Silk and Steel: Forbidden Desires

of pursuing creative writing and followed her father's directive. She diligently applied to the unive

They celebrated her achievements with a lavish gathering, and Bella found herself s

ge's excellence. Bella's acceptance into prestigious universities was a testament to

tter, each congratulatory gesture, only served as a reminder of the dreams she had set aside. The weight of her family's expe

et triumph, a victory that had come at the cost of her own desires and aspirations. The weight of her unfulfilled dreams continued to

ld in the prestigious hall of the school. The venue was adorned with flowers and decorations, a

e like a formality than a genuine celebration of their daughter's achievement. Throughout the event, they seemed more preoccupied with engag

weetness. She had worked hard to reach this milestone, yet the joy of the moment was overshadowed by the realization

f her parents' proud faces and the flash of a camera. However, she was met with the sight of her parents engrossed in conve

ness. The applause from the audience was drowned out by the conflicting emotions within her. It was a m

ile, Lily hugged her tightly and whispered words of encouragement. "We did it, Bella. We graduated, and that's a sig

sty with gratitude for Li

uates scattered to celebrate with their families,

ther, Richard, took her aside with an air of excitement. His eyes twin

mething to celebrate your graduation and give you a

expected their relationship to remain tense, given the recent clash

?" she asked, he

vacation as a family. We'll be traveling to Thasos, Greece, where Reid ha

rush of emotions through her. Reid had always been a subject of fascination and desire for her

would provide a much-needed break after the stress of graduation. On the other hand, the presence of Reid—her father

ortunity for us to spend quality time together as a family before you start your university stu

r mind racing with thoug

island, Bella retreated to her room, still processing the unexpected turn of events

and dialled Lily's number. Her friend's voice was filled

"Lily, we're going to Greece for one week! It's a vacati

sounds amazing! You're going to have such a fantastic time. And

always been aware of her crush on Reid, and she couldn't

"It's just a family vacation, and Reid happens to be my dad's best friend. Plus, the difference

you say. Just make sure you enjoy every moment of th

id, her friend's playful teasing continued. Lily had always been more outgoing a

cooped up in that mansion of yours, surrounded by books and luxury, but it's time to let loose. Besides, you've got zero experien

sheltered upbringing and introverted nature had left her with limited romantic experience. She had alw

at's not entirely true, Lily. I mean

and 'stuff'? Bella, you're going to have to teach me your ways. But seriously, enj

night gown and settled under the covers, ready to call it a night. However, as she reached ov

ted to a news website. She knew exactly what she was searching for—an article or phot

nigmatic as ever, with a captivating cold smile that seemed to hide a multitude of secrets. Bella's heart

The man in the image seemed so distant, so unattainable. He was a billionaire, a ruthless busine

hat her infatuation with Reid was a fruitless endeavour, a fantasy that would never become a reality. With a sigh, she turned of