Chapter 5

There are many reasons why London captivates tourists from all around the world. In this city famous for its monarchy, one can find rows of majestic ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and astonishing museums.

As one of the largest metropolitan cities in the United Kingdom, London also offers a variety of shopping destinations to satisfy the shopping desires of its visitors. One can visit Oxford Street to hunt for branded items, enjoy cool displays in the stores on Carnaby Street, or search for antiques and London souvenirs at Portobello Market.

Due to the rapid growth of tourism in London, the number of accommodations has also increased. From simple hotels to super luxurious ones, there are plenty of options to choose from based on one's budget.

Among the luxurious hotels available, Le Meridien Hotel Piccadilly, owned by the renowned entrepreneur Dylan Arley, is a five-star hotel that often becomes the choice of tourists. The hotel has a classic architectural design with a lavish white color. However, inside the hotel rooms, a modern ambiance is felt through contemporary designs and furnishings, making it a delight for anyone who stays there.

Currently, the hotel is under Dylan's direct control. And in the future, Chloe will take over the position as she is the only heir Dylan has now. To solidify her position, Chloe has been trained from an early age to take control, make decisions, and learn problem-solving skills. Dylan wants to shape Chloe's character into a tough and respected businesswoman.

Despite Chloe's usual enthusiasm for her activities at the hotel, today she seems a bit different during a meeting. For some time now, Chloe has been staring blankly at the stack of papers on the table. Her mind seems troubled, and she shows no interest in listening to the presentation by one of the employees. Deciding to leave, she walks away, disregarding the confused looks from others.

Walking casually, Chloe enters the CEO's office where her father is busy on a teleconference with a client. Not wanting to disturb, she sits on the sofa, picking up a business book lying on the table.

"Why are you here? Is your meeting over?" Dylan Arley asks Chloe after finishing his work.

"I'm bored, Pa. Can I take a break and leave?"

Dylan rises from his chair, approaching Chloe, who is calmly reading her book.

"Is there something bothering you?"

Chloe closes the book she was reading, taking a deep breath. Trying to express what she is feeling right now, as if something is bothering her heart.

"Last night, Nathalie visited me in my dream again."

"Again?"

Chloe nods softly. "I feel like I'll go crazy if this continues." Soon, a tear falls down her smooth cheeks, clearly showing her frustration.

To comfort his daughter, Dylan immediately steps forward and hugs Chloe with love and care. He allows his beloved daughter to release her tears until she feels calmer. When she finally settles down, Dylan speaks again.

"Let's go see a doctor, alright? It seems like you need to meet with Dr. Andrea," Dylan suggests after letting go of the hug. He doesn't want to see Chloe distressed like this.

"I don't need Dr. Andrea, Pa." Chloe shakes her head.

"So, what do you want? To visit Nathalie?"

Chloe lifts her face, giving a faint smile while nodding.

"I'm giving myself permission to meet her. There's so much I need to tell Nathalie," Chloe said. "Last night, I dreamed of her again. She even begged for my help..." Chloe paused her sentence, and tears once again fell uncontrollably. She reached out and gently touched the gravestone with Nathalie Hazel's name engraved on it.

"I miss you, sis. Why did you have to leave so soon?"

Chloe was currently at Nunhead Cemetery, a burial site in South London. For the past year, she had spent a lot of time there, visiting and sharing stories right next to her sister's grave. Chloe herself felt deeply affected. Dylan had to take his youngest daughter back and forth to see a psychiatrist regularly to help heal Chloe's soul, which was deeply disturbed by Nathalie's passing.

"I will never forget when you struggled in pain, fighting with all your might until your life slipped away." Chloe closed her eyes tightly, trying to push away the memories that always shattered her heart.

"Don't worry, sis. I promise to soon avenge the man who caused your death." This time, she sobbed again. Taking multiple deep breaths, she continued, "He may have escaped the clutches of the law, but don't expect me to let him go. If necessary, I will take care of him myself for you, sis. I swear I won't let him go."

****

Edward had just arrived at the apartment unit he had left behind a few years ago. When he opened the door, he was surprised to find Alexander inside, sitting comfortably while sipping a cup of coffee in his hand.

From Alexander's demeanor, it was evident that he had something important to discuss. Otherwise, why would the old man bother stepping into Edward's "hut"?

With a casual expression, Edward approached and sat across from Alexander.

"How did you manage to get into my apartment, Papa?" Edward asked without beating around the bush. He was curious about how the old man could easily enter the place, given that his apartment's entrance required fingerprint access.

Alexander placed the coffee cup he had been holding down. He tilted his body slightly and answered, "It's not difficult for me to get in here, Ed. Besides, there's something more important that I need to tell you."

Edward raised an eyebrow. His guess was probably correct this time.

"If it's something important, why didn't you just call and ask me to come? I could have visited your house."

"Oh my, Ed." Alexander couldn't help but chuckle. "Are you sure you would have come? Remember the last time you set foot in my house?"

Edward scratched his non-itchy neck. Alexander was right; he hadn't visited his parents' home in almost six months. There was always an excuse to refuse Liliana's request for him to come back.

