Episode 1: "Ugh, She's Not That Great"
Raina took a deep breath behind the set of a 7 PM drama. The smell of sweat, cheap hairspray, and cold 3-in-1 coffee blended into one. She looked down at her faded nametag: Raina - Night Market Extra Scene.
That was her title after five years as a background actor. Not a supporting actress. Not a guest star. An extra. Someone who just walks back and forth to fill the frame.
"Raina! Are you ever going to get in position? The director has shouted three times!" Farah, the production assistant, yelled as she hurried past.
"On the way, Kak!" Raina raised her hand and smiled. The smile was automatic by now. Five years in the industry had taught her one thing: if you aren't beautiful, you have to be fast and low-maintenance.
She was 30 years old. Others her age were landing lead roles. She was still getting scolded for walking too fast in a night market scene. "Make it natural, Raina! You look like you're being chased by a debt collector!"
It wasn't her fault. She didn't have "the look." She wasn't ugly, but she wasn't... captivating. Her eyes weren't large, her nose wasn't sharp, and her skin was dull from standing under hot spotlights. Her Instagram had 200 followers—180 of whom were family and the neighbor’s cat. If she posted a selfie, the comments were always "It's okay" or "Stay strong, sis."
But Raina didn't mind much. She was kind. Everyone said so. If the director needed help moving props, she did it. If the lead actress forgot her lines, Raina whispered them from the sidelines. If the crew was hungry at 2 AM, she treated them to RM5 fried rice.
"Raina, if you don't make it as an actress, you should open a charity shop," Mak Tam, the prop master, would say.
Today was a bad day.
Her scene was simple: walk from left to right, hold a plastic bag, and pretend to buy curry puffs. But Aisyah, a TikTok star who had recently risen to fame through lip-syncing, was annoyed because the director praised Raina for being "natural."
"Ugh, even the extras are trying to show off," Aisyah whispered to her clique, loud enough for Raina to hear. "Tomorrow, we’ll play a little game with her. Make her look like a fool in front of everyone."
The game was simple. During a behind-the-scenes TikTok live, Aisyah made Raina stand in the center. "We’re doing a prank called 'Find the Famous Actress.' You just stay quiet, okay?"
The lights went on. Ten phones were pointed at Raina.
"Okay guys, here is our famous actress for today! Who is this? Comment fast!"
The comments flooded in.
"Who is this?"
"Is this an extra?"
"Ugh, she's not that great."
Raina felt her cheeks flush. She just smiled. The same smile she had worn for five years. The "I'm okay" smile. But in her heart, she said, It’s okay, Raina. You don't want to be famous. You just want to pay your RM400 rent this month.
The scene ended. Aisyah laughed until she nearly cried. The video hit 200k views with the caption #WhoIsThisGirl.
Raina went into the restroom, locked the door, and sat on the toilet lid. She didn't cry. She had run out of tears two years ago when her mother died and the production wouldn't give her leave because her "scene was important."
She simply whispered, "You're strong, Raina. Work again tomorrow."
Exiting the restroom, two men in black suits were standing in the hallway. Large builds, stern faces. One of them looked her up and down, then spoke into a walkie-talkie, "Target confirmed. Thin woman, extra from scene 3."
Raina stopped. Target?
Before she could ask, a deep voice came from the end of the hallway. "Let her go."
The voice was heavy, slow—the voice of someone accustomed to giving orders and being heard. Raina turned.
Standing there was a man in his 40s, wearing a black dress shirt with sleeves rolled up, and a Rolex that looked... very real. He had some silver hair at the temples and a neatly trimmed beard. He was incredibly handsome. Like a model for an international liquor ad.
His aura was different. Not the filtered aura of a celebrity. It was the aura of a man who, if he said "silence," the whole room would go quiet.
The two bodyguards immediately bowed slightly. "Sorry, Boss."
The man walked closer. The scent of expensive cologne hit Raina’s nose. He stopped in front of her, staring at her face for a long moment.
"Are you Raina?" he asked. His voice was low, not harsh, but it made Raina’s heart race.
Raina nodded slowly. "Yes... who are you?"
He gave a thin smile. A dangerous smile. "My name is Raizan Afif. People call me Uncle Zai."
Uncle? He was in his 40s and looked that good, and he wanted to be called "uncle"? What a waste.
"Are you alright?" he asked. His eyes fell on Raina’s phone, which was still showing Aisyah’s video.
Raina quickly locked her phone. Embarrassed. "I'm fine. It was just a joke."
Raizan raised an eyebrow. "A joke that makes someone feel small isn't a joke. That’s bullying."
