The grand Vermillion estate was bathed in golden light as servants bustled about, putting the final touches on Nao's birthday celebration. Elegant chandeliers adorned the ballroom ceiling, casting shimmering reflections on the polished marble floor. The scent of fresh roses filled the air, blending with the aroma of an elaborate feast being prepared in the kitchens. Every detail had been meticulously arranged, ensuring the night would be unforgettable.
Nao stood in front of his full-length mirror, adjusting the cuffs of his custom-tailored suit. He looked regal, every bit the heir he was meant to be. Yet, despite the grandeur surrounding him, a weight lingered in his chest. His mind was elsewhere—on Elias. He hadn't been able to shake the worry since visiting Elias earlier that day. His friend had looked pale, vulnerable, and something about his expression told Nao that he hadn't been feeling well for a while.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Mr. Den entered, offering a warm yet professional smile. "Everything is set, young master. The guests are arriving."
Nao nodded, inhaling deeply. "Thank you, Mr. Den."
As he stepped out of his chambers, Adrian was already waiting at the staircase, looking effortlessly elegant in his midnight-blue suit. His sharp eyes observed his brother's quiet demeanor. "You're thinking about Elias, aren't you?"
Nao scoffed lightly but didn't deny it. Instead, he turned his gaze toward the entrance, where important guests were being welcomed.
Meanwhile, Isadora stood in the shadows of the grand hall, her gaze fixed on Nao like a predator watching its prey. Beside her, Wick leaned in close, whispering, "Everything is in place, Madam."
A wicked smile curled on Isadora's lips. "Good. Tonight, we end this."
At that moment, the butler announced, "Mr. Elias Grayson has arrived."
Nao's heart leaped as he turned, only to find Elias hesitating at the entrance, looking around nervously. The young man was clad in a simple yet elegant outfit, clearly feeling out of place among the grandeur. His soft brown eyes landed on Nao, and a small, uncertain smile played at his lips. But before he could take a step forward, his gaze flickered to Adrian.
Adrian, who had been trying to ignore the arrival of Elias, clenched his fists. He was still haunted by the kiss they shared, by the heat of it, the way Elias had trembled in his arms. He wanted to push it out of his mind, to pretend it hadn't happened, but here Elias was—standing in the very house he had vowed never to step into again after their last encounter.
Nao, oblivious to the tension between them, approached Elias with a bright smile. "You made it."
Elias nodded hesitantly. "I… wasn't sure if I should."
Adrian cut in before Nao could respond. "Then why did you?" His voice was sharp, defensive.
Elias tensed but held Adrian's gaze. "Because Nao invited me."
Nao looked between the two of them, sensing something was off but choosing not to press the issue. "Come on, let's get inside. It's my night, after all."
As the celebration went on, music filled the ballroom, and guests mingled, but something sinister loomed in the background. Isadora watched from a distance, her grip tightening around her wine glass. She had waited years for this moment. Soon, the night would unfold exactly as she had planned.
Unbeknownst to all, deep beneath the castle, in the forgotten underground chambers, something ancient stirred. The air grew heavy, the walls trembled ever so slightly. The time was drawing near. The heir had returned. And fate was about to take its course.