Chapter 18 As expected it was there . The dining table was set as usual , a plate of food waiting for me . Scrambled . eggs , toast , a side of fresh fruit , and a glass of orange juice . The maid always prepared a full meal , despite knowing I wouldn't eat it . I stared at the plate , my stomach twisting uncomfortably . The sight of food did nothing but remind me of how exhausted I felt . How weak my body was becoming The eggs looked fluffy , the toast perfectly golden , but I couldn't bring myself to take a bite . Even the fruit , vibrant and fresh , seemed unappealing . I picked up the glass of orange juice , swirling it slightly before setting it back down without drinking . Instead , I turned toward the fridge , grabbed an apple , and walked away . I walked towards another end of the house , where the balcony was . I hesitantly stepped to the balcony door and was instantly disappointed as I tried to open it and it was closed . At least I could open the window even though bars were in front of it , disturbing my View . I just needed some fresh air and feel a little bit of freedom . I unlatched the window and pushed it open , letting the cool morning air seep in . It wasn't much , but it was something . A small relief in this suffocating place . Leaning against the windowsill , I took a slow bite of the apple , my gaze drifting over the estate grounds . Everything looked perfect , manicured gardens , neatly trimmed hedges , a world untouched by chaos . Yet , to me , it was nothing but a beautiful cage . My fingers tightened around the apple as I stared out at the flawless landscape . The fresh air , the sound of birds chirping , the occasional rustling of leaves - everything seemed so serene , yet it felt so distant . It was as if I were trapped behind glass , watching a world that didn't belong to me anymore . The apple's crisp sweetness did little to ease the bitter taste in my mouth . I chewed slowly , trying to ignore the emptiness that stretched out before me , the weight of everything pressing in . My fingers tightened around the apple's core , the pit of frustration inside me growing with every passing second . I I wasn't supposed to be here . None of this was supposed to be my life . But here I was , forced into a marriage I didn't want , surrounded by a man who saw me as nothing more than an object to possess . It was hard not to feel like I was slowly fading away in this place . Just as I was lost in my thoughts , the soft click of footsteps echoed behind me . I turned slightly , my heart skipping a beat when I saw the maid standing in the hallway . Her hands were folded neatly in 1/2 Chapter 18 front of her , her expression neutral yet somewhat caring . " Mr " she said gently , if you're looking for something to occupy your time … maybe the library would help ? " Her suggestion was simple , almost too simple . " The library ? " I echoed , a small chuckle slipping out despite myself . " Is that where I'm supposed to disappear into books to escape my reality ? " She seemed unbothered by my sarcasm , offering a faint smile . " It's one of the few places he doesn't mind you being . If you find it … distracting enough , you might feel better . " Better . As if a book could ever make things better . But something about the offer , the possibility of having a space where I could think without the ever - looming presence of Alessandro , made me consider it .. " Fine , " I muttered , tossing the apple core into the garden below before stepping away from the window , " I'll check it out ." The maid gave a small nod of approval , and I made my way toward the stairs . Chapter Comments LIKE POST COMMENT NOW < SHARE 2 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.