Raina was silenced. It had been a long time since anyone had spoken to her like that. Usually, people just said, "Oh, that’s just the entertainment world for you."
"Do you know me?" Raina asked.
Raizan shook his head. "No. But one of my men works here. He told me there’s an extra who is kind and helps everyone. I happened to have business here."
His men? In this production? Raina thought about it, but her brain was jammed.
"Do you want me to do anything about that girl?" Raizan asked casually, as if asking if she wanted her tea with less sugar.
Raina was shocked. "Oh, no! Please don't! I'm okay!"
Raizan looked at her for a long time. "You are too kind, Raina. To the point where people step on you and you say you're okay."
He pulled out a simple black card. No logo. Just a number.
"If anyone bothers you again, call this number. Say 'Uncle, it’s Raina'."
Raina held the card like she was holding a bomb. "Sir... are you a policeman?"
Raizan let out a deep, low chuckle. "Something like that. But the police don't work nights like I do."
He took a step back. "I’ll be going now. Don't work until 2 AM anymore. It’s not healthy."
Then he left, his two bodyguards following behind. Raina stood there like a statue, holding the black card, feeling... safe?
Strange. She had only known this man for two minutes. But the fear she felt toward the entertainment world had lessened.
That night, Raina couldn't sleep. She Googled "Raizan Afif." Nothing. No Instagram, no news, nothing at all. Empty. As if this man didn't exist.
Her friend, Along, who worked in lighting, whispered to her the next day, "Do you know who Uncle Zai is?"
Raina shook her head.
"He’s not a CEO. He’s an old mafia boss," Along said softly. "He owns this whole area. The clubs, the hotels, even this production house is under him. He doesn't come out much. But when he does, it means something big is happening."
Raina swallowed hard. An old mafia boss?
No wonder he had that aura.
That afternoon, Aisyah approached Raina. She looked sour. "Your manager called. You've been promoted to a supporting role for the convenience store scene next week. The director said someone suggested your name."
Raina froze. "Who?"
Aisyah rolled her eyes. "I don't know. But he said, 'If anyone bothers Raina, let me know.' His voice was quite deep."
Raina gripped the black card in her pocket.
She had never asked for a promotion. She had never asked for revenge. But it seemed the Mafia Uncle had heard her anyway.
And Raina’s quiet world in entertainment had suddenly become very loud.
[End of Episode 1]
Episode 2: "Don't Call Me Uncle in Public"
The convenience store scene was supposed to be easy. Raina plays the store clerk, giving advice to the hero because he lost his wallet. Three lines of dialogue. RM200 pay. Moving from an extra to a "supporting extra" was a big deal for her.
But Aisyah wasn't sleeping well.
On the day of filming, the lights were on, the cameras were rolling. Just as Raina was about to say her line, "Little brother, don't be sad, blessings will come again," a basket of Milo tins fell from the top shelf. It fell right toward her head.
Luckily, Raina dodged it in time. But the tins burst, Milo powder went everywhere, and the director screamed, "Cut! Cut! Who didn't tie these things down!"
The crew scrambled. Raina held her head; there was no blood, just a bit of dizziness. She knew this wasn't an accident. She saw Aisyah behind the monitor, a thin smirk on her face.
Farah, the production assistant, pulled Raina aside. "Are you okay? Want me to call an ambulance?"
Raina shook her head. "It's okay, Kak. I'll keep going."
"Are you crazy? This is the second time you've been played. I’m reporting this to production."
Raina grabbed Farah's arm. "Please don't, Kak. I don't want to cause trouble for anyone."
Farah looked at her for a long time. "You... this is why people step on you."
At that moment, Raina's phone vibrated. An unsaved number. Just one message:
Don't continue. Wait for me behind the set. - PZ
PZ. Pakcik Zai.
Raina’s heart raced. She looked around. No one saw her leave. She walked to the back, near the large trash bins and the damp smell.
Raizan was already waiting. This time he was wearing a grey suit, hair neatly combed, hands in his pockets. He looked like a CEO. But those eyes... they were the eyes of someone who had seen dirty things.
"You're stubborn," he said bluntly. "I told you not to work until 2 AM. Now you're getting hit by Milo tins."
Raina felt like laughing and getting angry at the same time. "Are you following me, sir?"
"My men follow you. I don't go on the field for an extra," he replied casually. "Unless that extra is you."
Raina went quiet. There was a strange feeling in her chest. Warm, yet frightening.
"What do you want me to do, Raina?" Raizan asked. This time he used 'kau' (you). Closer, more dangerous. "I can end that girl's career tonight. Just one call."
