Scarlett pov “Why do you keep your family a secret from us, Lexi?” I asked softly, watching her reaction as my gaze moved across her face. It was clear she was uncomfortable with my question. She was hiding something—either she was lying or there was an issue with her family."I... I don't want to discuss them. Please, let's just drop it," she said, fidgeting with her bag. Marian quickly turned her attention to me."Lexi, are you alright? We're just trying to be supportive. Why are you reacting this way?" Marian inquired, her voice filled with concern as she shifted closer to Lexi on the couch."I know, but I really don't want to talk about my family," Lexi replied, avoiding eye contact. There was something off about her tone; it felt suspicious.Marian's expression softened, her brows knitting together in worry. She gently placed her hand on Lexi's arm, offering warmth and comfort. "Lexi, we’re not trying to invade your privacy. We care about you. You're like family to us." Her voic
Lexi povA chilly breeze swept into my room, sending a shiver through me. I struggled to focus as the cold air brushed against my skin. I quickly got up, glancing at the clock, my heart pounding. I needed to keep an eye on Scarlett before Klaus made his move.With a sigh, I left my bed and approached the window, wrapping my arms around the iron frame as I peered outside. I just had to wait for them to head out for their morning workout. I planned to sneak in and grab Scarlett's phone; I needed to uncover information about her since Klaus was after her.I tightened my grip on the cold iron, my fingers growing numb. The wind howled, tangling my hair as I stared into the darkness, my mind racing with Klaus's orders.Scarlett was the target, and I was responsible for gathering the intel. The thought of betraying my friends made my stomach twist, but I felt trapped. Klaus was in control, and I was merely a piece in his game.I shifted my focus back to the mission. Scarlett's phone was cruc
Chapter 47Lexi povI felt a heavy burden in my chest as I quickly scroll through her call log, searching for anything that could assist me. Klaus wants me to betray this girl's trust, but all I want is to be with Nyx because I love him.Her messages were locked, and everything related to the call log was inaccessible."Damn it!" I shouted, clenching my fist in frustration, my eyes filled with a sense of dread. Suddenly, an idea struck me. Perhaps I should look at her pictures. She had been overly protective of her phone, intentionally handing it to me knowing the log and messages were locked, but her gallery was open.As I browsed through the images, I was taken aback by what I found—various people, family members I had never heard of… My attention was suddenly captured by a photo of a man. Who is this guy with her? I wondered, zooming in for a better look. He looked just like my brother. I sank slowly onto Scarlett's bed, scanning the room to shake off the confusion in my mind. My b
Scarlett povWhy is she inquiring about Markus? How does Lexi even know him? I rolled my eyes as my heart began to race. Could it be that Markus cheated on me with Lexi without my knowledge? The thought crossed my mind, considering how untrustworthy men can be. I just couldn't figure out why she would bring it up. The events of the day replayed in my head. I tossed and turned on my bed, flipping the sheets off me repeatedly. Lexi didn’t stay over at our apartment again because she suddenly had a mood swing.Her sudden change was keeping me awake. She claimed it was menstrual cramps, but I sensed something was off.I couldn't stop tossing and turning, my mind filled with questions and suspicions. Markus, my husband, and Lexi, my new best friend—just the idea of them together made me feel sick. I had a nagging feeling that something wasn’t right.Then, my phone buzzed on the nightstand. I paused, debating whether to pick it up. It was Marian."Hey, Scarlett! What's up? You've been actin
Author povA tall, muscular man leaned in close to a woman standing silently at a crosswalk, his voice low and threatening. "Hand over your purse! Do you want me to take it by force and do something worse?" She kept her gaze fixed on the road, fully aware of his intentions but choosing to ignore him."Are you deaf? I said give me your purse! I don’t want to attract attention, which is why I’m not just grabbing it," he hissed, his body pressing against hers.After a few moments of silence, he stepped in front of her. Suddenly, he lunged for the purse, but it wouldn’t budge; it felt as if it were glued to her hand."Looks like you're a thief," she said with a sly smile, the cool night air swirling around them."How did you do that? Why can’t I pull it away?" His frustration was palpable as he clenched his fists, moving closer to her, their faces nearly touching. She closed her eyes, bracing for a confrontation, but instead, he inhaled deeply, his hand resting lightly on her shoulder, hi
Alia pov“Who are you here to see? Or who are you following? You might be stalking someone with the intention of stealing from me,” I said hoarsely, leaning in to grasp the situation fully.“I can’t share that, Alia. You can’t make me. I need to rest, eat, and find a place to stay,” he replied, quickly chewing his food. A wave of intense anger washed over me; I despise being put in a position of uncertainty.Tell me, I challenged.I won’t. Can’t you see? My hunger is clouding my thoughts; I need to eat.Frustration flared in my eyes as I watched him devour his food, completely unaware of my rising irritation. How could he be so indifferent?"Really?" I snapped, keeping my voice steady. "You’re eating while I’m trying to talk?"He looked up briefly, meeting my gaze before returning to his meal."Sorry," he mumbled, his mouth full.I tightened my fists, my nails digging into my skin. "Sorry? You think that’s enough? You won’t tell me what’s happening, and all you can say is sorry?”His
Marian povI sat on the bench, enjoying a glass of red wine and some chips to cap off my day. A soft giggle escaped me as I scrolled through my phone; the news and entertainment updates were overwhelming in the best way. I nearly dropped my phone from the sheer joy of what I was reading, my grip tightening around it.Suddenly, I heard a familiar voice call my name. My happiness faltered; I couldn't shake off the memory of her snooping on Scarlett's phone the other day. I had no desire to engage with her, especially since she had a crush on my Nyx. I kept my eyes glued to the screen, ignoring her attempts to get my attention."Marian, I..." she hesitated, likely sensing my irritation. "Marian, are you okay?" Lexi asked, her voice barely above a whisper as she stepped closer, blocking my view.I chose to ignore her, pretending to be engrossed in my phone as I scrolled through the news feed. The once-refreshing breeze now felt sharp and cold, mirroring my frosty attitude."Hey, Marian,"
Scarlett pov“I’m cheering for you, Scarlett. Why not take a break? I can handle things from here.” Lexi’s words struck me. Does she want to support me? Why? I pondered, looking at her. My face was marked with concern; I didn’t want to reveal my foolishness, especially with my stomach growling, the noise echoing in my ears.“Scarlett, I’ll take a day off work with you and let us rest,” she said, smiling as she propped her leg on the coffee table. I couldn’t respond right away because I was busy setting the dining table for breakfast. Marian would be down soon.I turned to Lexi, raised my eyebrows playfully, and gave her a thumbs up. “Hey, I’m on it. Let me grab the food from the kitchen before Marian comes down,” I said, hurrying to the kitchen.I rushed into the kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon and fresh coffee enveloping me. My stomach protested louder, demanding food. I quickly put together a breakfast spread of scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit.As I worked, I couldn’t s
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.