Page 73 of Of Vows and Betrayal

“I’m not going with you.”

He sighs, shoulders slumping. “Fine, go with Derek.”

I snort. “Oh yeah, because he’s so much more trustworthy.”

“He is. He did what he did out of loyalty to me, but he hated it. I believe Jenna was truthful. Everything he revealed to you as her… I don’t know what it is, but I think it’s true. He cares for you deeply, and you will need him when they kick you out of that house.”

“Fine, whatever.” I’ll agree to anything just to get out of here.

He grabs his phone, eyes locked on me. “Hey, I need you to take Ophelia to Bergotti’s house.” He purses his lips. “Yes, I know. No, she doesn’t want to be with me.” His jaw tightens. “No, I’m not blaming her. Yes, she knows. Yes, I told her.” He huffs, frustrated. “Will you take her, or do I need to call Tiago? Okay.” He hangs up. “Derek will be waiting in the parking garage in five. Let me take you there.”

I follow him stiffly, every step heavy with the weight of betrayal and anger. The hallway seems endless, and my mind races, full of thoughts and emotions. As we reach the garage, the dim lighting casts long shadows on the cold concrete floor. Derek is leaning against a sleek black car, its windows tinted darkly. He straightens up as we approach,his face a mask of remorse and concern.

Javier stops and looks at me, his eyes softening. “Ophelia, I… I love you,” he whispers, his voice cracking.

I swallow hard, my throat tight with emotion. “I don’t want you to,” I reply, my voice trembling.

His face falls, and he nods, stepping back as Derek opens the back door for me. I slide into the cool leather seat, feeling a shiver run through me.

Derek gets in the driver’s seat and turns to face me. “I’m sorry for everything,” he says softly, his voice sincere, eyes reflecting guilt and regret.

I shrug, not trusting myself to speak. The car starts with a low purr, and we pull away from the building.

I blink as I sit in the car, fighting the tears. It was easy to be angry, but now that the person who makes me feel all of this is gone, I’m left to wallow in my grief and guilt.

Chapter 19

Ophelia

From the moment we reach the gates and they stay closed, the guard glaring at me, I know Javier was right. I’m unwanted here. But fear is a luxury I can’t afford anymore. I’m getting in.

“Open the gate, please.” I force my voice to stay civil.

“I’ve been ordered not to let you in,” he replies gruffly.

“This is my home.”

“Not anymore.” The guard’s gaze drops, shame crossing his face.

I turn to Derek, not wanting to cause more trouble. “You don’t have to stay here for this. I’ll get out; you just go away.”

I hear the doors lock. “No. Where you go, I go. I’ve got your back.”

I snort despite myself. “Since when?” I shake my head but now is not the time. “Your funeral,” I mutter, turning back to the guard.

“Then so be it,” Derek replies. Despite his betrayal, a small comfort settles knowing he’s here.

Taking a deep breath, I lean forward. “Listen, I just need to get inside. Please, open the gate.”

The guard hesitates, glancing at Derek before meeting my gaze. “I have my orders.”

“Your orders are wrong,” I say firmly. “This is my home, and I’m not leaving until I get in.”

The guard’s eyes soften slightly, but he doesn’t move. “I can’t.”

Anger surges, my fists clenching at my sides. “Call whoever gave you those orders. Tell them I’m not leaving. They’ll have to put a bullet in my head.”

Reluctantly, he pulls out his phone and steps away to make the call.

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