CHAPTER TWO

"That should do it," Neon murmured with a smile as she finished wrapping the bandage around her mildly sprained ankle. The painkillers she'd taken on the ride home were working wonders, dulling the ache. Still, she knew she should probably get it checked out by a doctor later. But that was the least of her worries right now. The real challenge was avoiding Light's watchful eyes. If he found out what happened today, he'd throw a fit.

Her thoughts drifted back to the day's events, and a twinge of warmth filled her chest. Kurapika. The golden-haired boy who had saved her. His striking features were still fresh in her mind—the intense blue eyes, the calm demeanor that seemed at odds with his age. She couldn't help but wonder who he really was. Was he still a student, or had he entered the working world? He had been wearing a suit—too formal for someone their age—almost like the kind the yakuza members of the Nostrade Family wore. A strange coincidence, or was there more to him?

She sighed, letting the thought slip away as quickly as it had come. "No use thinking about it," she muttered. "I'll probably never see him again anyway."

Determined to shift her focus, Neon turned her attention to the pamphlets she had received earlier in the day. Nanami, the student she'd met at the cinema, had handed them to her, talking up the prestigious Seiran Academy—a private boarding school she seemed to speak of with reverence. Intrigued, Neon had promised to look into it.

She spread the materials across her desk, picking up the sleek booklet first. The glossy pages gleamed under her desk lamp as she flipped it open.

The opening page read:

Seiran Academy: Where Excellence Meets Prestige

The academy was founded through a collaboration between Japan's biggest corporations, including NTT (Nippon Telegraph & Telephone), Asahi Group, Sompo Holdings, and other industry giants. Their vision? To create a secure, world-class institution for the children of the nation's elite—one where students could thrive without fear of kidnapping or danger. Seiran Academy offers an environment where students are not only educated but also groomed into future leaders and innovators.

Neon's eyes widened as she skimmed the text. This wasn't just a regular school. This was a fortress of education, made by the wealthy, for the wealthy. The kind of place where people with family names like hers—members of the Nostrade Family—would fit in perfectly. But the level of exclusivity still amazed her.

"Only guests invited by the Board of Directors or those with sufficient net worth can attend," she whispered, reading on. This was elite, even for her standards.

The brochure continued, highlighting the school's world-class teaching staff—professors scouted internationally, many holding qualifications far exceeding the norm. Seiran didn't just offer academics; it offered refinement. Extracurricular activities ranged from the culinary arts—headed by a Michelin-starred French chef—to stock trading, guided by a certified US broker. And then there were more leisurely pursuits, like flower arranging, led by a master of Ikebana.

Neon let out a low whistle. "This place isinsane!" she marveled.

As she delved deeper into the brochure, she read about the different luxury housing options for students. The Emerald House, with its sprawling bungalow-like residences, was practically a private mansion. The Diamond and Silver condos were also impressive, featuring private kitchens, spacious living rooms, and balconies that overlooked stunning campus views.

It wasn't just the accommodations that impressed her. The school also boasted a Michelin 5-star cafeteria, offering students a rotating menu of gourmet cuisine from all over the world. From European delicacies to traditional Japanese dishes, the food alone made Seiran seem more like a luxury resort than a school.

"This could be my way out," she thought excitedly. If she could get into Seiran Academy, she'd finally be able to live independently. She could escape the shadow of her overbearing father, Light, and enjoy the freedom she'd been craving for years. With housing on campus, she'd have the perfect excuse to stay away most of the time, only returning home during breaks or holidays. She could have her own life.

Neon's heart raced as she considered the possibilities. This school wasn't just safe—it was ideal.

Flipping to the back, she eagerly searched for the application requirements, specifically the net worth qualifications. Her eyes landed on the sum printed in bold.

"Immediate family must have a minimum net worth of USD $xxx,xxx,xxx,xxx,xxx."

Her breath caught in her throat. "That's...a lot of digits."

She had no idea just how much the Nostrade Family was worth, but it had to be a significant amount. The family's syndicate was the largest in Japan, after all. Surely, they could afford it.

