(Leo's POV) After Jason confirmed Violet’s safe return home, I made quick work of settling down any strange rumors involving our relationship. In truth, I couldn't care less about what these entitled people thought of me, but to protect Violet from their vicious tendencies, I was willing to play the role of a concerned CEO. The remaining event lingered on for another two hours before I was able to tear away from the stale conversation and make my way home. Though I had tried to reach Violet by text, she had yet to reply. “I hope she’s alright. These parties never seem to go well,” I bitterly think to myself, more mad at my inability to protect her than anything else. As I entered the house, a strange gathering of staff greeted me upon entry and would be the first of many unpleasant surprises. “What is the meaning of this?” I ask blankley. They all avoid my gaze as the air grows frigid. “Nevermind. Where is Ms. Bennet?” I switch, still looking forward to my girlfriend’s pre

(Leo's POV) After a few phone calls and some vague hints as to the contents of the press release, I find myself standing in front of a room full of reporters. The hushed whispers turn to silence as I take my place before the mic and prepare for what is about to come. “As you all know, a few months ago there was a tragic accident involving a plane leaving Columbus airport. The unfortunate incident claimed many lives and left the public baffled by the lack of sufficient information provided,” I speak, the words previously planned out carefully. “I am here to say that Whitlock Enterprises is completely responsible for all actions leading to the plane’s malfunction mid-flight,” I confidently state. The room erupts into chaos as each reporter rushes forward with questions and accusations. “Further details will be published soon. That is all,” I respond, nodding my head before security escorts me out the bustling room. After escaping to the quiet of the adjacent hallway, I lean back

(Third Person POV)FlashbackThe sunlight beams down on a young Bella as she nearly skips down the street on her way to surprise her lover. A homemade lunch box in hand and a vacation planned for their pre-wedding honeymoon, Bella hummed happily in pure bliss.However, her joy was cut short upon the suffocating sound of fire trucks and ambulances racing past her on the road. The air ahead was polluted with thick black smoke and a bright orange glow. The lunchbox falls to the ground with a thud as Bella runs with a fear unmatched towards the source of commotion, but her fear was not prepared for what she found.The building was crumbling in a terrifying display of flames and ash, devouring anything within its grasp. Bella’s heart pounded into her ears as she shoved past, desperately searching for that one familiar face.After her search proved futile, a hand grasped her shoulder and she was met with a remorseful face. The officer held his hat in his hand as he lowered his gaze to the

(Violet's POV)The next few weeks flew by in a flash of chaotic events. Aunt Bella’s true intentions were broadcasted around the city leading to an endless stream of rumors and theories revolving around Whitlock Enterprises.Mr. Whitlock’s trial for her murder was suppressed by the press to the best of their ability, but was ultimately made completely public and later passed as self-defense.However, it came to light that Daniel had built an empire built on various illegal wrong doings, resulting in a life sentence in prison.During this time, Leo refused to speak about anything regarding his father and completely devoted his attention to readjusting the shards of his company.Being the heir to a crumbling empire, he found himself helping dismantle it rather than salvaging.As for me, it turns out between watching someone die before you and learning that your family was behind your trauma makes it hard to sleep at night.The only solace I find is in the gardens and in Leo’s arms at ni