Thirty-SixFlorence spent her time working on her project for days listening to the recorded interview, rewinding minutes after minutes. She typed and edited her article, thrilled to have interviewed one of the wealthiest individuals in the world.“Florence?” Heath hollered as it was a nice morning as he had finally returned. “You here?”“In the kitchen.” Florence chimed as she was busy working on her laptop.Heath popped out of nowhere, “I’m going to be busy for the whole morning in the clinic and then we can have dinner. I have your dress and jewelry ready for tonight.”Florence’s eyes widened, “Are we heading somewhere?”“Yes, I have an important dinner to attend to. Use the expensive makeup I bought you, and please make yourself more human? Thank you.” Heath spoke and then left the next second.Florence felt offended with what he said, but at the same time, she knew that she looked terribly simple and pale compared to how lavish and pretty she always needed to be when she was out
Thirty-SevenF L O R E N C E “What have I gotten myself into?” I asked my own reflection the same question that I have been asking ever since I started putting makeup on and dressing more provocatively for a man I did not even love. I took a deep breath in and exhaled while telling my own reflection, “You had no choice. It’s okay. It’s okay. You’re going to be okay.” I put on a vibrant red lipstick which matched my white skin.“Are you done?” Heath hollered loudly, feeling annoyed since he was never the type of person who was attending parties or dinners late with his so-called elite circle. “Yes, I am.” I rushed towards his side while he donned a beautiful dark green suit with his light brown leather shoes.When the clock struck five thirty, Heath and I headed to The Alchemist’s Secret Table. I wore this insanely beautiful emerald green strappy satin midi dress with a cowl neckline with a high slit which made my skin look whiter and paler, as if it was glimmering against the dress
Thirty-EightF L O R E N C E I locked eyes with him for a quick second as he signed again, “I am bored to my mind.” His gaze was gentle, and unwavering. A silent conversation passed between us, a connection that transcended without the use of our voices that only the both of us could understand. I could not really suppress a smile, a response to the unspoken understanding that had formed between us.“I feel the same,” I signed discreetly. He signed back, “It’s all pointless talk,” and took a sip of champagne.I stole a glance at him, and our eyes met. Flustered, I quickly averted my gaze. From the corner of my eye, I could see him smirking as he took a sip of champagne. A surge of heat rose to my cheeks as I realized the intensity of his gaze. It was as if he could read my thoughts, see the confusion and attraction swirling within me. He seemed amused by my reaction, a knowing glint in his eyes that sent a shiver down my spine.Esmeralda, with a saccharine smile and a tone laced wit
Thirty-NineF L O R E N C E “I’m a married woman,” I uttered, a feeble attempt to deter him. The words hung heavy in the air, a stark contrast to the intensity in his eyes. I knew, deep down, that my marital status would hold little sway over him. He was a man accustomed to getting what he wanted, a man who defied convention and expectation. In that moment, I felt small, vulnerable, and utterly powerless.“Marriage, Florence,” Chaos began, his voice low and deliberate, “is merely a societal construct. It does not define your worth or limit your potential. True connections transcend such superficial bonds.” As he gently placed me in the car, his gaze held a knowing intensity, a silent promise of a future that defied convention. His words, though simple, carried a profound weight, challenging the very foundations of my understanding of love, commitment, and personal freedom.He slid into the seat beside me, his presence a stark contrast to the quiet luxury of the car’s interior. A pl
Forty F L O R E N C E Chaos lived up to his name, his presence as chaotic as his persona. His gaze, intense and unwavering, was fixed on me, drawing me into his orbit. His large, warm hands shielded my ears from the deafening music, creating a small, intimate space amidst the chaos. The VIP Group rooms on the second floor, while offering a degree of privacy, could not completely shield us from the noise emanating from the first floor. The rhythmic bass pulsed through the walls, a constant reminder of the raucous party taking place beyond our sanctuary.“Let’s head out?” Chaos mouthed to me and enunciated the words clearly.With my ears throbbing in pain, I could only nod in response to Chaos’ words. The incessant noise was unbearable, and I desperately needed relief. Without hesitation, I removed my hearing aid, hoping to alleviate the discomfort.Chaos, ever observant, seemed to understand my silent plea. His hand, warm and comforting, reached out and gently guided me away from th
Forty-One Breaking the tense silence, Florence inquired, “So, why are you hiding behind this facade?” She gazed at him, her eyes filled with curiosity and a touch of challenge.Chaos looked at me as he finished his burger and asked back, “I’m protecting myself, Florence.”Florence couldn’t help but laugh softly under her breath, “What’s a billionaire playboy have to protect?”A knowing smirk played on his lips as he averted his gaze towards the other cars in the parking lot. “We all have secrets, Florence,” he murmured, his voice low and enigmatic. “Dark secrets or stories that we bury deep within ourselves, fearing the consequences of their exposure.” His words hung heavy in the air, a stark reminder of the hidden depths of human nature.Florence nodded, her voice barely a whisper. “I suppose,” she replied, her thoughts drifting to her own hidden past.There were secrets she carried, buried deep within her heart, wounds that had yet to heal despite the years it had passed. She kne
Forty-TwoChaos’ eyes held a depth of emotion that surprised even him. He was drawn to Florence, captivated by her intelligence, her spirit, and her unwavering resolve.Florence was torn. Completely and absurdly for the first time in his life. Despite her reservations, she could not deny the undeniable attraction she felt towards Chaos. His charisma, his intelligence, and his intensity were intoxicating. Yet, she knew that he was a man of many conquests, a player who thrived on the thrill of the chase. She feared that she was merely another conquest of his, a fleeting infatuation to be discarded when his interest waned.Confused and unsettled, Florence asked, “What do you truly want from me, Chaos?” Her voice was soft, yet firm, as she sought clarity amidst the chaos of her emotions. She yearned for honesty, for a genuine connection, but she was wary of the darkness that lurked beneath his charming exterior.Chaos’ voice, usually so smooth and confident, now held a raw vulnerability.
