Aria’s POV How I’m I alive? It’s not possible. I begin to question myself. There’s no way I would survive from that moment or experience. This must be some kind of dream my mind created to cope with that experience. I look down at my body and surprisingly enough, my parts are complete. So what happened? The door is sent open again and this time, Caleb is walking alongside the doctor as they rush to my front. “She’s finally awake doctor and she looks perfectly fine.” He says excitedly and I’m worried. Isn’t this the man who wanted to end my life before with my stand-in sister, Susan? The doctor approaches me and slowly touches my forehead. His palm was calm and gentle. I close my eyes. “Please, Inhale and exhale, Mrs, Flynn.” He mentions Caleb’s surname. That means I’m still married to Caleb. I did what he asked me to do. I inhale and exhale. His stethoscope was on my chest. He smiles. “Looking perfect.” He looks me in the eyes and back at Caleb who is biting his finger nerv
Aria’s POV I return back to my room and it took me everything I had within me not to rush towards her and lunge at her throat. How dare she show up here? What made her think she had the right to come here and even see me. “Ariiiiii!” her voice screech in my ear the moment she came in with Caleb to the room. It sounds like a pin being scratched on a glass surface. Before I could stop myself, I already found myself reacting. “Shut up bitch. You're being noisy.” The room was silent for a minute as Caleb stare at me in shock. Most likely for using such a harsh tone and words he had never heard me use but before I could say anything, Maira burst into the room. ‘Saved by the bell’ I mutter and focused on the rush of questions I was about to receive. Judging from how she gave Caleb an earful on the phone, she was most likely to pester me till I managed to convince her that I was ok. “Ariaaaa! Oh my goodness. How are you doing? What did the doctor say? Is everything ok? Are you in pain?
Aria’s POV I felt a chill getting worse and the water kept coming closer and closer until it was going to drown me. “I don't want to die please–” “Ari!” I hear a voice and look around. There was a faint light at the surface. “ARIA!” I jerk wide awake and suddenly I was not in the sea but on the hospital bed and drenched in my own sweat. What the fuck was with that nightmare. Drowning? “What the fuck Ari?! I thought you were dying. All the machines started beeping and you were screaming that you didn't want to die and shit. The fuck?” Dream and swear aside, if I didn't get something to purify my ears soon, the foul words going in would blow them up. “Could you please mind the way you curse Emily? I can't exactly have my ears purged in this state.” “What the hell are you even talking about? You just had a nightmare about you dying. That's it, I'm friggin calling the doctor and they'll place you on med–” Why was everyone in this life so noisy? I do not remember the Emily I met b
Susan’s POV I couldn’t shake the image of Aria’s reaction from my mind—the surprise, then that infuriating defiant glare. How dare she act as if my push hadn’t meant anything? I felt my heart race again, anger pounding in my temples. I couldn't believe I had underestimated her. I had never liked her defiance, the way she pushed back every time I tried to assert myself. That self-satisfied smile as she brushed herself off after my feeble attempt at an attack felt like a personal affront. How could I allow her to mock me like that? I felt a surge of rage welling up inside me, and I leaned in closer to the mirror, my reflection mirroring the storm brewing within. “I’m going to ruin you, Aria,” I whispered fiercely to myself. “You will wish you never crossed me.” Aria’s POV “Watch your step sweetie. I don't want you tripping over these stairs.” Heaven knew I wanted to badly swat Caleb’s hand from my waist but the last thing I needed was another one of his suspicious stares. He and Su
Aria’s POV Immediately we got to the venue, Maira began running around, getting the makeup artists and dressers to assemble. She was armed and prepped like someone who had been waiting for this moment for a long time. To her, today was the day of my big photoshoot at Fox magazine—and from the flashbacks I recall last night, it seemed that in this lifetime, it was the place I had dreamed of working ever since I got interested in fashion. The bright lights in the studio and the sound of heels clicking on the floor felt like music, making me feel both excited and nervous at the same time. When they arrived, the attendants did not waste any time. I finish up and I rush to find Maira who was always full of energy. “Hi, Aria!” she call out, her face lighting up when she saw me. “You look great today with your makeupppp! Emily would kill to be here but too bad, I get to see all the goodies.” “Thank you! I can’t wait to see the dresses,” I reply, my heart racing with anticipation. The l
Aria’s POV I drop my keys at the table and looked at the stairs. Contemplating going upstairs or just relaxing on the couch. I decide against it and instead went upstairs. I pass Caleb’s room and was about to go into mine when I heard voices and opened the door to peek in. I was immediately greeted with the sight of Susan ‘affectionately’ massaging Caleb’s back and might I add, she seemed to be really getting into it. All of a sudden, a rush of rage hit me so hard that I found it hard to breathe. I close my eyes and chuckled which alerted them to my presence. I stare at Susan and she didn’t look that bad apart from her robust breasts. She has dark brown skin, long lashes, a round face, black eyes, and a warm skin tone. I bite my lips as I remember those very hateful words coming back to me like it was yesterday. “Sorry, dear sister. It’s time you disappear.” The audacity it took her to say those words to me and still come here to meet me in the hospital. “Ohh, thank goodness, Ar
