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CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Last Updated:
2025-02-12 04:44:17
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SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Flora’s POVThe morning light filters through the curtains, casting a soft glow across my bedroom. I should get up, get dressed, maybe even go downstairs but I don’t. I can’t. The thought of facing anyone in this house makes my stomach turn.I pull my knees to my chest, wrapping my arms around myself for comfort. My phone sits beside me on the bed, and I glance at the screen. Jessica should be here soon. I called her early this morning, needing someone to talk to.A soft knock at the door startles me.“Come in,” I call, my voice weaker than I’d like.Jessica steps inside, her expression unreadable. I don’t waste any time. “Stanley wants a divorce.”I watched her closely, searching for a reaction, but she didn't look shocked. She doesn’t gasp or even blink in surprise.I narrow my eyes. “You knew, didn’t you?”She sighs, shifting on her feet. “I didn’t know for sure,” she admits. “But I figured he would do something about the marriage sooner or later.” She hesitates. “Especially sin
Last Updated : 2025-02-12SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Jessica's POV I step out of my car, inhaling deeply as I approach the house. My heart is pounding, but I keep my expression blank. I already know what’s waiting for me inside, and I refuse to let him see any fear.As I push the door open, I spot Michael sitting on the couch, a half-empty bottle of bourbon on the table in front of him. His fingers lazily swirl the amber liquid in his glass, his gaze dark and unreadable.But it’s not the alcohol that makes my stomach tighten—it’s the whip and the gun lying beside the bottle.I exhale through my nose. So this is how it’s going to be.Michael lifts his gaze to me, his lips curling into a slow, dangerous smile. “Jessica,” he drawls, his voice laced with amusement.I don’t return the greeting. Instead, I step forward and fold my arms across my chest. “Whatever you’re planning to do, don’t,” I say sharply. “You’ll regret it.”His smile doesn’t falter. In fact, it widens. “Regret?” He takes a slow sip of his drink before setting the glass d
Last Updated : 2025-02-13SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Stanley's POV I sit on the edge of my bed, rubbing my temples as the dull throb of a hangover pounds in my skull. My mind is hazy, but one thing is clear, I spent the night in Flora’s room.I exhale sharply, running a hand through my hair. What the hell was I thinking? How did I even end up there? I try to recall every detail, but the only thing I clearly remember is the warmth of her embrace, the softness of her voice, and the way she looked at me with tears in her eyes.Damn it.I push myself off the bed and head straight to the bathroom, splashing cold water on my face. I can’t let myself get caught up in emotions. I made a decision, and I need to follow through with it.After quickly freshening up, I grab an aspirin from the medicine cabinet and down it with a glass of water. The bitter taste lingers, but I don’t care. I need to focus.I pick up my phone and dial my secretary’s number. She picks up on the first ring."Mr. Hudson?""Make sure my meeting with the press today pu
Last Updated : 2025-02-19SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER NINETEEN
Flora's POV I sit on the bed, cradling Aurora in my arms as I gently guide the bottle to her lips. She suckles eagerly, her tiny fingers curling against my chest. Watching her like this, so small and innocent, fills me with both warmth and sadness. No matter what happens, she’s all that matters now.The door creaks open, and before I can turn my head, I feel arms wrap around me from behind. A soft kiss lands on my cheek, then another on Aurora’s tiny chubby one."Look at my two favorite girls," Jessica coos, her voice light and cheerful.I glance at her and arch a brow. "You seem awfully happy today. What’s up?"Jessica grins, but there’s something mischievous in her eyes. "Can’t I just be in a good mood?"I narrow my gaze. "Jessica…"She throws up her hands playfully. "Okay, okay, maybe I do have a reason, but you’ll find out soon enough."I shake my head at her but let it go. If she wants to be cryptic, fine. Right now, my mind is too cluttered to dig into whatever she’s hiding.
