Confucius Ads Library: Ads

Id	Vlad	Saved	Scrape Time	Status	Scrape Result	Adarchiveid	Title	Body	Cta Type	Link Url	Pageid	Page Name	Page Profile Uri	Page Like Count	Collationcount	Collationid	Enddate	Entitytype	Gatedtype	Hidedatastatus	Isaaaeligible	Isactive	Isprofilepage	Cta Text	Pagename	Ad Creative	Caption	Effective Authorization Category	Display Format	Link Description	Link Url	Page Welcome Message	Creation Time	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Page Is Profile Page	Instagram Actor Name	Instagram Profile Pic Url	Version	Current Page Name	Startdate	Actions
1,228,956	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1227185}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:13	active	526	817864690366159	Nhắn tin để nhận ưu đãi mới nhất 👉	🌟 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒆.𝒔 𝑲𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒚 – Đ𝒊̉𝒏𝒉 𝑪𝒂𝒐 𝑪𝒖̉𝒂 𝑺𝒂𝒏𝒈 𝑻𝒓𝒐̣𝒏𝒈 𝑽𝒂̀ 𝑻𝒊𝒏𝒉 𝑻𝒆̂́ 🌟 <br /> Được biết đến với sự kiêu sa và độc đáo, túi 𝑯𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝑲𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒚 là biểu tượng của phong cách và đẳng cấp. Với chất liệu da cao cấp được nhập khẩu từ châu Âu, mỗi chiếc túi của nhà HD LaDeluxe đều được thiết kế tỉ mỉ, khâu thủ công 100% từ các nghệ nhân lành nghề.<br /> Hãy để HD LaDeluxe mang đến cho bạn trải nghiệm mua sắm đẳng cấp nhất<br /> ------------------------------<br /> Quý khách vui lòng ấn vào mục tin nhắn để được tư vấn chi tiết về sản phẩm<br /> HD LaDeluxe - Theo đuổi sự đặc biệt & chỉn chu trong từng sản phẩm<br /> ☎ Phone number : +1 714 696 9892<br /> 🏤 Address : 16051 banana street Foutain Valley Ca 92708<br /> 🌐 Website : <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hdladeluxe.com%2F&h=AT0kI8FnKG0lBLISTn1V4GFm1un3E3I8IoXysomZhqXs9SfGQhO6223Mo9OQdPEBN_A74nK8UWjMT0eW2rIjv5wvCD5rOPoWJdSTGrocsdxr2sFM0qFKS0saOelkwJuxhk8uqSfDiJeCZ_xrGvs5mhpxAq8" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.hdladeluxe.com/</a><br /> #bag #handbag #fashion #hdladeluxe #luxury #túixách	MESSAGE_PAGE		186954277830724	HD LaDeluxe Store	https://facebook.com/hdladeluxestore	1,147	0	2,047,314,172,321,660	2024-04-14 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Send message	HD LaDeluxe Store	120208993238080105		NONE	video			{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"none","message":{"text":"Chào {{user_first_name}}! Chúng tôi có thể giúp gì cho bạn?"},"in_thread_multiphoto_carousel":{"is_enabled":true,"button":{"action_prefill":"Mặt hàng này còn không?","response":"Cảm ơn bạn đã quan tâm. Chúng tôi sẽ liên hệ lại với bạn để thông báo về tình trạng hàng của mặt hàng này.","title":"Hỏi tình trạng hàng","type":"availability"}}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"Tôi muốn tìm hiểu thêm","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Chào {{user_first_name}}! Chúng tôi có thể giúp gì cho bạn?"}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"Tôi muốn tìm hiểu thêm","content_type":"text"}],"text":"Chào {{user_first_name}}! Chúng tôi có thể giúp gì cho bạn?"}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"783572663606956","template_version":0}	2024-04-14 12:02	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436358079_1165640847786628_3908585522507957800_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ll4ExmY2IqAAb5MGbBa&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDdxgql7W1Y14EtTkGQ-LUA6dkgW7hKHfaINFPIecoZHA&oe=66220AA8	person_profile	0			3	HD LaDeluxe Store	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,226,606	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1226600}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:09	active	526	937443491355749	CLEARANCE! ONLY R 39.99	⌨️ Boost productivity with our Computer Desk featuring Touch Control. <br /> 🖥️ Organize your workspace efficiently. Elevate your work experience! 🚀📚👇<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jaoesty.com%2Fproducts%2Fcomputer-desk%3Fsku%3D18063751902698059938381430&h=AT13x08DYtmtHxPUYZZLku4ypZyoqu2-ewgZsu1nn4yPuo0r-LNNfQ9ZhNnYpSDMFZuU9cIGJC7VU8JM1sUl3_FWhq9w6mZxu80UR-SiKnSswa1vUvMty4Fzc-zYxZc1etXy4v0Eo3PleXhlfuSPUw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.jaoesty.com/products/computer-desk?sku=18063751902698059938381430</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://www.jaoesty.com/products/computer-desk?sku	122910260907864	Kristi Kelly	https://facebook.com/61551065295463	9	0	777,383,237,241,878	2024-04-09 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Kristi Kelly	120207414955530640	www.jaoesty.com	NONE	video	FREE DELIVERY	https://www.jaoesty.com/products/computer-desk?sku=18063751902698059938381430		2024-03-14 03:22	https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432312273_1092163595448168_5314613407715316763_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YRDy67Zt378Ab6WKWXU&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDK2IwwCFaFUiJ0a5GQ2x6QyMpMEyOQIiVYR3gFNg4S_Q&oe=6622236A	person_profile	0	Kristi Kelly	https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432361570_730485032571199_9062484675740060745_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z3C_LWaULNoAb6Tnjjs&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDPPJVvvb2M6BlgBB_LwKPcJV-bhzeuTFN5-cNQcEVhw&oe=6621EE10	3	Kristi Kelly	2024-04-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,229,473	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1227185}'	No	2024-04-14 15:14	active	526	450317917528905		De buenas intenciones está hecho el camino al <br /> Infierno . #ajamañosa	MESSAGE_PAGE		102807081456547	Yohanna Arias Films	https://facebook.com/100063530350377	54,024	0	3,642,701,599,276,565	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Send message	Yohanna Arias Films	120207072036940225		NONE	video			{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"\u00bfPodr\u00edan darme m\u00e1s informaci\u00f3n del negocio?","response":""},{"title":"\u00bfPueden contarme algo m\u00e1s sobre el anuncio?","response":""},{"title":"\u00bfHay alguien con quien pueda chatear?","response":""}],"text":"\u00a1Hola, {{user_first_name}}! \u00bfC\u00f3mo podemos ayudarte?"}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"}	2024-04-14 10:28	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437783382_438395018557555_7838030279826744103_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G4MP8-zmz64Ab46ehHn&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDYRnE1tfSLJVfu1EOH8b12jJWrX_8QuNh2OMd1yMRdUg&oe=6621F606	person_profile	0			3	Yohanna Arias Films	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,228,960	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-14 15:13	active	526	448020637606291		Next weekend! <br /> <br /> We will have @tacos_el_gorditorc there, a raffle for some cool stuff from local business and more! Grab a parter and come throw some bags to honor a man we all loved 💙💙<br /> <br /> ———<br /> <br /> Join us on Saturday, April 20 at 12pm for the 2nd Annual Kelly Curtis Memorial Cornhole Tournament.<br /> <br /> BYOP/$60 per Team<br /> Round Robin/Double Elimination Tournament<br /> Air Mail Challenge<br /> 50% Payout to Winners<br /> <br /> Kelly loved throwing some bags with his friends. He was also an excellent competitor and the cornhole boards always brought out his competitive spirit and drive to be great.<br /> <br /> Proceeding this event is the 2nd Annual Kelly Curtis Memorial Workout at 9am. See our previous post for more information on that event.<br /> <br /> Grab a partner and register through the link in our bio. <br /> <br /> #kellycurtismemorialcornhole #crossfitridgecrest	LEARN_MORE	https://linktr.ee/crossfit_ridgecrest	278464655503429	CrossFit Ridgecrest	https://facebook.com/crossfitridgecrest	857	1	412,489,468,384,078	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	CrossFit Ridgecrest	6590253792544	linktr.ee	NONE	image		https://linktr.ee/crossfit_ridgecrest		2024-04-14 12:01	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436241587_1185065319532337_982432724679580329_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L9r6ML5OyWQAb6GKuru&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfCYMiaPMVwsa6E7VCh7RlG7vTLV2EZKyhwZXbeJjIvrpA&oe=66220F23	person_profile	0	Crossfit Ridgecrest	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435675835_968507614544731_7733243764329958108_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8SBx_XDo7egAb6ZUUz5&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfA7G_6A5GVEpekkPBc6sUq8_qQcpEgLZuJPlR7twI0Cuw&oe=6621F5EA	3	CrossFit Ridgecrest	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,226,036	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229058}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:09	active	526	308650612068840	Free worldwide shipping	Loving all the color on this look 😍😍 Shop this look at Kelly Obi New York Up to 20% Off Your First Order Free worldwide shipping #TapTopShop #ShopYourVibe	SHOP_NOW	https://kellyobi.com/collections/theestylishp_moch	116791414665998	Kelly Obi New York	https://facebook.com/KellyObiNewYork	7,885	1	366,442,462,384,276	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop Now	Kelly Obi New York	120208145006210606	kellyobi.com	NONE	dco	Kelly Obi New York	https://kellyobi.com/collections/theestylishp_mocha_abstract		2024-04-14 04:41	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437768183_410143908300769_3596823884589156019_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DcYTTQrXfYAAb5vKm1T&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB3-J5gWZaAwwoLy2aru2wL40D_oWV76JorSSky5le0XA&oe=66221E54	person_profile	0	Kelly Obi New York	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437852637_302989619494008_6520240597669244980_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CMqN--URhFoAb7y6Bq1&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAuUk6pR9kf8XPKfvycRioE19-KeIvomT5XXDDteSiRqg&oe=6622139C	3	Kelly Obi New York	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,229,457	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229413}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:14	active	526	7893375077359668	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	My plan to continue dating him all through college vanished to void due to a note.<br /> 'Sabrina, I know we planned to spend college together here in San Diego, but I can't pass up this opportunity. I will always love you, but I have to say goodbye for now.'<br /> He's gone. <br /> I didn't even get to tell him I was pregnant.<br /> Four years later...<br /> "Josh is the last groomsmen?!" <br /> I was in my best friend Elena's meeting with her wedding planner.<br /> She looked over at me with a worried look.<br /> God, what would happen when he saw the girls or when I finally saw him? <br /> What if I blurt out that he's a father?<br /> ————————<br /> Sabrina POV<br /> I'm pregnant.<br /> I can't believe this. Josh and I are going to have a baby.<br /> We haven't even started college yet.<br /> What if he leaves?<br /> I was completely lost in thought as I walked through the front door of my house. Jordyn, my little sister, was sitting on the couch cuddled up in a blanket watching a re-run of Friends.<br /> "Have you seen Mom or Dad?" I asked wanting to tell them about the baby first.<br /> "Mom just went out to get some groceries, and Dad is still at work," Jojo responded looking up at me with her brown eyes while her light brown hair was thrown into a messy bun on top of her head. I guess telling them can wait.<br /> "Okay, I'm going to grab something from my room, and then go over to Josh's."<br /> I need to tell him.<br /> "Oh yeah," Jojo began. "He came by earlier, but you weren't here so he left you a note. It's on the kitchen counter."<br /> I gave her a confused expression before heading toward the kitchen. There was a piece of paper laying on top of the counter. When I picked it up, I noticed his rushed handwriting.<br /> Sabrina,<br /> I know we planned to spend college together here in San Diego, but I can't pass up this opportunity. I have to take the scholarship in Florida, and I hope you understand. I will always love you, but I have to say goodbye for now.<br /> I love you,<br /> Josh<br /> I let the paper slip from hands as my legs gave out. I fell to the floor with a thud loud enough to alert Jojo who came into the kitchen.<br /> Florida? He never even told me about a scholarship.<br /> I continued to stare off into space trying to wrap my brain around what just happened. When Jojo got no response from me, she picked up the paper and read it herself. As she wrapped her arms around me in a reassuring hug, a tear fell down my cheek, and then a sob escape my lips.<br /> He's gone.<br /> He's gone, and left me with our baby growing in my stomach.<br /> He left me.<br /> ....<br /> It has officially been four years since Josh left me and all his friends and family here in San Diego. A lot has changed. My beautiful daughters, Brynlee Reese and Keegan Ryder, are now three years old. <br /> My dad died from brain cancer last year after battling long enough to see his granddaughters turn two. He loved them more than anything. It's been hard for us, especially my mom, but we're getting by. <br /> I graduated from the University of San Diego last year with a teaching degree in English, and am going on my second year of teaching at my old high school, Fremont High School. Jordyn, my 17 year old sister, is a junior there.<br /> Ever since my pregnancy, I've had help from my family, Josh's family, and our friends. I couldn't really hide Josh's daughters from his parents since the girls are their granddaughters, and they promised not to tell him. <br /> Let's just say that they weren't too pleased with how Josh left. I've tried to tell Josh about Brynlee and Keegan, but he doesn't answer any of my calls or I chickened out. <br /> Cory and Tyler have offered to tell him since he actually keeps in contact with them, along with his family, but I want him to hear it from me. <br /> Now, I think it's a little too late to tell him especially since he's happy on his own. He's off playing professional baseball for the New York Yankees while dating multiple girls, according to the gossip sites.<br /> Josh's sister, Delaney, got married last year at a destination wedding that only included close family members. I was invited since the girls are her nieces, but I declined the invitation knowing I would have to see him. She is now a pediatrician while her husband, Landon Gray, took over his father's oil company. <br /> My best friend, Elena Pratt, just graduated from nursing school and started her new job at the local hospital. She is also currently engaged to Tyler Stephens, Josh and I's best friend. They've been dating since our junior year of high school. Tyler works alongside Landon as the financial manager. <br /> Cory Sutton, Josh and I's other best friend, is now a gym teacher and baseball coach at Fremont High School. He was suppose to become a professional baseball player like Josh, but he suffered a serious shoulder injury which ended his playing days. Teaching was always his backup.<br /> The continuous jumping on my bed followed by loud giggles disturbed my sleep. My eyes fluttered open to see two toddlers wide awake.<br /> "Mommy!" Keegan screamed as she jumped onto me with the intention of a hug. Her knotted brown hair fell to the sides of her face as her big brown eyes gleamed with excitement. Brynlee continued jumping as her blonde hair bounced with her.<br /> "Good morning to you girlies too," I responded hugging Keegan as Brynlee cuddled to my side. "What do you girls want for breakfast?"<br /> "WAFFLES!" They both squealed jumping from the bed as they ran out of my bedroom. I then got up from the comfort of my bed sheets and put my fuzzy gray robe on over my pajamas that consisted of shorts and an old t-shirt. When I reached the kitchen, the girls were there digging the Eggo waffles out of the freezer.<br /> "Can you put the box on the counter for me?" I asked as I pulled out the toaster from one of the many cabinets. Keegan did as I told her and then ran to the living room with Brynlee following behind. She then turned on the TV to their favorite show, Doc McStuffins. I put three waffles into the toaster and waited for them to pop back out when they were done.<br /> Looking over at the girls brought back memories. I was absolutely shocked when I found out I was having twins.<br /> I laid down waiting for the doctor to enter while my mom sat in the nearby chair. I anxiously played with my long painted nails looking down at my small bump. Soon enough the doctor came into the room.<br /> "Hello, I'm Dr. Valente. You must be Sabrina and her mom," she greeted shaking my mom's hand then moving over to me. "Are we ready to see the little one?"<br /> I nodded my head as she instructed what to do before putting the gel on my stomach. She had the screen pointed towards her allowing me to only see the shocked expression on her face.<br /> "What's wrong?" I asked suddenly worried.<br /> "Nothing's wrong, but it looks like you're having twins." The minute the words came out of her mouth, my jaw dropped to the floor.<br /> I'm having two babies.<br /> The sudden sound of waffles popping out of the toaster brought me back to reality. I began to fix me and the girls a plate before calling them over to the dining table. As they scooped pieces of the waffle into their mouth, I got a text from Elena.<br /> Are you on your way??<br /> Yes but we might be a little late.<br /> I completely lost track of time and now we're going to be late for Elena's meeting with her wedding planner. Since I'm the maid of honor, she wants me there too.<br /> It's currently 10:25, and we have to be at her house at 10:30 which is a 7 minute drive. Great.<br /> "Girls, go brush your teeth and then come to your bedroom," I instructed grabbing the empty plates from the table and rinsing them off in the sink. They sprinted off to the bathroom while I went to pick out their outfits for today.<br /> I pulled two matching floral dresses from their closet as they came running in. I then grabbed their white converses and helped them get dressed.<br /> Once finished they ran to the living room where Doc McStuffins was still playing on the TV. While they were occupied, I ran over to my room to get myself dressed. I put on a simple black and white striped button up that was halfway tucked into light denim shorts. I then slipped on sandals before pulling my blonde hair into a high ponytail.<br /> After brushing my teeth and putting on my makeup, I got the girls out the apartment door and we headed to the car. I buckled them into their car seats and started the car. When Will My Life Begin from Tangled played non stop the whole car ride.<br /> We soon arrived to Elena and Tyler's house. Once Keegan was free from the buckles, she sprinted from where the car was parked on the driveway into Tyler's arms. As soon as he saw the car pull in, he slammed the door open ready to see his nieces. Brynlee, on the other hand, was fast asleep in her car seat. She stirred slightly when I picked her up, and then laid her head on my shoulder.<br /> "Is someone sleepy?" I asked in the voice you make when talking to a child. She then nodded with her eyes still closed making me chuckle.<br /> I entered into the house to see Elena and another woman sitting at the kitchen counter. They didn't notice me at first until Bryn let out a little yawn.<br /> "Hey Sab, this is Rebecca, my wedding planner. Rebecca, this is my best friend and maid of honor, Sabrina," Elena introduced. I smiled at the red-headed woman in front of me. Rebecca had to be in her mid-forties, but she was in incredible shape.<br /> "It's nice to meet," I greeted shaking her hand. "I need to lay this little one down somewhere so I'll be right back."<br /> I walked out of the kitchen and into the living room were Keegan and Tyler were both watching Peppa Pig. I set Bryn on the couch and she immediately cuddled into Tyler's side.<br /> "How's the little princess?" Ty asked cuddling her.<br /> "Sleepy," I answered. "Well I need to go back to your fiancée so make sure they don't injure themselves."<br /> "Are you still holding that against me?"<br /> "You dropped my daughter."<br /> "So what do we have so far?" I asked coming back into the kitchen after a small argument with Tyler. I won!<br /> "The color scheme is going to be burgundy and gold. We've also set the date for November 6 which is a Saturday," Elena answered as I sat in the chair next to her.<br /> "Now we'll discuss who's in the wedding and the smaller details like decorations," Rebecca directed. "So who all is in the wedding?"<br /> "Well we have both of our parents. Sabrina is my maid of honor. Tyler's best friend, Cory, is his best man. Our flower girls are Keegan and Brynlee, Sabrina's daughters. The ring bearer is Tyler's cousin, Nathan."<br /> "Okay, what about bridesmaids and groomsmen?"