Chapter Four

‘Mommy knows?’ Rory’s entire body went numb at what she heard. It felt as though even her breathing had stopped. She couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

“Alana, sweetheart… You know your older sister is the one providing for us. She’s working for us and for your father’s debt. What if she finds out you deceived her? That you slept with her boyfriend? And that you even married him behind her back? I know… you’re Richard’s wife now. But your sister is the one your in-laws actually want. And I’m sure Richard won’t be able to help us with your daddy’s debts. Shh… don’t cry, sweetie. That’s bad for my grandchild. Alright, I’m going to hang up now. Your sister might arrive soon. And please, go home later. She might look for you.”

Rory couldn't take any more of what she heard. Her entire body shaking, she stepped out of her unit. It was total déjà vu. The exact same thing had happened to her yesterday when she caught her boyfriend. Now, she had just caught her mother talking to her sister—and her mother knew everything all along. What kind of misfortune and suffering was Rory supposed to endure next?

Rory didn't know where her feet were taking her. She just walked and walked. Until her legs grew tired, and she sat down on a bench. Her heart felt heavy and shattered, yet she couldn't bring herself to cry; still, her whole body burned with rage and pain.

“How could Mommy do this to me?” Rory thought in utter disbelief.

She knew their mother often favored Alana, but Rory never imagined that even in a situation like this, her mother would still side with her sister. Did her mother love her sister that much? Was her mother really that heartless when it came to her?

Rory buried her face in her hands. What was she supposed to do now? Confront everyone? Tell them she knew about all their betrayal and deceit? Or seek revenge? But could she actually hurt the people she loved?

After staring blankly for a few minutes, Rory stood up and decided to leave. She didn't have her car with her—only her phone. So Rory just kept walking, trying hard to trace back the path she had taken earlier. It took her nearly an hour of walking until she finally arrived in front of a massive gate.

She took a deep breath before deciding to press the doorbell. A moment later, the gate opened, and Rory stepped inside. With every step she took, her breathing grew heavier.

Rory was the type of person who always thought things through before acting. But with everything that had happened, with all the painful truths she had uncovered... was she really going to prioritize thinking? Or would she let her heart make the choice for her?

Rory stopped in front of the door and knocked gently. In just a few seconds, the door opened, and a housemaid greeted her.

The woman smiled at Rory. “Rory, the master is waiting for you.”

Rory swallowed hard and forced a faint smile. “O-okay.”

The woman guided Rory toward the staircase, and Rory followed her in silence. Once they reached the second floor of the house, they stopped in front of a door.

The woman turned the doorknob and looked at Rory. “Master is inside. You may go in.”

Rory nodded. “Thank you.”

Rory gripped the doorknob tightly before slowly pushing the door open. Inside, she was greeted by a spacious room surrounded by tall bookshelves and large windows. In the middle of it sat an elderly man in a leather armchair—his hair was streaked with gray, yet he still exuded an undeniable air of authority. It was Mr. Niccolo Dimitrios.

Upon seeing Rory, the old man put aside the book he was reading and gave a slight smile.

“Rory,” Mr. Dimitrios greeted in a deep, calm voice. “Have a seat. I didn’t expect to see you today, especially since your visit wasn't on the schedule.”

Rory walked in, forcing herself to steady every step. She sat on the sofa across from him, though she could still feel her hands trembling. She crossed her arms around herself to hide it.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Dimitrios,” Rory replied softly.

The old man studied Rory’s face intently. Mr. Dimitrios was skilled at reading people, and he immediately noticed her paleness and the sheer exhaustion in her eyes.

“How are you? You look like you just came from a massive fight or a very long journey. Wouldn't you like some water or coffee first?” the old man offered, gesturing to the side table.

Rory shook her head. “I’m good, sir. Thank you. I’m sorry for dropping by so suddenly without notice.”

“It’s fine. I always welcome visitors, especially you,” Mr. Dimitrios answered seriously. He leaned back and looked directly at Rory. “So, tell me... how may I help you today? What brings you here?”

Rory took a deep breath. All the doubts in her mind vanished. If being cold-hearted was what it took to get revenge and stand back up, she was ready to turn to stone.

She looked straight into Mr. Dimitrios’ eyes.

“I want to marry your son,” Rory stated straightforwardly. No stutters, no hesitation. “I’m accepting your offer. In return... help me.”

Mr. Dimitrios raised an eyebrow slightly. He was surprised by her sudden change of heart, given that just a few days ago, she was adamantly turning down the arrangement.

“That’s a big shift, Rory,” the old man commented carefully. “The last time we spoke, you seemed ready to forgive, and you didn't want to get into an arranged marriage. What happened?”

Rory gave a bitter smile. “I don't want to play the fool anymore. I want to get even.”

Mr. Dimitrios’ expression turned serious. He instantly understood the heavy ordeal she was going through.

“I see,” the old man replied. “You want help to get revenge?”

Rory swallowed hard. “Y-Yes.”

Mr. Dimitrios stared at her for a moment before giving a slow nod.

“I offered my son to you because I know you’re the only one sensible and grounded enough for him. You’re the perfect daughter-in-law I dreamed of,” the old man explained. “If you agree, I won't just help you. I will give you power, Rory. The Dimitrios name alone is enough to ensure no one will ever step on you again. Not your family, and not your ex-boyfriend.”

“I accept all your conditions,” Rory answered quickly. “Whether I have to be a good wife on paper or in front of the media, I’ll do it. Just make sure you’ll help me, and that this arrangement stays strictly between us.”

Mr. Dimitrios offered a mysterious smile. He picked up a folder from his desk and placed it in front of Rory.

“You’re smart, Rory. And I like the fire I see in your eyes right now,” the old man said as he slowly clasped his hands together. “I will help you. I’ll settle all your family’s debts, and I will put your father’s entire business back under your name. They will be the ones begging you.”

Rory drew a long breath, feeling her hands turn ice-cold. “When is the wedding?”

Mr. Dimitrios stood up and walked slowly toward the window, gazing out at the vast courtyard of his mansion.

“Arranging the wedding will be quick, Rory. But before I sign all the checks for your family...” the old man slowly turned back to her, all traces of humor gone from his face. “There’s one more condition I haven't mentioned to you yet.”

Rory’s brow furrowed, her heart beating faster. “W-what condition?”

A cold smile touched Mr. Dimitrios’ lips. “My son... changed his mind. He suddenly has no intention of marrying you—or anyone, for that matter. So, tell me, Rory... how do you plan on getting him to agree to marry you?”