After intense grief, there was a deadening numbness. I lost all hope for anyone in front of me. I simply desperately wanted to leave this heartbreaking place.
But my soul lingered uncontrollably around Monica. I could only watch her and Eden make out. I watched her diligently plan their wedding. I watched her give Eden the tenderness and favor I never had.
Only on the eve of their wedding, I finally saw my parents after a long absence. The loss of time had left no trace of sadness on their faces. The sight of Eden brought a kind smile I had never seen before.
My mother smiled brightly and took Eden’s hand, incredibly affectionate. “My dear child, from the first moment I saw you, I felt a connection with you, like you were my own son.”
Eden smiled knowingly and affectionately took my mother’s arm. “Godmother, you flatter me too much. How can an orphan like me compare to a scholarly young man like Theodore?”
Dad immediately interrupted with a frown, “Don’t say that. In our hearts, you’re our own son. A scoundrel like Theodore is a disgrace to our entire family!”
Anna nodded in agreement and lowered her head to place the family heirloom watch on Eden’s wrist.
The family was in a state of joy. It wasn’t until that moment that I finally understood.
My parents’ almost harsh and strict treatment of me since I was a child wasn’t because they had high hopes for me. It was simply because they... didn’t like me.
And how could a disgraceful scoundrel like me compare to Eden, a well-behaved and sensible man who could bring them endless benefits?
I chuckled to myself. I quietly watched my family, who once belonged to me, surrounding Eden and asking about his well-being.
While I was lost in thought, there was a knock on the door. Monica stood up, as usual, but was stopped by Anna.
She smiled and joked, “Just take care of tomorrow’s groom. As your sister, I’ll take care of everything.”
But when the door opened, her smile froze. What came into view was an autopsy report and a search warrant.
“According to the investigation, the deceased is Theodore, who has been missing for four years. Mr. Clark, please come back with us for the investigation. The main fugitive was just apprehended today and according to his confession…”