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CHAPTER 10
Terakhir Diperbarui:
2025-03-19 17:35:43
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BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 11
Chapter 11:Caroline POVHe finally looked at me and I could see his eyes were darker than usual. “Things you wish you could have changed. People you wish you never lost.”A lump formed in my throat I swallowed. “Yeah, sometimes.”Kane nodded slightly. “Kelly’s hosting a celebration. He's successful now. He's a real artist.” His tone was flat, but I could hear the edge in it. “And?”“And I wasn't invited.”The words hung in the air between us. He said it like it didn't matter but I wasn't stupid. I stayed quiet, giving him space to say more. He opened his mouth to say something but then I realized.“Who's Kelly?” Kane tensed up and then took a seat. “He's my brother.” his voice had a surprising heaviness to it.I blinked. Brother?Now that I thought of it, I knew nothing of Kane's personal life, I never would have guessed he had a brother. He never mentioned family.Hell he never mentioned anything at all.And yet, here he was, standing in my living room, telling me about someone
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-19BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 12
Chapter 12: Caroline POV:Kane didn't seem to want to pull away.Though it seemed like he had stopped crying. His head still laid on my shoulder and his body still in my arms. If someone had told me a few months ago that I'd be comforting a billionaire, control freak and an occasional pain in my ass. I probably would have laughed at their faces. But here I was.I tapped his back. “Alright tough guy. That's enough tears on my blouse. Anymore and you'd have to pay for laundry” He pulled away, his expression filled with embarrassment.Kane? Embarrassed? Did I by chance enter the wrong universe?He cleared his throat and straightened his shirt. “What are you talking about? I wasn't crying.”I smirked. “Right, those were just billionaire sweats falling from your eyes.”He looked the other way and just for a second, I swore I saw the corner of his lip lift.I leaned into the couch, stretching my arms over my head. “Well if it makes you better then let me share some of my past with you.”
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-20BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 13
Chapter 13:A silence settled between us until Kane asked.“How did you deal with it?” I sighed, like he just asked me the dumbest question I heard.. “I had to start over again. Find new galleries willing to showcase my work. But you know the art world, it's about reputation. Once that's tainted, it's hard to get people to trust you again.”“Didn't the institution apologize?” “Of course they did, the school sent me a formal apology letter,” I said with a smirk then instantly shifted it to a scowl. “It was useless.”He shook his head, looking furious. Like he could have done something about it.“And what about her?” I raised an eyebrow. “The girl who framed me?” He nodded slightly. I gave out a low chuckle. “You know for a billionaire you ask a lot of questions.” He smirked, straightening up. “Call it the curiosity of an artist.” “Uhuh” I replied with a hint of sarcasm. I leaned back into the couch and crossed my hands. “Well, she tried to reach out later. Apologized..blah… bla
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-20BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 14
Chapter 14:Caroline POVThe next day, I resumed my work at the art gallery even though Kane had sent me a notice to take another day off. Mr Brown seemed to be testing my patience. How could he expect me to take a break on the day of the art exhibition? Especially when he knew my works were going to be displayed The art exhibition was exactly how I imagined it would be. Elegant, lively and most importantly, people who appreciated my work. For the first time in a long while, I felt like I was standing on solid ground.I adjusted one of my paintings, making sure the lighting hit just right. Out of the corner of my eye, I caught Kane watching me. Again.“You’re staring,” I muttered, without looking at him.“Just making sure you don't pass out,” he said, voice laced with amusement. “You've been up and down, going through each of the paintings ever since you got here.” “Well, unlike some people,” I replied, giving him a short glance. “I'm actually here for the art.” “Hey, I'm also h
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-21BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 15
Chapter 15:Caroline POV I needed air.The moment Diane walked away, I released a breath I didn't even realize I was holding.Just when I thought my life couldn't get any worse. I turned on my heel and headed for the nearest hallway, away from the crowded gallery. My chest felt tight, my fingers trembled as I pressed a hand against the cold wall, steadying myself.Why was she here?Why now? I had worked so hard to move past what happened back at Muse Art College. The scandal, the shame and disgrace. And now just when my art career was finally gaining momentum, just when I was beginning to feel like I had a future. Diane Ross just decided to walk back into my life. And the worst part?She knew Kane.The fact disturbed me, more than I cared to admit. What was she to him? A business associate? A friend?Or….I pushed the thought away, there was no way that witch dated Kane. I squeezed my eyes shut, trying to drown out the whirlwind of emotions.The last thing I needed was for Kan
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-21BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 16
Chapter 16:Kane's POVDiane's words had never left my mind since she walked away. Ask her about Muse Art CollegeDiane wouldn't know but Caroline had told me about the scandal. But who knew the culprit would be my ex-girl friend.No Kane, don't make assumptions. It could be a whole different story.I sat at my desk, focusing on the city-skyline through the glass. I swirled the glass of whiskey in my hand. The pieces weren't adding up. Caroline had been framed at Muse. I knew that much. But Diane's presence here just when Caroline was about to reach her peak in the art world. It didn't sit right with me. I had known Diane long enough, to recognize her games. She never did anything without reason or a plan. And from what I've observed, she wants me to question Caroline and probably sow a seed of doubt in me.No, that wasn't it. That motive was too dumb for Diane, there is definitely something more to it than simply breaking my trust for Caroline. Was she hoping to destroy Caro
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-22BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 17
