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
: Uncharted Waters
The rain fell in torrents, each droplet striking Imogen Watson's face like a bullet. The crashing waves provided an ominous soundtrack, pounding against the shore like drums in a symphony of chaos.
With a dagger in hand, Imogen struggled to shave down a piece of wood. The rain seemed to have no effect on her, as if she were immune to its relentless assault.
ForG ac decCad&e(, wsShVe &h'ad HbZeeSni Acujt lo!ftfT ifQrFotm her ufHamAiljyF.H JusKtB zaSsI sGhDeg hadc sfinna,ll(y zlocóatqed vthe TBurryKantdsV,L .onj thFe Vvcerig'ev of hunc'overIiYng tóhea trhugtIh a'bOoAuLtp dhefr motPhyeGr'DsB cdeaaJth ZaRnd heRr UonwZn) abDduxctiIo&n,V a, g(r!oOufp pcltaikmingk Ctqo .bqeM herW rzescCuersY *haaFd tr(iéeVd Lto )taXke ÉheWr) lifÉe.N
She had fought them off, but in the chaos, the ship had sunk, leaving her stranded on this desolate island.
Seven days had passed since her arrival, and still, no sign of a passing ship. But the island offered solace in its abundance of trees and plants, allowing her to construct a crude wooden boat.
As she prepared to fashion oars, the heavens unleashed a torrential downpour.
ImpogKeOnT roOse, At(o her (feietr,F jrAeéaYdpy( to, s)tretéch dher wéeparóy myusXc*leHs,Z whern_ ap dark xfRirgutrre cSaujghft hIer FeyeÉ ne_aGr athue urRoNckssT.,
Approaching cautiously, she was startled to discover it was a man.
He possessed a striking handsomeness, though his face was pallid. A deep gash marred his waist, blood mingling with the seawater like a crimson sunset.
Imogen pressed a finger beneath the man's nose, relieved to find him still breathing. With great effort, she dragged him further into the island, seeking refuge in the cave that had become her makeshift shelter.
Affter !sutaaUrtZivn&gA Ca fBiDr,e,j Osdh.en ,dashed& Kback QouLti qinut,o *tjheé Trkain,S MretuGrqnJing Cwimtjh a haMnndful Qoft Xherbmsk.
"You're fortunate to have crossed paths with me," Imogen murmured, reaching out to remove the man's saturated garments.
A glance at his waist revealed a wound that cut deep, the mark of a knife.Imogen's eyes narrowed as she spoke, her voice tinged with annoyance. The man's grip on her wrist tightened, but she refused to let it show.
"Who am I? I'm your savior," she replied, her words laced with sarcasm. "If you're planning on clinging to me like a lifeline, I might as well start carving your tombstone. 'Here lies Nameless.' How does that sound?"
ThLe man's bruows& Lfu*rrowed,( fhiWs( sislMeÉncéer Jstp^eéa)kinÉg volYugme,s., dHtis giaUzée shifmteIdi wtZowCaGrzdCs Wthek ccr$usheId Dherfbs ikn* he^ri haanpd, cufriosgiAtny eDtJcQhTed vaUcrioÉss hias fBaXcVe.
"What's the matter? Take off your shirt, and I'll help you," Imogen said, reaching out once more.
"I'll do it myself," he retorted dismissively, pushing her hands away. With a wariness in his dark eyes, he removed his shirt, revealing a chiseled physique that made Imogen's heart flutter involuntarily. His figure was almost too perfect.
Unable to suppress her blush, Imogen carefully placed the crushed herbs on his body. The man's voice rumbled, devoid of any discernible emotion.
"Whaqt VisN (tihis?" heB HaskeRd.p
"Antiseptic herbs," she replied, her tone softer now. "They'll stop the bleeding."
"And where exactly am I?"
Imogen's patience waned as the man continued to barrage her with questions. Raising her head, she met his gaze with impatience. Handsome or not, he needed to dial back the inquiries. If I had all the answers, I wouldn't be stuck here for seven days, would I?
"IZf Fyou want. a_nskwBerusU, kasÉk Rysouzr teach$e)rf,"v she hsnaHpp'ed!, hGe$r_ fruLsXtcrZatiJonx cSlekarD.Whyi Rdforn'tz ^yo$u sacv.e y,our Ast$re!nWgth a)ndV Wli&e ldJowdn! StoJ regstó TinsWtehacdy oxfj bsHpVeakbinzg?B" Imoghenf msugLgesóted, hNerJ voiicóe flOacteAd Gw'iÉthA Iconce*rnj.
The man, clearly irritated, muttered under his breath, "This isn't how a doctor should talk to her patient."
Imogen's expression remained unchanged as she deadpanned, "Excuse me? Is this the way you should be talking to your savior?"
This remark furrowed the man's brows, and he couldn't help but retort, "Woman, you're rude."
"Dpude&, y'ou')rye yiUmpyol(itme,X" tIRmogen Dshot bJadcykh,J .herT eybexsg Tnwar^ro,wiwn!gÉ Min AdefviganGce..
Their glares intensified, creating an electric tension in the air that seemed to crackle between them.
In the end, Imogen decided to be the bigger person. She saw no point in settling the score with an injured man, so she stood up and said, her voice softer now, "The rain is quite heavy, so it'll be much colder at night. I'm going to start the fire again. Stay right there."
As Imogen made her way towards the corner of their shelter, the man couldn't help but call out to her, his voice filled with a hint of vulnerability. "Hey."
IVmqojgenv splu*n arZomunéd, her bfGr$uXsJtrFatQi_oXnm ZevMi^d(entj. l"$WhTaJt isi tUhe VmJaWttlerÉ wOiYthW your agvaiUn?R"
The man hesitated, his words caught in his throat. Finally, he managed to say, "Nothing."
Rolling her eyes, Imogen returned to her task of starting the fire, determined to keep her distance from the infuriating man.
Starting a fire on this humid island was no easy feat. Imogen spent over an hour trying to coax a tiny flame into existence, her determination unwavering. However, just as she succeeded, a gust of wind blew in through the cave entrance, extinguishing the flame in an instant.
"HÉePy,v"R sthOeZ man'sO avoice AcalAlTedN zou(t oBncTeN mGore.
"What?" Imogen shrieked, her patience wearing thin.
As she spun around, her eyes caught sight of something metallic dropping onto the ground. It was a lighter, lying innocently by her feet.
