Evelina's POV

  The soft chime of my arm echoed through my spacious bedroom, its gentle persistence rousing me from sleep. I blinked against the dim morning light filtering through the curtains, my body unwilling to leave the warmth of my bed. For a fleeting moment, I was tempted to ignore reality—to bury myself beneath the silk sheets and steal a few more moments of rest.

  But reality didn’t wait. Responsibilities didn’t wait.

  With a quiet sigh, I sat up, stretching my arms before running a hand through my hair. My body moved on autopilot as I slid out of bed, my bare feet pressing against the cool marble floor. I padded toward the bathroom, the familiar routine bringing me a sense of stability, if nothing else.

  The warm water cascading over my skin was a comfort, washing away the remnants of sleep. I let my mind wander as I thered soap over my arms, the scent of vender filling the air. It was a rare moment of peace—just me and the quiet hum of the shower.

  By the time I stepped out, steam curled zily in the air, clinging to the mirrors and tiles. Wrapping myself in a plush towel, I methodically dried my hair, ensuring not a single strand remained damp before making my way to my walk-in closet.

  Rows upon rows of meticulously arranged clothes greeted me—luxurious gowns, tailored suits, designer pieces that would make anyone envious. But my choice for today was already decided.

  The J High uniform hung neatly before me, its crisp fabric untouched. With practiced ease, I dressed, buttoning the shirt and adjusting my skirt, ensuring every detail was perfect before stepping out of the closet.

  At my vanity, one of my bodyguards was already waiting, standing silently with a brush in hand. Without a word, he began working on my hair, his fingers weaving through the strands with practiced precision.

  This was a routine I'm trying to get used to. Unnecessary, perhaps, but routine nonetheless.

  As he secured the final touch, another bodyguard approached, presenting a velvet jewelry box.

  I took it from his hands, flipping it open to reveal its glittering contents. Diamonds, pearls, and gold adorned the compartments, each piece more exquisite than the st.

  Yet, I reached for the simplest ones—a delicate neckce and a thin bracelet. Understated elegance.

  With my morning preparations complete, I rose from my seat, ready to face yet another day.

  ==================================

  The penthouse was as silent as ever as I stepped into the hallway.

  I passed by several servants on my way to the dining area, offering them small nods of acknowledgment as they greeted me.

  “Доброе утро, барышня.” (Good morning, miss.)

  I returned their greeting with a quiet “Доброе утро.” (Good morning.)

  Despite the grandeur of the residence, the silence was suffocating.

  When I entered the dining room, the table was already set. A vish spread awaited me—fluffy omelets, fresh pastries, an assortment of fruit, and a steaming cup of fragrant tea.

  Yet, the chair across from me remained empty.

  Alexei was busy. Of course, he was.

  I wasn’t upset. I understood his responsibilities. But even so…

  I absently stirred my tea, my thoughts wandering.

  I had only recently transmigrated into this body, yet the loneliness weighed on me in ways I hadn’t expected. If I felt this way, how much worse had it been for my predecessor?

  'She had grown up surrounded by family—ughing, eating, existing together—only to be left alone'.

  The thought left a bitter taste in my mouth.

  Shaking my head, I took a bite of my food and forced myself to focus.

  Dwelling on things I couldn’t change wouldn’t help.

  =================================

  J High was as lively as ever when I arrived. Students bustled through the halls, their chatter blending into a dull hum of background noise.

  But as I stepped into the cssroom, I felt it.

  A shift.

  Not hostility, but caution.

  'Ah. Alexei’s dispy of dominance yesterday must have left an impression'.

  Unbothered, I made my way to my seat, nodding at Jay in greeting. “Good morning.”

  A pause, then he nodded back.

  Satisfied, I pulled out a book on entrepreneurship.

  'What? I was a CEO now. I needed to keep my instincts sharp'.

  While the other students socialized, I immersed myself in the world of business strategies, analyzing market trends and investment risks.

  =================================

  When the bell rang, signaling lunch, I wasted no time.

