, don’t worry. It doesn’t hurt that much. Just a small little blood dripping on your head—that’s all!” he cooed, tapping Diego’s shoulder in mock comfort. “My brother, Michael only punched you on your nape, lad. He wouldn’t shoot you… yet.” The man reassured, there was an edge of his voice that Diego could tell this man is a psycho. “Just a little blood, that’s all. Nothing to cry about.”“Why don't you shut the fuck up!? ” Diego growled. The man went silent for a second. “Mhhm, you're a naughty kid, aren’t ya?” The man said, as he dug his nails on his shoulder blades. Diego clenched his teeth, as sharp nails dug into his shoulder. Not just nails. Metal claws, biting into his already bruised skin. “That’s not a nice way to talk to your elders, boy!” He snapped. A sharp hiss. Then pain—white-hot and deep—as the claws pressed harder, tearing through fabric, through skin. He could feel a bit of blood dripping on his back. Diego swallowed a pained grunt, refusing to give him the satisfaction. And then, just as suddenly, the bastard pulled away. Just as the man enjoyed inflicting pain on him, as he watched his reaction, a low chuckle left his lips. And pulled away his hands on Diego. “Now,” he drawled, as he took a step back from him. “we will be going out for the first time in your stay here. How long have you been here, again? for a week?—two?—three weeks!” He beamed. “Yes! I remembered your stupid face back then.” The man continued, voice still sickeningly sweet. Diego wanted to break his fucking jaw, if it weren't from the damn ropes stoping him! “And we will be meeting our boss today! So, keep up a good appearance, sunshine. So you wouldn’t disappoint the big boss!”
Boss?
That was new.For the first time in weeks, Diego felt something stir in his chest.Hope? No. Not quite.But something like hope.If they’re moving me, that means they have plans. That means I have a chance to get out of here. He just had to survive long enough to take it.Diego barely had a second to process his words before the man clapped his hands together. “Alright! let’s go!” The sound echoed through the room like a gunshot. “Chop-chop!” He laughed. Diego couldn’t see what was going on as a tense silence erupted in the room he was trapped in. “So? What are you waiting for?! MOOOVE!” The man bellowed. Diego flexed his fingers, wrists still bound, as heavy hands gripped his shoulders. The ropes were untied, but he didn’t have time to relish the small relief before something else clicked around his wrists.Metal……Shackles.Blindfold still in place, they yanked him up, half-dragging him forward.As they pulled him toward whatever awaited him outside or to the other room, Diego forced himself to breathe through the pain.This wasn’t over.Not yet.And if he had to crawl through hell to get out of this? Then he would… for her. It could have been minutes. Hours. Maybe. The blindfold over his eyes made it impossible to tell. All he knew was that his legs ache from walking too long, his wrists burned from the rough rope that had bound them, and every muscle in his body was tight with exhaustion.The air was stale. Damp. Thick with the scent of rust and something faintly chemical, like oil or old blood. The kind of smell that clung to a place where people disappeared.The silence was the worst part.No voices. No clues. Just the occasional creak of old pipes, the soft, distant hum of something electrical, and the rhythmic thump of his own heartbeat pounding in his ears.Then, at last, movement.Footsteps. Heavy ones.The door groaned open on rusted hinges, and a rough hand seized his arm. Diego didn’t resist. Fighting back wasn’t an option—not when he had no idea who or what he was dealing with. The grip on him was firm, impatient, dragging him forward with little care for his stumbling steps.Brace yourself, he thought. No matter what comes, stay loyal. His heart pounded against his ribs, but outwardly, he forced himself to stay still. Keep breathing. Stay sharp.If his suspicions were right, this wasn’t about killing him. Not yet. No one went through the trouble of blindfolding and dragging someone around just to put a bullet in their head. That meant they wanted something. Information. Leverage. Or maybe… a deal.Would he take it?Diego already knew the answer.If it’s the only way to survive this, then yeah. If they were willing to negotiate instead of leaving him to rot, then he still had a chance. A deal meant survival, and Diego would take it—no matter what it cost.The bigger question was…… Is he prepared to pay the price? A shove sent him stumbling forward. He barely had time to brace himself before he was forced into a cold metal chair, the legs scraping against the floor with a harsh screech. A second later, leather straps coiled around his wrists and chest, locking him in place. Tight. Secure.Whoever was doing this had done it before.Then, without a word, the hands left him. Footsteps retreated. A door clicked shut.And silence swallowed the room.Diego sat there, heart hammering, sweat slicking his palms, listening.There were others here. He could feel them. The weight of unseen gazes pressing down on him. The barely-there shift of fabric as someone moved. The quiet, controlled rhythm of another person’s breath.Watching. Waiting.His mind spun.
Who were they? What did they want? Was this some kind of test? Would speaking first show strength—or weakness?
Diego swallowed. His mind raced, flipping through every possibility, every angle he could use to talk his way out of this. He wasn’t some helpless fool—they had to want something from him–it has to be, or else he’d already be dead. But what? And more importantly… Was he actually willing to dance with his captors?The silence stretched, thick and oppressive. If they wanted him to squirm, they’d have to try harder than that.He licked his dry lips, forcing a smirk that, even unseen, he hoped carried into his voice. “Hell of a weekend,” he muttered, breaking the silence. “Might as well finish the job so I can say hi to my old man.”The words echoed in the air like a challenge, but no one responded. The silence stretched, thick and suffocating. Diego could feel it pressing down on him, a reminder of how little control he had in this situation.His fingers twitched against the restraints, his body instinctively coiling with unease. He hated this—the waiting, the not knowing.“So, what will it be?” he muttered, forcing his voice to stay steady. “A shot in the head? Or flaying me alive, so I really feel it?”The attempt at bravado barely masked the slight shake in his voice.And then…Two sharp, guttural barks exploded in the room.Diego flinched, his entire body jerking against the chair. His heart slammed into his ribs, breath hitching.He couldn’t see the beast, but he could feel them. The sound of claws scraping against the concrete floor, the heavy sniffs as they inhaled his scent, the almost tangible heat of their presence.A warning.His pulse thundered. Were they trained to kill? Is this how he's going to die? Eaten by a large beast? Hounds? Or whatever that is. His mind flashed with images—teeth sinking into flesh, the sheer force of a jaw snapping bone.His muscles tensed, every instinct screaming at him to move, to run—except he couldn’t. He was bound, helpless.Then, a low chuckle.It came from behind him.Deep. Amused.Calculated.The kind of laugh that wasn’t just entertained—it was assessing. Like a predator watching prey stumble into a trap.Diego’s breath came slower now, measured, as he forced himself to think. Whoever this was, they weren’t in a rush. They wanted him to squirm.A presence loomed close.Not physically touching him, but near enough that he could feel it. A subtle shift in the air, a weight that sent his nerves on edge. Someone watching him, evaluating him.Finally, they spoke.“You’re quite a talker, aren’t you?” The voice was distorted, muffled. Whether by a mask or a voice modulator, it was impossible to tell. The words were smooth, almost teasing, but laced with something darker.A test.A game.And Diego was the one playing blind.He swallowed hard, steadying himself. He couldn’t afford to let them see the fear creeping in.So, instead, he smirked. “What can I say? I like to make an impression.”Silence.Then, the sound of slow, deliberate footsteps.Circling.The barks had ceased, but Diego could still feel the beasts lingering nearby, waiting.“You think this is funny?” the voice mused, amused but edged with something dangerous.Diego tilted his head slightly, though the blindfold robbed him of sight. “That depends,” he said, his voice carefully casual. “Am I laughing?”A pause.Then, a low hum.“Interesting.”A gloved hand—because it had to be gloved, the texture too smooth against his skin—gripped his jaw, tilting his face upward.Diego went still.Not just because of the touch, but because of what it meant.Control.Whoever this was, they were making it clear. They owned this room. They dictated what happened next.And Diego…Diego was at their mercy.The grip on Diego’s jaw tightened—not enough to bruise, but enough to remind him of the power imbalance. He couldn’t see them, but he could feel them. Close. Studying him. The heat of their presence sent a prickling sensation down his spine.His breath was steady, controlled, but his heart? It was a drumbeat of restrained panic.Then, just as suddenly, the hand released him.The unseen figure moved away, their footsteps slow and deliberate as they circled him. Diego flexed his fingers against the restraints, testing them again. Still too tight. No chance of slipping free.He needed to stay ahead—needed to figure out what they wanted before it was too late. Maybe if he could outsmart them maybe–just maybe–he could trick them into letting him go, and that he's useful—alive! A faint clicking sound broke the silence. Metallic. Sharp. A knife? A lighter?Diego clenched his jaw.He forced himself to speak before they could. “You know, for all this dramatics, I still don’t know what you want from me,” he said, keeping his voice light, like this was just another conversation, another game. “So, what’s the deal? Are you planning to monologue? Or am I supposed to gue—” The second the scorching metal pressed against his chest, a searing agony tore through him, so sudden and consuming that the scream ripped out of his throat before he could stop it.It was a horrible sound, raw and jagged, bouncing off the steel walls of the room.The stench of burning fabric and skin filled his nose.His body lurched forward on instinct, but the restraints kept him locked in place. The metal branding into him was relentless, unyielding. The pain was so sharp—white-hot and all-consuming—that for a terrifying second, his vision swam.Then, just as suddenly, it was gone.Diego’s breathing came in ragged, uneven bursts. His heart pounded in his ears, drowning out everything except the throbbing pain radiating from the wound.A low chuckle slithered through the silence.Then, the voice—distorted, unreadable—spoke again. The looming figure moved the scorching metal on his face—not pressing it, but ghosting it over his face, a silent warning from them to choose his words carefully. He tried to jerk his face away from the heat, but they kept pressing it close to him. “I can't stand those people who talk too much,” it murmured, smooth, almost casual. “It bores and angers me,” The words barely registered past the ringing in Diego’s head. He swallowed down the scream threatening to crawl up his throat. The looming figure finally stepped back, taking the heat with them.Diego forced himself to focus. To breathe. He could taste the pain in his own breath.Then—“You happen to know our dear friend, Cassandra Kiramman, right?”Diego stilled.The name landed like a stone in his gut. “The Piltover’s Council member… Does that ring a bell to you?”He said nothing. Not because he was playing defiant, but because he was thinking.The silence stretched.Then—shing.The unmistakable sound of a knife being unsheathed.Diego’s body tensed on pure instinct.That… didn’t sound good.A flicker of movement to his right.“I hear whispers about you working for her,” A rush of air—Then pain.Sharp. All too sudden..Deep enough to make him squirm. The imposter trailed their blade deep and slowly down his arm—carving a line from his bicep down to his forearm. Pressing the blade hard on him—enough to make him wiggle on his seat. The metal shackles on him were loud, clicking violently as he tried to wiggle free. As he attempted to free himself, the obscurity figure asked him questions, as they pressed the blade even deeper to him. Twisting it inside him--eliciting a loud, broken scream from him. That he knew it satisfied them. “I heard you're spying on her beloved daughter… was it true?” Diego sucked in a sharp breath through his teeth. His hands curled into fists, his nails digging into his palms as he forced himself not to cry out.A shallow warning.A test.“Yes!” Diego snapped, his voice hoarse. “I know her!”A pause.Even blindfolded, he could feel the satisfaction in the air.Like a predator watching its prey finally surrendering.A slow exhale was heard from the masked figure. Then, the voice again—steady, cruelly patient. “Do you, by any chance, know where her daughter’s confidential documents are?” The way they said it—like his answer would decide his fate—sent a shiver down his spine.Diego hesitated. His mind raced. The sharp pain on his arm and chest was enabling him to think clearly. If they were asking him, it meant they still believed it existed. They didn’t know it had been destroyed by the council members the moment Adeline was sentenced for banishment—or at least that was what the council wanted the world to believe in. The truth was far uglier, buried beneath layers of deception and scorched parchment. As for Adeline's documents, it held crucial evidence, mirrored held up to the council and chem-baron's sins, a ledger of secrets too damning to see the light of day. Every council member names and chem-barons, every transaction, every bloodstained step taken to climb to power—Adeline hid it all. Things that the council members didn't want people in Piltover and Zaun to know—things that the council members would not even think twice to burn it immediately—as to hide their horrible enterprise. Things they did to climb up to power—to their current position they clung so dearly. Not all flowers are sweet; some bloom with poison beneath their petals. Beauty deceives—roots drinks from pure water, yet they leech from filth, and petals hide thorns--prickling those who would dare touch them. The deadliest poison wears the loveliest colors. A garden of elegance is often rooted in decay—Just like the council members. And yet in the right hands, such documents were more than just a threat. They were a leash. A noose. A whispered promise of control. The council had spent years ensuring no one could ever wield that kind of power over them. So why now? After all this time? Was someone searching for it? Other than these people? No doubt this shadowed figure understood their worth. Not just as evidence—but as a weapon.
Good!
Which meant Diego had something to bargain with
Except…
“I don’t know,” he whispered. The words barely left his lips, barely audible. Almost like a plea.Silence.Then—pressure.A gloved hand pressed firmly against his fresh wound, smearing the blood. Not a sharp pain, but slow. Purposeful.Diego stiffened. His stomach twisted.He fought the urge to jerk away—fought the instinct to react.The voice hummed, almost pleased.“Too bad,” they murmured. “I thought you were... useful.”The words hung in the air, heavy with implication.What now?Another cut? Something worse?Diego’s breath quickened. His body screamed at him to say something—anything—before they decided he wasn’t worth keeping alive.“Wait!” he bellowed. “I can get it for you!”The words burst out before he could stop them.A desperate gambit.Another pause.For a moment, the room was dead silent, save for the sound of Diego’s ragged breathing.Then—Footsteps.The masked figure moved away from him.Slow. Deliberate.Diego’s heart pounded. His once-confident smirk—his easy, sarcastic bravado—was nowhere to be found.There was no witty comeback, no smart remark.Just a quiet, creeping dread.Then—another set of footsteps.Someone else.They stopped right in front of him.A second later—rough hands yanked his blindfold off.Diego winced.Light seared into his vision like knives. His eyes, robbed of sight for weeks, burned as they struggled to adjust.Everything blurred.Shapes bled into one another. The only source of light came from a dim, single bulb hanging above him, casting long, eerie shadows along the concrete walls.He blinked rapidly, his vision slowly clearing—And then—His gaze landed on the person seated across from him.Finally, Diego saw his captor. It was not a man. But a woman! The woman sat like a queen upon a throne, her presence exuding both elegance and menace in equal measure. The high-backed chair she occupied was not just a seat but a statement—ornate, angular, and adorned with gold and magenta accents that pulsed faintly in the dim light. Diego let his eyes drift on the design of her chair, it was unmistakably Piltover in its craftsmanship, yet it had an air of something more—something powerful, something dangerous.She herself was the very picture of controlled authority. Dressed in a tailored ensemble, she blended Piltover refinement with something more ruthless. A crisp white suit draped over her long legs, pristine and unblemished despite the smoke curling lazily from the long, elegant pipe in her hand. Beneath her open cape, a magenta blouse clung to her frame, secured by a golden brooch shaped like an inverted diamond—an insignia of wealth, or perhaps power.But it was her face that drew Diego's eye. Half of it was obscured by an intricate metal mask, a respirator that hissed softly as she inhaled, exhaling tendrils of shimmering violet vapor into the air. Whether the mask was necessity or vanity, weakness or strength, was impossible to tell. But it gave her an air of untouchable dominance, as though she operated on a different plane than those who stood before her.At her feet lay a beast, both beautiful and unnatural. A Doberman—sleek and deadly, its body a fusion of organic muscle and polished metal. Its ears twitched at the faintest sound, and its glowing amber eyes never wavered from its silent vigil. The armor plating along its spine gleamed beneath the ambient light, a masterpiece of precision engineering, a perfect fusion of beauty and brutality—and yet it only scared Diego even more. These… these isn’t just any dogs. It’s a half fucking machine dog! She leaned back in her throne, one leg crossed over the other, fingers delicately adjusting the pipe at her lips. Smoke curled around her face, catching in the streams of light.The masked woman tilted her head slightly, as if amused by Diego’s words. The gas mask made it impossible to read her expression, but the weight of her stare was suffocating. She wasn't just looking at him—she was studying him. Measuring his worth.Diego swallowed hard, forcing himself to sit up straighter despite the restraints biting into his wrists. His chest still throbbed from the burn, his arm stung from the fresh cut, but he shoved the pain aside.The woman’s voice, still distorted behind the mask, echoed in the dimly lit room. “You can get it for me?” she repeated, her words slow, deliberate. Testing him. Measuring him.Diego swallowed hard but nodded. “Yes.” His voice was steady, though his pulse hammered against his ribs like a warning drum.A heavy silence stretched between them, pressing down on his chest like a weighted shroud.Then—a chuckle. Soft, at first. Almost amused.“Brave,” she mused, her voice curling through the air like smoke. A pause. “Or… desperate?”Diego clenched his jaw, forcing the tension in his body to still. “Smart,” he countered.Another chuckle, this time darker. Less amused. More… entertained.She leaned forward slightly, fingers tapping idly against the armrest of her imposing chair. The rhythm was slow, deliberate, each tap a subtle reminder of control. Of patience. Of power.“You have one chance, Diego,” she murmured, her voice velvet wrapped around steel. “Only one.”He met her unseen gaze with defiant determination. “Well… I'll make damn sure you'll get it,” he said, his words laced with forced confidence. “If you let me go now, I might as well start searching her room—for those damn documents you’re so desperate to seek.” His wit was creeping back, like a survival instinct clawing for air. If he could control the conversation, even slightly, maybe—just maybe—he could get out of this alive.The woman didn’t respond immediately. Instead, she raised a gloved hand, fingers curling around the edge of her gas mask. With slow, deliberate movements, she pulled it free.Diego inhaled sharply, straining against the dim lighting to catch a glimpse of her features. The air in the room shifted as if her mere presence carried weight beyond the tangible.“You sure you can get it for me?” she asked again, her voice now unfiltered, richer—dangerous in its smoothness.“Absolutely,” he answered, but the certainty in his voice was a lie.She tilted her head slightly, scrutinizing him. Then, her lips curved, slow and knowing.“How about I propose another task?”Diego’s stomach twisted. Deals in the Undercity never came without strings.She rose from her seat, moving with an effortless grace that sent a chill creeping down his spine. Each step was controlled, predatory, like a jaguar prowling around its prey.“I know you’re a skilled Enforcer…” she drawled, circling him. Her voice was silk laced with a hidden blade, dangerous in its subtlety. “And I know getting those documents is an easy task.” She stopped just behind him, lingering for a fraction too long before stepping into his peripheral vision once more. “The question is… can you do it?”Finally, she stepped into the light, and Diego got a full view of the woman who had been toying with him.Her features were sharp, meticulously sculpted by experience and unwavering resolve. Sun-kissed skin bore the faintest traces of scars—small, almost imperceptible, yet undeniable proof of a life lived on the knife’s edge. But it was her eyes that held him captive.A striking shade of magenta, unnatural and burning with an intensity that stripped away pretense. They weren’t just watching him—they were dissecting him, peeling back layers he tried so hard to wear—didn’t even realize he was slowly losing his façade.Diego swallowed hard, resisting the urge to shift under her scrutiny. “What are you suggesting?” he asked, forcing his voice to stay level.She smiled—a slow, measured expression that was neither warm nor cold. Just knowing—always calculated.“I want you to make a scene.” Her voice was sweet, almost playful, but there was poison coiled beneath it, waiting to strike.“You see…” she continued, taking a slow step forward, “I want the council’s attention.”A chill skittered down Diego’s spine.“I want you to lure Camille back here—To Zaun.”His breath hitched.Camille.
The Camille.
The Steel Shadow.
His mind scrambled, searching for an angle, an escape, anything—but all he could do was stare at her, momentarily stunned into silence. She had to be joking. No one in their right mind wanted Camille’s attention—not unless they had a death wish.But the woman before him?She wasn’t joking.And Diego wasn’t sure which scared him more—the impossible task she’d set before him…Or the way her magenta eyes watched him, waiting, expecting him to say yes.The weight of her words settled over him like a noose tightening around his throat.Diego forced himself to breathe.
Lure Camille to Zaun?
Did she even understand what she was asking?
Camille wasn’t just an enforcer—she was a living weapon. A razor-edged specter of Piltover’s justice, the kind of threat that didn’t just come to the Undercity. She descended upon it. Like a blade falling, swift and merciless.And this woman wanted him to be the one to bring her here?Diego clenched his jaw. He couldn’t afford hesitation, not now. Not while those unnatural magenta eyes were fixed on him, waiting, measuring. “…You want me to do, what?” he asked, forcing a scoff into his voice, like the idea was so absurd it barely warranted acknowledgement.But the woman didn’t laugh.Didn’t smirk.Didn’t blink.She only tilted her head, considering him, as if deciding whether he was worth the air she was breathing.“You heard me,” she said, voice smooth as silk and just as dangerous. “I want Camille in Zaun.”Diego let out a slow breath, forcing himself to think past the pounding in his skull. He had to handle this carefully. If he shut her down outright, she might decide he was more trouble than useful.“Alright,” he said, keeping his tone measured. “Let’s say, hypothetically, that I could pull this off…”Her lips curled at the edges. Not quite a smile. Not quite anything. “Go on.”Diego flexed his fingers against the metal shackles binding his wrists, feeling the raw skin there, the dull ache where they’d cut off circulation.“What’s stopping Camille from gutting me the second she sets her eyes on me?” he asked, lifting a brow. “I know you know our history and her deceased daughter, Seraphine,” he exclaimed. “Because… and forgive me if I’m wrong, but I’m not exactly on her list of favorite people.”The woman exhaled a small laugh, barely more than a breath. “She won’t gut you,” she mused. “Not if you play your part correctly.”“And what part is that, exactly?”Now, she smirked.“The desperate informant.”Diego stared at her.That—
That was insane.
She wanted him to pretend to be a desperate snitch, someone with just enough dirt to lure Camille back into Piltover and the Undercity without immediately putting a blade through his throat?This plan of her’s… was suicide.“Why me?” he asked before he could stop himself.The woman’s gaze flickered, just briefly. “Because you’re useful,” she said, as if that answer was enough.Diego swallowed the sharp, bitter laugh that threatened to escape him.No.
No, I’m not useful—I’m disposable.
That’s what she meant.If this plan of hers failed, if Camille saw through his act and decided to end him for wasting her time, this woman would lose nothing.Except him.And Diego was beginning to suspect that, in her eyes, he wasn’t worth much to begin with—or even worth her time. She was cunning–too cunning, and dangerous! “Let me get this straight,” he said, forcing his voice into something lighter, something almost amused, even as his pulse pounded in his ears. “You want me to walk into Piltover, wave my hands, and beg the council members to bring Camille back? And her to follow me down here?”She leaned in, her presence like a shadow curling around his throat.“No,” she murmured. “I want you to make them desperate and scared.”Diego was stunned—too stunned that he couldn't understand what Camile was saying or the implication of her words. First she wanted Adeline's documents, and next to lure Camille back to Piltover and now… and now… he couldn't actually understand her motives.
Honestly, what does she want from Camille?
And why Camille? For all the people in Piltover and Zaun… why her???
Diego exhaled through his nose, slow and deliberate, hiding the way his ribs felt like they were caving in.This wasn’t a request.It was a command.And if he wanted to get out of this room alive, he had only one answer. “…Alright,” he said finally. “I’ll do it.”The woman studied him for another agonizing beat of silence.Then—She smiled.It wasn’t warm. It wasn’t cruel.It was just… inevitable.“Good,” she said, stepping back. “Good. I’ll be looking forward to our next meeting. You may go.” For a long, stretched moment, Diego didn’t move. His brain struggled to process the simplicity of her words.
Just like that?
The shift in the air was unnerving. No more threats. No more knives against his skin. No more pressure squeezing his ribs.The moment felt unreal.Two men emerged from the shadows, their heavy footsteps filling the space. They were large, broad-shouldered—Zaunites by the look of them, with cold, watchful eyes that had seen too much and cared too little.Diego tensed instinctively as they approached. Then—the keys.The sound of metal against metal, the soft click of locks unfastening.The shackle fell away from his wrist.He exhaled sharply, flexing his fingers, rolling his aching joints. The skin beneath the restraints was raw, the deep red marks standing out against his skin like brands.He didn’t look at her.Didn’t want to see those eyes still on him.Instead, he kept his gaze low, fixed on his bruised wrist. The pain there was sharp, but manageable.The woman’s voice cut through the silence. “Don't forget,” she said, and though her tone was light, there was no warmth. “I'll be watching you.” She inclined her head toward the heavy metal door. A silent dismissal.“I'll let you know when I locate her files,” Diego nodded.He turned away quickly, taking long, steady strides toward the exit. He refused to meet the stares of the people watching him from the dim corners of the room.Eyes followed him—too many of them. Faces blurred in the periphery of his vision.He didn’t care.His hand found the doorknob. He wrapped his fingers around the cold metal.ThenThe world tilted.His breath hitched.A split second. A moment of imbalance.He stepped back, blinking hard as a wave of dizziness crashed over him, sudden and unwelcome. Diego clenched his jaw, shaking his head slightly as if to rid himself of the haze creeping into his skull.
The hell was that?
His arm throbbed. A sharp, insistent pain right where her blade had cut him. Diego frowned. His gaze dropped to the wound.The skin around it looked… wrong.The veins there were darker than before, standing out starkly against his skin, twisting like ink bleeding through paper. They bulged slightly, pulsing beneath the surface.A slow, uneasy feeling curled in his gut.
This... doesn't look right.
He flexed his fingers. His limbs felt heavier than they should.Tired.He swallowed thickly.The cut was worse than he thought, that was all.
Just an infection.
Maybe she hadn't cleaned the blade. Maybe the room itself—the damp, rust-slick air of this wretched place—had worsened it.Nothing more.Behind him, he heard the soft shift of fabric as the woman settled back into her seat.He turned his head slightly—just enough to glance at her.She was already watching him.Legs crossed. Hands clasped in front of her. Her expression is unreadable.But her lips...They curled at the edges.Diego stiffened.His stomach twisted, though he didn't know why.Then—A drop of something warm slid down his upper lip.He lifted a hand absently, wiping it away with his thumb.Then he saw the color.Deep Red.Blood.His blood! Another drop splattered against the floor beneath him.The beast beside her made a low, guttural noise, shifting on its paws–ready to attack. While the other one licked its jowls, saliva dripping in long, thick strings.A chill licked up Diego’s spine.
