Ch. 196..200: Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire Chapter 196-200
Chapter 196: Resigning to Her Fate
The House in the Woods
Tears dried up in Olivia’s eyes after a long bout of sobbing. Her headache was still pounding, but hunger gnawed at her insides. Dragging herself off the floor, she shuffled into the kitchen, her steps heavy with resignation.
Opening the refrigerator, Olivia was greeted with an array of canned drinks, bottles of water, and neatly packed meals. She wiped her damp cheeks and pulled out one lunch pack along with a bottle of water and a can of juice.
With a sigh, she popped the lunch pack into the microwave and leaned against the counter, watching the timer count down. When the ding signalled that her food was ready, she plated it, grabbed her drinks, and sat at the small dining table.
As she ate, her headache began to subside, the hot food doing wonders to stabilize her emotions. She chewed slowly, glancing around the unfamiliar space with a mixture of suspicion, helplessness and anger.
Somehow, she was confident that her food wasn’t poisoned.
"Whoever put me here must be enjoying my misery," she muttered to herself, stabbing her fork into a piece of grilled chicken.
---
Vintage Cellar
Aurora stepped out of the elevator and into her COO office, her heels clicking softly against the polished floor. She moved behind her desk, smoothing her skirt before sitting down.
Moments later, a knock sounded at the door, and Lilian entered, holding a tablet.
"Good morning, ma’am," Lilian greeted with a smile.
"Morning, Lilian," Aurora replied, gesturing for her to continue.
"The Chairwoman would like to see you after your champagne campaign shoot," Lilian informed her. She then went on to outline Aurora’s schedule for the day, detailing the photo and video shoots for the new Citrus Fruit Punch campaign.
Lilian added, "You will also need to send us the finalized guest list for the official launch so the invitations can go out by this evening."
Aurora opened a folder on her desk and slid out a neatly printed sheet. "The list is ready," she said, handing it to Lilian.
Lilian took it with a nod. "Lastly, there’s a last-minute trip to the winery for you to approve the redesigned packaging."
"Understood," Aurora said.
---
Swift Family’s Residence
Stella paced back and forth in the living room, Stephanie’s words echoing ominously in her mind.
"Bringing another man’s child into this house and passing it off as my brother’s."
Her chest tightened with each step, the weight of her secrets pressing down on her. How long had Stephanie known? Had she told anyone else?
And then there was Olivia. Stella’s failed attempts to contact her daughter only added to her anxiety. She hadn’t returned to either the Scott or Swift residence. None of her friends knew where she was.
"This is all falling apart," Stella muttered, clutching her head in frustration. "Why now? Why all at once?"
Her thoughts spiralled as she envisioned the potential fallout if Stephanie exposed the truth. And with the looming reopening of Adam’s murder case, the walls were closing in faster than she could manage.
Hot tears rolled down her cheeks as she dropped to her knees, clutching at her chest.
"This can’t be my end," she wailed, her voice trembling. "I refuse to let it all crumble!"
A sharp pain seized her chest, and she gasped, clutching at her heart. Another mild heart attack threatened to strike.
---
The House in the Woods
After finishing her meal, Olivia carried her dishes to the sink. The warmth of the food had dulled her headache, though her emotions still simmered beneath the surface.
She wandered through the house, taking in her surroundings more closely. The indoor pool caught her attention, and she crouched by the edge, dipping her hand into the cool water.
"A prison with luxury amenities," she thought bitterly.
In the bedroom, she opened the closet to find an assortment of loungewear neatly arranged. The sight of the comfortable clothing did little to improve her mood.
Returning to the living room, Olivia glared at the burglary-proof windows. She tried pushing one open one more time to no avail, her frustration mounting.
Crossing her arms, she muttered to herself, "If I’m stuck here, I might as well enjoy it." She completely resigned to her fate.
---
Vintage Cellar.
