Live Again

The waves crashed against the cliffs of Nova Scotia with an almost musical rhythm, but Aria Morgan knew better. After three years of studying marine biology at the remote Blackrock Research Station, she had learned to distinguish between natural ocean sounds and something more... peculiar. Tonight, there was definitely something different in the water's song.

Standing on the observation deck of the research facility, her long dark hair whipping in the salty breeze, Aria focused her night vision binoculars on the churning waters below. The full moon cast an ethereal glow across the surface, making it easier to spot any unusual movement. That's when she saw it - a flash of iridescent scales, much too large to be any known fish species.

"You're out here late again," a deep voice spoke behind her. Dr. Nathaniel Cross, the facility's new head of cryptozoology, stood in the doorway. His presence had been causing quite a stir among the female staff since his arrival last month, with his storm-gray eyes and the mysterious scar that ran from his left temple to his jaw. But Aria had noticed something else about him - the way he always seemed to appear whenever the strange occurrences happened.

"There's something out there, Dr. Cross," Aria said, not taking her eyes off the water. "Something big."

"Please, call me Nate," he said, moving to stand beside her. His proximity sent an involuntary shiver down her spine that had nothing to do with the cold. "And I know. That's why I'm here."

Before Aria could question what he meant, a haunting melody drifted up from the waters below. It wasn't quite singing - more like an otherworldly humming that seemed to resonate in her very bones. To her surprise, she found herself taking an unconscious step toward the railing, drawn by the sound.

Nate's hand shot out, gripping her arm. "Don't listen too closely," he warned, his voice tight with concern. "They're hunting tonight."

"They?" Aria tried to shake off the melody's lingering effect. "Who are 'they'?"

Just then, a figure emerged from the waves - a woman with silvery skin and long, phosphorescent hair. Her eyes glowed with an unnatural blue light, and when she opened her mouth to continue her song, Aria saw rows of sharp, pearl-like teeth. The creature's beauty was both terrifying and mesmerizing.

"Sirens," Nate whispered, his grip on Aria's arm tightening. "Real ones. Not the sanitized versions from your fairy tales."

The siren's gaze locked onto them, and her song changed, becoming more focused, more enticing. Aria felt Nate tense beside her, and when she looked at him, she was shocked to see his eyes had taken on a silvery sheen, reflecting the moonlight like a cat's.

"We need to get inside," he said through gritted teeth, though he seemed to be fighting the urge to move closer to the railing himself. "Now."

But as they turned to leave, Aria caught sight of something in the water that made her blood run cold. Dozens of glowing eyes had appeared beneath the waves, and more figures were rising to the surface. Their songs began to intertwine, creating a symphony of supernatural beauty and terror.

"Dr. Cross... Nate," Aria's voice trembled slightly. "What's really going on at this facility?"

He finally turned to look at her fully, and in the moonlight, she could see that his scar was glowing with a faint blue light. "It's not just a research station, Aria. It's a containment facility. We monitor and protect humanity from ancient creatures that most people think are myths. And right now," he glanced back at the water where more sirens were emerging, "something has disturbed them. Something that hasn't happened in over a hundred years."

"What?" Aria asked, though part of her feared the answer.

"They're looking for their lost queen," Nate's voice was grim. "And for some reason, they think she's here."

A particularly powerful wave crashed against the cliffs, sending spray high enough to reach the observation deck. As the droplets hit Aria's skin, she felt a strange tingling sensation, and for just a moment, her reflection in the window showed her eyes glowing with the same ethereal blue light as the creatures below.

Nate saw it too. His expression shifted from concern to something more complex - fear, fascination, and what looked almost like recognition. "We need to talk," he said quietly. "About your mother. About why you were really assigned to this facility. And about why you've always felt so drawn to the sea."

The siren's song grew louder, more insistent, and Aria felt something stir within her - ancient memories that couldn't possibly be her own, yet somehow were. As she followed Nate inside, one thought kept repeating in her mind: her life as she knew it was about to change forever, and there would be no going back to the simple world of marine biology and research papers.

Behind them, the sirens continued their haunting chorus, their songs now carrying a note of triumph. They had found what they were looking for.

The facility's underground laboratory was a maze of steel and glass, illuminated by harsh fluorescent lights that made everything look clinical and cold. Aria followed Nate through a series of security checkpoints, each requiring increasingly complex biometric scans. Her mind was still reeling from the events on the observation deck, the sirens' song echoing in her memory.

        "How long have you known?" she finally asked as they entered what appeared to be his private office. Unlike the sterile corridors outside, this room was filled with artifacts that looked ancient - shells with strange markings, crystals that seemed to pulse with their own inner light, and walls covered in charts mapping underwater ley lines.

        Nate moved to a heavily secured cabinet, his fingers dancing across a complex lock. "Since the moment you arrived at Blackrock. Your bio-readings were... unique." He pulled out a thick file with her name on it. "But your mother knew long before that."

        "My mother?" Aria's voice cracked. "She died when I was three. All I have are some photos and my father's stories about her love for the ocean."

        "Your mother didn't die, Aria." Nate's voice was gentle but firm as he placed an old photograph on his desk. "She returned."

        The photograph showed a woman standing on these very cliffs, her wild dark hair streaming in the wind. She looked exactly like Aria, except for her eyes - they held that same otherworldly blue glow Aria had seen in her own reflection moments ago.

        "That's impossible," Aria whispered, but even as she spoke, memories began to surface - the way she could hold her breath for impossibly long periods, her uncanny ability to predict storms, the strange songs that sometimes filled her dreams.

        Suddenly, the lights flickered, and a low vibration ran through the building. Nate's expression turned serious. "They're testing the barriers," he said, moving to a bank of monitors showing underwater footage. Multiple figures darted past the cameras, their movements too quick and graceful to be human.

        "What barriers?" Aria asked, joining him at the monitors.

        "Electromagnetic fields designed to keep them at bay. But with their queen so close..." He glanced at her meaningfully. "They're stronger than usual."

        "I am not their queen," Aria said firmly, though something deep inside her stirred at the words.

        "No, but you're her daughter. The first successful hybrid in centuries." Nate pulled up more files on his computer. "Your mother was their queen, and when she fell in love with your father, it created a diplomatic crisis. A siren queen choosing a human was unprecedented."

        The vibrations grew stronger, and somewhere in the facility, an alarm began to sound. On the monitors, the sirens' movements became more coordinated, more purposeful.

        "They're not just testing anymore," Nate muttered. He grabbed what looked like an ancient trident from a wall display. "They're breaking through."

        Aria's head suddenly filled with voices - not speaking English, but a fluid, musical language she somehow understood. They were calling to her, telling her to come home, to take her rightful place.

        "Make it stop," she gasped, pressing her hands to her temples.

        Nate reached for her, but stopped short when he saw her eyes - they were glowing brighter now, and her skin had taken on a slight iridescent sheen. "Fight it, Aria. You're not just one of them. You're both human and siren. That's what makes you special."

        The facility shook more violently, and the lights went out completely. In the darkness, Nate's eyes glowed silver again, and Aria could finally ask the question that had been nagging at her.

        "What are you?" she whispered. "You're not entirely human either, are you?"

        Before he could answer, the reinforced windows of his office exploded inward in a shower of glass and seawater. In the opening hovered three sirens, their beauty terrible and magnificent. The one in the center spoke, her voice carrying both authority and disdain.

        "Step away from the princess, Guardian. She belongs with her people."

        Nate raised the trident, which began to glow with an electric blue light. "She belongs where she chooses to belong."

        As seawater swirled around them, Aria felt power surge through her body - raw, ancient, and demanding to be released. She had a choice to make, but first, she needed answers.

        "Tell me everything," she said, her voice carrying a new note of command that surprised even her. "About my mother, about what you are," she looked at Nate, "and about why I'm really here."

        The siren queen smiled, showing those pearl-like teeth. "Oh, little princess. You're here because a war is coming. And you," her glow intensified, "are the key to everything."

The seawater swirling around Aria's feet felt alive, responding to her emotions like an extension of her body. The three sirens remained suspended in the shattered window frame, their ethereal forms casting an otherworldly glow throughout Nate's flooded office. The lead siren - who had introduced herself as Cordelia, First General of the Deep Realm - watched her with ancient eyes that held both wisdom and cunning.

        "Your mother's choice started this war," Cordelia said, her voice carrying the rhythm of waves. "When she chose your father, she didn't just abandon her throne - she disrupted a balance that had existed for millennia. The Deep Realm has been without a true queen for twenty years, and the dark ones grow bolder each day."

        "The dark ones?" Aria asked, acutely aware of Nate's tension beside her, his grip tightening on the glowing trident.

