( No longer in love ) Chapter 2 : The Confrontation When Lucians call came , I was still in my small , rented apartment , a world away from the opulent mansion we shared or rather , didnt share . He asked where I was and said he would come to pick me up . I deflected his questions about my whereabouts , claiming to be already on my way home . An hour later , I found him slumped on the steps of our house , surrounded by a depressing collection of discarded cigarette butts , the expensive fabric of his suit jacket discarded carelessly beside him . Why so late ? he demanded . Traffic , I murmured . Before I could take another step , he pulled me into his arms . In the darkness , his captivating dark eyes once I loved best has become my nightmare for countless nights . I still remembered , back then , he sent my brother , Alex , who I depended to prison , depite my desperate pleas . He looked at me with this pair of eyes , his cold , detached voice echoing in my ears , Millie , Alex made his choices . The memory sent a fresh wave of icy dread through me . For months , Id avoided his gaze , that same gaze that had watched me break down , watched me beg beg for mercy . After Katie was released from the hospital , Lucian installed her as his indispensable assistant for compensation . For her , he fought with ex husband , broke his leg , and went to the police station . They were inseparable business trips , birthdays , even school plays for Katies daughter , Lily . To the outside world , Katie was the other Mrs. Even because we didnt have child , Lucians parents wanted Katie to have their grandchild . But Katies womb remained frustratingly empty . I tilted my head away from his gaze . Lucians voice , strained and weary, cut through the silence . Millie , please … stop this . Are you still hating me for sending Alex to jail ? Hatred ? NO . I found that hatred couldnt solve any problems . Lucian still accompanied Katie . But my brother was still in jail . Nightmares haunted me day by day . I had no hatred . Also , no love anymore . his disengaged myself from embrace , walking towards the house . Gently , I disengaged Its cold , I said , my voice flat , devoid of emotion . In "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" by CrushReel, Zoe Hale takes a daring step by marrying Ashton Cross, a man under suspicion for her sister's mysterious demise. As their relationship evolves, hidden truths unravel, intertwining love and suspense in this captivating romance novel. Exploring the complexities of loyalty and deception, the story delves deep into Zoe's quest for justice while navigating the unexpected twists of her heart. The enigmatic bond between Zoe and Ashton unfolds against a backdrop of secrets and revelations, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each turn of the page. Set in a blend of romance and drama, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die" stands out for its intricate character dynamics and the seamless fusion of passion and intrigue. With every chapter, CrushReel skillfully crafts a narrative that immerses readers in a world where love confronts darkness, leaving them yearning for more. Discover the enthralling saga of Zoe and Ashton, available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in this unique tale that defies conventions and promises an unforgettable literary experience.