Chapter 2 Marlena stares at the headstone, and I swear she's about to pass out. Her hands are shaking, panie flashing in her eyes. "How how dare you..." tter voice is barely a whisper. More neighbors crowd around, chattering like it's some reality TV drama. Marlena realizes this is about to blow up in her face. She can't let these people know the truth. She takes a deep breath and instantly switches into victim mode. Crocodile tears start flowing as she turns to the crowd. "Everyone, this child has serious mental issues. She's been stalking my family." Brighton plays along perfectly, fake sobbing behind her. "Mommy, I'm scared..." The neighbors take one look at my raggedy clothes versus Marlena's designer outfit and immediately pick sides. That kid definitely seems unhinged." 'Cursing someone like that? That's messed up." 'Someone call the cops. This is creepy as hell." Marlena's eyes flash with triumph. She thinks she's won again. But when she looks at me, my dead-calm stare just stops her cold. don't argue. Don't explain. Just stand there, perfectly still. That eerie calm freaks her out way more than tears or tantrums ever could. She remembers the old me-the one who would cry and scream and fall apart. This version of me? She doesn't know how to handle this. uddenly, security shows up and grabs my arms rough. Marlena leans close to my ear, her voice ice-cold. "Roxanne, you can't win against me. Show your face again, and I'll make sure you actually disappear." turn to look at her, a twisted smile creeping across my face. "Mom, the game's just getting started." Marlena's whole body trembles. hey dump me on the side of the road, bruised and bloody, but my eyes are laser-focused. Does she really think that little show scared me? hen I start digging into Marlena's "new life." Three days later, I discover she's become this mommy influencer with a decent following on Instagram and TikTok. Goes by "Mama Mar's World" online. she posts all this content about her and Brighton's "perfect life," building this whole brand as the ideal mother. in her videos, she's all gentle and caring, doting on Brighton like he's made of gold. Her smile is so sweet on camera, she actually looks like a loving mom. The comment section is full of worship: Mama Mar is literally goals!] Ugh, I'm so jealous of this family!] [Brighton's the luckiest kid ever!] Reading those comments makes me want to put my fist through the screen. She abandoned me, let me think she was dead, and now she's playing perfect mominy online? I immediately create a burner account and comment on her latest TikTok: (Remember your daughter at the marina?] My heart's pounding as I hit send. Within minutes, the comment's deleted and my account's blocked. I know she saw it. I know she's scared. Next day, new account, new comment: Three years ago at the marina, ring any bells?] This one gets deleted even faster-like, instantly. I keep creating accounts, keep commenting. Marlena, your daughter's still alive.] You told her you were dead, but you're living your best life.] Remember the kid who waited three days and nights at the marina?] Every comment gets deleted within seconds, but I know she's seeing them all. 6 Her posting schedule starts getting wonky. Her camera smile looks more and more forced. Her followers start noticing. Is it just me or does Mar seem off lately?] Girl looks exhausted in her recent posts] Hope everything's okay with the fam!] keep pushing. f she wants to play perfect mother, I'm going to destroy that entire facade. start collecting evidence, tracking down her whole timeline for the past three years. Whatever it takes, I'm dragging all her lies into the light. Title: The Good Girl's Dirty Secrets (English-dubbed) In CrushReel's ongoing romance, "The Good Girl's Dirty Secrets," a young woman ensnared in a decade-long struggle against familial constraints finds unexpected solace in a man who appears as her pathway to freedom. Initially leveraging his presence for escape, she is gradually swayed by his unwavering faith and unwavering dedication. Exploring themes of liberation and trust, the narrative delves into the complexities of breaking free from oppressive environments. The protagonist's evolution from using the man as a means of salvation to embracing genuine connection offers a poignant portrayal of emotional transformation. Amidst the backdrop of romance, the story skillfully weaves a tale of self-discovery and resilience, capturing the essence of human vulnerability and strength. What sets "The Good Girl's Dirty Secrets" apart is its nuanced depiction of intricate relationships and internal struggles, resonating with readers seeking depth and authenticity in romantic narratives. Available to read online at CrushReel, this captivating tale promises a journey of self-realization and love amidst adversity.