The Billionaire's Angel

Chapter 16

**Chapter 16: Shadows from the Past**

*Francesca's P.O.V.*

Later that day, we had barbecue dinner which was a welcome distraction, the aroma of grilled meats and the laughter of friends filling the air. Just as I was starting to relax, my phone rang with an unknown number. I hesitated before answering. "Hello, Hello". Then I heard a voice that sent chills down my spine.

"Hello, Francesca," said my father.

A flashback gripped me: the beatings, the terror, the helplessness. My father's anger was a force of nature, and I was always in its path. I cut the call abruptly, my hands trembling.

"Who was that?" Xander asked, concern etched on his face.

"Just a spam call," I lied, forcing a smile.

Later, as we cleaned up, I confided in Violet, whispering about the call. Xander, overhearing, noticed our fear. During dessert, he suddenly asked with an intensity that startled me, "Who called?"

The tension was palpable. "It was a spam call," I repeated, but Xander looked ready to explode.

Violet leaned over. "Maybe you should tell him, Francesca."

I shot her a warning glance. Xander's expression hardened. "Excuse us," he said, throwing me over his shoulder. He told Michael to take care of Violet and carried me to our room.

Inside, Xander paced furiously. I sat silently, unsure how to start. After a while, I began narrating my life history—how my mother died and the abuse I suffered at my father's hands.

Xander was speechless at first, then enraged. "How could so much happen to one person?" he muttered, his eyes glassy. He embraced me, his touch gentle yet fierce. "If he comes close to you again, I will kill him."

He pulled back slightly, his gaze intense. "You're moving into my house immediately. Two guards will be with you at all times."

"That's not necessary," I protested. "I've been taking care of myself."

"Now I'm here," he insisted. "You're not alone anymore. You're mine. You're my Angel. "

I sighed. "I need time to think about moving in. This is all a lot to process. And I have to consider Violet."

"I can cover her lease and get her an apartment close to us," he suggested.

I shook my head. "It's not just about logistics, Xander. It's about adjusting to all this. It's overwhelming."

He took my hands in his. "I understand. Take the time you need. But remember, I'm here for you."

I nodded, grateful for his support but also aware of the massive changes ahead. As we returned to the others, I felt a mix of relief and anxiety. My past was haunting me, but with Xander's unwavering presence, I felt a glimmer of hope.