Last Updated : 2025-02-19SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY
Flora's POV I fold the last of my clothes into the suitcase, pressing down to make room for everything. It’s funny how a place can feel like home one minute and like a prison the next. I glance around the bedroom, the one I used to share with Stanley, the one where I once imagined building a future together. Now, I’m being kicked out like I was never here.A soft knock on the door makes me pause. I turn and see my mother, Mrs. Grace, standing at the doorway, a warm smile on her face."Mom," I whisper, and before I know it, I’m in her arms, hugging her tightly.She strokes my back. "My baby," she murmurs. "You’ve been through so much."I nod, my throat tight. I don’t trust myself to speak, afraid I’ll break down completely.Mom pulls away and walks over to the crib, where Aurora is sound asleep. She picks her up gently and kisses her chubby little cheeks. "Oh, my sweet grandbaby. You’re getting more beautiful by the day."For a brief moment, I allow myself to smile, watching my mot
Last Updated : 2025-02-20SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY ONE
Anonymous POV The dark glow of the cigar’s ember illuminates the room as I take a slow drag, letting the smoke curl around me. The air is thick with the scent of power, deceit, and victory that’s just within reach.A sharp knock echoes against the heavy oak door. Without looking up, I flick my fingers, signaling the guard to enter.He steps in, his face blank as always. “Sir, Senator Jones is on the line.”I exhale a cloud of smoke and take the phone. “Jones,” I greet smoothly.“It’s happening just as we planned,” the senator’s voice crackles through the line. “Stanley’s falling apart. His wife has left, and the rumors are already flying.”A slow smile creeps onto my lips. “And how is he taking it?”“He’s pretending not to care, but my sources tell me he lost it after she left. Trashed her room. He’s spiraling.”I chuckle darkly. “Good. That’s exactly where we need him. Keep me posted, Jones. The real game is just beginning.”“You’ll have your updates,” Jones assures me. “And don’
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Jessica's POV I keep dialing, tapping my fingers against the counter as I wait for them to pick up. The bar is loud, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and music that vibrates through my chest.Finally, the call connects.There’s a shuffle, and then the voice I’ve been waiting for the boss.“What?” His tone is sharp, impatient.I straighten in my seat. “I’ve set the plan in motion.”Silence. Then, his voice drops into something colder. “And you did that without informing me first?”I swallow. “Look, I need you to calm down and listen to what I did.”He doesn’t say anything, which means he’s listening. So, I continue.“I called Stanley. Told him I was drunk and feeling down. He took the bait. He’s on his way here now.” I lower my voice. “And I think he’s already got a thing for me.”There’s a pause before the boss responds. “Make sure everything goes public.” His voice is like ice. “That way, Flora can move on in peace.”I roll my eyes. “Do you like Flora or something?”A lo
Last Updated : 2025-02-21SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER ONE
Flora's POVIn my 25 years of living, I never thought that I would be getting married to the love of my life. While I was in high school, I had a childhood heartthrob, Michael Brooks, who I thought I would be spending the rest of my life with, but he messed up big time. I loved him with everything I had, but he betrayed me. Surprisingly Micheal cheated on me with my high school classmate, who I'm very sure isn't as beautiful as I am. I've always despised cheaters because they cause nothing but trouble in the life of their partner. Michael was not only a cheat, but also a drug addict, who tends to beat me up whenever he gets intoxicated. He forgets everything and acts unreasonably whenever he takes the hard drugs. We were a loving couple back in the days in high school even with his deportment, until we graduated from high school and the level of his delinquency increased due to his idleness. Our once loving and admired relationship turned into a very toxic one, which almost took my
