Chapter 3 Temporary Arrangement

As they drove in silence, Albert kept his eyes on the road, his mind consumed by the mess his life had become.

He was legally married to a woman he barely knew-a woman he didn't trust. Every time he thought about Kylee, anger and betrayal surged through him. How could she disappear on their wedding day and leave him to deal with the consequences?

After a while, they arrived at the Jones mansion. The luxurious estate stood proudly behind tall iron gates, surrounded by perfectly trimmed gardens, a sparkling fountain, and a breathtaking swimming pool. Aurora stared in amazement as the car came to a stop. "This place is beautiful," she whispered.

Albert glanced at her briefly before getting out of the car. "You'll get used to it," he said indifferently.

He led her inside the mansion. The spacious living room was elegantly furnished with expensive artwork, crystal chandeliers, and marble floors.

Without another word, he led her upstairs and stopped in front of a guest room. "This will be your room."

Aurora stepped inside and looked around. The room was larger than her entire apartment. It had a king-sized bed, a walk-in closet, and a private bathroom.

"It's beautiful," she said sincerely. Albert remained expressionless.

"Don't get too comfortable. This arrangement is temporary. The moment I find a way to end this marriage, you'll leave."

Aurora lowered her head. "I understand."

Albert turned to leave but paused at the doorway. "If Kylee contacts you, I want to know immediately."

"I will."

"And tomorrow, we'll discuss the rules of this arrangement." Aurora nodded. "Yes." Albert looked at her one last time. "Remember what I told you. Don't give me a reason to regret bringing you here." With that, he walked away.

As Albert headed toward his study, countless thoughts raced through his mind. Was Aurora another victim of Kylee's scheme? Or was she hiding the truth? Either way, he intended to find out. Aurora had barely finished arranging her clothes when someone knocked gently on the door.

"Come in," she said.

The door opened, and a middle-aged woman wearing a neat maid's uniform walked in with a warm smile.

"Good evening, ma'am," she said politely. "My name is Mrs. Helen. I've worked for the Jones family for over twenty years."

Aurora smiled politely. "It's nice to meet you."

Mrs. Helen smiled back.

"Mr. Albert asked me to make sure you're comfortable. If you need anything, don't hesitate to call me."

She pointed toward the intercom beside the bed. "You can use this anytime." "Thank you." Mrs. Helen nodded warmly. "Dinner will be served at seven o'clock. Mr. Albert requested that you join him in the dining room." "I'll be there."

After Mrs. Helen left, Aurora sat quietly on the edge of the bed. Everything felt like a dream. Just this morning, she had been worrying about how to save her mother's life. Now... She was living in the mansion of Albert Jones, one of the country's most powerful CEOs, as his wife. The thought made her chest tighten. "This wasn't supposed to happen," she whispered to herself.

She took a deep breath and finished unpacking. Whatever happened next, she had no choice but to face it.

As evening fell, Aurora made her way downstairs for dinner. The dining table was long enough to seat twenty people, but only one place had been set.

She looked around. "Where's Mr. Albert?" she asked. Mrs. Helen offered an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, ma'am. Mr. Albert is still working in his study. He won't be joining you tonight."

Aurora forced a smile. "I understand."

She ate quietly by herself. The mansion was beautiful... But it felt painfully lonely. As she finished eating, thoughts of her mother filled her heart. She wondered if the surgery had been scheduled. She wondered if her mother was worried about her. Unable to stay indoors any longer, Aurora stepped outside into the garden.

The cool evening breeze brushed against her face as she slowly walked along the stone pathway. For the first time that day, she allowed herself to breathe. Little did she know... Her peaceful walk was about to change everything.