Filed to story: Seventeen Heartbreaks: When Love Has No Voice
No wonder Elma dreaded seeing Cara, the woman who always seemed to be dragging her off for another round of pain.
The connection between Cara and Elma had deteriorated significantly.
Cara thought about reconciling with Elma, but she knew it would be pointless.
The main reason? Cara’s lack of patience.
As Cara reclined on the chaise longue, her eyes slightly narrowed, her chilling words filled the air. “Anyway, now that things with Landon are stable, I’ll find a way to get rid of Elma. She’s in the spot that should belong to my own child one day. She’s had a good run. She ought to be content.”
Shocked by Cara’s words, Keely struggled to breathe and silently lowered her head.
It was then that Cara noticed Keely’s lingering presence. She snapped, “If you breathe a word of our conversation today, you’ll vanish just like Elma.”
Drenched in sweat, Keely nodded and responded, “I understand.” Keely thought for a moment before adding, “The surveillance footage will be ready tonight at the latest. I’ll bring it to you then.”
Cara, pleased, smiled and gave Keely’s shoulder a pat. “Stay devoted and diligent, and you’ll see rewards. My jewelry box has many treasures. Feel free to choose something.”
Keely, visibly thrilled, nodded vigorously.
As evening arrived, Landon made it to the restaurant on time, but Clayton was delayed by half an hour. They exchanged displeased glances but skipped any overt confrontation. Cara, sensing the odd tension, playfully prodded Clayton, “What’s the matter, Clayton? Was there a disagreement with Landon? Tell me if he was at fault, and I’ll reprimand him for you. Keeping it bottled up isn’t healthy.”
Clayton managed a forced smile. “No. We just had a little dispute this afternoon, and it left a sour taste.”
Landon quickly said, “Yeah. I’ve inspected my actions and realized I should have been more polite. Mr. Morgan, please don’t take it to heart. Yet, I still think there’s merit to my side. Please consider my point.”
At first, their words seemed innocuous, but Cara, with her sharp instincts, sensed that the two were putting on a charade. It didn’t bother her much, though. If they chose not to confide in her, she would uncover the truth herself. She justified her actions for the family’s peace. Otherwise, she wouldn’t bother with these matters.
Throughout the dinner, despite the earlier tensions, Clayton and Landon seemed more at ease, even toasting several glasses of wine.
Clayton couldn’t resist complimenting Cara on her culinary skills, while Landon gazed at her with what appeared to be a warm smile. The moment felt surreal to Cara, better than any dream could offer. She affectionately nestled closer to Landon, who welcomed her gesture by tenderly offering her some food.
Seizing the perfect moment, Cara asked, “Landon, since we’re planning our future together, shouldn’t we consider a wedding?” Cara recalled the proud declaration she had once made in Leila’s presence, eager to turn those words into reality. The thought of sending Leila an invitation, just to witness her envy, thrilled Cara.
Landon hesitated, his demeanor tense for a moment.
When Cara noticed his reaction, her eyes flickered with doubt, yet she maintained her smile. “Is there something you’re hesitant about?”
“lt’s not exactly that,” Clayton interjected. “Landon and I discussed this earlier today. He’s definitely looking forward to the wedding, just not locally.”
Landon spoke up. “I’ve thought about it. Imagine a wedding on a picturesque island abroad, where they say marriages last forever.”
“Really?” Cara responded skeptically.
Landon then showed her a webpage detailing the island.
As Cara studied the information, the description matched Landon’s claims. It seemed he had clearly put a lot of thought into it.
Thinking of this, Cara’s eyes reddened with emotion. Still, she preferred a local wedding. “The island sounds enchanting, but I’d rather we marry here at home, where we grew up, surrounded by all our loved ones. I want their blessings,” Cara explained, her voice laden with emotion, yet the logic slightly strained.
The scandal involving Ernesto and Griffin was well-known in Burmoos, stirring rumors about Cara and implicating the Morgan family as accomplices. Clayton’s good name suffered because of this. Given these circumstances, remaining in Burmoos seemed imprudent. Furthermore, fearing Leila might discover their plans, Clayton had chosen to take Cara abroad at that time.
“Cara, think logically. You’re aware of the talk behind your back,” Clayton said, coughing lightly.
Feeling unjustly accused, Cara retorted, “I’m innocent, yet I’m slandered. I’m determined to show how prosperous and content I am by having my wedding right here.”
Upon hearing this, Landon’s demeanor turned somber, and he made to leave.
In desperation, Cara grabbed his arm. “Landon, are you upset? Please, let’s talk it over,” she pleaded.
Seemingly disheartened, Landon pulled away. “I had hoped you’d appreciate the effort I put into planning this, but it seems you don’t. If you dislike my ideas that much, we can marry anywhere.” Cara, sensing his hurt, quickly conceded. “Alright. We won’t marry here but on the island of your choosing. You matter most to me, Landon. I’d marry you anywhere, even in the mountains.” Cara looked at Landon tenderly, and seeing his features relax, she felt hopeful.
