Joe pov“Can you please stop yelling!” I growled, my anger simmering like a volcano ready to erupt. I paced the room, moving from behind the couch to the front, the tension thick in the air. I couldn't grasp the entire situation. Alia kept reminding me that I was about to take a significant risk."Joe, look at me. Why didn’t you tell me that it’s either you find Scarlett or your life is at stake? What kind of coven imposes such a condition?" she asked, standing in front of me with her hands on her hips, her voice filled with concern."That's the reality, Alia. I've been living in hell. You saw the kind of magic she wields, right? She's incredibly clever and dangerous. Thanks to your locator spell, we managed to trace her to the building, but I knew it wouldn’t work because I had something of hers—a photograph," I replied, my face contorting with a wave of intense emotion."I can't believe you kept this from me, Joe," Alia's voice trembled, her eyes flashing with a mix of anger and wor
Scarlett pov“Someone visited me.”“Who?” I asked urgently, my voice barely above a whisper.“My sister.”“You have a sister, Markus?” I was completely thrown off by this news. After twelve years together, he had never mentioned any family to me.It was astonishing how my husband had started seeing another woman just because I left him, I thought as I pressed the phone against my shoulder, needing to grasp all the new information he was revealing.“Calm down, Scarlett, I’m not cheating on you. She called days ago, explaining how families can drift apart, and she was right about every detail.” He reassured me, but I remained unmoved.“Her name is…”I interrupted him. “Markus, this conversation is finished. I need to clear my mind in the peaceful space I’ve created for myself. Take care of yourself and your… SISTER.” I hung up. Slowly, I stepped back until I reached the mattress and lay down.Sister?My thoughts raced. Twelve years together, and he had never mentioned a sister. Not onc
Katherine povI grabbed some potatoes from the cupboard, my heart racing with conflicting thoughts. I felt too lazy to prepare them for breakfast. There's something I need to confess right now. I spent the night with Nyx, and I really don’t want Marian to find out. She would be furious to learn I was with her boyfriend, and Scarlett would undoubtedly jump to her defense. I thought about this as I adjusted my short polo to reach my knees."Nyx, just hang tight, okay? Mom won't be home for a while, so relax, spread those legs, and let the ceiling admire your nakedness," I called out loudly. I hoped no one would drop by because I wouldn’t be able to face them; their words would be like daggers."I love you, Kat," Nyx replied, his tone serious, as if he truly meant it. I smiled, noticing the kitchen was a mess, and I needed to tidy up before cooking.As I stood in the disordered kitchen, the morning light poured in, illuminating the chaos. Crumbs and dirty dishes cluttered the counters,
Marian pov“Kat, open the door.” We knocked repeatedly, but she refused to let us in. Ever since we got here, she's been acting strangely."Scarlett, don't you think she's hiding something?" I whispered to Scarlett, trying to keep my voice down so that girl wouldn't overhear us. Scarlett brought me here to resolve things, but her demeanor is anything but inviting."Girls, wait in the living room. I have an upset stomach," Katherine's voice came through her door as we stood in the hallway, knocking persistently. I know she's a bit off, but this behavior is really suspicious.I knocked on Kat's door again, my patience running out. Scarlett placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder."Marian, maybe she's genuinely unwell," Scarlett suggested.I gave her a doubtful look. "You really think so?"Scarlett's face showed uncertainty. "I don't know... Kat has been acting odd lately."I nodded, my suspicions confirmed. "Exactly. She's definitely hiding something."Kat's voice came through the door,
Elena pov“Markus, which woman did you tell Scarlett about? She’s been restless all week, constantly calling and texting to check on you. Who is this lady you suddenly claim is your sister?” I asked, my heart racing and my voice reflecting my anger over the situation.I watched him approach, his hand outstretched, but I scoffed, fury boiling inside me. You told my friend Scarlett that you’ve found your long-lost sister. I knew it was a lie."I'm not lying," he insisted. "A woman came to me, explaining everything about my family and how we’re connected before someone tore us apart."I erupted into laughter; it all sounded like a ridiculous tale."Save it, Markus!" I snapped, my voice shaking with rage. "You expect me to buy this absurd story about a sister you never mentioned before? You’re unbelievable!" I shook my head, my eyes filled with anger.Markus looked desperate, but I wasn’t swayed. "Elena, please listen. I know it sounds insane, but just hear me out." He reached for me agai
Scarlett povThe blazing sun forced me to slide the window open immediately. Marian had been sobbing all day over Nyx's ridiculous cheating. Trying to comfort someone like her is exhausting; I felt an urge to punch her for soaking my mattress with her pointless tears.The warm breeze brought in the fragrance of blooming flowers, but it did nothing to lighten the heavy mood. Marian's cries filled the room, testing my patience to its limits. I gritted my teeth, my fingers itching to shake some sense into her."Marian, please stop crying!" I shouted, frustration clear on my face. "You're ruining my mattress, and honestly, Nyx's betrayal might be a blessing if it means I can escape this emotional storm."Marian curled up tighter, her face buried in the pillow as her sobs grew louder. I could feel her pain like a tangible weight. My irritation began to fade, replaced by a pang of guilt. I recalled all the times Marian had supported me, always ready to listen and comfort.Taking a deep brea
Scarlett povI slammed the door as soon as I excused myself from Marian and Lexi. That girl… I hurried to the drawer where my phone had been locked away and silent for hours.Wow, I hadn’t called anyone, nor had I even thought to. OMG! Elena nearly drained my phone with 27 missed calls. Why was she calling? It was odd for her to bombard me like that. My thoughts immediately went to my son. I hope nothing's wrong; I don’t want to be a negligent parent. I quickly scrolled through my phone and dialed her number. I paced with my hand on my hip, waiting for her to answer, and finally, she did. I could hear some rustling on her end.“Hey, what’s going on? I saw a ton of missed calls from you. How’s Henry?” I asked urgently, sitting on my mattress and gripping the bedsheet.“He’s fine. The school bus just dropped him off, and I had to rush to the kitchen to make something for him.” She hesitated, her heavy breathing echoing in my ear.“It’s about Markus and his new sister coming to see him,
Scarlett pov I won't overlook anything, especially when I'm hurt over a trivial argument. I lay in bed, listening to the morning birds singing their cheerful tunes."Good morning, Scarlett! Are you really not going to work?" Marian's voice rang out from the hallway."I'm not going, sweetheart. I've got terrible cramps," I replied, still lounging on my bed. The truth was, I needed to talk to Lexi; she had some explaining to do. I didn't want to involve Marian since she didn't know Markus or that I was married.Lexi's place is just two doors down, so it’s a quick trip.I threw off the covers and swung my legs over the edge of the bed, grimacing as a sharp pain shot through my abdomen. While cramps were a solid excuse to skip work, that wasn't my main reason for staying home. I had to confront Lexi."Marian, I’ll be okay. Just need to rest a bit," I called out, trying to sound as weak as possible."Okay, Scarlett. Hope you feel better soon!" Marian's voice faded as she left.Once I hear
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.