LOGINShare
CHAPTER TWENTY
Last Updated:
2024-10-29 19:42:56VINCENZO
As I closed the door behind me, shutting out the chaos that raged beyond its confines, my attention turned to the men who stood before me in the room.
Their presence alone was enough to raise my guard, then the one who appeared to be their leader spoke, his words dripping with malicious intent. "Oh my, look who we have here. Is it not Vincenzo Cassano himself?"
A surge of anger mingled with confusion propelled me forward, inching closer to him. I stared at him, my eyes locked with his, searching for any trace of deception. "Who are you really?" I demanded, my voice low and steely.
He removed his mask, revealing himself to be Diego Marino, shock coursed through me like an electric current. How was this possible? I had killed him, I was so sure of it.
My voice laced with a mixture of surprise and disbelief, I managed to utter, "Diego Marino? But... how?"
Diego's laughter reverberated through the room, his eyes glinted
Related chapters
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY ONE
ANYAIt was midnight, and once again, my Aunt had locked me up in the basement. The darkness engulfed me, suffocating and terrifying. In the pitch-blackness, I fought to steady my ragged breaths. I closed my eyes, trying to calm the storm of fear within me. Inhale, exhale, I repeated silently, seeking solace in the rhythm of my own breath.Tears streamed down my cheeks, evidence of the overwhelming terror that consumed me. The darkness played tricks on my mind, whispering haunting thoughts and conjuring phantoms in the depths of my imagination. "I am sorry. Please, let me out," I whispered, my words a plea to the uncaring void that surrounded me. Desperation laced my voice, hoping that somehow my plea would be heard.Curled up in a corner, I trembled uncontrollably, my entire body quivering with fear. Despite the chill of winter, sweat trickled down my forehead, a testament to the sheer ter
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY TWO
VINCENZOI glanced out of my office window, my eyes drawn to the movement near the trees. The clock on the wall displayed 2:00 in the morning, and the torrential rain showed no signs of relenting. Curiosity mixed with concern as I observed the figure braving the elements. No one was supposed to be outside at this hour, especially in such a weather.Instinctively, my hand reached for the familiar weight of my gun. Grabbing an umbrella, I swiftly made my way out of the office, my footsteps purposeful and determined. The rain poured down relentlessly, soaking me within seconds, but my focus remained fixed on the mysterious presence near the trees.As I drew nearer, recognition washed over me. It was Anya. Her frail form stood amidst the rain, seemingly lost in her own world. Concern etched deep lines on my forehead as I called out to her, my voice barely audible over the pounding rain.“What are you doing in the rain?” I asked, m
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY THREE
ANYAI woke up with a jolt, my senses instantly assaulted by the harsh brightness of the room. My head throbbed mercilessly, sending sharp waves of pain through my skull. Confusion washed over me as I realized that the covers I was wrapped in were not my own.Blinking away the discomfort, I surveyed my surroundings with a mixture of surprise and recognition. This room... it seemed strangely familiar. My gaze shifted, and a gasp escaped my lips as my eyes settled on Vincenzo. He lay beside me, his head propped up on his hand, wearing a gentle smile that sent a flutter through my heart."What... what... why am I lying on your bed?" I stuttered, my voice trembling with confusion and a hint of apprehension. I sat up, the covers sliding off me as I searched Vincenzo's eyes for answers.He sat up as well, leaning against the headboard with a casual yet guarded posture. His eyes met mine, and a small smirk played at the corners of his mouth. "Go
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR
ANYAI stripped and went into the bathroom. The warm water cascaded over my body, soothing my tired muscles and offering a brief respite from the chaos that consumed my mind.Thoughts of Vincenzo swirled within me, leaving me torn between conflicting emotions. His unexpected display of care had caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but wonder what had prompted this change in his demeanour.As the water washed away the physical grime, my thoughts meandered through the labyrinth of possibilities. Was it my nightmare that softened his heart, reminding him of our shared vulnerability?Or was it the revelation of my anosmia, an unexpected glimpse into the depths of my hidden struggles? I couldn't decipher the true catalyst behind his actions, and that uncertainty both intrigued and unsettled me.Stepping out of the shower, droplets of water clung to my skin, mirroring the lingering doubts that clung to my thoughts. I moved towards th
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE
ANYAThe coughs and sneezes wracked my body, signalling the arrival of an unwelcome cold. I sat on my bed in my room, with Alessia by my side, offering her support."Can I borrow your phone, Alessia?" I asked, my voice slightly hoarse. I needed to know if Erik was safe, to ease the worries that gnawed at my heart."Why? Do you have someone you want to call?" she inquired, her curiosity evident in her expression.“Mh- mhmm” I nodded.She pushed her face towards mine and grinned childishly. “Who? Your boyfriend?”I scoffed and pushed her away “Like I have one.”“Fine. So who do you want to call?”I hesitated for a moment, contemplating whether to reveal the depths of my concern. Finally, I nodded, deciding it was time to confide in her. "My brother."Surprise flickered across Alessia's face as she processed this new information. I could sense her genuine asto
