A Love Lost in the Years

The moment I stepped through the gate, a blast of freezing water hit me head-on.The wind whipped around me, and I couldn't stop shivering."Ms. Lockwood, I was filling the pond. You could've warned me before showing up," Jade said, still holding the hose steady.She didn't stop spraying until I was drenched to the bone.I forced my eyes open.To my dismay, the roses I had carefully tended for years at the Hawthorne residence were torn out and tossed across the lawn.Where the flowerbed once bloomed, a small pond had been installed, with workers now busy planting water lilies along its edge.I said nothing and turned to walk away.But the weight of my drenched clothes slowed me down. After just a few steps, I began to shiver again.Meanwhile, Wesley and Nathan lounged in the living room, sharing a look of disdain as they took in my disheveled appearance.It was clear they were ridiculing me for making a fuss the moment I stepped through the door."Damn, Savannah, you actuall

"The Prism Room," as Jade referred to it, was the private screening room Wesley had lovingly built for me when I first arrived at the Hawthorne residence.At that time, my mother and Francis were buried in work. Being three years my senior, Wesley was entrusted with the responsibility of looking after me.He gifted me nearly every beautiful thing life could offer.He called me his little princess and had the screening room designed just for me.That night, as the credits rolled, he gazed at me tenderly and promised, "Savannah, this room is yours alone—and so is all my love."For twenty years, we cherished that secret refuge, shaping our dreamlike home side by side.Gradually, my heart quietly turned toward Wesley, but every time I tried to confess, Nathan would interrupt, causing a scene that shattered every opportunity.Now, both of them had moved on with new people, leaving me behind in the past.But it no longer mattered.I took a deep breath and turned to leave.I didn't

Francis and my mother had canceled an important meeting just to wait for me.As soon as she saw me, my mother gave me a once-over and sighed. "You've lost weight again, haven't you?"Francis nodded. "She's right. You look thinner. But since you've accepted the engagement with the Grant family, I won't press the issue. From this day on, you're officially my daughter. If they ever mistreat you, don't be afraid. Your mother and I will always be here for you."I smiled gently and handed him the bank card I had prepared."I'll be sure to visit you and Mom often. Thank you for welcoming me when I had nowhere else to turn."Francis let out a warm laugh. "I always hoped you'd stay in the family as my daughter-in-law. Even though that path didn't work out, you're still family to me."And keep your money—what kind of father would ask his daughter to pay him back? You're marrying into the Grant family on our behalf. If anything, I should be giving you shares in the company as a wedding gift

When Toby saw me carefully put the emerald pendant away, he nodded approvingly. "The moment I first saw you, I knew you were born under a lucky star. You're meant for a life full of comfort and happiness."From now on, I'm your grandfather. I promise you, no one in the Grant family will ever mistreat you."Tears welled up in my eyes, and I managed to whisper, "Thank you, Grandpa Toby."His expression immediately softened with concern. "No tears now, sweetheart. This is a joyful moment. Please don't cry."Everyone quickly joined in with playful teasing, and I couldn't help but laugh.Lucian's parents went all out, showering me with compliments, while the older relatives eagerly stepped forward, each presenting their gifts.Every single item was worth a fortune.Their admiration and respect for me were unmistakable.Even though Lucian and I were already legally married, no one in the Grant family pressured me to move in or adapt to the strict customs of their prestigious househol

Toby had brought up the idea of an arranged marriage quite some time ago.Back then, I couldn't bring myself to leave the Hawthorne family, so I declined.In truth, both the Grant family and Lucian had other options. Yet, they waited for me.Back then, I didn't fully understand. All I knew was that they were my only way out of the Hawthorne residence.Lucian never wavered through it all.And because of that, I chose him in the end.Nathan sneered, "You're still hung up on Jade, aren't you?"But why, Savannah? We've had 20 years of friendship. Jade could never replace you. You'll always be part of this family."After a moment's thought, Wesley reached out and took my hand. "Savannah, don't throw away your future over a fleeting moment of anger. Come with me. I'll explain everything to the Grant family."However, before he could finish, a sharp kick landed, knocking Wesley to the ground.Still stunned, I felt a sudden grip tighten on my arm.A clean, elegant scent drifted thro