After All

The Ball battle

It was late afternoon at the elegant Azalea estate when a sleek black sedan glided to a halt in front of its grand doors. With swift efficiency, the vigilant guards sprang into action, opening the car door to reveal an impeccably dressed lady who proceeded inside with purpose. The mansion's maids eagerly gathered to greet her as she made her way through the opulent halls.

"Where can I find Caracal?" inquired the lady with authority.

"He is currently in the kitchen, engrossed in his culinary endeavors," one of the maids promptly responded.

The lady entered the bustling kitchen and immediately spotted Karl diligently chopping an array of vibrant vegetables. His surprise was evident as he interrupted his task to address her presence.

"Karl, when did you arrive? It has been months...perhaps even two years since we last spoke or connected." Riho asked.

Karl audibly gasped for air as he locked eyes with his wife. "I had pledged to keep my distance so that no further harm would befall anyone," he whispered somberly.

"But it pains me more than anyone else," Riho replied, assisting her husband with the task of chopping vegetables.

"I didn't abandon you, you understand that," Karl reasoned.

"But why are you giving Takako more attention than me?" Riho inquired.

"Oh, haven't you been following the recent news?" Karl asked. "Our daughter and her son are exclusively dating; they're in a serious relationship."

"I am aware," Riho responded, looking into her husband's eyes.

"Enough with the theatrics," said Karl, handing his wife a bowl of soup. "It's time for dinner; we need to eat."

"But I still haven't received an answer to my question,"Riho insisted while holding onto her husband's hand.

"I understand your doubts about my love and care for you. However, there were reasons why I chose to marry you over others. Arisa possessed a sweetness that appealed to me, Riko and I maintained a truce and provided protection for our children's sake, while Emi and I enjoyed a friendship based on cooperation. What attracted me to you was the fact that you possess all these qualities in addition to caring for me more than anyone else ever could have. My hope was to retire from my presidency and spend the rest of my days with you. Unfortunately, it seems unlikely now as circumstances change. Deep down, I always knew that I would not live past fifty-five; however, if given another chance at life alongside the woman whom holds my heart - it will always be you. Please remain strong amidst any challenges that come your way – both personally and for our family's wellbeing. Know that I shall never abandon or leave your side- wherever "here" may be." Karl consoled Riho gently while wiping away her tears.

"Is that true or are you saying your final goodbyes to me?" Riho curiously asked

"My goodness," an irritated Karl murmured, "Just eat dinner and then we will go to bed, I wanna go to sleep"

-----

As the clock struck seven in the evening, a luxury car pulled up to the grand edifice of Parkview hotel. The Marinos- an esteemed family clad with a rich heritage and potent personalities had arrived for their partaking in an illustrious event set inside its opulent ballroom.

Leading them was Arianna, attired elegantly in black, making her way through clusters of well-dressed societal elites gathered around. With every step she took into this seemingly otherworldly arrangement sparking off resplendent gleams off chandeliers above and murmurs below.

Yet underneath her sharp exterior lay veiled distress as she muttered discontents under her breath," Why must I endure such ordeals? I've passed on my title as head of our prestigious clan to Nozomi; why then am I thrust upon these unwelcome responsibilities?"