The movie was halfway through when a kiss scene between the main leads unfolded on the screen, triggering an unexpected sight.Alice suddenly saw Lucas and Milla on the screen, replacing the movie's main leads. A sudden panic gripped her."Alice, what's wrong?" Siya immediately noticed Alice's startled expression, expressing concern."I'm fine; I don't know when I fell asleep," Alice pretends, rubbing her eyes as if to shake off the unease."Then go to bed; you must be tired," Siya suggested. Alice nodded and stood up."Then I'm going first. Good night,"Siya waved her hand, bidding Alice goodnight.As soon as Alice closed the door behind her, the smile on her face vanished, replaced by tears streaming down.It was challenging to maintain a facade of strength when she was shattered inside."Why am I crying?" she mumbled, stubbornly attempting to wipe away her tears, but they continued to fall relentlessly.The storm within her had finally broken through. Until now, she had acted fine

Lucas, seemingly unfazed, turned to face her with a cold stare."I'm well aware of it. I'm going to forgive you for this, but..... "He paused, turning to face her with an intensity that sent another wave of fear through her."If you ever think of betraying me again, you'll regret your life."The ominous threat hung in the air, leaving Alice shaken and uncertain of the storm that loomed ahead.Lucas knew that he had failed in giving her the time she deserved before, but he would not tolerate another betrayal. This time, he was determined to dedicate all his time to her.Anger surged within Alice. Forgive her? What about him? Had he ever scrutinized his own actions?This was his child, so Alice wasn't afraid of his threats. Instead, she feared this newfound ruthless side of him.As the car gradually came to a stop, Alice exited. Lucas followed suit, holding the bags. When she reached to take them, Lucas evaded her attempt and headed towards the door. Alice stood in awe, utterly speechl

"No, Don't go," Alice said in a shaky voice, she was ready to cry. Lucas was confused and stunned to see her emotions. Why she was behaving like a child? He was blank."Alright, I won't go anywhere," he said. He puts his mobile on the bedside table and lies beside her.It was so uncomfortable to lay with his clothes but he managed. He loosened three bottoms of his shirt and took Alice in his arms."Now, sleep, I'm not going anywhere" He whispered over her head.As Alice lay in his arms she couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—confusion, vulnerability, and an undercurrent of something she was reluctant to acknowledge.She closed her eyes, trying to shake off the dizziness. She didn't want to show him her emotions but she couldn't stop herself. Despite everything, a part of her found comfort in his presence. She couldn't deny the lingering warmth from Lucas, a feeling she hadn't experienced before.The next morning, Alice's hand found the bed cold beside her, prompting her to open he

Alice observed their intertwined hands, but James's gaze seemed distant as if he feared the possibility of rejection and was avoiding direct eye contact with her.Alice smiled nervously and tightened their hold. As she felt James's shoulders relax, her smile grew wider. She knew this was selfishness, more than friendship she couldn't offer him but for now, she wanted to be selfish.James had been scared that she might pull away or become angry, but seeing her relaxed, James felt he was moving in the right direction. He knew he couldn't rush things, so he decided to take small steps toward building a connection with her.Their dynamic had always been easygoing, and today was no exception.His friendly and understanding demeanor provided Alice with the comfort she needed. He carefully avoided any discussions that might bring back the stress of her personal life.As they continued their day at the amusement park, the atmosphere gradually shifted. What started as a friendly outing evolved

"Where have you been? You took a long time to return," Siya inquired, stopping near Alice, who felt a cold sweat forming in her fear. The weight of her lie pressed heavily on her.With a trembling voice, Alice asked, "What are you doing here?""Oh! I was here to drop food. My mother has sent it for you," Siya explained."I'm taking my leave for now. I'm getting late." Siya glanced at her wristwatch, signaling the urgency. Alice nodded, expressing gratitude."Say thanks to your mother," Alice added, and Siya acknowledged before smiling at Lucas and exiting.As the door closed behind Siya, Alice cautiously lifted her eyes to meet Lucas's unwavering gaze. His burning eyes seemed to penetrate into her soul. His jaw tightened visibly, but he remained ominously silent as if biding his time for her explanation.Fearing the impending storm, Alice sighed and, without uttering a single word, began to step past him. However, her attempt to move freely was halted abruptly when Lucas firmly grasped