Blackmailed By My Own Mafia Husband

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The year I became the most sought after crime documentary producer in the country, I married Rocco Thornton.

The Mafia Don of Black Pyramid. The president of Thornton Media Empire. The man I once believed would stand between me and every kind of darkness.

Six years later, he sat across from me and destroyed that belief with a single smile.

Without a word, Rocco slid his phone across the table. Watch this.

My hands shook as I took it. The moment the video played, my stomach dropped into something cold and violent.

My twenty two year-old brother appeared on screen, drugged and barely conscious. His body moved wrong, slow and unsteady, like the world had been stripped of him before he could understand it.

And then I saw him.

Arthur Snow.

Astrid Snow's older brother.

The same Arthur Snow whose name appeared hundreds of times inside the investigation I had spent the last eight months building.

The same Arthur Snow whose crimes were about to become the center of my biggest documentary.

My stomach lurched.

Arthur was raping my brother while the camera was carefully angled to erase violence and replace it with illusion.

My brothers weak protests were barely audible. His body kept slipping under control that was not his own.

My fingers locked around the phone until pain shot through my hand. Rocco! My brother was drugged, and that man was fucking damn raping him!"

The video doesnt show a crime, he said flatly. It shows consent. Two men having sex. Thats all people will see.

Something in me snapped clean.

Then he smiled, slow and controlled. You have two minutes.

My chest rose sharply. Two minutes for what?

His gaze turned colder. Give me the evience against Astrids brother crime, or this video goes public.

Everything stopped.

For a moment, I couldn't breathe. Eight months of evidence connecting Arthur Snow to trafficking, bribery, rand multiple violent crimes. Enough evidence to destroy his reputation.Enough evidence to trigger criminal investigations. Enough evidence to collapse an empire. And Rocco wanted all of it.

They were using my brother as a leash.

I let out a harsh laugh, anger breaking through grief. So this is it? Youre blackmailing me with my brothers life?

Roccos voice stayed even. Choose correctly, Celeste.

My voice rose, raw and furious. My brother was raped by that man while he was drugged, and youre sitting here negotiating like its business?

A flicker of something passed through my chest, but I didnt stop.

He is not collateral, I said, shaking now. He is not expendable.

Rocco didnt answer that.

Instead, he placed a bank card on the table.

"Buy him a sports car. A penthouse. Whatever makes him happy."

"You're insane!"

"No," he replied, meeting my gaze without the slightest trace of emotion. "I'm practical."

"My brother's life is being destroyed."

"He'll survive and he'll get over it."

"He was raped by a man! Raped."

"Then tell him to be more careful next time."

Something inside me fractured. I stared at the man across from me.

Tears slipped down my cheeks and landed silently on the table between us. Rocco didn't reach for my hand. He didn't apologize. He didn't even look guilty.

He simply sat there waiting for my answer. As if my brother's suffering meant nothing. As if my pain meant nothing.

Back then, I was at the peak of my career.

Everyone in the crime documentary industry knew my name. People called me untouchable, cold, impossible to approach. Yet Rocco Thornton had been different.

He chased me for years. He waited patiently through every rejection and every excuse. Eventually, he had even gotten down on one knee and begged me to marry him.

A man like Rocco Thornton had actually knelt before me.

Even now, I could still hear his voice as clearly as if he were standing beside me.

"Celeste, I don't care how successful you become. I'll stand behind you for the rest of my life.

"You don't have to give me anything right now. I'll wait until you're ready."

"I'll make you the happiest woman in the world."

"I'll only love you."

"You'll never have to doubt me."

For six years, I believed every word.

For six years, he treated me like I was the center of his universe. He spoiled me endlessly, protected me fiercely, and supported every dream I chased. Whenever I traveled to dangerous places to investigate criminal organizations and film documentaries, he insisted on driving me himself. When threats arrived at my doorstep, he stood between me and the people who wanted to silence me. When public opinion turned against me for exposing powerful criminals, he was always the first person to defend me.

"You're doing the right thing," he'd tell me. "Don't be afraid. I've got you."

Every time I heard those words, I felt safe.

I thought I was the luckiest woman alive. I thought I had found the one person who would never betray me.

God, how stupid was I?

Now Astrid stood on the opposite side of me.

Another crime documentary producer.

The woman Rocco couldn't stop protecting.

The woman he was willing to sacrifice my family for.

My brother had been drugged, manipulated, and lured into a trap. Someone had filmed him while he was vulnerable, then twisted the footage to make him look guilty. Astrid was helping bury the truth. Even worse, Rocco was helping her.

The same man who once encouraged me to expose criminals was now helping them escape accountability. The same man who once praised me for fighting for justice was now threatening my family in order to protect someone else.

I looked at him through blurred vision, my throat tightening with every breath.

"Rocco..." My voice shook uncontrollably. "If I don't give in, if I refuse... are you really going to destroy us?"

"THEN TRY ME."

The last fragile piece of my heart shattered.. The man who had once sworn to protect me was now the one holding the knife.

...

The first time I heard Astrid's name was a year ago.

We had both been invited to speak on a high-profile true crime documentary panel after a case involving an abused young girl captured national attention. While most people focused on evidence, accountability, and justice, Astrid spent the entire discussion talking about sympathy and compassion.

After the event ended, she cornered me backstage.

She looked genuinely upset.

"Celeste, don't you think you're too harsh?" she demanded.

I frowned. "Harsh?"

"The man is old. He's lonely! People make mistakes!"

For a moment, I honestly thought I had misheard her. "Mistakes?"