Determined, she made up her mind right then and there. She'd need to convince Light that Seiran Academy was the best place for her. It was safe, prestigious, and exclusive—everything he'd want for his daughter. But she knew her father wouldn't agree easily. He was strict, protective, and controlling. It would take more than a casual conversation to win him over.

For the next week, Neon played the role of the perfect daughter. She woke up early, tidied her room, did her chores without complaint, and even prepared her father's morning coffee—something she hadn't done in years. She attended her Social Etiquette Classes with renewed enthusiasm, all the while working on a meticulous PowerPoint presentation.

The presentation was her secret weapon. She poured hours into perfecting it, detailing why Seiran Academy was the perfect fit for her education and future. She'd highlight the school's safety features, the opportunities for personal growth, and the fact that it was an elite academy for people like them.

By the end of the week, Light had noticed the change in his daughter's behavior. He was impressed—though suspicious. "What's gotten into you, Neon?" he wondered quietly, though he didn't question it out loud. He enjoyed this new responsible version of her.

Little did he know, it was all part of her plan.

Neon smirked as she added the final slide to her presentation. She was ready. Tomorrow, she'd present her case, and she was determined to win. Light would have no choice but to say yes.


"Good morning," Neon said cheerfully, placing a steaming cup of coffee on the dining table. The aroma filled the air, as she added with a knowing smile, "One teaspoon of sugar, just the way you like it, Father."

Light glanced up, surprised at the gesture. "Thanks, dear," he responded, taking a sip. "You've been in quite a good mood lately. What's gotten into you? Waking up early to make coffee for your old man?" He eyed her curiously, noting the change in her behavior over the past week.

Neon fidgeted with her fingers, her nerves beginning to show. "Well..." She hesitated. This was it—the moment she'd been preparing for all week. "There's something I wanted to talk to you about."

Light's brow raised slightly in curiosity.What could this be?His mind wandered to possibilities.Maybe she wants a new phone?It had been a year since he'd bought her one, and the new iPhone 16 in pink was launching soon. Or perhaps she wanted a new computer?

"What is it?" he asked, leaning forward, preparing for whatever request was coming.

Neon stood, walking to the kitchen counter where her sleek MacBook lay. Her heart raced as she opened it, launching the PowerPoint presentation she'd meticulously crafted over the past few days. It was polished, professional—everything she needed to convince him. She took a deep breath and turned the screen toward her father.

"There's something I want to propose," she began, her voice slightly shaky. "But please, let me finish before asking any questions."

Light's curiosity piqued. This wasn't about a phone or a gadget. There was something bigger here. He leaned back in his chair, bracing himself.Could it be... a boy?The idea made his stomach tighten. He mentally prepared himself to deal with a suitor who'd need to be dealt with swiftly if necessary.

Neon clicked to the first slide of her presentation, which was adorned with the logo ofSeiran Academy. "Father," she began, "I've been thinking a lot about my future. You've always protected me and kept me safe, and I'm grateful for that. But I'm seventeen now. I want to experience life more freely—like a normal girl my age."

Light's eyes narrowed. He was still unsure where this was going.

She moved through the slides, explaining the many benefits of Seiran Academy, a prestigious private boarding school for the elite. She highlighted the school's world-class curriculum, the security measures in place to protect students, and how it catered to children of high-ranking officials, business magnates, and even Yakuza leaders. Her enthusiasm was palpable as she detailed the opportunities to learn from top-tier international professors and the chance to build connections with the children of influential families.

Light remained impassive, watching her closely but offering no reaction. Neon sneaked a glance at his face, hoping to see some flicker of approval, but he stayed stoic. She forged ahead, emphasizing how Seiran Academy would provide her with independence while ensuring her safety.

She showed the cost breakdown—tuition fees, boarding options, and other expenses. "I would stay in the Diamond residence, a suite with a private balcony, so I'd still have some space to myself, but the security is top-notch. And I can still come home for holidays and breaks," she added, trying to ease any concerns.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Neon concluded the presentation with a deep breath. "So, Father," she asked, her voice trembling slightly, "what do you think?"

