Chapter 9

t wasn’t like I hadn’t written code or built small machines in front of Brandon.

He had never once asked about it.

But Julian, from a background detail in a photo, saw something I cared about.

Perhaps in Brandon’s heart, I was just an accessory, a tool, so he never cared about my abilities or what I loved to do…

Just then, the TV was broadcasting entertainment news. The volume was low, but clear enough for both of us to hear.

“Celebrity Serena King is rumored to be getting married soon to a wealthy scion.”

The screen flashed with photos of Serena at a bridal shop.

The host, her face full of knowing ambiguity, said, “According to insiders, Serena King has been dating the wealthy scion for quite some time, and their relationship is stable. Last night, the two were even photographed checking into a luxury hotel together, spending the night, and leaving together the next morning…”

The man with his arm around Serena’s waist in the picture was only shown from the back, but I still recognized him as Brandon Hayes.

My heart lurched, and I felt a wave of nausea.

While I was bound to a chair in wet clothes, enduring bone-chilling cold and terrifying darkness, Brandon was having a grand old time with someone else in a hotel.

Julian saw my pale face and glistening eyes. He struggled to sit on the edge of the bed and gently pulled me into his embrace.

“Crying will make you feel better.”

He awkwardly stroked my hair, like he was comforting a child.

I cried harder in his arms, as if to release all the grievances and fears I had bottled up.

Julian silently held me, letting me cry until I slowly calmed down.

“Julian…” I choked out. “Am I really that foolish? Fooled so easily…”

“How could you be?” Julian cupped my face, gently wiping away my tears. “At ten, you designed a smart robot program and won an international award.”

“Harrington Corp’s success in the tech world is all thanks to you. Who wouldn’t envy Mr. Harrington?”

Julian then reached out and began peeling a pomegranate. The red juice stained his fingers, a sight utterly at odds with his suited, ready-for-a-meeting appearance.

Just then, Brandon continued to send messages: [Aubrey, are you feeling better? I don’t have time to come over today. I ordered food for you, eat well.]

[I have to go on a business trip. I’ve already sent people to look for Daisy, don’t worry.]

[Also, about the wedding dress, I re-ordered you a three-million-dollar diamond wedding dress.]

I looked at Brandon’s message, unable to fathom why he would spend an extra three million on a wedding dress for a tool.

Had he gotten addicted to playing the ‘Charity Casanova’ role?

Never mind. Whatever he did, I wouldn’t believe him again.

[No need. My dad has already found her.]

Julian handed me the plate full of pomegranate seeds. “What’s wrong? Is that person trying to extort you again? Or should I take care of it?”

I shook my head, taking the plate. I loved pomegranates, but I hated the hassle of peeling them.

Brandon knew that, but he only ever bought them unpeeled.

I called my assistant. “Liam, I’m returning to King’s Landing soon. You stay here a bit longer.”

“Don’t tell Mr. Thompson about terminating Hayes Enterprises’ license.”

Since Brandon wanted to drag this out and use me until the very end, I would also wait until the last moment to reveal everything.

Let them fall from the heights when they were most triumphant. It would be a fitting revenge for my sister.

The next day, Daisy’s condition stabilized. Julian arranged a private jet to take them back to King’s Landing.

As I walked through the airport terminal, I saw Brandon waiting for his assistant to check in their boarding passes. Serena had her arms wrapped around his waist, kissing his face.

Julian saw the scene too. He put his arm around my shoulder. “Aubrey, let’s go. Mr. Harrington and the others are waiting for you.”

I nodded, calmly withdrew my gaze, and stepped into the VIP channel.

Brandon Hayes, everything I gave you, I will take back.

Back in King’s Landing, after settling Daisy, my father asked me to quickly prepare for the wedding with Julian.

I also wanted to get it over with so I could focus on my research.