Aria’s POV A WEEK LATER I push the thoughts of what had happened with Susan and decided to move on with my plans. Both my parents hadn't called or visited so I wasn't bothered so much about them. Caleb had gotten even more and more suspicious and sometimes, I woke up to find him watching me from my door with a creepy look in his eyes. “Talk about being fucked up.” I mutter to myself as I waited for the makeup artist. I took in a deep breath as I told myself to calm down and observe Maira converse with the guests. She had this aura which shone around her and made people gravitate towards her. She was so excited about the shoot as well. It was for ‘Rouge’ after all and she spent all week sitting and planning while I kept hitting the gym to keep healthy and fit. Soon enough, the stylists were done and I was placed in the “Denim” category. The photographer for the shoot, Julia Ray was known for her dislike for models like “me”. Apparently, in this life, I had the reputation of being a
Aria’s POV After a long day of standing in front of the camera, I was relieved to step outside into the cool evening air. Maira had left earlier with one of them and I quote “handsome male staff.” Not that I could blame her. She was still in that phase. I, however, was worn out and more than willing to go home. I walked to my car and notice that the bright lights had felt blinding, and the smiles I forced felt fake at this point. “Gosh, Julia made me smile and take so many photos. It was as if she was obsessed.” I murmur to myself as I climb into my car, my hands trembling slightly as I turn the key in the ignition. Just as the engine started, my phone buzzed. The name on the screen was unfamiliar. With a deep breath, I answered. “Hello?” “Aria,” a calm but unsettling voice says. “You have a meeting tomorrow. At the park. Don’t be late. Or there will be... consequences.” My stomach twisted. “Who are you?” There was silence, then the line went dead. I sank back into my seat, my h
Sebastien’s POVI rush into Aria’s room with Chloe, Maira, and Emily following closely behind me. The moment we enter, I see her sitting up in the hospital bed, her eyes wide and frantic. The sight sends a jolt of fear through me.“Aria!” I call out, moving quickly to her side. As soon as she sees me, her expression softens, and she visibly calms Down. What was she so frantic about?“Sebastien…” she breathes, her voice shaky. “Are you okay?”I kneel beside her bed, looking into her eyes. “I’m completely fine. Just worried about you.”Relief crosses her face, but then it crumples as tears start to spill from her eyes. “I thought… I thought Caleb was going to kill you next!” she sobs, her hands gripping the sheets.Anger rises in my chest as I hear her words. I reach out, carefully wrapping my arms around her. “Shh, it’s okay, Aria. You’re safe now. I’m here. You’ll be okay.”Her crying intensifies as she nestles into me, and I hold her tightly, wanting to comfort her as best as I can.
Vera’s POVI drive with purpose, focusing on the road ahead. The sun sets in the distance, casting long shadows across the highway. In the back seat, Susan, Michael, and Elizabeth sit, their expressions a mix of confusion and fear. I can feel their eyes on me, wondering what’s going to happen next. Just what had those three idiots done to piss off the boss?“Where are we going?” Michael finally asks, breaking the tension in the car.“It’s just a little place outside the city,” I reply, keeping my tone light. “Sebastien wanted me to take you somewhere safe.”Elizabeth glances at me. “Safe from who? And this car is so small and dimly lit. Also, could you turn down your music? It's very annoying.” Tch. Whiny bitch.I chuckle softly. “You’ll find out soon enough.”As we drive further out of the city, I spot an abandoned area up ahead. “Perfect,” I think to myself. I turn onto a side road, and soon, I stop the car in a deserted lot surrounded by overgrown grass and dilapidated buildings.“
Sebastien's POVI sit in my car, gripping the steering wheel tight, the engine humming as I watch Caleb's house from across the street. I had him tracked down when I left the hospital. I know he's back home, and now it's time to confront him. The police might not want to act, but I won't wait for them. The bastard had to pay for what he did.After a few minutes, I take a deep breath and step out of the car. I walk up the driveway, my heart pounding with each step. The door stands slightly ajar, and I push it open. The house is dimly lit, and I can smell something foul in the air."Caleb!" I call out, my voice echoing through the empty rooms.I hear movement in the back, and I quickly make my way toward the sound. As I round a corner, I see him -Caleb leaning against the wall, a lazy grin spreading across his face."Well, look who finally decided to drop by!" he says mockingly."Cut the crap, Caleb. I know you ordered the hit on Aria," I say, my voice deadly calm.His expression shifts