What…?
His pulse thundered in his ears, his breath coming faster now, uneven.Something was wrong. His tongue felt thick. His throat tightened.The woman exhaled softly, like she was amused. “Slower than I expected.” She muttered. Just like that Diego’s stomach dropped.
Poison!
His chest tightened.His jaw clenched as he swallowed back something thick, something bitter.Then—A sharp, burning sensation clawed its way up Diego’s throat, raw and relentless. He barely had time to register the wet, choking sound that escaped him before something warm spilled past his lips.Blood.It splattered against the floor in thick, crimson droplets, stark against the cold, hard ground. For a second, all he could do was stare.His own blood.His own body, betraying him.No.His breath hitched, erratic and shallow, as he lifted his head. The room swayed dangerously. His muscles trembled, refusing to obey.From the throne, the woman smiled.Not cruel. Not kind.Just inevitable.“It was so nice knowing you, Diego.” Her voice was smooth, almost gentle, but it carried the weight of a death sentence.He tried to move—to force his legs to carry him forward—but the moment he shifted, agony rippled through his body like shattered glass in his veins. His knees buckled. His vision blurred.He collapsed.A harsh impact rattled his bones as he crashed onto the cold floor, arms barely catching himself. His breath came in ragged, desperate gasps, each inhale dragging fire through his lungs. The taste of iron coated his tongue.Blood. More of it.It pooled beneath him, warm and seeping, staining his fingers as he clawed at the ground.No, no, no—His vision was turning red, dark spots creeping in at the edges. His eyes, once sharp, were now bloodshot, burning, unfocused. The world around him twisted and distorted, voices stretching, warping—He couldn’t see.He couldn’t breathe.A violent cough wracked his body, forcing up another mouthful of blood. It dripped down his chin, thick and viscous, painting his skin red. His fingers clawed at his throat, desperate, leaving behind angry, reddened streaks as if he could tear the suffocation away. His chest heaved. Every breath was a battle.From somewhere above, a soft, amused hum. “Don’t worry. I’ll tell your friend, Adeline you came by,” she purred.Diego’s bloodstained fingers curled into fists.His body was failing. His vision was drowning in red. The edges of the world blurred into nothing. But still—still—he forced his head up. Forced his gaze to meet hers.“You…” The word barely escaped him. It was weak, choked, barely more than a whisper.And then—More blood spilled past his lips.His body gave another violent tremor. A terrible, wracking cough forced him forward, his forehead nearly hitting the floor. His muscles spasmed. His hands, once steady, were trembling so violently he could barely hold himself upright.The woman sighed. Not impatient. Not disappointed. Just watching. Waiting.Diego’s breath hitched. The world was slipping away.Diego barely felt the floor beneath him anymore, the cold stone distant—like a memory. His limbs had gone numb, his body unresponsive, as if he no longer belonged to it. The burning in his veins had faded into something worse: absence.A hollow, sinking void.His breath came in shallow gasps, each one weaker than the last. His lungs fought against him, desperate for air, but the poison was relentless. It coiled around his insides, squeezing tighter and tighter.His hands twitched against the ground, fingers curling in one last attempt at control. But they were useless. He couldn’t feel them.Couldn’t feel anything.His vision was drowning in red. It seeped from his eyes, trailing down his cheeks in thick, wet streams. It dripped from his chin, from his nose, from his lips. He could taste it—hot, metallic, suffocating.A shudder ran through his body. A final, feeble rebellion.He wasn’t going to get up.Not this time.Somewhere, through the thick haze of his failing senses, he heard footsteps. Slow. Measured. Coming toward him.The woman.She crouched beside him, her perfume laced with something sharp and bitter—something he hadn’t noticed before.She leaned in close, her voice a whisper against his ear.“Shh,” she murmured. “Don’t fight it. It would only get worse,”Diego’s lips parted, but no words came. Only blood.The weight of her presence, the way her shadow loomed over him—it should have made his skin crawl. Should have made him furious.But he felt nothing.Nothing at all.His pulse was slowing. The frantic hammering of his heart had dulled to a sluggish, uneven rhythm. His chest barely rose.Somewhere in the distance, the low growl of a beast.A breath.A sigh.His body gave one final, violent tremor.Then—Stillness.The room faded.The voices faded. The pain faded. The last thing Diego saw before the darkness swallowed him whole—was her smile.
[ °•~ End of Diego's POV ~•° ]
[ ~°• The woman's POV •°~ ]
The woman hummed softly, a single, absentminded note as she placed the tip of her boot against Diego’s face.She pressed down—just enough to feel the faintest resistance beneath her sole.Nothing.Not even a twitch.“Idiot,” she muttered under her breath, lips curling in faint disappointment.With a sharp turn, she strode away from the crumpled body, her heels clicking against the floor in a slow, deliberate rhythm. She didn’t need to look back. Didn’t need to confirm what she already knew.Diego was meant to be a bishop on her board. But now—he was no longer a piece on the board.“Leave,” she commanded.Like well-trained hounds, her men obeyed without hesitation, vanishing through the door without so much as a whisper.Except for one. She didn’t need to turn to know who it was.The silence he carried was familiar—woven with amusement, quiet curiosity, like a cat watching a bird in a cage. He leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed, a smirk playing at the edges of his lips.She didn’t react. His presence was expected, inevitable, like the slow ticking of a clock counting down to a foregone conclusion. “The hell was that?” His voice was smooth, laced with amusement, but underneath it lay something else. Not quite caution. Not quite admiration. Something in between.Her fingers ghosted over the chessboard before her, tracing the edges of the pieces as if they were sacred artifacts. “Vitrolis,” she said finally, her voice carrying a quiet satisfaction. “My newest creation. The deadliest one,”The man let out a low whistle, stepping further into the room, his gaze flickering over the meticulously arranged board. Each piece stood in its rightful place, untouched, unmoved—yet nothing about them was static. Every placement, every decision, every absence told a story. His eyes lingered on a missing space where a white bishop had once stood. “Why?” he asked at last. The amusement never left his voice, but something in his posture sharpened. “I thought you needed a new bishop?”She plucked the white bishop from the board, rolling it idly between her fingers. The cool glass caught the dim light, reflecting fractured glimpses of her expression. “He was useless,” she said simply, her tone as dismissive as the piece she now held.The man took a few step forward, hands tucked behind his back, studying the board once more with quiet calculation. His eyes flickered over the arrangement—the pieces still standing, the spaces now empty—before settling on the one between her fingers.“You threw away your precious piece,” he observed. “He was the golden key to the game.”A smirk ghosted over her lips, something unreadable flickering behind her gaze.“Diego’s loyalty to the Kirammans is absolute,” she mused, the bishop spinning idly in her grasp. “Threats, promises, pain—none of it would change him. Love is a peculiar thing, isn’t it? It binds tighter than chains, stronger than fear. Even in death, he clung to it.” The bishop tumbled from her hand, striking the marble floor with a hollow clatter. “Such a shame he had to die like that,” she murmured, watching the piece roll to a stop. “But I do not waste my time on broken things.”A pause.A flicker of amusement.“The moment we set him free, he would’ve started yapping. And you know how I feel about loose ends.” She reached for another piece—a pawn, small and unassuming. “There are always more to take their place.”Samuel let out a low hum, tilting his head. “What now?”“I’ll find another.” Her hand moved again, this time selecting a different piece. A single, unassuming white rook. She traced its edges with her thumb, studying it as though it held the answers to something only she could see.Samuel chuckled, stepping closer. “You still have one left. Why bother needing more?”She lifted the rook slightly—not in agreement, not in defiance, but in something more thoughtful. “One is never enough,” she murmured. “One will always fall. One will always falter. Always have a backup for the piece that’s bound to break.” Her voice dipped lower, contemplative. “Fear,” she continued, her gaze never leaving her chess board. “It is the simplest weapon, the oldest tool. It bends them. Breaks them. Drives them mad. But above all…” She finally looked at him, sharp and calculating. “It makes them predictable.”Samuel’s lips quirked upward, eyes flicking toward the board as she slid the white rook forward.The white rook stood alone now, a lone sentinel in the path of the black king and his advancing pawns. Outnumbered. Outmaneuvered. The last line of defense against an inevitable fate.But the rook knows what they were dealing with. They know the danger they were putting themselves in.But rooks were not made to bow.A single move away from destruction.A sacrifice.“And you’re still so certain that your other bishop won’t turn against you?” Samuel asked, his voice light, almost amused, but there was something else beneath it—something thoughtful.She leaned back, resting her chin against her clasped hands. “They won’t,” she said simply. “They know what happens to those who do.”A beat of silence.Then—“The ones who fear me most are the ones who are most useful.”Samuel hummed in thought, reaching down to pluck the discarded bishop from the floor. He turned the piece over in his palm, his touch almost reverent, as if the weight of it carried something more than carved ivory. “And what of the fallen white pawn? What are your plans with her” he asked, his voice smooth, unreadable.A simple piece. Insignificant, some might say. But pawns were never just pawns—no, they can become far more greater.Her pawn had stood on the board, marching forward with quiet resolve, unaware—or perhaps uncaring—of the fate that awaited it. A sacrifice? A miscalculation? Or merely a game played by hands far greater than its own?The woman remained silent, her gaze fixed on the board, eyes tracing the carefully placed pieces. Each stood exactly where it was meant to—no placement was arbitrary, no move without purpose. These were not mere carvings of wood and ivory; they bore names, faces, fates known only to her and Samuel.A game, yes—Her game is one of manipulation, of careful sacrifices and forced choices. Each piece on the board is a person, a life—placed precisely where she needs them, whether they realize it or not.Every piece had its role, its meaning, She thought. The knight that leapt into battle without hesitation. Her bishop, moving in shadows, unseen by those who ignored them—until it was too late for them to see them coming. The rook, steadfast and unyielding, and the pawns, marching forward, unaware of what awaited them.The difference hardly mattered. Fallen was fallen. And in the end, even the smallest piece could destroy the king’s empire. “Nothing—for now.” She belatedly said. Her lips curved, slow and deliberate, but her gaze was elsewhere, fixed on the far side of the chessboard.The black king stood resolute, unyielding in his place. A shadow amidst the battlefield. But beside him—where no such piece should belong—stood a single white pawn.Out of place.Out of order.Yet still standing.Her fingers traced the edges of another piece, though she did not move it. Not yet.“Curious little thing,” she murmured, eyes narrowing ever so slightly. “A white pawn, lost in enemy territory. Stranded, yet… protected.”A soft exhale escaped her lips, almost amused. “But even the smallest piece has its purpose. A pawn may move forward with little consequence, but should it reach the other side… it transforms.” Her fingers finally moved, not to play, but to shift ever so slightly, tilting the black king just enough that its presence loomed over the lone white pawn.A smirk ghosted over her lips.“We will wait,” she decided, voice like silk draped over steel. “Wait until the knots fray, until the strings snap under their own weight.”She leaned back, tilting her head. “And when the board collapses, when the last move is theirs to make—only then will we strike.” Her smile sharpened, something dark curling at the edges of her words. “We’ll make her suffer,” she mused, turning the white pawn between her fingers. “Not with fire. Not with steel.” She placed it back beside the black king. “But with time. Slowly. Painfully.”Samuel hummed. A satisfaction creeping on his smugly face. “And Camille?” he asked. “How do we lure her out now?”The woman smiled—a slow, knowing thing. “We proceed to the other plan.” She moved another pawn forward, this one placed with delicate precision.Samuel studied the board, eyes flickering across the carefully arranged pieces. He was no fool—every piece meant something. Every position was deliberate.This was not a game of power.This was a game of inevitability.Her pawn now stood in the center, surrounded, yet strangely poised.Trapped.Or waiting.Samuel exhaled, shaking his head slightly. “You’re playing a dangerous game with the Eye of Zaun,” he said.The woman smirked. “The only kind of game worth playing.” Samuel placed the bishop back onto the board, though not where it had been before. A quiet defiance. A test. “You know how fond he is right now of his pet,” he hinted.The woman chuckled, tilting her head. “I know.” She replied. “That is what’s more interesting in playing his game. I finally saw weakness in my opponent—not only one. But two weaknesses,” she asserted. The woman merely smiled, watching him with something unreadable. “Go now. Don't keep our guests waiting,” she murmured. “Do not fail me,” she added, a silent warning. Samuel smirked. “You can count on me, boss.” with that Samuel left the room. Leaving only the woman inside. The woman hummed softly, a quiet melody threading through the stillness. With deliberate grace, she reached for another piece, her fingers gliding over the polished board before settling on a white knight. Without hesitation, she placed it deep within the Black King’s territory—among the faceless mass of pawns.The knight did not stand alone. It was not a piece meant to charge, to conquer. No, it was meant to wait. To blend. To observe.Meanwhile, her white rook lingered at the board’s edge—silent, patient. A sentinel on the outskirts of the battlefield. Not yet ready to move, but poised, as if anticipating the moment when the balance would shift.The woman withdrew her hand, her magenta gaze sweeping across the board, lingering on a single piece—the lone white pawn standing beside the Black King.A misplaced piece.But even it was misplaced—the white pawn had enjoyed its stay in the enemy's territory. Her nails clicked against the glass as she reached for it.Slowly, carefully, she lifted the White Pawn from its precarious position beside the Black King. It had been there long enough—gathering knowledge, adapting, surviving. But survival was never the goal, was it? Perhaps, something more…Then, with the same calculated ease, she reached for the white pawn, lifting it from the Black King's side and guiding it toward the crowded ranks where the knight had just settled.Then finally, she smiled. Satisfied with her moves. Now, all we need to do is to wait. Until I unravel both of them to their own ruin, She thought to herself. The woman’s philosophy is clear: power is not taken by force alone. Fear is the great equalizer. Desperation makes people predictable. And those who believe they have control are the easiest to manipulate.She does not gamble. She does not act on impulse.She plays until there is only one possible outcome.Checkmate.
[ •~° Adeline's POV °~• ]
Thank Janna Jinx had stayed all night with them. The intensity of Silco’s stares had been unbearable.Now, Jinx sat beside him on the leather couch, hunched over her sketchpad, her pencil scratching against the paper. She had asked Adeline to stay still so she could draw her, and though Adeline had no real choice in the matter, she complied.She balanced a stack of documents on her lap, skimming through reports while trying—unsuccessfully—to ignore the weight of Silco’s gaze. She didn’t have to look up to know he was watching her, probably just to amuse himself. But she refused to give him the satisfaction of a reaction.Instead, she focused on Jinx, whose excited energy was a welcome distraction. The girl was grinning, tongue poking out in concentration as she sketched. Every now and then, Adeline caught herself giggling at Jinx’s muttering—half compliments, half complaints about how tricky noses were to draw.“Done!” Jinx suddenly announced, sitting up with a triumphant grin.Adeline looked up from her papers, but just as Jinx was about to show her, she hesitated. With a dramatic gasp, she snatched up a dark blue crayon from the cluttered coffee table and pressed it hard against the page.“Wait, just gimme a seeec,” she drawled, dragging the color across the paper with intense focus.Adeline chuckled, amused by her dedication, while Silco finally lifted his gaze from his wooden clipboard. His curiosity piqued, he leaned slightly forward to glance at Jinx’s work.His brows twitched—both furrowed and lifted at the same time. Then, he looked from the sketch to Adeline, scrutinizing the comparison.“My…” he mused, tilting his head. “Why haven’t I realized how hideous you look?” His lips curled into a smirk as his sharp gaze locked onto hers, teasing.Adeline blinked, torn between offense and laughter. She wasn’t sure if Jinx’s drawing was truly that awful or if Silco was simply enjoying making her squirm.Instead of dignifying it with a proper reaction, she only raised her eyebrows and curled her lips into a playful sneer, shaking her head at him in mock exasperation.Jinx, however, was having none of it. She jabbed Silco in the side with her elbow. “Stop it!” she scolded.Silco chuckled, clearly unrepentant, but returned his attention to his clipboard.“Here! Look!” Jinx beamed, practically bouncing as she handed Adeline the sketchpad.Adeline braced herself before taking it. And when she saw the drawing, it took everything in her not to burst into laughter.Her sketched face stared back at her, though it was… well. Her left eye was disproportionately large, her nose was strangely shaped—definitely not her real nose. Her lips were painted an almost comically deep red. And her hair…Her hair was blue.Not black.She swallowed the urge to laugh, clearing her throat.“So?” Jinx asked, voice suddenly small, as if bracing for disappointment. “Do you… like it?”Adeline caught it—the faintest flicker of uncertainty in the girl’s expression.“No,” she said.Jinx’s face faltered.“I love it,” Adeline corrected immediately. “Especially what you did with my hair.”Jinx’s entire expression brightened in an instant. “Yes! I knew you’d love it!” She jumped to her feet, positively gleeful. “Blue suits you!”Adeline smiled, but something tugged at her chest.Because Jinx was right. Blue did suit her.Because it was her real hair color.Because once, a long time ago, before she dyed it black to hide who she was, it had been the same shade.“What do you think, Dad?!” Jinx turned, proudly holding up the sketch for Silco’s approval.Silco barely lifted his gaze. He took in the sketch. Then he looked at Adeline.And hummed.Adeline’s eye twitched. Oh, don’t you dare.For a moment, it seemed like he might make another sharp remark. But he swallowed it down—for Jinx’s sake. Instead, he gave a small, unreadable smile.“It’s… intriguing,” he finally said.Adeline exhaled, shaking her head.He was still teasing her.And he knew she knew it.Jinx clicked her tongue and snatched the sketchpad away from Silco. “You could’ve at least said it was beautiful,” she huffed, crossing her arms. Then, a slow, knowing grin curled at the corner of her lips. “Just like what you said to me when I asked you about Adeline.”Adeline’s eyes widened.Wait.She looked from Jinx to Silco.Silco, however, remained silent. His expression barely shifted—so subtle that if Adeline hadn’t been watching him closely, she might’ve missed it entirely.A flicker of something.Adeline narrowed her eyes. “Hold on—what are you guys talking about?”Jinx rocked on her heels, savoring the moment, dragging it out like a cat playing with a trapped mouse. “Oh, just something Dad said about you…” she mused, shooting Silco an impish glance. “Right, Dad?”Silco’s gaze remained unreadable. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” flipping a page in his clipboard as if the conversation bored him.“Oh, yes you do,” Jinx sing-songed. She was practically bouncing now, her grin widening as she twisted her sketch. “Remember? When I asked you here in your office if you thought Adeline was beau—”“Alright, that’s enough.” Silco’s voice cut through the air like a blade, sharp and decisive. He shot to his feet in one fluid motion, brushing off nonexistent dust from his vest as if that could rid him of the conversation entirely.Jinx erupted into laughter, victorious.Adeline, on the other hand, was still frozen in place.
He said what?!
I'm beautiful?
Her brain stalled, trying to process the mere possibility of it.Meanwhile, Silco strode toward his desk, settling into his usual chair with a sigh, clearly done with this particular discussion.He slumped slightly, rubbing his temple before fixing Jinx with a pointed look.“It’s late, Jinx” he declared, voice returning to its usual cool authority. “Past your bedtime.”Jinx pouted dramatically, pressing the back of her hand to her forehead like some tragic heroine. “Ooooh, come on! I'm only joking!” Her eyes gleamed with unshed tears—not real ones, of course, just her usual theatrics.Silco’s expression didn’t budge. “Well, I’m not.”Jinx huffed but didn’t push further. She knew when she’d won a battle.Still, as she made her way to the door, she shot Adeline one last mischievous look.“Goodnight, Addy! See you tomorrow!” She shouted. “Goodnight you little rascal,” she beamed. Jinx smiled and slammed the door close behind her. Adeline, however, barely registered her words.Her mind was still replaying Jinx’s words over and over.Beautiful.She dared a glance at Silco.He didn’t look at her.Didn’t say another word.But she could feel it—that weight in the air, thick with something unspoken.And maybe, just maybe, Jinx had hit on something neither of them were ready to admit.Adeline finally stood from her the chair and grabbed the documents she had finished reading. She hesitated to walked towards Silco. Just as she was about to take a step towards his desk. Silco spoke. “You can leave the documents on the coffee table,” he exclaimed. Not even turning his gaze to her. Adeline did what she was told and placed the documents on the table. “I'm–” “—you may leave,” he declared, interrupting her once more. Adeline only nodded. She grabbed her satchel and walked towards the door. Just as she turned the doorknob she glanced back to Silco. Who still kept his gaze on his clipboard. She turned on her heels and closed the door behind her. On her way back to her apartment, Adeline couldn’t think of anything else but Jinx’s words.
“Just like what you said to me when I asked you about Adeline.”
Beautiful.It was ridiculous how that single word clung to her, how it gnawed at the edges of her thoughts, refusing to let go.She knew exactly why Silco had reacted the way he did. The sharp dismissal, the refusal to meet her gaze. He was embarrassed. He didn’t want her to know he had said it.And honestly? She couldn’t blame him.If the situation were reversed—if she had said something like that about him—she’d be mortified too.Adeline huffed to herself, shaking her head as she cut through the dimly lit alleyways of Zaun. This was ridiculous. She had more important things to think about.Her fingers curled tighter around the strap of her satchel as she neared her destination.
The brothel.
It had taken her long enough to make it here. She had meant to visit ages ago, but life—or rather, Silco’s endless demands—had kept her occupied.Now, finally, she stood before the entrance.The building was old but well-maintained, nestled deep within the tangle of the Undercity’s nightlife district. The outside was deceptively quiet, save for the faint flicker of neon light spilling from the windows, casting pink and violet glows against the damp cobblestone. The distant hum of laughter and muffled conversation could be heard from inside, blending with the ever-present sounds of Zaun.Adeline took a breath, lifting a hand to knock—But she hesitated–at first. A rare flicker of uncertainty settled in her chest.It wasn’t the place that unsettled her. She had seen worse in Zaun. Lived through worse. It wasn’t the thought of what she might witness inside, nor was it the people who worked here.No, it was the man waiting for her. Or rather, the man she had been waiting to meet. Marcus. She wasn’t prepared to see him.Not after everything.Not after what he had done.Adeline clenched her jaw, fingers twitching at her side. The memory of his betrayal still burned, old wounds threatening to reopen.But she had come here for a reason.And no matter how much she loathed the idea of facing him, she needed to.Steeling herself, she exhaled slowly and reached for the door.This was going to be unpleasant.But it had to be done.Adeline knocked on the door, rapping her knuckles against the wood.A few fleeting heartbeats passed before the small viewing slot slid open. A pair of sharp, scrutinizing eyes peered down at her.Then, just as quickly, the slot slammed shut.She waited.And waited.The door didn’t open.Her brows furrowed in irritation. She knocked again—firmer this time. But, Nothing.A slow exhale left her nose as she clenched her jaw. She raised her fist and banged it against the door, hard enough to rattle the frame.That did it.The door swung open so abruptly that she took a reflexive step back, startled by the force of it. A towering man filled the doorway, arms crossed over his broad chest, his expression as unyielding as stone.“You can’t enter.” His voice was deep, rough, and entirely uninterested in negotiation.Adeline scoffed. “Why not? The brothel doesn’t close—what the hell do you mean I can’t enter?” She attempted to push forward, but he remained firmly planted in place, his sheer size making it feel like trying to shove a brick wall.He didn’t elaborate. Just stood there, blocking the entrance like an immovable wall of flesh and bad attitude.Oooh, alright. I get it, she thought. Maybe this will make you comply. “Alright,” she huffed, slipping a hand into her satchel. Her fingers closed around a small pouch, and she pulled it free, shaking the velvet pouch slightly so the sound of coins jingling inside was unmistakable.“Here,” She held it out, her tone laced with sarcasm. “is this enough?”The man didn’t even glance at the pouch. He simply shook his head. Adeline’s fingers twitched. Oh, come on!Fine.She dug back into her satchel, fishing out a second pouch—this one heavier than the first. “Here. Now is it enough?” she snapped, holding both pouches out in exasperation.Another shake of the head.
What the fuck?
“This is already too much! What more do you want?” Adeline hissed, her patience wearing dangerously thin. “These are all my savings! Take it and get the hell out of my way.”The man didn’t move. Didn’t even reach for the money.“I’ve got orders,” he said simply.Adeline’s brows furrowed in disbelief. “Orders?” He remained silent, gaze fixed ahead.She exhaled slowly, forcing herself to rein in her frustration. “Listen, I don’t have time for these theatrics.” Her voice lowered, smooth and deliberate. “I know Babette. She knows me. Your boss and I? We’re friends…!” She took a casual step closer. “So… why don’t you just—”“—He’ll kill me if I let you enter,” He yanked her back without warning.
Excuse me?
He?!
Adeline gasped as she lost her balance, her feet stumbling beneath her. Before she could recover, the ground met her back with an unforgiving slam.Pain shot up her spine.
Oh! Fuck that hurts!
What the hell?!
She barely had time to register the impact before his next words cut through the thick air.“Boss, give strict orders, you're not allowed to enter,” he exclaimed. “Wha–?!” “–Ever!” He cut her off. And just like that, the door slammed shut in her face.A heavy silence settled around her, broken only by the distant hum of Zaun’s streets.Adeline sat there for a moment, stunned, her mind racing.
He?!
Not allowed in?
Her fingers curled into fists.
Oh, you son of a bitch…
A dry, humorless laugh escaped her lips as she pushed herself up, dusting off the back of her clothes. The ache in her spine from the fall was nothing compared to the irritation thrumming beneath her skin.Her gaze snapped back to the door, sharp and unwavering.Of all the people who could have pulled something like this, it had to be him.She let out a slow exhale, rolling her shoulders back. Why would Silco ban her from the brothel? It's not that he's jealous or anything… right?
Was he trying to keep her away from something? Someone?
