***Raven***Sleep eluded me entirely after I finished reading Hyacinth’s journal. My mind raced, piecing together every fragment of information, every clue. The thought that it could be Anthony gnawed at me, but I dismissed it. She was always safe when Anthony was around. At least, that’s what I wanted to believe. My suspicions shifted to Eino. His background was sparse, but what I knew painted a picture of a privileged young man dabbling in astrology—a rich kid with a penchant for exploring the world. His family had recently ventured into home security systems—cameras, digital surveillance, the works. I’d already checked the systems they installed at the cabin and traced their origins. Their sister company, or rather, their small-scale business, seemed innocuous enough. But something about Eino didn’t sit right with me. He was the lead I needed to focus on. “You haven’t slept at all, my love,” Hyacinth’s voice broke through my thoughts. She was bundling up in layers, pulling on a p
***Hyacinth***My heart was a storm, each beat a thunderclap of dread. Every time my eyes caught a glimpse of a bouquet of flowers, my pulse quickened, and a cold sweat broke out on my skin. The world felt like it was closing in, my thoughts a tangled mess. My stomach churned, and my mind was a whirlwind of fear and confusion. I couldn’t focus. I couldn’t breathe. My body trembled uncontrollably, as if the ground beneath me was shaking.“So, do we still have to pick up that coffee or what?” Patricia’s voice broke through my haze, her tone laced with concern. “You know, you can just stay here. I’ll pick it up.”“No, we go. They need coffee and food too,” I insisted, my voice barely steady. I pulled my hood over my head, shielding myself from the world as I followed Patricia into the café. Two bodyguards trailed behind us, their presence both comforting and a stark reminder of the danger that seemed to lurk around every corner. Seth waited in the car, his watchful eyes scanning the surr
***Raven***My body ached, but thankfully, nothing was broken. The memory of the black pickup truck slamming into my car replayed in my mind. I had just unfastened my seatbelt and was reaching for the cake in the backseat when the impact hit. The force wasn’t as devastating as it could have been—I’d managed to avoid the worst of it—but the shock still lingered, leaving me sore and on edge.When we arrived home, the female trainer was already waiting. Hyacinth glanced at her, her expression a mix of curiosity and apprehension, as Seth made the introductions. “This is Crissa Peskov. She’ll be your trainer and fitness coach,” Seth said, his tone formal yet reassuring. Hyacinth smiled warmly and extended her hand. “Hello, I’m Hyacinth, and this is my best friend, Patricia.” “Pleasure to meet you both,” Crissa replied, her Russian accent lending a melodic quality to her words. Hyacinth turned to me, her eyes pleading. “Can we cancel today’s training?” I shook my head firmly. “No.
**Hyacinth**After four grueling hours of self-defense training, I had envisioned a quiet evening of rest and relaxation. I knew my body would be sore tomorrow, and the thought of Raven’s amorous intentions for the night made me wince. But, as fate would have it, our plans changed. Raven received an invitation to dinner from a friend who lived on the same penthouse floor.As I soaked in a long, luxurious bath, Raven filled me in on our hosts, Mrs. Rachel Vanderbilt and her husband. They owned the entire building and had taken a liking to Raven. He explained how they had invested in his company early on, helping him build his empire alongside his father’s legacy. The Vanderbilts were old-money billionaires, a stark contrast to Raven’s self-made success.With Irene’s assistance, I blow-dried my hair and applied a touch of makeup—something I rarely did on my own. Raven presented me with a sleek black dress that complemented his casual yet elegant outfit. I sighed, longing to lounge in com
***Patricia***Finnish class in the morning, events in the afternoon, and self-defense class later in the day—that’s been our routine lately. Rachel Vanderbilt, the demure yet insistent socialite, has been relentless in dragging us into her world of elite activities. I never imagined I’d be part of this high-society circus, but here I am, playing the role of the dutiful best friend. Hyacinth, my best friend, is married to a young billionaire, and her life is a whirlwind of glamour and obligations. As her assistant, I’m along for the ride, earning a paycheck while trying to keep up. The most exciting part of this new life? Self-defense classes. I’ve taken a liking to kickboxing with Seth, while Hyacinth trains in more lethal techniques involving knives and sharp objects. Our Russian coach is exceptional—so skilled that she’s almost intimidatingly attractive. And no, I’m not bisexual or a lesbian, but I can appreciate beauty when I see it. She’s stunning in a way that feels dangerous.“
**Hyacinth** The party in the building was a whirlwind of excitement and exhaustion. The constant social interactions left me drained, and I couldn’t help but feel like I was playing the role of a housewife for Raven. Yet, amidst the chaos, I couldn’t shake the thought of diving deeper into the business world. Was there still room in my packed schedule to learn and grow? “You look stunning,” Raven said, his voice warm as I turned to show him my gown for the Gala. The crimson red dress hugged my curves perfectly, its mermaid cut flowing elegantly to the floor with a subtle slit for ease of movement. The off-shoulder design featured cape sleeves adorned with intricate embroidered spirals and shimmering gems that caught the light with every step. It was breathtaking—and undoubtedly expensive. “Are these real?” I asked, gesturing to the gems that sparkled like stars against the fabric. “Of course, darling,” Raven replied, his grin widening. “Your husband *is* from a mining and jew
**Hyacinth**The gala was a dazzling spectacle of opulence and elegance, a symphony of shimmering gowns, polished tuxedos, and the soft clinking of champagne glasses. