Prologue

Sophie Franklin.

I wake up to the bright ray of sunshine that sneaks between the tiny gap in the curtains and slants across my face. Stretching my body, I immediately become aware of the soreness between my legs, marks on my body, and the faint smell of sex surrounding the room, a pressing reminder of what transpired last night between me and Marcus. My breathing hitches, and I cautiously turn around to find him still asleep, a peaceful look on his face, one hand draped around my waist. Memories of the night before flood my brain, and a deep blush envelops me from the crown of my head to the very soles of my feet. Oh God... Last night wasn't supposed to happen. I need to get out of here now!

Cautiously sliding out of the bed, I immediately pick up all my discarded clothing, hurriedly putting them on and sneaking out of the room. Checking one last time to see if he's already awake, I let out a sigh of relief when I find he's still asleep, before quietly opening up the door and stepping one foot outside of the room. It feels wrong to leave this way, but I can't wait for him to wake up and acknowledge the feelings I have for him. Pressing my lips firmly together, I walk outside of the bedroom.

I close the door gently behind me, take a deep breath, and close my eyes. Though every cell in my body screams to stay, I know I can't. I can't ask for more. I broke too many of my rules last night. It's time to move on and put all of this behind me. I cast one final look at the door, feeling apologetic hurry away from it, my hair flying around.

I'm sorry, Marcus, but I can't wait for you to wake up and find me here. It was fun while it lasted, but... Let's never see each other again. Oh, and one more thing. My name was never Estella. It's Sophie. Sophie Franklin.

Marcus Beadoux

I am underwater. At least, that's what it feels like until my fingers meet the chilly sheets beside me, jolting me awake. Squinting my eyes against the bright sunlight streaming into the room, I look around to find an empty bed and an even emptier room. My heart skips a beat, my brows furrowing. Is she already gone?

Jumping out of bed, I immediately go to look for her throughout the house with no luck. She must have stepped out while I was still fast asleep. A wave of disappointment crashes over me, my mind refusing to accept that she is truly gone.

I know I should let her go, after all, what we have is just a flimsy fling and is bound to end anyway. But I can't let go of the fact that I want to see her again. And I will find her, wherever she might have gone.

I will find her again.