4#04

4

Discovering someone's true nature at the cost of a wedding outfit might be considered a blessing in disguise.

The family gathering tonight was where I'd officially meet Rosie; first impressions were crucial.

I took a calming breath before heading to the underground car park.

As I approached, I noticed a vehicle swaying slightly.

Upon closer inspection, I realized it was Kendra's luxury car.

The driver's side window was slightly open, revealing Kendra with Elliot perched on her.

Elliot's unfocused expression and the car's movement left little room for interpretation.

Although I had come to terms with Kendra's lack of affection for me, witnessing this scene still caused a pang in my heart.

Kendra noticed me watching, her eyes briefly showing alarm.

Then, as if to taunt me further, she abruptly pulled Elliot closer, kissing him more passionately, her actions becoming increasingly theatrical.

Elliot's stifled sounds reverberated through the vacant parking area, a harsh reminder of the intimacy I never experienced with her.

I averted my gaze, forcing myself to ignore them as I walked to my vehicle.

The journey to the Jewett property seemed to take longer than usual.

En route, I stopped to collect the silk accessory I had chosen as a present for Rosie.

Upon arriving at the Jewett residence, chance intervened once more, and I encountered Kendra.

As she exited her car, I couldn't help but notice the scattered contraceptives on the passenger seat, a sight that nauseated me.

She spotted the gift I was holding and momentarily appeared flustered. However, her expression quickly morphed into one of smug contentment.

"Is that present for me?" she inquired, her tone laced with feigned interest. "May I see it?"

I instinctively concealed the gift behind me, wary of her tendency to claim anything she desired.

"It's not intended for you," I replied firmly.

Kendra let out a soft laugh, her eyes filled with contempt, as if my objection was beneath her concern.

Exhaling a smoke ring, she smirked, her words oozing with arrogance.

"You witnessed what transpired in the car park, didn't you? I'm aware of your feelings for me. You can't function without me."

She inhaled from her cigarette before continuing, her tone becoming almost patronizing.

"But I've been clear, Wyatt. The wedding is for your benefit, but I'm committing to Elliot. He's the one making all the compromises."

She paused dramatically, her eyes glinting with malicious pleasure.

"He'll be my lawful spouse and all of this," she gestured nonchalantly, "is perfectly normal. He'll likely stay at our marital home occasionally. You'll need to adapt to this arrangement."

Her lips curled into a mocking smile as she added, "I'm doing this for your own benefit, you realize."

I was stunned, not by the content of her words, but by the sheer audacity of her shamelessness.

As I turned to leave, she grasped my arm tightly, her voice suddenly sharp.

"My aunt will be present at the dinner tonight. She's significant to the family, so this event is formal."

She released my arm but maintained her steady gaze.

"I've shown you enough courtesy by allowing you to attend. If the elders inquire about our marriage registration, simply inform them it's already complete."

Her voice grew colder. "And regarding the child you upset earlier today, you'd better apologize to him after the dinner. If you don't, remember, I can still withdraw from this wedding at any point before it's official."

With that, Kendra strode into the dining area, with me following behind.

I exhaled deeply, feeling an odd sense of relief. It didn't matter. She would soon realize who I truly intended to wed.

Entering the room, I noticed Rosie hadn't arrived yet, but the elders were already seated, their quiet conversations filling the air.

I deliberately avoided Kendra and chose a seat where I could reserve a space beside me for Rosie.

Noticing my choice, Kendra's lips curled into a frown. Without hesitation, she rose and sat next to me.

"You're becoming increasingly pretentious," she sneered, her voice dripping with disdain. "The seat was already reserved for you, yet here you are, playing games."

I frowned, about to explain that I'd saved the seat for her aunt, but just as I opened my mouth, a slender figure appeared in the doorway.