Two weeks after the blackmailing incident, Agent Lee's investigation had reached a dead end. Despite Iris's confession, there wasn't enough evidence to link Richard to the crime. He was so smart that he met Iris in a secluded place, where his face or their conversation won’t be captured and recorded. He was careful enough.Richard walked out of the police station, a smug smile on his face. "No charges will be filed," his lawyer announced. He nodded before boarding his car and took off.Iris, on the other hand, was sentenced to five years in prison for blackmail and extortion.Weeks passed, and the Lockwood family continued searching everywhere for Jane.. Evelyn’s health began to decline, her worry for Jane consuming her.When Jane ran away from home, her family thought she was throwing a tantrum, but as days turned into months, and months turned a year, they came to realize she was serious when she told her father she ceased being his daughter that year.They’ve looked for her everywh
Banks mansion.Edward’s study.Leonard sat across his grandfather, sir Edward, as his eyes locked into his. Their expressions were both unreadable. The air was tense as they stared at each other.Sir Edward was the first to break the awkward silence. “Leonard, have you made a decision regarding the marriage?” Sir Edward asked, his voice firm but laced with anticipation.Leonard took a deep breath, his eyes locking onto his grandfather's.“Yes, Grandfather. I've made my decision.”Sir Edward's expression remained stern, but a hint of curiosity and anticipation crept into his voice.“And?” Sir Edward questioned.Leonard's expression was unreadable which was what always frustrates his grandfather. No matter what, he can’t read his grandson's expression with his old age. “I'm willing to proceed with the marriage.” Leonard stated.Sir Edward's face transformed, a satisfied smile spreading across his features. “Excellent choice, Leonard. The Lockwoods will be pleased.”Reginald, who had b
As Jane walked down the stairs, she heard all her mom said to her father. She felt regretful. If not because of her, her parents wouldn’t be having this issue.“Mom,” she walked up to her mom as she took her hand and led her to take a seat. She sat down beside her as she faced her father. “Dad, I know I was childish about my behavior some months ago, no matter what, I’m still the heiress of the Lockwood. I have to fulfill my duty as the heiress of this wonderful family. I don’t want my marriage to cause an issue between you and mom.”“If you want me to get married no problem, I will do anything for your forgiveness, and for the growth of the family.”“Jane, her mother called out to her with a choked voice. You don’t need to force yourself. Don’t worry, when the Banks family come here tomorrow, I will chase them away and tell them we are not interested in this fucking marriage.” Evelyn cursed as she reassured her daughter.“Mom”, Jane called out to her mother feeling touched. “I’ve mad
Jason and Evelyn exchanged a glance, before Jason released his embrace.They both went to the front door to welcome their guest as the host and hostess.The Bank’s family drove more than five luxurious cars into the garage. They came down one after another, as they made their way to the front door.As the Banks family emerged from their vehicles, Jason and Evelyn stood tall, gracious hosts welcoming esteemed guests.Sir Edward Banks, Leonard's grandfather, led the procession, his imposing figure commanding respect.Reginald Banks, Leonard's father, followed closely, his eyes scanning the Lockwood estate with interest.Catherine, Leonard's mother, also followed with her younger daughter, Lisa clinging to her arms. Leonard himself appeared last, his gaze locking onto the Lockwood estate taking in the view of where Jane grew up.Tall, handsome, and confident, Leonard exuded an aura of quiet strength.“Welcome, Sir Edward. It's an honor to have you and your family here.”Sir Edward's ste
Jane stormed out of the living room, Leonard following closely behind. As soon as they reached the garden, she spun around, her eyes blazing.“You!” she exclaimed, her voice low and furious. “Is it because you know I’m your fiancée that you saved me at the bridge that day?” She questioned him.Leonard's smiling face suddenly frowned, his eyes crinkling. “Would you believe me if I said I never knew who you were before saving you that day? I just got to know who you are the day you woke up at the hospital.Jane gazed deeply into his eyes, searching whether he was lying or not. “Why didn't you tell me after knowing? “Gosh,” she yanked her hair in frustration. I even stayed at your place for the past two months, and you didn’t bring this up. Why did you keep it a secret?” She sighed.Leonard shrugged. “I didn't think it was relevant. Besides, I wanted to get to know you better.”Jane's eyes narrowed. “Get to know me better? You're my fiancé! How could you agree to marry me without even te
Leonard's lips reluctantly left Jane’s, as they turned to face the intruder.“Sorry to interrupt,” Desmond said with a warm smile, “but dinner is ready. Everyone is waiting for you guys.”“We will be right there Desmond, thank you.” Leonard grinned.Desmond nodded, and left. Jane was shy being caught by her brother making out. Seeing her shy expression, Leonard's frustration of being interrupted turned into a warm smile.“Let’s go.” He held her hand, pulling her with him. “Leonard wait,” Jane stopped, making Leonard also stop. “I think I should be honest with your family and tell them about my previous marriage. It won’t be nice if they later knew from somewhere.” Jane suggested.Leonard's expression turned resolute. “No, Jane. Don't tell them. It's our personal life, no one else needs to know.” Knowing that if his family came to know about Jane's previous marriage, the good relationship they seemed to have now, would turn sour. Even his grandfather forcing him to get married to her,
Hearing that mocking voice, Jane's smile faltered, her eyes narrowing slightly. Looking at the stranger through the dressing mirror, Jane had the feeling that Ava is another bitch cooking up something.Lisa’s eyes widened in embarrassment. “Ava, stop it. This is Jane, my brother 's fiancée, and his future wife. By the way, Jane is not that young. She is 24, and Leonard is just 4 years older than her.” Lisa said angrily. By the way, my brother is in love with her, so this isn’t a forced marriage, and stop spouting nonsense.Ava was so angry listening to Lisa. She thought with all the years she had been together with Lisa, no matter what, she should support her. But seeing her supporting this stranger in front of her, she boiled with anger.Ava's face reddened, her eyes blazing with anger. “You're defending her?” Ava spat, her voice venomous. “You're choosing her over me?”Lisa stepped forward, her hands raised calmingly. “Ava, no, it's not like that. I'm just telling the truth.”Ava's
Ava, who had been watching everything unfold, couldn’t take it anymore. She had loved Leonard for more than fifteen years now. She once confessed her feelings for him, but he rejected her. She thought since he had been single for all this while, she felt he might like her too. Now seeing another woman in his embrace, she couldn’t take it.As she saw Leonard wanting to kiss Jane, she couldn’t help interrupting. Her shout echoed through the ballroom, “How could you, Leonard? How could you get engaged with her?”Her voice cracked, and tears streamed down her face.Jane and Leonard's kiss was forgotten as all eyes turned to Ava.She stumbled forward, her heels clicking on the marble floor. Suddenly, she lost her balance and crashed into a nearby waiter.The waiter's tray of drinks went flying, shattering on the floor.Ava cried out, clutching her ankle. “Oh, my God, I'm hurt!” Seeing Leonard still standing beside Jane, looking at her as if he was looking at a joke, a sharp pain stung her