Chapter 174
Matthew sat on the couch closest to me. He stared at me without blinking. A gentle smile graced his face. His dark eyes were brimming with anticipation.
His smile brought back memories of Matthew in high school.
We were both 17 or 18 back then, full of youth and carefreeness. Our days were filled with heavy coursework. It was hard to find time to play.
He always tried hard to follow behind me during the physically demanding laps in physical education class. Whenever I looked back, his beaming face was always there.
Back then, he was chubby. One lap would be enough to cover his forehead in sweat and leave him heavily panting. No matter how tired, he persisted in running behind me.
I was naive, always puzzled about why he insisted on following me despite barely keeping up.
I understood later, but we had gone our separate ways by then.
Watching him sit in the sunlight with a silly smile, memories of our youth halted the refusal on my lips. I found myself unable to speak.
My indecisiveness left me wondering if this was good or bad. It could potentially leave me with no way out in the future.
I was shocked when the luxury sports car stopped in front of the Loxley family mansion.
Tall walls and an exquisitely carved gate surrounded it. Luxury cars were parked on the driveway, and the garden was filled with rare plants.
The Aetherian–style villa stood majestically, with a white–haired butler standing by the door. He was welcoming guests. Well–dressed dignitaries came and went.
I felt out of place even in a custom–made dress and dream–worthy shoes, with the Loxley family’s son ready to pamper me.
This was his world, not mine.
I didn’t admire it, didn’t like it, and didn’t want to join it.
I just wanted to be a normal lady. I longed for a loving husband to provide a stable life and to have one or two kids. I dreamed of a nine–to–five job, of walking hand–in–hand with my husband after work to buy groceries and then cooking soup together at home.
1/2
+15 BONUS
The story of Cinderella marrying the prince and living happily ever after was just a story.
“Luna, this is my home. Let me take you inside.”
Matthew wrapped his arm around my waist loosely and maintained a safe distance. I didn’t refuse.
“Grandpa likes quiet places. He won’t be coming, but my parents are here. My uncles and cousins will also be here. I’ll introduce you to them later.”
I nodded, sensing an unpleasant premonition.
“Matthew, you’re back. Why are you so early?”
A petite and lively girl ran out of the villa.
Her voice was clear and cheerful.
Matthew affectionately patted her head. “Why are you running? You’re old enough to know you should behave appropriately. Uncle Nathaniel is going to scold you again if he sees you like this.”
“It’s Uncle Alex’s birthday. I’m just happy.”
“Being happy is fine, but don’t overdo it. Where are my mom and dad?”
“They’re over there, chatting with the guests. Several guests have already arrived.” The girl pointed in a direction.
“Luna, this is my cousin, Samantha. Samantha, this is Luna. You can just call her Luna for now.”
Samantha Loxley warmed up to me immediately and grabbed my left arm. “Luna, you’re so pretty. Prettier than any girl I’ve ever seen. Matthew, is she going to be my sister–in–law?”
Samantha’s teasing made me blush.
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