Romance with the Cursed Siren

CHAPTER 24. Mi Paraiso

The hidden coastal inlet where Pearl brought Crystal looked like something untouched by time itself. Nestled between towering rocky cliffs, the secluded cove was concealed from the outside world as though nature purposely hid it away from curious eyes. The crystal-clear turquoise water gently flowed toward the small crescent shore, its surface shimmering under the fading daylight like liquid glass. Moss and vines clung to the jagged stone walls surrounding the inlet, while the distant sound of waves echoed softly through the narrow opening leading to the sea. The place felt peaceful yet hauntingly lonely—perfect for someone who needed to disappear from the world.

Just beyond the shore, partially hidden by thick trees and wild overgrowth, stood the old shack that Pearl had prepared for Crystal. It was a tiny weathered cottage with faded wooden walls and a rusty tin roof that creaked whenever the wind brushed against it. Time had clearly worn the place down, yet there was still warmth hidden beneath its aged appearance. Small windows framed with old wood sat on each side of the narrow front door, while climbing vines wrapped around parts of the structure as if nature had slowly claimed it over the years. Surrounded by tall trees and untamed greenery, the shack felt isolated from civilization—a forgotten shelter tucked away beside the sea.

“We’re here,” Pearl announced softly as the speedboat slowed near the secluded inlet.

After sunset, Crystal emerged from the water, her greyish-blue eyes immediately drawn toward the breathtaking hidden cove. The towering cliffs surrounding the turquoise waters made the place feel secretive and untouched, almost magical. Gentle waves rolled onto the pale shore while the cool sea breeze carried the scent of salt and damp earth.

“It’s beautiful…” Crystal whispered in awe.

Pearl smiled faintly. “Not many people know this place exists.”

In the distance, barely visible behind the cliffs, stood the abandoned old shaft that Pearl had mentioned before—a dark reminder of the area’s forgotten past.

Pearl grabbed the large bag filled with clothes, groceries, and supplies before leading Crystal toward the small shack. Branches crunched beneath their feet as they approached the weathered little cottage.

The shack looked old and fragile, with faded wooden walls and vines crawling along its sides, but somehow it still felt welcoming. It stood quietly beneath the shade of towering trees, separated from the noise of the wworl.

“It used to be my father’s haven,” Pearl said quietly while staring at the tiny home. “He stayed here whenever he wanted peace from everything.”

Crystal looked at the place carefully. Despite its age, it carried a strange warmth that comforted her aching heart.

Inside, the shack was simple and cramped. A single bed with an old mattress rested against the wall, while a tiny sink and a narrow bathroom occupied the opposite side. A small round table stood in the middle with two wooden chairs beside it.

“What do you think?” Pearl asked excitedly.

Crystal slowly smiled. “I love it.”

“I brought you groceries as well,” Pearl continued. “I’ll bring more when I come back. And don’t worry about my daughter—I told her you’re away for work, just like her dad.”

Crystal nodded slightly. “Pearl… you really don’t have to do all this for me.”

Pearl raised a brow. “And why not?”

“I know someone who might hire me,” Crystal said quickly. “It’s a nighttime job. I’ll just sell waffles on the street. That’s all.”

Pearl blinked in surprise. “Sell waffles? Are you sure about that?”

Crystal gave a small, determined smile. “Yes. I can’t depend on you forever. I need to stand on my own now. I won’t let my parents’ sacrifices go to waste.”

Her voice wavered slightly at the end, but she held her ground.

“That’s my girl,” Pearl said warmly, pulling her into a tight hug.

Before leaving, Pearl hesitated and pulled out a few bills from her wallet.

“Here,” she insisted, pressing it into Crystal’s hands. “For your start. And anything else you might need.”

“Pearl, really—there’s no need. It’s just near the coast. I can walk.”

“I insist,” Pearl replied firmly. Then she softened her tone. “Think of it as borrowing, alright? You can pay me back once you start earning.”

Crystal exhaled, then finally nodded. “Okay… that sounds fair.”

After Pearl left, silence settled over the shack.

Crystal stood for a moment before heading to the small bathroom. The sound of running water filled the cramped space as she cleaned herself, trying to wash away the exhaustion clinging to her body.

But when her fingers ran through her wet hair and brushed it gently, tears suddenly welled in her eyes.

Her mother’s memory came rushing back—how she used to lovingly brush her hair until it shone, humming softly while doing it.

Crystal bit her lip, trying to steady her breathing. “I have to be strong,” she whispered to herself.

She closed her eyes, letting out a shaky breath as if releasing all the weight in her chest.

When she finally stepped out, a white towel wrapped around her, she walked to the bed and opened Pearl’s bag. She picked out a simple ruffled top and faded jeans, dressing quietly. She let her long hair fall freely, still slightly damp, and slipped into the flip-flops Pearl had given her.

Standing by the door, she paused.

“Thank you… for bringing Pearl to me,” she whispered into the empty air. “Please guide me… wherever I go.”

Then she stepped outside.

She followed the path Pearl had shown her, climbing the hill and eventually reaching the main road. From there, she walked along the sidewalk near the sea.

The city of Creekwood felt different—louder, heavier, unfamiliar. Unlike the calm of the island, everything here made her feel small and tired. After nearly an hour, she finally slowed down and sat on a nearby bench to rest.

“I should keep going,” she told herself firmly after a moment.

Taking a deep breath, she stood and continued walking until she reached the familiar waffle stand.

“Ham and cheese, please,” she ordered, suddenly craving the sweet and savory taste she remembered.

