Leila raced towards her burning house, with Hayley running behind her. The fire was increasing as the minutes passed by."Leila, please be careful." Hayley called out behind her.Leila stopped in front of her burning house. Just as she was about to walk into the burning fire, she heard Hayley's scream.Turning back, she saw a masked figure dragging Hayley, and trying to cover her nose with a sedated Handkerchief.Where are all their neighbors? Why wasn't anyone helping? Leila wondered. The sky was dark.She remembered her Grandma telling her to come back before nightfall.She glanced at her burning house and at Hayley who was actively struggling with the person who was dragging her. "Help!" Leila screamed, her cries echoing in the night as she watched helplessly, torn between her desire to save her grandmother and her concern for her friend.She decided to help Hayley first, who was now trying to pull herself out of the Unknown's dead grip. Just as she took a step forward, she felt a
When the time for the interview arrived, Vanessa and Riccardo found themselves inside a room at Riccardo's company, as the makeup artist put the final touches on Vanessa's face. She watched out of the corner of her eye as the assistant helped Riccardo straighten his shirt, noting that, as usual, he wasn't wearing a tie. But she refused to really look at him. Just as he glanced in her direction, she quickly diverted her gaze.Soon, the workers finished their tasks and left, leaving just Vanessa and Riccardo in the room. They sat opposite each other, with Vanessa doing everything she could to avoid his gaze.Riccardo, however, couldn't take his eyes off her. He had something on his mind, but he wasn't sure if now was the right time to bring it up. The Vanessa he was looking at now was the same Vanessa he had known years ago, not trying to act strong, just doing her best to avoid his gaze."Vanessa," he called out calmly, his brows furrowing slightly as he wondered if she would respond.
The interviewer was now solely focused on Mr. Rodriguez while Vanessa glanced at Riccardo. He looked as if he had just seen a ghost and Vanessa scoffed."Mr. Gonzalez." She waved her hands in front of his face."Are you Okay?" She asked, a hint of amusement dancing in her eyes.Riccardo snapped out of his thoughts. "I'm Fine." He replied, glancing at her.After the interview, Vanessa walked out with her father, who didn't bother to spare Riccardo a glance. Riccardo was left seating and staring at Vanessa's beautiful retreating figure."Mr. Gonzalez. It's time to leave." His PA said to him. Riccardo hadn't even noticed when he walked in. He stood up sluggishly and followed him out of the hall.***As Vanessa and her dad settled inside their Car, her father turned his focus towards her. "You're free for today right?" He asked."Yes. Are you going with me to see my kids?" She asked, a small smile plastered on her face."Sure." He returned the smile."Great. They'll be so excited to see y
Vanessa dropped the paper inside her drawer. Picking up her phone, she dialed Lily's number."Hello, Vanessa." Lily said, as she picked up after the second ring."Hey. Do you know any Amusement Parks around? Where I can take my kids to, without the eyes of the media around?" She asked."Yes. I heard about one. It's owned by one of the influential men in America. Reporters are not allowed there. It's highly secure." Lily informed."Are you sure about that?" Vanessa asked, scratching her forehead in thoughts."Yes, I am.""Alright. Book a reservation for three tomorrow." Vanessa instructed Calmly."Okay. I'll inform you when I do.""Thank you." Vanessa hung up and went to take her bath.When she entered to the living room, she met her kids sleeping on her Dad's lap while he patted their hair gently. She smiled at the gesture."Dad." She whispered, walking towards the couch where he sat.Her Dad turned his head slightly."You're here, Dear." He said.Vanessa nodded her head while standin
Vanessa's heart pounded in her chest as she turned to face him. For a moment, the world around her seemed to blur, leaving only the familiar, kind face of Riccardo's grandfather in focus. He looked older than she remembered, but his warm eyes and gentle smile were the same."Grandpa," Vanessa breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.He took a few steps closer, his cane tapping lightly on the ground. "Vanessa, my dear," he said, his voice filled with affection. "It’s been too long."Vanessa swallowed hard, fighting back the urge to cry. "I didn’t expect to see you here," she said, her voice wavering. "How have you been?""I could ask you the same," he replied, his eyes searching her face. "But first, come here. Let me take a good look at you."Without hesitation, Vanessa closed the distance between them, feeling a lump in her throat as he gently placed his hand on her shoulder. "You’ve always been like a granddaughter to me," he said softly. "And I’ve missed you.""I’ve missed you t
The cool evening air of New York City welcomed Juliet as she walked down the airplane stairs. Despite her mixed emotions, her steps were steady, echoing against the ground beneath her. She took a deep breath, allowing the city's lively spirit to fill her, as she prepared for the challenges ahead. She continued forward.It's been five years since some tragic events made her leave the country.But now she was back, and she planned to stay here after the burial of her father.She didn't plan on leaving sadly this time around. She'll fight for her happiness, whatever it takes after all, she had nothing else to loose. All her loved ones were already gone."You're the driver right?" She asked a middle aged man, as she stood in front of the black car. She recognized it as the one she booked online."Yes Ma'am" he nodded. "Let me help you with your bag" he walked over to her side as he put her luggages inside the boot of the car. The cool air was still hitting her across her face gently.She