Raina was stunned. "No! If you do that, I’m just like her. Cruel."
Raizan stared at her for a long time. Then he gave a short laugh. "You... it's a waste being kind in the wrong place."
He pulled out a tissue and wiped a bit of dust off Raina's cheek. The touch was light, but Raina felt like she’d been hit by an electric shock.
"Tomorrow I’m sending someone. He will watch you while you’re shooting. If someone touches you, he touches them back. Understand?"
"I don't want that!" Raina said quickly. "I don't want people to know I have... backup. People will just say I'm freeloading."
Raizan took a breath. "Headstrong. Just like I was 30 years ago."
He leaned down slightly, his eyes level with hers. "Listen here, Raina. This world isn't fair. If you're just kind, you're finished. So let me be the bad guy for you. You stay kind. Deal?"
Raina didn't know what to say. She nodded slowly.
Raizan smiled. This time the smile wasn't dangerous. There was a bit of affection in it. "Good. Now go home. I’ll tell the director to give you the day off. Paid."
The next day, Raina did indeed get the day off. The director called saying there were "orders from above." Raina knew who that "above" was.
She sat in her RM400 rented room, fiddling with the black card. Her hand unconsciously typed the number into WhatsApp. The profile was blank. Just a name: PZ.
She typed: Thank you, Uncle. But please don't do anything to Aisyah.
Send. Then she deleted it. Embarrassed.
Five minutes later, a reply came.
I don't like people calling me Uncle in public. But here... it’s allowed.
Raina smiled to herself.
That night, at 11 PM, there was a knock on her door.
She opened the door to find a 19-year-old boy holding a plastic rose and chicken rice.
"You're Kak Raina, right? Abang Zai told me to deliver this. He said you haven't eaten since noon."
Raina was speechless. "Abang Zai?"
The boy scratched his head. "Yeah. My boss. He's fierce, but when it comes to you, he turns soft like a cat."
Raina accepted the chicken rice with trembling hands.
"Where is he now?"
"At the club. Having a meeting. But he told me to tell you... if you're scared, call him. He stays up late."
The boy left, leaving Raina with chicken rice and a plastic rose.
She ate while crying. Not because she was sad. Because in 30 years of life, this was the first time someone had sent food because they were worried she hadn't eaten.
Three days later, shooting resumed.
Aisyah saw Raina enter the set and her face immediately soured. But this time, two men in black suits stood behind Raina. Silent, upright, eyes alert.
The crew whispered. "Who are those two?"
"Bodyguards?"
"Turns out Raina has someone powerful backing her."
Aisyah walked up to Raina. Her voice was low and poisonous. "So you have someone, huh? No wonder you suddenly got promoted."
Raina looked up. This time she didn't look down. "Aisyah, I'm not bothering you. Don't bother me."
Aisyah laughed. "Ugh, she's not that great. Even with bodyguards, she still has a plain face."
Before Raina could reply, a deep voice echoed from behind.
"Aisyah."
The whole set went silent.
Raizan Afif walked in. No announcement. No red carpet. He walked like he owned the place. Because he did.
He was in black, sleeves rolled up, watch gleaming. 40 years old but with a charisma that killed everyone under 25 there.
He walked straight to Raina, not glancing at Aisyah once.
"Are you okay?" he asked Raina. His voice was soft. A total contrast to his aura five seconds ago.
Raina nodded. "I'm okay, Uncle."
Raizan frowned. "I told you not to call me Uncle in public."
He turned to Aisyah. His eyes were cold. "You're Aisyah, right? The one who made that 'who is this girl' video."
Aisyah went pale. "Sir... I..."
"You have 24 hours to delete that video, make a public apology, and stop bothering Raina," Raizan said slowly. "Otherwise, I delete your career. Choose."
He didn't shout. He didn't threaten directly. But everyone knew that when Raizan said 'delete career', he could actually do it.
Aisyah nodded frantically and ran off.
Raizan turned back to Raina. His tone shifted 180 degrees.
"She won't bother you anymore. If she does, tell me. Don't hold it in alone."
Raina felt like crying again. "Why, sir... why are you protecting me so much?"
Raizan gave a thin smile. He raised his hand, his index finger tapping Raina's forehead gently.
"Because you remind me that I once used to be good. Before this world taught me to be something else."
He took a step back. "I'm going now. I have a meeting with people who don't know how to speak politely."
He left. Leaving Raina standing there, feeling like she’d just been shielded by an immovable concrete wall.
