House of Venom

Secrets of the Black Swan

DAMARIS MONROE

"So you just ran away? And you didn't say anything?"

As I stand before the mirror, fussing over the fit of my sleek black cocktail dress, I catch a glimpse of Keira in the doorway. She looks stunning in her flowing lavender purple dress, radiating an air of effortless elegance that seems to come so naturally to her.

"No. I couldn't. Not to him. Not when I started crying immediately..."

"But you promised each other to tell the truth."

"Yeah. And I have no idea how I'm going to do that."

"You know, he will find you. And he will definitely ask you about your father's ring."

My heart aches as I steal a glance at the gleaming golden ring resting on my nightstand, a poignant reminder of the father who is gone. The tears threaten to spill down my cheeks, but I quickly turn away from the sight, refusing to let my emotions get the best of me.

Instead, I reach for the black masquerade mask lying beside it, slipping it over my eyes like a shield against the world. With its intricate design and mysterious allure, it's a symbol of the person I wish I could be - someone strong and fearless, unafraid to face whatever life may throw my way.

As I fasten the ties at the back of my head, I can't help but think of my father and the place where I found his cherished ring - a den of vice and debauchery, a world away from the values he had instilled in me as a child.

"I can lie. I can say it was a mistake, I got it wrong."

"He's not stupid, Dami."

As I pivot on my heel to meet Keira's gaze, I'm met with a sight that sets my heart racing. She stands before me, her arms folded tightly across her chest, her brow furrowed with a look of deep concern etched upon her features.

"I know. But I'm not sure what to do anymore."

"Maybe try telling? I think it will be better to work together if you know both sides of the story. Besides, you will know his, so his weaknesses will help you when you will put him behind bars."

As I gaze into her mesmerizing eyes, the world around me seems to fade away, leaving only her and the weight of her words. Those words, they are like a spell, weaving their way into my mind and entangling my thoughts.

I had been so focused on executing the plan, on achieving my purpose, that I had become blind to everything else.

"I completely forgot about it."

"Focus, girl. I know the man is hot. Why wouldn't you use the chance to get your cheeks clapped, as well?"

As I roll my eyes at Keira's teasing, she lets out a throaty laugh that echoes through the room. Her laughter is infectious, and I find myself grinning despite my annoyance.

"Shut up."

"Just a suggestion."

As she raises her delicate hands to adjust her purple masquerade mask, each feather springs to life, swaying in a synchronized dance atop her head. The feathers are a perfect match for her dark black hair, which cascades down her back like a raven's cloak.

"Are you sure Jones doesn't mind that I'm coming?"

"No. As he didn't for the last three years."

A smile creeps up on my lips as I gently place my palms on her shoulders, letting out a heavy sigh. My thoughts wander towards the looming FBI annual masquerade, an event I must attend, despite my reservations.