Chapter 146 The Denial
On that particular day, she concluded her work at midday, returning to the Regal Retreat to gather her belongings.
As she made her way towards the exit, Edward Sinclair, who was enjoying a restful day at home, spotted her struggling with her suitcase. Puzzled, he dialed Alexander Harrington's number, "Is she embarking on a business trip?"
"No, why do you ask?"
"Your lady has just departed with her luggage."
"Stop her from leaving."
"I fear it's too late; she's already entered Arthen's vehicle."
---
Victoria Kensington had taken the remainder of the day off, meticulously packing her attire. She then extended an invitation to Arthen for tea—a mere pretext, of course. Apart from expressing her gratitude, she sat beside Arthen on the plush sofa, cradling her teacup delicately, and murmured, "Arthen, there's a matter I need to discuss with you."
"Proceed."
Arthen glanced at her, an inexplicable anxiety creeping over him.
"I... I'm presenting you with a 'friend-zone' card."
By this point, the meaning of the 'friend-zone' card was universally understood.
She attempted to maintain a casual demeanor, hoping to alleviate any potential discomfort.
They were close friends, or at least, that was her steadfast belief.
Upon hearing her words, Arthen remained silent for an extended period before lowering his gaze and whispering, "I understand. I'm not as exceptional as my brother."
"That's not the case."
"No?"
"Absolutely not. Each of you excels in your respective fields. It's just that I've always regarded you as a platonic, best friend."
"And my brother?"
He pressed her about Alexander Harrington.
Victoria Kensington was overwhelmed by a sudden surge of humility and lowered her gaze.
That man was a perpetual source of vexation for her.
"I will undoubtedly divorce him."
She bowed her head, her hands clasped together in silent contemplation for several moments before voicing her resolution.
"I also assumed you would, but Vicky, it appears you can't control your own heart."
"…"
She raised her gaze to meet his.
Had she lost control over her own heart?
She was making a concerted effort, waking up each morning attempting to convince herself, distancing herself from him, constantly reminding herself that the man she called her husband was not hers.
Love at first sight was nothing more than a fleeting infatuation.
She was simply captivated by his appearance, his elusive allure.
He was a rogue; he had impregnated another woman, and she was evading him, fleeing from him.
She was genuinely attempting to restrain herself.
She had repeatedly requested a divorce, didn't that cause her heartache?
Experiencing love for the first time, and it had to be like this.
Her phone rang again, the name 'Mr. Harrington' displayed on the screen caused her gaze to falter.
Arthen noticed the caller ID as well and murmured softly, "You still harbor feelings for him."
"I don't."
Internally, she denied it, but her fingers nervously fiddled with her knuckles.
"Some suggest that the most effective way to forget someone is to fall in love with someone else. Victoria Kensington, do you believe there's even a minuscule chance for me?"
Arthen spoke softly, observing her fidgeting.
"…"
Victoria Kensington raised her eyes to meet his, then lowered her gaze apologetically, "I'm sorry."
Arthen emitted a self-deprecating chuckle, his hands clasped together in contemplation, then finally added, "Allow me to prepare a meal for you. I must join the film crew tomorrow morning; consider it a farewell before my departure."
Victoria Kensington did not refuse his pre-departure gesture.
"You'll find someone superior," she assured him.
"Uh-huh."
Arthen concurred, albeit with a sense of resignation.
---
At precisely half-past eight, Victoria Kensington and Arthen exited the building. "Farewell."
"Farewell."
Arthen watched her depart. Her rejection had been explicit; all he could do now was bid her goodbye.
After Arthen's chauffeur drove him away, Victoria Kensington pivoted to return but then, perplexed, she swiveled to gaze into the distance.
An unobtrusive, dark Rolls-Royce was stationed at the curb, with a commanding figure staring intently in her direction.
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