The director came and whispered in Raina's ear, "Raina, after this, your scenes are being increased. You're going to be the hero's best friend. Pakcik Zai... er, Mr. Afif suggested it."
Raina sat in the makeup chair, her hands cold.
She hadn't asked for any of this. But it seems when a dashing old mafia boss falls for you just a little, even an unfamous person’s life can become the main story.
That night Raina typed to PZ:
Thank you. But I don't want this out of pity. I want it because I'm worthy.
A reply came 2 minutes later:
You are worthy. Since the first day I saw you smile while people were stepping on you.
Raina put her phone down. Her chest felt warm.
A little darkness is fine. As long as someone is guarding her light.
[End of Episode 2]
Episode 3: "Dinner with Uncle"
Raina had never eaten at a restaurant where the waiters wore white gloves. She was used to mamak stalls, scratched plastic tables, and ice water that melted too fast.
But tonight, Raizan sent a black car to pick her up from her rented house. The driver bowed respectfully, opened the door, and said, "The Master is waiting upstairs, Puan Raina."
Puan Raina. Raina felt like laughing. 30 years old, unmarried, and suddenly she’s a "Madam."
The restaurant was on the 40th floor. It didn't even have a name on Google. The entrance required scanning a black card just like Raizan’s. The lights were dim, jazz played softly, and the air smelled of expensive wine.
Raizan was already waiting at a window table. The KL city skyline twinkled behind him. He wore a black shirt, collar slightly open. At 40, he looked like a cologne advertisement poster.
He stood up when he saw her.
"You're 3 minutes late," he said, but his lips curled into a smile.
Raina sat down, her fingers cold. "Traffic. Besides, I'm not your date."
Raizan arched an eyebrow. "Not a date. An official dinner. To discuss your contract."
Raina frowned. "What contract?"
A waiter arrived to serve mushroom soup. The aroma made Raina’s stomach growl; she had been living on instant noodles for two days.
Raizan pushed the menu toward her. "Pick. You can order anything. It’s on me today."
Raina glanced at the prices. One steak was RM180. She swallowed hard.
"Can I just get the Nasi Goreng Kampung?"
Raizan laughed—a deep, resonant sound. "You really don't care about your image. I bring you to an expensive place, and you order fried rice."
"My image was destroyed the moment that 'ala she's not that great' video went viral," Raina answered nonchalantly. "So it doesn't matter."
Raizan stared at her for a long time. Then he turned to the waiter. "Two Nasi Goreng Kampung. Extra eggs. Spicy."
Raina was shocked. "You eat fried rice too, Sir?"
"When I was 25, I guarded club storehouses. I ate fried rice every single day," Raizan replied. "So don't assume I was born in a suit."
The dinner was strange. Awkward. Raizan ate fast, like someone used to being hungry. Raina ate slowly, afraid of spilling anything.
Mid-meal, Raizan asked, "Aren't you going to ask why I'm helping you?"
Raina put her spoon down. "Because I'm a good person?"
"Because you're stubborn," Raizan answered. "Just like my sister ten years ago. She was good too. Until she was killed for helping the wrong person."
Raina froze. The water glass in her hand felt heavy.
"She was 22. Worked at a shelter. Helped a kid run away from his father. That father was one of my men," Raizan said slowly. "I was too late. When I got there, she was already cold."
Raina didn't know what to say. She reached out and touched Raizan's hand on the table. Just for a second.
"I'm sorry."
Raizan looked at her hand. His eyes glinted. "Don't be sorry. You're the only person who has touched me since that happened. Everyone else is afraid."
The atmosphere turned heavy. Raina quickly changed the subject. "So... what's this contract?"
Raizan gave a thin smile, relieved by the subject change.
"I bought 60% of that production house. The director works for me now. I’ve decided you’re moving up to the role of the hero’s best friend. 8 episodes. Payment is RM8k per episode."
Raina choked on her water. "RM8k?! As an extra, I only got RM80!"
"That was then," Raizan said. "Now you’re under me. Whoever messes with you, messes with my money."
Raina shook her head. "I don't want it because of your money. I want it because I worked for it."
"Good," Raizan nodded. "But if you get sick from working 18 hours, I'll be angry."
He reached for his phone and tapped something.
"Tomorrow, someone is coming to take your measurements. We’re making a new wardrobe. You can’t keep wearing extra clothes that smell of other people's sweat."
Raina felt protected. But it was a rough kind of protection. The Mafia way.
After dinner, Raizan sent her home. The car stopped in front of her rented house. The alley was dark, the yellow streetlights flickering.
