I’ll Be My Princess

Chapter 4

The next morning, I put on the dress Hugh had given me and started downstairs.

When I pushed open the door, the living room was already bustling. Dad was in a brand-new custom suit.

Mom was wearing the pearl necklace she usually couldn't bear to take out. Isabella was in an expensive pink Chanel gown, looking like a proud princess.

Seeing what I was wearing, Mom's eyes flashed with displeasure. "What do you think you're doing dressed like that? You know today is the day Isabella meets Hugh."

My tone was calm. "Mom, I've been a boy for 18 years. Today, I don't want to be one."

Mom frowned. "If you're going to rebel, pick another day. Go change back into a suit and go with your sister to meet Hugh."

Dad walked over, pulled a bank card from his wallet, and held it out to me. "Don't be willful. There's $50,000 on this card. Consider it compensation for all these years. Stop making a scene. Go change."

I looked at the bank card and didn't take it. "No need. I don't want money."

Dad's face darkened. "Quinn. Don't make everyone unhappy today."

He forced the card into my jacket pocket.

Isabella walked over and looked at me with a wounded expression. "Quinn, are you still blaming me for taking Hugh? But I really like him. Can you let me have him? After I marry into the Parker family, I'll have Hugh find you a good man."

Seeing Isabella's aggrieved look, Mom and Dad grew even angrier. "Quinn! Go change your clothes right now!"

I looked at my parents' furious faces and the tears that didn't exist in Isabella's eyes, and suddenly laughed out loud. "Okay..."

After all, this was the last time.

At noon, in the private room of the most luxurious 5-star hotel downtown, the Ashford family sat around the round table, their faces plastered with expectant, fawning smiles.

"Why hasn't Hugh arrived yet?" Mom checked her watch, a little anxious.

Dad adjusted his tie. "What's the rush? Hugh is a big deal."

Isabella held a small mirror, carefully checking her makeup. "Dad, do you think Hugh will like me?"

"You're our little princess. Hugh will definitely like you."

Isabella smiled shyly.

I sat to the side, quietly looking at the unread message on my phone.

Hugh: Quinn, I'm here.

I was about to reply when the private room door was pushed open. The person who walked in was Hugh.