"Yes." She crossed her arms. "Can't you show some compassion? Do you really want him to spend the rest of his life suffering alone?"

I stared at her in disbelief.

A child had suffered.

A child! And Astrid's concern was whether the predator felt lonely.

That night, I told Rocco about the conversation. I expected him to laugh at the absurdity of it.

Instead, his expression darkened.

Pulling me into his arms, he wrapped one arm around my waist and pressed a kiss against my forehead.

"What an idiot," he muttered coldly. "Daring to upset my wife."

Then he looked down at me and asked, "Want me to handle her?"

I immediately shook my head. "No. It's not worth it."

At the time, I thought he was defending me. I thought he was angry on my behalf.

How ironic.

Six months later, Rocco personally hired Astrid and brought her into Thornton Empire.

I remember how confused I was. Even then, I trusted him completely.

"Honey," he said one evening while pulling me onto his lap, "we needed another producer anyway."

I frowned. "Why her?"

He chuckled softly. "She's interesting."

Interesting?

That was the word he used.

After that, Astrid's name started appearing everywhere. Astrid said this. Astrid thought that. Astrid recommended something. Astrid made him laugh. Astrid made him smile.

Of course I noticed. How could I not? But I never felt threatened. Why would I? Rocco loved me.

At least that was what I believed.

The man who once swore that if he ever betrayed me, he would gladly swallow ten thousand needles. The man who promised to spend his entire life protecting me.

Now he was willing to destroy my family just to keep Astrid happy.

My brother. My career. My reputation. And my life...

None of it mattered. Not compared to her.

The despair inside me became unbearable.

Slowly, I picked up the agreement Rocco had prepared. My hand trembled as I signed it page after page, line after line. With every signature, it felt as though I was burying another piece of myself.

When I finished writing the last word, I pushed the document across the table, stood and walked away.

I had barely stepped outside when my phone suddenly rang.

My father's name flashed across the screen.

The moment I answered, panicked sobs exploded through the speaker.

Celeste, get to the hospital right now!

He was crying so hard I could barely understand him. Your brother! Your brother tried to take his own life...

The world around me fell silent.

For a moment, I couldn't breathe.

Then I ran.

I don't remember how I got to the hospital. The journey disappeared from my memory entirely. All I remember is bursting through the emergency room doors and seeing my father collapsed on the floor, clutching my little brother in his arms.

Blood stained his clothes, his trembling hands, and the white hospital floor beneath him.

Please save my son, my father begged the doctors, his voice cracking from despair. Please... he's still warm. I stopped the bleeding as much as I could. There's still time. Please save him.

Again and again, he lowered his head. Begging. Crying. Abandoning every ounce of pride he had left.

His hair was disheveled, his forehead red and swollen from repeatedly bowing and pleading. I had never seen my father like that.

Never.

Several doctors stood nearby with troubled expressions. Finally, one of them let out a weary sigh.

We can't help right now.

I froze. What do you mean you can't help?

The doctor looked away before answering. President Thornton ordered all available emergency specialists to remain on standby.

My heart sank. For what?

The hesitation in his eyes made the answer even worse.

Miss Snow's cat is sick.

For several seconds, I simply stared at him.

A cat?

My brother was dying! My brother was lying there covered in blood! And they were worried about a cat?

Rage exploded inside me. I rushed forward and grabbed the doctor's sleeve. Doctor, please, I pleaded, Veterinarians exist for animals. You're doctors. You're supposed to save people. He's only twenty two years old. Are you really going to stand here and watch him die?

The doctor gently pulled himself free, helplessness written across his face.

Miss, please understand.

No, you understand! I nearly screamed. My brother needs help!

The doctor's expression hardened. Mr. Thornton personally gave the order, he said quietly. Miss Snow treasures that cat. If something happens to it, she'll be devastated. And if she's upset, all of us will suffer the consequences.

The words struck me like a physical blow.

That was the reason.

My brother's life meant less than Astrid's feelings.

I chased after the doctors anyway, down the hallway, through every corridor begging and crying.

Screaming for help until my throat felt raw but nobody stopped. Nobody turned around and nobody cared.

By the time I returned to the emergency room, everything was already over.

My father was still sitting on the floor, holding my brother in his arms. Only this time, my brother wasn't moving.

His body had already gone cold.

My father's grief-stricken cries echoed through the room, shattering what little remained of my heart.

Slowly, I dropped to my knees beside them and pain swallowed me whole.

I couldn't even force myself to look at my brother's face.

This was my fault, wasn't it?

If I had fought harder... If I hadn't married Rocco. If I hadn't trusted him. Would my brother still be alive?

I raised my hand and slapped myself multiple times.

It's my fault, I whispered through broken sobs. It's all my fault! I killed him.

My father caught my wrist before I could strike myself again.

My brother's blood still stained his hands. His eyes were swollen from crying, but something inside them had changed.

The grief remained but there was something else now.

Hatred cold, unwavering hatred.

Celeste... he said hoarsely. We're leaving.

I stared at him in confusion. What?

We're taking your brother and leaving this country.

His jaw tightened. I'll find someone who can help us. He lowered his gaze to the son in his arms. When he looked up again, his eyes were red with pain. Seven days. Give me seven days. We'll settle everything and leave. We'll never come back.

I accompanied my father and my brother to the crematorium. The entire afternoon passed in a blur.

My father seemed to age ten years in a single day.

His back was bent. His shoulders slumped. The man who had always seemed invincible suddenly looked old.

So painfully old.

He sat in silence, holding the urn that contained my brother's ashes and the sight felt like a knife twisting deeper into my chest.

