Aligned

Chapter 4: Estrella

We embarked on a roughly 20-minute drive until we reached a secluded road leading into a wooded area.

The place was heavily guarded, and I could spot at least 10 snipers hidden in camouflage. Two guards were stationed every half mile, maintaining tight security. We eventually arrived at an iron gate marked with the initials 'M' in the middle.

I glanced at Astrid, who was taking in the surroundings, just like me, honing her observation skills that were ingrained in us from a young age.

She turned to me, her eyes wide. Mariana lowered her window, and the guard acknowledged her with a nod before confirming with the others at the gate, allowing us to pass through.

Mariana raised her head and rolled up the tinted window, and Leo exchanged nods with one of the guards. In the backseat, Astrid and I observed the bulletproof windows. Leo expertly pulled up to the estate, and I gazed at the magnificent dark wood mansion nestled amid lush gardens and crawling vines up the side where the chimney was.

Mariana was the first to exit as Leo parked. She stretched her back and sighed, "Good to be back home," before groaning as she limbered up her muscles.

Leo went around to retrieve our luggage. Mariana helped us out of the car and escorted us to the front door, where we were greeted by a woman who appeared to be in her mid-50s. She was as beautiful as Mariana, with wavy hair featuring black and white streaks that framed her face. Her gentle smile exuded kindness.

"Mama, this is Astrid, and this is..." I began to introduce myself, but she cut me off with enthusiasm, exclaiming, "ESTRELLA! Oh my goodness, even more beautiful than described."

I awkwardly replied, "Oh, um, thank you, Mrs...?" She promptly corrected me, saying, "Oh, please, my dear, please call me Mariah."

Then she enveloped me in the warmest hug I'd received in a long time. Her embrace exuded an aura of safety and reassurance, conveying that you could confide in her, receive sound advice, and find a comforting shoulder to lean on. It was so comforting that I began to withdraw slightly, unused to such physical contact and vulnerability.

"Please, please, come in!" Mariah warmly invited us. Some people assisted with our belongings, and Astrid and I stood awkwardly in the living room, awaiting further instructions.

As I glanced around the living room, I couldn't help but notice numerous photos of Mariana with her parents and two other men.

I felt a pang in my heart when I caught a glimpse of Shadow, standing protectively behind his sister and presumably their younger brother.

He looked exactly as he did the last time I saw him, with his beautiful hazel and green eyes, the slightest dimples when he smiled, and a demeanor that appeared intimidating to others, yet I knew he would never hurt anyone unless it was to protect those he cared for.

Footsteps approached from behind me, and I saw Leo and Mariana coming up cautiously. I exchanged glances with both of them, silently urging them to provide some clarity.

"Why am I here? I don't want any more evasive answers. Please, because being surrounded by pictures of someone I lost is incredibly overwhelming," I demanded with a hint of desperation.

Astrid stood beside me, ready to listen when louder footsteps descended the massive staircase situated in the center of the living room.

My eyes shot up, and I gasped so loudly that it hurt my throat. My knees threatened to give way, and it felt like all the blood drained from my body. The pounding of my heart echoed in my ears, and hot tears welled up. Astrid gasped as well.

"You... what...? This isn't... how are you...?" I stammered, sounding like a child caught in a lie. The Shadow began to speak, trying to offer an explanation, but it was all too much for me. Everything felt heavy, and then everything went black.
________________________________

A/N:

I KNOW IM SORRY CLIFFHANGER!!! Sorry for the short chapter I promise it will go up from here!!! I

I know I say thank you a lot but seriously. Thank you guys for all the love and support of "Aligned". It's been an amazing journey seeing this come alive. To see how my book grows.

Please fill free to leave any suggestions in the comments and the new vote goal is going to be 20 votes for Chapter 5!

Please send positive feedback please... because I'll tell my therapist on you>:))

I LOVE YOU ALL!!!!! <3 -Always S.H. 

Remember to drink water, eat, and know you are loved!!! MUAH