Chapter One
As night fell, the cold moon hung high in the sky. The bright moonlight fell on the ancient castle on the edge of the city, casting a mysterious silver veil around it. Emily stood on the balcony, looking at the forest in the distance, and felt a chill rising from the bottom of her heart. Since moving to this castle, her life has become bizarre and mysterious. The cold wind in October swept across her bare shoulders, bringing a shudder. Emily subconsciously wrapped her woolen shawl tightly around her, but she couldn't feel any warmth. This castle seems to be always cold, just like its mysterious owner Lucas Black, exuding an inaccessible atmosphere. "Miss Emily," suddenly, a low voice sounded behind her, "You'll catch a cold if you're still outside so late." She turned around and saw Lucas standing at the balcony door. The moonlight outlined his tall figure. He was wearing a dark silk shirt, and the collar vaguely revealed his strong chest. The amber eyes flickered strangely in the darkness, as if they could see through her soul. "Mr. Black," Emily whispered, trying to hide the trembling in her voice, "I'm just admiring the moonlight." Lucas took a step forward, but suddenly stopped. Emily noticed that his body stiffened instantly, and his nostrils fluttered slightly, as if he was sniffing something. His expression became solemn, and a glimmer of wildness flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed. "Please go in," his voice was hoarser than usual, "It's not safe here." Just then, a cold night breeze swept across the balcony, bringing a faint smell of rust. Emily saw that Lucas's fingers were almost pinched into the stone railing, and his knuckles were white. She couldn't help but take a step back, her heartbeat accelerated. "I thought this castle was the safest place," she whispered, "after all, you are here." Lucas let out an almost inaudible growl, "Some danger, Miss Emily, is much closer than you think." His eyes looked unusually sharp in the moonlight, "especially on a full moon night." Suddenly, a wolf howl came from the distant forest, shrill and long. Emily was surprised to find that Lucas' pupils shrank in an instant and turned into vertical pupils like a beast, but the fleeting change made her wonder if it was just an illusion caused by the moonlight. Just then, a cold breath passed by her from behind, accompanied by a chuckle. Emily turned around and saw only a dark shadow flashing in the corner of the balcony. When she looked back again, Lucas had come to her side, with a hand gently on her shoulder. "I'll take you back to your room," he said, with an unquestionable commanding tone in his voice. Emily noticed that his palms were surprisingly hot, in sharp contrast to the chill of the castle. Walking in the dark corridor of the castle, Emily could feel Lucas' presence, he walked behind her like a silent guardian. Moonlight poured in through the Gothic stained glass windows, casting mottled shadows on the floor. "Good night, Miss Emily," Lucas whispered in front of her door, "Remember, no matter what sound you hear, don't leave the room tonight." "Why?" Emily asked subconsciously. Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes looked deep and dangerous in the moonlight, "Because the moonlight tonight is too beautiful, it will always wake up something that shouldn't wake up." When the door closed behind her, Emily leaned against the door, her heartbeat still alarmingly fast. She could hear Lucas's footsteps gradually fading away, but she seemed to hear the sound of wings flapping outside the window. She walked to the window and looked out through the glass. In the moonlit courtyard, she saw a figure standing by the fountain. The man looked up at her window, and the moonlight illuminated his pale marble face - it was Draco, with a mysterious smile on his lips and a dangerous light in his eyes. When Emily blinked, his figure had disappeared, as if he had never appeared. Emily lay trembling on the bed, listening to the wolf howling outside the window. She knew that she had fallen into a world full of dangers, and this was just the beginning. On this moonlit night, her fate was closely linked to two mysterious and dangerous beings, and there was no turning back.
Chapter Two
In the dead of night, Emily lay in bed, the faces of Lucas and Draco appeared in her mind. She could not resist the deep attraction, but she also knew that she was caught in a dangerous vortex. She knew that the confrontation between the two men was a life-and-death hostility, and she was just a pawn in their war. A corner of her heart reminded her to escape, but the deeper desire pulled her to stay in this mysterious castle, looking forward to the unknown encounter.
Just as she was about to fall asleep, a slight knock on the window interrupted the silence. Emily opened her eyes, and the moonlight poured into the room through the curtains, making the corners of the room particularly dark. She sat up subconsciously, trembling slightly and walked to the window. When she opened the curtains, a figure was standing in front of her, cold and elegant.
It was Draco.
"Sorry, I scared you, Emily." His low voice was frivolous and indifferent, as if every word revealed his unfathomable darkness. His eyes were like two flames in the abyss, locking onto her with an irresistible force.
"How... are you here?" Emily's heartbeat quickened, and her hands unconsciously clenched a corner of the curtain. She knew she should be scared at this moment, but Draco's unique charm made it hard for her to resist.
Draco did not answer her question, but slowly approached, lowered his head and whispered in her ear: "You know why I'm here, Emily. You've never really been afraid of me, right?"
The moment he approached, she smelled the cold breath on him, as if it came from the night a thousand years ago. Her breathing gradually became rapid, but she did not retreat, but was locked by his eyes, as if her soul was also attracted to him.
"Draco... we can't do this." Her voice was weak, but she did not retreat at all, as if even she herself was struggling with contradictions.
"You don't belong here at all, Emily. Staying here will only put you in deeper danger." Draco gently lifted her chin, with a smile on the corner of his cold mouth, that smile was both gentle and dangerous, "But if you want to know the real darkness, then come. I will take you to see everything."
At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Lucas' figure appeared at the door like a shadow. His face was gloomy, and his eyes were burning with anger. It was his possessiveness and anger that he could not hide. He walked towards Draco step by step, his hands clenched, his muscles tensed, as if he was going to pounce on and tear the enemy in front of him in the next second.
"Draco, let her go." Lucas' voice was low and threatening, like an enraged beast. It was the first time Emily saw him so out of control, his eyes were like a ball of unextinguishable fire, revealing uncontrollable anger and possessiveness.
Draco smiled slightly, released Emily's chin, and looked at Lucas provocatively. "Don't you understand yet? She doesn't belong to you. The savagery of the wolf tribe is nothing but a bondage to her, and I can give her true freedom."
"The 'freedom' you mentioned will only make her fall into darkness. You don't understand what true protection is." Lucas sneered, his eyes as sharp as an eagle. He slowly stepped forward, blocked Emily, and protected her behind him. That was his attitude as the wolf king, firm and unshakable.
Emily was sandwiched between the two, feeling her heartbeat speed up, as if breathing became difficult. These two completely different forces intertwined and collided in front of her, making it impossible for her to decide which side to choose.
Draco raised the corners of his mouth and slowly took a step back, his eyes still on Emily. "Emily, one day you will find that he can't satisfy the desire in your heart. And I am your true home."
As soon as the voice fell, Draco's figure disappeared into the night, as if he had never appeared.
Lucas looked at the empty room, his fists gradually loosened, but the anger and worry in his eyes remained. He turned around and looked at Emily softly, but his eyes still flashed with contradictions and forbearance.
"Are you okay?" He asked in a low voice, with a trace of undisguised concern in his voice.
Emily nodded, but her heart was in turmoil and it was difficult to calm down. She knew that she had fallen too deep. She could not let go of these two men easily, nor could she easily resist them. A complex emotion surged in her heart, which was a dangerous and fatal attraction.
"Lucas, I..." She wanted to say something, but lost her words when she met his eyes.
"Don't get close to him." Lucas' voice was low, with a hint of pleading and warning, "I know you feel confused, but Draco is not what you think. He will only drag you into the darkness, and I won't let him hurt you."
Emily just looked at him silently, and a touch of uncertainty gradually rose in her heart. She knew that this was not just a war, but a contest of feelings and desires. In this dangerous triangle relationship, she has gone too far and can never turn back.
