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?”

both turned sharply toward her.

her head slightly. “I probably shouldn’t say anything, but…” she paused dramatically. “I think I saw her

complete bullshit,” Dad cut her off. “Valentina has never given a damn about anything except ballet. She wouldn’t go

innocence. “I’m just saying what I saw. You know how all the guys at Westbrook follow her around like

posture. “Val is friends with everyone because she’s genuinely kind–unlike some people.” His voice hardened. “Victoria, I’m

now.”

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Chapter 5

instantly welled

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

true Dagonet princess. And I’m

tiny corner of your

to a breathless whisper. “If it would make things easier, I can disappear. Just say the word and you’ll never have to see me again.”

rush of comfort and

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

up, her eyes darting around the empty

you fucking kidding me?”

transformed. Her delicate features hardened into something cruel and calculating. “After everything that bitch has put us through, they’re still running after her? Fine. We’ll see how they feel when I’m the

yanked out her phone and dialed

“Listen up. That job you did on Valentina? I need something similar, but this time I’m the target. Double your usual

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

who had tortured

ice–cold. “During the video, I need you to slip up and mention Valentina’s name. Make it seem like she hired you for revenge. Got it? Good. Tomorrow night. Don’t fuck this