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm, golden glow over the room, their light reflecting off the intricate jewelry adorning the guests. The air was thick with the mingling scents of expensive perfumes and the faint aroma of hors d'oeuvres being carried by impeccably dressed waiters. It was a world I was still getting used to, but one that felt strangely familiar, as if my mother’s presence lingered in every corner.Meeting so many people who knew my mother filled me with a warmth I hadn’t expected. Their stories painted a picture of a woman who was not only brilliant but deeply loved. The Af Forselles name carried weight here, and I couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride. Perhaps I should shed the Dawson name entirely and embrace my mother’s legacy. My father and Rosie had painted her as someone she wasn’t, but here, among th
***Raven***Hyacinth was the flower of the night—the only bloom that thrived in the moonlight. She was radiant, captivating, and effortlessly enchanting, much like the woman who had raised her, Margarette Sinclair. Though I hadn’t yet formally met the Sinclairs, it was clear that Hyacinth had brought a sense of joy and peace to Margarette’s family. Watching her interact with Margarette’s eldest son, I could see how her honesty and authenticity had won them over. It was impossible not to fall under her spell. She was introverted, yet she had a way of connecting with people, especially those with old souls. She was extraordinary, and I was endlessly proud to call her mine.After the event, I finally collapsed onto the bed beside her, my body aching from the long evening. Gently, I began massaging her feet, which were undoubtedly sore from hours of standing and walking in those impossibly high heels. I regretted letting the stylist choose such impractical shoes. Next time, I’d make sure
–Hyacinth–Home was the only place I ever truly felt safe. After everything, that safety was precious. I slipped into a warm bath with Raven by my side, letting the water soothe my aching limbs. We didn’t speak much—just quiet touches, the kind that said more than words. Afterward, I dried my hair, pulled on my robe, and crawled into bed like gravity had doubled. I was exhausted. Bone-deep, soul-deep tired.Raven hovered, worried. He told me I needed to get checked out. I brushed him off. I didn’t want doctors or tests or fluorescent lights poking into something I didn’t want to name. I just wanted to sleep. And silence.But when morning came, the heaviness hadn’t gone away. It had gotten worse.My stomach lurched the moment I opened my eyes. I barely made it to the bathroom before I was hunched over the sink, heaving up bile and water. My hands trembled as I gripped the porcelain.“Hya!” Raven rushed in, grabbing hold of me, his voice tight with fear. “What’s happening to you?”“I’m
–Raven–The Hekkinens. Of course they adore Hyacinth. She’s rich, accomplished, and her mother is practically a legend in the business world. The way old Aada Hekkinen embraced Hyacinth was almost reverent—like she was welcoming her own granddaughter home. I couldn’t tell if it was genuine or just for show. Probably both.She complimented Hyacinth’s engagement ring again—the same one I designed from scratch. Not exactly traditional. It wasn’t flashy or aristocratic, just a ring born out of pure fantasy. I made it for my wife. I knew Aada wanted to say something more about it—maybe she thought it lacked elegance—but she held back.“Meet my mother-in-law,” Hyacinth said, gesturing to Mom.“Darcy, is it?” Aada asked, her tone polite but calculated.“Yes, the one and only.” They shared a quick cheek-to-cheek greeting.“My Eino speaks very highly of you. I’m so grateful you welcomed my grandson into your home in the Philippines,” Aada added warmly.“My children’s friends are like my own ch
–Hyacinth–Raven stayed awake the whole night, his presence a restless weight in the room. I tried so hard to sleep, but my body wouldn't listen. I didn’t leave the hotel either — I couldn’t.Raven and Mom had made it clear. I wasn’t to give in to the stalker's demands. This would be our chance to finally catch him.But as I lay there, staring into the dark, a cold realization settled in my chest.He wouldn’t come alone.He would send a stand-in."From now on, don't accept any more of his letters, alright?" Raven's voice broke the silence.I stayed quiet. There was something about the way he spoke — so commanding, so final — that made my heart twist. I hated the tone, hated feeling like a child being told what to do. But deep down, I knew it came from fear. He didn’t want to lose me.I knew that."Bud," Raven murmured as he reached for my face, tilting it up so I couldn’t avoid him. His touch was gentle, but there was urgency behind it. "Bud, are you listening to me?"He smoothed my h