Aurora arrived at the large studio space set up for the campaign shoot. The room was buzzing with activity—lights being adjusted, props being arranged, and crew members darting around with last-minute preparations.
"Ma’am," Lilian said, falling into step beside her, "It’s time to get your makeup done. The photoshoot will come first, followed by the video ad."
Aurora nodded, allowing herself to be led into a smaller room where a makeup artist and stylist were waiting.
Dressed in her first outfit—a crisp white suit and pants—Aurora posed behind a citrus-themed prop as the photographer gave her instructions.
"Perfect," the photographer said, snapping away. "Now, tilt your head slightly... Good, just like that!"
After three outfit changes and a series of dynamic poses, the photoshoot concluded.
The team quickly transitioned into preparing for the video ad. Aurora’s makeup was touched up, and her hair restyled. Lilian handed her the script, which she skimmed one last time before stepping onto the set.
"Action!" the director called.
Aurora spoke confidently about the new Citrus Fruit Punch champagne, her charisma shining through on camera. By the end of the two-hour shoot, the entire team looked pleased with the results.
After changing back into her office outfit, Aurora stepped into the elevator with Lilian, who informed her, "The Chairwoman is in her office now."
Aurora nodded. "Let’s go see her."
---
Stephanie’s Office
Stephanie looked up as Aurora entered. She gestured for her to sit before leaning back in her chair.
"Aurora," Stephanie began, "I heard about the scene Olivia caused in the lobby yesterday."
Aurora’s brows furrowed slightly, but she remained composed.
"I wanted to apologize on behalf of the company," Stephanie said, her tone sincere. "Olivia’s behaviour was unacceptable, and she has been punished."
"What kind of punishment?" Aurora asked, her curiosity piqued, though she waited to hear something pleasing to her ears and deserving of Olivia’s brazen action.
"An indefinite suspension," Stephanie replied.
Aurora’s lips curved into a faint smile. "Thank you for handling this appropriately, Aunt Stephanie."
Stephanie nodded with an equal smile. Then the conversation shifted to the champagne launch, and the two women discussed final preparations before Aurora left the office, feeling a sense of satisfaction. She couldn’t wait to tell Xander all about it.
Chapter 197: Good News
Swift Family’s Residence
Stella paced the length of her bedroom, clutching her phone like it held the key to her sanity. Her attempts to reach Olivia had gone unanswered once again, and the silence was deafening.
She tried Olivia’s number again, but the call didn’t connect as usual
"Where are you, Olivia?" Stella muttered under her breath, panic creeping into her voice.
Desperate, she dialled a few of Olivia’s friends again, each call ending in disappointment. None of them had seen or heard from her daughter, but they did suggest a few places she could be found this time.
Stella’s frustration boiled over as she slammed her phone onto the bed. "This girl is trying to kill me with worry!"
Unable to sit still, Stella decided to report Olivia’s disappearance to the police. She didn’t think the radio silence was normal anymore, and she didn’t want to take any chances.
Olivia was the only child she had, and the key to all of her plans.
---
Police Station
Stella was ushered into the commissioner’s office, bypassing the crowded main floor. The commissioner, a middle-aged man with a calm demeanour, gestured for her to sit.
"Mrs. Swift, how can we assist you today?"
Stella didn’t waste time. "My daughter, Olivia, is missing. I haven’t been able to reach her since yesterday evening."
The commissioner nodded, retrieving a notebook. "When was the last time you spoke with her?"
"Yesterday morning. She was also distraught after being served divorce papers by her husband," Stella replied, her voice cracking.
The commissioner’s brow furrowed. "Has she exhibited signs of depression recently?"
"Yes," Stella admitted, dabbing at the corner of her eye with a handkerchief. "She had a miscarriage not long ago and was hospitalized. Then there was the public backlash from her podcast interview... and yesterday, she was suspended from her position at Vintage Cellar. She’s been under immense pressure."
