Aurora POV:I managed to slip into the house without being seen by mommother. I was disheveled and my hair was a mess. My mother wasn’t blind or stupid, she could put two plus two together, she’d know that something torrid had been going on. To prevent any uncomfortable questions, i had called to her and then went straight to my room without letting myself be seen.I had washed and cleaned up thoroughly, erasing any sign that could give me away. From there, i went to the kitchen, trying not to let my mind wander to the afternoon. I notice she hadn't made any attempt to cook and rebel since I came late, Then i remembered that I had promised to bring my mother somethe . I groaned inwardly, trying to make up an excuse. I made her a bowl of soup and crackers for supper and carried it to her.“I’m sorry I didn't bring anything back" I began.The older woman grinned. “Never mind that. Soup is fine. You’ve got feathers on your lips, my darling cat,” she chided. “So what’s going on with you
Michael POV:Cal was unusually late, I've been waiting for more than 10 minutes, I knew we are yet to settle our previous spat but nonetheless, it was unlike him to come late when I needed him.I allowed my eyes to drift to the Wooden stools butting up against a brass foot rail at a high counter, crowded tables and booths, patrons (laughing with friends, hitting on strangers, watching a TV affixed to the wall or staring into their drinks), a bartender with rolled-up sleeves freshening drinks and filling orders being delivered by wait staff, stacks of highball glasses in green-gray dishwasher racks, a sink with a sprayer, bags of ice in a tray or sink, draining trays, beer kegs being switched out, straws and stirrers, plastic skewers and straws, blenders whirring with colorful icy concoctions, several multi-button soda dispensers, a wall of alcohol bottles, upside-down stem glasses in racks above the bartender’s head, plastic tubs of lime and lemon wedges, fridges with juices, milk and
Aurora POV:I went to work Monday morning with uncertain feelings. I dreaded and anticipated seeing Mr. Angelo again, both at once. I was in my head but couldn't help but notice the glare that was thrown at me. I kept staring scared the pregnancy was showing in my stomach already, I knew that was stupid but was concerned what the strange looks was for. It was almost like everyone of them knew I did something bad. But technically, it was bad but I'm an adult it's none of their business. I was intentional about my feeling but took nothing away from the anxiety I felt about the stare. It got even worse, Mr. Jordan frowned at me, he didn't even say nothing. He just set on the new herd record and left. I couldn't even dare ask him about the recent developments and my query of the party and why he lied to me. I was rather someone would talk to me about the sombre cloud, no one did.Appollos did. He grinned at me as he paused beside ny desk. “I hear you were out at a guy's named micheal pla
Aurora POV:I kept staring at my phone. I had halfway hoped that i might hear from Michael during the day. After all, we are now lovers. But he didn’t call. It was a disappointment, and my confidence took a nosedive. All my hopes began to drown in doubt. I went through her normal routine, answering the phone and taking messages, and typing letters for Mr. Jordan, whom till now has yet to speak to me. Itwas a normal day. Nothing out of the ordinary. I could have cried from disappointment. But that would be low, even for me. Once, I almost picked up the phone and called his office. But that would never do. I couldn’t look as if i was chasing him. Perhaps he just needed breathing space, in order to get used to the changed relationship between us. Surely, it was just that. I hoped.Towards the end of the day I was feeling dismissal, I wondered maybe he had called between the few times I was outside to do one thing or the other, but my phone showed no missed call notifications. Despite b
Aurora POV:"Till tommorrow then" he said "Sir, one more thing" "What Aurora" "I tried to follow up on my case" I cleared throat "But I discovered the police doesn't have anything about the case, it was said they were shut out and no one was significantly arrested. I have never for once doubted you, but I'd just wished to know what happened"The smile dissapeared from his face and his furrowed back."This is Michael speaking isn't, that asshole put you up to this didn't he""No sir, it isn't ""Anyone can figure it is. After a meeting with him, you start questioning my honesty and integrity. It's simple maths" "Don't let us make it about him, it's about I genuinely curious about what happened. Why does the not police have anything on it. which meant nobody was caught. It's either you have a reasonable explanation or you've been lying to me""That Goddam Michael, that is why I don't want you lurking around him. He'd filled up your head with lies, anything to turn you against me"
Aurora POV:I drove home quietly dejected and lost in thought, my mom was watching her movies when I got in. "Are you fine" she asked "you look worn" "Did I have a visitor" I couldn't help but ask."No dear ... nobody came looking for you."My face fell. I hated myself for pathetically hoping he came to see me physically.She saw my dissapointed look."Were you expecting either of Libby or mabel" "None of them""Then whom" she asked suspicious "Never mind mom, it's nothing""Ok darling""I presume you are not going to the gym today.. you look like you had a quite the day at the office"The gym! I had forgotten about it entirely which was definitely unlike me, but considering what was bugging my mind it was expected. Having a rift with Appollos has put my off it momentarily, I have decided to skip it for a while to avoid akward situations till we settled the unspoken rift, now that we have. I was cool to go again.... but not today I am not in the right mind. "Yes mom""I've skipp