There was a pause—a heavy, suffocating silence that made Neon's heart thud in her chest. She didn't dare look up just yet, afraid to see rejection written on her father's face.

"Well," Light finally said, his voice measured. "I have to say, I'm impressed with the work you put into this presentation." He paused, his expression unreadable. "I've heard of Seiran Academy before, but... what's brought this on, Neon? You've never shown much interest in attending school like this before."

Neon relaxed slightly. At least it wasn't an outright 'no'. She met his gaze. "I've been thinking a lot lately. The older I get, the more I realize what I've missed out on—things like making real friendships, experiencing life outside our home, meeting people my age. I want to build connections, to grow as a person."

Light sighed, rubbing his temples. "I understand your point. Tell you what—I'll think about it, and I'll give you an answer soon."

Neon's face lit up.He didn't say no!There was hope. She jumped up, wrapping her arms around him. "Thank you, Father! Please think about it carefully. I promise this will be good for me. And if you say yes, I won't ask for another gift—ever!"

Light chuckled, his stern demeanor softening for a moment. "Is this why you've been acting like such a good, responsible daughter all week?"

Neon stuck her tongue out playfully. "You caught me."

"Well, let's see if you can keep it up. Don't forget about tonight," Light reminded her. "You're still coming with me to the business gala."

"Oh, I haven't forgotten," Neon said with a grin. "I'm actually excited to try on the new dress from Vera Wang."

Light nodded. "I booked us separate suites at the hotel where the event's being held, in case the party runs late."

"Perfect! I can't wait. I'll go start getting ready," Neon said, practically skipping out of the room.


As evening approached, the preparations for the gala were in full swing. Neon's maids had bathed her in a luxurious scented bath, and a professional stylist was brought in to do her hair and makeup. The look was stunning—her long hair was swept elegantly to one side, and her face was glowing with a subtle but enchanting makeup that highlighted her youthful beauty.

The real showstopper, however, was the dress—a custom midnight-blue Vera Wang gown that flowed like liquid velvet, catching the light with every movement. It hugged her figure perfectly, with a sweetheart neckline that teased just the right amount of elegance and allure. Intricate sequins decorated the bodice, shimmering as she walked.

As Neon admired herself in the mirror, she felt like she had transformed into royalty. The maids around her gasped in awe. "You look like a goddess," one of them whispered.

Descending the grand staircase, Neon saw her father waiting at the bottom. For a brief moment, Light's hardened expression softened as he saw his daughter in all her radiant beauty.

"You look stunning, my dear," he said, offering his hand. "You'll be the star of the night."

The gala was held at the extravagantBVLGARI Hotel Tokyo. The ballroom was dazzling—decorated with crystal chandeliers and elegant floral arrangements. The air was filled with soft classical music and the hum of conversation between Japan's elite.

As expected, the room was filled with older businessmen and political figures. Light moved with ease through the crowd, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries. Neon stayed close, her poise perfect, until he introduced her to an older man with silver hair and laugh lines.

"This is Ken Ryuusei," Light said proudly. "He's an old business partner of mine. Ken, this is my daughter, Neon."

Ken's eyes twinkled as he looked at her. "Ah, so this is the famous Neon! She's more beautiful than I imagined."

Neon bowed politely. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Ryuusei."

Ken smiled warmly. "I've been waiting to meet you for ages. My son, Shalnark, just returned from the U.S. He's about your age. I'd love for you two to meet."

At Ken's call, a boy stepped forward. Shalnark had dirty blonde hair that hung loosely around his face and striking pale blue eyes that, despite their intensity, seemed disturbingly hollow. He was dressed in a purple suit, but there was an eerie lifelessness to his gaze. His posture was slightly hunched, and his expression vacant, as though he were present in body but not in spirit.

"This is my son, Shalnark," Ken said proudly. "Shalnark, meet Light Nostrade and his daughter, Neon."