Raizan didn't get out. He just said, "Go up first. I'll watch you go in."
Raina stepped out, but before closing the door, she asked, "Why aren't you married yet? A handsome man like you."
Raizan was silent for two seconds. "Because I haven't found anyone who calls me 'Uncle' with affection."
Raina felt her face flush. She shut the door quickly.
She ran up the stairs, locked her door, and leaned against it. Her heart was racing.
Her phone vibrated. A message from PZ:
Sleep well, Raina. Don't lock your door out of fear. Lock it because you're comfortable.
Raina smiled. This time, the smile reached her eyes.
But the world wouldn't let her stay comfortable for long.
The next day on set, Aisyah didn't show up. Replacing her was a 28-year-old man, muscular and fierce-looking. His name was Malik. An ex-MMA fighter.
He looked Raina up and down, then spoke to the director, "This is the person who's supposed to be the hero's best friend? She's so skinny."
The director was flustered. "Encik Malik, this is Encik Afif's order..."
Malik laughed. "Afif? That Mafia Uncle? I'm not afraid of him. I work for his brother."
The set went silent.
Raina felt her blood run cold.
His brother.
Raizan had a brother? And his brother was against him?
Malik walked closer to Raina. "Listen, kid. Back out. If you don't, I'll make sure you can never walk onto a set again."
Before Raina could answer, Raizan’s two bodyguards stood in front of her.
Malik smirked. "Ooo, she has guards. Let's test them."
He swung a punch.
Raina closed her eyes.
But the punch never landed.
"Stop."
The voice came from the entrance of the set.
Raizan stood there. Black suit, dark expression. His aura made even the air conditioner feel cold.
He walked fast, grabbed Malik’s collar, and lifted him as if he were a child.
"I said don't touch her," Raizan whispered. His voice was low, but it made everyone want to run.
Malik fought back. But Raizan was stronger. He punched once. Just once. Malik fell, his nose bleeding.
"Tell your brother," Raizan said while wiping his hands with a tissue. "If he wants a war, I’ll give him one. But don't use my people."
He turned to Raina. His expression changed instantly. Soft.
"Are you okay?"
Raina nodded. Her hands were cold.
Raizan took off his coat and draped it over Raina’s shoulders. "Go home. Shooting is cancelled today."
He walked out, leaving a silent set smelling of blood.
That night, Raina couldn't sleep.
She called PZ's number. It was the first time she had initiated a call.
"Yes," Raizan answered. He sounded tired.
"Are you okay, Sir?" Raina asked.
"I'm fine. Are you?"
"I am."
Silence for five seconds.
"Are you afraid of me now, after seeing me hit someone?" Raizan asked.
Raina answered honestly. "I'm scared. But I'm more scared of the thought of you not being there."
Raizan took a long breath on the other end of the line.
"Raina... don't say things like that if you don't want me to go crazy over you."
Raina didn't answer. Because she didn't know what she was feeling herself.
But she knew one thing:
The Mafia Uncle was dark. His world was dark.
But when he looked at Raina, there was a little bit of light.
And Raina didn't want to blow that light out.
[End of Episode 3]
Episode 4: "Don't Call Me Uncle When It’s Just the Two of Us"
Raina returned home at 11 PM. The alleyway leading to her rented house was silent. That flickering yellow light had finally died.
She gripped her keys, her hands trembling slightly. Not because she was afraid of the dark, but because earlier that day, she had watched Raizan punch a man right in front of her. Those hands were large, veins bulging, blood staining his knuckles.
Yet, those were the same hands that had draped a coat over her shoulders.
She opened the door. It was pitch black.
Before she could flip the light switch, a hand covered her mouth from behind.
"Don't scream, sweetheart," a man’s voice whispered. The smell of cheap cigarettes and alcohol filled the air.
"I just want to talk nicely."
Raina froze. She recognized that voice. Malik. The MMA fighter Raizan had floored earlier.
She tried to fight back, but Malik was too strong. He pinned her against the wall.
"Your 'Abang' told me to come. Tell that Mafia Uncle, if he wants a war, let’s have one. Don't use a pathetic extra."
Raina bit Malik’s hand hard. Malik hissed in pain, releasing his grip.
At that moment, the back door burst open. Two of Raizan’s bodyguards rushed in, restraining Malik before he could do anything else.
"You're 30 seconds late," one of them said to Raina. "The Boss figured he’d come tonight."
Raina sank to the floor, her knees weak.
"How did he know?"
"Because the Boss’s brother is an idiot," the bodyguard replied casually. "He sent the Boss a message: 'I’m meeting your girl tonight'."