Michael POV: As I stepped out of my car and made my way towards the office, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. It had been five days since I last set foot in the office, and I was eager to dive back into my work.The past few days had been devoid of client meetings, court appearances, and late nights spent pouring over legal briefs.I could see the delight on Mabel and Libby's face , I could not tell they missed my prescence or they were pretending to. Libby had been blowing phone off worried something was wrong with me, when I assured her nothing was wrong and only decided to take a short vacation. I hadn't heard from her since, I presumed she allowed me to have my vacation in peace. "Good morning boss" they chirped "Good morning Mabel, Good morning Libby" Despite my short absence, it felt like so much had changed. The stack of files on my desk had grown, and a new case had landed on my plate. Libby and Mabel had taken a really good care of the offic
Aurora POV:I woke up feeling better, but a bit later than usual, that was expected considerin the time I slept. I had a calm soothing dream that lifted my spirit. I slowly dragged myself out of bed and walked into the livingroom to see my mom was cooking already. She was making a toast. I couldn't argue with that"Good morning mom" "Morning darling" she replied "I wanted to let you rest properly so I didn't wake you" "Thanks, I needed it" I muttered "Settle down, let me serve you a toast" The sudden ringing of the telephone interrupted both of us. I frowned. I was glad I didn't hope it was Micheal, it meant I was finally facing reality. “It’s probably another telemarketer,” mom muttered. “I wish we could afford one of those new answering machines and caller ID" she said for the umpteenth time."I will answer it" I said, while walking to the living room to answer the phone. “Hardy residence,” i said in a light, friendly tone"Aurora" He said It was Michael! I had to catch my b
Epilogue Aurora POV:The warm sunlight filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a soft golden glow on the bedroom walls. I lay in bed, feeling the gentle rhythm of my husband's breathing beside me. It had been a long and arduous journey for us, but today was a day of happiness—a day to cherish the love and resilience that had brought us together.I watched him for a long time, I enjoyed watching him sleep. there was something particularly soothing about watching him sleep.As I stretched my arms above my head, my eyes fell upon the photograph on the nightstand. It captured a moment frozen in time, our wedding day. We got married on a beach in Oregon. It was the most beautiful day of my life. Michael's eyes were filled with unwavering devotion, and I couldn't help but smile at the memory. The vows we exchanged that day held the promise of a lifetime of shared dreams and unbreakable bonds.We had toured the world like he had promised leaving with beautiful memories everywhere we we
Michael POV:As I stood before the graves of my parents and Beatrice, a mix of emotions washed over me. It was the first time I had brought anyone to this sacred place. I watched as she knelt down, her face solemn and filled with respect, paying her respects to the departed souls who had unwilling been absent to shape my life."Who are they?" She askedI was yet to tell her whom they are and name on the graves gave no clues to whom they were. "The first two are my parents and the third is my elder sister" She looked taken aback"I thought you never knew them""I was lucky to find out, with some help of some friends. I wanted you to meet them too"She nodded, her eyes filled with awe. Aurora's voice trembled slightly as she spoke, her words carrying a weight of sincerity and determination. "I promise you, dear parents and sister, that I will take care of Michael. I will be there for him, just as you were. I will cherish him, support him, and love him with all my heart. You have left
Michael POV: The town recieve the news about Calhoun with mixed feelings. The next few days was spent uprooting every corrupt official on Calhoun payroll and his drug warehouse was ruthlessly shut down. It was finally Mark's funeral, I had dreaded this day because of the effects I knew it would have on me.I stood there, my heart heavy with sorrow, as I gazed upon the somber scene before me. The room was filled with mournful whispers and tear-streaked faces, each one reflecting the immense loss we all felt. "Today, we gathered to bid farewell to a dear friend, a courageous soul who had given his life in the line of duty. He was a cop, a protector of the innocent, and his untimely death"The eulogies began, each one a testament to his character and the impact he had made on countless lives. His family, friends, and fellow officers all shared their stories, their voices trembling with a mix of grief and admiration. They spoke of his courage, his selflessness, and his unwavering deter
