When Elice entered Rita's residential area, the clock on her wrist already showed eleven. A long time had passed if she had not decided to pick up her car at the Metro first. But at least Elice could be sure to get home on time. The situation seemed calmer and more under control.
Elice got out of the car. In the urgency of missing Wilda and worrying about her, she hurried to open the gate door. Only to find the bright light blinding her eyes.
Elice blinked her eyes. At the same time, her hand spontaneously lifted from the gate key. Trying to ward off the glare that disturbed her vision.
The sound of a car door opening was heard. Followed by the sound of the car door closing with the impression of being half slammed. As if the person was in a hurry.
However, it seemed that this person was indeed in a hurry, for his steps were large and swift. Taking advantage of the glare that left Elice motionless in her standing position, he approached her, reaching out
"Miss Elice has left the apartment, sir."In the car parked not far from the apartment where Elice had stayed last night, Garrett was accompanied by Amber and the driver named Dariel Martin. It was unclear how long they had been there; it seemed like countless hours. During that time, Amber waited patiently for a report from her informants, while Garrett tried to remain calm and take the opportunity to work briefly on his laptop, which was open on his lap.Garrett sighed deeply. Without taking his eyes off several colorful graphs on the laptop screen, he said, "Follow her.”Amber looked back, seemingly incredulous at what her boss had just said."Quickly," Garrett said again. "Before she gets too far."Amber had no choice. She motioned to Dariel, and not long after, the car was speeding through the streets. Now it was getting harder and harder for Garrett to concentrate on his work."Is she going straight home?" Garrett could not conta
"No, Mom. This time I won't do what you say. And I beg you, just this once. Let me do what I want. I will defend Elice."As Ariel said this on the phone, Farrah's hysterical screams could be heard on the other end. She was shocked to find that her son had gone straight to Ashford City because of the articles and photos circulating. Without a second thought, he immediately went to see Elice. And now her son had another surprise for her—an earnest request that she would undoubtedly refuse."Ariel! I warn you not to even think about approaching Elice again. Let her be with Garrett! Let this lowly woman be with your cousin!"When Ariel heard how Farrah humiliated Elice, his hand moved involuntarily and slammed down on the steering wheel with such force."Ma, I beg you! Stop calling Elice that. She's not as low as you say.""Ariel, dare you defy Mom? Hahaha. See how Elice's bad influence has affected you? You should be thankful, Ariel. Because now
Garrett decided to call Elice. No matter if she would be angry with him. What was most important to him right now was to know Elice's condition. He had to make sure that Elice was all right.Waiting with an uneasy feeling, Garrett closed his eyes and breathed a sigh of relief when Elice answered his call."Hello, Garrett."Elice's voice calmed Garrett's emotions. It made the restlessness that had been plaguing his mind calm down."Elice," Garrett called. "How are you this morning? I..."Garrett couldn't finish his words. The growing guilt made him feel ashamed. How many times would he have to apologize to this woman?"I'm fine."At least Elice's words calmed Garrett's feelings."Have you been to the office today? Are you working?""Of course. I took an impromptu leave for two days, Garrett. If it's more than that, I think I'll get a warning."Garrett understood. But he couldn't imagine how much pressure Elice was
"Take responsibility for Garrett. Marry him."Elice must be dreaming or hallucinating. Because it seemed completely nonsensical that Daphne would say something so absurd. Marriage? Between her and Garrett?"W-what?"Daphne sighed deeply and reached for the teacup in front of her. Instead of answering the question, she savored her first sip of the now chilled, reddish-golden liquid. No longer too hot, as it had been when first served.There was a slight exhale as Daphne enjoyed the drink, letting each drop moisten her throat, which felt dry from the conversation they had just had."I'm sure I made myself very clear. But if you need a replay, that's fine. I'll say it again," Daphne said casually. "I want you to marry Garrett."Elice certainly didn't need a second shock to make her heart stop beating inside. She had heard it clearly. But she really did not understand."M-marry Garrett?"Daphne nodded. "Aren't you Garrett's girlfri
Elice was clearly not well. Physically, perhaps. But mentally? Probably not so much. Because when she decided to return to work and found Daphne's visit again, the pressure was undeniable.She accepted some strange whispers and looks. When she turned around, they immediately put on a smile and acted as if nothing had happened. But just like those who put on a facade, Elice did the same. She acted as if nothing had happened, even though it was undoubtedly a difficult thing to do.At that moment, when Elice realized for the umpteenth time that her situation was getting worse because of the pressure caused by a man, cynical thoughts appeared. flew through her mind.It turns out that no matter how far I go, problems and scornful looks will always find me in the end. Who is to blame?Elice kept asking herself. Whenever she tried to start a new chapter in her life, it seemed that problems always found a way to find her. No matter how many miles she dis
Elice's guess was undoubtedly correct. For Garrett didn't see any surprise on the beautiful woman's face."I never expected things to turn out like this. That Nana would meet you and ask you to marry me."Elice blinked. Even if she could guess where the conversation would lead that night, she still was not ready to discuss it."I won't pressure you, Elice. Don't worry. I know this is the strangest way for two people to be bound in marriage. And whatever your decision is, I'll deal with it."Frankly, a marriage pushed by Daphne was a good thing for Garrett. The man was clearly interested in Elice. Coupled with the diminishing time he had every day. But Garrett tried to suppress his selfishness.Marriage was always about two people. Even when two people had the same commitment, storms would still come. In the form of family and loved ones who sometimes felt more important. What about this one?"What about your decision then, Garrett?"A
Elice was now twenty-nine years old. She was no longer a teenage girl easily swayed by the sweet words of a man. Life experiences and a difficult journey had shaped her heart. No man's words could be trusted. Not even Garrett.Elice had proven it. She had even accused him without blinking an eye. That he was using her and working with Ariel. Even though in reality it was an empty accusation. Garrett was not who she thought he was. But Elice realized how her thoughts about men had changed. There was no longer an Elice who thought positively. There was only Elice who tried to be careful.Elice knew that she had to protect herself. She could not rely on anyone. Especially not on a man she had not even known for a year."I knew you wouldn't believe me."Garrett spoke calmly. He did not seem surprised by Elice's reaction. There was a frown on his forehead, a hint of a disbelieving smile and a subtle snort."And I'm not going to ask you to trust me," Gar
Daphne snapped. She rose from the sofa, her back straight. As if preparing to face her opponent."You clearly know this is connected to me, Elice. Everything from Garrett to Ariel, whether you like it or not, will connect you to me. It's your destiny. You cann’t do anything for that."It feels as if Elice really wants to eliminate this one word from her life's dictionary. Fate? Elice feels that fate has never given her anything good. Only problems and tears."I don't know if you feel arrogant or what, but believe me. I will not force you to marry Garrett unless circumstances force me to.""Then don't," Elice replied without hesitation. "I'm sure there is no woman out there who would refuse Garrett's proposal. A man who is currently at the top of his game. With a great family background, I'm sure no woman would think twice about accepting him.""At least you can see that clearly."Elice felt her face suddenly stiffen at this sarcastic r