Price of Love

Chapter Two

The morning sun spilled into Daphne's apartment, warming the small space and casting soft rays across her bed. She stretched, feeling the remnants of last night’s dreams slip away as she remembered her new life awaited her beyond those four walls. Today marked the start of her law classes, and with it, a chance to redefine her future.

After a quick breakfast, she dressed in a tailored blazer and fitted trousers, ready to embrace her role as a law student. She looked in the mirror, trying to boost her confidence. “You can do this,” she whispered to herself, straightening her shoulders and reminding herself of the strength that had brought her this far.

Stepping out into the vibrant streets, Daphne felt a rush of exhilaration. The city pulsed with life, and she couldn’t help but smile at the prospect of what lay ahead. The sounds of chatter, laughter, and music filled the air, blending together into a beautiful symphony that echoed her hopes.

Her first lecture was in a spacious lecture hall, buzzing with eager students. As she took her seat, she scanned the room, noting the diversity of her peers. Everyone looked so figured out, she thought. The professor walked in, a charismatic figure who immediately commanded attention. He began discussing the intricacies of contract law, and Daphne found herself engrossed, her mind racing with the possibilities of what she could achieve in this field.

After class, as students filtered out, she made her way to the campus café, craving a moment to breathe and collect her thoughts. The smell of freshly brewed coffee enveloped her as she ordered a latte. She spotted a corner table, ideal for diving into her coursework. As she settled in with her notes, she felt a presence nearby.

“Mind if I join you?” a voice asked, pulling her from her focus. It was the same man from the street last night, his dark hair framing a chiseled jawline, and those piercing eyes now fixed on her with a playful intensity.

“Uh, sure,” she stammered, unsure how to react. She gestured to the empty seat across from her, trying to shake off the feeling of vulnerability he evoked.

“I’m Samuel, by the way, call me Sam,” he said, flashing a charming smile as he sat down. “I couldn’t help but notice you in class. You seem like you have a good head on your shoulders.”

“Thanks,” she replied, feeling flattered yet cautious. “I’m Daphne.”

They exchanged small talk, and Daphne found herself drawn to his charisma and charm. Samuel had a way of making her laugh, effortlessly filling the space between them with flirtation. However, she couldn’t shake the instinctive warning in the back of her mind—something about him felt off.

“So, what brings you to this city?” Samuel asked, leaning in slightly, his gaze searching hers.

“I moved here to study law and start fresh,” she replied, her tone measured. She hesitated before adding, “I wanted to escape some... difficult memories.”

Samuel’s expression shifted, a hint of understanding flickering in his eyes. “I get that. We all have our baggage.” He paused for a moment, then leaned back with a grin. “But let’s focus on the present, shall we? You’re in a new city with new opportunities.”

Their conversation continued, but as they spoke, Daphne felt a mix of attraction and caution. There was an allure to Samuel, but something in his intensity made her wary. Just then, her phone buzzed on the table, interrupting their moment. It was a message from Rhys.

“How’s the first day going? Miss you already!”

A smile broke across her face as she read it, but it was short-lived as Samuel’s gaze sharpened, a flicker of possessiveness crossing his features. “Boyfriend?” he asked, his tone casual but his eyes betraying a hint of challenge.

“Yes,” Daphne replied, her voice steady despite the knot forming in her stomach. “He’s been really supportive.”

“Long-distance?” Samuel pressed, a mischievous glint in his eye.

“Yeah, but we manage,” she said, feeling the need to defend her relationship. “It’s not easy, but we love each other.”

Samuel chuckled softly, leaning closer. “Love can be complicated, can’t it? Sometimes people think they know what they want until they don’t.”

His words hung in the air, and Daphne felt a chill run down her spine. There was a double meaning there, one that made her uncomfortable. “I believe in love,” she stated firmly, trying to maintain her composure. “And I trust Rhys.”

As their conversation wore on, Daphne found herself trying to balance the fun and flirtation Samuel offered with her loyalty to Rhys. She knew she had to tread carefully; the last thing she wanted was to fall into the same traps she had escaped from.

After finishing their coffees, Samuel leaned back, his expression shifting to something more serious. “You know, Daphne, if you ever need anything—friends, help with school, or just someone to show you around—I’m here.”

“Thanks, but I’m okay,” she replied, her resolve strengthening. She appreciated the offer, but she was determined not to lose herself in this new city like she had back home.

As they parted ways, Daphne felt a mix of excitement and dread. Samuel was magnetic, but there was an underlying danger that made her heart race in a way that both thrilled and terrified her. As she walked back to her apartment, she couldn't shake the feeling that this new beginning would come with its own set of challenges—challenges that might threaten the fragile peace she was trying to build.

When she reached her apartment, her phone buzzed again. This time it was a video call from Rhys. As his face appeared on the screen, a wave of warmth flooded through her.

“Hey, beautiful!” he greeted, his smile instantly making her heart swell. They chatted about her first day, and for a while, the world around her faded into the background. In that moment, Daphne felt anchored, reminding herself of the love that had brought her to this city in the first place.

But as the call ended, she glanced out the window, the city skyline twinkling under the stars. She couldn't shake the feeling that the shadows of her past were still lurking, and the allure of new connections might complicate her carefully laid plans. As she settled into bed, she wondered how long she could balance her new life while keeping her heart safe from those who would threaten to tear her apart.