As Juliet pushed the door open, her gaze fell upon a terrifying scene, a man, his hands wrapped around the lifeless legs of a woman, shoving her body beneath the bed. The grim scene left little doubt, he had taken her life and was now attempting to conceal the evidence.His head snapped up, eyes locking onto Juliet's and she found herself face to face with a cold, merciless expression that seemed to freeze the blood in her veins. Panicked, she spun around, desperate to escape the horror she had just witnessed. She needed to flee this room, to leave behind any trace of the nightmare unfolding before her.Before she could reach the safety of the doorway, a strong hand grasped her arm roughly, jerking her backwards. The door slammed shut with a resounding thud, and her back collided with the solid wood, forcing the breath from her lungs. His arms rose, caging her between his muscular forearms that pinned her against the unyielding surface.His eyes, filled with a darkness that made her s
Leila's eyes fluttered open slowly, the remnants of her dream, still clinging onto her consciousness. She felt disoriented, her surroundings seemed Blur.But as her vision cleared, the stark reality of her situation came crashing down around her like a tidal wave. She wasn't in her room, she was in a hospital bed, surrounded by sterile white walls and the quiet hum of medical equipment.Panic surged through her, making her heart race in her chest as she struggled to make sense out of what was happening.How had she ended up here? And more importantly, was she okay?"I'll go get the doctor," a voice broke through her thoughts, drawing Leila's attention to the figure standing by her bedside. It was a nurse, she realized, her voice calm and reassuring despite the urgency in her tone.Leila nodded weakly, her throat dry and scratchy as she tried to form words. "Thank you," she managed to croak out, her voice barely above a whisper.With a gentle smile, the nurse disappeared from view, lea
Vanessa pushed her chair back slightly and turned to her kids. “Emma, Ethan, how’s the food?”Ethan, with his mouth full of bread, gave her a thumbs up, while Emma nodded enthusiastically. “Grandma’s food is the best!” she declared, grinning at their grandmother, who beamed with pride.Vanessa chuckled softly, shaking her head. The warmth in the room was almost enough to make her forget her troubles. Almost.Her mother sat down, smoothing her apron as she did. “Vanessa, are you staying long this time?”Vanessa hesitated, her fork hovering over her plate. “No. I have a lot things to take care of." She replied with a small sigh.Her mother studied her for a moment, her sharp eyes catching the tension in her daughter’s posture. “If there’s anything you need to talk about, you know I’m here,” she said gently.Vanessa forced a smile, nodding. “I know, Mom Thank you for being here."Ethan piped up, breaking the somber moment. “Can we go to the beach tomorrow, Mommy? Please?”Vanessa ruffled
The flight felt never ending, but Vanessa let out a sigh of relief as the plane finally touched down in Spain. She adjusted her grip on her children, Emma and Ethan, as they descended the stairs. The warm Spanish sun kissed her skin, a welcome change from the chill of America. Lily had already disappeared to fetch their bags, and Diego excused himself to retrieve the car they would be using.Vanessa’s feet felt heavy against the tarmac, exhaustion creeping into her every move. Her twins clung to her sides, their little hands gripping hers tightly. “We’re finally here,” she murmured, offering them a small smile. The kids, though weary, perked up at her words, their excitement bubbling beneath the surface.A few moments later, Lily returned, with their luggage, her cheeks were flushed from the effort, but her grin didn’t waver. Not long after, the smooth hum of an approaching engine drew their attention. A sleek black Lamborghini Urus rolled up to the curb, its glossy exterior catchin
TWO WEEKS LATER Vanessa sat quietly in the back of the sleek black van, her twins, Ethan and Emma, nestled on either side of her. The hum of the engine filled the air as Diego focused on the road ahead, his hands steady on the wheel. Lily sat in the passenger seat, flipping through her phone, occasionally glancing at the GPS. The van glided down the highway, and the gentle rhythm of the tires on the pavement seemed to mirror the steady thud of Vanessa’s heart.Emma leaned against her mother, her little fingers dancing across the screen of her tablet. "Mommy," she asked without looking up, "are you just dropping us off at the airport?"Vanessa reached out, smoothing Emma’s soft curls. "No, baby," she said gently. "We’re going to Grandma’s house first. I’ll take you and Ethan all the way there. I want to make sure you’re safe with her."Ethan, sitting on her other side, looked up from the book he was pretending to read. His lips pressed into a small pout. "Does that mean we won’t see y
