Kaylee's expression brightened at the mention of her future sister-in-law. "Victoria? Really? How did that go?"
Joyce hesitated for a moment, carefully choosing her words. "It was... surprising. She told me something I wasn't expecting. She opened up to me about her... orientation. She's attracted to women." Joyce looked at Kaylee, unsure of how she would react but not wanting to hide the truth.
Kaylee's eyes widened slightly, but her expression remained gentle and thoughtful. She let the revelation sink in, absorbing its weight. "I see," she said quietly, her tone neither shocked nor judgmental. "That must have been a lot for her to share."
Joyce nodded. "It was. I didn't know what to say, but I just... I didn't want to make her feel judged."
Kaylee's face softened even more, her compassion evident. "You did the right thing, Joyce. It's not our place to judge. God is the only one who truly knows each person's heart. Truly, God has called us all to live a holy life—that's the most important and primary, but I also believe that God has taught us to love—just as Christ loves us, unconditionally. Victoria is still Victor's sister, and she's going to be a part of my family. No matter her personal choices, I want to love her. Not because I agree or disagree with her life but because that's what we're called to do."
Joyce felt a wave of relief wash over her at Kaylee's response. It wasn't often she found people who responded with such grace and understanding. "You're right," she said softly. "That's the kind of love she needs."
Kaylee nodded, her voice steady, her conviction clear. "It's the kind of love we all need, Joyce. None of us are perfect, and that's why we lean on God's grace. I want Victoria to know that she's loved, no matter what. I'll leave the rest in God's hands."
The two friends sat quietly for a moment, the weight of the conversation settling into something peaceful, something grounded in faith and love. In that stillness, Joyce realized that perhaps the same grace Kaylee was extending to Victoria was what she needed to give to herself—and Hann, too. Grace that allowed room for healing, growth, and trusting God with the things they couldn't control.
For the first time in a long time, Joyce felt like she could take that step forward, one day at a time.
***
Later that evening, when the sun was dipping below the horizon, Kaylee and Victor were enjoying a quiet moment together in her apartment after a simple home-cooked dinner. The living room was dimly lit, casting a soft glow over them, and the scent of jasmine wafted through the twilight air. Kaylee felt at peace, but her mind was still processing her earlier conversation with Joyce. She sat beside Victor on the couch, her hand resting in his, their fingers loosely intertwined.
"Victor," she began softly, "I met Joyce earlier today. She's back from Geoje."
Victor's posture relaxed slightly, and a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips, recalling Hann's silly grin from the previous day since he met Joyce in the office.
Kaylee's smile widened at the sight. "You knew about her and Hann?" And before Victor answered, she thought of something and her eyes were wider with a little surprise, wondering, "Wait... the Langford headquarters knew about them?"
Victor chuckled and nodded. "Yeah, it's hard not to know when Langford's famous Mr. Hann Louis hugged the daughter of Robert Chee in the lobby on a busy Monday morning."
Now this detail surprised Kaylee more. "That's... progressing faster than I thought." Nonetheless, deep in her heart she felt a quiet joy, happy for her good friend. She knew Hann could be someone trustworthy if he were truly serious about being with Joyce.
"You had something to do with that, didn't you?" Kaylee teased, recalling Victor's 'punishment' that led to Joyce and Hann's fateful dinner.
Victor looked all puffed up, like he was so proud of his doing, and would gladly accept some sort of praise or reward from Kaylee now for a job well done.
Kaylee laughed at his expression and playfully slapped his hand.
This President Victor and his childish side!
But then something else brought her amusement to a more serious tone. "By the way, she told me that she met Victoria in Geoje too."
Victor's wide smile cooled into a more subdued expression, one that didn't quite reach his eyes. He turned his gaze toward Kaylee, attentively waiting for what she would say next.
"So... she mentioned something about Victoria." Kaylee paused, trying to find the right words, the best way to share what she had heard. She had no intention of speaking poorly of Victoria or her orientation, which she had just learned through Joyce. Instead, she genuinely wanted to care for her future sister-in-law, believing that understanding her better could help.
Victor's hand tightened slightly around hers. He looked away for a moment, as if contemplating how to respond, before meeting her gaze again.
