Chapter 3 I Will Teach You a Lesson

Jeanne clenched her teeth in anger and threw her phone onto the sofa. It rang again, signaling a new message.

After a long pause, she reluctantly picked it up.

The message read: "Jes, come to the pavilion for a moment, will you?"

It was from an unknown number.

This phone belonged to Jessy, and since the sender seemed familiar with that name, Jeanne guessed it was someone Jessy knew.

Though confused, she didn't hesitate. She straightened her clothes and headed to the agreed meeting spot. The pavilion was on a hill behind the villa.

Despite the William family's lavish homes, the neighboring villa area was even larger. Only wealthy people from the capital could afford to live here. Jeanne noticed tall, expensive trees and blooming flowers as she arrived.

Fifteen minutes later, Jeanne reached the pavilion but saw no one. Suddenly, footsteps echoed on the stone floor, growing closer. Looking up, she saw a tall man walking slowly toward her. He wore a silver suit and white shirt, with a handsome, refined look and an impressive presence.

He carried a large, beautiful gift. When Jeanne recognized him, her mood soured. It was Bernard. Bernard stood before her, smiling warmly and looking deeply into her eyes. Jejes, are you here? he asked, using a nickname that made Jeanne's skin crawl. She forced a laugh and replied, What... do you want? Bernard's eyes showed brief disappointment but he quickly smiled again. Nothing important. Didn't you say you wanted that Givenchy limited edition dress? I was in Milan for business, met a friend, and spent a lot to get this dress for you. He held out the gift expectantly. Jeanne glanced at it, feeling awkward.

According to Julian's information, Bernard's future was bright. He was a well-educated prince in the capital with high social status. He had been in a contract marriage with a wealthy southern ruler.

They seemed perfect together but ended the marriage for unknown reasons. Judging by the current situation, Jessy was likely involved, though Bernard seemed to see her only as a friend. Bernard, I appreciate you remembering what I like, but this gift is too expensive. I can't accept it. Besides, I'm now part of the William family. You shouldn't have asked me to meet like this.

If word gets out, it could cause misunderstandings, Jeanne said carefully. Bernard's face darkened. I know I was wrong, but Jessy, you know I- Before he could finish, the sound of high heels approached. Jeanne saw Alexa walking toward them. She felt a shock. It was over. Alexa had always looked for ways to blame Jeanne. Seeing her with Bernard again would cause trouble.

Even if Jeanne tried to explain, no one would believe her innocent. Jeanne said nothing and turned to leave. Bernard noticed Alexa too, scowling. Her again, he muttered. Jeanne, still stunned, pushed Bernard. What are you waiting for? Hide! Do you want Alexa to find out about us? But the dress...Bernard protested. Shut up! If this causes any misunderstanding, we're done! Jeanne snapped, panic rising in her chest. Bernard's feelings were hurt.

He turned and left in frustration. Once Alexa was far enough, Jeanne relaxed her expression. Alexa approached Jeanne, looking around sharply as if searching for something.

Jeanne's heart raced but she stayed calm. What a coincidence! I just went for a walk and ran into you, Jeanne said. Stop pretending, Jessy! I heard voices here. You're so bold, doing indecent things outside and still acting brave here. When I get proof, you'll pay for your behavior,Alexa sneered, continuing to search.

She found no one. Jeanne sat at the pavilion's stone table and laughed lightly. How's the search? Should I call someone to prove you wrong? Alexa was too angry to reply. She cursed silently, frustrated that Jeanne had slipped away again.

Remembering how Jeanne had slapped her in public, Alexa's resentment boiled over. Her eyes turned cruel. She raised her hand to slap Jeanne. Jeanne quickly thought and coldly said, Alexa, what are you doing? Then she glared at her. Jeanne, living in the William family doesn't mean you can act like this. I'm Alexa, and don't get your hopes up. Today,

I'll take over for William and teach you a lesson.Alexa raised her hand again to hit her. Jeanne stood up quickly and took two big steps back to avoid the slap but slipped. She lost control and began falling backward.

Ahh-! she cried, reaching out to grab anything, but found only air. Just as Jeanne was about to fall, a strong hand grabbed her waist and pulled her to the side. In an instant, she found herself in a warm embrace.