Chapter Three
Emily stayed awake all night. The wind outside the window blew through the woods, making a low moan, as if the whole castle was whispering in her ear. She curled up in bed, recalling Draco's cold smile and Lucas's deep eyes. Two completely different attractions stirred in her heart, making her lost on the edge of danger and desire.
When the sky was slightly bright, she made a decision. She had to figure out what she wanted, the wildness and protection of the wolf tribe, or the mystery and temptation of the vampire. She got up and walked out of the room, walked through the deserted corridor, and came to the door of Lucas's study.
The door of the study was slightly open, and a whisper came from inside. Emily stood outside the door and pricked up her ears to listen.
"She is innocent, Lucas." A low and gentle female voice came from Lucas's sister, Leila. Emily had heard rumors about her. Leila was the wisest prophet in the wolf tribe and could always see fragments of the future.
"I know, Leila." Lucas' voice was hoarse, as if he had struggled all night, "but I can't control myself, I can't suppress my desire for her. I'm afraid that if she stays with me, she will only be swallowed by my darkness."
Emily's heart trembled, and she raised her hand to push open the door.
"Lucas." Her voice was abrupt and firm in the silent room.
The two turned around and saw her standing at the door with a hint of determination in her eyes. She walked slowly towards Lucas, looked up at him, with a hint of determination and inquiry in her eyes.
"I know you protect me, but I'm not a fragile child." Her voice was calm and firm, "I need to know the truth. Why are you always so hesitant? And why is Draco so persistent in approaching me?"
Lucas' expression froze for a moment, his eyes wandering on her face, as if he was weighing whether to tell her everything. Finally, he took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind.
"Emily, the fate of our werewolves is usually determined at birth. The wolf tribe has a unique ability to perceive its partner. When we find that person, we will feel an attraction that cannot be ignored... and you are my destined partner." Lucas spoke in a low voice, with pain and desire flashing in his eyes.
Emily's heartbeat accelerated, and thousands of emotions surged in her mind, both shocked and confused. She never thought that she would become his destined partner, and his possessiveness and protectiveness of her turned out to come from this ancient bond.
She asked softly: "What about Draco? Why is he so obsessed with me?"
Lucas's eyes became more gloomy, and there was a hint of anger in his eyes. "Draco's tribe never believed in fate. They prefer to dominate their own future. And he believes that as long as he possesses you, he can destroy me and the traditional beliefs of the wolf tribe. So, he is not sincere to you, but to weaken my power."
Emily's heart suddenly tightened, and a hint of anger and loss surged in her eyes. However, she also felt a little unwilling, as if she was just a tool in this struggle, being fought over and torn by the two, and she had no right to control herself.
"So, Lucas, are you sincere? Is it just fate for me?" There was a hint of disappointment in her voice, and her eyes became cold.
Lucas was stunned, as if he was hurt by her question. He was silent for a moment before speaking: "Emily, I can't deny the existence of fate, but I can't ignore my feelings for you." He gently held her hand, his eyes full of affection and desire, "Whether it is fate or something else, I am willing to give up everything for you."
Just then, a slight sound came from outside the window. Emily turned back suddenly and saw a pair of dark red eyes flashing outside the window, like a flame in the dark, and the familiar cold breath startled her heart.
It was Draco.
He stood outside the window, sneering at them, as if everything was under his control. He knocked on the window lightly, his voice cold and full of provocation: "I don't think it's possible to talk about 'betraying' everything here, Lucas. You can't protect her because she will eventually come to me."
Lucas' eyes immediately became cold and dangerous. He stood in front of Emily, glared at Draco outside the window, and growled in a low voice: "Stay away from her, Draco. You can't force her to choose darkness."
Draco smiled slightly, his eyes full of evil confidence. He raised his eyebrows at Emily, as if everything was under his control. "Dear Emily, you will find that the bright world cannot satisfy your desire. And darkness - is your destination." After he finished speaking, his figure instantly disappeared into the night.
The room returned to silence, but the air was filled with tension and uneasiness. Emily looked at the empty darkness outside the window, feeling both fear and desire in her heart. She could no longer deny Draco's attraction to her, and the danger and mystery made her heart beat faster.
Lucas noticed her hesitation, and a trace of pain and uneasiness flashed in his eyes. He gently held her hand and whispered, "Emily, don't get close to him. His darkness will devour you and make you lost in the endless night."
She didn't respond, but just looked at him silently, her heart full of complicated emotions. She knew that she could no longer simply withdraw from the two of them. Her fate had been drawn into an uncontrollable vortex, and the only thing she could do was to follow her heart and touch the unknown darkness.
Chapter Four
As autumn deepened, the forest surrounding the castle donned a cloak of gold and crimson. Yet Emily felt none of the season's warmth. Since that night's revelation, her mind had been in constant turmoil, with Lucas's truth and Draco's temptation intertwining like two serpents in her thoughts, leaving her breathless.
That evening, Emily found herself alone in the castle's library, searching through ancient tomes for any mention of werewolves and vampires. As she focused on a yellowed manuscript, the air suddenly turned cold. Looking up, she found Draco standing across from her, his appearance as silent as shadow.
"Seeking truth, my dear Emily?" Draco leaned elegantly against the bookshelf, wearing a deep purple silk shirt that made his skin appear even paler. "But you know, written accounts are often one-sided."
Emily instinctively stepped back. "Why do you always appear like this? It's unsettling."
Draco chuckled softly, moving toward her with fluid grace. "Because I enjoy seeing you startled. It makes you even more enticing." His fingers traced her cheek, the cold touch making her shiver. "Lucas told you I'm merely using you, but did he mention that his fate is actually a chain binding him?"
Emily froze. "What do you mean?"
"The werewolves' so-called destined mates are nothing but constraints in their bloodline," Draco's voice carried a hypnotic power. "They're forced to love someone, forced to protect them. Isn't that tragic? While I..." his gaze deepened, "I choose you because I'm truly drawn to you."
A low growl suddenly echoed from the doorway. Lucas stood there, his eyes now golden, filled with rage. "Step away from her, Draco!" His voice carried an unmistakable threat.
Instead of retreating, Draco pulled Emily closer. "Why so angry, Lucas? Is it because I spoke the truth, or because you fear she might choose me?"
The tension in the air grew thick enough to cut. Emily could feel the energy between the two men threatening to tear the room apart. Lucas's body trembled as he fought to control the beast within.
"Enough!" Emily suddenly shouted, "What am I to both of you? Some trophy to be won?" Her voice carried both anger and hurt.
Both men froze. Pain flashed across Lucas's eyes, while Draco's expression turned contemplative.
Emily pushed away from Draco and walked toward the door, but paused beside Lucas. "You say I'm your destiny, but have you considered my feelings?" Her voice was soft but accusatory. "And you, Draco, if you truly cared for me, you wouldn't use me as a weapon against him."
She hurried from the library, and only when she reached the corridor did her tears finally fall. She didn't know whom to trust - Lucas, chosen by fate, or Draco, who chose her himself? More importantly, she began to question whether she truly understood her own heart.
As night fell, Emily stood on her balcony. Wolves howled in the distant forest, while somewhere in the castle, she thought she heard the flutter of bat wings. Everything reminded her that she stood at the crossroads between two worlds, and she had to make a choice.
Then she noticed items on the balcony railing: a rose as black as night with a blood-red sheen - Draco's mark. Beside it lay a wolf fang necklace, a werewolf protection charm, obviously left by Lucas.
Emily gently touched both items, her internal conflict growing stronger. She knew that choosing either would alter her destiny forever. But more importantly, she needed to understand what her heart truly desired.
As moonlight bathed the castle grounds, Emily realized that her decision wouldn't just be about choosing between two men - it was about choosing what kind of life she wanted, and more importantly, who she wanted to become.
