Chapter 6: The Weight of His Gaze
At that moment, Erica reclined in the comfort of a spa, the air fragrant with essential oils. Her phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen, seeing her mother’s name. A smirk curved her lips as she answered the call.
Moments later, she hung up and immediately dialed another number. Years ago, Erica and Heloise had conspired to destroy Alana, forcing her out of the house and into exile. Their shared secret had bonded them as partners in crime. But lately, Heloise had been distant. Her shop was closed, and Erica had no idea what she was up to.
“Hi, Erica,” Heloise’s voice came through the line, cheerful but slightly strained.
“Heloise, what’s going on with you? Why is your shop closed?” Erica demanded, her tone sharp.
“Oh, I’ve been traveling,” Heloise replied hastily. “Why? Did something happen?”
“Something big. Alana’s back.”
In a luxurious mansion, Heloise sat frozen on the couch, a maid’s delicate hands stilling mid-massage. The phone slipped from her grasp, landing on the plush carpet. Panic tightened her chest as she snatched it back up.
“When did she come back? Why is she here?” Heloise’s voice trembled despite her effort to sound calm.
Erica scoffed. “Why are you so nervous? Are you still scared of her?”
“No,” Heloise snapped, masking her fear. “I’m just curious.”
“My father said she’s back for work, but I’m sure she’s here to fight for the family assets,” Erica spat, venom dripping from her words. “And knowing her, she’ll come for you too.”
Heloise’s nails dug into the fabric of the couch. The life of luxury she now enjoyed was built on the ruins of Alana’s. Why couldn’t Alana just disappear? Heloise thought bitterly. If the truth ever came out, everything she had would crumble.
“Erica, tell me everything you know about her return. I need to be ready,” Heloise said, her voice firm.
Erica’s laugh was cold. “We’ll deal with her together. Like old times.”
Heloise’s grip on the phone tightened. After hanging up, she bit her lip, her mind racing. She had to protect herself, no matter the cost. Not even Erica could be trusted completely. If Alana gets in my way, I’ll make sure she disappears for good, Heloise vowed silently.
At 5:00 p.m., Alana arrived at the kindergarten to pick up her son. The sight of him running toward her with open arms made her heart swell.
“Mommy!” he shouted, his voice bright and full of joy.
Alana knelt to embrace him, her worries momentarily melting away. “How was school today?”
Last updated on May 30th, 2025 at 08:04 pm
