Revenge After Death

"Come on, Stephie," Steven grabbed my wrist as I attempted to leave.

Before Joel, who was outside the door, could enter the house, Steven kicked the door shut, trapping Joel outside.

Startled by his frustration, I asked in puzzlement, "What do you want—"

"I want to lock you up... in the basement, where I'll be the only one knowing of your existence," Steven's voice was hoarse as if suppressing his emotions.

He pressed me against the corner, enveloping me with a pressuring demeanor.

I had never seen him like this before; and honestly, I was rather scared by his current behavior.

It reminded me of what Mom wrote in her log, how Steven had imprisoned Stephanie in the basement and abused her.

"Y-You're not serious, are you?" I asked shakily.

Steven pulled me into his arms, sighing softly.

"Stephie... I just want you to live a normal life, with friends like Rachel, and a normal... husband and children. Spending the rest of your life happily, safely, without worries." "I'll give you that regardless of the price to pay... " Steven added softly.

was Steven's

heart inexplicably raced as I listened, leaning against his chest and feeling his heartbeat beneath. For some reason, I

wasn't included in that wish, as if he had always seen himself

eventually let go of me? Or perhaps, he

anxiety, I instinctively clutched Steven's shirt and asked, "You still don't believe that I'm Stephanie Carlson, do you? Must I recite the

those memories, I lacked a sense of security and was

or try to test me...

isn't he? So you should have more faith in

me, and I realized that my numb heart could still feel

my angry steps

effortlessly into his arms, as though I weighed no more than

arm, confirming that it was

the kidnapping incident, I was physically

after Steven had settled me on

I had a

truly believe she can comprehend love after