Daniel hadn’t expected me to react with such fury.
He let out a sigh.
“The baby in Chloe’s belly has been stirring up trouble lately. We even consulted someone–said there’s a bad omen to the southwest.“> “The things inside the box were buried in that exact direction, so Andrew and I sent someone to relocate them.”
“As long as you behave,” he added, “once Chloe gives birth, we’ll-”
But before he could finish, a bodyguard burst into the room.
“Sir, the things you ordered us to move… they’re gone.”}
The words hit me like a knife.
“Give them back!” I screamed. “Give them back to me!“}
I tried to lunge at them, but the bodyguards intercepted me and shoved me to the ground. A swarm of them pinned me down.
Andrew stood in front of Chloe protectively, while Daniel issued his order calmly.
“Take her away. Lock her up for a few days. We’ll deal with her after the banquet at the main house.“>
Tonight was their big event–a formal gathering at the Whitmore Family’s ancestral estate. An important announcement had been promised, so they couldn’t afford delays.
They looked down at me, bruised and writhing, with conflicted expressions. But ultimately, they walked away.
“It’s fine,” Daniel muttered. “Once we’re back from the banquet, we’ll talk to her. She’s always been soft. A few kind words and she’ll forgive us–like she always does.“}
The bodyguards dragged me to the car and drove me back to the Whitmore estate. But on the way, a group of people suddenly appeared in the road, forcing them to stop.
I didn’t see who they were.
By the time Andrew, Daniel and Chloe arrived at the family banquet that evening, the great hall was already full. The guests looked surprised to see Chloe among them–heavily pregnant, unwed and clearly out of place.
Whispers rippled across the room, but no one said anything openly.
Demi’s face darkened when she saw the three of them enter.
Once everyone was seated, the eldest of the family stood and cleared his throat.
“Today, we share some good news,” he declared. “The Whitmore Family is gaining one more at the table.”
A new place setting.
An extra pair of spoon and fork.
Some had heard rumors that someone from the main branch had secretly married the late son years ago–but few believed it.§ Until now.
Demi stood and addressed the room.
“I’ve brought her home today and I’m introducing her to all of you.”
Andrew and Daniel exchanged alarmed glances. They were just about to speak when both their phones buzzed.
A message.
[Sir, something urgent–Miss Elise has been taken.]
Their faces paled. They began to rise.>>
But a man’s voice cut across the hall.
“My dear nephews, where do you think you’re going?”
