Chapter 3

Knightley Estate's villa was actually tucked away in the mountains.

As the surrounding scenery gave way to towering peaks that seemed to touch the clouds, Melody and I were left dumbfounded.

Had the whims of the wealthy become so peculiar these days? Were they already rushing to embrace country living?

Just as Melody and I began to think we'd been duped, the luxury car of Knightley Estate pulled up in front of a villa.

In our lifetimes, we'd seen our fair share of mansions.

But a villa of this magnitude? This was a first for us.

To call it a villa didn't quite do it justice; it looked more like an ancient castle.

"Our home's location is a bit remote. I purchased this castle when I married my ex-wife. We've lived here for so many years that we've grown attached and haven't wanted to move elsewhere."

"This castle is one of the best-preserved in the world. It cost a hefty sum when I bought it, and its value has since multiplied several times over. That's another major reason we haven't relocated."

"If we were to move out, it would fall into disrepair within a few years."

Garrison, seemingly sensing my unease, began to explain.

The man's voice was deep, his tone as elegant as a cello.

He turned slightly towards me, explaining in a gentle voice.I stumbled, caught off guard as I met his penetrating gaze, momentarily stunned.

The man's eyes were a deep brown, seeming to drown me when he looked my way.

"Elowen, what are you doing? Dad's talking to you."

Melody gave me a push from behind, instantly snapping me out of my trance.

"Oh... it's nothing. Anywhere's fine to stay."

I laughed awkwardly, unsure of what had just come over me.

Wylie, seated in his wheelchair, hadn't uttered a word the entire time, allowing Melody to push him inside.

The interior of the castle was even more breathtaking than it appeared from the outside.

A staircase that seemed to stretch endlessly upward greeted my eyes, while two rows of servants lined up, bowing respectfully to us.

A golden chandelier, easily five meters long and studded with gemstones of every hue, hung overhead.

As the light washed over me, I felt as if I was being baptized.

Baptized by wealth.

Melody and I exchanged glances. We'd definitely come to the right place.

"Now that we're married, you're all part of this family. There are some things I need to make clear to you."

"This castle is in the mountains, surrounded by forest, so small animals often find their way in. If you see any, don't be afraid. Just let me know.""The old castle dates back centuries, with a total of one hundred and forty-three rooms. Our room is on the second floor, while you and your wife, Wylie, will be staying on the tenth floor."

Hearing this, I couldn't help but furrow my brow in confusion.

Why would Wylie, with his poor mobility, be staying on the tenth floor?

The castle didn't have an elevator, so getting upstairs meant climbing step by step.

But with Wylie's poor health, why would they make him climb ten flights of stairs every day?

"Wylie's health isn't great, so having him stay on the tenth floor is actually to encourage him to exercise by climbing the stairs," Garrison explained, seemingly noticing my puzzlement.

But I noticed him glancing discreetly at Wylie behind us, his eyes full of warning.