CHAPTER 5

Caroline’s POV

“Why did he even send this to me?” 

I stared at the box containing the dress and shoes that Raegan had sent. What is the meaning of this? After everything that happened, he wants us to go to their investors' party together? As if he didn't insult my family just recently? Sigh! It’s so hard being at his beck and call!

When I arrived at the venue, the surrounding area was already packed with paparazzi. I kept calling and texting Raegan, but he wasn't answering. I decided to just get out of the car and wait by the side. As soon as I stepped down, cameras were immediately pointed at me. Fortunately, there were barricades, so they couldn't get too close to me.

“Miss Caroline, is it true that you are getting married to the heir of the Del Fierros?”

“How true is it that you stole your former best friend’s boyfriend?”

“W-what? My best friend?” I whispered to myself. 

What on earth are they talking about? Luckily, the next car arrived, shifting their attention over there. I called Raegan again, but his phone just kept ringing, and no one answered. When I turned my gaze toward the newly arrived car, that was when I saw my fiancé. He was standing there, holding the hand of… Rhea. He assisted her as she stepped out of the car, and together they faced the crowd.

Rhea? Is she the one they are referring to as the former best friend I stole from?

“Wow! She looks stunning in her red dress!”

“They look so perfect together!”

“Rhea! What can you say about the rumors spreading on social media right now that Caroline stole your boyfriend?”

The smile on Rhea’s face was suddenly replaced by sadness. She looked at Raegan, as if she was about to cry. “I told you I shouldn’t be the one here with you. Just wait for your fiancée.”

Raegan shook his head and took her hand. “No, babe. We’re going in here together. You know you’re the only one who matters to me, right?”

I couldn't believe what I was seeing. If there was a thief between the two of us, it was her!

“Caroline! Rhea looks like she's about to cry, don't you feel any guilt?” 

My jaw dropped when a reporter suddenly turned to me and said that out loud. Because of that, everyone shifted their gaze to me!

“I.. A-aahh…” How am I supposed to answer that?!

“Babe, your fiancée is already here, it looks like she’s waiting for you. Go ahead, I’ll go inside first.” 

Up to this point, Rhea is still playing the victim!

“No! We’re walking in together.” Raegan turned to me. “Caroline! What are you standing there acting like an idiot? Were you waiting for me? Do you really think you're the one I'm accompanying into the event hall? Tsk! Shameless woman!”

I couldn’t believe it, they have a lot of nerve! I was just about to snap back when someone suddenly threw an arm around my shoulder.

“I’m sorry for making you wait, shall we?” Tobias’s beautiful smile greeted me. 

My heart started beating so fast!

“Uncle? Y-You’re with her?” Raegan asked in utter disbelief. Even Rhea’s eyes widened in shock.

“Why? You got a problem?” Raegan could only shake his head. 

They had no choice but to step aside as  Tobias guided me, and together we walked down the red carpet. He even offered his arm to me, and I smiled as I linked mine through it. This time, all the attention shifted to us, not just from the paparazzi, but from the other guests as well.

“What is happening? This is the first time Tobias has ever brought a woman with him on the red carpet!”

“Indeed, he usually goes alone. But now he has a muse, and she’s actually his nephew’s fiancée. What is going on?!”

The crowd was buzzing like a swarm of bees, whispering among themselves.

“Tobias, thank you,” I whispered to him.

“Don’t call me that. I prefer the name you gave me last night.” 

I looked up at him in confusion, and he met my gaze. “T-Toby?”

I was mesmerized when he smiled at me again. The camera flashes grew even more intense at that exact moment. He was smiling while we looked into each other's eyes. To anyone who didn't know our current situation, they would truly think we were the ones getting married. He’s such a weirdo. Sometimes he's grumpy, sometimes he's playful, but I'm grateful that he's always there to save me.

He stayed by my side the whole night. Meanwhile, Raegan and Rhea were like eagles eyeing me the whole night, waiting for a chance to swoop down and tear into me. When Toby stepped away to speak with an investor, the two of them approached me together.

“You’re so loose, Caroline. You’re already marrying Raegan, yet you’re still trying to s*duce his Uncle!”

“From the very start, I knew she was only after our money. But now, it looks like her ambitions have grown, and it’s my Uncle she’s trying to fool.”

My jaw dropped. I pointed at myself and shouted, “Me?! Fooling anyone?! And what do you think you’re doing flirting with someone else infront of me?!”

Rhea suddenly cut me off. “You have no right to act superior in front of a Del Fierro, Caroline! So don't you dare talk back! If it weren't for the inheritance, Raegan wouldn't even waste his time on you. Did you really think he wanted to marry you? He's just being forced to!”

I smiled bitterly and nodded. “Now I understand everything. So that's why. Do you really think I want to marry an arrogant egomaniac like you?!” I snapped, turning to Raegan.

“Are you crazy?!” Rhea hissed.

“Yes! I am losing my mind! But I'll go even crazier if I marry this man! Your attitude is atrocious—you're a minion of Satan!”

Everyone gasped at what I said.

“Hah! Aren't you brave! Your family needs me. What will your parents say when they find out about this?”

I glanced over toward Dad and Mom, who were already making their way to our spot. 

“I’m sorry, Dad. I can’t do this. I can’t marry him.”

“No, Caroline! You can’t!” Dad turned to Raegan. “I’m really, really sorry about this. Don't worry, I will discipline my daughter.”

“You better, she seems to be forgetting her place!” Raegan scoffed, pointing his finger right at him.

“Dad, I don’t want to!” My tears began to fall.

“Caroline, sweetheart, you know we need this. Go apologize to Raegan, please, my child,” Mommy pleaded.

“Hahaha! Where is your bravery now? Come here in front of me. Get down on your knees and beg!” 

Both of them smirked like absolute demons.

“Mom, Dad, please don’t make me.” I’m begging my parents, but they both pushed me to apologize.

“See? You’re nothing without Raegan,” Rhea said smugly.

“I am your only chance. Do you honestly think there's another foolish man out there who will save you and marry you? Even if you cry tears of blood, I am your one and only hope!”

I was defeated. Under everyone’s intense gaze, I slowly walked toward Raegan. My face was drenched in tears, and I could barely breathe from the sheer bitterness in my chest. I was just about to drop to my knees when someone caught my arm and supported me back up.

“Me. I am that foolish man who is ready to save her and marry her.” He pulled me into his embrace and held me close. “Are you okay?”

“T-Toby…”