Vanessa felt dizzy with thoughts as she got back into the car, her lips still tingling from Edward's kiss. She still was in disbelief over what had just happened. One minute they eere arguing and the next minute his lips were on hers leaving her breathless. As they left, Edward's silence was heavy, his eyes focused on the road in front. Vanessa hesitated to talk, uncertain about what to say. However, her thoughts were moving quickly. How did she end up in this situation? Who was Edward, truly? What exactly was the Phoenix Club? The inquiries spun in her mind like a whirlwind, pulling her further into the enigma. Upon reaching the mansion, Edward's gaze turned icy as he looked at her again. "Later we'll talk about this," he said, his voice full of threat. Vanessa gave a nod, still attempting to comprehend the events that had transpired. Upon arriving at the mansion, Jenkins the stern-faced butler welcomed her. "Mrs. Blackwood, it's good to see you again," he greeted, his eyes la
Vanessa glanced over the monitors, attempting to understand the information displayed. Feeds were coming in from the hallways, gardens, and bedrooms. Edward seemed to have eyes all over the place."What is this?'"Edward wore a solemn expression. "This security system belongs to me. I have been watching some questionable behaviour, and I believe it's now time for you to learn the truth."Vanessa was filled with racing thoughts. What type of activity? And who was responsible for it?"Who are you seeking?" she inquired, her gaze fixated on Edward.He paused, seeming uncertain about how much to disclose. "I am searching for a traitor" he eventually stated. Vanessa's eyes grew wider in surprise. "A traitor? Here? In this house?""I have cameras everywhere, even to the darkest areas of my office."He went to a screen and indicated a live feed depicting a silhouette lurking in the dark.Vanessa leaned closer, attempting to improve her view. And afterward, she caught sight of it. A slight h
It was another day and Vanessa can't help but feel like he's still not telling the entire truth. Their marriage could not keep going on like this if they really wanted it to work.Vanessa's eyes sparked with exasperation. "You've never trusted me enough to tell me the truth. You're always considering the worst scenarios." Edward's jaw tightened, his gaze becoming more focused. "That's not true," his voice showed defensiveness."Yes, it is," Vanessa retorted, her voice getting louder. "You always doubt me, never giving me the benefit of the doubt. You constantly believe that I will cause you harm."Edward's expression contorted with rage. "You don't understand.""What do I not understand?" Vanessa insisted, her eyes full of fire. "Are you too afraid to have faith in anyone? Are you too scared to allow anyone to get close to you?"Fury flashed in Edward's eyes. "I am not afraid of anyone." His voice rose, bouncing off the walls while they both stared each other down."I'm just scared o
Edward's hold on the diary became stronger as he moved away from Vanessa, his thoughts consumed by Olivia. He was astonished that he had shown Vanessa how much he truly cared for Olivia by dropping his defenses. He sensed his vulnerability, his exposure. When he rounded the corner, he saw Vanessa trailing behind him, her gaze focused on him with a blend of interest and worry. Edward's fury ignited once more, prompting him to hasten his steps in an attempt to evade her within the twisting corridors of the mansion. Vanessa followed though, her footsteps reverberating closely. Edward felt her strong drive and desire to unveil the truth about Olivia and their history. Then, he hurried into a compact study and closed the door with a loud bang. He rested on the door, his chest rising and falling with feelings, still holding onto the journal. What made Vanessa so adamant about discovering his secrets? Did she fail to understand that certain things were more suitable to remain hidden?