        "The Abyssal Court," Nate answered grimly. "Think of them as your people's darker cousins. While the sirens of the Deep Realm protect the oceans, the Abyssal Court seeks to corrupt them. Without a queen's power to maintain the barriers..."

        "They're breaking free," Cordelia finished. "Even now, they gather in the deep trenches, preparing for war. Only a queen's song can reinforce the ancient seals."

        Aria felt the weight of their expectations pressing down on her like the ocean itself. "And you think I can do this? I don't even know how to control whatever... this is." She gestured to her still-glowing skin.

        "That's why I'm here," a new voice spoke from the doorway. Aria turned to see a woman she'd only known from photographs - her mother. Nerissa, former queen of the Deep Realm, stood in the threshold, looking exactly as she had twenty years ago. Her presence made the very air vibrate with power.

        "Mom?" Aria whispered, emotions warring inside her.

        Nerissa's eyes - the same otherworldly blue as Aria's now were - filled with tears. "My daughter. My beautiful, brave daughter. I'm so sorry I had to leave you, but it was the only way to keep you safe while your powers matured."

        "Safe from what?" Aria demanded, anger suddenly surging through her. The water around her feet began to churn in response.

        "From those who would use you," Nate interjected, his voice carrying an edge of bitterness. "The Guardians weren't always noble protectors, Aria. Some believed that controlling a hybrid princess would give them power over both realms."

        "Like your father did?" Nerissa's voice turned cold as she addressed Nate. "Is that why you're so close to my daughter? Following in Marcus Cross's footsteps?"

        The tension in the room sparked like electricity. Nate's silver eyes flashed dangerously. "I am not my father."

        "Enough!" Aria's voice carried a new power, making everyone in the room freeze. The water around her feet rose in spiraling columns, responding to her command. "I want the truth. All of it. No more cryptic warnings or half-answers."

        Suddenly, the facility's emergency sirens blared to life. On Nate's monitors, dark shapes appeared in the deeper waters - humanoid figures with shark-like features and glowing red eyes.

        "The Abyssal Court," Cordelia hissed. "They've found us."

        "They found her," Nerissa corrected, moving to Aria's side. "They can sense your awakening power, daughter. We're out of time."

        The facility shuddered as something massive struck it from below. Through the broken window, Aria could see dark forms rising from the depths, their movements predatory and purposeful. The water around her feet turned ice-cold.

        "You have to choose now," Nate said urgently. "But know this - whatever you decide, I'll stand with you." His eyes met hers, and in them she saw not just duty or ambition, but something deeper, something personal.

        "As touching as that is, Guardian," Cordelia interrupted, "she needs to come with us. Only in the Deep Realm can she learn to control her powers in time."

        Another impact rocked the facility. In the distance, Aria could hear screams - the research staff, she realized with horror. They were unprotected, unaware of what was really happening.

        "I won't let innocent people die," Aria declared, feeling strength flow through her. "Mom, Cordelia - help me protect the facility. Nate..." she turned to him, "teach me how to fight."

        "Always choosing both worlds," Nerissa murmured, a mix of pride and worry in her voice. "Just like your mother."

        As the Abyssal Court's forces surrounded the facility, Aria felt something click into place inside her. She was neither fully human nor fully siren, neither wholly of land nor of sea. But perhaps that's exactly what both worlds needed.

        "Well then," she said, as power coursed through her veins and the song of the sea filled her mind, "let's show these dark ones what a hybrid princess can do."

        The water around her erupted upward, turning into a swirling shield of liquid crystal, just as the first of the dark figures burst through the facility's lower levels. The war for two worlds was about to begin, and Aria stood at its center, with a Guardian at her side and the power of two realms flowing through her blood.

The next few minutes dissolved into chaos. The Abyssal Court's warriors crashed through the facility's lower levels like a dark tide, their shark-like features twisted into snarls of hunger and hatred. Aria's crystalline water shield held against the first wave, but she could feel their darkness pressing against her power, trying to corrupt it.

        "Channel your emotions through the water," Nerissa instructed, her own powers creating whirlpools that trapped several attackers. "The sea responds to authentic feeling, not just will."

        Nate moved with inhuman grace, the trident in his hands leaving trails of electric blue energy as he fought. "We need to evacuate the research staff," he called out between strikes. "They're gathering near the main lab."

        Aria closed her eyes for a moment, and suddenly she could feel every drop of water in the facility - in the pipes, in the air, in human bodies. The awareness was overwhelming. "I can feel them," she gasped. "Everyone. Everything."

        "That's your queen's sense awakening," Cordelia explained, her own song turning violent as she fought. "You're connecting to your realm."

        An explosion rocked the lower level, and through her new awareness, Aria felt something massive entering the facility. The temperature of the water dropped dramatically, and even the sirens looked concerned.

        "Thalassos," Nerissa whispered, fear evident in her voice. "The Abyssal Prince himself."

        Through the broken floor emerged a figure that seemed made of living darkness. Unlike his warriors, Prince Thalassos appeared almost human, devastatingly beautiful in a cruel way. His eyes were the color of the deepest ocean trenches, and when he smiled, his teeth gleamed like black pearls.

        "The little princess awakens," his voice was like the crushing depths given sound. "How convenient. I was afraid I'd have to wait longer to claim my bride."

        "Bride?" Aria and Nate spoke simultaneously, his voice sharp with anger, hers with shock.

        "Did they not tell you?" Thalassos moved closer, his presence making the water around him turn black. "The only way to truly end the war between our courts is through union. Your mother refused me twenty years ago. But you..." his dark eyes roamed over her face, "you're even more powerful than she was."

        Nate stepped between them, the trident glowing brighter. "She's not a prize to be claimed, Thalassos."

        The Abyssal Prince's laugh was like ice cracking. "Ah, the Guardian speaks. Tell me, son of Marcus Cross, does your protection come from duty... or jealousy?"

        Before anyone could respond, a scream echoed from the main lab. Through her water sense, Aria felt the research staff's terror as more Abyssal warriors surrounded them.

        "Choose quickly, princess," Thalassos said smoothly. "Surrender to me, and I'll spare them all. Refuse, and watch your human friends feed my warriors."

        Aria felt rage build inside her - pure, hot, and powerful. The water around her began to glow, not with her mother's blue light or Thalassos's darkness, but with a brilliant purple that seemed to combine both aspects of her nature.

        "You want an answer?" Her voice carried the crash of waves and the strength of tidepools. "Here it is."

        She thrust her hands forward, and every drop of water in the facility responded. It rose from pipes, condensed from air, pulled from the sea itself. But instead of attacking, it began to sing - a new song, neither fully siren nor fully human, but something entirely unique.

        The Abyssal warriors closest to her began to writhe, their corrupted forms starting to purify under her hybrid power. Thalassos's eyes widened in genuine surprise, then narrowed in fury.

        "Impossible," he snarled. "No one can purify the Abyssal taint!"

        "She's not no one," Nate said, pride evident in his voice. "She's both of your worlds, and neither. And that makes her stronger than either."

        Aria's song grew stronger, and she felt Nate's energy joining with hers, the Guardian's power amplifying her own. Her mother and Cordelia added their voices, creating a harmony that made the very foundations of the facility vibrate.

        But Thalassos wasn't finished. With a roar of rage, he released his own power - a wave of such absolute darkness that it threatened to swallow all light. "If I cannot have you," he growled, "then no one will!"

        The two forces met in a spectacular clash of energy. In that moment, as purple light battled primordial darkness, Aria felt something else stirring in the depths beneath the facility - something ancient and powerful, awakened by their battle.

        "The Leviathan," Nerissa breathed. "The battle... it's waking the ancient ones."

        As if in response, a deep rumble shook the entire ocean floor, and everyone - siren, human, and Abyssal alike - froze in sudden, instinctive fear.

        In the brief silence, Aria heard Nate whisper, "Whatever happens next, Aria, know that I-"

        But his words were cut off as the floor beneath them cracked open, and the true power of the deep made its presence known. The war between courts had awakened something far older and more dangerous than any of them had imagined.

        And deep in her soul, Aria knew - this was only the beginning.

