In a world where trust is a luxury, secrets are deadly, and love is the most dangerous weapon of all...
Avery Caine thought she was just another orphan with a quiet life-until the brutal murder of her guardian shatters everything she knows. Now, hun...
Lying on Maria's bed felt both comforting and haunting. Her presence lingered in the room, a bittersweet reminder of the woman who had shaped my life. Thoughts of Maria triggered a cascade of memories, like the way Maria always encouraged me to embrace life fully, to have a boyfriend, and to find joy in every moment.
The irony struck me—the tragic loss of Maria had brought Rick into my life. The morning flashed through my mind, the unexpected yet oddly enjoyable time spent with him and the kids. The closer proximity during our arguments, the palpable tension between us—something shifted. Every time he got closer, my heartbeat quickened, an unfamiliar sensation that made me blush. A shy smile crept onto my face, but as the realization hit me, guilt set in. How could I feel this way toward Rick, especially after our heated argument earlier today?
I got up, sitting on Maria's bed, scolding myself. This wasn't the time for such distractions. Rick was rude, cold, and arrogant—qualities that should repel, not attract. Focusing on Maria's case should be my priority; there was no room for these confusing feelings.
Looking around Maria's room, the traces of her life echoed in every corner. The memories enveloped me, a mixture of sadness and gratitude. I sighed and left the room, determined to keep my emotions in check.
Walking back to my room, the darkness welcomed me, illuminated only by the moonlight streaming through the opened window. The curtain fluttered in the wind, serving as a reminder that I had closed the window before leaving my room a few hours ago. Closing it once more, I justified the situation—perhaps the cleaners had opened it and forgotten to close it again.
Switching on the bedside lamp, the dim yellow light painted a sense of calm. However, my tranquillity shattered as I noticed a man standing inside the bathroom. Startled and scared, my heart raced. The man emerged into the bedroom, a towering presence nearly six feet tall, exuding strength. In his hand, he held a gun, and his sinister smile sent chills down my spine.
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Attempting to flee, I reached the bedroom door, only to be caught and pulled back. My back pressed against his front, his hand wrapped around my neck, and the cold metal of the gun touched my temple. The world blurred into a nightmare.