Their positions looked intimate, with Jeanne like a small bird trapped in the man's arms. She could hear the pounding of his heartbeat. William's scent, fresh and woody, filled the air.

After a moment, Jeanne looked up and saw his flawless face close to hers. His eyebrows showed emotion as he asked in a slightly cold tone, What are you two doing? William, Alexa said quickly, pulling her hand back. She looked both embarrassed and surprised.

We weren't doing anything...

I was just joking with Jessy. Jeanne couldn't hold back and sneered, Joking? You were clearly about to hit me! Alexa glared at Jeanne angrily but looked nervously at William. "William, don't listen to her. I didn't hit her," she said, trying to cover up. William stared at Alexa without expression, then helped Jeanne stand up.

He looked her over carefully. She wasn't as arrogant or cruel as the rumors said. In fact, with her complaining look, she seemed quite cute. His eyes showed a brief interest before he warned Alexa, "Don't let me see this happen again."

Then he pulled Jeanne away, saying, "Come with me." As they left, Alexa stood there, jealous and almost furious. Why trust that woman? She's the one deceiving you!

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After they reached the bottom of the hill, William released Jeanne's waist. She hid her hands behind her back and softly said, "Thank you." "We met just in time. I came looking for you because Grandpa wants to see you. There's something he wants to discuss," William said flatly. His voice was calm but pleasant, low and smooth like a cello.

Jeanne felt drawn in by his voice and had to shake herself to focus. "What does Grandpa want to talk about?" "You'll find out when you meet him," William replied. They walked back to the row of villas, arriving at the main house. Usually, only the grandfather, housekeeper, and maids stayed there.

The house was decorated with antiques, reflecting Grandpa's love for calligraphy and collectibles. In the study, Jeanne met an elderly man with a strong presence.

Around 60 or 70 years old, dressed traditionally, his white hair and sharp gaze radiated authority.

This was David, William's grandfather. Just as described, he was a powerful figure. When William announced, "Grandpa, I brought her," David's stern expression vanished instantly.

He called Jeanne closer with a warm smile. This grandfather was said to love Jessy most of all. Usually proud, Jessy softened around him. Jeanne obediently greeted, "Grandpa." David looked at Jessy sadly, then smiled at William.

"Good. I called William home and won't let him go again. You've been married for a year; being apart too often isn't good for your relationship. From now on, live with William. If anyone bothers you, tell Grandpa. I'll support you."

Jeanne was surprised and touched. This man was nothing like the cruel, cold figure she'd heard about. Instead, he was warm and kind. She smiled and nodded, "Understood, Grandpa."

"That's good. Seeing you two get along makes me happy.

Work hard and give me great-grandchildren soon, so I have no regrets," David said with a chuckle, his white beard shaking. The sudden topic change almost made Jeanne choke. William calmly replied, "Of course, Grandpa. I'll 'try' hard so you can hold your great-grandson soon."

David laughed heartily, "Good! I look forward to it." Jeanne's cheeks warmed with embarrassment. After some time with the grandfather, William took Jeanne outside, where Alexa waited. Alexa must have been there a while.

When William appeared, she smiled brightly and said, "William, you're finally out." William stopped and asked flatly, "What's the matter?" Alexa nodded happily. "You came home late last night. We met briefly earlier but didn't get to talk.

So, I booked a table at Paulaner restaurant. I asked the chef to prepare your favorite dishes as a welcome dinner. I hope you won't refuse."

William didn't respond much but agreed with a nod, "Fine." Alexa beamed, "Then let's go now..." Before she finished, William said to Jeanne, "You come too." Alexa's smile froze, her expression falling. Jeanne was surprised but didn't mind Alexa's coldness. She stepped aside, pretending not to notice. Seeing Alexa upset, Jeanne said softly, "I don't have to, okay? I wouldn't want to make anyone unhappy."

William noticed and asked Alexa, "Why? Can't she come with me?" Alexa clenched her teeth in frustration.

She'd planned the dinner to be alone with William. Why was Jessy coming along? But she couldn't say that outright. Instead, she forced a smile and said, "Of course she can." Still, Alexa wasn't ready to give up.

Since William came home, Jessy seemed different.

Today, Alexa was determined to expose her true nature.

With that thought, her anger faded, replaced by a cunning plan.