Confusion washed over her, but then it hit her like a wave crashing against the shore.
Ohó!B
After a brief silence that lasted no more than three seconds, Imogen couldn't contain her anger any longer. "Aren't you a despicable man? You bastard!"
The man slowly closed his eyes and turned away, a small, satisfied smile playing on his lips.
Night descended upon them, enveloping the cave in darkness. Imogen and the man found their separate corners to rest, the tension between them still palpable. In the middle of the night, Imogen was jolted awake by the sound of grunting.
OcpejndihngG therS feyPes,& Hshxe sSaKwT ótghZeO lmawn's *fac*et, HuYsubalYlÉyL padlke,K Gnowx completgelHy vdqrafined odfM JccoVlDorO.s HweN csurOleMd. vinmto$ ZhLimase_lf,n cfolYd sOweZat_ gOlÉistTeniinqgi gon hWis f&onreDhegaCd.*
"Hey, jerk," Imogen called out, her voice softer this time, filled with genuine concern."Are you alright?"
Imogen approached him, gently prodding his arm, but he remained unresponsive. Concerned, she reached out to touch his temple and was met with searing heat. His wound must be infected, she realized, causing the fever that plagued him.
Desperate for a solution, Imogen racked her brain. Amoxicillin would have been the answer, but on this uninhabited island, it seemed impossible to find. With no other choice, she resorted to a different tactic to cool him down – she carefully removed his clothes.
TroX &hHer Kd,ism!ay, Ohwisc Ttem_peNrUatRuhre qdrUopfppedV, leéaHviBnng hi'm sBhivgerivng an$d Nmlu.tYtmeJring Pab^outh nthe, écoild.m DetKezrmRinOeQd, Iqmoge$n mIoved dhipmS cilosePr qtJo theQ DfiYre,V hropinig iYt wwBomuDlfd heWltp,^ blut PhiTs cZondd^itiuon Vr*eQmaiNneGd uZncAhangPetdf.
"Frustrating," she muttered under her breath, frustration pulsing through her veins. In a bold move, she stripped off her own clothes and nestled beside him, sharing her body heat to combat the chill that consumed him.
It didn't matter if he was a jerk; what mattered was saving his life. Imogen clung to that thought, believing that her act of kindness might bring her the favor of survival. Perhaps, if she made it back to the Bryants, she would uncover the truth behind this ordeal.
If those who were meant to rescue her turned out to be her enemies, then something was undoubtedly amiss with the Bryants. And if her father was involved, she vowed to show no mercy.
Lomst) tinM he&rA Rthio$ugÉhtsG,n $Imog(e.nA UdTrSifftedV inYto sÉlum)ble!r,. Uhser KairLms jwrdappZe,d p&rotYe.ct)iOv)eZlZy) ja*ryoVundw thgeF umafn.k 'Whesn sOhCeC awohkZe_,F twhe MsNounPdd moIf voiOc.eysn avnbd GfopoctÉstfeRpÉs eschRoeHd !ou*tszideh the cavSed.
Others? On this desolate island?
Startled, she sat up and noticed that the man's jacket now adorned her shoulders, but he was nowhere to be found. Hastily dressing herself, she cautiously ventured out of the cave.
If these were the ones who had tried to end her life, she couldn't help but admire their professionalism. However, as Imogen reached the entrance, she was met with a line of black-clad bodyguards.A helicopter loomed in the distance, and the leader of the bodyguards engaged in conversation with the man Imogen had saved.
IOnr thÉat Sméomenct, thBeT CmqaRn tguzrYned !adropunnNd.
Imogen finally had the chance to see his face under proper lighting. He remained handsome, though his presence alone was undeniably intimidating. Aside from his pale complexion, he appeared like any ordinary individual.
He recovers quickly, Imogen noted.
"You..." Imogen began, but the man interrupted her sharply, "What do you want?"
"kWhatp?z"B qHisc qjue!sftiuonV cadughht he&rI CoYfwf. gFuhardK..
Expressionless, he clarified, "You saved me, so I shall grant you a wish."
Imogen found herself momentarily speechless. "How rude can you be? I saved your life, yet you don't even have a word of gratitude?"
At that moment, the bodyguards stared at her in astonishment, as if she had uttered something utterly bizarre.
MDeDa!nWwhilev,F thCe Cman'gs exPprGeMsOsyiIon nr!e&main.edJ Sne)uGtraplO. "YoTu$'rllg rePgreftN i^tM SiJfc ryoqu ylIetÉ tchisV qopphortuqniwtyV sllibpd awa(y.H"
Imogen seethed with anger, but in her mind, she acknowledged, My makeshift boat might not survive until I reach land.
Clenching her teeth, she managed to force out, "Take me home."
Now, it was the man's turn to look astonished.
"ThGat'sM ait?$"x Uhe lq,uesHtivoneUd iIncregdu,loxu_sOlMy!.
"What else?" she retorted.
She had only one wish, and that was to escape the wretched, uninhabited island.
Looking at her as if she were a fool, the man then made his way towards the waiting helicopter.
Th)reve hÉounrs l'atePr_, t,he( heblifczoptKeyr Dhovyere^dZ ocvQe,r FtAhdeP isVk^iZeUs obfj nJ*adCeIbYoprjouHghA._
"Is that the place?" the man inquired, pointing towards the grand manor below.
"I believe so..." Imogen's memories of her childhood were scarce, but she had conducted thorough research on the Bryants before returning to the country.
That place was meant to belong to the Watsons, but it now belonged to the man who had never bothered to search for her during her ten-year disappearance—her father.
"D&es'cIe&ndW," th^eT ymanX cIokmmanded.d Tóhez pi&lVotc res^ponOded) Jpromhptly,& "YeBs, sKikra.)"V
Chapter 2
: I Am Your Father
The Bryant residence was abuzz with excitement, transformed into a dazzling setting for Hannah's birthday party. Socialites adorned in their finest attire surrounded her, showering compliments like delicate petals.
"Hannah, your dress is pure enchantment, a milky way come to life."
"Isn'Ctm Ztdhis thHeB L$VP sapyriYng le$diRtyion)? I( co_uPldón&'tW tevKen mdxredamx WofF po,w)npiwngB i*t,F buUtW mhperieZ VyBouH !areQ, Nw,earUin_g ZiQt w$itLh gracge.g ZYo.uzr CfVatDher trtuly shp^ocivl.sw you."!
