The island paradise was cracking at the seams.
Alexander’s control had become absolute yet invisible. The security guards were always within sight. The boat stayed locked. 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. The rose-gold collar around my neck felt like a tracking device, beautiful and deadly.
I spent the morning with Alex and Sofia on the beach, forcing laughter as they built sandcastles. My hand never left my heavily pregnant belly. The baby kicked strongly, a reminder of the life I was carrying — a child who would be born into this beautiful nightmare.
Alexander joined us later, scooping Alex onto his shoulders and helping Sofia with her sandcastle. He looked every bit the devo