Or…Her lips parted slightly. Was he jealous?The thought was absurd. Almost laughable. But it lingered.Her mind flickered back to the other night—to the way he had dismissed her so abruptly, the way his gaze had lingered before he shut her out completely.Could that really be it?She scoffed to herself. Pathetic.Whatever his reason, it didn’t matter.Because now she needed to find out why.Adeline smirked, stepping back from the door as a new determination settled in her chest. If Silco thought locking her out would stop her, then he really didn’t know her as well as he thought.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ •~° Cassandra °~• ] The scent of aged parchment and ink filled Cassandra’s office, mingling with the faint aroma of polished wood and leather. A quiet, steady rhythm filled the room—the soft scratch of a quill against paper, the rustle of documents being shifted, signed, and sorted. The beautiful chandelier spirals above her was the center of it all—lighting her fancy office. The design was very elegant—the chandelier spirals downward in a mesmerizing cascade of golden rings, illuminating her and her office. Each circling a glowing orb of crystalline wires, the rings appear to float in midair, their edges lined with delicate ridges that catch and scatter the warm light. The orbs, like miniature suns, shimmer with an inner radiance, casting intricate patterns across her high ceiling and reflecting in the vast glass windows. Casting a golden hue along the mahogany bookshelves that line the walls. Cassandra sat at her desk, her posture poised but weary, her leather high-backed chair molding to her as if it carried the weight of her burdens. Gold trim lined its edges, a subtle declaration of her status—one she had never sought for vanity but for the duty that came with it. The crisp rustle of parchment filled the air as she signed document after document, the smooth glide of her quill steady despite the weight pressing down on her shoulders. Outside, the city was alive. She could hear the distant hum of carriages outside her estate, the muffled laughter from street corners, the steady tick of the grandfather clock in the farthest corner of her office—Nothing compared to what she was feeling right now; emptiness, guilt and perhaps… loneliness. Being a council member was never an easy burden to bear. It demanded sacrifices—time, energy, even the very bonds that once held a family together. Cassandra had always been present in her family's life, but never truly there. Meetings, negotiations, and endless paperwork consumed her days, keeping her locked away in her office while life carried on without her. Perhaps that was why Adeline had grown so distant. As a child, Adeline had once clung to her, a little girl who reached for her mother’s hand before anyone else’s. But as the years passed by, her responsibilities pulled her further away from her, and without even realizing it, she had been replaced—like she didn't even matter to her daughter anymore—Adeline got even more close with Grayson in her teenage years—and that is what hurts the most. Adeline would treat Grayson as a mother–which is fine by Cassandra… But the look she would always give Grayson, it was far from what Adeline would do to her. Every now and then, she and Adeline would constantly fight over small things. And she still couldn't understand why Adeline was being like that. Adeline had turned to her father instead–having a closure bond with him when she was ten. Tobias had been there—physically, emotionally—where Cassandra could not. And she thanked him for being there for her daughter when she couldn't. At least she had someone accompanying her daughter. Even if she was the one suffering from loneliness. Always alone. And now, that distance felt insurmountable. But how could they not understand? Everything she did, every decision, every sacrifice, was for them. For their future. For their safety. So why did it feel like she was the only one paying the price? Why does it feel like she's the one to blame for it? The world must have moved on, but she could not—indifferent to the storm brewing within her.Then, a knock.Sharp, firm and.. expected.She did not pause in her writing. “Enter,” she simply said. The heavy oak door creaked open, and the familiar sound of measured footsteps followed. Unhurried, controlled—but not without purpose.Cassandra finally lifted her gaze.Albert.He was dressed impeccably, as always—his uniform pressed, his silver-streaked hair combed neatly back. Albert is around fifty plus—that’s what she suspected, and Cassandra is thirty seven years old now. He's been serving House Kiramman since he was a teenager, and Cassandra was just but a babe that time. Albert had been serving her mother for almost her reign—like Albert's father did, and his father and his father before him. But there was something different from him tonight. A hesitation in his posture, a flicker of unease behind his normally impassive brown eyes.She exhaled through her nose, setting her quill down with deliberate care.She already knew she wasn’t going to like what he had to say. “Please,” she instructed, gesturing toward the leather chair across from her.Albert obeyed, lowering himself into the seat without hesitation. But his hands… They were folded in his lap, fingers clasped tightly, a subtle tension in the way they flexed against his gloves.A bad sign.Cassandra leaned forward slightly, her forearms resting against the marble surface of her desk. “What news this time? Have you already located Diego?” She asked, her eyes squinting slightly—already exhausted, even if he hadn't told her the news. “I'm sorry, madam.” He said, his eyes down on the marble floor. Cassandra's eyes widened for a moment. “We can't find him,” he replied later on. Meeting her gaze. “What do you mean you can’t find him?” she asked, her voice as smooth as glass—but sharp enough to cut.Albert’s jaw tensed. “We have searched everywhere, Madam,” he said after a moment. “Every known location. Every contact. There is no trace of him.”Cassandra’s fingers tightened against the edge of her desk.“Everywhere?” she pressed.“Yes, Madam. Every district. Every establishment he frequents. His apartment remains untouched. No signs of struggle, no forced entry. It’s as if he has… vanished.”Her stomach twisted.Her mind raced, trying to make sense of the information. Could Diego have gone into hiding? Had he been taken?—Had I… She swallowed hard.
Had I condemned him?
She rose from her chair, the hem of her silk robe whispering against the marble floor as she moved toward the towering window behind her. The city stretched beyond the glass, illuminated by the glow of the sun. Piltover, in all its grandeur. The polished heart of progress.How deceptive.She exhaled slowly, watching the perfect skyline as guilt gnawed at the edges of her thoughts.She exhaled slowly, watching the perfect skyline as guilt gnawed at the edges of her thoughts.
Could it be? Had I been wrong about this? To involve Alice's son?
“Can you get inside Silco’s establishment?” she asked, her voice quieter now. “Discreetly?”Albert hesitated. “I… I don’t think I can promise that, Madam.”Her stomach twisted.“Someone’s keeping people out,” he continued, his voice low. “Restricting movement between the lanes. Someone powerful from Zaun.”The words settled like lead in her chest.She knew exactly who he meant.Cassandra clenched her fists, her nails biting into her palms as the headache that had been lurking at the edge of her mind finally took hold.What game are you playing this time, Silco? She whispered to herself. Only for her to hear. She had one option left.“Prepare everything I’ll need when I depart,” she ordered, her voice smooth but firm.Albert’s eyes widened slightly. His usually unreadable expression wavered. “Madam,” he said cautiously, his voice almost pleading, “forgive me, but Silco’s domain is no place for you.”She turned to face him fully, her eyes narrowing. “You’re a councilor,” he pressed. “you’re forbidden to even set foot in the Undercity. If the council discovers this—”“–I am well aware of my position,” she cut in, her tone laced with quiet authority. “I do not need a reminder.” A flicker of something passed through his eyes—concern, perhaps…? Even she regretted the harshness of her tone. But she ignored it. “I will handle the consequences,” she said. “you’re dismissed.”Albert exhaled slowly, his expression betraying the slightest flicker of frustration. “Forgive me if I'm overstepping out of line, madam. I'm only saying this because I kept my promise to your dear mother–that I will keep you and your family’s name safe…” The mention of her mother almost made her cry. Her composure was breaking. Her eyes blinked several times—in shock.
She…
From the lack of response from her, Albert spoke. “The Undercity is no place for you,” he continued, his voice lower now. “Silco’s establishment is dangerous. He has no laws, no rules that will protect people like you.” Cassandra’s fingers twitched at her sides.She knew that.Of course she knew that.She had spent years keeping her hands clean, maintaining the fragile illusion that she could control the city without ever dirtying herself with its filth.
But that was a lie.
She had let herself do things she couldn't imagine she would be able to do. Just for the sake of her family. She was just not willing to admit it.But still… she couldn't care less about it anymore. “I will not sit idly by,” she said simply. “until my daughter's name is cleaned.”Albert’s throat bobbed as he swallowed.He knew better than to argue. “…Very well,” he murmured, rising from his seat. He bowed his head before stepping away, his footsteps retreating into the hall.The door clicked shut.And Cassandra was alone again.The weight of her decision settled over her like a lead cloak.Slowly, she raised a hand to her temple, pressing her fingers against the dull ache that had been growing behind her eyes.
I must’ve completely lost my mind.
Cassandra turned back to her desk, her fingers pressing against the cool marble surface as she exhaled slowly.Her mind was spinning, a chaotic whirlwind of possibilities, each one darker than the last. Confronting Silco was a dangerous move—reckless, even—but what choice did she have? If Diego had truly vanished, then there was no doubt in her mind that Silco had a hand in it.But she needed him.As much as she loathed the thought, she needed his allegiance. His resources. His power.Perhaps she could find Diego herself, slipping through the cracks of Silco’s world unnoticed—but that was a foolish hope. No, the only real way forward was through Silco himself.And that meant stepping into his domain.The decision was already made.She would meet with him. She had to. There was still a deal to be struck between them, and this time, she would not be dismissed so easily.Lifting her chin, she straightened her spine, forcing composure into her posture. She would not walk into this like a desperate woman grasping at straws—she would go as Cassandra Kiramman, a Councilor of Piltover, a woman of power.She reached for the papers scattered across her desk, neatly stacking them in preparation to leave, when a sharp knock echoed through the room.Cassandra’s brows twitched.Another headache. She thought. “Enter,” she called, her voice even, but firm.The massive oak door creaked open, revealing a familiar figure—a woman in a crisp black-and-white uniform, carrying a silver tray with a delicate porcelain teacup resting atop it.Anica.Cassandra studied her for a brief moment, noting the quiet grace in her movements, the practiced precision with which she approached. Anica had always been dutiful, always efficient. Yet today, there was something in her posture—something almost hesitant.“Good afternoon, madam,” Anica greeted, her voice measured as she set the tray down. The scent of fresh tea filled the air, warm and calming.Cassandra allowed herself a brief, tired smile.But as soon as she turned back to her papers, she felt it—Anica’s presence lingering.
Too long.
Cassandra’s fingers stilled against the parchment.“What is it, Anica?” she asked without looking up, her voice carrying the weight of expectation.The maid hesitated, shifting slightly on her feet before responding. “Councilor Menard is summoning you and all council members for a meeting later this afternoon,” she said carefully.Cassandra barely suppressed a sigh.Of course.She didn’t need this right now.“I won’t be attending,” she answered curtly, setting her papers aside. “I have more important matters to handle.”Anica hesitated again.“Madam…” Her voice dropped just slightly, cautious. “Councilor Medarda has personally insisted that all council members be present. She says the matter is… gravely important.”Cassandra’s lips pressed into a thin line.She finally looked up, studying Anica’s expression. The woman’s posture was as straight as ever, hands delicately clasped in front of her white apron, but there was a flicker of something behind her neutral gaze.Concern? Or rather… frightened? That, in itself, was troubling.Cassandra let out a slow breath, leaning back against her chair, fingers tapping lightly against the armrest.She knew better than to dismiss something Medarda deemed important.But she also knew what was at stake today.
But what could possibly be so important now?
A council meeting was the last thing she needed right now, but refusing to attend could raise suspicions—especially if her absence aligned too closely with her sudden dealings in the Undercity.This was a collision of priorities.And she only had so much time.“Shall I inform them you're not going, madam?” Anica broke her trance. Cassandra shook her head very softly. [ •~° Adeline °~• ] Adeline’s mind was a battlefield of schemes.Her frustration simmered beneath her skin like a slow-burning fire, the embers glowing brighter with each passing thought. The brothel’s doors had been shut in her face—his orders had ensured that. Silco had barred her, as if she were nothing more than a nuisance, an inconvenience to be kept outside like a stray.The audacity of it made her teeth clench.Did he truly think a locked door and a hired brute could keep her out?Oh, no.She was getting inside that brothel tonight.Adeline’s fingers twitched as she moved about her small apartment, gathering the few essentials she needed. Her movements were brisk, methodical, but underneath it all, her mind spun with possibilities. How do I get past that guard? She had seen him before—broad-shouldered, thick-necked, the type of man who was all muscle and little brain.She could use that.By the time she was done organizing her things, she walked toward the small mirror perched atop her cabinet. The dim lighting of her room cast a soft shadow over her face as she gazed at her reflection, her sharp eyes analyzing every detail.Her outfit was deliberate. She was wearing a fitted, long-sleeved raglan shirt with a light gray body and contrasting black sleeves. The sleeves extend slightly past her wrists, with one hand casually tucked into the fabric. The cropped hem reveals a subtle glimpse of her waistline. She pairs it with high-waisted black jeans that fit snugly around her hips, featuring visible seams and belt loops. But it was the choker that mattered most.A thin strip of black, soft against her throat, snug but not constricting. It wasn’t just an accessory—it was an invitation. A whisper of temptation designed for one man in particular.Silco.He would notice. He always noticed.Would he wonder why she wore it? Would it plant something in his mind, leaving him unsettled?Let him imagine. She smirked at her own reflection, running a hand through her hair before finally turning away.Her satchel hung by the door, waiting for her. She slung it over her shoulder, ready to leave—Then she hesitated.Her fingers hovered over the doorknob, a flicker of something unspoken passing through her chest. Without thinking, she turned on her heel and strode toward her bedside table, her hand reaching instinctively for the small yellow tube resting there.Her medication.Her fingers curled around it, the plastic cool against her palm. She twisted off the white lid, tipping a single pill into her hand before reaching for the glass of water beside it.Then she stopped.For a moment, she just stared at the pill resting in her palm.Whatever for.That thought was quieter, creeping in through the cracks of her mind like a whisper.A second passed.Then another.With a small shake of her head, she placed the pill back into the bottle, snapping the lid shut before setting it back down.She didn’t need it. Not for tonight. With a final glance around the room, she exhaled slowly and stepped out the door, the lock clicking softly behind her.... The trip from her apartment to The Last Drop was exhausting, but not in the way that left her breathless—it was the kind of exhaustion that came from frustration burning under her skin. Her footsteps were hurried, her boots striking the uneven pavement with purpose. Every step carried the weight of her irritation, the echo of it lost in the murmur of Undercity life.The anger simmered hot in her chest, a slow boil that refused to settle. She was still pissed—no, she was furious. Silco had ordered her to be kept out of the brothel. His brothel. And the idea of it made her teeth clench, her fingers curl into fists at her sides. The audacity. The control. She knew he liked to toy with people, but this? This was something else.She weaved through the crowded streets, the dim glow of flickering neon signs casting distorted reflections in the puddles of oil-streaked water. The air was thick with the scent of damp metal, alcohol, and the unmistakable tang of something acrid burning in the distance. A low hum of conversation buzzed around her—dealers whispering in hushed tones, drunkards laughing too loud, the occasional threat disguised as casual banter.Then, a feeling crawled up her spine.Her pace slowed.The fine hairs on the back of her neck stood on end.She cast a glance over her shoulder, her sharp eyes scanning the crowd. The usual Undercity filth, the same degenerates stumbling from bar to bar, yet… something felt off. She couldn't shake the sensation of being watched, the presence lingering just out of sight.But there was no sign of the black figure that always seemed to follow her.Strange.A part of her expected them. Almost welcomed the idea of them lurking in the shadows, confirming what she already knew—she was always being watched. Yet now, there was nothing. That should have been a relief, but instead, it made her uneasy.Why?Why now?Why, when she was already on edge, did the absence of her silent stalker feel more unsettling than their presence ever had?She forced her focus back on the path ahead. The towering structure of The Last Drop loomed in the distance, its familiar neon glow a beacon in the artificial twilight. It was hard to tell the time down here—the sun didn’t touch the Undercity, just as Piltover's pristine hands refused to dirty themselves with its existence. But she knew it was already afternoon. Knew she was late for work.Not that she gave a damn.She had more important things to worry about. Like finding a way inside that brothel.As she neared the entrance of The Last Drop, she noticed the flow of people—coming and going, shoving past each other in the tight spaces between the doorways. She could already hear the thrum of music from inside, the deep bass vibrating through the metal walls. The scent of smoke and cheap liquor clung to the air, mingling with sweat and desperation.She inhaled deeply, her jaw tightening.Silco thought he could keep her out.He thought wrong.Because she wasn’t leaving this night without getting what she wanted.And if she had to break every damn rule to do it—so be it.Adeline shoved her weight against the heavy metal door, feeling the cool steel bite against her palm as it groaned open. The bouncer, a hulking figure with broad shoulders and a face carved from stone, barely spared her a glance before nodding in silent acknowledgment.With a curt nod in return, she stepped inside, letting the door swing shut behind her with a resounding thud.The first thing that hit her was the music. Loud, pulsing, alive. The bass was so deep it resonated inside her chest, rattling her ribs with every heavy thump. The scent of sweat, alcohol, and burnt shimmer all mix together, that seep into Adeline's lungs. The space was alive with movement—bodies swayed and collided on the dance floor, lost in the haze of flashing neon and artificial euphoria.Adeline wasn’t here for them.She didn’t care for the way eyes clung to her the moment she stepped inside, how the weight of unspoken words pressed against her skin like a second layer. The whispers, the stares—they had always been there, coiling around her like cigarette smoke, lingering long after she had passed. But she had never given them the satisfaction of a reaction. Tonight would be no different.Her gaze flickered across the room, instinctively mapping out the familiar faces, the usual filth that clung to The Last Drop like a permanent stain. She barely spared a glance at the bodies pressed together in the shadows, lost in their own drunken indulgence. Two figures tangled against a booth caught her eye for a second too long—lips parted, hands desperate, grinding against each other with a shameless hunger.Oh, boy.She quickly averted her gaze, biting back a scoff. They didn’t care who was watching, too intoxicated by lust or liquor—probably both.Adeline pushed forward, her steps purposeful, unfazed by the murmurs trailing behind her. Though she kept her focus ahead, she felt the weight of their attention. The curiosity. The speculation.She was sure they were sizing her up, their eyes drinking in the sight of her. Her frame, her clothes, the way she carried herself with effortless confidence. She knew how they saw her—how they wanted her.But they could look all they wanted.They couldn’t have her.A flicker of irritation passed through her, sharp and fleeting, but she didn’t let it show. Instead, she straightened her spine, lifted her chin just a fraction higher, and tightened her grip on the strap of her satchel. Let them watch. Let them whisper. None of it mattered. Not today.The scent of alcohol and sweat clung to the air, mixing with the acrid burn of cigar smoke. A group of gamblers sat hunched over a table to her left, muttering curses under their breath as coins and cards exchanged hands. Someone barked out a laugh, slamming their fist down hard enough to rattle the empty glasses littering the surface.She didn’t flinch.Further in the back, dimly lit corners swallowed lost souls whole—shimmer-stained fingers clutching glass vials, trembling hands bringing them to eager lips. The sickly neon glow from the bar lights reflected in their vacant eyes, a haunting reminder of how deep they had fallen.Still, she didn’t slow.And then there was Sevika.She was exactly where Adeline expected her to be—stationed at her usual small table, a figure of quiet dominance amid the chaos. The dim lighting cast shadows across her sharp features, highlighting the roughness of her expression. She sat with her metal arm resting on the table, the plating exposed, a screwdriver twirling effortlessly between her fingers.A cigar burned lazily between her lips, the ember pulsing faintly in the haze-filled air. She didn’t look up right away, too focused on adjusting something in the mechanisms of her arm.Then, slowly, she did.Their gazes locked.Adeline arched a brow, a smirk curling at the edges of her lips—a silent greeting, an unspoken challenge.Sevika didn’t react immediately. She studied her for a moment, exhaling a slow stream of smoke, her expression unreadable. Then, without a word, she jerked her head toward the upper level.Silco’s office.Adeline’s smirk deepened, though she felt the weight settle in her stomach.So, she had been summoned.She gave Sevika a small, knowing nod, then turned and continued her ascent, her steps steady despite the anticipation curling beneath her ribs. Her fingers brushed against the black choker at her throat—a fleeting touch, almost subconscious.There was no telling what awaited her behind that door.But one thing was certain.She wasn’t leaving without answers.The moment Adeline reached the top of the stairs, she didn’t hesitate. Her steps were sharp, purposeful. A storm brewing beneath the surface.She shoved the office door open without a second thought—not even bother knocking—not even a warning. Just raw, unfiltered defiance.The heavy wooden door swung wide, creaking slightly on its hinges.The scent of burnt tobacco immediately entered her nose—the thick, lingering musk of cigars that had soaked into the very walls of the room. It was almost suffocating, mixing with the faint metallic tinge of whiskey and the ever-present dampness of the Undercity.Her eyes swept across the office, taking in the dim glow of the desk lamp, the towering bookshelves stacked with neatly arranged files and maps of Piltover and Zaun. The air carried the faint crackle of burning embers, the smoldering tip of a cigar sending a slow trail of smoke curling toward the ceiling.And then—him.Silco.He was exactly where she expected him to be, seated in his leather chair like a king surveying his domain. His posture was relaxed, almost indifferent, his left elbow resting against the armrest while his right hand idly held a smoldering cigar between his fingers. In his other hand, a document—one he seemed only mildly invested in, his focus shifting as she entered.For a moment, he didn’t look up.Instead, he took his time. A slow inhale, the burn of the cigar glowing a little brighter, the faintest narrowing of his mismatched eyes as he continued scanning the paper before him. The silence stretched, thick with unspoken words.And then, finally, he acknowledged her.His gaze lifted, settling on her with that cool, unreadable calculation that had always unnerved others. But Adeline wasn’t “others.”“Rude not to knock,” he uttered, his voice smooth, edged with something wry—something dangerous.Adeline barely resisted the urge to roll her eyes. “Mhm,” she mused, stepping further inside, her boots clicking against the hardwood floor. Her expression remained unreadable, but there was a sharp glint in her gaze as she tilted her head. “It’s also rude if you try to keep someone out.” The words dripped with meaning, layered beneath a feigned nonchalance.She knew Silco would catch it.The corner of his mouth twitched slightly—just barely—but his eyes never wavered. He exhaled a slow breath, letting the smoke curl from his lips before tapping the ash from his cigar into the tray beside him.A pause.Measured. Calculated.Then, finally, he spoke.“Is that so?” There was something almost amused in his tone, but Adeline knew better. The game had already started. A slow, deliberate one.And she had just made her first move.Adeline closed the door behind her with a quiet click, her gaze never leaving him. Not once. She moved slowly, deliberately, her steps measured as she crossed the room. Every shift of her weight, every calculated sway of her hips, was intentional. A quiet kind of defiance.She wasn’t just walking—she was encroaching.“The other day,” she began, voice smooth, soft—too soft. “I was on my way to the brothel.” She bit her lower lip, catching it between her teeth, feigning an innocence they both knew she didn’t have. “And I couldn’t get inside,” she continued, stopping just before his desk. She exhaled, shaking her head, her pout just barely visible under the dim light. “Strange.”Silco watched her through the curling smoke of his cigar, his stare sharp, dissecting. He didn’t react—not immediately.But he was listening.Adeline could always tell when he was listening. She pressed forward, her fingers grazing the edge of his desk, trailing along the grain of the wood. His eyes flickered downward—just for a second—tracking the slow path of her hand before returning to her face. That small movement, subtle and controlled, sent a shiver of satisfaction down her spine. “I didn’t appreciate being turned away,” she said, voice as smooth as the silk sheets in the brothel’s private rooms. “Especially when I had business to handle.”Silco exhaled a slow stream of smoke, tapping his fingers idly against his desk. When he finally spoke, his voice was low, measured. “Business.”Adeline’s jaw tensed. “Yes,” she shot back, her chin lifting slightly. “Business. Something your men prevented me from handling.”Silco leaned back, his leather chair creaking under the shift of his weight. He folded one leg over the other, his movements unhurried, composed.And yet, his eyes never left her.He was watching, waiting, studying every flicker of emotion, every unconscious shift of her stance. She could feel it, the weight of his scrutiny, the way he was unraveling her piece by piece without even touching her.Then, finally a hint of a smirk ghosted across his lips. “You’re angry.” he said—it wasn't even a question. Adeline arched a brow, the corner of her mouth curling just slightly. “Am I?”Silco hummed, tapping a finger against the desk. “The way you stormed in here without a second thought? Or perhaps the way your hands haven’t stopped clenching since you walked through that door?”Her grip on her satchel tightened instinctively, and Silco’s gaze flickered downward—just for a second. Just long enough to catch it.Bastard.She forced herself to relax, rolling one shoulder back in a show of indifference. “You didn’t answer my question,” she said sweetly, her voice laced with something dangerous.Silco exhaled, finally setting his cigar down in the tray. He leaned forward, elbows resting on his desk, his fingers threading together. “You’re not subtle,” he murmured. “And I’m not in the business of entertaining recklessness.”Adeline narrowed her eyes. “Oh, this isn’t about recklessness.”She dropped her satchel onto the floor and stepped closer, rounding the desk.Silco didn’t stop her.He simply turned, shifting his chair slightly to follow her trance, his gaze slow—measured—as it traveled the length of her body.He saw it then. The black choker wrapped around her throat, the faint gleam of silver catching in the lamplight.She saw the flicker in his expression, the way his mind pieced together the intention behind it.Adeline smirked.Silco let out a quiet chuckle—low, indulgent—but there was no real humor in it. Just something slow, something knowing. “You think I’m trying to control you?” he mused, tilting his head back.Adeline arched a brow. “Aren’t you?” She closed the distance between them, she slowly walked towards him. Silco’s smile was slight—so slight it was almost imperceptible. “Control,” he murmured, voice dipping into something darker, something dangerously close to amusement, “is not something I offer freely.” Adeline sat on the edge of his desk. Still keeping eye contact with Silco as she leaned back, her arms crossed over her chest, her fingers curling into the sleeves of her fitted raglan shirt.His gaze dragged over her again, lingering at her throat, the way the choker sat snug against her skin. “It’s something earned.” The words sat heavy between them, thick with meaning.Silco merely watched her, waiting for her to see what she would be doing next to her bait—a challenge he so much welcomed with open arms. There was patience in his stare, but not the kind that suggested restraint. No, this was the patience of a predator—silent, still, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.And Adeline knew it.She tilted her head slightly, watching him just as carefully. He was testing her—and she knew it. Seeing how far she’d push, how much she’d give away.But she wasn’t a fool.She wasn’t here to be toyed with.Her frustration simmered beneath the surface, controlled but undeniable. She had come here for answers, and she wasn’t leaving without them.So instead of rising to his bait, instead of letting him dictate the pace, she leaned forward—slowly, deliberately—placing her hands against the edge of his desk.Her voice was a whisper, a blade hidden beneath silk. “Then tell me,” she murmured, letting the words drag between them, slow and dangerous, “what exactly do I have to do? For me to please you? For you to grant me access to the brothel?”Silco’s eyes darkened, his amusement sharpening into something heavier.A pause.Then—without a word—he stood.Adeline didn’t move.Not when he placed his hands on the desk beside hers, caging her without touching her. Not when he leaned in, his breath a phantom against her skin, teasing her with the threat of contact.She could feel the warmth of him, the sheer presence of him, but he didn’t touch.Because he was waiting.Waiting for her to break first.To surrender.He lowered his voice, a whisper that barely brushed her ear.“There are a few things in my mind,” he murmured, the words curling around her like smoke. “For example…”Adeline tensed, but not out of fear.“...you, bent over my desk,” he continued, his voice smooth, unhurried, almost cruel in its leisure. “wearing nothing but that pretty collar of yours.” His lips barely moved as he spoke, but the weight of his words pressed against her skin. “Or,” he mused, shifting just slightly, “I could find… other uses for that pretty sharp tongue of yours—warming my cock perhaps?” As he whispered those sinful words, Adeline’s pulse kicked. She almost moaned to his filthy words. Her grip on the desk tightened, nails biting into the wood. For a fraction of a second—just one—she hated how her body reacted to the slow, deliberate filth in his tone.She narrowed her eyes, forcing a smirk, forcing control. “I find your games quite boring these days,” she whispered, tilting her head just enough to ghost her breath against his ear, mimicking his act.But her voice wavered.
