THE RING OF REDEMPTION

Chapter 1 "Wake up, Darya!" Daisy screamed as she walked to Darya's room. "She sleeps like a log of wood," Grandma commented. Daisy chuckled while opening the door to Darya's room. "I can't believe you are still sleeping by this time, Darya. Today is our day; we are going to graduate today, not just that, but as medical laboratory scientist," she tapped Darya each time she said a word out of her mouth. Darya opened one of her eyes, stretched her body, and yawned."Wake up, Darya!" Daisy screamed as she walked to Darya's room. "She sleeps like a log of wood," Grandma commented. Daisy chuckled while opening the door to Darya's room. "I can't believe you are still sleeping by this time, Darya. Today is our day; we are going to graduate today, not just that, but as medical laboratory scientist," she tapped Darya each time she said a word out of her mouth. Darya opened one of her eyes, stretched her body, and yawned. "I wish not to go; I don't want to see the face of those stupid men," she made a disgusted face. Daisy sighed. "Darya, you promised me you would attend our graduation. It's not forever. Get ready." Daisy dragged Darya out of bed, and they both started laughing. After getting ready, the girls headed to the kitchen to meet Grandma. "Good morning, Grandma," Darya hugged her. "Oh, good morning, Grandma Jessi. I didn't greet you; I was carried away by Darya," Daisy looked at Darya while frowning. "No issues, I understand. How are your parents? Are they not coming?" Grandma asked. "They are always busy with work, work, and work. They don't have time for me, only how to make money," Daisy replied with a look of disappointment. "Don't say that. They care for you; all they are doing is to make you live a comfortable life," Grandma said while smiling. "I know, but at least they should make me feel special. The only time my father is interested in anything concerning me is when it's about my career. I wanted to be an accountant, not a medical laboratory scientist, but I had no choice other than to do what he wants," Daisy said with teary eyes. Darya's mood changed. Darya and Daisy were so close that you couldn't tell that they were not sisters. She hugged Daisy. "It's okay." Daisy returned the hug. "I don't want this to spoil our big day," Daisy smiled. "It's a big day for you, but it isn't for me," Darya frowned. Daisy and Grandma Jessi looked at each other. "Hmmm, enough of this. By the way, Darya, why don't you wear the beautiful gown Daisy bought for you, huh?" she asked. Darya tilted her head to the right, she smiled. "Grandma, you and Daisy know I'm only comfortable in baggy clothes," Darya gazed at the floor. "Darya, please be proud of your body. This is a shape every woman wants," Daisy said. "Well, I didn't ask for it," Darya sat on the wooden cabinet. "Who wears baggy jeans and a big T-shirt to a graduation party?" Grandma asked. "Darya does," Daisy laughed. "At least please your friend. The dress is beautiful," Grandma said. "Grandma, she knows I don't like those kinds of clothes. Well, I do like them, but I'm not comfortable in them. I hate how those disgusting men look at me. I really don't want to be the center of attention," she said with a deep frown on her face. "Why don't you give me money to get surgery, so I can remove these hips and ass?" Darya shoved a big piece of bread into her mouth. "If I give you all my savings for surgery, how are we going to survive? You know it's not easy," Grandma sighed. "I know, so everyone should let me be," she jumped down from the cabinet. "Daisy, you are looking beautiful in that pink gown," Grandma smiled at Daisy. "Thank you, Grandma Jessi," Daisy hugged her. Darya smiled. "Yeah, she is. Daisy, let's go. I really want to pluck the eyes of those old men," she yanked Daisy. Daisy shook her head. "Darya, please don't make any scene," Grandma pleaded. "I will if no one bothers me," she replied. "Please eat so you girls can meet up," Grandma started clearing up the kitchen. "Grandma, I ate from the house," Daisy said nervously, because she knew what Darya can spill out of her mouth and she wasn't wrong. "She doesn't want to eat because our food are poorly made, and we can't afford a meal like hers.The one that's been prepared for her, because she's a rich kid," Darya laughed, teasing Daisy. "Darya," Daisy screamed. "Why will you say that?" Daisy frowned. Grandma smiled, and Daisy hit Darya on the shoulder. "I'm just teasing you," Darya took another slice of bread with jam and ran out. "Darya, your coffee," Grandma yelled. "I'm good," she screamed from outside. Daisy