The Devil Doesn't Bargain | Daerin

4 | A Twist of Fate

𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐎𝐕

The Saturday finally arrives. Now, here I am, standing in front of the mirror, adjusting the stunning yellow dress I have chosen for this dreaded meeting. The fabric clings to my curves and flares out at the waist, making me look like a sunflower in full bloom. I style my wavy brown hair into loose curls, pinned half-up with a few delicate strands framing my face. 

I have to look good at least, even though I don't know who my future rich wife is yet, even though my heart feels like it is being dragged through mud. 

Whoever I'm going to marry, I can't make her reject me because of my looks. That would be the most embarrassing thing that could ever happen, and I don't want that.

I take a deep breath, then slowly release it, grab my purse, and step out of the room. At the dining table, I see Hanni studying her surgery book. Her head snaps up the moment I walk in, her jaw dropping and her eyes widening in astonishment.

"Wow, girl, you look stunning!" she screams excitedly.

I can't help but chuckle. She springs up from her chair and rushes over, wrapping me in a tight hug.

"Tell your future wife that you have a broke best friend and she needs some money too," she winks.

I laugh, ruffling her long hair that's a bit messy. "I'll try."

The drive to the Kang Mansion feels long and surreal. I can't believe I'm actually meeting her tonight. I can't even believe I'm getting married in the first place.

They say this type of thing only happens in dramas, but I don't actually care. As long as she looks good and has money, I'm fine.

When I arrive, the mansion is as grand and intimidating as I had imagined. Towering columns, manicured gardens, and a driveway that seems to stretch on forever. The butler leads me to a large, elegantly decorated front door.

I smooth my dress and wait, my heart pounding loudly in my chest. Damn heart, calm down a bit. I don't want to pass out when I see her.

Moments later, the grand door opens, and a tall man shows up. He looks so elegant and handsome in his perfectly tailored suit. His cat-like eyes are assessing, taking me in with a single glance.

Those cat-like eyes. It reminds me of someone.

"Danielle," he greets me with a warm smile. "Thank you for coming. Please, come in."

I return his smile politely, still trying to calm my pounding heart. "Thank you, Mr.—"

"No need for formalities. Just call me Dad."

"Alright," I say, clearing my throat. "Dad."

He guides me inside and straight to the dining room. The room is grand, with a long mahogany table set with fine china and crystal glasses. A chandelier hangs above, casting a warm glow over the space. The walls are full of classic artwork, and a large window shows a view of the meticulously maintained garden outside.

Before we can begin any conversation, a door swings open. I turn to see who it is, and my whole body freezes completely.

My heart skips a beat.

The woman strolling in is wearing a white shirt and black and red plaid flannel pajamas, but still, the fabric looks expensive. Her dark hair is tousled. Her face clearly shows she doesn't want to be here.