Shalnark bowed. "It's a pleasure to meet you," he said, smiling, though his eyes remained cold and distant.

Light leaned down to whisper to Neon, "He's clean. We've done a background check. You can trust him—Ken's grooming him to take over his business someday."

Neon smiled politely at Shalnark, her mind still whirling with the earlier excitement of the evening. The gala had only just begun, but she could feel that this night was far from ordinary.

"Shall we?" Shalnark extended his hand to Neon, a playful smile dancing on his lips.

Neon hesitated for a moment, glancing at her father. Light met her gaze with an encouraging nod and a warm smile, silently urging her to enjoy the night.

Taking a deep breath, Neon placed her hand in Shalnark's, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as they made their way outside to the rooftop garden. The space was enchanting, adorned with twinkling fairy lights that hung like stars among the lush greenery, casting a soft glow on the vibrant flowers that danced in the gentle night breeze. A mini bar stood invitingly in one corner, surrounded by plush seating, all overlooking the breathtaking panorama of Tokyo, with the iconic Tokyo Tower shimmering in the distance.

"Wow," Neon breathed, her eyes wide with wonder. "Tokyo is so beautiful at night!"

Shalnark watched her with an amused expression. "You've never seen Tokyo at night?" he asked, a hint of disbelief in his voice.

Neon shook her head, her excitement dimming slightly. "I'm usually just at home. Being Light Nostrade's daughter doesn't come without its downsides. My father is... well, very protective. I've lived a sheltered life."

"That makes sense," Shalnark replied, a note of understanding in his tone. "I guess it's only natural. Your dad's a yakuza leader after all. My dad used to be the same, but I get a bit more freedom since I'm a guy."

Shalnark guided her toward the mini bar, where the bartender was busy mixing colorful cocktails. "Their drinks are amazing. You have to try one."

Neon waved her hands frantically, her cheeks warming. "Oh, I'm good. I'm underage, so I can't drink."

Shalnark smirked, and an unexpected thrill ran through her. "I'm underage too. We're the same age, right? Our dads won't know," he suggested, his voice low and tempting. "Just one drink? A taste of freedom, if you will."

Neon gulped. Was he always this daring? She had no frame of reference since she rarely interacted with guys her age. But Shalnark had gone to middle school in America, where the culture might have shaped him differently.

"Two Midnight Mirages, please!" Shalnark signaled to the bartender with confidence.

"Coming right up," the bartender replied, a hint of curiosity in his eyes as he mixed the cocktails. Shalnark leaned closer to him, whispering something Neon couldn't quite catch.

What was that about? Neon wondered, trying to shake off the unease creeping into her mind. She glanced at Shalnark, who gave her an unsettlingly charming smile.

They found a secluded spot in the garden, away from the revelry of the party. The gentle hum of laughter and music faded into the background, leaving just the two of them in their intimate little world. Neon could feel her heart racing inside her chest.

"Here's your drink," Shalnark said, handing her the Midnight Mirage cocktail. The deep, rich color swirled enticingly in the glass. "It's one of my favorites."

The cocktail was a blend of dark rum and blackcurrant liqueur, balanced with pomegranate juice and a splash of lemon, promising a burst of flavor. Neon hesitated, bringing the glass to her lips. "Are you sure it's okay to drink this?" she asked, anxiety fluttering in her stomach.

"It's fine," Shalnark replied nonchalantly, raising his glass. "Let's make a toast?"

"To freedom," Neon said, clinking her glass against his, a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling within her.

As she took a sip, the fruity notes danced on her tongue, but the drink was also unexpectedly bitter and strong. Unique, she thought, taking another tentative sip.

"How is it?" Shalnark asked, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Not bad," Neon replied, her voice gaining a hint of confidence as she savored the cocktail.

As the minutes passed, she found herself relaxing in Shalnark's presence. The enchanting night, the sparkling lights, and the thrilling cocktail made her feel alive. For the first time, she was having a genuine conversation with someone her age.

