Chapter 4 - The Phantom Husband
The silence in the study became suffocating. Elena stared at the photograph in Adrian’s hand, her mind completely unable to process the words she had just heard.
After his funeral? Elena choked out, standing up on shaking legs. That’s impossible. James died before Lily was born. He never held her. He never met her.
Vincent took the watch from Adrian, his sharp features tense with a dark, boiling anger. He stared at the date stamped on the photo. It was dated three weeks after James’s closed-casket funeral.
He faked his death, Vincent said, his voice dropping to a terrifying, lethal whisper. He stole the Rossi money, staged the car crash, and abandoned you while you were pregnant to save his own skin. But he couldn't resist sneaking into the hospital to take a photo of his child before he vanished for good.
Elena covered her mouth, a sob tearing through her throat. The man she had mourned, the man whose memory she had kept alive for her daughter, was a coward who had left them to drown in medical debt and fear. She collapsed back into the leather chair, weeping into her hands.
Vincent didn't hesitate. He stepped forward, pulling Elena into his chest. He wrapped his strong, muscular arms around her slim frame, holding her tightly while she cried. He rested his chin on the top of her head, his eyes burning with a violent need to protect her.
Adrian, Vincent ordered over Elena’s sobs, his voice echoing in the quiet study. Find him. Use every resource we have. Tap the federal grid, buy the Rossi informants. I want James Reyes found.
Adrian nodded sharply. I’ll start immediately, boss. He took the photograph and slipped out of the room, leaving Vincent and Elena alone.
For a long time, Elena just cried against his white dress shirt, soaking the expensive fabric. Vincent didn't let go. He simply stroked her long wavy hair, offering a silent, unbreakable anchor in the middle of her shattered reality.
When she finally pulled back, wiping her wet cheeks, she looked up at him. I’m so sorry, she whispered, her fair skin flushed. I shouldn't have broken down like that. I need to pack. If the Rossis know James is alive, they might be watching me. I can't bring that danger to your home.
Vincent’s hands moved to her shoulders, gripping her firmly but gently. You are not going anywhere, Elena. You and Lily belong here. I have the men, the money, and the power to crush anyone who steps foot on this property. You are safe.
He looked deeply into her tired, protective eyes. A powerful, undeniable tension sparked between them, heavy with unspoken desire and fierce loyalty. Vincent slowly reached up, his thumb brushing away a stray tear on her cheek.
No one will ever hurt you again, Vincent promised, his deep voice rough with emotion. I swear it on my life.
The next morning, the bright sunlight felt like a lie against the dark secrets uncovered in the night. Elena walked into the massive marble kitchen to prepare breakfast, trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for Lily.
Lily was already sitting at the kitchen island, her burgundy bow perfectly tied in her curly hair. She was feeding pieces of toast to her worn stuffed rabbit.
Mrs. Doyle stood near the espresso machine, looking impeccably refined in her black dress and pearl earrings. But when she saw Elena’s exhausted face, the older woman’s composed expression faltered.
Mrs. Doyle walked over, placing a gentle hand on Elena’s arm. You know, dear, the older woman said softly, this house has seen many tragedies. But it has also seen miracles. Mr. Marquette has not looked at a woman the way he looks at you in a very, very long time.
Elena blushed, looking away. He is just protecting us, Mrs. Doyle. He is a good man beneath all that power.
Mrs. Doyle smiled a sad, knowing smile. He is a dangerous man, Elena. But for the people he loves, there is nothing he wouldn't destroy to keep them safe.
Suddenly, Marco burst through the kitchen doors, entirely abandoning his usual severe composure. His face was pale.
Boss needs to see you both, Marco said urgently, looking between Elena and Mrs. Doyle. The perimeter alarms just tripped. Someone is at the front gates.
May you like
Who is it? Elena asked, panic rising in her chest.
Marco swallowed hard. It’s him. It’s James.
