Page 90 of Wild Tangled Hearts

The unsettling feeling that something is wrong strikes me even before I look at the chaos that has enveloped my home.

“Oh my god,” I gasp, dropping my purse and stumbling back when I see the broken picture frames that litter the floor, my grandmother's cherished vase shattered, and the clothes strewn about in a chaotic mess.

But before I can cry out, a large, gloved hand covers my mouth, and I'm forcefully pulled back against a foul-smelling body.

"Scream, and I'll cut you," a raspy voice growls menacingly into my ear. "I've got a message for your boyfriend. Tell him that payback's a bitch, and this is only the beginning."

With a forceful shove, the man propels me to the ground, and by the time I regain my balance, he's gone.

Panic sets in, and I don't think; I just run. I can't even remember if I shut the door behind me as I dart out of my house, and It's only when I spot the headlights that I realize I'm in the middle of the road. Brakes screech and a silver car comes perilously close to hitting me. As the driver gets out, his curses fill the air, but I'm frozen.

"Bella. What the hell?" The voice is familiar.

"Sebastian," I say, trembling.

“What’s happened?”

"A man..." Words won’t form in my throat.

"Who?" Sebastian takes my hands, his dark, piercing eyes searching mine.

"Someone was in my house. He...he threatened..." My voice cracks on every syllable.

Sebastian guides me to the passenger side of his car. "Sit here, and I'll call the police."

My entire body trembles now, and I remain seated, minutes ticking by, hating how my body betrays me. Cold. Paralyzed. Shaking.

"They're on their way," Sebastian says, kneeling beside the open door and holding my hand. "Is there anyone you need to call?"

Damien.I need to tell him what happened.

“Bella?” Concern is etched deeply across Sebastian's handsome face, visible in the furrowed lines on his forehead and the tightness around his mouth.

I reach for his phone, my trembling fingers hovering over the screen. The decision weighs heavily on my heart. With all his unpredictability and intensity, Damien has been a force of nature in my life, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and soul. I know I need to tell him, but I fear his reaction. A palpable sense of trepidation washes over me like a cold, unrelenting wave.

Reader’s Choice:

What should Bella do next?

CallDamienand tell him what happened. Turn to this page.

HaveSebastianstay until the police arrive and figure out what to do. Turn to this page.

Chapter40

Alex

FALSE IMPRESSIONS

The crisp Saturday afternoon air fills my lungs as I walk hand in hand with Alex, heading toward the art gallery. The sun's warm rays kiss our faces, but my heart flutters with anticipation and a hint of nervousness.

Today marks a significant step, as I'm about to meet his sister for the first time. He's told me countless stories about her, their close bond, and the adventures they've shared over the years.

I feel a tightening in my chest as we approach the gallery entrance. Naomi is already waiting for us, and from Alex’s description, I spot her instantly — a striking blonde with a poised demeanor. She's dressed impeccably, and her confident presence is undeniable.

"Alex," she calls out, her voice carrying warmth and authority. They embrace tightly, and I can see the genuine affection between them.

I step forward, and Naomi's gaze locks onto mine. Her smile is friendly, but there's something in her eyes, a subtle scrutiny that makes me suddenly self-conscious. "You must be Bella."

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