"Oh, that reminds me!" Neon exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. "I'm thinking of going to Seiran Academy soon! I'm just waiting on Father's answer, but I think he's going to say yes!"

Suddenly, Shalnark's expression shifted. His eyes, once devoid of life, sparked with something akin to interest, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Seiran Academy, huh? That's nice. I hope your dad agrees. I know a few people there, and I've heard nothing but good feedback."

Neon felt a rush of relief; his enthusiasm mirrored her own. Maybe Shalnark could help her convince her father! She took another gulp of the cocktail, feeling the warmth spread through her limbs. Uh-oh, she thought, noticing the room starting to spin slightly.

Then, without warning, Shalnark reached out, brushing a strand of her dark blue hair behind her ear.

"Huh?" Neon blinked, startled.

"Sorry," he murmured, his voice suddenly serious. "You're just so beautiful."

His face inched closer, and a surge of panic shot through her. Neon gasped and instinctively jumped back, but her head swam, and she stumbled, ending up leaning against Shalnark's shoulder for support.

"Sorry," she stammered, her heart racing. "I don't know why, but I feel sodizzy."

From the corner of her eye, she caught Shalnark smirking, an unsettling gleam in his eyes. "You know, seeing you like this is making me feel a certain way," he said, his voice low and dangerous.

What is happening? Neon thought, a chill running down her spine. This was not how she imagined the night would go.

Gathering her strength, she tried to push herself upright. "I think I should go back to where Father is—"

"Like hell I'd let you go," Shalnark snapped, grabbing her waist tightly. "I booked a room for occasions like this."

Neon's heart raced in fear as she attempted to wriggle free, but his grip was ironclad. Desperate to call for help, she opened her mouth, but no sound emerged. The world around her blurred, and the heavy fog in her mind thickened, making it harder to think straight.

"I've always wanted to have my way with a yakuza's daughter," Shalnark whispered, leaning in closer, kissing the sensitive skin of her neck. Panic coursed through her as his hands began to explore.

"Please, someone help!" she managed to whimper, her heart pounding in her chest.

She wished her father had arranged for his men to follow her. The last time she needed protection, there hadn't been anyone around.

Shalnark cupped her back, his grip tightening. "Let's head to that room now, shall we?"

"Someone, help!" Neon moaned, her vision blurring further.

"Such a pathetic scene," a voice suddenly cut through the air, sharp and clear. "To think the son of Ryuusei Enterprises would stoop so low, trying to drug a woman and force himself on her."

Neon blinked, the voice sending a shiver down her spine. She lifted her gaze, and relief washed over her as she recognized the figure stepping out of the shadows.

It was him—Kurapika.

His golden hair fell elegantly to his neck, framing a face that was almost too beautiful to be real, with striking blue eyes that seemed to see right through her. Dressed in a dashing black suit, he looked every bit the hero she had imagined.

"What do you want?" Shalnark hissed, backing away slightly, eyes wide with surprise.

Kurapika moved forward confidently, an aura of authority radiating from him. "Let that girl go. Now."

"Just who are you?" Shalnark spat, his bravado faltering.

Kurapika brushed a strand of golden hair behind his ear, his expression calm but menacing. "My name is Kurapika, theShateigashira(second-in-command/Regional Boss) of the Nostrade Family'sTohoku division."

Neon's heart raced. He was a part of her family's world?

Kurapika advanced with measured steps, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. "You do understand the consequences of trying to harm a yakuza leader's child, right? Much less attempting to force yourself on her?"

Shalnark gasped, panic etched across his features. He shoved Neon away, and she stumbled, barely able to regain her balance. Fortunately, Kurapika was there, his arms catching her as she teetered.

"Fuck this!" Shalnark shouted, scrambling to gather his belongings before bolting away. "I'm out of here!"

"I'll make sure your father hears about this!" Kurapika called after him, his voice steady and unwavering.


