---- Chapter 7 It wasn't until the crash that I realized- David shielded me with everything he had, without a second thought. The cars collided. Tires screamed. Ours skidded forward despite the brakes. The violent inertia nearly hurled us out of our seats. Horns blared in chaos as oncoming traffic surged past. David jerked the wheel hard-our car spun sideways, and the airbags burst open with a deafening pop. Glass shattered around us like flying knives, and the vehicle jolted to a halt. Blood ran down his face, warm and slow, landing on my hands-snapping me out of the weightless haze. Behind us, passengers screamed in terror and pain. My hands trembled as I reached for him, cupping his blood-streaked face. ---- My voice cracked with helpless fear. "There were airbags... why would you throw yourself over me? Where are you hurt?" David gave mea weak, broken smile. "Protecting you... it's muscle memory by now. Aria, as long as you're safe... I'm fine." "Don't cry. Don't panic. I'm okay. Really, I am." It was a case of fatigued driving. Both cars had hit the brakes in time. But what haunted me most- David had turned the wheel toward his own side. Deliberately. To shield me. And I couldn't make sense of that. What kind of love was this? In the infirmary, Serena sobbed hysterically at his ---- bedside. Only after she and Luke finally left did I sit down beside David. "aria... are you alright?" I gave a small shake of my head and quietly peeled an apple. My voice was low, steady. "David... why do you love me like your life means nothing?" He looked at me, unwavering. "Aria, I don't know why you're asking that... but please don't overthink it. You're gentle, loyal... kind. I loved you from the moment I saw you. I swear it." I lowered my gaze, said nothing. "Aria... don't leave me. Anyone else can go, but not you. Please. I'm begging you." ---- Begging me? Just another move in his twisted game. Another trap wrapped in false tenderness. He wasn't loving me-he was manipulating me. Using his fake death to test my feelings. That was David's brand of obsession. As for his injuries? Aminor cut on the forehead. A mild concussion. He didn't even need to stay in the hospital. But of course, he refused to leave- because after playing the caring mate for me, he still had another she-wolf to entertain. Every time I brought his meals, Serena was already there. Always close. Always clinging. In the world of "Crimson Heiress" by CrushReel, business magnate Zelda falls victim to a treacherous plot orchestrated by her own brother and husband, unwittingly surrendering her empire to the cunning Yasmina. As Yasmina's sinister intentions unravel, Zelda meets a tragic fate. However, a twist of fate brings Zelda back to life, setting the stage for a riveting saga of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. Exploring themes of deceit, power struggles, and the complexities of relationships, "Crimson Heiress" delves into the intertwined lives of its characters against the backdrop of a captivating blend of CEO dynamics, time travel elements, and mysterious reincarnations. The narrative unfolds within the opulent setting of a grand mansion, where secrets are as abundant as the characters' ambitions. As Zelda navigates through her journey of transformation and retribution, readers are drawn into a web of drama that promises unexpected twists at every turn. What sets "Crimson Heiress" apart is its seamless fusion of suspenseful storytelling with elements of glow-up narratives and intricate character developments. With its gripping plotline and immersive exploration of vengeance and second chances, this ongoing tale captivates audiences seeking a compelling blend of mystery and drama. Discover the allure of "Crimson Heiress" for yourself; available to read online at CrushReel.