Last Updated : 2025-02-09
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SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY TWO
Jessica's POV I keep dialing, tapping my fingers against the counter as I wait for them to pick up. The bar is loud, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and music that vibrates through my chest.Finally, the call connects.There’s a shuffle, and then the voice I’ve been waiting for the boss.“What?” His tone is sharp, impatient.I straighten in my seat. “I’ve set the plan in motion.”Silence. Then, his voice drops into something colder. “And you did that without informing me first?”I swallow. “Look, I need you to calm down and listen to what I did.”He doesn’t say anything, which means he’s listening. So, I continue.“I called Stanley. Told him I was drunk and feeling down. He took the bait. He’s on his way here now.” I lower my voice. “And I think he’s already got a thing for me.”There’s a pause before the boss responds. “Make sure everything goes public.” His voice is like ice. “That way, Flora can move on in peace.”I roll my eyes. “Do you like Flora or something?”A lo
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY ONE
Anonymous POV The dark glow of the cigar’s ember illuminates the room as I take a slow drag, letting the smoke curl around me. The air is thick with the scent of power, deceit, and victory that’s just within reach.A sharp knock echoes against the heavy oak door. Without looking up, I flick my fingers, signaling the guard to enter.He steps in, his face blank as always. “Sir, Senator Jones is on the line.”I exhale a cloud of smoke and take the phone. “Jones,” I greet smoothly.“It’s happening just as we planned,” the senator’s voice crackles through the line. “Stanley’s falling apart. His wife has left, and the rumors are already flying.”A slow smile creeps onto my lips. “And how is he taking it?”“He’s pretending not to care, but my sources tell me he lost it after she left. Trashed her room. He’s spiraling.”I chuckle darkly. “Good. That’s exactly where we need him. Keep me posted, Jones. The real game is just beginning.”“You’ll have your updates,” Jones assures me. “And don’
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER TWENTY
Flora's POV I fold the last of my clothes into the suitcase, pressing down to make room for everything. It’s funny how a place can feel like home one minute and like a prison the next. I glance around the bedroom, the one I used to share with Stanley, the one where I once imagined building a future together. Now, I’m being kicked out like I was never here.A soft knock on the door makes me pause. I turn and see my mother, Mrs. Grace, standing at the doorway, a warm smile on her face."Mom," I whisper, and before I know it, I’m in her arms, hugging her tightly.She strokes my back. "My baby," she murmurs. "You’ve been through so much."I nod, my throat tight. I don’t trust myself to speak, afraid I’ll break down completely.Mom pulls away and walks over to the crib, where Aurora is sound asleep. She picks her up gently and kisses her chubby little cheeks. "Oh, my sweet grandbaby. You’re getting more beautiful by the day."For a brief moment, I allow myself to smile, watching my mot
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER NINETEEN
Flora's POV I sit on the bed, cradling Aurora in my arms as I gently guide the bottle to her lips. She suckles eagerly, her tiny fingers curling against my chest. Watching her like this, so small and innocent, fills me with both warmth and sadness. No matter what happens, she’s all that matters now.The door creaks open, and before I can turn my head, I feel arms wrap around me from behind. A soft kiss lands on my cheek, then another on Aurora’s tiny chubby one."Look at my two favorite girls," Jessica coos, her voice light and cheerful.I glance at her and arch a brow. "You seem awfully happy today. What’s up?"Jessica grins, but there’s something mischievous in her eyes. "Can’t I just be in a good mood?"I narrow my gaze. "Jessica…"She throws up her hands playfully. "Okay, okay, maybe I do have a reason, but you’ll find out soon enough."I shake my head at her but let it go. If she wants to be cryptic, fine. Right now, my mind is too cluttered to dig into whatever she’s hiding.
