Shadows Within The Past

Chapter 74: The Devil's Secret

Ethan's eyes narrowed as he cornered Amelia in the dimly lit hallway.

"Even if it is... it's a weakness," Ethan whispered, his breath cold against Amelia's skin. "And weaknesses get exploited."

Amelia's heart raced as Ethan's hand grasped her wrist.

"Tell me, Amelia," Ethan's voice dripped with malice. "What's the secret to taming the devil with a gun?"

"I'll let you go," Ethan whispered, "if you tell me the secret."

Amelia's voice trembled.

"It's love. Only love can tame Alexander."

Ethan's expression transformed, a mix of surprise and curiosity.

"Love?" Ethan repeated, his voice softer.

Amelia nodded, fear still gripping her heart.

"Yes, love."

Ethan's smile returned, calculating.

"Due to your love that is obviously not true, I am letting you go," Ethan said. "But I will watch you. And if it's not love... if you're deceiving me..."

Amelia's eyes widened.

"Don't dare tell Alexander," Ethan warned, his voice dripping with menace. "Or your family will suffer."

Amelia trembled, nodding desperately.

"Okay... I won't tell."

Ethan leaned in, his breath against Amelia's ear.

"I'll be watching. Prove your love for Alexander. Convince me."

Amelia's heart raced as Ethan vanished into the shadows.

Amelia's hands trembled as she dialed Alexander's number, Ethan's warning still echoing in her mind.

"Hey, Alexander. You're done with your mission, right? Are we going to hang out like you promised?" Amelia asked, trying to sound casual.

Alexander's deep voice reassured her.

"Yeah, for sure. I'm coming over. Missed you."

Amelia's guilt gnawed at her. She was hiding a secret, a deal made with the devil's brother himself.

"See you soon," Amelia said, forcing a smile into her voice.

As she waited, Amelia's thoughts raced. How could she keep her deal with Ethan hidden? What did Ethan plan to do?

The doorbell rang, snapping Amelia back to reality.

Alexander stood at the door, his eyes burning with intensity.

"Hey," Alexander said, pulling Amelia into a tight embrace.

Amelia's heart skipped a beat. She felt trapped between love and deception.

"Alexander, I have to tell you something," Amelia said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Alexander's eyes narrowed.

"What is it, Amelia?"

Amelia hesitated, Ethan's warning echoing in her mind.

"Don't dare tell Alexander, or your family will suffer."

But Alexander simply smiled.

"You're tired, that's all," Alexander said, stroking her hair. "Let's relax tonight. We can talk tomorrow."