Just then, my phone vibrated.

A message from Rocco.

My hands immediately turned cold.

Within two hours, pick up Astrid's dress from the stylist and deliver it to the banquet hall. Astrid will send you the address.

I stared at the screen.

My brother had just been cremated. Hs ashes were still warm. And Rocco wanted me to run errands for Astrid.

I wanted to block him. Delete him. Erase him from my life forever. But instead, I typed two simple words.

No time.

The reply arrived almost instantly.

A video appeared on my screen.

The same video showing my drugged little brother being forced abused and filmed while trapped in a carefully planned setup.

My fingers tightened around the phone until my knuckles turned white.

The threat couldn't have been clearer.

Obey.

Or suffer.

My father saw the screen, and his expression darkened immediately.

My son is already dead, he said, his voice trembling with fury. What else does he fucking want?! He shot to his feet so abruptly that the chair nearly toppled over. Does he want to destroy him even after death? Does he want to grind my son's memory into dust before he's satisfied?

I quickly grabbed him. Dad!

He was shaking. Crying. Falling apart right in front of me.

Wrapping my arms around him, I cried with him. Please don't, I whispered. Don't go to him. He isn't human anymore.

My father covered his face as his shoulders trembled. I felt my heart breaking. I swallowed my pain and forced myself to think clearly.

We only need seven days, I said, holding him tighter. Just seven more days. If Rocco notices something is wrong before then, he won't let us leave.

My voice cracked. So I'll go.

For seven more days, I would endure. And then we'd disappear forever.

I arrived at the place Astrid sent, but something in me tightened the moment I saw it. The address was vague, almost careless, like it had been designed to mislead rather than guide. Still, I came. I had no other choice.

And then I saw him.

A man standing at the entrance like he owned the very space around him.

My steps slowed instinctively. My stomach dropped.

It was him Arthur!

My fingers went numb.

He turned his head and saw me, and immediately smiled, as if I was not an interruption but an expected arrival. As if this moment had already been arranged long before I reached it.

He walked toward me boldly. Hey, youre Celeste, right? he said, voice casual. Astrid told me to wait here for you.

I stared at him, my body locking in place.

Why are you here? My voice came out rough, strained.

He gave a short laugh, like I had asked something absurd.

Astrid my belover sister invited me. Said I should experience this kind of thing. Broaden my world a little. He tilted his head, still smiling. And honestly, youre late. Ive been here a while.

My nails dug into my palm until pain grounded me.

My brothers face surfaced in my mind without warning and this man was standing in front of me like nothing had ever happened.

Astrid is really kind. She said I should meet more people, see different circles.

My throat tightened painfully.

And her boyfriend? That big corporate guy from Thornton Empire. Hes loaded. Even got me this suit made. He smoothed his sleeve then his eyes returned to me. You should really learn from her. She knows how to choose people.

My breathing turned shallow.

What is he talking about?

Then his smile changed, dimming into something colder.

Oh, I almost forgot. His voice dropped. Youre from the same family as that messed up kid who couldnt handle himself.

Something inside me shattered.

There was no warning after that.

I grabbed the dress in my hands and threw it at him with everything I had.

Dont you dare talk about my brother! My voice broke as I spoke. Dont you ever say his name.

He barely shifted, but I saw it. That faint amusement in his eyes. And that was what broke whatever restraint I still had left.

I swear Ill kill you, you monster! Rapist! I said, shaking.

Before I could move again, hands seized me from behind. Arms locked around mine. I struggled, kicked, fought, but the grip only tightened as they dragged me back.

Then I heard footsteps.

Rocco.

I turned my head and there he was, walking out with Astrid beside him. Arm in arm.

Astrid looked at me first, her expression composed and faintly irritated.

Celeste, she said coolly, who gave you permission to attack my brother? Apologize now.

You want me to apologize? I let out a broken laugh. He drugged my brother. He abused him. He fucking destroyed his life!

Astrids eyes sharpened immediately. You cant say that. Theres no ruling yet. Thats defamation.

Defamation? Huh!

She turned slightly toward Rocco, her gaze softening as if she were asking permission from the world itself.

What do you think we should do? she asked gently. I dont want to be unfair.

Silence stretched between us.

Then Rocco spoke. Kneel.

My breath stopped completely.

I stared at him. What?

He didnt look at me. Kneel and apologize.

Something inside me cracked open, wide and irreversible.

Rocco, are you serious? My voice trembled violently. You know what he is! You know what he did to my brother!

A small motion from him. Barely anything but it was enough.

The next second, they forced me down.

Pain shot through my knees as they hit the ground. I tried to resist, but hands were already in my hair, forcing my head downward before slamming it into the ground multiple times.

The sound echoed through my skull like something breaking apart from the inside.

Warm blood blurred my vision. The world tilted, unstable, like I was slipping out of it entirely.

Above me, Astrids voice floated down, calm again, satisfied now, like the outcome had already been decided long before I arrived.

Only when she seemed content did Rocco raise his hand.

Enough, he said.

Just like that.

The pressure disappeared.

I collapsed forward onto the ground, my body shaking uncontrollably, blood mixing with dirt beneath me.

Then slowly, I stood on the broken ground of what used to be my life, blood dried against my skin, when Rocco finally walked toward me.

He squatted in front of me as if I were something still worth handling carefully, something that had not already been discarded. A white handkerchief rested in his hand, clean and out of place in the ruin between us.

Celeste, I already told you this case is finished. Rocco said softly.

I stared at him for a long moment.

My throat burned, but I forced the words out.

