Chapter 5: Alicia's Apology
Words : 1510
Updated : Apr 24th, 2025
Gabriel's sudden remark instantly silenced the room.
Worried about his daughter's marriage, Brody anxiously exclaimed, "Dad, there are plenty of outstanding young men. How could you marry Alicia to this loser?"
Tina didn't say anything, but her face clearly showed her reluctance.
Meanwhile, Keaton raised an eyebrow at the comment. What outstanding young man could compare to him? He didn't mind ditching the marriage agreement, but being underestimated was a no-go.
"Grandpa, we've just met and don't know each other well. Isn't it too hasty to get married just like this?" Alicia's expression dropped.
"I trust Keaton's character. You can get to know each other better after you register your marriage," Gabriel declared, using his authority as the family head. "This is settled. Anyone who dares defy it is not part of the Scurr family."
Alicia went quiet, looking helplessly at Keaton.
Understanding her intentions, Keaton started, "Sir..."
"Keaton, no need for more words," Gabriel interrupted with a wave of his hand. "I know Alicia's temperament. She must have given you a hard time when you met. If you've got any concerns, just let me know."
"It's not really about giving me a hard time. It's just that getting married involves certain traditions, and I haven't got anything ready..." Keaton started, but Gabriel cut him off. "Our family doesn't fuss over such formalities. You just have to register your marriage with Alicia."
"Dad..." Tina objected, pointing at Keaton. "I don't know your connection with his mentor, but look at him in those shabby clothes. He seems like he's from the countryside. How is he good enough for Alicia?"
"Shut up!" Gabriel glared, his voice booming with anger. "What's so bad about being from the countryside? Don't forget your roots just because you're living well now."
At this point, Gabriel's face turned red as he coughed violently, even spitting up blood.
"Alright, Mom, just stop talking. I'll agree with Grandpa," Alicia quickly said, worried that continuing to refuse would further upset Gabriel.
Then, she turned to Keaton with a blank expression. "Get your documents ready. We're getting married now."
Keaton was at a loss for words. Wasn't she against the marriage? Why did she agree now?
With no choice, he followed Alicia to an inconspicuous shop on the corner of the street.
As they exited the shop, Keaton looked at the fake marriage certificate in his hand, feeling frustrated. "Why go through all this trouble? If the old man finds out, won't he be even more upset?"
"If you don't tell, and I don't tell, how will he know?" Alicia glared at him, warning, "I'm telling you, if you dare spill the beans, the two million is off the table!"
Keaton rolled his eyes. Did she really think he was desperate for that two million?
Holding the fake certificate, Alicia huffed, "Keaton, to be honest, my heart already belongs to someone else. My real future partner will never be you. I just need you to pretend for three months, and after that, the two million will still be transferred to your account on time."
Keaton spread his hands. "Fine, I suppose having you as my wife is a bit of a stretch too. Just a reminder, I can play along, but don't end up falling for me."
"Fall for you?" Alicia's face darkened. She couldn't understand where Keaton got his confidence. "Stop dreaming. I am grateful you saved me, but just because of that, you think I'll fall in love with you? Impossible!"
"Is that so? Let's wait and see." Keaton chuckled, teasing Alicia because he was irked by the fact that her heart was already taken. After all, who in the world could be more charming than him?
"What a narcissist!" At this point, Alicia had lost all her goodwill toward Keaton. Without waiting for him to get in the car, she pocketed the fake certificate and floored the gas, speeding away.
"She's pretty interesting," Keaton mused. "You'll be saying sorry to me soon enough."
Just as he was about to hail a taxi, a black Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of him. The door opened, and a broad-shouldered man in a suit quickly stepped out, bowing respectfully. "I am Marcellus Casson, one of the twelve lords of Drakon Hall, here to welcome you to Yanos. Please forgive my tardiness!"
Anyone witnessing this scene would have been left speechless.
After all, Marcellus Casson was the true underground ruler of Yanos City and, unbeknownst to most, one of the twelve lords of Chiton's most powerful organization, Drakon Hall.
Drakon Hall?
Keaton recalled a toady in prison who used to brag about being a lord of Drakon Hall, boasting that he could command vast resources upon release.
It seemed the warden had leaked news of his release.
Keaton shook his head with a slight smile. These people were so afraid of his return. "No need for any penalties. Just find me a place to crash."
"Yes, sir!"
*****
Soon, Keaton and Marcellus arrived at Athaven, a renowned enclave known as the exclusive domain of the wealthy. Athaven boasted eighteen villas, and the status of its residents rose with the elevation. The summit, Villa One, was a coveted residence for the elite.
Villa One now had a new owner—Keaton.
"You can go now. I'll contact you if needed," he said.
"Yes, sir. Here's my contact information," Marcellus replied, handing over his name card before departing.
Keaton opened the door to Villa One with a beep, revealing an opulent interior filled with antiques and world-class paintings.
"They really want me to stay here forever," Keaton remarked with a carefree smile.
After a quick shower, the man emerged from the gold-trimmed bathroom to find his phone ringing.
It was Gabriel calling. "Keaton, dinner's ready. Come over and eat! Don't worry. I've already reprimanded Alicia. It was wrong of her to leave you on the road. I'll have her apologize to you."
Upon hearing this, Keaton's lips curled into a knowing smile. He knew it—she would soon have to apologize.
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