5#05

5

As Kate watched Dave walk away, an indescribable sense of resentment washed over her.

Sprawled on the mattress, she couldn't stop her tears from dampening the pillowcase.

She bit her lip and shut her eyes. "Dave, this occasion, I'll surrender everything to you."

The cruise ship was due to arrive in five days.

Kate rose early and promptly began handling the necessary arrangements.

She planned to embark as soon as the vessel docked, with Polarisia as the initial destination. It had always been a place she longed to explore. Once these matters were settled, she would finally be able to live life on her own terms.

She had already stowed away most of her belongings.

Dave came home earlier than usual. Noticing Kate's bustling activity, he assumed she was preparing for their wedding.

He approached and grasped Kate's hand.

"Honey, there's no need to exert yourself. After we're married, I'll manage everything at home. You can simply relax and enjoy," Dave said, beaming.

Kate hesitated momentarily before slowly nodding.

Marry him? That was no longer a possibility.

Observing Dave's cheerful expression, Kate couldn't help but feel drained for his sake.

Soon after, he received a call from the Shawn family.

"Today is when our families will discuss the wedding arrangements. Your presence is mandatory."

This wasn't a discussion; it was a command.

Despite her reluctance, Kate had no choice but to go along with the charade and see it through.

The meeting was set in a park, and the restaurant was adorned in Leona's preferred style.

Although it was meant to be Kate and Dave's special day, Leona occupied the seat of honor, clad in a crimson gown.

Dave's parents adored Leona, so naturally, she could sit wherever she pleased.

Compared to Kate, who was merely an adopted child, they had always hoped Dave would wed Leona.

For this reason, they had never shown Kate much kindness.

In the past, Kate's love for Dave had led her to endure this treatment, believing that one day their attitude towards her would improve.

But now, she no longer held that belief. She couldn't bear to live this way for even another day.

When they saw Kate arrive, they barely acknowledged her. Their attention remained fixed on Leona as they chatted animatedly.

They continued to disparage Kate without restraint.

"Kate, if only you were as vivacious and charming as Leona! I truly wish I had a daughter like her."

This wasn't the first time they had made such remarks, and Kate had grown somewhat desensitized to it.

However, her naturally reserved demeanor made it impossible for her to present a different side of herself to these people.

Leona responded with a grin, "Don't worry, just treat me as your daughter. Even though my sister isn't very likable, I'll still try to win your favor on her behalf."

Her gift for smooth talking was her forte, and it didn't take long before she had Dave's parents beaming with joy.

Meanwhile, Dave stood by, grinning broadly. His gaze towards Leona resembled that of an artist admiring his creation, full of pride.

Throughout the entire gathering, Kate barely spoke, longing to leave as soon as possible. Perhaps no one could comprehend her feelings. She truly despised these kinds of events.

In the past, Dave would always find excuses to leave with her, disregarding others' opinions. But now, as she looked at the man before her, he remained unmoved. Had he concealed his true feelings too well, or had Kate only realized the truth too late?

As they prepared to depart, rain began to fall outside.

Leona was wearing an elegant dress with delicate, high heels. She didn't even need to call out to Dave; he took the initiative to shelter her in his embrace.