Chapter 3

A few quiet days went by.

Then, I received an invitation.

It was sent from Reed Manor.

The occasion was a family gathering.

The system reported, "Plot point detected: Family gathering. In the original storyline, the host would throw red wine at Lucas in front of everyone.

"Mission requirement: Avoid any public conflict with Lucas and refrain from making any humiliating remarks.

"Mission reward: 20 extra days of life."

I set the invitation aside and sighed quietly.

Guess there was no avoiding it; what was meant to happen always found its way.

Lucas asked, "What are you thinking about?"

It was rare to see Lucas at home for breakfast. He sat across from me, coffee in hand, watching me quietly.

I waved the invitation and asked, "There's a family gathering at the Reed Manor this weekend. Are you going?"

He glanced at it. "Mm."

The Reed Manor was a Neoclassical-style mansion with a definite nouveau riche vibe.

As soon as we walked in, the room buzzed with hushed whispers.

"Is that Lucas? I heard his company's about to go under."

"He married into the Sutton family. Probably hoping to use his in-laws to turn things around."

"Why is Emily so quiet today? She used to be so..."

Lucas was soon called away by a few of the elders.

I was more than happy to enjoy some peace. I helped myself to two pieces of mousse and found a quiet spot to sit.

Meanwhile, Lucas was surrounded by a crowd.

Leading the group was Adam Reed.

He was Lucas's cousin, and in the original plot, one of the main antagonists early on.

Adam was holding a wine glass, looking smug and full of himself.

I picked up the last piece of strawberry and tossed it into my mouth.

Adam walked over to me, still holding his wine glass.

Here he came.

"Emily," Adam said with a friendly smile, "eating all by yourself? Lucas should really be here with you."

I swallowed the mousse and smiled back. I replied, "He's busy. I'm fine."

Adam said, "Always so understanding, Emily. Speaking of which, word is Lucas's company is in trouble lately. I heard the cash flow's almost gone."

According to the original plot, this was when I was supposed to lash out at Lucas, call him incompetent, and embarrass him in front of everyone.

I set down my fork and wiped the corner of my mouth.

I replied, "Appreciate your concern, Adam. But business isn't really my thing; Lucas knows what he's doing."

Adam's smile stiffened for a moment.

"So, you really believe Lucas can bounce back?" he probed.

"Whether he does or not," I said, picking up my napkin and slowly wiping my fingers, "we still gotta get by, right?"

Adam was left speechless.

He leaned in, dropping his voice. "Emily, honestly, I think you settled for less by marrying Lucas. With everything you have going for you, you could easily find someone way better."

I met his gaze.

Then I picked up my fork, cut off a small piece of mousse from my plate, and placed it on the empty plate in front of Adam.

"Have a taste, Adam," I said. "This matcha mousse is pretty good, just right, not too sweet or heavy."

Adam froze.

"You..." Adam opened his mouth.

"It really is good," I added. "The pastry chef really knows their stuff. I'm already on my second piece."

Adam looked totally lost, his confusion turning into pure cluelessness.

He stumbled over his words.

Adam gave a nervous chuckle and said, "Uh, well, enjoy your dessert, Emily. I'm gonna go see what's up over there."

He walked away, and Lucas came over.

"What's up?" I asked.

"Adam just came to see you," Lucas said.

"Yeah," I nodded. "We chatted for a bit."

"What did you talk about?" Lucas asked.

"Matcha mousse," I replied.

Lucas stared at me, completely lost for words.

"Let's get out of here," Lucas said. "Time to head home."

"So soon? The party's still going," I replied.

"There's no need to stay," Lucas answered.

I stood up and walked out with him.

My system announced, "Managed to dodge all drama. Lucas's resentment level is still at 5 out of 100—no change."

When we got back to the villa, I was about to get out of the car when Lucas suddenly said, "Emily."

"Yeah?" I replied.

"Thanks for cooperating today," Lucas said.

I blinked. "That's how it should be. We're in a contract marriage, so mutual respect is only fair."

Without another word, I stepped out of the car.

I was wiped out today.

I got ready and climbed into bed, wondering where I could chill tomorrow.

Lost in thought, I dozed off.