Chapter 15
The next morning, Tyler emerged from the villa, clad in a loose bathrobe, its collar slightly open, revealing a muscular chest bearing unmistakable hickeys and scratches. He leaned lazily against the doorframe, his eyes half-hidden by tousled hair, projecting an air of casual indifference. He barely registered the three men standing before him.
Their eyes were stung by the smug satisfaction on his face. Connor, gritting his teeth, instantly lunged, throwing a punch. Tyler effortlessly caught the blow, as if it were weightless.
"Is that all you've got?" Tyler's gaze hardened as he swiftly dislocated Connor's hand, showing no concern for the injury.
Anthony quickly restrained Connor, murmuring, "Don't act impulsively." He then composed himself, speaking calmly. "Mr. Vaughn, Emelie's marriage was a rash decision. Please return her to us. You can have any woman you desire, but we cannot live without Emelie."
Tyler sneered. His imposing presence intensified, but then he did something unexpected. He kissed the ring on his finger and declared solemnly, "The Vaughns marry only once. Emelie is an adult who made a conscious choice. I need her, and she needs me. Besides, your claim to be unable to live without her seems… unconvincing."
At these words, Tyler's gaze shifted to the space behind the three men. Marcelo turned to see Melissa, pale and on the verge of collapse.
"Marcelo, Anthony, Connor… Did I arrive at a bad time? I… I saw your car and worried, so I came. Did Emelie… really get married?" Melissa fought to suppress a smile, but the sight of Tyler brought a pang of jealousy. Why had Emelie, once abandoned, found such a remarkable man?
Noticing Tyler's threatening look, she quickly averted her gaze, turning tearfully to the Horton brothers.
"Mel, isn't Stephanie still in the hospital? You should go to her. We can handle this," Marcelo offered briefly, before meeting Tyler's gaze. "We cannot live without Emelie. Our feelings for you are different; gratitude and pity. We know who we truly want to marry." Melissa's face fell.
Despite her efforts, they dismissed her with mere gratitude. She craved far more—a lifetime of care, not just favors. She didn't want to let go of any of them; she wanted them all. And more, if possible.
With this thought, Melissa subtly glanced at Tyler, presenting her most beautiful, tear-filled face. Looking at the Horton brothers, she let tears flow freely.
"I've always known you three disliked me. But I couldn't help falling for one of you. But don't worry. I'll control my feelings. I won't cause trouble. After all, I know your feelings belong to Emelie."
She lowered her gaze, sniffling softly, making it impossible not to feel sympathy for her.