Chapter 2

I didn't return alone. Clara came back with me.

Four years ago, Clara’s sister, Lily, was my personal assistant. When the killers attacked us, Lily threw herself in front of a speeding car to push me out of the way.

She died on impact.

During my first week back, we hosted a family dinner. Serena was noticeably absent, claiming she was unwell.

"Is Serena feeling sick? I should go check on her," I said smoothly.

I visited her villa bringing a massive gift basket filled with the most expensive luxury wellness products—imported white truffle serums, Swiss caviar extracts, and royal jelly elixirs. Serena, greedy as always, couldn't resist taking them.

Once she accepted the basket, I slipped a black card onto her vanity. It was an ultra-exclusive VIP card for *The Eden Sanctuary*.

"You look pale, Serena. Take this card. Go pamper yourself. We can’t have the public saying the King family treats its daughters poorly."

In Manhattan’s elite circles, *The Eden Sanctuary* was legendary. It was the ultimate playground for billionaire women—private hot springs, custom anti-aging therapies, and personal stylists.

But it was nearly impossible to get in. Money wasn't enough; you needed real political and social influence.

A spoiled, second-tier cousin like Serena, living off family handouts, would never qualify for a membership on her own.

The temptation was too much for her to resist.

"Chloe... is this really for me?" she stammered, her eyes wide.

"Of course. But you can give it back if you don't want it. Someone gifted it to me, and I honestly don't have the time. Maybe I'll just give it to Mom..."

I reached to take it back, but Serena snatched it out of my hand instantly.

What she didn't know was that I secretly owned *The Eden Sanctuary*.

I had already instructed my staff to give her "special treatment."

Serena couldn't wait. The very next day, she booked an appointment.

The face masks they prepared for her were custom-made.

After a few sessions, Serena’s skin indeed looked radiant. She looked flawless.

"Miss King, your skin is absolutely glowing," the esthetician flattered her. "You are going to be the most beautiful bride in New York."

"Make sure you keep up the good work," Serena sneered arrogantly. "Do a good job, and I might tip you next time."

She had been there eight times and hadn't left a single dollar in tips. Her cheapness was embarrassing. But the staff at *The Eden Sanctuary* were professionals; they just smiled and nodded.

Serena’s engagement to Ethan was set for three months from now.

Too bad their dream wedding was never going to happen.