Emily pov


    I repeatedly hissed as memories of the events at Alpha Christian''s mansion flooded my mind. Simultaneously, I became aware of the unpleasant odor emanating from the potato chips I was frying, which had begun to smell burnt. In a state of urgency,Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    I hurried to the kitchen, where the mes were more than I could manage. I quickly turned off the stove and leaned against the cupboard, trying to regain myposure.


    My breathing was heavy, and my heart raced with anxiety, hoping that Tris would not find me in this state. I feared he would be overly concerned and instinctively rush to protect me.


    As I steadied myself against the cupboard, the acrid scent of burnt potato chips made my stomach churn, and I struggled to dismiss the haunting memories of Alpha Christian''s mansion, where anger still simmered within me. I took several deep breaths, attempting to clear my mind.


    At that moment, I heard footsteps approaching. Tris entered the kitchen, his expression filled with worry. "Is everything alright? I noticed a burning smell," he inquired, his gaze sweeping over the kitchen, taking in the charred chips and my disheveled appearance.


    I managed a faint smile, not wanting to add to his concerns. "It''s nothing serious; I just got a bit distracted and burnt the chips," I replied, downying the situation. However, Tris was perceptive and could see through my facade. He stepped closer, his eyes fixed on mine. "What''s bothering you?" he asked softly, his tone soothing. "You seem shaken." He reached out, his hand lightly brushing against mine.


    I found myself hesitating, uncertain about the extent of my disclosure. However, Tris''s gentle encouragement and sincere concern prompted me to share. "It''s just... memories from my past that continue to haunt me," I admitted, my voice scarcely above a whisper.


    Tris''s expression shifted to one of understanding as he enveloped me in aforting embrace. "I am here," he murmured. "You are safe now." His warmth surrounded me, dispelling some of the darkness that lingered.


    As we stood together, the tension gradually dissipated from my body. I came to the realization that I was not alone in this struggle. Tris was present, providing a shield against the shadows of my past.


    "Let us begin anew with the chips," Tris proposed, breaking the silence. "I will assist you." He smiled, and together we embarked on this simple task, which served as a wee diversion from my lingering fears. Yet, as we worked, I could not shake the feeling that the memories of Alpha Christian would continue to haunt me, lying in wait to strike when I least anticipated it.


    "Tris, what are your thoughts?"


    He turned to me quickly, confusion evident on his face. "I don''t understand, about what specifically?"


    "Let us create new chips; it is better if we do everything together. I need to forget certain things."


    Tris''s expression softened as he tenderly tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. "Forget what things, precisely?" he inquired, his voice low and soothing.


    I hesitated once more, uncertain of how much to disclose. Yet, Tris''spassionate gaze urged me to confide. "Alpha Christian... what transpired in his mansion," I whispered, the words barely escaping my lips.


    Tris''s jaw tightened, a brief sh of anger evident on his face. However, he quickly regained hisposure, directing his attention towards me. "We will confront those memories together," he assured me. "And we will ovee them, step by step."


    We began the process of preparing new potato chips, the simple task providing a much-needed distraction from my troubled mind. Tris worked alongside me, his presence soothing. As we sliced the potatoes and heated the oil, our hands brushed against each other, igniting a sense offort within me.


    "You know," Tris remarked, breaking the silence, "I''ve been considering that we might benefit from speaking to someone about what transpired. A professional, someone who can assist you in processing-"


    I shook my head vigorously, a wave of fear washing over me. "No, Tris. I don''t want anyone else to be aware. This is something between us." My eyes implored him toprehend my feelings.


    Tris nodded thoughtfully. "I understand. But please promise me that you will continue to talk to me, to share your feelings. I am here for you, always." His gaze held mine, filled with steadfast support.


    As wepleted frying the new batch of chips, the delightful aroma filled the kitchen, recing the scent of burnt food. We settled down together, enjoying the crispy chips, and for a brief moment, my worries fade away.


    Yet, as the sun sank below the horizon, casting elongated shadows throughout the room, I could not shake the sensation that Alpha Christian''s presence still loomed, waiting to reim me.


    As I sat contemting my next steps, my phone chimed with a notification. Upon ncing at it, I saw a message from Alpha Christian. Tris remained seated close to me, and I was reluctant for him to discover my connection to Alpha Christian. I understood that we had business to attend to, but certain matters, particrly my feelings for Alpha Christian, were meant to remain confidential.


    My heart raced as I nced at the notification on my phone. The name Alpha Christian illuminated the screen, sending a chill through me. Tris, unaware of the sudden shift in atmosphere, continued to munch on chips beside me.


    I swiftly muted my phone, striving to maintain aposed demeanor. However, my thoughts were in turmoil. What could Alpha Christian possibly want? Had he uncovered my hidden truths?


    "Is everything alright?" Tris inquired, noticing my abrupt stillness.


    I managed a forced smile. "Yes, just... some spam." I quickly typed a reply to Alpha Christian, attempting to keep my hands steady.


    "Busy?" Tris asked, ncing at my phone.


    "Just... work-rted matters," I responded vaguely, hoping he would not delve deeper.


    Tris nodded and returned to his chips. I exhaled a quiet sigh of relief, thankful that he remained oblivious.


    As I continued to exchange messages with Alpha Christian, my stomach churned with anxiety. Our business arrangements were meant to be confidential, yet my feelings for himplicated the situation significantly. "Tris, I... need to get some fresh air," I announced abruptly, rising from my seat.


    Tris looked at me with concern. "Are you sure you''re alright?"


    I nodded quickly. "Yes, I just... need to clear my mind."


    I stepped outside, my phone still tightly held in my grasp. The messages from Alpha Christian became increasingly urgent, demanding my immediate attention.


    "Meet me tonight," histest message stated. "We need to discuss the terms."


    My heart raced. What could he be nning?


    How could I leave without Tris discovering my intentions? Thoughts flooded my mind, yet none provided a suitable excuse for me to exit the mansion without Tris following me.