"You stole Cole from me!"
Kris's heart raced. "Fey, it's not what you think. My relationship with Cole is just—"
"A lie?" Fey cut her off, voice trembling with hurt. "You lied to me! You were my sister. I trusted you!"
"It's not like that!" Kris protested, stepping closer. "It's a contract, nothing more. There's no love, no real marriage—"
Fey's eyes narrowed, cutting Kris off with a glare. "I don't care what you call it. You took him away, Kris. You betrayed me. I thought we were family."
"We are family!" Kris pleaded, her voice breaking. "I never wanted to hurt you."
"Well, you did." Fey's voice was cold. "And I swear, I'll get my revenge."
After that, she turned quickly and angrily left, leaving Kris standing still, feeling the heavy impact of Fey's words.
Later on that day, a shiny black vehicle arrived outside Kris's apartment. The driver got out of the car and held open the door for her. "Miss Kris, Mr. Stain is looking forward to seeing you."
Kris paused before slipping into the rear passenger seat. The journey was quiet, anxiety growing in her heart as they neared the Stain Mansion. Upon their arrival, the tall gates opened with a loud creak, unveiling a vast property that caused her heart to quicken. The grandeur of the mansion was so imposing as it stood in front of them.
The driver accompanied her into the building, where the luxurious interior left her speechless. Marble floors shone beneath crystal chandeliers, and wealth exuded from every corner. Kris felt like she didn't belong, her anxiety increasing with every move she made.
A butler materialized, making a gesture for her to come after him. "Follow me, Miss."
As they ventured further into the mansion, Kris couldn't rid herself of the sensation that she was entering a dangerous situation. The immense scale and opulence of the location made her feel tiny and unimportant.
In the end, they arrived at the doorway of a magnificent dining hall. The butler allowed entry, and Kris entered, preparing for the upcoming events.
Cole guided Kris through the luxurious corridors of the mansion, eventually coming to a lavish dining room. He swung the door open and made a welcoming gesture for her to come inside. "Here we stand."
Kris entered, her gaze quickly sweeping the room. Cole's parents were positioned at the top of the table, looking at her with a combination of interest and disapproval.
"Cole introduced Kris to his parents," Cole said.
"Mrs. Stain, Mr. Stain, this is Kris." He smiled, but the tension was palpable.
Mrs. Stain raised an eyebrow. "So, you're the one Cole has been speaking about?"
"Yes, ma'am," Kris replied, trying to keep her voice steady.
Mr. Stain's gaze was cold. "I see."
Kris felt uncomfortable as they watched her closely. Cole observed and moved closer. "I understand this is unexpected, but..." I want both of you to comprehend something. My heart is devoted to Kris, and it is important for you to acknowledge and respect that.
Mrs. Stain narrowed her eyes. "Really?"
"Affirmative." Cole's voice was resolute. "Kris means a great deal to me, and that's the end of it."
Mr. Stain made eye contact with his wife but stayed quiet. Kris felt the burden of their silent disapproval as the atmosphere became more stifling.
Cole held Kris's hand and gently squeezed it to provide comfort. "Shall we take a seat?" We will discuss further during dinner.
Sitting down, the tension remained, with Cole's statement creating a fragile connection between Kris and his critical parents.
Once the dinner plates were removed and the uncomfortable discussion died down, Cole stood up and extended his arm to Kris. "Let's go outside and breathe in some fresh air."
Kris gratefully took his arm, appreciating the support. As they strolled towards the impressive entrance, her thoughts were filled with the tension of the evening. Kris felt nervous as she noticed the shiny marble floor reflecting the soft lights with an ominous glow.
Just as she was exiting, Kris's heel got caught on the corner of a step, causing her to trip. Cole's quick reflexes saved her as she tumbled forward with her heart racing. Just in time, he grabbed her, his powerful arms supporting her.
Kris raised her head and made eye contact with Cole. Their gazes met briefly for a moment. Unspoken emotions flickered in their eyes as the intensity of the moment lingered between them.
Cole's face relaxed as he swiftly regained his composure. "Is everything alright with you?" Although his face displayed concern, he spoke in a gentle tone.
Kris nodded, her cheeks turning red with embarrassment. "Sure, I'm okay." "I appreciate it."
Cole assisted her in standing up, his hand remaining on hers a bit longer than needed. "Exercise caution." You might have injured yourself.
He coughed and faced the driver who was waiting. "Ensure she arrives home safely," he directed, his tone firm yet kind.
The driver gave a nod and opened the car door for Kris. While she got inside, Cole observed her with a slight grin. "I will meet you shortly."
Kris responded with a small, grateful smile. "Have a pleasant evening, Cole."
As Kris's car drove away from the majestic Stain Mansion, a mysterious figure appeared from the shadows nearby. He observed with focus as the elegant car maneuvered the driveway and drove onto the street. Although his face was partly covered by a wide-brimmed hat and his coat collar, his eyes were keen and concentrated.
The man took out his phone, his fingers rapidly gliding across the screen. He called a number and waited for the call to go through. The phone was rung twice before a response was given.
A voice crackled in response with a simple "Yes?"
"The man said it was finished, speaking in a calm and controlled voice." The woman has recently departed the premises.
A moment of silence followed as the individual on the opposite side absorbed the information. "So what?"
The man looked at the tail lights of the car as he mentioned, "She is currently heading home." "All is going according to the plan."
Good. Once you make sure she's alone, you can make your move. If she struggles too much, you're allowed to use a bit of force.
A malicious grin crept up on the man's face. "Hehe, I'll make sure she's recognisable boss!"