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53. Beneath the Surface
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Inside Marissa's Heart 54. Unexpected Connections
The next morning, Marissa found herself drifting in and out of sleep, Daniella's words from the previous day haunting her thoughts. The sudden sound of the door startled her awake, her body feeling heavy from a restless night, as she fought to shake off the drowsiness, her mind still clouded with questions about Zendaya. Just as she was about to succumb to the temptation of returning to sleep, the persistent knocking sounded again. With a frustrated groan, Marissa reluctantly pulled herself out of bed and made her way to the door."Can't a woman get some sleep?" Marissa grumbled as she swung the door open, rubbing her eyes sleepily, only to be met by Demitrio's intense gaze, holding a single rose. Their eyes locked for a few intense seconds before he looked away.In that moment, Marissa realized she was wearing nothing but a sheer white dress, feeling exposed in front of him as heat flooded her cheeks. Quickly, she closed the door and rushed to her closet, grabbing a sleeping robe to
Inside Marissa's Heart 55. Unwanted Desires
Marissa leaned her head on the chilly car window, her thoughts consumed by Luna and Efrain. Despite Demitrio's attempts to cheer her up at the fair with treats, laughter and music, she couldn't shake the uneasiness. Luna's presence had cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful outing.And then there was Efrain, his image looming large in her thoughts, she feared him misunderstanding her motives, fearing he might see her as a woman who would use her charm to manipulate. That wasn't who she was. Efrain had evolved beyond a mere passing acquaintance; he had become an integral part of her life, his importance deepening with each day. The idea of losing him filled her with dread.She yearned to convey her genuine intentions to him, ready to commit herself to him. She was prepared to welcome whatever shape their relationship might assume, even if it meant dedicating herself to him as his devoted lover for eternity.As they arrived at the hacienda, Demitrio's voice called out to her,
Inside Marissa's Heart 56. A Path to Healing
The next day, Marissa opted to stay in her room alone, steering clear of the busy wedding preparations downstairs. After Juan left last night, she was overwhelmed with tears that seemed endless, tormented by her own decisions.Each sob seemed to make her self-blame stronger, as she scolded herself for her stupidity. How could she have surrendered to such risky desires, betraying both Efrain and herself? Even though their bond was just sexual, the guilt burdened her heart deeply.The strong pain of regret stabbed her heart, with the sadness of allowing Juan back into her life, even if only for a short time.However, in the midst of the pain and regret, she felt an odd disconnection. The strong feelings she once had for Juan had disappeared, leaving only emptiness. She no longer held any anger or resentment towards him too. He had caused chaos in her life without concern, using his influence as he wished.He had controlled her for too long, taking advantage of her weaknesses whenever h
Inside Marissa's Heart 57. The Promise of Forever
The following day, there was a lot of excitement as everyone got ready for the wedding. Marissa saw people busy with tasks, laughing, and chatting happily all around the hacienda.As final arrangements were made, Marissa felt a mix of emotions. While happy for her brother, she couldn't ignore the twinge of sadness knowing her own future was uncertain. Despite this, she put on a smile to enjoy the celebration and cherish the fleeting moments of joy it brought.Marissa descended the stairs, looking elegant and graceful. Her dark hair flowed in gentle waves around her shoulders, framing her delicate features. Silver earrings sparkled in the light, adding a touch of glamour to her outfit.She wore a deep purple dress that hugged her curves, accentuating her figure perfectly. The neckline was modest yet captivating, highlighting her radiant beauty without showing too much. With every step, she exuded poise and confidence, capturing the attention of everyone in the room.Efrain's arrival wa
Inside Marissa's Heart 58. Unbreakable Bonds
