The next morning, I woke up alone in the lavish bed, Clyde nowhere to be found. I stretched, feeling the softness of the plush sheets. His villa was a stark contrast to his usual bland home, devoid of personal touches. Every detail here screamed elegance and refinement.
Curiosity got the better of me. I explored the room, taking in the intricate artwork and lavish furnishings. A bathroom beckoned, and I indulged in a relaxing bath, letting the warm water soothe my skin. The scent of jasmine filled the air, calming my nerves.
Afterward, I curled my hair, styling it messily to frame my face. A walk-in closet revealed an array of stylish outfits. I chose a flowing white dress, its simplicity and sophistication appealing to me. The fabric hugged my curves, making me feel radiant.
Downstairs, the villa's grandeur stunned me. High ceilings, marble floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows showcased the breathtaking view. Sunlight streamed in, illuminating the space.
"Clyde?" I called out, my voice echoing.
No response.
I wandered through the spacious rooms, searching for him. Each room revealed a new surprise: a private library, an indoor pool, and a stunning garden.
A note on the kitchen counter caught my eye:
"Good morning, beautiful. Had to attend to some business. Be back soon. - C"
I smiled, feeling a flutter in my chest.
As I waited, I explored the villa, discovering hidden gems. In the library, I found a rare edition of my favorite novel. The indoor pool sparkled, inviting me to take a dip.
In the garden, I strolled along winding paths, surrounded by vibrant flowers and the soothing sound of a fountain.
But amidst the beauty, my thoughts drifted to Anissa.
The questions swirled in my mind.
Suddenly, I heard the door open.
"Clyde?" I called out.
He appeared in the doorway, his eyes locking onto mine.
"Sorry I'm late," he said, striding toward me. "Business took longer than expected."
I smiled, my heart racing.
"It's okay," I replied. "I kept myself occupied."
Clyde's gaze swept over me, his eyes burning with desire.
"You look stunning," he whispered.
My cheeks flushed.
"Thanks," I said, feeling shy.
Clyde took my hand, leading me to the patio.
Lunch was set up, a feast of delicacies.
We ate in comfortable silence, the tension between us palpable.
As we finished, Clyde leaned back.
"I have something to show you," he said, his eyes sparkling.
He led me to a private studio.
Inside, a beautiful piano sat.
Clyde smiled.
"Play for me," he said.
My fingers hesitated.
Then, music flowed from my fingertips.
Clyde watched, entranced.
As the last note faded, he took me in his arms.
"I've missed this," he whispered.
Our lips met.
Passion ignited.
But amidst the desire, guilt lingered.
What about Anissa?
I pulled away from Clyde, my conscience nagging me.
"I have to go," I said, my voice firm.
Clyde's eyes narrowed.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
"I need to see Anissa," I replied.
His expression darkened.
"Your sister?" he spat.
I nodded.
"Yes, I need to make sure she's okay."
Clyde's jaw clenched.
"Fine," he said.
I left the villa, my heart heavy.
As I arrived home, I heard laughter.
Anissa.
I smiled, pushing open the door.
Inside, Anissa bounced around the living room.
"Dahlia!" she squealed.
I hugged her tight.
"Congratulations!" I exclaimed.
Anissa beamed.
"I got the role!" she said.
I grinned.
"That's amazing!"
Anissa practiced her lines.
I watched, proud.
She glowed with excitement.
For a moment, I forgot about Clyde.
Forgot about the guilt.
But as Anissa paused.
Her eyes sparkled.
"Clyde's been...distant," she said.
My heart sank.
"Distant?" I repeated.
Anissa nodded.
"He's barely spoken to me since we argued...."
My mind reeled.
Why did she marry him since she knew he didn't love her ?
Why was she being so sweet and naive?
"Maybe he's stressed," I suggested.
Anissa sighed.
"I wish he'd talk to me."
My heart ached for my sister.
Trapped in a loveless marriage.
With a man who didn't care.