Chapter 31
The sky on Christmas Eve was incredibly beautiful. Though it was late, everyone grew increasingly excited.
Eventually, Henry and Judy went to bed early, not staying up for the countdown.
Shawn had returned to his room shortly after dinner and hadn’t come back out.
Kathleen joined the maids in the courtyard, huddled around a charcoal fire, chatting warmly as they stayed up to wait for the countdown.
After talking for a while, she sent a text to Chelsey, checking how things were going.
171
About half an hour later, Chelsey called back, and Kathleen stepped aside to take the call.
“Hello, how did it go?” Kathleen asked.
“I’m about to lose my mind!” Chelsey’s voice was tense with frustration.
Kathleen immediately frowned with concern. “What happened?”
“I told my mom I wanted to break up with Damian, but she refused. She said everyone already knows we’re dating. If we break up now, it’ll give people something to gossip about.
“I’m not afraid of gossip! The worst part is, she hid my ID and birth certificate because she wants me to marry Damian after Christmas.”
“I’m
Kathleen felt suffocated just hearing about it. “What on earth is your mom thinking?”
“I don’t care anymore,” Chelsey said resolutely. “I’m leaving first thing tomorrow. If she thinks she can trap me at home like this, she’s mistaken.” Kathleen hadn’t expected Chelsey’s parents to disregard her feelings so blatantly. “What does Damian think about this?”
“I left his house at lunchtime today. He only called me this afternoon, saying it was just for show to his parents and relatives. After we’re married, we can live however we want. He promised I wouldn’t need to do anything I dislike,” Chelsey snorted.
“But honestly, can I trust him? With his family acting like that, I doubt he’s much different. He grew up in that environment, after all.”
Kathleen knew Chelsey was always clear–headed and logical. If she felt this strongly, her concerns were justified. “As long as you’re certain.”
“I’ve never been more certain.” Chelsey took a deep breath. “I’m glad I saw Damian’s family’s true colors this early, and I’m thankful they showed their true colors immediately.
“Imagine if this had happened after we got married or when I was head over heels for Damien. I really wouldn’t have had anywhere to run.
“Don’t worry about me. I think this is actually a blessing.” Chelsey had seen through it all, and honestly, she just found the whole thing ridiculous. Kathleen agreed. “You’re right. If you’re sure about this, then that’s what matters. But tomorrow is Christmas, How are you planning to leave?” “At worst, I’ll pay extra,” Chelsey responded resolutely, “Plane and train tickets are impossible now anyway.”
“Rest early, and we’ll talk when you get back,” Kathleen said.
“Okay.”
After hanging up, Kathleen sighed deeply.
Fortunately, Chelsey was independent and clear–minded. Otherwise, it would have been easy to get trapped in that toxic situation.
Marriage, for a woman, was rarely just between two people. Usually, families and even relatives wanted to meddle and complicate things further. Kathleen returned to the group, and her phone buzzed again. It was a text from Peter.
“Kat, Merry Christmas. Come home sometime soon.”
She read it but didn’t respond. Shortly afterward, another message arrived from Peter.
“Kat, we’re planning to visit the Vance family the day after tomorrow. Our families are in–laws now. We should pay them a visit.”
Kathleen felt a wave of anger rise and immediately called him.
The call was answered Instantly.
“Kat”
“I thought I made it clear. I don’t want you contacting me anymore,” Kathleen warned coldly. “And stay away from the Vance family, too.”