“Oh, it’s you again,” the vendor said with a grin.

“Yeah,” Crystal replied politely. “By the way, do you know where Margaux is?”

“Margaux? Of course. We’re good friends,” the man answered casually. “One second.”

He signaled across the street, and another man nodded before heading off.

“She’ll be here shortly,” he added, handing Crystal her order.

“Thank you,” Crystal said, unaware of the man’s lingering gaze as she focused on her food instead.

After a few minutes, Margaux arrived.

“Crystal! Honey, you came back!” Margaux exclaimed excitedly, pulling her into a quick kiss on both cheeks.

“Hi, Margaux. It’s good to see you,” Crystal replied softly. “About the job you mentioned… is it still available?”

“Of course, my dear! It’s perfect for you,” Margaux said quickly.

Relief flickered in Crystal’s eyes. “Thank you… I really need it.”

“Come with me,” Margaux said with a wide smile, linking her arm with Crystal’s. “I’ll show you my little paradise.”

They walked through lively streets where people smiled as they passed. The city felt awake even at night, almost like it never slept.

Soon, a brightly lit building appeared—bold red and purple lights flashing across a glowing sign that read 'Mi Paraiso'.

The entrance doors were carved beautifully, and posters of glamorous performers lined the sides.

“It’s… beautiful,” Crystal said quietly, taking it all in.

“Oh, just wait until you see inside,” Margaux replied with a teasing smile.

As Margaux pushed open the massive double doors, Crystal was immediately swallowed by the overwhelming atmosphere of Mi Paraiso.

The club looked like an entirely different world hidden beneath the sleeping city.

Neon lights painted the enormous room in shades of violet, crimson, and electric blue, while glowing laser beams sliced through the smoky air above the crowd. Circular light fixtures hung from the ceiling like floating halos, casting hypnotic reflections over the polished floors and velvet lounges below. Loud music pulsed through the walls and floor like a second heartbeat, vibrating against Crystal’s chest as if the place itself was alive.

At the center of the club stood elevated circular stages surrounded by glowing red lights where women danced gracefully beneath shining poles, their silhouettes illuminated by the flashing neon colors. Men filled nearly every corner of the establishment—laughing, drinking, smoking, and throwing fascinated stares toward the performers entertaining them.

The deeper Crystal looked into the club, the more unreal it felt.

Beautiful women in shimmering dresses wandered around the lounge areas, confidently leaning toward wealthy guests while waitresses carrying glowing trays of drinks moved smoothly through the crowd. Large black pillars lined with tiny golden lights stretched toward the ceiling, adding luxury to the sinful atmosphere.

Crystal stood frozen near the entrance, her greyish-blue eyes widening as she took everything in.

“This…” she whispered breathlessly, “…is Mi Paraiso?”

Margaux smiled proudly beside her, clearly pleased by Crystal’s reaction.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” she purred. “People come here searching for pleasure, fantasy, escape… and my angels give them exactly that.”

Crystal slowly looked around again, overwhelmed by the noise, lights, and unfamiliar energy surrounding her.

“It feels like another world,” she admitted quietly.

Margaux slipped her arm around Crystal’s waist and leaned closer. “That’s because it is, darling. Once people enter Mi Paraiso…” she said with a knowing smile, “…they forget everything outside these walls.”

“You see her?” Margaux pointed to a woman dancing gracefully on stage.

Crystal nodded slowly.

“That’s Rose,” Margaux said proudly. “She’s the most requested here. Everyone adores her.”

Crystal shifted uncomfortably. “Margaux… what exactly will I be doing here?”

Margaux smiled faintly. “Exactly like that.”

Crystal immediately shook her head. “I… I can’t dance like that. I don’t know how.”

“Don’t worry,” Margaux said smoothly. “You’ll learn.”

At that moment, a man approached them.

“Margaux! I see you’ve got a new angel here,” he greeted with a grin.

“Jason!” Margaux said cheerfully. “Yes, this is Lotus.”

Crystal blinked. “Lotus?”

Margaux gave her a subtle look. “It suits you, darling.”

Jason extended his hand. “Nice to meet you, Lotus.”

“Hi…” Crystal replied shyly, lowering her gaze as she shook his hand.

Instead of releasing it normally, Jason gently kissed her knuckles.

Crystal froze slightly, cheeks warming in confusion, while Jason smirked faintly.

He leaned toward Margaux. “How much for a night with her?”

Margaux chuckled lightly. “Don’t rush, handsome. She’s still adjusting. I’ll let you know when she’s ready.”

“I’ll be waiting,” Jason said, his eyes still lingering on Crystal before he walked away.

“Margaux…” Crystal whispered uneasily.

“Yes, darling?”

“Is there any other work I can do? I don’t think I can do this.”

Margaux paused, then casually pulled out Crystal’s golden bracelet.

Crystal’s eyes widened. “My bracelet! I almost forgot!”

“I can pay for it now—here!” Crystal quickly said, offering the money.

But Margaux simply shook her head. “We had an agreement, remember? You work for me… and you get this back.”

Crystal swallowed hard. “But I can’t do this…”

Margaux tilted her head. “Come with me.”

She led Crystal backstage into a dressing room filled with women preparing for the night—some doing makeup, others fixing hair, others slipping into shimmering outfits.

A makeup artist looked up and smiled. “Oh my… what a beautiful girl. Where did you find her?”

“Kaye,” Margaux replied lightly with a wink.

The woman chuckled. “And her name?”

“Lotus,” Margaux said.