19 Seducing a weak heart
Rafael sat on a tall stool, indulging in a glass of whiskey. It had been half a year since the unfortunate event that compelled him to be apart from his beloved. The heavens seemed to empathize with this sorrowful young man, as torrential rain persistently fell from above. Rafael grappled with the harsh realization that he had lost both Kanna and their daughter and struggled to come to terms with it.
"It has been six months and you continue to waste your time on a woman who did not fight for you," Karl exclaimed, as he confiscated the bottle of whiskey.
The young man rose defiantly from his seat and confronted his father.
"If anyone should be held responsible, it is you!" Rafael shouted, accusatorily pointing his finger at his own father. "If only you hadn't objected, if only you had surrendered to their wishes, we could have been together! And my daughter would still be alive!"
"What?!" Karl's anger surged within him as he forcefully pushed Rafael onto the table and delivered a punch to his stomach. The noise caught Bianca's attention; she hurried in and intervened between them, urging both men to maintain composure.
"You should be grateful that I saved your life!" Karl yelled while pointedly gesturing towards Rafael.
"I regret being alive. I regret having you as my father. I even regret being born into this family," replied the young man before storming out of the house, leaving behind an exasperated Karl and a distressed Bianca."
----
After the intense event that angered his father, Rafael sought solace at a local bar. In an effort to calm himself down, he continued to sip on whiskey and reflect on previous memories. As he indulged in these thoughts, an unfamiliar woman with shoulder-length hair approached him while donning a short black dress.
"Erina," Rafael recognized the familiar face from his time as a stowaway,
"Are you still struggling to let go of her?" Erina took a seat beside him. The young man couldn't help but notice her provocative attire which added to his confusion.
"I can't seem to move on, especially when I witnessed how they murdered your daughter," Rafael confessed, hastily drinking the whiskey he had ordered.
"While I am deeply saddened by what happened, it's important to remember that everything happens for a reason," Erina comforted him while gently caressing his hand. "I will reveal the truth behind their actions and help you make sense of it all."
Erina seized hold of Rafael's inebriated hand and forcefully pulled him towards her car. She swiftly transported him to the majestic Fontierra Mansion, where they both gazed through the window from inside their vehicle. As Rafael observed Kanna being disrobed by Jude and tenderly caressed by his adversary, an overwhelming sorrow engulfed his heart that caused it to shatter into countless fragments. He shook his head incredulously, clenching his fist with such intensity that he bit down on it involuntarily. In a state of uncontainable anguish, tears cascaded down Rafael's cheeks while tremors visibly overtook his quivering lips.
"No, no," Rafael cried uncontrollably, tears streaming down his face like those of a young child. "I understand," Erina comforted him, embracing Rafael with her arms. "The person who means everything to you is being disloyal. Come with me to my apartment."
Erina brought Rafael back to her apartment, capitalizing on the intense emotions that still lingered between them. As he sat at the table, seething with anger and sorrow, Erina embarked upon a mission to calm the tempestuous young man's inner demons. Tenderly stroking his face with affectionate care, she gradually leaned closer until their lips met in an intimate embrace. The escalating passion urged them towards her bedroom where they could explore their desires more freely. Methodically undressing him by removing his shirt and pants, Erina unveiled Rafael who had become completely entranced under her spell. Their mouths fused together once again as they exchanged fervent kisses while simultaneously entwined limbs began tracing tantalizing paths along each other's bodies. With mounting anticipation coursing through every fiber of Erina's being and responding ardently to her touch, she pressed herself gently against Rafael's pulsating manhood before gliding it inside herself slowly. A mixture of ecstasy and pain caused Erina to let out a thrilling cry heralding both pleasure derived from fulfilling physical cravings as well as sensations bordering on discomfort.
"Are you okay?" Rafael inquired with concern.
"Yes, please continue," Erina responded sweetly. Suddenly, a mixture of pleasure and pain filled the air as Rafael thrust his hips forward, penetrating Erina's intimate space. The passionate encounter brought forth moans and gasps from both participants. Despite it being Erina's first time engaging in such activities, she maintained control over the situation while experiencing intense pleasure. Rafael was no stranger to such encounters due to his upbringing with a notorious reputation for indulging in carnal desires. His impressive physique added to the allure he held over women like Kanna before her leash shifted to Erina that night. The following morning brought confusion for Rafael as he slowly awakened next to an undressed Erina lying peacefully on her bed. He carefully assisted her back into clothes before hastily making his way home.
-----
Karl was perched on the staircase at the Marino Mansion when Rafael, his son, strolled past him. Karl decided to playfully comment on what he perceived as a strong scent of chlorine emanating from Rafael:
"Seems like you've had quite a workout and some romantic encounters," Karl teased with a hint of sarcasm. However, without acknowledging his father's remark, Rafael simply ignored it and continued making his way towards his bedroom.