"I know what you're going to ask. And yes, Victoria... she's different. Always has been. What you heard, it's true. She's not living the kind of life people expect, especially from someone in our family."
Kaylee remained silent, watching the struggle in Victor's expression as he spoke about his sister for the first time. The fact that he hadn't mentioned her before, leaving it to his father Ford and Joyce, told Kaylee there was more he was withholding. His hesitation was obvious, but she didn't push him. Instead, she allowed him the space to share what he was ready to, in his own time.
After a moment, she spoke softly, "I see. It's not easy to hear, but... it doesn't change how I feel about her. She's family, Victor. And no matter what, I'll love her just the same."
Victor looked at her, and for a split second, it was as if he were staring into the eyes of his late mother, Long Lefyna Lee. The same mix of pain, compassion, and unwavering love for Victoria filled Kaylee's eyes. That unconditional acceptance for Victoria, as a person, as a member of this family, as an equally loved child of God.
How he missed his mother. And how profoundly blessed he felt to have Kaylee in his life...
Victor was visibly moved by her words, but beneath his gratitude, something heavier lingered.
"You have no idea how much it means to me to hear you say that," he began, his voice slow and deliberate. "But Kaylee, there are things about Victoria, and our family, that I haven't told you yet."
Kaylee frowned slightly, sensing there was much more to the story. Victor expected Kaylee might have questions in her mind, but now wasn't the right time to reveal everything. Not until he could be sure she would be safe.
He exhaled deeply, his thumb brushing gently against the back of her hand—a nervous gesture she had come to recognize. "Victoria's role in the family isn't just as my sister or another Langford sibling. She's part of something... bigger, alongside me. Something my dad has been working on for years, something my mom was part of, too. Me too. I'm not just the President of Langford that the world sees."
Kaylee's heart quickened. "What do you mean by 'something bigger'?"
Victor hesitated before continuing. "She's been groomed for a role within the Langford legacy that goes far beyond the public image. You know how my dad is—he has dedicated his entire life to protecting and growing the Langford legacy he built with my mom. But it's so much more complicated than what people see on the surface. The Langford Group isn't just about business or status."
His voice lowered, as if revealing a secret too heavy to fully express.
"But over the years, because of the choices she's made, my dad realized that while Victoria is brilliant, she might not have what it takes to fulfill that role. And when he met you, Kaylee..." Victor's gaze softened, his grip tightening around her hand as though to ground her. "He began to believe that you might be the one—the missing piece."
Kaylee's confusion was immediate. "Me? But I'm not even a Langford. What responsibility could I possibly contribute?" she whispered, almost to herself.
So many thoughts swirled through her, too many to organize. She had expected that marrying into the Langford family would come with challenges, but this level of secrecy was far beyond what she had imagined.
Victor gently squeezed her hand. "My dad hasn't told me everything. But what I believe—your greatest role in this family—is to simply be your true, whole self. Never lose that, not even if I fail, or if anyone else in the Langford family does."
Victor's voice carried a weight of guilt, knowing he had placed such a burden on her with this revelation. He looked into her eyes with sincerity, his hands now steady on her arms. "I've held back because I want to protect you. The less you know right now, the safer you'll be. Even Victoria's existence isn't known outside the Langford family."
Kaylee took a slow breath, trying to process the gravity of what Victor had revealed. She had always sensed there was more beneath the surface of the Langford empire, but this... this was beyond what she could have imagined.
"Whatever it is, I trust you," she finally said, though the words felt heavier than before. "But, Victor... don't shut me out. I'm here with you. We're in this together."
Victor nodded, pulling her into a comforting embrace, though it seemed to comfort him as much as it did her. "I know," he whispered. "I promise, the Langford family isn't doing anything unrighteous. When the time is right, you'll know everything. For now, just stay by my side. That's all I need."
His vulnerability tugged at her heart, and she reached around him, holding him tightly. The room fell into silence, broken only by the ticking of the clock. Kaylee rested her head on his shoulder, hoping that one day, whatever burden he carried, he would let her share it.
