MARRYING MY STEP-SISTER'S GROOM

nts of sleep clinging to her like a second skin. Her body ached, the telltale signs of the night before still pulsing through her muscles. As

beside her was empty, the sheets rumpled and cold. A dull ache settled in her chest

ce, the way his eyes had seared into her soul. But now, he was gone, as if he had never existed, lea

h the events of the night before. She had given herself to a stranger-her first time, no less-and no

haphazardly. A rush of embarrassment and regret flooded her c

. He had used her and left her without a word. Her chest tightened at the thought, a bitter taste forming in her mouth.

trembling as she fumbled with the buttons of her blouse. She glanced at herself in the mirror, her reflection pale and disheveled. The faint bruises

, her mind racing. She couldn't bear the thought of what aw

harp, judgmental eyes landed on Leah the moment she walked in, narrowing with suspicion and venom. Natasha stood nearby, feigning disintere

a whip. She stormed toward Leah, her expression tw

ain herself, and even if she could, they wouldn't matter. Her step

e. The sharp sting burned her cheek, but it was the shame that hurt more. Her head

an just run off in the middle of the night and disgrace this family? Look at you-loo

g. "I... I didn't-" she stammered, but her word

say when he hears about this?" she asked, her voice sickly sweet. "I'm sure he'l

rry. He'll know soon enough. And when he does, t

controlled her father, twisting his thoughts, manipulating him with her

d to defend herself, her voice tremblin

I hired called me this morning. He told me everything. Do you hear that?" She leaned in close, her voice a

who had cornered her in the hall. She had fought him off, managing to escape his grasp before he could lay a hand on her.

How could he lie like that? And now

ourself, Leah. No man will ever want you now. But don't worry. I've already spoken to you

ded. "What are yo

nt. "Your father has arranged a m

to ice. "What? No. Y

mily from the disgrace you've brought upon us. He's a respectable man, wealthy, with a solid reputation. It doesn't

as willing to marry her off to some sixty-year-old man to save face?

her voice barely audi

of triumph in her eyes sharp enoug