The past return
288 Words
Three days after Ariana opened up about her family, the past she feared came knocking—literally.
Ariana was alone in her apartment when the doorbell rang. Expecting Liam or her security detail, she opened the door without hesitation.
But standing in front of her was the last person she ever wanted to see.
“Hello, little sister,” said Vanessa Blake, poised, polished, and as venomous as Ariana remembered.
Ariana’s breath caught. “What are you doing here?”
Vanessa stepped inside like she owned the place. “You didn’t really think you could disappear and hide this little pregnancy from the Blakes, did you?”
Ariana’s heart pounded. “Stay out of my life, Vanessa.”
Her sister laughed softly, walking toward the window. “Oh, Ariana. You always were too soft. Too emotional. And now? You’ve landed yourself a billionaire baby daddy. Tell me—was it love, or just strategy?”
Ariana’s palm itched with the urge to slap her.
“You don’t know anything about me,” she said through gritted teeth.
“Oh, but I do,” Vanessa replied, turning. “And so will everyone else—unless, of course, you make it worth my while.”
Ariana stared, stunned. “You’re blackmailing me?”
Vanessa shrugged. “Call it business. You want peace? Then you’ll give me what I want.”
She handed Ariana a sealed envelope and sauntered out without another word.
Tears welled in Ariana’s eyes as she locked the door. Her hands trembled as she opened the envelope—and what she saw inside made her blood run cold.
Photos. Private ones. From that night.
And a note that read:
“Your secrets aren't safe anymore.”
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- Writer