Damn it.
Silco chuckled, low and quiet, the sound curling against her skin like something dangerous. “That’s a shame,” he murmured. His mouth brushed just beneath her ear—not a kiss, not even a touch, just close enough to make her feel it. “Because you seem quite good at playing them.”Adeline swallowed–hard! Her fingers twitched against the desk, her pulse drumming a little harder than she wanted to admit. “You don’t get to decide where I can and cannot go, Silco,” she murmured, her voice steady despite the way her body betrayed her.Silco only hummed, shifting slightly, pressing just a fraction closer, enough that she felt the heat of him, the space between them suffocatingly thin.The tension stretched between them—unbearable, suffocating.Neither moved.Neither yielded.But in this game they played, surrender was never a loss.It was merely a matter of who would give in first.“So,” Silco murmured, his breath a phantom against her skin, “what will it be?” He didn’t move away, didn’t touch, but he stayed close enough that the heat of him licked at her throat, his lips ghosting just near enough to make her ache.Waiting.Adeline inhaled sharply, ragged, uneven. She hated that… Because he wasn’t even touching her. And yet—she almost moved. Almost tilted her neck toward him, almost chased that small, unbearable distance.Almost.But not quite.She caught herself just before she gave him that satisfaction, and instead, she dragged in another slow breath, forcing her composure back into place, steadying the quirk of her lips into something teasing. “If I bend over on your desk,” she murmured, “will you let me enter the brothel?”Silco’s eyes flickered, unreadable. “Perhaps,” he mused. And then, finally, he pulled back, meeting her gaze head-on. “If it satisfied me, then yes. You can,” Adeline studied him.Calculated.And then—she moved.Fluid, smooth, deliberate.She perched herself on the edge of his desk, shifting, stretching her legs apart just enough to make a point.Silco stilled.It was barely noticeable—just a fraction of hesitation, a slow blink, a flicker of something dark and sharp beneath his careful control.But she caught it.She smiled. “What are you waiting for?” she purred, tilting her head, playful, challenging. “Go on.”Silco took his time.Not because he was hesitant—no, because he wanted her to feel the weight of it. The slow, intentional way he closed the distance. The lazy drag of his gaze down the length of her body, pausing at her parted thighs before flicking back up, his expression unreadable.And then—finally—he reached out.A single hand, calloused, steady, resting on her thigh.Not moving.Just there.Adeline swallowed, pulse kicking, but she didn’t let it show.Not yet.Silco’s grip flexed slightly—just a fraction, just enough for her to feel it. And then—“Oh, don’t test me, dove.” His voice was quiet, but it carried weight, something heavy, something dangerous.Adeline only smirked, feigning indifference despite the way her skin burned beneath his palm. “Why not?” she murmured.Silco exhaled a soft chuckle, low, quiet, something knowing. “It’s amusing how hard you try to ensnare me,” he murmured, fingers idly tracing along the fabric covering her thigh. “No matter how… tempting it is.” His thumb ghosted upward. Just slightly.She had caught him in something, if only for a moment. And for now—that was enough.Adeline exhaled, slow and deliberate, letting her smirk settle back into place like a well-worn mask. She reached down and—without hesitation—pushed his hand off her thigh.Silco let her.Didn’t resist. Didn’t tighten his grip.But he didn’t look pleased about it, either.“Alright,” she murmured, smoothing down her clothes as if brushing away the remnants of his touch. “Plan A didn’t work.” A pause. A shift of weight on her heels. And then, “Plan B it is.” She made sure he heard it. Made sure he knew she wasn’t done playing.Silco only watched her, gaze sharp, calculating, his head tilting slightly at her words. But he didn’t stop her as she reached for her satchel, slinging it over her shoulder with casual ease.“Speaking of which,” she added breezily, “I’ll be checking up on Jinx.” She adjusted the strap, her fingers grazing the worn leather. “Oh, and… I’ll do my work tomorrow.” A smile.One last push.And then—she turned on her heel, already making her way toward the door.She had barely made it halfway when—“Careful now.” Silco’s voice cut through the room, low and steady, but beneath the measured tone, there was something else. Something quiet and dangerous.Adeline didn’t stop. But she did slow, just slightly.Behind her, she heard the quiet creak of leather as he leaned back, but his voice remained steady. “Wouldn’t want you to do something stupid now, would you?” he continued, a warning laced in silk. “Remember, there are always consequences for those who defy me.” That made her stop.Just for a second.She didn’t turn around.Didn’t give him the satisfaction of seeing the way her jaw tightened, the flicker of something sharp and unreadable in her eyes.Instead, she hummed.Soft. Thoughtful.Then, over her shoulder, she tossed, “Oh, Silco.” A pause. A tilt of her head, just enough to catch his gaze out of the corner of her eye. “That’s the fun part of this game.” And with that—she left. She didn’t need to look back to know he was still watching her.Just as Adeline pulled the heavy door shut behind her, she caught movement from the corner of her eye.A group of figures strode toward Silco’s office, their steps brisk, their voices already rising with agitation.She stilled, her eyes narrowing as she took them in.Renni. Leading the charge, her expression twisted in frustration, her coat billowing behind her like a battle standard. Her fists clenched at her sides, and her lips moved fast, spitting out words laced with venom. Beside her, Sevika walked with a steadier, more controlled pace, her broad shoulders rolling with each step. A lit cigar dangled between her fingers, leaving behind a faint trail of smoke that curled in the dim air.Trailing just behind them was Corina, moving with the kind of grace that only came with confidence. Her cold, calculating eyes remained forward, her head held high, as if already preparing herself for a fight to come. They were here for war. Adeline didn’t hesitate. She moved swiftly, pressing herself into the nearest darkened corner, slipping just beyond their immediate line of sight. From here, she could see them, hear them—loud and clear.And they were pissed.“Do you think I’ll sit back and watch Renata close all the passages?!” Renni fumed, her voice sharp enough to cut through the din of the bar below.
Renata? Renata Glasc?
Adeline's fingers tightened around the strap of her satchel, her mind already racing.She knew who Renata was. Of course, she did. She had studied every name, every key player in both Piltover and Zaun, committing them to memory like pieces on a chessboard.Renata wasn’t just another Chem-Baron. She was powerful. Ruthless. A woman with influence woven into the very fabric of Zaun’s underbelly.And if she was shutting down passages—That wasn’t just politics. That was a move.“You could at least set up a meeting with him,” Sevika cut in, her voice gruff, unimpressed. “It’s not like he’s busy, you know.” The sarcasm in her tone was thick, almost mocking.Renni shot her a glare but didn’t argue.“It’s urgent,” Corina snapped, her stride quickening.As they reached Silco’s door, Sevika stepped forward, lifting her hand. Three firm knocks. Distinct. A pattern that Silco would recognize instantly.A pause.Then—“Come in,” Silco’s voice called from the other side.The moment the words left his mouth, Renni and Corina wasted no time, pushing inside without so much as a second thought.Sevika, however, lingered.She stood in the doorway for a fraction longer, her dark eyes flickering down the hallway. Almost as if… she was checking.Adeline held her breath.Then, Sevika nodded to herself, slow and deliberate, before reaching back and closing the door behind her.The hallway fell into silence.Adeline exhaled through her nose, her mind already picking apart the pieces.
Why the hell would Renata Glasc be shutting down Zaun’s passages?
Passages were the veins of the Undercity—routes that smuggled goods, shimmer, weapons, and people. Cutting them off wasn’t just an inconvenience; it was a declaration.Something was happening. And if Renni was this furious about it, then it was something that wasn’t in Silco’s favor.Adeline pressed her back against the cold wall, turning the information over in her head, dissecting it.But before she could think of her next move—A hand shot out of the shadows and clamped around her arm.Adeline barely had time to gasp before she was yanked out of her hiding spot, spun around, and shoved back against the wall.Sevika.Her grip was ironclad, her sharp eyes narrowed with something between irritation and amusement. “What the hell are you doing here?” Sevika muttered, keeping her voice low but firm.Adeline forced herself to steady her breathing. “I was…” She hesitated, searching for a believable excuse.Sevika didn’t wait for one.With an annoyed grunt, she yanked Adeline forward and started pulling her away from Silco’s office, her grip unyielding. “You’re done here,” she said, leading her away from the hallway. “Let’s go. Now.” Adeline bit the inside of her cheek, frustration curling in her gut.She had been so close.So damn close.But Sevika wasn’t giving her a choice.For now.The moment they were a safe distance from Silco’s office, Adeline yanked at Sevika’s grip, but the woman held firm.“Okay! We’re away from them now!” Adeline huffed, struggling against the iron hold on her arm. “Could you at least lessen your grip? It’s hurting me, buttercup!”Sevika’s expression remained unimpressed, but instead of letting go, she tightened her hold, yanking Adeline even closer.Adeline nearly stumbled into her chest, letting out a small oof! as Sevika loomed over her, voice low with warning. “Listen, candy—” Adeline bristled at the nickname, but before she could protest, Sevika cut her off.“—You shouldn’t be eavesdropping on them.”“I wasn’t—”“Yes. You were.” Sevika’s tone was dry, unwavering. “And if Silco catches you, he won’t be pleased.”Adeline tensed at that, irritation flickering beneath her skin. Like I care.She yanked her arm free, rubbing at the sore spot where Sevika’s grip had been. “Alright, alright! No need to squeeze the life out of me,” she muttered.But her curiosity hadn’t waned. Renata Glasc.
Closing the passages.
It wasn’t a random move—it couldn’t be.
Adeline crossed her arms, fixing Sevika with a pointed stare. “Why would she close the passages?”Sevika exhaled sharply, her patience already wearing thin. “Go.”Adeline frowned. “Why?”“If you leave now, I might not tell Silco you were eavesdropping,” Sevika said, raising a brow as if daring her to test that threat.Adeline rolled her eyes. “Oh, please.”Sevika stared at her for a moment, then shook her head. “I don’t know,” she finally said.Adeline scoffed. “Yes, you do.”“I don’t,” Sevika said, sharper this time. “That’s why Silco wants to arrange another meeting with them. But those scumbags in there—” she jerked her head toward Silco’s office “—couldn’t wait. Their shipments haven’t gone out, and they’re getting desperate.”Adeline chewed the inside of her cheek, her mind already running ahead. Desperation breeds mistakes.If the Chem-Barons were already restless, then this could be the perfect time for someone like Renata to leverage the situation.
But why?
Her gut told her there was something more behind these sudden movements.Something deeper.Something that led back to Seraphine.To Grayson.Adeline’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Do you think Renata wants something from them?” she asked, her voice softer now, as if thinking out loud.Sevika hesitated—Just for a second.Adeline caught it.“I…” Sevika exhaled, rubbing a hand down her face. “I don’t know, okay?”Liar.But before Adeline could call her on it, Sevika pointed a finger at her, her tone sharp.“But listen to me.”Adeline tilted her head slightly, watching her carefully.“Renata Glasc is a powerful woman. Rich. Ruthless. And she has an army of people willing to kill for her.” Sevika’s expression darkened. “You do not want to get involved with her.”Adeline’s eyes gleamed.Oh, but that only made her more interested.“She’s like Silco,” Sevika continued. “Only in a woman’s body.”That earned a soft chuckle from Adeline. “Interesting.”Sevika sighed, rubbing her temple, clearly done with this conversation. “Jinx has been impatient lately,” she muttered, shooting Adeline a look. “Been torturing me because of your absence.”Adeline smirked. “Aww. Miss me that much?”Sevika scowled. “Shut up.” But the usual venom wasn’t there. Her voice, usually sharp as a blade, carried something different—something almost reluctant.It made Adeline pause.Sevika exhaled heavily, shifting her weight as if debating whether to say more. Finally, she fixed Adeline with a warning stare, her jaw tightening. “I’m serious, Adeline. Stop meddling with them.”Adeline raised a brow. “Them?”Sevika’s expression darkened, her brows knitting together in frustration. “The Chem-Barons. Renata. This whole damned mess.” She was about to say something else, but she hesitated.It was quick—so quick most wouldn’t have caught it.But Adeline did.“Don’t do anything stupid,” Sevika continued, rubbing the back of her neck. “I don’t want—”She stopped.Just for a second.But Adeline caught it.Her brows furrowed slightly. “You don’t want what?”Sevika’s jaw tightened. She averted her gaze, shaking her head. “Just don’t do anything stupid, okay?” she muttered, tilting her head toward Adeline with a warning glare. “Don’t make me be the one to choke the life out of you if it comes to it.”Adeline blinked.The words should have been a threat.But they weren’t.Not really.Adeline’s chest tightened, something unfamiliar twisting deep in her stomach.Sevika cared. She’d never say it outright—hell, she’d rather stab herself in the foot than admit it—but it was there. Buried under all the gruffness and sharp edges, Sevika had a soft spot.And that realization made Adeline feel both happy and… strangely sad.Because if it ever came to that—if she ever crossed a line she couldn’t come back from—would Sevika be the one to stop her?Would she be the one to do Silco’s bidding?Adeline swallowed the thought, stuffing it deep down where it wouldn’t fester.But then, the thought followed—if it comes to it.And that was the sad part.Because if it did come to that, if Sevika had to choose between her and Silco, Adeline knew where that loyalty would fall.Her smirk returned, though this time, it carried something bittersweet beneath it. “Ohhh, you’re getting soft, buttercup,” she teased, her voice dripping with amusement.Sevika instantly scowled. “Piss off!” she snapped, already turning away. But Adeline could see the muscle twitching in her jaw, the way her shoulders tensed as if she were holding herself back.Adeline couldn’t help herself. She grinned. Sevika turned on her heel and quickly made her way down the stairs, her heavy boots echoing against the metal steps.Adeline cupped her hands around her mouth and called after her, “It’s alright to be soft, peanut!”Sevika growled, flexing her metal arm as she raised her middle finger high in the air.Adeline burst into laughter, her voice ringing through the dimly lit corridor.The nickname was perfect. She thought. As Sevika descends upon the stairs. Adeline didn't waste a moment to go and see Jinx. After all, she still had so many plans on going inside the brothel. Adeline had completely forgotten about Jinx's assignments. Her time had been swallowed up by Jinx—helping with her assignments, keeping her focused, making sure she didn’t get distracted by whatever half-finished gadgets or half-baked ideas were strewn across the floor.Surprisingly, Jinx hadn’t put up much of a fight.She had grumbled, sure—had rolled her eyes and dragged her feet—but in the end, she had done all her homework in one go, finishing off a whole pile of seatwork before Adeline even had to nag.It was almost too easy.Adeline had to wonder if Silco had scolded her into behaving beforehand. Still, while Jinx worked, Adeline’s mind wandered.Now, the girl was hunched over her math book, muttering numbers under her breath, her booted foot tapping against the wooden floor in restless frustration.Adeline, however, had her mind elsewhere.As Jinx worked, Adeline sat beside her, seemingly idle, but in reality, she was planning. Scheming.She needed a way into the brothel.The guards were a problem—especially after her last attempt. Silco’s men wouldn’t just step aside because she asked nicely. No, she needed a distraction.
Something that would distract him. Something quick.
Something that would—
Her thoughts halted.Her gaze flickered across Jinx’s workspace, scanning the scattered blueprints, the half-finished contraptions, the discarded trinkets.And then—“That's it!” Adeline shouted. A grin curled across her lips as she bolted toward Jinx’s wooden chest, dropping to her knees and flipping the heavy lid open.Jinx jumped at the sudden movement. “Oh, crap!” she muttered, before groaning and tossing her pen onto the book with a loud thud. “Oh, alright! Okay! You got me!” Jinx huffed, throwing her arms up in exaggerated surrender. “I know I should be doing my homework instead of sketching, you don’t have to be so mad! I just don’t wanna do this today! Please don’t tell Dad!” She whirled around in her chair, eyes widening when she finally noticed what Adeline was actually doing.Adeline didn’t even look up.“Ah–Huh?” she mumbled, distracted as she sifted through the chest, fingers pushing aside half-built gadgets, loose wires, and—fuck, where was it? “Come again?” She said. Jinx blinked, watching her closely. Her mouth hung open for a second, then slowly closed.Then, slowly, her lips stretched into an amused grin. “Ohhh,” she drawled, picking up her pen again and twirling it between her fingers. “Nothing!” she beamed innocently.But her gaze never left Adeline.The scribbling sounds of her fake attempt at homework filled the room, but she was clearly only half-paying attention.Because whatever Adeline was really doing?Jinx wanted to know exactly what it was. “…What the hell are you looking for?” she asked, curiosity laced in her tone.Adeline didn’t answer right away. “I'm… looking for something that will—Got it!” she hissed. She had found it. Her fingers wrapped around the cool metal casing of a small, spherical device. It was one of Jinx’s early smoke bombs, something she had tossed aside weeks ago because the mechanism was too sensitive.One small jolt, and—poof.It wasn’t lethal. But it was messy.Perfect for causing chaos.Perfect for what Adeline needed. Jinx’s sharp eyes flickered between Adeline and the smoke bomb in her hands, suspicion twisting across her features. She leaned back slightly, crossing her arms over her chest, lips curling into a knowing smirk. “Aaahh… so that’s what you were digging for,” she mused. “My smoke bomb?”“Yep.”Jinx cocked her head, bright blue eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Whatever for?”Adeline hesitated for half a second—too long.
Think. Quickly.
She plastered on an easy smile. “I… I'll need it if—if someone tries to attack me.”Jinx’s expression immediately dropped into a deadpan stare.Silence stretched between them.Then, slowly, she squinted her eyes. “Mhhmmmm… right,” she drawled, suspicion thick in her voice.Adeline’s stomach clenched, but she didn’t let it show.Jinx wasn't an idiot. She could sniff out a lie from a mile away.Adeline was about to open her mouth—to what? Dig herself into a deeper hole?—when Jinx cut her off.“Wait, wait, wait,” she held up a hand dramatically. “Lemme get this straight.”She tapped a finger against her chin, eyes narrowing in mock concentration.“You—who fights so well, even if you don't want to, unless you have to—suddenly need one of my bombs for self-defense?”Adeline lifted her chin, feigning offense. “I can fight.”Jinx snorted. “Yeah, yeah, but you don’t like to.”She wasn’t wrong, but Adeline refused to give her the satisfaction.Jinx hummed, eyes flickering between her and the smoke bomb again. “Mmmm… nah. You’re totally up to something.”Adeline groaned inwardly.Of course Jinx would be difficult.“Please, don’t tell your dad,” she said, trying to sound casual.Jinx blinked. “A–what?”Adeline sighed. “Don’t tell your dad.”Jinx cupped a hand to her ear. “Come again?”Adeline exhaled sharply through her nose, biting back her irritation. “I said—”“—I still can’t hear yoooouuuu,” Jinx interrupted, dragging out her words obnoxiously.Adeline rolled her eyes and turned to grab her satchel. She reached inside, fingers brushing against soft fabric before pulling out a small velvet pouch.Jinx’s eyes immediately honed in on it.Oh, now you’re listening.Adeline dangled the pouch between her fingers. “Don’t tell your dad,” she repeated, her voice firm.Jinx snatched the pouch before Adeline even finished her sentence, grinning like a little devil.“Done!” she beamed, shaking the pouch in her hand. “Bribery accepted.”Adeline shook her head, half-amused, half-exasperated. “Now, let's finish your homework and stop… sketching!” Adeline snapped. “Oh, I thought you didn't notice,” Jinx giggled. Adeline shot her a knowing look. “Stop giggling and finish your homework,” Adeline smiled, pointing her fingers on her math book—only to find a lot of sketches on the edges of the pages. Sketches of Adeline's face! With a horn on her head. After finishing everything she needed to do, Adeline wasted no time heading for the exit. She threw a quick glance at the oversized clock on Jinx’s cluttered wall—6:34 p.m.
Shit, it's already this late?
She adjusted the strap of her satchel, making sure she had everything before heading out. But just as she reached for the doorknob—“All this homework made me wanna eat everything on Jericho’s menu,” Jinx suddenly whined.Adeline chuckled. “You and me both.”She pulled the door open slightly before glancing over her shoulder. “Hey, I’m leaving early today.”Jinx’s head snapped up. “What? Why?”“I’ve got things to do.”“Like what? Can’t you finish it later?”Adeline hesitated. Jinx was getting way too curious. If she answered one question, she’d have to answer a dozen more.Just rip the bandage off.She exhaled. “I find it kinda hard to get things done later if I’m busy moving into another apartment.”Silence.Then—“You’re moving?!” Jinx shot up from her seat, eyes wide.Adeline nodded. “Yep. I think it’s time I left that damn place.”“Where?”“I don’t know yet.”“What?!”Adeline knew where this was going. Jinx’s curiosity was a hungry beast—and if she kept feeding it, it would not stop.“I’m still looking for—”“Come live with us!”Adeline froze.Jinx beamed up at her, her excitement practically radiating off her in waves. “C’mon! It makes sense, right? We’ve got plenty of space!”Adeline blinked, completely caught off guard.“That’s… sweet, hon,” she said, softening. “But I don’t think it’s appropriate—”“Pfff,” Jinx scoffed, waving a dismissive hand. “Why wouldn’t it be appropriate?”Adeline sighed and crouched down in front of her, making sure they were eye-level.“Look,” she started gently. “There are just… things a little kid like you wouldn’t understand.”Jinx’s expression immediately soured.“yeah, right,” she sneered, turning her back to her and returning to her project.Adeline sighed.She hated when Jinx got like this—acting all huffy and moody like a kid who’d just been told no candy before dinner.She followed after her. “Oh, don’t give me that attitude, young lady.”Jinx didn’t even glance up. “Mhm, yeah, yeah. Door’s that way.”Adeline narrowed her eyes. Brat.She crossed her arms. “Tell you what. If I can’t find a proper apartment, then I’ll live here with you.”That got her attention.Jinx whipped around so fast Adeline was worried she might get whiplash.“For real?!”Adeline smirked. “For real.”Jinx bolted toward her.Adeline instinctively kneeled down, expecting a hug.But instead—Shove.“Wha—?!” Adeline gasped, stumbling back.“Go!” Jinx demanded, grinning like a little devil. “The earlier, the better! Come back if you can't find an apartment.”Adeline gawked at her. “Oh—okay,” Jinx turned on her heel, already buzzing with excitement. “I can’t wait! I’m so decorating our new room—” And with that, she slammed the door shut, giggling to herself.Adeline just stood there for a moment, blinking.Then, slowly, a chuckle escaped her lip.
That little menace.
She shook her head, rolling her eyes fondly. Guess I’d better start looking.Adeline slipped out of The Last Drop without a word to Silco. Not that I need his permission. He wasn’t her guardian. He wasn’t her anything. She kept her pace steady, blending into the dim-lit streets of Zaun as she made her way back to her apartment. She needed to wait. 8 p.m. would be the perfect time. The brothel would be alive with music and drunken chatter, its guards likely more relaxed, less focused. So she waited. … She spent the next hour pacing her small apartment, running through her plan over and over. The weight of Jinx’s smoke bomb pressed against her thigh, secured in her satchel. She had one shot at this. When the clock finally struck 8, she didn’t hesitate. She grabbed her things and left. The brothel loomed ahead of her like a beast in the dark, its dimly lit sign flickering, casting eerie shadows against the cracked brick walls. She tightened her grip on her satchel. Everything was ready. She knelt down near the entrance, pulling out the small brown basket she had prepared earlier. Inside, nestled beneath a folded white towel, was Jinx’s smoke bomb. She set the timer for one minute and thirty seconds. That should be enough. Carefully, she placed the basket in front of the entrance, making sure it was positioned just right—visible enough to be noticed, but not so obvious that it raised immediate suspicion. Then, she darted behind a corner. Her heart pounded. She picked up a small rock, weighing it in her palm. And— Thud. Nothing. Another. Thud. Still nothing. Her jaw tightened. Grabbing a bigger rock, she hurled it at the door with force. THUD! The heavy wooden door creaked open.A tall, muscular man stepped out, his broad frame silhouetted against the dim interior light. His expression was one of mild irritation, brows furrowed as his sharp eyes scanned the empty alley.Adeline pressed herself against the wall, barely breathing.He turned, about to head back inside—Then his gaze landed on the basket.She watched as confusion flickered across his face. He took a step closer, crouching down.Slowly, he peeled back the towel.His brows knitted further as he picked up the strange-looking device inside. He turned it over in his hands, examining it like some kind of bizarre artifact.Adeline's fingers curled into fists.Any second now.Any second—
…Ting.
A small puff of gray smoke released from the bomb’s nozzle.But that was it.Her stomach dropped.The guard frowned. He lifted the bomb closer to his face, watching the pathetic stream of smoke seep out like a dying candle.
No, no, no, no—!
The guard tilted his head. His expression flickered between surprise and amusement before settling into something unimpressed.He then scoffed.Then, without hesitation, he tossed the bomb aside, shaking his head. Fully intending to go back inside and report this.
Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.
Think fast.
Adeline’s hand shot out—She grabbed the heaviest object she could find—And swung.A sharp THUD echoed through the alley.The guard barely made a sound before he crumpled to the ground like a sack of bricks.Adeline emerged from the shadows, staring down at the unconscious man sprawled at her feet.
Oh, shit.
A thin trickle of blood seeped from a gash at the back of his head, pooling against the cobblestones.Shit, shit, shit. She hadn’t meant to hit him that hard.“…Sorry,” she mumbled, even though he obviously couldn’t hear her.She needed to move him. If someone found him like this, it’d raise suspicion. She crouched, gripping his shoulders, and pushed.
Goddamn it, why are you so heavy?!
Her gaze flicked frantically around the alley. Then—There.A green bottle lay discarded near the door, next to a battered red case. Probably some cheap Undercity booze. She snatched the bottle and gently placed it in his hand, positioning his arm just so—like he had passed out after one too many drinks.To complete the picture, she nudged his body a little more to the side, making it look just disheveled enough.Stepping back, she assessed her handiwork.Good.To anyone passing by, he was just another drunken fool who had blacked out at the doorstep.With a final glance to make sure no one was watching, Adeline slipped inside, shutting the door behind her with a soft click.The moment Adeline stepped inside, the brothel came alive around her.Soft, sultry laughter rippled through the dimly lit corridor, interwoven with murmured conversations and the occasional clink of glasses. Perfumed air wrapped around her like an intoxicating haze—floral and musky, with an underlying scent of liquor and sweat.The walls were draped in deep crimson velvet, swallowing the light that seeped from the rooms. Shadows danced along the floor, stretching long and thin beneath the warm golden glow of gas lamps flickering against the walls. The only real illumination came from the slivers of light that peeked through gaps in heavy curtains, teasing glimpses of what lay beyond.She ignored them.Just like last time, she kept her eyes fixed ahead, forcing herself to not look. Not at the figures moving behind those curtains. Not at the whispers of silk slipping from shoulders. Not at the quiet gasps escaping through barely parted lips.Her hands clenched at her sides.She moved swiftly down the hallway, past the perfume-drenched air and idle gazes, heading straight for her target.
Madam Babette’s office.
Adeline didn’t hesitate. She grabbed the door handle and twisted.Locked.Fuck.She exhaled sharply through her nose.The door had been unlocked last time. Had Babette changed her routine? Or was she inside right now, going through ledgers, completely unaware that Adeline was just outside, cursing under her breath?
Damn it. I should’ve planned for this.
Just as she took a step back, two women emerged from a nearby room, giggling to themselves as they adjusted their dresses.Adeline stilled, instinct taking over. She lowered her head slightly, keeping her face partially obscured by the dim lighting.The women paid her no mind.Instead, as they walked past, Adeline caught a glimpse of where they had come from.A dressing room.The curtain, a rich purple-red, was still slightly parted, revealing rows upon rows of lavish gowns and lingerie. Satin. Silk. Lace. Glittering jewelry resting atop vanity tables.An idea struck her.She needed to blend in.But hell no was she wearing that kind of dress they were wearing—to revealing. Stepping inside, she let the curtain fall shut behind her.The room was a stark contrast to the rest of the brothel—bathed in warm, golden light from a single chandelier hanging overhead. A massive, ornate mirror stood against one wall, its edges gilded with intricate gold detailing. Perfume bottles and powders cluttered a long vanity, their floral and citrusy scents mingling in the air.And then, there were the dresses.Rows of them.Hanging from wardrobes and hooks, draped across velvet chaises, carelessly discarded on the floor.Adeline’s lips curled slightly.
Undercity’s finest, huh?
Her eyes roamed over the selection, searching for something—anything—that wasn’t designed solely to seduce.The first dress she touched was practically see-through, a flimsy thing of gossamer fabric meant to leave little to the imagination. She quickly moved past it. The next was all lace, plunging deep down the front, with a slit running all the way up the thigh. She scowled. Not happening.Every outfit seemed designed for maximum exposure, and the longer she searched, the more the dresses are too revealing. She then realized—there was no decent option.Her jaw tightened.She needed to blend in. She couldn’t risk standing out in her usual clothes. But the idea of parading around in something so revealing made her stomach twist.
Ugh. Pick something and get this over with.
With a resigned sigh, she grabbed the least offensive dress she could find—the dress is an elegant black lace gown with a delicate floral pattern. It features thin spaghetti straps, a softly draped neckline, and a fitted bodice that she knew would accentuate her waist. The sheer lace overlay reveals a nude underlayer, creating a subtle contrast. A high thigh slit adds a touch of allure, while the asymmetrical hemline flows gracefully. It wasn’t ideal, but at least it wasn’t entirely sheer compared to the other dresses. Stripping out of her regular clothes, revealing her soft pale skin—luckily, she was wearing a thong—a perfect match for the underlayer lace dress. She pulled the dress over her head, the lace fabric sliding against her skin like water.The lace dress clung to her curves more than she liked, the neckline plunging lower than she was comfortable with. But she needed to disappear into the background. To move unnoticed.She then grabbed a pair of black heels on the far side of the dresses. The heels were a striking pair of black stilettos, sleek and dangerously high. Delicate straps crisscrossed over the toes, while thin ankle straps wrapped around with an effortless elegance, fastened by a small silver buckle. The glossy finish caught the light with every movement, making them both alluring and commanding.Once dressed, she turned to the vanity, grabbing a tube of dark red lipstick.If she was going to do this, she might as well play the part.She swept the color over her lips, smudging it slightly with her thumb for a more worn-in look. Her reflection stared back at her—a version of herself that felt almost unfamiliar.She halted.
Something is missing…
She looked around and saw a bunch of masquerade masks inside the small box. She quickly ran her hand on the small box, searching for a perfect mask to match her dress. She found the perfect mask that would fit her dress. The mask was an intricate black filigree, swirling into elegant patterns that framed her blue eyes like a work of art. Its delicate curves extended outward, giving it a regal, almost mysterious allure, while a thin ribbon waited to be tied at the back of her head. Without even a beat, she quickly placed the mask on her face and quickly ties the ribbon on the back of her head. Her pulse thrummed beneath her skin. No need for a second thought. Taking a steadying breath, she grabbed her satchel and slipped out of the dressing room, stepping back into the dim corridor.
Time to move.
Adeline pushed aside the thick curtain and stepped into the dimly lit hallway. Her sharp eyes darted from room to room, searching for any sign of an enforcer. If she couldn’t get to Babette, then she would handle things herself.She moved with calculated grace, her gown’s lace trailing behind her like shadows in candlelight. Passing patrons—some engaged in whispered deals, others caught in intoxicating pleasures—barely gave her a second glance. But the workers? Oh, they noticed.Men let their gazes linger a little too long, appreciation gleaming in their eyes. A few women sneered, their painted lips curling in thinly veiled jealousy. Let them. Their opinions didn’t matter. She had bigger concerns.Each passing doorway offered a fleeting glimpse inside—scarlet drapes, gold-trimmed furniture, the flicker of candlelight illuminating silken sheets. She barely spared them a thought, only scanning for Samuel, Marcus, or any enforcers who might be lurking in the brothel.Then—the creak of the entrance door.Adeline’s breath caught. Her head snapped toward the sound, and there he was.The guard from earlier. His massive frame stood in the doorway, his face twisted in anger, his eyes scanning the room with lethal intent.Shit.Adeline took a slow step backward, her muscles tensing. He hadn’t seen her yet—but it was only a matter of time. She had to move. Now.Keeping her pace steady, she turned on her heel and strode away, forcing herself not to break into a sprint. No sudden movements. No panic. Just slip into the crowd. Blend in.She dared a glance over her shoulder.Her stomach clenched.He was moving. Checking every rooms. Searching for her! Fuck.She ducked into the hallway leading to the VIP section, the air suddenly colder, quieter. The soft laughter from the main hall faded behind her, replaced by the muffled sounds of closed-door conversations and secrets not meant for prying ears.Adeline grabbed the nearest doorknob. Locked.Her heart hammered in her chest. She tried another. Locked.
Shit, shit, shit.
The guard’s footsteps were growing louder. She could feel them, each step like a countdown to disaster. Her breath came in quick, shallow bursts. She needed a way out.Then—hope.A wooden door, slightly ajar.She didn’t hesitate. She slipped inside, pressing her back against the door, and twisted the lock. Click.She exhaled sharply, pressing a hand against her chest to steady her frantic heartbeat.She then pressed her back against the locked door, willing her heartbeat to slow. The muffled sounds of the brothel lingered outside, but in here, silence stretched between the flickering candlelight. The air was thick—perfume, whiskey, something darker beneath it all.Then—A low chuckle. Smooth. Unhurried.The hairs on the back of her neck rose.Her breath caught as she lifted her gaze.A man lounged on a deep red chaise, the dim light casting sharp shadows over his form. His uniform, though loosened and slightly disheveled, was unmistakable—an enforcer. Exactly what she needed. His long legs stretched out, one hand resting over the armrest, the other cradling a glass of deep amber liquor. The dim lighting cast long shadows over his form, accentuating the sharp cut of his suit and the smirk that curved his lips.She went still.
Jackpot!
His eyes—piercing, dark, and dangerously amused—swept over her, lingering where the sheer lace of her gown revealed more than it concealed. Heat crawled up her spine, though not from embarrassment. No, this was something else.A slow smirk tugged at his lips before he lifted his glass to them. “I've been waiting for ages,” he murmured, his voice a smooth purr laced with amusement. The glass tilted, whiskey catching the candlelight before disappearing past his lips. He swallowed. His gaze never left hers. “But it seems…” His words trailed, as if savoring the moment.Adeline clenched her jaw, fingers curling at her sides. She didn't like the way his eyes swept on her body. The corners of his mouth twitched, his eyes gleaming. “It was worth my wait.”Her muscles coiled. Fight or flight.Adeline tilted her head, forcing a smirk. She could play this game.“Oh? And here I thought I was intruding.” She stepped further inside, her movements deliberate, controlled. Her heels clicking softly—adding on her seducing plan. The room was intimate, lined with silk-draped walls and flickering candlelight. A heavy, musky scent of perfume and alcohol clung to the air. A desk sat in the far corner, cluttered with papers and a half-smoked cigar.The enforcer stretched his legs out, lazy, confident. “Depends on what you're intruding on.”Adeline's fingers skimmed over a nearby vanity, feigning idle curiosity. “That depends on you.” Her eyes flicked to the insignia pinned to his chest. “I imagine someone of your position has... interesting stories to tell.”His smirk deepened. “That depends on what you're willing to trade for them.”She smiled, slow and knowing.Oh, she'd get what she wanted. One way or another.If she has to fuck this man just to get information… then, so be it! Adeline took a slow step forward, every movement calculated, her expression smooth despite the tight coil of tension in her stomach.The enforcer leaned back, watching her with a lazy sort of interest, his glass tilting in his grip. The liquor inside caught the candlelight, casting a warm amber glow over his fingers. He was enjoying this. He thought he was in control.Perfect.She let her fingers brush over the armrest of his chaise, feigning distraction as she took in more details—his uniform was only slightly wrinkled, his boots still polished. He wasn’t completely off duty. His holster was empty, but that didn’t mean he was unarmed.She met his gaze and arched a brow. “I'm not in the habit of trading for information.”He chuckled, taking another sip. “Then I suppose you're out of luck.”Adeline hummed, pretending to consider it, her eyes flicking to the desk in the corner. The scattered papers, the half-smoked cigar—he had been working before this. That meant there was something valuable here.She perched herself on the edge of the chaise, just close enough to make him think she was interested, but not enough to seem desperate. “I think we can find a different arrangement.”He tilted his head. “And what exactly do you have to offer?”Adeline smirked. “A conversation. Just one. No strings attached.”The enforcer scoffed, shaking his head. “Sweetheart, men like me don’t give away information for free.”She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. “You’re already talking, aren’t you?”His smirk faltered for half a second. Then, amusement flickered in his eyes, and he placed his empty glass down beside him. “Clever.”Adeline rested her chin in her palm, feigning boredom. “Indulge me, then. Tell me something interesting.”He exhaled through his nose, watching her. Then, as if deciding she was harmless enough, he leaned back once more. “Fine. Since you asked so nicely.” He rolled the empty glass in his palm. “There’s been a lot of noise lately. Council business, Undercity troubles—you know how it is.”Her pulse quickened, but she kept her expression neutral. “Council business?” she echoed, tilting her head.The enforcer shrugged. “Some highborns getting nervous. Something about missing shipments, closed doors, threats passed behind curtains.” He smirked. “The usual.”Adeline forced herself to relax, to appear casual, when every instinct screamed at her to dig deeper. Instead, she tapped a finger against the chaise. “Sounds like a headache.”“You have no idea,” he muttered, rubbing a hand over his jaw. “And the fact that they ordered as to inspect down here, to look for any signs of suspicion, and to that Kiramman daughter,” That was it. The opening she needed.She smiled, slow and knowing. “The Kiramman? I thought the Kiramman’s daughter was banished from Noxus? Was it true?” She innocently asked. The enforcer hummed. “She is,” he hinted. His words made Adeline even more interested. She slowly sat down on the chaise beside him. “Who…” Adeline hesitated. “Who ordered you to investigate down here?” She asked, as she trailed her hand on his forearm, grazing his skin from his uniform. The enforcer gave her a long, measured look, as if weighing the risks of speaking further. His fingers tapped idly against his empty glass, his body language still relaxed, but there was something sharper in his gaze now.Adeline didn’t push. Not yet. She let the silence stretch between them, feigning patience while the dim candlelight flickered against the polished wooden walls. The air in the room was thick with undercurrent of tension.The enforcer exhaled heavily, reaching for the nearby decanter to refill his glass. “You know, most people don’t walk into a place like this looking for a chat,” he mused, his voice edged with amusement. “Especially not with me.”Adeline moved toward him, slow and deliberate—as she sat on his lap. She didn’t rush. No, she made a show of it, letting the air between them grow thick with anticipation. When she reached him, she rested her hands lightly on his shoulders, feeling the firm muscle beneath the fine fabric of his uniform.She leaned in, her breath warm against his ear. “Maybe I just enjoy good company,” she murmured, her fingers idly tracing the gold embroidery lining his suit. The thread shimmered under the dim lighting, a stark contrast to the dark navy of his uniform. She felt the shift before she saw it—the way his grip tightened on his abandoned glass, the way his breath hitched ever so slightly. Then, with no warning, his mouth crashed against hers.The force of it nearly made her flinch. He kissed her hard, demanding, as if he meant to consume her. Adeline’s stomach twisted, revulsion curling deep, but she didn’t let it show. Instead, she leaned into him, forcing herself to relax, to play along. She needed this. Needed him pliant, eager. Needed him to talk.His hands moved, slow but insistent, skimming over her body before settling at her hips. A possessive grip. He pulled her down onto his lap, forcing her closer. She let out a soft sound—controlled, calculated—just enough to make him think she wanted this.The enforcer exhaled sharply against her lips, his breath laced with whiskey. “I knew you were trouble,” he murmured, voice husky with want.Adeline forced a smirk, tilting her head as she traced a finger down the line of his jaw. “Then you should’ve known better.”She tried to break the kiss, but his hands tightened, holding her in place.Too much.His grip firmed, possessive now rather than teasing. A flicker of something ugly passed through his gaze, his hunger shifting into something darker.Adeline’s pulse quickened, though not with desire. Her mind raced, assessing, calculating. How far could she push? How much control did she still have?She let her hand slide lower, fingers ghosting over his collar, then lower still, until her nails grazed his throat. Not enough to wound, but enough to remind.The enforcer froze, just for a second. A flicker of hesitation.Adeline’s lips curled into a smile, slow and sharp. “You’re gripping too tight,” she murmured against his lips. “I don’t like that.”Her nails pressed just a fraction deeper.The enforcer laughed, a low, satisfied sound as he leaned back, watching her with hooded eyes. “Forgive me,” he said smoothly, swirling the liquor in his glass. “It must’ve been the drug.” A smirk played on his lips. “I think it’s affecting me.”Adeline’s brow furrowed. Drug?He reached to the side table, plucking a small, unmarked pill from a small drawer case. “The brothel has this hidden cabinets you see, to keep the pill hidden from view,” he mused, rolling the pill between his fingers. His gaze flicked up to hers. “You should try it.”She tensed as he grabbed another glass from the table, dropped the pill inside, and poured a generous amount of liquor over it.The liquid frothed briefly, the pill dissolving almost instantly.He held the glass out to her, smiling. “It’ll heighten our pleasure.”Adeline’s stomach twisted violently.No.She knew that pill. Knew what it could do, how it worked—how it robbed its victims of control, of resistance. A date rape drug.Her breath hitched, her pulse hammering against her ribs. She forced herself to keep her expression neutral, to school her features into something unreadable, but inside, her mind was racing.
I need to get out. Now.
She shifted, forcing an easy smile as she pushed herself off his lap. “You know,” she said lightly, brushing imaginary lint off her dress, “I prefer to remember my nights.” She turned sharply, striding toward the door, her fingers already reaching for the lock.Click.The door didn’t budge.Her stomach dropped.She twisted the knob harder, but it wouldn’t move.“You can’t leave,” the enforcer’s voice was calm, amused. “It’s locked from the outside.” he said. “Someone wants to see you, sweetheart. Shall we pay her a visit?” No.Adeline’s heart pounded as she yanked at the door again. She barely heard it at first—the soft, unnatural hiss coming from the corner of the room.Then she smelled it.A sharp, acrid scent.Her head snapped toward the far wall, and her eyes widened in horror. A pipe—barely noticeable against the dimly lit wall—was releasing a thick green smoke, curling lazily into the air.Her lungs seized almost instantly.She gasped, staggering back, her throat burning as the fumes invaded her system. A violent cough tore through her, then another. The sensation was unbearable—like her lungs were being scorched from the inside out.She pressed a hand over her nose and mouth, desperate to filter the air, but it was useless. Her body convulsed, knees buckling, vision swimming.Through the haze, she caught movement.The enforcer stood, calm and composed. Of course.Her limbs felt heavy, unresponsive. Her vision blurred at the edges, blackness creeping in. She tried to move—tried to do something—but her body betrayed her.She slumped against the floor, hands clawing at the carpet as her breath came in ragged, shallow gasps.No. Not like this.The enforcer crouched down beside her, his voice was muffled smooth, almost gentle. “It was nice seeing you again, Miss Kiramman.”Then everything went dark.[ ***Flashback*** ] The courtyard was bathed in soft twilight, the last remnants of the sun casting a purple hue over the stone pathways. Beautiful violet leaves blanketed the smooth ground, carried by the gentle breeze that rustled through the ancient trees. The steady murmur of the fountain nearby should have been soothing. It should have been peaceful.But Adeline felt nothing but rage.She sat stiffly on the cool marble bench, her hands clenched in her lap, jaw locked so tightly it ached. Her mind reeled, playing the scene over and over again like a cruel melody she couldn’t silence.You're not going down there again! with or without Grayson! You hear me?! Her mother’s voice had been sharp, slicing through the air like a blade.
And I want you to stop this... relationship or communication you have with Vander! He is dangerous, Adeline! He's not someone you should be dealing with, let alone being friends with!
Adeline's nails dug into her palms, the words branding themselves into her skin.
If I catch a wind of you going down there, again! I swear it, Adeline! One more time you defy me, I'll revoke your badge! And you'll be staying here until you'd learn what you just did!
Her mother's final warning rang in her ears, unfiltered, uninvited.Adeline had been careful. Discreet. Every move calculated, every step measured. Yet it never mattered. No matter where she went, eyes followed. Grayson’s men. Her mother’s servants. Spies in elegant coats and polished boots.She was always being watched.The weight of it—of always being shackled, always being controlled—snapped something inside her.Adeline shot to her feet so abruptly that the bench scraped against the stone.A scream tore from her throat, raw and unrestrained, echoing through the empty courtyard. It was primal, furious—an eruption of everything she had swallowed down for too long.“Always in the way!” she bellowed, chest heaving. “Always in the FUCKING WAAAAAY!”Her breath was ragged, her vision blurred with frustration and fury. A single flower stood near her feet, its delicate petals swaying gently in the breeze.Wrong place. Wrong time.Adeline didn’t hesitate.She stomped on it.Again.And again.And again.Each step was a violent, desperate release. The soft petals crumpled beneath her boot, the fragile stem snapping, crushed into nothing but dirt. Yet it wasn’t enough.It was never enough.Finally, she stopped, breath hitching. A hollow feeling settled in her chest as she stared down at the lifeless remains.Useless.Slowly, her legs gave out, and she collapsed back onto the bench. Her hands gripped the edge of the marble, anchoring herself, grounding herself. But the weight pressing down on her didn’t ease.She tilted her head back, staring up at the sky, and let the silence swallow her whole.The courtyard remained quiet, save for the distant bubbling of the fountain and the occasional rustling of the wind through the violet leaves scattered across the stone path. The air smelled faintly of damp earth and floral undertones—calming, to most. But Adeline's heart still hammered in her chest, her frustration simmering beneath her skin.Then came the voice, low and rough with amusement. “Poor flower.”She knew that voice.Adeline didn’t bother looking up. She didn't have the patience to deal with her right now.A brief silence stretched between them. For a moment, it seemed like Grayson would let her be. But Adeline should’ve known better.“What are you doing here?” she snapped, her tone sharp.Grayson didn’t flinch. “Just wanted to see the place. I used to visit with someone I was close to.”Adeline scoffed. “Huh. Yeah, right.”Her arms crossed tightly over her chest as she finally lifted her gaze, and for the first time, she noticed how far away Grayson was looking—her eyes unfocused, lost in a memory. The tension in Adeline’s shoulders eased, just a little.There was something about Grayson—something steady, something grounding. She had a way of making the world feel less chaotic. And right now, Adeline found herself more interested in this unknown past of hers than in her own frustration.“What happened?” Adeline asked, curiosity creeping into her tone.Grayson blinked, pulled from whatever thought had taken her away. A small, almost wistful smile crept onto her face. “She got married.”“What?!” Adeline sat up straighter, turning fully toward her. “Why?! What happened?!”Grayson exhaled, a short huff of breath, almost like a laugh. “We got into a fight,” she admitted. “Just a misunderstanding.”The way her gaze dropped to the ground told Adeline that the ‘misunderstanding’ had been far more than that.“Then why didn’t you fix it?” Adeline pressed. “Why didn’t you tell her how you felt?”Grayson shook her head, her smile still in place, but there was something hollow behind it. “It’s complicated, Adeline. And I didn’t know if she felt the same way about me.”Adeline opened her mouth, but Grayson continued before she could speak.“Besides, her mother didn’t want me for her daughter, so there was no chance for it anyway.”Adeline fell silent. She didn’t know how to comfort her. She had never been in love, never felt that kind of loss. She had no idea what to say.Grayson, as if sensing her unease, smiled more genuinely this time. “Besides, I’m happy for her.”Adeline squinted at her. “That doesn’t sound very convincing.”Grayson only chuckled. “She got what she wanted. A family, a home, and…” She turned to Adeline, her expression softer now. “A daughter.”Adeline blinked, caught off guard.She hesitated, unsure of what to say, before deciding to steer the conversation somewhere lighter. “Tsk, tsk, tsk,” she clicked her tongue. “Must’ve been painful to see her happy with someone else, huh?”Grayson arched a brow.“Oh, I… I didn’t mean that as an insult! I—ugh, God, I suck at this.”Grayson laughed—actually laughed. The sound was rare, and Adeline found herself beaming at the victory.“Well,” Grayson said, smirking, “I’m not bitter or anything. If she’s happy, then I’m happy for her. That’s what matters.”Adeline leaned forward. “Mhm. Didn’t know this was your favorite place to visit with… her.”Grayson shook her head in amusement. “No. This is where we first met.”Adeline grinned. “Ooooh, is it?” She waggled her brows, her smirk growing. “Did you two ever… you know…” She puckered her lips dramatically.Grayson exhaled through her nose, shaking her head. “Stop that.”“Oh, come on!” Adeline giggled, poking her playfully in the side.Grayson snatched her wrist before she could strike again, gripping it firmly but not unkindly. “I’m warning you, Kiramman. Keep this up, and I’ll assign you to patrol the streets for the rest of your life.”Adeline grinned. “Just answer me, and I’ll stop! Did you ever kiss her?”Grayson sighed, her grip loosening before she finally let go. Defeated, she gave a small, reluctant nod.Adeline gasped. “You did?!”She kicked her feet in excitement, grinning like a child with a secret.“But only once,” Grayson clarified quickly.“Did you make the first move, or—”“Hey, kid,” Grayson interrupted, her voice shifting into something more serious. “Stop being an asshole to your mother.”Adeline blinked, her amusement fading instantly.Grayson’s expression softened, but her voice remained firm. “You know she’s only protecting you. She just doesn’t want you to get hurt. She loves you, Adeline. More than you could ever imagine.”Adeline exhaled sharply, rolling her eyes. “I know,” she muttered. “It’s just… I’m not a kid anymore. And you and my mother always treat me like I’m some naive little girl.”“That’s because you’re as stubborn as a goat,” Grayson shot back. “You’re still young, Adeline. Age is just a number. You still have so much to learn.”Adeline scowled.Grayson smirked. “And I’ll stop calling you ‘kid’ when you finally grow up and become the woman you’re meant to be.” She tilted her head slightly. “You’re a Kiramman, Adeline. So act like one.”Adeline clicked her tongue, waving her hand dismissively. “Yeah, yeah. I get it.”“Good,” Grayson said. She stood, brushing off her uniform. “Now, go back to your mother and apologize for what you did.”Adeline’s head snapped up. “What?! Why would I?!”Grayson gave her a look. Adeline folded her arms stubbornly. “I’m sorry, sheriff. But I refuse.”Grayson sighed, shaking her head as she turned to leave. “Well then, from this day on, you’ll be patrolling the Seventh Avenue suite in Block Six—”“Wait a minu—”“—And you’ll be guarding your mother’s suite, where the inventor, Jayce Talis, lives—”“I’m not—!”“—Your duty starts at 7 AM and ends at 5 PM.”“I will not—”“6 PM.”“Hey—!”“7 PM.”“I…” Adeline’s mouth opened, then snapped shut.Grayson smirked, clearly enjoying this.Adeline’s jaw tightened, her fingers twitching with frustration.Grayson was halfway across the courtyard when she called back, “Good luck with your new task, Ms. Kiramman.”Adeline groaned, slumping back against the bench. “Fuck!” Adeline sat there, her fingers gripping the edge of the marble bench as she watched Grayson disappear through the courtyard. The enforcer’s back remained straight, hands neatly clasped behind her, boots clicking against the stone path in steady, unshaken strides.There was no point in arguing anymore.Adeline clenched her jaw, inhaling sharply through her nose. She had lost the moment she opened her mouth. Refusing Grayson would have only made things worse—way worse. Even if they were close, Grayson was still the Sheriff, and when she gave an order, it was final.She scowled at the violet leaves scattered across the ground, resisting the urge to stomp on them like she had earlier.