–Hyacinth–I planned it to be in Switzerland. Patricia always wanted to go there. So we made it. Raven and I decided to let them go wherever they want. While he and I stayed in our hotel room to make love. I promised him. That we would go crazy in bed once he’s fully recovered. It’s still his birthday week. Besides, my husband is all that matters now. I may not be able to give him children but this one happiness… maybe it’ll fill up his wants. “I am loving your body, right now.” He said while admiring me on a fitted dress that I put on for our afternoon walk. We’ll be meeting them in the restaurant that they found a few blocks from our hotel. “Really? I think I am fatter than before.” I approached her as he caressed my curves. “Oh, these… mama mia!” He grinned. I laughed and pushed his hair forward. “Let’s go. I want to eat and also enjoy this place.” “Okay, okay.” He bounced his head. “I don’t want my wife to get hungry. Hungry wife, disaster life.” He said as playfully as I sma
–Hyacinth–I quickly tucked the letter away, my fingers trembling slightly as I realized it could ruin the night for Raven. No, not tonight. Not on his birthday. I stepped outside, handed the bouquet to a passing housekeeper with a grateful smile, and whispered, "Thank you," before rushing back in.And the letter? I buried the storm of emotions twisting inside me. Because this isn’t just about me anymore. This time, I’m protecting him. I’m protecting Raven.The door burst open from the bathroom. “Love!” Raven called out, his voice bright and boyish.I turned with a soft smile. “Yes?”He peeked his head around the doorframe with that mischievous grin of his. “I was thinking… quick party, then make love?”I laughed, arching a brow. “You’re not fully recovered yet. So, we can’t—unless~”“Yeah, yeah,” he grumbled, waving a hand. “I know. No more food poisoning, I swear.”“Mmhmm,” I hummed, unconvinced.He walked over, draping himself across the bed. “So, who knocked earlier?”I avoided h
–Hyacinth–I sighed, stomach churning. Ugh, probably too much soda. I rushed to the bathroom, hoping it would pass. That’s when it hit me—I hadn’t gotten my period.I froze, hand instinctively reaching for my chest. Tender. Really tender.“Oh, shit,” I muttered. “Am I pregnant… or is this just PMS?”No. Couldn’t be. I stopped taking the pill, yeah, but Raven had a low sperm count and we always used condoms… right?“This is just PMS,” I told myself, firm. “Just premenstrual weirdness. Totally normal. Nothing to see here.”I cleaned myself up and was just reaching for toilet paper when Raven knocked.“Come on, babe!” he called.I opened the door just enough to peek out.“I’m not feeling great,” I said, nudging him inside. “Your turn.”He rushed past me like a man on a mission. “Thanks! But hey, we still have places to be, remember?”“Yeah, yeah,” I said with a laugh.The door shut, and a groan came from inside.“You okay in there?” I asked, amused. “Want me to get you some medicine?”“Y
Hyacinth I’ve always dreamed of touring Europe, and now, with our budget secured, we finally could. The private jet made the trip hassle-free, and as we stepped onto foreign soil, I intertwined my fingers with my husband’s. But he brushed my hand away, handing me my purse instead. I pouted, only for him to secure his own bag across his chest before resting a firm hand on my waist. My irritation melted into a grin when he winked at me. “So, this is the surprise birthday trip you planned for me?” he asked. “Yes,” I confirmed. “I would’ve preferred it if we were alone, you know.” His grin turned wicked as he wiggled his brows. “Locked in our room for days—lazy, indulgent, just us. I’d never get tired of that.” “But I would,” I shot back, squinting up at him. “It’s bad for me.” He laughed as I did, then pushed open the door to the first café we spotted. The place wasn’t crowded, but the rich aroma of coffee and pastries was intoxicating. My eyes locked onto the cinnamon Dani
–Patricia–I had invited Anthony with Hyacinth’s approval, and they unexpectedly showed up together. I was surprised that Hyacinth had brought our favorite yogurt set, while Raven handed me the apple container.“You can eat all of that since you’re single,” Raven remarked with a pitying look. It was irritating, but I had to endure his constant jibes—after all, my best friend was paying me to tolerate his face.I put the yogurt in the fridge, only to be interrupted by a hand that appeared behind me, placing something next to it. I turned, nearly colliding noses with the newcomer. He quickly raised his hand and apologized, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”“No, it’s fine,” I replied with a grin. “You’re not trying to flirt with me, are you?” I teased.“What if I am?” he shot back, laughing and nodding.“You’ll have to ask my best friend’s permission first,” I quipped.He chuckled and patted my arm. “Sure thing. By the way, I have some questions,” he said, extending his arm. I gracefu
***Raven*** Rosie had put on quite the show. After days of comforting my wife and convincing her not to blame herself, it seemed to be working—somewhat. But I needed to double down. I had to find that last copy and destroy it, especially now that my wife was gaining fame. Maybe we should stop attending galas altogether. “Why are you packing so much?” I asked as she counted a few items. “We’re off to Europe,” she replied casually. “Babe, we’re not going to Finland again,” I teased. “I didn’t say Finland,” she said, rolling her eyes. “I have work.” “You can work from there. Besides, I made sure the jet is packed.” She winked and held up a piece of lingerie—tempting, to say the least. “Wow, second honeymoon?” I approached her, but she raised a finger to stop me, carefully placing the lingerie into the luggage. “Now I remember—our anniversary is coming up,” I said, walking around her and pulling her waist toward me. “Are you planning to make love to me?” “No way! After