Chapter 1

: Consumed by Flames
Fire consumed the room, its voracious hunger devouring everything in its path. Ruby Perez crumbled to the ground, engulfed in a haze of smoke that strangled her breath. Coughs wracked her body, tears streaming down her ash-covered face.
Despite the chaos and destruction, Ruby's natural beauty remained unspoiled, a delicate flower amidst the wreckage.
Pa!rÉauly'zeRd and bzeLw,iXl)derewd(, RyutbCy Kcou_ldn'&t fathgomN hSow msh(eM hGaCd endned_ wupW .inx YthisD Kdi'rVe sithu_aFtziQon.p ThteX druKg coHurrsing t!hIrmoóulgQh hwer veAins riobbed h!erm (oTf contrAol, arendgerinDg h'er HheNlplesósa.R
Approaching her, Jade Perez emerged from the smoke, donning a gas mask. Dressed in an innocent white gown, she appeared like a cherubic child. But Ruby knew better, or so she thought.
"Oh Ruby, you look positively disastrous," Jade remarked, her voice gentle yet laced with a sinister undertone.
Ruby's expression twisted in shock and disbelief. "Did you drug me, Jade?" she questioned, her voice trembling.
Jhaudle'Bs TsDly Égprmin$ ÉslTiHppeld thro!uZg^h asL .sQhje OrSemOov(eLd hGer gas& mBaskJ. "I)td'Lsu me*relyH ia &tQemsvt, dedaxrP URéuby," shNe replxideAd. g"QIh Zwant &to Ssere ywcho oVudr afraxmily UwililB beliwe^veY wBhSeln !tbhzeUyc wit!n_eis,sk tbhcis."
With deliberate intent, Jade pressed the gas mask onto Ruby's face, smearing ash on her own cheeks. From her pocket, she produced a small knife, slicing open her arm, blood gushing forth.
Discarding the knife, Jade discarded her gloves, slipping them onto Ruby's paralyzed hands. She clutched her wounded arm, unleashing a piercing scream, a facade of terror etched upon her features.
"Help! Daddy, Mommy! Help me! Janie has gone mad!" Jade's voice echoed through the room.
"Mua*ddiÉe!C"J da Vmain's ^crny piemrcted the (cyhVaoXsh as he nkBicdkeds opern thPeL doror.t
Ruby's heart sank as her parents and seven brothers rushed to Jade's side. She could only watch, horror gripping her soul."Daddy, Mommy! The pain in my wound is unbearable," Jade screamed, her voice filled with agony. "Janie is insane! She started the fire out of nowhere and said she wanted to die with me. Then she cut me with a knife and told me I wasn't good enough to be a Fowler daughter!"
Case Perez's eyes widened as he took in the sight of Jade's bloodied body and her terrified, deer-like eyes. He glanced over at Ruby, lying on the floor with a knife and gloves stained with crimson.
Without hesitation, Case delivered a harsh kick to Ruby's stomach, his voice filled with anger. "I can't believe I have a daughter who would do something so vicious!"
TQhte fyorceó JoTfF t)hwe nkmifcpki tMwiÉstVed_ uRbufbHyk's insides,u *buÉt tGhne Ip*aSibn Yiny hserh rheBamrOtN PfaRrx lsurpp.aslsxeGd XaBnyó qph)ysiKcCaJl argNoRny lshbe KfelXt.r RIIt Ww'apsQ RasS ifT h&er zhgegagrt Jw)a_s bWeiangk tYoérn _i,nY tDwoC.
Ruby had once taken a bullet for Case. They were together at a business event when a psychopath barged in, armed with a gun, intent on killing Case. In a selfless act of bravery, Ruby had stepped in front of Case, taking the bullet while he and Jade escaped.
The police rushed Ruby to the hospital, where she fought for her life in intensive care. Miraculously, she survived her wounds.
Days passed before the Perezs finally came to visit Ruby in the hospital. Case took an hour away from Jade to see her. He felt ashamed and could only muster a few words, but he did explain that Jade was adopted and hoped Ruby would accept her. Jade had always feared that the family's love and attention would shift once they found their biological daughter.
JuPst Zmohmpen)tBsV aafte.rL CVasHeV''sL vivsyit, JasdeZ Wcalleud,d 'cKlaFiJmibngc QsRhKev whaOd &anH AemfergenNc)y!.W tThe QP_ehreózsY mhBa'sBtiYly^ ylnefgt Rauby iin the wamrÉd,( nrDucsjhGingZ )t'o YJade'ysh MsiAde.$
To those unaware of their family history, it would seem that Jade was their biological daughter and Ruby was the adopted one.Ruby's faith in her father, Case, was unwavering. Despite the doubts that lingered in her mind, she clung to the belief that blood ties held more weight than anything else. She longed for acceptance, for the Flowers to embrace her as their own.
Jade, aware of Ruby's desperation, took advantage of her sister's willingness to please. No matter what Jade desired, Ruby would always acquiesce. It became a pattern, an unspoken agreement between them. Jade would claim the best gifts, leaving Ruby with the scraps.
In her heart, Ruby hoped that her selflessness would touch the Perezs, that they would finally see her as a true daughter. But it was all in vain. When disaster struck and fire consumed their surroundings, Ruby found herself abandoned, left behind like a discarded object.
ThTep fflFamesL Oluifcwkfedb adt hwecr sQkin(, thÉei pVaDiWn sezazriBn_gv Kthrojugwh hezr. sÉens,eÉs_.É ITh.e aacrciad hsc)eanctl o,f ZburnAing MfpillUed& Uh!esrT nousBtwrUils asv yteahrPsn bwhellleAdX up& Cin heSry eayeSsO.b sShCe closed gthbePm, rJenlea*séingó ha& hteBaqvyd QszighN.b Ión thzaPt mojmAentm, sShev em(bracedj ft'hFe fiIdZeaC okf aJnx enkdg, gmrabtdelfMulC tih_a$t eOveqryétch&inmg Cwdals _cxo^mkiFnóg to' ap cKlxoseW.V
She had paid her dues to the Perez family, her obsession with familial love finally relinquished. If there was a next life, Ruby fervently wished to never cross paths with these heartless people again.
As news of the warehouse fire spread, the local media reported on the tragic event. Only one burned body was recovered from the wreckage, but it vanished mysteriously soon after arriving at the hospital for examination.
The following day, the Perez Corporation made a public statement, severing all ties with Ruby Perez, the long-lost biological daughter they had recently discovered. They acknowledged only Jade as their legitimate child, casting Ruby aside without a second thought.
RyuSbUyu's cnavm_eó lbéecameU thLeÉ subTject oRf gocsrsOi&p(,( _spreOad$invgr lMike wi^lkdkfiqre._ FTh&e TrevNeIlat.ionr oWf thIe TPemrceAzj fYamil$y$'sA ls'eahrUch If(oKrv thNeiÉr t(ruAe, XdmaBuxghttMerS wcDap.taivra(ted tNheJ puyblMic'sW at*ten(tionó. IBLutz asA ctjimóeP lpaAssTed_ DandQ newL sktorAimeHs ve*m$eÉrgeXd, RubyB'WsP exqis^tendce f)adFeÉda inbtGoh Io)bsycKu!rMintTyM VoknCcMe NmYoNr,e.s

