Chapter 6 I pulled myself back to reality and looked at the two of them still huddled together in the snowy courtyard. Carter had always had a sensitive stomach and rarely ate much. Yet here he was, having already eaten dinner, now finishing half a container of pot roast. Maybe there's truth to what people say-food tastes better when you're with Someone you care about. Whether it's a lover or family. I slipped away quietly and went back inside. The Fosters continued their lively conversations, no one noticing my absence. [ headed upstairs to my bedroom alone and sat by the window. Outside, the gray snow was falling as dusk approached. Strange how a house full of people could make me feel more alone than ever. In the window's reflection, I could almost see Preston. On New Year's Eve years ago, he'd poured himself a whiskey and me a Coke. Through the savory aroma of his famous barbecue ribs, he'd clinked my glass and said: 'Happy New Year, kiddo. May all your stars shine bright." Everyone on base said he was too stern-always so serious that new recruits were terrified of him. But to me, he was always gentle. He always called me "Eleanor" in that deep voice of his-sometimes indulgent, sometimes exasperated, but always warm. I raised my glass to toast his reflection in the window. "Happy New Year to you too, Preston," I whispered happily. My hand touched the cold glass, snapping me back to reality. The memory vanished. I missed him. Remembering that it rarely snowed in the south, I realized he'd probably never seen snow before. I pulled out some stationery to write him a letter. I wasn't sure what to say. Telling him I was doing well would be a lie, and I was never good at lying. Telling 2290 Chapter 6 him I was miserable would only make him worry. After much thought, I wrote just a few lines: "Preston, it's snowing in Boston. It's beautiful. I'll roll up a snowball and bring it to show you next time, okay?" I folded the paper, slipped it into an envelope, and went out to drop it in the mailbox on the corner. By the time I got back, night had fallen completely. The family was still chatting in the living room, apparently not noticing I'd been gone. Carter and Vanessa stood by the window talking about something that had Vanessa doubled over with laughter. I decided to head upstairs to bed when I suddenly noticed something familiar in Vanessa's hand. My heart stopped as I glanced at my bookshelf-my clay figurine was missing. Vanessa was holding it. Years ago, Preston had taken up pottery. After countless attempts, he'd finally managed to make a little clay doll that looked like me. I'd kept it protected under a dark glass dome all these years, afraid even sunlight might damage it. Now the protective dome lay carelessly tossed on my desk. My heart clenched as I rushed over. As I got closer, I heard Vanessa laughing uncontrollably: "God, it's so ugly! Doesn't look anything like Eleanor." Carter sighed with an amused smile: "Come on, Vanessa..." Before he could finish, I shouted: "GIVE IT BACK!" Vanessa turned around, still holding the figurine, looking surprised and innocent. I lunged for it. She pretended to be startled and let go before I could grab it. The clay doll hit the floor, shattering into pieces. Something in my mind exploded along with it. My eyes bulged with rage as my trembling hand raised toward Vanessa. Chapter 6 This time, Carter didn't pretend to take my side. He instinctively pulled Vanessa behind him for protection. Meeting my furious glare, guilt and helplessness flashed across his face: "E-Eleanor, it was an accident. Vanessa didn't mean to drop it." "I'll get you another-" I saw exactly what happened. She didn't "accidentally" drop anything-she deliberately let it fall. I stared at him with pure hatred and screamed: "GET OUT!" 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.