I feel like an idiot.
He's displaying the classic narcissistic tendencies that I've unfortunately come to know too well. The tropical vacation, our first weeks here—all classic love bombing techniques designed to sweep me, and Yara, off our feet.
Behind it? A cold, calculating man with unknown intentions for both of us.
God, I really do feel stupid.
But I so wanted to believe his promises.
I know that knights in shining armor don’t exist, but he just seemed so… genuine.
Looking back, maybe I just heard what I wanted to hear, what I needed to in order to allow myself hope for a better future. For Yara, and even for myself.
His attempt to distort reality only strengthens my resolve. I meet his cold gaze unflinchingly.
This isn't my first rodeo with a dangerous and powerful man who lied about his true intentions.
"The only choice I had was to protect my daughter, no matter the cost to myself."
Gerald scoffs. "How very noble of you. But we both know you're not that selfless."
He brushes a strand of hair from my face and I fight the urge to recoil.
"From the moment I became a mother, my own desires ceased to matter," I say sharply. "Everything I've done has been for Yara. Every sacrifice, every compromise—it's all been all for her."
I think of the countless sleepless nights, the soul-crushing work, the pieces of myself that I've given up along the way.
The tears I've swallowed when Yara has asked about her father.
The birthdays and holidays spent working while Yara was home alone, or with her grandmother who is becoming less and less capable of taking care of her granddaughter or herself.
Gerald leans in, his breath hot on my cheek. "That's quite a martyr complex you've built for yourself," he murmurs. "But we both know you're only human."
I meet his gaze unflinchingly, defiance burning in my eyes.
I would burn this whole mansion down if it meant protecting Yara.
"You know nothing about me," I say coldly. "You never will."
I turn on my heel and leave the study, Gerald's amused laughter echoing behind me.
"I'll be sharing more information soon on how you can both live up to my expectations," he calls out.
I stalk down the hallway, my fists clenched at my sides.
I can feel Gerald's eyes on my back, but I refuse to turn around.
Not now, not ever.
My mind races.
I don't know what he has planned for us, but it's suddenly become clear that every day here is a risk to Yara's safety just as if we were back home.
Every day is a gamble with our lives.
But, no matter what he has in mind, I refuse to let Gerald win. I will protect my daughter, no matter the cost.
I walk briskly through the mansion's opulent halls, my heels clicking sharply against the polished marble floors. But theextravagant decor that once dazzled me now feels garish and oppressive.