Queen of Steel: Throne of Lies

Chapter 13

As I glanced at my phone, I felt disappointed it wasn't the message I had been anxiously awaiting.

I assured Marjorie that I'd deliver the reports before midnight and emphasized the urgency of revising the budget approvals for Hopevale's Hospital inauguration masquerade ball.

Her reply was brisk: 'Consider it done. Also, per direct orders, new projects have been sent via email this afternoon.'

Feeling my father's pettiness through her words, resentment washed over me. I resolved to deal with it later, pocketing my phone.

Turning my attention to Tammy, I forced a smile, determined not to let the weight of my responsibilities dampen our time together. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the manor, I felt a fleeting sense of peace amid the storm raging within.

At night, long corridors became a labyrinth of nightmares, where wild eyes promised torment and strange machinery whispered of agony. Desperation urged me to flee, but unseen forces trapped me in a suffocating embrace.

With the first light of dawn, I extricated myself from tangled sheets, shuddering at the memory of the night's terrors. Taking deep breaths, I pushed the feeling aside, seeking solace in the gentle embrace of morning.

A slight headache remind me of the cascade of troubles burdening me. My father's betrayal, the impending shareholders' meeting, the forced engagement, SteelCo's workload, pending assignments, Allistair's gambit and the haunting memory of the assault.

I made a mental effort to push aside these concerns as I prepared to meet with the Professor after classes. Maintaining my composure was imperative. Losing my barely grip on sanity was not an option I could afford, which was ironic considering how much wealth my family had.

Opting for a chic D&G floral dress with corset detailing, I quickly dressed, concealing the bruise on my neck with makeup - my new daily ritual. Completing the ensemble with a black leather jacket, and small platforms, though I grimaced slightly as my ankle twinged in protest.

During breakfast, Helga approached me hesitantly. "Miss Tahlia, your father inquired about your whereabouts for the other night. What should I respond?"

"None of your business," I said curtly, dismissing Helga with a wave of my hand. "And tell everyone else to steer clear, or I'll clean house. Is that understood?" Helga nodded quickly, her face paling at my tone.

I absolutely hated resorting to such low empty threats, specially to the manor staff who had been here for decades. But knowing my father, he wouldn't take kindly to me slipping away for the night. He'd see it as a challenge and retaliate, as he always did. The last thing I needed was for innocent staff members to get caught in the crossfire of our family feud.

As I pulled up to the campus parking, my phone buzzed again. A surge of warmth flooded me as I read Allistair's message expressing his longing for me. I quickly typed out a reply, subtly mentioning my father's inquiries and reaffirming my undying affection for him.

The morning passed in a blur of classes, but I found myself surprisingly entertained by Tammy's enthusiastic recounting of her newfound rebellious streak against her parents. Gone was the obedient girl I had known, replaced by a fiery spirit I couldn't help but admire.

Finally, the time arrived for my meeting with Professor Hahn. My biggest and only supporter in this matter, sidled up to me, pleading with those chocolate-melting eyes. "Please, let me come with you?"

I declined my head firmly, steeling myself against her imploring gaze. "Not this time, Tamms. I need to face him alone."

Disappointment flickered across her features, but she gave a reluctant nod. "Please be careful, Tally."