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 83: The Decision
The morning sunlight poured through the bedroom windows, casting soft, golden light across the room. I sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the small velvet box in my hand. Damien had left earlier to take a business call, leaving me alone with my thoughts. The house was quiet, save for the occasional creak of old floorboards settling and the distant hum of birdsong from the gardens below.
It felt like the universe was holding its breath, waiting for me to make a decision.
The night before had been a whirlwind of emotions. Damien's proposal had been everything I'd ever dreamed of—romantic, heartfelt, and genuine. Yet, as much as I loved him, as much as I wanted to shout "yes" from the rooftops, I couldn't ignore the weight of what saying yes truly meant.
This wasn't just about Damien and me. It was about the journey that had brought us here—the battles, the betrayals, the countless scars that still hadn't fully healed.