Kaylee's mind raced. She needed to find a way to act quickly and precisely. She thought of using one of the nearby tomes as a weight, positioning it over the third lever so that it would press down when she pulled the first two. She quickly but carefully set up the arrangement, then took a deep breath.
In one smooth motion, she pulled the two levers with her hands, while the tome pressed down on the third. The chest made a series of clicking sounds, then a loud, final clunk. The lid of the chest popped open slightly, signaling her success.
Finally, after what felt like hours but was in reality only a tense ten minutes or so, Kaylee solved the final puzzle. Inside the chest, nestled against velvet lining, lay a small, polished white jade pendant shaped like a dove. The delicate carving embodied purity, holiness, resilience, strength, and wisdom. Kaylee admired its beauty, unaware of its deeper significance. This was no ordinary trinket; it was a cherished heirloom, passed down from Ford's late wife for every generation of Langford matriarchs.
Kaylee sat back, her heart racing, the heat in the room finally becoming bearable as the tension released. She looked up at Ford, who had watched the entire process with an unreadable expression.
For a moment, there was silence. Then, to her surprise, Ford's strict demeanor broke, and he began to laugh—a deep, genuine laugh that filled the room with warmth.
"Well done, Kaylee. Very well done," Ford said, his laughter fading into a broad, genuine smile. The tension that had gripped the room dissolved instantly, replaced by an air of camaraderie and mutual respect.
Kaylee, taken aback by the sudden shift in tone and by Ford's use of her first name, managed a small, relieved smile in return. She had never imagined Ford Dylan could be so... human.
Just then, Louis entered the room, pushing a food trolley adorned with a stylish tea set and two trays of Sarawakian delicacies. The dishes were a visual masterpiece, with a rich variety of selected dishes arranged seamlessly like a work of art on a black slate plate. Small mounds of fragrant, steamed local brown rice, subtly infused with ginger, were carefully shaped to resemble the rolling hills and majestic mountains of Sarawak. Stir-fried daun empasak crowned the hilltops, while grilled fillets of ikan semah lined the base, their golden edges glistening. A vibrant streak of sambal wound its way through the scene, forming a 'river' that snaked through the valleys, bringing the entire landscape to life on the plate.
In one corner of the tray, a spoonful of tangy umai was artfully presented in a short bamboo tube, offering a rustic yet refined touch. On the opposite side, a carved-out half sphere of terung dayak cradled a small serving of pork roll soup, rich with the flavors of thinly sliced pork and the unique tartness of the terung dayak, its aroma enticing and comforting.
The meal concluded with a stunning dessert—a vibrant, naturally-colored Sarawak kek lapis popsicle. Half of its vertical side was dipped in velvety chocolate made from locally sourced cocoa and adorned with meticulously arranged dried edible flower petals. It was presented on a sleek stone popsicle stand, its design harmonizing with the black slate plate. Alongside, a warm bowl of red-nest swiftlet dessert soup added a final touch of sophistication, balancing the meal with its rich, nourishing essence.
Kaylee was momentarily speechless, overwhelmed by the artistic presentation before her. The meal, meticulously crafted with care, was clearly Ford's way of welcoming her—proof that she had passed his tests with flying colors. He had even arranged for a simpler dinner in the kitchen, just in case she hadn't impressed him, ensuring she would still be fed regardless of the outcome. It was a thoughtful gesture, highlighting the importance Ford placed on hospitality and respect.
Ford gestured for Kaylee to join him at a smaller table by the window, where the setting sun bathed the room in a warm, golden glow. As they sat down to enjoy the special dinner, Ford's demeanor softened even further, becoming almost fatherly.
Pouring her a cup of tea, he asked casually, "So, Kaylee, what did you make of the conversation you overheard outside the door earlier?"
Kaylee blinked, surprised by his directness. She hadn't expected him to know about that, let alone address it so openly. Gathering her thoughts, she replied honestly, "Mr. Ford, I believe that some matters should remain within the family, and it's not my place to pry. However," she continued, her voice steady, "I do think it's important to remind the staff of their loyalty and discretion. Gossiping about family matters, especially those that could harm the family's reputation, is unprofessional and could lead to discord. If I were in your position, I'd make sure they understand the weight of their words and actions, for the sake of maintaining peace and harmony within the household."
