The Unseen Heiress
As the illegitimate daughter in a household that scorns her, Emilia has learned to endure a life of cruel whispers and cold glares. But her fate takes an unexpected turn when her spoiled half-sister disappears on the eve of her arranged marriage. The family forces Emilia to wed the rumored crippled and disfigured groom in her sister's place—an ominous task they hope will rid them of her for good. Yet, when Emilia meets her new husband, Damien Blackwood, she is stunned. This mysterious man is neither crippled nor disfigured. Instead, he’s handsome, powerful, and hiding secrets as dark as her own. With the Blackwood family’s treacherous history looming over them, Emilia realizes she has entered a world far more dangerous than her own home—a world where alliances are built on lies and love can turn into a weapon. As she delves deeper, Emilia uncovers shocking secrets that link her family’s downfall to Damien’s ruthless kin. Now, torn between the man she’s come to trust and the whispers of betrayal around every corner, Emilia must decide: will she seek revenge on those who’ve wronged her or fight alongside Damien to claim her rightful legacy? In a game where love, power, and loyalty are tested, Emilia must face her past to shape her future… even if it means risking her life.
Chapter 63: Witnesses from the Past
The courtroom was colder today, or perhaps it was just me. I wrapped my arms around myself, trying to steady my breathing as the proceedings began. This was our chance to finally push back against the Blackwoods' relentless attacks. Meredith had planned carefully, choosing witnesses who could expose the truth about what my mother and I had endured.
Today, one of those witnesses would take the stand—a servant who had worked for my family for decades, someone who had seen everything.
Damien squeezed my hand under the table as the judge entered, signaling the start of the session. His silent support was a small comfort in the midst of the storm. Across the room, Dante sat with his lawyer, his expression one of smug confidence. He had weathered every revelation so far with unnerving ease, as though nothing could touch him.