He stepped down from the majestic black horse with ease, like someone who had done it a thousand times. Every movement carried the calm confidence of someone raised in privilege—elegant, composed, almost effortless. Dressed in full riding gear—black hat, polished boots, matching jacket, white breeches and gloves—he looked like a champion equestrian, ready to enter an Olympic arena.
He walked toward me slowly, each step unhurried. Then he stopped just in front of me and bent slightly, lowering himself to meet my eyes.
His gaze.
Electric blue, just like Mikael's—sharp, magnetic, and impossible to look away from. Eyes that could enchant anyone at first glance. Beautiful… but clearly dangerous. He was taller than the rest of my brothers, and carried the signature features of the Ceneric family: piercing blue eyes, flawless porcelain skin, and golden hair that shimmered like sunlight.
He looked like a perfect gentleman—the kind you'd fall for at first sight without even realizing it. With that face and aura, he could easily be a top idol on any global stage. I wouldn't be surprised if he had fans from every corner of the world.
I heard he's a doctor. With that face and charm, he must be insanely popular with all the nurses and patients. Seriously, why don't you just become an idol and join some variety show instead of charging around on a horse and nearly ending my life, brother?!
I grumbled silently in my head, still holding a grudge.
"Oh? You forgot to greet your beloved second brother?" he said, pretending to look confused.
"HAHAHAHA—Looks like you really lost your memory this time. That expression—was that resentment? Maybe even a little grudge?" he added, clearly amused, twirling his index finger in a circle in front of my face. "What happened? Did you fall that badly just now?"
My face darkened. What is wrong with this man? He nearly ran me over with that horse, didn't apologize, didn't even offer to help me up—and now he's laughing?
"It hurts! My butt really hurts!" I snapped, frustrated. Is he really my brother? Why is he treating me like some little kid he enjoys teasing?
He chuckled again. "What do you want me to do? I can't exactly help with pain in that area."
That infuriating smirk on his face made me want to scream.
"Just go away! I don't need your help!" I shouted, pushing myself up and stomping off, still fuming.
What is going on with this family?! First, Mia and her whole drug scandal. Then there's Mike and eldest brother, staring at me like some judges from hell. And let's not forget Mikael—the absolute maniac—threatening to throw me in jail.
And now? Another brother… who's clearly not right in the head either!
ARGHHHHH!!! I'm so angry I could scream at the top of my lungs!
***
Cancelling my plan to explore more, I stomped back toward the mansion, still fuming. I wished I'd never run into him again—but knowing my luck, that was impossible.
When I entered the living room, Grandpa Hugo was already there, greeting me with his usual gentle smile.
"Miss Mia? Your face is so red. Did something happen?" he asked, clearly concerned as he looked me over, checking if I was hurt.
"Nothing serious. I just ran into someone incredibly annoying who almost killed me," I muttered like a grumpy child venting to her grandpa.
"Oh? Was it a butler or maid? Just give me their names and I'll handle it right away," he said, dead serious, already reaching to call the staff.
"No, no—it wasn't them, Grandpa. It was the second brother! He nearly trampled me with that stupid horse. And guess what? He didn't even apologize! Instead, he mocked me! Tell me, Grandpa—was he trying to bully me?" I whined dramatically, hoping to get Grandpa Hugo on my side. Serve you right, Matteo.
"Sir Matteo? Really? That doesn't sound like him at all. Among all your brothers, he's the one who used to spoil you the most. Maybe it was just a misunderstanding. I'm sure he was only joking," Grandpa replied calmly.
"Grandpa—you traitor," I muttered under my breath, my face burning even redder out of frustration.
Suddenly, a familiar voice whispered near my right ear, sending chills down my spine.
"Looks like someone's been complaining about me."
I nearly jumped out of my skin. "Second brother!" I shouted, spinning around like a guilty kid caught red-handed.
"I was just telling Grandpa the truth! You're the one who nearly killed me with that horse!" I protested, trying to defend myself.
"But I didn't do anything wrong," he said coolly. "You were standing in the way. And you're the one who fell and bruised your own butt."
"You—!" I was so flustered I couldn't even form a proper comeback. My face probably looked like a boiled shrimp by now.
Just as I was about to snap back at him, a phone ringtone interrupted us.
"Your phone," Matteo said, casually pointing to my gown pocket.
Right. My phone. I quickly fished it out. An unknown number was flashing on the screen. Curious, I answered.
"Hello?"
A calm female voice replied, "Hello, is this Miss Mia Isabella Ceneric?"
"Yes?"
"I'm calling from the psychiatry department at Lumora University Medical Centre regarding your upcoming appointment. I'd like to confirm if you'll be able to come in tomorrow morning?"
Psychiatry department? Oh—right. Dr. Leon mentioned scheduling something for my 'fake' memory loss. God… what do I say? I don't want to go, but I can't think of a good excuse to cancel. And these two—Matteo and Grandpa—were watching me like hawks.
"Uh… sure. Tomorrow morning works. What time?" I asked reluctantly.
"Ten o'clock, if that's convenient," the nurse said after a brief pause.
I agreed, then hung up. Immediately, I was met with two pairs of curious eyes staring at me.
"It was a call from the psychiatry department. They want me to come in tomorrow for a checkup about my memory. Apparently, something Dr. Leon arranged," I explained honestly. No point lying—especially not with Matteo watching.
"I'll go with you," Matteo said casually. "I happen to have free time tomorrow morning, and I'll be at that hospital anyway. So, I'll accompany you."
I knew from his tone that he wouldn't take no for an answer. Still, I had to try.
"That's really kind of you, but I'd rather ask Mike. I don't want to bother you. Mike already said he's free, and I know you're busy with work and teaching medical students," I lied but trying to sound concerned for his schedule.
But Matteo stepped closer, slowly closing the distance between us. His face was just inches from mine, and I could feel my heart race.
"No refusals," he said in a deep, steady voice. "If I say I'm going with you, then I'm going. No matter what."
The way he said it—it felt like being cornered by a tiger, calm and dangerous, with no room for escape.