As the guests started entering the living room, it was already turned into a fancy ballroom. It looked magical with pretty decorations everywhere and soft, romantic lights.Tables with pretty flower arrangements and fancy tablecloths were set up for the guests. There was a big dance floor for people who wanted to dance. The room smelled amazing with delicious food, promising a delightful meal for everyone there.The guest felt like they were entering a magical world of celebration. They laughed and chatted as they found their seats, excited for the fun to come. It was a precious moment full of love and joy, where they knew they would create lasting memories.Marissa felt calm as she danced with Efrain to the sweet music. She rested her head on his chest, feeling safe in his arms, while their hearts beat together in perfect harmony with the melody.In their hold, amidst the cozy ambiance, time seemed to freeze, letting them cherish the pure happiness of each other's company."Will you
Inside Marissa's Heart 59. Revelations of the Heart
Marissa became more impatient and pushing herself to rushed to Efrain's place to reveal the dishonest plan made by Diana and Daniella. They were plotting to ruin her reputation by falsely claiming she was dishonest and unfaithful, even though she was innocent. In reality, she was nothing like the person they were trying to make her out to be.She wouldn't accept being called a liar.Marissa, overwhelmed, returned to Efrain's doorstep, her heart pounding. Just as she was about to knock, she noticed a glimmer beneath a potted plant: half of the house key.She grabbed the key and put it in the lock. Taking a deep breath, Marissa hesitated for a second, feeling unsure and scared. But she pushed those feelings aside, getting ready for whatever was coming. When she turned the key, the door opened slowly, making its familiar creaking noise echo through the house.Marissa stepped inside, ready to confront whatever challenges awaited her.As Marissa climbed the stairs, her heart felt heavier w
Inside Marissa's Heart 60. Unraveled Desires
Efrain entered his room after Diana's departure, only to be enveloped in a hug from Marissa. "I'm sorry, I couldn't help but overhear your conversation with Diana," she murmured, her voice soft with empathy.Efrain offered her faint smile. "I'm actually glad you heard. It saves me the trouble of explaining.""I've invited Marcus, Luna, Pedro, and Stella for lunch today."Efrain blinked in surprise, then grinned. "This house is yours too, Marissa. You're free to do as you please, and lunch sounds like a wonderful idea."* * *Efrain swung the door wide open, greeting Stella and Pedro with a smile. Stella leaned in for a hug and planting a sweet kiss on his cheek. "Hello, Efrain.""Hi, Stella," Efrain reciprocated, returning the peck on her cheek with a smile.As Pedro stepped inside, they exchanged a firm handshake, before Efrain closed the door behind them."We brought Champagne. Where's Marissa?" Stella inquired, her eyes scanning the living room.Efrain chuckled, gesturing towards t
Inside Marissa's Heart 61. Unexpected Visitor
Over the last two weeks, they've shared passionate moments, experiencing strong desire and intimacy."Breakfast time," Marissa's voice carried through the house, catching Efrain's attention as he came down the stairs."You look stunning," he whispered, closing the gap between them in one step, enveloping her in an embrace, his lips finding the soft curve of her neck."Take a seat and join me for breakfast," she proposed, smiling warmly as she gestured towards the table.Efrain sat down, feeling grateful as he realized it had been a week since he last needed his crutches."I'll always be here, waiting for you, don't forget that," Marissa smiled."I'll never forget that a beauty like you is waiting for me," Efrain whispered, his hand caressing her cheek.Marissa smiled, recalling the time she asked Efrain about Zendaya's disappearance. He explained how he had to leave for their hacienda because of a threat, and during that time, Zendaya vanished without a trace. He searched tirelessly f
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Inside Marissa's Heart Epilogue