<br /> "For bridesmaids, I have Delaney, Angela, Kelly, Haley, and Jordyn," she listed. Delaney is Josh's sister which we are both really close to. Angela and Kelly are two soon-to-be nurses that Elena met at med school. Haley is her 14 year old sister while Jordyn is my sister.<br /> "For the groomsmen, there is Landon, Calum, Griffin, Scott, and..." her voice faded as she looked over at me with a worried look as I just gave her a confused look back. Landon is Delaney's husband and Tyler's boss/ friend. Calum is a buddy from college. Griffin is Tyler's 17 year old brother, and Scott is his 12 year old brother.<br /> Who else is there... wait.<br /> I immediately changed my confused expression to one of horror.<br /> "Who is the last groomsmen?" Rebecca asked clearly not seeing the look on my face.<br /> "Josh," Elena said the one name that made my world come crashing down.<br /> This is going to be one h-ll of a wedding.<br /> ————<br /> Josh's POV<br /> I was sitting on my tan couch looking at the muted TV in front of me as I waited for Tyler to answer his phone. Luckily, he answered on the third ring.<br /> "Hey man, shouldn't you being doing something baseball related?" He asked.<br /> "Hey," I greeted. "Today is my day off."<br /> "Ah, so why are you calling me at 8 in the morning on your day off? You should be sleeping in."<br /> "I guess I'm just use to waking up early," I lied knowing that I didn't even sleep last night. I mean how could I? This penthouse is quite lonely when you're actually in it. I'm barely ever here due to playing. When I am here I tend to think, and thinking leads to no sleep.<br /> Most of the time, I am out like a light when I hit my bed since training wore me out, but I wasn't necessarily tired.<br /> "We both know that's a lie. You didn't sleep last night did you?"<br /> He knows me too well.<br /> "Maybe."<br /> "Is it about Sabrina?" He asked already knowing the answer to that question. It's always about her. She's in my mind all the time. I like to use playing and partying as a way to forget about her, but it never works. I even try to get with other girls, but back out when it comes to taking them home. They're just not her.<br /> "Can we not talk about it?" I asked ready to change the subject. "What are you doing right now?"<br /> "It's 8 o'clock on a Monday morning. What do you think I'm doing?"<br /> "Sorry. Did I interrupt anything at work?" I cringe knowing I didn't even think about him possibly being busy.<br /> "Nah, I just got here," he said knowing I would feel guilty for interrupting something.<br /> "You're a jerk."<br /> "I know. Now why are you calling me?"<br /> "Can't I just say hi to my friend?"<br /> "Not when we literally talked last night about the wedding," he reminded. Last night, after the meeting with the wedding planner, he gave me the details of the date so I could work it out with my schedule. That also reminds me that I need to talk to Coach.<br /> "Fine," I gave in. "I just want to know how she is."<br /> "Sabrina is fine. Today is actually the first day of school."<br /> "Was she nervous?"<br /> "Why don't you ask her yourself?" These past few years, I've constantly asked Cory and Tyler how Sab was doing. They would get annoyed every once in a while, and they were pretty mad at me when I first left. I completely understand though. What I did was a bad move, but there's no way to take it back.<br /> "Because if I call her and hear her voice, I know I'm going to automatically get a plane ticket to San Diego."<br /> "You're going to have to see her at the wedding though."<br /> "I know."<br /> "Just making sure," he said followed by a pause. "Well I have to go, boss man needs me."<br /> "Bye." I then hung up the phone and headed to my bedroom to get dressed. My room was painted dark gray while everything else was also a different shade of gray. It was quite boring, but it looked nice.<br /> The sliding door to my closet opened when I pushed the button on the wall. I walked in and picked out a simple white T-shirt. Then I paired that with denim jeans and my famous leather jacket. After throwing on some shoes, I left my fancy penthouse and made my way to the elevator.<br /> Waiting for the barista to tell me my coffee was ready, created a chance for everyone in the cafe to keep looking at me. No one said anything, but they made it very clear that they knew who I was.<br /> "JOSH!" The barista yelled sliding a to-go coffee cup onto the counter. I swiftly grabbed it and thanked him before walking out.<br /> I then proceeded to walk along the busy sidewalk as I headed to the Yankee stadium. Usually I would get an Uber, but the traffic was extremely bad this morning.<br /> Soon enough, I arrived at the stadium after a 15 minute walk. I went straight to our locker room and saw some rookies packing up their bags.<br /> Coach Gibson's office was to the right of the entrance which was where I was headed. I knocked before entering, and he was sitting at his desk reading something on his phone.<br /> "Hey Coach," I greeted as he looked up for a split second.<br /> "Hey Parker. What are you doing here, it's your day off?"<br /> "I know, but I needed to ask you about my schedule."<br /> "You could have just called me."<br /> "Yeah, but I wanted to get out of my place for a little," I said causing him to give me a knowing look. The first week of playing on the team, Coach could automatically tell that something was always in the back of my mind. He asked me about and I told me about Sabrina. He was pretty skeptical about it seeing I may get distracted, but I promised that it would not bother my playing. Fortunately, it never did. Playing was my distraction and passion.<br /> "So what's this about your schedule?"<br /> "My buddy's wedding is on November 6, and I was wondering if I could go back home for a week or two?"<br /> "You're a good player, Parker. So I'm going to clear your schedule from September 10 to November 10. Does that sound good?" He asked looking at the calendar on his desk.<br /> "That sounds great," I said happy to get a little break from the tough training.<br /> "Okay, but I have a few conditions," he began. "You have to promise me that you'll go to the gym every other day, and keep practicing your pitching. Got it?"<br /> "Got it," I stated getting up to leave as he went back to his phone. "Thanks Coach."<br /> "Oh and Parker," he said stopping me from leaving as I turned to face him. "While you're there, try and work this whole thing out with that girl."<br /> With those parting words, I was off to my next stop.<br /> I knocked on the wooden door of my manager's house, and it soon opened to reveal a tired man.<br /> "Hey Jimmy," I greeted. Jimmy Davis is my manager's husband.<br /> "Hey Josh, what are you doing here?" He asked letting me in. Their house had a homey feel with lots of pictures of their family on the wall. Angela, my manager, has two kids. Their eldest, Mason, is three, and their youngest, Elise, just turned one.<br /> "I actually need to talk to Angela about my friend's wedding," I responded right as a little boy in monster truck pajamas came running into the living room.<br /> "JOSH!" He exclaimed throwing his arms around one of my legs in an attempt at a hug. To help him out, I swiftly picked him up.<br /> "Hey buddy! Are you causing your parents any trouble?"<br /> "No, but El keeps crying," he explains. Angela then walks in with a little girl cuddled in her arms.<br /> "Jimmy," Angela sighs, "can you hold Elise while I talk to Josh?"<br /> Jimmy grabs El from his wife's arms and heads for the kitchen with Mason trailing behind. I then turn to Angela who is trying to clean up some of the toys on the floor.<br /> "So what's this about a wedding?" She asks me as we both sit down.<br /> "One of my best friends, back at home, is having his wedding, and I'm a groomsmen. Coach already said it was fine for me to go, he cleared my schedule for 2 months. I'm just making sure that's fine with you."<br /> "Wow, two months is pretty generous for that man, but that's fine with me."<br /> "Great." As I got up to leave so I wouldn't be much of a bother anymore, she stopped me and pointed her figure back to the chair.<br /> "I'm not done with you," she stated. "I know Sabrina is probably going to be there so I want you to be smart about your decisions. Don't go getting st-face drunk and regretting something in the morning."<br /> "I promise I won't." She's had to deal with me making mistakes while drunk too many times. I've had online gossip sites catch me at multiple clubs with multiple girls.<br /> "Also while you're there maybe go help out your other friend, Cory, with the baseball team," she suggested and I nodded in agreement. That's actually a good idea.<br /> I soon left their house after saying goodbye to the kids. As I sat in the Uber to go back to my penthouse, I got a call from Cory.<br /> "Hey man, I was just about to call you," I said picking up the phone. The driver then pulled in front of the building as I got out.<br /> "Yeah, Tyler texted me saying you were talking to Coach about the wedding. What'd he say?" He asked as I made my way up to my floor.<br /> "Well lets just say I'm coming home a little earlier."<br /> "How early?"<br /> "September 10."<br /> "Wow!"<br /> "Yeah, I was actually wondering if I could help you coach a few days a week?"<br /> "That would be great. The guys really look up to you."<br /> "Awesome," I said taking a seat on the living room couch. "Also don't tell Tyler that I'm coming early, I want to surprise him."<br /> "Got it."<br /> "So what's up?" I asked switching the subject. "I heard it's the first day of school."<br /> "Yeah I just got done with one of my classes, and now I'm off to my lunch break. What about you?"<br /> "I just got back to my house. I'll probably get something to eat soon," I responded. He was about to say something when another voice sounded from the background.<br /> "Cory, if you don't hurry up, I'm leaving your a-s here," I heard her growl out.<br /> Sabrina.<br /> The sound of her voice just hit me. It hasn't changed one bit, and man do I miss it.<br /> "Well I got to go. See you soon," he ended the call leaving me to think about her.<br /> I have exactly 2 weeks until I see her again, and I'm not sure if I'm completely ready.<br /> ————<br /> Josh's POV<br /> I walked out of the gym with my shirt hanging over my shoulder, my water bottle in one hand, and my phone in the other. Before I made it to my car, a blonde girl stood in front of my door.<br /> "Hello, hot stuff," she greeted with a smirk and a wink.<br /> "Hi?" I questioned wondering who this woman is.<br /> "I'm Tiffany, and I was just about to go to the gym when I saw you," she explained.<br /> "You were about to go to the gym in jeans?" I asked taking in her outfit. Does she think I'm stupid?<br /> "Yeah-," she was cut off by the sound of my phone ringing. I looked down to see it was Cory calling.<br /> "I have to take this," I stated as she moved away from the door allowing me to get in my car. I immediately answered the phone while also starting the car.<br /> "Hey man, what's up?" I greeted as I pulled out of the parking lot leaving the girl standing there.<br /> "Nothing much. I actually need your help coming up with ideas for Tyler's bachelor party."<br /> "Well Tyler is a kid at heart, so I would definitely do something fun like a trampoline park or an amusement park," I responded as I heard loud squeals in the background. It's sounds like an actual child.<br /> "Hold on," he told me. "Keegan get down from the counter you're going to fall."<br /> Who's Keegan?<br /> "Okay, I'm back," he stated after a long pause filled with giggles. "A trampoline park sounds great."<br /> "Yeah," I agreed still confused. "Who's Keegan?"<br /> "Oh-," he was cut off by the sound of cries. "St. Brynlee, what did your mother say about running down the stairs? Hey man, I have to go. Talk to you later."<br /> Before I could respond back, he hung up.<br /> Who is Keegan? Who is Brynlee? Whose kids are they? Did Cory have kids without telling me?	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1,229,434	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229413}'	No	2024-04-14 15:14	active	526	3560955637486549	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	My plan to continue dating him all through college vanished to void due to a note.<br /> 'Sabrina, I know we planned to spend college together here in San Diego, but I can't pass up this opportunity. I will always love you, but I have to say goodbye for now.'<br /> He's gone. <br /> I didn't even get to tell him I was pregnant.<br /> Four years later...<br /> "Josh is the last groomsmen?!" <br /> I was in my best friend Elena's meeting with her wedding planner.<br /> She looked over at me with a worried look.<br /> God, what would happen when he saw the girls or when I finally saw him? <br /> What if I blurt out that he's a father?<br /> ————————<br /> Sabrina POV<br /> I'm pregnant.<br /> I can't believe this. Josh and I are going to have a baby.<br /> We haven't even started college yet.<br /> What if he leaves?<br /> I was completely lost in thought as I walked through the front door of my house. Jordyn, my little sister, was sitting on the couch cuddled up in a blanket watching a re-run of Friends.<br /> "Have you seen Mom or Dad?" I asked wanting to tell them about the baby first.<br /> "Mom just went out to get some groceries, and Dad is still at work," Jojo responded looking up at me with her brown eyes while her light brown hair was thrown into a messy bun on top of her head. I guess telling them can wait.<br /> "Okay, I'm going to grab something from my room, and then go over to Josh's."<br /> I need to tell him.<br /> "Oh yeah," Jojo began. "He came by earlier, but you weren't here so he left you a note. It's on the kitchen counter."<br /> I gave her a confused expression before heading toward the kitchen. There was a piece of paper laying on top of the counter. When I picked it up, I noticed his rushed handwriting.<br /> Sabrina,<br /> I know we planned to spend college together here in San Diego, but I can't pass up this opportunity. I have to take the scholarship in Florida, and I hope you understand. I will always love you, but I have to say goodbye for now.<br /> I love you,<br /> Josh<br /> I let the paper slip from hands as my legs gave out. I fell to the floor with a thud loud enough to alert Jojo who came into the kitchen.<br /> Florida? He never even told me about a scholarship.<br /> I continued to stare off into space trying to wrap my brain around what just happened. When Jojo got no response from me, she picked up the paper and read it herself. As she wrapped her arms around me in a reassuring hug, a tear fell down my cheek, and then a sob escape my lips.<br /> He's gone.<br /> He's gone, and left me with our baby growing in my stomach.<br /> He left me.<br /> ....<br /> It has officially been four years since Josh left me and all his friends and family here in San Diego. A lot has changed. My beautiful daughters, Brynlee Reese and Keegan Ryder, are now three years old. <br /> My dad died from brain cancer last year after battling long enough to see his granddaughters turn two. He loved them more than anything. It's been hard for us, especially my mom, but we're getting by. <br /> I graduated from the University of San Diego last year with a teaching degree in English, and am going on my second year of teaching at my old high school, Fremont High School. Jordyn, my 17 year old sister, is a junior there.<br /> Ever since my pregnancy, I've had help from my family, Josh's family, and our friends. I couldn't really hide Josh's daughters from his parents since the girls are their granddaughters, and they promised not to tell him. <br /> Let's just say that they weren't too pleased with how Josh left. I've tried to tell Josh about Brynlee and Keegan, but he doesn't answer any of my calls or I chickened out. <br /> Cory and Tyler have offered to tell him since he actually keeps in contact with them, along with his family, but I want him to hear it from me. <br /> Now, I think it's a little too late to tell him especially since he's happy on his own. He's off playing professional baseball for the New York Yankees while dating multiple girls, according to the gossip sites.<br /> Josh's sister, Delaney, got married last year at a destination wedding that only included close family members. I was invited since the girls are her nieces, but I declined the invitation knowing I would have to see him. She is now a pediatrician while her husband, Landon Gray, took over his father's oil company. <br /> My best friend, Elena Pratt, just graduated from nursing school and started her new job at the local hospital. She is also currently engaged to Tyler Stephens, Josh and I's best friend. They've been dating since our junior year of high school. Tyler works alongside Landon as the financial manager. <br /> Cory Sutton, Josh and I's other best friend, is now a gym teacher and baseball coach at Fremont High School. He was suppose to become a professional baseball player like Josh, but he suffered a serious shoulder injury which ended his playing days. Teaching was always his backup.<br /> The continuous jumping on my bed followed by loud giggles disturbed my sleep. My eyes fluttered open to see two toddlers wide awake.<br /> "Mommy!" Keegan screamed as she jumped onto me with the intention of a hug. Her knotted brown hair fell to the sides of her face as her big brown eyes gleamed with excitement. Brynlee continued jumping as her blonde hair bounced with her.<br /> "Good morning to you girlies too," I responded hugging Keegan as Brynlee cuddled to my side. "What do you girls want for breakfast?"<br /> "WAFFLES!" They both squealed jumping from the bed as they ran out of my bedroom. I then got up from the comfort of my bed sheets and put my fuzzy gray robe on over my pajamas that consisted of shorts and an old t-shirt. When I reached the kitchen, the girls were there digging the Eggo waffles out of the freezer.<br /> "Can you put the box on the counter for me?" I asked as I pulled out the toaster from one of the many cabinets. Keegan did as I told her and then ran to the living room with Brynlee following behind. She then turned on the TV to their favorite show, Doc McStuffins. I put three waffles into the toaster and waited for them to pop back out when they were done.<br /> Looking over at the girls brought back memories. I was absolutely shocked when I found out I was having twins.<br /> I laid down waiting for the doctor to enter while my mom sat in the nearby chair. I anxiously played with my long painted nails looking down at my small bump. Soon enough the doctor came into the room.<br /> "Hello, I'm Dr. Valente. You must be Sabrina and her mom," she greeted shaking my mom's hand then moving over to me. "Are we ready to see the little one?"<br /> I nodded my head as she instructed what to do before putting the gel on my stomach. She had the screen pointed towards her allowing me to only see the shocked expression on her face.<br /> "What's wrong?" I asked suddenly worried.<br /> "Nothing's wrong, but it looks like you're having twins." The minute the words came out of her mouth, my jaw dropped to the floor.<br /> I'm having two babies.<br /> The sudden sound of waffles popping out of the toaster brought me back to reality. I began to fix me and the girls a plate before calling them over to the dining table. As they scooped pieces of the waffle into their mouth, I got a text from Elena.<br /> Are you on your way??<br /> Yes but we might be a little late.<br /> I completely lost track of time and now we're going to be late for Elena's meeting with her wedding planner. Since I'm the maid of honor, she wants me there too.<br /> It's currently 10:25, and we have to be at her house at 10:30 which is a 7 minute drive. Great.<br /> "Girls, go brush your teeth and then come to your bedroom," I instructed grabbing the empty plates from the table and rinsing them off in the sink. They sprinted off to the bathroom while I went to pick out their outfits for today.<br /> I pulled two matching floral dresses from their closet as they came running in. I then grabbed their white converses and helped them get dressed.<br /> Once finished they ran to the living room where Doc McStuffins was still playing on the TV. While they were occupied, I ran over to my room to get myself dressed. I put on a simple black and white striped button up that was halfway tucked into light denim shorts. I then slipped on sandals before pulling my blonde hair into a high ponytail.<br /> After brushing my teeth and putting on my makeup, I got the girls out the apartment door and we headed to the car. I buckled them into their car seats and started the car. When Will My Life Begin from Tangled played non stop the whole car ride.