From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 263

“What’s there to be afraid of? It’s a bracelet, not handcuffs. Why should I be scared? Even if one day we’re not together, I’ll just give it back to you.”

Laurinda’s big, honest eyes met Adolphus’s. She was completely serious.

She wasn’t the type to get tangled up in doubts or insecurities. She never thought she wasn’t good enough for Adolphus, never questioned whether she deserved his gift. Right now, she was with him, and she deserved every bit of happiness. If things changed someday, if they had to part ways or stopped loving each other, she’d just return the bracelet. No big deal. Nothing to be afraid of.

Before Laurinda could finish, Adolphus leaned in and kissed her, cutting her off. She pushed him away, laughing.

“Hey, you totally ruined my lipstick!”

“Don’t talk about breaking up,” he shot back. The idea of Laurinda not being by his side was something he couldn’t handle. Just hearing her mention it made his chest tighten.

She caught his deep, intense gaze and felt herself being drawn in. With a soft smile, she nodded.

“Okay, okay, no more breakup talk. Back to the bracelet. Since I dared to accept it, I’ll take responsibility for what it means. I’m not someone who just goes along with anything, you know.”

“You don’t have to be. When you’re with me, you can do whatever you want.”

Laurinda lit up at that. She loved hearing it. Having someone who adored her without limits made her feel incredibly lucky.

***

The Bill family was one of the four most powerful families in Cabinda. Raines Bill’s reputation was second to none, and his eightieth birthday party was the event of the year. They’d rented out all of Villa Sera, sparing no expense.

Everyone at the party was a big name in Cabinda, and all the younger family members showed up to pay their respects. The parking lot in front of Villa Sera was packed with one luxury car after another, each arrival more impressive than the last.

Every single person’s eyes locked on the car, waiting to see who would step out.

The door opened and two men got out. Under the lights, they looked every bit as striking and intimidating as the rumors said. Everyone instantly recognized Adolphus in his bold red coat and couldn’t help but sigh—he was just on another level.

The man from the passenger side walked around and opened the back door. A girl climbed out, bundled up in a white puffer jacket.

“Wait, there’s a woman? Since when does Adolphus have a girlfriend? Didn’t they just deny the rumors the other day?”

“Who is she? I haven’t heard of any family tying the knot with the Lanes.”

“Her jacket’s collar is so high you can’t even see her face. And seriously, who wears a puffer jacket to a party like this?”