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Emmett’s words trailed off as he suddenly stopped speaking, his breath catching in his throat.
Instead of Athena, a courier appeared at the entrance, his uniform clearly identifiable. He carried a small parcel and offered it to Emmett with a courteous grin.
“Good day, I have a delivery for Mr. Davidson from Ms. Chancellor. Is Mr. Davidson present?” It was from Athena!
Emmett’s pulse quickened. That’s me!” he responded enthusiastically.
His thoughts whirled as he remembered Athena’s promise of an additional wedding present. This realization only heightened his anticipation. He hastily tore open the package.
Within lay a flawless white figurine, undeniably modeled after him. His fingers trembled as he cautiously unwrapped it, layer by layer.
“You truly do care for me…” Emmett murmured to himself, echoing the phrase as the complete form of the figurine emerged.
The figurine’s head was exquisitely crafted, each intricate detail precise and refined. However, as his eyes moved downward, he noticed a harsh crack running through the base like a lightning bolt, violently connecting the
top and bottom. It appeared as if it had been struck by a celestial.
force.
“The first to betray will be struck by lightning…
The words resonated in Emmett’s mind, a haunting reminder of their vow. His heart constricted, and momentarily, he couldn’t accept the reality. He stumbled backward, losing his grip on the figurine. It crashed to the floor, breaking into innumerable fragments.
Who could inform him when Athena had uncovered his infidelity?
The understanding nearly drove him to insanity. How had the situation become so unmanageable?
Simultaneously with Athena’s departure from the wedding, chaos erupted in the outside world. Aliana Forbes, the cherished actress, had visited the hospital for a routine check–up, only to be ambushed by photographers. The once–pristine star was now embroiled in scandal, expecting a child out of wedlock.
The gossip spread rapidly, and the following day, Azrael Davidson instructed Emmett to bring Aliana to the family residence to explain himself.
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As soon as they entered, Azrael’s wrath exploded. He swung his walking stick forcefully, striking Emmett across his back.
“Disgraceful! Look at the havoc you’ve wreaked!”
Azrael’s anger was tempestuous, and he brought the cane down once more, leaving a deep crimson mark on Emmett’s white shirt.
Perspiration formed on Emmett’s brow, the pain searing through him, yet it paled in comparison to the turmoil of recent days. Athena’s sudden exit from their wedding had thrown his life into disarray, and now, Aliana’s pregnancy scandal had forced him to act.
The sting of the blow only strengthened his determination. Through clenched teeth, Emmett declared, “Aliana doesn’t seek any title. The position of Mrs. Davidson will always belong to Athena. She’s just upset… I’ll convince her to return.”
“Enough!” Azrael thundered, raising his cane again. But before the blow could land, a figure darted forward from behind.
Aliana gasped, rushing to protect Emmett. Her eyes implored Azrael as she spoke, her voice filled with emotion.
“Mr. Davidson, I understand you made Emmett promise to wed Athena out of gratitude. He gave you his word. I’m content to remain with him without any title. But… do you truly wish to separate us?”
M
Aliana gently placed a hand on her stomach, bowing deeply before Azrael. “Even if you refuse to acknowledge me, the child growing within me still carries Davidson blood. Can you genuinely be so cruel as to reject your own great–grandchild?”
The impact of her words seemed to linger in the air, causing Azrael to waver, his stern demeanor momentarily faltering.
Aliana, ever the performer, had delivered her speech with such sincerity, her acting so convincing that it was almost as if a theatrical scene was unfolding before them.
Azrael’s expression softened, doubt creeping into his gaze, but Emmett’s brow furrowed. “I must bring Athena back.”
