The villa had become a beautiful prison with no visible bars.
Three days had passed since the failed escape attempt, and Alexander’s control had become absolute yet invisible. The security guards were always within sight. The boat remained locked at the dock. Even the children’s playtime was scheduled with military precision. I was never truly alone — not even when I went to the bathroom or took a shower.
I sat on the terrace that afternoon, watching Alex and Sofia play under the watchful eyes of two guards. My hand rested on my heavily pregnant belly as the baby kicked strongly, a reminder of the life I was carrying — a child who would be born into this twisted paradise.
Alexander joined me, pulling a chair close and taking my hand. His touch was gentle, but his grip was firm, as if af