<br /> We soon arrived to Elena and Tyler's house. Once Keegan was free from the buckles, she sprinted from where the car was parked on the driveway into Tyler's arms. As soon as he saw the car pull in, he slammed the door open ready to see his nieces. Brynlee, on the other hand, was fast asleep in her car seat. She stirred slightly when I picked her up, and then laid her head on my shoulder.<br /> "Is someone sleepy?" I asked in the voice you make when talking to a child. She then nodded with her eyes still closed making me chuckle.<br /> I entered into the house to see Elena and another woman sitting at the kitchen counter. They didn't notice me at first until Bryn let out a little yawn.<br /> "Hey Sab, this is Rebecca, my wedding planner. Rebecca, this is my best friend and maid of honor, Sabrina," Elena introduced. I smiled at the red-headed woman in front of me. Rebecca had to be in her mid-forties, but she was in incredible shape.<br /> "It's nice to meet," I greeted shaking her hand. "I need to lay this little one down somewhere so I'll be right back."<br /> I walked out of the kitchen and into the living room were Keegan and Tyler were both watching Peppa Pig. I set Bryn on the couch and she immediately cuddled into Tyler's side.<br /> "How's the little princess?" Ty asked cuddling her.<br /> "Sleepy," I answered. "Well I need to go back to your fiancée so make sure they don't injure themselves."<br /> "Are you still holding that against me?"<br /> "You dropped my daughter."<br /> "So what do we have so far?" I asked coming back into the kitchen after a small argument with Tyler. I won!<br /> "The color scheme is going to be burgundy and gold. We've also set the date for November 6 which is a Saturday," Elena answered as I sat in the chair next to her.<br /> "Now we'll discuss who's in the wedding and the smaller details like decorations," Rebecca directed. "So who all is in the wedding?"<br /> "Well we have both of our parents. Sabrina is my maid of honor. Tyler's best friend, Cory, is his best man. Our flower girls are Keegan and Brynlee, Sabrina's daughters. The ring bearer is Tyler's cousin, Nathan."<br /> "Okay, what about bridesmaids and groomsmen?"<br /> "For bridesmaids, I have Delaney, Angela, Kelly, Haley, and Jordyn," she listed. Delaney is Josh's sister which we are both really close to. Angela and Kelly are two soon-to-be nurses that Elena met at med school. Haley is her 14 year old sister while Jordyn is my sister.<br /> "For the groomsmen, there is Landon, Calum, Griffin, Scott, and..." her voice faded as she looked over at me with a worried look as I just gave her a confused look back. Landon is Delaney's husband and Tyler's boss/ friend. Calum is a buddy from college. Griffin is Tyler's 17 year old brother, and Scott is his 12 year old brother.<br /> Who else is there... wait.<br /> I immediately changed my confused expression to one of horror.<br /> "Who is the last groomsmen?" Rebecca asked clearly not seeing the look on my face.<br /> "Josh," Elena said the one name that made my world come crashing down.<br /> This is going to be one h-ll of a wedding.<br /> ————<br /> Josh's POV<br /> I was sitting on my tan couch looking at the muted TV in front of me as I waited for Tyler to answer his phone. Luckily, he answered on the third ring.<br /> "Hey man, shouldn't you being doing something baseball related?" He asked.<br /> "Hey," I greeted. "Today is my day off."<br /> "Ah, so why are you calling me at 8 in the morning on your day off? You should be sleeping in."<br /> "I guess I'm just use to waking up early," I lied knowing that I didn't even sleep last night. I mean how could I? This penthouse is quite lonely when you're actually in it. I'm barely ever here due to playing. When I am here I tend to think, and thinking leads to no sleep.<br /> Most of the time, I am out like a light when I hit my bed since training wore me out, but I wasn't necessarily tired.<br /> "We both know that's a lie. You didn't sleep last night did you?"<br /> He knows me too well.<br /> "Maybe."<br /> "Is it about Sabrina?" He asked already knowing the answer to that question. It's always about her. She's in my mind all the time. I like to use playing and partying as a way to forget about her, but it never works. I even try to get with other girls, but back out when it comes to taking them home. They're just not her.<br /> "Can we not talk about it?" I asked ready to change the subject. "What are you doing right now?"<br /> "It's 8 o'clock on a Monday morning. What do you think I'm doing?"<br /> "Sorry. Did I interrupt anything at work?" I cringe knowing I didn't even think about him possibly being busy.<br /> "Nah, I just got here," he said knowing I would feel guilty for interrupting something.<br /> "You're a jerk."<br /> "I know. Now why are you calling me?"<br /> "Can't I just say hi to my friend?"<br /> "Not when we literally talked last night about the wedding," he reminded. Last night, after the meeting with the wedding planner, he gave me the details of the date so I could work it out with my schedule. That also reminds me that I need to talk to Coach.<br /> "Fine," I gave in. "I just want to know how she is."<br /> "Sabrina is fine. Today is actually the first day of school."<br /> "Was she nervous?"<br /> "Why don't you ask her yourself?" These past few years, I've constantly asked Cory and Tyler how Sab was doing. They would get annoyed every once in a while, and they were pretty mad at me when I first left. I completely understand though. What I did was a bad move, but there's no way to take it back.<br /> "Because if I call her and hear her voice, I know I'm going to automatically get a plane ticket to San Diego."<br /> "You're going to have to see her at the wedding though."<br /> "I know."<br /> "Just making sure," he said followed by a pause. "Well I have to go, boss man needs me."<br /> "Bye." I then hung up the phone and headed to my bedroom to get dressed. My room was painted dark gray while everything else was also a different shade of gray. It was quite boring, but it looked nice.<br /> The sliding door to my closet opened when I pushed the button on the wall. I walked in and picked out a simple white T-shirt. Then I paired that with denim jeans and my famous leather jacket. After throwing on some shoes, I left my fancy penthouse and made my way to the elevator.<br /> Waiting for the barista to tell me my coffee was ready, created a chance for everyone in the cafe to keep looking at me. No one said anything, but they made it very clear that they knew who I was.<br /> "JOSH!" The barista yelled sliding a to-go coffee cup onto the counter. I swiftly grabbed it and thanked him before walking out.<br /> I then proceeded to walk along the busy sidewalk as I headed to the Yankee stadium. Usually I would get an Uber, but the traffic was extremely bad this morning.<br /> Soon enough, I arrived at the stadium after a 15 minute walk. I went straight to our locker room and saw some rookies packing up their bags.<br /> Coach Gibson's office was to the right of the entrance which was where I was headed. I knocked before entering, and he was sitting at his desk reading something on his phone.<br /> "Hey Coach," I greeted as he looked up for a split second.<br /> "Hey Parker. What are you doing here, it's your day off?"<br /> "I know, but I needed to ask you about my schedule."<br /> "You could have just called me."<br /> "Yeah, but I wanted to get out of my place for a little," I said causing him to give me a knowing look. The first week of playing on the team, Coach could automatically tell that something was always in the back of my mind. He asked me about and I told me about Sabrina. He was pretty skeptical about it seeing I may get distracted, but I promised that it would not bother my playing. Fortunately, it never did. Playing was my distraction and passion.<br /> "So what's this about your schedule?"<br /> "My buddy's wedding is on November 6, and I was wondering if I could go back home for a week or two?"<br /> "You're a good player, Parker. So I'm going to clear your schedule from September 10 to November 10. Does that sound good?" He asked looking at the calendar on his desk.<br /> "That sounds great," I said happy to get a little break from the tough training.<br /> "Okay, but I have a few conditions," he began. "You have to promise me that you'll go to the gym every other day, and keep practicing your pitching. Got it?"<br /> "Got it," I stated getting up to leave as he went back to his phone. "Thanks Coach."<br /> "Oh and Parker," he said stopping me from leaving as I turned to face him. "While you're there, try and work this whole thing out with that girl."<br /> With those parting words, I was off to my next stop.<br /> I knocked on the wooden door of my manager's house, and it soon opened to reveal a tired man.<br /> "Hey Jimmy," I greeted. Jimmy Davis is my manager's husband.<br /> "Hey Josh, what are you doing here?" He asked letting me in. Their house had a homey feel with lots of pictures of their family on the wall. Angela, my manager, has two kids. Their eldest, Mason, is three, and their youngest, Elise, just turned one.<br /> "I actually need to talk to Angela about my friend's wedding," I responded right as a little boy in monster truck pajamas came running into the living room.<br /> "JOSH!" He exclaimed throwing his arms around one of my legs in an attempt at a hug. To help him out, I swiftly picked him up.<br /> "Hey buddy! Are you causing your parents any trouble?"<br /> "No, but El keeps crying," he explains. Angela then walks in with a little girl cuddled in her arms.<br /> "Jimmy," Angela sighs, "can you hold Elise while I talk to Josh?"<br /> Jimmy grabs El from his wife's arms and heads for the kitchen with Mason trailing behind. I then turn to Angela who is trying to clean up some of the toys on the floor.<br /> "So what's this about a wedding?" She asks me as we both sit down.<br /> "One of my best friends, back at home, is having his wedding, and I'm a groomsmen. Coach already said it was fine for me to go, he cleared my schedule for 2 months. I'm just making sure that's fine with you."<br /> "Wow, two months is pretty generous for that man, but that's fine with me."<br /> "Great." As I got up to leave so I wouldn't be much of a bother anymore, she stopped me and pointed her figure back to the chair.<br /> "I'm not done with you," she stated. "I know Sabrina is probably going to be there so I want you to be smart about your decisions. Don't go getting st-face drunk and regretting something in the morning."<br /> "I promise I won't." She's had to deal with me making mistakes while drunk too many times. I've had online gossip sites catch me at multiple clubs with multiple girls.<br /> "Also while you're there maybe go help out your other friend, Cory, with the baseball team," she suggested and I nodded in agreement. That's actually a good idea.<br /> I soon left their house after saying goodbye to the kids. As I sat in the Uber to go back to my penthouse, I got a call from Cory.<br /> "Hey man, I was just about to call you," I said picking up the phone. The driver then pulled in front of the building as I got out.<br /> "Yeah, Tyler texted me saying you were talking to Coach about the wedding. What'd he say?" He asked as I made my way up to my floor.<br /> "Well lets just say I'm coming home a little earlier."<br /> "How early?"<br /> "September 10."<br /> "Wow!"<br /> "Yeah, I was actually wondering if I could help you coach a few days a week?"<br /> "That would be great. The guys really look up to you."<br /> "Awesome," I said taking a seat on the living room couch. "Also don't tell Tyler that I'm coming early, I want to surprise him."<br /> "Got it."<br /> "So what's up?" I asked switching the subject. "I heard it's the first day of school."<br /> "Yeah I just got done with one of my classes, and now I'm off to my lunch break. What about you?"<br /> "I just got back to my house. I'll probably get something to eat soon," I responded. He was about to say something when another voice sounded from the background.<br /> "Cory, if you don't hurry up, I'm leaving your a-s here," I heard her growl out.<br /> Sabrina.<br /> The sound of her voice just hit me. It hasn't changed one bit, and man do I miss it.<br /> "Well I got to go. See you soon," he ended the call leaving me to think about her.<br /> I have exactly 2 weeks until I see her again, and I'm not sure if I'm completely ready.<br /> ————<br /> Josh's POV<br /> I walked out of the gym with my shirt hanging over my shoulder, my water bottle in one hand, and my phone in the other. Before I made it to my car, a blonde girl stood in front of my door.<br /> "Hello, hot stuff," she greeted with a smirk and a wink.<br /> "Hi?" I questioned wondering who this woman is.<br /> "I'm Tiffany, and I was just about to go to the gym when I saw you," she explained.<br /> "You were about to go to the gym in jeans?" I asked taking in her outfit. Does she think I'm stupid?<br /> "Yeah-," she was cut off by the sound of my phone ringing. I looked down to see it was Cory calling.<br /> "I have to take this," I stated as she moved away from the door allowing me to get in my car. I immediately answered the phone while also starting the car.<br /> "Hey man, what's up?" I greeted as I pulled out of the parking lot leaving the girl standing there.<br /> "Nothing much. I actually need your help coming up with ideas for Tyler's bachelor party."<br /> "Well Tyler is a kid at heart, so I would definitely do something fun like a trampoline park or an amusement park," I responded as I heard loud squeals in the background. It's sounds like an actual child.<br /> "Hold on," he told me. "Keegan get down from the counter you're going to fall."<br /> Who's Keegan?<br /> "Okay, I'm back," he stated after a long pause filled with giggles. "A trampoline park sounds great."<br /> "Yeah," I agreed still confused. "Who's Keegan?"<br /> "Oh-," he was cut off by the sound of cries. "St. Brynlee, what did your mother say about running down the stairs? Hey man, I have to go. Talk to you later."<br /> Before I could respond back, he hung up.<br /> Who is Keegan? Who is Brynlee? Whose kids are they? Did Cory have kids without telling me?	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1,229,181	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229342}'	No	2024-04-14 15:13	active	526	805543954954858	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	Marrying this magnificent warrior was my ideal but after marriage...<br /> "Why do you cry?" His rough voice is baffled. "Wife, look at me."<br /> That word. That word I used to love and now despise. More tears well up in my eyes.<br /> "You want an answer? Fine. I do not like being married to you. For you, keeping mistresses is a tradition. For me, it's the worst insult you can give a wife. I've had enough."<br /> A cold anger slips over his features. "That is unfortunate since we are wed. You have no choice but to accept."<br /> "You're wrong. I'll do my duty and give you an heir, but no more than that."<br /> ————————<br /> "You spend much time out here, I'm told."<br /> My body stiffens as the one voice I'm trying to escape invades my senses. The garden has become one of my refuges and after three months, I thought I was safe out here, safe from his presence and hers. Heaven knows, I've watered just about every plant out here with my tears. The flowers can attest to my misery, but no one else can.<br /> Except now, if he looks at my face, he'll see that I'm crying.<br /> Would he care?<br /> Making a move as if I'm wiping sweat from my face, I attempt to remove the evidence of my pain.<br /> "My lady wife, do you ignore me?"<br /> Still keeping my back to him, I shrug and continue pulling the weeds. "I wasn't aware that an observation made by you required a response."<br /> "I've wondered where you disappear to."<br /> Not enough to find out the answer.<br /> That's the wrong thing to think since it causes more tears to slide down my face. Before I can wipe them away, his hand grasps my arm, pulling me up to face him. I don't look at him, but I can feel the intensity of his gaze as he studies my face.<br /> Humiliation complete.<br /> "Why do you cry?"<br /> His rough voice is honestly baffled, as if he cannot understand how someone in my situation could have any sorrow.<br /> "Wife, look at me."<br /> That word. That word I used to love and now despise. More tears well up in my eyes, but I force myself to meet his gaze.<br /> "Tell me what causes these tears. You have been different since I brought you here after we wedded."<br /> He wants an answer, so I give him the absolute truth. After all these months of holding it in, I wrap up everything in one short sentence.<br /> "I do not like being married to you."<br /> He wasn't expecting that answer and I can feel his whole body lock tight and his hand flexes on my arm.<br /> "What is not to your liking?"<br /> That almost makes me laugh, his voice is positively confused, as if I have everything a woman could want so how could I possibly be upset?<br /> Shaking my head, I answer softly, "It matters not."<br /> "It matters. I would not have my wife cry." Heavens! That deep voice of his, so rough yet so gentle, as it was when we had our glorious month together before our wedding. Back when I was hopeful for our future, when I looked forward to marrying this magnificent warrior and being his wife in every way. Back when I thought he cared for me, when I thought the look in his eyes was full of, if not love, then caring.<br /> Back before he shattered all my ideals and dreams.<br /> "Once I am with child, I would ask you to allow me to remove to another of your estates."<br /> "Ah," he says as if understanding is dawning. "You do not like Bellford Keep. That is fine. There are others we can go to."<br /> Typical man. Problem solved. Completely missing the actual point.<br /> Looking at the ground, I shake my head. "You misunderstand me. I wish to go to another estate alone. Without you."<br /> Again, his body locks solid.<br /> "I would have your eyes for what I say next, wife." Grudgingly, I meet his eyes. And what I see in his is frightening in its intensity, its fury. "My wife will not live away from me. Ever. Do not bring this up again."<br /> "Being with you brings me nothing but misery."<br /> He looks as if I've slapped him his shock is so great at my audacity.<br /> Then a cold anger slips over his features. "That is unfortunate since we are wed."<br /> "Leave me," I dismiss him, not thinking.<br /> Clearly the wrong thing to say as he leans down so his face is only inches from mine. "You do not command, wife. You would do well to remember your place."<br /> "I assure you, I am never able to forget my place here."<br /> Those tears spill over again, both my bitterness and heartbreak pouring out. What is wrong with me?<br /> "You must learn to be happy in your situation. Any other woman would be happy to be my bride."<br /> "Well then you should have married one of them. I find no pleasure in being your wife."<br /> He grins at me.<br /> Actually grins.<br /> "You lie. You found great pleasure last night. And every night I come to your bed since we have been married."<br /> I think, in that moment, I actually hate him.<br /> "And that is the problem. I am not the only one you find pleasure with. So whatever pleasure you may give to me, believe me when I say it is only physical and only temporary. My heart and my mind remain unswayed by you and wish to be far away from you because the pain you inflict is so much greater than the fleeting pleasure."<br /> Since I can't force the warrior to leave, I spin around and storm off to the stables.<br /> He doesn't follow.<br /> Why should he follow his unhappy wife when his mistress is always there, always happy?<br /> ————<br /> I head into the stables, waving off Braden, the stablemaster. I need no help, nor do I want it, from this man or any man. In minutes, I'm leading my stallion, Sir Neigh, out of the barn and I quickly mount up.<br /> Braden yells after me when he sees me take off, no guard in sight. He thought I'd come to groom my boy, not go riding. He is used to me riding only in the mornings, never in the late afternoon near the evening meal.<br /> However, I plan on missing the meal tonight and all nights going forward so I do not have to watch her watching my husband in the common room any longer.<br /> It hurts. It hurts me so badly. I always wonder if my parents knew, when they married me off to the warrior, that his peoples' tradition included the males keeping and flaunting their mistresses. Knowing my parents, and the great love between the two of them, and just the two of them, I cannot imagine they did or they would not have given me over to him.<br /> I can't return to my parents' home because my father would return me not out of malice but because a wife belongs with her husband. He would give me sanctuary if I had been physically mistreated, but since I am not, he has no reason to protect me.