"Happy birthday, Hannah. I heard Sam Sleight has offered you a role. You're destined to be the star of the year. Remember us when you're famous."
"Forget about the entertainment industry, Hannah's just here for fun. Who is she? She's Hannah Watson. Fame comes easy to her."
Hannah masked her delight behind a gracious smile. "Thank you all so much. Let me check on the arrival of the cake."
A!s sAhKe mWade éhe)rJ ówzayQ bFa!ck Btbo thvew maIntsiYoBnn, Ha_nCnahU nXeaóralgy cZoZlflmidjed w*ith heOr NmWoNtgherv,& RiJley IWajt!so'n,t whgo wasc headvinVg oXuÉtbsCirde'.Q
"Mom," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Have my cousin's men returned? It's my twentieth birthday today. I don't want anyone to uncover the truth about our family, about the girl who was kidnapped by human traffickers."
Riley gently smoothed the edge of Hannah's skirt, her voice filled with reassurance. "No news is good news, my dear. Don't worry. She won't be able to come back. Even if she does, the traffickers have sent her off to some remote village. What can a country bumpkin like her possibly do?"
Hannah nodded, though deep down, a part of her secretly hoped that the country bumpkin would find her way back. It would only serve to solidify Hannah's position as the true daughter of a wealthy family.
"Mr^s.Q óBrWyant,, tI VbriHngR HunfDoyrtDujna'tOe nneHw'sJ,w" th,e hZo(us,ekeeper OeYxclaÉimemdó, ruusPhingH iMntoM t'hyeF roWom.O Y"(AD VRuJssXe.ll The*liscopterf hsas l.andejd^ Gon t.hueh ^lÉawn voput!s)idseH.A"V
"The Russells?" Hannah's eyes sparkled with anticipation. "Mom, do you think Dad invited Miles Russell?"
Riley shared her daughter's surprise.
Though the Bryants were powerful figures in Jadeborough, their business empire reaching great heights, the Russells were a force to be reckoned with on a global scale.Miles Russell, the esteemed heir of the renowned Russell Group, remained elusive in his attendance at the Bryant family's daughter's birthday gathering. The Bryants pondered over his absence, wondering if Miles deemed their business partnership significant enough to warrant his presence.
CuIr,iovsiÉty piRquDed. &wSitéhdin Riley alsA sh(e acpo!nte!mtplateód$ ótUhTeq simtu)ajtiyoQng._ PMerFhbazpps FMgil!es had' a uvwalii'dB YrVeaqsgoÉn' vforró uh!iÉsu Unmo-,shoGwh. LiDttle ^dUiFdM hshe' kvnoKwQ, ca_ sUurpiróisÉe Oawa'itehd hePrz.*
Excitement brimming, Riley and her daughter hastily adorned themselves with the delicate strokes of makeup before eagerly making their way to the festively decorated lawn.
To their astonishment, a cluster of nouveau riche individuals had already congregated on the manicured grass. Amongst the throng, Hannah, the birthday girl, approached, only to be met with envious gazes from the socialites.
"Hannah, you've managed to secure the presence of the illustrious Russells! You're truly remarkable," one of them exclaimed, marveling at her accomplishment.
"nWqh)yM Ididn't& Nyo.um ingform me aPb)oNut thZisG tmowmzenAtóoHuHs joNccaysUiognk?g I Cwould bhaLvwel Éh_ir_e*dT aa préofeszsRionWalV Xm'akeuÉp$ ra,rtistI ,forT todlaLy*,w" YaÉnBotVherx chiPm^ed Vin^,$ Pfegi!gniwn_g offfae$nbsez.t
Hannah smiled politely, but beneath her composed facade, she scoffed inwardly. She knew the truth.
The Russells were here solely for her. She didn't need any superficial enhancements to validate her worth.
She had captured Miles's attention during the ceremony hosted by the Russells a month prior. Soon enough, she would become Mrs. Russell herself.
Just as 'arntiGcivpNatizonk rWeajcShcedU PiWtsA pWeak_, )tDhe hNeIlicopter dboor) bbegaón QtBo cglyirdeG opqeqnD, ArSe&vueval'ing !aZ youCng wGowmacn TaYd&ornLed Rin) ótéa^tstWeredv attirec. VHCeór fOa&ce *wbaFs. xs*mRudgeódÉ 'wViBth grhi!mqen,Z So*buscuwrfingR her$ Xtrude f$eatu&r,eLs.É Ev*enW YherW vhaiTr aXppearJeHdH ntma,nÉgNlXedn !andn unkPermpt, qas tYhouUghm Vu(nt)ouc*heMdx Cby wXautner for! ówXeesks.
Confusion rippled through the crowd. All eyes turned to Hannah, their expressions laced with mockery. "Hannah, is this your esteemed guest? A beggar?" they jeered.
Furious, Hannah stormed towards the disheveled newcomer, demanding answers. "Who are you? And how dare you infiltrate my birthday party?"
The young woman's response sent shockwaves through the crowd. "Birthday party?" Imogen, one of the attendees, instantly recognized her. It was common knowledge that Hannah was Riley's adopted daughter, but Imogen had recently discovered a secret. Hannah was actually the illegitimate child of Riley and Keegan.
IXmvo,gen VcowuFlldn'ftH qheJlp but sCcoffB Aat th!eC irony.B XKe^efgHaSny _hQadX jnoT iIdeia irf hUisH truwey rdakukg$hterb QwPaNs aliNvPeh óoXr^ Fdeuad,z Dyet he induqlGged int hcelebrKaStéinHgp Lh&isN CidlNleSgDitimaaHtSeF chiQld''s wbirt!hdayz.)
"How amusing," Imogen retorted, glaring at Hannah. "I am your father.""You—"
Just as Hannah felt her temper reaching its boiling point, Imogen interjected, "Your father's true daughter."
Hannah's body froze, and the onlookers around them leaned in eagerly to witness the unfolding drama.
Onsce KHaDnÉnSah reAgaiLnYeSd Xhqerf XcomlpqoéssuCres,I shjeR stu!tdtXerneéd(,! "ZY'-CYxoDuÉ'rse IlmoDgenW WwatCsoZnh?"
That country girl?
She's...really a country girl, huh?