Aurora POV: It's been days since my search and rescue. I never imagined that freedom could feel so overwhelming. After enduring the horrors of being kidnapped and held captive, the sweet taste of liberation should have been pure bliss. Yet, as I cautiously navigate this newfound freedom, it feels as though the world around me is still holding its breath, afraid to disturb the fragile existence I've fought so hard to regain.The news of my rescue spread like wildfire, and people showered me with words of relief and gratitude. They embraced me with tender hugs, their eyes brimming with tears of joy. But beneath their smiles, I sensed a subtle unease, an unspoken fear of shattering my fragile state of recovery. It's as if they see me as a porcelain doll, easily broken with a single misplaced step.Every interaction now feels calculated, as if everyone around me is walking on tiptoes, afraid to say or do anything that might trigger painful memories or send me spiraling back into the dark
Aurora POV:I stepped into the familiar warmth of Michael's house. He came back to pick me up the next morning after spending considerable time with my mother. He had insisted on staying with him for the time being and my mother was only happy to agree. It is a mix of relief and apprehension flooding my senses. The events of the past few days had been a nightmare, one that had finally released its grip on me. I glanced around, taking in the comforting sights of our living room, but the shadows of the ordeal still lingered in every corner.Michael stood beside me, his eyes filled with a mix of worry, love, and a determination to keep me safe. I understood his concerns; after all, I had been taken away from him against my will. But as much as I craved his protective presence, I also longed for a sense of normalcy and the freedom to heal at my own pace.Michael furry companions who seems to have been waiting anxiously for my return, approached cautiously, sniffing the air with curiosity
Michael POV:As I walked Mr. Eyre and Jane to the airport, the weight of sadness enveloped us, casting a somber atmosphere over our conversation. The news of Calhoun, being responsible for his daughter's death had left us both of them speechless and devastated.Jane walked in front while Mr. Eyre and I walked behind her."I can't believe it, Michael," Mr. Eyre whispered, his voice trembling with disbelief and pain. "How could someone commit such a heinous act? I can't wrap my mind around it."His words echoed the thoughts that swirled in my own mind. I struggled to find an answer, my voice choked with emotions. "I don't know, Mr. Eyre," I managed to say, my voice laced with sorrow. "We continued walking through the airport, the surroundings a blur as our conversation grew heavier with regret and guilt."I blame myself, Mr. Eyre " I confessed, "I can't help but wonder if there were signs I missed, if I could have protected her somehow. And to think I have wined and dined with her kill
Aurora POV:I stood there, watching the flames dance and devour the remnants of the cloth I had worn during my unimaginable ordeal. The crackling fire illuminated the night, casting a warm glow upon my face as i gathered around its flickering embrace. The crackling of the flames seemed to echo the tumultuous journey I had endured, a journey that had tested my spirit to its very limits."Aurora" My mother called, I turned to see her creeping on me. I saw glint of sadness in her eyes, when she saw what I was burning. What was suppose to represent a joyous day, now represents a traumatizing experience, it's existence needed to be erased."Libby and Mabel are here to see you. Should they wait for you in the Living room""Let them join me in the backyard" I replied softly "Ok dear" I heard their footsteps few seconds later, before Libby reached out and gently touched my shoulder. "We came as soon as your mother called you are back" Her voice trembled with emotion as she spoke, "We miss
Michael POV:"Are you okay, Aurora? I'm here now, everything is fine now" I held her tightly like someone would try to steal her from my hand againHer tear glands finally gave in to the waterworks. "I was so scared" she said choking on her own words. "I thought I was not going to see you again""Then I had Mark died in my arms, I watched him died, life sucking out of him slowly. Then I had to stare at his dead body for hours""You are fine now"I patted and rocked her body like one would a baby. It felt soothing to have her in my arms again. My heart races in my chest, adrenaline still coursing through my veins as I hold her tightly in my arms. We've just escaped from the clutches of danger, and the relief surges through me like a tidal wave. I can feel her trembling against me, her breath coming in short gasps, and I know she's just as shaken as I am. As I look into her eyes, gratitude and love swirl in the depths of my being. The thought of losing her, of never seeing that radian
Aurora POV: I sat resting on the wall while staring into the oblivion. I sit here, trapped in this cold, desolate room, my spirit drained and my body weary. The flickering overhead light casts eerie shadows on the peeling walls, reflecting the dismal state of my existence. My mind is numb, and my once fiery gaze has dulled into a vacant stare.Hope, once a flickering flame within me, has been extinguished. Not the long for my mother's smile and Michael touch could rekindle the hope. It has been replaced by a resignation, a surrender to the cruel fate that has befallen me. The days and nights blend together, a blur of monotony and fear. I have lost track of time, as each passing moment feels like an eternity.Calhoun intentions are unclear, his motives shrouded in darkness. If he wanted to kill me he should have already. All I know is that he holds complete control over my life, and I am at his mercy. The uncertainty gnaws at me, devouring any remnants of strength I have left. I wonde