Five minutes later, Raizan arrived. He didn't knock; he stormed in.
His face was a mask of fury. Dressed in black, his sleeve was slightly torn. He looked Raina up and down. When he saw a scratch on her arm, his eyes turned bloodshot.
"Did he touch you?" Raizan asked, his voice low and dangerous.
Raina shook her head quickly. "He didn't have time. He just... he spoke harshly."
Raizan looked at the tied-up Malik. He didn't ask questions. He simply nodded to the bodyguards.
"Dump him in front of my brother’s house. Let him see what I do to people who touch what’s mine."
Malik turned pale. "You can't do this! I have rights!"
Raizan smiled. A smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"Rights? Your rights ended the moment you touched her."
They dragged Malik out, leaving Raina and Raizan alone in the musty, 300-square-foot room.
Raina hugged herself. She wasn't crying, but her hands were ice cold.
Raizan walked over and sat on the floor in front of her. Level with her.
"Are you okay?" he asked again. This time, his voice cracked slightly.
Raina nodded. "I'm okay... because you came."
Raizan took a long breath. "I was two minutes late. Just two minutes. If I had been any later, I don't know what I would have become."
He reached out to touch the scratch on her arm but stopped halfway.
"I'm sorry," he said. "I'm not used to being gentle."
Raina reached for his hand herself and placed it against her arm.
"You can be gentle with me."
Raizan froze, staring into her eyes for a long time.
"Don't give me a reason to burn the world down, Raina."
Raina gave a thin smile. "I'm not. I'm giving you a reason to come home."
Raizan was silenced. He wasn't used to people speaking to him like that. Usually, people said "take care, Boss" or "be careful, Boss." Never "come home."
He stood up and pulled her up with him.
"You're staying at my place tonight. It's not safe here."
Raina was startled. "Where?"
"My penthouse. There are four rooms. You won't see me if you don't want to. I promise."
Raina wanted to protest, but she knew she had no choice. Raizan’s brother already knew her address.
Raizan’s penthouse was on the 50th floor.
One unit per floor. Surrounded by glass with a 360-degree view of KL.
Raina felt like she had stepped onto the set of a luxury drama. But there was no crew. It was hauntingly silent.
"The guest room is over there," Raizan pointed. "Whatever you want to eat, tell the chef. He’s on duty 24 hours."
Raina nodded, overwhelmed.
"Sir... why are you doing all this for me?"
Raizan placed his coat on the sofa. He didn't answer immediately. He went to the kitchen, poured two glasses of water, and handed one to Raina.
"Because ten years ago, I failed to protect someone good," he said softly. "So this time, I won't fail again."
Raina held the glass. Her hands were still cold.
"Are you afraid I'm using you? To make a name for myself because of yours?"
Raizan gave a short laugh. "If you want to use me, then use me. But I want you to use me to live a peaceful life. Not to become famous."
He looked at her for a long moment.
"Do you know... since I met you, I’ve been sleeping soundly. No nightmares about my sister."
Raina felt her heart swell.
"Sir... don't call me a kid. I'm 30 years old."
"30 is a kid to me," Raizan replied. "I'm 40. That 10-year gap puts me in 'Abang' (older brother) territory."
Raina frowned. "But I call you Uncle."
Raizan smiled. This time, it was incredibly soft.
"In public, call me Uncle. In here... don't."
Raina froze.
"Why?"
"Because when you call me Uncle in a quiet place like this," Raizan leaned in slightly, "it makes me feel old. And I don't want to feel old with you."
Raina felt her face flush. She looked away.
"So, what should I call you?"
Raizan gave a cynical smirk.
"Call me by my name. Raizan. Or... Abang Zai."
Raina swallowed hard. "Abang Zai... sounds strange."
"You'll get used to it," Raizan said. He turned to leave. "Sleep early. Tomorrow there's a meeting with a lawyer. You're signing an official contract."
He walked toward his room. Before entering, he turned back.
"Raina."
"Yes?"
"Thank you for being afraid for me."
The door closed.
Raina stood in the middle of the massive living room, holding a glass of now-lukewarm water.
She had never felt this safe.
Safe, yet in danger.
Because the man protecting her... was a danger himself.
The next day, the lawyer arrived. An 8-episode contract. RM8k per episode. Her name appeared in the credits: Raina – Supporting Role.
Raina signed with a hand that was still trembling.
After the signing, Raizan entered carrying a small box.
"Open it."
Inside was a simple necklace. A pendant with the letter 'R'.
