“You have the nerve to be a home–wrecker but you’re afraid of being photographed?”
“The mistress has so much to say.”
Our eyes met across the distance, and I offered a faint, sardonic smile. Meanwhile, Kevin tried to explain to me. “No, it’s not like that, Sophia, please let me explain…” Kevin looked at me, his voice barely a whisper.
“This is just sickening.”
“They’re not even married yet, and he already has a love child this old.”
“Just a moment ago he was swearing on his life, sounding so sincere. I almost believed him.”
“Everyone in our circle used to say the Blackwood heir was so devoted. Looks like he’s just another worthless philanderer.”
“Honestly, so rotten. He even wanted the woman’s family assets. Looks like they really are in decline.”
The guests‘ whispers darkened Mr. Blackwood’s face even further. My father was beyond furious. “Is this the fine son your family raised?! There’s no longer any need for our two families to associate!” My father turned and walked away. The Vance family had already been utterly disgraced by the Blackwoods.
Mr. Blackwood couldn’t stop my father. He was practically raving with fury. “Kevin, what are you doing?! Explain yourself properly to Sophia!” A teacup flew towards Kevin, grazing his forehead, drawing blood.
I felt a rush of pure satisfaction. Since realizing I had been deceived, an unnamable fire had been burning in my heart.
Kevin ignored the blood on his forehead, looking utterly pathetic. “Sophia, please, let me explain.”
“For the sake of our five years together, please, give me a chance to explain?” I watched him with detached interest. He still maint- ained that facade of deep affection. I waved off the bodyguards standing beside me. I wanted to see what other flimsy excuses he
would come up with.
“Sophia, you’re the only one I’ve ever loved, believe me!”
“It was all Clara! She seduced me! She drugged me, forced me to be with her.”
“But my heart is only for you. I was just too soft–hearted, that’s why she tricked me.”
“I promise you, there will be no next time. I’ll make sure she can’t survive in this country. Can’t we just live a good life together?” Kevin tugged at my dress, bowing low, a picture of servility.
I tightened my grip on the voice recorder in my hand, Clara was foolish. Kevin was foolish too. How could I ever pretend that nothi- ng had happened? I watched Kevin plead with me, quietly.
“Sophia, I was wrong this time. But I truly love you. Please, give me another chance.”
