𝐊𝐀𝐍𝐄 𝐄𝐇𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐍

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 2

K A N E 𓍯𓂃

As I reached home, everything seemed deceptively normal. My mom approached me with her usual warm smile, the kind of smile that could mask storms brewing within. She had always been my anchor—the one who rescued me from my father’s oppressive expectations and allowed me to pursue art. But now, this battle was mine alone. She had done enough, even convincing him to give me a chance years ago. The rest depended on me and my promise to my father.

"My Kane, how are you feeling, my son? Take off that burden, dear. I’ll find a way out for you," my mother said, her voice as elegant as always, a glimmer of hope lingering in her tone.

"Ma, I gave him my word years ago. A weak man might back off, but not me. You’ve done enough. This is on me now," I replied, my tone firm.

"Where’s Dad?" Noel, my younger brother, chimed in.

"Ah, dear Noel," Ma said with a soft laugh, "you’ve been with your brother? That’s good. Your father is in the office, caught up with some work. He’ll be free soon. Why don’t you both sit in the living room and wait? I’ve prepared some dishes I’m sure you’ll love. Oh, call Gianni, too."

"Yeah, Ma. I’ll call him," I replied, pulling out my phone.

"Gianni, where are you?" I asked in my usual cold tone, already guessing where he might be—probably at a bar with some random girl, as always.

"I’m busy, Kane. Your father called me for some work. I’m heading to your house now. See you soon," he replied briskly.

"Cool. Mom invited you for snacks," I said before hanging up.

Gianni had been part of our family for years. After losing his parents in a plane crash, my mother, who was best friends with his mom, took him in. When we moved to Italy, we officially adopted him from his grandmother, who was too ill to care for him. Despite his rebellious nature, Gianni had always been loyal to us. But I knew he missed his grandma and resented my father for keeping him away from her.

“Helllooooooo,” Noel smirked, breaking into a mocking song, "Who’s been on your miiiind? Who’s got your time?"

Before I could reply, Ma entered with a tray of snacks, her smile as radiant as ever. My mother always followed the philosophy of her friend, Mrs. Cabana:

“Never disrespect life, or you’ll never know when life will disrespect you.” That belief kept her smiling through both peace and storms.

"Why don’t we hit the club this evening?" Noel whispered.

"Not my thing. That’s more your and Gianni’s scene," I replied, smirking.

"Fine, Mr. Virgin. Let’s go to a café then," he teased.

"Pass. I’m full. The snacks are enough," I said, trying to avoid his antics.

But Noel wouldn’t take no for an answer. He pushed me playfully. "C’mon, Kane. Life’s about fun!"

Reluctantly, I agreed. A few minutes later, Gianni arrived, but he excused himself, saying he had work to finish. So, Noel and I set off for the café.

"I’ll talk to Dad about becoming the next heir," Noel said as we walked.

"That would be hypocrisy. I’m a man of my word, little brother," I chuckled.

At the café, Noel placed an order while I sank into a chair, scrolling through my phone and listening to Lana Del Rey.

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R A I N A 𓍯𓂃

No matter how exhausted I was, I had to keep going—for Nanna. The hospital staff assured me her condition had stabilized, and I could finally go home. But each step felt heavier than the last as I wobbled down the street, grief weighing on me.

When I reached my small apartment, my phone buzzed with a reminder: my part-time job started today. The excitement I’d felt earlier had vanished. Still, I reminded myself of the promise I’d made to Mom—to work hard, no matter what.

I texted Jemy to thank her for helping me land the job and told her I was excited for my first day. Then, I quickly got ready and headed to the café.

The moment I opened the door, I was greeted by an eerie quietness. No customers yet. Perfect.

I went to the staff section to change into my uniform. A girl, probably a senior, eyed me up and down.
"Raina Cabana?" she asked.

I nodded.

"Make haste! We’ve got an order. You’re serving," she barked.

Her harsh tone made me wince, but I mentally slapped myself. Get it together, Raina. First day, no mistakes.

Tray in hand, I walked toward the assigned table, only to freeze in my tracks. It was him. The rude stranger from the park, the one I’d bumped into earlier. He was sitting with another man, and their imposing presence made my nerves spike.

Is this really happening? I thought, doubting my readiness. No training, no experience, and my first table was someone I’d already offended.

Taking a deep breath, I steadied myself and approached their table, my steps cautious yet determined. You’ve got this, Raina.

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A/N :

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