Guess I don’t have a damn choice.
Her shift was set. No escaping it now.Grayson knew she wouldn’t disobey—not because Adeline was obedient, but because the alternative would be even more unbearable. If she refused, Grayson would make sure Cassandra knew, and that would lead to something far worse than patrol duty: an extended stay under her mother’s ever-watchful eye, trapped in the manor like a caged bird.A shiver of frustration ran down her spine.With a groan, she slumped back against the bench and threw her head back, glaring at the sky.
Seventh Avenue Suite. Block Six.
Talis’s what?
Fuck I couldn't even remember the name! She scoffed under her breath. Great. Just great.
[ Back to the Present ]
Adeline woke up with a violent gasp, as if she had just broken through the surface of a drowning dream. Her chest heaved, lungs burning with the desperate need for air, her pulse a frantic drumbeat in her ears. For a moment, she wasn’t sure if she was still suffocating—if the thick, burning gas still clung to her lungs, still scorched her from the inside.Her mind spun, tangled in the haze between memory and reality. Had it really happened? Or was it just a cruel, lingering illusion?She forced herself to focus.The room around her was dim, the air thick with the scent of perfumed oils and something heavier, something metallic. The only source of light came from a lamp perched on a side table, casting flickering shadows along the dark wooden walls.She was still in the brothel—but not the same room. The room she was in was bigger than the one she was in lately from the VIP suite, the velvet sheets cool against her damp skin. A shiver crept up her spine, and she slowly shifted, testing her limbs. Her body was heavy, sluggish—like she’d been drugged.No.
They intentionally drugged her!
Her throat ached, dry as cracked stone, each breath scraping painfully against the raw walls of her lungs. She swallowed, but it did nothing to ease the discomfort. She needed water—anything. Just to ease the discomfort.Ignoring the screaming protest of her muscles, Adeline swung her legs over the edge of the bed. The motion sent a sharp jolt through her head, a searing pain that nearly made her double over. She clenched her jaw, forcing herself to move.One foot on the floor.Then the other.She pushed herself up—only for her knees to buckle.Shit.Adeline collapsed, her hands catching the chaise lounge beside her just in time. Her breath came in uneven pants, and her head pounded in rhythm with her racing pulse.She tried again—pushing herself upright, one shaky hand gripping the fabric for support. But the second she tried to move, her legs gave out once more, sending her slumping onto the chaise.“Damn it!” she hissed under her breath, her voice hoarse and ragged.Then—the sound of liquid being poured into a glass.Adeline’s head snapped toward the noise.In the dim glow of the lamp, she saw him.A figure, seated in the shadows, legs crossed in a picture of leisure. His suit—black, finely tailored—blended into the darkness, save for the faint gleam of polished fabric catching the low light. His gloved hand held a crystal glass, the amber liquid inside swirling as he tilted it slightly.His face was mostly hidden.But the unmistakable white mask, half-shrouded in shadow, sent a fresh wave of terror rolling through her veins.Adeline’s blood ran cold.Her fingers twitched instinctively, searching for anything—a weapon, a blade, anything—for self defense…. but she had nothing.No.She had to think.She had to control the fear.Swallowing back the dryness in her throat, she forced herself to speak, to mask the panic with bravado.“Care to toss me some of that, shadow man?” she rasped, tilting her head slightly. “My throat’s a bit… parched.”The figure didn’t respond.He only watched her.Even without seeing his full face, Adeline could feel the weight of his gaze, sharp and assessing, drinking in her every move.The silence stretched.A slow, suffocating thing.Adeline’s skin prickled. Enough. She had been through enough.Her fingers curled into fists as she straightened her posture on the chaise, locking eyes with the half-masked man. “I’ve had enough of this shit,” she snapped, her voice raw but defiant. “Care to explain why you drugged me? And what am I doing here?!” The figure moved.Adeline’s breath hitched as he shifted forward, the shadows peeling back just enough to reveal more of him.The crisp line of his suit.The careful, deliberate way he placed his glass down.And then—his face.Half-covered by the ivory mask.Half-revealed.A sharp jawline, a long scar running down the side of his face, twisting the corner of his lips into something that wasn’t quite a smile. His visible eye—a striking, molten orange—gleamed with amusement, cold and knowing.Adeline felt the blood drain from her face.Her stomach twisted.A name barely escaped her lips, trembling and breathless. “Silco.”And in response, Silco’s lips curved—just slightly.A cruel, calculated amusement flickered in his gaze, sharp as a blade against the dim glow of the lamp. Silco moved with practiced slowness, as if savoring the moment, as he lifted his half-mask and set it deliberately on the coffee table beside the bottle and glass.“Adeline,” he said, her name curling from his lips like a quiet threat.Adeline's chest rose and fell, her breath uneven, her mind fighting to piece together everything that had led her here. The weight of the lingering fog in her head told her that this wasn’t just exhaustion. Something had happened. Something he had done.Her pulse thrummed violently against her throat as realization settled, thick and suffocating. “You…” The word barely escaped her lips before rage clawed its way up. “You drugged me!” she snapped. Silco didn’t react—not in the way a guilty man should. Instead, he reached for the lamp at his side, twisting the brass knob with a practiced flick of his fingers. The dim glow expanded, deepening the shadows that stretched across the room. The golden light flickered over the sharp contours of his face, illuminating the ridges of his scarred cheek, the depth of his mismatched eyes. “Have I told you before,” he murmured, pouring amber liquid into a second glass, “that there are always consequences for your actions?”His voice was almost gentle. Almost.Then, he stood.Every nerve in Adeline’s body tensed. She didn’t shift—barely breathed—but her eyes tracked him, scanning for any sign of intent. He moved with practiced ease, unhurried, measured.As he got closer. Adeline shifted—just slightly—but enough for Silco’s gaze to catch it. He didn’t tilt his head down to meet her at eye level. No, he watched her from above, a silent predator, assessing, waiting.And then, with a measured motion, he held out the glass.The deep, rich scent of bourbon drifted between them. Adeline’s throat burned with dryness, an unbearable itch that begged to be soothed. Her body screamed at her to take it, to drown the discomfort in the familiar warmth of liquor.But her instincts—sharpened by years of navigating deceit—held her back.She didn’t trust him. Janna knew what else could be swirling in that drink.She met his eyes, tilting her head slightly, lips curling into a slow, sweetly mocking smile. “No, thank you.” She wasn’t foolish. She had already been drugged once tonight—not again.Silco’s mouth quirked upward, a silent acknowledgment of her defiance. “There’s no drug in it, if that’s what you’re wondering.”Adeline scoffed. “Why so defensive?”“I merely observed,” he replied smoothly, swirling the glass in his fingers. The ice inside clinked, slow and deliberate. “From the lack of your… response.”She rolled her eyes.Without breaking eye contact, Silco took a measured sip from the glass, watching her over the rim. The muscles in his throat shifted as he swallowed, emptying the glass with ease. His brow lifted, a silent challenge.Adeline let out a slow breath, but she wasn’t fooled.She caught him staring.Not at her face.She had seen the way he studied her, the way his gaze lingered too long, drinking in every detail—the rise and fall of her breath, the subtle way her fingers twitched. She wasn’t blind to the way his gaze had flicked down, tracing the curve of her dress, taking in every shift of fabric against her body.The bastard wasn’t even hiding it.A slow heat burned through her skin. Not from embarrassment—from anger. The audacity. A slow exhale left her lips.Then, with deliberate ease, Adeline pushed herself off the chaise. Her muscles, still stiff from whatever had been in her system, protested, but she forced them to cooperate. She saw the flicker in Silco’s eyes as they followed her movement, like a cat tracking a mouse.Without hesitation, she snatched the empty glass from his hand and strode toward the liquor table in the far corner.The wooden floor groaned softly beneath her steps, each one purposeful, controlled.“How bold of you to come here,” he exclaimed. “Especially when I personally told you not to.” Adeline poured herself a drink—bourbon, her favorite. Ignoring Silco’s comments. But as the amber liquid pooled in the glass, an idea sparked.Her fingers found the edge of the liquor cabinet, searching.Keeping her expression neutral, she let her fingers slide under the lip of the table, searching. And then—click.The panel shifted.Her heart pounded as she slid it open just enough to peek inside. Several small bottles. Pills. Some crushed, some whole. Silco wanted to play a game? Fine. A slow, mischievous smile crept onto her lips.
This is perfect for the game.
Without hesitation, she plucked a pill from the stash, let it slip into one of the glasses, and poured a generous amount of bourbon over it. The liquid swirled, masking the dissolving shape instantly.Swirling the liquid lazily, she turned back to face him, expression innocent.Silco’s sharp gaze flicked between her and the drink. He tilted his head slightly, watching. Of course he was. He leaned back against the sofa now, one leg crossed over the other, hands clasped over his knee. He looked... pleased. Like he was enjoying some kind of private thoughts of his. Adeline matched his smirk, her heels clicking softly as she approached. She extended the glass to him, her fingers barely brushing against his as he took it.“Well,” she said lightly, “what can I say? I don’t play by the rules.”Silco’s lips curved, but he didn’t reply immediately. He lifted the glass to eye level, examining it, the amber liquid shifting against the rim. Then, slowly, he tilted it toward his lips.Adeline kept her expression unreadable, her heart hammering in her chest.She lowered herself back onto the chaise, languid, poised. One leg crossed over the other, her posture effortlessly commanding—or rather, demanding. Her left arm rested along the back, fingers idly tracing the fabric, while her right hand draped over her lap. The hem of her dress pooled elegantly around her legs, the black lace catching the low light.She watched him, dark eyes gleaming with quiet challenge.Silco, glass still in hand, studied her in return.
Would he drink it?
Would he notice?
And if he did... What would he do next?
Silco raised the glass to his lips once more, taking an unhurried sip of the bourbon. Not a flicker of hesitation, not the faintest sliver of doubt. His throat worked as he swallowed, the amber liquid vanishing past his lips.But his eyes—oh, his eyes never left her.They remained fixed on Adeline, sharp as a blade’s edge, cool as still water before the storm. A silent, knowing gaze that made the space between them feel smaller, more dangerous.The glass settled back onto the table with a quiet clink.Adeline’s fingers curled subtly against the velvet chaise, her pulse steady, controlled. He had taken the bait, but she knew better than to celebrate too soon.Because Silco wasn’t an easily played man.This was a test. A game of patience, of will, of control.But Adeline knew one thing for sure. The game had already started. And she intended to win. [ End of Adeline's POV ] [ •~° Silco °~• ] Silco watched her. Amused. Patient. Like a spider letting the fly tangle itself deeper in the web.Adeline thought she was clever, playing her little game of seduction, using her body like a finely honed weapon. She shifted subtly—just enough for the dim light to catch the curve of her collarbone, the teasing swell of her cleavage. Every movement was deliberate, calculated, a lure meant to distract, to entice.But she didn’t realize something.He already knew.The drug she so cleverly slipped into his drink? It had been there long before she ever touched it. He had placed it in that hidden drawer himself, knowing her well enough to predict she’d go searching. And the liquor? Laced. Every bottle in this room was drugged, even the drink he was earlier drinking was laced with Date-Rape Drug—steeped in a slow-acting venom that if consumed too freely, would drag them both into the abyss.Because if she is taking me down. Then… I'll drag her down in hell with me. Even if that drug will affect me too. Silco leaned back into the sofa, legs crossed at the knee, fingers lazily drumming against the armrest. His gaze never wavered. It roamed over her languid form, taking in every little tell—how her fingers grazed the strap of her dress as if by accident, how she adjusted her position just enough to give him a better view. A performance. A carefully orchestrated illusion.He almost admired her for it.Almost.But she was playing a game she couldn't win.Silco’s lips curled into something that wasn’t quite a smile, but rather the ghost of one—a flicker of dark amusement that never reached his mismatched eyes. He tilted his head ever so slightly, feigning interest, letting her believe, just for a moment, that her act was working.
Poor thing.
She had no idea she was already lost.Adeline had too much to drink, though she was beginning to suspect why this particular liquor’s effect was so strong. By Silco’s count, she had only downed four cups, but her body was warm, her limbs loose, her inhibitions slipping.He knew Adeline had already had too much to drink. He should be moving. He has the advantage—he could take her now. But he held those dark thoughts back. He told himself he couldn't easily break. But he couldn't deny it. That even if Adeline was drunk, he finds it very erotic and… tempting. Just like the very first time they drink together. It took almost all of his might to fight back that urge to grab her and kiss every inch of her body till he hears her moan his name, begging him to fuck her hard and pleading him to slow down.Still, she played it off beautifully, reclining deeper into the chaise, swirling the last of her bourbon before downing it in one smooth tilt of her head.“I’ve always wanted a dog…” she mused, the words slow and deliberate, as if only now remembering. “But my stubborn mother wouldn’t let me.”Silco exhaled sharply, amused by the sudden topic.Adeline smiled lazily, her lips curling around the rim of her empty glass. “Luckily, my father was far more agreeable. He bought me a gigantic one—Doberram? No, wait…” she hummed, brows knitting together in deep thought. “What was the name of that breed again?”Silco had half a mind to let her struggle. Instead, he tilted his head slightly, watching her like a predator sizing up his prey. “Doberman?” he offered, voice low, amused.Adeline gasped as if she had just discovered the answer to the universe. “YES!” She pointed at him, delighted. “That’s the one! I had two of them—one with black and white spots, and the other jet black…” She flexed her fingers, as if counting on them, before deciding she didn’t care about the specifics. “Two! I had two dogs!”Her excitement faded into something quieter, more pensive. “My mother never liked them.” Her gaze flicked to Silco, noticing the way he was watching her. He looked neither entertained nor particularly interested, but there was something… weighted in his expression.She smirked. “Does the Eye of Zaun like dogs?”Silco’s body went unnaturally still.That caught him off guard.For a heartbeat, he simply stared at her, calculating. Then, voice flat and distant, he replied: “Not anymore.”Adeline tilted her head, setting her glass carelessly on her thigh. “What kind?”
What kind of conversation are you trying to have, little dove?
“Hounds,” Silco answered, his voice edged with something unreadable.A slow, knowing hum left Adeline’s lips. “Hounds are loyal beasts,” she purred.Silco’s gaze darkened. He leaned forward just slightly, elbows resting on his knees, fingers steepled. “Hounds,” he murmured, “are the most dangerous breed. Never put your trust in them. You can never predict when they will turn on you.”Adeline’s lips curled at the edges. “Perhaps,” she conceded, “but if you train them well, they become loyal to you.”
Now, this was a conversation.
Silco smirked, pleased. He liked seeing her keep her guard up—even in her drunken state. Even as her words slurred slightly at the edges. “You can never truly tame a wild dog, little dove.”Her breath hitched.Silco saw it.Saw the way she bit her lower lip, saw the flicker of something dangerous cross her expression at the sound of those two words. Little dove.She smiled, slowly, deliberately. “Maybe not,” she agreed. “But if you’re patient—if you’re willing to put in the time—then perhaps they will be loyal to you.”Silco exhaled through his nose, amused by the way she twisted his words back at him. “Most of them would trade you for a steak if you no longer have what they want,” he countered smoothly, eyes flickering down to the way she was shifting. Adjusting.She was positioning herself just right—her body arching subtly, her dress slipping ever so slightly. It was deliberate, of course. Calculated. And effective.Silco smirked. “That’s why you never let your guard down.”Adeline hummed, arching a brow. “If you feed them well, they'll never stray,” she mused, her voice dripping with something dangerously sweet. “It might surprise you how long they stay by your side.”Silco’s smirk deepened. “Hungry dogs are never loyal.”His voice was softer now. Darker.“They always have someone else feeding them,” he continued, slowly rising from the sofa, striding toward her without breaking eye contact. “They stay only because you have what they need. The moment you don’t…” He came to a halt directly in front of her, towering over the chaise, his mismatched gaze gleaming with something vicious. “They’ll take what they can until you have nothing left but your bones.”Adeline swallowed.Silco crawled his way to Adeline—into the chaise, and leaned down to her, bracing a hand on the chaise beside her head, caging her in. His other hand slid against the outside of her thigh, fingers pressing, testing. Her breath hitched at the contact.“Some dogs,” he murmured, “will take until there is nothing left of you.” Adeline shivered. But she did not pull away.Instead, she did the exact opposite.She spread her legs just slightly, just enough to make it easy for him to step between them. He didn’t hesitate—his hand moved with intent, gripping the underside of her thigh and pulling it around his waist, locking her in place beneath him.Adeline exhaled sharply, lips parting. “Watch out for this one,” she whispered, her voice teasing, breathy.Silco exhaled slowly, his lips dangerously close to her throat.“This one bites hard,” she warned. And then, before he could react, she leaned in and nipped at his earlobe.Silco inhaled sharply through his teeth. His grip on her tightened. “I think a gag is in order,” he muttered darkly, his lips ghosting over the sensitive skin of her neck.Silco leaned in, his breath warm against her skin, his chin just grazing the sharp curve of her jaw. Close enough that she could feel it—the slow, deliberate way he inhaled.“You wear perfume for him tonight?” he murmured, voice rough, and low.Adeline didn’t flinch. Didn’t shy away.Instead, she smirked.“Why wouldn’t I?” she mused, tilting her head slightly—offering him more of her neck, a challenge veiled as submission. “After all, he is my client. And I still have a client to seduce.”A pause.Then—“Mhm.”It was barely a sound, more exhale than hum, but it rumbled deep in Silco’s chest as he traced his nose along the soft column of her throat, following the delicate path of her jugular.She shuddered.There it is.Her pulse thrummed beneath his lips, betraying the way her breath hitched ever so slightly when he inhaled again, dragging in the scent that wasn’t for him.It made something dangerous curl inside him. “You reek of him,” Silco murmured against her skin.Adeline opened her mouth, but whatever teasing remark she had was swallowed by the soft sound that escaped her when he pressed an open-mouthed kiss to the hollow of her throat.Good.
She wanted to play this game?