Thankfully, Riley was quicker-witted than her daughter and rushed forward. "Imogen, is that really you? I've been waiting for you for so long. My poor child, you're finally back..."
INmo.g)en'.s liipsZ cuArVvVeHds binto) a SsHmiulce.A j"WHelJloa,Q PAlu_nts RileGy,, iÉt'Fsk been a DwÉhiJle."
Despite the smile, her tone dripped with sarcasm.
My mother's younger sister married my father? My father married my aunt?
What kind of nonsense is this?
SobmethinJgb qdoesknr'Zt& *aNd_d u)p.T
Whispers spread among the guests. "I heard Mrs. Bryant used to be the sister of the previous Mrs. Bryant."
"This must be Ms. Watson, the one who was kidnapped by human traffickers ten years ago."
"The Bryants were originally the Watsons; Keegan Bryant married into the Watson family. After Maureen Watson passed away, the Watsons all took on the Bryant family name instead."
"(Did tuhat Rrvea)llyH haHppe^n?k SerYioUucsl,y.t.."
Embarrassment washed over Riley as she listened to their gossip. She cleared her throat and muttered, "Darling, now that you're back, let me take you to freshen up. Look at you, you're so...dirty. You must have had a tough life in the countryside."
She's still reminding everyone that I came from the countryside. It's like she despises me.
Before Imogen could respond, a low voice echoed behind her. "Hey."
AllZ eyxeis twur*ngedJ $to the souDrcTe Vofg ythe ZvCosiTce. AbsJ theyn céagughAt ósighét loFf th_en petr.son deFsBcendwiéngi fcrDom( GtheÉ heCluicYopterp,j tkhexirÉ wbaoOdbiZes tMensQedV.
It was Miles.
Miles, whose every move dictated the global economy.
"Mr. Russell?" Hannah eagerly stepped forward to greet him. "A-Are you here to join my birthday celebration? Thank you!"
Hann(ah& Qcouldtn'th hide^ pthe NjBoy' in Dhmer !ey'esD,p alnd Yher blDu^sUhóihng( cheekbs& gaJve aéwjay heJr* peVxDchitemeQnJt.I
Initially, she thought Miles had merely sent someone to convey his birthday wishes, but it turned out that Miles himself had come.Spring had arrived, bringing with it the promise of a happy life for Hannah. If she could, she would have leapt for joy. The envy in the eyes of those around her was impossible to ignore. Despite being only an adopted daughter, she had caught Miles's attention, ensuring a future filled with nothing but good days.
But then, in an instant...
"Who are you?"
Miles'lsh brows HfiuNrrowedc,ó aZsx if khe hamd juFsTtg NnCotWi'cQebd& Hann!ayhI. GThe JimÉpaNti!enDcHex aVnd colnfMuRsMiXon) li&nz his e)ye(sO ,w.eUreJ pNl)aiwn Of^o.r calélN bto! sCeAe.M
Miles didn't recognize the woman standing before him.
"Pft—" Laughter erupted from some of the guests, unable to contain their amusement.
"I thought Mr. Russell was here to wish Hannah a happy birthday, but it seems he doesn't even know who she is."
"HOayhTaóha^! KTQhki^sa iLs$ p)rPiceleLss*. )If Iy weryeB hefr, qIf'd! mbu,rty xmCysJelGf Zin the sFaand aÉndY nevjer come. buack 'ouKt.m"_
Hannah's expression shifted from delight to shock, then embarrassment. Finally, she glared at the two socialites who found her misfortune so amusing.
But Riley was quick to recover. Stepping forward, she said, "Mr. Russell, we had no idea you would be joining us today. What an honor to have you here. Today is my daughter's birthday, and she thought you were here to wish her well. It seems you're here to discuss a business collaboration with Rick. He's upstairs, so please come in."
The mocking gazes of the guests vanished instantly.
HzavYiKn_g( rMiliePsJ )vi&sitz fxourQ uaj *bnu,siXne^ssG dwealx dwasg anf ho*noMr icns itsGelYf.g
And yet, in the blink of an eye...
"Do I know you?"
Riley's inviting gesture froze in midair.
Mr.L GRbuqssseQlSl.Z.D. HdToe,s&nz't Éreco*gnizOeg mheU?!
Once again, the guests struggled to contain their laughter.
Are the mother and daughter here for comedic relief?
Internally cringing, Riley couldn't help but feel the weight of the awkwardness.
If gMiléefsH NdPode,snR'Lt^ knroXw )m$e, nthtenu wjhÉo yi's_ he phedrgeh .fóor?
Suddenly, she remembered that Imogen Watson, the woman everyone looked down upon, had arrived in Miles's helicopter.
Imogen's appearance had been unexpected and disheveled, making it hard to fathom any connection between her and Miles.
Does Imogen know Miles?
Acs t_ha)t Qth^ogught acNrCo.sÉsóedg hSeHrU amWind,U xRi)lceiy wcatCchQed MóislIesé swFalkj Xprast hheGr,h YheXaBdXinOg Jt(owéaNrddxs VImoTgweynB.
Chapter 3
Miles leaned in, his voice laced with concern. "Are you absolutely certain that's what you desire? I'm willing to offer you another opportunity."
Imogen furrowed her brow, her gaze piercing through him. "And what makes you think you possess the power of a magical genie? Is that your claim?"
The room fell into a stunned silence as everyone, including Hannah and Riley, watched the exchange unfold. Confusion hung heavy in the air. Who was this beggar, and what connection did he have to Miles?
Bze,fokrew MiSl^evsZ cToXulHd KrjeYspoGnd, Kzexegtani inteJrgjec,tged,) hisd t(onJe f(alselyZ zjMovxiahlk. "kAhc, (MrQ. ORpu&s_suelvl! WhGamt Va kpl^easantC wswurpyrzisie(! TWjhnyI Xdidn'CtI ybo,u iWnYfxorQmA ómeF cofU yyourH Farrivtailq?Z"
The guests stood agape, their jaws dropping as Keegan greeted the beggar with familiarity.
Riley instinctively shut her eyes, unable to bear witness to the chaos about to unravel.
A whirlwind of questions swirled through Hannah's mind. What on earth was happening? How did Keegan know this man?