followed her while laughing. Grandma shook her head with a gentle smile on her face. "We will be expected," she added. "I will be there in no time," Grandma replied. "She is the reason why I'm still living after losing everything I have," she murmured as she cleaned her teary eyes. AUTHOR ESTHER PAUL?? AUTHOR'S POV (ESTHER PAUL) A bold description adorned the gigantic gate of one of the largest universities in the city, the prestigious "GALVIN UNIVERSITY." The auditorium bustled with people of diverse backgrounds - varying in color, race, size, and height. The air was filled with a sense of celebration as everyone went about their activities. Graduating students donned their convocation gowns, creating a picturesque scene. Galvin University boasted a stellar reputation, not only within the state but also nationally and globally, both among students and staff. As the massive gate of the university swung open, a palpable excitement coursed through the crowd. It was evident that an important person had arrived. A procession of seven sleek black cars with tinted windows made its way in, and everyone recognized the significance of this annual visitor. Tension filled the atmosphere as everyone streamed inside. DAISY'S POV Darya and I sat at the rear of the vast auditorium, designed to accommodate over 5,000 people. I nudged Darya gently, "Darya, I can't see what's happening." Her eyes remained closed, a clear sign of her disinterest in the proceedings. "What's so captivating here, anyway? Besides, there's a projector, and I didn't force you to sit here; you chose to," she retorted with her eyes still shut. I had expected nothing less from her; . "I know you'll cause a scene if I leave," I replied. "That's if they don't step on my toes," she remarked. I sighed, "Hmmm." Darya had earned a reputation throughout the school for being cold, rude, and confrontational with men. Her only positive image was that of the best student in the entire university. However, that wasn't entirely true. Darya and I had been friends since high school, and our bond had evolved from mere friendship to sisterhood. Darya was my best friend, a sister from another mother. She was undeniably beautiful, with a kind soul—the purest person I had ever known. But why did she project such a negative impression to everyone? Darya harbored a deep-seated hatred for men, wanting nothing to do with them. The sight of men repulsed her, and I knew there had to be a reason, one known only to her grandmother. Lost in thought, I was jolted by cheers from the audience. I stood on my seat, straining to see what was happening. It was Ronin Galvin. My eyes widened. We only got to see him once a year. According to the school's history, it was founded by Ronin's late father. And I had a weakness for handsome men. Wink... DARYA'S POV I wasn't thrilled to be here; I was only present for two important people in my life: Daisy and Grandma. I was doing this out of obligation, and yes, I knew I was strange. Who wouldn't be happy on their graduation day? Apparently, that would be me. The screams and cheers from the audience caught my attention. "Let's welcome Ronin Galvin," announced the commencement speaker through a microphone. Applause filled the air, but I had no idea who this Ronin Galvin was. This marked my first attendance at a graduation ceremony, and I had no desire to change that. I felt a slight rumbling on my shoulder. "It's Ronin Galvin. He's so cute, tall, and masculine. Oh my God, he looks like a lead character in a movie. I'm drooling. I have a thing for cute guys," Daisy exclaimed, her face glowing with delight. I shook my head, "You can go join them. Stop babbling nonsense. Share your excitement with someone who cares," I said, growing irritated. "You're boring. So boring. You might want to take a look; he's really cute, Darya," she insisted, touching my cheek. "Daisy, stop it," I scolded her. "No," she pouted with her irresistible puppy-dog eyes. Those eyes had a way of affecting me. Her big brown puppy eyes. I closed my own eyes, and a few seconds later, someone tapped my shoulder. I opened my eyes, assuming it was Daisy. But it was a man in a suit, wearing dark glasses, towering over me. My anger surged. "How dare you?" I snapped, rising to my feet. "Stand up immediately," he barked. "Why should I?" I challenged. "Darya, please don't start," Daisy implored, holding me back. "I beg you," she added, clasping her hands together. DAISY'S POV I had been engrossed in the proceedings until I heard a commotion nearby. It was Darya, and she was having an altercation with a bodyguard, presumably