Chapter 3
The next morning, I slipped out of room before anyone else woke. Kael had already gone to attend family matters; I followed shortly after. Only three days remained, and I had to finalize my escape.
I didn’t anticipate seeing Kael with Serena at this spot. Outside a jeweler, he stepped out, circled the car, and held the door for her. Serena entwined her arm with his, her smile bright and calculated.
“These rings are exactly what I wanted, Kael, “she said loudly, drawing glances from passersby. Whispers of jealousy spread around
them.
“Is that the Whitlock girl? So refined. That ring is from the C brand heirloom series–worth a fortune!”
“Yes, that’s her. Kael’s been with her since college. Their families even bought a private estate for the engagement. Security alone must have cost millions.”
“They look like royalty. Stunning. I’d be dreaming of that kind of man every night…”
Lost in thought, I was jolted when a clerk called after me.
“Miss Sterling, you left your papers behind!”
Kael’s head turned at the shout. While I tucked the documents away, he appeared in front of me. He seemed momentarily unsettled when our eyes met.
“Elara?”
Serena’s hand slipped from his as he stepped closer. “Why are you here?”
I forced a slight smile. “Just handling some things for my mother.”
Watching him fret like that, I felt an urge to laugh bitterly. Serena had been his true obsession. Their engagement was hours away, and his cruel game was nearly complete. And yet, he still pretended–for whom?
He warned me, “Serena is coming to the house for dinner tonight. I’m telling you in advance…”
I answered calmly, “Don’t worry, I know my place. I won’t cause trouble. You go on; I’ll wait at home.”
Satisfied, he left with Serena.
My mother spent the afternoon preparing a lavish meal, looking small and subservient. I helped plate the food.
“Mom, you don’t have to do this.”
“It’s fine. Today is important,” she said bitterly,
When Kael arrived with Serena, my parents offered her a dazzling diamond bracelet. I remained in my room, pretending to be
unwell.
Moments later, he appeared with a small gift box for me. Inside was a car key; his expression was meant to be tender.
“I know we’ve kept this hidden, and you’ve endured much. After the engagement, nothing changes. I’ll remain by your side as always. Don’t be upset. This car… it’s old, but full of memories. It’s yours now.”
I stared at the worn key, bitter laughter rising within me. Only yesterday, he had flaunted a brand–new, armored luxury car for Serena. I feigned calm, concealing every stir of pain inside. Once he left, I flung the key into the fire.
Chapter 3
Serena appeared unannounced at my door, glancing at the scattered jewelry with a smug smile.
“So, you finally snapped?”
“Elara, you’re even more fragile than I imagined.”
“And guess what? Kael said being with you in that old car was unbearable. The leather is as dull as you. I can offer him excitement
you never could–yachts, jets, places you’ll never see.”
My chest tightened; I gasped, anger and humiliation burning inside me. I swung at her, but before I could reach her, she dropped
backward, knees hitting the floor hard.
“Ah!“she yelped, tears forming immediately.
Kael rushed in and froze. He pulled my arm away with force. I stumbled back, my head striking the table. Blood ran down my face.