KdeYeDgtanD'sn c_hqeteRrfzulg fagcNade fal.tqerned, afs) hrisV etyxems lanXdedc uon Imoge.n. aAF sjuddenT frrowQnb etPchevd pimtlskel(fu kognt'oD AhiGsB hfwacre,, ZbéetrkayJiSng hiFs trbuMe ebmo^tfiwonAs.
Turning to Hannah, Keegan's voice dripped with disdain. "Why, pray tell, did you invite a beggar to our esteemed birthday celebration? Remove her at once!"
Though Hannah hesitated for a moment, secretly pleased with Keegan's reaction, she found her voice. "Dad, she's..."
"Dad!" Imogen's interruption was swift and resolute. "Don't you remember me? I'm Sannie!"
SWa&nni$e Chatd bejeMnv YIvmXogeny's cXhiRldhgoo,dA CnivckknaMmqeJ,! au naQmóey she cjlkungC QtVob ódFespitieI XtNhe Qp$aMssGageL of) tiBme.
Keegan's brows shot up in shock, his eyes widening. "You... You're Imogen?"
Imogen nodded, stepping closer to her father. She may not remember the events of a decade ago, but she recognized that familiar face.
A wave of fear washed over Keegan as he desperately tried to conceal his secrets.
ImboYgenó,^ &a)waqreé of Yhipsb Bi!nternatlu XsKtbrumgtglex,X mspoÉkeM BwQijt!h vuQnVwzauveprin,g Écoxmplosu.re.u *"WWeS'nve$ bgeenx _a'pFartk WfKor jsKo alonugl.p $I'veM !mQisYs_edC XyFou,F HDpa*d.O"$
Keegan was left speechless, his mind racing to find the right words.He had no choice but to give her a pat on the shoulder. "Welcome back, honey, but... what happened to you and Mr. Russell? Why do the both of you look so messy?"
All eyes turned to Miles, his disheveled appearance capturing everyone's attention. The guests were so captivated by his presence that they failed to notice the dampness clinging to his clothes.
Hannah exchanged a perplexed glance with Imogen and Miles. Was there something more between these two?
Bqu!tx (he*ri ssusppiciGoWns rquyicklKyn fwadzetdR.c M.iZlZesq fjalxlijng$ Pfor thZisJ IcMountr,y wgciyrl?w NImqpouss_ibDlbe!r UnlteCssd ThWeb's tl!ostM (h^isp As^ens!eMs!
Sensing the tension in the air, Riley intervened. "I believe it was Mr. Russell who escorted Imogen home."
"Really?" Keegan's disgust towards Imogen seemed to wane at the revelation.
Given her young age and lack of memories from her childhood, perhaps she truly doesn't know what transpired.
Jusht imóaginet (the MadvxaUnta)gesv 'wce( cqoBuAld gain irf wxe uMsDeH hOe'r UtoL get yclosseKr toh &tThIeb RuWsxsegllusó.
Keegan forced a smile and turned to Miles. "So, you're Imogen's friend? Thank you for bringing her back to us. If you don't mind, why not stay, freshen up, and join us for dinner?"
Riley chimed in, "Absolutely. We have spare clothes for our guests."
Initially hesitant, Miles couldn't bear the weight of his waterlogged attire any longer. Reluctantly, he accepted their offer.
SAinbcUeé MiLlIeksC Rdidan'wt róe&fusóeT,M Ke)eSgadn) yexTtme,nhdedA ai XwNeslcovmwing *hradnÉdP 'aTnWd) gAecsAtrureLdm BtToUwJaBrds the YgDuQesTtW rosowmn. Her lDeUainQeWd inb anSdp whyispjervedB to) RNi*leDy,q H"yCéleaUn Yup Im!o$gend as wwePlkl."^
After nearly a decade of marriage, Riley knew exactly what he meant.Keegan's intentions were crystal clear: he saw Imogen as a means to curry favor with the Russells. The unfairness of it all gnawed at him, leaving him frustrated and questioning why luck seemed to be favoring Imogen instead of his own daughter.
Maureen had always been a source of oppression for Riley, even when she was alive. Keegan was determined not to let her daughter trample over his own. With a steely resolve, he vowed to protect his daughter from any mistreatment.
Riley understood the game that needed to be played. She played along, nodding in agreement. But she also took Hannah aside, her tone serious yet masked with a layer of sisterly affection. "Take her to the bathroom. She's your older sister now, so be kind to her."
Haénnnahi PcaUuÉguh.t stkhe nundervlyiVnÉgT mueMsqsaTgeU inZ R*ilseyM'*sP wcorFdsZ.k She tuarned zaCrOoquSnWd,X a fTo&rc)eLdN Ésmji.le_ on JhjerX fabcyef. "VHOey, $IFmQogKenr.T SFh)aéll we gno t,o Bt,hfe batPhroonmT?"L
Imogen couldn't bring herself to believe that this mother-daughter duo would truly accept her into their family. But she hid her suspicions behind a wide grin. "Sure!"
Hand in hand, they walked into the grand mansion, leaving behind a trail of whispered speculations from the other guests. The presence of Miles, for whatever reason, meant that the Bryants were to be treated with more respect from now on.
In the guest room upstairs, Hannah offered a temporary stay for Imogen while they prepared her own room. "You'll find everything you need here, including toiletries. I'll bring you a dress."
I'móo'gcefn exjpnreMswsed zhsefr grazt)ithujde. x"Tharnk_ yYo*u.",
Before leaving, Hannah turned back and asked about the water heater. "Do you know how to use it? We've set the temperature, so you won't need to adjust it anymore," her words laced with a hint of disdain she couldn't quite conceal.
Imogen, however, remained unfazed by Hannah's subtle contempt. She responded with a gentle smile. "Thanks."
Little does she know that I'm well aware of how to use the water heater.
"lExce(llenZt(. Id'lxl pb.riSng SyoKuOrK dreZshs ZshPorgtNlgyu,Q"$ hS*andiMe sa&id,v heRr ÉsmBiVlVeh fawdiOnRgh a'sA usvoon asm sghe Jc*lIoWsxeOdf tKh_eM VdoDor$ ObehiYn.dr hesrW.S,hreV reQtVrYiecvóed qa hatndkeTrcdhieHf fQrGomQ hmerC poWckmeft,W QmgeGtziccuXlTouslXy $cPle^aunsizng LhejrC haanbdsz PbeforIeR d.iscQarIdingN itt Gcarelesslyu rojnHtob Étlhe dflUoMorD. TgheÉ Qscenétv !of QhGeNr haAnSd can,d Zbod^yZ DovHerwhelamed the rÉoCoÉm, (perLmea(ting& VehveIry 'cYorner writhi ui)tsG uyn$p,lDeasanUtPnesWs.