Marissa stood before the tall, ornate mirror, her reflection bathed in the soft glow of the dressing room lights. The wedding gown she wore enveloped her in a cascade of ivory silk and lace, a vision of bridal elegance she had once only dared to imagine. In her wildest dreams, she never envisioned herself as a bride, let alone a mother of two, preparing to wed the love of her life, Efrain Guerra. Stella, looking stunning as the maid of honor, gazed at Marissa with admiration. "Do you remember when I told you that one day you'd find an extraordinary man and walk down the aisle in a breathtaking gown, just like this?" she reminisced. Marissa's eyes flickered with uncertainty as she surveyed her reflection. "Do you believe it will all work out? That I can truly find happiness?" she confided. "Stop doubting yourself, Marissa," Stella admonished gently. A gentle knock resonated through the door, prompting Stella to invite the visitor inside. Juan entered the room, exuding confide
Inside Marissa's Heart 83. A Mother's Love
The sudden disappearance of their newborn baby sent shockwaves through the room, leaving everyone stunned and panicked. Efrain's heart pounded in his chest as he struggled to comprehend what was happening."What do you mean, someone took him?" Efrain demanded. Marissa's eyes widened in horror as she clutched the sheets tightly. "Who would take our baby?" she whispered, her voice trembling with disbelief.The nurse's hands shook as she tried to explain. "I don't know... I left the baby in the nursery for just a moment, and when I returned, he was gone. I've already alerted security, but..."Efrain's mind raced with a million thoughts, his instincts kicking into overdrive as he tried to process the situation. "We need to find him, now."Marcus stepped forward, his expression grave. "I'll get the security footage. We'll find whoever did this."Marissa clung to Efrain, her eyes brimming with tears. "Please, find our baby." Efrain held her close, his heart breaking at the thought of thei
Inside Marissa's Heart 83. A Mother's Love
The sudden disappearance of their newborn baby sent shockwaves through the room, leaving everyone stunned and panicked. Efrain's heart pounded in his chest as he struggled to comprehend what was happening."What do you mean, someone took him?" Efrain demanded. Marissa's eyes widened in horror as she clutched the sheets tightly. "Who would take our baby?" she whispered, her voice trembling with disbelief.The nurse's hands shook as she tried to explain. "I don't know... I left the baby in the nursery for just a moment, and when I returned, he was gone. I've already alerted security, but..."Efrain's mind raced with a million thoughts, his instincts kicking into overdrive as he tried to process the situation. "We need to find him, now."Marcus stepped forward, his expression grave. "I'll get the security footage. We'll find whoever did this."Marissa clung to Efrain, her eyes brimming with tears. "Please, find our baby." Efrain held her close, his heart breaking at the thought of thei
Inside Marissa's Heart 82. Stolen Innocence
A year had passed, and now the Guerra's and Valiente's stood anxiously outside the delivery room."I'm going in," Efrain declared to Juan, his anxiety evident in his tone. "If no one tells me how Marissa is, I'll find out myself."A doctor emerged from the delivery room."Doctor, has the baby arrived?" Efrain inquired, his voice shaky with anticipation."Not yet," the doctor replied."Is Marissa okay?" Efrain's words stumbled out.All eyes were fixed on the doctor, awaiting the news."Yes, she specifically asked for you," the doctor confirmed, "She wants you in the delivery room.""Is my daughter okay? I need to be there if there's any complication," Rosairo expressed her concern, with Valentina offering comfort by holding her arm."She's doing fine," the doctor reassured them, then turned to Efrain. "Let's go.""Let's go," Efrain urged."She'll be alright," Valentina reassured Rosairo, casting a supportive glance at Juan, who returned her smile.Marissa was in the labor room, surroun
Inside Marissa's Heart 81. Inside Marissa's Heart
"Will you hurry, please... we're going to be late," Valentina urged impatiently.Efrain descended the stairs with his luggage in tow. "Will you just relax? It's still afternoon," he replied, attempting to placate her.Ignoring his response, Valentina marched out of the house and settled into the back seat of the car. Efrain loaded his luggage into the trunk before joining her in the back seat, and the driver started the car, pulling away from the house.As they were driving, their path was suddenly blocked by a line of cars. "What's going on?" Valentina exclaimed, peering out of the window in confusion.Efrain stepped out of the car to investigate, only to find Stella, Ignacio, Paula, Danna, and Carlos waiting for them. "What's going on?" he asked, puzzled by the unexpected gathering.Marissa approached him with a serenade band and began to serenade him, her voice filled with emotion.Marissa came closer to Efrain, who looked surprised to see her, tears streaming down her cheeks. "Efr
