When Hugo’s feelings shifted, everything changed hands.
Kiara received the money and contacted a lawyer to draft her divorce documents.
After settling everything, she returned to the banquet and maintained her composure until the end.
Sadly, Hugo did not preserve her self-respect. He showed up before her in a very public way with Dorothy.
All the playful and mocking looks from everyone settled on them; she turned into the joke of the entire venue.
Hugo embraced Dorothy, his large hand placed on her lower belly, as though he feared others would not realize she was pregnant.
He gestured toward Kiara. “Dorothy is pregnant and cannot wear high heels. Go bring her a pair of flats and help her put them on yourself.”
“Dorothy is in poor health. Besides, you enjoy doing servant tasks the most. From now on, you will be responsible for looking after her.”
“Remember to stay careful. If anything happens to Dorothy, I will hold you fully accountable!”
Hugo said this naturally, as if convinced she would accept.
Just as the guests at the banquet were convinced she would once again handle Hugo’s trouble.
Yet this time, Kiara did not spare a look and walked away.
Hugo’s expression hardened, and he lifted his hand, signaling the bodyguards to block her.
The bodyguard said, “Ma’am, without sir’s permission, you are not allowed to leave.”
After Kiara had once been in danger, Hugo assigned bodyguards to follow her whenever she went out.
Those men were meant to protect her, but now they were used against her.
Kiara scoffed and looked at him directly. “Hugo, do not forget the promise you made to me before.”
Last time, Hugo had knelt before her and vowed, “Kiara, in the future, I won’t cheat you again. I love you. Believe me, this final time.”
Those promises before echoed in her ears, yet Hugo now denied them.
“Kiara, don’t cross the line. The times before, I only sweet-talked you so you could get used to it. In our circle, who doesn’t keep one woman at home and another outside? I’ve given you enough face all these years. That should satisfy you.”
“Some things are better left unsaid. An actual divorce, do you dare?”
“I’ve supported you all these years. Other than staying home and waiting on me, what else are you capable of?”
“This is Utah. If I so much as move, the ground trembles. What right do you have to challenge me?”
Each sentence Hugo spoke felt like a small knife stabbing into her chest.