The Ruined Bride of Velvet Nights by Brick Moving Ant

Chapter 5

Caspian’s voice broke as he wiped away a tear. “Three search teams out looking. Not a single damn lead. Dad… what if Val did something to herself? After everything that happened…”

“Don’t even say that,” Dad snapped, though terror flickered in his eyes. “She’s a survivor. Always has

been.”

As he turned to leave, Victoria appeared in the doorway, instantly transforming her face into a mask

of childlike concern.

“Daddy?” she said softly, eyes wide and innocent. “That rescue puppy I’ve been fostering is doing so much better today! He’s actually

me to see him? It might cheer y “gging his tail and everything. Could you maybe come home with

you up…”

Victoria had carefully crafted her animal–rescuer persona to manipulate Dad’s affections.

But for once, he wasn’t taking the bait.

“Not now, Victoria,” he said tersely.

Victoria’s lower lip trembled perfectly on cue. “Is it about Valentina? Is she okay?”

and Caspian both turned

head slightly. “I probably shouldn’t say anything, but…” she paused dramatically. “I think I saw her getting into some guy’s car

a damn about anything except ballet. She wouldn’t go off with

all the guys at Westbrook follow her around like puppies. She’s always had them wrapped

people.” His voice hardened. “Victoria, I’m warning you. Don’t try to smear her reputation. Not

now.”

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Chapter 5

instantly welled with picture–perfect

sorry,” she whispered. “I always say the wrong thing, don’t I? I know I’ll never belong in Valentina’s

your real daughter–the true Dagonet princess. And I’m

a tiny corner of your heart, Daddy, that’s enough for me. I’d never

a breathless whisper. “If it would make things easier, I can

the rush of comfort and

a nurse finally approached. “Honey, they’re gone. Left a

head snapped up, her eyes darting around the empty

you fucking kidding

cruel and calculating. “After everything that bitch has put us through, they’re still running after her? Fine.

phone and dialed rapidly. “Shane. It’s me.”

did on Valentina? I need something similar, but this time I’m the target. Double your usual rate.”

room like a predator. “Yeah, you heard me right. I want you to ‘kidnap‘ me. Make it look real–bruises, tears, the whole nine yards. Just don’t touch my face or break anything. I need

the ringleader who had

slip up and mention Valentina’s