Dressed immaculately in a dark suit, Kevin sat on a nearby bench, one leg casually crossed over the other.
"Venice," he said calmly, "I won't allow you to leave me. If you insist on going, then I'll just have to apologize to your dog first."
Her vision blurred with panic. Her hands moved rapidly. [I saw the news. You're marrying Stefanie!]
[You don't love me anymore—let me go!]
Kevin frowned slightly.
"When did I say I don't love you? Venice, I just inherited the McAuliffe family. There are still many internal threats. My engagement to Stefanie is a temporary arrangement."
"Once things settle, I'll call it off and make you my wife."
His voice softened, almost tender. "Until then, we'll live as we always have."
Venice trembled all over, her heart twisting in disbelief. She signed furiously. [Kevin, I will not be your mistress!]
But he ignored her plea and gave a small gesture.
The drone rose higher. Her dog whimpered in terror, struggling helplessly, eyes glistening with fear.
"I'll give you ten seconds," Kevin said, his tone now icy. "Ten."
"Nine."
Venice lunged for the guard controlling the drone, but he easily overpowered her, pinning her to the ground.
"Eight."
"Seven."