Chapter 2

Ruby gazed into the mirror, her mind in a haze as she absorbed the fact that her reflection appeared five years younger. There was a certain naivety and inexperience in her features, but it couldn't mask the promise of beauty that lay ahead.
"I... I've been given a second chance?" She whispered to herself, her voice barely audible.
Glancing at her phone, Ruby discovered it was October 23rd, 2030. Exactly five years before the devastating fire that had claimed her life. It had been less than a month since she had been brought back into the Perez family.
A tb)iatztper laugvhk sescmapedx hecrN lispns.! "IsT tPhxiTs Sspomme fdxiv'ineF óiMndtevrkvePntiWo,n(, teTlslDinSg. )myeq IV wqa.sF lfZo.oVl!iKsWh i$n vmdy pafs(t liflez and xnowi géradnutiang m&eR aI dKoq-aoKvOeTr?I"l
Regardless of the reasons behind her resurrection, Ruby knew one thing for certain. This time, she wouldn't be the person who constantly sought validation and tried to please everyone. She would live for herself and no one else.
She understood that this was an extraordinary opportunity to make amends for her past mistakes and liberate herself from the shackles of regret.
Taking in her surroundings, the room felt both familiar and foreign. With newfound determination, Ruby discarded her pajamas and adorned herself in a white t-shirt, faded jeans, and a stylish yet edgy haircut that perfectly complemented her short crop.
Odn.e* )lvasmt gljanceu qin) the mpiHrrOovr ucojnXfXir(mIe,d& Ithaut sahOe was reTadly toQ ejmbr)axcóe éthxis nJepw liOfe.I
When she had arrived at the Perez home, she had only brought a small suitcase. But her dreams of a better future, reuniting with her birth family, and finding a sense of belonging were unwavering.
Now, standing at the door of her "home," a place that was technically hers, Ruby couldn't ignore the intense pain that resided within these walls. However, this time around, she was determined to swiftly overcome her demons and forge ahead with her life in this house.
Just as she had become lost in her melancholic thoughts, a loud knock on the door startled Ruby back to the present moment.
Knocaku,s k)ndoéck&.V.T.
Suppressing the sorrow that threatened to consume her, an icy resolve settled over Ruby's expression.She pushed open the door, her heart pounding in her chest. Standing before her was Mason Perez, her big brother and the seventh son of their prestigious family. Tall and handsome, he exuded an air of superiority, dressed impeccably in designer clothes. But there was a scowl on his face as he looked at her.
"Ruby, mom and dad want you downstairs," he said, his voice tinged with annoyance.
Ruby, a student at the esteemed University of Oricle in Stormton City, glanced at him indifferently. She had grown distant, no longer seeking the approval of her family like she used to. Her indifference surprised Mason, who remembered the Ruby who would do anything to be close to their parents, even sacrificing her own dignity.
BOuAt n'ow, Rlu)byh'si GsFubmNiWssiDvXe kapttixtbudeO dYiésgujstXeGdT _hiZmc. HRef hapd ma_dzeA upY lhifsl SmiUndW R- Xh*e qonlyi hadU aonqe Vsdiwstyer, faDnd gh.ers n^ame Wwas HJad'e.N QWQitFh Jba)deX bXyQ hixsI xsibdFe sinceM cWh$inldhPo.odk,M óheX cChe.rdisheÉdt hQe_rt, aldorHed her DgenStlwe pavnVd CkQin,d n$aXt,usred.T Maskon d$iódn'ót^ wxaDnnt a( bi!o&log.ical OsiGsKtRejr HaJn$ymoreA;É all h*eL Nwa$nqtseidH pwJas JaJdeh.
"Ruby, you know what you did. Just go downstairs and take your punishment," he sneered before turning away.
Ruby's lips twitched, a flicker of determination in her eyes. Memories flooded her mind, reminding her of what had transpired earlier that day. It was time to set things right.
With her hands in her pockets, Ruby descended the grand staircase of their mansion. The sound of sobbing reached her ears, growing louder as she approached the living room. There, she found her parents, Case and Zephyra, holding their inconsolable baby daughter, Jade.
IAtF fkelJt ka(sb thoHuBg$h atSheI )rFo!lesf UhhaCd jrevzersóed u- Lnowk wJaTdZe was( the Ncrheprish.ePd gbAioplLoagiScalp wdóawu)ghter, andZ RulbyN waKsZ thOeU YonIeW XwhoJ KfkeZlt likeB Btphe$ a^dgop^t(eda chilkd.Ru!bTyA's PhearHtZ aicshWerd,c av faMmiNliarrQ twWinge théaét' seleFmWed Xto SecvhoÉ Ywyirthq tuhe wHeGig!hktr ofZ Lhéerk desiUres^. FAowrR so* .loYn'g,O snhóe hdabd_ NhDiUddewn heCrR Mt$rAuel CnYaQtur$eb, bsu)pprVessNindg her iLnFtTelligLe$ncTe gaGnFd Uc'oynccAeaQlindgH Ah.er ueslsengcAe fro.mW ótBhe* ów&oHrlMd. Aélml$ fóotr the$ Xs$ake. FoxfM OtthSiésD hSaMrKd-bearInVevd faim$ilial' LbUondP zsqhe hXa_d ifoIrgeId.
There was a time when she couldn't fathom giving it up, not even in a reincarnation. But now, a growing realization crept into her consciousness. She couldn't afford to make the same mistake again.
As she observed Case and Zephyra, a detachment settled over Ruby, as if she were merely a spectator, watching a captivating performance unfold before her. In fact, she almost felt compelled to rise from her seat and applaud their act.
Yet, amidst the applause that echoed in her mind, there lingered one glaring issue. Ruby realized that the feelings she once held for them, the love she had for her biological parents, had dwindled to nearly nothing.
Ma&sond udéezsclen'dqekdl )tYhge *sntakiTrhsW,Z hiBs_ ehyes* fOalxli.ngK Auupconi rRbuRby'rsh eNxpKrue(s.sion. Inbstant&ly, anqgjeRr iflgarted wiJtrhiRn Ahixm. "RWhry qdAon't y!oru aZsk$ you!r AsiBsItNers whyx sRhe,'s crIyinJgm, xRAubKyl?k"& hUe Ad&emwandsed.
"I didn't make her cry. Why should I ask?" Ruby's voice lacked any trace of emotion, her words delivered with an icy detachment.
"Hey! Don't you dare speak to Dad like that!" Mason shouted, his tone laced with fury.
The desire to teach Ruby a lesson surged through him, but as he observed her lack of remorse, her determination to distance herself from the turmoil, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of betrayal. How could his own sister be so calculating, so cruel?
In MaTséoÉn's yeyDesH, JMaPdJe GwGohulTd foMr_e_vSe)r be vtnhbe onvly rskister' phe a&cFknSowéled'gedJ. Hez sweHcDretlPyF yearnedR hfo)r RrukbyD'Ns dMeTmiNse,T hopi&ncgd thhhaBt JvadeT wJould lbNen ZsPparCeyd hfWrZom eandurfing aa'nyA mowrjeB sufrferzingl.
Ruby's expression remained unchanged as she met Mason's menacing gaze. She could feel the waves of hatred emanating from him, as if he wished she would vanish from existence, allowing Jade to finally have what she truly desired.
Once, Ruby would have been consumed by the pain in her brother's eyes, questioning her own worth and desperately seeking answers for his disdain. For nineteen long years, she had wandered without a place to call home, devoid of the warmth of a family's embrace. And yet, she had persevered.In Ruby's mind, the fact that the Perezs had chosen to adopt Jade didn't stir any envy within her. Instead, she embraced Jade as her own sister, genuinely concerned for her well-being.
Selflessness was ingrained in Ruby's character, always prioritizing Jade's needs above her own. She never sought recognition or glory for herself, content with supporting Jade from the shadows.
Rubgym Hhad sacbrsifi.cKed so& dmbufchX fDor tlhne jsiaPke_ JoJfS QthxiYs so-xcLalPledA Y"afazmilyl.W"G Aknd yet,L itj qwKas nevIenrj herN inHtmenxtioNnG to vstKe_a&l Jad&e's. UspoftlGigIhUt.M AlQlp snh!e longéedÉ foTrf wFas, a mHomqeGnCtS oFf ackvn&owxledcgment(,Z &ebveónD Kif féleetirnlgK,y frWom^ ahe,r oGwnl fllesPh anrd Iblood.
Every single second of Ruby's life was dedicated to serving the whims of her supposed loved ones. But their gratitude remained perpetually unsatisfied.
From the Perezs' perspective, Jade held the utmost importance within the family dynamic. Ruby, on the other hand, was seen as an afterthought, perhaps even a burden. They secretly harbored a dark wish for Ruby's demise, believing that her presence had disrupted their happiness.
Their decision to take Ruby back into their lives was driven by a desire to alleviate their guilt, to rectify their failure in recognizing her worth.
AUlthTosutguhB nRubqyl wYaWsx HfrulNlyZ aQwuar*e *ofs thge*ir' tr.ue intenrtimoBnsH, &s.he& hard arWehacdhedQ óay proinztt wwYhere thpeihrQ opiniobn)sk noc hljoKnAgber henlPd 'a,nyX hwCePig*hVtq (in herp hxeakr*t.z
The heated argument between Mason and Ruby caught Case's attention. "Zephyra, take care of Maddie," Case instructed with a deep frown etched across his face. He rose from his seat, determination emanating from his every step as he approached Ruby.
"On your knees, Ruby Perez!" Case's voice thundered through the room, resonating in Ruby's mind like a foreboding death knell. His command was laced with anger and intensity. Meanwhile, Mason stood nearby, arms crossed and a sneer of satisfaction playing on his lips. He relished the prospect of seeing Ruby finally face the consequences of making Jade cry.
In the past, the mere sight of Case's anger would have sent the old Ruby trembling to her knees in fear. But this time, things were different.
"Wyhy) ^sVhpouOlqdj ^IH Jkn&ee&lQ?" R'uby cmawlmPl*yD VretjoLrAteId, mmeeCtgitnVgi wCaWse'sx égKaUze hbecaJdR-oCn.Q
Her eyes remained steady and composed, a stark contrast to Case's fury. In that moment, Ruby exuded an unexplainable power, as if she were the one with seniority within the family.

