The Scars We Carry

Rose stood frozen, peeking through the crack of the door. She had witnessed everything between Julian and Isabella. As Julian turned, his piercing gaze locked onto her.

"Rose," Julian said coldly. "Do you think I didn't notice you?"

Rose stammered. "Sir, I wasn't spying—"

"Do you think I'm a fool?" Julian interrupted, his tone sharp.

"No, sir," Rose replied quickly, her face pale.

"Then why were you spying on us?" Julian pressed, stepping closer.

Rose hesitated, her voice trembling. "I thought she might hurt you."

Julian's eyes narrowed. "Rose, I won't ask again. Why were you spying on us?"

Rose took a deep breath and finally admitted, "Because I thought she was your wife."

Julian's expression darkened. "And why would you think that?"

"Your sister Lucy told me your wife was coming," Rose blurted out.

Julian's jaw tightened, his voice dropping to a deadly calm. "Never spy on me again. Am I clear?"

Rose nodded quickly. "Yes, boss."

Julian sighed, rubbing his temples. "I've had enough for today. I'm going home."

"Okay," Rose replied, keeping her head down as Julian left the office.

Outside, Julian was met by a swarm of reporters. Cameras flashed, and microphones were thrust in his face as questions came from all directions.

One reporter, a bold woman named Lisa, stepped forward. "Mr. Moreau, we received a tip that your wife is here. And we have this photo."

She held up a picture of Isabella.

Julian's eyes narrowed. "Why are you here?" he demanded. "I told you to stay away from my private affairs."

Lisa pressed on. "We stopped a woman who looked like her running out of the building in tears. Is she your wife?"

"No," Julian said flatly.

Lisa smirked. "You're lying. She lives in the same house as you. I visited your home, and your sister and mother said she's your wife."

Julian's lips curled into a forced smile. "Yes, she is. We were trying to keep it private."

Lisa tilted her head, unconvinced. "If you're lying, the whole world will turn against you."

Julian's fake smile faltered. "Did I say wife? I meant soon-to-be wife."

Lisa gave him a skeptical look but didn't push further.

As Julian turned to leave, he caught sight of Rose standing nearby, her expression unreadable. Isabella's name escaped her lips in a whisper, but the venom was unmistakable.

"I will destroy you, Isabella," Rose muttered under her breath, her fists clenched tightly.