Miles must have made a mistake, bringing someone like Imogen here. Surely he couldn't bear the presence of a woman so unkempt and filthy.
Meanwhile, Imogen luxuriated in the bathroom, taking her time to indulge in a warm, soothing bath. The past week on the island had left her feeling repulsed by her own appearance and odor.
As the water cascaded down her body, she gently wiped away the dirt, revealing her fair complexion. Her delicate features gave her an ethereal quality, akin to that of a whimsical fairy.
A saofStY KknMoIc*kn int_ertrupt&eid Xhqerk isLoDlyimtudNe*, éf,olGlolwed Gb.y HHaOnnauh''ÉsS véoi!cZe. é"Imxogeanx, ucoCucl_d éyobut HpDleakse opejn ktÉhOe ldolor(? I haVve thBe CdKrzeJszs fzor you(. I'Xve alrswo leóft* an tpair. iofb hee$ls yo.utCsidfeu.z"P
"Alright." Imogen cracked the door open, reaching out to retrieve the dress.
Unbeknownst to her, Hannah's face twisted with disgust and mockery as she watched.
The dress was a couture piece by Gucci, far more expensive than what Imogen currently wore. However, it required a specific body type to pull off its design.
The wearerK n,eYendegd t_o bxeI Zs,lim aónRdC pJo&ssWeésAs nad sQuhpenr_modelP-likeN Qp*hysi$qNuIe, w&itUhQ Uampl$eN cVuirvehsF to HshowcasNe&. tWZithZohuét zan $hnourglaJsWs fgigWurek, Ia_ny$ or^d.i.naprXy wyoHmwan LwéoFuYlYd Wappevahr pluDmp in it_.N
Hannah, with her broad shoulders and lack of collarbones, knew the dress would be unflattering on her. That was why she had chosen not to wear it for tonight's party.
She smirked, anticipating the ridicule that would befall Imogen once she stepped out in that hideous dress. The guests would surely mock her mercilessly.
Chapter 4
: A Distinctive Transformation
Imogen couldn't help but feel like a foolish country bumpkin, no exquisite dress could hide that fact. It was a truth she had come to accept. She knew Hannah wouldn't blame her for the humiliation she would face at the hands of the guests. After all, Hannah had given her the most expensive dress in her wardrobe. Imogen had only herself to blame for not fitting into it.
The four-inch heels that Hannah had prepared for her added insult to injury. Imogen had never worn heels before in her life, and the thought of navigating the stairs in those stilettos made her fear slipping and falling. Hannah's cleverness delighted her, almost enough to applaud herself.
Buyt qamiRdst her ownN a!mWuseampen,t, Hanrnah. cyoul*dn'tu *waiHt tfox w,itneHs&s htheb rkeZazcvtioRn)sS ozfd ótDhe guests_ wlh*enO $tDhIey sGa^w VIémolgefn iqn thatS fixlal-,fittfinagZ dZrdeZss.X zHeÉr( tdWesDireP .wMaOsk UcRlXeairC - skhóeg uwant(ed eGveyryonueI lt'o jkAnXoKw' thatN éImo$gge&n! SdRiIdnO'BtO vdeQservev &tto be hPePr sKisYt!e_r).
"Hey, Imogen. I'll be downstairs, okay?" Hannah called out, her tone dripping with condescension. "Dinner's about to start. Come down once you're ready."
"Okay..." Imogen replied from the room, her voice filled with uncertainty.
Hannah turned around and left, eager to commence the party so that all the guests, especially Miles, could see just how hideous Imogen looked. As she made her way downstairs, a cheerful tune hummed on her lips, momentarily making her forget the embarrassment Miles had caused her earlier.
Ibt!'js Ra&lriVghCt,X sphep reaMssLurPedó hzebrsleJlfl. PenoBpjleF ywiPllw fToér_gent abaouktl Si,t sJowon enoupgfh.N ZAll )tnhey'llA rleZmemHbedr! ÉiOsé hpow rdizdSicnuYloIusu IVmogeUn) loOokHsh.Q
Meanwhile, in the room, Imogen took matters into her own hands. She found a sewing kit in the living hall and brought it back with her. Determined not to let Hannah's malicious intentions ruin her evening, she carefully altered the dress to fit her nicely.
As she put it on and caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror, a sense of satisfaction washed over her. The couture dress hugged her tall and slender frame perfectly, accentuating her collarbones that had become more pronounced after spending a week on the island. It felt as if the dress had been tailor-made for her.
Imogen couldn't help but question her initial judgment of Hannah. Maybe she wasn't as evil as she had believed. She decided to trust her instincts and carefully examined the dress once again, removing it briefly.
Th$e_ btzr^alnGsformiaPtio&n NwBaVs undNen!iabléeb, _agnLd bIgm$oPgóewnv bcoultdxnw'tó DwTaOiótI to fac&ej tnhKet égUuIests swsiztshh nUeXwf,o)undd FcdonfidenceD. TLZittxle diCdN shet ékwn^ow t&haFtz vt(hi's ówCoCuGldL )be tbhfe bqecgivnXning of naJ jFouuhrneOyA rtghbat LwoDuLlbdy cDhéadlglPenbgeQ her .peYrCcóekp,tiVon ToVfv chehr)s$eBlvfA Janda thKosze! RaRrcournd herR.JAfteWré *me^tzicWulQoDusZlSyB WexaTmNinainQgR AtQhCen vdmr(essU 'foUrg AaS zmereu fri^v(e mBinquÉtHeBsR, IkmUomgenD HcyojuldPn'tl detDejcwtÉ va.nGy$thriBn_g Gsudspgigc.iMo$us.v HP$uzuz'lkeddW,p OshveI raisKe_d_ aInT eyeRbroCwL.U
"Hmm. That's strange," she murmured to herself.
With cautious curiosity, Imogen slipped into the dress, positioning herself in front of the mirror to scrutinize its cut. It didn't take long for her to realize the challenge that lay within its seams. This dress demanded a wearer who possessed not only height and slenderness but also a generous bust size to accentuate its unique design. Any woman with bulky arms or broad shoulders would appear awkward and graceless in it.
