It’s just the beginning.

I couldn't care less about the family dinner. I felt too stupid to be there. My mother would text me sooner or later and force me to come, so I needed all the rest I could get. I showered and got changed, literally falling on my bed and spoke to my best friend, Martin.

"Eddie, I heard you aren't coming for the dinner tonight?"

I rolled my eyes.

"News does travel fast doesn't it?"

"Not yet. I had to beg Mr. Kennedy not to tell your mother."

"Why?!" I asked, genuinely surprised.

He sighed.

"Because HE is going to be here tonight. And it might be your engagement party."

I dropped the phone on the floor and screamed.

I thought he was fucking gone!!

How the hell...?

I gathered my thoughts and picked my phone.

"I'll be there."

I threw myself off the bed and gave myself a complete makeover.

'Even if I have to die, I'll get rid of you!'

30 Minutes Later...

I stepped out of my Mercedes in style. I also had Mr. Kennedy open the door and help me out like a spoiled princess. My sleek royal blue dress had everyone's eyes on me. This was the exact impression I expected to get. I went in to look for my parents gracefully greeting everyone I passed.

"Mother, Father, good evening. I hope I'm not too late?" I said as soon as I spotted them.

They turned around and stared at me.

I could tell they were shocked to see me, knowing well I wasn't a fan of parties.

My mother quickly recovered and nudged my dad.

"Oh, it's nothing dear, we both know how busy you are. Isn't that right dear?"

"Oh yes. My daughter has been so busy preparing to take over the family business." My father said with a laugh.

"Why don't you run along now and go make some friends. Your father and I will see you later." My mum said and kissed my forehead. I nodded and went to find Martin.

He was sitting by the bar, surrounded by females. I could tell he wasn't comfortable and he was doing his best to hide it. He didn't like to be surrounded by people who wanted him for his money and/or body, but he couldn't just shrug them off because of the relationship between their parents, so he just had to sit there and listen to them ogle and over him.

I walked to him and grabbed his arm.

"Excuse me ladies, Mr. Martin and I have important business to discuss. I'd like to borrow him for a moment." I said with a smile and dragged him away.

He stared at me with a smile.

"Who knew the almighty Edith Von Declan could dress up for a man!" He said with a teasing grin.

"You know I'm pretty sure those girls would love to have your number." I said and reached for my phone.

"Okay, okay! I won't talk about it."

"Better. Now, down to business, have you seen him anywhere?"

"Yes, I have. He's just taking drinks and talking casually. I believe he's been waiting for you to show up before talking to your parents."

I nodded at this discovery.

"He must've seen me come in then, so he's on his way to meet my parents."

I quickly realized.

"Go on to meet my parents first. Something feels off. If anyone offers you a drink, don't take it and make sure my parents don't either."

He raised his brows at me.

"Why do you say so?" He asked, genuinely confused.

"I'm not too sure. But someone is planning to destroy this family. It might not be him, though, but he's the only suspect at this point."

He nods and leaves quickly. I have other matters to attend to.