“A-Atlas, it’s not what you think!” I was eventually shocked by my own tone.Shit. Why am I so defensive? So what if he’s thinking that way? The fuck I care of whatever’s going on his mind!His stare was colder than the previous seconds, then he stepped closely to my spot with a clenched jaw and heavy aura. I unconsciously took a step backward, a bit intimidated by his boldness but before I could totally put a reasonable distance between us two, he already grabbed my wrist and pulled me without any act of gentleness!“We need to talk.” He hissed with oozing dominance.“Huh? What is there to talk about? I remember nothing—““There is. A lot, Brook.” He looked so dark and serious. I couldn’t help but gulp, I felt like what he’s about to say was something that would definitely move me.“Hey, Atlas. Just in case you’re being forgetful again, may I remind you that you just barged in my place.” Atlas was already pulling me with his lead when Damon spoke up, calmly.But it’s as if Atlas was
When Damon gave me two choices, I was sure to pick the first. But then, maybe it's true that it takes last minute to change a person's mind.I realized no one searches for me. They were probably fine despite knowing i wasn't around. No one really cares even if I disappear right now. A dry chuckle came out of my mouth. Damn. I've never been so down as this... I felt like everyone turned their back against me, even the people I treasure the most. I felt like however I try to set things right, they'd only see the numbers of my failure. I don't think I'll ever be good enough. Was it so hard to trust my words?I checked my phone to see if there's any new message in my inbox. Actually, there are. From Hailee and Lancer; both updating me about their vacation. With a heavy chest, I reacted heart on the photos they both sent in our group chat where only the three of us were members. I tried to scroll in my news feed but the moment I saw a video of that scene in the hospital posted by someon
"Well, then..." I took a sharp breath and forced a smile.Locked in Atlas's arms was Ashanti smirking victoriously. I had to control myself from giving her a slap regardless of everyone's watch and just walked out of that space without leaving any more word. If they felt disappointed then, they disappointed me too. What can I still do? They won't believe a single word I spout! Instead, she got them in her hands, effortless."Beverly? Where are you—hey!" I saw Train together with Rainer and their other cousins but I was too determined to get away from everyone at this hour.They called out my name once more but my self control was strong enough not to look back. I knew they've seen the tears cascading my face. It's fine. What's the point of yapping the matter? As if they'd believe any word I'd say. Just like the rest, they won't think bad of her. That's how she brainwashed everybody. Fucking successfully! I just couldn't accept Ria's included, too...Now, my daughter hates me because
"Why is this happening?" I could only whisper to myself.We just arrived at the hospital and Trevor immediately approached his brother, Dr. Fred Cameron to ask about my mother's current condition. I stood to listen too. He said it was the kind of heart attack that already happened before but it's fatal now and assurance cannot be just guaranteed.It was concerning to hear. I didn't know we'll get back to this situation once again. I still have a lot to think about and then here's another one..."Or something probably triggered her weak heart..." Dr. Cameron continued which definitely caught my attention.Something triggered? Or must be... someone. Then, who could it be? And what could be the motive?I don't want to quickly jump into conclusion but my instincts can never go wrong. I felt like there was a foul play here. Because she won't just get a heart attack for no specific reason. There must be a whodunnit behind it."She might wake up later or tomorrow and I'm sorry to break it to
"Howard family were set to face multiple serious cases involving each of the family members. Duke for aggravated assault, Sarah for child abuse, Daniel as part of an underground group involving drug trafficking and money laundering..." "That classless witch! How dare she lay a finger on my precious baby Ria! I'll make sure to taint her reputation in the motherhood community by any means possible!" Train had to pause from completing his sentence to give way to mom's aggressive reaction."Barbara, calm down..." She was only silenced when Trevor caressed her with comfort."Err, what about the other two Howard siblings?" I asked Train, more like urging him to continue.He cleared his throat and reclaimed seriousness. "Cambridge both expelled Dustin and Pauline Howard. Dustin, for allegedly cheating on major exam and Pauline for cyber bullying and harassing her classmate." The information made me blink for a second. Whoa. That's one hell of a problematic family."They're worse than what
"What's with these buffed minions?" He pertained to Atlas' men who diligently positioned themselves around him. His smirk hinted with mockery as his gaze stopped at Atlas who was slightly blocking my body from his view. "Hah! And you've brought your greatest soldier, I see."I clenched my fists and eyed him boldly."How dare you attempt to escape from your nasty deeds! You've always been a coward, Duke! You think you can get away from every damn thing you've put me through? You almost killed me, you dumbass!" My fingers were shaking, the urge to steal a gun from one of these men and shoot him was too strong.But I don't want his filthy blood to taint my hands so I must control this anger before I could break loose."Beverly." I stilled and as if a spell, Atlas' authoritative voice automatically calmed me down.I inhaled sharply, stepped aside and let him face Duke who stayed cool on his ground. "Quit being a hero, Cameron. Why are you so persistent in helping that bitch? You can't ev