Kia realized she was overreacting. How could anyone possibly know what had transpired between her and Daniel? She closed her eyes, releasing a deep sigh. Her life was spiraling out of control; everything seemed to be going wrong. The dilemma of whether to confront Daniel or pretend nothing had happened left her uncertain.
Dave observed his sister, sensing something was amiss. However, he remained silent, knowing she disliked others prying into her issues. Despite being her brother, he had never been overly involved in her life due to his busy work schedule. Kia was a carefree, spoiled brat, but never uncaring.
Kia surrendered to the car's soothing motion, drifting into an unconscious slumber. Hours passed, and darkness fell. Her brother's gentle shake and soft voice roused her.
"Kia, we're here," Dave said.
Disoriented, Kia took Dave's outstretched hand, letting him guide her out of the vehicle. The mansion's grandeur unfolded before her.
At the entrance, a line of liveried servants bowed in unison, their silent welcome accompanied by the butler's dignified smile.
"Young Master, Young Miss, please," the butler gestured graciously, ushering them into the mansion. "The Master awaits you inside."
Kia, still disoriented from her nap, stifled a yawn as the remnants of sleep haze lingered. Dave nodded courteously to the butler and guided Kia forward.
As they entered, the foyer's stunning designs revealed hints of the family's opulence. Crystal chandeliers refracted light, casting a warm glow on intricately carved furnishings.
The duo proceeded to the dining room, where their parents waited. The soft murmur of conversation ceased as they entered.
"Kia, Dave, come join us," their mother called out, her radiant smile illuminating the room.
Elegant in her poised demeanor, she exuded a refined beauty, reminiscent of Kia's own features, while Dave inherited her striking eyes and nose.
Dave and Kia approached, exchanging warm greetings. They each kissed their mother's cheek, and Kia also bestowed a tender kiss on her father's. Dave, meanwhile, offered a warm smile to his father who nodded.
As they settled into their seats, the warmth of the family reunion filled the room.
They savored their meal amidst an exquisite array of breakfast delicacies, crafted by a renowned Chef Agustine Grey. Golden caviar-topped eggs, truffle-infused lobster thermidor, 24K gold-dusted pancakes, and succulent Japanese Wagyu beef strips adorned the table.
Kia's eyes sparkled, noticing all her favorite dishes. She reached for a delicate, golden caviar-topped egg, her excitement reviving her once dull gaze.
After the meal, the family retired to the lounge for a leisurely evening. Settled into plush armchairs, Kia engaged in a lively argument with her mother.
Just as Kia was deeply invested, a familiar voice interrupted their laughter.
"You called for me?"
Kia's gaze drifted to her father's side, where Daniel, her bodyguard, stood respectfully, listening attentively. His chiseled features and piercing blue eyes made a fleeting impression, but his focus remained on her dad, never once acknowledging her.
Kia lost track of her conversation for a moment, her thoughts distracted by Daniel's enigmatic presence.
After the incident, she expected a reaction from him - possibly blackmail or a demand for silence. Noticing he was intently focused in her father, she pushed those thoughts aside and focused on her mother, still deliberating over the design.
"Which one do you think, sweetie?" her mother asked, holding up two fabric swatches. "The silk or the satin?"
Kia's gaze shifted to the fabrics, her mind lingering on Daniel's presence. "The silk, Mother," she replied, her gentle smile subtly masking her inner turmoil.
"Then, for your birthday, let's get a beautiful dress, okay?" her mother asked, beaming.
Kia nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Mother."
Her mother's expression shifted to playful curiosity. "Are you having cramps?" she inquired, catching Kia off guard.
Kia's cheeks flushed. "Ha? What do you mean?" she stuttered, embarrassment creeping in.
She darted a glance at her father and Daniel, relieved they were engrossed in conversation.
"Mother, what are you insinuating?" Kia pressed, attempting to regain composure.
"Nothing much, dear, you just seem moody," her mother said, her expression turning serious.
Kia shook her head, a gentle smile on her face. "I'm not moody, Mother. Actually, I'm very happy. Tomorrow, I'm planning a relaxing day with Agatha."
Her mother's eyes narrowed slightly, scrutinizing Kia's expression for any signs of dishonesty. Apparently convinced, she nodded.
"Okay, dear. Get some rest, then."
"Okay, Mom," Kia replied, standing up to head upstairs to her room.
As Kia headed to her room, she glanced at Daniel, her gaze lingering briefly. She wondered what thoughts hid behind his focused expression as he engaged with her father. Breaking eye contact, she ascended the stairs.
Reaching her room, Kia locked the door, leaned against it, and released a sigh. She then walked to her bed, rummaged through her bag, and retrieved her phone. After scrolling and typing, it suddenly rang.
A video call from Agatha flashed on the screen. Kia answered, and Agatha's pretty, heart-shaped face appeared, framed by delicate features and sparkling eyes. Her petite nose and soft lips curved into a bright smile.
"Hey, bestie!" Agatha exclaimed, waving excitedly. Her infectious enthusiasm radiated through the screen.
At nineteen, Agatha's youthful beauty captivated many. Her lively demeanor and striking features made her a magnet for attention.
Kia's beauty was a captivating blend of seductive innocence and allure, drawing men in with a desire to protect and conquer her. Agatha's beauty, on the other hand, exuded a playful, mischievous charm that made men want to tease and entice her.
"Hey," Kia greeted with a warm smile.
"What's up with you?" Agatha asked, suddenly scrutinizing Kia's face. "You look... different."
Kia frowned, touching her face. "What do you mean?"
Agatha's expression turned serious. "You seem tired, almost... haunted."
Kia's eyes dropped, her smile faltering. "Ha! You called me just to mock me?" she said, a hint of anger not so serious creeping in.
Agatha rushed to reassure her. "Of course not, honey. I called about Zack. I've told you before – he's toxic. You deserve better."
Agatha's voice rose in indignation. "And have you seen the latest news? He's all over social media with Tana!"
Kia interrupted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I know." Her gaze fell, a pained expression resurfacing. Tears welled up in her eyes.