Fine.But Silco didn’t play fair–take note of that! “I paid you,” he murmured, lips brushing against her pulse point. Another kiss, slower this time. His hand, now resting low on her hip, and squeezed. “I paid for this room.” Another kiss. Another sharp intake of breath from her.“I know,” she gasped, voice barely above a whisper.Silco smirked against her skin. Ah. Now you do.Her breathing had quickened. He could feel it—how her chest rose and fell beneath his touch, how her fingers curled just slightly against the fabric of his shirt, gripping, holding.His lips brushed the shell of her ear as he uttered the words, slow and deliberate, the weight of them settling between them like a final demand. “Then show me my money’s worth.”And Adeline, reckless as ever, bared her teeth in a slow, taunting smile. “You’re quite demanding for a man who enjoys being disobeyed,” she murmured, her voice silk over steel.Silco’s smirk twitched, his fingers tightening against her jaw, forcing her chin up. “Careful,” he warned, low and quiet. A whisper of danger. “You might find I have little patience left for games.”Adeline tilted her head slightly, pressing against his grip, testing him. “And yet,” she exhaled, “you keep playing them.” Her words were a challenge, a provocation—and it worked. Silco’s control was ironclad, but she felt the way his breath hitched, the way his fingers flexed against her skin before sliding down to curl around her throat. Not enough to hurt. Just enough to remind her who was in control.Or at least, who thought they were.Adeline’s heart pounded, but she refused to shrink beneath his dominance. Instead, she let her hands move, slow and deliberate, tracing the edges of his vest before pushing it aside. Her nails ghosted over the crisp fabric of his shirt, feeling the rigid tension beneath. “Funny,” she mused, “I thought the Eye of Zaun preferred control. And yet, here you are, standing at the mercy of my touch.”Silco let out a breath—short, sharp. “You mistake indulgence for surrender, little dove,” he murmured.“Do I?” Her fingers slid lower, teasing at the buttons of his shirt, but before she could go further, Silco moved—fast. His hand shot out, seizing her wrist and pinning it down onto the chaise.Adeline inhaled sharply, eyes flashing.There it was. The shift.The air between them crackled with something almost volatile. He loomed over her now, his knee pressing into the cushion beside her hip, his other hand still wrapped around her throat.Silco leaned in, so close that his breath ghosted over her lips. “You’re used to bending men to your will,” he murmured. “Used to making them beg for the privilege of touching you.” A slow, amused exhale. “I'm not like most of the men. I liked it when the woman's folds clamp on me.”Adeline shivered.Because she knew she had unleashed the beast inside him.Silco wasn’t prey. He wasn’t a pawn to be moved at her discretion. He was a predator—a king. And she had spent far too much time in his jaws.Still, she wasn’t about to let him have the last word.“You say that,” she whispered, shifting beneath him, deliberately brushing her thigh against his leg. “And yet, here you are, touching me first.”Silco stilled. His fingers twitched at her throat, and for a fraction of a second, his lips parted like he was about to say something—And then he kissed her.No hesitation. No warning.His mouth crashed against hers, taking, claiming, punishing.Adeline gasped, the force of it sending a jolt down her spine. Silco wasn’t gentle—he wasn’t soft. He kissed like a man who had no intention of asking. His hand tangled in her hair, tilting her head back as he deepened it, his teeth grazing her lower lip before biting down—hard enough to sting, to remind her who was winning. Adeline moaned into his mouth, her fingers curling into his shirt, nails pressing against the fabric. Heat coiled in her stomach, spreading like wildfire.His hand traveled on the inside of her dress, gripping her underwear—thong.Silco didn't waste a moment to hook his long fingers around the waist of her thong. He slowly thugs it down, and tosses her underwear on the far side. Adeline gasped into his mouth, and Silco swallowed it down.He pulled back just enough to look at her, his eyes dark, lips glistening from the kiss. “Try not to scrape your nails on me, dove.” he noted, voice low and dangerous.Adeline, breathless but unbowed, licked the taste of him from her lips. “I’ll try,” she mused, though he knew she wouldn't. Silco chuckled—a quiet, wicked sound. “Then this should be fun.” And just like that, he crushed his lips against hers once more, swallowing whatever protest she might have made, sealing the game they were playing in fire and breath. He broke the kiss though he didn't stop kissing her. He kissed her jaw, neck and her collarbone down to the south. Adeline breath becoming more ragged. Silco however, was moving downward, slow and teasing. Just as he trailed down, he kissed her parted thighs. And at the same time bitting. Adeline gasped. Silco soothed her will-now bruise thigh with his tongue. He brought his hand on her thigh, pushing it down—securing her position. He watches her heat core first before diving in. “Aghh!” The first sound came out of her pretty lips. As he licked her clit—like a starving man. Adeline buckled. His hand held her down, forcing her to remain still. He started slowly, his tongue lapping at her slit, savoring the taste of her arousal. He traced the seam of her lips, teasing her entrance before flicking his tongue over her clit, again and again, until she was writhing beneath him, her hands fisting in his hair. He slid a finger inside her, then two, pumping them in and out of her tight heat, at first slowly. He curled them just so, searching for that special spot that would make her see stars. He felt her inner walls contract and vibrate around his fingers. He could tell she was getting close to her peak. Leaning down, he sealed his lips around her throbbing clit and sucked hard, flicking the sensitive nub quickly with the tip of his tongue.At the same time, he pumped his fingers faster, rubbing mercilessly against that specific spot. Her thighs trembled and tensed on either side of his head as he took her right to the edge... then pulled back a little, wanting to prolong her torment a little longer before finally pushing her over the edge of blissful oblivion.“Silcooahh!” He heard her whimper his name, her voice sounding tearful and frustrated. Then her little fingers tried to pull his face back into place between her thighs: “Easy now, little dove.” He let his fingertip slide over her clit, circular motions that drove her to the edge, but weren't enough to give her what she wanted.“Ohh, Silco…” her voice escaped in a hoarse moan, filled with a mixture of need and desperation. Sounding like a melody for him. “Say 'please' and I might let you cum.” Silco's voice left no room for reply and this only made her even more frustrated. Her back arched and she tried again to pull Silco towards her. But her attempts failed. Silco then sped up the movement of her finger, noticing how easy it was to bring her to the edge again... and just as easy to slow down.The second denied orgasm drew a reaction from her. “Please!... I beg you... please!” He smirked as she begged so sweetly, the word ‘please’ falling from her lips like a prayer. Oh, how he adored when she got like this - pride and poise cast aside in favor of raw, aching need. Silco was more than happy to oblige her, diving back in with renewed fervor.He savored the taste, groaning low in his throat as he feasted on her like a starving man, his fingers pumped steadily, curling just to brush that spot inside her. He felt her thighs clamp down around his head, and he heard “SILCOOAAGH” Her screaming his name as she came undone, her release flooding his mouth.He then stopped. His mouth glistening with her released as he watched her coming undone on him. Her eyes fluttered shut, though she opened them just to gaze down at him. He climbed his way towards her and kissed her–hard! Letting her taste her own release. His wet hand gripped her thigh. Without breaking the kiss, Silco grabbed her hips and lifted her up. He led her towards the massive bed where Adeline had been lying—unconscious. He gently placed her down, while he unbuttons his pants. Both of them lost in the haze of pleasure and lust. Silco guided Adeline to move further the bed without giving order—he knew Adeline knew what his action meant. Adeline, being a good girl, did what she was expected to do. She then pulled her dress up, her dress slipping from her skin like it's not an easy task. He then helped her undress. Slowly, his eyes traveled on her almost naked body—the only clothes she had left was her bra. Silco on the other hand placed his hand on her sternum and pushed her down on the bed. “You look so beautiful,” he murmured, and pulled her thighs towards him with force. Adeline sharply inhaled. His mouth trailing on her chest. Then back up to her neck–biting and sucking—enough to bruise. His hand freed his now hard cock. He aligned it on her entrance. As his hard length touched her clit, Adeline softly moaned—she was still overwhelmed by the earlier penetration. Though the idea of him filling her was exquisite. She was waiting for him to push it inside, to fill her. Silco stilled, his heated breath ghosting over her skin as his hands moved with calculated intent. His fingers brushed over the tie at his collar, slow and deliberate, before he unknotted it with a single pull.Adeline barely had a moment to react before he caught her wrists in one firm grasp. The silk slid over her skin as he bound them together, his movements smooth, practiced—undeniably in control.Her breath hitched. “What are y—?”“Shh,” he murmured, a whisper of command laced with amusement. His thumb brushed over the rapid pulse at her wrist, savoring the way it fluttered beneath his touch.His other hand held her tied wrist above her head—pinning them down hard–but not hurting her… yet. His other hand gripped her hips. Positioning himself. Instead of inserting himself in, there was this kind of mischief in his eyes—though she knew he was planning on something. “Tell me…” he uttered, as he grinned his cock between her soaked folds, smearing her slick along his length. “Do you enjoy this?” He mumbled, as he continued to increase the friction.Adeline who was biting her lower lip. Preventing herself to give him the satisfaction of surrender. Silco knew what she was doing, instead he rubbed the tip of his cock against her clit, teasing her as she whimpered beneath him. A low moan escaped her lips. She was so lost in pleasure. She merely nodded in reply. “I won't take that as an answer,” Silco growled, as his grinning became faster. “Yes!” She moaned, as another wave of organisms was coming. Her mouth hung open. Her eyes remain shut. “It feels so goooood!” As her back arches—“Yes, go on, little dove.” He murmured, holding himself back, not to release. Not yet—as he wanted to savor this moment. “Come on my cock,” he ordered. “Come on my cock like a greedy little slut you're,” he nipped on her neck—that Adeline gasped as the sharp pain she felt–but it was nothing compared to the grinding friction Silco was doing. A cry tore from Adeline’s lips as the second orgasm crashed over her—like a tidal wave pulling her under, drowning her in pure, unrelenting pleasure. Her back arched off the bed, her muscles taut, fingers curling against the restraints Silco had so expertly tied.Her skin, normally so pale, was flushed with heat, a soft sheen of sweat glistening along her collarbone. Her chest heaved with every ragged breath, each inhale shuddering, each exhale broken.Silco watched, utterly transfixed.She was a masterpiece—ruined and divine in equal measure. His work.His grip tightened on her thighs, holding her still as he let his gaze roam, drinking in every tremor, every flutter of her lashes, the way her lips parted in a soundless gasp. He had never been the religious type, but if there was a god to be worshiped, it was this—this moment, this control, this power coiled between them like a serpent waiting to strike again.“Breathtaking,” he murmured, almost to himself.Adeline, still reeling, forced her heavy-lidded eyes open, meeting his gaze—dark, hungry, burning with something more dangerous than lust.A slow, wicked smirk played at his lips as he leaned in, his voice silk and smoke against her ear. “That's two now right?” he asked, as he slowly kissed her belly. Adeline whimpered. She was too sensitive, overstimulated. She couldn't speak, she simply nodded at him. “Let's make it three,” He suggested. “Again,” Adeline moaned, she shook her head. She was utterly spent. But Silco wasn't done with her. “Oh, come on, dove.” He said as he slowly circled her clit. She instantly moaned, she was trying to push him away but unable to do so, or even move away from him—thanks to his necktie. And his hand on her hips, keeping her firmly in place. With barely a whisper, Adeline only nodded. “Good girl,” He muse. As he didn't waste his time to slide himself inside her slowly, letting her feel every thick inch stretching her open, groaning as he felt her walls clenched around him. “Fuck! You're… so tight,” His cock drags against her slick walls, pushing even deeper until Adeline was left gasping. As his full length entered her, he didn't grinned. Not yet. He let her adjust to his size. As he saw the sign, he started to pump, slowly inside her. Just as he let her take the moment, Silco didn't waste the opportunity to grinned harder, faster, and deeper inside her. His big hands holds her down, as he fuck her harder, faster and deeper—chasing his own release. She can't even speak, can't even breathe, her mouth hanging open, her moans breaking into breathless sobs as he pounds into her, fucking her like he's trying to bury himself from the very hilt.Her hand clenching above her top, uselessly. “Aaghhh!” Desperate moans escape her beautiful lips. Right there, he noted. He grabbed her thigh without even breaking his thrust, and pushed it back on her chest. The new position made her whimper. Her back arching. “Silco! I can't—slow down,” she begged, her eyes gleaming with unshed tears. “Yes… you… can,” Silco groaned. Adeline was completely wrecked, her body shaking, her thighs trembling violently, her pussy soaked, fluttering around his cock, dragging him deeper with every thrust.“Ohh! Silco! I'm gonna—!” She gasped. Her face all fucked up. Silco placed his thumb on her clit and drew lazy circles. Her orgasm crashes into her like heavy and fast. Her pussy clamping down so tight around him that Silco groans, his own thrusts faltering—but he didn't stop. He still continued to thrust into her. Even if Adeline was whimpering because of overstimulation. “Silco! Ohhh! T–too much!” she was now sobbing. Her tears streamed down her flushed face. “Shhhh, just a little bit more.” His thick cock slams into her, stretching her open, his hand digging into her hips, while the other hand is pressing so damn hard on the mattress—holding her exactly where he wants her. The wet slap of his skin against her's fills the room, filthy and obscene, her slick dripping down her thighs, making a mess of the sheets.Adeline wails, her whole body clenching, her nails digging into her palm as the pleasure piles up too fast, too hard, too much. Her body rocking forward with every brutal thrust, every stroke hitting so deep she swore she could feel him in her stomach.Silco grunts, slamming into her with one last powerful thrust—that had her screaming his name so loud! His hips grinding deep as he spills inside her, filling her up, stuffing her full of thick, hot cum. His cock throbs inside her, pulse after pulse of heat flooding her already wrecked pussy, dripping out around his shaft.He stays there, panting, wrecked, his body still trembling against hers. His fingers stroke lazily up her body—warm, and possessive.Then, finally, he pulls out, watching as his cum spills out of you, thick and messy, pooling between your thighs.The aftermath lingered between them, heavy and charged. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and something deeper—something unspoken. Adeline lay sprawled beneath him, wrists still bound in silk, her body still trembling from the aftershocks of pleasure. Silco watched her, his breathing measured, controlled—though his eyes burned with something untamed.She looked wrecked. And beautiful—even in her fuck up state. Her flushed skin, the way her chest heaved as she caught her breath, the slight quiver in her thighs—everything about her was a testament to what he had just done to her. And yet, beneath the haze of satisfaction in her half-lidded gaze, there was still defiance. Still fire.Silco smirked, dragging a hand up her thigh, watching the way her body twitched under his touch. “You’re trembling, little dove.” His voice was low, taunting. “Was it too much for you?”Adeline let out a soft, breathless laugh. “Hardly.”He chuckled, amused by her resilience. But she wasn’t fooling him. He could feel the rapid pulse beneath her skin when he traced a finger along her collarbone. He could see the way her muscles tensed when he leaned in close, his lips brushing just beneath her ear.Still fighting. Even now.He hummed, satisfied. “I almost envy you,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to the sensitive spot beneath her jaw. “Still so eager to play, even when you’ve already lost.”Adeline turned her head, her lips ghosting over his jaw. “Lost?” she whispered, her voice still laced with the remnants of exhaustion. “Who says I’ve lost?”Silco pulled back slightly, tilting his head to regard her with amusement. “Oh?”A slow, dangerous smile curled at her lips. “You let your guard down.”Before he could react, her legs shifted, twisting just enough to throw him slightly off balance. It wasn’t much—just enough to let her leverage her weight, pushing against him. For a brief moment, she had him beneath her, straddling his waist, wrists still bound but victorious in her rebellion.Silco exhaled through his nose, a soft, dry laugh. “Clever girl.”Adeline leaned forward, her bound hands resting against his chest, her face mere inches from his. “What was that you said about hounds?” she whispered, her breath warm against his lips. “That they’ll stay if you keep feeding them?”She shifted her hips, just barely, teasing him with her warmth. “Maybe you just haven’t been feeding them right.”Silco’s fingers dug into her hips, his grip tight, possessive. A challenge burned in his eyes, sharp and unforgiving.And then, with practiced ease, he flipped her again—this time pressing her down harder, pinning her completely. A thrill shot through him at the startled gasp she barely had time to suppress.His lips ghosted over her ear as he murmured, “Do not overestimate yourself, dove.”Her smile never wavered. “Why not? It's not like I'm not winning in this game.”Silco chuckled darkly, dragging his teeth along the curve of her throat. “Then let’s see just how long you can keep up.”[ To be continued]
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
[ ***Flashback*** ] Piltover was alive with warmth and golden light, the streets filled with soft laughter and the murmur of conversation. Children called out cheerful greetings to elders, their voices carrying over the mechanical hum of carriages rolling over cobblestone and the purr of old-fashioned cars lined with real gold. Impeccable motorcycles gleamed under the morning sun, their engines a smooth contrast to the steady clatter of hooves and wheels. The city was pristine, untouched by filth, every polished surface reflecting the wealth and status of those who lived here.And yet, standing at the fountain near my mother’s suite, I felt none of that warmth.The fountain was as grand as I remembered, its design flawless, meant to impress. Multi-tiered stone carved with the emblem of Piltover, a testament to its so-called progress. Water cascaded gracefully from the upper basins, catching the sunlight and sending fractured beams dancing across the marble below. At the very top stood a golden statue of Professor Heimerdinger, one hand clutching a small book, the other raised in some eternal gesture of wisdom.I exhaled slowly, watching the way my breath barely disturbed the still surface of the lower basin. The water reflected my face perfectly—blue waves of hair spilling over my shoulders, sharp eyes that had long lost their softness, and the enforcer uniform that fit too well against my frame. For a moment, the reflection wavered, and I swore I saw my mother staring back at me.I sucked in a sharp breath, the ghostly image gone in an instant. My fingers clenched before I forced them to relax.The basin was filled with coins, shining gold stacked atop one another in an offering to wishes that would never come true. Piltover loved its symbols of hope, even if they meant nothing. I dipped my hand into my pocket, feeling the cool weight of a coin between my fingers. A habit. A ritual. Even now, I wasn’t sure why I did it. Maybe some foolish part of me still believed in making wishes.With a flick of my wrist, the coin tumbled through the air before disappearing beneath the rippling water.I didn’t wait to see where it landed. Duty called.As I turned on my heel, my gaze flickered toward movement in the distance. A figure standing near the market street, just far enough that the details were blurred by the shifting crowd. Blue haired, a confident stance, and in her arms—a box?My breath hitched.Caitlyn.I blinked rapidly, my heart stumbling over itself as I took a step forward. It couldn’t be. She was supposed to be with the enforcers at the academy today. So why was she—?“Caitlyn?” The name slipped out before I could stop it, my voice barely above a whisper. “What—?"A sharp voice cut through my daze.“Hey, Kiramman!”The sound jolted me back to reality, and I turned toward the familiar voice. Diego.He was grinning, dressed in his usual enforcer uniform, the fabric neat and pressed as if he actually gave a damn about appearances. Even his hat was positioned just right, tilted at an angle that made him look infuriatingly smug.“What are you doing here?” he called out, amusement dripping from every word.I rolled my eyes. “Duty.”His grin widened. “No way! Really?”I crossed my arms. “Sheriff assigned me to guard my mother’s suite.”Diego let out a low whistle, following my gaze to the building behind me. The suite stood tall and elegant, its glass windows reflecting the sky in a way that made it seem almost untouchable.“Not that bad,” he mused, though his tone was anything but sympathetic. “Oh, really?” I drawled. “Seven a.m. to seven p.m.?”His laughter burst out instantly. “Oh, shit! Lucky, lucky you. You must’ve pissed off the old Sheriff again.”“Shut up, will you?” I snapped, already irritated. “I’m not in the mood, Diego. I’m busy.”Diego raised his hands in mock surrender, his expression still far too amused for my liking. “Okay, boss.”Then, because he was insufferable, he took a step back, holding his hands up as if in retreat—but he didn’t stop there. He made a face. A ridiculous one. Then another. I pressed my lips together, determined not to give him the satisfaction. But he didn’t stop. He puffed out his cheeks, crossed his eyes, wiggled his fingers dramatically as if he were some stage performer playing a fool.A chuckle slipped out before I could stop it.Diego grinned victoriously. “See? Knew you couldn’t resist.”I rolled my eyes again, but this time, it lacked the edge from before.Diego vanished into the sea of people, his laughter still lingering in the air, but I barely noticed. The city moved on around me, golden and bright, its rhythm steady and unbothered. But for just a moment, I let myself breathe.Then—
Boom!
A deafening explosion shattered the peace, the force rattling my bones. My breath caught as blue smoke billowed from the balcony of my mother’s suite. Time seemed to slow, my heartbeat hammering in my ears. The air trembled with the aftershock, a ringing overtaking my senses.And then—Caitlyn.I didn’t think. I moved.My legs carried me forward before I could register it, boots pounding against the ground as I raced for the entrance. The doors were already ajar, cracked from the force of the explosion. Inside, the once-pristine walls were marred with dust and soot, deep fractures running along the surface like veins of destruction. I didn’t stop.The stairs groaned under my weight as I took them two at a time, my muscles screaming in protest, but I pushed forward. As I reached the top, my stomach twisted at the sight before me.A small, crumpled figure lay motionless on the ground.
No–
“Caitlyn!” The name tore from my throat, raw with panic.I didn’t hesitate. I dropped to my knees, my fingers trembling as they found her pulse. It was there—weak, but there. Relief and terror warred inside me as I scooped her up, her body limp against mine. Her uniform was dirtied with soot, her usually sharp features slack, and her breathing shallow.Just beyond her, another man lay sprawled on the floor, unconscious.My gaze darted toward the room beyond, toward the faint sound of movement. My eyes adjusted through the smoke, landing on a shadow shifting near the balcony. My stomach clenched.Someone was still here.Before I could process it further, a voice broke through the chaos.“Adeline!”I snapped my head toward the doorway to see Diego, his face pale, his chest rising and falling too fast. His usual cocky demeanor was gone—his wide, frantic eyes searched mine, pleading.“Here, take her.” I pushed Caitlyn into his arms, ignoring the way my own hands shook. “Get them out of here.”“Adeline, wait—”“Go!”His jaw tensed, but he obeyed, gripping Caitlyn tightly as he turned and disappeared down the stairs.I turned back toward the room, my pulse roaring in my ears.The door creaked as I pushed it open further, revealing the wreckage inside. The balcony doors were blown outward, one of them hanging precariously from a single hinge. Smoke curled around the space, thick and cloying, seeping into my lungs. I covered my nose with my arm, my eyes stinging from the debris.Then I saw him.A figure. He wears a sleeveless yellowish top, a red vest, and dark pants with a belt. His arms are wrapped in white bandagesA boy, no older than 15, stood near the crumbling balcony. His hair, short and a striking shade of pink, was wild and unkempt. Dust clinging to his yellowish top. His wide, frantic eyes darted toward me, his mouth hanging open, as though he saw a ghost, and then he instantly froze. “Stop right there!” I commanded, my voice sharp, unwavering.His eyes flickered between me and the open balcony behind him.He was going to run.I moved before he could. The second my foot hit the ground, the floor beneath me gave a sickening groan. I skidded to a halt, my heart lurching as deep cracks splintered across the surface.Shit.The balcony was crumbling.The boy took a single step backward.“Don’t!” I snapped, reaching out for him.It was too late.The structure gave a violent shudder, and before either of us could react, the ceiling above groaned in protest. I had only a second to register the sound before a deafening crack split through the air.I didn’t think—I ran towards him. Desperate to save him from danger. Chunks of stone rained down. The first struck my shoulder, white-hot pain shooting down my arm. The second clipped the side of my head, and for a moment, the world spun.My vision blurred. My body swayed.I hit the ground hard.Pain exploded across my body, sharp and unforgiving. My limbs refused to move, my mind a tangled mess of static and muffled noise. The world spun, tilting at an unnatural angle as I tried to cling to consciousness.Then—footsteps.Light, quick, and desperate.Through the dust and debris, I caught a glimpse of the boy. The figure, blurred by my failing vision, running toward me. “Adeline!” The voice cut through the haze, sharp and urgent. But something was off. It wasn’t the voice of a boy. It was higher, softer—feminine.My sluggish thoughts struggled to make sense of it.Who—?The figure skidded to a stop just before reaching me. A flash of hesitation. Wide eyes locked onto mine. For a moment, I swore I saw something familiar there—recognition? Fear? Guilt?Then, in an instant, they turned on their heel and ran.No.I wanted to call out, to demand an answer, but my throat was thick with dust, my body too heavy to move. The weight of the wreckage pressed against my skin, the air growing thick and suffocating. Each breath felt harder than the last, like drowning in slow motion.Darkness crept in at the edges of my vision, swallowing the last traces of light.And then—nothing. [ ~°• Silco •°~ ] The sharp, urgent knocks on his office door pulled Silco’s attention from the stacks of paperwork littering his desk. He didn’t respond right away.Not because he hadn’t heard it, but because his patience had already been worn thin. The Chem-Barons were pressing him, Renata had made her latest power play, and Adeline—his most troublesome asset—had been testing the limits of his tolerance. Again.The knocking came again, more insistent.“What?!” Silco barked, his voice cutting through the silence like a blade.The noise immediately stopped. A pause. Hesitation. Then, finally, a voice. “Boss.” A croaky, uncertain tone.“Enter,” he snapped.The door creaked open, revealing a thin, greasy-haired man, his orange locks slicked back with too much oil. A nervous energy radiated off of him, his beady eyes darting between Silco and the floor as he stepped inside.“What is it?” Silco asked, his patience already wearing thinner.The man swallowed hard. “You… you told me to inform you if your assistant did anything suspicious.”Silco leaned back in his chair, feigning disinterest despite the coil of irritation already tightening in his gut. “Yes, and?”“She… she went to the brothel.”Silco’s breath stilled.A slow, creeping anger settled into his chest, threading through his veins with an icy grip.His fingers flexed against the surface of his desk as he pushed himself up from his seat. The chair creaked in protest, but he ignored it, his head tilting downward as he willed himself to stay composed.Adeline.
What the hell was she thinking?
He had given her a direct order—an explicit warning. And she had ignored him. Deliberately.“Gather the others,” Silco commanded, his voice low, controlled.The lackey nearly tripped over himself as he rushed out, his hurried footsteps echoing down the hallway.Silco moved with purpose, sliding open a drawer and retrieving his revolver. The cool metal felt natural in his palm as he secured it in his holster.Then, without another word, he left.The Undercity’s air was thick with smoke and damp, carrying the distant scent of oil and rot. Silco’s pace was swift, his coat billowing behind him. Sevika followed at his side, her mechanical arm gleaming under the dim glow of the street lamps. Two of his men trailed behind, silent shadows in the night.By the time they reached the brothel, the entrance door swung open before them without hesitation—no one in their right mind would deny Silco entry.The workers inside halting in whatever illicit dealings they had been engaged in. A hush fell over the room. Some stared. Others disappeared into the shadows, not wanting to be caught in whatever storm Silco was about to bring down upon them.He didn’t spare them a glance.His men moved swiftly, sweeping through the rooms, but he and Sevika headed straight for the VIP section.Sevika kicked open each door, her metal arm making easy work of anything in her path.Nothing.Room after room, and still, no sign of Adeline.Then, the last door burst open, revealing two men hunched over a limp body.Sevika’s voice rang out. “Boss!”Silco turned sharply, stepping into the open doorway.Two men crouching down on the unconscious body of Adeline. Silco’s eyes snapped to her unconscious form, his stomach twisting in something he refused to name. He barely heard Sevika as she took down one of the men. The man charging towards her with a knife. Sevika dodge him and punches him on his jaw. One was already on the ground, unconscious, crumpled from Sevika’s blow. The other–Silco's focus narrows on the second—the one in an enforcer uniform.And then, Adeline—she was sprawled on the floor, unmoving.Silco’s expression didn’t shift, but something inside him twisted. He hadn’t expected anger to be accompanied by this sharp, unfamiliar edge of something else.
Displeasure.
Discomfort.
He loathed it.The enforcer’s face paled as he locked eyes with Silco.“What have you done?” Silco’s voice was lethal, his grip tightening around the revolver as he leveled it at the man’s chest.The enforcer stumbled backward, raising his hands. “No! Wait! She made me do it! I had no choice! Please!”Silco’s good eye narrowed. Lies dripped from the man’s tongue like oil, but one thing was clear—Renata’s involvement was obvious.She had set this up.The enforcer continued babbling about him not wanting to do this, and he didn't have a choice, but Silco had already made his decision. He pulled the trigger.The gunshot was deafening in the enclosed space.The man staggered, a gaping wound in his chest, his breath coming in ragged, choked gasps. Blood bubbled up from his lips, his eyes wide with terror as he collapsed, fingers clawing uselessly at the cheap rug onto the floor.Silco watched. He always watched. The twitching fingers. The gurgling breath. The way the man clawed weakly at the ground as if he could grasp onto life itself.
But death wasn’t so kind.
Only when the man’s final, ragged breath rattled from his lungs did Silco shift his gaze away from him, and landed back to Adeline. He didn’t need to watch the life drain from his eyes—his death was inevitable, insignificant. And he wasn't worth Silco’s attention. He handed his revolver to Sevika without a word. Then, lowering himself to one knee, he carefully slid an arm beneath Adeline’s back and the other beneath her thighs, lifting her into his arms with a gentleness that felt foreign compared to what he had just done.She was too still.Too quiet than her usual enthusiastic form. His grip tightened ever so slightly as he turned toward the wrecked door.“Clean up the mess,” he ordered. “Tell Babette I’ll cover the damages.”Sevika grunted in acknowledgment, but Silco was already turning away, Adeline cradled in his arms.He didn’t take the exit. He moved deeper into the brothel, to a familiar room tucked in the far corner of the corridor. The door was ajar. He nudged it open with his foot and stepped inside.The room was warm, bathed in soft red light. Heavy velvet curtains framed the bed, deep crimson sheets smooth from the lack of use. The scent of rich perfume clung to the air.Silco moved to the bed, lowering Adeline onto the mattress with deliberate care. Her body was limp in his arms, a stark contrast to the storm she always carried within her. His grip was firm, but the moment she touched the silk sheets, she stirred—a soft, barely-there whimper escaping her lips.His knuckles brushed against her cheek, her skin cool beneath his touch. A stark contrast to the heat she so often ignited in him. His fingers found a stray lock of her raven-black hair, smooth as the finest silk, and he tucked it behind her ear, revealing the delicate angles of her face.“Don't worry,” he murmured, his voice lower now, softer than he intended. “You're safe, little dove.”His fingers lingered. Too long. Grazing her cheek, tracing the curve of her jaw before he forced himself to pull away. He told himself it was instinct. Habit. The same way one might soothe a bird with a broken wing.But that was a lie. Silco straightened, inhaling deeply as he took a step back, his good eye trailing over her unconscious form, taking in every small detail. The dress she wore—deliberately chosen, undoubtedly not for his benefit—clung to her like a whispered promise. Black lace wove intricate patterns over her body, sheer fabric revealing more than it concealed. The high slit at her thigh had parted slightly as she lay motionless, offering glimpses of soft, bare skin–as if the dress itself conspired to taunt him, to test his restraint.A cruel trick of fate.She had chosen this. Not for him, but for something—someone—else. The thought curdled in his gut. His lips twitched downward into something between a sneer and a snarl, though the expression barely surfaced before he forced it away. It didn't matter. Not now.And yet, here she was—sprawled across the bed he owns, in his domain, utterly defenseless.His fingers twitched at his side. The urge was there—to reach out, to press his palm against her exposed thigh, to trace the curve of lace and silk that wrapped around her body, to tilt her chin up and claim those parted lips for himself.But he did nothing.Instead, he turned away, moving toward the small, ornate table in the corner. His fingers brushed over the polished wood as he retrieved his cigarette case. The familiar weight of it steadied him. A practiced motion, a flick of metal, the scent of tobacco as he placed the cigarette between his lips.He struck a match. The flame flickered, casting fleeting shadows across the room—over the dark crimson curtains, the gilded mirror in the corner, the velvet upholstery of the chair beside him. Over Adeline’s motionless form.“Reckless,” he muttered, taking a slow drag. The smoke curled in the air, dissipating into the dim lighting. “You never do make it easy, do you?”He turned back to her.She looked fragile like this—deceptively so. But Silco knew better. Adeline was a blade wrapped in silk, sharp enough to wound, even now.And yet, lying there in that dress, in his bed… she was something else entirely.Something dangerous.Something his.A slow exhale. Smoke billowed past his lips as his gaze darkened.She had defied him. Again.And she would pay for it. But not now.No, now, he would wait.Wait until those sharp eyes of hers fluttered open, until she realized whose bed she was in, whose patience she had tested.And when that moment came—he would make sure she understood exactly what it meant to cross him. —The morning passed in a haze, the sharp scent of ink and the soft rustle of paperwork failing to pull his mind from the events of last night. His fingers drummed absently against his desk, but his focus remained elsewhere—drawn back into the tangle of memories that had refused to leave him since dawn.He exhaled slowly, leaning back in his chair, his gaze lifting to the large, ornate window bathed in the eerie glow of neon. The green light cast long shadows across his office, distorting the world beyond the glass. It felt fitting.His focus was elsewhere.Renata.He knew, without a shadow of doubt, that she had orchestrated Adeline’s abduction. But the question clawed at him—why? What did she want with her? Renata was many things, but wasteful was not one of them. She wouldn’t make a move unless there was something to gain.The thought irritated him. She’s mine to deal with. Not hers.Silco exhaled sharply through his nose, his jaw tightening. His fingers curled around the edge of his desk, the wood creaking slightly under the pressure.The thought intruded, again and again, burrowing into his mind, demanding his attention. But no answer came.But that wasn’t what truly distracted him.His mind betrayed him, shifting to her. To Adeline. To last night. To the way Adeline had trembled beneath his hands—so maddeningly responsive. The way she scream his name, breathless and broken, voice laced with something between pleasure and defiance. The way her fingers had clutched at her top, nails pressing into her palm, as if she needed something more, something only he could give.Silco’s lips parted slightly, and before he realized it, his fingers ghosted over his mouth—slow, contemplative. As if the touch alone could summon back the sensation of her lips against his.A frustrated sigh escaped him. His fingers curled into a fist, resting against his chin as he leaned forward, his free hand pressing against the polished wood of his desk. The memory of her taste, her heat, was maddening. It lingered like a brand on his skin, refusing to fade.But then came the cold truth.Adeline was absent.His fingers twitched. A sharp, quiet anger coiled in his chest.She had left.Silco’s hand dropped to the desk, fingers splaying across the cool surface. His knuckles flexed, tension coiling through his forearm.