You dont get to say that to me, I said, voice shaking. You dont get to call this finished when my brother is gone!

Rocco did not react the way I expected. His face stayed controlled, almost distant.

Youre still pushing this, Rocco said evenly. And youre trying to pull Astrid into it, even though she has nothing to do with your personal collapse.

He paused for a moment before continuing.

Youre being cruel, Celeste. You are refusing to see what this will cost everyone else.

Something inside me snapped at that.

I pushed myself up and slapped the handkerchief out of his hand. It fell between us and stayed there.

Do not call me cruel, I said. You are talking about my brother like he is nothing.

My legs nearly gave out, but I forced myself to stay standing.

Rocco looked at the cloth on the ground for a second, then turned away as if the conversation had already ended for him.

He walked back to Astrid and put his arm around her waist.

Were going back to the villa, Rocco said.

Astrid leaned into him slightly, then looked back at me.

Are you really not coming with us, Celeste? Astrid said. You could at least stop making this harder than it needs to be.

Rocco pulled her closer and kissed her in front of me without hesitation. Not tonight. Leave her here.

The engine started soon after and then they were gone.

No car remained. No explanation followed. No one looked back. Only silence stayed behind, pressing into everything.

...

It was already midnight when I reached the manor.

My hand trembled at the door before I even touched the lock.

Then I stopped.

Intimate voices were coming from inside.

I did not move right away.

I stayed there, listening, until time stopped feeling like something that mattered.

The cold cut through me, but I did not leave.

Because what was outside no longer mattered compared to what I knew I would find inside.

When everything finally went quiet, I unlocked the door and stepped in.

Clothes were scattered across the carpet I had once chosen carefully, thinking it would become part of a life I could build.

Now it looked destroyed.

On the table sat unopened protection packets, placed neatly, deliberately, as if meant to be seen.

My throat tightened. So this is what I was replaced with.

I did not look further because I already knew I would not survive what came next.

I turned toward the stairs. Aww, leaving already? Astrid said.

I stopped and looked at her.

She stood there wrapped in a towel, hair slightly messy, but her expression was controlled, almost bored with my reaction.

You dont have to act like this, Astrid said. I am not a third party in anything that matters to him.

I do not care what you call yourself, I said. I am not here to argue with you.

Her eyes narrowed slightly. You should care, Astrid said. Because this is the reality you are refusing to accept.

Then she stepped forward and grabbed my wrist.

Her grip was tight and deliberate.

Come with me, Astrid said. There is something you need to see.

She dragged me into Rocco's study.

The only room I was never allowed to enter alone.

My chest tightened, but I followed because there was nowhere else to go.

Astrid went straight to the safe. It opened without hesitation and pulled out a document and threw it at me.

Read it carefully, bitch, Astrid said.

I caught it and lowered my eyes.

It was a divorce agreement.

My name was printed clearly at the top and my signature was on the final page.

I flipped it once, then again.

I looked up at her. This is not real. I never signed this.

Astrid did not move. You did sign it, Astrid said. It is valid, and it has been for a long time.

That is impossible, I said. I would remember something like this.

You would, Astrid replied. If you were still the wife he chose to keep.

She stepped closer, lowering her voice.

Rocco ended the marriage, Astrid said. And he accepted it because I refused to stay in a situation where I had to share him with you.

The words landed hard.

I felt my stomach turn.

You are lying, I said, but my voice had already weakened.

Astrid shook her head slightly.

I am not lying, she said. I am telling you so you can stop embarrassing yourself by clinging to something that no longer exists. She tilted her head. I will give you time to leave, she added. After that, it will no longer be my concern.

I looked down at the paper again.

Rocco had always been precise.

He never missed details. Never left loose ends. Not in business, not in contracts, and not in people.

So when I saw the divorce agreement, something inside me went cold in a different way.

He did it properly. Cleanly. Completely.

He erased me the same way he erased problems.

I had spent days thinking about how to leave him. Thinking about how to survive that kind of ending.

But I didnt even get the chance to leave. I had already been removed.

For a moment, something strange settled in my chest.

I picked up the papers from Astrids hand without looking at her face. I couldnt afford to.

If I looked at her too long, I might lose control.

So I folded the agreement slowly and spoke in a steady voice.

I understand, I said. If that is what you both decided, then I hope you have a long marriage.

My voice didnt shake.

But I made sure every word landed clearly.

Especially the last part.

Astrids expression flickered for a moment, like she felt the weight of it. But I didnt wait to see more.

I turned and walked out.

That night, I didnt sleep.

I sat on the edge of the bed in a house that no longer felt like mine. Not because anything had changed physically, but because something inside it had already been taken away.

Eventually, I started packing and by morning, every box was ready. I called a courier and had everything sent out. Designer clothes, jewelry, gifts I had once thought meant something. Now they just felt like proof of how long I had been living inside a lie.

When the courier arrived, he hesitated at the boxes.

Miss, are you sure? he asked. The destination says incineration.

Yes, I said. I dont want any of it anymore. Just process it.

He looked uncomfortable, but I didnt care. Because those things were not memories anymore. They were weight. And I couldnt carry weight from a life that had already been erased.

As he left, my phone rang.

My father.

The moment I answered, I heard panic in his voice. People shouting behind him.

Celeste, he said, struggling to breathe, theyre trying to take your brothers grave.

My body went still.

What are you talking about? I asked.

His voice broke. They came with documents. They said the burial plot has been reassigned. I tried to stop them, but they pushed me aside. I cant hold them back.

There was a pause, then his voice cracked again. Hes gone, and now they wont even let him stay where he is.