The commissioner leaned back, his expression softening. "We’ll begin an investigation immediately. Rest assured, Mrs. Swift, we’ll do everything we can to locate your daughter."
Stella offered a faint smile of gratitude. "Thank you," she whispered, rising from her chair as she was escorted out of the office.
---
Vintage Cellar
By noon, Vintage Cellar released a statement addressing Olivia’s public outburst.
The statement read:
"Vintage Cellar upholds a high standard of professionalism among all its staff. We abhor the recent incident involving Director Olivia Swift attempting to physically attack her sister, Director Aurora Swift, in the company lobby. Disciplinary actions have been taken in line with our company policies."
The statement concluded with promotional material for Aurora’s new Citrus Fruit Punch Champagne, featuring sleek photos from the morning’s photoshoot.
---
Xander’s Private Residence
At the dinner table, Aurora cut into her steak, chatting with Xander over their meal.
"I didn’t even realize Olivia wasn’t at work today until Aunt Stephanie mentioned her suspension," Aurora admitted with a small laugh.
Xander’s smile vanished, his expression turning serious. "How could you forget that Olivia wouldn’t be at work because I told you I’m holding her hostage?"
Aurora froze, fork midway to her mouth. The memory of Xander mentioning it at breakfast flooded back. "Oh... right," she said sheepishly. "I forgot."
Xander frowned, concern flickering in his eyes. "Sweetheart, you’ve been forgetting important details lately."
Aurora sighed, brushing it off. "It’s nothing. I’ve just been busy."
Hoping to lighten the mood, she switched topics. "By the way, the champagne launch is on Sunday, and I need your help inviting a few people."
Xander relaxed slightly. "Who do you need me to invite?"
"Your parents," Aurora said. "I’d like to deliver the invitation to them in person."
Xander’s mood darkened for a moment, but he nodded. "We’ll visit them tomorrow."
Aurora beamed. "Thank you!"
"And the second person?" Xander asked, raising a brow.
Aurora hesitated, then confessed, "The Major."
His brow furrowed in suspicion. "What are you planning, Aurora?"
"I just want him there to gauge his reaction," she admitted. "I need to know if he’s aware that I’m his biological daughter and is just pretending not to know."
Xander sighed but agreed. He would do anything she wanted of him as long as it made her happy.
---
The House in the Woods
After spending the day binge-watching a TV series, Olivia shuffled into the kitchen for another meal. She heated up a beef casserole and rice, then sat down at the dining table to eat.
Between bites, she glanced at her phone. The missed calls and messages from her mother from the previous day finally caught her attention. Scoffing, she muttered, "Worried now, are we? You played a role in ruining my life, so suffer a bit."
Olivia planned to take advantage of her current situation to taunt her mother, and it was working.
---
Xander’s Private Residence
The next morning, Aurora and Xander were finishing their breakfast when Liam entered the dining room.
"Good morning, Sir. Good morning, Ma’am," Liam greeted politely.
"Morning, Liam," Xander said. "What’s the matter?"
"It’s about the case," Liam replied.
"What about it?" Xander probed, wiping the corner of his lips with a napkin.
"The commissioner called. The case has been officially reopened."
Relief washed over Aurora, and a bright smile lit up her face. "It’s happening," she whispered.
She jumped out of her seat and hugged Xander tightly. "Thank you!"
Xander chuckled, wrapping his arms around her. "Congratulations, Sweetheart. Justice is finally coming."
For a fact, he was relieved that their plans were moving swiftly.
---
Aurora was being chauffeured to work when she picked up her phone to call Stephanie.
"Good morning, Aunt," she greeted cheerfully when the call connected.
Stephanie chuckled. "Good morning, Aurora. Judging by your tone, I’d say you have good news."
Aurora smiled. "I do. My father’s case has been reopened."
"That’s wonderful!" Stephanie exclaimed. "I’ll adjust my schedule for the police questioning when the time comes."
