Ivy couldn't shake Leo's words. She began piecing together the fragments of Aurora's life, uncovering a trail of destruction hidden beneath the glittering facade. Aurora's world wasn't just twisted—it was dangerous.
The final straw came during a family dinner. Vivienne, her tone icy, addressed Ivy directly. "You've become quite the distraction for Aurora. But distractions don't last long in this house."
Ivy looked at Aurora, searching for support, but Aurora simply smiled, her expression unreadable.
That night, Ivy packed her things. She needed to leave Verdant Manor and Aurora behind. But as she crept through the darkened halls, a figure emerged from the shadows.
It was Aurora.
"Where are you going?" Aurora asked, her voice a mix of hurt and anger.
"I can't stay here," Ivy said, her voice trembling. "This isn't love, Aurora. This is… something else."
Aurora stepped closer, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "You don't get to leave me, Ivy. Not now. Not ever."
Ivy turned to run, but Aurora grabbed her wrist, her grip ironclad. "You're mine," Aurora whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "And I'll do whatever it takes to keep you."