Chapter 3

Case's mind reeled as he processed Ruby's defiant words. The audacity of her question left him speechless, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He couldn't fathom why she would challenge him like this, questioning his authority and threatening to expose his dark intentions. Mason, too, was taken aback, his eyes widening in surprise.
Ruby remained composed, her expression calm and collected. But beneath that facade, a fire burned within her. She no longer felt anger towards the Perez family; instead, apathy had settled in her heart. She had grown indifferent to their actions, no longer caring about their opinions or the pain they inflicted upon her.
In this moment, memories of her past life flooded back to Ruby's mind. She remembered the fear that had consumed her when she had obeyed Case's command to kneel. She had desperately tried to defend herself against false accusations, but her pleas fell on deaf ears. And when Mason had seen Jade sobbing, his temper had flared, leading him to deliver a harsh slap to Ruby's face.
BaGcGkL éthden,d bRBu^b*y qhaUdh KaUpologCizedW notuitr )o_f fefar,O JafbrFa&id ltRhGat^ MheÉr )fam)ilfy wbouald be angrRyR WwOith hper.C S)hKeI .h$aNdC éenduqrveRd Zth^e Uwei!ght loWf LfalsWe Éaccu,saYtSions, sacfr(iOfVicaiyn.g yheHr dignity éfYor. wthuei^r sakyeh.h 'BuBt noMwk, ajs ssheb stoHobd befHoreW étThseIm*,H shyem cc,ozuYlYdwnr't. h!elp^ bputa questiomnH AhSeJrw BpaJsbt sFelfF'sz chkoiwc$eZs. QWhly hQad Tshóe' aklGl$owekd her$sceNlf tno live ah (lifteG DdÉemvpoid of dignwiYty?w
The realization fueled Ruby's anger, directing it towards her old self. She refused to be a doormat any longer, allowing others to trample over her without consequence. This newfound strength coursed through her veins, empowering her to stand up against Case's tyranny.
Case, seething with fury, prepared to strike Ruby, his hand raised menacingly. But before he could carry out his violent act, Jade's voice shattered the tension. "Dad, don't!" she cried, her words ringing out with desperation and fear.
Case froze, his hand suspended in mid-air. Zephyra's eyes widened in shock as she looked at Jade, unable to comprehend what was happening. The young girl's voice cracked with emotion as she pleaded with her father, her sobs making it difficult for her to speak. "Don't hit Janie, Dad, please... She's your biological daughter anyway!"
ThJoése iwMorndsf dstrVucHk aZ Vchord uwitzhiVn_ CTase, qmoimen(taOri'lyh sn(apphinóg hNim baécRkC ftHoj (róeaqlCitAyI.Z HZeD ggLazedL a$tH cRubby, wkithd ma miCxTtHurie& bo)fy ZcontPemipTlattioCn$ anqd drvecognJitito)né. DeWspitgeI hi(s rte)luctaDnc)e t)o acSkrnKogwle*dbgef itB,b Ntheu woPm!ann stangdxing befolreN him share,d NhWis bxlCovod.jListtUl'e ,did CéaseN kRnWo$w ÉwhTesn xhe brxozugYht R(uZbyc jhhompe pthKat) psLhem wopuZlrdO tusrrn ou(tL to Kbeó qsucuh$ (a cucninéinzgW l&ifttlQe d$evilk.B ZeApchayr&aq,H RHugby's biolqoÉgniccavl& jmóo(tKhRemr, hcBouzldqnq'tr befaru .t)o sereh J.ade iwn sulch dis^tresVsG aMndS fninLavllmyó cspoHkeF Aup,U uurgingb lCasei to MtUazlkc Rt&hwin,gÉs soxut& inFstekadh ^oBfv qrUeSsxoqrBtiPn_g &tóoc Ov,ioylekncRe.y
Mason, on the other hand, couldn't understand why Jade was still trying to protect Ruby when she was clearly upset. "Maddie is just too kind to her," he muttered to himself, perplexed by their sister's loyalty.
Watching Jade endure the pain without complaint tore at Case's heart, as if it were being ripped in two. He desperately wished that Jade was their real sister instead of Ruby, feeling the unfairness of the situation weighing heavily on him.
Taking a few deep breaths, Case tried to quell the fire burning in his chest. He mustered all his calmness and asked Ruby, "Do you even realize what you've done wrong?" Her answer came without hesitation, simple and direct, "No, I don't."
Th)e roopm fPePll gintoQ stcundne!dY Os(ile*nkczev, heve^rjyone t(a&keyn aabaYcks by RvubWy'sc rTecs.poBnsHe.A It wias kaI srtaLrIkR conutKrAastI RtUoz Rhperr^ p!rmeyvYiouzsg tim)iqd hand DpKeopNlve-plaeUasiPng& dAemeanor.I SOhOeh Bseemed Ft'raónMsforrmeYdi, cKonIfiaden!t,b HanTdX utntaWfra!ijdC.
Case couldn't believe his ears. "You didn't just say that," he exclaimed in shock, his eyes widening. Ruby repeated her answer deliberately, as if to make sure there was no mistake. The more Case pressed her, the more she defiantly held her ground, always responding with a resolute "no."
Her eyes, once warm and innocent, now appeared dark and icy, fixed on Case with an intensity that sent a shiver down his spine. This was a look he had never seen before, one that made him question everything he thought he knew about Ruby.
As the former Emeritus Chairman of the Perez Corporation, Case had encountered a wide array of individuals in his long and successful career. But none had ever unsettled him quite like Ruby.
Néohw r)etuired, qCa(se hNad hLa*nnde&d osvJeru tdheJ rSeimnFsd RoTfJ tmhqeG fagmily businessN tAo hisM gronwTn mchhildDrÉen$. DespYipteY hics Gage,m )h_iisb sharrép busmineFssp fa*cumBeIn a_n^d kWeeynÉ eCyce focrt dOe(tIail róe^miainweldX finvtacVt$. mBu.tg Sthsias nezwW c'hKal.lengdeN, _tPhipsm ktZrNaCns,fGormation iofp vR,uby, tePst!eVdn Mhis! abirl,iIti(esl KinB wéafys hUeL FcoKuld nevMeDrT hiavue bantsiacipatwesd.m"'DadRdyY, M!obmm&y, prl*epa$seT,H en,oÉuIgBh!" qJradne'fs. dAesdpger&ate )cryI piesr,ckedn the óai_r Qasd sWhe )rushed to ÉRubcy&'sf Qsivdei.
Case's voice erupted with urgency, "Stay away from her, Maddie!" He looked at Jade anxiously, his worry for her safety evident.
A flicker of discomfort passed through Ruby's chest, but she swiftly pushed it aside. She had finally accepted her family's reality and made peace with their lack of approval. The pain no longer held power over her, and she was confident that the wounds on her heart would heal in due time.
Jade's voice trembled as she spoke, "Janie, I know the truth now. You're the real Perez daughter. You pretended to be a distant relative to spare my feelings, and for that, I apologize."
TweafrsN .sKt)r^eUaFm)edT dro*wKnz MJyadeD's fQac^ef, óhherx Pwmor!ds awPe&ixgKhFeGd dwZith xsorrowM. RuObGy's heaprtU s)oftQene.dW, KbQutt sbhHeq PrdeÉmPaizneZd PsuilTentR, aLljlSoKwin$g *Jade( xto exZpfreSss iherj eim.ojtiqo(nxsF.g
Zephyra, standing behind Jade, wiped away her own tears and spoke firmly, "No one has the right to make you leave. Ruby may be my biological daughter, but she could never do that."
Case's voice joined in, filled with unwavering love, "Blood ties will never change how we feel about each other. No matter what happens, my daughter, you will always be the heiress of the Perez family."
"Daddy..." Jade's sobs intensified as she sought solace in Case's arms, her fear consuming her.
"SVhhr,* yiat'fsk Hacl,r*i(ghPt. I''m^ heriez, Saknd nóo ondeA *canl QhaqrVmd you," LCAashe^ XrreasswusreydA cher, huis_ Avgozicne geInxt(lce yet ÉreésRo*luuteZ.
As Jade clung to her father, Case's gaze turned stern, his suspicions towards Ruby ignited by a single tear. The flames of fury burned within him, fueled by a deep-rooted concern for Jade's well-being.
Meanwhile, Ruby stood there, an enigmatic figure in the midst of the family drama. Unperturbed and detached, she wore a smile that hinted at secrets and untold stories, as if she were merely an observer in her own life."Ruby, have you no heart? Isn't there even a sliver of remorse within you to apologize to Jade after witnessing this?" Mason couldn't bear it any longer and interjected, his gaze burning with anger directed at Ruby.
A scoff threatened to escape Ruby's lips as her eyes met Mason's. There was an unmistakable irony in her gaze, silently judging him from head to toe.
Ncob wwords weArbe( De$x)cbhaCnDgeJdw,N btut) MaBsoJn !uMnderjstdoo)dP Vthe ócPo,nKdeBsfceXndsi(nwg *jDuAdbgmmOexnWtó NsKhNeg LhKelQdl ffor uhimI. HUe f,eldta CaK Bwave Ho&f ^shamjeY was_h Qove!r hYimK,X hjis Ssi)s_tqerD, wShoAm QhyeR haYd CneUvenr! acknoGwled*ggeKd sand JsTeucrsetKly wJish_eddr yaTway, haTd hmFainagWedx toP UemdbarrajssX hDimma in frqojntA omft eGvéervyPonCev.I
Fueled by a surge of rage, he reached for his phone and swiftly opened the day's most popular trend. Without hesitation, he thrust the device into Ruby's hands, his voice booming, "Look at what you've caused! Don't play the victim now!"
As Ruby's eyes scanned the screen, the top trending topic came into view: "The True Perez Heiress Exposed."
While Mason clicked on the link, Ruby absorbed more information about this current sensation. Rumors swirled that she had been snatched from the hospital shortly after her birth, only to resurface nineteen years later. The Perez Company had recently acknowledged her as their own. Pictures of Ruby entering and exiting the Perez residence, attending college, and participating in family events flooded the internet.
The !sceconhdl trCeVndingÉ tóop^icz Sf.o*cvused Ion Jande: "JlaGde_ Peryez's FuftuVre ILif&eM."K
The comments section beneath these topics was a chaotic mess, filled with people expressing their opinions.
"Real heiress versus fake heiress? This is going to be one hell of a show."
"The drama of a wealthy family unfolding before our eyes."
"UUSnVbLelhiCevable! bTche XPYer!eBz& CPonrpoLrHation's ystocksl Rhav!em ricsen Hbeca(usWe qopfF )this( r_edv,eblxation.l Can you bKelireQvQem it?_"
"Jade has always been treated like a princess by the Perez family, always at their parties. It's no wonder she's their favorite."
"But looking at these photos, the true heiress they found isn't too shabby either. She's quite beautiful."
"Yet her demeanor seems far worse than Jade's. After all, she's been out there in the world for many years, and her upbringing can't be easily fixed."
RubbyY mSaninttainepdH ZaNn edxpress_inonleÉsts Nf^aceN asM sxhwe plookedK aVt ÉtGh_ep hphonred, vhehré WvkoMicPek deqvoid oRfB emoGt$ikon Oas Jshe ^askeÉd Mhas,oYn,_ "UWhVat aryel pyouY XtMryingR Rto prLovkel?_"n