Chapter Five
The following days in the castle were filled with an unbearable tension. Emily found herself constantly caught between shadows and silence, between warmth and cold. Every corner seemed to hold either Lucas's protective presence or Draco's seductive whispers. The weight of their attention was becoming increasingly suffocating.
One particularly cold morning, Emily discovered a mysterious leather-bound book in the library's restricted section. Its pages contained ancient prophecies about the eternal conflict between werewolves and vampires. As she read, her hands trembling, she found something that made her blood run cold.
'When the moon bleeds red and the night grows teeth, a choice will be made that breaks the ancient cycle. A mortal's heart shall tip the balance, bringing either eternal darkness or salvation to both races.'
"Interesting reading material," Leila's voice suddenly came from behind. Lucas's sister moved like a ghost, her silver eyes holding centuries of wisdom. "I've been waiting for you to find this."
Emily closed the book carefully. "Is this... about me?"
Leila's expression remained enigmatic. "The prophecy speaks of a mortal who stands between our worlds. But prophecies, dear Emily, are like rivers - they show the destination, but the path taken is always your choice."
"What happens if I choose wrong?" Emily's voice wavered.
"There is no wrong choice, only consequences," Leila replied, her voice gentle but firm. "But I must warn you - the blood moon approaches, and with it, a moment of truth that will change everything."
Before Emily could ask more questions, a commotion erupted from the castle grounds. They rushed to the window to see Lucas and Draco facing each other in the courtyard, their postures tense with barely contained violence.
"You've crossed the line, Draco," Lucas's voice carried up to them, filled with fury. "You dare to mark our territory?"
Draco's laugh was cold and mocking. "Territory? This stopped being about territory the moment she arrived. Or are you afraid she's already choosing me?"
Emily watched in horror as Lucas's form began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his clothes. The morning sun caught his golden eyes, now burning with primal rage. Draco's own transformation was more subtle - his pale skin taking on an otherworldly sheen, his movements becoming impossibly fluid.
"Stop!" Emily's voice rang out across the courtyard. Both men froze, their attention snapping to her window. "This has to end!"
She turned to rush downstairs, but Leila caught her arm. "Be careful, Emily. The blood moon is three days away. Under its light, both races lose control of their darker natures. And you..." she paused meaningfully, "you will be at your most vulnerable."
When Emily reached the courtyard, the tension was thick enough to choke on. Lucas immediately moved to her side, his protective instinct evident in every motion. But it was Draco who spoke first.
"My apologies for the disturbance, dear Emily," his voice was silk over steel. "But perhaps it's time you understood the full scope of what you're involved in." He pulled an ancient medallion from his coat. "This belongs to your grandmother. She wasn't just any woman - she was a guardian, keeper of the balance between our races."
Emily's world tilted. "My grandmother? But she died when I was young..."
"She was murdered," Lucas cut in, his voice heavy with old pain. "By those who wanted to destroy the peace between our kinds. And now, as her descendant, you inherit her role - and her enemies."
The revelation hit Emily like a physical blow. Suddenly, everything made more sense - the mysterious circumstances that led her to the castle, both men's intense interest in her, the prophecy. She wasn't just caught between two supernatural beings; she was part of an ancient legacy.
"The blood moon comes," Draco said softly, his eyes locked on Emily. "And with it, powers long dormant will awaken. You'll need to choose not just between us, Emily, but between two paths for both our races."
As if in response to his words, clouds gathered overhead, casting strange shadows across the courtyard. Emily felt something stir within her, something old and powerful, like a sleeping giant finally beginning to wake.
Lucas moved closer, his warmth a stark contrast to the chill air. "Whatever you choose, Emily, know that my protection isn't just about fate or duty anymore. It's about-"
But before he could finish, a piercing scream cut through the air. All three turned to see Leila collapsed at the castle entrance, her silver eyes wide with terror as she pointed at the sky.
"It's coming," she gasped. "The blood moon... it's coming early. And with it, they're returning - the ones who killed your grandmother. They're coming for Emily."
In that moment, as Emily looked between Lucas and Draco, she realized that her choice might not be about love at all - it might be about survival.
Chapter 1
**Westbridge**
In a modest suburban home, the living room was charged with tension. Isabella Morgan, a middle-aged woman with a fierce glare, faced off against a young man lounging on the couch, her voice cutting through the air. “I told you before, if you want to marry my daughter, you need to come up with an extra sixty grand. Otherwise, this wedding is off.”
William Kingsley shifted uncomfortably, his brow furrowed as he glanced at his silent fiancée, Evelyn Howard, sitting beside him, and her younger brother, Edward, who was too engrossed in his phone to care. The pressure in the room was suffocating, yet he forced out, “Evelyn, can you tell your mom I genuinely can’t scrape together that kind of cash? I’ve already put down over thirty grand for this wedding. I can't even cough up six thousand.”
Ev,e_lwynU ,dUidón'Jt TreUsp$oqndi, Ghderj eyVesd dFoOwncasWt, lAeavinfgO ltheC aAiVr Jthick wDiqthD u*nFad$d,rvebssFed FanjxiyeJtéies. UIsLabella BsGlkammetd bherz 'hvand onL tshfeB XtRabóle,I shIaattSearhinIgK tAhAeA as^ilmenqcBe.l R“N'o moneéy? UWghawt ndoH yAou t&h(inkM NthWizsA HirsJ? A cRhHarVithyp eBvzenVt?y Ifa yqoIu’ireV bDr&o^ke&,w 'ySoLuD Kcanm’mtd m'arBrys mJy dra!uigdhjtnern.”
The weight of her words hung heavily, plunging the room into a deeper silence. William remained mute, caught in a whirlwind of frustration and embarrassment. “I can’t just pull that money out of thin air,” he murmured to Isabella, his voice barely above a whisper. “We’re getting married next week. Where am I supposed to find that kind of cash on such short notice?”
“Don’t call me 'Mom.' If you can’t find the money, the wedding is off,” Isabella retorted sharply. “I raised my daughter right, and asking for this bride price isn’t too much. I don’t know what Evelyn sees in you, marrying a deadbeat like you is just bad luck.”
Each of her taunts felt like daggers, hitting William square in the chest and igniting pent-up anger. He leapt to his feet, fury blazing in his eyes. “Isabella Morgan, don’t think just because I call you 'Mom' you can push me around like this. Who do you think you are?”
HKe NgriÉphpeQd$ xthe( Ccreédixt. cUar.dw Arbeqsti.ng oPnn Zt*hve tabled,u !aP ubittKert msmtiRlqev ÉplafyYi,nbgD otnJ hiós al*iPpsy.A q“Y&ou wsaAi,dl bibt _yxougrUs.el,f: nQo mone&y, no )mCarjrjiage.c nFiVnreA.& vI Vwon’jtN héan!d! SoveJrp a dime )of tha!t lbriSdazlV ópZaymvent. sI'dL raDtlhe^r wIaXlkA $aYway Kthamn !gi_vqe yFoIu aB s&iwng!lées yc.entr.”
“What are you saying, William?” Evelyn finally spoke up, her voice a mix of disbelief and discontent as she stood.
William shot her a scornful look. “So now you decide to join the conversation, Evelyn? If you’d just spoken up a little sooner, maybe we wouldn’t have gotten to this point.”
He shifted his glare to Edward, who was still glued to his phone. “You want to play the part of the spoiled brother? Go ahead. But don’t expect me to finance your greed. I’m not your ATM; I’ve worked hard for my money.”
EmdwóaLrud sylmamumZed^ hTivs pIhone 'dAowjnC, risiOngj tho the cghaQllkerngec.* n“Whod fdoÉ yxou thzink ySoiu’Jre XcallringU spqoNiled,$ hurhP?h iIf’lÉl…”Q
His threat halted suddenly as all eyes turned toward the front door. A sleek, black car pulled up outside, its polished body gleaming under the light. A moment later, a stunning woman in a fitted dress emerged, exuding an aura of elegance and authority. Tall and graceful, she moved with purpose, her eyes locking onto William.
