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 46: Legal Battles
The courtroom was a sterile, intimidating place. The air was thick with tension, the kind that settled like a heavy weight on your chest, making it hard to breathe. The tall, arched windows let in just enough light to cast long shadows over the polished wood tables, but nothing in the room felt warm. Everything, from the walls to the chairs to the unyielding gaze of the judge, felt cold, unfeeling, and clinical.
I sat beside Damien, my hand clutching his, the papers of my mother's will spread out before us on the table. The opposing side—Victor's legal team—was already at their table, their faces sharp and calculating. My stepmother, sitting just behind them, watched me with a look that could freeze the blood in your veins.
"Are you nervous?" Damien whispered, his voice low enough that only I could hear.