Chapter 2 My fingers curled into a fist inside my coat pocket as I forced myself to stay calm. "I just walked up," I lied, meeting his eyes steadily. "Dinner's ready." Today was New Year's Eve-the only day of the year when the Fosters would come to my place instead of me being left alone. For seven years, Carter had insisted that even if I couldn't live in the Foster home, I was still family-still his only sister. "Family belongs together on New Year," he'd always say. I used to be moved by words like these. Carter's shoulders visibly relaxed, though guilt flickered across his face. The hand that had just flipped the coin reached out stiffly, his large palm wrapping around my wrist. "Well then," he said with that familiar gentle tone, "let's not keep everyone waiting." Before we could leave, Vanessa rushed in from the courtyard, eyes already puffy from crying. She looked at Carter, her face a mix of terror and sadness: "Did you finish the coin flip? Does this mean Eleanor... can finally move back home?" Carter just stared at her, saying nothing. Vanessa's lips trembled as tears suddenly fell: "I... I understand. Congratulations, Eleanor. You can finally go home." 'I'll... I'll go pack my things right now." She turned to leave and immediately tripped over a planter by the door, falling hard onto the ground. Carter's grip on my wrist instinctively loosened as he started to rush toward her. But he caught himself, letting the housekeeper help her up instead. After a tense moment, he spoke firmly: "The result was the same as before." "But Vanessa, remember-Eleanor is the real Foster daughter." "When the day comes that she's allowed back, you'll need to leave." Chapter 2 "And don't make a scene about it. This family has given you everything." Vanessa bit her lip hard, then ran out sobbing. Carter kept his cold expression intact, but I felt his hand tremble against my wrist. You can't hide what you really care about. Years back when I lived with Preston, he once punished me for misbehaving by making me stand in formation under the hot sun. But even though his face stayed stern, he positioned himself to block the worst of the heat from hitting me. Just like Carter now, trying to look tough while giving himself away. Back then, when I glanced down, I could see Preston's hands shaking just the same. In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.