Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Aurora sat on the soft, oversized bed, her emotions tangled in a web of uncertainty. Was there truly no other way out? She picked up her phone and dialed Tina. "Hello, Mom, are you still awake?" "Not yet," Tina's voice cthrough, calm but curious. "I heard from Mr. Elderstone that you've secured the contract and are preparing to sign it tomorrow. Is that right?" Despite already knowing the answer, Tina feigned ignorance.

"Yes, Mom... How's your health?" Aurora's thoughts were consumed by Tina's condition.

"Funny you should ask. My health has been improving in such an unusual way. I don't know if it's psychological, but ever since you gavethat red jade, my condition has steadily been getting better. Even the doctors find it remarkable. I haven't coughed up any blood in the past few days." This was good news to Aurora. She had been worried Tina might not make it through the year.

"Mom, you're not lying to me, are you? Are you really getting better?" "I wouldn't say I'm fully recovered, but the improvement is real. I can even get out of bed and walk around a bit on my own. At this rate, I might be able to leave the hospital and help you within a month," Tina said, her voice carrying a hint of joy.

Aurora could tell Tina wasn't lying. Relief washed over her. Her mother was finally getting better.

A faint smile tugged at Aurora's lips. "Mom, don't worry about the company. I can handle everything on my own for now. My baby bump hasn't even started showing yet. What you need to do is focus on resting and recovering." "I trust you, dear. But how are you feeling? Any signs of morning sickness?" "None at all. The little ones are being very good. Apart from my appetite growing a bit, I haven't had any other symptoms." "That's wonderful. You're just likewhen I was pregnant with you. You were so well-behaved in my belly." "Really? What about after I was born?" "You were quiet as a baby too. As long as you were fed and comfortable, you'd sleep soundly without making any fuss," Tina reminisced, a smile spreading across her face.

"Sounds like I was just a little piglet-eat, sleep, repeat," Aurora joked.

"Well, you were a lot cuter than a piglet," Tina laughed, her rare moments of lightheartedness filling the conversation.

The two of them chatted for a long time, sharing stories and reconnecting in a way they hadn't done in years. It felt as though they were making up for lost time.

Eventually, John Walsh stepped in to interrupt. "Alright, it's getting late. Both of you need to rest. There's always tto talk later." "Alright. Aurora, take care of yourself. Cvisitin a few days, and we'll talk more then," Tina said. "Okay, Mom. You get ssleep. Goodnight." Reluctantly, they ended the call. Aurora felt a glimmer of hope-perhaps her days of hardship were nearing their end.

She had weathered countless storms, and this felt like it could be the final trial before peace. However, her mind lingered on the father of her child. Why hadn't he clooking for her? She had forgotten everything about him. If he didn't appear, how would she ever know who he was? As you reach the final pages, remember that 000005sis your destination for the complete story. Share the joy of reading with others and spread the word. The next chapter is just a visit away! The more tshe spent around Julian, the more drawn to him she became. He was too perfect, and Aurora feared she might truly fall in love with him someday.

Two days passed in a blur. Today was the day to sign the contract with Radiant Horizons. Both Mr. Elderstone and Mr. Grant had been informed of the signing, though neither knew the other was involved.

Mr. Elderstone accompanied Aurora, while Mr. Grant arrived with Mio. Both parties were eager to witness the pivotal moment.

The two groups ran into each other at the entrance of Radiant Horizons. Neither had disclosed their plans, hoping to secure the contract without interference.

Their cars arrived at the stime, and the moment they stepped out and locked eyes, tension rippled through the air.

"What are you doing here?" "We could ask you the sthing," cthe curt reply.

Both sides were visibly uneasy. Aurora thought of Julian's gentle face. He couldn't possibly be lying to her.

Mio, on the other hand, trusted Rebecca completely. If it weren't for the contract, she wouldn't have chere herself.

"We're here to sign the contract, of course. Why else would we be here?" Mr. Grant smirked, his confidence unshaken. He knew Mio's track record when it cto securing deals-she never failed.

He was certain would win, and Aurora would lose. The thought of finally outshining Mr. Elderstone filled him with glee. If succeeded, it would mean more benefits for him within the family.

"Contract? Radiant Horizons invited Miss Aurora to sign today as well," Mr. Elderstone said, his tone calm but curious.

"Miss Aurora, you must be mistaken.

Radiant Horizons' vice president specifically invited here. Do you think she would tie? You still have tto leave if you've made a mistake. Otherwise, it's going to be embarrassing for you in a moment," Mr. Grant mocked, dismissing Aurora entirely. Aurora noticed the disdain in his eyes but didn't bother to respond. She trusted Julian implicitly. He had no reason to deceive her.

"What would he gain from lying to me?" she thought, a faint smile playing on her lips. "We'll see soon! erough who's signing the contract, Mr. Grant. Be careful with your words. It would be a shif they cback to bite you." "Miss Aurora, since you're so confident, let's find out," Mr. Grant replied smugly, utterly convinced of his victory. Mio, however, felt uneasy. Aurora wouldn't show up here without a reason. Something wasn't adding up.

Both parties entered the building. The receptionist, upon hearing their intentions, quickly directed them to the VIP elevator.

Mr. Grant, still irritated, complained, "Are you sure you didn't mix things up? We're here to sign a contract. Why are they here? We're not together."

"There's no mistake. This lady is a friend of our young master. Miss Rebecca also mentioned matters regarding Mr. Walsh. Both of you are esteemed guests, and our young master and vice president are waiting for you in the office," the receptionist explained with a polite smile. "Alright then," Mr. Grant said, though his mind was racing. When had Aurora connected with their young master? Inside the elevator, he couldn't help but sneer, "Miss Aurora, you're quite efficient, aren't you?" Aurora responded coolly, "It seems your vice president isn't slow either, already making connections here." Before they could continue, the elevator doors opened, and a smiling secretary was there to greet them. "This way, please." mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1 mmMwWLliIofifl0&1 mmMwWLlilofiflo&1