Scarlett povThe sunlight streamed through the window, flooding my eyes with a warm yellow glow. I slowly opened my eyes, using my elbow to rub the sleep away. A loud yawn escaped me as I struggled to free myself from the duvet. My eyes widened in disbelief when I noticed Katherine sprawled on top of Nyx on the couch. Had they really been like this since last night? I wondered, resting my arms on the mattress and frowning as I continued to stare at them.I scanned the area for a throw pillow when the sudden ringing of a phone broke the silence. My heart raced as I tried to process the chaos that the annoying phone had stirred. I peeked around for the source of the sound but couldn’t locate it. My hand accidentally brushed against something on the edge of the bedside table, sending a chill down my spine. What the hell! I quickly looked at what I had touched. Oh no, it was someone’s underwear. Did Nyx and Katherine really have sex, and did they carelessly toss their dirty laundry near
Marian povStanding at the door, my eyes were already puffy from all the tears I’d shed. I spent the entire night tossing and turning, desperately trying to reach Scarlett, but my calls went unanswered. I paced around the building like a caged animal, letting the tears flow freely. Just as I was about to head back inside—because apparently, the police think you have to wait a whole 24 hours to declare someone missing—I thought, "Fine, I’ll just chill for a bit."I swung the door open, one leg crossed over the other, when suddenly I heard a voice call out, “Marian?” Oh, sweetie, I’m ready for a lecture. I whipped around, my eyes nearly popping out of my head in disbelief. “Scarlett?” I shouted, racing down the stairs like I was in a rom-com. We threw ourselves into a tight embrace. Where on earth have you been, Scarlett?“Oh, just at Nyx and Katherine’s place, darling. But seriously, have you been crying? You look like a raccoon with all that tear-stained makeup,” Scarlett said, peeri
Scarlett povWhile I was still preoccupied with thoughts of the guy stalking me, Marian pushed the door open, her face puffy and red. I turned my gaze to her, noticing her obliviousness to the situation, though it was clear she had been crying for a while."Scarlett, how long have you known about Katherine's relationship with Nyx? I really want to know," she asked, her brows furrowed, her words coming out softly as if she were forcing them."Why are you being so harsh with me? You've been acting strange since last night. What's going on?" I inquired, concern etched on my face."Nothing, Scarlett. I just can't stand how close they are. Nyx being intimate with Katherine was never something I envisioned," she replied, tears streaming down her cheeks. I quickly moved to her side, wrapping my arms around her. A smile involuntarily appeared on my face, revealing my slip about Katherine and Nyx. I regretted mentioning it. I stayed calm, my mind racing with thoughts of what might have transp
Author povA security officer, holding a large flashlight, called out from a distance, "Hey, what are you doing there? It's risky to be on that bridge at this hour!" He noticed a figure near the edge, seemingly ready to leap into the water."Hey, can you hear me?" he asked, moving closer while keeping the flashlight beam on the figure dressed in black pants, a black shirt, and a black cap.The figure stood still, facing away from the officer. The only sounds were the creaking of the old bridge and the distant chirping of crickets."I'm warning you, sir!" the officer shouted, his tone serious yet tinged with worry. "Step back from the edge. It's dangerous."As the officer got nearer, the figure slowly turned. The flashlight illuminated its face, but the cap concealed its features.The officer's hand instinctively moved to his holster. "What are you doing here?" he asked firmly.The figure remained silent, its eyes locked onto the officer's. The tension in the air was thick.Fin
Marcus pov“Hey Elana, have you heard from Scarlett? It's been ages, and she hasn't reached out to me.”“Don't call her that! You’re the one who stirred up all this trouble!” She snapped at me on the phone, and I couldn't even figure out why she was upset, especially since she’s Scarlett's closest friend. “What did I expect?” I shrugged, grabbing a bottle of wine from the cellar and pouring myself a glass, amused by how defensive Elena sounded.“What about Henry, my son?”“You should be asking Scarlett, not me. I look after the kid, but I can't give you any updates on Henry, got it?” She replied sharply, always acting like she’s protecting her friend. It was strange, almost animalistic.I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Elena's reaction. "Whoa, take it easy, Elena. I was just expressing concern for Scarlett and Henry." I took a sip of my wine, observing Elena's tense demeanor."Concerned? You’re concerned?" Elena's tone was laced with sarcasm. "You’re the reason Scarlett's gone silen
Scarlett pov“I got out of my… no,” it’s Katherine’s personal Uber driver. Since she has a minor issue with Nyx regarding Marian's feelings, I honestly don’t have any classification because I urged her to tell him.“Thank you, sir.”“You have a balance, ma'am.”“No worries, keep it, sir.” I responded to the guy with a smile and turned towards the hair salon, where a large sign read: Daisy's Hair Beautiful and Spa. I chuckled as I finished reading the ridiculous name on the sign.I need to get my hair done.As I pushed the door open to Daisy's Hair Beautiful and Spa, a cheerful bell rang above the entrance, and the scent of hair products and essential oils surrounded me. A friendly receptionist greeted me with a bright smile."Welcome to Daisy's! How can we help you look and feel fabulous today?""I need a haircut, and maybe some color," I said, running my fingers through my messy hair.The receptionist nodded eagerly. "Excellent choice! We have an opening with Daisy herself in about 1
