Chapter 1 Twenty one years ago

"My beautiful daughter, you're finally here. Tell me, what would you like to eat? How was your day, buttercup? And why are your hands so cold?" Krystle asked with concern.

"Mom, why is Melissa saying that my brothers are my half-siblings and that Dad is your second husband? She called me the daughter of a criminal in front of everyone, and they were all giving me strange looks and gossiping. I told them off for judging without knowing anything. I know you couldn't possibly be involved in whatever nonsense she's saying. She's just seeking attention and trying to make me look bad. They need to think for themselves and see the truth before jumping to conclusions."

"I want to know everything about your life. I don't want to live in the dark and let people gossip. I will protect and love you all, no matter what the truth may be. You are my family, and you shouldn't hide it from me."

"Stop crying, Celine. I understand your confusion and frustration. Melissa's words may have caused you distress, but you are genuinely cherished and appreciated by those around you. Don't allow the judgments of others to affect you. Mom isn't a murderer. It's important to address these concerns and clear any misunderstandings that may have arisen."

"Let me share with you the story of my life and how I met your father. I'll shed light on the events of my past. In our family, trust and honesty are essential values that form a solid foundation and are vital in all relationships. I want you to be at ease knowing the truth. Together, we can overcome any challenges that may arise."

"Twenty-one years ago, Krystle Wilson, the most elegant and beautiful woman, lived her life like a princess. She was the apple of her parents' eyes, and they made sure to fulfill her every wish. I got married to my love, Eric Vladimir, the wealthiest and most handsome man in the city. We loved each other unconditionally, and life was going well. I was twenty when we got married; it lasted for six years."

"We had two sons, Ryan, who was three years old, and Leo, who was two years old. Both were adorable kids with grayish-black eyes and fair skin."

Krystle smiled and said, "Honey, Mom has planned a banquet tomorrow. Do you know what tomorrow is?" Eric kissed her forehead and cheeks. He said, "Tomorrow marks a significant milestone in our relationship as our love deepens and grows stronger." Krystle hugged him happily and said, "Our wedding anniversary is tomorrow, and I know you always remember this special day. You belong to me, and my heart will always belong to you. Remember, you can never leave me in this lifetime. If you ever consider leaving me, breaking my heart, or having another girl in your life, I will leave you forever and never return. I will take our kids and leave you alone as your punishment. Even if you call me a thousand times, I won't spare you a glance or feel any pity because you lost me by failing to appreciate what you had," she said to him with a raised voice.

He was stunned and about to say something when Krystle said, "I'll go and see whether our kids are asleep. They like bedtime stories every night." Eric embraced her and said, "Babe, you don't have to worry about the kids. I told them stories, and both are asleep."

He embraced her tightly and whispered, "My sweetheart, love of my life, please don't talk about leaving and such ominous words. My love for you knows no bounds. I promise to always keep you by my side. I'll hold you so tight and never let you escape from my embrace."

They swayed together moving in perfect harmony, lost in the rhythm of the music and the warmth of each other's embrace. Every glance, every touch was magnetic, pulling them closer as if nothing else in the world existed. Their smiles spoke in whispers, a silent exchange of longing and desire.

As the final note faded into the air, Eric's gaze held hers, deep and unwavering, his eyes brimming with love-and something more. Anticipation. A quiet, desperate plea. Her breath caught, her pulse raced both lost in eachother eyes. A flicker of hesitation stirred within her, an instinct to run-not from fear, but from the overwhelming depth of what she felt.

But she couldn't. She wouldn't. Because she is in love. And she wanted him just as much as he wanted her as they kissed eachother passionately.

"It's time for us to have a wonderful night." In the morning, Eric woke up to the sound of his alarm clock. He gazed at the peaceful face of his wife sleeping beside him and couldn't resist planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. He lovingly ran his fingers through her hair and whispered, "My wife is truly a sleeping beauty." Krystle, with a smile on her face, replied, "Thank you, honey," without even opening her eyes. She playfully added, "If I'm your sleeping beauty, then you'll have to wake me up with a kiss and tell me how much you love me before I open my eyes." Eric chuckled and said, "You're so clever, my dear. I'll gladly tell you every day how much I love you. I'll always be your knight in shining armor, by your side whenever you need me. I'll protect and cherish you and our children until my last breath. Your happiness means everything to me, and I promise to never leave you in any situation." He sealed his words with a tender kiss on her lips. "Wake up, my love, and know that my feelings for you are genuine. I'll stand by my promises till the end." Moved by his heartfelt words, Krystle opened her eyes, tears glistening. "I'll love you always, Eric, until my last breath," she whispered. "I can't shake this feeling that my life is about to change. I'm living in a dream. When I wake up, everything will be different."

"Today, on our special day, I should be the happiest woman alive, but something feels off." Eric reassured her, "Don't dwell on negative thoughts. Today is our anniversary, and it's a day to celebrate. Let's just enjoy the moment." He scooped her up in his arms and led her to the bathroom, turning on the shower. After a refreshing bath, they both got dressed for the day. Krystle then went to the kids' room, helping them get ready and announcing that she had prepared their favorite dishes. Excitedly, Ryan and Leo took her hands and rushed to the dining table. During dinner, Krystle proudly served her homemade nutritious meal to her in-laws, saying, "Mom, Dad, please try this. It's healthy and delicious, specially made by me."

Lilac, her mother-in-law, expressed delight over her cooking, saying she was amazing. She added, "Whatever Krystle makes, it's always a hit. You don't need to stress over it; we've got plenty of helpers around. Just chill and enjoy the perks, like Illeana does."

- Dear readers,

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