I was already moving before he finished speaking.

Im coming, I said.

And I left.

---

When I arrived, the cemetery felt wrong immediately.

Men in black suits stood near the burial area. Security types. Cold faces. Blocking access like it was a restricted site instead of a resting place.

My father was on the ground nearby, struggling to get up. He still held the urn tightly against his chest.

I rushed to him and knelt.Dad, who is doing this?

His hands shook violently as he pointed ahead.

There, Astrid stood near the graves, slightly bent as she placed something down beside her. A small wrapped box. A dead cat. She was wiping her eyes carefully, like she had practiced the movement in front of a mirror.

My fathers voice broke again. She said she needed the burial site. She said her pet died, and this was the closest available place. They told us to move.

Something inside me tightened so hard it hurt.

I stood up slowly.

Explain this to me, I said. You took my brothers grave for a cat?

Astrid turned.

And just like before, her expression changed immediately. Soft. Fragile. Controlled.

Celeste, Astrid said, her voice gentle, youre misunderstanding. I didnt take anything from you. I was given permission for this space.

She stepped slightly closer.

I didnt know it belonged to someone you cared about. I only found out after everything was arranged.

Then her gaze shifted to my father and then to the urn in his hands. A faint smile touched her lips.

Is that an urn? she asked softly. another stunt?

My father stiffened.

Astrid tilted her head slightly.

And honestly, she continued, I dont understand why youre making this so dramatic. Its just a burial spot. People die every day.

My hands curled into fists.

Youre standing in front of my brothers grave! And youre calling it just a spot.

Celeste, Astrid said, youre still doing this. Youre still trying to turn everything into a scene so Rocco will pay attention to you.

My jaw tightened.

That has nothing to do with this, I said.

But she kept going. Her voice sharpened.

I saw the video too, she said. And honestly, I didnt see what youre claiming. It looked consensual. Both our brothers are having fun in bed and youre pushing a narrative that doesnt match reality.

My vision blurred for a moment. Not from tears. From restraint.

I stared at her, trying to understand how someone could stand in front of a grieving family and speak like that.

Is she real? Or is this what happens when someone learns there are no consequences anymore?

My nails dug into my palms.

I wanted to hit her! I wanted to scream until my voice broke. But instead, I pulled out my phone and called the cemetery office.

I want the records for this burial plot, I said. And I want the person who approved the reassignment on the line.

...

After a few minutes, the manager arrived.

The manager listened carefully after I explained everything, and for once, he didnt hesitate or try to stay neutral.

He stepped forward and looked directly at Astrid.

Miss, I understand your situation, I really do, he said firmly. But all burial plots here are booked in advance and assigned legally. We cant just move someone elses arrangement for personal reasons.

He paused, then added more strictly, If you need an urgent burial, we can offer alternative sections. Our staff will help you choose another space immediately. But this specific grave cannot be taken.

Astrids face shifted fast.

She pressed a hand to her chest like she was wounded.

But my cat just died, she said softly, her voice shaking on purpose. I didnt know it would become such a problem. I didnt come here to fight anyone. I just want to bury something I loved.

She looked at me next, eyes glossy but sharp underneath.

Celeste, she added, youre really going to treat me like this over a dead pet? Dont you think thats a little cruel? I didnt do anything to you.

I didnt even fully look at her at first.

I just walked forward and carefully lowered my brothers urn into the prepared space.

My hands trembled, but I didnt stop.

You keep saying words like cruel, I said quietly. But you keep standing in the middle of other peoples graves like you belong here.

I looked up at her fully now.

So tell me, I added, my voice low, who exactly is being cruel here?

Her expression tightened instantly. She opened her mouth, then closed it again like she didnt expect me to push back.

And then she suddenly swayed, her knees buckled.

And she collapsed right there.

A small gasp went through the staff.

Before I could even react properly, the air changed again. Heavy footsteps.

Rocco.

His voice came first.

Get that filth out of this cemetery.

My chest clenched so hard it hurt.

Filth.

He walked straight to Astrid like everything else didnt exist. Like the ground I was standing on wasnt even real to him.

He bent down and lifted her into his arms.

My hands curled into fists so hard my nails cut into my skin.

I stepped forward fast, blocking the bodyguards before they could move toward my brothers urn.

Dont you touch that, I said, my voice shaking but firm. Dont you dare take it.

One of them hesitated, but Rocco didnt even look at them.

He just spoke again.

Move her, he said coldly. And take whatever is disturbing this place out of my sight.

My heart dropped.

I turned to him fully now.

My voice broke, but I forced it out anyway.

Rocco, I said, do you even know what is inside that urn?

I swallowed hard and added again, louder, Thats my brother. My 22 year old brother.

But he didnt even flinch.

He stood there holding Astrid like she weighed nothing. Like I was the one making noise for no reason.

And? he said flatly. Why would I care about your story right now?

My breath caught.

Celeste, you keep doing this. You keep creating scenes around Astrid. His eyes narrowed slightly. You are the one turning everything into a mess.

I stared at him like I didnt recognize him anymore.

A mess? I whispered. My brother was drugged. He was raped. And youre calling it a mess?

That finally made something flicker in his expression. But not guilt annoyance.

Before I could say anything else, he lifted his hand slightly. The bodyguards moved immediately and they pulled the urn out.

No! I screamed, rushing forward. Stop it, thats my brother!

My father shouted too, voice breaking. Dont you dare! Thats my son!

But they ignored us. They opened it and poured everything out right onto the ground.

I froze.

No, no, no!