"Okay," Aurora grinned. "See you at work, Aunt."
---
That same morning, Tea Time Gossip released a scathing article commenting on Vintage Cellar’s statement.
"Olivia Swift deserves more than suspension for attempting to assault her sister. Maybe she should leave the company altogether since her life clearly isn’t going in the direction she planned."
The article also strongly suggested that Olivia seek a mental health evaluation since her karma probably came with a mental disorder.
In contrast, the blog praised Aurora for her professionalism and used the opportunity to advertise her new champagne launch, accompanied by dazzling photos from the campaign shoot that Vintage Cellar had posted.
Chapter 198: A Failed Attempt
After Aurora left for work, Xander reclined in his chair in the study, sipping his coffee before picking up his phone. He dialled Asher, and the call connected after a few rings.
"Good morning, Lex," Asher greeted, his voice laced with curiosity. "What’s the update?"
"The case has been reopened," Xander informed him, a faint satisfaction evident in his tone. "Release Olivia in the evening."
Asher chuckled. "That was quick. Your wife must be relieved."
"She is," Xander replied, his voice softening momentarily. "Although, I’ll admit, I wouldn’t have minded keeping Olivia there for longer. Starve her for a few days—teach her a proper lesson."
"Your wife wouldn’t allow it," Asher said with a knowing laugh. "Aurora’s soft-hearted, even to people who don’t deserve it. But that’s what makes her different from us."
Xander sighed. "True. Anyway, about Aurora’s champagne launch this Sunday—she’ll need something special to wear. Can you have your design team work on a fitting piece?"
"Consider it done," Asher assured him. "The first fitting will be ready in two days, and my team will bring it over."
"Good. Thanks, Asher," Xander said before ending the call.
---
As Xander exited the house, Liam walked briskly beside him, holding a clipboard with the day’s schedule.
"Liam," Xander began, his tone commanding yet calm, "make sure Stella doesn’t leave this city under any circumstances. She looks like she will be planning her escape any moment from now. I want her every move monitored."
"Understood," Liam replied with a curt nod. "I’ll assign a team to keep a close watch."
Xander nodded in approval. "And confirm my appointment with Major Walker for this afternoon."
"I’ll handle it en route," Liam assured him, opening the car door for him.
Xander stepped into the car, and as Liam climbed into the front passenger seat, the car pulled away from the driveway.
---
Vintage Cellar.
Aurora’s day at work went smoothly. By mid-morning, Lilian entered her office with updates.
"All the invitations for the champagne launch have been sent out," Lilian reported, holding her tablet.
"Good. Once the seating arrangements are finalized, let me know. I’ll need to review them," Aurora instructed, leaning back in her chair.
Lilian hesitated for a moment before suggesting, "Ma’am, if you have specific people you’d like to sit with, you can let the planning team know now."
Aurora thought for a moment. "How many chairs per table?"
"Six," Lilian answered promptly.
Aurora nodded. "In that case, I’d like to sit with my husband, Chairwoman Stephanie, Major Walker, Asher Moore, and Abigail Miller. Make sure I’m seated between my husband and Major Walker. The Chairwoman can sit next to Major Walker, and Abigail between the Chairwoman and Asher."
Lilian jotted down the details. "Understood, ma’am."
As she turned to leave, Aurora added, "If the Chairwoman prefers to sit with other people like the board of directors, replace her with Rachel Lee at our table."
"Got it," Lilian said before exiting the office.
---
Swift Family’s Residence
Stella paced her room, clutching her phone tightly as dread clawed at her. After trying Olivia’s number multiple times once again to no avail, she received a call from the police.
When the officer informed her that her husband’s murder case had been reopened, Stella’s heart nearly stopped. Her voice wavered as she replied, "Th-thank you for informing me."
Ending the call, Stella began to panic. Her breathing grew laboured, and her hands trembled as she rummaged through the shelves on her nightstand, searching for something—anything—that could secure her future.
