Confucius Ads Library: Ads

Ads for Sweeps on 2024-05-08

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
1,780,335	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":true,"simple_request_ratio":0.08,"is_bh_selenium":null,"selenium_ratio":null,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	No	2024-05-08 19:24	active	762	997455628788718	Wine Dinner with Exec. Chef Nate Kelly of 63 Corks	5 courses with 5 expertly paired wines<br /> <br /> Course 1<br /> <br /> Summer Tomato pie<br /> <br /> Heirloom Tomato's, Country pie crust, goat cheese mousse, baby basil<br /> <br /> Course 2<br /> <br /> Peaches & Swine<br /> <br /> Sweet peach tea braised pork belly, hot dirty rice, pickled peaches, charred scallions peach tea balsamic reduction<br /> <br /> Course 3<br /> <br /> Summer Agnolotti<br /> <br /> Crab filled agnolotti w/ Calabrian chili, tomato and pine nuts<br /> <br /> Course 4<br /> <br /> Just for DAD<br /> <br /> Pan Seared Dry aged NY strip, potato & beef tallow gratin, ramp butter, morels and creamed pea tendrils<br /> <br /> Course 5<br /> <br /> Blueberry & Cake<br /> <br /> Olive oil cake, macerated blueberries, white chocolate ganache, sour cream ice cream<br /> <br /> *LIMITED seating available<br /> <br /> Pleas let us know of any food allergies and if you are wishing to sit with a particular party<br /> <br /> Tickets $119 pp Gratuity NOT included<br /> Venmo tamara-jorgensen-3<br /> Zelle Tkjorgensen@gmail.com 330-309-9500<br /> At Grapes 575 Market Ave. N Canton<br /> Phone 330-309-9500	EVENT_RSVP	https://www.facebook.com/events/485528994393568/	206705502762155	Grapes in a Glass	https://facebook.com/GrapesInAGlass	6,440	1	857,386,789,531,628	2024-05-08 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	INTERESTED	Grapes in a Glass	120210893377490116	Wine Dinner with Exec. Chef Nate Kelly of 63 Corks	NONE	event	5 courses with 5 expertly paired wines Course 1 Summer Tomato pie Heirloom Tomato's, Country pie crust, goat cheese mousse, baby basil Course 2 Peaches & Swine Sweet peach tea braised pot belly, hot dirty rice, pickled peaches, charred scallions peach tea balsamic reduction Course 3 Summer Agnolotti Crab filled agnolotti w/ Calabrian chili, tomato and pine nuts Course 4 Just for DAD Pan Seared Dry aged NY strip, potato & beef tallow gratin, ramp butter, morels and creamed pea tendrils Course 5 Blueberry & Cake Olive oil cake, macerated blueberries, white chocolate ganache, sour cream ice cream *LIMITED seating available Pleas let us know of any food allergies and if you are wishing to sit with a particular party Tickets $119 pp Gratuity NOT included Venmo tamara-jorgensen-3 Zelle Tkjorgensen@gmail.com 330-309-9500 At Grapes 575 Market Ave. N Canton Phone 330-309-9500	https://www.facebook.com/events/485528994393568/		2024-05-08 09:34	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442493525_3750989968513920_1361856401085371871_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Hfkm1PpXWrQQ7kNvgE04kk-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCKWQPB3HiQk4kegQOGSQcnVcLR5sq9X6Uz8tTnOYRoVw&oe=6641EC2E	person_profile	0			3	Grapes in a Glass	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,783,692	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-09 01:54	active	766	1136988574115949	EcoQueen Books	Written by environmentalist and activist Joanna Measer Kanow, EcoQueen was released on Earth Day, 2021 in hopes of inspiring youth readers to learn about the science of climate change through YA climate fiction, an action fantasy adventure intended to provoke readers to get involved in protecting ecosystems and contribute to a more sustainable future. <br /> <br /> For every copy sold, we're planting trees to help make the world a greener, healthier place 📚<br /> <br /> Head over to <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ecoqueenbooks.com%2F&h=AT0k2AVmjA2GwbIsCV2iVW7_rbWpFHYG-t-M9yeMMmNdBF1BvJQhxn89VmsG_-iTgXAxlWYEWP2YdVRJ77ZYcVyuAtI7wM1rXljh1TkRKtAdsdJtokTSMamWBlsDs5Y_pX7acqeiPJR72y0wzF7zRG2jirQbyg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.ecoqueenbooks.com</a> or purchase through our local independent bookstore: betweenthecoversbookstore<br /> <br /> #ecoqueen #Readforgreen #Treeplanting #Booklovers #SustainableReading #Naturelovers #Ecoreads #ClimateAction	LEARN_MORE	http://www.ecoqueenbooks.com/	104238184879661	EcoQueen Books	https://facebook.com/EcoQueenBooks	275	1	409,081,978,672,479	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	EcoQueen Books	120210242123910683	ecoqueenbooks.com	NONE	image	EcoQueenBy Joanna Joy Measer Kanow EcoQueen is a female teenage superhero who has the powers to reverse global warming.A YA Fiction Cli-Fi fantasy adventure novel where readers can learn about the science of climate change through an action adventure. Follow EcoQueen’s journey JOIN US! ...	