<br /> I sigh as I realize I have no choice but to continue to live here, my heart dying a little more every day as I sleep alone in my bed, the warrior not alone in his. He is with her. My only hope is that someday he will allow me to live away from him at one of his other estates. Since he doesn't seem to care about family, maybe once he has his heir, he will let us go.<br /> Defeat is hard for me to accept, and as soon as I think that thought, my anger at myself grows. Who says I have to accept my lot? What if I were to run away? I had some money my mother slipped into my trunk before we left.<br /> "A woman should always have her own money," she'd whispered and I'd nodded my understanding. "Unpack it when you get home and hide it well in case there is ever need for it."<br /> She was assuming in case we were ever overrun with raiders, I could use it to ransom my husband if he were ever taken.<br /> I also had jewelry I could sell.<br /> Thinking back to the first – and only – time he had given jewelry to me, I frown. It was the day we had arrived at Bellford and I discovered...her.<br /> A servant had summoned me to his library and the warrior waited in there for me, holding a velvet bag in his hand.<br /> I'd walked into the room, keeping my eyes to the floor, even after I heard the servant bow out and close the door.<br /> "I have made arrangements for Mrs. Kelly to give you a tour of the estate and to go over household matters with you. Bellford Keep has been without a mistress since the old lord and lady died."<br /> I continued to stare at the ground and I did not acknowledge that I heard him. His boots came into my view after a few moments of silence.<br /> "Are you well, my lady wife?"<br /> Just a short nod from me as answer.<br /> His fingers nudged my chin up, but I still managed to keep my eyes downcast. "What is wrong that you will neither speak to me nor look me in the eye?"<br /> "May I leave?" I asked.<br /> Sensing his irritation, I was not surprised that his answer was swift. "No, you may not. I would like to know the cause of your distress and I have a surprise for you."<br /> That got him my eyes, but they were enraged. "I never want another surprise from you ever again."<br /> "This one you will like," he assured me, and spilled the contents of the velvet bag into his hand. It was a beautiful diamond and emerald necklace.<br /> Pushing his hand away, I snapped. "I want nothing from you. Give it to her, give all of your gifts to her. But do not ever attempt to give me a gift, ever again. You have nothing I want."<br /> Then I left him in his library, holding the jewelry I rejected.<br /> The memory was bitter and made me reconsider accepting his gifts. Perhaps I should have taken them, then I could sell them and book passage on a ship to another country and start a new life there, never having to see the warrior with her again.<br /> About half an hour from home, I see a rider heading toward me with a torch raised high. He reins in as he comes alongside me.<br /> "Milady, are you well?"<br /> I smile at his concern. "Thank you, yes, Sir Alcarn."<br /> "Were you lost?"<br /> "No; I only lost track of time and rode farther than I thought. When I realized and turned back, I could not allow Sir Neigh to run as he had earlier, when there was still sun."<br /> "Everyone is out looking for you."<br /> What on earth? "Why?"<br /> His look is part relief and part anger. "You disappeared, milady, without an escort, and you missed the evening meal. Then when you still did not return, my lord sent all of his warriors out to find you."<br /> "Yes, I'm sure he couldn't be bothered to look himself."<br /> That bit of bitterness came out before I could stop my mouth. I'd broken a rule of my own, that no one should know of my marital discord, and I fidgeted uncomfortably in my saddle.<br /> "No, milady. He was the first one out to look for you when you didn't show up for the evening meal. When he couldn't find you, he sent all of us out, my lord himself included."<br /> With the bit of light we had from the torch, we trotted back toward the keep. Every so often, Alcarn would blow a horn he had shrilly.<br /> "In case anyone is close enough to hear, they will know you have been found and will pass that along."<br /> Sure enough, on the ride back, four more knights joined us, grouping themselves around me.<br /> The upheaval my ride had caused took me by surprise. At home, although my parents didn't like it, I would disappear until well after dark all the time during the summer.<br /> "I apologize," I told my escorts. "At home I would often lose track of the time and return late. My parents never sent out anyone to find me, so I had no idea the warrior would."<br /> "Be prepared, milady," one of my escorts said.<br /> "For what?"<br /> "My lord is not used to being...concerned, and your disappearance did not sit well with him. It's a wonder he didn't kill Braden."<br /> "Why on earth would he do that?"<br /> "Braden knew you'd ridden off and informed no one until he was questioned."<br /> "A mistake he will never make again," Basik chortled.<br /> The keep came into view, other riders coming toward the stables from opposite directions. I thanked my escort, apologized to them and allowed one of them to take Sir and wipe him down so I could head to my chambers.<br /> As soon as my maid undid my laces on my dress, I dismissed her so she could sleep. Then I crawled into my bed and fell to sleep immediately.<br /> I never knew if it was hours or minutes later but the door to my chambers burst open and hit the wall, startling me awake.<br /> Then it was slammed shut and I could barely make out the form of the warrior as he stalked to my bed.<br /> "Do you know what you did?" he growled at me.<br /> An apology would have been the proper thing right then.<br /> "Yes. I'm quite aware I went for a ride."<br /> Quick as a flash, his arms reached out and grabbed me to him, my knees still on the bed. "Now is not the time for your mouth. You caused an uproar, wife, and you inconvenienced me and all my men."<br /> "Oh, I'm so sorry," I cooed. "Did I infringe on the time you could have spent with your bimbo?"<br /> His fingers tightened on my upper arms. "Is that what this is? A tantrum about my camaspoza?"<br /> "Let me go," I hissed.<br /> "You need to learn your place," he snarled back. "I will not have my life disrupted because you cannot accept that which has always been."<br /> "For you, it is tradition. For me, it is the worst insult you can give a wife. It demeans me and my position and every day I hate you more than the day before. I am miserable with you; I abhor the life you are forcing me to live. And I will never accept that which has always been because I will never accept something that destroys me. If I fell dead tomorrow, I would rejoice that my shame would be at an end."<br /> The warrior drew back at the poison I spewed at him.<br /> "You have no choice but to accept."<br /> "You are wrong. I will do my duty by you and give you an heir, but no more than that."<br /> "You cannot keep yourself from me."<br /> "There you are wrong, Warrior. I already do keep myself from you. You have my body, but that is all. Everything else that is in me despises you with a hatred so deep, it is beyond measure."<br /> "Do not fool yourself. Your jealousy makes you think it is hatred, but you are only jealous because you care."<br /> "No. I used to care, and you know that I fell in love with you in our month together before we wed. I was prepared to make you my everything and to share a beautiful life with you, sharing our joys and sorrows and concerns, raising our children together. What I dreamed of was as magnificent as I thought you were. But all of that was gone in a moment when you introduced her to me. It killed everything good I was feeling about us in but a moment, and your lack of respect and your continued humiliation of me – your preference for her – have changed my feelings to quite the opposite of what they were on the day we wed."<br /> "Your body says otherwise."<br /> He didn't understand. "You are skilled in bed, no doubt. You have enough experience to give me pleasure despite my wish otherwise. But you do not touch my heart or my mind or my soul. My parents have a true marriage and that is what I was raised thinking I would have. And instead, I have nothing."<br /> "You have my loyalty and affection and protection."<br /> "I most certainly do not have your loyalty nor do I have your affection."<br /> "I come to your bed; what is that if not affection?"<br /> "That is doing your duty and every time you do, something in me dies. It is not something that enhances our love or our connection as husband and wife; it is assuredly killing anything that I once thought I felt. A body is just a shell."<br /> "A shell that will carry the sons that I release into you."<br /> I look away because what once would have thrilled me breaks my heart, especially given the crude way he says it. "Once I am pregnant, I would like to go into seclusion at another one of your estates."<br /> "No."<br /> "Why?" I demand, frustrated. "What possible reason is there for me to stay once I am pregnant?"<br /> "Because you are my wife and you remain where I say. You need no other reason."<br /> "Just go," I demand.<br /> But he doesn't. "I think I will take my pleasure now, wife."<br /> And he does, but I remain impassive and resistant as long as I can. Which is not long at all.<br /> "Take your pleasure," he whispers into my ear. "It is not shameful to do so."<br /> Tears streaming down my face, I do. I cannot help it. "I hate you," I whisper to him. "I want you to stay away from me."<br /> ————<br /> The next day, the warrior comes to me and tells me that the king's messenger has arrived and summoned him to court immediately. That explains the servants scurrying to pack his trunks and provisions.<br /> "I would take you, but as you pointed out last night, you wish me to stay away from you. So, my lady wife, I shall take her with me instead of you, while you remain here, alone as you wanted. You see? I am a considerate husband who gives his wife what she wants. You may want to consider in the future what you ask of me because I assure you, if it is mine to give, it shall be yours."<br /> I refuse to wave off the party going to court. I have no need to see her riding beside him, her triumphant smile telling me she knows she is preferred over his wife. She holds the warrior's heart; she sleeps beside him at night when he leaves my chambers.<br /> Since I have no idea how long the warrior will be away, I decide to take action. I am tired of having to live my life at his whim. So I ask two young servant boys to bring me two trunks from the attic. They are eager to help and in no time I am packing my dresses and undergarments and shoes and cloaks and hats. One of the things that the warrior had entrusted to me was communication with his nine estates. Should a problem arise, I could handle it or turn it over to the warrior for judgment, but in this he trusted and respected my training. Since he was gone for an unknown time, I decided it was time the lady of the estates met each steward.<br /> The young servant boys happily carried my trunks to the coach and tied them on. Now came the tricky part and dealing with the head guardsman.<br /> "My lord Carrington has asked that I do a tour of his estates while he is on the king's business. I'll need two guards with me. My husband suggested Cheswick and Folroy."<br /> The ones who couldn't read or write, so they could not communicate with anyone on our journeys.<br /> "My lady," Gadding said, "My lord did not mention this to me."<br /> Giving him my most assured and haughty look, I stared him in the eye. "Are you questioning my husband's orders to me? The order he gave to me in a rush due to his unexpected need to attend to the king so suddenly?" I pulled back a little and then hit him with, "Are you saying I am lying about something so important? Would you like to explain to the warrior why I am still here when he returns, my mission not completed?"<br /> As expected, he immediately began to bluster his apologies and said that he would have Cheswick and Folroy make themselves available immediately for our trip. Three hours later, we were off and for the first time since arriving at Bellford Keep, I felt free. After our first estate visit, I told Cheswick and Folroy that I had a letter from my husband summoning them back to Bellford Keep.<br /> I traveled not only to the warrior's nine estates, but also spent two weeks here and there with six different cousins of mine. When we left one estate, I told the steward there where we were going next, and then proceeded to go to a different place. I worried that as we visited one estate, the warrior would have an easier time narrowing down our options, so that was when I interspersed our estate visits with visits to my cousins.<br /> After the first month, I began to suspect something.<br /> After the second month, I knew.<br /> That last night of pleasure before my husband left for the king's court had filled me with a baby. At seven months along now, with all of our visiting done, I was going to head home. Part of my reasoning for visiting the estates was to select my favorite one, and so I did. That it happened to be the farthest from Bellford Keep was part of its allure. Fernwick was much smaller than Bellford, more rustic, but near a charming village that had excellent midwives. It felt homier to me, the right place to enter my confinement period and to birth my child.<br /> Every morning I walked into the village, stopping at the bakery and wandering among the other shops, greeting the villagers. I made friends with all of the wives, who did not stand so much in awe of me as their husbands did because of who my husband was.<br /> I invited the ladies to Fernwick once a week, to talk and discuss happenings in the village. At first, they seemed scared to join me, but after the first two gatherings, we chatted and laughed easily. I had never had friends like this before, and certainly none after my marriage.<br /> They'd even gathered the courage to ask about the warrior and I told them that we would live separately.<br /> "He has...another to keep him company and they suit one another."<br /> Each one of them looked affronted and I know that the poor had different types of unions, but openly carrying on with another who was not your spouse was not acceptable.<br /> "I cannot believe he would choose another over you," Maggie told me brashly. I adored Maggie as she spoke her truths unflinchingly. She was also one of my midwives. "You are his wife."<br /> "Only to give him an heir. Nothing more." I laughed as a particularly hard kick took my breath. "And it is fine. I will have my child and a quiet life here and I will not have to see him with her."<br /> After a few weeks of settling in at Fernwick, I wrote the warrior a short note. I told him I got pregnant and had begun my confinement and offered him a chance to do the right thing.<br /> I asked him to allow me to live in Fernwick and never destroy the peace I felt here with her presence. But it would all depend on how much he hated me, I supposed.<br /> ————<br /> My baby continued to grow over the next three weeks. Looking at my belly, I couldn't believe I had another two or three weeks to go.<br /> There had been no reply to my letter and I realized that no answer was my answer. Perhaps he was waiting to hear if I had birthed an heir or a daughter before replying.<br /> Two days later, my peace was interrupted as I was walking by the creek. One of the maids came rushing to me, all in a tizzy. <br /> "Milady, your husband is arrived!"	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1,229,361	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229342}'	No	2024-04-14 15:14	active	526	1231009081637041	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	Marrying this magnificent warrior was my ideal but after marriage...<br /> "Why do you cry?" His rough voice is baffled. "Wife, look at me."<br /> That word. That word I used to love and now despise. More tears well up in my eyes.<br /> "You want an answer? Fine. I do not like being married to you. For you, keeping mistresses is a tradition. For me, it's the worst insult you can give a wife. I've had enough."<br /> A cold anger slips over his features. "That is unfortunate since we are wed. You have no choice but to accept."<br /> "You're wrong. I'll do my duty and give you an heir, but no more than that."<br /> ————————<br /> "You spend much time out here, I'm told."<br /> My body stiffens as the one voice I'm trying to escape invades my senses. The garden has become one of my refuges and after three months, I thought I was safe out here, safe from his presence and hers. Heaven knows, I've watered just about every plant out here with my tears. The flowers can attest to my misery, but no one else can.<br /> Except now, if he looks at my face, he'll see that I'm crying.<br /> Would he care?<br /> Making a move as if I'm wiping sweat from my face, I attempt to remove the evidence of my pain.<br /> "My lady wife, do you ignore me?"<br /> Still keeping my back to him, I shrug and continue pulling the weeds. "I wasn't aware that an observation made by you required a response."<br /> "I've wondered where you disappear to."<br /> Not enough to find out the answer.<br /> That's the wrong thing to think since it causes more tears to slide down my face. Before I can wipe them away, his hand grasps my arm, pulling me up to face him. I don't look at him, but I can feel the intensity of his gaze as he studies my face.<br /> Humiliation complete.<br /> "Why do you cry?"<br /> His rough voice is honestly baffled, as if he cannot understand how someone in my situation could have any sorrow.<br /> "Wife, look at me."<br /> That word. That word I used to love and now despise. More tears well up in my eyes, but I force myself to meet his gaze.<br /> "Tell me what causes these tears. You have been different since I brought you here after we wedded."<br /> He wants an answer, so I give him the absolute truth. After all these months of holding it in, I wrap up everything in one short sentence.<br /> "I do not like being married to you."<br /> He wasn't expecting that answer and I can feel his whole body lock tight and his hand flexes on my arm.<br /> "What is not to your liking?"<br /> That almost makes me laugh, his voice is positively confused, as if I have everything a woman could want so how could I possibly be upset?<br /> Shaking my head, I answer softly, "It matters not."<br /> "It matters. I would not have my wife cry." Heavens! That deep voice of his, so rough yet so gentle, as it was when we had our glorious month together before our wedding. Back when I was hopeful for our future, when I looked forward to marrying this magnificent warrior and being his wife in every way. Back when I thought he cared for me, when I thought the look in his eyes was full of, if not love, then caring.<br /> Back before he shattered all my ideals and dreams.<br /> "Once I am with child, I would ask you to allow me to remove to another of your estates."<br /> "Ah," he says as if understanding is dawning. "You do not like Bellford Keep. That is fine. There are others we can go to."<br /> Typical man. Problem solved. Completely missing the actual point.<br /> Looking at the ground, I shake my head. "You misunderstand me. I wish to go to another estate alone. Without you."<br /> Again, his body locks solid.<br /> "I would have your eyes for what I say next, wife." Grudgingly, I meet his eyes. And what I see in his is frightening in its intensity, its fury. "My wife will not live away from me. Ever. Do not bring this up again."<br /> "Being with you brings me nothing but misery."<br /> He looks as if I've slapped him his shock is so great at my audacity.<br /> Then a cold anger slips over his features. "That is unfortunate since we are wed."<br /> "Leave me," I dismiss him, not thinking.<br /> Clearly the wrong thing to say as he leans down so his face is only inches from mine. "You do not command, wife. You would do well to remember your place."<br /> "I assure you, I am never able to forget my place here."<br /> Those tears spill over again, both my bitterness and heartbreak pouring out. What is wrong with me?<br /> "You must learn to be happy in your situation. Any other woman would be happy to be my bride."<br /> "Well then you should have married one of them. I find no pleasure in being your wife."<br /> He grins at me.<br /> Actually grins.<br /> "You lie. You found great pleasure last night. And every night I come to your bed since we have been married."<br /> I think, in that moment, I actually hate him.<br /> "And that is the problem. I am not the only one you find pleasure with. So whatever pleasure you may give to me, believe me when I say it is only physical and only temporary. My heart and my mind remain unswayed by you and wish to be far away from you because the pain you inflict is so much greater than the fleeting pleasure."