Chapter 48
Chapter 48
Kelsey’s expression suddenly darkened, her face tightening with displeasure.
The marriage between the two families had always been about mutual benefit–Osborne family seeking Monson family’s heritage, and Monson family relying on Osborne family’s military power.
Who the marriage was with didn’t matter–whether it was Athena or Willow, as long as it was the daughter of the Monson family.
But then Athena had ruined everything with her vile actions. A woman with such a tarnished reputation could never become the matriarch of the Osborne family.
Kelsey was furious, but she kept her composure, forcing a polite smile. “I understand that you’re reluctant to part with my son, but this annulment can’t be avoided. You’d better hand over the jewel pendant quietly, or this will turn into a scene that will embarrass both of our families. ”
Athena’s smile remained, but her words cut right through Kelsey’s carefully maintained facade. “Why should I agree? What’s in this for me? Why should I give up my fiancé for someone else? Besides, it was the old master of the Osborne family who personally arranged this engagement, and the jewel pendant was his gift to me. Why should I throw away such a good match and give it to Willow p>
As she spoke, her gaze casually drifted toward Michael.
He was talking to some of the male guests, but as soon as he noticed her looking, he turned to meet her gaze.
Their eyes locked for a moment, but Athena quickly turned away, as if she had touched something hot. Michael stood still, his expression one of quiet regret.
Meanwhile, Willow, who had been watching Michael intently, felt a surge of frustration. She bit down on her teeth and lowered her head, red–eyed, wiping away her tears as Eloise comforted her.
Kelsey’s composed expression finally cracked, and it was clear she was struggling to maintain her poise.
As for the annulment, Michael had already disagreed, and they’d fought over it not long ago.
Kelsey had seen it clearly: Michael still had feelings for Athena. If she allowed their old connection to resurface, it would be disastrous.
A knot tightened in Kelsey’s chest. Athena could never marry into the Osborne family. She must be setting conditions, and it was obvious now.
With a flash of disdain, Kelsey looked Athena over and said, “Tell me what you want. Whatever it is that the Osborne family can give, we’ll make sure you’re satisfied. How much money are you asking for p>
To Kelsey’s mind, Athena was simply unwilling to accept such a good match. Anyone would be reluctant to give it up.
If needed, the Osborne family could pay some money and make it go away. It would be a small price to pay to settle things.
But Athena was too greedy–now, she was even threatening Kelsey. If that was the case, she’d make sure Athena paid a heavy price.
Feigning concession, Kelsey was already thinking of a thousand ways to make Athena regret this.
Athena noticed the shift in Kelsey’s expression. She smiled faintly and said, “I don’t want money p>
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Chapter 40
Kelsey was momentarily confused. “You don’t want money? Then what is it you want p>
She wondered, ‘What could she possibly need p>
“ I want the account books from the case of General Kurtis, three years ago,” Athena said, her voice soft, but her eyes steely with resolve. She needed those account books–she would get them, no matter what.
General Kurtis was Athena’s grandfather. Three years ago, he had been falsely accused and exiled to the border, with his fate still unknown. The account books contained the evidence that could clear his name.
Kelsey’s brow furrowed, and a brief flicker of panic crossed her face. She lowered her voice and said, “The case of General Kurtis was personally adjudicated by His Majesty. What can I, a mere woman, possibly do p>
Athena smiled faintly. “If you’re willing, Kelsey, there are always ways. I’m not unreasonable. For you, this should be an easy task p>
Chapter 49
Sara Lili
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.