Sophie’s POV
I smirked when Ryan wasn't looking, gently touching the fake bruises on my face. This trick worked beautifully. Poor, sweet, gullible Ryan.
Back at the Blackwood estate, I settled into my old guest room like I'd never left. It felt good being back here—like the first step in reclaiming what should've been mine all along.
My phone buzzed with a message from Derek.
"How was my performance? Good enough? I need the rest of my payment. A few more shows like this, and Blackwood really will run me out of town."
I transferred him part of the money, not the full amount. Always keep people hungry for more—that's how you control them.
"Be patient. I'll need you again. Money won't be a problem."
The price was steep, but worth every penny. Ryan had always been suscep