My brain refused to understand what I was seeing at first then it hit me all at once.

Ashes my brothers ashes spilling into dirt!

My father collapsed beside me, screaming and crying, trying to scoop it back with his bare hands.

Please please no! he sobbed. Thats my boy thats my boy!

But they shoved him away. One of them even stepped on the ashes like it was nothing at all. Like a mistake they were erasing.

My vision blurred completely. I turned to Rocco again.

My voice barely worked. Do you understand what you just did? I whispered. That is my brother. That is all I have left of him.

He finally looked at me properly now and laughed.

Your brother, he repeated, like it was ridiculous. Celeste, stop embarrassing yourself. He shook his head slightly. I knew you would go this far, he said. Faking death, faking grief, just to get my attention.

My stomach dropped.

Youre sick, I whispered.

He didnt react. Instead, he adjusted Astrid in his arms and turned slightly away.

And listen carefully, he added, voice low and final. If you keep lying, I wont ignore it next time. Then he walked away with her.

The moment he disappeared, my legs gave out.

I dropped to my knees. My hands reached into the dirt, shaking, trying to gather something that could never be gathered again.

My father was beside me, crying so hard he couldnt even breathe properly anymore.

The next morning, a series of hard knocks rattled the front door.

I froze where I was standing.

For a brief moment, a sick thought crossed my mind. Maybe they had come back. Maybe yesterday hadn't been enough.

When I opened the door, several bodyguards were standing outside.

The sight alone made my stomach sink.

They weren't there to visit. They weren't there to negotiate.

They were there to deliver an order.

What do you want now? I asked. I've already stepped aside. I've already lost my marriage, my career, and my brother. What else could you possibly take from me?

The man standing in front answered without hesitation. Mr. Thornton sent us. Miss Snow is hosting a birthday celebration tonight, and your attendance is required.

A bitter laugh escaped me.

Required.

That was a polite way of saying I had no choice.

I don't attend parties I'm not invited to, I said. And I certainly don't attend parties hosted by people who have spent months destroying my life.

The bodyguard's expression didn't change.

Miss Snow specifically requested your presence. The guest list has already been finalized, and Mr. Thornton expects your cooperation.

I looked at him for several seconds.

And if I don't cooperate?

The answer came immediately.

The man lifted his hand.

Two bodyguards pushed past me and grabbed my father.

Dad! I shouted.

My father stumbled backward in shock.

He still looked exhausted from everything that had happened. His shoulders seemed permanently bent now, as though grief had settled onto his back and refused to leave.

Seeing strangers put their hands on him made something twist violently inside my chest.

Let him go, I said.

Nobody moved.

The bodyguard spoke calmly. If you refuse to attend, we can bring your father instead. Either way, Miss Snow will have the guest she requested.

I clenched my teeth so hard my jaw hurt.

You know he's done nothing to you. You know he's suffered enough already.

That isn't my decision, the man replied. Our instructions were very clear.

Tears burned behind my eyes.

Rage.

Fear.

Humiliation.

All of it mixing together until I could barely breathe.

I'll go, I said finally. I'll attend the party. Just let him go and leave him out of this.

Only then did they release him.

The entire drive to the venue felt less like transportation and more like an escort.

Not for a guest.

For a prisoner.

---

The event was already in full swing when I arrived.

The moment I stepped inside, I saw them. Astrid and Rocco stood at the center of the room, surrounded by people eager to win their attention. Astrid barely resembled the woman I had met years ago.

Back then she had dressed simply. She had been awkward and forgettable. Now she looked expensive. Everything about her had changed. The clothes. The jewelry. The confidence. The status.

Every upgrade had come from the same source.

Rocco Thornton.

And Rocco stood beside her with one hand resting lightly against her back. His eyes followed her every movement.

I knew that look. I remembered it too well.

Once upon a time, he had looked at me the same way.

The whispers started almost immediately. No one bothered lowering their voices. Then Astrid approached me with a bright smile that immediately made my skin crawl.

Everyone is being far too serious, Astrid said, looking around at the crowd. Celeste and I had some disagreements in the past, but that happens in every industry. People love turning professional competition into something dramatic.

A few guests laughed.

Astrid smiled wider.

The funny thing is that most of those rumors weren't even true. People just enjoy creating stories.

Then she glanced at Rocco.

And honestly, we've all moved on. Mr. Thornton and I are together now. Celeste has had plenty of time to accept that, and I'd hate for anyone to think we're still stuck in some old love triangle.

Several people immediately looked at me.

My stomach twisted.

Astrid continued as if she were doing me a favor.

We're all adults here. Relationships end. People fall in love with someone else. That's life. Holding onto bitterness forever just makes you look pathetic.

The room grew quieter.

I looked toward Rocco but he said nothing.

That silence hurt more than anything she had said.

I decided I had stayed long enough.

I turned toward the exit.

Then Astrid stepped into my path.

Her smile remained perfectly in place.

Leaving already? she asked quietly. That's disappointing. I went through a lot of effort to make sure you'd have a memorable evening.

Something cold settled in my stomach.

What did you do? I asked.

Astrid's smile widened.

You'll see.

Before I could react, the massive screen behind us lit up.

A video began to play and the room immediately fell silent. My blood turned cold.

No!

The footage showed my brother. The same footage that had already destroyed him. The same footage Rocco had used to threaten me.

A wave of whispers spread through the crowd.

I rushed forward. Turn it off! I shouted. Turn it off right now!

Bodyguards immediately stepped in front of the screen blocking and stopping me.

I shoved against one of them.

Move! I screamed. haven't you people done enough?

