on the dark, churning waters below. Each ripple seemed to echo the turmoil in my hear

oice barely audible over the roar of the river. "I tho

ite with the effort as I fought against the overwhelming urg

eyes. "My dreams are shattered, my heart broken... Ther

g with emotion. "They didn't even think about me, about my happiness. All they cared about was their selfish gain. 'Le

ause I am the ad

s of doubt and despair that echoed in my mind. I felt as though I w

ught, my chest tight with anguish. "No mor

that bold step, strong hands gripped me fro

inst the iron grip of my assailants, panic

, his voice harsh and commanding.

ice shaking with fear and confusion. "What

car, the door slamming shut behind me. Alone and disoriented, I coul

ce, my mind swirling with a million questions and fears. Who was

nated by the soft glow of lamplight. With a sense of dread gnawing at my insides, I wa

f him - Damien. He stood tall and imposing, his dark eyes fi

es as they met mine, and for a

to make sense of the situation. "This guy f

oth and controlled. I listened intently as he outlined the events that ha

he addressed me. "Do you think dropping $150 is some sort of solution?" he dema

sorry," I stammered, my voice barely above a whisper. "I di

events that had led me to this moment - the betrayal, the heartache, the shatte

I see," he murmured, his voice gentle yet commanding. "You're in need of more than just

at the offer was, quic

e promise of an heir to my

en's words hung in the air, the

marriage and an heir?" I echoed, my voice trembling with uncerta

Take some time to think about my offer. Meanwhile,

at if I

and I go back to mine. But something

w anything abo

e not happy with the way things are. O

ts and emotions. Damien's words struck a chord within

a. You have until tomorro

!? That's

brief silenc

o!" He broke

the heav

anywhere else to go. You're welcome to

mporary stay in your palace of

a faint smirk playing at

to pl

all smile tugging at m

you just a r

en gestured towards

'll show you

ntly following Damien, my mind filled