"My Prince ...." Emily returned to her room with a cheerful face. She immediately sat next to Cayden, her hands on her lap. "Are you bored of waiting? Sorry, I was also doing other works. So today, I'm not busy anymore. We can relax and chat now. Oh?" Emily's gaze fell on the empty cup on the table. "You drank coffee? Are you that bored that you finished two cups?" Cayden shook his head in amusement. "Not just me. Brandon too." "Brandon?" Emily's eyes widened. She tried to filter out which Brandon Cayden meant. None of the employees had that name. "You mean, Brandon Young?" she asked doubtfully. Getting a nod from Cayden, Emily gasped. Her hand rose to cover her mouth. "Why did he come here? He didn't beat you up, right? Are you okay?" Emily examined Cayden's face from all sides. "But I don't think it's possible for Brandon to beat you. Even though he is a person with a high obsession and passion, he never uses violence. So, what is he doing here?" she continued. Ins
Emily sat with her head bowed, her fingers squeezed together. Cold sweat beaded on the nape of her neck. She regretted having provoked Cayden earlier. Beside Emily, Cayden sat in a similar pose. His gaze dropped. He didn't dare look at Frank or Kara. His forehead felt hot. He could imagine how the eyes of those two people fell on that spot. "Emily," Frank's voice shook Emily's guts, "can you explain what just happened?" Emily peeked out from under her eyebrows. Her face was sad. "Sorry, Dad. Please don't be prejudiced against Cayden. I was the one who kissed—" "Sorry, Sir," Cayden interrupted, making everyone flinch. "Please forgive my carelessness. I admit I shouldn't have done something like that. I should have respected Emily more." "Do you guys do this often?" Emily stared wide-eyed. "D-doing what?" "Putting your lips together like that. How many times have you done that?" Emily's lips pursed, her breath hitched. "Not so often. Only a few times," she answered in a
"That water fountain is fascinating, Emily. Has it been there since your house was built?" Cayden asked as their car entered the gate. Emily, who was daydreaming, spontaneously blinked. "That fountain? My father made it after he married my mother. As a symbol of the beauty that had just come into his life." "Your father is romantic," Cayden whispered. On purpose. He wanted to reduce the tension on Emily's nerves. "And you know what? Your house is like a palace," Cayden continued, not letting Emily muse again. Emily looked out the window. Soon, they would arrive at the front door. She could feel her heart beating more and more violently. However, she was reluctant to show it. "That's what I said when I first came here, Cay. This house was our palace. My father was the king, and my mother was the queen," she said, trying to cover her nervousness. "Then you are everyone's favorite princess?" Emily smiled faintly. "Yeah, and could you guess Louis' role?" Cayden's eye
"Dad? Why—" Frank raised a finger. Emily spontaneously stopped talking. That caused greater anxiety in her heart. "Why did Dad brought that terrifying creature here?" Emily thought. "Did he want to test Cayden? Could it be ...." Emily gasped. She remembered how her great-grandfather finished people who knew about their family's weaknesses. Would Frank also do the same? But Frank was not a violent person. "Dad—" "Sorry, Sir. Why are you serving this menu? Isn't Emily allergic to shrimp?" A huge explosion shook Emily's heart. Her cold sweat rushed out, panic clogging her throat. Meanwhile, Frank smiled crookedly. "You know about my daughter's allergy?" Cayden nodded carefree. "When we were on the plane, Emily panicked because she ate something that looked like shrimp. That's how I knew that she was allergic. Luckily, it was just a vegan food, a fake shrimp." "Did you know it was a secret?" One of Frank's eyebrows rose. Emily subconsciously held her breath. Her nerves
"You can't beat me, huh?" Frank whispered, trying to sway his opponent. Instead of being intimidated, Cayden smiled slightly. "My goal is not to defeat you, Sir, but to show you my strength." Frank laughed lightly. "I won't approve of your relationship if you lose." Cayden nodded. "I know." Suddenly, Frank mustered all his strength. Cayden's hand pushed back. Emily screeched in panic in her seat. "Cayden!" But then, their hands returned to their previous position. Emily was now holding her breath. She hoped Cayden would keep pushing, but he didn't. He just counterbalanced Frank's strength. "Cayden, I said don't give in. Quickly finish the game!" Emily exclaimed loudly. Frank's emotions flared up even more. He tried to increase his strength, but he had already reached his limit. "Exhausted, Sir?" Cayden whispered, looking more relaxed. Frank couldn't answer. He was too focused on catching his breath. Unexpectedly, Cayden began to reduce his strength. Little by lit
"Do you agree with me? Do you also think that my daughter is stupid?" Frank looked at Cayden closely. Cayden shook his head. "No, I don't think Emily is stupid. She's just confused. I've noticed several times that she can't think rationally whenever she worries about the people she loves." "Do you mean Emily loves you?" Cayden nodded with a faint smile. "Yeah, one of them." Frank tilted his head. His eyes narrowed slightly. "Emily is a genius girl. She is good at solving problems and formulating strategic moves. However, every time she is faced with a problem that concerns the safety of the people closest to her, her mind doesn't seem to be working well. She becomes confused, scared, and panicked." As he returned to arranging the chess pieces, Frank laughed sadly. His head shook in disbelief. "Do you know what causes it?" Cayden froze. "What?" "She relies on Louis too often, especially in critical situations. Did you know that they were kidnapped twice when they were l
