I layed on the massive bed in the room, the covers twisted around my legs. The glow from the hallway light spilled in through the slightly open door, painting long shadows on the floor.
But no matter how quiet the house was… my mind wouldn't stop.
Micah.
The name echoed through me like a whisper.
His eyes when he saw me.
That subtle, tense moment when our hands nearly touched as he cleared a glass.
The way he looked at me — not like she was property, not like she was something broken to own. But like he still saw me.
Is he safe?
Did Dominic do something to him after the party?
The thought made my stomach twist then went to bed.
I woke up late, the soft sunlight spilling across the bed. The room was empty — Dominic hadn't come back. Relief washed over me like a warm tide.
I heard a knock on the door, I walked towards it and opened the door to see maids standing with their head bowed.
Good morning madam, we've come to prepare your bath so you can go downstairs for breakfast"
No it's fine, I can do it myself I said. " As you wish madam" they said and left then I slid into the bathroom and freshened up.
I slipped out of the room, padding down the grand staircase. The family was already gathered in the dining room.
"Did you sleep well?" Grandfather asked with a warm smile.
"Yes, thank you," I replied politely, taking my seat.
Dominic's mother glanced around the table. "Where's Dominic?"
I set my fork down. "He went out yesterday… and didn't come back last night."
Elias chuckled, shaking his head. "Dominic will always be Dominic."
The rest of them laughed, the sound filling the space like lighthearted music she didn't feel a part of.
After breakfast, Jane took me on a tour of the mansion, pointing out the art pieces, the glass halls, the sprawling gardens.
"I'm so happy you are going to be my sister in law and don't worry my brother will definitely spoil you with lots of money, and you are going to be Mrs voss" Jane said cheerfully, linking her arm with mine.
I forced a small smile, but inside my thoughts were sharp and bitter. Money can't buy freedom. Not mine.
Later that afternoon, we sat in the sitting room with a steaming cup of coffee.
Grandfather sat opposite me, his cane resting by his knee, his sharp eyes never leaving my face. "I would like to meet your family one day," he said warmly, though there was a weight beneath the words.
Oh yes' so we can get to know each other besides we will be a family" Dominic's mother said.
I lifted my cup to my lips to hide the twist in my expression.
The only family I have… sold me to a monster, i thought bitterly, swallowing the burn of coffee along with the ache in her chest.
I lost my mother when I was young so I have just my dad" I hated calling that man my father"
They all shared their sympathy with me. It's fine' I said to them.
After a polite nod, i excused muself, retreating to the garden for some air. The flowers swayed gently in the breeze, but i couldn't feel at peace.
I was standing by a stone bench when i heard the slow, deliberate tap of a cane behind me.
"How did you get into my grandson's world?" Grandfather's voice was calm, but the question cut like a blade.
I turned slowly. He stood there, posture straight despite his age, his gaze sharp enough to strip away pretenses.
"I know Dominic very well," he continued. "And I am not stupid."
I froze, my lips parting but no words coming out. My mind raced — should i tell him the truth that his grandson actually took me sincemy fathercouldn'tpay his debt? Should i lie?
The old man's eyes lingered on m3 for a moment longer, searching my face for something. Then, without another word, he turned and walked away, leaving me alone in the garden with her heart pounding.