Envy, trust, fabrication, deception, betrayal ... can love thrive with depraved intentions skulking at every corner?
Can a relationship survive the turmoil of a begrudged heart?
Will Axle locate his love? Will Eric and Shelly sail off into the sunse...
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Chloe
Ugh, the pounding in my head is horrendous. I despise mornings like this. The incessant throbbing behind my eyes provokes near blindness. Twisting under the sheets, peering towards the other bed, sheets disheveled and empty, I ponder if Eli made his way to the kitchen.
Meandering towards the bathroom, I brush my teeth, run a comb through my unruly hair, ultimately padding my way to the kitchen. Cassandra is placed at the table, coffee in one hand, a book in the other.
"What has you so focused this early in the daylight?"
Her eyes peer above the pages, "This enthralling book by Alexandra Robinson. It's called 'Lust and Deceit.' A mafia romance, quite intriguing. You should give it a read," she shoves the book in my direction.
Moving my head up and down, "Is it on Amazon Kindle?"
"Yes, it's available there too. I just love the feel of the pages. I'm old school. You young kids can do the Kindle stuff." She waves a hand in the air.
Moving my head up and down, "Okay, maybe I'll give it a go later."
"You won't regret it," shutting the book, she places it on the table, rising to her feet. "Now, what would you like to eat?"
Huffing my hair from eyes, "I'll just make myself some tea," shuffling towards the cabinets her voice interrupts my actions.
"Don't you dare! You are my guest. Take a seat and allow me to make your tea," swatting my hand, she glares at me with wide eyes, daring me to defy her. Taking her cue, the edges of my lips pull as I perch at the table.
Swaying a box in front of me, "Cranberry apple, just like when you were younger," her smile is expansive, tugging the edges of my lips even harder.
Her demeanor has always been a beacon of exuberance, even as children she had an eternal gracious smile that would trigger happiness to burst within.
Placing a steaming cup of tea before me, she plops across the table, laser focused and determined. "So my lovely Sapphire, not that I'm complaining in any way, shape or form. What brings you here?"
Without a doubt, her curiosity would pique. It's not as if I was cognizant she would inquire about my unannounced presence, I just need to prepare to express my reasoning.
Taking a sip of the boiling tea, I contemplate where to commence. I spew the first thing that comes to mind.
"I wish my mother were here," my eyes mist at the memory of her. "Not that I'm not happy you're here," I ensure to reassure her, "but I just– I just miss her immensely."
Canopying my hand, "I completely understand. No worries." She wrinkles her nose exuding her comprehension.
"Chloe honey, you know you are the other daughter I wish I had," huffing out a breath. "I was pregnant once, after Shelly."