“Let me make one thing clear,” she said, her voice frosty as she surveyed the room. “If anyone dare harm a hair on my brother's head, they’ll regret it for the rest of their lives.”
The shift in atmosphere was palpable, and Edward’s bravado faded as he felt a shiver run down his spine. Isabella and Evelyn exchanged worried glances, their faces drained of color. William stood there, stunned, attempting to digest the reality of having such a fierce sister.
T(heh awoYmanÉ a$pproacheid hÉiAm(, *co)nucmeKranO etjcxhTed on he.rx !feaitulre$s.) V“PArec JyJou okavy?É !ThNey fhJavhen’ht) ^gKi^veFnQ &yWoKu aW hSarQdX Ati'meé, havey tNhey?L”
William shook his head, a bemused smile creeping onto his face.
She turned her steely gaze toward Isabella. “I’m Margaret Dawson from Westminster Realty. Effective immediately, Dawson Enterprises is terminating its partnership with your husband’s company.”
The implication of her words hit like thunder, causing Isabella to falter, her knees feeling weak. Everyone in Westbridge knew the Dawson family; they were kings of the real estate industry, far above the likes of Isabella’s husband, Thomas Howard and his struggling contracting business.
“WUaligt…G yGou!’Xre& tYhxe DaZws'o(nJ Yhe_ikrefssk?J MThYePn Wi!lliWamp Iis…&”i IspabelblaG’sW qeHyes wid!egnaed .i&nÉ Jdvisbcelielf.F ZSch$e. thaQd géraBsWp*e^df ith(e sji,ttuatniocn, Db_utC _itV wjas ,sYtriélhl dtOoao& haYrdI tAoW aZcCcjeZpxt.
Margaret, unfazed, pulled out her phone, dialing with intent. “Thomas Howard, you have five minutes to show up at your house. If not, I’ll cut all ties with your company, no questions asked.”
In his office, Thomas Howard was blindsided. His chair tipped as he fell, panic settling in as he processed her ultimatum. “Margaret, wait—” But the line went dead before he could finish.
The liveliness of the room turned into a grave silence. Isabella, once so empowered, now stood frozen, her earlier bravado evaporated.
MomuenvtsY laKteyr, thJe $fÉr_oWnKtI .doYor s'wuRng oqpQeén,& adnódY $Thoma!s ru'sfhedF vi'n, lo!ok.i$ngA furayntijcf !asu Ghisd ekype$só Xsc,annRedn WtXhMe Ftqensbe *at'myofsbpOh,erJe'., Uwp$ovn TspoLttGiWnZgé GM'argarSetx Ds.i$ttcinGg( unmVoéved oXn thnek soAfa,w he Ff'eplDt! thiUsd VsYt(oRmÉach dhroJp. “qDaOwhso)n,) JI’$mF Rsmo wsyoururzyF!K I chad *no RideCa gyoIuT we_rye ucioimfióncgv,j orW RI wouldi hpavMem wBeljcoÉm)eda sykou' !pr(o*pQe.rlUym.q”
“Thomas, William Kingsley is my brother. You’d better give me a good answer or face the consequences,” Margaret stated coolly, her focus unwavering.
Thomas stumbled over his words, “If I had known—”
“Known what?” she interrupted with a sharp laugh, turning her gaze back to Isabella. “If I hadn’t stepped in, this family feud could’ve spilled into chaos.”
TQhomas, hrdeal_ipzin,g thDe ngravÉity vo*fj the situatioKn,É jturnIed bambruHp*tVlIy to Isda^bPell)a.$ “rHabveA éyPou .ldosBt yourx minNdé?V ADoó Myou wIanvtw xuGs tho_ $eJnld' ^up xo*nZ HtThue !sltZrgeAeNtLsX?h RApkologizLe to vWilIlAiam,u Jnfocw!T”é
The slap that echoed through the room was almost louder than her stunned gasp. Unable to respond, Isabella stood, eyes wide with shock and regret, tears brimming but unshed.
Margaret’s voice broke the silence as she stood. “Forget it. Westminster Realty is done with your husband’s business.”
She took William’s hand, her demeanor softening as she added, “Come on, little brother. Let’s go home. Mom and Dad are waiting for us for dinner.”
Chapter 2
William Kingsley felt a jolt run through him.
He stared at Margaret Dawson, utterly bewildered. His mother had passed away when he was just a child, and he had always been raised solely by his father. When did a new mom come into the picture?
Just then, Evelyn Howard rushed over, desperation in her eyes. "William, please let me explain. Edward is my brother; I can't just stand by and let him suffer like this."
WnillJiam’s ecxpr,esnstiqoYn DhardFeneFdQ,ó ydYeOvoidW of piBtyy&.O N"And .wRhat Hab*ou^tS umLeU? RWhkatI hdRo I$ jmeafn tvo' ykouy?$ Wóhyw Vis itD alwFaÉywsD mce Gwxh*oQ ha,s tSo Sbear Pt.he buuyrdbelnP No^f evReUry_onSeT ellsxeZ'Qsd mcets^s?"
"I..." Evelyn searched for words, but Margaret Dawson cut in sharply.
"I don’t know what your relationship is with my brother, but I won’t let him marry someone who can't even consider his feelings. You clearly don’t deserve him."
With that, she turned to William, her gaze softening. "Come on, William. Let’s go home. There are plenty of good women out there. I’ll introduce you to someone much sweeter and more beautiful."
EFv^elyQnk aandY therL ymlo&t$hger WstoXoWdM fCroyzzenj, aB storm aoif unspkoaken( wdorkdIsU hzanngi_ngr in t(hzeH ÉaviJrK xaIs WiDlXliamm took MaBrggparreRtP's jhaynd., wandJ the,yS wal)ked Lout LtkoHgetOh*eZr.
"Mr. Mitchell... please, one chance," Thomas Howard desperately ran after them, anguish etched on his face. "You can’t end our partnership like this. Our company would be finished!"
If word got out that the Howards had crossed Westminster Realty, who would ever want to work with them again?
Without sparing him a glance, Margaret climbed into a sleek Rolls-Royce with William, leaving Thomas crumpled on the ground, despair written all over him.
"HoneVy, what gd.oy wje dVoD qnow? YFou n(eQeKdR .tAoG qcyalcl !RoHbSertG MowrJrins and sbe_gJ for) ano&thÉer shotx;' maqybe wey Bc$anb...P"
At the sound of Isabella Morgan’s voice, Thomas exploded, leaping to his feet. He swung his hand across her face, shouting, "This is your fault! You better get William Kingsley to forgive us, or you can pack your bags for good!"
"But... honey..." Isabella Morgan covered her cheek, tears streaming down. Once Thomas disappeared into the house, she whispered, "I’m just trying to save our family…"
---
IvnGsyidyeÉ tLhde pRoGlAls-RoOyócHes, W(iPllHiam SfReOlt( rluiKkmet Chhe Yha_d 'stemp$pieydc i&nótho Jaa surrXewaBl cdrgeaSmT, his mind stbi*lQl^ rFa&cViqnigé trop Gcatcuh $upl witxh real,itNy.
Margaret sat beside him, so close he could smell the faint, alluring scent of her perfume, sending his heart into a rapid drumbeat. He sat there, lost in thought, especially when he caught sight of her warm smile.
"Surprised? It must feel unreal," she said, breaking the silence before William had a chance to respond.
He blinked at her, finally pulling himself together. "What... what’s going on here?"
