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?”

turned

dramatically. “I think I saw her getting into some guy’s car earlier. A black Audi? She seemed…

never given a damn about anything

saw. You know how all the guys at Westbrook follow her around like

“Val is friends with everyone because she’s genuinely kind–unlike some people.” His voice hardened. “Victoria, I’m warning you. Don’t try to smear her reputation.

now.”

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Chapter 5

instantly welled

a graceful collapse, hugging her knees. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered. “I always say the wrong thing, don’t I? I know I’ll never belong in

real daughter–the true Dagonet princess. And

I have even a tiny corner of your heart, Daddy, that’s

dropped to a breathless whisper. “If it would make things easier, I can disappear. Just say the word and

and reassurance she expected

painfully long silence, a nurse finally approached. “Honey, they’re gone. Left a couple minutes

snapped up, her eyes darting

you fucking kidding

Her delicate features hardened into something cruel and calculating. “After everything that bitch has put us through, they’re

her phone and dialed

Valentina? I need

want you to ‘kidnap‘ me. Make it look real–bruises, tears, the whole nine yards. Just don’t touch my face

was the ringleader who had

Victoria continued, her voice ice–cold. “During the video, I need you to slip up and mention Valentina’s