Chapter 808
Gone were the days of anonymity, Elysia had become the bona fide Mrs. Bradford, a title that came with its own set of perks and perils in the elite social circles they navigated. With her new status, Elysia wasn’t just draped in luxury; she was also wrapped up in potential danger. From then on, stepping outside meant being flanked by a team of six bodyguards to protect her and the kids.
In the days that followed, Tarquin was a man on a mission. While he kept a vigilant eye on his daughter’s well-being, he was also busy planning a wedding. He knew Elysia didn’t care much for the pomp, but it mattered to him. Every woman harbors a dream of a fairytale wedding, with a stunning dress and a memorable ceremony. Tarquin was determined to spare no expense or effort to make sure Elysia had the wedding of her dreams. He refused to let her feel even a hint of regret.
What other women had, Elysia must have and what they didn’t, she’d have too. So, he set about organizing the wedding of the century, planning to surprise Elysia with the details once everything was set in stone. In his quest for perfection, he even enlisted the world’s most renowned bridal gown designer, sparing no cost to have a custom dress made just for her.
During this period, Tarquin also made sure their family was officially recognized, changing their family records from a duo to a full house of six, with himself at the helm. Moreover, he took steps to ensure Elliot, Evan, and Emmett were enrolled in a prestigious school, while Elijah, battling his own demons, also signed up to join his brothers in kindergarten.
Tarquin’s next move was nothing short of dramatic. He gutted the Bradford Group’s finances, watching as the company’s fortunes plummeted from the pinnacle of success to the depths of despair. The Bradford family was in turmoil, fully aware that Tarquin’s actions were retribution for their schemes against Elysia and the children.
Now, with the company on the brink, the only way out was to sell their shares back to Tarquin, fulfilling his grim prophecy from a previous gathering: henceforth, they’d be left with nothing. On the other hand, holding onto their shares meant facing insurmountable debts and possible legal repercussions.
The Bradford family was in disarray, with accusations and grievances flying. “Is Tarquin trying to ruin us? Does he have no family loyalty left?” they lamented. The blame was laid at many doors, from the Thorne family’s machinations to the patriarch’s misjudgments. The family’s unity was shattered, and Gideon, caught in the crossfire, was left so stressed that he ended up in the hospital.
Having dealt with the Bradfords, Tarquin turned his attention to rewarding those who had stood by them, especially the families of Blossom and Winona Newsom, Elysia’s closest friends. He generously funded Blossom’s parents’ research projects and provided the Newsoms with lucrative business opportunities, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support of Elysia.
By mid-May, life was looking up. Elysia’s spirits were higher than ever, and the family was basking in happiness. On May 15th, with Elliot discharged from the hospital, they moved into Tarquin’s lavish estate, the Number One Mansion, marking the start of a new chapter.
However, amidst these celebrations, an unforeseen event threatened to disrupt their newfound peace.