Chapter 17Caroline's POVHaving dinner with Kane is like having a sit-in with the devil. I know firsthand what it can be like—especially considering how frustrating and overbearing he can be, always asking questions I don’t want to answer. Gina had tried to doll me up, and I can’t say she didn’t succeed. She really did, because now I look like a frigging ballerina—except with an above-the-knee-length gown and flowing hair. Even though I had opted for ponytails.Now, sitting on our parlor sofa, I’m beginning to rethink my decision. Maybe I really am ready to lose my job rather than have an actual sit-down with the overbearing bastard. Or maybe I’m just being too hard on him because I don’t want to fall for him. The problem? That battle is already proving to be a losing one. Things are happening too fast. I don’t know how much longer I can keep denying that there’s something between us—and that irritates me even more.I’m deep in thought when Gina walks in. With zero warning, she jumps
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-23BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 18
Caroline’s POVStepping into Kane's house, I feel like I'm walking into a fortress—an expensive one. The luxury chandeliers, high-end sofas, and polished fireplace exude wealth. It’s comfortable. Too comfortable. It almost feels like home.I shake my head at the thought. On the way here, I had battled with myself over how to face him, how to avoid questions he hadn’t even asked yet. I had a whole speech prepared. But now, standing in front of him, staring into those beautiful eyes that could make a girl’s heart melt, I fall completely silent. And then he looks at me in that way—like I’m the most beautiful thing he has ever seen—and I feel my knees go weak.Maybe I’m overthinking this. Reading too much into his actions.Or maybe… I’m not.Either way, I’m here now, and we need to talk.Kane gestures for me to sit, waiting until I’ve had my fill of admiring his home before he moves. The dining table is already set, a variety of dishes laid out before me. As I take my seat, he reaches for
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2025-03-23
Bab terbaru
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 46
Chapter 46:Caroline’s POVI felt a chill run down my spine. The man's words echoed in my head. If necessary…So they would kill us if we didn't comply. There was no way Kane sent these men. He might be controlling and ruthless, but he would never endanger me. Not like this. Not when I was carrying his children.Before I could process another thought, one of them grabbed me, his grip tightened around my arm. I cried out, struggling, but it only made him hold me tighter.Across the room, Gina was putting up a fight of her own. She wasn’t going down quietly, she kicked, clawed, and cursed like a soldier in battle. But it wasn’t enough. One of the men slammed her against the wall, pinning her arms behind her.“No…. stop! Let her go!” I screamed, panic choking my voice.“Quiet,” the man growled.I thrashed, but their grip never loosened. They were strong. Trained. This wasn’t a random break-in.They were here on a mission.Just as the man holding me turned toward the door, dragging me a
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 45
Chapter 45:Kane's POV “Very well, then.” I stood slowly, keeping my jaw tight. I took my bath and dressed up in one of my tailored suits. My eyes landed on the ear pods on my desk. It had been a while since I listened to any music, I had avoided it for years.Anytime I listened to music, it only meant I was about to do something serious. Apparently whenever I listened to music, I usually had the best performances and I never really needed to use my full abilities to get what I want.But now…. I was dealing with Kelly. I picked up the earpod case, popped one into my ear, opened my playlist then pressed ‘In the Heights the musical.’I opened the door and met my assistant waiting beside my car. It's time I took this game seriously. I told myself before walking into the car. It's high time I showed them who the king was.When I stepped into the car, I almost frowned but then I smiled. The scent of Caroline's perfume from the previous day still lingered in the car. Caroline….. she h
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 44
Chapter 44:Kane's POV~10 Years Ago~“Remember this facility is to make sure that even the inferior DNA’s have the highest IQ and probability.” Mr Reynolds said calmly, though his voice lacked signs of warmth. The examiner observed me as I played chess with another examiner, smiled and looked up at him. “This kid is brilliant, better than most of the children we've gathered, so sir I suggest we….”A gunshot into the air interrupting the examiner, the bullet narrowly missing him by the neck. Mr. Reynolds holstered his gun. “Don't you dare show bias to anyone, not even my own offspring.” “Uhh, yes sir.” The examiner replied, nervously. Mr. Reynolds glanced at me then started walking away. “Train him. Even if it means breaking him.”They thought I couldn't hear them. Not only did he kill my parents… now he wanted to train me to become his top dog.I had lost my parents and my sister. Meanwhile my brother, the only survivor alongside me, now hated me with passion. I placed the quee
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 43
Chapter 43:Gina POV“You’re Diane,” I breathed, my composure slipping for half a second.She smiled, just barely. “So the rumors were true. You’ve been busy.”I forced a polite, almost mocking chuckle. “I’ve heard about you. But I didn’t realize you were still around.”“Oh, I never left,” she replied smoothly. “I just stopped being visible. Makes it easier to watch people like you work.”I straightened. “Well, unless you’ve bumped into me to offer skincare tips or borrow a lighter, I’m not sure what this is about.”Diane stepped closer, eyes narrowed. “Don’t play coy, Gina. You’ve been pulling strings like a shadow puppeteer. But puppets tend to tangle… and when they do, they break.”There was a silence between us so thick you could cut it with a diamond.I recovered with a slow, cold smile. “If you’ve got something to say, say it. I don’t play well with cryptic threats.”“Oh, it’s not a threat,” she said, her tone almost amused. “It’s a promise.”And just like that, she turned on he
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 42
Chapter 42:Kane's POVI watch the cab trail off, leaving me standing there like a fool.And as if to mock me, rain started dropping slowly then it increased to a full out downpour.I rushed to my car to escape the rain but then I realized I left my keys in the hospital.I turned on my heels and quickly rushed back. When I got in, I went to the receptionist desk. “Excuse me, I think I left my car key here.” I asked, politely.“Do you mean this?” A familiar voice came from behind me, followed by the sound of jingling keys. I turned around to see Gina standing behind me, holding out the SUV keys like they belonged to her.I smiled and reached out for it but Gina pulled away.“What are you thinking?” she said, giving me a stern look. I sighed, placing a hand over my forehead. “I want to go after her.”“And do what?”The question stung more than I expected it to. What exactly was I going to do? I didn't have a plan, I was just rushing in thinking she would accept me like she used to.