"Alright... alright..." Edward raised both hands. "So, what do you want to tell me this time?"

"Next week, there's an important dinner party with our business colleagues. I want you to attend and introduce you to the people who collaborate with our company."

Edward nodded in agreement.

"Is that all?"

"Of course not, Ed."

"Ah, I knew it," Edward sighed softly. "There must be another motive behind this conversation."

This time, Alexander smiled and nodded. Apparently, Edward could read his mind.

"As for your prospective wife---"

"Oh my goodness, Dad. It hasn't even been a month. Why are you so impatient?" Edward protested openly to Alexander.

"I just want to introduce you to the daughter of one of my business partners. Who knows, you might be interested. So, I can quickly announce our engagement or even wedding," Alexander explained.

Edward shook his head in disbelief. Suddenly, he cursed himself. Why hadn't he looked for a potential wife who met his criteria before this? At least, he could marry someone he knew. Not a stranger arranged through a business match like this.

Yes, Edward was certain that even if he were to be matched, the marriage would be tied to some kind of business cooperation agreement. It was no secret that conglomerates often arranged marriages between their children to expand their business networks.

"I assure you I'll be there. But regarding the marriage, I can't promise to agree, Dad. Let me choose first," Edward firmly stated.

Alexander's lips curved into a smile. Even though Edward disagreed with the arranged marriage, at least he agreed to attend. Who knew that after seeing the woman he was introduced to, Edward might change his mind. One never knows, right?

"Well then, I'll wait for your presence next week. The schedule and location will be informed to Nicholas. Please prepare yourself well."

****

American Bar

The Savoy, Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, United Kingdom

After spending some time talking with Alexander a few hours ago, Edward decided to calm himself at a bar.

He chose to visit the American Bar this time. Sipping Classic Champagne, Edward seemed to enjoy his solitude that night. His thoughts wandered somewhere. Until, not long after, a small commotion caught his attention.

From a distance, Edward's eyes caught sight of a familiar figure. To make sure he wasn't mistaken, Edward stood up and approached.

"Miss, you've had too much to drink. You should head home now," a bartender tried to coax a drunk female patron. But instead of cooperating, the woman became unruly.

"Just give me the drink I asked for. I have plenty of money. So, don't worry about me not paying," she slurred.

"It's not about the money; your condition is a mess," the bartender continued persuading.

But this time, the situation went beyond expectations. An empty vodka glass flew freely, hitting the marble floor, shattering irregularly. The woman continued causing chaos, shouting incoherently.

Not wanting to cause more damage, another bartender called for bar security to escort the drunk woman out. However, before the security could do so, Edward promptly intervened. He even pulled the woman into his arms.

"I apologize for all the commotion caused by my girlfriend. I will cover all the damages and take her away immediately," Edward said. In the next moment, he paid the bill and left, carrying the woman in his arms and getting into his car.

Throughout the drive, Edward remained silent. He occasionally glanced over to check on the person beside him. Seeing the woman peacefully asleep, Edward smiled. In his heart, he never expected to meet Chloe again tonight.

Driving at a moderate speed, his car entered the elite area of The Boltons in Kensington district. Based on the information Hans provided, Edward knew where Chloe currently lived. And when his car stopped in front of her house, he gently tried to unfasten the seatbelt from Chloe's body.

Slowly, the seatbelt was unbuckled. But as he was about to get out of the car, Chloe suddenly woke up and immediately grabbed Edward's arm, holding him back.

"Don't leave me. Don't you want to spend time with me?" After uttering those words, Chloe drew closer, closing the distance between them. The strong smell of alcohol hit Edward's nose sharply. Apparently, she had consumed a lot of drinks at the bar.

"Chloe, why do you enjoy getting drunk like this? Are you involved in some significant trouble?" Instead of answering, Chloe pulled Edward's collar, landing a kiss on his lips.

Edward was quite taken aback by Chloe's actions. He tried to break the kiss, but she didn't give him any room. Instead, she even changed positions, sitting on Edward's lap.

Struggling to maintain his balance, Edward let Chloe wrap her arms around his neck. Meanwhile, her lips continued to move sensually against his, gently at first, then becoming more passionate. Edward felt the sweetness and warmth, making it hard for him to resist.

Edward could only surrender. He closed his eyes. Once again, he couldn't resist. He seemed defeated by Chloe's advances. Until, not long after, she broke the kiss but still left wet kisses on his cheek and neck.

"I like kissing you. Your lips are so sweet," Chloe said in a sensual tone. "Don't you want to sleep with me?" she teased. However, shortly after speaking, Chloe suddenly collapsed again. She lost consciousness.

"Oh my goodness, Chloe. After passionately kissing me, now she passes out? What's gotten into her?"

Gently, Edward helped Chloe back into a seated position. Quickly, he got out of the car and went around to carefully carry Chloe inside.

Fortunately, the security guard at Chloe's house acted quickly. He opened the door and allowed Edward to bring her in without asking too many questions.

"I can only take her this far. Chloe might be heavily intoxicated and unconscious," Edward said.

The maid who welcomed Edward nodded. Shortly after, she took Chloe's body and guided her into the room. Meanwhile, Edward decided to leave with mixed feelings.