Beneath the Surface

Chapter 3 : The Secret Exposed

Lex's investigation had uncovered a shocking truth: Victoria had been embezzling funds from his business, using the money to fuel her secret affair with her personal trainer, Marco. The revelation left Lex reeling, his trust shattered.

One night, he confronted Victoria in their opulent mansion, the tension palpable.

"How could you, Victoria?" Lex's voice was low, his anger simmering just below the surface. "You've been stealing from me, using my money to fund your little romance?"

Victoria's eyes flashed with defiance, her face a mask of innocence. "I don't know what you're talking about, Alexander."

Lex's laughter was cold, mirthless. "Don't play dumb, Victoria. I have proof. The bank statements, the transfers, the lavish gifts you've been giving Marco... it's all there, in black and white."

Victoria's mask slipped, her expression morphing into a snarl. "You think you're so perfect, don't you, Alexander? So untouchable. But you're just as dirty as the rest of us. You're just better at hiding it."

Lex's eyes narrowed. "That's not the point. The point is, you're a thief, Victoria. And you're going to pay for what you've done."

As they argued, Lex's mind began to wander to Amelia. He had been watching her, studying her, and he was convinced she was different. She wasn't like Victoria, driven by greed and ambition. Amelia was kind, genuine, and untainted by the darkness that had consumed his world.

"You're going to do exactly what I say, Victoria," Lex said, his voice dripping with venom. "You're going to keep up appearances, for the sake of our family and business. And in return, I'll let you keep your freedom... for now."

Victoria's eyes widened, a mixture of fear and understanding. "And what about... Elizabeth?"

Lex's expression softened, his love for his daughter a palpable thing. "I'll do what's best for her, as always. And that means keeping this... arrangement... a secret."

As the days passed, Lex and Victoria's relationship became a twisted dance of resentment and obligation. But Lex had a new focus: Amelia. He began to make his move, sending her gifts and invitations, slowly weaving a web of charm and deceit.

Amelia, still unaware of Lex's true nature, found herself drawn to him, despite her better judgment. And as she got to know him, she couldn't help but wonder... was this the start of something real? Or was she just a pawn in Lex's game of power and control?