By the time I woke up, she was gone.
A slow, cold sort of anger seeped into his veins.They had slept together in that ruined brothel, tangled in sheets, her body curled into his, as if she belonged there. As if it were natural. As if she wouldn’t run.But she had.And that, he thought, tapping a single finger against his desk, was a mistake.She left him—without a word, without a glance.The space beside him had been empty when he woke. The warmth of her body, once pressed against his in sleep, had vanished into the cold sheets.Silco’s good eye flickered with something dark.His grip tightened against the desk.She had given him everything last night. And yet, by morning, she was gone.
That wouldn’t do.
That wouldn’t do at all.
His eyes flicked toward the door. If she thought she could disappear without consequence, she was mistaken. Adeline had been reckless, foolish, his—whether she wanted to be or not.And she would answer for her absence.And he would make her his—completely, undeniably. His possession, and his alone. The thought lingered like smoke, curling around the edges of his mind. It refused to leave, no matter how forcefully he willed it away. But he pushed it aside—for now. There were more pressing matters.His fingers traced the edge of the document before him, flipping a page with practiced ease.Then—*Knock* *Knock* *Knock* A slow, deliberate rhythm. Not frantic. Not hesitant. Purposeful.“Come in,” Silco said, his tone even as he continued to scan the papers before him.The door creaked open. He lifted his gaze just enough to see Sevika step inside, her broad figure blocking most of the light spilling in from the hall. But it wasn’t her presence that caught his interest.It was the figure she allowed inside.Silco’s good eye flicked upward, catching a glimpse of blue.His fingers stilled against the parchment.A uniform. An enforcer’s uniform.His gaze dropped instantly, a calculated disinterest settling over him as he turned his attention back to the document.The enforcer moved, boots clicking against the floor in sharp, measured steps, stopping just in front of his desk.Sevika cast him a brief glance before retreating without a word, closing the door behind her.Silco didn’t look up.“Did I call you for a meeting?” he asked smoothly, his fingers idly skimming the edges of the paper. “Or are you just that desperate?”A low exhale. Then movement.A sharp sound—metal hitting wood. Silco’s eye flicked upward.A gas mask lay cluttered on his desk, thrown down with force. Intentionally. Demanding his attention.And so, he granted it.His gaze trailed from the mask to the hands that had discarded it—slender, gloved fingers smoothing over one another in controlled precision. Black leather. Expensive. Refined.Then, finally, he met the eyes of the person in front of him. A woman sculpted from steel and etiquette, stood rigid in the enforcer uniform, its deep navy fabric tailored to fit her slender frame with military precision. The gold accents gleamed under the dim light, polished to perfection, a stark contrast to the grime of the Undercity. The high collar sat stiff against her throat, the brass buttons fastened without a wrinkle in sight.Her short dark hair, neatly trimmed, framed her sharp features—high cheekbones, a strong jawline, and piercing blue eyes that scanned the room with quiet calculation. Though her expression remained poised, a subtle tension in her gloved hands betrayed the unease beneath her carefully controlled demeanor.Silco’s lips curled, his expression a careful blend of amusement and intrigue.“Mrs. Kiramman,” he purred, leaning back slightly. “What a pleasant surprise.” He set his papers aside with deliberate ease, folding his hands atop his desk. “Care to enlighten me as to the nature of your… unexpected visit?”Cassandra exhaled sharply, the movement barely perceptible. Composed. Always composed. Even in the belly of the beast. “Oh, don’t act like you don’t know why I’m here, Silco,” she snapped, her voice edged with something cold. “You know why.”Silco tilted his head, watching her carefully.She was a woman accustomed to control. To order. To having the world bend beneath the weight of her name. Yet, here she stood, forced to negotiate with him.He almost pitied her.Almost.His fingers drummed lazily against the armrest of his chair, his smirk barely there, just a whisper of mockery. “So…” he mused, voice languid, “what will it be then?”With a sharp inhale, Cassandra straightened her shoulders. “I want to put an end to these rumors about my daughter,” she declared. “The brothel workers know something. I want you to silence this… Voice's. And make sure they're completely dealt with. Permanently.”Silco hummed, considering her words with an air of casual interest. “How very motherly of you,” he murmured, tilting his head. “Cleaning up loose ends before they tangle too tightly around your little legacy.”Cassandra’s jaw tightened. “This is not a game, Silco.”“Everything is a game, Mrs. Kiramman.” He leaned forward now, resting his elbows on the desk, steepling his fingers beneath his chin. “The only question is whether you’re playing to win… or to survive.”Her fingers twitched, just barely. A sign most would miss. He didn’t.“I am negotiating,” she corrected. “I’ll pay whatever you ask—as long as you keep your word and ensure my daughter’s safety.”Silco chuckled, soft and knowing.
A mother’s love. How pathetic.
Or perhaps, how dangerous. She's willing to kill someone for the sake of her daughter. Well, that's what mother's would do if their cub had been threatened.He studied her in silence for a moment longer, his gaze heavy with something unreadable. Then, he exhaled through his nose, shaking his head with slow amusement. “Quite the investment,” he mused. “Tell me, Mrs. Kiramman… What is Adeline worth to you?” His fingers tapped against the wood, rhythmic, patient.The words hung between them like smoke curling in the air—thick, suffocating, laced with quiet threats and unspoken truths.“Worth more than any average gold I attained,” Cassandra exclaimed. Silco tilted his head, watching Cassandra Kiramman with something between amusement and calculation. She stood like a marble statue in that enforcer uniform, rigid and composed, but he didn’t miss the subtle twitch of her fingers near her holster, nor the tension tightening her shoulders. The Undercity did not suit her, no matter how well-tailored the uniform or how firm the set of her jaw.
She did not belong here.
And yet, here she was, standing in his den, making demands as if she had the power to do so.Silco slowly stood from his high-back chair. He strode swiftly, his hand behind his back. “Are you sure you'll be able to pay for these demands?” Silco’s voice was smooth, laced with quiet mockery, though his eye gleamed with something sharper.Cassandra lifted her chin, masking whatever uncertainty gnawed at her beneath that pristine exterior. “I'm not demanding anything. I'm negotiating,” she corrected him once again. “As I said, I’ll pay you whatever you want. As long as you keep your word.”Silco hummed, stepping closer, the slow, measured sound reverberating in the space between them. He didn’t miss how Cassandra’s fingers twitched toward the revolver strapped to her thigh, her instincts betraying her. A soldier’s reflex. A mother’s fear.He smiled—predatory—knowing.How fascinating.“You offer coins and airships,” he mused, stopping just beside her, his hands clasped behind his back. “Resources. Passage to the Hexgates.” His voice dipped lower, curling around the words like smoke. “But do you truly believe those things will buy your daughter’s safety?”Cassandra’s gaze flickered, just barely. She wasn’t a woman used to being doubted. “They’re worth enough for me to risk my life and my family’s name for her sake,” she said, voice firm.Silco hummed again, stepping past her, circling his desk with an unhurried grace. “Admirable,” he murmured. “Though, I wonder…” He traced a finger along the edge of his desk, letting the silence stretch just long enough to become uncomfortable. “Are you truly here for Adeline’s sake? Or your own?”Cassandra stiffened. “She is my daughter.”“And yet, you gave her away,” Silco countered smoothly, finally meeting her gaze. His expression was unreadable, a shadow of amusement dancing in his visible eye. “And now you want to buy her back… Do you think she will forgive you? Do you really think she will forgive her mother–who left her and banished her, without even putting up a fight?” Cassandra’s lips parted, a sharp retort ready—but she hesitated. Instead her head dropped on the floor. Ah. There it was.Silco smirked, he finally turned his gaze away. He walked deliberately on the coffee table and grabbed a glass and poured himself a red wine–and then the other glass. Lifting the glass from the table.He held out the other glass to her, but Cassandra only raised her glove hand. Silco set the glass aside. “Satisfy my curiosity, Mrs. Kiramman,” he mused, swirling the wine as he turned back to her. “What makes you think she will go back to you?”He saw the way Cassandra’s jaw tightened. “I will do whatever it takes.”Silco chuckled, low and indulgent. “A mother’s resolve. How touching.” He took a slow sip, savoring the way the silence pressed down on them. Then, his tone shifted, softer now, almost… contemplative. “But power is not a thing so easily returned, Mrs. Kiramman. Once a pawn reaches the other side of the board… it does not become a pawn again.” He let the words linger, watching how they settled on her.Cassandra inhaled sharply, regaining her composure. “Then what do you want?” she asked, eyes sharp, voice steady.Silco took his time before answering. He studied her, the tension in her frame, the way she held herself like a woman who was used to winning negotiations—yet uncertain if she was winning this one.“What I want,” he said finally, “is not in your power to give.” His lips curled, just slightly. “In fact, I doubt you’d even offer it, if you could.”Cassandra squared her shoulders. “Try me.”Silco exhaled slowly, a hint of amusement flickering in his good eye. “Ah, yes.” He set his glass down with a deliberate clink, the sound slicing through the tense silence. “Your letter.” His voice was smooth, almost thoughtful, but there was a razor’s edge beneath it. He tilted his head, studying her with the same detached curiosity he might afford a failed experiment. “An interesting proposition,” he mused. “Almost insulting.” Pushing off the desk, he moved with unhurried grace, stepping closer until he was just within Cassandra’s space. Not enough to provoke, but enough to remind her exactly where she stood. He clasped his hands before him, his fingers threading together in a show of practiced ease.“And it felt rather satisfying,” he continued, voice dropping to a low murmur, “watching it flutter to the floor—after I tore it to pieces.” His lips curled ever so slightly, a ghost of a smirk, watching for the shift in her expression, the flicker of restrained fury behind those cold blue eyes. Yes, this was where the real game began. Cassandra held his gaze, unflinching. “And yet, you’re still considering it.”Silco smiled, slow and knowing. “I consider many things.” He turned away, reaching for his glass again. This was far from over. The pieces were moving, the game unfolding.
And Silco?
He always played to win. And he will get what he wants—one way or the other. Silco swirled the wine in his glass, watching the deep crimson liquid cling to the sides before taking a slow, deliberate sip. He let the silence stretch between them, a rope pulled taut, waiting for one of them to cut it.Cassandra did not flinch under the weight of his gaze, though he saw the slight clench of her jaw, the measured rise and fall of her breath. She was a woman accustomed to control, to order. And yet, here she stood, in the den of the man she had once deemed a monster, bargaining for the safety of the daughter she had cast aside.“An insult, was it?” she finally said, her voice smooth but edged. Shifting her weight on the other hip. Her hand folded neatly on her chest. “Or did the truth simply cut too deep?” Silco chuckled, a quiet, mirthless sound. “Truth is a blade, Mrs. Kiramman. One that dulls in the hands of those unwilling to wield it.” He set his glass down again–with a soft clink, then leaned against the edge of his desk, folding his arms. “You came here seeking a clean solution. A swift cut to silence the whispers. But tell me, what price are you truly willing to pay? The real price?”Cassandra's fingers twitched at her side, barely perceptible. “I have already named my offer,” she said coolly. “Hexgates. Airships. You know the value of what I am willing to part with.”“Ah, yes,” Silco mused, tilting his head. “A generous sum, indeed. But tell me, Mrs. Kiramman, what is a fleet of ships compared to the weight of a single name? What is the worth of a mother’s shame, traded in silence?” He watched her carefully now, waiting for the reaction beneath her carefully crafted mask.Her lips pressed into a thin line. “Do not mistake my willingness to negotiate for weakness,” she warned. “My daughter is my concern. You are simply the means to an end.”Silco smiled, slow and sharp. “And yet, here you stand, in my domain, playing by my rules.” He stepped closer, his presence a shadow at her side. “You can buy silence, Cassandra. You can drown the rumors, bury the evidence. But secrets? They fester. They spread. And no matter how much you pay, you will never own the truth.”Silco leaned back, exhaling through his nose as he observed Cassandra with the casual interest of a cat toying with a trapped bird. She was unraveling—gripping her hands too tightly, her breath unsteady, a crack forming in that well-rehearsed mask of hers. “Then name your price,” she whispered. A crack in her voice. A slip in her composure. And then, softer still—“Please.”
Ah. There it was. The breaking point.
That final, desperate plea.
His lips curled, amusement dancing at the edges of his expression. The mighty Cassandra Kiramman, reduced to pleading before him. It would almost be pitiful if it weren’t so predictable. How she had fought, grasping for control, only to realize—far too late—that she had never truly been a player in this game.He leaned back, fingers lacing together with practiced ease. “I want a seat on the council,” he said smoothly. No hesitation. No room for misinterpretation. His gaze never wavered from her face, drinking in every flicker of emotion—the slight parting of her lips, the widening of her eyes. “And Zaun’s independence from Piltover—Those are my terms.”Silence was more deafening.Cassandra stiffened, her breath hitching as the weight of his demand sank in. The reaction was instant. Cassandra’s face paled, her lips parting in stunned disbelief. “Wha…” she barely managed.Silco tilted his head, letting the silence stretch, savoring the way her mind scrambled for an escape she knew did not exist. “I told you before,” he murmured, enunciating each word with deliberate care, “what I want is not in your power to give.”Her breath hitched. Her words from earlier backfired on her.
‘The truth cut deep.’
“I… I can't do that,” she admitted, voice strained. “But I can offer you—”“You can convince the other council.” His tone remained calm, measured, and deadly. “And we both know you can. You have the influence, you're Cassandra Kiramman—the powerful person in Piltover. ” Silco mumbled. A flicker of something passed through her expression—fear, frustration, and defiance.“This… I…” She stumbled over her words. “I won’t.” A finality in her voice. “And I will not. This is one price I will never pay.”Silco sighed—a sound almost disappointed, almost amused. He pushed himself up from his desk, movements fluid and unhurried, before settling into the leather embrace of his chair.And then, the killing blow.“How would you like your daughter to die?”The room stilled.Cassandra’s breath hitched—a sharp, involuntary sound. A flicker of horror in her icy blue eyes.He allowed himself a small, cruel smile. “Hanging, perhaps? Drowning? Or should I simply toss her to the streets and let the rats feast on her gorgeous bod–”The reaction was instant.Cassandra slammed her hands down on his desk, the impact echoing through the room like a gunshot. Her nostrils flared, her face twisted with fury.“Don’t you dare use my daughter against me!” she roared. Silco didn’t flinch at her outburst. He merely tilted his head, watching her with the cool detachment of a predator indulging a cornered animal’s final struggle.“Ah,” he mused, fingers tapping lazily against the armrest of his chair. “And yet, you brought her to my table, did you not?”Cassandra’s lips parted, but no words came.“You think your love absolves you?” Silco continued, voice smooth, almost soothing in its cruelty. “That your desperation is somehow noble?” He leaned forward, elbows resting against the desk. “You speak of Adeline as if she were ever truly yours to protect. But tell me, Cassandra—did you shield her with your arms, or did you cast her to the wolves and hope they wouldn’t bite?”Cassandra’s hands curled into fists on his table. And he saw it! Silco smiled. “Oh, don’t look at me like that. You know the answer.” He gestured vaguely with one hand. “You called it a banishment. A punishment. A necessary sacrifice. But let us call it what it truly was, hmm?” His good eye gleamed. “A wager.”Cassandra exhaled sharply through her nose, as if physically restraining herself from lunging at him.Silco chuckled. “Oh, it’s fascinating, really. Piltover—you, the great and noble Councilor Kiramman—you love your games—you just don't want to admit it. You sit in your marble halls, shuffling lives like cards, betting on outcomes you believe you can control.” He gave a small, almost sympathetic shake of his head. “And yet, here you are, back at the table, realizing too late that you miscalculated your hand.”Cassandra clenched her jaw. “I will not let you harm her.”Silco smiled, slow and sharp. “Then you’d better play smart.”She swallowed. “I already made my offer.”Silco leaned back, dragging his fingers along the desk as if considering it. Then, with an exhale, he gave a mocking sigh. “Such a generous mother. So willing to pay any price… so long as it’s a price of her own choosing.”Cassandra stiffened.“But tell me,” he continued, voice soft, needling into her resolve like a blade to the ribs. “If it were your life, would you hesitate?”A flicker of something crossed her face—something he recognized all too well.
Doubt.
Fear.
Silco chuckled, low and knowing. “Ah. And there it is.” He let the silence stretch, let her feel the weight of it before speaking again. “You aren’t here to bargain for Adeline’s life. You’re here to bargain for your own guilt.”Cassandra inhaled sharply. “That’s not—”“Oh, but it is.” Silco’s voice dropped lower, almost soothing. “You’re not asking me to keep her safe. You’re asking me to erase your failure. To take the blood off your hands so you can keep telling yourself that you never meant for her to suffer.”Cassandra staggered back as if he had struck her.
It's funny how easily I can see through her.
Silco tilted his head, his good eye gleaming with quiet amusement. “So, Mrs. Kiramman,” he murmured, his voice smooth as silk, curling around her like smoke. “Will you accept my terms? Or will you let your daughter die—sacrificed on the altar of your own pride?” He leaned in slightly, just enough to watch the flicker of conflict in her gaze. Then he continued, his tone almost indulgent, “is it truly the thought of a Zaunite in your hallowed halls that disgusts you? Or is it the fear that, deep down, you know we belong there?”Cassandra stood frozen, her breath unsteady. Silco could see the war raging behind her eyes—pride clashing against desperation, guilt gnawing at her resolve like a hungry beast.He let the silence stretch, savoring the way it wrapped around her throat like a noose.Then, ever so slowly, he rose from his chair again. “Still so quiet?” he murmured, stepping around the desk with measured ease. “Not long ago, you were slamming your hands on my desk, barking orders like a woman who still had control of the game.”Cassandra lifted her chin, forcing her expression into something steelier, but the cracks were there now. Silco smiled. The cracks were always there.“You don’t like that I see you,” he said, voice smooth, conversational. “That I see through you.” His hands slid into the pockets of his vest. “That I know exactly what you are.”Cassandra exhaled, slow and measured. “You know nothing of hell!”Silco’s smirk curled at the edges. “A mother who abandoned her daughter when it suited her. And now, a coward begging to protect her from the help of the people she so much despises.”Cassandra’s glare could have burned a hole through him, but Silco only chuckled. “You’re wasting your anger on me,” he mused, watching her like a wolf watching a lamb. “I didn’t exile her. I didn’t turn my back on her. That was you.” His tone was almost sympathetic, almost kind—almost.Cassandra’s hands curled at her revolver. “If you think I’m going to give you what you want—”“Oh, I know you will.” He cut through her defiance like a blade through silk. “Because I know something about you, Cassandra.” He stepped closer. Not enough to touch, but enough to loom. Enough to remind her that she was standing in his domain, playing his game.“You can stomach a great many things, can’t you?” he purred. “You can endure the weight of politics, of corruption, of war.” He tilted his head. “But you cannot stomach this.”She didn’t respond.He leaned in slightly, voice dropping to a whisper. “The thought of her hating you.”Cassandra went still.Silco hummed, the sound almost pleasant. “The thought of her choosing to stay away from you. Of looking you in the eye and saying, ‘You let this happen. You did this to me.’” He clicked his tongue. “Now that… that is a weight you cannot bear.”Cassandra inhaled sharply, her jaw tightening.Silco watched the way her fingers trembled—so slight, so nearly imperceptible—but he saw. Oh, he always saw.He exhaled as if bored, as if he hadn’t just peeled away the last of her defenses with careful, surgical precision. “So,” he said, moving back toward his desk, his gait unhurried. “I believe I’ve already told you everything you needed to know.”He turned, leveling his gaze at her. His good eye sharp, appraising. Waiting.Cassandra’s lips parted, but no sound came at first. She looked at him as if she wanted to fight, as if she wanted to deny him one last time. But they both knew it would be useless.“I’ll…” she exhaled, a shake of her head betraying the last remnants of resistance. “I accept your offer.” The words left her mouth barely above a whisper—defeated. Hollow.Silco’s smirk curled lazily. “Good,” he murmured, rolling the word on his tongue as if savoring it. “That wasn’t so difficult, was it?”Cassandra said nothing. She only lowered her head, her shoulders sinking ever so slightly.
There it is…
Submission.
Silco leaned back in his chair, folding his hands in his lap. “Then I believe our business here is concluded.”Cassandra hesitated before retrieving her gas mask, the cold metal clutched between gloved fingers.She turned, wordless. Trying to leave with what remained of her dignity.But before she could step through the door, Silco spoke—his voice light, conversational. “You’re welcome to visit her in her apartment.”The words stopped her cold.A flicker of something wild, raw, desperate crossed her features before she forced it away.Silco tilted his head, watching her reaction like a scientist observing a specimen under glass.He let the silence stretch just a moment longer before adding, ever so casually—“If she still wants to see you, that is.” The weight of those words hung in the air like a noose.Cassandra turned slightly, her mouth parting as if to respond, but—no. She swalloed whatever she had been about to say, gripping the mask tighter, and stepped through the door without another word.Silco chuckled softly as it clicked shut behind her.
She had lost this game before she even sat down at the table.
[ •~° Cassandra °~• ] The moment Cassandra stepped out of Silco’s office, her knees nearly buckled. A trembling hand shot out, gripping the brass doorknob for support. The cold metal anchored her, but only barely. She exhaled shakily, her breath fogging up the inside of her mask.His words still rang in her ears, slithering into her mind like a slow-acting poison.
Every word…
Every damn word was true.
She had underestimated him. She had convinced herself that her status, her experience, her willpower would be enough to stand against him. But Silco was beyond cunning—he was a master of this game. And she? She had walked straight into his trap.Her fingers curled against the doorframe as she swallowed down the bitter taste of humiliation. The weight of his terms pressed against her ribs like a vice.She had agreed to something impossible.Or had she?Could she truly sway the Council in his favor? Would they listen? Would he listen?She wasn’t sure. And the uncertainty gnawed at her.Forcing her limbs to move, she pulled the gas mask over her face. The hiss of the filter filled her ears, masking the sound of her own uneven breathing. Then, without another glance back, she descended the iron stairs, step by slow, leaden step.The Undercity stretched before her like a diseased lung, breathing in smoke and exhaling corruption. The air was thick with the scent of oil, damp metal, and the ever-present stench of rot. People moved in clusters, lurking in the shadows, their eyes glinting with suspicion and quiet malice as they caught sight of her uniform.She felt their hatred like a heat at her back, their glares piercing through the enforcer coat she wore.Her fingers twitched toward the revolver at her hip, a subconscious movement. She would not use it. Not unless she had to.She pushed forward, each step carrying her deeper into the Undercity, deeper into danger.This is a mistake.The thought whispered at the back of her mind, but she ignored it. She was past the point of caution.She was going to see her daughter.She needed to see her.And now, after all these years, she finally had the leverage to do so.Cassandra adjusted her gloves, inhaled, and walked on. Cassandra moved through the Undercity streets with sharp, purposeful strides, following the route Diego had drilled into her mind for months. She had memorized every turn, every landmark, every shortcut. But now, as she walked it alone, a sinking feeling settled in her chest.She was nearing the place where her daughter lived.And it was nothing like what she had imagined.As she passed a row of duplex apartments, her gaze snapped to the third floor of one particular building. The green paint was peeling away in long, jagged strips, revealing the sickly wood beneath. Rust clung to the iron railings like decay, and the dim lighting overhead flickered erratically.Her stomach twisted.She lives here?A knot of unease coiled in her gut. Her daughter—her firstborn, her pride—was staying in this… place. A cramped, rundown apartment that looked more like a cage than a home.She deserves better than this.The thought hit like a dagger, sharp and unrelenting. Guilt curled around her ribs, squeezing tight.Cassandra clenched her jaw. She didn't waste another second. Her gloved hands grasped the cold railing as she climbed the stairs, her boots clicking sharply against the creaking wood. The entire structure groaned under her weight, the sound unsettlingly fragile.As she reached the second-floor landing, she took a measured breath, steadying herself. Her eyes darted from door to door, scanning for the one number that mattered.C08.Her heart hammered against her ribs.She moved faster now, her legs carrying her forward as if she feared she might lose the chance if she hesitated.And then she saw it.C08.The number was barely visible, its gold paint chipped and dulled by time. The wood around the frame bore deep scratches, scars from years of wear.Cassandra stopped in front of the door, staring.A strange sensation took root in her chest—an ache, raw and unspoken. Two—no, three—years had passed since she last saw Adeline. Since she last looked into her eyes, last heard her voice.Cassandra’s gloved fingers trembled, hovering just inches from the door.Her breath was shallow, uneven, though she tried to mask it with steady posture. She had been so certain, so determined to come here. To see her. To speak to her. But now, standing before this worn-out door, hesitation crept in like a slow-moving poison.
What if she doesn’t want to see me?
The thought gripped her like a vice, tightening around her lungs.She had spent years imagining this moment—dreaming of it, aching for it. Yet now that it was here, doubt whispered cruel things in her ear.Would Adeline smile? Would she run into her arms like she did when she was a child?…Or would she shut the door in her face?Cassandra swallowed hard. The years had stretched between them like an unspoken chasm, and she had been the one to let it grow.She had been the one to let her daughter slip through her fingers.A deep breath. A sharp exhale.Pushing the thoughts away—burying them, the way she had buried so many regrets—Cassandra lifted her hand.Her knuckles rapped against the cheap wooden door, firm yet hesitant.*Knock* *Knock* *Knock*