#Chapter 76: Manipulations

Ella & Alexander Ella The longer I lay there in that empty bed, the more bitter I became. What had I expected? That Alexander would stay beside me, maybe stroke my hair while I slept? That he’d wake me with gentle kisses and promises? Goddess, I was such a naive little fool. Eventually, I dragged myself out of bed and pulled on a robe, wrapping it tightly around myself. I wasn’t going to hide away in shame. And besides, I needed coffee. But when I reached the main staircase, I heard voices coming from Alexander’s office. The door was partially open, and I could make out several people inside. Curious despite myself, I crept closer. “—why your car was used for the kidnapping…” That was Alexander’s voice. I pressed myself against the wall beside the door, straining to listen. “Alex, I swear to you, my car was stolen!” Sophia’s voice was desperate. “I reported it to the police yesterday morning when I discovered it was missing from my driv