Between Us

Chapter Eleven - The Velvet Curtain

Charles was the first to slip quietly out of my bedroom, as if he had somewhere more important to be, other things to tend to. Arabella, however, lingered behind, comfortably nestled in my bed, as if she had found her way home and intended to take up permanent residence. I pretended to be asleep, grappling with an inexplicable urge to avoid facing her after what had just happened. I needed time to process the whirlwind of emotions swirling within me, and I wasn't sure if having a conversation with her was the right choice.

I kept my eyes tightly shut, hoping she would take the hint and leave, just like Charles. But still, she lingered. I felt her hand on my head, gently running her fingers through my hair, stroking my scalp in a soothing rhythm. She let out a soft hum, a sound that resonates deep within me, making me question why she was getting so close. Suddenly, I heard her take a deep breath, inhaling my scent, consuming it. I wondered if she could hear the frantic thumping of my heart, racing like a trapped animal against my ribcage. Surely, she would know I was awake.

Eventually, after what felt like an eternity, she rose and gathered her clothes from the floor. The door clicked shut behind her, and I let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding, almost choking on the release. I sat up, pushing my hair out of my sweaty face, swallowing hard. I couldn't believe I had just had sex with both of them. I hadn't expected it to happen so soon after moving in—only about two weeks or so. Everything felt like it was moving too fast, and despite the thrill of the experience, a nagging doubt crept in. Was I prepared for whatever came next? The weight of anxiety settled over me, realizing I would have no choice but to navigate the complexities of this new life.

After my shower, I retreated to the bedroom, seeking refuge from my racing thoughts. It was late, and after what we had shared, I felt certain neither of them would return for seconds until morning. Slipping back under the covers, I grabbed the phone they had provided me. My fingers trembled as I clicked on the Google icon, my heart racing as I typed "Charles Vanderbilt."

A cascade of articles flooded my screen, interspersed with information about their business, the Vanderbilt Art Gallery. So, that's what they do. Why hadn't they mentioned this when I asked? I had inquired about their connection to art due to the sheer number of abstract pieces adorning their home, and they had made it seem like my question was too difficult to answer. I clicked on "Reviews," my eyes scanning the hundreds of positive comments from patrons who lauded their experience with the Vanderbilts as lovely and professional.

On the surface, everything seemed normal and respectable. They were a wealthy couple, the proud owners of an abstract art gallery that had become a cornerstone of the local art scene. Their success explained their affluence, but something about these glowing reviews felt almost manufactured, as if a darker reality lurked just beneath the surface.

I clicked on another article further down the search results, my curiosity piqued.

Behind The Velvet Curtain: The Vanderbilts' Hidden Secret
By Jessie Rosenilt
October 28, 2019

In the affluent enclave of Beverly Hills, Charles and Arabella Vanderbilt are celebrated for their lavish lifestyle and successful art gallery, the Vanderbilt Art Gallery. However, a recent investigative report has unearthed unsettling details about their past that cast a shadow over their glamorous image. Once questioned in connection with the mysterious disappearance of a young woman, the couple has maintained their innocence, yet lingering questions remain about their true involvement.

A Glorious Facade
The Vanderbilts are known for their sophisticated tastes and dedication to the arts. Their gallery, established in 2013, has become a cornerstone of the local art scene, showcasing abstract masterpieces while fostering emerging talents. Their philanthropic efforts have won them acclaim, with substantial donations to art education and community initiatives. Yet, beneath this polished exterior lies a story that raises eyebrows.

The Disappearance of a Young Woman
A recent investigative report by journalist Sarah Jensen delved into the Vanderbilts' past, revealing that they were once questioned by law enforcement regarding the disappearance of a young woman named Lily Parker. Last seen entering the gated community where the Vanderbilts reside, Lily's case garnered significant media attention, stirring speculation about the couple's potential involvement.

According to police reports, Lily, a 22-year-old college student, vanished without a trace after attending a gathering at the Vanderbilt residence. Witnesses noted seeing her enter the community but reported her missing just days later. Investigators looked into the Vanderbilts, given their proximity and the nature of the event, questioning them extensively.

No Evidence of Wrongdoing
After a thorough investigation, authorities ultimately cleared the Vanderbilts of any wrongdoing. They stated that no evidence linked the couple to Lily's disappearance, and both Charles and Arabella cooperated fully with law enforcement. "We were devastated to learn about Lily's situation," Arabella commented in a press release at the time. "We had no idea she was missing. Our hearts go out to her family."

Despite the official clearance, the circumstances surrounding the case remain murky. Jensen's report highlighted unsettling coincidences: the couple's wealth and the allure of their lifestyle, coupled with the enigmatic circumstances of Lily's disappearance, have fueled ongoing speculation.

A Deep Dive into the Past
As Jensen's investigation unfolded, she uncovered a series of disturbing patterns surrounding the Vanderbilts. Although the police deemed them innocent, online forums and local gossip suggest a darker narrative—one where the couple's charm could mask ulterior motives. Discussions among art collectors and local residents hint at an uncomfortable truth: several individuals have reported experiencing strange encounters with the Vanderbilts. Some claim to have seen unsettling exchanges between the couple and mysterious figures, leading to conjecture about their involvement in something more sinister.

The Enigma of the Vanderbilts
While Charles and Arabella Vanderbilt present themselves as benefactors of the arts and pillars of the community, the resurfacing of their connection to a young woman's disappearance complicates their narrative. The glamour of their art gallery and the elegance of their lifestyle cannot entirely obscure the questions that linger in the shadows. As the community watches and whispers, the enigma of the Vanderbilts continues to grow, leaving many to wonder: what truly lies beneath the surface of their seemingly perfect lives?

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I closed the article, my heart racing as if it might leap from my chest. They were once connected to a missing woman? I didn't understand. A wave of sweat broke out across my skin, my hands trembling uncontrollably. Was this just a coincidence? I couldn't picture Charles and Arabella being involved in something so dark. After all, the police had found nothing to tie them to this woman and the article was dated from over 5 years ago. I'm positive everything has blown over.

I set the phone down on the nightstand, rubbing my hands over my face in disbelief. I wished I hadn't read that article. A wave of unease washed over me, an unsettling feeling creeping into my gut. Who were these people I was living with, and what had happened to Lily Parker?

Doubt gnawed at my mind, intertwining with the memories of the night—intimacy shared in a house filled with art, laughter, and warmth. But now, those memories felt tainted by shadows I couldn't ignore. I lay back against the pillows, staring at the ceiling, desperately searching for answers that felt just out of reach.