Ford nodded thoughtfully, clearly pleased with her response. "You have a keen sense of propriety, Kaylee. I value that. In a family as prominent as ours, even small indiscretions can have far-reaching consequences."
He took a sip of tea, then leaned back in his chair, his gaze softening even further. "I must confess, the so-called 'Langford family secret' you overheard was staged, just like the supply crisis for the cultural center and the career offer in exchange for parting with Victor. It was all part of my test to see how you would react, to gauge your discretion and your loyalty—not just to Victor, but to the values we hold dear."
A wave of relief washed over Kaylee, though she kept her composure. She had been concerned about the implications of what she'd overheard, and it was reassuring to know that it had all been a test.
"Thank you for explaining, Mr. Ford," she replied, her voice warm. "I'm relieved to know those weren't real issues. And I hope I haven't let you down."
Ford's smile deepened, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You've done better than I hoped, Kaylee. You've shown me that you're not only intelligent and capable but that you possess the integrity and strength of character to be part of this family. Those qualities are far more important to me than any business acumen."
He set his teacup down and gestured for her to start the meal. Soothing sape music played softly in the background, adding to the room's serene atmosphere. As they savored each dish, Kaylee was impressed by the flavors that matched the meal's stunning presentation.
As they neared the end of the meal, enjoying the desserts, Ford's tone became more personal. "The Langford legacy wasn't something we inherited from a long line of aristocrats or old money. My late wife and I built this family from the ground up. The name 'Langford' is a combination of my name, Ford, and her name, Long. We created this legacy through hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to our values from the early days of our marriage."
Ford paused, his gaze drifting to a portrait on the wall—a beautiful woman with kind eyes and a serene smile. Kaylee recognized the face instantly— Aunty Long whom she had encountered fifteen years ago during a mission trip in Long Singut.
"My wife was strong, wise, and fiercely protective of our family," Ford continued, his voice tinged with melancholy. "It was her unwavering faith and efforts that helped us weather some of the most challenging times in our lives. To be part of this family, one must possess the same strength and dedication that she had."
Kaylee listened intently, feeling a deep respect for the woman in the portrait and the legacy she had helped create. She understood now why Ford had been so rigorous in his testing of her. This was about more than business or wealth—it was about preserving the values and unity of a family that had been painstakingly built from nothing.
After the delicious dinner and light-hearted conversation, the room settled into a comfortable silence. Ford's demeanor had softened considerably, and a certain warmth in his eyes caught Kaylee off guard—she hadn't seen this side of him before. She sensed he had something more personal to share.
Ford leaned back in his chair, his gaze distant, as if lost in thought. "You know, Kaylee, it's been a long time since I've let anyone get close to this family... or to me, for that matter."
Kaylee listened intently, aware of the significance of the moment.
"When Lefyna—my wife—passed away," Ford continued, his voice thick with sorrow, "something inside me broke. She was the heart of this family, the glue that held us together. Losing her was like losing a part of myself. I didn't know how to carry on... especially for Victor."
He paused, his eyes reflecting old pain. "Victor was only nineteen, barely a man, when she died. He had just emerged from the trauma of the cryogenic chamber, tormented by Lissa Ajang—a girl we thought was Lefyna's savior but turned out to be our worst nightmare. Victor was shattered, not just by his mother's death but by the betrayal and pain inflicted on him. He was so lost, and I... I was lost too."
Kaylee's heart ached as she imagined the weight of that grief and trauma on both father and son.
"I knew I had to do something," Ford continued, his voice stronger now, "but I didn't know how to be the father he needed. So, I made a choice—a difficult one. I pretended not to care. I distanced myself, put on a mask of indifference, all to force Victor to step up, to become the man I knew he could be. It was the hardest thing I've ever done, watching him struggle, knowing he was mourning not just his mother but also the father he thought he'd lost."