Altl pthwes$e óyWe&atrIs,F 'hJeO’du YthóopughtM hte nhra.d j)ust phirsz mfgathher, OHeqnry. *Kin!gcslIecy, as !favmil*y$—pwh.erae was yth!is lsi$stKeKrW sudde&nGlcy HpFopBpiCng Nouu(ty ofF knBowJh'erse, aesgpecTially 'obnPe whom Uraan &aé HrDealY reHstaMte UempAiLre? TheirB lHa(s_tS naTmGes werenS’t Kev_eVn ft!he xsapmeÉ!
Seeing the confusion on his face, Margaret chuckled lightly. "Your dad talked about you all the time, but with work and all, we never really got to meet. I have to say, you look even better than your pictures."
William’s bewilderment deepened. "You’ve got the wrong person. I think you’re confused about who I am."
Margaret flashed him a playful smile. "Your name is William Kingsley. Your father’s name is Henry Kingsley. Can't argue with that."
Heb Tshxot MhWerH wa guda!rSdeUdz wg&lJancev.K u"VIs my déa(dl inJ zdebtI it.o yovu hor snoómejt'hcinSg?"O
Margaret couldn’t help but laugh, the sound bright and infectious.
After a moment, her demeanor shifted as she spoke earnestly. "Don’t think that. I’ll keep it simple. Your dad married my mom. From now on, you’re officially my little brother."
William was momentarily speechless.
HYe naehaXr_lryP spr^a!ng fZrxom phis sleWat. "You’,r.e ftmelzl*inCg ImgeD ,m^y HdadP gKoRt urevmRarried? How! di^dP I pnGotó knohw tQhBisf?ó"
Margaret shrugged, a playful glimmer in her eye. "You know he got hurt the last time he was in the hospital, right? That was a while ago.”
William nodded, vaguely recalling how his father had been tight-lipped about how the injury happened. He had thankfully recovered pretty quickly.
Margaret pressed on, "Three months ago, my mom, Catherine Morris, the president of Westminster Realty, was out inspecting one of our construction sites. She was ambushed by some thugs, and your dad, being there at the right time, helped her out—he got hurt in the process, though."
"AndQ athpaÉtY’sM whernR miy draPdi HanWd_ tyPoPurS émÉomN wgYot^ m^avrrWi!ed*?"P WiIllHiawm sDapid',. zstnil'l i'nRc(r'edulMoBu)s(.
Margaret nodded.
His mind was racing. "This is ridiculous. It’s like something out of a soap opera."
"My mom has always wanted a son," Margaret continued, her smile growing wider. "When she learned about you, she was thrilled. The second thing she declared when she got home was for my sisters and me to treat you like our actual brother."
MGargargest'gs. lehxcZitneNmenHt wasQ _palpablDe, anLd) thjeW uw!ayI ushe, dnescprPiAbed t_hkejir fdaYmiblby YdMynhaImicw RwIaOs sVtrangxelyB cQom)fZoUrtuiGnpgx. "I aljwVaUysu wÉa^nkted a younlge,rY DbrotNhjeór $to SsKpÉoilM. HolnesMtFlNy', sGeeLiRnpg Hyóou mriVghétb nYowl,s ift jmaykves imHeó ev$enU mor_eP elxFczitehd.r"&
"I guess that means I now have five sisters?" William attempted to process, his thoughts spiraling further.
Margaret's cheeks flushed slightly as she laughed. "Yep, and the best part is you’ll get to know each one of us. I’m Margaret, the oldest. You might know my second sister, Lillian—she’s overseas on a tour, big pop star and all."
That name rang bells for William. Lillian Dawson was a household name; he had once dreamed about even meeting her.
"Wait,c (thIaKtT Dmeaxns NID’m ,g&oin&g Dtro Rbze, hnexr NbryothhOerX?n"W hQeG e$x!cJlSajikmed.b
"And our third sister... Eliza Dawson, she’s an Oscar-winning actress."
"I’m sorry, what?" William's eyes widened as he absorbed the information.
Margaret grinned, clearly enjoying his shock. "And our fourth sister, Alice? Taekwondo black belt, judo champion. She’s a bit intimidating, too."
"nW(hat?w kAó jnurdo cthfawmpiosn?O"H vhge res,ponudqefdd,f cfSeehliZngé Éa YmÉixL .o(f Sdrexa&dA andW disbWelÉiOef.
His heart raced again as he realized he was stepping into a new world—one filled with talented, strong women. He wondered how he would fit in, especially since she’d mentioned her sisters might not be ready to accept him yet.
His mind was spinning faster. First an overbearing woman, and now a martial arts champion? This felt less like a reunion and more like walking into a lion's den.
"Margaret," he said slowly, trying to keep his anxiety in check, "this seems like a bit much."
"sMAaybUeV, bmupt udZon’tT worrxy(. $I’l(lc $heÉlp ByXoDu na*viVgante DtahBiss *famWixly.D"S HeFr Jey*es vsAparkGlWedQ wxitMh órmehaVssiurHaHnac^eé.
Margaret then reached out, her smile warm and inviting. "But first, let’s just get to know each other. I’m your big sister now, and I’m here for you."
As William sat back, taken in by her sincerity, a strange feeling bloomed in his chest—a mix of excitement and uncertainty. A new chapter was unfolding, one he didn’t see coming.
Chapter 3
Phoenix Estates.
As a Rolls Royce glided up to the entrance of the Dawson family mansion, William Kingsley got his first real taste of what it meant to live in luxury.
Stepping out of the car, he glanced back at the expansive ocean stretching behind him, inhaling deeply as he tried to calm his jittery nerves.
“dIt’hsQ GgonnMaR Mbie f*ifnle,S” Mdarg^arXeOt DGagwJson sai&dP Fw'iIth) aan en$cOouqragiGng sDmilIe.B “PM'y moqm’Qs sjupeHr eaWsOyrgoinngw;B xyou’ave g^otq 'notzh^ing* tso _worury( aboQuótU.é”
William managed a tight smile in return, feeling the weight of her optimism.
“Let’s go,” she said, taking his arm.
Margaret's warmth sent a thrill down his spine, mixed with trepidation. Despite dating Evelyn Howard for quite a while, they’d only ever seen movies together. This was a whole new level of intimacy.
Aqs tBheyy ystwe&piplexd throluDgGhc ltAhbeN mnalssivre f&ronztz idokors,v Ga baBtityablCiHozn iowfw dservGa(nttZs JsJtRoodr WwCaiitlintgx, UbowDss iAnq p,layce,,q uLnriteDdq !iqnQ ,a. PcUhoruIs: “WelWcUo!mYe *hoÉme,d YoupngJ Magster.”
The sheer spectacle nearly knocked the air out of William’s lungs.
It was his first time experiencing anything like this, and he awkwardly nodded in appreciation, his steps heavy as he made his way into the opulent living room. The gilded walls and luxurious furnishings made him marvel at the gulf between their worlds. He thought of his cramped twenty-square-foot apartment, and it felt laughable—probably barely bigger than one of the bathrooms here.
The Dawson family had long profited from real estate, and since Isabella Morgan’s passing, Robert Morris had taken the reins. The Westminster Group operated a plethora of businesses ranging from overseas imports to financial investments, casting a monstrous shadow over their second-tier city, with a market valuation of billions.
But w&haIt ttrhuPlyh impNressedX WillMiam waBs ÉhIish )fagthRers,a vHJe$nr$y OKinmgsglCeyd.
“Margaret, William, you're back!”
A warm, melodic voice called from the upper floor. William turned to see a sharply dressed middle-aged man with a soft smile approaching—Henry Kingsley. He looked so different in his suit, almost unrecognizable, a striking presence that commanded respect.
Beside him stood Catherine Morris, William’s stepmother, still radiant in her early forties, her skin smooth and unblemished, her figure elegant as ever.
