lunch invitation

  “Who was involved?” he asked in a deep yet controlled tone.

Kyla looked down, her voice trembling as she whispered, “Richard.” Her answer was quiet, almost inaudible. She tried to avoid Edward's gaze, which seemed to penetrate all her secrets.

Edward's brow furrowed, the tension evident on his face. “Richard? Who is he?”

Kyla let out a long breath, her voice filled with frustration. “He's an influential man from Snowflake,” she said softly. “He used his power to pressure me, exploiting my family's weakness for his own gain. I cannot accept this, Edward.”

Edward's gaze sharpened, but there was a hint of tenderness in his expression. “I understand,” he said in a soothing voice. “I will help you overcome this.”

Kyla lifted her face, her eyes filled with concern. “Talk to her? No, Edward. She's not only dangerous but cunning. I even fear for your safety. But... who exactly are you? Why are you working in my company, letting people insult you, including your ex-wife, when I'm sure you're not as poor as they think. What are you hiding?”

Edward let out a long breath, his gaze turning serious. “Who I am isn't important right now. What matters is that I won't let you face this alone.”

Kyla looked at him, confused and full of doubt. “How can you help me?”

Edward stepped closer, his eyes full of determination. “Marry me. That way, we can fight Richard together.”

Kyla gasped, shocked by the proposal. “Marry?” Her voice trembled. “That's ridiculous. I don't want to marry out of pity. And Richard is not an easy man to conquer.”

Edward looked at her with a mixture of firmness and tenderness. “Kyla, this isn't about pity. This is about giving you protection. I know this situation is difficult, but this is the best way to deal with Richard.”

Kyla bowed her head, her fingers nervously gripping the hem of her dress. “I have nothing to offer you, Edward,” she murmured softly.

Edward looked down, gazing at Kyla earnestly. “You have courage, Kyla. That is more than enough. I'm not asking anything of you except the chance to help you.”

Kyla remained silent, her heart caught between fear and hope. After what seemed like an eternity, she finally nodded slowly. “Alright, I agree.”

Edward breathed a sigh of relief. Although this decision was made quickly, he was sure that this time it would not go wrong. He was going to marry the woman he truly sought-not someone fake like before.

Elizabeth's actions still lingered in his mind, making him feel deceived and humiliated. However, the experience had strengthened his resolve. “This time, I won't be wrong again,” he muttered softly. She believes this step is a new beginning.

Their wedding was simple, without glitz and glamor. There was only the officiant, two witnesses, and a meaningful silence. After the ceremony, they returned to Kyla's simple yet cozy apartment.

Kyla stood by the window, staring out blankly. Mixed feelings came over her. Edward sat on the couch, giving her space to process her thoughts.

“I know this isn't the wedding you dreamed of,” Edward said finally, his voice soft yet understanding. “I wouldn't blame you if you felt angry or disappointed.”

Kyla turned her head slowly, her gaze heavy with exhaustion. “I'm not angry with you, Edward. I'm just... confused. This whole thing feels like a never-ending nightmare.”

Edward nodded slowly, his expression sympathetic. “I promise, I will do everything to make you feel safe. You're not alone anymore, Kyla.”

There was something in his voice that softened Kyla's heart. For the first time, she felt like someone really cared about her-not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to protect her.

That night, Kyla wore a graceful navy blue dress, her hair perfectly styled, accentuating her stunning beauty. Beside her, Edward, in a sleek black suit, looked charismatic and authoritative. They headed to Kyla's family home to attend her cousin's engagement party.

As soon as they arrived, a festive atmosphere greeted them. Soft music played as the guests chatted amongst themselves. Kyla felt the tension running through her body, but she tried to remain calm.

“I'm going to the restroom for a minute,” Edward whispered as he patted Kyla's arm gently.

Kyla nodded, letting Edward go before stepping inside alone. She was immediately greeted by her family. Her parents looked relieved to see her.

“Kyla, you've finally arrived. Richard has been waiting all this time,” her mother said with a meaningful smile, though her tone contained a hint of worry.

“Sorry, Mom. I know I'm late,” Kyla replied calmly, though her heart was in turmoil.

Her mother patted her hand gently. “That's okay, dear. But try to talk to Richard. Treat him well, okay?”

Kyla nodded wordlessly. A few minutes later, Richard appeared, his face full of confidence.

“So, Kyla, have you made up your mind?” he asked in a soft yet threatening tone.

Kyla looked at him sharply. “What decision, Richard?”

“Stop pretending, Kyla,” he replied in a mocking tone. “I know your company is on the brink of collapse. I just want to help you... provided you marry me.”

Kyla took a deep breath, trying to contain her anger. “Richard, I appreciate your offer. But you're wrong. I don't need your help.”

Richard raised his eyebrows, surprised. “Oh? And what makes you so sure?”

“Because Kyla is married,” Edward's stern voice cut through the crowd.

Richard froze, his face tense. Before he could reply, Edward appeared, standing beside Kyla with an undeniable aura of authority.

“And I'm here to ensure that no threats touch my wife or her family again,” Edward said in a low yet powerful tone.