Episode 3

*Siren’s Side:*

My real name is Renita. I have a close friend named Arius. Both of us come from a military family, so we were trained from a young age to protect ourselves from others.

We studied in the same school and college, but we used different names that weren’t our family names for our safety. We always wore makeup, too, to hide our true facial features.

I have a twin brother who has no interest in the military at all. But something feels off. My father sent me away saying I needed protection. He trained me hard while neglecting to train my twin. I wish I could uncover the truth someday, and I hope it isn’t a bitter one.

As for Arius, he practically raised me from childhood. I didn’t have any special feelings for him, but we always hung out together.

One day, during a mission, I was nearly killed but was saved. When I opened my eyes, I found myself in Arius’s arms. That was the moment I fell for him.

Everything felt different, but I was too afraid to confess my feelings.

Years went by, and I noticed his parents were setting him up on blind dates. It made me a little sad to see him accept them, knowing it meant he didn’t have feelings for me.

I confronted him and confessed how I felt. I fumbled over my words and struggled to express myself clearly. He told me he couldn’t love me, and I couldn’t accept that.

I had no idea what to do, so, in a moment of desperation, I kissed him without thinking. He slapped me and walked away, leaving me in tears.

*The next day…*

“I’m sorry about yesterday,” Arius said.

Why? Is it because you raised me? Why are you so stubborn about it? Can’t we love each other? You always say I’m your best competitor and that no one stands by your side like I do. Then why?

He remained silent.

I trembled, unable to hold back my tears, and left.

On my way, I ran into Yazh. Are you okay? she asked.

I’m fine. Why do you ask? I replied, though I knew why she did.

Because I know you, she said knowingly.

*Silence lingered between us.*

He’s getting married next month, Yazh said quietly.

I know. Did you see us yesterday? I asked her.

She smiled sadly and hugged me. He’s just mad that a child he has raised is acting this way. Don’t take it too hard, Yazh comforted me.

I know, I shouldn’t have confessed, I said softly.

No, at least you tried. Good job! He’s just unfortunate he couldn’t love you back, she tried to cheer me up.

I half-smiled. He’s your brother, I reminded her.

I used to think it would be great if you became my sister-in-law someday, she said.

“Used to?” I asked, confused.

Yes, until I saw you with Shadow.

What are you trying to say? I exclaimed.

You know what? You both look good together, even if you bicker sometimes. I ship you both! she said excitedly.

Seriously? You’ve lost your mind, I scoffed before leaving.

*I can’t wait to see you both getting married, Yazh thought.*

I didn't know where else to go, and before I knew it, I was at that bastard's home.

*I jumped through the window.*

He was reading a book and wasn't wearing a mask or makeup.

*He sure has time to read.*

Suddenly, he held a knife to my throat. That much I atleast expected.

"Who are you?" he demanded. I screamed, "It's me! It's me!"

Wait, how do you know I live here?

I just know, I shrugged. *Looking at his face* Wow, you're really handsome! I thought it was all makeup!

He got irritated but blushed. That's not fair; you should take off your mask too, he demanded.

*I removed it.*

He was just starting at me for a moment.

*Beautiful, she is completely different from Hana, if only she could be her...Shit! Shit! What am I thinking?*

Here, put it back on, he said, throwing the mask at me.

Why did you throw it at my face? You meanie.

You look ugly; don't show your face like that anymore.

*I came here hoping for comfort. But, he is so brutally mean.*

Okay, then tell me-why are you here? he asked.

He's getting married.

Who? Viper?

Yes. *Viper is Arius's nick name*

So? Why does that matter? he asked, his tone indifferent.

What do you mean? I confessed my feelings, and he rejected me. I blurted out.

To whom?

Here he goes again. "Of course to him," I said through gritted teeth.

You little shithead! Why did you confess to him when he obviously treats you like a sister? Are you sure you don't have brotherly feelings for him?

Huh? No! What are you talking about?!

Sighing, he said, let's drink, then.

*After a few drinks...*

He looked happy-much happier than I'd ever seen him. I realized he'd always treated me like his little sister. It was only me who had fallen in love.

Stop drinking! I don't like women who gets drunk and talk nonsense.

She took another drink. "Screw you, you jerk." Saying that, she began to unbutton her shirt.

Button that up... now! He shouted.

It's hot. Just leave me alone!

This is my home, for your kind information! He said.

He poured ice water into a bowl and dunked her face in it. Does that help cool you down? Now button up!

You idiot! I could've died! She shouted, shivering.

Just go home and sleep, he said, rolling his eyes.

Argh! He's no help! Hmph! *Left*

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***