http://www.ecoqueenbooks.com/		2024-05-08 17:15	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440938416_895601782578575_6011199268673826252_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m9NqXCApT1YQ7kNvgGWHUAt&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBv1Hkh7KqcIXnpolTHfO_ZUm5twEtLGNvsQTidTvX6OA&oe=66423DF8	person_profile	0	EcoQueen Books \| YA Fiction	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441194172_1102022497721495_2089323581216060898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3K5loVvIFQgQ7kNvgG7HfVg&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA5SFjIWfkDphSOyAYC9vYNVqLf7pAzzATkkxl2enoEVQ&oe=66424C51	3	EcoQueen Books	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,786,592	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1786755}'	Yes	2024-05-09 02:13	active	767	461021676372372		Your time for a private party on our patio is NOW!☀️ <br /> Enter to win your own private canopy space + a $100 gift card and kick back with all your friends in style😎 <br /> <br /> Simply like this post and tag 2 friends to enter. If you’re really craving the canopy, post this to your story and tag us for an additional entry🤩<br /> <br /> 🚨Winners will be chosen Friday🚨<br /> <br /> #Giveaway #PatioSeason #SmashPark #Roseville			107863935366464	Smash Park Roseville	https://facebook.com/SmashParkRoseville	14,331	1	3,016,428,345,173,914	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0		Smash Park Roseville	120208532110640166		NONE	image				2024-05-08 14:35	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160340_1366709070683558_2615068158336495516_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8-QoTsfPbc4Q7kNvgGmcnlY&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB4NovY1CdSa9L-Zi2b376bgb7Zv0FyvZKmrkRNT9-xjQ&oe=66425DD7	person_profile	0	Smash Park - Roseville	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160647_728482619460242_268610526430056099_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zIQUP01WqMcQ7kNvgFPRtiZ&_nc_oc=AdiW_Qm5vZ0HP5mvTxHBzVFK_UUmYVLDO9Z_HWSN_HdIMhiCMZnOwGTBCIjkS00nOxcvxrtUKUumFE6nWs--5OUn&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAN3Xc88i4e2-eEN068qjJa0eeqQhbCvuQZjjEKRW13Cw&oe=66423798	3	Smash Park Roseville	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,781,842	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1781309}'	No	2024-05-08 19:30	active	763	391562423876968		Suavecito Kids empowers children to embrace their individuality and express themselves through their hair ⚡️ With manageable, healthy hair, they can confidently face the day and radiate independence 🔥 <br /> <br /> 📍Get yours today in store on online @ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2FSuavecito.com%2F&h=AT2sP64Oh5WXv9PbZSRPyJcvw0iPYKjkvM5ZCFp0XXjyWDmW9zGBpveu676Q3PN6m3Nj0MMBbMUh_VNt6TjjQwnu2dXhXwiDII2aJnTR-eALLWZR_adDSKeIcxnbUvgPDZqt3MbzDr0HxQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">Suavecito.com</a> 📍<br /> <br /> #suavecitopomade #suavecitokidsline #mensgrooming #allhairtypes #grooming #barber #barberapproved			125794840863857	Suavecito Pomade	https://facebook.com/SuavecitoPomade	603,293	1	999,576,115,172,406	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0		Suavecito Pomade	6535921795434		NONE	multi_images				2024-05-08 16:10	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440749009_1596939261083166_1704511927674856876_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sy2a7puZfOYQ7kNvgHyicvH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD-7bm9Q7q2EnxcaADNwO_qEj4euu101V-T-tmRJPgYFA&oe=6641D0B6	person_profile	0	Suavecito Pomade	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440746720_744834761195617_4321462099365232767_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gtmzMhVPxVQQ7kNvgFLZQeS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDEhgUd5zm4UXXKXDtwj0i69QOTN8kbAq1eyOfKZMwg7Q&oe=6641CF2C	3	Suavecito Pomade	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,781,602	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1781537}'	Yes	2024-05-08 19:29	active	763	1105640580663628		Are you ready to finally master meltdowns.