<br /> Since I can't force the warrior to leave, I spin around and storm off to the stables.<br /> He doesn't follow.<br /> Why should he follow his unhappy wife when his mistress is always there, always happy?<br /> ————<br /> I head into the stables, waving off Braden, the stablemaster. I need no help, nor do I want it, from this man or any man. In minutes, I'm leading my stallion, Sir Neigh, out of the barn and I quickly mount up.<br /> Braden yells after me when he sees me take off, no guard in sight. He thought I'd come to groom my boy, not go riding. He is used to me riding only in the mornings, never in the late afternoon near the evening meal.<br /> However, I plan on missing the meal tonight and all nights going forward so I do not have to watch her watching my husband in the common room any longer.<br /> It hurts. It hurts me so badly. I always wonder if my parents knew, when they married me off to the warrior, that his peoples' tradition included the males keeping and flaunting their mistresses. Knowing my parents, and the great love between the two of them, and just the two of them, I cannot imagine they did or they would not have given me over to him.<br /> I can't return to my parents' home because my father would return me not out of malice but because a wife belongs with her husband. He would give me sanctuary if I had been physically mistreated, but since I am not, he has no reason to protect me.<br /> I sigh as I realize I have no choice but to continue to live here, my heart dying a little more every day as I sleep alone in my bed, the warrior not alone in his. He is with her. My only hope is that someday he will allow me to live away from him at one of his other estates. Since he doesn't seem to care about family, maybe once he has his heir, he will let us go.<br /> Defeat is hard for me to accept, and as soon as I think that thought, my anger at myself grows. Who says I have to accept my lot? What if I were to run away? I had some money my mother slipped into my trunk before we left.<br /> "A woman should always have her own money," she'd whispered and I'd nodded my understanding. "Unpack it when you get home and hide it well in case there is ever need for it."<br /> She was assuming in case we were ever overrun with raiders, I could use it to ransom my husband if he were ever taken.<br /> I also had jewelry I could sell.<br /> Thinking back to the first – and only – time he had given jewelry to me, I frown. It was the day we had arrived at Bellford and I discovered...her.<br /> A servant had summoned me to his library and the warrior waited in there for me, holding a velvet bag in his hand.<br /> I'd walked into the room, keeping my eyes to the floor, even after I heard the servant bow out and close the door.<br /> "I have made arrangements for Mrs. Kelly to give you a tour of the estate and to go over household matters with you. Bellford Keep has been without a mistress since the old lord and lady died."<br /> I continued to stare at the ground and I did not acknowledge that I heard him. His boots came into my view after a few moments of silence.<br /> "Are you well, my lady wife?"<br /> Just a short nod from me as answer.<br /> His fingers nudged my chin up, but I still managed to keep my eyes downcast. "What is wrong that you will neither speak to me nor look me in the eye?"<br /> "May I leave?" I asked.<br /> Sensing his irritation, I was not surprised that his answer was swift. "No, you may not. I would like to know the cause of your distress and I have a surprise for you."<br /> That got him my eyes, but they were enraged. "I never want another surprise from you ever again."<br /> "This one you will like," he assured me, and spilled the contents of the velvet bag into his hand. It was a beautiful diamond and emerald necklace.<br /> Pushing his hand away, I snapped. "I want nothing from you. Give it to her, give all of your gifts to her. But do not ever attempt to give me a gift, ever again. You have nothing I want."<br /> Then I left him in his library, holding the jewelry I rejected.<br /> The memory was bitter and made me reconsider accepting his gifts. Perhaps I should have taken them, then I could sell them and book passage on a ship to another country and start a new life there, never having to see the warrior with her again.<br /> About half an hour from home, I see a rider heading toward me with a torch raised high. He reins in as he comes alongside me.<br /> "Milady, are you well?"<br /> I smile at his concern. "Thank you, yes, Sir Alcarn."<br /> "Were you lost?"<br /> "No; I only lost track of time and rode farther than I thought. When I realized and turned back, I could not allow Sir Neigh to run as he had earlier, when there was still sun."<br /> "Everyone is out looking for you."<br /> What on earth? "Why?"<br /> His look is part relief and part anger. "You disappeared, milady, without an escort, and you missed the evening meal. Then when you still did not return, my lord sent all of his warriors out to find you."<br /> "Yes, I'm sure he couldn't be bothered to look himself."<br /> That bit of bitterness came out before I could stop my mouth. I'd broken a rule of my own, that no one should know of my marital discord, and I fidgeted uncomfortably in my saddle.<br /> "No, milady. He was the first one out to look for you when you didn't show up for the evening meal. When he couldn't find you, he sent all of us out, my lord himself included."<br /> With the bit of light we had from the torch, we trotted back toward the keep. Every so often, Alcarn would blow a horn he had shrilly.<br /> "In case anyone is close enough to hear, they will know you have been found and will pass that along."<br /> Sure enough, on the ride back, four more knights joined us, grouping themselves around me.<br /> The upheaval my ride had caused took me by surprise. At home, although my parents didn't like it, I would disappear until well after dark all the time during the summer.<br /> "I apologize," I told my escorts. "At home I would often lose track of the time and return late. My parents never sent out anyone to find me, so I had no idea the warrior would."<br /> "Be prepared, milady," one of my escorts said.<br /> "For what?"<br /> "My lord is not used to being...concerned, and your disappearance did not sit well with him. It's a wonder he didn't kill Braden."<br /> "Why on earth would he do that?"<br /> "Braden knew you'd ridden off and informed no one until he was questioned."<br /> "A mistake he will never make again," Basik chortled.<br /> The keep came into view, other riders coming toward the stables from opposite directions. I thanked my escort, apologized to them and allowed one of them to take Sir and wipe him down so I could head to my chambers.<br /> As soon as my maid undid my laces on my dress, I dismissed her so she could sleep. Then I crawled into my bed and fell to sleep immediately.<br /> I never knew if it was hours or minutes later but the door to my chambers burst open and hit the wall, startling me awake.<br /> Then it was slammed shut and I could barely make out the form of the warrior as he stalked to my bed.<br /> "Do you know what you did?" he growled at me.<br /> An apology would have been the proper thing right then.<br /> "Yes. I'm quite aware I went for a ride."<br /> Quick as a flash, his arms reached out and grabbed me to him, my knees still on the bed. "Now is not the time for your mouth. You caused an uproar, wife, and you inconvenienced me and all my men."<br /> "Oh, I'm so sorry," I cooed. "Did I infringe on the time you could have spent with your bimbo?"<br /> His fingers tightened on my upper arms. "Is that what this is? A tantrum about my camaspoza?"<br /> "Let me go," I hissed.<br /> "You need to learn your place," he snarled back. "I will not have my life disrupted because you cannot accept that which has always been."<br /> "For you, it is tradition. For me, it is the worst insult you can give a wife. It demeans me and my position and every day I hate you more than the day before. I am miserable with you; I abhor the life you are forcing me to live. And I will never accept that which has always been because I will never accept something that destroys me. If I fell dead tomorrow, I would rejoice that my shame would be at an end."<br /> The warrior drew back at the poison I spewed at him.<br /> "You have no choice but to accept."<br /> "You are wrong. I will do my duty by you and give you an heir, but no more than that."<br /> "You cannot keep yourself from me."<br /> "There you are wrong, Warrior. I already do keep myself from you. You have my body, but that is all. Everything else that is in me despises you with a hatred so deep, it is beyond measure."<br /> "Do not fool yourself. Your jealousy makes you think it is hatred, but you are only jealous because you care."<br /> "No. I used to care, and you know that I fell in love with you in our month together before we wed. I was prepared to make you my everything and to share a beautiful life with you, sharing our joys and sorrows and concerns, raising our children together. What I dreamed of was as magnificent as I thought you were. But all of that was gone in a moment when you introduced her to me. It killed everything good I was feeling about us in but a moment, and your lack of respect and your continued humiliation of me – your preference for her – have changed my feelings to quite the opposite of what they were on the day we wed."<br /> "Your body says otherwise."<br /> He didn't understand. "You are skilled in bed, no doubt. You have enough experience to give me pleasure despite my wish otherwise. But you do not touch my heart or my mind or my soul. My parents have a true marriage and that is what I was raised thinking I would have. And instead, I have nothing."<br /> "You have my loyalty and affection and protection."<br /> "I most certainly do not have your loyalty nor do I have your affection."<br /> "I come to your bed; what is that if not affection?"<br /> "That is doing your duty and every time you do, something in me dies. It is not something that enhances our love or our connection as husband and wife; it is assuredly killing anything that I once thought I felt. A body is just a shell."<br /> "A shell that will carry the sons that I release into you."<br /> I look away because what once would have thrilled me breaks my heart, especially given the crude way he says it. "Once I am pregnant, I would like to go into seclusion at another one of your estates."<br /> "No."<br /> "Why?" I demand, frustrated. "What possible reason is there for me to stay once I am pregnant?"<br /> "Because you are my wife and you remain where I say. You need no other reason."<br /> "Just go," I demand.<br /> But he doesn't. "I think I will take my pleasure now, wife."<br /> And he does, but I remain impassive and resistant as long as I can. Which is not long at all.<br /> "Take your pleasure," he whispers into my ear. "It is not shameful to do so."<br /> Tears streaming down my face, I do. I cannot help it. "I hate you," I whisper to him. "I want you to stay away from me."<br /> ————<br /> The next day, the warrior comes to me and tells me that the king's messenger has arrived and summoned him to court immediately. That explains the servants scurrying to pack his trunks and provisions.<br /> "I would take you, but as you pointed out last night, you wish me to stay away from you. So, my lady wife, I shall take her with me instead of you, while you remain here, alone as you wanted. You see? I am a considerate husband who gives his wife what she wants. You may want to consider in the future what you ask of me because I assure you, if it is mine to give, it shall be yours."<br /> I refuse to wave off the party going to court. I have no need to see her riding beside him, her triumphant smile telling me she knows she is preferred over his wife. She holds the warrior's heart; she sleeps beside him at night when he leaves my chambers.<br /> Since I have no idea how long the warrior will be away, I decide to take action. I am tired of having to live my life at his whim. So I ask two young servant boys to bring me two trunks from the attic. They are eager to help and in no time I am packing my dresses and undergarments and shoes and cloaks and hats. One of the things that the warrior had entrusted to me was communication with his nine estates. Should a problem arise, I could handle it or turn it over to the warrior for judgment, but in this he trusted and respected my training. Since he was gone for an unknown time, I decided it was time the lady of the estates met each steward.<br /> The young servant boys happily carried my trunks to the coach and tied them on. Now came the tricky part and dealing with the head guardsman.<br /> "My lord Carrington has asked that I do a tour of his estates while he is on the king's business. I'll need two guards with me. My husband suggested Cheswick and Folroy."<br /> The ones who couldn't read or write, so they could not communicate with anyone on our journeys.<br /> "My lady," Gadding said, "My lord did not mention this to me."<br /> Giving him my most assured and haughty look, I stared him in the eye. "Are you questioning my husband's orders to me? The order he gave to me in a rush due to his unexpected need to attend to the king so suddenly?" I pulled back a little and then hit him with, "Are you saying I am lying about something so important? Would you like to explain to the warrior why I am still here when he returns, my mission not completed?"<br /> As expected, he immediately began to bluster his apologies and said that he would have Cheswick and Folroy make themselves available immediately for our trip. Three hours later, we were off and for the first time since arriving at Bellford Keep, I felt free. After our first estate visit, I told Cheswick and Folroy that I had a letter from my husband summoning them back to Bellford Keep.<br /> I traveled not only to the warrior's nine estates, but also spent two weeks here and there with six different cousins of mine. When we left one estate, I told the steward there where we were going next, and then proceeded to go to a different place. I worried that as we visited one estate, the warrior would have an easier time narrowing down our options, so that was when I interspersed our estate visits with visits to my cousins.<br /> After the first month, I began to suspect something.<br /> After the second month, I knew.<br /> That last night of pleasure before my husband left for the king's court had filled me with a baby. At seven months along now, with all of our visiting done, I was going to head home. Part of my reasoning for visiting the estates was to select my favorite one, and so I did. That it happened to be the farthest from Bellford Keep was part of its allure. Fernwick was much smaller than Bellford, more rustic, but near a charming village that had excellent midwives. It felt homier to me, the right place to enter my confinement period and to birth my child.<br /> Every morning I walked into the village, stopping at the bakery and wandering among the other shops, greeting the villagers. I made friends with all of the wives, who did not stand so much in awe of me as their husbands did because of who my husband was.<br /> I invited the ladies to Fernwick once a week, to talk and discuss happenings in the village. At first, they seemed scared to join me, but after the first two gatherings, we chatted and laughed easily. I had never had friends like this before, and certainly none after my marriage.<br /> They'd even gathered the courage to ask about the warrior and I told them that we would live separately.<br /> "He has...another to keep him company and they suit one another."<br /> Each one of them looked affronted and I know that the poor had different types of unions, but openly carrying on with another who was not your spouse was not acceptable.<br /> "I cannot believe he would choose another over you," Maggie told me brashly. I adored Maggie as she spoke her truths unflinchingly. She was also one of my midwives. "You are his wife."<br /> "Only to give him an heir. Nothing more." I laughed as a particularly hard kick took my breath. "And it is fine. I will have my child and a quiet life here and I will not have to see him with her."<br /> After a few weeks of settling in at Fernwick, I wrote the warrior a short note. I told him I got pregnant and had begun my confinement and offered him a chance to do the right thing.<br /> I asked him to allow me to live in Fernwick and never destroy the peace I felt here with her presence. But it would all depend on how much he hated me, I supposed.<br /> ————<br /> My baby continued to grow over the next three weeks. Looking at my belly, I couldn't believe I had another two or three weeks to go.<br /> There had been no reply to my letter and I realized that no answer was my answer. Perhaps he was waiting to hear if I had birthed an heir or a daughter before replying.<br /> Two days later, my peace was interrupted as I was walking by the creek. One of the maids came rushing to me, all in a tizzy. <br /> "Milady, your husband is arrived!"	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1,229,122	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229395}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:13	active	526	404902532491980	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	My plan to continue dating him all through college vanished to void due to a note.<br /> 'Sabrina, I know we planned to spend college together here in San Diego, but I can't pass up this opportunity. I will always love you, but I have to say goodbye for now.'<br /> He's gone. <br /> I didn't even get to tell him I was pregnant.<br /> Four years later...<br /> "Josh is the last groomsmen?!" <br /> I was in my best friend Elena's meeting with her wedding planner.<br /> She looked over at me with a worried look.<br /> God, what would happen when he saw the girls or when I finally saw him? <br /> What if I blurt out that he's a father?<br /> ————————<br /> Sabrina POV<br /> I'm pregnant.<br /> I can't believe this. Josh and I are going to have a baby.<br /> We haven't even started college yet.<br /> What if he leaves?<br /> I was completely lost in thought as I walked through the front door of my house. Jordyn, my little sister, was sitting on the couch cuddled up in a blanket watching a re-run of Friends.<br /> "Have you seen Mom or Dad?" I asked wanting to tell them about the baby first.<br /> "Mom just went out to get some groceries, and Dad is still at work," Jojo responded looking up at me with her brown eyes while her light brown hair was thrown into a messy bun on top of her head. I guess telling them can wait.<br /> "Okay, I'm going to grab something from my room, and then go over to Josh's."<br /> I need to tell him.<br /> "Oh yeah," Jojo began. "He came by earlier, but you weren't here so he left you a note. It's on the kitchen counter."<br /> I gave her a confused expression before heading toward the kitchen. There was a piece of paper laying on top of the counter. When I picked it up, I noticed his rushed handwriting.<br /> Sabrina,<br /> I know we planned to spend college together here in San Diego, but I can't pass up this opportunity. I have to take the scholarship in Florida, and I hope you understand. I will always love you, but I have to say goodbye for now.<br /> I love you,<br /> Josh<br /> I let the paper slip from hands as my legs gave out. I fell to the floor with a thud loud enough to alert Jojo who came into the kitchen.<br /> Florida? He never even told me about a scholarship.<br /> I continued to stare off into space trying to wrap my brain around what just happened. When Jojo got no response from me, she picked up the paper and read it herself. As she wrapped her arms around me in a reassuring hug, a tear fell down my cheek, and then a sob escape my lips.<br /> He's gone.<br /> He's gone, and left me with our baby growing in my stomach.<br /> He left me.<br /> ....<br /> It has officially been four years since Josh left me and all his friends and family here in San Diego. A lot has changed. My beautiful daughters, Brynlee Reese and Keegan Ryder, are now three years old. <br /> My dad died from brain cancer last year after battling long enough to see his granddaughters turn two. He loved them more than anything. It's been hard for us, especially my mom, but we're getting by. <br /> I graduated from the University of San Diego last year with a teaching degree in English, and am going on my second year of teaching at my old high school, Fremont High School. Jordyn, my 17 year old sister, is a junior there.