Unsuccessful, she stormed into her massive walk-in closet, rifling through documents and land deeds. Frustration boiled over as she found nothing of immediate use.
"This can’t be happening," Stella muttered, her voice cracking as her mind quickly sort for a solution.
At the end, her desperation led her to Adam’s old study, now used by Stephanie. Closing the door behind her, Stella sifted through the desk drawers and documents. Nothing seemed relevant.
Then suddenly, her gaze landed on the safe behind the desk. "That’s it," she whispered. "The shares documents must be in there."
As she reached for the keypad, the study door opened, and Stephanie stepped inside.
"Stella?" Stephanie’s brows furrowed in suspicion. "What are you doing in here?"
Stella straightened, attempting to mask her unease as she quickly retracted her hand and turned to face her. "I was... looking for something," she answered, trying to sound confident.
Stephanie’s sharp eyes tracked Stella’s every move as she walked toward the door. Before Stephanie could press further, Stella brushed past her and left the room.
Stephanie’s instincts screamed that something was off. She inspected the room but found nothing amiss. But when she left the study, she found the butler and instructed, "From now on, keep this study locked at all times unless I need it. No one else is allowed inside without my permission. Not even a fly."
The butler nodded and left immediately to secure the room.
---
DANTE Group.
In his office, Xander dismissed a group of employees after a brief meeting. And a minute later, Liam entered as they left, a quiet urgency in his step.
"Sir, it’s time for your appointment with Major Walker," Liam informed him.
Xander sighed, muttering under his breath, "The things I do for my wife." Then grabbing his jacket from the clock hanger, he picked up his phone from his desk and followed Liam out of the office.
---
Military Base.
Twenty-five minutes later, Xander’s car approached the military base. Soldiers stopped the vehicle at the gates, performing a thorough security check.
They used a device while rounding the car to make sure there wasn’t anything like bomb on it while someone else checked the car’s trunk.
The soldier who approached the window recognized Xander and saluted him immediately he rolled it down.
"Mr. Scott, the Major is expecting you," the soldier informed.
After confirming his identity, Xander’s car was allowed through. As the gates closed behind him, Xander leaned back in his seat, preparing for what was sure to be an interesting meeting.
Chapter 199: A Beggar with a Choice
The sleek black car pulled to a smooth stop in front of the grand military complex. Liam stepped out promptly, adjusting his suit jacket before walking to the other side to open the door for Xander. The sun glinted off the vehicle’s polished surface as Xander emerged, his tall frame exuding quiet authority.
Liam reached into the car and carefully retrieved a beautifully wrapped box, its golden accents gleaming subtly in the morning light.
"Shall we, sir?" Liam asked, his voice low but respectful.
Xander gave a curt nod, his piercing gaze scanning the building ahead. A soldier approached briskly, his polished boots clicking against the stone pavement. With a sharp salute, the soldier greeted Xander.
"Mr. Scott, the Major is expecting you. Please follow me," the soldier said.
Without a word, Xander inclined his head, and the trio moved toward the building, their steps steady and purposeful.
---
The soldier led them through a series of hallways before stopping at a private lounge area. He opened the door and gestured for Xander to step inside.
"Major Walker will be with you shortly, sir," the soldier said before excusing himself.
Xander took a seat, his posture relaxed yet commanding. Liam placed the wrapped box on the table before standing a few steps behind Xander, his hands clasped behind his back.
Minutes later, the door opened, and Major Walker entered. Clad in a simple white shirt and grey pants, he exuded a different kind of authority—one born from years of discipline and command. His sharp eyes met Xander’s as he approached.
Xander rose to his feet, ready to salute, but the Major raised a hand to stop him.
"No need for that," the Major said, extending his hand instead. They shook hands firmly before settling into their seats.
"I must say, I was surprised when I received your request to meet," Major Walker began, his tone even, though his gaze remained probing.
