𝑾𝑯𝒀 𝑴𝑬

𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒇𝒂𝒖𝒍𝒕

    Bright's POV
 It was already 9:45 PM when we decided to head home. I was behind the wheel, and she sat beside me, her presence still buzzing in my mind. Everything that had just happened felt surreal, like a vivid dream I couldn't quite shake off. After about 45 minutes, we finally pulled up to my mansion. "Here we are, let..." I started to say, but I paused when I realized she had fallen asleep. Gently, I scooped her up in a bridal carry and brought her to her room. I laid her down on the bed and quietly slipped out.

Once in my room, I took a quick shower and changed into my pajamas, ready to unwind. Just as I was settling in for the night, a knock on my door broke the stillness. I thought it was Grace. "You can come in," I called out, but it was one of the maids.

"Mr. Smith, Mr. Parker is in her room, and she's really upset. We tried to calm her, but it's not working. Can you please come?"

My heart raced as I made my way to Grace's room. When I entered, I found her sitting on the bed, tears streaming down her cheeks, with a couple of maids nearby. "You all can go," I said, my voice steady, and they quickly left the room.

I approached her slowly, feeling a rush of concern. "Please, I'm so sorry! I never wanted to hurt you!" she cried, her voice cracking. Without thinking, I wrapped my arms around her. "It's okay, princess. It's me, Bright. Just breathe." She clung to me, and I felt a small sense of relief.

"Bright! I killed him! I killed him!" she sobbed, the desperation in her voice piercing my heart.

"It was just a bad dream, sweetheart. Please, don't cry," I soothed, gently caressing her back. But she pulled away, fear evident in her eyes.

"Bright, it wasn't a bad dream. I killed him"

    FLASH BACK

Grace's POV

   Ten years ago, my best friend Kim and I were playing near the pool at his mansion. Despite it being winter, all I could think about was swimming. "Kim, let's swim!" I urged, excitement bubbling inside me.

"No, it's too cold. It'll be dangerous," he replied, concern flickering in his eyes. Kim was an only child, and he was fiercely protective of me. He always treated me with kindness, and I knew he cared deeply.

"Please, Kim," I begged, but he shook his head firmly.

"No way, Grace. You might get cramps, even in a warm pool. I don't want to take that risk," he insisted, gently brushing my cheek with his hand.

"Kim, it'll be fine! If I get cramps, you'll help me, right? I'm not scared," I said, giving him my best pleading look. I could see him wavering.

"You know I'd do anything to see you smile. And you're right; if something happens, I'll always be there to help you. I swear, angel," he said softly. I nodded, blissfully unaware of the danger that lay ahead.

I dove into the water, and for a moment, everything felt perfect. But then, pain shot through my legs. I was paralyzed by cramps, sinking helplessly. Kim noticed my struggle and swam toward me, determined to save me. He was a strong swimmer and managed to pull me to safety, but suddenly, I saw panic in his eyes. He was cramping too.

"Kim!!!!!" I screamed, but it was too late. He was going under. "Mommy! Daddy! Aunt! Uncle! Come here!" I shouted, desperation taking over.

My mom rushed over, her face filled with worry. "What happened, baby?"

"It's Kim, he is...." I stammered, unable to finish, just pointing at the water.

When they turned to look, my uncle jumped in and pulled Kim out. "Kim!!!!" I cried, my heart racing. He lay there, lifeless and unconscious.