Victor gently pulled back, his expression more serious. "My dad's plans are changing, and while Victoria doesn't know everything, she senses that you might now play a part in the Langford legacy. And that's not easy for her to accept. I think she's planning something for you at my mom's Memorial Day."
A chill ran through Kaylee, her eyes widening in shock. "Why would she see me as a threat?"
Victor gave a small smile, trying to ease her worry. "Don't worry. Victoria's kind, deep down. I don't know what she's planning, but whatever it is, I won't let it hurt you. Not your dignity. Not you."
Kaylee's tension eased slightly, though her mind was still racing. Victor took her hand again, reassuring her. "Just be yourself. I have no doubt you'll handle it with grace. I've got your back, okay?"
Kaylee exhaled, looking at their hands. "Okay. I'll do what I can, and leave the rest to God."
Victor chuckled softly at Kaylee's expression of resignation. He knew how hard it must have been for her to digest everything.
"Hey... I'm sorry to put this on you. But I know we'll make it through. Together."
Kaylee smiled softly, feeling his comfort and the strength of her faith rising within her. Yes, they would make it—because if Christ was for them, no weapon formed against them would prosper.
When she finally saw Victor off at her apartment entrance, she knew in her heart that she was ready to join the Langford family, mysterious as they were, with all the challenges and secrets that awaited her.
***
The week in Kuching passed in a blur of activity. The groundwork for the Langford Cultural Center, which Victor and Kaylee had been working on, was nearly complete. Renovations at St. Thomas Cathedral were progressing even better than expected, and everything seemed to be falling into place. As Sabbath began on Friday evening, Kaylee retreated to her room, worshiping the Lord in spirit and truth. She poured out her struggles, fears, and desires, trusting them all to Him.
Wrapped in soft pink homewear, her hair still damp, Kaylee knelt beside her bed. She took a long, silent moment, allowing her heart and mind to settle in God's presence.
"Abba Father in heaven, how You have loved me. I praise You for Your sovereignty in my life, and I glorify You. Thank You for the precious salvation You've graciously given me through Your Son, Jesus Christ."
She paused briefly before continuing. "Holy Spirit, I ask You to pray over me, through me, and in me. Bring to my mind anything I need to repent of. Forgive me for grieving You in any way—known or unknown. Lord, I repent and ask Your forgiveness for every rebellious thought or deed that dishonored You, Jesus. Purify me, Holy Spirit, and fill my heart again. I celebrate my salvation, healing, deliverance, and forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ."
After a deliberate pause, she poured out her heart further. "Father, I feel so loved and so happy, especially since You brought Victor into my life. I never imagined how much I needed him. Thank You for keeping us pure, even when it's been hard. I can't wait to pledge my vows and become his wife on our wedding day—to be fully his, in Your witness, with Your blessing. Show me Your will, Lord, and let me abide in You."
A smile of joy touched her lips as she thought of her future with Victor. But then, her thoughts shifted to Victoria, and her expression became more serious.
"Holy Spirit, grant me wisdom and teach me to love Victoria the way You love her, just as You love me despite my own mistakes. I ask for Your favor tomorrow. Help me not be defensive, proud, or arrogant. Give me a humble heart and guard my mind from unrighteous thoughts and doubts. Let me be truly present at Aunty Long's Memorial Day, no matter what awaits. I ask that You soften Victoria's heart to accept me as I am. Help us encourage and edify each other as family, according to Your will."
Her thoughts turned to her parents, Stone and Amethyst, who were traveling back to Kuching tonight. "I lift Pa and Ma into Your mighty hands. Surround them with Your angels on their journey and bring them safely here. I pray all this in Jesus Christ's most powerful and faithful name, amen."
She remained by her bedside, her Bible open before her, as she immersed herself in John 15. Her heart, now filled with the peace of Christ, was ready for tomorrow. Let God's will be done.
***
The Langford estate was steeped in quiet reverence as guests began to gather for Long Lefyna's Memorial Day. The grand hall, bathed in soft candlelight and adorned with flowers, felt both sacred and imposing. Every detail was meticulously orchestrated, as one would expect from the Langford family. Long Lefyna had been the heart of this household, and today, her legacy would be honored.