Xander’s lips curved into a faint smile. "I appreciate you accommodating me on such short notice."
---
Liam stepped forward, placing the wrapped box in front of the Major and removing the lid with precision. Inside lay a gold-plated invitation card, an elegant bottle of champagne, and a customized champagne opener engraved with the Major’s name. The attention to detail spoke volumes about the sender’s intentions.
"This," Xander began, his tone calm yet purposeful, "is a personal invitation from my wife, Aurora Scott, to her upcoming champagne launch. She insisted I deliver it to you personally."
Major Walker’s eyes flicked to the items in the box, lingering momentarily on the engraved opener before meeting Xander’s gaze.
"She’s been looking forward to meeting you," Xander continued. "She’d be disappointed if you didn’t attend."
Liam closed the box carefully and excused himself, leaving the two men alone.
---
The Major leaned back in his chair, his fingers tapping lightly against the armrest. "If I recall correctly, during her first champagne launch, you introduced her as your friend. Why keep your marriage a secret?"
Xander shrugged, his demeanor casual but his words deliberate. "I didn’t lie. She was my friend then, and she still is. As for keeping our marriage private, it was a personal choice."
The Major’s gaze narrowed slightly, his expression unreadable. "When did you get married?"
Xander tilted his head, his smirk subtle but unmistakable. "A few months ago. We kept it private. Just the way I like it."
"Why a private wedding?" the Major pressed.
Xander’s smile deepened, his tone light but firm. "Because I wanted it that way."
The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of their unspoken thoughts filling the air. Then, Xander rose to his feet, adjusting the cuffs of his shirt.
"I’ve delivered the invitation. If you don’t mind, my wife is waiting for me," he said, his voice smooth yet final.
As he reached the door, he paused and turned slightly. "Ah, and don’t forget to attend the launch. Aurora has been looking forward to meeting you. I’d hate for her to be disappointed."
With that, Xander exited, his footsteps steady and unhurried.
---
Major Walker remained seated, his gaze fixed on the door through which Xander had just departed. His expression remained neutral, but the fingers resting on the armrest tightened into a fist.
The invitation sat on the table before him, a subtle yet glaring reminder of the connection he had long chosen to ignore.
"Looking forward to meeting me?" the Major muttered to himself, his voice low and thoughtful. "I wonder what game you’re playing, Xander Scott."
His gaze drifted back to the box, a flicker of unease crossing his features as he leaned forward to examine the invitation more closely.
---
The House in the Woods.
At exactly 4 PM, Olivia’s stomach rumbled, snapping her out of the trance she’d fallen into while halfheartedly watching a TV series. With a sigh, she pulled herself off the couch and headed toward the kitchen. "Time to eat," she muttered.
The fridge was well-stocked with drinks, meal packs, and snacks, but most of the pre-packaged meals were already gone. She grabbed a new lunch pack, ready to heat it, only to discover a sink filled with dirty dishes. No clean plates were in sight.
"Seriously? Not even plates for two meals? What kind of prison hospitality is this?" she fumed, staring at the pile of dishes. Hands on her hips, she debated whether to wash them but quickly scoffed. "Do they expect me to do their chores too? Absolutely not."
Frustrated, Olivia grabbed a cold drink from the fridge and stomped back to the couch. "They should’ve at least hired a maid," she muttered, flipping through channels aimlessly.
A few minutes later, a sudden, sharp click from the front door handle made her freeze. Her heart raced as she snapped her head toward the sound.
"Who’s there?!" she yelled, her voice shaky.
Silence greeted her, heightening her panic. Her mind spiralled into worst-case scenarios: were they here to kill herm, to finish what they started?
Chapter 200: Aurora Learns A Disturbing Story
Forcing herself to move, Olivia tiptoed toward the door, her breaths shallow and erratic. Peering outside, she was met with the cool forest air and an eerie stillness. No lurking figures. No cars.
