SCARLET VOWS

Scarlet Vows

A Romance of Love, Betrayal, and Revenge

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1. The Call That Changed Everything

Celeste sat frozen, the phone pressed against her ear, her heartbeat an unsteady rhythm.

The voice on the other end was smooth, calculated. "I was expecting your call, Celeste."

She swallowed hard. "We need to meet. Now."

A low chuckle. "Impatient, aren't we? I like that. But are you sure you're ready for what comes next?"

No.

She wasn't sure of anything anymore.

But she had no choice.

"Just tell me where."

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2. A Midnight Rendezvous

An hour later, Celeste stood outside an abandoned warehouse on the edge of town.

The wind howled through the empty streets, whispering secrets she didn't want to hear.

Footsteps echoed behind her.

She turned sharply—

And there he was.

Dante.

The man who knew everything.

The man who could destroy her.

He stepped forward, his dark eyes gleaming under the dim light. "You look nervous, Celeste."

"I should be."

He smirked. "Yes, you should."

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3. Bargaining with the Devil

Celeste squared her shoulders. "I need answers."

Dante tilted his head. "And what do I get in return?"

Her stomach twisted. "You already have what you need."

His smirk widened. "Ah, but do I have all of it?"

Celeste's hands clenched into fists. "You're playing a dangerous game."

Dante stepped closer, his breath warm against her skin. "And you're caught in the middle of it."

She exhaled shakily. "Tell me what you know about Santino."

A flicker of amusement crossed his face. "You're asking the wrong question, darling."

Her brow furrowed. "Then what's the right one?"

His voice dropped to a whisper. "Not what I know about Santino—"

"But what Rafael is hiding from you."

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4. The Truth in Pieces

Celeste's breath caught. "What are you talking about?"

Dante's eyes gleamed. "You think Rafael is your savior? He's been keeping secrets, Celeste. Dangerous ones."

Her chest tightened. "Lies. Rafael wouldn't—"

Dante cut her off with a laugh. "Wouldn't he? Have you ever wondered why he always shows up at the right time? Why he's so desperate to keep you away from Santino?"

A sliver of doubt crept into her mind.

No.

Rafael wouldn't betray her.

Would he?

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5. Shadows in the Dark

Dante leaned closer, his voice like silk. "You want the truth?"

Celeste swallowed hard. "Yes."

He grinned. "Then be ready, because it's going to ruin you."

A cold shiver ran down her spine.

And for the first time—

Celeste realized she might not survive this.

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End of Chapter Nine