Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire - Chapter 171

Chapter 171: Her Clear Motives

“Take this,” Casey said, her voice carrying a hint of authority. “Go find out if we have a trump card.”

Juliet hesitated but eventually took the kit, clutching it tightly. She stood and excused herself, disappearing through another door. Casey leaned back in her chair, her expression unreadable as she waited.

—

Minutes later, Juliet returned, holding the test kit with trembling hands. Her face was a mixture of shock and uncertainty. She handed it to Casey, who calmly took it and inspected the result. A smirk tugged at the corner of Casey’s lips as she read the confirmation.

“I can’t believe it,” Juliet said, her voice breaking into a nervous chuckle. “I’m actually pregnant. I thought all that fatigue was just work stress.”

Casey’s smirk widened into a satisfied smile. She slipped the test kit into her purse, securing it like a prized possession. “Congratulations, Juliet. This changes everything.”

Juliet returned to her seat, visibly relieved yet apprehensive. “What now?”

Casey raised her glass in a silent toast. Juliet followed suit, their glasses clinking softly before they both took a sip. The moment of shared triumph was fleeting, though, as Juliet’s expression clouded with guilt.

“I didn’t mean for things to go this far,” Juliet admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “I didn’t think Olivia’s child would… would be harmed. And now, to hear she might never have children again—”

“Good,” Casey cut in coldly, her tone sharp and devoid of sympathy. “She doesn’t deserve to have children. This is karma, Juliet. She’s finally paying for everything she’s done.”

Juliet studied Casey, her brow furrowing in hesitation. “But you—why are you so… determined? This is more than revenge, isn’t it?”

Casey’s lips curled into a bitter smile. She reached up and slowly removed her dark shades, revealing her face fully for the first time. Juliet gasped softly as she saw the disfigurement—one eye was permanently shut, the skin around it scarred and sunken.

Casey pointed to the damaged eye, her expression darkening as venom dripped from her words.

“Do you know who did this to me?” Casey asked, her voice trembling with restrained fury. “Olivia. Her and her precious mother. After Olivia’s wedding, they sent people to beat me senseless because I almost revealed their secret to Aurora. They took my eye, Juliet.”

Juliet stared at her, speechless. Casey leaned forward, her voice lowering into a dangerous whisper. “Do you know what that’s like? To wake up every day and see what they took from me in the mirror? Olivia should be grateful I haven’t demanded one of her eyes in return yet.”

Juliet placed a hand over her mouth, her voice shaky. “Casey, I—”

“Save it,” Casey snapped, sitting back and slipping her shades on again. “This isn’t about pity. This is about justice.”

Juliet exhaled deeply, her resolve hardening as she nodded. “You will get your justice, Casey. I’ll help you see it through.”

Casey’s smirk returned, her confidence unwavering. “Good. But for now, we wait. You’re carrying the Scott family’s grandchild, Juliet. That’s leverage no one can ignore. But timing is everything.”

Juliet hesitated, then nodded in agreement. “I will wait. But what if they find out before we’re ready?”

Casey’s smile was chilling. “They won’t if you don’t utter a word. You’re in good hands, Juliet. Trust me.”

With that, the two women clinked their glasses again, their alliance rekindled as the shadows of their schemes loomed larger over their unsuspecting targets.

~***~

Two days later, Aurora, Xander and Asher accepted Princess Victoria’s private invitation and paid a visit to her temporary residential villa.

The Rolls-Royce glided through the gates of the villa, its arrival marked by the flutter of Octavia’s national flag and a series of salutes from stationed security personnel.

The villa, adorned with pristine gardens and modern architecture, exuded the regal essence expected of a royal’s temporary residence.

As the car came to a halt, Aurora, Xander and Asher stepped out. They were greeted by an aide who bowed deeply and gestured for them to follow. “Her Royal Highness is expecting you. Please, this way.”

Xander instinctively reached for Aurora’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze as they were escorted into a spacious living room.

The trio settled into plush chairs, and a server poured tea into delicate porcelain cups. A platter of nuts and delicate pastries was placed before them. Asher casually reached for an almond, tossing it into his mouth as they waited.

—

Minutes stretched on until the sound of soft footsteps announced Princess Victoria’s arrival. She entered with a radiant smile, her gown flowing gracefully as she made her way toward them.

“Forgive me for keeping you waiting,” she said, her tone light and apologetic. “Getting ready takes time, as I’m sure you understand.”

Asher stood first, his ever-present charm on display. “Not at all, Your Highness. The wait was worth it.”

Victoria smiled, extending her arms. Instead of offering a handshake as he expected, she pulled him into a warm hug. Asher’s brows shot up in surprise, but he patted her back lightly, maintaining his composure.

“We are friends. There’s no need for formality here,” Victoria said as she stepped back. “This is my private residence. No one will judge.”

Asher chuckled awkwardly, his hand brushing over his collar. “Of course, Your Highness.”

The Princess turned to Aurora next, her demeanour shifting to one of warmth and excitement. She embraced Aurora with enthusiasm, her smile lighting up the room. “Aurora! You have no idea how much I’ve been looking forward to this. Your Fruit Punch Champagne has become my favourite indulgence. Can you believe I opened a bottle this morning?”

Aurora was momentarily taken aback by Victoria’s unguarded excitement. The Princess she encountered today was vastly different from the composed royal at the state dinner or the formal guest at Vintage Cellar. Nevertheless, Aurora matched her energy.

“That’s wonderful to hear,” Aurora said, smiling. “It’s always a pleasure knowing our champagne is so well-received.”

Victoria clasped Aurora’s hands, her eyes sparkling. “I also have to thank you for the winery tour. And tasting that new product before its release—what an honour! You’ve spoiled me.”

“The pleasure was mine, Your Highness,” Aurora replied gracefully.

Finally, Victoria turned to Xander, spreading her arms for a hug.