He convinced himself that he merely craved conquering her, never truly loving her.

Rena stepped out of the villa.

The rain had been pouring heavily and soaking the ground beneath her feet.

The sharp stinging pain from her high heels rubbing against her feet made each step a torturous ordeal. She walked on and on, oblivious to the growing ache, until her feet became raw and blood trickled down her heels.

She winced in pain yet did not say a word as she tried to withstand the pain.

As she tilted her head slightly, raindrops mingled with her tears, falling upon her face like icy reminders of the love she should have felt for Harold.

She had Loved him deeply before!

But now, that love had changed into a vehement hatred. Rena couldn't bear the thought of spending a lifetime by Harold's side. Instead, she would rather face death together than endure such a fate.

Her eyes filled with tears, she sank down slowly onto the wet ground, feeling the rain seep through her clothes.

In that vulnerable moment, a black umbrella shielded her from the downpour as a tall figure stood before her.

Feeling the lack of raindrops pouring down on her, she curiously raised her head and her eyes widened in surprise.

It was Waylen.

Dressed in a mature and handsome formal suit, he looked as if he had just left an important event. Waylen gazed at Rena with a mix of concern and compassion.

She blinked a few times, her expression showing a mix of confusion and disbelief.

She couldn't help but wonder why he always appeared during her most difficult moments. What's more, he always offered solace when she needed it most.

“Miss Gordon, I've been searching for you all night," Waylen's voice resonated, deep and hoarse, yet undeniably charming.

Rena looked up at him as he reached out his hand to her.

She didn't move, and her whole body was stiff and unable to react.

“Poor girl." Waylen sighed softly, his empathy evident.

Without hesitation, he bent down and lifted her into his arms, disregarding the fact that her wet clothes were dampening his own attire.

The warmth radiating from Waylen's body awakened Rena's senses.

As her face drew closer to his, she felt an intimate connection that stirred an unfamiliar illusion within her.