Her eyes landed on a plain white envelope sitting on the doorstep. Frowning, she picked it up and unfolded the note inside:
"You are free to leave. The door is unlocked. Walk straight for 20 minutes to reach a road where transportation will pick you up. Do not come back."
Disbelief turned to simmering rage. "You’ve got to be kidding me!" she hissed, crumpling the note in her fist before dumping it on the ground. She glared into the woods.
"Cowards!" she screamed into the silence. "You won’t decide when I leave! Do you hear me?!"
Her voice wavered, but her anger held firm. Scanning the area one last time, she stepped back into the house, slamming the door with a force that rattled the frame. "This is my decision," she muttered, locking the door behind her.
Standing in the quiet, Olivia’s fury intensified. "Whoever did this thinks they’re smart," she spat. "But they’ve got another thing coming if they think I’ll play by their rules."
She leaned against the wall, her nails digging into her palms, thoughts racing. "Oh, I’ll leave," she vowed darkly. "But only when I’m ready."
Her gaze drifted back to the TV, but the show no longer held any appeal.
With a huff of frustration, Olivia grabbed the remote and turned it off, plunging the room into silence. Her restless gaze fell on the kitchen, and moments later, she stormed inside.
Her eyes locked on the sink, overflowing with dirty plates and glasses. Another wave of irritation surged through her, but no one was there to hear her complaints, not even her kidnapper.
Olivia had planned to starve until she couldn’t hold her hunger anymore, but who knew that what transpired a few minutes ago would force her to get some food? Her anger triggered the rumbling of her stomach and the twisting of her intestines.
Something in her snapped—an unwillingness to sit amidst the chaos any longer. Rolling up her sleeves, Olivia turned on the faucet, the rush of water filling the void left by her grumbling.
Since she had decided not to leave, she could as well do the dishes and fill her stomach with some food.
For a while, she worked in silence, scrubbing and rinsing, her mind racing. The chore was menial, but it did nothing to stop her from focusing on the envelope she had crumpled earlier or the growing sense of isolation pressing in on her.
Once the dishes were all done, she heated a meal pack in the microwave. Next, she served herself a plate and sat at the small dining table, her mood no better than when she started.
But at least she could satisfy her appetite while annoying the hell out of that person.
---
From work, Aurora headed straight to the shopping mall. She was going with Xander to visit his parents at the Scott family’s old house and as usual, she couldn’t bring herself not to shop for some gifts.
Arriving at the mall, Aurora stepped out of the car, adjusting the strap of her handbag as she moved toward the entrance. The warm greeting she received from the mall staff as ’Mrs. Scott’ brought a small, polite smile to her lips, though she waved off their offers to help her roll the trolley she picked.
"Thank you, but I’ll manage," she said softly, her hands resting firmly on the shopping cart.
Aurora moved through the aisles with purpose. She stopped in front of a row of assorted nuts, her discerning gaze scanning the packaging. One by one, she picked up almonds, cashews, and walnuts, carefully inspecting the nutrient details and expiration dates before placing them in the cart.
As she entered the fresh produce section, Aurora’s attention turned to the rare fruits she’d wanted to include in her gifts. She lightly squeezed a perfectly ripened mango and inspected a bunch of dragon fruits, appreciating the vibrant colours and fragrant aromas.
Each selection was careful and deliberate, her thoughts occupied with how Xander’s parents might appreciate her choices.
Aurora didn’t have any parents. The ones she recognized were late while the other one who refused to acknowledge her was put off. So, in that sense, she was determined and dedicated to taking her husband’s parents, as hers.
After gathering everything she needed, Aurora went to the checkout counter. As she handed over her card, a flicker of movement by the door caught her eye.
A woman in oversized sunglasses stepped inside, her stride confident yet subdued. Something about her seemed familiar, but Aurora shook her head, brushing off the notion as she collected her receipt.