<br /> Ever since my pregnancy, I've had help from my family, Josh's family, and our friends. I couldn't really hide Josh's daughters from his parents since the girls are their granddaughters, and they promised not to tell him. <br /> Let's just say that they weren't too pleased with how Josh left. I've tried to tell Josh about Brynlee and Keegan, but he doesn't answer any of my calls or I chickened out. <br /> Cory and Tyler have offered to tell him since he actually keeps in contact with them, along with his family, but I want him to hear it from me. <br /> Now, I think it's a little too late to tell him especially since he's happy on his own. He's off playing professional baseball for the New York Yankees while dating multiple girls, according to the gossip sites.<br /> Josh's sister, Delaney, got married last year at a destination wedding that only included close family members. I was invited since the girls are her nieces, but I declined the invitation knowing I would have to see him. She is now a pediatrician while her husband, Landon Gray, took over his father's oil company. <br /> My best friend, Elena Pratt, just graduated from nursing school and started her new job at the local hospital. She is also currently engaged to Tyler Stephens, Josh and I's best friend. They've been dating since our junior year of high school. Tyler works alongside Landon as the financial manager. <br /> Cory Sutton, Josh and I's other best friend, is now a gym teacher and baseball coach at Fremont High School. He was suppose to become a professional baseball player like Josh, but he suffered a serious shoulder injury which ended his playing days. Teaching was always his backup.<br /> The continuous jumping on my bed followed by loud giggles disturbed my sleep. My eyes fluttered open to see two toddlers wide awake.<br /> "Mommy!" Keegan screamed as she jumped onto me with the intention of a hug. Her knotted brown hair fell to the sides of her face as her big brown eyes gleamed with excitement. Brynlee continued jumping as her blonde hair bounced with her.<br /> "Good morning to you girlies too," I responded hugging Keegan as Brynlee cuddled to my side. "What do you girls want for breakfast?"<br /> "WAFFLES!" They both squealed jumping from the bed as they ran out of my bedroom. I then got up from the comfort of my bed sheets and put my fuzzy gray robe on over my pajamas that consisted of shorts and an old t-shirt. When I reached the kitchen, the girls were there digging the Eggo waffles out of the freezer.<br /> "Can you put the box on the counter for me?" I asked as I pulled out the toaster from one of the many cabinets. Keegan did as I told her and then ran to the living room with Brynlee following behind. She then turned on the TV to their favorite show, Doc McStuffins. I put three waffles into the toaster and waited for them to pop back out when they were done.<br /> Looking over at the girls brought back memories. I was absolutely shocked when I found out I was having twins.<br /> I laid down waiting for the doctor to enter while my mom sat in the nearby chair. I anxiously played with my long painted nails looking down at my small bump. Soon enough the doctor came into the room.<br /> "Hello, I'm Dr. Valente. You must be Sabrina and her mom," she greeted shaking my mom's hand then moving over to me. "Are we ready to see the little one?"<br /> I nodded my head as she instructed what to do before putting the gel on my stomach. She had the screen pointed towards her allowing me to only see the shocked expression on her face.<br /> "What's wrong?" I asked suddenly worried.<br /> "Nothing's wrong, but it looks like you're having twins." The minute the words came out of her mouth, my jaw dropped to the floor.<br /> I'm having two babies.<br /> The sudden sound of waffles popping out of the toaster brought me back to reality. I began to fix me and the girls a plate before calling them over to the dining table. As they scooped pieces of the waffle into their mouth, I got a text from Elena.<br /> Are you on your way??<br /> Yes but we might be a little late.<br /> I completely lost track of time and now we're going to be late for Elena's meeting with her wedding planner. Since I'm the maid of honor, she wants me there too.<br /> It's currently 10:25, and we have to be at her house at 10:30 which is a 7 minute drive. Great.<br /> "Girls, go brush your teeth and then come to your bedroom," I instructed grabbing the empty plates from the table and rinsing them off in the sink. They sprinted off to the bathroom while I went to pick out their outfits for today.<br /> I pulled two matching floral dresses from their closet as they came running in. I then grabbed their white converses and helped them get dressed.<br /> Once finished they ran to the living room where Doc McStuffins was still playing on the TV. While they were occupied, I ran over to my room to get myself dressed. I put on a simple black and white striped button up that was halfway tucked into light denim shorts. I then slipped on sandals before pulling my blonde hair into a high ponytail.<br /> After brushing my teeth and putting on my makeup, I got the girls out the apartment door and we headed to the car. I buckled them into their car seats and started the car. When Will My Life Begin from Tangled played non stop the whole car ride.<br /> We soon arrived to Elena and Tyler's house. Once Keegan was free from the buckles, she sprinted from where the car was parked on the driveway into Tyler's arms. As soon as he saw the car pull in, he slammed the door open ready to see his nieces. Brynlee, on the other hand, was fast asleep in her car seat. She stirred slightly when I picked her up, and then laid her head on my shoulder.<br /> "Is someone sleepy?" I asked in the voice you make when talking to a child. She then nodded with her eyes still closed making me chuckle.<br /> I entered into the house to see Elena and another woman sitting at the kitchen counter. They didn't notice me at first until Bryn let out a little yawn.<br /> "Hey Sab, this is Rebecca, my wedding planner. Rebecca, this is my best friend and maid of honor, Sabrina," Elena introduced. I smiled at the red-headed woman in front of me. Rebecca had to be in her mid-forties, but she was in incredible shape.<br /> "It's nice to meet," I greeted shaking her hand. "I need to lay this little one down somewhere so I'll be right back."<br /> I walked out of the kitchen and into the living room were Keegan and Tyler were both watching Peppa Pig. I set Bryn on the couch and she immediately cuddled into Tyler's side.<br /> "How's the little princess?" Ty asked cuddling her.<br /> "Sleepy," I answered. "Well I need to go back to your fiancée so make sure they don't injure themselves."<br /> "Are you still holding that against me?"<br /> "You dropped my daughter."<br /> "So what do we have so far?" I asked coming back into the kitchen after a small argument with Tyler. I won!<br /> "The color scheme is going to be burgundy and gold. We've also set the date for November 6 which is a Saturday," Elena answered as I sat in the chair next to her.<br /> "Now we'll discuss who's in the wedding and the smaller details like decorations," Rebecca directed. "So who all is in the wedding?"<br /> "Well we have both of our parents. Sabrina is my maid of honor. Tyler's best friend, Cory, is his best man. Our flower girls are Keegan and Brynlee, Sabrina's daughters. The ring bearer is Tyler's cousin, Nathan."<br /> "Okay, what about bridesmaids and groomsmen?"<br /> "For bridesmaids, I have Delaney, Angela, Kelly, Haley, and Jordyn," she listed. Delaney is Josh's sister which we are both really close to. Angela and Kelly are two soon-to-be nurses that Elena met at med school. Haley is her 14 year old sister while Jordyn is my sister.<br /> "For the groomsmen, there is Landon, Calum, Griffin, Scott, and..." her voice faded as she looked over at me with a worried look as I just gave her a confused look back. Landon is Delaney's husband and Tyler's boss/ friend. Calum is a buddy from college. Griffin is Tyler's 17 year old brother, and Scott is his 12 year old brother.<br /> Who else is there... wait.<br /> I immediately changed my confused expression to one of horror.<br /> "Who is the last groomsmen?" Rebecca asked clearly not seeing the look on my face.<br /> "Josh," Elena said the one name that made my world come crashing down.<br /> This is going to be one h-ll of a wedding.<br /> ————<br /> Josh's POV<br /> I was sitting on my tan couch looking at the muted TV in front of me as I waited for Tyler to answer his phone. Luckily, he answered on the third ring.<br /> "Hey man, shouldn't you being doing something baseball related?" He asked.<br /> "Hey," I greeted. "Today is my day off."<br /> "Ah, so why are you calling me at 8 in the morning on your day off? You should be sleeping in."<br /> "I guess I'm just use to waking up early," I lied knowing that I didn't even sleep last night. I mean how could I? This penthouse is quite lonely when you're actually in it. I'm barely ever here due to playing. When I am here I tend to think, and thinking leads to no sleep.<br /> Most of the time, I am out like a light when I hit my bed since training wore me out, but I wasn't necessarily tired.<br /> "We both know that's a lie. You didn't sleep last night did you?"<br /> He knows me too well.<br /> "Maybe."<br /> "Is it about Sabrina?" He asked already knowing the answer to that question. It's always about her. She's in my mind all the time. I like to use playing and partying as a way to forget about her, but it never works. I even try to get with other girls, but back out when it comes to taking them home. They're just not her.<br /> "Can we not talk about it?" I asked ready to change the subject. "What are you doing right now?"<br /> "It's 8 o'clock on a Monday morning. What do you think I'm doing?"<br /> "Sorry. Did I interrupt anything at work?" I cringe knowing I didn't even think about him possibly being busy.<br /> "Nah, I just got here," he said knowing I would feel guilty for interrupting something.<br /> "You're a jerk."<br /> "I know. Now why are you calling me?"<br /> "Can't I just say hi to my friend?"<br /> "Not when we literally talked last night about the wedding," he reminded. Last night, after the meeting with the wedding planner, he gave me the details of the date so I could work it out with my schedule. That also reminds me that I need to talk to Coach.<br /> "Fine," I gave in. "I just want to know how she is."<br /> "Sabrina is fine. Today is actually the first day of school."<br /> "Was she nervous?"<br /> "Why don't you ask her yourself?" These past few years, I've constantly asked Cory and Tyler how Sab was doing. They would get annoyed every once in a while, and they were pretty mad at me when I first left. I completely understand though. What I did was a bad move, but there's no way to take it back.<br /> "Because if I call her and hear her voice, I know I'm going to automatically get a plane ticket to San Diego."<br /> "You're going to have to see her at the wedding though."<br /> "I know."<br /> "Just making sure," he said followed by a pause. "Well I have to go, boss man needs me."<br /> "Bye." I then hung up the phone and headed to my bedroom to get dressed. My room was painted dark gray while everything else was also a different shade of gray. It was quite boring, but it looked nice.<br /> The sliding door to my closet opened when I pushed the button on the wall. I walked in and picked out a simple white T-shirt. Then I paired that with denim jeans and my famous leather jacket. After throwing on some shoes, I left my fancy penthouse and made my way to the elevator.<br /> Waiting for the barista to tell me my coffee was ready, created a chance for everyone in the cafe to keep looking at me. No one said anything, but they made it very clear that they knew who I was.<br /> "JOSH!" The barista yelled sliding a to-go coffee cup onto the counter. I swiftly grabbed it and thanked him before walking out.<br /> I then proceeded to walk along the busy sidewalk as I headed to the Yankee stadium. Usually I would get an Uber, but the traffic was extremely bad this morning.<br /> Soon enough, I arrived at the stadium after a 15 minute walk. I went straight to our locker room and saw some rookies packing up their bags.<br /> Coach Gibson's office was to the right of the entrance which was where I was headed. I knocked before entering, and he was sitting at his desk reading something on his phone.<br /> "Hey Coach," I greeted as he looked up for a split second.<br /> "Hey Parker. What are you doing here, it's your day off?"<br /> "I know, but I needed to ask you about my schedule."<br /> "You could have just called me."<br /> "Yeah, but I wanted to get out of my place for a little," I said causing him to give me a knowing look. The first week of playing on the team, Coach could automatically tell that something was always in the back of my mind. He asked me about and I told me about Sabrina. He was pretty skeptical about it seeing I may get distracted, but I promised that it would not bother my playing. Fortunately, it never did. Playing was my distraction and passion.<br /> "So what's this about your schedule?"<br /> "My buddy's wedding is on November 6, and I was wondering if I could go back home for a week or two?"<br /> "You're a good player, Parker. So I'm going to clear your schedule from September 10 to November 10. Does that sound good?" He asked looking at the calendar on his desk.<br /> "That sounds great," I said happy to get a little break from the tough training.<br /> "Okay, but I have a few conditions," he began. "You have to promise me that you'll go to the gym every other day, and keep practicing your pitching. Got it?"<br /> "Got it," I stated getting up to leave as he went back to his phone. "Thanks Coach."<br /> "Oh and Parker," he said stopping me from leaving as I turned to face him. "While you're there, try and work this whole thing out with that girl."<br /> With those parting words, I was off to my next stop.<br /> I knocked on the wooden door of my manager's house, and it soon opened to reveal a tired man.<br /> "Hey Jimmy," I greeted. Jimmy Davis is my manager's husband.<br /> "Hey Josh, what are you doing here?" He asked letting me in. Their house had a homey feel with lots of pictures of their family on the wall. Angela, my manager, has two kids. Their eldest, Mason, is three, and their youngest, Elise, just turned one.<br /> "I actually need to talk to Angela about my friend's wedding," I responded right as a little boy in monster truck pajamas came running into the living room.<br /> "JOSH!" He exclaimed throwing his arms around one of my legs in an attempt at a hug. To help him out, I swiftly picked him up.<br /> "Hey buddy! Are you causing your parents any trouble?"<br /> "No, but El keeps crying," he explains. Angela then walks in with a little girl cuddled in her arms.<br /> "Jimmy," Angela sighs, "can you hold Elise while I talk to Josh?"<br /> Jimmy grabs El from his wife's arms and heads for the kitchen with Mason trailing behind. I then turn to Angela who is trying to clean up some of the toys on the floor.<br /> "So what's this about a wedding?" She asks me as we both sit down.<br /> "One of my best friends, back at home, is having his wedding, and I'm a groomsmen. Coach already said it was fine for me to go, he cleared my schedule for 2 months. I'm just making sure that's fine with you."<br /> "Wow, two months is pretty generous for that man, but that's fine with me."<br /> "Great." As I got up to leave so I wouldn't be much of a bother anymore, she stopped me and pointed her figure back to the chair.<br /> "I'm not done with you," she stated. "I know Sabrina is probably going to be there so I want you to be smart about your decisions. Don't go getting st-face drunk and regretting something in the morning."<br /> "I promise I won't." She's had to deal with me making mistakes while drunk too many times. I've had online gossip sites catch me at multiple clubs with multiple girls.<br /> "Also while you're there maybe go help out your other friend, Cory, with the baseball team," she suggested and I nodded in agreement. That's actually a good idea.<br /> I soon left their house after saying goodbye to the kids. As I sat in the Uber to go back to my penthouse, I got a call from Cory.<br /> "Hey man, I was just about to call you," I said picking up the phone. The driver then pulled in front of the building as I got out.<br /> "Yeah, Tyler texted me saying you were talking to Coach about the wedding. What'd he say?" He asked as I made my way up to my floor.<br /> "Well lets just say I'm coming home a little earlier."<br /> "How early?"<br /> "September 10."<br /> "Wow!"<br /> "Yeah, I was actually wondering if I could help you coach a few days a week?"<br /> "That would be great. The guys really look up to you."<br /> "Awesome," I said taking a seat on the living room couch. "Also don't tell Tyler that I'm coming early, I want to surprise him."<br /> "Got it."<br /> "So what's up?" I asked switching the subject. "I heard it's the first day of school."<br /> "Yeah I just got done with one of my classes, and now I'm off to my lunch break. What about you?"<br /> "I just got back to my house. I'll probably get something to eat soon," I responded. He was about to say something when another voice sounded from the background.<br /> "Cory, if you don't hurry up, I'm leaving your a-s here," I heard her growl out.<br /> Sabrina.<br /> The sound of her voice just hit me. It hasn't changed one bit, and man do I miss it.<br /> "Well I got to go. See you soon," he ended the call leaving me to think about her.<br /> I have exactly 2 weeks until I see her again, and I'm not sure if I'm completely ready.<br /> ————<br /> Josh's POV<br /> I walked out of the gym with my shirt hanging over my shoulder, my water bottle in one hand, and my phone in the other. Before I made it to my car, a blonde girl stood in front of my door.<br /> "Hello, hot stuff," she greeted with a smirk and a wink.<br /> "Hi?" I questioned wondering who this woman is.<br /> "I'm Tiffany, and I was just about to go to the gym when I saw you," she explained.<br /> "You were about to go to the gym in jeans?" I asked taking in her outfit. Does she think I'm stupid?<br /> "Yeah-," she was cut off by the sound of my phone ringing. I looked down to see it was Cory calling.<br /> "I have to take this," I stated as she moved away from the door allowing me to get in my car. I immediately answered the phone while also starting the car.<br /> "Hey man, what's up?" I greeted as I pulled out of the parking lot leaving the girl standing there.<br /> "Nothing much. I actually need your help coming up with ideas for Tyler's bachelor party."<br /> "Well Tyler is a kid at heart, so I would definitely do something fun like a trampoline park or an amusement park," I responded as I heard loud squeals in the background. It's sounds like an actual child.<br /> "Hold on," he told me. "Keegan get down from the counter you're going to fall."<br /> Who's Keegan?<br /> "Okay, I'm back," he stated after a long pause filled with giggles. "A trampoline park sounds great."<br /> "Yeah," I agreed still confused. "Who's Keegan?"<br /> "Oh-," he was cut off by the sound of cries. "St. Brynlee, what did your mother say about running down the stairs? Hey man, I have to go. Talk to you later."<br /> Before I could respond back, he hung up.<br /> Who is Keegan? Who is Brynlee? Whose kids are they? Did Cory have kids without telling me?	LEARN_MORE	https://a.libynovel.com/ad/bGlieS8xNDg1OTEvMjAyNDA	108133278947193	LiB002	https://facebook.com/100092178008070	63	1	946,079,117,003,140	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	LiB002	120207338226930691	a.libynovel.com	NONE	video		https://a.libynovel.com/ad/bGlieS8xNDg1OTEvMjAyNDA0MTExNjM3MDQvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}		2024-04-11 03:55	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436770736_291680923975524_8047838989478616747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9wLsqO_nHXcAb5ceXBN&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBUf4HJRMMfhaMeSl0XkF_pe9-alY_Mw4DXGKNU641H5Q&oe=6621EF72	person_profile	0	LiB002	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437754599_972879601076241_4596013437956418737_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rjvkbunYy-kAb6xDc4A&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFGh_Ar2DT-M8pSazoNiVl5-PSeMdCjVtdEvnJ-NxFJQ&oe=66221173	3	LiB002	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,225,890	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-14 15:08	active	526	3686852361571570		Time to shake up this weekend with some new looks! 