His Destructive, Toxic Love

On the day of Eliza's surgery, Caroline showed up at the hospital to check on her. She wasn't alone-she had a man with her, dressed sharply in a tailored suit that exuded an effortless air of sophistication. He was tall and handsome, with a gentle, refined demeanor that made him stand out.

"I want you to meet my boyfriend, Luke," Caroline said, pulling Luke's hand gently towards Casper. "This is my brother, Casper."

Luke extended his hand to Casper with a warm smile. "Nice to meet you. Looking forward to getting to know you better." "Likewise," Casper replied, shaking his hand. He then glanced over at Dillon, who stood there as calm and composed as ever. "Caroline, I heard Caleb is doing Eliza's surgery. Do you think he's got it under control?" Caroline's voice carried a thread of concern. Casper wasn't entirely sure, but he trusted Caleb's skills. "I believe in him."

"So, will Eliza wake up after the surgery?" Caroline asked hopefully.

"It's hard to say," Casper replied, trying to manage her expectations. "If she does, it would be a miracle."

Caroline had planned to stay with Casper until the surgery was over, but her phone kept ringing with work calls. She sighed, clearly frustrated. "I have to get back to the office. If anything happens, call me," she said. "Don't worry, I've got it covered here," Casper assured her.

"I'll go start the car," Luke said, heading out first.

Caroline was about to leave when Casper stopped her. "Are you serious this time?"

"About what?" she asked, looking confused.

"I mean, with Mr. Song," Casper clarified.

Caroline gave a wry smile. "I'm in my thirties now. If I don't get serious, I'll end up alone. What, do you want me to be a spinster forever?"

Casper shook his head. "That's not what I meant."

He glanced at Dillon, then lowered his voice. "You and Dillon..."

"What about us? Is he even in my league? He's just an assistant. What could he possibly offer me? I'm not interested," Caroline said, her voice just loud enough for Dillon to hear. Dillon's face fell slightly at her words.

"I'm leaving now," Caroline said, not sparing Dillon another glance.

Once she was out of earshot, Casper turned to Dillon and unexpectedly punched him in the chest. "Useless."

Dillon looked completely bewildered, instinctively covering his chest. "Mr. Casper, what did I do?"

"Caroline has a boyfriend now, and it's not you. Doesn't that make you feel useless?" Casper said, shaking his head in disappointment.

Dillon's eyes dropped, a mix of self-mockery and bitterness flickering in them. "Mr. Casper, you're joking. What status do I have? How could I possibly be worthy of Ms. Caroline? You're overestimating me.

"It's not about being worthy. I just thought you had strengths in other areas," Casper said, looking at Dillon's confused face.

Seeing Dillon's baffled expression,

Casper cleared his throat. "Look, you

come from a prestigious family.

Even though you've chosen to follow me, your grandfather's influence is still there. If you want to make something of yourself, it's not impossible. I could even help you." Property © of NôvelDrama.Org.

Dillon had never considered striking out on his own. His mother had passed away early, and his uncles on his grandfather's side were

him Even though his grandfather adored him, the rest of the family kept their distance.

domineering, never fully accepti net

After reaching adulthood, Dillon had been by Casper's side for many years and had grown accustomed to this way of life.