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Stanley's POV I sit on the edge of my bed, rubbing my temples as the dull throb of a hangover pounds in my skull. My mind is hazy, but one thing is clear, I spent the night in Flora’s room.I exhale sharply, running a hand through my hair. What the hell was I thinking? How did I even end up there? I try to recall every detail, but the only thing I clearly remember is the warmth of her embrace, the softness of her voice, and the way she looked at me with tears in her eyes.Damn it.I push myself off the bed and head straight to the bathroom, splashing cold water on my face. I can’t let myself get caught up in emotions. I made a decision, and I need to follow through with it.After quickly freshening up, I grab an aspirin from the medicine cabinet and down it with a glass of water. The bitter taste lingers, but I don’t care. I need to focus.I pick up my phone and dial my secretary’s number. She picks up on the first ring."Mr. Hudson?""Make sure my meeting with the press today pu
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Jessica's POV I step out of my car, inhaling deeply as I approach the house. My heart is pounding, but I keep my expression blank. I already know what’s waiting for me inside, and I refuse to let him see any fear.As I push the door open, I spot Michael sitting on the couch, a half-empty bottle of bourbon on the table in front of him. His fingers lazily swirl the amber liquid in his glass, his gaze dark and unreadable.But it’s not the alcohol that makes my stomach tighten—it’s the whip and the gun lying beside the bottle.I exhale through my nose. So this is how it’s going to be.Michael lifts his gaze to me, his lips curling into a slow, dangerous smile. “Jessica,” he drawls, his voice laced with amusement.I don’t return the greeting. Instead, I step forward and fold my arms across my chest. “Whatever you’re planning to do, don’t,” I say sharply. “You’ll regret it.”His smile doesn’t falter. In fact, it widens. “Regret?” He takes a slow sip of his drink before setting the glass d
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Flora’s POVThe morning light filters through the curtains, casting a soft glow across my bedroom. I should get up, get dressed, maybe even go downstairs but I don’t. I can’t. The thought of facing anyone in this house makes my stomach turn.I pull my knees to my chest, wrapping my arms around myself for comfort. My phone sits beside me on the bed, and I glance at the screen. Jessica should be here soon. I called her early this morning, needing someone to talk to.A soft knock at the door startles me.“Come in,” I call, my voice weaker than I’d like.Jessica steps inside, her expression unreadable. I don’t waste any time. “Stanley wants a divorce.”I watched her closely, searching for a reaction, but she didn't look shocked. She doesn’t gasp or even blink in surprise.I narrow my eyes. “You knew, didn’t you?”She sighs, shifting on her feet. “I didn’t know for sure,” she admits. “But I figured he would do something about the marriage sooner or later.” She hesitates. “Especially sin
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Stanley’s POVChloe’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction as she stepped closer to me. “You did the right thing, big brother,” she said, her voice smug and victorious.I didn’t reply. I couldn’t. My throat felt tight, and my chest burned with something I couldn’t name. Instead of acknowledging her, I turned on my heel and walked toward the stairs. But before I could take a step up, my mother’s voice cut through the air.“Stanley,” she called, her tone firm and expectant.I stopped, my grip tightening on the railing. I turned slightly, meeting her scrutinizing gaze.“What made you change your mind?” she asked, her brows furrowed. “Yesterday, you were still tolerating that woman. What happened?”I exhaled slowly, masking the storm raging inside me. “What, Mother? You’re not happy about it?”Her lips curled into a pleased smirk, but something was calculating in her eyes. “Oh, I’m happy,” she admitted. “But it’s a little… sudden. A little suspicious.”“There’s nothing suspicious about it,
SHADOWED DECEPTION: Unraveling The Truth CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Flora’s POVThe moment I stepped into the house, I knew something was wrong. Chloe and her mother are standing in the middle of the living room, their arms crossed, their eyes filled with contempt."Where have you been?" Chloe snaps, her voice laced with irritation.I exhale sharply. "It’s none of your business. I need to rest." I shift Aurora in my arms and make a move toward the staircase.But of course, they won’t let me go that easily. Chloe's mother steps forward, her eyes blazing with anger. “Don’t think you can just waltz in here and ignore us, Flora,” she spits. 'We know all about your little escapade.'"I felt a chill run down my spine as Chloe's mocking gaze met mine. 'Yes, Flora, we know all about your meeting with your lover,' Chloe sneers, her voice dripping with malice.My heart sank, and I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. “How did they find out? And what do they plan to do with this information?”Chloe's steps forward, her eyes flashing with fury. "We know ev