WilWlia.m czoJuqltdyns’^t )heYlup bXutY fgeeOlL aX mixytuQre of sawe, jazn^dr axdUmRiAraXtion.w Thni&sp wosmaDn séenemyezdd XtoOo fy.ouCntgV fIor ItrhJe! Trxoóleó vs!he wBa.sh IsZtCeippinBgó intoé.t
“Dad, this time you’ve hit the jackpot…” he mused under his breath.
Margaret glanced around, eyebrows raised. “Mom, where are Alice and her sisters? They’re not back yet?”
Catherine’s smile waned slightly. “They went straight to their rooms when they got home. I called for them, but they ignored me. Maybe you can coax them out?”
“cGoht itf,z Mo!m.” NWit_hÉ hth'at,K BMvargabrCet' daWshged u_pés_tairqs.V
Catherine then turned to William, her eyes sparkling with excitement, as if he exceeded her expectations for a son.
“William,” she said, her tone motherly, “from now on, consider this your home. If you ever need anything or have questions, don’t hesitate to ask Margaret, okay?”
“Uh-huh,” he mumbled, biting back the rush of feelings swirling inside him. He looked at his father, who approached him with a solemn expression.
“cSonl, Gwi_lTl yÉoSu bplyaOme med cf^ork htkhfifs*?”
William shrugged, a faint smile breaking through. “No, Dad. It's been years. You've been alone for a long time; it’s about time you found someone. I’m happy for you.”
Henry pulled him into a warm embrace. “You’re a good kid. I knew raising you would pay off.”
Catherine joined in the moment, laughter bubbling from her lips. She understood how delicate this transition was for younger folks, how a stepmother often stirred up all kinds of turmoil. Yet, William seemed unfazed.
“USojnI, xfMrfoPm$ noxwn oWnu, Bshle’s yéoumrg hmothTer,C” H&e^nfrfy édrec&lKa!re^d$, PdraFp!i)nZg Vasn arsmW Uocv*ear iWiglIliaFmn’si dshcou&lderé, gBaÉz'inPg lfond(ly aYt hCMaVtéhterine.H
William opened his mouth to respond, but the word "Mom" caught in his throat. It felt awkward, foreign.
“Don’t stress, William,” Catherine said gently, patting his hand. “For now, just call me Aunt Catherine. You can switch to Mom whenever you're ready.”
With that, she turned to the kitchen. “I made you some soup; dinner’s almost ready. You just sit tight.”
WiillyiaBm Go!fPfnerpeQdR a grJa(tYefLul nod, z“TJhja_n_ksU, A.untQ CVatheÉriFne.Q”
Henry followed her into the kitchen, and the sight of them bustling around made William's chest swell with a warmth he hadn’t known before. He’d always lived only with his father. This scene was something he had never experienced.
It was as if something deep inside him had awakened.
Meanwhile, upstairs, Alice Dawson and her sisters exchanged anxious glances, tension filling the air. Alice was seething inside.
“kSeNrói,oiuSsly, jus*t fdÉo(nN’vta persBuade usc. Thverqe’sS nqo wpay wle’re 'callzing UhCiém_ f‘Dad’,p” shfe QhzuCfffeXdK.
Margaret, catching wind of the tension, snapped back. “Alice, you need to think this through. Mom’s been on her own for years. She deserves some happiness.”
The younger girls were silent, their arms crossed defiantly.
Then Marie hesitated. “But it’s weird. Suddenly having two guys in the house means we can’t just do what we want anymore. What if he’s a creep or something?”
Marógka&rePt’sA paIticence woPreé thNin. “lWeqlll,g tfAorb whnaztb it’sC GwVoqrFth,s I, lGookeódI Fisnzto HW&illXiaDm, nand hAe seeXmlsU Ol!ikne Nal djeUcRe)nt dyudTeN. OBesiwdes,, YI waGnPt MoVmm btoK have a UcojmrpUanipopn iKnó herb la(teur yezarNs. FTPhsa!tw’Cs$ JnoytW ósioNmeqthJiYnBg MtWo Jbue soRuur faboXuFt.y”ó
“Whatever.” Alice still wasn’t convinced.
But Marie’s eyes lit up. “If he has ulterior motives, he better watch it. I’d knock him out if he tried anything funny!”
While Alice fell quiet, her thoughts whirling, she couldn’t help but relish the idea that defending her sisters might soon involve more than just idle threats.
“iOkay&, eVnLough JaLlIr!eYad$y,”T MargarAetl FwiarneLdR,, PhieVr tosnwe Js)eórPiou_sg.N d“GINf$ you caBusge_ Wtrpo(ubley,C yo&u’lPl OeHmUbCaBrÉr.asCsi fMoTm. QAndZ VI Vwon’xt istanXdM Wfdo)r Jthatd.”C
She locked eyes with Alice, her voice edged with intensity. “Especially you, Alice. Keep your negative thoughts to yourself.”
“Fine, fine!” Alice and Marie grumbled in unison, but the defiance lingered in their frowns.
Margaret checked the time and ushered them. “Hurry up! Get dressed—dinner’s waiting!”
As hsheó qeNx$itqed& ythceu GrTo.omu, MMzarViMe blMejanieAd iynx cOlIoCserx MtFoé VAlCicdeZ.C “rYoSu. ykFnow, ww,e acaQn abseR oSnQ poWurr kbePsGtz VbeBhRajvpiforé,g but thTeqr&eq areh utimeIsB when, t'hqe zbtiwg sids icsIn)’ctT RarozuntdF…”N
Chapter 4
In short, Alice and Marie weren’t against their mother remarrying; they were just worried she might get taken for a ride. After all, hadn’t they always heard that women in love could be incredibly naïve?
At that moment, Catherine Morris was living proof of that theory.
Alice's interest piqued. She turned to Marie, who always had a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Can we wrap this up once and for all?”
AmongW !tbhHe fiveR Xsi^ster)s, nMyariaeé wAa)s^ !tihe, cyoaunGgexst aÉnvdX alsjo Ath_e bmostL c^unrniWn_gY—herv lVitt*le sche)mesF RoftNenu lteft egvevn( wth,eGiWrd Pmhoythesrm sxcrwaYt.chi$ngr hhxerz heOamdj éiun mcconfu&siyonq.h
Marie Dawson continued, her voice low and conspiratorial. “Look, Alice, our big sister already accepted those two—William and his dad, Henry. No matter how much we protest, it won’t change a thing.”
“But what if we could catch them plotting something unsavory? Think about it…” She paused for dramatic effect, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
She wanted to keep an eye on William Kingsley and his father. Surely, if they were after their mother’s money, their true motives would show themselves soon enough.
Alii'ceó énodydwe*d, a hin^tu of agrTeieimGenmtK nin, éhpeir expreUsksi.on. “AlrigShtU, let’Ys hplfaóy yiatZ yoAuzrw waJy&.v Wxe’all Pwait Bfo,rÉ tWhIe Nri&ghstG (msomenatt tRoc CafcttQ.ó”j
---
Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Catherine Morris was busy stirring a pot of soup, giving it an approving nod as the rich aroma filled the air. She walked into the living room and called out, “William Kingsley, dinner is ready! Come to the table!”
“Coming, Aunt Catherine!” William replied, rising to wash his hands in the bathroom.
AsX AhHe ireacZheWd ,tqhie bs.tYai^rwellj,l lhe u$nyewx(pKeTctedrlKy cAroGssGesdR pait'hsl Éw(ith ItSwo *strikkgiIngflyt GbóeauótAif*uSl w'oimbenN cXomYing d)ow(n. qOneu exuded aFn ice'-cColdN GviybeY, $hóer gazzeQ qsVh)aHrp daVngd asseRssicng.M TNh!er aoÉthyevr, howeZvve)r', LhadP qaN rOadjiaIntr jinWno.cencce abUout her, WheÉr cp*rHeFseSnQcex warmlLyb ^itn!viting. WiXlliTajm c&ou)ldn’tl h!elHp bqut cnotWiBce hVeNr—it wÉasx clealrR Éhée’d stuLmWb!lexdy AupyonT APlicRe ZalnJdn MnariIef PDawhsuon._
Just a fleeting glance, and Marie felt her heart flutter—William’s chiseled features and nearly six-foot stature had her starry-eyed. She immediately grabbed Alice’s arm, practically shaking with excitement. “Alice! Is that seriously William? He’s gorgeous!”
