My breaths came in short, ragged gasps as I struggled to stay conscious. The chaos of the grand hall was a distant roar, the screams and shouts blurring into a single, indistinguishable noise. Tony's face loomed over me, his eyes wide with concern and determination."Stay with me, Atlas," Tony repeated, his voice firm yet gentle. "The ambulance is on its way."I nodded weakly, unable to form coherent words. The pain in my chest was overwhelming, a relentless agony that threatened to pull me under. I forced myself to focus on Tony's voice, using it as an anchor to keep myself grounded in the present.As we moved through the frenzied crowd, I caught glimpses of the mayhem that had erupted. Guests were crouched behind tables, some crying, others frantically trying to find their loved ones. The elegant decor of the hall was marred by overturned chairs and shattered glass.Tony and the security team managed to navigate us to a side exit, where the cool night air hit me like a wave. It was a
I hurried down the sterile, brightly lit corridor of the hospital, the echo of my footsteps blending with the soft hum of medical machinery. My shift was almost over, but I needed to find Jessica. As I rounded the corner, I spotted her near the nurses' station, reviewing a patient's chart."Jessica, hey," I called out softly, trying not to attract too much attention.She looked up, her expression curious but patient. "Lilith, what's up?""Can we switch shifts again?" I asked, forcing a smile. "I know I've been asking a lot lately, but I really need to be on the evening shift today."Jessica's brow furrowed, and she set the chart down. "Lilith, this is the third time this week. Who is Mr. Sharpe to you, really? You’ve been doing this for two months now, switching with everyone from morning to night just to be the nurse taking care of him all day. What's going on?"The question hung in the air, heavy and loaded. How could I tell her that Atlas Sharpe, the man lying unconscious in Room 3
"I won't," I promised, my voice firm despite the tears in my eyes. "I'm not going anywhere."The medical staff moved efficiently, performing a series of tests and checks to ensure Atlas's condition was stabilizing. I stayed by his side, holding his hand and offering reassurances, though I knew he must be exhausted and disoriented."His vitals are strong," the nurse reported to the doctor, her tone one of cautious optimism. "No signs of immediate complications."The doctor nodded, looking relieved. "That's good news. Let's keep monitoring him closely. We'll need to do more extensive tests, but for now, it seems he's on the mend."As the staff finished their initial assessments and began to disperse, the lead doctor turned to me. "Lilith, you can stay with him for a while. Just let us know if there are any changes or if he needs anything.""Thank you," I said, my voice full of gratitude. Once the room had cleared and it was just the two of us, I pulled a chair close to Atlas's bedside a
The air around me felt heavy with Mitch's threats, his anger simmering just beneath the surface. I knew he wasn't joking; Mitch was capable of true violence when pushed. His words echoed in my mind as I stood there, trying to process the gravity of the situation. I couldn't resign just like that—I didn't need this job, I needed to be with Atlas."I... I'll think about it," I managed to say, my voice barely above a whisper. Mitch's eyes narrowed, but he stepped back, his fists still clenched at his sides.Mitch's eyes narrowed, his face twisted in a snarl. "Don't push me, Lilith," he warned through gritted teeth. "You know what I'm capable of. Don't make me piss off."With a final, menacing glare, Mitch stormed away, his footsteps echoing down the corridor. I stood there, shaking, the fear and anger swirling inside me. I could still feel the pressure of his grip on my arm, a stark reminder of his rage.As soon as he was out of sight, I walked back to the corridor, my legs feeling like
I froze as Tony's command rang through the room, and the door burst open, two security guards entering swiftly.Tony’s command was swift and rigid. “Guards, escort her out of this room. Now. The Boss just got out of a critical situation and he does need this kind of distraction. Make sure to inform the staff that she's not allowed under on circumstances back into this room."The guards moved forward, their expressions stern, and I looked at Atlas, hoping for some sign of support, but his gaze was distant, conflicted. My heart pounded in my chest as I took a step back, preparing to leave.But before the guards could reach me, Atlas’s voice cut through the tension, weak but unhesitating. “Stop. Let her stay.”The guards paused, their eyes shifting between Tony and Atlas. Tony’s face twisted into a grimace, clearly displeased with Atlas’s order. “Boss, this is not the time. I need to share critical information with you.”Atlas’s eyes, though weary, were relentless as he looked at Tony. “S
Atlas’s gaze held mine for a long, tense moment, his eyes reflecting a whirlwind of emotions. Finally, he took a deep breath and spoke, his voice tired but firm.“Tony,” he said, his tone carrying a mix of authority and weariness, “let Lilith speak.”Tony’s eyes widened in surprise, and he glanced at me with an expression of reluctant respect. “Boss, I don’t think that’s—”“Let her speak,” Atlas interrupted firmly, his voice brooking no argument. “And watch your tone with her.”Glaring at me, Tony’s mouth tightened into a thin line, but he nodded curtly. “Fine, go ahead.”I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts amidst the swirl of emotions. I walked closer to the bed, trying to maintain composure. “Atlas, I know this is not the right time, but I have a sense that there’s more to this situation than what’s been revealed. You need to consider that Derrie might have had a reason beyond mere negligence.”Atlas’s eyes remained fixed on me, a flicker of curiosity mingling with skepticis
