Chapter 2

After the loss of my parents, I found myself defenseless; Harrison's grandfather harbored resentment towards me and refused to assume responsibility.

Subsequently, the Noah family welcomed me into their home.

I came to know the sensation of residing under another's roof, feeling both inferior and insecure.

In the presence of my childhood companions, I instinctively bowed my head, regardless of the circumstances.

They held me dear, promising I would never endure hardship.

As time progressed, Matthew and I developed mutual affection.

Initially, Lucas was furious but eventually came to terms with it.

Nevertheless, circumstances shifted. Following 's parents' separation, I became an unwelcome presence, relegated to obscurity.

The nuptials I had eagerly anticipated became a subject of ridicule.

Attendees murmured, deriding me.

"Cast aside this fortune hunter, show her what she truly is!"

My childhood friends stood tall, anticipating my submission, their eyes devoid of warmth.

I scoffed: "May the three of you grow old together and bear children soon."

A hush fell over the room. Lucas, incensed, seized my arm.

His grip was so forceful, it felt as though he intended to shatter my bones.

"Layla, what are you implying? Why slander Sophia? I never realized you were so malicious!"

Yet they all understood. This was my wedding, into which I had poured my heart and soul.

Why harbor hostility towards me for another's sake?

What prompted this change?

Why forsake me once more?

I was in agony, tears welling up, as I gazed at him, and he suddenly became motionless.

I seized the opportunity to break free, hastily departing.

Lucas instinctively attempted to halt me, but Matthew's composed voice stopped him.

"Allow her to leave! She's an orphan with nothing to her name without the Noah family!"

Lucas hesitated, shouting after me.

"Providing for you was worse than raising a canine!"

I silently shed a tear, his invectives fading as I left the commotion of the banquet.

Examining my phone, I noticed a new message.

"I'm waiting at the banquet entrance to collect you. Call if you can't locate the vehicle."

I approached the roadside car, where Nathan sat.

Before he could greet me, I spoke.

"Let's formalize our marriage."

He widened his eyes in astonishment: "Now?"

I nodded.

Holding the marriage certificate felt surreal.

Who would have anticipated I'd wed a man I barely knew?

I encountered Nathan during a business excursion for a project. Later, I discovered he also hailed from Northern City.

Given our marital status, I'll dedicate this week to severing ties with my past.

I began packing at home, calculating the sum the Noah family had invested in my upbringing.

However, the debt exceeded what I could manage alone.

Anxiously, I contacted Nathan, and without hesitation, he transferred the funds.

I felt uneasy, wishing to express my gratitude.

"Design the most extraordinary and opulent wedding attire in existence for us! I recently acquired some sapphires for you to utilize. Return home soon."

Home... do I now possess one?

Nathan's laughter was heartfelt and joyous, evoking an indescribable emotion within me.

Since our initial meeting, he had consistently praised my abilities.

Following our union, he provided resources, connecting me with premier clients and opportunities.

I couldn't shake the unease and wanted to convey my appreciation.

"Then create the most exceptional and luxurious wedding attire in the world for us! I recently purchased some sapphires, all for your use. I'll be awaiting your return home."

Home... Do I truly have a home?

Harrison Taylor's laughter was hearty and jubilant, filling my heart with an inexplicable warmth.

From our first encounter, he has consistently lauded my capabilities.

After our arranged marriage, he spared no effort in providing me with prospects, enabling me to access superior resources and high-profile clientele.

I could sense his desire to offer me the best, hoping to witness my ascent to the pinnacle.

Meanwhile, the Noah family bestowed all the finest upon Sophia Parker, leaving me with mere remnants.

They even attributed my designs to Sophia.

Reflecting on this, my smile gradually faded.

Lucas was correct; at one time, I couldn't leave them.

But now, everything has changed.

Genuine love isn't about constraining someone; it's about granting them freedom and support.

Upon arriving home, I realized that what Harrison casually mentioned purchasing were actually premium gems from an auction.

Each was worth a fortune.

I couldn't help but marvel at them.

Two days later, late at night, I faintly detected a subtle sound outside the door.

"I told you she couldn't abandon us. She spoke boldly, but look, she's returned obediently."

I struggled to rise, only to find Lucas had snatched the sketch from beneath my hand.

"Our wedding is imminent. What purpose does this serve now?"

Naturally, it wasn't intended for me and him.

Without a word, I reclaimed the sketch.

He frowned slightly, altering his tone.

"Sophia did it for your benefit too. She crafted a new wedding gown to apologize to you. You should express gratitude. In any case, we're officially marrying next week. Don't be upset, alright?"

It's always like this.