Fragments of a Broken Woman

CHAPTER 12

Every year, just before Christmas, the Carter family hosted a party attended by all the major families—it was the event of the year.

Deep down, Camille knew her stepmother only did it to show off and waste her father’s money. But she didn’t care. These events were as empty and superficial as her stepmother’s mind.

Most of the time, Evelyn took pleasure in ridiculing and belittling Camille in front of family and close friends. Like something out of a twisted fairytale, she used her father’s distractions to undermine her at every opportunity.

And deep down, we all knew why.

Jealousy.

She had never been able to give Camille’s father a male heir… or any child at all. I suppose Camille was a constant reminder of everything she could never be.

So Stephan and I always had one mission: make sure Camille had a good time… then steal a tray of snacks, a bottle of wine, and disappear into her room to watch movies.

That had been our tradition for the past four years.

I didn’t drink much, but I loved those moments.

We joked, shared gossip about the party, and laughed louder than we should have. We were genuinely enjoying our own little world… until one of the maids came to get Camille because her father needed her downstairs.

—Wait here, I’ll be right back.

Stephan and I stayed close, sitting side by side. As soon as Camille left and the door closed behind her, the atmosphere shifted.

It was as if we had both been waiting for this moment.

To be alone.

To feel that quiet intimacy.

There was no need for words… just closeness.

—I like your dress. You look beautiful.

—Thank you. You look really good in that suit. I’m not used to seeing you so… elegant.

We smiled.

Then I rested my head against his chest.

I had done it many times before… but tonight felt different.

I focused on his heartbeat.

It was racing.

His fingertips brushed gently against my cheek. I lifted my gaze, and it felt like his eyes were calling me.

And yes…

He was looking at me like I was the only thing he could see.

He leaned in…

And I met him halfway.

This is wrong. I shouldn’t… we shouldn’t be doing this.

But sometimes, the forbidden is exactly what you crave the most.

And it didn’t feel wrong.

Not even a little.

His kisses were soft… sweet enough to make it impossible to stop. His lips were warm.

As the kiss deepened, his hand moved to the back of my head, pulling me closer, while mine traced his face—slowly, carefully… like I never wanted it to end.

With every kiss, something ignited inside my chest.

I couldn’t think.

Couldn’t breathe.

Couldn’t stop.

Everything felt perfect.