Forty-ThreeFlorence, her face stinging from the slap, felt a surge of anger and humiliation. She had been reduced to a mere possession, a pawn in Heath’s twisted game but she was after all paid as a trophy wife. The anger that surged within her was quickly suppressed, replaced by a cold, calculating resolve. She knew her place, she understood the terms of the contract. For now, she would endure the first time abuse, biding her time until she could break free from the gilded cage.Florence, her voice steady, replied, “I do not know what you are talking about, Heath.” She tried to maintain her composure, her mind racing as she searched for a way to defuse the situation. While she had spent time with Chaos, their interactions had been platonic, devoid of any physical intimacy. They held hands but that was because he pulled her out of the club which was hurting her ears. She had crossed no lines, no boundaries. All she did was just talk with Chaos. Yet, she knew that Heath would never
Sixty-EightThe following hours after the cemetery, as promised, Chaos took Florence to a pottery studio. The warm, earthy scent of clay filled the air as they settled into their respective workstations. Chaos, with his long, slender fingers, effortlessly shaped the clay, his movements graceful and precise. Florence, initially hesitant, soon found herself engrossed in the process and found the whole experience relaxing but at the same time challenging for someone who never had tried this before. The feel of the cool, pliable clay beneath her hands was strangely soothing.As they worked, they chatted, their laughter filling the quiet studio. Chaos, ever the gentle teacher, guided Florence through the intricate process, his patience and encouragement inspiring her. Together, they created a series of unique pieces, a testament to their shared creativity.Later, as they sat by the kiln, watching the flames dance and flicker, Florence felt a sense of peace despite the muddy dirt on their
Sixty-SevenA cold wind swept through the cemetery, rustling the leaves of the ancient trees. Raindrops began to fall, a mournful drizzle that seemed to blend seamlessly with the somber atmosphere. The sky was a bleak gray, mirroring the melancholy mood of the occasion.Florence and Chaos stood by the graves, their silhouettes etched against the gloomy backdrop. The drizzle fell gently, a somber melody that accompanied their silence as he made sure he was there for her. Florence, her eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and remembrance, placed a bouquet of lilies on the three graves in front of them. The white flowers, symbols of purity and innocence, contrasted starkly against the dark earth.Chaos, sensing her sorrow, reached out and took her hand. His touch was comforting, a silent promise of support even if he wanted to ask her, he tried not to, for now. Even if he was shocked that she was bringing him here, he chose not to say anything and just to comfort her. They stood there f
Sixty-SixAs Florence laughed, a joyful sound that filled the room, Chaos could not help but smile as he watched her smile and laugh which made her more endearing towards her. He loved the way her eyes crinkled at the corners, the way her cheeks dimpled. Her laughter was like music to his ears, a melody that soothed his soul. Chaos smiled at her, “I love your smile and laugh, keep it.” He said as he kissed her left cheek then her right cheek causing her to smile wider as his hand was resting against the side of her neck.Florence smiled back, her heart filled with warmth. “Thank you,” she whispered. She felt a sense of peace and contentment that she had not experienced in a long time. As they walked towards the bedroom, Chaos noticed Florence was struggling with the stairs. Without a word, he scooped her up in his arms, her legs dangling effortlessly. She giggled, her face flushed with surprise and amusement. “You are so strong,” she teased, her voice light and playful.Chaos grinned
Sixty-FiveFlorence, breathless and dazed, pulled away from the kiss, felt her cheeks burning like wildfire dancing in a rainforest. She needed a moment to collect herself, to process the intensity of the moment. She breathed heavily, after all, she just had her first kiss in twenty-two years of existence and she did not hesitate it or hate it at all. He looked at her, and it had been a long time since he had this kind of kiss before. He leaned in again, and kissed her lips once more as she kissed him back right away as their lips moved, her arms slowly moved on their own as she wrapped them around his neck. He pulled her closer to his chest, their bodies flushed against each other, as his huge hands were gripped tightly on her waist, but he was not hurting her. In that moment, the world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them. She pulled away again, but he hungrily whispered, “One more…” He begged as he leaned in and kissed her lips once again while she kissed him back.A
