Chapter 17

Amelia's POV

I could feel the warmth of the sun on my skin as I stood in the courtyard of our cozy home, a sense of tranquility filling the air. The scent of blooming flowers mingled with the gentle breeze, creating a serene atmosphere that belied the storm brewing on the horizon. Little did I know that the peace we had fought so hard to attain was about to be shattered.

As I watered the plants, the sound of footsteps echoing on the cobblestone pathway caught my attention. I turned, my heart skipping a beat as I saw her—the woman from Ethan's past. She was a vision of beauty, with cascading ebony hair and eyes that held a mix of anger and determination. Her presence sent a chill down my spine, for I knew she harbored a deep resentment toward me—a woman she saw as an intruder in her pursuit of Ethan.

"Amelia," she called out, her voice dripping with venom. "We finally meet face to face."

I felt a mixture of apprehension and curiosity as I walked toward her, my hand gripping the waterin