Almost Love

Chapter 1-----The Encounter My name is Chloe White, and I was born in Eldoria, with a silver spoon in my mouth. My parents were the powerful CEOs of a publicly listed company, and as their only child, I was showered with love and luxury from the day I was born. Until I turned sixteen, my life was nothing short of idyllic, warm, carefree, and wrapped in comfort. Then everything changed. My teacher burst into the classroom and told me, "Chloe, there's been an accident. Your parents… You need to get to the hospital. Now." By the time I arrived, the doctor had already delivered the verdict. Despite all efforts, my parents hadn't made it. I cried uncontrollably. The two people I loved most in this world were gone, leaving me all alone. My family was shattered, and I was left to face the world by myself. The funeral was cold and lonely. My uncles made a brief appearance, muttered a few words, and left with thin excuses. As I stood there, lost and numb, a pair of polished leather shoes stopped in front of me. I looked up. A young and handsome man, with a clear and composed face, sharp nose, and thin lips. His presence exuded a cold yet respectful aura that made me feel uneasy. But when he saw me, he paused, his eyes filled with shock. Yet, he quickly regained his composure and smiled as he asked, "What's your name?" I hesitated and answered, "I'm Chloe White. Who are you?" He didn't answer right away. Instead, he crouched slightly and gently patted my head, telling me he was my father's good friend and had come to attend the funeral. After a while, he approached me and informed me that he would take care of all my living arrangements until I finished college. I was confused. I couldn't bring myself to trust this stranger, no matter what. He furrowed his brow but nodded to his assistant, signaling him to explain. "Miss White, your parents were good friends with Mr. Grant, and they were supportive of him in business. They used to joke that if something happened, Mr. Grant would look after you. Well, it seems like..." "Miss White, since Mr. Grant made a promise to your father, he won't abandon you." "Virelia?" "Yes, Mr. Grant has already arranged for your withdrawal from school, and the school in Virelia is ready for you. You can leave right away." I had no family here, and perhaps Virelia would be a good place to go. Upon arriving in Virelia, the driver took me to a villa in the suburbs. The black and gold patterns were carved into the stone pillars by the entrance, exuding grandeur yet maintaining an elegant taste. As I walked further inside, I passed a row of tall trees that shaded the path. The villa was even more magnificent, blending European and traditional architectural styles seamlessly, showing the owner's unique taste and endless wealth. A kind-looking lady, probably in her fifties, walked up to me and asked with a gentle voice, "Are you Miss White?" "Yes, I am. And you are?" "I'm Jane, the housekeeper. Mr. Grant asked me to help you settle in and show you around." "Thank you, Jane." "Your room is on the second floor. The third floor is Mr. Grant's bedroom and study. Mr. Grant values his peace, so it's best not to disturb him unless absolutely necessary." "Okay." I silently made a mental note of everything.