Kurapika gazed down at Neon, cradled in his arms, her delicate features softened by the dim light surrounding them. Her eyes were closed, and he could see the subtle rise and fall of her chest, the peacefulness in her expression contrasting sharply with the chaos they had just escaped. "How are you feeling?" he asked gently, concern etching his voice.

"I feel so weird," Neon murmured, her voice barely above a whisper as she instinctively tightened her grip on his tie, as if it were a lifeline. "So dizzy~"

He frowned slightly, his protective instincts flaring. "You should get back to your father. He'll be worried." Kurapika's hands settled around her waist, providing a sense of security that made her feel both safe and vulnerable.

"No, anything but that." Neon shook her head vigorously, her long dark hair cascading like a curtain around her face. "My father will have a fit," she sighed, the weight of her sheltered life pressing heavily on her shoulders.

Kurapika studied her for a moment, then pointed toward a vending machine just a few feet away. "I'll get you some water from that vending machine over there. It'll help," he said, trying to sound casual despite the urgency of the situation.

Neon gasped, suddenly tugging at his sleeve with a desperate urgency. "No, can I go with you? Please?"

"Sorry, but you can't walk straight, right?" Kurapika sighed, a hint of exasperation lacing his tone. Without waiting for her response, he scooped her up effortlessly in his arms, cradling her like a fragile treasure. "This is exactly why I told the Boss not to leave you without bodyguards," he added, his voice softening as he adjusted her in his hold.

As he carried her, a sudden thought sparked in Neon's mind. "Room," she managed to say, her voice weak but determined as she fumbled for her hotel room keycard. "Let's go to my room."

Neon's world faded into darkness as Kurapika navigated through the maze of corridors leading to her suite. The adrenaline from their earlier encounter began to dissipate, replaced by a heavy fog of exhaustion that enveloped her mind. Fortunately, the rooftop had secret exits that Kurapika skillfully maneuvered, allowing him to bypass the bustling throngs of yakuza members and slip away unnoticed.

When they finally reached her suite, Kurapika was taken aback by the grandeur that awaited them. The presidential suite was nothing short of opulent, its spacious interior adorned with lavish furnishings and artful decor. A magnificent view stretched beyond the expansive windows, the glittering lights of Tokyo twinkling like stars in the night sky. A private jacuzzi glimmered invitingly in one corner, while a king-sized bed draped in silky sheets promised comfort.

With great care, Kurapika laid Neon down on the soft mattress, the sheets cool against her skin. He reached for a water bottle and a pill, placing them on the bedside lamp alongside a small note he had hastily scrawled. "Please take this pill as soon as you wake up. It'll make you feel better," he wrote, his heart aching at the thought of her discomfort. His gaze lingered on her sleeping face, her features strikingly beautiful even in slumber—long, dark eyelashes framing her closed eyes, and plump lips slightly parted, as if caught in a dream.

"You always seem to find yourself in these situations lately, huh?" he whispered to himself, shaking his head in disbelief. "No wonder why the Boss is so overprotective of you."

Just as he was about to stand and leave, a small, trembling hand reached out, clutching the fabric of his suit.

"Don't go, please," Neon whimpered, her voice breaking the stillness of the room. She slowly sat up, tears shimmering in her eyes, cascading down her cheeks like fragile raindrops. "Stay with me."

Kurapika felt a pang in his heart at the sight of her distress. "I'm here now," he said softly, sinking onto the edge of the bed. He gently pressed her head against his chest, wrapping his arms around her in a protective embrace. "I'll protect you."

As Neon broke down, sobs wracking her small frame, Kurapika felt an overwhelming surge of emotion. She released the tears she had held back for so long, each one a testament to the fear and isolation she had endured. For the first time, she felt a warmth envelop her—comforting, yet not suffocating, a stark contrast to the overbearing protection she received from her father. It was a connection that felt profound, as if two pieces of a puzzle had finally clicked together.

Sorry, Father, she thought, guilt creeping in.Forgive me.

In that moment, all that mattered was the safety she found in Kurapika's embrace, a fleeting escape from the weight of her world.