Vanessa felt frustrated as she exited the library.She was already so close in getting him to confide but he shut her off again.She was in deep thoughts as she walked down the corridor.What was the reason behind Edward's strong determination to conceal it?Vanessa was aware that she needed to uncover the truth, but she was unsure of how to begin. She attempted to communicate with Edward, but he was not open to listening.Upon entering her room, she observed a sheet of paper on her desk. A maid left a note requesting a midnight meeting in the garden.Vanessa's interest was sparked. That evening, Vanessa quietly left her room and headed to the garden. The maid was already present, anticipating her arrival."Thank God you're here." The maid whispered. "There's something you must know."Vanessa's heart beat quickly with excitement. "What is that?"The maid paused, glancing anxiously at her surroundings. "I was friends with Olivia, you know. We were companions. We would have conversati
Vanessa awoke to the peaceful sound of Edward's soft snoring. She remained in his bed, enclosed in his embrace. Even while sleeping, he tightly held her as she attempted to shift positions. Her emotions were a blend of guilt, worry, and a touch of fondness. She cautiously removed herself from his hold, being careful not to disturb his sleep.Upon rising, she observed the nearly depleted whiskey bottle on the nightstand. Recalling last night's happenings, she experienced a sense of unease. She questioned what had caused Edward's unpredictable behavior.Following her quick refresh, Vanessa descended the stairs to discover Edward already seated in the dining area, enjoying a cup of coffee. He glanced upwards, and their gazes locked, yet he displayed no acknowledgement, no trace of the vulnerability from the night before."Good morning," he greeted with a neutral tone in his voice.Vanessa experienced a slight feeling of letdown. Did she fabricate the entire scenario in her mind? "Morning
Edward observed Vanessa leave, noting her hips gently swaying as she vanished into the hallway. He couldn't avoid feeling a twinge of yearning, his heart throbbing with an unexplained craving."Why are you feeling this way, Edward?" he whispered to himself, shaking his head in annoyance.He attempted to distance himself from her, to not let her get too close. However, each time he encountered her and engaged in conversation with her, he sensed himself becoming more captivated. He was unable to withstand her allure, her intelligence, her attractiveness.However, he was aware that it was necessary. He couldn't allow himself to develop feelings for her. Not at this moment, never at any time.Edward inhaled deeply in an attempt to quiet his fast-paced mind. He had to concentrate on his job, on preserving his family's reputation. His judgment couldn't be clouded by his feelings for Vanessa.At that moment, Jenkins, his butler, suddenly showed up next to him. "Sir, I must talk to you regard
Vanessa's eyes fluttered open slowly feeling a pain at the back of her head. Hissing, she figured he'd wrist were tied to the bed post as she laid on Edwards bed. Edward on the other hand, stood with folded arms, his eyes gazing intently at her."Vanessa, you should not have done that," he snarled, his voice filled with danger. "You should have refrained from interfering in matters that you have no comprehension of."Vanessa fought against the bonds, but they simply became more constricting. "What do you want from me, Edward?" She snapped.Edward's eyes narrowed. "When will you ever listen? What secrets are you trying to uncover?" He growled.Vanessa chuckled, a chilly, joyless noise. Edward, you know very well what I want. The truth about Olivia's death!"Edward's face contorted into anger. "Vanessa, you don't want to know the truth. Believe me, you do not."As Edward's grasp on Vanessa's wrist became firmer, her heart rate quickened. "Edward, I'm not afraid of you." She lied, attem
Vanessa gradually opened her eyes, taking in her surroundings in a dazed manner. Edward was seated beside her on the couch, softly running his hand through her hair as she lay there."Hey, are you alright?" he inquired, his tone gentle and worried.Vanessa nodded. "I believe that is the case. Can you tell me what occurred?""You passed out. Alex walked in and saw us together. Was that the reason..."Vanessa's eyes grew larger as she recalled the situation. "Not at all. I don't know, I just lost myself for a moment."Edward had a look on his face but it changed within a second..Vanessa rose to a sitting position, scanning the room. Alex sat in a chair with composure. Although his eyes said other things."Hello," he greeted.Edward pulled Vanessa to a corner before she could even reply. She had a confused look in her eyes and he could tell it was because of Alex."I let him here because of you." He clarified."But why?" "You need to hear his own side. He has something to say to you."
I have been pretending to be someone I am not. An intricately designed facade of flawlessness. Daughter, girlfriend, friend - these are roles I carry like clothes that don't quite fit. Underneath it all, I feel like a stranger, confused and scared.I was afraid of Edward before. His generosity remains a mystery that I cannot figure out. He perceives a flaw within me, reflected in his gaze. It is an odd sense of solace, a reliance I haven't deserved.Alex, however, possesses one of my secrets. A risky individual. A truth that has the potential to break everything apart. I am stuck, held captive by my own lack of courage.I am plagued by nightmares. My dreams are filled with images of control and suffering. Upon waking, my heart races as I find myself engulfed in a realm of darkness. These dreams are a mystery that I can't solve.With Edward, I discovered a bravery that I never realised was within me. He is like a stronghold, a protection from the turmoil inside. I hold on to this power
I sense that I am losing my identity within all of this. My family is overwhelming me by making decisions on my behalf without consulting me for my preferences.They believe they know what is best for me simply because of my family's background.I wanted them to see that, I am not a tool in their scheme. I am an individual with thoughts, emotions, and wants. What I want most is to break free from their control.This is why I have been dedicating additional time to being with Alex. He stands out from the rest. He has no interest in my family's name or wealth. He is concerned about me, my desires, and my needs.I've been attracted to him since we first met. He is compassionate and authentic, and he brings me joy. However, my family would never give their approval. They might argue that he is not suitable for me, and that I should be with someone of higher status and wealth.But none of that matters to me. I just wanted to be happy with someone who truly cared about me.I am aware that m