Later in the day, Karl welcomed a significant visitor - someone from his previous marriage. It happened to be Takayuki, his former brother-in-law and close ally. Throughout their connection, Takayuki had always been supportive of Karl's professional endeavors and even contributed financially to his business ventures. As they sat across each other, Riko graciously served tea.
"It's been a long time since we last caught up, Oni," Takayuki greeted his ex-brother-in-law with enthusiasm.
"I'm delighted to hear that your business has experienced significant growth," Karl responded warmly.
"I owe much of my success in developing the business to you and Madam Takako for all the help provided," Takayuki replied, fidgeting with his fingers uneasily.
"Cigarette?" Karl offered a pack to his former brother in law
"Yes, it is," Takayuki answered, causing Karl's eyes to grow a little big and returned the cigarette in his pocket.
"Is there an issue?"
"It's regarding Yukari or Jasmine,"
"How is she doing?" Karl grinned, yearning for his other daughter.
"She wants to come back to the Philippines," Takayuki replied, "She wants to permanently stay here with you."
"It is still risky," Riko interjected, "I assumed that her mother was looking after her well?"
"Onee-chan and her husband are divorced now," Takayuki informed, "She wasn't able to take care of Jasmine. I think it would be less stressful for both of them if Onee-chan stayed here because Jasmine has been living with Rikako-san."
"The issue is that the place is quite tense," Karl responded, visibly saddened. "You may have already heard about what happened to me."
"I understand," Takayuki explained, "Takako has thoroughly trained her. She is a hardworking girl and I can personally attest to that."
Karl anxiously replied while sipping his tea, "When you say 'always,' it makes me apprehensive. Jasmine was fortunate to survive the training."
"Oni, I implore you to let Yukari remain here," pleaded Takayuki as he bowed before his former brother-in-law, "I know you have forgiven my sister for what she has done. Yukari is also your daughter and all I want is for her safety."
"Yukari will always be my daughter and ensuring her well-being is paramount," Karl responded. "However, I am sending my eldest son to Tokyo so that he, Yukari, and our other daughter can live there peacefully."
Riko chimed in agreement with Karl's decision. "Takayuki-san,you don't need to worry because we will send our son as soon as possible." said Karl reassuringly. Takayuki gratefully accepted this response.
---
Later that day, the President of a well-established bank affiliated with Innovare met up with Karl and Riko. The bank executive presented them with a comprehensive record of transactions carried out through their account, which caught Karl off-guard.
"Senator Marino," inquired the bank executive, "did you authorize the release of ten million pesos?" Karl was incredulous as he replied, scratching his head in confusion, "Ten million in just three months? I can't recall instructing anyone to withdraw such a massive sum. My budget allows me only one thousand pesos per week; this amount is highly unusual."
"It appears that Ramon Amano signed all slips and checks," explained the banker to Riko. She wondered why Ramon would carry out such large withdrawals and promptly contacted Chad - Innovare's CFO - along with two resident lawyers who hurriedly joined her at the mansion.
"Does Arjan have knowledge of this?" Riko inquired.
"Arjan is unaware since he assumed his position merely two months ago," Chad replied. "If we consider the figures, Mr. Amano also has outstanding expenses."
"Mr. Banker, I implore you not to allow him to withdraw funds from all our accounts," Riko commanded Chad as she calmly took a drag from her lit cigarette.
"Mrs. Marino, should this information reach headquarters, it will be Arjan, Tiffany, and your husband who will bear responsibility," the banker informed the patriarchal figure of the Marino family. Karl overheard everything while standing by the door overlooking their gardens; he glanced at his wife with a faint smile and remarked, "If I am left in limbo, rest assured that you'll accompany me in hell."
"You insane bastard! I'm working tirelessly to ensure that this matter gets resolved!" Riko yelled furiously.
"Oh, Mrs. Marino, you were the one who insisted on appointing that overweight pig Ramon Amano and if the company continues to experience financial losses, you will certainly face serious consequences," Karl cautioned his wife with a pen in hand, while her anger was already apparent. After uttering those words, he left the room.
-----
That evening, the rest of the Marino family gathered for a meal with Arjan, Chad, Czar and Antonio. Laughter filled the air as they welcomed Jasmine back home from her vacation in Tokyo. Riko expressed her joy at having Jasmine there again:
"Finally, you are home now." Bianca happily embraced her sister and said they could spend more time training and hanging out together. Jasmine couldn't hide her happiness either. She thanked everyone for their warm welcome: "I am happy to be here together with Dad, Mama Riko, Bianca and everyone."
