Our Journey Together

Chapter 2

Ava POV

'You will attend the event or else...'

The words of my father reverberated within my mind. I clearly understood the unspoken threat laced within his words. What more he could do to me, I dared not to think about it. It was already decided that I had to go to the stupid 'charity ball' and accompany my 'dear' father. There was no room for discussion.

Another night of entertaining egotistic jerks, wanting nothing but my father's wealth, or even worse, my body. I shuddered with disgust at the notion of those cretins laying their grubby hands on me. I'd rather die then let them do that.

Moving through the lavish corridors of my 'home', I mentally prepared for the taxing night I would spend. At least I had a day to prepare. Walking down the corridor, I headed to my room. I really needed some time to relax and come to terms with the sudden demand of my father.

After what seemed like an eternity, the familiar walnut stained door came into my view. The very sight of the oak door spurred me to increase my pace. As soon as I was able, I grabbed onto the warm brass knob, my hand engulfing it in a tight embrace, almost denting it. I pulled the heavy door open, entering my room.
*BOOM*
The resounding crash of the door slamming against the frame echoed in my room. My heart fluttered at the sheer sound, my ears ringing slightly.

As soon as I recovered, the saccharine scent of cinnamon burst into my nose. Deeply inhaling the caramel aroma, I felt calmer. More at peace. Hot, emollient air kissed against my pale, frigid skin, caressing my body as I was a loved one. It was much warmer here too. More comforting. My eyes glanced around the room, making sure everything was in place.

My comfortable queen-sized bed stood at the center of my room. It's fluffy covers looked inviting as ever.

Wall-mounted shelves adorned with my precious books placed right above my sturdy desk.

The mahogany table patterned with dark, rosy grains. The neatly arranged rows of notebooks sat atop it.

The ornate patterns on my walls were a welcome sight, alleviating the tension in my eyes.

A sigh escaped my lips. Nothing out of place, just how I liked it. I felt my body relax, the taut muscles in my body unwound. I bounded over to my bed, launching myself at the velvet covers of my bed. The soft, feathery fabric welcomed me, encompassing me in a loving embrace. I closed my eyes, basking in the tranquil and cozy atmosphere.

"You are my heir"

My eyes snapped open and I sat upright, my entire body rigid. My muscles cried out in pain at the sudden convulsion. I urgently darted my eyes around the room, seeking out where the malicious voice came from. 

Where his voice came from. 

Sweat started trickling down my forehead, eliminating all traces of heat, coating my skin in an icy sheen. I could feel my heartbeat rising, blood pumping faster. I looked around the room again.

"He isn't here Ava, he can't hurt you " I reassured myself, calming my heart after I concluded my frantic search. He wasn't here. I was safe from his clutches.

"I made you and I control you"

I could feel the heat in my room dissipate. My fists clenched at very sound of that monstrous voice, laced with venom and dominance. My heartbeat rocketed as I started breathing faster and heavier. Those words were filled with selfish desire and arrogance. All my muscles started to spasm, immense pain filled my body.

"Your only purpose is to succeed me, nothing else"

The finality in that tone...

There was no room for argument. I was created for one reason and one reason only, taking over my father's legacy.