Maya's eyes widened in horror as she began to read Sophia's haunting words:
**Entry 1 - 6 months after meeting Elijah**
"I'm trapped. Elijah's charm has turned to control. He monitors my every move, dictates my friends, and fills my prescription bottle with 'calming' pills. I'm a prisoner in his mansion."
Maya's heart raced as she turned the page.
**Entry 5 - 1 year later**
"Elijah's father, Malcolm, is a monster. I've seen him argue with Elijah about 'taking care' of me. I fear they're planning something sinister. Ava, my sister, suspects something - I must warn her before it's too late."
Maya's breath caught - Ava was mentioned!
**Entry 12 - 2 years later**
"I've discovered Elijah's darkest secret: his father's murder accusation. Sophia's husband was the victim... I am Sophia Morales. Elijah's obsession with me is rooted in guilt and possession. I must escape before he silences me forever."
Maya felt ice in her veins - she was holding the diary of a potential murder victim!
Suddenly, Maya heard footsteps approaching the garden...
Her heart plummeted as the footsteps drew closer, crunching on the gravel path.
She hastily stuffed Sophia's diary into her pocket, pulse racing like a trapped animal.
Her eyes scanned the darkness for an escape route - but Elijah emerged from the shadows.
"Maya, I saw you rush out... is everything alright?"
His voice low and gentle, yet Maya sensed underlying tension.
She forced a weak smile, trying to appear calm.
"Yes, just needed some fresh air... your garden is beautiful."
Elijah's gaze narrowed slightly, his eyes roaming her face as if searching for deception.
"I'm glad you like it. But you seem... disturbed. Did something upset you inside?"
Maya's mind racing, she clutched Sophia's diary in her pocket like a secret weapon.
"No, just the conversation about Sophia... it was haunting."
Elijah's expression transformed - his eyes turned glacial, his jaw clenched.
"Let's talk about Sophia... in private. My study."
Maya felt a chill go down her spin .... Was she walking into a trap
Her mind was racing with different thoughts , would she survive if Elijah knew her knowledge of the diary