Tous les chapitres de : Chapitre 1 - Chapitre 5

"Mom, where are we going?" The question came out smaller than I intended."Not far. Just somewhere better." Her smile was mysterious, almost secretive. "Beatrice! Remember how I told you I was dating someone? I think it's time I introduced you to him."As we drove through increasingly wealthy neighborhoods, my unease grew. These weren't the kinds of places people like us belonged. The houses grew larger, the gates taller, and the gardens more manicured with each turn. I watched the familiar streets of our humble neighborhood fade in the rearview mirror, replaced by mansions that seemed to stare down at our modest Honda Civic with contempt."Mom! Why are we here?" I asked as we pulled up to massive iron gates flanked by men in dark suits. Their faces were expressionless as they checked our car.The house beyond the gates was enormous—white stone, multiple levels, gardens that seemed to stretch on forever. It looked like something out of a movie."This is our new home," Mom announced wi

Antonio led us back to the living room after the confrontation with Salvatore. I was still in shock from seeing Antonio slap his own son, and even more shocked by the revelation that I was supposed to be their stepsister. Mom squeezed my hand as we walked, her grip painfully tight, her expression unreadable.The living room felt colder now, the pristine white furniture suddenly more intimidating than impressive. Salvatore and Matteo followed behind us, their presence like a shadow at my back. I could feel Salvatore's glare burning into me, and I resisted the urge to look back.Antonio gestured for us to sit again on the leather sofa. I sank down beside Mom, practically glued to her side. Salvatore and Matteo took seats across from us, Salvatore nursing his reddened cheek, his eyes filled with hatred."Remember when I told you I found a suitable partner?" Antonio addressed his sons. "This is her; Sofia Romano, and her daughter Beatrice, who is now your stepsister."I noticed Salvatore

I woke to the sensation of something hard pressing against my backside and a warm hand cupping my breast. Disoriented, I blinked in the morning light before remembering—Matteo. He was still in my bed, his body curved around mine like a protective shell. His breathing remained deep and even against my neck, telling me he was still asleep.His fingers unconsciously squeezed my breast, sending an unwelcome jolt through my body. Between my legs, I felt a disturbing warmth blooming.A sharp knock on the door sent my heart into my throat."Beatrice? Are you awake, honey?" Mom's voice called through the door. The doorknob rattled. "Why is this locked?""Just a second, Mom!" I hissed, jabbing my elbow into Matteo's ribs. "Matteo!" I whispered urgently. "My mom's at the door!"His eyes flew open, instantly alert. Without a word, he rolled out of bed and darted into the bathroom, closing the door with a soft click. I smoothed down my tank top and ran my fingers through my tangled hair before un