Crimson Rain

chapter 2

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Japan, Morning

The rain-soaked streets of Manila were now behind her. Isla, still small and fragile, was nestled in Aunty Linda’s arms as they stepped into a waiting car. Across the ocean, the neon lights and bustling streets of Japan awaited—a world entirely new, entirely unknown.

The couple carrying her were well-known across the nation. Queen Linda, the famous actress adored by millions, and her husband, a renowned neurologist, carefully held the little girl. Her tiny hands clung to Aunty Linda, unaware of the attention she was about to attract.

Outside, flashes went off. Paparazzi had spotted the trio stepping out, and cameras clicked relentlessly. Within hours, the story exploded across headlines: “Famous Couple Welcomes 5-Year-Old Child into Their Home!”

Isla’s eyes widened at the unfamiliar faces, the bright lights, and the sudden swarm of cameras, though she didn’t understand why everyone was staring. All she felt was the strange tug of curiosity and anxiety, her small hand clutching Aunt Linda’s tightly.

The couple had expected some media buzz, but it didn’t bother them. Isla was already their adopted daughter now, and that bond mattered far more than any headline.

They stepped into a luxurious, sleek car—low-key, elegant, and shielded from prying eyes. Isla, still small and trembling from the morning’s emotions, was gently held by Aunty Linda. Her tiny hands gripped the folds of Linda’s coat as the city lights flickered past.

Inside the car, the atmosphere was quiet but warm. Queen Linda reached over, brushing a strand of hair from Isla’s face, while her husband adjusted the seatbelt around Aunty Linda so that she could hold Isla safely. Outside, the cameras clicked, but inside, it was just the small family, cocooned in soft light and gentle murmurs.

Isla’s eyes, still clouded with tears and confusion, watched the world pass by through the tinted windows. She didn’t understand why people were looking, but she felt the steady comfort of Aunty Linda and the quiet reassurance of her new parents. For the first time since the tragedy, a small flicker of safety began to bloom inside her heart.

******

Uncle Jason stepped out of the car and gently picked me up. My eyes wandered around the house, taking in every detail. Outside, a big yard stretched wide, dotted with delicate lilies—my mom’s favorite flowers. I looked around with wide-eyed curiosity, my heart racing with excitement and nerves. A new home, new parents… everything felt so different, yet strangely full of possibility.

As soon as I reached the living room, my eyes fell on a tall boy sitting on the sofa. Is he waiting for us? That was my first thought. I knew Uncle Jason and Aunt Linda had a son, but I had never met him before. Could this… be my brother? My heart skipped a beat, a mix of excitement and nervousness swirling inside me.

_ _ _ _ _ _

Before the boy could call out “Dad,” he was interrupted. Aries looked confused, his brows furrowed as he tried to make sense of the situation. Why would Dad and Mom bring this girl home? His thoughts raced. Uncle Jason gave his wife Linda a small, knowing nod, while she cradled me gently in her arms. She rocked me slightly as she walked toward the room that had been prepared just for me, her calm presence making the uncertainty feel a little less frightening.

Aunt Linda brought me into a big, pretty room—the walls were soft pink, and everything looked so neat and warm. It felt like a dream. She led me into the bathroom and helped me freshen up, her touch gentle and caring. Not long after, a maid entered the room carrying a tray with my lunch. The smell made my stomach rumble, and I realized just how hungry I was.

Aunt Linda smiled softly and told me that from now on, the maid would be my new nanny. I felt a little nervous, unsure how to react, so I just nodded quietly. After giving a few instructions to the nanny, Aunt Linda gave my hair a light pat and left the room. The nanny sat beside me and began to feed me patiently, her movements calm and careful. I stayed quiet, still taking in everything around me—the taste of the food, the soft pink room, and the strange new feeling of belonging somewhere unfamiliar.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

When Linda stepped out of the room, she found her husband and son still sitting in the living room. Jason looked at Aries and said calmly, “Isla will be your sister from now on.”

Aries turned to his mother in disbelief. Linda simply nodded, confirming what his father had just said. A mix of confusion and frustration stirred inside him. Seriously? he thought. They barely have time for me, yet they somehow have time to take care of another girl?

He looked away, trying to hide the sting of jealousy rising in his chest.

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To be continued....