Before Emily's worries poisoned his mind, Cayden shook his head quickly. He held both of her hands, trying to calm her down. "No, Emily. You're thinking too far. I'm definitely different from a caterpillar. Killing a caterpillar is also different from killing a human. How could they be the same? The sins are different. The burden and pressure are too. Besides ...." Cayden leaned forward a little. Their eyes were closer now. "You're not a plant. How could you possibly compare yourself to a living creature that doesn't have blood or bones?" "That's just an analogy, Cay." "Still, the two things can't be compared. Now don't make it too much of a burden, hmm? I believe your father is not an arbitrary person. He won't kill anyone." Instead of listening, Emily still stuck to her opinion. "But, Cay, we have to prepare for the worst. Anticipation is important." "Princess, have you heard of Stoicism mindset?" Emily's head moved back. "That philosophy of happiness? What do we hav
Emily nodded. Her eyes were still teary. Cayden noticed that. "What is it?" He came over and rubbed her shoulder. The girl took a deep breath. "I just didn't think that Louis secretly cared so much about me. I knew he cared, but ... I thought he didn't care that much." Cayden smiled faintly. "Are you moved?" Emily's chin rose to press against her lips. Her nod looked cute. "I suddenly miss our childhood days." "Then, quickly go back to your room and sleep. Maybe you will return to those days through your dreams." Emily's lips curled up again. "Will you also come to my dreams?" Cayden nodded. "Yes, if you don't mind. But I think Louis will be jealous of me again." Emily's laugh was faint. "He shouldn't call me a kid, while he still acts like a kid himself." Then, she approached Cayden and gave him a hug. "Good night, My Prince. I'll wait for you in my dreams." "Hmm .... Have a good night's sleep, Princess." Cayden stroked her back. After that, Emily walked towards
At a height of 186 meters from the road, Emily's eyes lit up. The room she had just entered had glass walls. The view of Auckland city was beautifully displayed behind it. "Welcome to the tallest tower in NZ, Uncle and Auntie. This tower is an icon of Auckland city, built in 1994 with a total height of 328 meters. From this floor, you can enjoy a 360° view of the city. Your dinner will definitely be very romantic and impressive," Summer explained enthusiastically. Emily smiled sweetly. While embracing Cayden's waist, she whispered, "We didn't choose the wrong guide." Then, she looked back at Summer. "Thank you, Little Guide. I really like this place." Summer smiled. A sense of pride filled her heart. While putting her hands on her hips, she nodded firmly. "Then, enjoy your dinner, Auntie. Please take a seat at the table we have prepared especially for you. After you are finished, Mama and I will return." "Where are you going? Aren't you having dinner?" Sky shook her h
"Uncle Cayden! Aunt Emily!" Summer greeted as the newlyweds exited the arrival gate. Her hand holding a piece of cardboard swung. Cayden and Emily's names stuck on it were almost scattered in the air. When Emily waved back at her from a distance, the toddler's laughter echoed. Her feet bounced happily. However, seeing how the newlywed walked, her joy turned to surprise. "Oh, Mama? What's wrong with Auntie's legs? Why is she walking like that?" Hearing her daughter's remark, Sky flinched. The curve of her lips froze. "I don't think there's anything wrong with Emily," she denied hesitantly. "No, Mama. Auntie doesn't usually walk like that. She just looks weird. Are her legs still sore from standing so much at her wedding last week? Or maybe, the dress was too heavy, so her legs were tired?" Sky grimaced. "Summer, how about we stop talking about that? Emily is a perfectionist. Her mood will be ruined if she knows someone thinks she's weird. Don't you want to provide the best ho
"My Prince, are you sure you won't regret coming back here, to my family's house? We can still rent a hotel for our first night if you want," Emily whispered as Cayden carried her to their room. Cayden laughed softly. His breath tickled her ear. "Isn't this our house too? What's wrong with coming back here?" "There's nothing wrong. It's just," Emily lowered her head to hide her embarrassment, "my parents and siblings live here too. Is it okay if we do it near their rooms?" "We'll do it in our own room, Emily. They can't peek. Besides, we've discussed this before, right? You don't mind." Cayden secretly felt amused with his wife. Emily winced a little. "Yes, I did. But at that time, I didn't think this far." "How far?" Cayden raised an eyebrow. Now they had arrived upstairs. Seeing their bedroom door, Emily's heart raced. She swallowed hard. "I didn't take into account of the distance between our rooms and the direction of the soundwave. We're only one wall away fro
