Chapter 4
The car fell silent after that, but the group chat became lively again.
+20 BONUS
Estel sent an angry emoji before adding, “Esmeray, what did you say to Simon? Why is he siding with you?”
I was just as surprised. I hadn’t said anything to Simon.
Estel’s frustration boiled over. “If I find out you said something you shouldn’t have, I’ll make your life miserable.”
Our parents chimed in, warning me not to ruin Estel’s opportunity. They ordered me to find an excuse to leave once we arrived. They forbade me from meeting Julian. What they didn’t understand was that leaving wasn’t up to me.
I replied briefly, “Got it.”
Satisfied, they finally relaxed and resumed daydreaming in the chat about what rewards they could demand from Julian.
My dad declared he wanted a new house, saying Julian could easily buy them a villa. Meanwhile, my mom said she wanted four pounds of gold so she could drape herself in jewelry.
Estel fantasized about whether to hold her wedding abroad or domestically, with plans for a global live broadcast. I simply shook my head as I read their messages.
Meanwhile, the car had long left the city. It was heading deeper into more desolate areas. However, the three of them remained oblivious to this as they were too absorbed in their fantasies to notice what was outside the windows.
Before long, the car stopped in front of an abandoned factory.
Simon’s chilling laugh broke the silence. “We’ve arrived. Please, step out of the car.”
Estel glanced outside and frowned. “What kind of place is this? Aren’t we supposed to be having dinner at Julian’s estate? Why did you bring us here?
“Be careful, or I’ll report this to Julian and you’ll lose your job.”
Simon stepped out without a word and opened the back door. A cold wind rushed into the previously warm car, and a dozen burly men appeared behind him within seconds.
Simon’s voice turned even colder. “This is what Mr. Stewart wants me to do. If you don’t want to step out, we’ll just have to drag you out.”