Dressed in a blue floral gown, Juliet stood on the balcony, letting the morning breeze brush against her face. The scent of blooming flowers mixed with the faint aroma of fresh coffee from the kitchen below. She leaned on the railing, her fingers tracing its cold, smooth surface as she gazed at the quiet street below. The world seemed peaceful, yet her thoughts were far from calm.A soft noise behind her made her turn slightly, but before she could react, a light tap on her shoulder made her jump. She spun around, her hand flying to her chest. Romeo was dressed in a cooperate outfit, obviously getting ready for the day's job."Oh my gosh, Romeo! Stop sneaking up on me like that!" she exclaimed, her voice breathy from the scare.Romeo smirked, his brown eyes twinkling with amusement. "You should have gotten used to it by now," he said, crossing his arms casually.Juliet rolled her eyes and let out an annoyed groan. "Whatever," she muttered, brushing her hair out of her face. She straig
Thirty minutes later, Leila sat on the couch in the living room, flipping through channels on the TV. A light comedy show played in the background, but she wasn’t really paying attention. Her mind kept wandering to Lucas and how his day might have gone. She glanced at the clock on the wall, wondering when he’d get home.Just then, the sound of a car pulling into the driveway caught her attention. Her heart skipped a beat, and she quickly stood up, smoothing down her top and brushing invisible dust off her pants. She wanted to look put together when he walked in, even though she knew Lucas didn’t care much about appearances.As the familiar sound of the car door shutting reached her ears, Leila moved to the front door. She opened it just as Lucas approached, his steps steady and his suit jacket draped over one arm.“Good evening,” she greeted him warmly, her smile lighting up her face.“Evening, Leila,” Lucas replied with a soft smile of his own, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to he
Vanessa decided to step out of her hotel room after ensuring her tasks for the day were completed. She took a deep breath, smoothing down the hem of her blouse as she walked toward the door. It was quiet in the hallway, the faint hum of the hotel’s central air conditioning the only sound. Vanessa twisted the doorknob and opened the door, only to find Diego standing there, his tall figure a calm but imposing presence.“Diego,” she said softly, her voice steady. She wasn’t surprised to see him; his unwavering dedication to her safety had become a comforting constant.“Ma’am,” Diego acknowledged, giving her a small nod. His sharp eyes scanned the hallway even as he stood still, his stance radiating readiness.“Thank you,” Vanessa said, her words carrying more weight than she let on. She knew Diego wouldn’t take any chances after everything that had happened. His vigilance meant more to her than she could express.Diego’s lips twitched into the barest hint of a smile. “Just doing my job.”
Vanessa walked down the hallway, her hand lightly brushing against the wall as she made her way to Ethan and Emma’s room. The house was calm, with only the faint hum of the air conditioner breaking the silence.Stopping at their door, she pushed it open carefully, making sure not to make much noise. The soft morning sunlight streamed through the curtains, lighting up the room in a warm glow. Ethan was already sitting up in bed, his hair messy, while Emma was still asleep, clutching her stuffed bunny close.“Morning, Mommy,” Ethan mumbled, rubbing his eyes and yawning.“Good morning, sweetheart,” Vanessa whispered as she stepped inside. She reached over to smooth his hair down, her fingers running gently through the tangles. “Did you sleep okay?”He nodded with another yawn. “Yeah. Is it time for breakfast?”“Almost,” Vanessa said with a smile. She glanced over at Emma, who stirred a little under the covers but stayed asleep. “Why don’t you get dressed first? I made something special.”
Vanessa rubbed her temples as she walked down the hallway towards her bedroom. The week's exhaustion weighed heavily on her shoulders. It wasn’t just work or the endless tasks waiting for her, it felt like the universe was piling one problem on top of another, daring her to collapse. But she refused to let it win. Not tonight. She would push through, like she has always done.Once inside her room, she kicked off her shoes and sank onto the edge of her bed, the mattress dipping under her weight. The soft glow of the bedside lamp cast a warm light on the familiar space. She grabbed her phone from the nightstand and hesitated for a moment, her thumb hovering over Riccardo’s name in her messages. They’d already discussed the case earlier, but something gnawed at her. She needed to be sure he was on it.Taking a deep breath, she typed out a short message.'Just checking in on the case. Have there been any updates?' She typed.Her finger tapped send before she could second-guess herself. Th
Vanessa guided Ethan and Emma towards their room. The twins were tired but reluctant to call it a day, dragging their feet with playful resistance.“Mommy, just a few more minutes?” Ethan pleaded, clutching his well-loved stuffed lion tightly against his chest.Vanessa crouched to his level, brushing a strand of his messy hair out of his eyes. “You’ve had such a busy day, Ethan. Your body needs sleep so you can grow big and strong.”Emma, holding her blanket like a cape, sighed dramatically as she climbed onto the bed. “But Uncle Riccardo’s still here,” she mumbled, pouting.From the doorway, Riccardo’s warm chuckle filled the room. He leaned casually against the frame, his dark eyes soft as he watched them. “Even I have to go home and sleep, Emma. But I’ll see you both tomorrow, okay?”Ethan squinted at him, his voice sleepy but hopeful. “Promise?”“I promise,” Riccardo replied with a small nod.Vanessa pulled the covers up over her children, tucking them in snugly. She kissed Ethan’