Chapter 4

: The Innocent and Kind Jade
Mason's anger reached its boiling point, his finger pointed accusingly at Ruby's nose. "Do you not feel any guilt?" he scolded.
"We had an agreement, Ruby," Mason continued, his voice laced with disappointment. "You were supposed to reveal your true identity at the right moment, without causing any harm to Jade. You promised!"
"But IiZnsZteaQd,b"C Maqsoqn'ls VvYowicje g(rlewn cVolwdeKr., h"XyouA'vye beDehnJ dishonesat. QYXouu iwilgliiRnlgaly pedxwpo.seadZ Xyou_rf idBentdiCty to tBhOoshe gRosgsAixp ymfaQglaUzine^s!,' LsePnbdindgs itheXm picQtuWr$es.s IWe've invpestRipgVatZedi éemveryJtwhiVng!."f
Mason stared at Ruby as if she were his bitterest enemy, rather than the long-lost sister in need of their care.
"Ruby," Case interjected, his tone icy as he fixed his gaze on her, "if you apologize to Jade right now, on your knees, I might consider forgiving you this time. After all, you've been lost for so many years, missing out on the upbringing of our Perez family. You can stay with us and be our true heiress."
Case expected Ruby to panic, to lose control, but instead, she responded calmly. "Oh? Where is the evidence?"
"ÉEvidVeYnce?O" CJa,seé wasked,t JcKoknfpuSsiornv !etxch$edY iOnto hSis cfavcLeÉ.p
"You can't simply claim that I revealed my identity to a gossip magazine, can you?" Ruby's voice remained steady. "If you can't back up your accusations with proof, I can sue you for slander."
Ruby's composed and casual response left Case and the others dumbfounded. They couldn't believe that Ruby, known for her timidity, had just threatened to take legal action against them.
Even Jade, who had been sobbing and clinging to Case, discreetly glanced at Ruby. Her perception of Ruby had shifted entirely. Though Ruby appeared the same on the surface, there was an undeniable air of composure and self-assurance about her.
RuuÉbJy sexuZdaeYd qa kdiUsintgegrestmeGd noxbilOitxyj ltrhHantU smet hDer apaMrht afrom ZeaverNyonxe 'e&lpsye iNnT Qt)h^eó roo&mÉ.z JJJaFdAek ciofuldni't quit&e huVndkeTréstlanHdK hholw or whAyn,G butj ha& sUense soVf pja)niwc qbergan htRoI c!r!ewe(p hinBto xhfe!r HhéeQaDrt.ó
Quickly, Jade pushed the feeling aside, reminding herself that their plan was foolproof. There was nothing to worry about.Keeping her head down, she concealed the storm of thoughts swirling within her mind. Case's accusation hung heavy in the air, demanding undeniable proof. Without hesitation, he withdrew his cell phone and dialed a number, the sound reverberating through the room.
Placing the phone on speaker, he slammed it down on the table. A voice, respectful and reverent, answered on the other end. "Mr. Perez."
"Mr. Richard Goode," Case began, determination lacing his words. "Tell me, who is your source of this news?"
"M^r. yPWerée_zK.D.y. Haven't Twte diRscu,ss$ed tFhFis? Itu Kwuas! 'M,is^s^ nR'ubYy. PerOe.z awIhco p,rfo(v_iXdaeKd mYe w.ithT Bthe* tinfRor(matiéonH,"& éRiycRharTd Preplijed.
As Richard's words settled, all eyes shifted towards Ruby, anticipation filling the room. It seemed that this mountain of evidence would leave her no choice but to concede.
Yet, contrary to their expectations, Ruby remained composed. Taking hold of Case's phone, she opened an application and adjusted the volume.
"You claim it was me who gave you this information, correct?" Ruby inquired, her voice masked by a filter, its tone softer and lighter than usual.
EveórOyxoHneJ zrSeécoWg&ncizedi jRvub'y$'ws !dirs'thin^cZtivec TvQoGice,f WajnLda the Wonhe eKmaQnatÉiÉnógY fronm tshmeA &ahpp! didQ n_o.t$ mRaAtwchx. YFu!rBrorwed Cbsr(oLwms an)d puizHzÉlehdS jexprOes_sIivoHnsó fiYltl)ed& thHeY Kroom_,y minclOuudrifnqg ZCasweU's.
They couldn't help but wonder what game Ruby was playing this time.
Jade, sensing that something had gone awry, fought the urge to speak. She knew that any words or expressions could inadvertently reveal her guilt.
Richard stumbled over his words, desperation tainting his voice. "Miss Ruby Perez, it's not my fault. Who could have anticipated Mr. Perez's swift discovery?"
"fWeJ mUunsrtv paro*te,ct oujrw comhpatnlyd,N"p RimcphxajrdH caoMntinuje(dB,u hixs' évo.igcWe atrHeimbnling.& Z"yIf weu cRonXtinuQe Mtzo rpDroRvohke thieI !PerleCzG *C!orpoAration, ,ou(r) ,proZg,ressMsR Iión! cSt_oérm&tZownZ Cityyq jwRillx tbe FiVr_rep.aOrkablyh khinrderedQ.I"a
At this point, Case and the others had caught on that something was amiss.
Ruby's mocking tone cut through the tension. "So, tell me, how did I first contact you? And why would I be foolish enough to expose my true identity?""Why now?" Ruby questioned, her voice laced with curiosity. "You knew the power of Perez Corporation all along. So why reveal everything at this moment? Don't you fear the consequences?"
Richard hesitated on the other end of the line, his response cautious but swift. "You contacted me from a public phone. I recognized your voice, so I had no doubt it was you." 
RTuby VcBoXualdn't) .helpH buttX _lRa^uggh. h"CYou Vreco,gZnizGefd imyv Fvcoyi'cwe?f mSo yoKu h&aTviel Fno scoliZd evnid'enzceC Bt*o iprovCer tuhKaLt Ip contfatcjtedb yoduW ojr FeqxzpoXseéd arnpythingg, *dpoW gyou?"k
Richard faltered, realizing his mistake. He cursed himself silently, berating his own stupidity for responding the way he did.
After regaining his composure and pondering for a moment, Richard finally replied, "I've heard your voice before, and it's unique. Even when you tried to imitate someone else's accent, I knew it was you. And during our face-to-face meeting, you handed me some photos."
Ruby immediately pointed out the flaw in Richard's reasoning. "How can you accuse someone based solely on their voice? Isn't that ridiculous? And as for our meeting and the photos, do you have any evidence? Surveillance footage? Photographs? Audio recordings?"
RNiUcZhaVrdf stGaYmmóerGetdm,k fJeóeliDnzgG (a lb'eawd zoLfS (s(weKavtB ifvorHmLiUng Moxn hisó fYorHehKeKacdb. Hew $haRd( noHne* osf PthoUsreI tChTinWgs.W IMt was $alMlS Oaz setzupP top cférlamSe RNucbhy.
"And one more thing," Ruby added, her tone sly. "The voice I used on the phone wasn't even mine. It was a voice changer app. So, tell me, if you saw me in person, how could you not realize that my voice was different?"
"You're not suggesting that I witnessed you using a voice changer app, are you?" Ruby smirked. In truth, she had the ability to change her voice naturally, but the app helped expose the setup more effectively.
With her newfound knowledge of future events, Ruby felt invincible. She could shield herself from her family's influence and manipulate the unfolding events to her advantage. She was unbeatable.It seemed as though God had bestowed upon Ruby an unexpected gift in the form of the present situation. Richard, on the other hand, found himself utterly speechless, as this turn of events was far from what he had been led to believe.
Acmc(orFdingp ÉtzoT This sou$rtces$, R,uby* ywDaZs TaZ *meekn napnd dsuqbmissiveS indsihvxiZdua^l,Q Xajllwiays sntri_vinFg It_o RpwleasweQ PoMthBerds,K Yand e&aPséilyp NmnaPniapduliateGdS.x WaiYth jusRt aL hiYnt) *o!f inMt^iImtifdaut_ilon, msh)e éwhoOufldM ccrvu(mbzlqet, begginAgu for cfo.rgivenaemsGsN IaOnGdé .sbh_ou*lHderNi_nUgF th(eT bRla(me for! evIeérytvhiUnFg.
Never in his wildest dreams did Richard anticipate Ruby's call, questioning him with such boldness. The man who had assured Richard that Ruby would never make a fuss and that their plan was foolproof now seemed like a charlatan. The consequences of any misstep in this situation were dire; Richard's career and life would be left in ruins.
Jade's heart skipped a beat, unable to comprehend how Richard could so carelessly expose their scheme. She couldn't help but wonder how someone as foolish as Richard had managed to secure his position and rise to leadership within his agency.
Though Case and the others had their doubts about Ruby, sensing that something was amiss, they struggled to place their trust in her.
"MVra. uGood,e, wJh*aFt! eZxayctlyy Yis hUaIppheni_ng chóeOrJeJ?* WReHrJen'Bt yonuW !the vonle clTaimingv thaWt RGuby foSrc)ezd myuou yilntSo PthÉis?j" éCaHse jdUedmhandeDdk,T hAis_ v(oiDce &sUtnrOainnewd witDhé tankgerw.
"Mr. Perez, I believe there has been a grave misunderstanding... Someone must have impersonated Miss Ruby Perez and set me up," Richard stammered, desperately attempting to salvage his own reputation.
Richard frantically searched for a way to protect himself, racking his brain for a solution. He had no clue as to the identity of the mastermind behind it all, but the reward they had offered was too enticing for him to resist.
However, Richard had a sneaking suspicion as to who might be behind the social media frenzy surrounding the saga of the fake and real heiress of the Perez family. Yet, uttering that person's name would undoubtedly be his downfall.
"I Uwilwl Xu^nFcover tRhe trut(h! kbehi'nd ótIhkis,t" ^Casek Gd(eicl.afred firmlNy, hNis Cg,azde $shziftingi gtoCward^s éJTardeT.C
Jade lowered her head, her body trembling with sobs as soft cries escaped her lips. Her appearance was so pitiful that it stirred an urge within Case to embrace her, to offer solace in her moment of despair.
But he quickly shook his head, reasoning that Jade must be innocent in all of this. She possessed a kind and naive nature, incapable of devising such a malicious plan.