I shifted uncomfortably at the edge of the hospital bed, unable to look Atlas in the eye. My heart was racing, my breaths coming in shallow, uneven gasps. I could barely stand to be in the same room with him. How could I explain what had happened? What had become of my life that had led me to this unbearable point of being at the mercy of Mitch? I looked down at my trembling hands, then at Atlas, who lay there with his usual calm demeanor. It was a look that I knew well—a look that had once been a source of strength for me. Now, it was a mirror reflecting all the mess and confusion I had brought upon myself."Um," I started, my voice wavering, "I—I think I need to call in another nurse."I fumbled for the emergency button, my fingers slick with sweat. As soon as I pressed it, a sense of relief mixed with dread washed over me. I glanced at Atlas, desperate to catch any sign of understanding or forgiveness, but he kept his gaze fixed ahead.Jessica arrived moments later with a bright sm
I could feel my vision blurring as Mitch held me against the wall. I could taste the blood from my lip mixing with my sweat."I am not going to lose you again, Lilith!" Mitch screamed in my face as I struggled desperately against him. "Especially not to that bitch!! You are mine! You are fucking mine, and I don't plan on making the same mistake twice and allow you to slip from my grip again."His body pressed against me, his weight crushing against my lungs. "I... I...a-m n-ot go-ing to be...bet-ray y-ou." I wheezed, tears streaming down my cheeks as I struggled to breathe."Do you think I am a fool? Do you think I don't know how much you hate my guts... The disgust on your face every time I touch you... Nothing I say or do could make you look at me the way you once did. You despise me." Mitch growled.My limbs felt heavy against the ground, but I fought to remain upright as I choked out, "You're wrong, Mitch...""Shut up!" Mitch roared, raising his arm to strike me. "I am no fool,
Atlas' POVParis, the city of love. The night street light glowed on Lilith's face as she stared up at the Effie Towel."How can it still look so pretty... Even after three months of being here, I still can't believe how beautiful Paris is," She said to me with a soft smile on her face. I love her with everything in me... But this version of her, happy, carefree, and full of life is my favorite part about her. She turned around and looked into my eyes with those gorgeous ones. In some sense, we were never that different... Life hasn't been fair to us... Her toxic relationship with Mitch, and the betrayal of my uncles, brought out the worst side of us. But the best outcome of it all was meeting her."What? Do I have something on my face?" Lilith giggled, her eyes widened so cutely.I shook my head and replied, "No..nothing like that." When she gazed back at the towel, I stared at my watch, counting slowly, "3, 2, 1..."The fireworks lit up the sky like a thousand stars, and I droppe
His uncles shifted uncomfortably, clearly taken aback by Atlas's confident demeanor. Then Alex cleared his throat. "We'll be going now," he said stiffly."Right. But before you do, you all are fired, effectively and immediately. I want your desks clear and your belongings out of the offices by the end of the day," Atlas declared, his tone unwavering.Alex exchanged a look with his brothers, their expressions a mix of surprise and indignation. "Atlas, you can't just—" "Yes, I can," Atlas interrupted firmly. "I have played the game of cat and mouse long enough with you all and it's time to end it all once and for all.""Atlas, nephew..." Luke stepped forward, his voice a mix of pleading and frustration. "We've been here for you since day one. We've supported you through thick and thin. You can't just cast us aside like this.""Right," Ransom spoke up, his voice tinged with bitterness. "After all we've done for you, this is how you repay us?""We have always had your best interests at
"The court is about to begin! Everyone, please take your seats!" announced the bailiff, breaking the tense silence in the room.Atlas squared his shoulders, exchanging a glance with me. I could sense the weight of stress and the complexity of emotions swirling around him. We moved past Alex, Atlas went to the front with Wilson, and I sat on the bench with Tony and Victor. The two took my hand in theirs, and I smiled at them, feeling a bit less tense. The room fell silent as everyone settled into their seats, awaiting the start of the proceedings.As the judge entered and took his place at the bench, the courtroom hushed even further. "The court is in section! We are here today to determine the guilt or innocence of the defendant, Atlas Sharpe, in the murder of Mitch. Mr. Wilson, you may proceed with your opening statement." The judge announced.Mr. Wilson stood up, adjusting his glasses before addressing the court. "Your Honor, ladies and gentlemen of the jury," he began, his voic
Silently, I sat on the bed watching Atlas wear his coat. When he reached for his tie, I woke from the bed approached him, and gently took the tie from his hands. "Let me help you with that," I whispered.Atlas turned to face me, his eyes softening as he nodded. I deftly looped the tie around his neck, my fingers brushing against the cool fabric. The silence between us was comfortable, filled with unspoken words and shared understanding.As I tightened the knot and adjusted the tie, I glanced up to meet his gaze. "You look perfect," I said with a small smile.Atlas smiled back, a rare and beautiful sight. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice warm and tender.For a moment, we stood there, inches apart, and even though he tried to mask it with a smile, I could see the stress in his eyes. The trailer has been going on for one year and today we get to hear the final verdict. I knew how much this meant to him, how deeply he cared about the outcome. Gently, I placed a hand on his cheek, feel
"Okay," I said quietly, clicking on the most recent file, and the video began to play."Stop... Stop, Mitch.""Mitch, stop!""I can't breathe... Mitch, you are going to kill me." "I am not going to lose you again, Lilith!.... Especially not to that bitch!! You are mine! You are fucking mine, and I don't plan on making the same mistake twice and allow you to slip from my grip again.""I... I...a-m n-ot go-ing to be...bet-ray y-ou." "Do you think I am a fool? Do you think I don't know how much you hate my guts... The disgust on your face every time I touch you... Nothing I say or do could make you look at me the way you once did. You despise me." "You're wrong, Mitch...""Shut up!... I am no fool, Lilith... Now that that bastard is in a pitiful position, you are all over him. For the past two months, you barely come home or care to spend time with me. We’ve been drifting apart. You’ve become distant and indifferent and I hate it... Hate it, Lilith. So fucking much.""Mitch, plea-se."
