Cruel Desire

14.

(Vivienne's POV)

A surge of protectiveness coursed through me, and my gaze flickered occasionally down to Belle as we strolled down the street. I clenched my jaw, feeling a surge of anger that she had been harmed. I made sure to maintain a firm grip on her waist, keeping her close to me in a protective embrace.

As we walked through the streets toward my house, I felt a sense of urgency. Richard wasn't home, and wouldn't be for quite some time. Even if he were, she was staying with me; I refused to let her leave and return to those despicable people.

Noticing the way her stunning azure eyes gazed up at me, I halted my movements and instantly pulled her in for a hug, cupping her cheek delicately. No words were exchanged. My eyes drifted down to her head, nestled against my chest, and my slender hand yearned to touch those silky blonde locks. Unable to resist, my hand pressed against her hair, feeling the silk of her golden tresses as my fingers moved in a soothing circular motion.

"You're safe now, sweetheart." My voice broke through the silence, and she lifted her head to gaze up at me. She flashed me a small, grateful smile, and I could no longer contain myself. I leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss against her lips, which she tenderly reciprocated. It was brief, but filled with tender affection. Her eyes sparkled as she leaned back into my chest, hugging me tighter.

"Thank you," she whispered almost breathlessly, nuzzling into me. I smiled gently to myself and cradled her head.

"Anything for you, my little dove," I responded in a soft murmur. As we both pulled away from the embrace, we resumed walking. This time, she intertwined her fingers with mine and walked by my side.

Upon arriving at my house, we stepped inside. I noticed a shiver ripple through her body, and I gently guided her to the fireplace.

"Sit down and warm yourself up," I instructed, allowing her to settle into the plush sofa. "Would you like a drink? Hot chocolate?" I suggested, and she nodded with a graceful smile. With that, I strode into the kitchen and began preparing her a hot chocolate.

Finishing, I set the hot chocolate down onto the table in front of her.

"Thank you, Vivienne..." She smiled slightly, gazing up at me with a truly grateful look in her sky-colored eyes. I sat down next to her, and my expression shifted to concern as I noticed the bruise already forming on her cheekbone.

"Does he do this often?" I suddenly inquired, my thoughts spilling aloud.

I received nothing but a nod, which made my chest tighten and my jaw clench. He is going to pay for what he's done; mark my words.

My hand rested over Belle's, and I cradled the back of her head, gently guiding her to rest her head against my shoulder.

"It's going to be okay; I'm going to make sure he'll never do this to you again," I reassured her with a protective tone, though I concealed the pure fury boiling within me. No one harms my little dove and gets away with it.

"How?" she replied, gazing into my eyes with a concerned look. "You shouldn't get involved; he's dangerous... I don't want you to get hur—" I leaned in and pressed a kiss to her cheek, silencing her. I cupped her cheeks, gazing into her blue orbs with a reassuring expression.

"Do you trust me, sweetheart?" I asked, my gaze assuring her that I was going to handle it.

"Yes, of course I do," she replied, breathing a sigh.

"Then trust that I'll take care of it. And trust that whatever happens, I'll always protect you." I smiled reassuringly and pulled her in for another hug, rubbing soothing motions on her back that lulled her into a state of calm.