Chapter 2
I hadn't expected their shameless tactics. While I was struggling, the door creaked open behind me. Dakota Snyder stepped in, holding a set of keys. When he spotted me, his face instantly tightened, and he discreetly tucked the property deed behind his back.
"You're back already? You should've let me know," he said.
I shot him a cold glare, fully aware of his guilty demeanor. Cade Palmer dashed to his brother's side, whining, "Bro, look at the mess she's made here. Only you could put up with her for three years. Anyone else would've kicked her out ages ago."
I remained silent, my eyes locked on Dakota. The memory of his public declaration of love at college was still fresh. Despite coming from a modest background and relying on scholarships, he spent all his savings on a limited-edition locket for my birthday. He promised to do anything to make me happy, no matter the cost. I thought I'd found my soulmate and trusted him with my heart. But the reality hit me hard—his kindness was nothing special, just manipulative.
Dakota surveyed the clutter on the floor and sighed quietly.
"Now that you know everything, let's not drag this out any longer. We should break up."
From the side, his mother, Selene Chapman, chimed in.
"My son is about to hit the big leagues and marry into money. You, with your humble background, should go back to where you came from."
Fortunately, I had no interest in drawing things out either. I extended my hand to Dakota, maintaining my composure despite his puzzled expression.
"For all the expenses I covered for your family these past three years, including this apartment, I'd like it returned."
My words made the three of them visibly uncomfortable.
"What money? We never borrowed a dime from you! And you willingly paid for Cade's medical bills. How dare you try to take that back?" Selene grew more agitated, shoving my shoulder. I stumbled, hitting the corner of the table, grimacing in pain.
Cade chimed in, "If I'd known, I wouldn't have wasted my time saving you. You belong in an alley, you lowlife!"
Their vicious insults made it seem like I was the villain. But what had I done wrong?
I clenched my fists at my side, prepared to speak up when Dakota stepped forward.
"Amaris, I know you're upset. We've been together for three years, and we should part on good terms. How about this? I'll wire $2,500 to your account as compensation. Let's just end things amicably."
"As for the apartment, it's already second-hand. My mom and brother are settled here, so let's be practical. I'll offer $6,500 and we can call it a deal."
This three-bedroom apartment in the city center could easily fetch over $650,000, even on resale. His shameless offer was laughable. No wonder they were a family; they all shared the same nerve.
Dakota reached out as if to adjust my coat and played the noble card, "Amaris, I should be grateful. Without you, I wouldn't have met Haven or had the chance to marry into her wealthy family."
"I don't want to hurt you, but we're on different paths. It's best for both of us to move on. If you ever need anything, I'll do what I can."
His fake smile was revolting, and I unceremoniously slapped his hand away.
"No need!"
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