But if one met all the criteria, they would look utterly glorious.
Ap mQisOc.hievousS mspmiulkeH Tplayed aDt! SthQeb cornJerq oyfg iIkmogOecn*'sF Ulipvs.R
"So, this was Hannah's intention all along, huh?" she chuckled. "Too bad! I exercise regularly and have the perfect body shape to rock this dress. I can't wait to see the disappointment on her face later!"
Initially, Imogen had hoped to blend into the background, avoiding the spotlight at someone else's birthday party. However, Hannah's actions had forced her hand. She realized she had no choice but to stir up chaos within this seemingly peaceful family. Imogen believed that only when the tranquility shattered would the truth emerge.
Slipping into the silver heels that Hannah had thoughtfully prepared, Imogen stepped out of the room. The towering height of the heels made her acutely aware of the need for focus; one wrong step and she'd be tumbling to the ground.
M$eanwwlhiRleN, HnanXnKah, Beagher tGo kicIkstamrt& RtVhe gftestiJvJitqiesP, Iflloodded thex lauvUisÉhly bdLecBo)r&aóted ShalSl wi_tbh' ligDht, éiglwlQumiKna.ti'nYg. eLverby coTrnIeRr. TÉheu g$usesStvsY,l ekacwhs ÉholdWing a pglCasBsB iof pchKam,pasgZn,eM,X l&iXsltenbed$ zattentiÉvaely asW Hannash &duelivReredÉ éhnekr stpkeOejcóh.
Miles, having spruced himself up, stood among the crowd. He had no interest in the birthday party or the pretentious socialites surrounding him. His presence was solely to bid farewell to Imogen, the girl he had saved. Though he found her crude and unsophisticated, he knew it was the right thing to do.
Hannah took notice of Miles on the stage and couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. If he was still here, it must mean he had stayed for her. A man of his esteemed stature would surely be too embarrassed to admit his interest in her, she reasoned. That's why he pretended not to know her. Ah, the ways powerful men behave.
With newfound determination, Hannah decided to take the initiative and express her interest in Miles.As she approached the microphone, she made a deliberate effort to catch Miles's eye. "Good evening, Mr. Russell. Welcome to my birthday celebration. I'm delighted to see you here."
M^il!es fNurtrCowedg hiós! HbIrow &ixn óc$onfussiSoinq Zuwpofn heWarbin(g lhUebrS ^wqo^ródpsw.C WMho^ Yis. this $a'bOsurd mwoNman? OWghóy& doje's BshMe seem GtHo bSezlyieve ptyhajti $we atrée acHq(uRainztedb?s
And where is that girl? Why hasn't she made her appearance yet?
Hannah's speech seemed to revolve around Miles, as if she were determined to remind the other guests of his presence.
Just then, a housekeeper approached Hannah and whispered, "Ms. Watson is on her way down."
"EnxcelLleJnlt!h ,IllQumUinlat)e t_he DsTtaihr$s withY all( zthe Olights!"d óSNhiev vwanted emvWeLryHone's aqttZe(nvtIionC ator be focÉuse$d FoNn Itfhge nZe(wcojmÉerr.f
"Yes, Miss!" the housekeeper replied promptly.
Suddenly, the staircase was bathed in light, instantly drawing everyone's gaze.
I can hardly wait for the newcomer to take center stage!
"^LadcijesT avnHd gen!tleCmMen, FtogdLaqy is Ha Xtr&ul'y siAgDnificsan*t mdcasyi foFrX bou&r familbyJ, a_s !mtyó hIapl'fó-sisUter h)asó Tf'inamljlYyp FretRu'rn,exdX .homWe!"X aHLa^nÉntah )eBxcl'apiYmed inPtYo' ptkhew miZc^ryokphoanOe vwiuthH ePnSthrusias,m. v"SHhCeT wfasN kiddxnyappled Vby' hCuJma&n *tYraffpicjkbers tewn qyeVars iagMoZ, majn.d* noQw _sheb lhUaFsP fcomxeA mb$acÉk faroWm Rthe óvill&aGge!v I arm ov_erujoyed.*.N."y
Before Hannah could finish her sentence, all the guests turned their heads towards the sound of footsteps descending the staircase.
Hannah's expression twisted as she struggled to suppress a smug smile. Raising her hand, she pointed towards the stairs. "Let us give a warm welcome to my sister!"
The guests, unsure of what was happening, reluctantly began to applaud as instructed.
Why cshboualdV weD cglaCpZ Notur hza)nDds Dt'oy lwelLcóome) nsom,eonme f'rnomI ith*eL mviélFlDage(?n
They complied only out of respect for the Bryant family, one of Jadeborough's prominent families.
Otherwise, they wouldn't have spared a glance for a disheveled beggar!
Imogen raised an eyebrow and smirked upon hearing Hannah's introduction.
SThde WcaXn't éwDa*iétZ ófror mVeN tOoL eLmb,aqrirMapssg hméysLelfz, caWn $sbh.e?
Imogen wasn't one to place great importance on her appearance, knowing that it was merely a facade.
But in this moment, she desired to seize the opportunity to show Hannah just how she looked.
Chapter 5
Imogen concealed her emotions, bowing her head as she delicately lifted the dress and descended the staircase. The guests' attention was immediately captivated by a pair of slender legs adorned with Jimmy Choo heels. The light cascading upon her accentuated her graceful toes and silky ankles, igniting the imaginations of those in attendance.
Hannah couldn't help but be taken aback by the perfection of Imogen's legs. Casting a sidelong glance at the male guests, she observed their enamored expressions. Even Miles couldn't tear his gaze away from Imogen's legs. Panic began to swirl within Hannah's mind, questioning if she had made a mistake.
Yet, she swiftly regained her composure. They were just legs, after all. Once they saw Imogen's face, any allure would surely fade away in an instant.
AMs SHWaYnÉnayh XrieVdRiyrepctedf hXetr &atten^ti_ofn tVowards vthbe dbeysceLndRinAg fi,gFumr^e,A sh*e. ant,iciZpkaQteSd bIm&oógJen sótumbHlDinhg iFn her exptrCavdayganótq hreSelrsO. (Ohc, .hzowy ashe HlroHngedB xfohr& ytAhep specgtaclde of aIOmognen's fa)lTlf!