Karl chimed in that he was even happier now that Takako had assigned Jasmine to Innovare. Jasmine also mentioned how grateful she was to Madam Fujimiya for granting her request for a week off work. As she enjoyed the food before her eyes were filled with excitement about being reunited with loved ones.
"Keep performing admirably at Innovare, and you have the potential to advance through the organization's hierarchy similar to Kyoko's current progression within Marino Trading," Karl commented. "Rest assured that the company will be in capable hands."
Czar added with a hint of amusement while enjoying his juice, "That was a pun worth remembering for a lifetime."
Jasmine, also known as Yukari, holds the distinction of being the fifth offspring in the prestigious Marino family lineage. As a younger sibling to Bianca, she shares not only their striking physical features but also possesses an imposing physique that sets her apart. Notably, Jasmine boasts thin lips and mischievous eyes which add depth and allure to her countenance. In addition to her captivating appearance, she is blessed with sharp intellect akin to that of her siblings; however, it is worth noting that unlike them, she did not receive formal instruction from their father. Instead of undergoing tutelage under their patriarch's guidance like her brothers and sisters did, Jasmine found herself under the mentorship of none other than Takako Fujimiya – an influential woman revered for holding immense power on a global scale.
Rafael arrived home just a few minutes later, bringing with him Erina. The room fell silent as everyone noticed her presence. Erina, who seemed particularly close to the couple in an unusual way, greeted them politely. Riko cheerfully asked what had brought them there and Rafael promptly answered on behalf of his girlfriend.
"I want you all to meet my girlfriend, Erina," he declared. His parents raised their eyebrows and frowned at the news before motioning for them both to sit down. Laughter turned into silence while jubilation gave way to fear as the atmosphere quickly grew colder.
"Karl, please lock up the study room," Riko said in Karl's native dialect. This prompted her husband's curiosity: "Why should I do that?"
"It might be a good idea for you to spend time getting to know Erina better since she could potentially become your future daughter-in-law," Rafael explained calmly amidst his father's continued focus on eating.
"That's fantastic, I'm eagerly anticipating that," Bianca expressed with her usual positive attitude, bringing some much-needed liveliness to the otherwise quiet house. Jiena joined in by gesturing towards Erina's impressive accomplishments, causing a twinge of envy in Bianca and prompting her exit, which led to laughter from everyone present.
"She's envious on her chopping board," Riko remarked as a playful attempt to lighten the mood while placing dessert on the table.
"Madame Marino, if you have some free time available, I'd be delighted to show you around our newly built resort," Erina offered unexpectedly, catching Riko off guard.
"Just recently your family constructed a resort?" Riko asked curiously. "Yes indeed. It was completed merely four months ago," Erina promptly replied. This response only served to intensify Riko's suspicions as she cast an intrigued glance at Chad.
"How much did your father invest?" Chad calmly questioned Erina.
"A sum of ten million dollars," came Erina's straightforward reply.
------
After their meal, Riko brought Karl and his friends along with her to the Innovare Headquarters. Without hesitation, she collected all the documents given to her by the bank president.
"Isn't it late? We should be getting some rest," complained Karl wearily.
"Yeah Riko, if you want we can schedule a meeting for tomorrow," added Arjan.
"I have reason to believe that Ramon Amano is involved in suspicious activities. He withdrew ten million from our stash," responded Riko assertively, leading Karl to scold her.
"Why must you ruin my son's life?" asked Karl indignantly as Riko retaliated by hitting him with a rolled-up paper document.
"Pardon me? You were the one who initiated this conflict against the Fontierras," retorted Riko firmly.
"Well then, why are you spying on them?" questioned an insistent Karl once more.
"I've grown wary of these series of fraudulent acts within my company," swiftly responded Riko before hurrying out of the building while leaving behind Karl, Arjan and their other companions.
----
Several weeks had passed since the completion of the investigation, and now Riko called for a board meeting. The members gathered with palpable anticipation and growing concern over the rumored loss of twenty million dollars within the company. Wanting an explanation from their chairman, they watched as Riko took her seat at the front while the secretary distributed papers and photocopies to everyone in attendance. With a serious tone, Riko declared, "These photocopies contain bank transactions belonging to Mr. Amano totaling twenty million dollars. Shockingly enough, he withdrew this sum without my authorization." Her statement struck a chord of disbelief among all present on the board.
Arjan scanned through one of the provided bank transaction documents before voicing his astonishment: "It's hard to fathom that Amano would be involved in such deplorable actions."
"They never informed me about the upcoming board meeting," Ramon expressed to everyone present.