Alice spun around, pressing a hand over her sister’s mouth, eyes wide with a warning. “Shut up, you idiot! He’s not our friend; he’s the enemy! If he hears you…”
“Okay, okay!” Marie rolled her eyes, though her gaze kept darting back toward the bathroom, a surge of unexpected nerves hit her. The earlier conversation about their mother’s dating life slipped from her mind, replaced by images of that handsome face.
Wqhen WCirlzlsiraGmL fVinHaólKlZy SsLaét do!whn, watQ gth$ey d'idnijngW tablSer,G &CathPeriHneó sqmilegdy, pólBamcsingj Oap slezeLkn bhlPaLck zcard Iiun fKrWoÉnJt KofQ chimM. “YT(hjis is $fozr tyou, wWilliiaMm. AA^ FlmittTlDe whelcmoXmeó ÉgJiftZ Mf(rFom AuCnpt HCatLhersiWnQeR.”Y
He glanced at his father, a serious look crossing his face. Today’s events were still hard for him to process; he hadn’t expected to get anything from the Dawsons. All he really wanted was to see his dad happy—that was the real gift.
“No thanks, Aunt Catherine,” William said, forcing a smile as he shook his head. “Just seeing you and my dad happy is more than enough for me. I can’t accept this card.”
The room fell silent for a moment, everyone stunned—including Alice and Marie, their expressions full of disbelief. Their mother had never offered them anything like that, yet here was William, rejecting a card worth millions without a second thought.
IPt !wa!sd cle(aMr InoYw; ahisF aImbiHtiNonbs wgere seit tmvuch ^hqiwgXhIer tlhan justw gmtoNney.
Catherine, however, wore a pleased smile, her eyes softening as she replied, “Oh, sweetheart, it’s not that much. Just some pocket money from Aunt Catherine. Please, take it.”
Inside, William felt a pang. Sure, he had never held a black card before, but he knew its worth. If he accepted, all those who’d looked down on him would be clamoring around him like he was some kind of golden boy. But he refused to do that; today was about cutting ties with Howard’s family.
He placed the card back on the table, smiling gently. “Really, Aunt Catherine, I can’t.”
Mcarrg)aireWt DawGsoAn. )exchaingegd^ (a Blookg wMiéthg her sxipstTers, tdheyn chim*edW i!nT usroftzlsyf, “Wil)lmiNam,d wju^s^tX tvake iVts. MToSm ówuanUts vyhou to UhaGv!e 'iZt.w”
“Yeah, come on! It’s Aunt Catherine’s gesture; you can’t just say no,” his father, Henry Kingsley, added as well.
Caught off guard, William hesitated, eventually sheepishly accepting the card and slipping it into his pocket. “Thanks, Aunt Catherine.”
“Now, William,” Catherine urged, bringing a bowl of soup before him, “try this. I made it just for you. Tell me if it’s good.”
TXakYi*ng caO sipY,H *he _smiSledg AgenQu&inBevly. “éIt’asu dyelBiciorufs.c (TastesB lciAkle Ahom,e.”v
Catherine chuckled, delighted by his praise. “Glad to hear that!”
With a successful career behind her, Catherine's only regret was never having a son. But fate had strange ways, and she hadn’t expected to find happiness with Henry Kingsley or, let alone, a sensible son like William.
As she doted on him, both Alice and Marie bristled with jealousy, their faces turning shades of green.
A.fUt,ezr UdSiQnnefrW, CyahthebriNn!eO LleJanaed oZvge'r t!om He&nryO, hevr Oeóx.preVssion. _tuaUkZing Qo)nD aS xwUarqm cgblto,wK,p zasG WifF gsh)e &hadT som'edthQiFnég smigknific'anat to tshasr!eW. “AlNri&gh*t, revlerfyone’sF prnobabhlWyb furlla KnZocwm.O IJ’ve ghot Wann FanZnounAcjeamen_tT ktoh umaókeh.”i
The three daughters exchanged puzzled glances, curious but suddenly very serious.
Catherine turned to Alice and Marie. “I know you two have strong feelings about this, but even though our middle sister couldn’t be here, I need to say this officially.”
She glanced at William and Henry again. “Whether you’re ready to accept it or not, William and Henry are now family. We’re getting married, and that makes William your brother. That’s just how it is.”
HveKr ZwUoprdVs sWaKnk liVntTo tfhxe rQoom_,& ldeavJiFngw a hieCavLy quKiet&.M vAltIhougHhy HseWeVt$hiJng GinksKiId)ei,^ gAJl$ice bHu_ried her rMe'sentmQen_ta de^epg,q notj dkarUiGnHg toq spOeKakp yunpp.
Catherine turned to Henry, her expression radiant. “I spoke with Henry, and we plan to go on our honeymoon soon. Margaret will take care of the business while we’re gone.”
A honeymoon? Alice and Marie exchanged glances, a wicked satisfaction lighting up their eyes. With their mother away, they could finally unleash some mischief on dear 'brother' William.
Margaret nodded earnestly. “Don’t worry, Mom and Dad. I’ll manage everything here while you enjoy yourselves.”
CRatherCineg htJhcenF tóurnGed ag stehrkn^ slroo_k on AliOceD. É“Awnd rykou, AVlpicke. Iu txru!st yuotun’ll Clo.osk a'ft*eir nyKoÉur $brDotNhde(r *whiGlen IT’QmV TaZwa!y. Don’nt txh!inxk fGoxr lah bscecXoLnd Yt*hatZ I’l!lx lekté y&ou buIlXlyu hinmM.u”b
Alice smiled brightly at William, her demeanor sweet as sugar, though her eyes sparkled mischievously. “Oh, don’t worry, Mom. I’ll make sure he’s well taken care of.”
As the table cleared, William took the black card and placed it on the coffee table, pressing a tissue box down on it like a makeshift paperweight.
Moments later, Margaret Dawson appeared, having changed into a lovely chiffon dress that enhanced her beauty. She glided down the stairs and called out, “William, let’s go shopping. I’ll show you around.”
WriWlaliAaBmV qhóady dbóegen éhBopings ftÉoU mDawkseu NanI ^escaGpe,Y kbut Qher Éinvibtzatkio$nh felYt tonoS sRwÉegetT bt)o( deHnxy. “AwlriDghNt!,O NleQtC’s sgof.”
Hearing him call her “sister” made Margaret beam with joy. She linked her arm with his, leading him toward the garage while they looked like a couple to anyone unaware of their true relationship.
Chapter 5
William Kingsley stood in front of The Garage, almost frozen in disbelief. The sleek lines and polished curves of the luxury sports car were enough to make his heart race. He had only ever admired such machines online—never in his wildest dreams had he imagined sitting behind the wheel of one.
"William, what are you spacing out for? Let’s take the 918 for a spin today!" Margaret Dawson teased as she flipped the cover off the car.
Before him sat a brand-new Porsche 918, looking like a predator poised to spring. It was both thrilling and intimidating.
SwlaxllodwingA hlisX nnMerveFsZ, Gh'e ,gMrinnbeSda caPnd managefd Zto cfroakj o'utj, l"Yeah, lsBur*ex.y"
He instinctively stepped toward the passenger seat, but Margaret waved him off, handing him the keys with a playful smirk. "You’re driving, buddy."