Aria’s POVAfter lunch with the girls, I quickly board a cab back home.“Well, more like Sebastien's place,” I murmur to myself.Soon enough, I get there and I get out of the car.As I walk towards the door, I remind myself to stay aware of my surroundings. The mansion’s surroundings are so quiet. Sebastien said something about having ghost staff. In other words, they were barely seen. There wasn't a soul in sight.But just as I reach the door, I notice something strange. A red light shone across my stomach. I freeze, my heart racing. What is that?I open my mouth to call out, “Sebastien?” But before I can say anything, there’s a loud crack. A sharp pain jolts close to my heart, and everything goes black.---Sebastien’s POVThe alarms blare, cutting through the calm of the afternoon. I jump up from my desk, my heart racing. “What the hell?” I mutter as I sprint toward the door.I fling it open and rush outside. “Aria!” I shout, panic gripping my chest. She was lying down crumpled on
Aria’s POVAfter our conversation, I grab my phone and dial Sebastien's number. My hands tremble a bit as I wait for him to pick up."Hey, it's me," I say when he answers."Aria! Where are you? Are you okay?" he asks, his voice tight with concern."I'm fine, but I need to let you know I won't be available for the rest of the day. I have some things to handle.""Things? What kind of things?" His tone sharpens, and I can hear the protective edge in it."I'm with Emily and Maira. We're just... sorting stuff out," I reply, trying to keep it casual."Sorting stuff out?" he presses. "What kind of sorting?""Mmmm, I can't talk about it right now," I say, feeling a rush of guilt."Where exactly are you?" he asks, his voice lowering as if he knows I'm not being entirely honest."Just at my friends' place," I say, hesitantly.Before I can respond, Emily reaches over and snatches the phone from me. "Sebastien!" she says into the receiver, her tone firm. "Listen, buzz off for now. Aria needs a br
Aria’s POVI slowly wake up, my head pounding and my mouth dry. The sunlight filters through the curtains, and I squint, trying to remember where I am. As my surroundings come into focus, I notice I'm in my room.Thank goodness I made it to bed last night. I sit up and suddenly recall everything I said while I was drunk. My heart races in panic. Did I mention Caleb? I felt so vulnerable, and now the memory stings.I throw off the blanket and rush to the living room. I need to talk to Emily and Maira. As I enter the room, my heart sinks. They are still asleep, curled up together on the couch. Emily's head rests on Maira's shoulder, and they look peaceful.Guilt washes over me. They shouldn't have had to drink with me. I feel like such a burden. Maybe I should sneak out before I wake them.I step quietly toward the door, but then Maira's voice breaks the silence. "Where are you going?"I freeze in my tracks. "Uh, just... out for some air?" I say awkwardly, trying to sound casual."Stop
Emily's POVThe atmosphere in the apartment is lively as we gather around the coffee table to play "Exploding Kittens." The brownies and cookies are laid out, and Maira fills some glasses with wine."Alright, let's get this party started!" Maira says, pouring generous amounts for all of us."I'm ready to crush you both!" I declare, feeling the excitement in the air. Maira glares at me but Aria laughs, picking up her hand of cards. "You think you can beat me? I've been practicing! Ever since the last game! No friggin 'way I'm losing."Maira shakes her head. "Practice doesn't make perfect in this game; luck does!"“Tch. Amateur. That's what you'll say but you'll see baby girl. I'm set out to win!”The game begins. We all giggle and shout as we take turns. I can't help but tease Maira each time she draws an exploding kitten card."Ha! You're out!" I tease, laughing."Shush! This is just beginner's luck," Maira retorts, rolling her eyes dramatically.Aria leans back, sipping her wine. "
Emily's POVI sit at my desk, surrounded by piles of files that seem to multiply every hour. Maira buzzes around me, checking in every few minutes. She keeps the coffee coming, which helps me stay focused on my work.“I really shouldn't have gotten so worked up about Aria and abandoned my job! I could have friggin done both!”“You couldn't and Emily, have you made any progress on those reports?” Maira asks, peering over my shoulder.“Getting there! I’m just figuring out how to present this data.” I scroll through the screen, feeling the pressure of the deadline looming.Suddenly, there’s a loud knock on the door. I look up, surprised.“Who could that be?” I say, glancing at Maira.“Let me see!” Maira rushes to the door, her excitement bubbling over. I hear her gasp.“Emily! Come quick! You won’t believe who’s here!”My heart skips a beat. Who could it be? I rush down the hall and stop short when I see her.“Aria!” I exclaim, throwing my arms around her.“Emily!” she cries, hugging me
Caleb’s POVI'm sitting here in this stupid prison, and the anger is boiling inside me. Aria divorced me—and just tossed me aside like I’m nothing. I can’t believe I thought she loved me. I always knew she was trouble. The moment she started associating with that crazy fixer, it was clear she was a trashy woman. I feel like such a fool. How dare she leave me?!I pace in my cell, fists clenched, imagining what I would say if I ever got out. “How could she do this to me?” I mumble to myself. It infuriates me! I thought we had something special. We had plans for the future—until she decided I was worthless.I pound my fist against the wall, feeling the sting but not caring. “I’ll make her pay,” I vow, my voice low and full of anger. “She thinks she’s so smart, but she doesn’t know who she is messing with. I’ll make sure she pays for this.”Suddenly, an officer walks by, eyeing me warily. “Quiet down, Caleb. You’re not allowed to cause trouble in here.”“I’m not causing trouble!” I snap.