But for me, the room's warmth dissolved into an icy void. My heart sank, heavy and cold, as his words stabbed deeper than any blade could.
Ruslan’s schemes were nothing short of insidious, turning me into the godmother of his mistress’s child.
Once they left, I finally stepped out of my hiding spot, my heart heavy with silent fury.
Moments later, Ruslan returned to the villa, his steps halting abruptly when he saw me. Panic flashed across his face like a storm breaking.
“Aurelle,” he stammered, his voice trembling, “have you been home this entire time? Did… did you hear anything?”
I shook my head, my expression unreadable, my voice devoid of emotion.
“No, I’ve been in my room sleeping.”
Relief washed over him visibly, and he exhaled audibly, his tension dissolving like morning mist.
“Good, good,” he muttered, crouching down in front of me. He wrapped his arms around me in what felt like a hollow embrace.
“I was just on a video call earlier. I’m glad I didn’t disturb you.”
Resting his head against the crook of my neck, he whispered with saccharine sweetness, “Darling, I really love you.”