Vanessa attempted to appear unaffected by Edward, but she couldn't shake a feeling of discomfort in his presence. For days, she had been dodging him, but they finally met in the hallway.Edward observed her aloof attitude and challenged her. "Vanessa, what is happening?" he inquired, his voice filled with worry. "You have been ignoring me for a number of days. Did I make a mistake?"Vanessa raised her shoulders, attempting to seem indifferent. I simply require some room, Edward. "That's the end."However, Edward was not convinced. He moved closer, narrowing his eyes. "No, there is a deeper aspect to this. You are keeping something away from me, what's that?"Vanessa sighed, aware that she couldn't suppress it indefinitely. "I know what you did Edward." She whispered quietly.Edward's look shifted from worry to bewilderment. He inquired, his forehead creased, "What are you saying?"Vanessa paused to take a deep breath before she started talking. "I know about Olivia."Edward's eyes wid
Stunned, Edward studied what was in front of him. He had left Vanessa to speak with Alex not to act all lovey dovey with him. Aggravated, he stalked towards them.Vanessa noticed he was there and turned to look at him. She squinted her eyes, a touch of rebellion in her tone. "Edward, why are you here?"Edward's smile was icy, deliberate. "I could ask you that yourself Vanessa. I notice you are still caught up in your past."Alex rose to his feet, his eyes showing signs of warning. "Edward, this is none of your business."Edward remained unfazed. Approaching, he spoke with a tone full of wickedness. "Oh, but it matters to me. I am not letting Vanessa go easily because she is my wife and she's mine to have, only."Anger flashed in Vanessa's eyes. "You don't have the authority to control my actions, Edward."Edward's laughter was icy, devoid of cheer. "Do you think you can simply walk away from me? I disagree, Vanessa. I possess secrets that could destroy your beloved Alex. I will utiliz
Vanessa's eyes fluttered open slowly feeling a pain at the back of her head. Hissing, she figured he'd wrist were tied to the bed post as she laid on Edwards bed. Edward on the other hand, stood with folded arms, his eyes gazing intently at her."Vanessa, you should not have done that," he snarled, his voice filled with danger. "You should have refrained from interfering in matters that you have no comprehension of."Vanessa fought against the bonds, but they simply became more constricting. "What do you want from me, Edward?" She snapped.Edward's eyes narrowed. "When will you ever listen? What secrets are you trying to uncover?" He growled.Vanessa chuckled, a chilly, joyless noise. Edward, you know very well what I want. The truth about Olivia's death!"Edward's face contorted into anger. "Vanessa, you don't want to know the truth. Believe me, you do not."As Edward's grasp on Vanessa's wrist became firmer, her heart rate quickened. "Edward, I'm not afraid of you." She lied, attem
Edward observed Vanessa leave, noting her hips gently swaying as she vanished into the hallway. He couldn't avoid feeling a twinge of yearning, his heart throbbing with an unexplained craving."Why are you feeling this way, Edward?" he whispered to himself, shaking his head in annoyance.He attempted to distance himself from her, to not let her get too close. However, each time he encountered her and engaged in conversation with her, he sensed himself becoming more captivated. He was unable to withstand her allure, her intelligence, her attractiveness.However, he was aware that it was necessary. He couldn't allow himself to develop feelings for her. Not at this moment, never at any time.Edward inhaled deeply in an attempt to quiet his fast-paced mind. He had to concentrate on his job, on preserving his family's reputation. His judgment couldn't be clouded by his feelings for Vanessa.At that moment, Jenkins, his butler, suddenly showed up next to him. "Sir, I must talk to you regard
Vanessa awoke to the peaceful sound of Edward's soft snoring. She remained in his bed, enclosed in his embrace. Even while sleeping, he tightly held her as she attempted to shift positions. Her emotions were a blend of guilt, worry, and a touch of fondness. She cautiously removed herself from his hold, being careful not to disturb his sleep.Upon rising, she observed the nearly depleted whiskey bottle on the nightstand. Recalling last night's happenings, she experienced a sense of unease. She questioned what had caused Edward's unpredictable behavior.Following her quick refresh, Vanessa descended the stairs to discover Edward already seated in the dining area, enjoying a cup of coffee. He glanced upwards, and their gazes locked, yet he displayed no acknowledgement, no trace of the vulnerability from the night before."Good morning," he greeted with a neutral tone in his voice.Vanessa experienced a slight feeling of letdown. Did she fabricate the entire scenario in her mind? "Morning
Vanessa felt frustrated as she exited the library.She was already so close in getting him to confide but he shut her off again.She was in deep thoughts as she walked down the corridor.What was the reason behind Edward's strong determination to conceal it?Vanessa was aware that she needed to uncover the truth, but she was unsure of how to begin. She attempted to communicate with Edward, but he was not open to listening.Upon entering her room, she observed a sheet of paper on her desk. A maid left a note requesting a midnight meeting in the garden.Vanessa's interest was sparked. That evening, Vanessa quietly left her room and headed to the garden. The maid was already present, anticipating her arrival."Thank God you're here." The maid whispered. "There's something you must know."Vanessa's heart beat quickly with excitement. "What is that?"The maid paused, glancing anxiously at her surroundings. "I was friends with Olivia, you know. We were companions. We would have conversati