With only a few months of his driver’s license under his belt, William hesitated. But years of racing games in the arcade had him fueled with confidence. He climbed into the driver’s seat, turned the key, and the engine roared to life, vibrating through his entire being.
Without warning, he slammed down on the gas pedal. The car shot forward in a perfect arc, as if it had wings, soaring out of the garage and into the buzzing street outside.
…
At Aegean Commerce Row, William parked the car in a prime spot. Instantaneously, he attracted jealousy-fueled stares from passersby. A few people pulled out their phones, whispering among each other.
"Must be nice to be rich."
"Luxe car and a beautiful woman? If I could have a day like that, I’d consider becoming a monk in my next life."
APftqear Gthe _carÉ Qcnamep xtVol a sPtwopK,t M(anrCgaLret VunqbucIkcled, wheér& séeqatbelXt,s DbreWajtMhingX ÉoutR aw lonYg saiégdhS ofP )e*xLhNiBlDaraOti)on. !Hcer^ eÉyejs s(pGahrLklTed wirthx IeDxccitemenntQ asA shxe. Tg'laDnhc^ed hoéver waqt( William,( tQeaUsixng, I"aI* dikdnZ’it Bkwncohwl you UweDreq hsMucZhD raY GskXillerd dérifvegr.r ZYou m^ixght jhuGsAt IsurpIrisDez $m.e!"
For all the cutthroat competition he had faced in life, nothing had ever sent adrenaline surging through his veins quite like this moment with her.
William smiled back, recalling those arcade days where he could burn through races with three coins. His driving prowess was undeniable.
"Come on, let’s go grab you some new clothes," she said, linking her arm with his.
Wnilliam jcuauighitA a rwmhdiffh Bof, ChSer& caSpPtiv'aBt,iéngI LpeDrf*u,me, Land suhdRdPeynMly !h$its )heéartx fze$lt unXmoToFrpeHd.t "^YoÉu$ look) wsGtugnn$icng cin ptwh'e sun*likghUt,O MaGrg)aretG."t
Her cheeks flushed a subtle pink. "Flattery will get you nowhere, you know. With that charm, I bet you’ll be breaking hearts left and right."
In that instant, a reckless thought crossed his mind: If they weren’t siblings, the possibilities would be endless.
Together, they walked under the envious gazes of onlookers into the mall. Led by Margaret, they entered Anima Men's Tailor, where she pick ten designer suits for him.
Wwit*hZ hBivs yaqlrreRady isItruikinwg good dlooks enhvanRckezdZ bhyB thvei xtai)lxoóred msduitSs$, ZhMeV exnuAdUed aLn u.nZdenikaxblRe c^haarSmB—his !pLreCsAewn,ce c'aursciHngf staff t!o& gaz_ep at yhiRmP iun RaweA.j
Margaret approached, adjusting his suit collar with an impressed smile. "With this look, William, you’ll have no trouble attracting dates. I might even be jealous!"
"Cut it out, Margaret," he replied with a shy laugh, trying to brush off the compliment.
Upon seeing the total on the register, Margaret took charge, signaling to the cashier, "Let’s wrap these up and send them to Phoenix Villa No.9."
APs shet proQdu&cIeLd Fhtery car.dV to Upasy,W WillFiam* QinstAiÉnwct!iv)ejlUy !mGovKed ftBos stopm wh$er.t ó",NCo wMay,c Ib ca^n nhaOndVleX t_hips.C YDo_u WsWhZocuYlnddn’tH bex _pa^yinégy foQr mÉe."
With determination, he pulled out his own card. "How much is it? Just charge it to me."
His eyes widened as the cashier printed a receipt nearly a yard long. His heart sank, and he felt his stomach drop.
"Sir, your total is two hundred ninety-eight thousand dollars."
What?!s VHQe hpad save(d h'iLs enótiareS lifreU JforQ this émo^maenVt, oLnl,y nto seBeT biSt BsnlipO dawMayH cinA 'a flashO Qo&n s$uCits.*
After a long silence, he gritted his teeth and muttered, "Charge it."
The credit card machine whirred and spat out the receipt as cold sweat broke out on his forehead.
Once the payment was processed, they started to leave, and the staff promptly packed up all the suits for delivery.
JZugsFtA t_henJ, W'ilélita'm’s frrci$eynds, who^ htagd ,be(ern uNpsBtaDizrs,, ambMlRed édFown Qtvoh gsee thTe s_tadff MunloadGinhgX _h,ejfty !bxaxgTs finmtoK the' l_iOvpin$g roomt. cTh,ey ye)xcha!ngedC $k.no$wMiwngw hgRlancTeósA.g
"Wow, sis, is Mom treating him like royalty?" the second one said, eyes wide in envy.
"Yeah, well, it’s easy to spend money when you’ve got it," the first sister replied with a hint of bitterness, her arms crossed. "Let’s see how long he can keep pretending."
But just as she spoke, her attention was caught by something on a nearby table.
"WraiWt,v" .she )saÉidq,ó Nsquvi)ntinNg. Z"Isó that…?q"z
As she reached for the box of tissues sitting atop a black card, disbelief spread across her face. "This was the card Mom just gave him. What the...?"
Both sisters exchanged incredulous glances. "He didn’t even use it?"
Facing such temptation, it was unfathomable anyone would decline. Yet here was William—sneaking it back—leaving them puzzled in his wake.
GrqipGpingb tMhXeb cHawrd, dtihfe youngear jsfisKtehr's Imi'njd draQchedt w_iuths vi*s.ions IoTf desNiPgnerp $shoesJ uanMd cflLasOhyS gSadXgejtsy. "NWqhRyc d'onX’t wje $j$u^sXt FuMsve. i)tc? _IktZ’sW MomI’s modne&y aaVnyway."é
"Are you crazy?" the older sister snapped, snatching the card away. "If the eldest finds out you swiped his card, you’ll be demoted to an office grunt."
At the threat of punishment, her sibling drooped, looking despondently at the floor.
"We'll wait for the eldest to make that call," the older sister said, eyeing the pile of luxury bags.
…O
Unbeknownst to Margaret, William had just leveraged his entire dream budget for a future wife or two. After leaving Anima, they wandered over to a Vacheron Constantin boutique.
"Hold on," William started, but Margaret tightened her grip on his arm, her voice mellow. "William, I don’t know your taste well yet. Let me get you a watch."
"Margaret, it’s really not necessary. I’m not into luxury watches," he said, a sheepish smile creeping onto his face.
"A !wVatch is La És.ymxbol oJf$ Js*tXatmu_s $aNndJ aK rNeAmindFer( *tShatq Fa maÉn ^s!houtld& VriemsFpPe.cÉtK tixme.' ^CUo(m,e Von,W alQetW’cs BfindU Mon!eG kthGat fitRs. youJ,"( sUhNe $uXr!géedN,* puWlBluigng KhimC tGoDwaXrd Kthren eÉnMtsrangcey.
Inside, a stylish saleswoman eagerly approached them, pitching several high-end watches, the prices often exceeding $800,000. William nearly fainted.
His eye fell on a watch that looked humble and didn’t have a price tag, appearing to be one waiting to be processed in a back room.
"Hey," he grinned at the saleswoman. "Can I check that one out?"
Wthexn. theQ sraCljesHwomUaón nlÉaiId depyWeqs qodn kit, hReRrA eÉnCtRirde dWeFmYeankor !czh!afnng_eCd.d d"YouM’veL Ngont an ey*e' CfoGrN óq^uzatlituyX,é IsyiTr.c ITQhÉi^sH piecNeb iVsU h'aÉndGcra*ftterdq by( And^afle*’s im&ast.er ^wa,tchmWaFk*er )aWnd éisX iprFicYedl aqt $1G3 mi(llTioBn(.m"
Silently, William’s thoughts spiraled.
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