Khloe's POV
Nevian Allerick. The name echoed in my mind, a haunting reminder of everything I wanted to escape. Lance Allerick's name was enough to send chills down my spine, and now, here I was, tangled in the web of another Allerick.
Moments after he left the room, a middle-aged woman entered with a warm smile that radiated kindness.
"Hello, dear. Is there anything you need?" Her soothing voice almost made me forget my predicament.
"A glass of water would be great," I replied, forcing a smile to mask my anxiety.
As soon as she exited, I sprang from the bed, adrenaline surging through me. I had to get out of this place—no one was going to trap me here.
But my heart sank as I faced the imposing bronze gate that barred my freedom. I hesitated, fear gripping my chest. After a moment of desperate planning, I rushed toward it, my heart racing. To my astonishment, the gate creaked open, and I darted outside, a surge of relief washing over me.
I took a deep breath, glancing back at the mansion one last time before sprinting down the path, not daring to slow down. Exhaustion hit me hard as I stumbled into City Park, a quiet sanctuary amidst the chaos.
Finding a bench beneath a sprawling tree, I collapsed, shutting my eyes tightly as my stomach grumbled in protest. I had nowhere to go, nothing to eat, and no one to turn to. I stayed hidden in the park until dusk, then began to wander aimlessly down the road, glancing over my shoulder every few steps to ensure I wasn't being followed.
When hunger became unbearable, I doubled over, clutching my knees. A convenience store caught my eye, just a few meters away. Summoning my last bit of strength, I hurried inside, staring at the mouthwatering snacks lining the shelves.
With a quick glance around, I snatched three packs of bread and a bottle of water, my heart racing with fear and excitement. But as I tried to slip past the exit, a man stepped in front of me, a smug grin plastered on his face.
"Returning those, are we?" he sneered, tightening his grip on my arm.
"Let me go! I'm just going to put them back!" I protested, rolling my eyes, but he refused to budge.
In the heat of struggle, a police van pulled up outside, and I felt a surge of panic.
Now at the station, I sat before a sergeant who drilled me with questions, but I remained silent. The store owner wouldn't let me leave until I settled the supposed theft, and my frustration boiled over.
"I want to call my husband," I blurted out, the words tumbling from my lips before I could think.
The sergeant handed me a phone, skepticism etched on his face. My parents were the last people I wanted to call, and I knew they would twist the situation to their advantage.
"Aren't you going to make a call?" he prodded, and I feigned embarrassment.
"I've forgotten his number," I said, forcing a sheepish smile.
The store owner burst into laughter, while the sergeant stared at me, incredulous.
"Who is he?" the sergeant pressed.
"Nevian Allerick," I blurted out, desperation creeping into my voice.
The room erupted with laughter, mocking my plea. My fists clenched at my sides, and I fought against the tears threatening to spill over.
"Is it funny?" I yelled, my voice cracking with emotion. "Why don't you call him and find out for yourself?"
My sudden confidence silenced them. I could only hope that Nevian wouldn't deny me.
Just as the sergeant lifted the phone to dial, the door swung open, and all eyes turned. Nevian stood there, hands casually tucked into his pockets, exuding an air of calm confidence.
As our gazes met, he flashed me a coy smile, but I quickly looked away, my heart racing like a drum in my chest.