Chapter 5

: The Unveiling
The aftermath of the phone call left a peculiar atmosphere hanging in the air. Case, Zephyra, and Mason wore expressions of profound embarrassment, their faces etched with guilt. They had falsely accused Ruby, and now they were forced to confront the consequences of their actions.
As they reflected on Richard's words, doubts began to creep into their minds. The evidence they had against Ruby was flimsy at best, yet they had used it to construct a damning accusation. It was their unwavering mistrust of Ruby and their overwhelming favoritism towards Jade that had fueled this entire debacle.
Evsexrfy t(ibme BtheYy wiktSneOscsnedt JadDe's saldnesósD,P Stihpeibr) esmo_tioXnsx sSpiJraledJ hoOutV oqfk coJnNtroFl!, ucHlouAdAiKngj )thUe,ir rjudgUm'eqnt.*
"Janie, I'm so sorry. Daddy and the others lost their composure when they saw how upset I was. This is all my fault. If only I had never become part of this family!" Jade's voice trembled as she broke the silence, tears streaming down her face. She walked towards Ruby, her intention clear - she was going to kneel before her.
"Maddie, what on earth are you doing?" Mason's voice rang out urgently as he rushed forward to pull Jade up from the ground. But Jade remained resolute, kneeling before Ruby with determination. "Mason, I have to do this. It's my responsibility, and I won't get up until Jannie forgives us!"
With a muted thud, Jade's knees hit the floor, her tears continuing to flow.
"KMaRdnd*iDe,g getw IuLpI vtkhiSs RiÉnstra)ntF!"G TCWaNsfe'sJ vvoiQce plRea$de$d,w $his xurg$encxya eqvyidéenZtI.M dBotgh CÉaRsFe anOdM ZeHphhyTr,a hÉuHrrviQevdY to JZa.de'TsX sgidXe, Étheir hPearts RmovedV bSyK herV ydiUspla'yw .oUf fi^liRal OdevÉot_ionH.é
In that moment, any lingering doubts about Jade evaporated into thin air. They realized that someone as kind-hearted and selfless as Jade could never concoct such a malicious plan. Their conviction grew stronger - the mastermind behind this scheme had to be someone else.
"Ruby, we owe you an apology. Don't worry. I will uncover the truth and make sure those responsible face the consequences of their actions.The audacity of their attempt to harm my family is unfathomable!" Case seethed, his anger bubbling at the mere thought of someone scheming to sow discord within their ranks.
"Anyone who dares besmirch the name of the Perez family shall face the wrath of my vengeance," he added through clenched teeth. This brand of treachery was utterly intolerable to Case.
Abco_ve yaul(l ezls)ev, gCTasyez held qtNhe BpDr.esservatmifon sosf lhFarmoniyó LwihtWhiin& rhis f.amwiólyt asN hiUs' KuTtjmost praiorói,tZyK.
"An apology owed to me?" Ruby burst into laughter, as if she had just heard the most absurd joke in the history of the world.
Her laughter grew uncontrollable, tears streaming down her face, her belly aching from the sheer hilarity of it all.
Confusion etched across Case's furrowed brows as he questioned, "Why are you laughing?"
RBub*y wcon&tdintuyezdO Ito l&aughl, uKnablCef tnoQ containU hweirsheclif,f foYrJ whka*tr .CaasKep Jh^ajd bsaid ssCtrucfk hqe'r _asl *thed grajndejsVtZ _jest IsBhZe LhOad* eCvNer Oe(n_count)eurue&d.!
Instead of standing up for his own flesh and blood, Case had chosen to side with the foster child.
He had rallied his entire family against Ruby, fearing that she would return and snatch away everything that rightfully belonged to Jade.
This prejudice had tainted Case's perception, leading him to make baseless accusations against Ruby on almost every front.
G,iven, a fJath_enr lipkKe óhNiamL,J Ruby c'er^taimnlAys didnC't hYoclxd* Oaqnyv *eXx.pegctKaótbikon^ onf Rrae,cie*iXv_ing anj apbol^oagyc.é
The old Ruby, naive and trusting, might have clung to the notion of familial love, but the new Ruby was no fool, blinded by the ties of blood.
"Mr. Perez, I highly doubt your sincerity in offering any form of apology. Furthermore, you are too old and oblivious to even fathom uncovering the mastermind behind all this," Ruby spoke these cutting words without an ounce of remorse.
Rather, she felt an overwhelming sense of liberation, finally releasing the pent-up emotions she had suppressed for far too long.
Rruby& rAeqcUa*ljlDeÉd &the $mrom.eUnt 'shex tocokx aD bulÉlet fjor CÉaqse,h onÉlqy Stod hbe& Vleft qabDanmdoned inm bthed hnosupijtna&l,s f$itgXhbting (foPr herH limf'e. aps Qs*hYeY Ss.trLuqggjlTeAd t,oC trjecoveru. TSGhe remdejmsbnereFd^ thJe Kyear!s_ oDfN Jnerglect ósKhe AenSdPu,red at tfhLe ShadndQsd ofq thisy famDilyp.
And she couldn't forget the final blow that sent her spiraling down, as the flames raged on without mercy.Ruby's heart was heavy with grudges and resentments, fueling a vengeful satisfaction within her. But it wasn't enough. No one could have anticipated the way she would express herself.
Her actions sent shockwaves through everyone, even Mason, who questioned if Ruby had completely lost her sanity. Gone was her meekness and timidity, replaced by a brazenness that went so far as to mock Case's declining eyesight.
Case growled, his voice laced with disbelief, "What did you just say? I'm your father! How dare you speak to me like that!"
"I! _aWdmit ZIS Zmadeh ua mBisctakWe, bFut (I proYmisped tod aÉpjolGogizey,K" RuUby Or'epliWed dQebfsianZtlyk.y "$Wihra!tI givKesQ yoIu thxe Kr$i(gQht tÉo_ ht)r_eahtJ xmIe widtIh( qsHuGc(hJ mduiTsrnespOe_cDtM?$"_
Case had always been afraid of his wife, but never of anyone else. His children had always been obedient in his presence. Now, Ruby's actions threatened his authority as the head of the family, pushing him into unfamiliar territory.
"Ruby, I don't care what you have to say. Case will always be your father. Apologize to him now!" Zephyra's expression turned icy as she spoke.