"It's not gold," Raizan said quickly. "Just silver. I don't want people mugging you for a necklace."
Raina put it on. Raizan’s hands helped fasten it at the back. His fingers brushed her skin. It was a light touch, but it made her hold her breath.
"There," Raizan said, stepping back.
"You look like you belong to me."
Raina looked at him. "I don't belong to anyone."
Raizan smiled. "True. You belong to yourself. I’m just guarding you."
Just then, Raizan’s phone rang. The name on the screen: Brother.
Raizan’s face shifted back to darkness.
"He’s calling," Raizan told Raina. "Go to your room."
Raina nodded, but she didn't go in. She sat on the sofa, pretending to scroll through her phone.
Raizan answered.
"What did you do to my girl, Danial?" his voice was low, simmering with rage.
A laugh came from the other end. "Your girl? Since when did the Mafia Uncle have a heart for a mere extra?"
"She's not an extra anymore," Raizan replied. "She's mine."
"Good," Danial said. "If she's yours, I want her even more. Let's see what you're willing to do."
The line went dead.
Raizan put the phone down slowly. His hands were shaking.
Raina stood up and walked over.
"Abang Zai."
Raizan turned, his eyes bloodshot.
"He wants you," he said. "He wants to use you to hurt me."
Raina took his hand.
"He can't take me. Because I'm not leaving."
Raizan looked at her hand. He turned it over and gently kissed the back of it.
"Don't make promises you can't keep, Raina," he whispered.
"Because if anything happens to you because of me... I'm finished."
Raina didn't answer. She just hugged him.
The first hug.
A hug that said: I'm not running away. Even if your world is dark.
Raizan froze for three seconds. Then he hugged her back. Tight. As if afraid she would vanish.
That night, Raina slept in the guest room.
But the door was never locked.
And in the room next door, Raizan sat in a chair, keeping watch until morning.
He didn't sleep.
Because when you've lost once, you never want to lose again.
[End of Episode 4]
Episode 5: "I Am Not Your Doll, Abang Zai"
Raina’s first official day on set as a supporting role.
Her name was on the call sheet. Raina – Scenes 12, 14, 18. Hero’s best friend.
She wore the new outfit the stylist had sent that morning. Not an extra’s costume that smelled of mothballs, but soft mustard-colored cotton. Simple, yet it made her skin glow. The 'R' necklace hadn't left her neck since Raizan put it on her that night.
The crew members who used to call her "Hey, you, extra" now bowed slightly as they passed. Aisyah was gone. Malik was gone. Probably "disposed of" elsewhere.
But the peace didn't last two hours.
Scene 12: Raina was supposed to give the hero advice during a rainstorm. Simple. Emotional. Raina had memorized her lines twenty times last night.
“Rolling!” the director shouted.
Camera on. The hero walked under the shop awning, soaking wet. Raina stepped out with an umbrella and handed him a towel.
“Adik, sitting here until you get sick won't help. Go home. Your mother is waiting,” Raina said. Her voice was steady. No trembling this time.
“Cut!”
Everyone went silent.
The director stared at the monitor, then looked up.
“The lights are dead. What’s wrong with the generator?”
The set went dark. Suddenly, a heavy spotlight fell from the rigging, shattering on the floor just two meters from Raina's feet. Glass sprayed everywhere. The smell of burning wires filled the air.
Raina didn't scream. She was used to being played. But this time, she was angry.
“This wasn't an accident,” she said quietly. “This was blatant.”
Farah ran over, her face pale. “Raina, are you okay?”
Raina nodded. But her eyes were fixed on the entrance of the set.
Standing there was a 45-year-old man with silver hair and a face like Raizan’s, but harder. Older. More tired.
Danial Afif. Raizan’s older brother.
He smiled. A cold, unfriendly smile.
“Sorry, little sister. I was just testing you. Wanted to see if you could handle my world.”
The director turned white. “Mr. Danial, this is my set—”
“Your set is under my name now,” Danial cut him off. “I bought 40% last week. Didn't your 'brother' tell you?”
Raizan wasn't there. He was at a meeting on the 30th floor. But everyone knew that wherever Danial appeared, Raizan would soon follow.
Raina walked off the set. She didn't wait. She was done being afraid.
She headed straight for the elevator to the 30th floor.
The meeting room doors flew open when Raina pushed them.
Raizan was standing there, hands on the table, face dark. There were five other men in the room. They all went silent when they saw Raina.
“Everyone out,” Raizan said without turning.
They scrambled out. It was just him and Raina.
“Why did you come here?” Raizan asked. His voice was low, vibrating with suppressed rage. But not at Raina.