"Our history goes back years, and I placed so much trust in you," Riko confronted him. "I played a significant role in advancing both yours and Yoshiko's careers, stood as godmother to your child, and yet you have betrayed my faith like this?"
Perplexed, Ramon questioned her intentions which led Riko to forcefully throw at his face copies of bank transactions. Filled with rage, she declared vehemently: "Nothing infuriates me more than being made a fool of! Let me tell you - one should never attempt deceiving someone from the Marino family; it is common knowledge that twenty million has been embezzled from our coffers." Amano smirked at these words before retorting venomously: "All of you should die."
"The authorities are positioned outside, in the case of any attempt to flee, extreme measures will be taken" Riko informed Amano. Reacting quickly, Amano drew out his firearm while relieved to see that Riko had her own sidearm too. Chad and Arjan mirrored their actions by readying their weapons as well. However, it was Chad who made the initial move by firing at his superior first but fortunately missed due to Riko's swift evasion skills. Consequently, they pursued Ramon towards the rooftop where he found himself trapped with no escape route available. The Innovare Building stood tall at a staggering thirty-seven stories high - leaving him with only two undesirable choices: falling down or surrendering for imprisonment.
"You will never apprehend me alive, Riko Marino. I would rather perish than stoop so low as to bow down and kiss your feet," Amano shouted defiantly, his pistol poised in defense against Riko's aggression. "Fernando will seek retribution for my demise!"
"Go ahead! I will seize control of the resort that you painstakingly constructed!" Riko retorted venomously. Suddenly, without hesitation, Amano leaped from a towering height of thirty-three stories, meeting an unfortunate fate with a fatal blow upon impact.
"There is some rationale behind such drastic action," Chad mused solemnly as he peered downwards at the lifeless body sprawled out on the ground below. Ramon Amano was not only one of Riko's most loyal business partners but also regarded as a trusted confidant; however, unexpectedly and tragically met his end by none other than his own boss. In response to this shocking event,Riku experienced chest pains accompanied by difficulty breathing which subsequently led Arjan and Chad to rush her to the nearest hospital for urgent medical attention.
"You know, I could offer your parents a special discount of twenty-five percent since they are frequent patients," Czar playfully mentioned as he handed a note to the siblings.
Jiena responded with a light-hearted comment by saying, "Sure! Maybe you can also convince my timid brother to come along." Rafael glared at her in response, an expression she reciprocated.
"But on a serious note, it is true that your mother experienced an anxiety attack which may potentially be linked to your father's condition," Czar informed the sisters just before one of the nurses hurriedly entered the room gasping for breath.
"Doctor, Mrs. Marino is under attack!" she exclaimed anxiously.The three rushed into Riko's hospital suite where they found bystanders and onlookers gathered around her bed while she lay there exhausted.
"Mom, what happened?" Bianca asked worriedly, cradling her step-mother in her arms.
"It was Yoshiko," Riko replied weakly. "She tried to suffocate me with a pillow and then attempted to stab me."
Jiena and Kyoko quickly left the room to handle the situation while leaving Bianca behind to look after Riko. Meanwhile, Rafael entered the living room and found himself perplexed by the commotion unfolding before him.
"We need to get rid of Erina," Jiena declared as she loaded bullets into her pistol. Rafael's response reflected a more dismissive attitude towards their predicament.
"Come on now, it's just another one of mom's theatrical acts," he remarked casually.
Unable to contain her anger anymore, Jiena angrily struck Rafael across his face for underestimating the seriousness of their situation. She stormed out of Marino mansion with Rafael trailing closely behind.
--
In Jiena's team, there were members from the police force, NBI agents, and her own personal guards. Taking charge during a raid at the Amano mansion, it was Karl's eldest child who led the operation. Their objective was to search for Yoshiko and Erina and place them under arrest. During their thorough investigation of every room in the house, one significant discovery stood out: inside Erina's room lay a closet adorned with photographs of Rafael that resembled an altar-like structure – a shrine where Erina seemingly held utmost reverence. Expressing her disbelief towards this peculiar behavior exhibited by Erina, Jiena whispered to herself while Rafael nodded in agreement before proceeding to dismantle the makeshift shrine. Subsequently entering into what seemed like the master bedroom upon finding valuable documents within sight range; time wasn't wasted as they quickly proceeded to fix any lingering issues that needed attention. With matters requiring immediate action at hand, such as arranging a meeting between Chad (presumably another individual involved) and bank personnel including their president; both parties carefully scrutinized all pertinent papers prior to seizing control over the resort property through collateralization arrangements. Regrettably though earnest efforts had been made throughout this ordeal thus far; capturing both escapee culprits -Erina and Yoshiko-.
---Chapter end---