Inside Marissa's Heart 80. Trust in Love
Valentina entered Efrain's room quietly, observing him as he slept. She couldn't help but notice how much he had changed. Never in her wildest dreams did she imagine her brother would fall in love after all these years. Before returning to town, Valentina will ensure that both Efrain and Marissa realized how deeply they couldn't live without each other. They belonged together, and she was determined to make them see that.Valentina released the drapes, letting the morning sunlight gently fall on Efrain's face. Efrain rubbed his eyes as the sunlight poured in through the open drapes. "Damn it," he muttered, then noticed Valentina standing before him. "Why did you have to wake me up like this?"Valentina settled herself on the edge of the bed. "Listen, I came to take you back to town to stay with me for a few days, away from here. And you won't say no to me because... because you can't.""Vale, I won't say no to you because I can't keep living like this, with everyone seeing me this wa
Inside Marissa's Heart 79. Confronting Truths
Marissa sat in her bedroom, tears streaming down her face, when Juan entered with a tray. "Marissa, here's your dinner. You missed lunch with us," he said."I'm not hungry. I just want to be alone," Marissa replied."You know I never listen to you when it comes to taking care of yourself. That's why you're going to eat, and then we're going to talk," Juan insisted, his tone firm but compassionate.He placed the tray on the nightstand and offered his hand to help her sit on the bed. "So, what went down with Guerra?""He's aware of everything, maybe even more, and it's all twisted up thanks to Daniella. I don't know what she told him, but she mixes things up, making me feel insignificant. And maybe I made it worse because he proposed, and I turned him down.""Why? You love him, don't you?" Juan inquired."I do, so much that it's tearing me apart. I've fallen for him. I love that he's the one I love," Marissa confessed."Then why say no?" Juan pressed."Because I don't want to lose him,"
Inside Marissa's Heart 78. Fragments of the Heart
Efrain lay on the bed, his hand resting behind his head as he gazed pensively at the ceiling, lost in thought. When Marissa entered the room, her expression filled with concern, she approached him and sat down beside him. "What's wrong?" "Nothing, I just thought you would be staying at the hacienda tonight. Juan needs you," Efrain replied, his tone distant.Marissa reached out and took his hand in hers. "I'm sorry, Efrain, for what happened at the house. This is just how I can be sometimes—I act without thinking or considering the consequences. One day, I'll be able to share my story with you, the parts I'm not proud of," she confessed."I'm going to sleep now; tomorrow will be a long day," Efrain stated, withdrawing his hand and rolling over to face the other side."I'll take a shower first and then join you in bed," Marissa replied, rising from the bed and making her way into the bathroom. As she undressed and stepped into the shower, her mind was consumed with thoughts of the rece
Inside Marissa's Heart 77. Behind Closed Doors
Daniella entered a room, with Efrain following closely behind. "I'm sorry for calling you here. I just couldn't stand the way your girlfriend was insinuating that you couldn't bring justice between me and Juan," she began, her tone apologetic."Just tell me what you want to say," Efrain urged, his expression unreadable."Efrain, amidst all the drama outside because of Marissa, I've made a decision. Even though Juan may be guilty, I... I've decided to no longer press charges. I can't see how Marissa was humiliating you because of her feelings," Daniella confessed."I can understand, Juan is her brother," Efrain acknowledged, his tone thoughtful."No, Marissa has been deceiving everyone all this time. To her, you're just an escape, a distraction from her intense feelings for him that have never changed. That's why she's causing a scene outside," Daniella asserted."I don't get what you're saying," Efrain replied, his confusion clear in his voice.Daniella walked to her wardrobe, retriev