from Ronin. The argument was escalating, and I had to intervene. "Darya, please don't start," I pleaded. Murmurs of disapproval began emanating from the audience as Darya's outburst continued. Darya clenched her fist, and I could sense trouble brewing. "Darya, stop," a voice called out, a voice that sounded familiar. It was Grandma. I turned quickly, a wave of relief washing over me. DARYA'S POV I was on the verge of losing control when I heard Grandma's voice. "Darya, stop," she said, standing before me and locking eyes with me. I felt a part of me soften, and I unclenched my fist. "Consider yourself lucky," I muttered to the man. "And who do you think you are?" he retorted. "Your worst enemy," I shot back before leaving the auditorium. I sought solace under a tree to calm down. An agonizing memory resurfaced, an unforgettable experience that had altered my life and Grandma's. It had reshaped my purpose on this earth. My purpose now boiled down to one word: "REVENGE." I was ready to spill blood... AUTHOR: Esther PAUL??? DAISY'S POV I was ecstatic, and only those in the back seat were aware of what had just happened. I was about to follow Darya when Grandma Jessi held my hand. "Don't worry; she will be fine," she said, her eyes carrying a hint of sadness that made me uneasy. "Okay," I nodded. The graduation ceremony was still in progress. It was time to award students for their achievements. As for me, I wasn't expecting to be among the top ten students in this university. I might be well-behaved and all, but I was still struggling to be an average student. I sat down quietly, unable to concentrate anymore. My mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Darya. Where could she be at this moment? Suddenly, I heard Darya's name from the commencement speaker. I sat up straight, my gaze fixed on the large projector screen before us. "The best student of this year goes to Darya Whitethorn," the commencement speaker declared. "Since the foundation of this school, no other student has been able to surpass Darya Whitethorn academically," he added. I felt elated. Yes, Darya was truly a genius. I turned to look at Grandma Jessi, but I was anxious. What if Darya didn't show up? Grandma Jessi signaled for me to come down; it was clear that I was nervous. "I will handle this," she whispered, standing up quietly and walking out. The commencement speaker, unaware of the unfolding drama, asked, "Where is Darya Whitethorn?" "Hey, Daisy, where is your friend?" a girl seated nearby asked. "She's coming," I replied. "Well, let's proceed," he said. "No, I want to see that student," someone spoke up. I looked at the projector screen, and it was Ronin Galvin. My nervousness escalated. DARYA'S POV I remained seated under the tree, regretting ever coming to this so-called graduation ceremony. I despised attention, and I wasn't going to budge an inch. "Darya," I heard Grandma's voice. I turned towards the direction and saw her approaching me, wearing a smile that instantly put me at ease. She asked, "Are you okay now?" "I don't think so," I replied. "You will be fine. Your presence is needed inside," she reassured me, her eyes brimming with pride. I cherished those moments when Grandma Jessi smiled; it brought me peace. "I really don't want to face anyone right now. What I'm doing here is solely to see you happy. Going to school and achieving good grades isn't what I desire," I confessed, looking at her. "I know, but just this once, please," she pleaded, her eyes filled with longing. Grandma Jessi's gentle yet determined demeanor always moved me. She was one of the strongest women I had ever known. "Okay," I reluctantly agreed, and we stood up. "Let's go," I said. I followed Grandma Jessi, my steps heavy with apprehension. DAISY'S POV Mrs. Kate approached me, inquiring about Darya. Mrs. Kate was one of the few female lecturers Darya was close to. We both heaved a sigh of relief when we saw Darya and her grandmother entering the auditorium. All eyes were on them. "She loves creating a scene," a girl behind me remarked. I turned to look at her, silently cautioning her with my gaze. Mrs. Kate took Darya's hand, and they both proceeded towards the front stage of the auditorium. GRANDMA JESSI'S POV I was overjoyed; at least, I had a reason to be alive and happy. My grandchild never ceased to amaze me. DARYA'S POV Mrs. Kate and I made our way towards the front stage of the auditorium. All eyes were on me, their stares like daggers. It felt as if I should use my bare hands to silence these judgmental individuals. I knew they had done nothing wrong, but they were