It took us a while, but we finally reached our destination known as Skogveien Brygge. This part of the capital city of Oslo was located on the east side and felt like a completely different world from the polished streets we had just left behind. As we approached the apartment complex, its worn facade caught my eye. The once vibrant paint was now faded and covered in graffiti. The buildings were huddled close together, almost like old friends, bearing the marks of time with cracked walls, peeling plaster, and rusty balconies clinging on with stubborn determination.

The streets beneath were a bustling hive of energy, filled with the harmonious mix of various cultures. Youngsters kicked around a soccer ball on the rough ground, their joyous voices reverberating throughout the narrow passageways.

I addressed Mr. Erik, asking, "Would it be possible for you to return later this evening to pick us up once again?"

Agreeing with a grin, he said, "Absolutely, Dio. Just shoot me a text beforehand so I can coordinate the timing."

"Thank you, Mr. Erik," I said politely as I got out of the car.

Outside the building, Aria stood waiting, her smile as bright as ever as she waved us over. But as I looked at her, memories from my past life surged back—memories that stirred nothing but bitterness.

At this point in her life, Aria's world began to shift. She fell for a man, her new boyfriend who would eventually become her husband. He was not a citizen of Norway and saw an opportunity in Aria to secure his own future. Love can blind even the most rational mind, and unfortunately, Aria was easily swayed by his manipulations. In the end, she altered everything about herself for him - her convictions, principles, even her faith.

The once-kind cousin I knew turned ruthless and greedy. Her love for him consumed her, turning her into someone I barely recognized. And when I was at my lowest, she, along with her mother—my aunt—didn't just stand by. They actively kicked me down further, gossiping, talking down on me, and treating me like dirt. They reveled in my misery, showing no mercy when I needed help the most.

Looking at Aria now, I felt no sympathy, only a cold determination. I would never forget how they had ruined me, how they had taken advantage of my weakness. This time, things would be different. This time, I was prepared.

Aria greeted us with a bright smile. "Hello, Dio. Auntie, welcome!"

We both greeted her back warmly, exchanging polite smiles. She then gestured towards the entrance. "Let's get inside," she said, leading the way.

The inside of the building was modest, with the kind of ordinary decor you'd find in a typical apartment complex. The walls were painted a neutral beige, and the floors were covered in well-worn carpeting that had seen better days. The lighting was functional but dim, casting a soft glow over the quiet hallway. Nothing about the place stood out—it was just an average, normal apartment building.

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We made our way to the elevator, the metal doors creaking slightly as they opened. Inside, the elevator was small, with dull mirrors reflecting our images back at us. The buttons, though worn, still lit up when pressed, and the faint hum of the machinery filled the silence as we began our ascent.

As the elevator started to move, Aria turned to me, her tone slightly pointed. "So, I heard you invited a couple of friends to the family gathering. Don't you think that's kind of rude?"

I responded, "How is that considered impolite? I invited those who are dear to me; they're like a second family."

Aria crossed her arms and replied, "This is supposed to be a family gathering only, Dio. They aren't family."

I held her gaze and said firmly, "To me, they are like my family."

Mom smiled awkwardly, clearly sensing the tension. "Aria," she said gently, "I asked your mother beforehand, and she had no problem with it. So behave, both of you. What's gotten into you two?"

I shrugged and said, "Ask Aria, I have no clue. I was just looking forward to this, but she clearly doesn't want my friends to join for some reason."

Aria hesitated for a moment before responding, "It's not like that, Dio, I just...," she trailed off, then quickly added, "Nevermind. Forget it."

Mom sighed, shaking her head slightly. "Whatever it is, cut it out, both of you," she said firmly. "Let's just enjoy ourselves and have fun today."

The elevator chimed, signaling our arrival on the 11th floor. We stepped out, and Aria led the way through the hallway, the muted sounds of other residents behind closed doors adding to the quiet atmosphere. After a short walk, we stopped in front of door number 35.

As Aria opened the door, the rich, fragrant aroma of Thai curry filled the air, mingling with the scents of other dishes—spices, herbs, and savory stews. The warmth of home-cooked food enveloped us, making the apartment feel instantly inviting.

My aunt, Pranee, immediately welcomed us with a wide smile, her arms open in greeting. "Welcome, welcome!" she exclaimed warmly as she hugged my mom and me.

I took off my blazer and carefully placed it on the coat hanger by the door before turning to her. "Good to see you, Aunt Pranee," I said with a smile.

She beamed at me, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "Oh, Dio, you grow so much every time I see you—I almost don't recognize you anymore!" she said with a playful chuckle. "Welcome, welcome! I hope you two are hungry. We're cooking up a feast today since I heard Dio would be bringing company."

Her words radiated warmth, enveloping me in a comforting embrace. But I was not fooled by her changeable nature. My aunt Pranee had two distinct personalities—when she was kind, she was exceedingly so, showering you with smiles and generosity. Yet when her temper flared, it was like facing a different person entirely. A single look or word from her could bring you down and leave a lasting sting..

Dio Stat's Info:

Lvl: 14

Skill Count: 2 (Key selling point analyze) (Analyze)

Strength:35

Agility:24

Intelligence:23

Endurance:21

Charm:23

Dio influence, power & riches:

Money - 5million kroner.

Associate - 7

Asset - 0

Digital Asset - 250 BTC

Goons - 10

Car - 1

Guard - 0

Employers - 25

Company - 1