Chapter 43

DONNIE’S POV

The engine hummed softly as the car glided through the late afternoon traffic. The sun painted warm hues on the horizon, casting a gentle glow inside the car. Jake, strapped securely in his car seat, fidgeted with excitement.

“Did you have fun at the park today, Mason?”

He nodded vigorously. “I loved the slide and swing, Mama! It was so fun!

“I’m glad you enjoyed it, buddy.” I smiled at him through the rearview mirror. “We’ll have

to go again soon. Maybe we can try the merry–go–round next time.”

“Round and round, Mama! Yeah!”

I laughed at his antics. “Yes baby. Now, we’re off to Grandma Athena’s house. What do you want to do there?” I asked, as the traffic light in front of me turned green.

“Cookies!” Mason’s face lit up with the promise of sweet treats.

I chuckled, “Cookies it is. Remember, not too much.”

As we approached Athena’s house, a familiar sight on the quiet street, I felt a sense of comfort. The car slowed to a stop, and I turned to Jake.

“We’re here, little buddy. Ready to see Athena?”

“Play with Teddy,” he waved his worn down teddy bear around.

“That sounds like a plan. Let’s go see Athena and then you can play with Teddy while I grab a few things, okay?”

Mason beamed, his excitement palpable as I unbuckled him from his car seat. The car door creaked open, and we stepped out onto the familiar sidewalk. The scent of blooming flowers lingered in the air as we made our way to Athena’s welcoming door.

As we entered, the aroma of something delicious cooking filled the air, and Mason’s eyes lit up.

“Donnie! You’re back.” Athena uttered.

Athena came out of the kitchen and took Mason from me.

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Chapter 43

a great time at the

did you have fun with mommy?”

huh,” he replied, his gaze focused

into playtime with Teddy, Athena and I

Athena. I’m going to get some groceries.”

the ordinary chore of grocery shopping was about

instinctual awareness told me something was amiss. Ignoring

had begun to tail my every move. Their intentions remained shrouded in mystery as 1 approached a quiet corner, the dimly lit street

happened suddenly. A swift movement, and before I could react, a blindfold covered my eyes. Panic surged through me as I struggled against an invisible force, my instincts urging me

sounds and uneven footsteps. The blindfold, a cruel shroud, robbed me of my ability to navigate or understand the unfolding situation. Questions swirled in my

tightened around my wrists, rendering any attempt at resistance futile. Fear and

journey was disorienting, punctuated by turns and stops that left me feeling vulnerable and isolated. As time blurred, I replayed the events leading to this moment, searching for any hint or clue that could unravel

if an opportunity arose, I would seize it with every ounce of strength I could muster. The

Chapter 43

ominous

a halt, and I was guided out, the blindfold still shrouding my vision. The ait telt different, and I strained to discern any recognizable sounds or landmarks. The unknown

The air was thick with an acrid scent, unmistakably that

a malicious. glint in her eyes, a chilling reflection of the threat she posed. We had argued fiercely before. Raina threatening me to leave

Raina faced each other,

determination, her eyes locked onto Raina’s. “You need to understand, Raina. Carlyle and I share a bond that goes beyond

expression twisted into a sneer, her voice dripping

who can give him what he

of anger crossed Donnie’s features, but she held her

and he loves

“You think you’re so special, but you’re just a hindrance. Carlyle could have so

for love, Raina. Carlyle and I have something real, something you’ll never understand,” Donnie retorted, her words cutting

tension.

laughter rang

a chilling sound that

Donnie. Carlyle saved you, but for how long? I can

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