Chapter 2: The Calm Before the Chaos.
941 Words
The night after the dinner announcement passed in a blur. The mansion slowly emptied of guests, but the tension left behind stayed like thick perfume in the air — especially for one man who stood by the garden with a clenched jaw and a storm in his chest.
Ethan Knight.
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🌙 Late Night – Knight Mansion
Ethan sat in his room, the city lights glowing outside his window. His phone buzzed, but he ignored it. Probably Liam trying to poke fun or Sophie sending a frog emoji again.
His mind wasn’t there.
His thoughts kept going back to Emma.
Or more accurately, Emma Hayes marrying Aaron Walker.
Something about it felt…wrong. Deeply wrong. He didn’t know why he cared — he hated her attitude, hated how she always tried to win every argument, hated how she always acted like she knew better.
But he hated Aaron even more.
His gut said that man was hiding something.
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☀️ Next Morning – Hayes Mansion
The breakfast table was full of life.
“Mom, can I wear a pink lehenga at the engagement?” Sophie asked between mouthfuls of pancakes.
Laura chuckled. “You can wear a clown costume, and you’d still look cute.”
Emma entered the room in a peach robe, looking fresh but thoughtful.
Michael, sipping his tea, smiled at her. “Good sleep, sweetheart?”
“Yeah,” Emma nodded. “Still processing the surprise, but… I’m happy.”
Sophie leaned close. “Happy enough to kiss him?”
“Sophie!” Emma gasped.
Michael laughed, Laura blushed. “Sophie, behave!”
“What? I’m just checking how serious this wedding is,” Sophie winked, stuffing a strawberry into her mouth.
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🏠 At the Knight Mansion
Ethan walked into the lounge to find his father, James, on a call.
“...Yes, the Walkers will make their move. I just want to make sure Emma doesn't get hurt.”
Ethan froze.
“Dad?” he said after James hung up. “What’s going on?”
James looked calm. “Just keeping eyes open, son. That Walker boy — there’s something I don’t trust about him.”
Ethan stared at him. “Then why didn’t you say anything last night?”
“I wanted to see your reaction.”
Ethan narrowed his eyes. “And?”
“You care more than you admit.”
“I don’t,” Ethan snapped.
James just smiled knowingly.
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😒 Later That Day – Hayes Mansion (Living Room)
Liam strolled into the Hayes mansion like he owned it.
“Where’s my favorite pain in the neck?” he called.
“Right here!” Sophie shouted from the top of the stairs. “And who let you in again?”
“The butler likes me better than you do,” Liam smirked.
“I can see why. You both talk too much.”
“Hey!” Liam pouted dramatically.
Emma passed by with a file. “You two are worse than children.”
Liam turned to her. “Hey, bride-to-be. You ready for the chaos?”
“I was born ready,” she replied confidently.
Liam looked amused. “You sure about Aaron? I mean… you barely know him.”
Emma’s smile dropped a little. “I know he’s sweet. And my dad likes him. That’s enough.”
Ethan’s voice came from behind. “Sweet? Or just good at pretending?”
Emma rolled her eyes hard. “Seriously? Are you going to keep being bitter forever?”
“I’m not bitter. Just not blind.”
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🔥 Emma and Ethan: Round Two
Emma spun around. “You think you’re always right, don’t you?”
“No. I just don’t get fooled easily,” Ethan shrugged, taking a seat.
“You’re just jealous someone actually likes me.”
Ethan scoffed. “Jealous? You’re marrying a guy who checks his phone more than your eyes.”
Emma’s lips parted in shock. “What’s your problem with Aaron?”
“My problem is that he’s fake. And you’re too proud to admit it.”
Sophie stepped between them. “Okay, okay, before you two kill each other, can we please focus on the engagement plans?”
Liam pulled Ethan away by the arm. “Let’s cool down before you start a fire.”
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😏 Liam and Sophie – Tom & Jerry Time
Liam sat on the couch, scrolling through his phone while Sophie came over with a tray.
“Juice?” she asked innocently.
He looked up, smiling. “Wow, serving me now? Should I be worried?”
She grinned mischievously. “Try it.”
He raised the glass and paused. “You didn’t…”
She tilted her head. “Didn’t what?”
He sipped it. His face instantly twisted.
“SALT?! You put salt in the juice?!”
Sophie laughed uncontrollably, holding her stomach. “You should’ve seen your face!”
“I’m gonna get you for that!” Liam lunged forward.
Sophie shrieked and ran, Liam chasing her around the house, nearly knocking over a vase.
Ethan sighed. “Children.”
Emma smiled despite herself. “They’re cute.”
Ethan glanced at her. “So are fools… before they fall.”
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📍 Closing Scene – Walker Mansion
Aaron sat in his room, looking at his reflection in the mirror.
“I’m sorry, Emma,” he whispered.
His phone buzzed again.
Mia: “Say the word and I’ll come get you. Please don’t marry her.”
Aaron replied:
“I’m trying. Just give me time.”
He looked at his engagement suit hanging nearby.
Everything felt too heavy.
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📖 End of Chapter 2
- Writer