“Your brother sabotaged the set,” Raina replied, getting straight to the point. “He wants me to quit.”
Raizan gripped the edge of the table so hard his knuckles turned white.
“I told him not to touch you.”
Raina stepped closer. “Abang Zai. Listen to me.”
Raizan turned. His eyes were bloodshot. It had been ten years since he heard someone call him "Abang Zai" with that specific tone.
“I know you want to protect me,” Raina said. “But if you treat me like a porcelain doll, I’ll break anyway. I want to work. I want to prove I can stand on my own. Not because of your name.”
Raizan was silent for a long time.
“Do you think I like seeing a light fall near you? Do you think I slept at all last night?”
“I don't want you losing sleep because of me,” Raina answered. “I want you to sleep soundly because you trust that I can take care of myself.”
Raizan took a deep breath. He walked closer and placed his hands gently on her shoulders.
“You’re stubborn. Just like her.”
“Who is 'her'?” Raina asked.
Raizan paused. Then he said, “My sister. The one who died.”
Raina didn't say anything. She just placed her hand over his.
“Abang Zai,” Raina whispered. “If one day something happens to me... don't blame yourself. Blame the person who did it. Not you.”
Raizan closed his eyes.
“You don't understand. If something happens to you, I have no reason to be a good man anymore.”
Raina gave a thin smile.
“Then be a good man for yourself. Not for me.”
Raizan opened his eyes. He stared at her for a long time. Then he gave a short laugh.
“You’re... dangerous.”
“Why?”
“Because I could kill for you, but you tell me I have to be good for myself.”
He released her shoulders.
“Go back to the set. I’ll handle Danial.”
Raina nodded. Before leaving, she turned back.
“Abang Zai. If your brother comes back, don't hit him in front of me. It gives me nightmares.”
Raizan frowned. “So where do you want me to hit him?”
“Hit him somewhere where there are no cameras,” Raina replied casually. Then she walked out.
Raizan stood there, feeling like he’d been slapped by kindness.
Raizan arrived at the set ten minutes later.
Danial was still there, sitting in the director’s chair with his feet on the table.
“You’re late,” Danial said. “I thought you were going to hide the girl away.”
Raizan walked in. No bodyguards. Just him.
“Danial,” Raizan said. “I’m giving you two choices. You withdraw from this production, or I withdraw from all of your businesses.”
Danial laughed. “You’re threatening your own brother?”
“I’m not threatening,” Raizan replied. “I’m stating facts. You mess with Raina again, I burn everything that has your name on it.”
“She’s a nobody, Zai.”
“She’s mine,” Raizan cut him off. “And I take care of what’s mine.”
Danial stood up. He was slightly taller than Raizan.
“You’ve changed. You used to kill first and talk later.”
“Because before, I had no reason to live,” Raizan answered. “Now I do.”
Danial stared at him. Then he laughed.
“Good. You have a weakness. It makes my job easier.”
He turned to leave. But before walking out, he said to Raina, who was standing nearby:
“Take care of yourself, kid. Your brother can't watch you 24 hours a day.”
Raina didn't answer. She just gripped the 'R' necklace around her neck.
Shooting resumed that night.
The scenes between Raina and the hero went smoothly. No interruptions. The director praised her: “Raina, you're so natural. Your eyes say so much.”
Raina smiled. This time, the smile was genuine.
At 2 AM, the shoot wrapped up.
Raizan was waiting outside. He hadn't entered the set; he knew Raina wanted to do this herself.
Raina walked out, hair messy, makeup smeared. But her gait was steady.
Raizan opened the car door for her.
“Okay?”
Raina climbed in. “Okay. And... thank you for not coming in.”
Raizan got in beside the driver.
“You were angry at me earlier.”
“Not angry,” Raina replied. “I just wanted you to understand. I’m not your doll, Abang Zai.”
Raizan looked at her as they hit a red light.
“I know.”
He reached for Raina’s hand and held it gently.
“But you can be my doll if you want. A doll I’ll protect until I die.”
Raina didn't pull her hand away.
“In that case, take good care of it. This doll is expensive.”
Raizan laughed deeply.
“Very expensive. So expensive I’d burn the world for her.”
The car moved forward. Light rain tapped against the window.
Raina leaned her head against the glass. Exhausted. But at peace.
She knew Danial wouldn't stay quiet.
But she also knew that this time, she wasn't alone.
And for the first time in thirty years,
Raina felt... like she wasn't just a background extra in her own story.
[End of Episode 5]
Continue soon...
