Into The Claws

CHAPTER ONE At the charming Bennett Mansion in Nile City, California, the clock struck 8 AM. In the kitchen, Ixora was immersed in her task, washing a mountain of dishes. The sink brimmed with plates, pots, and trays. Her blue, faded gown was damp from the soapy water, and as she worked, she hummed a joyful melody. Despite her simple attire, Ixora's radiant beauty shone through. Her long blonde hair, slender legs, snow-white skin, and captivating brown almond eyes framed by long lashes highlighted her stunning appearance. Just then, a girl dressed in gothic attire entered the kitchen, glaring at Ixora with disdain. "Do you think you're allowed to sing in my father's house, you trashcan?" the girl, Azura, yelled. Ixora flinched slightly and turned to face Azura, fear evident in her eyes. "I... wasn't singing, just humming a tune," Ixora stammered, causing Azura to sneer. "Are you implying I've suddenly gone deaf?" Azura questioned, but Ixora shook her head in denial. "I didn't mean that..." Before Ixora could finish, Azura grabbed her hair and pushed her head into the dishwater. Ixora struggled to avoid swallowing the water, but Azura was much stronger. She pushed Ixora's face deeper, laughing loudly. "Drink up, sweetheart, that's what people like you should thrive on, you dirty girl!" she shouted. "Zura, let that poor thing be for Christ's sake! You're going to be late for school," a female voice called from the living room. "I'll be there in a moment, Mom, just saying my goodbyes to this one!" Azura replied cheerfully. "Do whatever you want, Zura, but don't kill her. She still has chores to finish before she goes," the voice added. With a chuckle, Azura finally released Ixora's head and walked out confidently. Ixora stumbled to the sink, retching. Her face was flushed and she looked utterly exhausted. Ma Diana, as all the household staff called her, entered the kitchen, casting a look of disdain at Ixora. "Why on earth aren't you finished with these dishes yet? You're just wasting time when there's still so much work left to do in the house." TBC