Emerald Bay Villa—the place where Aria Snow had lived for two years.
Everything remained unchanged, even the cup she had used was still in its original position. It was as if time had stopped flowing here, waiting only for her return.
"You'll stay here tonight." Kane Rivers stood at the doorway, "Tomorrow I'll have someone send new clothes over."
Aria Snow said nothing, silently walking into the living room. Every decoration here evoked memories—sweet ones, painful ones, all intertwined together.
"Do you still remember this place?" Kane Rivers' voice sounded behind her.
Of course she remembered. On that sofa, they had once slept in each other's arms; on that balcony, they had watched countless sunrises; in that bedroom, they had once sworn never to part.
"Kane Rivers." Aria Snow turned to face him, "Let's discuss the terms."
"Terms?" The man raised an eyebrow, "Do you think you still have the right to negotiate?"
"I mean the time." Aria Snow said through gritted teeth, "How long before you'll let my brother go?"
Kane Rivers looked at her deeply, slowly approaching: "That depends on your performance."
As his words ended, he suddenly pulled her into his arms and lowered his head to seal her lips.
Aria Snow tried to struggle, but the man was too strong. Gradually, the familiar feeling made her sink into it. Five years later, she still couldn't resist his kiss, couldn't resist the rapid heartbeat he brought.
After a long moment, Kane Rivers released her, a flash of complex emotion in his eyes: "Still the same as before."
Aria Snow's face was red as blood as she pushed him away: "That's enough!"
"Enough?" Kane Rivers chuckled softly, "Aria Snow, this is just the beginning."
With that, he turned and walked toward the stairs: "Remember, from today on, you are my woman. Want freedom? Trade it with your body and soul."
Aria Snow watched his retreating figure, tears silently falling. Five years ago, she had been willing to give up everything for him; five years later, she walked back into this golden cage for her family.
Fate really knew how to play jokes.