My Tyrant Husband Blackmailed Me To Stay

At fifteen, Elaina Reyes first met Grant Wheeler at a family gathering...

The Reyes family was well-known, a venerable business dynasty with a sterling reputation through generations. Mention their three children, and everyone would nod in admiration.

Unlike other privileged heirs who wasted their wealth, the Reyes children were all extraordinary. Elaina had two brothers: an older half-brother and a twin brother. All three were shining examples of virtue and excellence, both in character and achievement, leaving no room for criticism.

At that time, the Reyes family was at its peak, a prominent force in Seattle’s business circles.

Spring had arrived with its pleasant breezes and blossoming landscapes—ideal for outdoor gatherings. It was Natalia Meyer’s birthday, and she hosted a morning brunch. From 9 a.m. onwards, guests steadily arrived.

To everyone’s surprise, an especially distinguished guest appeared—the lady of the renowned Wheeler family. The Wheelers were in a league of their own among elite circles. As global business magnates based in Geneva, they dominated industries from entertainment to electronics, controlling significant economic chains.

Linda Spencer, the Wheeler matriarch, was a formidable figure, unlike the usual society women, and rarely attended social gatherings. Furthermore, Linda wasn’t fluent in English and usually couldn’t keep up with conversations with these American ladies. Today was an exception. The weather was beautiful, and Linda, accompanied by another businessman's wife who helped with translations, joined the gathering.

Natalia warmly welcomed Linda, guiding her to a prime seat. They exchanged polite greetings, though Linda mostly conversed with the Swiss translator by her side, maintaining a gentle smile.

In the semi-open hall, one could enjoy the vibrant outdoor scenery from every angle—the lush grass and chirping birds painting a picture of springtime beauty. From a distant pavilion, the melodious sound of a piano could be heard.

The Swiss woman glanced over and introduced, "The one playing the piano is the Reyes' daughter—only fifteen."

"Fifteen?" Linda’s eyes lingered, taking a closer look.

From afar, she could see just Elaina's profile—a graceful and poised image. Her hair was loosely tied back, showcasing a lovely jawline and swan-like neck, with a straight posture and an air of elegant composure. Listening to her play and observing her demeanor, it was hard to believe this was a fifteen-year-old girl.

Meanwhile, three children around six or seven were playing energetically on the lawn with toy water guns. Swept up in their play, they didn’t notice Elaina nearby and accidentally sprayed her with water, drenching her from head to shoulder and splashing the piano.

Startled by the unexpected splash, Elaina was taken aback.

A nanny hurried over, apologizing profusely, "I'm so sorry, Miss. It was my fault. I’m really sorry!"

Elaina gently reassured her it was alright as she took a napkin to dry her face and wiped the water off the piano. Kind-hearted by nature, she didn’t get upset, even though she was soaked. Smiling, she spoke with the children, asking if they were hungry, and led them to wash their hands and have cake, leaving the little guests in high spirits.

Elaina returned to her room upstairs to change into a fresh outfit. Coming back down, she brought a platter of fruit to share with the guests.

This time, at close proximity, Linda took a good look at her.

Beautiful, truly beautiful! From afar, she had an elegant grace; up close, she was charming and delicate.

Elaina stood tall for her age, already reaching 5'5". Her features retained a youthful innocence, with a slightly round face and the hint of youthful softness, suggesting a budding beauty.

Without makeup, her natural beauty shone through, pure and unadorned. Naturally reserved, Elaina greeted the guests politely before quietly stepping out.

The ladies continued to chat, endlessly praising her. It wasn’t flattery—Elaina was genuinely outstanding! Among her peers, she was unmatched.

She excelled in arts and academics, fluent in multiple languages, skilled in singing and dancing, and proficient in various musical instruments. Particularly impressive was her piano skill—she mastered it by nine and by fourteen, had won first prize in an international youth competition. The prestigious Curtis Institute of Music extended her a special invitation.

Yet, Elaina chose not to attend, preferring to stay close to her family in Seattle. The Reyes family cherished their precious daughter too much to send her so far away to the U.S.

It was the epitome of indulgence, wasn’t it? Raising a daughter for happiness, not expecting her to battle for accolades or earn an income, just enjoying music for its sheer joy—why send her so far?

Elaina was exceptional, not just in looks and talent, but her temperament was incredibly kind and dutiful. She always cared deeply for her grandparents and parents, a warm-hearted angel to everyone...

The Swiss woman spoke enthusiastically, clearly well-informed because her daughter was Elaina’s classmate. Comparing her "angelic daughter" to her own "rebellious daughter," she expressed envy and admiration with a touch of humor.

Linda listened patiently, nodding in agreement throughout. The more she listened, the more an idea took root in her mind...

The day was slightly overcast, and the sun wasn’t too harsh. Elaina carried a plate of pastries across the lawn to the shade under the trees.

“Grandpa, time for some treats,” she called lovingly.

An elderly man with silver hair sat in a wheelchair, his gaze wandering. He suffered from Alzheimer’s and had recently become quite confused, often unable to recognize people. Elaina gently fed him with a spoon, coaxing, “Just a taste, have a little. One bite, just one…”

“Not good!”

“Yes, no sugar, remember? Because of your blood sugar… one more bite. It’s your daughter’s birthday today, and she’s busy with guests.”

“Don’t want it.”

“Grandpa, want to hear about Arthurian legends? Finish this slice, and I’ll read to you. The tales of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, how thrilling! And there’s the battle of Camelot, the adventures of Sir Lancelot, and Merlin's magic…”

Caring for the elderly wasn’t easy, but with gentle persuasion and little tricks, she eventually managed to feed him all the pastries.

Under the shade, the leaves swayed, casting a delicate pattern of light and shadow on the ground.

Elaina nestled beside the wheelchair, her pale summer dress cascading onto the lawn, pure and immaculate, like a water lily kissed by morning dew. She held a copy of "Arthurian Legends," reading quietly to her grandfather, unaware someone had been watching her for a while.

* * *

Choosing a daughter-in-law for the Wheeler family was a discerning task, known for its high standards. Yet, after just one meeting, Linda Spencer was taken with Elaina Reyes.

In the Wheeler family, the three key figures—Mr. Wheeler, Linda, and Grant—shared a strong, demanding nature and an infamous temper. Therefore, in selecting a daughter-in-law, Linda rejected anyone similar—overbearing, spoiled, temperamental, or troublesome... No! No, no, no!

She hoped for a gentle daughter-in-law who wouldn’t argue with her son. Someone beautiful, pure, understanding, cultured, kind, considerate, and capable of caring for others…

All these qualities Linda wished for seemed perfectly embodied in Elaina upon meeting her. It was fate!