09
Derek was eager to cooperate as the police pulled up a video recording.
I hovered just behind him, my gaze fixed on the screen.
The footage was murky and distant, but it was clear enough to show a woman dragging me away and then tossing me aside.
She drew a knife and viciously slashed my face, then grabbed a small hammer and struck me repeatedly until I breathed my last.
Even from afar, the gruesome brutality was stomach–churning. The sight of the blood and
mangled flesh made me want to look away.
As I watched, I felt the agonizing pain of my final moments wash over me, a haunting
reminder of the despair that had consumed me then.
Derek’s fists clenched, tears streaming down his cheeks as his eyes filled with anguish.
He shook with the shock of it all, his face going pale as he could hardly believe the horror of
my death.
Cen you identify this woman?‘ one of the officers asked.
Derek gritted his teeth the light in his eyes flickering out.
Docked my gore on him. Even if others couldn’t tell, I knew he would recognize Vanessa
The outfit she wore was the same one she had on when she came to help him.
Not to mention, he had always followed her since school, quietly admiring her.
That silhouette was forever imprinted in his memory.
let out a bitter smile, knowing he couldn’t hear my thoughts. “Derek, do you see it clearly? It was Vanessa who killed me! The woman you worshipped! She did this!
You said she was pure, right? Look at what she’s done! She’s a murderer! The woman you
defend is a killer!”
text.
Tyearned for him to say her name, but disappointment washed over me again.
Derek shut his eyes, fists tightening, shaking his head.
“I can’t recognize her.”
Eventually, he was let go. The police cleared him since the killer was a woman.
After leaving the station, he made a phone call and gave a few orders before receiving a
He read the message, his expression grave.
I felt a surge of anger at him.
How could he continue to protect Vanessa when he knew she was the one who took my life?
Trapped in his presence, I followed him home.
I watched as he bought flowers, candles, and colorful ribbons, transforming the place. He
cooked a feast and uncorked a bottle of red wine.
If only I could reach out to him, I would have wanted to strangle him for his obliviousness.
When Vanessa walked in and saw the setup, her eyes widened in surprise.
Vanessa, you’re back!”
She quickly masked her shock with a smile. “Yeah, I had coffee with some friends and got
back late. What’s all this?”
Derek grinned back. The police found the killer. It’s not connected to me. We’re celebrating!”
They found the killer?”
Vanessa’s surprise was palpable, and I could see the flicker of panic in her eyes.
Derek seemed oblivious to her anxiety as he pulled her down to sit and poured her a glass of
wine. Yes, it’s a woman.”
Vanessa’s heart raced, and she nervously took a sip.
“A woman? That’s quite shocking… Oh, darling, I just remembered, I think I left my car
unlocked. I should go lock it.”
Something made her want to flee, but as soon as she stood, her legs went weak, and she collapsed to the floor.
Panic washed over her as she looked up at Derek, but his smile had vanished, replaced by dark, steely gaze.
Darling, help me up! Why do I feel so weak?”