Ford's eyes met Kaylee's, the pain and regret clear in his gaze. "I thought it was the only way to push him to take control, to find strength in the darkest of times. And he did. Victor rose from that abyss and built Langford Sdn. Bhd. into what it is today. But in doing so, our relationship suffered. We haven't been close since Lefyna's passing, and I regret that every day."
Kaylee felt a lump in her throat as she listened. The image of the stern, strict Ford was now completely replaced by that of a father who had sacrificed his own relationship with his son to save him. It was both heartbreaking and profoundly moving.
Ford sighed, looking down at his hands. "I know I haven't been the father Victor needed for over a decade, but I want you to know, Kaylee, that I'm here now. I'm still his father, and I'm here for you too. If anything ever happens—if Victor ever hurts you or makes you upset—I want you to know that I'll always have your back. And I can't tell you how relieved and happy I am that he's found you. It's comforting to know he's no longer facing life alone."
Kaylee was deeply touched by Ford's words. Feeling a swell of emotion, she fought to hold back the tears welling up in her eyes. She could see now the immense love he had for Victor, hidden behind years of misunderstood actions. His confession revealed that beneath the tough exterior of a shrewd businessman was a father who had done what he thought was necessary to protect his son, even at the cost of their closeness.
"Mr. Ford..." Kaylee began, her voice soft and filled with emotion. "I can't imagine how difficult that must have been for you... for both of you. But I want you to know, I see the love you have for Victor, and it means the world to me that you've shared this with me."
Ford gave her a small, sad smile, a shadow of the man he had been before pain had taken its toll. "Thank you, Kaylee. It's not easy for me to talk about these things, but you needed to know. You're a part of this family now, and I want you to understand where we've come from."
Kaylee understood the weight of what Ford had just said—he had personally accepted her into the family. She reached out and gently touched Ford's hand, her heart full of compassion and respect. "I promise you, I will take care of Victor and this family. And I promise I'll be here for you too. You're not just Victor's father—you're my family now as well."
Ford looked at her, his eyes moistening slightly as he gave her a nod of deep appreciation. "Thank you, Kaylee. That means more to me than you'll ever know."
In that moment, Kaylee made a silent vow to herself. She would take care of Ford, just as she would take care of Victor. She would love this family, not just because of Victor, but because she had come to understand the depth of their struggles and the strength of their bond.
The room fell silent again, but this time, it was a peaceful silence, filled with mutual understanding and respect. Kaylee felt a warmth in her heart, knowing that she had not only gained Ford's acceptance but had also earned his trust and, in a way, his love.
Ford looked at her with a softened expression, his earlier sternness now replaced with genuine warmth. "Kaylee, I welcome you to our family. But I must also caution you—being with Victor will not be easy. There are responsibilities that come with this name, and not everyone will understand or accept you easily. Especially my daughter, Victoria. She can be... difficult. But I have no doubt that you have the strength and grace to handle whatever challenges may come your way."
Kaylee was surprised to hear about Victoria, as Victor had never mentioned having a younger sister. However, she understood that joining such a family came with its complexities, and she was prepared to face whatever lay ahead.
"I appreciate your honesty, Mr. Ford," she said sincerely. "I'm aware that being with Victor comes with responsibilities and challenges, but I'm committed to walking this path with him, no matter what. I'm ready to meet the family, including Victoria, and to do my best to contribute to the unity and strength of the Langford name."
Ford nodded approvingly, clearly satisfied with her response. "I'm glad to hear that, Kaylee. Victor is a good man, and he will need someone strong by his side. I believe you are that person."
He raised his teacup in a gesture of finality, a toast to the beginning of a new chapter. "To new beginnings, and to the strength of family."
Kaylee raised her cup in response, a small smile playing on her lips. "To new beginnings."
As they sipped their tea, Kaylee felt a deep sense of accomplishment and relief, and she was glad that she stayed true to herself and her values through it all.