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY SIX
ANYATWELVE YEARS AGO"Mom, please," I pleaded, tugging at her hand. She sat on the chair, diligently weaving a shirt for little Erik, her focus unwavering."Come on now, Anya. It's too late," she replied, her voice gentle but firm.Feeling a glimmer of hope, I turned to my dad, who sat beside Mom. Maybe he would understand."Dad?" I looked up at him, my eyes pleading.Dad shook his head, a playful smile on his lips. I let out a pout and hopped onto his lap, determined to make one final attempt."Please, Dad. This is the only time I get to see Santa Claus. I'll die if I don't see him," I declared, dramatically emphasizing my words."Hush now, sweetie. Stop saying that, you won't die," Dad chuckled, his warm eyes filled with affection.Mom shook her head, unable to contain her laughter at my theatrical display. Her laughte
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN
VINCENZOShe was having another outburst, and this time, it struck me just how intense it was. Her gaze fixated on my car, her breath caught in her throat, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still. In that fleeting instant, I realized that her pain ran deep, far beyond anything I had ever imagined.Her piercing blue eyes held an unfathomable amount of suffering, an anguish that sent shivers down my spine. The rawness of her emotions was palpable, radiating from her trembling hands, clenched so tightly that blood trickled between her fingers. The sight shook me to my core, leaving me with a myriad of questions.What had she endured? What tragedy had etched itself so deeply into her soul? The weight of her pain seemed unbearable, and I couldn't help but wonder what had brought her to this point of torment.Desperate to provide solace, I gently tugged at her hands, hoping to anchor her in the present moment. Her tear-filled eyes met
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT
VINCENZOAnya walked out of the doctor's office, her steps determined yet cautious. Concern etched my features as I approached her, wanting to ensure her well-being."Hey, are you okay?" I asked, my voice laced with genuine worry."Yeah," she replied, her voice carrying a mix of exhaustion and relief. "The doctor said I need a lot of rest and I would be fine."I nodded in understanding, grateful to hear that her condition was not more severe. Together, we exited the building and made our way towards the awaiting car. I noticed a momentary hesitation on her part before she entered, a lingering reminder of the trauma she had endured.I reminded myself to be patient and understanding, knowing that it would take time for her to fully regain her sense of security.As I started the car's engine and pulled away from the curb, Anya reached for my hand, placing it gently on her lap. A comforting warmth spread through me as I intertwi
Latest chapter
TAINTED DESIRES EPILOGUE
ANYAONE MONTH LATERI was incredibly excited today. I was finally going to become Anya Cassano. Since Vincenzo had asked me to marry him, I had been eagerly awaiting this day.I didn't need to call a makeup artist; I already had a professional makeup artist as my best friend. Alessia didn't allow me to see what she was doing until she was finished."You can look at yourself now," she said with an excited tone. With a shaky smile, I turned to the mirror and stared at my reflection.I gasped when I saw myself. I had never known that I could look this beautiful. One thing that stood out was my hair, which was packed into a low bun. White flowers were pinned around my hair, and an elegant crystal tiara graced my head.I looked at my face; shimmery mascara accentuated my eyes. She hadn't used false lashes but had simply applied mascara.The foundation matched my skin tone perfectly, and she had chosen a m
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER EIGHTY FOUR
ANYATHREE MONTHS LATERI woke up with an uneasy feeling in my lower abdomen. My stomach tightened, and I moved around the room, trying to ease the discomfort.As I shifted, a sudden, sharp pain shot through me, causing my eyes to widen in alarm. My hand instinctively went to my belly, feeling the tension there. Oh, no. It couldn't be...The sensation of wetness between my legs confirmed my fears. My water had broken. Panic fluttered in my chest as I rushed to the bathroom, managing to keep my composure despite the urgency of the situation. I took a quick shower, changed into fresh clothes, and tied my hair up in a bun.Walking carefully, I made my way outside. The pain in my belly seemed to intensify, and I winced, my hand cradling the growing life inside me.Downstairs, everyone was gathered in the living room. Alessia, Cosima, and Blanca were sewing tiny clothes for my soon-to-arrive little angel. We had
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER EIGHTY THREE
VINCENZOFor days, I continued this silent vigil, finding solace in the mere sight of her presence. It wasn't easy to hold myself back, to resist the urge to wake her up and hold her in my arms. But I knew I needed time to heal, both physically and emotionally, before I could be the man she deserved.And then, after a week of watching and waiting, I finally decided that it was time. It was time to step out of the shadows and reveal myself to her once again.My heart clenched at the sight I met – my sweet angel was trapped in a nightmare, and this time, it was because of me. Her forehead was creased with worry, and tears streamed down her cheeks as she cried out in her sleep.I moved to her side swiftly, my heart aching at her distress. Gently, I shook her, trying to rouse her from the torment of her dream. Gradually, her eyes fluttered open, and she looked at me with a mixture of confusion and hope. She couldn't quite see me, yet.
