Kamille’s POV

I woke feeling better than the day before, but something felt wrong. My eyes were heavy from sleeping so long. I forced them open, sat up, and took in my surroundings: Zeke’s penthouse.

Then, yesterday’s memories flooded back. My children were in danger, kidnapped, and I didn’t know where they were. How could I have slept so soundly?

Tears welled up, but I blinked them away. I had to be strong for them. Finding them required all my composure.

I hurried to the bathroom, desperate to wash away the fear and guilt. The hot water cascaded over me, but did little to soothe my anxiety.

After drying off, I put on a light shirt and shorts Zeke had provided. He always made things available in times of need, and I was starting to feel comfortable with it.

Leaving the closet, I grabbed my phone and called Zeke, but his number was unreachable. Panic seized me. I needed to talk to him. I grabbed my purse and left the room.

In the living room, I saw two people sleeping amidst empty alcohol bottles. I gasped—it was Belle and Zane.

My gasp woke Zane. He rubbed his eyes and looked at me. “Kamille, what’s wrong? Are you okay? Why are you crying?”

“I’m fine,” I replied, my voice trembling. “I just need to speak to Zeke.” Tears silently streamed down my cheeks. I sniffled.

Zane started to sit up, but I stopped him. “Whatever you think you’re doing with my friend, know that she’s engaged to be married.”

I didn’t understand what happened between them, but it was obvious nothing inappropriate occurred. Changing the subject seemed the best way to get Zane to leave me alone.

Something flickered in his eyes, but he quickly masked it. “It’s not what it seems.”

I nodded, barely holding back tears. He sighed and muttered, “It’s no use explaining, right?”

I nodded.

“I’ll take her inside to rest, then freshen up and join you. Is that okay?” he asked. I nodded.

Zane helped Belle inside. As he disappeared into the room, my phone beeped. The message shattered me:

Leave Luxstorg and never return.

Your kids will be with you at the airport.

Or you die and they will join you.

Killer K.

A picture was attached: my children, lying in sickbeds with oxygen masks.

“No,” I whispered, breathless. My heart felt like it was breaking. I had to reach Zeke. I stormed out and hailed a cab.

As I approached, I saw Zeke’s security approaching—to help or stop me, I couldn't tell. I jumped in the cab and shouted, “Drive!”

The driver started the car. “Destination?”

“Just drive!” I screamed, tears flooding my face.

He sped off, leaving security behind. I didn't want to be stopped. I just needed Zeke.

After a while, the driver glanced at me. “You must be the dead Ms. Kamille Manor who came back to life.”

Through my tears, I replied bitterly, “Should I return to the grave for the world’s happiness?”

He shook his head. “No. We’re rooting for you. The Manor company has been a terror for four years. We can’t offer much, but we’ll help however we can.”

Confused, I asked, “Who is ‘we’?”

He sighed. “I was a Manor account manager. I refused to participate in embezzlement, was framed, and sent to prison. I just got out and became a cab driver. Many others are in similar situations.”

“I’m so sorry,” I apologized. “My babies are in danger. I need to get to Ezekiel Reid. I promise to look into this later.”

The driver was shocked to hear I had children. His words trailed off as he saw my tears. He quietly drove me to the Reid mansion.

Security stopped us at the gate. “No cabs allowed,” the man said.

I stepped out. “I need to speak with Zeke,” I said. Security recognized me, apologized, and let us pass.

I got back in and we drove to the main building. I hurried out and banged on the door, ringing the bell repeatedly.

My heart pounded. When the door opened, I faced my worst nightmare: Ellen.

Her eyes were cold and calculating. “Kamille,” she said smoothly, a cruel smile on her lips. “Long time no see.”

My blood ran cold. Ellen and Zeke were divorced, but her appearance suggested more than a visit. Was she in cahoots with Zeke?

No. Zeke wouldn't betray me again. It had to be a misunderstanding. “What are you doing here?” I demanded, trembling with fear and anger.

She chuckled. “Isn’t it obvious? I’ve always been one step ahead. I’m where I belong, and you should go back to the grave!”

I stepped back, my mind racing. This couldn’t be happening. Not with my children in danger. “Where are my kids, Ellen?” I whispered.

She tilted her head, feigning innocence. “Your kids? Those little miscreants? I don’t know, but I hope they get what you deserve.”

I staggered back, shocked by her hostility. Zeke had betrayed me. “What do you want?” I was exhausted.

Ellen’s smile widened. “Simple. I want you to disappear. For good.”

I was about to respond when Zeke appeared behind Ellen. Fury burned in my eyes. I approached him, hating that I’d ever loved him.

“I hate you, Zeke,” I said, turning and running towards the cab.

“Kamille, wait!” he yelled.

My eyes were already swollen. I ignored him.

At the gate, strange men had joined security. Escape seemed impossible. My life was ending, tragically.