Nobody moved.

The whispers grew louder.

That's the boy from the scandal.

I thought the family said he was a victim. Pff! Look at that boy. Having fun with Astrid brother.

Maybe they made the whole thing up.

No wonder they're always involved in controversy.

Every comment felt like another blow.

My hands were shaking, my vision blurred. And Astrid simply stood there watching satisfied.

Waiting for every last person in the room to see it.

Only when the video was almost finished did she signal for it to be turned off.

Then she walked toward me.

Celeste, Astrid said. Why are you making such a scene? Everyone was curious about what actually happened, so I thought it would be helpful to show them.

I stared at her.

She shrugged.

The case is over. The investigation is over. Your brother is gone. At some point you have to stop acting like the entire world owes him sympathy.

My hands clenched into fists.

Astrid lowered her voice.

And honestly, if I were you, I'd be grateful. Most people would be embarrassed to have that video attached to their family name forever.

The room went silent.

She looked directly into my eyes.

Your brother made his choices. The rest of us moved on months ago. You're the only one still clinging to a dead story because it's the only thing that gets people to look at you.

Something inside me snapped.

Astrid saw it and smiled.

A cruel smile.

The smile of someone who thought she had already won.

Go ahead, she said softly. Get angry. Cry. Scream. That's what you always do when things don't go your way.

I lunged forward before I even realized I was moving.

My hand connected with her face with every ounce of strength I had left.

The crack echoed across the hall.

And for the first time that entire night, Astrid stopped smiling.

Astrid cried out the moment my hand connected with her face.

The reaction was immediate. She stumbled backward as though the slap had nearly knocked her off her feet, then threw herself straight into Rocco's arms. The movement was so quick and natural that it looked rehearsed.

Rocco caught her instantly.

The moment he saw the red mark forming on her cheek, his expression darkened. His eyes lifted and settled on me.

Celeste, have you completely lost your mind? Rocco demanded. Do you realize what you've just done? There are hundreds of people here. You attacked someone in front of all of them because you couldn't control your emotions.

My hands were still shaking.

My chest hurt so badly that every breath felt strained.

A laugh escaped me.

Not because anything was funny.

Because I honestly couldn't believe what I was hearing.

That's what finally gets your attention? I asked. They played that video again and let strangers tear him apart even after his death. But Astrid gets one slap and suddenly you're outraged?

I pointed toward the screen behind us.

Where were you five minutes ago, Rocco? Were you standing somewhere else? Did you somehow miss everything that happened? Or do you only pay attention when she's the one getting hurt?

The room fell silent.

Several guests exchanged uneasy glances.

For a moment, something flickered across Rocco's face.

Then it disappeared.

His expression settled back into the calm, controlled look he always wore when he wanted absolute authority over a situation.

I can deal with what happened here, Rocco said. I can make sure this video goes nowhere and that nobody discusses tonight after they leave. But that only happens if you stop creating problems.

His gaze hardened.

The agreement still stands, Celeste. You follow it, and this ends here. You keep fighting, and the consequences won't stop with you anymore.

My stomach dropped.

Rocco took a step closer.

The next person caught in the fallout won't be someone you can protect. Think carefully before you force me to make decisions neither of us will like.

The threat hung in the air between us.

I felt sick.

Completely sick.

My throat burned.

Tears gathered in my eyes no matter how hard I fought them.

Rocco, I said quietly, I want you to remember this moment as clearly as I will. Because I promise you, I will never forget tonight. I'll remember every choice you made, every word you said, and every time you stood there and watched while they destroyed my family.

For the first time, he didn't answer immediately.

Something shifted in his eyes.

Something that almost looked like discomfort.

Almost.

Then Astrid buried her face against his chest and began crying again.

The hesitation vanished. Rocco wrapped an arm around her shoulders. And just like that, I disappeared from his attention.

Again.

---

I left the banquet hall alone.

A few blocks away, the streets became quieter. The crowd noise faded behind me, and for the first time all evening, I thought I might finally be left alone.

Then someone grabbed me from behind.

Before I could react, several people surrounded me.

My heart dropped.

What are you doing? I shouted. Let go of me. Right now. If this is about the party, you've already gotten what you wanted.

Nobody answered. They ignored every word.

I struggled.

I fought and demanded they stop. But they kept on beating me, kicking and slapping me.

By the time they finally left, I was sitting on the pavement struggling to think clearly.

Then my phone vibrated.

A message arrived.

"How does it feel to be beaten by Rocco's men? Oh, sorry. He said that's your punishment for hurting me."

I bitterly laughes. So, Rocco sent them to silence me.

...

After I got home, I didn't tell my father.

What was the point? We only had a few hours left.

A few more hours and we'd finally leave this city behind.

That was all that mattered now.

So I packed quietly and pretended everything was fine. Pretended I wasn't falling apart.

Three hours. That's all we needed. Three more hours. Then the pounding started.

The front door shook beneath a series of loud knocks.

My father and I exchanged a look.

Neither of us spoke.

I opened the door. A middle-aged woman immediately pushed past me.

She walked into the living room and looked around as if she owned the place.

What took so long? she complained. I've been standing outside forever. Is this how you welcome guests?

I frowned.

Who are you? And why are you in my house?

The woman ignored the question entirely.

Instead, she studied me from head to toe.

Hm, she said. Not exactly what I expected. The face isn't perfect, and you're a little older than I'd prefer. Still, you'll do.

A chill crawled down my spine.

Before I could respond, she turned toward the doorway.

Arthur, come inside. Stop standing out there.

My blood froze.

