Eliana Maria's voice was as low as a whisper when she finally spoke up, like a thin thread that would snap any time soon. "I... I didn't choose to... work for her, you have to believe me." she stammered as tears fell freely from her eyes, her words barely audible. "I was... out shopping... groceries... and she... she approached me."She choked.The words were coming slowly, like they were being dragged out of her, one painful word at a time and I could see everyone lose their patience even though we all stayed quiet, afraid of Damian’s wrath.His expression was like a mask of stone, his eyes locked onto her, his body tense with the anticipation of her confession."She... she threatened... me and my entire family," Maria continued, her voice cracking. "She said she'd... kill them... if I didn't... obey her."She paused, forcing her head up to meet our gazes. Possibly to check for any signs of sympathy.The words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of her fears and I could almost

Damian I woke up earlier than I expected the next morning, especially considering how I fell asleep pretty late due to my racing thoughts.I tried to force myself back to sleep but nothing worked so I slipped out of bed, trying not to disturb Mila, her peaceful face covered in the soft morning light that streamed through the curtains, making her face shine like a being that didn’t belong in this world. I wondered how the soft light didn’t wake her up but soon realized that she must have been extremely exhausted after yesterday’s events.She was still fast asleep, her chest rising and falling with a gentle rhythm, looking so serene, and I wanted nothing more than to stay in bed beside her but I had a lot of things to do. I smiled slightly, feeling a warmth in my chest, a sense of comfort washing over me. I leaned down, brushing a strand of hair out of her face, my touch light, trying not to wake her and then pressed a soft kiss on her forehead. Straightening up, I quickly made my w

Eliana “We should get breakfast; I’m starving. We barely even ate anything last night.” I said, my voice lazy enough to emphasize how hungry I was. Pearl looked like she was going to pass out at any minute; she probably used up all her energy to bawl her eyes out.“We definitely should, but I doubt breakfast is ready; we don’t have any maids, remember?” She asked with a wry smile on her face, and I sighed deeply as I remembered the events of the previous day. I’ve never cooked a thing in my life.“Pearl, you’re an excellent cook; please make us something.” I begged even though she didn’t look like she had the ability to make a bowl of cereal, let alone cook a whole meal.She rolled her eyes as she stood up, smoothing her dress with her hands. “I can only offer you some scrambled eggs right now.” She muttered, and I smiled widely at her.“That’s perfect,” I replied.Together, we left the room and walked to the kitchen, our steps synchronized like soldiers. It was the first time I’d w

ElianaFew minutes later, I realized it was time to let go of what felt like heaven so he could return to his duties. I reluctantly pulled away from his arms, feeling like I'd been yanked out of a warm dream. "I should let you go," I said, my voice barely above a whisper. "Don't want to keep my brother waiting." I said.His eyes were filled with a soft sadness, but he nodded, releasing me from his hold. He leaned in, his lips brushing against mine in a soft, sweet kiss that left me wanting more. "I'll catch up with you later," he whispered, before turning and heading down the hallway.I watched him go, feeling all the butterflies in my stomach fly away at the same time, I felt like a balloon slowly losing air. But I shook myself, remembering my original reason for leaving the room, a walk in the garden. Fresh air and sunshine were just what I needed to clear my head.I didn’t even remember to ask him if we were a couple.I strolled down the hallway and into the living room and just

Damian“Should I go after him, sir? Seems like we really need him; I could try talking to him.” Victor suggested.I shook my head, knowing Xavier; it was best we let him go and take all the time he needs to think about everything. We just had to hope he reaches a fair decision.“Just let him be,” I replied, waving my hand dismissively. “Start the task on Eliot as soon as you can.” I added, and he nodded.We had nothing else to talk about, so he left, and I continued signing the paperwork I was busy with earlier. For someone who worked behind the shadows, I sure had lots of things to do, but I would do whatever it takes to protect my family’s empire.The one Preston had to kill them all for. I yearned for the day he would die by my hands.Immediately my phone rang, and I picked it up from the table, staring at the unknown number and wondering if picking it up was the right decision. I took a deep breath and slowly lifted the phone to my ear.“Good day, is this Mr. Reynolds?” A soft bar