For Kaylee, this day was a delicate balance—honoring a woman she had quietly admired while navigating whatever scheme Victoria might have prepared for her. Standing by Victor's side, Kaylee felt the weight of the room's attention. It was her first official appearance at a Langford family event since the headlines about her and Victor at the charity auction and the launch of the Langford Conference Center. Here, among the family members seated in front, she was an outsider, a fact that pressed down on her with each glance cast her way.
Victor was soon called away to handle a last-minute detail for his mother's memorial service, leaving Kaylee alone. The watchful eyes of many followed her, particularly that of Victoria Langford.
Dressed in a perfectly tailored black dress, Victoria exuded elegance and authority, but there was something unsettling about her. Her smile, sharp as a blade, was directed squarely at Kaylee. Beneath the solemnity of the event, tension simmered. Victoria, with her calculating gaze and subtle smirks, clearly had something planned to throw Kaylee off balance.
Kaylee felt the weight of Victoria's scrutiny but didn't flinch. From the moment she arrived, she had sensed a test was coming—the whispers, the lingering stares. Confrontation was not what she wanted, but it seemed inevitable.
The hall filled with the low murmur of voices and the gentle clink of glass. Kaylee's gaze drifted to her parents, Stone and Amethyst, sitting at the back. Their presence was a source of quiet strength. Stone exchanged a brief nod with Ford, his old high school friend turned soon-to-be in-law. Kaylee's parents, too, were here to pay respects to Madam Long Lefyna, whom they had known for her remarkable service to God. They understood the dynamics of the situation but trusted Kaylee to handle it.
Kaylee inhaled deeply, her fingers tracing the hem of her dress. Something was coming—Victoria's glinting eyes promised that. And without Victor at her side, the pressure was mounting.
At last, a soft "tink, tink" echoed through the room as Victoria stepped into the center, commanding attention.
"As we remember our beloved mother, Long Lefyna, it's tradition to honor her each year with a memory she left behind." Victoria gestured toward the intricately designed heirloom displayed prominently on the center table. "This year, we honor her with her favorite piece—her white jade crown pendant. Each family member will come forward and share a memory of what it meant to Mother—her strength, her wisdom, her love. These are the values we celebrate today."
Her voice was graceful, but there was a razor-sharp edge to it. As she spoke, Victoria's eyes flickered toward Kaylee, a slight narrowing that didn't go unnoticed. Then she smiled at the gathering and gestured for the tradition to begin.
One by one, family members approached the table, each recounting stories of how the pendant symbolized Long Lefyna's strength and wisdom. The tension in the room increased with each story. Kaylee's turn was approaching, and the weight of expectation grew unbearable. Everyone waited for the moment when the outsider would be forced to speak—a moment many assumed would end in embarrassment.
More than ten memories had been shared by now. Some stories overlapped, while others offered unique insights. Yet, the room buzzed with curiosity: What could Miss Stone, an outsider to Langford traditions, possibly say? Many in the audience were already cringing on her behalf, secretly hoping she would spare herself the humiliation of trying to improvise a connection to the family's sacred traditions.
Victor had not returned yet. Aside from him and Ford—who would speak last as the family patriarch—Kaylee was the only one at the front family table who hadn't yet taken her turn.
Kaylee was in an impossible situation. If she stepped forward to share, some would see her as presumptuous, assuming she was already part of the family. If she stayed seated, others would perceive her as disrespectful, ignoring the family tradition and dishonoring Long Lefyna's memory.
Victoria watched with quiet satisfaction, anticipating Kaylee's discomfort. But Kaylee remained composed, respectful in her silence, refusing to rush or show signs of anxiety. Deep down, she was praying—asking God for guidance, for favor, for His presence to lead her through this moment.
Victoria, noticing Kaylee's surprising calm, felt her plan slipping. She needed to act. Stepping forward again, she smiled—a small, victorious smile.
"Thank you for all the meaningful memories shared so far," Victoria said, her voice smooth. "And of course, we would love to hear from those who, while not family by blood, were touched by Mother's life." She turned, her gaze landing squarely on Kaylee. "Miss Kaylee Stone, I'm sure you have something to share with us."
The room went silent. All eyes turned toward Kaylee.
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