As their conversation continued, Ford shared more about the family's history, the challenges they had faced, and the values they held dear. Kaylee listened with interest, feeling increasingly at ease. She knew this was just the beginning of her journey with the Langfords and that more challenges lay ahead. But she was confident in her strength, integrity, and love for Victor, ready to face whatever came her way.
When the conversation drew to a close, Ford stood up, signaling that their meeting was over. "Thank you for coming, Kaylee," he said warmly. "I look forward to seeing how you and Victor build your future together. And remember, you are always welcome here."
Kaylee smiled, feeling a deep sense of gratitude. "Thank you, Mr. Ford. I appreciate your trust and your welcome. I won't let you down."
Ford's face softened. "It's time you start calling me Dad. I'm proud to have such an incredible daughter-in-law."
Kaylee was deeply moved by his words. She knew how significant this gesture was, but she also understood her current place in the family and simply smiled and nodded appreciatively.
Before she could respond further, the heavy door to the home office swung open. Victor rushed in, his face etched with concern. His movement halted abruptly as he saw the warm smiles on both his father's and Kaylee's faces.
So, nothing happened? he wondered, relieved but wary.
Ford's expression shifted to a mock annoyance as he glanced at his son. Despite his feigned irritation, there was a flicker of guilt in his eyes, a remnant of the tough test he had put Kaylee through earlier.
Victor's demeanor returned to calm as he greeted his father with a hint of reluctance. "Dad."
"So protective," Ford scoffed. "Take your wife and go. Don't crowd my space," he said, waving them away with a dismissive hand.
Kaylee smiled, now understanding Ford's way of masking his true feelings with a facade of indifference.
"Victor, have you had your dinner?" Kaylee asked gently, her sincere smile reassuring him.
Victor's tension eased upon seeing that Kaylee was okay. More than half an hour ago, he had received news from Hann that Kaylee had been taken to see his father. Though he had secured Ford's consent to marry Kaylee, he was anxious about how his father would treat her. He just wanted to ensure he was there to support her through any scrutiny.
Just then, Victor's stomach let out a soft growl, his cheeks reddening as he lightly cleared his throat and answered, "Not yet."
Ford rolled his eyes, knowing his son must have been so worried that he had skipped a meal. He rested his hands behind his back and turned to leave the home office. Kaylee and Victor watched him, puzzled by his sudden departure.
As he passed by them, Ford said, "Come with me to the kitchen. I have extra dinner ready."
Kaylee smiled and took Victor's hand, guiding him to follow Ford.
***
The three of them sat at one side of the enormous round dining table, their attention fixed on the meal placed in front of Victor, who sat at the center.
Kaylee had expected that Victor would receive the same aesthetically decorated dinner she had enjoyed with Ford earlier. Instead, what Victor had was a simple, yet decent meal, made with some above-average ingredients. Compared to her sumptuous spread, it seemed relatively bland and unappetizing.
Ford, noticing Kaylee's puzzled expression, cleared his throat and said with an expressionless face, "This was the alternate dinner I prepared in case you failed my test."
So, there was indeed a test for Kaylee! Victor thought, feeling a surge of relief that Kaylee seemed to have passed, whatever the test entailed.
Kaylee felt a mixture of emotions. She was undeniably relieved to have passed Ford's test. Yet, she couldn't shake off a tinge of nervousness and fear, imagining how much worse the situation might have been if she had failed. The contrast between the two meals hinted at a far less favorable reception.
An awkward silence hung in the air for a moment before Victor picked up his utensils and began eating. He tried to remain positive, reminding himself that while his meal was simpler, it was still prepared with care. The food was delicious in its own right, reflecting the skill of the estate's experienced chef.
***
In the car heading back to Kaylee's apartment, she briefly recounted what had transpired at the Langford estate before Victor's arrival. She chose not to go into detail about all the tests she had endured, not wanting to create any additional tension between Victor and his father unnecessarily. Before she got out of the car to say goodnight, she felt the need to share a final thought.
"Victor, your dad really loves you, despite how you might feel about his actions or the way he runs the Langford Group," Kaylee said, her voice sincere.
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