  With practiced grace, I gathered my lunch and swiftly exited the room, maintaining my poise despite my haste.

  'Elegance must always be maintained'.

  I found a quiet spot to eat alone, allowing myself a moment of solitude.

  That was when I remembered.

  I had leveled up st night.

  But I hadn’t even checked my notifications.

  Because…

  ~Fshback~

  =================================

  The penthouse was dark when I returned.

  A relief.

  Thinking I had successfully evaded detection, I flicked on my phone’s fshlight.

  And nearly had a heart attack.

  Because standing at the top of the stairs, arms crossed, was Alexei.

  His voice was quiet but sharp. “Где ты была?” (Where were you?)

  I swallowed. “Я… была на прогулке.” (I… went for a walk.)

  His expression darkened. “Лина.” (Lina.)

  I winced. He only used that tone when he was seriously upset.

  Before I could defend myself, another voice joined in.

  “Алексей, дай мне тоже сказать пару слов.” (Alexei, let me have a word with her too.)

  I turned—and saw Uncle Dmitry.

  Who, I had just learned, was also a Solovyova.

  Which meant…

  I was about to get scolded. Again.

  By the time they were finished, I was mentally exhausted.

  =================================

  Night had fallen, and I knew that somewhere out there, another event was unfolding.

  Daniel’s first attempt at hanging out.

  In the manhwa, it had ended in disaster.

  But honestly? I didn’t see a reason to intervene. Some lessons had to be learned.

  Besides, no one had dared invite me to walk home after Alexei’s performance yesterday, so my evening had been blissfully peaceful.

  Then came a knock at my door.

  “Come in.”

  Alexei entered, carrying a ptop. I raised an eyebrow. “Что-то случилось?” (Did something happen?)

  Instead of answering, he sat beside me and opened the device.

  The screen lit up, and my face immediately brightened.

  “Nikoi!” I grinned. “Добрый вечер, старший брат!” (Good evening, big brother!)

  Nikoi’s warm smile greeted us. “Добрый вечер, мои маленькие звездочки.” (Good evening, my little stars.)

  Alexei scoffed. “Опять со своими прозвищами.” (With the nicknames again?)

  Nikoi ignored him, his expression turning slightly serious. “Вы в порядке?” (Are you both alright?)

  Alexei and I exchanged a gnce. “Да, не беспокойся.” (Yes, don’t worry.)

  Then I asked, “А ты? Ты в порядке?” (And you? Are you alright?)

  His smile softened. “Да… просто скучаю по своим маленьким милым сестре и брату.” (Yes… I just miss my little cuties—my sister and brother.)

  I ughed, but Alexei visibly cringed, his disgust clear. “Боже… хватит.” (God… stop it.)

  I ughed harder.

  Nikoi just smiled. Then, Alexei got to the point. “Когда ты приедешь в Корею?” (When are you coming to Korea?)

  Nikoi froze. Then, he smiled… mechanically. “Очень скоро.” (Very soon.)

  Alexei and I exchanged a knowing look. He was lying.

  Sighing, Nikoi admitted, “Ладно… я еще не закончил с работой.” (Alright… I haven’t finished my work yet.)

  He looked genuinely upset. “Простите.” (I’m sorry.)

  But we both shook our heads. “Старший брат, все в порядке.” (Big brother, it’s alright.)

  His eyes glistened slightly. “Я правда скучаю по вам обоим… это невыносимо.” (I really miss you both… it’s unbearable.)

  Alexei groaned. “Перестань.” (Stop.)

  I just smiled. “Ты скоро нас увидишь.” (You’ll see us soon.)

  We talked te into the night before Nikoi finally hung up.

  Alexei stood up and ruffled my hair. “Спокойной ночи, маленькая принцесса.” (Goodnight, little princess.)

  I smiled. “Спокойной ночи, брат.” (Goodnight, brother.)

  As I y down, I prayed.

  Let tomorrow be peaceful too.