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER EIGHTY TWO
VINCENZOI ended up staying in Emiliano's house for several days. It was a respite from the constant turmoil, a space where I could heal and gather my strength.He was not behind the kidnappings. Once I had regained a modicum of strength, Emiliano and I returned to the place where I had been held captive, and I found out that it was Maksim that was behind everything.Emiliano was angry but my anger burned hotter than ever. I was so full of rage towards Maksim. I took him to Emiliano's basement and tortured him in ways that vengeance itself couldn't even comprehend. The pain he experienced was but a fraction of the torment he had put me through. Finally, when I had sated my fury, I ended his life.Following that grim resolution, I ventured to Russia. I systematically dismantled every element connected to Maksim, eliminating threats, and imposing the Italians' dominance over the Russians.Once I was assured that the danger had been n
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER EIGHTY ONE
VINCENZORage nearly consumed me. Their games were becoming increasingly infuriating. I was sick and tired of their mindless attempts to break me. But I couldn't let their taunts get to me. I had to hold on, for Anya, for our unborn child.After the last brutal session of torture, they brought me to a doctor. As my body gradually healed, a sliver of hope ignited within me. I saw an opportunity to escape, to fight back. In my weakened state, I attempted to run, to break free from this wretched place.But it was futile; I hadn't regained my strength and they swiftly captured me again. Their retribution was swift and merciless, a stark reminder of my vulnerability.I had lost track of time, days blending into each other in this grim captivity. My family, my loved ones, must believe I'm dead by now. The thought of Anya grieving, thinking I was gone forever, was more painful than any physical torture they could inflict.Now, I found mys
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER EIGHTY
ANYADays turned into weeks, each passing day a painful reminder of his absence. My heart ached incessantly, yearning for him. My baby bump had grown noticeably, a constant reminder of the life growing within me.I wished he could witness this journey, be by my side to share in the anticipation and joy.I had exhausted every avenue in my pursuit to bring him back. My visits to Emiliano's house proved futile, met with his adamant refusal to help. He had even turned me away during my last attempt, his rejection a heavy blow to my hopes.Sometimes, the doubt would creep in – what if Vincenzo wasn't really alive? Why would he stay away for so long?The pain of his absence was almost too much to bear, my world feeling incomplete without him. I was living day to day, finding solace only in the life growing within me.Alessia's persistence wouldn't allow me to wallow in my sorrow. Reluctantly, I got up from the bed and headed
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER SEVENTY NINE
ANYAIt had been three months since we discovered that Vincenzo was still alive, and despite our best efforts, his whereabouts remained a mystery. Every day, his absence weighed heavily on my heart, and the longing to see his face again was a constant ache.The presence of our growing baby was the only thing that anchored me, preventing me from completely succumbing to despair. Nights were the hardest – the loneliness and grief seemed to intensify when the world was cloaked in darkness.I spent most of my time in the penthouse. It held memories of our time together, a place where our connection had deepened. It was where I saw him at his most vulnerable, and it was there that he touched my heart in ways I couldn't explain.The search for him consumed me, but no matter how hard I tried, his trail remained elusive.Standing before the mirror, I took in my reflection. My baby bump was gradually becoming more pronounced, a sign o
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER SEVENTY EIGHT
VINCENZOTHREE MONTHS LATERPain was all I could feel, a relentless ache that seemed to infiltrate every fiber of my being. The torment I endured was beyond anything I'd experienced before. Days melded into nights, a haze of suffering that blurred my sense of time.My body was a canvas of bruises, each one telling a story of brutality and torment. Dried blood streaked my arms and legs, a gruesome testament to the violence inflicted upon me. Nausea gnawed at my stomach, a constant companion in this hellish ordeal.I struggled to piece together the events that had led me here, to this nightmarish existence. The memories were fragmented, like shards of glass in my mind. One moment, I was driving, the world spinning around me. And then, I woke up in this wretched place – a grimy, dimly lit room that reeked of despair.The people responsible for my captivity were shrouded in masks that concealed their identities.
TAINTED DESIRES CHAPTER SEVENTY SEVEN
ANYAIn the days that followed, I worked on keeping that promise. I embraced the waves of sorrow when they came, allowing myself to grieve, but also learning to balance it with moments of self-care and determination.I had made a pact with myself – to ensure that our child knew about the incredible man who had filled my life with love. I would weave his memories into the fabric of our child's life, ensuring that Vincenzo would always be present in some way.But alongside the grief and the determination to honor his memory, there was a growing fire within me. A thirst for justice. Vincenzo's death had to be avenged. I was done with being a vulnerable pawn that others could exploit. I wanted answers, and I wanted those responsible to pay.And that began with finding Matteo. I needed to know where Vincenzo's body was laid to rest, to bid my final farewell. I searched for him, questioning everyone I could, until I finally found him down
