Chapter 848

As Darin grappled with his inability to respond, Rhea’s mocking expression registered as both reproach

and scorn

A numb sensation crept over Darin’s senses. Earlier, at Marcus’ barbecue, Darin had observed the

intensity of Marcus’ affectionate glances toward Millie. In the midst of his otherwise ruthless and

assertive demeanor, Marcus’ gaze bespoke an unwavering tenderness.

To witness such a figure known for his unyielding and formidable demeanor in the realm of business

exhibit such gentle tenderness was to observe love’s crescendo, its pinnacle attained and proclaimed.

Taking action against Millie would not only enrage Marcus, but it would also unleash a torrent of

perilous repercussions.

“She has become the object of Marcus’ devotion. Our interference would not only offend him but also

invite unending strife.” Darin’s words carried an air of resignation.

“So you refuse?”

Rhea’s voice chilled the air, reverberating within the room’s confines.

“Iam at your service, ready to move mountains for you, yet I dare not jeopardize the safety of my

family.” his commitment resolute.

Darin’s countenance turned grave,

“Rest assured, your kin shall remain untainted by this, and your own hands shall steer clear of any

entanglement, so long as discretion guides our path, veiling it from prying eyes.”

Rhea’s response echoed, hinting at the prospect of negotiation where the Barker family was

concerned.

Her grip slackened, allowing her garments to cascade to the floor, exposing the expanse of her back. A

once pristine canvas, now adorned with scars and indentations, was a testament to past strife.

“Observe the etchings on my flesh? Each marks a creation of Millie’s malice. Into thorns she led me, a

decree against baring my back to the world. Her poison seeps into Marcus’ ear daily, an insidious

campaign to dislodge my father and deprive me of all. Countless atrocities she has wrought, yet she

awakens each day draped in happiness, while I plunge deeper into the abyss of despair.”

A pang of anguish flickered within Darin’s somber eyes as they beheld Rhea’s back, the scars a harsh

reminder of past wounds. A spark of ire ignited, incensed by the revelation. Millie, who had

masqueraded as innocuous, was now revealed as a callous tormentor of his beloved.

“Verily, Millie is a malevolent force,” Darin murmured, drawing nearer his hands finding solace upon

Rhea’s shoulders, his voice a vessel of empathy.

Rhea turned, her gaze locking onto Darin’s mournful orbs, her lips trembling faintly, the weight of her

revelation palpable.

“aid me in vanquishing her-a gift beyond measure for our union. Linger this night.”

Rhea’s plea hung in the air, her tiptoes granting her access to Darin’s lips, a tender union.

Darin faltered, a breath’s hesitation, then acquiescence unfurled. Swiftness and unexpectedness

intertwined; a longing harbored, now embraced. The desire to shield Rhea and staunch her suffering

overwhelmed his resolve. Rhea’s allure held him captive, setting a self-imposed restraint ablaze.

Once more, Rhea’s frame rose on tiptoes, her lips brushing his ear, her words a gentle caress. “Darin, I

too hold a fondness for you.”

At this juncture, the weight of confession cast its web, ensnaring Darin’s defenses. His grasp found her

head, leadership seized, and reciprocity pursued.

The clock’s hushed cadence pulsed, illumination flickering, garments strewn, a testament to fervent

ardor.