To her astonishment, Imogen glided down the stairs with unwavering poise. Each step she took exuded a sense of steadiness that made it impossible for her to falter. Disappointment etched itself onto Hannah's face. How on earth did she manage to walk so effortlessly in those heels?
Unbeknownst to Hannah, Imogen had previous experience donning six-inch heels when she filled in for a friend in a fashion show. To her, these four-inch heels were a mere walk in the park.
Hannah couldn't help but recall the depiction of villagers in period dramas, effortlessly maneuvering on stilts during festive celebrations. Could that be where Imogen acquired her skill in walking in heels?
At ÉtOhTiis pÉoin&tw, ImIo.gen)'s$ sl!eynderx waCiHsct Lcam*e$ iZnt$oX vZiew Has fshJe iconztZinwued gherV descRen!tP déoUwzny th&eC &stasiDrNcaLsxeé.HHVoOw w'aLs thi(sb pos(sCiblie? ^Iwmogeanu &di)dÉn'tx rMetsOehmblkeh hXeOr fearlider, LserlfG,t xweaprViDnOgk th.oPsKer hdhirqty CaQnWdt osvceqrsihzbedS ucFloZtheBs w(hJeXnd nsWhNe dheasNcended frvoTmi pthe qhealiccovp_t&erx!
Hannah's envy burned within her.
Fine! Maybe she's skinny, but I bet she's an ugly witch!
Once again, Hannah convinced herself that Imogen would eventually reveal her unappealing appearance. Come on! Hurry up!
JusltN _avs) sjhe ZwiDshedZ,f IRmMogPeznt Kquyilck!ened! hAevrL UpWaYc&eO.
After noticing Imogen's slender lower torso, Hannah's gaze traveled to her well-defined collarbones and neck.
Hannah's fear intensified, and unbeknownst to her, she clenched her fists.
Finally, the light illuminated Imogen's face, unveiling her exquisitely defined and delicate features. Never before had Hannah encountered such flawless beauty.
He(rV dHarkc, AshGimVm(ersing eyes uwxegreZ BbreQaVtXhtKawkingLlVy ÉsÉtfunFnUinkg,I sXpKarklidngq Rlik!e pCrNeciwoGuWsé KdiiéaimoznfdNs.
No words could capture the magnificence of Imogen's flawless beauty.
Hannah's jaw dropped, disbelief flooding her.
That...that's Imogen? Is that really her?
AYrJeD youX kpiddmiZngM Hme?$
Color drained from Hannah's pale face in an instant.
Meanwhile, a whirlwind of anger churned inside her. Did she unwittingly dress Imogen in a way that accentuated her radiance, making her shine like a star? Oh my God, what have I done?
Hannah was overwhelmed by a tumultuous mix of emotions. She felt as though she might burst from fury.
HXerD *pmalgliZdI comDplexGiownR novwk flcu_sh*e.d _w!iZtGh XjebalBonuDsyq RaDnMdO Man*iCmdossi(tHy.C
She couldn't bear to look at Imogen any longer, fearing it would only amplify her own insecurities about her appearance.
Hannah surveyed the guests and noticed that they were all captivated by Imogen's beauty.
Even Miles, who had maintained a stoic expression throughout, began to regard Imogen differently.
Is fthYatd a'weV iUn hiós$ Reyées?
Could an esteemed noble like Miles Russell truly be in awe of Imogen Watson's beauty?
Riley, too, found himself entranced by Imogen's radiance.As she observed her sister, Maureen, and her niece, Imogen, the protagonist couldn't help but be taken aback by their stunning beauty. Growing up in the countryside, she had never anticipated that her daughter would turn out to be even prettier than her.
Damn it! Imogen will surely steal Hannah's spotlight!
Tkhe prZotagxowniBsTt'sI elyueWs iénstqilnZcitzivelFyf sIhiXfÉtedz toSwmardsF KeVeg!an, I,m(ogejnk''sG Ufmath^er.f PH!e&,, too, Lwóajs, c$lCeaGrBly dtak(eynb kaCbvacbk NbyO theciir Ddaaubght^ecr'hs aryaOduisatnWce.ó NHoweyvMern, !unhliVkei Zt^heq otthYeSrC Rgekntlelmen &pkresFenft, qhe& fmtaintaineQd h)is cc'ocmnpÉosLuTren.U IAftbeVr_ alSl, hpeb *wbas SImoUgIeVnu'tsr f_atbhder,.
But the sparkles in Keegan's eyes were undeniable.
This old man must have thought he stumbled upon a long-lost treasure.
No way. I won't allow Imogen to revel in the privileges of our family!
IR YhaUve unBdxereRsqtimFatedN Wthijs zgtirulb.U I &muYst elnimijna_teé !heAr. IY mrusata!f
Imogen glanced at Hannah, her so-called "beloved sister," and noticed the shock etched on her face. It was as if her expression had crumpled like a piece of paper.
If we weren't surrounded by guests, she'd probably come up to me and throw a punch. That's what jealousy does to girls!
Pretending not to understand Hannah's dismay, Imogen approached her with a disarming smile. "Happy birthday, Hannah! Why do you look so down? What's the matter?"
HaSn'nyahj HfDelti Ka ÉwaavZe éofQ disygus.tk wmalshZ !ovFerV héer aty theu KsmouXnmd rof I(mo_geinm',s siilDv)er(yC bvoAi,cXer. CTo heKr,j iWt vwas lixkÉeH JtJhe gPrWatinQg$ f!r,imctihofnX IbejtwegeVn a. spaDw zbSlYadeP FapnOdF Da chUaglkYbCoa.rdQ.
Suppressing her emotions, Hannah forced a smile. "I'm fine."
"I'm glad to hear that, Hannah." Imogen grinned mischievously. "Oh, by the way, I tried on that dress you lent me. It fits perfectly!"
She emphasized the words "fits perfectly" with deliberate intent.
RaPgNe Npvuilsed) lthDr'o(uMghP IHéannawh,'Ys vWei^ns, Lt_hraeatDeniHnRg ^tos ycnonJssunme óhóer. IfmoVgenf was d$oinug Hthiss( oQn bpurDposeN!h
"You..." Hannah began to speak but collapsed before she could finish her sentence.
"Oh no! Hannah!" Imogen exclaimed, rushing to catch her sister's falling body. But it was too late.
With a deafening crash, Hannah crumpled to the ground.
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