Marcus povThe unfamiliar black car parked too close to me, igniting a surge of anger within. I struggled to find enough space to move away.“Who the hell are these guys?” I growled, straightening up. As the car door swung open, two muscular men stepped out, clad in black sunglasses and blazers. Their appearance didn’t frighten me, but it made me uneasy about their intentions. I stumbled back, nearly losing my balance and falling into the gutter."Black needs you, Marcus!" They spoke in unison, as if they were puppets. I hissed, my heart racing; I recognized the danger they posed, but I wasn’t about to go with them. I owed Black a significant debt, and now he had sent his enforcers to collect."I'm not going anywhere. Tell him I don’t have his money."I stood firm, trying to project more courage than I felt. "Tell Black I don’t have his money," I shot back, my gaze flicking between the two intimidating figures.The men remained unfazed, their faces unreadable behind their shades. "Bl
Katherine povMy heart ached as I reflected on everything happening around me. My friends and family fail to see the effort I put in to improve our situation. I feel overwhelmed by the disastrous moments that keep me feeling broken, even when I try to find happiness, which seems to be dismissed as insignificant. I went to great lengths to sleep with Nyx because I needed money for my mom's surgery, and now that she's well, she calls me a cheap harlot for being with my best friend, despite knowing the money came from him.I collapsed onto my bed, letting my tears soak the mattress. Pain, regret, and hatred gnawed at my heart. I couldn't stop thinking about how she compared me to Marian, who is thriving in her business, while I had to lower myself to sleep with my best friend just to afford her surgery.I could no longer bear the weight of my mother's words. The pain and regret overwhelmed me, pushing me to get up from the bed. I stormed out of my room, ready to confront her."Mama, how
Nyx povI stood outside Marian's door, my fist raised as I knocked urgently on the wood. The sound reverberated down the hallway, a desperate call for her to let me in, to hear me out. My voice, strained from the emotional chaos inside me, broke as I pleaded."Marian, please... I need to speak with you. I want to make amends." I took a moment to breathe deeply, trying to quell the turmoil within. Tears threatened to spill as I reflected on the hurt I had caused her.The door remained unmoving, a barrier to the feelings and truths waiting on the other side. I leaned against the frame, resting my forehead on the cool surface, releasing a heavy sigh. Why wouldn’t she respond? Didn’t she realize how much she meant to me?In that moment, I replayed the events that had brought me here. The confusion, the doubt, the fear of causing pain to those I cared about. It all led to this chaotic situation, with Marian at the heart of it, her spirit wounded by my choices.I recalled the look in her ey
Lexi povI awoke feeling disoriented, struggling to open my eyes after a tumultuous night with Klaus, who had nearly displaced all the babies in my womb in his fervor. With a heavy sigh, I began to fold the duvet cover, the scent of spermatogenesis permeating the entire room.As I organized the bedding, memories of the previous night replayed in my mind. Klaus's aggressive behavior still resonated within me, leaving my body sore. I found it hard to comprehend his recklessness, particularly given my fragile state.Just as I completed the task of tidying up, the door creaked open. Klaus entered, a mischievous grin forming on his lips. My instincts urged me to remain cautious."Good morning, Lexi," he greeted, his voice deep and gravelly. "Did you rest well?"I narrowed my gaze, tightening my grip on the laundry basket. "You are fully aware of how I slept, Klaus. I am still attempting to come to terms with last night’s events."For a brief moment, Klaus's smile wavered before he regained
Lexi povI awoke feeling disoriented, struggling to open my eyes after a tumultuous night with Klaus, who had nearly displaced all the babies in my womb in his fervor. With a heavy sigh, I began to fold the duvet cover, the scent of spermatogenesis permeating the entire room.As I organized the bedding, memories of the previous night replayed in my mind. Klaus's aggressive behavior still resonated within me, leaving my body sore. I found it hard to comprehend his recklessness, particularly given my fragile state.Just as I completed the task of tidying up, the door creaked open. Klaus entered, a mischievous grin forming on his lips. My instincts urged me to remain cautious."Good morning, Lexi," he greeted, his voice deep and gravelly. "Did you rest well?"I narrowed my gaze, tightening my grip on the laundry basket. "You are fully aware of how I slept, Klaus. I am still attempting to come to terms with last night’s events."For a brief moment, Klaus's smile wavered before he regained