Just as she was about to leave, a voice called her by her name, ’Aurora’. The soft yet unmistakable familiar tone stopped her in her tracks. Turning, she found herself face-to-face with the woman she had noticed moments ago.
A faint, enigmatic smile curved on the stranger’s lips.
---
Minutes later, Aurora sat at a small round table in the mall’s café. Her shopping bags rested by her feet, and across from her sat Casey, her sunglasses still shielding her eyes.
Aurora sipped her iced Americano, her expression calm but wary, as Casey leaned in slightly, her smile persistent.
"I didn’t expect to run into you here of all places." Casey began, her voice light but tinged with something unspoken. "Fate has been indeed working behind the scenes."
Aurora offered a small nod but stayed quiet, prompting Casey to continue. "First, congratulations are in order—for everything. Beating Olivia to become COO of Vintage Cellar, marrying Xander Scott... you’ve really outdone yourself." "
She added as a smirk rose at the corner of her lips. "And someone somewhere must be biting her lips in frustrated misery."
"Thank you," Aurora replied, her tone measured as she placed her drink on the table. She understood the subtle jab made at Olivia, but for now, she pretended not to hear any of it.
She had just seen Casey after a long while and it was only necessary to gauge her reactions to understand what she truly wanted from this meeting.
On the other hand, Casey’s lips twitched upward at Aurora’s lack of interest. But she wasn’t even bothered by it as she had known Aurora’s personality for years, so she just continued.
"You married the man your sister didn’t expect and had been doing very well while her marriage to Owen crashed. But her failed marriage isn’t the reason she is rapidly losing her mind. Casey’s voice dropped, conspiratorial. "You’re the reason. She hates to lose to you. And despite everything she and her mother did to make your life miserable, you came out unscathed."
Aurora’s brows furrowed briefly, but she kept her composure. "Is there something you want?" she asked. She simply didn’t have the time to chit-chat about the likes of Olivia.
Casey’s smile faltered momentarily before returning. "Oh, Aurora. I wanted to know how you are enjoying the Tea Time’s recent articles, if they are to your taste or if you want any changes."
Instantly, Aurora as something finally clicked in her head. "Are you behind that blog?" she inquired, her brows slightly constricted in an inquisitive frown.
Casey chuckled, waving her hand dismissively. "Not directly, no. But let’s just say, they write exactly what I want them to. And pass the perspective I want."
"I see..." Aurora studied her for a moment, understanding every sentence she said, before speaking again, her voice steady but probing. "Why did you disappear for so long? Were you planning this revenge on Olivia all along?"
Casey’s smile turned sharp. "And what if I was?" she countered.
Aurora leaned forward slightly. "Olivia was your best friend. You betrayed her first. What gives you the right to seek revenge for something you started?" This is a motive that Aurora has been wanting to know for so long.
She wanted to understand what gave Casey the confidence to go against Olivia when she was in the wrong.
Casey’s laughter echoed across the café, drawing glances from nearby tables. She quickly sobered, her expression darkening. "You really don’t know, do you?"
Before Aurora could respond, Casey removed her sunglasses, revealing the grotesque scar where her right eye had once been. Aurora gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.
Casey’s voice was venomous as she spoke. "Your stepsister and her mother did this to me. They took my eye because I tried to warn you about their schemes at Olivia’s wedding."
Aurora’s heart raced as that memory resurfaced. She could hardly believe the extent of Stella and Olivia’s cruelty. Disgust and anger bubbled within her.
Casey, now calmer, slid her sunglasses back on and leaned back. "I don’t blame you for what happened. That’s why I’ve been using the blog to help you. You don’t need to thank me—know I’ve shifted the narrative in your favour."
Aurora sat in stunned silence, her emotions swirling. For once, she was at a loss for words. Casey, with a satisfied smirk, drained the rest of her drink and stood. "Enjoy the rest of your shopping, Mrs. Scott," she said coolly before walking away, leaving Aurora to grapple with the unsettling revelation.