Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

"What... what did you just call me?" Aurora's unease deepened.

"You and I both know the truth-you are the family head's daughter. Don't worry, your friends will be taken care of. But for now, you need to do what you were meant to do." Aurora was pushed into the house. The moment her foot crossed the threshold, an aged voice greeted her from inside: "Welcome home, Miss Aurora."

At the end of the hallway stood an elderly man leaning on a cane. He was dressed in traditional Chinese attire, his face heavily wrinkled, but his sharp eyes pierced through the dim ambiance.

Mira walked ahead toward him. "Mr. Elderstone, I've finally brought Miss Aurora back."

"Mira, you promised to let me see Tina!" Aurora's anger flared as she realized she'd been tricked. What exactly were these people planning by bringing her here?

"Miss Aurora, rest assured, the family head is currently recovering at a retreat. Once you've handled things here, I'll personally take you to see her," Mr. Elderstone replied as he approached. He bowed deeply, a gesture reminiscent of ancient servants greeting their masters.

Aurora felt a chill crawl up her spine. It was the 21st century, yet she was witnessing something she thought only existed in period dramas.

"What... what are you doing?" Aurora stammered, her unease rendering her momentarily helpless.

"Miss Aurora, please follow me. We've waited far too long for you," the old man said, his stooped figure radiating no malice, though thoughts of Asher filled Aurora with dread.

Sensing her hesitation, Mira smiled. "Miss Aurora, haven't you always wanted to know the family's secrets? Mr. Elderstone will tell you everything you wish to know."

"And my friend?"

Rest assured, we'll take good care of him," Mira said with a breezy smile that only

Aurora," the old

Would she finally uncover the truth she'd been seeking

in traditional elegance. The walls were adorned with calligraphy and paintings, many of which Aurora recognized as masterpieces-authentic

she couldn't be certain from this distance whether they

that the R family was an

led her to a room brimming with an ancient charm. A carved wooden desk, a screen painted with elegant court

the shelves exuded a classical air, and to Aurora's astonishment, she even spotted bamboo

moments before. A half-finished painting of lotus blossoms after rain sat on aged paper,

the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! "You appreciate art?" the old man asked, noticing her lingering gaze. Only

I've never studied

mustn't lose our traditional culture," the old man said,

is she? And is the curse real?" Aurora fired off

pouring her a

the aroma of

blurring her vision. The fragrance of the tea filled the room, and she felt her agitation slowly

said. "If you drink it too quickly, it's no different from gulping water. The true essence of tea can only be appreciated

a small sip, his eyes closing in contentment as he exhaled deeply, as though the tea were the finest delicacy

careful sip. Truth be told, tea wasn't her preference. Oswaldo occasionally dragged

is where the adventure continues. Join us for the complete experience all for free. The next chapter is eagerly waiting for you! Still, tea had a unique charm. Its initial bitterness gave way to a subtle