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Chapter six

last update Last Updated: 2024-12-09 05:12:34

Emma’s POV

The morning sun peeked through the thin curtains, painting the walls of the bedroom in golden hues. I lay awake, staring at the ceiling. Sleep had evaded me last night, as it often did since Ethan became a constant storm in my life. His words, his moods, and his secrets were like weights I carried every day, and I didn’t know how much longer I could bear them.

Downstairs, the dining room table was set with an elegant breakfast spread. The smell of freshly brewed coffee and warm croissants filled the air. Yet, I couldn’t bring myself to eat. My appetite had vanished, replaced by the unease that now seemed to follow me everywhere.

Ethan’s chair sat empty, as it often did. I pushed my plate away, frustration bubbling inside me. Cassie’s advice replayed in my mind like a broken record. *“Stand your ground, Emma. If you let him control you, you’ll lose yourself.”*

The sound of steady footsteps drew my attention. Ethan entered the room, dressed sharply in his signature navy
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