Chapter 1.8: Dark Loves


    Miranda Sweetness strolled through the grand halls of her castle, the weight of her day’s successes amplifying her confidence. Repairs had gone smoothly, her public image had been bolstered, and she had set plans in motion to deal with her rivals. Yet, as she climbed the spiral staircase to her private quarters, her mind wandered back to those who had failed her.


    Aurelius deserved every bit of his humiliating fate as a golem. She smirked, remembering all the times he had proven to be a thorn in her side, only to finally be reduced to something entirely beneath her. Every star has its dim nights, she thought with venomous satisfaction.


    Her thoughts shifted to Hyperman, now an orange. How ironic, she mused. He always thought himself so invincible, and yet here he is—juicy and helpless. A dark chuckle escaped her lips.


    As she waved off the last of her guards and approached her bedroom, she envisioned the next phase of her schemes. Two names loomed large in her mind: the princess she had poisoned, and that meddlesome TV reporter. Both had narrowly escaped her wrath, but tomorrow, she would rectify those oversights.


    A Midnight Interruption


    Miranda slipped into her room and locked the door behind her. She peeled off her elaborate gown, letting it fall to the floor in a silken heap, revealing her flawless form. Her bare skin gleamed in the moonlight streaming through the ornate windows. She stretched luxuriously before collapsing onto her bed, the plush covers embracing her.


    As she lay there, her mind continued to churn. Her fingers idly traced circles on the bedding as she considered her sister, Beatrice. They hadn’t spoken in years. I wonder if she still dreams of ruling, Miranda thought. The idea amused her. Beatrice had always been content to stay in the shadows, while Miranda thrived in the limelight.


    Her thoughts began to drift, her eyelids growing heavy. But just as she was slipping into the comfort of sleep, her phone rang.


    With a groan, she grabbed the device, the name S.A.C. flashing on the screen. She sat up, her irritation tempered by curiosity, and answered.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    The Call with S.A.C.


    Miranda: “Hello? I know the plan hit a few bumps, but I’m still advancing!”


    S.A.C.: “We know, Miranda. This is a reminder. There’s much at stake here. You have power, and more is within reach, but don’t forget—it’s just as easy to lose it.”


    Miranda rolled her eyes, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “Yes, I know. I’m the key to our little operation, and everyone’s counting on me. What is it this time?”


    S.A.C.: “Arthur Coleman. His torture will bring us closer to securing the democratic victory in the next election. Don’t fail.”


    Miranda’s tone sharpened. “Arthur Coleman...he’ll receive my personal attention tomorrow. Any other names?”


    S.A.C.: “Not at this time. Just remember—your father is proud. Mr. White watches your every move.”


    At the mention of her father, Miranda’s expression softened for a fleeting moment. She hesitated before speaking. “And...how is she?”


    S.A.C.: “Who?”


    Miranda: “My sister. Beatrice. How is she?”


    S.A.C.: “She’s perfect, living peacefully in her castle.”


    Miranda leaned back, a sly smile creeping across her lips. “So, she finally left that tiresome job and built her own castle? Impressive. Has she shown any interest in politics?”


    S.A.C.: “No signs of that. She’s content where she is.”


    Miranda’s thoughts raced. No competition for now...but perhaps a reunion is in order. Friendly, of course...for now.


    S.A.C.: “Ms. Sweetness, you’re our only winner. Don’t forget it.”


    Miranda: “I never do. Now, one last thing—tell Lami she’s getting a new friend to...‘play’ with tomorrow.”


    S.A.C.: “Understood. Have a good night, Ms. Sweetness.”


    Miranda hung up, a smug grin on her face. “Now let’s see how much freedom I can enjoy before morning.”


    A Slimy Second Call


    She was just beginning to relax again when her phone buzzed for the second time. Groaning, she saw the caller ID: Lami the Slami.


    Miranda: “Hello, Lami. Couldn’t wait till morning?”


    Lami: “I’m so hyped! Tomorrow I’ll finally get to see you again!”


    Miranda sighed. “It’s only been two weeks since I moved here, Lami. Control yourself.”


    Lami: “Two weeks? It feels like forever! I’ve missed your body—”


    Miranda: “LAMI! Too much! Keep that nonsense for when we’re together.”


    Lami: “Okay, but I’m a very impatient slime!” (Playful squishing sounds echoed through the phone.)


    Miranda: “Stop bouncing! And for heaven’s sake, be presentable. Fix your hair...or whatever passes for hair on a slime.”


    Lami: “Fine, fine. I’ll look my best. See you tomorrow!”


    Miranda: “Goodnight, Gelatine.”


    She ended the call and flopped back onto her bed. Finally, sleep came, and this time, there were no interruptions.