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 41
Chapter 41:Kane's POV“Alright. Hit me.” I gave a stiff nod. The doctor cleared his throat and opened the envelope. He stared at the paper so intensely. What did it say? I couldn't believe that I was the one worried about some result. Then he looked up and smiled. “Mr Kane Brown, the results show that your DNA matches the paternity test 99.9%, you're definitely the real father.”Caroline heaved a huge sigh. I turned to her expecting her to say something. But she didn't even look in my direction. I was the father of unborn triplets and I had broken their mother with my own words.I felt the whole world collapse around me. I didn't know whether I should be excited or worried.I felt like a sailor lost in the sea of decisions.Excited about the fact I was becoming a father or worried about the fact that Caroline might never want my children to have anything to do with me. I reached for her hand instinctively, but she pulled away before I could even graze her fingers."Caroline, p
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 40
Chapter 40:Caroline's POVMy gaze shifted to the wall clock. 10:25. Kane should have been here by now. I sighed, then picked up my book. If he knew he was going to bail then he shouldn't have called.Today was the day the DNA Test results will come out. He had offered to drive me down himself. I had refused at first but he kept on insisting.I knew the only reason he insisted was because he thought I'd go ahead of him to change the results. And now he was purposely being late in hopes that he wouldn't find me home and then place the blame of framery on me when the tests came out positive.I wasn't smart but I wasn't so dumb that I wouldn't notice his motives. Then the sound of a car honking brought me back from my thoughts.“Speak of the devil” I thought to myself. Closing the book, I stood up, straightened my crumpled shirt, picked my bag and stepped towards the door.I walked out to see the Black SUV waiting for me. The tinted window on the driver's side slid down. Kane star
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 39
Chapter 39:Kane's POVI stared at the glass of whiskey in my hand. I took another sip but the burn of the alcohol in my chest couldn't quench the fire inside of me. My phone buzzed. I picked it up and frowned.Robertson?The name on the screen only made my frustration grow.I didn’t answer.But the truth was, I couldn’t afford to ignore him forever. Robertson was a tool and a pawn in this twisted game. A game I was already a part of. If I didn’t take control, I would lose everything, and I couldn’t afford that. Not now. Not now when there was a chance that I would be having a child. I reached for my phone then I swiped to dial Jayson.It rang twice before he picked up, his voice light, too casual.“Yeah?”I didn’t waste time on pleasantries. “Where are you?”“I’m out, Kane. Why?” His voice was careless, like nothing was wrong.“I saw the footage,” I said, the words hanging in the air like a threat.There was a long pause, and then a faint laugh, one that made my blood boil. “I fi
BENEATH THE COLD CONTRACT CHAPTER 38
Chapter 38:Kelly's POV“What are you doing here, Jayson?”Jayson smirked then clicked his tongue. “You should have known why I'm here by now”I placed my gun on the counter and heaved a sigh.“I have a guess, but you don't seem like the kind of person to do such a thing.” I glanced over at Robertson, who stood quietly by the door, his eyes watching us both with that typical, calculating expression.Jayson’s smirk remained, but his posture was more relaxed now, as if he were waiting for the storm to hit.“What do you mean?” I asked, my voice still calm, despite the tension building inside me. “What’s your angle, Jayson?”He clicked his tongue again, eyes gleaming with something like amusement. “You really don’t know, do you?” he said, leaning back slightly, his gaze flicking over to Robertson. “Well, I’ll be blunt. I’m here because my dear father thinks your brother might be getting a little out of hand. Too much chaos and too much unpredictability. It makes him... an easy target.”I
