Chapter 10
1133 Words
Shadows of Betrayal
The Los Angeles skyline glittered under the fading sunset, but inside Donald Dickson’s penthouse study the air was heavy with secrets. He leaned back in his leather chair, steepling his fingers, his eyes narrowing as Jasmine finished recounting every detail she’d observed.
“…and when I confronted him,” Jasmine said, her voice dripping with contempt, “he didn’t even deny it. He practically admitted he was obsessed with her.”
Donald’s lips curved into the faintest smile, though his gaze remained ice-cold. “Interesting.”
“He’s making a fool of you,” she pressed. Your own nephew. Everyone in college can see it the way he looks at her, the way she disappears whenever he’s around. If people find out, your reputation will burn.”
Donald set down his glass of scotch with a sharp clink. “Do not mistake me for a man who allows betrayal to flourish, Miss Reyes.”
Jasmine’s heart fluttered at the steel in his tone. She leaned forward, her crimson lips curving. “Then let me help you. I know Scott better than anyone. He trusts me, even when he shouldn’t. I can lead him right into your trap.”
Donald studied her for a long moment, then finally nodded. “Very well. Prove your loyalty. If you succeed, there will be… rewards.”
The promise in his voice sent a shiver through her. She left his study with her pulse racing, already plotting her next move.
Donald, meanwhile, poured himself another drink, his mind churning. So it’s true. The boy dares to covet what is mine.
Across town, in the dimly lit corner of a quiet diner, Adrian leaned over the table toward Scott.
“This is reckless,” Adrian muttered, keeping his voice low. “If Donald even sniffs that you’re sneaking around with her, he’ll crush you. And her.”
Scott’s jaw clenched. “I don’t care what he does to me. I care what he’s doing to her. Adrian, you don’t see it, she's fading. Every time I see her, she looks… trapped.”
Adrian sighed, rubbing a hand through his curls. “I see it. Trust me, I see it. But we can’t just walk into the lion’s den. We need a plan that keeps both of you safe.”
Scott leaned back, staring at the greasy ceiling lights. “I can’t wait anymore. I need to see her. Even if it’s just for a few minutes.”
Adrian shook his head, but his loyalty won out. “Alright. I’ll cover for you. But one mistake and it all goes down. You hear me?”
Scott nodded, determination blazing in his eyes.
That night, Sofia sat curled on her bed, clutching her phone. Her thumbs hovered over the keyboard, hesitating before sending the message.
Can we meet? Just once. Please.
Her chest thudded as she waited for a reply. Minutes passed, then her phone vibrated.
Yes. Tomorrow. I’ll find a way. Scott.
Tears filled her eyes, relief and terror warring inside her. She knew the risks. If Donald found out, it would mean ruin. But her heart screamed louder than fear.
Linda barged into the room without knocking, dropping onto the bed beside her. “I smuggled snacks,” she whispered, pulling out a bag of chips.
Sofia laughed through her tears, wiping her cheeks quickly. “You always know when I need you.”
Linda tore the bag open. “So… was that Scott?”
Sofia’s face heated. “Yes. He wants to see me.”
Linda raised an eyebrow. “And?”
“And I’m terrified. But I have to.”
Linda squeezed her hand. “Then we’ll make it happen." I’ll help you. Just… promise me you’ll be careful.”
“I promise,” Sofia whispered, though deep down she wasn’t sure she could keep it.
The following day, Jasmine intercepted Scott outside the campus library, her tone sugar-sweet.
“Scott,” she cooed, slipping her arm through his. “You’ve been avoiding me.”
Scott pulled back. “I’ve been busy.”
Her smile didn’t falter, though her grip tightened. “Busy with whom? Sofia?”
His jaw clenched. “Don’t start.”
“Oh, I’m not starting anything,” Jasmine said smoothly. “I just think it’s funny… the way you risk everything for her. Even when it could destroy you.”
Scott glared at her, but she only tilted her head, her eyes gleaming. “Careful, darling. Secrets don’t stay buried for long.”
She walked away, her laughter echoing behind her. Scott’s stomach churned. He knew she was up to something but he couldn’t back down now.
That evening, Adrian drove Scott to a secluded park on the outskirts of the city. The night air was cool, the trees casting long shadows across the paths.
“She’ll be here soon,” Adrian said, checking his watch. I’ll stay nearby in case something goes wrong. But keep it short.”
Scott nodded, his heart racing. He shoved his hands into his pockets, pacing beneath the lamplight.
Moments later, Sofia appeared, her hair loose around her shoulders, her eyes wide with both fear and relief.
“Scott,” she breathed, rushing into his arms.
He held her tightly, his chest aching at the feeling of her trembling against him. “God, I’ve missed you.”
She buried her face in his chest. “He’s suffocating me. He won’t let me go anywhere alone. Scott, I’m so scared.”
He cupped her face, forcing her to meet his gaze. “You’re not alone. I’ll protect you. No matter what.”
Her lips trembled. “He’ll find out. He always finds out.”
“Then let him,” Scott said fiercely. “I won’t let him take you from me.”
Tears spilled down her cheeks as she leaned into his kiss, desperate and aching. For a few precious minutes, the world faded, and it was only them.
But in the shadows, unseen, Jasmine stood with her phone raised, the camera flashing silently.
She lowered the device, a triumphant smile curving her lips.
“Got you,” she whispered.
Back at the mansion, Donald sat in his study when his phone buzzed. He opened the message, his eyes narrowing at the image: Sofia and Scott locked in an embrace, their kiss undeniable.
For a long moment, silence reigned. Then Donald’s laughter rumbled low, cold, and dangerous.
“So it’s true,” he murmured. “My nephew… and my wife.”
He set the phone down carefully, his mind already calculating. There would be no mercy. Not now. Not ever.
Sofia and Scott finally reunite in secret, but Jasmine captures photographic proof and delivers"
it to Donald who now knows everything. The storm is coming
- Writer