the same gender with the same motives and ambitions that I detested. I suppressed the anger building up inside me. "Why do you enjoy creating a scene, Darya?" the school counselor asked, but I ignored him, avoiding eye contact with anyone. "Enough," a deep voice interjected, and I turned my head slowly. It was, as I guessed, the so-called Ronin Galvin. I looked away nonchalantly, feeling the hostile gazes of those sitting on the higher platform in the auditorium. Ronin came closer, holding some award, accompanied by a photographer. They all rose from their seats. "Please, Darya Whitethorn, come forward," the commencement speaker requested. "I'm fine here," I replied defiantly. "Huh?" "It's just a photo," Mrs. Kate clarified. "I never asked for it," I said. "I have no interest in taking pictures with all these walking demons," I stated boldly. "How dare you," someone exclaimed, but I wasn't interested in knowing who. The bodyguards were prepared to pounce on me, and I was ready to fight back. "Stop. Let her be," someone intervened, presumably Ronin Galvin. I walked out of the auditorium, seething with anger. RONIN'S POV I was taken aback, but I concealed my surprise. One thing I had learned since taking charge of my father's wealth and business was to control my emotions. I couldn't recall the last time someone had shown me disrespect, ever since I assumed my father's position. Even those who didn't wish me well...hmm. DAISY'S POV I could hardly believe Darya's actions. I continued to stare at her during our journey back home. We were in my car, with my driver at the wheel. We arrived home before the ceremony had concluded. "Stop boring holes into my body," Darya quipped. "Hmm," I sighed. "What's wrong?" she inquired. "Nothing," I replied, though my thoughts were far from settled. "If you say so," she responded. Finally, we got to Darya's house. Darya lived in Taos, New Mexico, while I resided in Ranchos de Taos. Darya and Grandma Jessi alighted from the car, and I followed suit. They both looked surprised. "Daisy," Darya called. "Yes," I replied, forcing a fake smile. I was determined to confront her today. I needed answers; I didn't want to be kept in the dark any longer. "What happened?" she asked. "I'll be spending the night here," I declared. "But you never told me," she exclaimed in surprise. "Oh, dear, do I really need to inform or seek permission from someone who calls me her best friend?" I grinned. Today, I was prepared to confront her and demand answers. I didn't want to be left in the dark any longer. GALVIN'S MANSION. AUTHOR'S POV A young man sat on the white sofa in the sitting room, which was decorated almost entirely in white. The living room was a sight to behold. The young man was engrossed in his phone while two other men sat opposite him. One was elderly, the counselor of GALVIN UNIVERSITY. The other, in his early thirties, had his eyes shut, leaning on the sofa. "Young Dad," the young man on the sofa called out. "Something is bothering me." "Something is always bothering," a voice chimed in. Everyone turned in the direction of the voice. A young, handsome man with dark, silken hair that cascaded onto his shoulders entered. A silver necklace adorned his neck, and he wore a sleeveless hoodie. "Welcome, Sir Ronin," the counselor greeted. Ronin acknowledged with a wave of his hand. Ronin had a cold demeanor about him. "Rowon, what is bothering you?" the man in his early thirties asked the young man on the sofa. "Who's that girl? What's her story?" Rowon inquired. "She's not someone you want to know," the counselor interjected. The three men turned their attention to him. "Why?" Sam, the man in his early thirties, asked. "Darya, everyone knows her. She's rude and of bad behavior. She's not someone you would like to meet," the counselor explained. "I don't think so," Rowon shook his head. "Sir Rowon, she doesn't worth it." Ronin stared at the counselor for a moment and then looked away. Rowon remained surprised and eager to learn more about this mysterious Darya. She had been labeled a villain, but there was a story behind most villains, or so he believed. Rowon Galvin was Ronin's younger brother. DARYA'S ROOM... AUTHOR'S POV (ESTHER PAUL) Daisy stood before the mirror in Darya's room. There was just a bed that could accommodate two people; it was placed on the floor. A table and chair were in one corner, a small wardrobe, and a shoe rack. Darya's bedroom was below average for a girl's room, but it didn't change anything between Daisy and Darya. She even felt more at home in Darya's small house compared to her father's mansion.