Chapter 8 Beginning of the War

Damien sat in his car outside Aria's apartment.

He hadn't knocked.

He just... stared at the door.

Why did I agree to this?

She hated him.

But something about her eyes last night-

The coldness.

The fire.

It pulled him in.

Like a flame he couldn't just escape.

He finally drove off.

But someone else didn't.

Across the street, in a black car, a man took photos of Damien leaving.

Then, he texted Aria.

"He just left alone. He looks confused."

She replied instantly.

"Perfect. Send me the pictures."

Aria sat on the bed in a silk robe, legs crossed, sipping red wine.

Her phone buzzed.

Photos appeared on her screen.

Damien's face looking lost, weak and unsure.

He looked just how she wanted him.

She saved the pictures to her phone.

Then got up and changed into a black dress.

The dress was short, elegant and looked dangerous.

Tonight, she was attending a party.

One where Damien's new business partner, Victor Grey, would be.

She had a plan.

The ballroom glittered with lights and fake smiles.

Aria walked in like a queen returning to her throne.

People whispered.But she didn't care.

She spotted Victor near the bar.

Tall. Handsome. A man with too many secrets.

She walked up, confidence in every step.

"Victor Grey," she said smoothly.

He turned, surprised. Then smiled. "You know me?"

"Of course. Your name is everywhere."

"And you are?"

"Aria Collins."

He paused.

"I've heard of you."

"I hope good things."

Victor chuckled. "Only the best."

They shared a drink.

Laughed a little.

Then she dropped the bait.

"I hear you're working with Damien ."

Victor's smile faded slightly. "Yes. Why?"

"I just wonder," Aria said softly, "if you know what kind of man he really is."

Victor leaned in. "I like secrets, Miss Collins. If you have any... I'm listening."

She smiled.

Back at home, Damien stood in front of his mirror.

He stared at himself.

Was he really falling for her again?

Did she really still hate him?

He didn't know.

But what he didn't see-

Was that behind him on the dresser,

Aria had left a note the last time she visited.

Just one line:

"I will ruin you slowly."

And she meant every word.