Reclaiming Her Heart

Raymond had spoken only the truth. Only by understanding the consequences could Ann decide what to do next.

Ann sat frozen, watching him open the door and leave. Her mind replayed memories of her past with Paul-his perpetual expressionless face, his mocking and humiliating words.

Aside from physical desire, his only kindness came because he found her sexually satisfying something he'd admitted himself. Paul hadn't been with other women; he hadn't even wanted to try. His contempt for women was bone-deep.

Ann had been the exception when she'd climbed into his bed. Though disgusted, he'd reasoned that since he'd already slept with her once, a few more times wouldn't matter. It provided release. With such thoughts, why would he ever treat Ann kindly?

She remained on the sofa until her body grew stiff. Eventually, Paul came downstairs and embraced her.

"What's wrong?" he asked, noticing her expression.

She forced a smile and shook her head without speaking.

Paul kissed her ear and pulled away her scarf, revealing the marks on her neck and her slightly swollen lips. He leaned in for another kiss, but she covered his lips with her palm.

"Paul, I'm tired."

Yet his gentle kisses came anyway, soft as rain, and she melted once more. His face gazed at her with such tenderness that rational thought became impossible. Then Paul tasted tears.

He pulled back, frowning as he examined her eyes. Tears slid from the corners, dampening her hair. "Ann, what's wrong?"

After much hesitation, she hugged his waist tightly.

He smiled, patting her back.

"Paul, when you say you like me... is it true?"

"Yes."

"You're not lying?"

"No."

"But what if someday you deny it? What if you insult me and tell me to leave? What then?"

Paul's expression darkened. He grabbed her hand and cupped the back of her head. "Ann, that day will never come. I know how wonderful you are."

Ann stared directly into his eyes. "Do you promise?"

"I promise. Did that man say something to you?"

His brow furrowed with anger, looking ready to drag Raymond back for a confrontation.

Her heart ached with each beat. "No. I'm just afraid you won't want me once you remember everything."noveldrama

"I will want you. Let me kiss you again. You look so troubled smile for me." With those words, he pressed her down onto the sofa.

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When Raymond got into his car, he contacted Alex, wanting to meet.

Alex had been feeling lonely with Victor away in Vistalia and was shocked to hear Raymond had returned.

"You!" he exclaimed, then quickly lowered his voice. "How dare you come back? If you're looking for a man with a red mole on his earlobe, I've checked everyone— nobody has one."

"What about Victor?"

"Victor doesn't have one either. I've examined his ears hundreds of times he probably thinks I'm disturbed. We had drinks just two days ago before he left overnight for Vistalia. He has several research conferences to attend and some business with the Smith family. He didn't give specifics, just said he needed to speak with the head of the Smith family personally."

Raymond's frown deepened.

If Victor truly had another identity, would he report his movements to Alex in such detail?

Alex said firmly, "Raymond, I swear, none of the people I know match the description of the person you're looking for."

Raymond rubbed his temple. He was missing something obvious. Who could this person be?