The morning sun streamed through the tall windows of the mansion, lighting up the polished floors and Alicia's scattered sketches.
She sat at her desk, pencil hovering over the paper, heart racing.
This is it, she thought. No more waiting.
soft knock came at the door.
"Come in," Alicia called.
James Whitmore entered, his posture perfectly straight as always.
"Miss Alicia, breakfast is ready," he said, his tone calm, unwavering.
"I'm not hungry," Alicia replied, though her mind was elsewhere.
James gave a knowing nod.
"Understood. Shall I inform Mr. Alejandro you're working?"
"Yes… please."
Minutes later, Michael appeared quietly in the doorway of her studio.
"You're leaving again," Alicia said without looking up, though her cheeks warmed slightly.
"I didn't come to leave," he said, leaning casually against the frame. "I came to ask if you've made a decision."
Alicia hesitated.
"I… I think I'm ready," she said softly, finally meeting his gaze.
At that moment, Sophie Carter appeared, bouncing on the balls of her feet.
"You are?" she squealed. "You're actually doing it?"
"Yes," Alicia said, smiling faintly. "I'm going to register for the competition."
Sophie clapped her hands.
"Finally! About time, you showed the world what you can do."
Michael studied Alicia quietly.
"You know this won't be easy," he said, voice low.
"I know," she admitted. "But I want to try."
His lips twitched slightly.
"Then you have my support."
Later that afternoon, Alicia's phone buzzed.
A video call from Richard Anderson, her father.
"Good morning, sweetheart," he said, his voice warm but cautious.
"Hi, Dad," Alicia replied, hiding the flutter in her stomach.
"I hear you're entering a competition?" Richard asked, leaning back in his chair.
"Yes," Alicia said confidently. "I think it's time I pursue my dream."
Richard smiled, though a trace of concern lingered in his eyes.
"Just… remember who you are, Alicia. Don't let anyone take advantage of your talent. And don't forget family while chasing your dreams."
"I won't," she promised.
Richard nodded.
"Good. Keep me updated."
And just like that, the call ended, but his presence lingered, reminding her of home, responsibility, and support.
Sophie and Adrian Kade were in the corner, whispering about strategy.
"You think she can actually win?" Sophie asked quietly.
Adrian glanced at Alicia, who was focused on her sketches.
"She can. But she'll need guidance and protection."
Sophie looked at him curiously.
"You mean… Michael?"
Adrian nodded.
"Yes. And us. We'll need to watch for anyone trying to sabotage her."
Sophie smiled faintly, feeling the spark between them as they shared this mission.
By evening, Alicia had submitted her registration.
Her hands were shaking, but her heart felt lighter than it had in years.
James and Maria quietly arranged her sketches, while Lina polished the windows, sunlight bouncing off the glass as if celebrating her first step forward.
Even the house seemed to hum with anticipation.
Outside the mansion gates, the enemy noticed the change immediately.
She's taking initiative, they noted. She's showing him she's more than a distraction… and more than a weakness.
A small, calculating smile spread across the enemy's face.
Patience, they reminded themselves. Soon, the plan would begin.
Inside, Alicia finally leaned back in her chair, taking a deep breath.
She glanced at Michael, who was quietly reviewing documents in the study.
He looked up and smiled briefly.
"I'll be here," he said simply.
And that was all she needed to know.