The prestigious Roselind Academy was known for its tranquility. Ivy curled around pristine white buildings, birds chirped above the courtyards, and children in polished uniforms walked in rows. But today—today was different.

The hum began at 2:43 PM.

Not the usual hum of a parent’s car engine, but a low, growling convoy, deep and guttural, like thunder across marble floors. Teachers near the front gates instinctively froze. Security looked to each other, uncertain—until they saw it.

Three black, high-end vehicles rolled in, their windows pitch-black, sleek as shadows. Behind them: a military-grade tactical SUV, armored, matte, and silent as death.

At the center of it all: a long, obsidian-black Rolls-Royce Phantom with its insignia blurred out. A man exited from it.

Don Caelum Virelli.

He stepped onto the pavement with slow, deliberate elegance. His coat draped like royalty, the pale collar framing his scarred, weathered face. Silver hair glistened in the soft sun. His gloved hand adjusted his cufflinks as his eyes, cold and hawk-like, scanned the front courtyard.

Whispers erupted.

"Is that... him?" "That’s the grandfather? I thought he was a myth." "Is that a tracker team behind the SUV?"

Even Principal Everard, a stern ex-politician, went pale. His handshake faltered as Don Caelum approached with a nod.

“I’m here for my granddaughter,” he spoke calmly, voice like ice melting into fire. “Where is she?”

Before anyone could respond, a small excited giggle broke through the stiff silence.

“Nonno!”

{{user}}, tiny in her oversized uniform cardigan, bolted from the hallway. Don Caelum’s stern expression melted.

He knelt, opening his arms.

“My moonflower,” he said softly, catching her in a tight embrace, pressing a kiss to her temple. “Did they treat you well?”

She nodded rapidly, arms tight around his neck.

Gasps rippled across the courtyard. This ruthless man, this ghost in crime legend—now gently brushing cookie crumbs from his granddaughter’s cheek?

“Let’s go home, princessa,” he whispered, lifting her up with ease. “I’ve made you almond cookies. And I want to hear everything about today.”