Arthur stepped through the door.

The sight of him instantly dragged every horrible memory back to the surface.

I moved before I could stop myself.

Get out! I snapped. Get out of my house right now. You should be in prison, not standing here pretending you're welcome.

Arthur didn't look offended.

If anything, he looked entertained. That's not a very nice way to greet family, Arthur said. Especially considering we'll be seeing a lot more of each other from now on.

My chest tightened. What are you talking about?

Arthur laughed. It's simple. I'll be living here soon, and you'll be living with me. Everybody has already agreed on it.

I stared at him. What?

He looked around the room and smiled. Nice place. I can see myself getting comfortable here.

Then he looked directly at me. And you'll make a decent wife.

For a second, I genuinely thought I had misheard him.

Have you lost your mind?! I demanded.

Arthur shrugged. Your brother's gone. I like men but I like women, too. My sister said somebody still needs to take responsibility for everything that happened. Since he can't do it anymore, you'll do.

My father looked horrified.

I felt sick!

Arthur continued, clearly enjoying every second of it. Astrid and Mr. Thornton already explained the arrangement. Honestly, I think it's generous. Most people wouldn't be willing to overlook everything your family has done.

The room spun around me.

Then another voice spoke from the doorway.

A voice I knew better than my own. Arthur.

The room went silent.

I turned. Rocco stood in the entrance with Astrid beside him. Calm. Composed.

Looking like they had arrived for an ordinary visit.

Not for the destruction of someone else's life.

And judging by the complete lack of surprise on either of their faces, neither of them thought anything about this situation was strange.

Astrid crossed her arms and looked at me with that same fake, superior smile she always wore. It was the smile that made her look innocent to everyone else and made me want to scream.

Celeste, try to understand our position. The documentary release is coming up soon, and your brother has disappeared. Nobody can contact him, and nobody knows where he is. She sighed and shook her head. My brother can't keep waiting forever. We need answers. Either you bring your brother here so we can clear everything up publicly, or you go with Arthur yourself. Those are the options.

I stared at her. My entire body was shaking.

Arthur stood nearby with that disgusting grin on his face.

My brother is dead. My voice cracked. He's dead, Astrid. He's gone. He's never coming back.

For a second, surprise flashed across her face. Then she laughed.

Oh, come on. Celeste, have you really reached the point where you'll lie about your own brother? She rolled her eyes. You know your documentary is falling apart. You know the evidence is weak now. But using your brother's death as an excuse? That's low, even for you.

My chest hurt so badly I thought I might collapse.

Rocco, what do you think? Astrid moved closer to him and immediately softened her voice. I've tried being patient. I've tried being understanding. But she just keeps making everything difficult.

I wanted to throw up. The performance was flawless.

Rocco remained silent for several seconds before walking toward me. Every step felt heavy. Dangerous.

His hand wrapped around my wrist.

Celeste, I've already told you how important this is. Astrid's documentary is about to launch. Arthur's reputation is being questioned everywhere, and the entire project is under pressure. His grip tightened. Are you really going to keep causing problems?

Something inside me broke.

My brother is dead. My voice shook, but I didn't look away. He died after everything Arthur did to him. I've said it over and over. How many times do I have to say it before you believe me?

Rocco's expression darkened.

Not grief. Not sympathy. But disappointment.

Like I had failed him. Like I was being inconvenient.

What? You want me to dig him up? You want his ashes brought here too? I laughed bitterly. Would that finally be enough for you?

For a moment, nobody spoke.

Then Rocco released my wrist and shoved me hard toward Arthur.

Take her.

The words hit harder than the shove.

Arthur immediately smirked. Well, looks like we're finally getting somewhere. His eyes traveled over me, making my skin crawl. I knew you'd end up with me eventually.

My father finally broke.

No! Leave my daughter alone! Tears streamed down his face as he rushed forward. You monsters already took my son. Haven't you done enough?

Several people grabbed him and held him back.

I looked at him and gave him a small look.

Leave.

Please leave. Don't stay here. Don't fight them.

My father froze.

Then I lowered my head, pretending I had given up. Pretending I was defeated.

What choice did I have?

Arthur grabbed my arm and started leading me away. As we passed Rocco, I slowed slightly.

Rocco.

He looked at me.

A broken smile appeared on my face.

You're the one doing this. You pushed me toward him yourself. I held his gaze for one final second. When the truth comes out one day, don't regret it.

Something flickered in his eyes. But I didn't stay long enough to find out what it meant.

The bodyguards shoved me into Arthur's vehicle, and the doors locked immediately. Arthur sat nearby looking entirely too pleased with himself.

I stared out the window.

Thinking.

Waiting.

Watching.

Then I saw it! My chance.

Before I could talk myself out of it, I threw myself from the moving vehicle. Pain exploded through my body. My hands scraped against the ground, and my knees slammed into the pavement.

But I didn't stop. I got up and ran.

The woods ahead were familiar. The airport wasn't far. I just had to keep moving.

My phone suddenly vibrated.

A message from Dad.

My vision blurred immediately.

Dad: Celeste, I'm already at the airport.

Another message followed.

Dad: If you can't escape, I'm not leaving either.

Tears filled my eyes.

He was still waiting for me.

Ten minutes later, I finally stumbled into the airport.

After passing through security, I almost collapsed from relief. Dad grabbed my hand tightly, and I held on just as hard. Neither of us wanted to let go.

Outside the window, the plane waited on the runway, ready for departure.

I looked at it then at my father.

Dad. My voice shook, but this time it wasn't from fear. We're leaving. We're finally leaving this place behind.