Pained

Anna's rehabilitation took a few grueling days, but at last, she was ready to leave.

Stepping out of the hospital doors, Anna blinked against the bright sunlight, inhaling deeply as the crisp air filled her lungs. The world outside felt almost unfamiliar after months.

A sharp, impatient honk shattered the moment.

Her eyes snapped toward the sleek red Ferrari Portofino idling at the curb, its polished exterior gleaming under the sun. Through the tinted window, she could barely make out Lucas's silhouette in the driver's seat.

Anna exhaled sharply and made her way toward the car. The moment she reached for the door handle, Lucas revved the engine, the deep, throaty growl of the V8 sending a thrill through the air.

She barely had time to shut the door before he slammed his foot on the gas.

The tires screeched against the pavement as the car shot forward, pressing Anna back into her seat. The roar of the engine filled her ears, blending with the rush of wind whipping past the windows. Skyscrapers, trees, and street signs blurred together as Lucas weaved through traffic with effortless precision, each turn sharp yet controlled.

Anna gripped the armrest, forcing herself to remain composed.Their destination was the airport. A long flight awaited them, and Anna found herself sitting beside Lucas the entire way. Hours passed, each second stretching painfully slow as she stared out the window, her fingers drumming against her armrest. Lucas, on the other hand, seemed perfectly at ease, reclining in his seat as if the flight was nothing more than an afterthought.

By the time they landed, Anna felt drained, but anticipation kept her alert. This was the first step toward her new life, toward the revenge she had sworn to take.

A black luxury car awaited them outside the airport, and a sharply dressed driver stood by, bowing slightly as he opened the door. The ride to Lucas's house was smooth, the streets illuminated by the city's glow as they passed towering buildings and elegant estates.

When they finally arrived, Anna's breath hitched.

The mansion before her was nothing short of breathtaking—an architectural masterpiece with towering pillars, endless glass windows, and cascading waterfalls in the front yard. It was a perfect blend of modern sophistication and old-money luxury. Even in the dim evening light, the estate gleamed under the carefully placed lights, giving it an ethereal glow.

Lucas stepped out of the car first, adjusting his suit as he turned to her. "Come on, little soul," he called, amusement laced in his voice.

Anna followed him inside, her eyes scanning the grand foyer. A massive chandelier hung overhead, reflecting off the marble floors. Every detail screamed wealth and power, a place built for a king—or in this case, a devil.

Lucas gestured toward a hallway. "You'll be staying in that room," he said, pointing to a door just beside his own. His voice was smooth but held an edge of command. "Get some rest. When you're ready, come to my room." With that, he turned on his heels and disappeared into his own space.

Anna let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding.

"Of all the rooms in this mansion, why the one so close to him?" she muttered under her breath, running a hand down her face. But arguing with him was pointless.

She walked to her assigned room and pushed the door open.

The moment she stepped inside, her irritation melted away.

The room was stunning. The walls were painted in soft, calming hues, and the furniture was a perfect balance of elegance and comfort. The bed was large, draped in silk sheets that begged to be touched. The lighting was warm, the air smelled of lavender, and for the first time since she had woken up in the hospital, she felt a semblance of peace.

Cl

osing the door behind her, Anna exhaled.