Chapter 4

Vincent treated Evelyn like a priceless gem, in stark contrast to his behavior towards me.

My pleas for him to stop only intensified his actions, as he claimed to be deeply infatuated with me.

His conduct became particularly unrestrained when Mrs. Cross was absent, once resulting in my hospitalization.

The physician reprimanded him, stating that true affection should manifest as care rather than excessive indulgence.

Embarrassed, he apologized, then whispered softly when the doctor wasn't watching. "Diana, I'm at a loss. Your presence makes me lose control. I can't fathom the depth of my feelings for you..."

His declaration of love melted my resentment. After all, I reasoned, such obsession must stem from genuine affection.

I hadn't realized that a man's physical desire could be entirely separate from love.

When a friend joked about his frequent intimacy with me, he playfully pinched my cheek and attributed it to love.

Now I understand it was actually rooted in hatred.

That night, sleep eluded me. I rose early to prepare breakfast for myself and Mrs. Cross.

Midway through our meal, Vincent and Evelyn emerged from their room.

Noticing no food for them, he immediately inquired, "Where's our breakfast?"

Mrs. Cross, spotting marks on Evelyn's neck, instantly became stern. "Vincent, who allowed you to bring her here?"

From the start, Mrs. Cross had disapproved of Evelyn, Vincent's choice. Initially, I assumed it was due to Evelyn's adopted status in the Carter family, deeming the match unsuitable.

Surprisingly, she preferred me, despite my lack of status, over Evelyn for Vincent.

She often traveled with friends, creating opportunities for Vincent and me to be alone, even coaching me on how to win his affection. These gestures always filled me with guilt.

I couldn't reveal that within a month of moving in, Vincent and I had already been intimate. I feared she would see me as opportunistic and despise me.

Mrs. Cross refused her meal, discarded her spoon, and attempted to lead me out.

Vincent quickly grasped my arm. "Mom, I need a word with Diana."

His grip tightened painfully, making me wince. Was he worried I might disclose something to his mother?

Eager to see us together, Mrs. Cross decided to wait in the car.

After briefly consoling Evelyn, Vincent pulled me aside. "Diana, I'll overlook last night, but be mindful of what you say. Evelyn's upbringing differs from yours. She's known only comfort, while you've faced hardships. Try to be more understanding."

Was I destined to suffer eternally because Evelyn had taken everything from me?

I offered a faint smile. "Sure."

Perceiving my softened demeanor, Vincent attempted to embrace and kiss me, but I evaded him.

"Show some restraint! Don't confuse Evelyn."

Vincent recoiled as if shocked, his expression inscrutable. "Diana, you've changed since yesterday. Didn't you previously enjoy my touch?"

I stepped back, maintaining composure. "I find it repulsive now."

His heart and body were both tainted in my eyes.

Stung by my contempt, Vincent stormed off to openly dote on Evelyn, ignoring everyone else.

I exited indifferently, disregarding the intense stare at my back.