Sixty-FourAfter dinner, they cleaned up together, a simple act that brought them closer. As they washed the dishes, their conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter and shared dreams. Later, they curled up on the couch, each holding a glass of wine. The soft glow of the fireplace created a warm and inviting atmosphere.As they sipped their wine, they talked about their hopes and aspirations. Florence shared her dream of opening a school for children with disabilities, while Chaos spoke of his plans for his company. Their conversation was a beautiful blend of dreams and reality, a testament to the power of human connection.“Florence?” His tone was calm but serious.She looked back at him, “Hmm?”“Would it be okay if I asked how you ended up with Heath?” Chaos inquired, his voice gentle. “I am not trying to pry, I am just curious. You do not have to answer if you are not comfortable.”Florence weakly smiled, but it was not an intentional smile of being happy. Yet, she answered,
Sixty-ThreeFlorence slipped into the lingerie, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. The lace underwear, while beautiful, was a bit tighter than she was used to. She glanced in the mirror, her eyes widening as she realized the revealing nature of the laced thong. She had not worn anything like this in years, and suddenly, she felt self-conscious and exposed.“Wow.” Florence gasped, her eyes widening in surprise. The lingerie, while elegant, accentuated her curves in a way she had never experienced before. Her breasts, usually modest and understated, were lifted and supported, creating a silhouette that was both alluring and empowering. She could not believe how different she looked, how confident she felt.When she slipped on the beautiful and really soft dress, she stood before the mirror inside of Chaos’ bathroom mirror, her reflection a stark contrast to the fragile woman she had been just a few days ago. Dressed in a sleek, body-hugging yellow dress that accentuated her curves
Sixty-TwoChaos gently cupped her face, his thumbs tracing her cheekbones. “Why don’t you take a long, warm bath?” he suggested softly, his voice filled with concern. “You just graduated college and you should be proud of yourself. We should be celebrating and not crying.” Florence looked up at Chaos, her eyes filled with gratitude as she looked back at him. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. She knew he was trying to help, to ease her pain. “I just… I am so tired,” she admitted, her voice breaking. “I am tired of everything in my life right now. I’m tired of always getting hurt.” She closed her eyes, the warmth of his touch a comforting balm. Chaos pulled her into a gentle embrace. “You deserve to be happy.” he murmured, his voice filled with empathy.Florence’s voice, barely a whisper, trembled as she confessed, “I do not know how to live for myself anymore. My entire life has been a relentless battle. I am constantly fighting, struggling, just to survive. I am
Sixty-OneChaos gently wiped away her tears. “You have me,” he whispered, his voice filled with reassurance. “I don’t know what to do anymore,” she sobbed, her voice barely audible. “I just want it all to end.” She was not seeking pity, but simply pouring out her heart, a raw and vulnerable display of her pain. “I don’t want to live anymore.” She cried as more tears fell over her cheeks.“Don’t say that,” Chaos replied, his voice gentle as he wiped her tears with his thumbs. “You have to live for yourself, not for anyone else. Just tell me what happened. Please? Let me help you. What has he been doing to you?”“I don’t need your pity.” She barked. “I am not pitying you, Florence,” Chaos replied gently. “I care about you. I want to help you.”Florence shook her head, tears streaming down her face as she covered her eyes with her hands. “You won’t understand,” she sobbed, her voice muffled by her hands. “No one does. No one will.” Her words echoed the depths of her despair, a cry for
SixtyShe woke up with a throbbing pain in her eye. She was lying on the cold, hard floor, the shattered pieces of glass scattered around her. The dried remains of last night’s dinner were a stark reminder of the violence that had unfolded. She gingerly touched her eye, wincing at the pain. The bruise was already starting to form, a dark mark of the abuse she had endured. After she took a shower, Florence stared at her reflection in the mirror, her heart was immensely heavy with sorrow and shame of what she had been going through in her life. A dark bruise marred her eye, a very strong reminder of the violence that she had endured. She could not believe that Heath had resorted to such brutality for the second time, that he had shattered the fragile peace once again that they had once shared.Florence cursed under her breath as she applied makeup to conceal the bruise around her eye. She was running late for the ceremony, and the pain in her eye was throbbing. She rushed through her m