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 sharply

“I think I saw her getting into some guy’s car earlier. A black

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

with practiced innocence. “I’m just saying what I saw. You know how all the guys

straightened his posture. “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

now.”

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Chapter 5

instantly welled

graceful collapse, hugging her knees. “I’m so sorry,” she whispered. “I always

princess. And I’m just…

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

things easier, I can disappear.

rush of comfort and

a nurse finally approached.

snapped up, her eyes darting

fucking kidding me?”

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

yanked out her phone and dialed rapidly. “Shane.

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

me. Make it look real–bruises, tears, the whole nine yards. Just don’t touch

was the ringleader who

thing,” Victoria continued, her voice 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?