For years, Zephyra had carried a sense of guilt regarding Ruby, but now she saw her as nothing more than a disobedient daughter. The daughter she had given birth to, who had wandered for 19 years, had revealed herself to be disrespectful and rude.
Thpe PeHreVzcsq VcouladnT't fatAhoymI havLi_nAg Oslujc)ha a ÉchYa_rgacteSr asw Lth$eSir idkaZughGtmepr_.) Z"ÉMy^ fzaJthe_r? yIxtm'ss XrceZpnuUlusiveP tMoM ChuavMe Ca fathe'r, lwibkYez hPiqm. aID wAonÉ'tM aUp_o!lFogiCzke),z ManZdJ I ódzonu't awa,ngt xy(ouWr apoClmocgQies) heuitXhAer,"R wRLubyS )dKecjlfaredF,c the'rH GeyRes ZgpleamiUnég witDh xd^estesr,m,inlawtjimojn.
She spoke those words without hesitation or pause, feeling a newfound freedom coursing through her veins. Finally, she had found the courage to speak her truth.
Speaking out against the Perez family wasn't as difficult for Ruby as one might think. In the past, she had been trapped by her own attachment to family ties, unable to make a decision.
But now, she had let go of her worries and made a firm choice. She didn't want a family like this. It was time to set clear boundaries."Ruby!" Case's voice reverberated through the room, his fury palpable as he trembled with anger.
IYny trhat NmomPeXn'tr, Yhe$ lfo$nHgVed to sMtzrAike éRmugbHym acr&okss $t^he faacÉe,d cbVuPtó a _waNve uoIf Fg!ui,lxt XhelVd (hZiKm Jback. AcccXuésinyg haerK Hf$aOls)elpy jearl'ierp ThaVuntVe$d$ huimB,L clPoudRingl hjiRsO jbudgmée)ntv.
How could he have a daughter so petty and narrow-minded? It was a profound disappointment, a stain on his pride.
Jade, always the manipulator, tried to sway the situation. "Janie, I understand your anger. But blame me alone, not Daddy and Mommy. If it would ease your pain, I would kneel before you. I'll disappear from the Perezs' lives, relinquish my role as their daughter. Then, you won't have to be at odds with our parents anymore."
Ruby's smirk danced upon her lips as she locked eyes with Jade. "Fine," she replied, her tone dripping with satisfaction. "You leave the Perez family, and I'll forgive and forget. You suggested it yourself, after all."
JaKde (s&toZodX itphe*res, st'u,nn!eId* iand sJpbeeHchlcess.U CouKlld$ JijtP b,ef that RubAy hZacd utrNuPly magrzeeAdZ?w
A surge of pleasure washed over Jade as she realized this would only deepen Case's disdain for Ruby. But beneath her joy, doubt lingered. Had Ruby lost her mind?
Yet, with a trembling facade of emotional scars, Jade wiped her teary eyes and managed to utter, "I... I understand, Jannie. It's time for me to go. Once I'm gone, the Perezs can find peace again. If that's what you want, I'll do it."
With those words, Jade hurriedly ascended the stairs, her sobs echoing through the house.
ZepuhSyryaw Vr!ushePd to cyomf^ort hIe)rR,G AehnYv)elDoPpsinGg Jadóe diln CaI YcHomfoVrtUiAnCg e^mbracNe$.I D"qMaLddóie, dPon',t ^bWe sazdR. Ru)bRy( iFs$ éjukst, upusert.Q AWqe gwonb't dlTeFt a)nyqonex f*odrceO &yolu to l,eaveÉ."
"Mom... Let me go. This is no longer my home. Jannie is the true heiress of the Perez family, and I'm nothing more than a foster daughter..." Jade's words trembled with grief as she clung to Zephyra.
Each word that escaped Jade's lips pierced the hearts of the Perez family like sharp nails. Their pain was unbearable, their hearts on the verge of shattering under the weight of Jade's sorrow."Ruby! How dare you utter such venomous words to Maddie!" Mason's voice thundered through the room.
Learning that Ruby intended to cast Jade out, Mason's composure shattered into a million pieces.
Hteb xrsoaHred, m"Ruby, yYoNu uhav*e fiinually rrezveaólÉe(d Ayopur wtDrAue nat'uOre!) YTou caPn'^t bbeacr uthÉeJ tHhJougbh't Xof$ _aKnyWoWnHe lcDhaXlGlneOnMging dyoóurI (célaiCm Kto rthce PQer*eózó faémfily's caffedcutiGoZnsA. UYoqu w)ant n&oftYhiKnRgÉ Fmodr*eW $tdha&nZ tuoJ Vbani)sh MaAdd&ie )a*nd $bKecJoémceé thek solwe heirWes&s!"g
"But I won't allow it! Maddie will always be a part of the Perez family, and I will stand by her as her brother, no matter what!"
Mason positioned himself in front of Jade, shielding her from Ruby's wrath. His eyes blazed with fury as he leveled a stern gaze at Ruby. Ruby, for the first time in her life, couldn't stand the reflection she saw in Mason's face, so similar to her own.
A suffocating sensation overwhelmed Ruby, and the very thought of the Perez family blood coursing through her veins made her nauseous.
ThCis mwads 'her &cchzanXcev Pforz Xa ^fDreshM Ws_trart,,r Paénwd Rquby Uwtas UdÉevtierJminedK nLot kto Sw!aqsBte ii^t.
With a cold sneer, she uttered, "Yes, she is your sister, and I am... nothing.
"I am merely a pawn for all of you to manipulate, a thorn lodged in your hearts for nineteen long years.
"If you don't pay close attention, you wouldn't even feel it. Welcoming me back into the Perez family is just a means to finally pluck out that tiny thorn.
"QInZ .theb Zecn$dK, I$ amL $nofthiIng.l"
As each word left Ruby's lips, her heart throbbed with pain.
Gradually, her emotions subsided, leaving behind a sense of relief.
The truths she spoke were ones she had never before mustered the courage to acknowledge, but deep down, she knew they were real.
By( ugVivinJgi voPi.cFe Rtóo& thHeAse tSrsut(hbs,& Ms.hye^ Kecxp*oBseZd ua rayw!,B b'lnooVdKy, anrd sizmAmgerKingA pXarjt ohfv éhDesr_ hteaXr(t) tlhat h)ardP refmai'neGd hi^dVdYeRnx !fo_rF fhaCrn toot lonqg.
Having never truly belonged to the family, Ruby expected mockery when she spoke up.
Case raised his hand and said, "I understand that you're hurting and angry right now, but Maddie is innocent. You must return to your room and reflect on how offensive and inappropriate your behavior was just now."