You may now kill the Bride

Lover or Monster

Lexi arrived at the restaurant, a trendy little bistro Reg had chosen. He was already there, looking every inch the powerful businessman in his tailored suit. He stood, smiling, and pulled out her chair. It was a gentlemanly gesture, but something about it felt off.

As they ordered, Reg took charge, recommending dishes and ordering for her without even asking her opinion. It was a small thing, but it rubbed her wrong. Who was he to decide what she wanted? Yet, as he spoke, his eyes twinkling with amusement, she couldn't help but be charmed.

As they waited for their food, the conversation turned to their upcoming nuptials. Reg had very specific ideas about the guest list, the venue, even the type of flowers. Lexi found herself nodding along, feeling like a spectator in her own wedding planning. But there was a warmth in his voice, a genuine excitement, that made her want to give in.

"Is everything okay?" Reg asked, his brow furrowed in concern. "You seem a little...distant." He reached out, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear, his touch sending a shiver down her spine.

"I'm fine, just a little stressed with work," she replied, trying to sound casual. But as he leaned in, his breath against her ear, she felt a flutter in her chest.

"I'm here to take care of you, Alexandra," he murmured. "Let me handle things. I want to make this perfect for you."

His words, meant to be reassuring, sent a chill down her spine. Was this what she wanted? A man who would steamroll over her, even under the guise of taking care of her? Yet, as she looked into his eyes, she saw a glimmer of something more. A vulnerability, a desire to be needed.

As their food arrived, Lexi found herself picking at her plate, her appetite gone. She couldn't shake the feeling that she was looking at a stranger. The charming smile, the possessive touch...it all felt like a carefully constructed façade. Yet, a part of her still yearned for the man he seemed to be.

And then, there was a moment. A flash of something in his eyes as he spoke about one of his business rivals. A flicker of coldness, of calculation. It was there and gone, hidden behind his mask of charm. But Lexi had seen it.

In that moment, she wondered if the anonymous letter had been right. If the man she was engaged to was not who he seemed. And if she was in grave danger. But as she met his gaze, she felt a conflicting pull. A desire to uncover the truth, and a longing to hold onto the illusion of the man she thought she knew.

As lunch drew to a close, Lexi felt a sense of resolve wash over her. She needed answers, about Reg, about her parents. And she was going to find them. Because as she looked into his eyes, she realized one thing - she was caught in a dangerous game of love and lies. And she wasn't sure if she wanted to escape.