🫨🤭 Shop these fits now on <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FKellyObi.com%2F&h=AT3tbop2p1LmS4owNcKaqySmcA_K_HO3L5tHEk_UArBKRhyhb4bSP8XR7bmoay0s_A1wkmiVndnXh2BnNq6EJnpna-iBZ0KFHZ_KNq9EydmAY0BtkhfEadT6VaDetMz93Btj_8Rp2waQD09XrYFhwHzDpOMDAg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">KellyObi.com</a> #TapToShop #ShopYourVibe 🔥✨<br /> <br /> 🎥 @dexterityproductions	LEARN_MORE	https://www.instagram.com/kellyobi.ny?igsh=czZ2czF	116791414665998	Kelly Obi New York	https://facebook.com/KellyObiNewYork	7,885	1	1,636,660,967,161,287	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Learn more	Kelly Obi New York	120207910845260606	www.instagram.com	NONE	video		https://www.instagram.com/kellyobi.ny?igsh=czZ2czFseHB3cGpv		2024-04-06 06:40	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434472820_745882274344996_7469404061128634253_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_t5gz7jzueEAb59ngdU&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBEPVSjdP5WLS00sifC0I_ieIHhAIx971yLgQVO3UlBDg&oe=6621FDB1	person_profile	0	Kelly Obi New York	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434074004_1111307313408418_8097271560464252636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kt4RFk7rcYkAb4hQO5m&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD9OS2CDJRT5RAUUDPlD6Hn5Ort5onxud18EaPztxwO7g&oe=6621FE9A	3	Kelly Obi New York	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,228,932	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-14 15:13	active	526	1930270107429955		Hey fam, happy Friday….my new track “Energy” is now available on pre-order @Traxsource! <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.traxsource.com%2Ftitle%2F2247853%2Fenergy-can-u-feel-it&h=AT2E66c3HQA4D1J5BM5peJc71htPcIjGgjUh_NKUAmYSXo1koXRAKPumJCdqRwjBHZ3bdOT87BWOSBduyM_jekFTAgeUMUCf6jne0V-cm10aylwORQSwNAITbAsEn1SHbrZQ3P-wKtOWneYZRQkbFekflacmWH49nnDCealE" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="async">https://www.traxsource.com/title/2247853/energy-can-u-feel-it</a><br /> <br /> Thank you to DJ Spen Kelly Spencer and the Quantize Recordings & Unquantize crew for blessing this track! <br /> <br /> Link in bios<br /> <br /> #TGBTG #onelove #djkahnti #quantize #unquantize	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/djkahnti	140831749114879	djkahnti	https://www.instagram.com/_u/djkahnti	0	1	945,212,317,250,202	2024-04-14 02:00	ig_ads_identity	eligible	NONE	1	1	1	Visit Instagram profile	djkahnti	120208556173760402	instagram.com	NONE	video		http://instagram.com/djkahnti		2024-04-14 12:55	https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/385850701_1362932024434105_4736129173709006103_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=DjtXw85NnusAb7jqs7b&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AfBud6RVcftfptRpmHlH6cbkY1Wa2WQwI71zWLuX6-Hn-w&oe=66222047	ig_ads_identity	1	KAHNTI	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437942979_386034454406467_316115606088025761_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H67WEHql8JgAb4vhb_l&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfCU5MEPka5lUtBojCv40xL-58gjmtbdOQVSyFPNURP76A&oe=6621F422	3	djkahnti	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,226,624	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1226600}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:09	active	526	320946847328520	CLEARANCE! ONLY R 39.99	⌨️ Boost productivity with our Computer Desk featuring Touch Control. <br /> 🖥️ Organize your workspace efficiently. Elevate your work experience! 🚀📚👇<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jaoesty.com%2Fproducts%2Fcomputer-desk%3Fsku%3D18063751902698059938381430&h=AT1sMFmP7E4VrlXBvc3jquQ4s8Jwr_DhNIQM-2DNGoHxlYuGzgJgerTqeoz9tWzkCV3LgHlyKf69UGpOgD4xm5F607HSEFnd0nReJCeFgCHqIb3wLJFP25grKekSjH5Z19eWuIt8PQ-27Ro47GTabA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.jaoesty.com/products/computer-desk?sku=18063751902698059938381430</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://www.jaoesty.com/products/computer-desk?sku	122910260907864	Kristi Kelly	https://facebook.com/61551065295463	9	0	777,383,237,241,878	2024-04-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Kristi Kelly	120207414955530640	www.jaoesty.com	NONE	video	FREE DELIVERY	https://www.jaoesty.com/products/computer-desk?sku=18063751902698059938381430		2024-03-14 03:22	https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432312273_1092163595448168_5314613407715316763_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YRDy67Zt378Ab6WKWXU&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDK2IwwCFaFUiJ0a5GQ2x6QyMpMEyOQIiVYR3gFNg4S_Q&oe=6622236A	person_profile	0	Kristi Kelly	https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432361570_730485032571199_9062484675740060745_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z3C_LWaULNoAb6Tnjjs&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDPPJVvvb2M6BlgBB_LwKPcJV-bhzeuTFN5-cNQcEVhw&oe=6621EE10	3	Kristi Kelly	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,229,157	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229342}'	Yes	2024-04-14 15:13	active	526	728495229488045	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	Marrying this magnificent warrior was my ideal but after marriage...<br /> "Why do you cry?" His rough voice is baffled. "Wife, look at me."<br /> That word. That word I used to love and now despise. More tears well up in my eyes.<br /> "You want an answer? Fine. I do not like being married to you. For you, keeping mistresses is a tradition. For me, it's the worst insult you can give a wife. I've had enough."<br /> A cold anger slips over his features. "That is unfortunate since we are wed. You have no choice but to accept."<br /> "You're wrong. I'll do my duty and give you an heir, but no more than that."<br /> ————————<br /> "You spend much time out here, I'm told."<br /> My body stiffens as the one voice I'm trying to escape invades my senses. The garden has become one of my refuges and after three months, I thought I was safe out here, safe from his presence and hers. Heaven knows, I've watered just about every plant out here with my tears. The flowers can attest to my misery, but no one else can.<br /> Except now, if he looks at my face, he'll see that I'm crying.<br /> Would he care?<br /> Making a move as if I'm wiping sweat from my face, I attempt to remove the evidence of my pain.<br /> "My lady wife, do you ignore me?"<br /> Still keeping my back to him, I shrug and continue pulling the weeds. "I wasn't aware that an observation made by you required a response."<br /> "I've wondered where you disappear to."<br /> Not enough to find out the answer.<br /> That's the wrong thing to think since it causes more tears to slide down my face. Before I can wipe them away, his hand grasps my arm, pulling me up to face him. I don't look at him, but I can feel the intensity of his gaze as he studies my face.<br /> Humiliation complete.<br /> "Why do you cry?"<br /> His rough voice is honestly baffled, as if he cannot understand how someone in my situation could have any sorrow.<br /> "Wife, look at me."<br /> That word. That word I used to love and now despise. More tears well up in my eyes, but I force myself to meet his gaze.<br /> "Tell me what causes these tears. You have been different since I brought you here after we wedded."<br /> He wants an answer, so I give him the absolute truth. After all these months of holding it in, I wrap up everything in one short sentence.<br /> "I do not like being married to you."<br /> He wasn't expecting that answer and I can feel his whole body lock tight and his hand flexes on my arm.<br /> "What is not to your liking?"<br /> That almost makes me laugh, his voice is positively confused, as if I have everything a woman could want so how could I possibly be upset?<br /> Shaking my head, I answer softly, "It matters not."<br /> "It matters. I would not have my wife cry." Heavens! That deep voice of his, so rough yet so gentle, as it was when we had our glorious month together before our wedding. Back when I was hopeful for our future, when I looked forward to marrying this magnificent warrior and being his wife in every way. Back when I thought he cared for me, when I thought the look in his eyes was full of, if not love, then caring.<br /> Back before he shattered all my ideals and dreams.<br /> "Once I am with child, I would ask you to allow me to remove to another of your estates."<br /> "Ah," he says as if understanding is dawning. "You do not like Bellford Keep. That is fine. There are others we can go to."<br /> Typical man. Problem solved. Completely missing the actual point.<br /> Looking at the ground, I shake my head. "You misunderstand me. I wish to go to another estate alone. Without you."<br /> Again, his body locks solid.<br /> "I would have your eyes for what I say next, wife." Grudgingly, I meet his eyes. And what I see in his is frightening in its intensity, its fury. "My wife will not live away from me. Ever. Do not bring this up again."<br /> "Being with you brings me nothing but misery."<br /> He looks as if I've slapped him his shock is so great at my audacity.<br /> Then a cold anger slips over his features. "That is unfortunate since we are wed."<br /> "Leave me," I dismiss him, not thinking.<br /> Clearly the wrong thing to say as he leans down so his face is only inches from mine. "You do not command, wife. You would do well to remember your place."<br /> "I assure you, I am never able to forget my place here."<br /> Those tears spill over again, both my bitterness and heartbreak pouring out. What is wrong with me?<br /> "You must learn to be happy in your situation. Any other woman would be happy to be my bride."<br /> "Well then you should have married one of them. I find no pleasure in being your wife."<br /> He grins at me.<br /> Actually grins.<br /> "You lie. You found great pleasure last night. And every night I come to your bed since we have been married."<br /> I think, in that moment, I actually hate him.<br /> "And that is the problem. I am not the only one you find pleasure with. So whatever pleasure you may give to me, believe me when I say it is only physical and only temporary. My heart and my mind remain unswayed by you and wish to be far away from you because the pain you inflict is so much greater than the fleeting pleasure."<br /> Since I can't force the warrior to leave, I spin around and storm off to the stables.<br /> He doesn't follow.<br /> Why should he follow his unhappy wife when his mistress is always there, always happy?<br /> ————<br /> I head into the stables, waving off Braden, the stablemaster. I need no help, nor do I want it, from this man or any man. In minutes, I'm leading my stallion, Sir Neigh, out of the barn and I quickly mount up.<br /> Braden yells after me when he sees me take off, no guard in sight. He thought I'd come to groom my boy, not go riding. He is used to me riding only in the mornings, never in the late afternoon near the evening meal.<br /> However, I plan on missing the meal tonight and all nights going forward so I do not have to watch her watching my husband in the common room any longer.<br /> It hurts. It hurts me so badly. I always wonder if my parents knew, when they married me off to the warrior, that his peoples' tradition included the males keeping and flaunting their mistresses. Knowing my parents, and the great love between the two of them, and just the two of them, I cannot imagine they did or they would not have given me over to him.<br /> I can't return to my parents' home because my father would return me not out of malice but because a wife belongs with her husband. He would give me sanctuary if I had been physically mistreated, but since I am not, he has no reason to protect me.<br /> I sigh as I realize I have no choice but to continue to live here, my heart dying a little more every day as I sleep alone in my bed, the warrior not alone in his. He is with her. My only hope is that someday he will allow me to live away from him at one of his other estates. Since he doesn't seem to care about family, maybe once he has his heir, he will let us go.<br /> Defeat is hard for me to accept, and as soon as I think that thought, my anger at myself grows. Who says I have to accept my lot? What if I were to run away? I had some money my mother slipped into my trunk before we left.<br /> "A woman should always have her own money," she'd whispered and I'd nodded my understanding. "Unpack it when you get home and hide it well in case there is ever need for it."<br /> She was assuming in case we were ever overrun with raiders, I could use it to ransom my husband if he were ever taken.<br /> I also had jewelry I could sell.<br /> Thinking back to the first – and only – time he had given jewelry to me, I frown. It was the day we had arrived at Bellford and I discovered...her.<br /> A servant had summoned me to his library and the warrior waited in there for me, holding a velvet bag in his hand.<br /> I'd walked into the room, keeping my eyes to the floor, even after I heard the servant bow out and close the door.<br /> "I have made arrangements for Mrs. Kelly to give you a tour of the estate and to go over household matters with you. Bellford Keep has been without a mistress since the old lord and lady died."<br /> I continued to stare at the ground and I did not acknowledge that I heard him. His boots came into my view after a few moments of silence.<br /> "Are you well, my lady wife?"<br /> Just a short nod from me as answer.<br /> His fingers nudged my chin up, but I still managed to keep my eyes downcast. "What is wrong that you will neither speak to me nor look me in the eye?"<br /> "May I leave?" I asked.<br /> Sensing his irritation, I was not surprised that his answer was swift. "No, you may not. I would like to know the cause of your distress and I have a surprise for you."<br /> That got him my eyes, but they were enraged. "I never want another surprise from you ever again."<br /> "This one you will like," he assured me, and spilled the contents of the velvet bag into his hand. It was a beautiful diamond and emerald necklace.<br /> Pushing his hand away, I snapped. "I want nothing from you. Give it to her, give all of your gifts to her. But do not ever attempt to give me a gift, ever again. You have nothing I want."<br /> Then I left him in his library, holding the jewelry I rejected.<br /> The memory was bitter and made me reconsider accepting his gifts. Perhaps I should have taken them, then I could sell them and book passage on a ship to another country and start a new life there, never having to see the warrior with her again.<br /> About half an hour from home, I see a rider heading toward me with a torch raised high. He reins in as he comes alongside me.<br /> "Milady, are you well?"<br /> I smile at his concern. "Thank you, yes, Sir Alcarn."<br /> "Were you lost?"<br /> "No; I only lost track of time and rode farther than I thought. When I realized and turned back, I could not allow Sir Neigh to run as he had earlier, when there was still sun."<br /> "Everyone is out looking for you."<br /> What on earth? "Why?"<br /> His look is part relief and part anger. "You disappeared, milady, without an escort, and you missed the evening meal. Then when you still did not return, my lord sent all of his warriors out to find you."<br /> "Yes, I'm sure he couldn't be bothered to look himself."<br /> That bit of bitterness came out before I could stop my mouth. I'd broken a rule of my own, that no one should know of my marital discord, and I fidgeted uncomfortably in my saddle.<br /> "No, milady. He was the first one out to look for you when you didn't show up for the evening meal. When he couldn't find you, he sent all of us out, my lord himself included."<br /> With the bit of light we had from the torch, we trotted back toward the keep. Every so often, Alcarn would blow a horn he had shrilly.<br /> "In case anyone is close enough to hear, they will know you have been found and will pass that along."<br /> Sure enough, on the ride back, four more knights joined us, grouping themselves around me.<br /> The upheaval my ride had caused took me by surprise. At home, although my parents didn't like it, I would disappear until well after dark all the time during the summer.<br /> "I apologize," I told my escorts. "At home I would often lose track of the time and return late. My parents never sent out anyone to find me, so I had no idea the warrior would."<br /> "Be prepared, milady," one of my escorts said.<br /> "For what?"<br /> "My lord is not used to being...concerned, and your disappearance did not sit well with him. It's a wonder he didn't kill Braden."<br /> "Why on earth would he do that?"<br /> "Braden knew you'd ridden off and informed no one until he was questioned."<br /> "A mistake he will never make again," Basik chortled.<br /> The keep came into view, other riders coming toward the stables from opposite directions. I thanked my escort, apologized to them and allowed one of them to take Sir and wipe him down so I could head to my chambers.<br /> As soon as my maid undid my laces on my dress, I dismissed her so she could sleep. Then I crawled into my bed and fell to sleep immediately.<br /> I never knew if it was hours or minutes later but the door to my chambers burst open and hit the wall, startling me awake.<br /> Then it was slammed shut and I could barely make out the form of the warrior as he stalked to my bed.<br /> "Do you know what you did?" he growled at me.<br /> An apology would have been the proper thing right then.<br /> "Yes. I'm quite aware I went for a ride."<br /> Quick as a flash, his arms reached out and grabbed me to him, my knees still on the bed. "Now is not the time for your mouth. You caused an uproar, wife, and you inconvenienced me and all my men."<br /> "Oh, I'm so sorry," I cooed. "Did I infringe on the time you could have spent with your bimbo?"<br /> His fingers tightened on my upper arms. "Is that what this is? A tantrum about my camaspoza?"<br /> "Let me go," I hissed.<br /> "You need to learn your place," he snarled back. "I will not have my life disrupted because you cannot accept that which has always been."<br /> "For you, it is tradition. For me, it is the worst insult you can give a wife. It demeans me and my position and every day I hate you more than the day before. I am miserable with you; I abhor the life you are forcing me to live. And I will never accept that which has always been because I will never accept something that destroys me. If I fell dead tomorrow, I would rejoice that my shame would be at an end."<br /> The warrior drew back at the poison I spewed at him.<br /> "You have no choice but to accept."<br /> "You are wrong. I will do my duty by you and give you an heir, but no more than that."<br /> "You cannot keep yourself from me."<br /> "There you are wrong, Warrior. I already do keep myself from you. You have my body, but that is all. Everything else that is in me despises you with a hatred so deep, it is beyond measure."<br /> "Do not fool yourself. Your jealousy makes you think it is hatred, but you are only jealous because you care."<br /> "No. I used to care, and you know that I fell in love with you in our month together before we wed. I was prepared to make you my everything and to share a beautiful life with you, sharing our joys and sorrows and concerns, raising our children together. What I dreamed of was as magnificent as I thought you were. But all of that was gone in a moment when you introduced her to me. It killed everything good I was feeling about us in but a moment, and your lack of respect and your continued humiliation of me – your preference for her – have changed my feelings to quite the opposite of what they were on the day we wed."<br /> "Your body says otherwise."<br /> He didn't understand. "You are skilled in bed, no doubt. You have enough experience to give me pleasure despite my wish otherwise. But you do not touch my heart or my mind or my soul. My parents have a true marriage and that is what I was raised thinking I would have. And instead, I have nothing."<br /> "You have my loyalty and affection and protection."<br /> "I most certainly do not have your loyalty nor do I have your affection."<br /> "I come to your bed; what is that if not affection?"<br /> "That is doing your duty and every time you do, something in me dies. It is not something that enhances our love or our connection as husband and wife; it is assuredly killing anything that I once thought I felt. A body is just a shell."<br /> "A shell that will carry the sons that I release into you."<br /> I look away because what once would have thrilled me breaks my heart, especially given the crude way he says it. "Once I am pregnant, I would like to go into seclusion at another one of your estates."<br /> "No."<br /> "Why?" I demand, frustrated. "What possible reason is there for me to stay once I am pregnant?"<br /> "Because you are my wife and you remain where I say. You need no other reason."<br /> "Just go," I demand.<br /> But he doesn't. "I think I will take my pleasure now, wife."<br /> And he does, but I remain impassive and resistant as long as I can. Which is not long at all.<br /> "Take your pleasure," he whispers into my ear. "It is not shameful to do so."<br /> Tears streaming down my face, I do. I cannot help it. "I hate you," I whisper to him. "I want you to stay away from me."