Scarlett povI couldn't understand why Marian and Katherine kept asking such pointless questions. I chose not to respond appropriately, feeling a rush of adrenaline as I leaned my head on Katherine's shoulder, tears flowing down my face.When I rested my head on her shoulder, I noticed her stiffen in surprise, but I was beyond caring. I was exhausted from discussing my issues, worn out from the fear and anxiety that had haunted me for weeks."Can we just sit down and have a cup of tea or something?" I mumbled, my voice muffled against her shoulder.Marian and Katherine exchanged doubtful looks, but I noticed their tension starting to fade. They nodded, and we settled into the living room, surrounded by the comforting atmosphere of Katherine's home.As we enjoyed our tea, I made a deliberate effort to change the subject away from my troubles. I was done thinking about it, done reliving the fear and anxiety."So, Marian," I said, attempting to sound nonchalant. "How's your love life? An
Marian povI was completely taken aback when I spotted Scarlett at Katherine's house. She despised Katherine, so why was she staying with her? She looked disheveled—what had happened to her? Why did she seem so unhinged? It had been over seven months since I last saw her, and now she appeared like this?I turned to Katherine, yanking her aside. Her eyes widened in surprise as I tightened my grip on her arm."What’s going on?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.I glared at Katherine, my grip tightening further, making her wince. My anger was simmering, ready to erupt. "What’s happening, Katherine?" I demanded in a low, threatening tone. "Why is Scarlett here? What’s wrong with her?"Katherine's eyes flicked around, as if looking for a way out. "Marian, please," she murmured, trying to free herself. "You’re hurting me."I eased my grip but kept my stare fierce. "Tell me," I growled.Katherine took a shaky breath. "Scarlett came here a few days ago," she said. "She was in terri
Kathrine povI checked the wall clock and jumped out of bed in shock. What? It's already 8 am? I haven't even made breakfast, and Scarlett is going to be starving. After putting her to sleep last night, I went back to my room, and now I've overslept. I need to whip up something to eat before she comes down.I sprang out of bed, my heart pounding with urgency. 8 am? How did I sleep in? I'm usually the one up early, not dragging my feet. I hurried to my closet and grabbed the first outfit I could find—a bright yellow sundress adorned with white flowers. I didn’t even take a moment to check my reflection; I just threw it on and dashed downstairs.Upon entering the kitchen, I was met with the sight of an empty coffee pot. Seriously? I forgot to set the timer? I'm really off my game today. I quickly started brewing a new pot, the rich aroma filling the air and waking me up a bit.Just as I began cracking eggs into a bowl, I heard the stairs creak. Scarlett was awake. And definitely hungry.
Scarlett povI realize that the dizziness I've been experiencing for days stems from stress, constantly thinking about my husband and son. Tears have been streaming down my tired cheeks; it’s not that I feel old, but the stress has taken a toll on me. My strength, my fate, my heart—everything feels heavy. Nightmares have become a regular occurrence, and last night was no exception. I looked at myself in the mirror, sweat dripping from my forehead, a direct result of the terror I faced in my dreams. In a fit of rage, I clenched my fist and slammed it onto my nightstand, sending it crashing to the floor.“Ah!!!!”“This isn’t who I am!” I shouted, hitting the table repeatedly until it shattered into pieces.“Scarlett? Scarlett, open the door!”I heard a pounding on my door; it was Kathrine, likely alerted by my screams.“I’m… I’m… fine, Kat, just leave me alone.” I stammered, my voice shaky as I tried to catch my breath.“You’re not fine, Scarlett! Open the door right now!” she insisted,
Scarlett povI ultimately returned to the state, seeking every possible means to escape the life I had previously abandoned. Lexi had betrayed me, Markus had returned to Elena to care for Henry, and I found myself back in the city I had left behind in an effort to protect my family.Upon my arrival at Katherine's residence, I appeared quite disheveled and was unable to comprehend the confusion I felt. Consequently, I had to feign a similar bewilderment, gazing at her with an unsettling expression.Katherine welcomed me into her mansion and offered me a cup of coffee while I stared at her in a daze."Could you please stop with that strange look? Your eyes might pop out if you keep staring at me like that," Katherine jested, tossing a throw pillow in my direction.I blinked, my focus returning as I caught the pillow and held it tightly against my chest. For a brief moment, Katherine's playful smile faded, replaced by a blend of concern and curiosity."Scarlett, what is happening?" she i
Katherine povI was seated on my bench in the garden when a gentle rustling sound caught my attention. My mouth fell open in disbelief, and I felt compelled to rise immediately. "Scarlett?" I exclaimed in astonishment. She appeared emaciated, her eyes sunken as if she had not eaten in some time. I gazed at her in shock; she had been absent for three months and returned looking so frail."Scarlett," I called, extending my arms in a gesture of welcome.As I observed her, a whirlwind of emotions surged within me, and I could not ignore the stark transformation in her appearance. Her once-vibrant complexion had turned pale and drawn, her bright eyes now hollow and devoid of life. Her once-healthy frame had become frail, resembling a delicate figure that seemed to quiver with each soft gust of wind.My initial astonishment shifted to a profound sense of worry and compassion. An intense desire to envelop her in a warm embrace arose within me, to protect her from the harshness of the world.