His Destructive, Toxic Love

Aaron's uncle, Justin, threw a grand birthday bash every year. But it was a pretty exclusive event-getting an invite was like finding a needle in a haystack.

Eliza looked stunning in a lavender mermaid dress that exuded elegance. Her makeup was just right, striking a perfect balance between sophistication and subtlety, adding to her natural charm.

"Something's missing," Aaron remarked, signaling Eliza to hold on. He pulled out a slender, cream-colored satin box from his coat and revealed a dazzling diamond necklace. Swiftly, he fastened it around her neck. "There, that's much better." "Aaron, this is..."

"Just wear it," he said, extending his arm to her. "Come on, let me introduce you to my aunt and uncle."

Meanwhile, Casper was planning to head back to Falconridge and stumbled upon some news while scrolling through his phone-today was Justin's birthday. Casper had been trying to acquire a hospital where Justin held shares, but every time he tried to arrange a meeting, Justin had dodged him with various excuses.

"Okay," she replied.

"A birthday, huh?" Casper mused with a smirk. "Dillon, we need to go wish Mr. Justin a happy birthday."

"You mean Dr. Martin's uncle?"

"Exactly. This is a great opportunity, and Justin can't avoid me," Casper said, sensing an opportunity. "Get a generous gift ready, and let's go."

Getting into Justin's party was no small feat, even for someone as influential as Casper. Justin might not have been thrilled to see him, but turning away a guest bearing birthday wishes was too rude, even for him.

"Okay."

While he's exchanging pleasantries with Justin, Casper's eyes wandered and landed on Aaron. Seeing Aaron wasn't surprising, but the woman with him was... strange. She looked exactly like Eliza.

Casper's pupils dilated, and his mind went blank for a moment. Compelled by curiosity, he walked over, drink in hand.

"Dr. Martin," he called out, making Eliza shiver.

Casper? Before she could be sure, he was already in front of her.

"Dr. Martin, long time no see," Casper greeted Aaron, but his eyes were glued to the woman beside him.

Eliza quickly lowered her head and subtly tried to hide behind Aaron.

"Indeed, it's been a while," Aaron replied confidently, pulling Eliza closer and wrapping an arm around her shoulder. "Casper, let me introduce you to my girlfriend, Valerie."

Valerie? Casper's gaze lingered on her face. Her features were a perfect match to the woman in his memory. So similar, yet...

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There was no tear mole at the corner of her eye. Her eyes were clear and detached, looking at him like they had never known each other.

BUMS

"Ms. Valerie, nice to meet you," Casper said, extending his hand politely, though his eyes never left her face. Eliza smiled faintly and shook his hand. "Aaron has told me about you, Mr. Casper. You're quite the role model." Her voice, too—it was eerily similar. Even the curve of her smile was identical.

Casper stared at her intensely, with a look that was both scrutinizing and unyielding, trying to pierce through her facade. The air grew heavy with a sense of pressure.

Noticing Eliza's discomfort, Aaron spoke up, "Val's a bit tired. I'll take her to rest for a bit."

He gently guided Eliza out of the party and into a quiet lounge. Only then did she finally exhale in relief, her palms damp with sweat.