<br /> ————<br /> The next day, the warrior comes to me and tells me that the king's messenger has arrived and summoned him to court immediately. That explains the servants scurrying to pack his trunks and provisions.<br /> "I would take you, but as you pointed out last night, you wish me to stay away from you. So, my lady wife, I shall take her with me instead of you, while you remain here, alone as you wanted. You see? I am a considerate husband who gives his wife what she wants. You may want to consider in the future what you ask of me because I assure you, if it is mine to give, it shall be yours."<br /> I refuse to wave off the party going to court. I have no need to see her riding beside him, her triumphant smile telling me she knows she is preferred over his wife. She holds the warrior's heart; she sleeps beside him at night when he leaves my chambers.<br /> Since I have no idea how long the warrior will be away, I decide to take action. I am tired of having to live my life at his whim. So I ask two young servant boys to bring me two trunks from the attic. They are eager to help and in no time I am packing my dresses and undergarments and shoes and cloaks and hats. One of the things that the warrior had entrusted to me was communication with his nine estates. Should a problem arise, I could handle it or turn it over to the warrior for judgment, but in this he trusted and respected my training. Since he was gone for an unknown time, I decided it was time the lady of the estates met each steward.<br /> The young servant boys happily carried my trunks to the coach and tied them on. Now came the tricky part and dealing with the head guardsman.<br /> "My lord Carrington has asked that I do a tour of his estates while he is on the king's business. I'll need two guards with me. My husband suggested Cheswick and Folroy."<br /> The ones who couldn't read or write, so they could not communicate with anyone on our journeys.<br /> "My lady," Gadding said, "My lord did not mention this to me."<br /> Giving him my most assured and haughty look, I stared him in the eye. "Are you questioning my husband's orders to me? The order he gave to me in a rush due to his unexpected need to attend to the king so suddenly?" I pulled back a little and then hit him with, "Are you saying I am lying about something so important? Would you like to explain to the warrior why I am still here when he returns, my mission not completed?"<br /> As expected, he immediately began to bluster his apologies and said that he would have Cheswick and Folroy make themselves available immediately for our trip. Three hours later, we were off and for the first time since arriving at Bellford Keep, I felt free. After our first estate visit, I told Cheswick and Folroy that I had a letter from my husband summoning them back to Bellford Keep.<br /> I traveled not only to the warrior's nine estates, but also spent two weeks here and there with six different cousins of mine. When we left one estate, I told the steward there where we were going next, and then proceeded to go to a different place. I worried that as we visited one estate, the warrior would have an easier time narrowing down our options, so that was when I interspersed our estate visits with visits to my cousins.<br /> After the first month, I began to suspect something.<br /> After the second month, I knew.<br /> That last night of pleasure before my husband left for the king's court had filled me with a baby. At seven months along now, with all of our visiting done, I was going to head home. Part of my reasoning for visiting the estates was to select my favorite one, and so I did. That it happened to be the farthest from Bellford Keep was part of its allure. Fernwick was much smaller than Bellford, more rustic, but near a charming village that had excellent midwives. It felt homier to me, the right place to enter my confinement period and to birth my child.<br /> Every morning I walked into the village, stopping at the bakery and wandering among the other shops, greeting the villagers. I made friends with all of the wives, who did not stand so much in awe of me as their husbands did because of who my husband was.<br /> I invited the ladies to Fernwick once a week, to talk and discuss happenings in the village. At first, they seemed scared to join me, but after the first two gatherings, we chatted and laughed easily. I had never had friends like this before, and certainly none after my marriage.<br /> They'd even gathered the courage to ask about the warrior and I told them that we would live separately.<br /> "He has...another to keep him company and they suit one another."<br /> Each one of them looked affronted and I know that the poor had different types of unions, but openly carrying on with another who was not your spouse was not acceptable.<br /> "I cannot believe he would choose another over you," Maggie told me brashly. I adored Maggie as she spoke her truths unflinchingly. She was also one of my midwives. "You are his wife."<br /> "Only to give him an heir. Nothing more." I laughed as a particularly hard kick took my breath. "And it is fine. I will have my child and a quiet life here and I will not have to see him with her."<br /> After a few weeks of settling in at Fernwick, I wrote the warrior a short note. I told him I got pregnant and had begun my confinement and offered him a chance to do the right thing.<br /> I asked him to allow me to live in Fernwick and never destroy the peace I felt here with her presence. But it would all depend on how much he hated me, I supposed.<br /> ————<br /> My baby continued to grow over the next three weeks. Looking at my belly, I couldn't believe I had another two or three weeks to go.<br /> There had been no reply to my letter and I realized that no answer was my answer. Perhaps he was waiting to hear if I had birthed an heir or a daughter before replying.<br /> Two days later, my peace was interrupted as I was walking by the creek. One of the maids came rushing to me, all in a tizzy. <br /> "Milady, your husband is arrived!"	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1,229,419	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1229127}'	No	2024-04-14 15:14	active	526	1932601717154769	Read with Your Ears➤➤	"I, James Rodriguez, soon to be alpha of Eclipse Pack reject you, Nikolina Reed as my mate and Luna. “ <br /> The pain was blinding for Nikolina. Her next words took both of them by surprise. She was anything but weak and she knew she deserved a lot better than some douche bag who was disrespectful towards his own mate. Alpha or not, he shouldn't be the one who gets the last laugh.<br /> ***<br /> Nikolina POV<br /> 4 hours earlier<br /> I woke up in a very good mood. I am finally eighteen and today is the day I find my mate. It actually depends on both sides. If they are of age, they'll find each other soon enough, seventeen is the youngest you can be when you find your mate.<br /> However, most of the time, the guy or the girl have to wait for their other half to come of age, which I think is a great idea.<br /> Yes, I'm a werewolf, specifically the current Beta's daughter and soon to be Beta's sister. The disappointment of the family. But that's okay; I'm not very inclined to make them proud or follow in their footsteps, but mostly they want Alex to do it.<br /> Don't get me wrong. I'm not abused or bullied; except for the occasional remarks, shunned from society, the usual stuff.<br /> They say I'm ugly, but I know better than to believe that. I could have been popular due to my blue eyes and gold speckles, blonde hair and hourglass figure. But I like to keep to myself. Plus my hair was naturally blonde unlike my mother's peroxide bleached hair that comes out of bottles and pricey extensions. Actually, dad and Alex both have brown hair so I don't know how I have blonde hair. For months, I even checked the roots of my hair to find some sort of discoloration to prove that even my hair was bleached. But in vain.<br /> My mom was the stereotypical cheerleader in high school while my dad was the “douche” and quarterback. Apparently they want me to be like them, and social hierarchy exists in packs as well. And my brother is following our parents footsteps, sleeping with more than half of the population, while I'm not.<br /> They revel in attention and bullying people who are lower than them, as they say. To the outside world, my family and I love each other. On the inside it’s an extreme hate relationship, something the pack is aware of except for the Alpha and Luna.<br /> If they knew the truth, my parents, Tiffany and Mark, would lose their respect and beloved Alex's position would be taken away from him. Which would obviously take his popularity down a notch. Horrifying for him. Entertaining for me.<br /> Anyways, today is also the soon-to-be Alpha's eighteenth birthday. James Rodriguez.<br /> Sometimes I wonder how someone as sweet and kind as Diana and George, produce a kid like James.<br /> In short, James is the snobby player. It’s actually really surprising how none of the girls are pregnant yet...<br /> Back to me, I dressed up with more care than usual. I wore a baby pink sundress with black gladiator sandals. I applied a bit of winged liner to make my eyes pop. I've always read stories about loving mates. Who knows how much of it is true? For all I know, it’s some made up fantasy to make mates seem like the ultimate endgame. Maybe one day, I would meet my mate and then we could run away towards the sunset............or something, I don't really care.<br /> Apparently, all mates are compatible with their other half. It’s like love at first sight and the males getting all possessive about their mates is very appealing and a turn on, or so I've heard.<br /> It's all hearsay. And I think it’s stupid. It’s like the males are all custom made robots. Why else would their behavior be so alike?<br /> And there was a paragraph about heat and shifting and marking. Maybe, my mate's gonna go all caveman on me and tear my throat out.<br /> I'm just kidding, morbid thoughts on my birthday are kind of my thing. And its wishful thinking. I don't care. He might even be an omega and I still wouldn't care. Even if he's a human, it wouldn't matter. And if he's not in this pack then..... Oh well... It's better for me. I don't want to stay in a pack where I have no respect and people treat me bad. Status had once mattered to me. But when you have parents like mine, you kind of start praying not to ever be like them.<br /> Not once did they look at me but of course, Alexander was doted on by everyone. Kids. Parents. Friends. You name it.<br /> Apparently, it's because he's a boy. And according to my mother, girls are good for getting screwed, getting hit on, obeying their men, acting flirty along, and popping out heirs.<br /> And lucky for you all, my mother happens to be exhibit A.<br /> You should all be jealous because it's not everyday that you have a live walking, talking example to show the word and tell them what a hoe your mother is.<br /> Third Person POV <br /> Nikolina walked to school as she was not allowed a car. Though Alex was the proud owner of a shiny Silver Volvo. Double standards were very common in the Reed family. She had always wanted her own car, something that was a stunning shade of bright canary yellow, but that dream was nowhere close to becoming a reality.<br /> All of a sudden, she smelt an amazing scent; peppermint and honey. Lydia purred and rolled around in happiness, barely able to contain her excitement.<br /> On searching for the source, her eyes met warm, hazel orbs. His eyes expressed lust and adoration as they raked all over her body.<br /> Realization finally hit her hard when she saw that James-freaking-Rodriguez was her mate! The next Alpha of Solaris Eclipse Pack. And he was Portia's long-standing boyfriend.<br /> You know what he did next? James went back to groping the head cheerleader. “Portia.... “ Oh, sorry. Rookie mistake. Portia Scott.<br /> Tears threatened to fall while her wolf Lydia whimpered, seeing her mate touch another...<br /> “Our mate is beautiful.” James's wolf, Jace said. Nikolina was more than just beautiful. Many males of the pack thought she was gorgeous but never mentioned it out loud due to the fear of facing Alex's wrath. Alex was the one to start it all: the petty insults, the hateful words and making an outcast out of her. Others had just followed his footsteps. And of course, some of the girls were shallow enough to find happiness by making Nikolina feel miserable, because they were insecure about themselves.<br /> But the main issue was, though James thought Nikolina was pretty, he would never accept her as his mate and Luna. Though she was Beta Mark's daughter and was of high status, both him and his ego considered her a nobody. He knew about the insults and he had done it as well. In his eyes, she was worthless and all everyone ever did was talk down on her and she never fought back.<br /> He couldn't have a... thing like that as his mate. Beauty just wasn't enough for him, being a ruthless woman was a requirement.<br /> “She might be beautiful but I don't want her. She's a nobody. If people know that she is my mate, I would become the laughing stock of my pack. Seriously, people walk all over her. She can never be my Luna.” That was the thought going through his mind as he sucked on Portia's neck hard enough to bruise.<br /> “Ow! You're hurting me, boo! You know Kelly has my concealer today.” Portia whined but still made no move to shove James away. She just proceeded to grind her lower body into James and trying to get as close as humanly possible without getting rid of her clothes in public.<br /> James finally pried Portia off his body and walked towards his mate. In some ways, Portia was like a bloodsucking leech or an annoying wart, never leaving without a fight.<br /> “Baby, where are you going? I need you!” Her voice was like a cat dragging its claws across a board.<br /> James just signalled her to shut up before walking towards his mate. He would do the right thing, of course, as the future Alpha of Solaris Eclipse Pack and give Nikolina what she deserves.<br /> He stopped in front of her and asked, “What's your name?”<br /> “Nikolina,” she stated. He soon noticed that she had no friends and no car and he felt the curious stares on his back as everyone's attention was on him.<br /> “I, James Rodriguez, soon to be alpha of Eclipse Pack reject you, Nikolina Reed as my mate and Luna. “ As he rejected her, Jace whimpered and cowered. And James felt bad but he knew this was the right thing to do for himself and the pack. From his perspective, Nikolina was someone who brought out the worst in people and Portia was way more deserving to be his mate and Luna, considering that she was fearless and wasn't afraid to fight dirty for her rights.<br /> James was an egoistic douche bag who mistook petty behavior for fearless but he was blinded by the greed for power and popularity.<br /> The pain was blinding for Nikolina. She would have collapsed if not for the anger that surged through her. She was furious. At James. The Moon Goddess. Not realizing how painful rejection was. Her fate. It was a never ending list.<br /> It felt like she was being drowned in liquid bleach, her lungs burned and she saw red. Anger took over the pain she was feeling and she didn't want to give him the satisfaction of knowing how hurt she was.<br /> Her next words took both of them by surprise. She was anything but weak and she knew she deserved a lot better than some douche bag who was disrespectful towards his own mate. Alpha or not, he shouldn't be the one who gets the last laugh.<br /> “I, Nikolina Reed, accept your rejection as my mate and Alpha. I sincerely hope you get the clap!”<br /> With that, she turned on her heel and left the school premises.<br /> “Who needs a mate? Especially someone like James. People like him need girls like Portia by their sides, who cater to their whims and needs and whatever freaky carnal desire they might have.” Nikolina thought darkly. She wasn't going to give in to her pain and this rejection was the final push that encouraged her to chase after her freedom and break bonds with the family who had clipped off her wings.<br /> James felt a tiny bit of hurt realizing that she didn't even think twice before accepting the rejection and all he could wonder was how did she not burst into tears or grovel at his feet to take her back. Jace did not talk. He just whimpered, feeling the loss of his mate. Before James could think of it anymore, Portia dragged him to an empty classroom to distract her beloved Jamie boo. It seemed as if James wasn't the least bit affected by the incident with Nikolina, because his actions didn't falter as he hitched Portia's skirt up and ripped her panties, drilling her like an animal and releasing himself on her clothes and face as he left her alone to clean up.<br /> Nikolina POV<br /> “Well, he can go drill his toy as much as he wants.” I thought darkly while making my way towards home. All Lydia did was whimper. The moment I saw James, I knew something like this was bound to happen. You don't have any expectations when someone like him is supposed to be your destined mate. He was born with a big ego and he can just stuff it up his.<br /> “Maybe he regrets hurting us, you know.” Lydia whimpered.<br /> Before I could reply, searing hot pain flooded my senses. I felt myself fall on the pavement and the pain started to become more intense. It is obvious, isn't it? He's already drilling someone just minutes after rejecting me. It felt like my body was set on fire and the blistering flames charred my skin.<br /> I slowly got up and almost keeled over as my vision turned white. Dizziness washed over me. I had to clench my fists and dig my fingers hard enough to draw blood. Getting away from him and this stupid pack is my best bet. He was doing it intentionally considering the fact he knows that we're both connected unless one of us dies or gets marked by another. Walking never felt so strenuous and with every step I had to force myself to not curl up on the pavement and cry. I know I deserve someone better but I did want to cry my pain away.<br /> After what seemed like hours, the pain slowly ebbed away. Painful times ahead. The only problem is that the mate bond doesn't break even after being rejected. Only if the rejected is marked by the first mate or by another, or if one of the mates die, will the bond break.<br /> I entered my house and went to my room to pack my bags. You know, in every werewolf story the rejected mate writes letters before leaving. There's no logic to it. I mean, don't you get it? No one cares if you leave. No one cares if you die. No one cares if you slit your throat or get molested or murdered. That's the harsh truth. Why should I open my feelings on a letter make them feel pity? I can just run away and live my best life, away from them. It's not like they will send out search teams for you.<br /> I don't want pity. I can do better than that. I picked up my red lipstick and wrote in capitals before leaving. I know I'm dramatic but it serves them right. They'll remember this for years to come: women can walk away without feeling a twinge of guilt or regret.<br /> Showing vulnerability would only make me seem weak and I've let people walk over me way too many times.<br /> My mom was probably busy getting her hair done or something. That's the only thing she ever does. Or her nails. Or maybe she was out shopping with snobby people like herself. It's obvious that birds of a feather flock together. The only thing I ever liked about her is that she cooked for us, sometimes. Mom made a mean lasagna.<br /> Dad was probably with Alpha George. That's usually where he is. But then again, he also has this terrible habit of getting drunk during daylight hours. And once he even groped some other girl in front of the whole pack. Mom turned an ugly shade of red as she kicked him in the crotch. Those were the good days. It was fun when he laid on the couch with a bag of frozen peas on his groin and mom was nowhere around.<br /> Leaving was better for me anyway. Nothing was tying me down to this place. No friends. No proper family. I would be doing myself and them a favor.<br /> I took my dad's sleek black Porsche for my escapade. I might as well leave loaded and in style, besides it's high time I had a car.<br /> Just as I reached the pack border, I said, “I, Nikolina Reed, break all ties with the Solaris Eclipse Pack.” The patrol guards looked at me, but its not like they would stop me.<br /> The pack links broke and with that I revved up the engine and sped through the borders, driving towards my new life. A better life. It was a blessing that this pack did not care enough to stop me.<br /> <br /> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><br /> Wanna continue this incredible story? Please download our App and search for novel ID: 99168!	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