CHAPTER 32: CLAIMING LILY’S HEART

Simon’s Point of View

I stood by one of the windows in my room, lost in thought, staring into the void. The conversation with Dad had reopened old wounds that had never fully healed. I could still picture Simone’s smile when she used to bathe me or feed me, her gentle hand patting my hair and her soft kiss on my cheek, telling me she loved me. The memories were both a comfort and a torment, but I needed them to fuel my determination to uncover the truth and seek my revenge. First, I would find the proof of who killed my mother. Then, I would make them pay. I exhaled deeply, feeling a surge of resolve. This was my purpose, the driving force that had kept me going all these years before I met Lily, the only woman who had ever loved me after my mother. She reminded me so much of Simone. With her, I felt a sense of home.

“How are you doing?” Lily said from behind me. I was so lost in thought, I didn't realize she had entered.

“Not so good,” I replied, turning to face her, a faint smil