“Then I’ll book the hotel immediately. Perhaps we could have the ceremony next week?” Landon suggested.
Thrilled, Cara nodded with enthusiasm.
Despite the earlier tension, the dinner proceeded smoothly thereafter. After eating, Clayton pulled Landon aside for a private word. Cara, sitting quietly in the living room, watched them with occasional, inquisitive glances.
Clayton, noticing Cara’s look, felt conflicted as he grasped Landon’s hand firmly. “Is this really necessary?” he asked.
Landon’s face was stoic, devoid of emotion. “Clayton, we’ve been over this. Don’t start doubting now. Remember what Elma endured.”
Landon added, reinforcing the gravity of their discussion, “The doctor had warned that had Elma not received the treatment promptly, she might not have survived.”
Clayton’s hesitation and lack of response ignited a fiery rage in Landon’s eyes. He fought to contain his fury, much like a caged beast struggling against its restraints, threatening to break free. “I spoke with the doctor in private,” Landon said, his voice tight with suppressed anger. “Elma has sustained severe internal injuries. Why else would that boy be discharged while Elma remains under observation? Some wounds run deeper than what the eye can see. The doctor even hinted that Elma might have been injected with something.”
Before Landon could elaborate, Clayton’s pupils contracted with panic, his voice sharp as he interjected, “I’m aware. I’ve been thinking about what you’ve said. It’s just hard for me to put on an act with you to fool Cara.”
Landon held his tongue, allowing Clayton a moment to process the gravity of the situation. After all, Clayton was Cara’s elder brother.
Landon’s hands were tied. He had to put on a charade with Clayton to escape from Cara’s control. Despite knowing the Kensington Group was once his domain, it now belonged to a woman he had previously despised, according to Clayton’s claim. The extent of its transformation and its trustworthiness remained a mystery to him.
Even with his memory lost, Landon remained vigilant, his instincts sharp. He wouldn’t make a move until he had the whole situation under his control.
Thankfully, Clayton hadn’t betrayed Landon’s trust and divulged anything to Cara.
A sigh escaped Landon’s lips as he studied Clayton’s conflicted expression. Landon stated firmly, “The decision lies with you. Regardless, I’m leaving with Elma. Staying here offers no assurance of her safety. If Cara takes further action, we’ll be left with nothing but belated regret.”
A silent battle raged within Clayton’s eyes. After a prolonged silence, he finally nodded resolutely. “I understand. I won’t regret our plans.”
Their conversation concluded, and Landon turned away, his face once again an impassive mask. He managed his demeanor well, ensuring his interaction with Clayton did not arouse Cara’s suspicion.
Cara, meanwhile, was deep in thought, her mind buzzing with her future life with Landon. She gave Landon a flirty look. “Landon, why don’t you stay tonight?” she purred.
Landon’s eyes changed slightly, but his face remained impassive. “Let’s wait until we’re married, alright?”
Cara wanted to push it, but she didn’t want to upset Landon, so she simply nodded. “Okay, I get it. It’s just your hesitation makes me wonder if you’re really serious about me.” Her words carried a hint of probing.
Landon pursed his lips together and pulled out a small box. He looked at Cara with what seemed like deep affection. “I got you something special. I hope you like it.”
Cara was thrilled. “What is it?” she asked excitedly.
Cara opened the box and gasped. Inside, a diamond ring sparkled under the lights.
Cara covered her mouth, her eyes welling up.
“Do you like it?” Landon asked. “On our wedding day, I’ll give you an even more beautiful one and put it on your finger myself.” Cara was completely entranced, holding the ring box like it held the crown jewels. Nothing else mattered anymore. She nodded at Landon. “Okay. I’ll wait for you to marry me,” she said, her voice filled with longing.
Landon reached out and gave Cara a light pat on the head. Cara was beaming, practically floating out of the room with her ring. But as soon as she was gone, Landon pulled out a handkerchief and thoroughly wiped the spot where he had touched her. He frowned in disgust, his face a mask of impatience and disdain. Clearly, he wasn’t as smitten as he had pretended to be.
Landon was just about to slip out when Keely spotted him.
“Sir?” Keely asked, hurrying over to Landon. “Where are you going?”
Landon glared at Keely. “Do I need to report my every move to you?”
“No, sir, of course not!” Keely hastily said, shaking her head.
Landon paused and then added, “Things are finally good between Cara and me. If you spread any gossip that messes that up, you’ll regret it.”
Keely felt a shiver run down her spine under Landon’s piercing gaze, but she quickly regained her composure. “Don’t worry, sir. I know what I can and can’t say. Just try to stay in line. Everyone’s happy to see you and Miss Morgan getting along.”
“Is that so?” Landon scoffed, turning and walking away.
Keely watched Landon go, sighing to herself. She hoped no one else had seen Landon sneaking out like that, or Cara would hit the roof. Keely decided to keep her mouth shut. If she got too involved in Landon and Cara’s business and her efforts were not appreciated, she’d be the one they blamed.