Atlas walked in with Mr. Wilson, his lawyer, and Tony by his side. His presence seemed to fill the room with a sense of dangerous aura."Who hired you two morons?" Atlas repeated, his voice laced with anger.The taller detective's face paled. "Mr. Sharpe, we're just trying to—""You two know that this is outrageous behavior, right?" Mr. Wilson interrupted. "You two are investigating under pretenses, which is not only unethical but also illegal."Both detectives started to sweat, visibly nervous. "Mr. Wilson, we were just—" the shorter one began, but Mr. Wilson cut him off."Just what? Trying to manipulate my client into handing over evidence without proper authorization? This is a clear violation of her rights."Atlas stepped closer to my bedside, his eyes softening as they met mine. "Are you okay, Lilith?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.I nodded, feeling a rush of relief at his presence, and cried out, "I'm okay. Just a bit shaken... You are okay... I am so happy that you ar
Lilith's POVThe was this continued beeping sound ringing in my ears, and I squeezed my eyes.Suddenly, I sucked in a deep breath and then jumped up, screaming, "Atlas?!""Hold her down. The anesthesia has worn off." Dr. Ling said, and I gazed around to see that I was in a hospital room."What... what's going on?" I managed to ask out, still not quite awake, my head feeling foggy like it was covered in cotton wool.Dr. Ling began while walking towards me. "Well, you got shot in the arm and punched in the face. You suffered a serious concussion and you had minor surgery to remove your arm." "Where... Where is Atlas?" I mumbled, my memories a bit hazy with sleep, but I forced myself to focus."The detectives are waiting outside. They had been for a while, waiting for the anesthesia to wear off. They can better answer your question... But are you mentally ready to talk to them?" I nodded, trying to gather my thoughts as much as possible, feeling more aware now as my memories became
Looking away from Tony, I started around the room, and called out, "Lilith... Lilith! You in here?!"When I got no reply, my heart pounded as I realized Lilith was gone. "Tony, where is she?" I demanded, fear tightening my chest. His eyes widened, mirroring my panic. "I thought she was right here with us," he said, shaking his head. "How come-"Without a second thought, I dashed out of the apartment. The hallway stretched endlessly ahead."Lilith!!" I called out, my voice echoing off the walls. When I got silent in response, I reached for my phone, dialed her number, and listened desperately for any sound that might lead me to her.Then, in the distance, her ringtone cut through the air. I sprinted towards it, each step burning in my chest. As I reached the further end of the hallway, there she was... a shadow in the dim light, and then my eyes caught sight of Mitch turning around to face me."Atlas, get down!" Lilith screamed. At the sound of her voice, I dropped without hesitati
An hour later, I was seated by Atlas in the backseat of his car with Tony driving the car. The address Linda had given us led us to a modest apartment complex with faded paint and overgrown weeds. As we approached the building, Atlas’s hand found mine, offering a comforting squeeze."We’ll stay in touch through the comms," Tony said, breaking the silence. "If anything goes wrong, we’ll be there in seconds."I took a deep breath and squeezed Atlas's hand back, trying to steady my nerves. The apartment complex ahead looked rundown, with peeling paint and cracked sidewalks. It felt like the kind of place where someone could easily disappear into the shadows."Got it," I replied, my voice steady despite the tension. Both Atlas and I got out of the car, and Tony parked it a little further down the street to keep a low profile. The building loomed before us, and Atlas kept close to me as we approached the entrance, his presence a reassuring anchor."We’ll head up to the apartment on the th