"Be happy in your new life, Emily. Don't cry anymore," Louis whispered. "I'm not a crybaby anymore, Louis," Emily replied. "Really? But you are crying now." Louis checked her eyes. "You're crying too." Louis shook his head. "I'm not crying. My eyes are just exposed to air conditioning." While Emily let out another laugh, a WO staff came over. "Mr. Harper, time for action." Emily was stunned to see the lemon plushie that the staff gave Louis. "Why is Yemon here?" Louis smiled mischievously. "Isn't he your favorite? He would be sad if he missed your special moment. So, he has to play a part too." "What part?" Louis took the ring box out of his pocket. After shaking them for a while, he put both rings into Yemon's secret pocket. "His magic bag always comes in handy," he winked. Emily sighed in disbelief. When Louis put on his sunglasses and went on errands, she could only shake her head in amazement. Her twin brother was always full of surprises. As soon as Louis e
"What if we fulfill the promise that was postponed?" Emily whispered, making Cayden raise an eyebrow. "You mean NZ?" As Emily nodded, Cayden smiled. He looked at the phone. "Would you mind visiting the glow worms in the cave again, Summer?" he asked. "Uncle and Auntie, do you want to honeymoon in NZ?" Summer's voice grew lighter. Receiving nods from the bride and groom-to-be, laughter filled the air. "I like that option. Uncle and Aunt can take photos with the glowing worms. Then, I will take you to explore the north and south islands. We can do rafting, bungee jumping, hiking. We can do all the fun things together. I mean, you and Uncle Cayden while Mama and I. We'll do it together but separately!" Emily smiled sweetly at the thought of the excitement. "Oh, I can't wait for the honeymoon." "Just get married first, think about the honeymoon later," Sky said, amused. "But, I hope you won't regret choosing Summer as your guide." "Why should they regret, Mama? I am a
When Louis was interrogated, Emily rushed into the car. She couldn't wait to contact Alice via a video call. Her heart had not been calm since the police said that Sky and Summer had missed their flight. "Mrs. Hills?" Her feelings became even more chaotic when she saw Alice in the hospital. "What happened? Where are Sky and Summer? Why didn't they fly here?" Alice smiled slightly. "I'm sorry that my daughter and granddaughter had to cancel their appointment. Something happened earlier, but don't worry. The critical phase is over." Emily gasped. "Who is critical?" "Summer. Someone gave her almond milk at the airport. Her allergies flared up, and her epipen suddenly disappeared. Luckily, Sky took her to the medical room in time. Now she's being treated in the hospital." Emily covered her mouth with one hand. Her chest was tight. Her tears almost spilled. Cayden, who had just gotten into the car, widened his eyes when he saw her. Holding her shoulder, he whispered, "What's wr
"How dare you hurt my future wife?" Cayden rebuked with burning hatred. Seth met Cayden's gaze with sharper eyes. His jaw throbbed. He was furious that none of his plans went smoothly. "Why is fate never on my side? Why?" Desperate, Seth finally pulled a gun out of his pocket. Seeing that, Cayden and Emily gasped. "Hey? Please don't be careless. Your punishment could be heavier if you kill us with a weapon," Cayden said while raising one hand in front of him. Seth's laughter became increasingly sinister. "Do you think I care? What's the difference between killing you with a stick, poison, or a bullet? They're all the same. They all can send you to hell!" Seth pointed a gun at Emily. His finger was ready to pull the trigger. Witnessing that, Cayden swallowed hard. He was too far to protect Emily. Now, he could only hope that Seth would just aim at him. "Do you think it's that easy to send us to hell? We are good people. Even if we die, we will go to heaven. You are the on
Cayden jerked his body. He tried to get up from the chair. Unfortunately, the rope that tied him was too strong. "You coward! Your opponent is me, not Emily. Why do you keep involving her in our affairs, huh? Let her go!" Emily could only sigh in pity at her hiding place. Meanwhile, Seth, who had been silent for a while, was now laughing out loud. "Do you think my threats have been a joke all this time? Destroying you is my purpose in life. I will never stop until you get what you should get. Glen ...." Seth glanced at his partner in crime. "Let the show begin." "Okay, Bro." The man in the janitor uniform turned his laptop. Cayden's breath became louder and rougher. Meanwhile, Seth sat on a sofa. He was ready to witness Cayden's anger. His evil smile kept growing until Glen's eyebrows furrowed, and Cayden's face turned confused. "Hey!" Seth exclaimed, his eyes widened. "Is this a paused show? Come on, vent your anger! You don't mind your future wife having fun with ano
After getting out of the elevator, Emily immediately approached the security guard. She explained the incident briefly, then asked where the CCTV room was. The security team immediately took actions. Several of them secured the impostor. Others started searching the area. The rest escorted Emily to the CCTV room. "How is it?" Emily asked when her patience ran out. The people there were working too slowly. "Sorry, Miss. All the CCTVs on the 3rd floor were off. We checked the CCTVs on the other floors. There was nothing suspicious." "What about the emergency stairs?" "Sorry, Miss. There's no CCTV in that area." Emily grimaced. "What about the parking lot in the basement? You can't possibly leave that area unmonitored, right?" The security guard checked the monitor again. Before he had time to find a clue, his colleague spoke up. "Miss, I found something odd." Emily shifted to another monitor. Two men are pushing a trolley of rubbish. "Could Cayden be inside one of th