Chapter 6: Choose Your Fate

My bedroom was spacious, with sparkling white walls, elegant curtains, and a bed fit for royalty. I changed into a light gown and stepped onto the balcony. The island stretched before me, peaceful beneath the evening sky.

It was a beautiful sight. But I wanted to see more of it. I wanted to feed my curiosity, so I left my room and stepped into the garden.

There he was. Red Dragon stood with two gigantic men who looked more like beasts than ordinary humans. I couldn't tell what they were discussing, but I didn't approach.

I walked down the path that led to the bank of the ocean. The waves crashed gently against my feet as I stood at the shore, watching the evening sun in the distance. Then I heard footsteps from behind.

I made a swift turn, and Bianca was approaching.

“Look who it is. Octavia Beacham, heir to a very big empire in Valdoria.” I rolled my eyes.

Bianca stepped into my face. “You could have anything in the world. Your father is a billionaire. But you chose to come here. Why?”

Before I could answer, another familiar voice interrupted. I looked over to see Mira approaching.

She came directly to me, looking me up and down as though assessing every inch of me.

“You think you can take the Red Dragon? Get him to fall for you, make him yours…” I shook my head. “Mira, there's been a misunderstanding…”

Slap!

That came out of nowhere… her fist connected with my chin, and the metallic taste of blood filled my tongue.

“You cheap whore. You think because you're a billionaire's daughter you can come here and ruin our years of hard work?”

My fist tightened, nails digging into my palms. She closed the gap between us. I could savor the smell of her fragrance, nice and intoxicating.

“You better watch your back, bitch…” she sneered into my face.

“It's going to take more than a pretty face, thick skin, and nice curves to win the Dragon over.” I swallowed.

Then Bianca stepped forward. She had been quiet the whole time. “I did my research, Octavia.” Her voice cut through the cool breeze. I looked at her; Mira didn't.

Bianca stepped forward. Unlike Mira, she remained calm, making her seem even more dangerous. The kind of foe who would sting you and leave no traces.

Her lips curled into a cruel sneer. “You're tormented back home aren't you?” I didn't answer. She stepped forward, closing the distance until she was right on my face.

I watched the movement of her lips. This lady was breathtakingly beautiful. The breeze carried her blonde hair behind her.

“You probably thought coming to Dragon island was a good way to escape the torment of your family.” She smiled and caressed my hair gently.

I froze on my feet. I couldn't make a move or utter a word.

“But you see, darling. You calculated wrongly. You see, there may not be your Mom, Dad, or sister here to torment you. But there is a bigger stake here.” She turned to Mira.

“Mira and I have sacrificed a lot to win the Red Dragon's heart, and we have come a long way. We can't afford to lose now because a foolish new girl decided to show up at the worst time.” I swallowed my dry throat.

“So do me a favor, Octavia.” Our eyes locked. A short silence kicked in before she stated her demands… “Leave the Dragon island. Have the Red Dragon get you a good home far away. Where you'll be more comfortable.”

Mira smirked and came forward. “That's a good suggestion.” She commended Bianca before she turned to face me.

The moment our eyes met, her smile faltered. Mira was too serious. “What do you say, bitch?”

I went mute. I looked from one woman to the other. Bianca appeared more calm, but I know people like her.

“I'm sorry, I can't.” The words found their way out before I could stop myself.

They exchanged glances, and before I knew it, Mira's fists curled. “Bitch!” She pushed me hard, making me stagger.

I tried to catch myself but it was sloppy. I landed inside the water, and Mira followed me in. She held my hair and dug my face into the water briefly. I trashed, unable to breathe. Then she pulled me up. I was choking, but when I looked, it was Bianca who pulled me up.

“Stop it, Mira. Red Dragon wouldn't take it if he hears about this.” Bianca called out, but Mira smiled dangerously.

“He is not going to believe her if she tells. Besides, she wouldn't tell, would you?” she smirked, directing her question to me. Tears filled my eyes. I shook my head desperately.

“I won't tell, please stop.” I begged.

Her smile stretched across her face… “Good girl.” she looked back at Bianca… ”See?”

Her gaze returned to me and she grabbed my jaw. “If you breathe a single word, life will be miserable for you, bitch.”

Fear coursed through my body. I was on my knees in the water, thinking the ordeal had ended, but relief barely had time to settle before she shoved me back underwater.

I trashed, gulping water again and again until Bianca pulled me up again. “Mira, stop this. Now!”

I coughed, trying to catch my breath.

Then Mira held my jaw, leaning into my face… “You fucking slut. You have no idea what you're about to get yourself into.”

Bianca stepped forward. “Mira let her go, now!” Tears blurred my eyes. I looked at the two women in terror, and Bianca bent before me, pushing Mira away.

She caressed my hair then smiled… “You're a very beautiful young lady, Octavia. I can see why the Red Dragon is so interested in you.”

I shook my head. “He's not. I swear.”

“Tck Tck… don't tell me, Octavia. I know more than you can possibly imagine. And I understand that you want to fight for your place here. I respect that. But take note, Octavia…” the smile on her face disappeared.

“The Mafia world would be a dangerous place. There's no fairness. The strong prey on the weak. If you must play the game, you have to be prepared knowing you're endangering your life. My advice; go back home.”

I swallowed hard. She rose and left me kneeling inside the water. I watched her as she turned to leave. She carried herself with effortless grace as she left without looking back.

Mira hurried after her but stopped just a few paces away. She looked back at me and dragged her hand on her throat, signalling death to me, and something tightened in my chest.

I watched the ladies depart, leaving me with teary eyes still kneeling in the water. No matter how hard I fought them, the tears spilled down my cheeks. I helped myself out and rushed back.

It was getting dark, but the moment I opened my door, Red Dragon was standing inside my room wearing nothing but a white towel tied around his waist.