<br /> <br /> Tired of the endless screaming, consequences, and chaos in your household? Yearning for a happy family with respectful children and peaceful parents? <br /> <br /> ✨Imagine a home filled with understanding instead of yelling, laughter instead of tantrums, and cooperation instead of rebellion.<br /> <br /> This is more possible than you think - and this can be your reality in just 30 days. <br /> <br /> This is a method backed by neuroscience and early childhood education and created by two moms that were tired of the yelling and constant screaming. <br /> <br /> DM the word "PARENT" to schedule your free parenting consultation with Dr Chelsey today!<br /> <br /> You will discover exactly how to finally enjoy the peace and joy you've always dreamed of.<br /> <br /> 👉DM the word "PARENT" to book your free call.	LEARN_MORE	https://www.instagram.com/	846724375480216	Positive Parenthood	https://facebook.com/positiveparenthood	1,120	2	968,717,984,465,590	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Positive Parenthood	6567071755912	www.instagram.com	NONE	video		https://www.instagram.com/	{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"PARENT"}],"quick_replies":[],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"image_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"template","payload":{"template_type":"generic","elements":[{"title":"","buttons":[]}]}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"video_format":{"customer_action_type":"quick_replies","message":{"attachment":{"type":"video","payload":{"attachment_id":""}},"quick_replies":[{"title":"I'd like to learn more","content_type":"text"}],"text":"hi! Send me the DM \"PARENT\" if you are ready to get your child to cooperate in less than 90 days - 100% guaranteed."}},"user_edit":true,"surface":"visual_editor_new","welcome_message_edited":true,"ice_breakers_edited":true,"template_id":"362590579717534"}	2024-05-08 16:29	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441710259_1178171076933776_5358158212653510183_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=px-A_pVqmt8Q7kNvgHI3EAB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAQvvIyNlQ3CpSxxoPU_Jr7fYTfrHN3MPggfIg_L7m0og&oe=6641FCFE	person_profile	0	Dr. Chelsey Hauge ❤️ Parent Coach	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442413444_432423049383915_5231624663190267995_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tvHPFKFvL08Q7kNvgG0XArd&_nc_oc=AdhBHgSkgTqVrlCK8viiW6YVQNB_6IcEvuogoOGy77QVxGymKi8N9OmyogUlboqOJNM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC38ZOBbGGT205jgoagCwyJsxiy7-rQrci2dwqE787iNQ&oe=6641DC70	3	Positive Parenthood	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,785,139	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1784915}'	No	2024-05-09 01:57	active	766	402517286029695	Continuar lendo👉👉👉	A amante do marido voltou e ele entregou-lhe um acordo de divórcio. Desiludida, ela percebeu que era apenas uma substituta, virou as costas e partiu, retornando poderosa como herdeira de um império comercial.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Capítulo1 Divórcio<br /> "Imagine se a Norah nos flagrasse aqui. Você acha que ela ficaria tão irritada a ponto de chorar?", disse a mulher, num tom de brincadeira. <br /> <br /> "Após todos esses anos, nunca dividimos um toque sequer. Ela sempre dorme no quarto de visitas ao lado", resmungou o homem antes de prosseguir. <br /> <br /> "Derek, você tem sido tão gentil comigo..."<br /> <br /> No quarto levemente iluminado, um homem e uma mulher estavam compartilhando momentos de afeto. <br /> <br /> Ao lado deles, um quadro retratando uma noiva decorava a parede impecável, emanando uma expressão de suave contentamento. <br /> <br /> Neste instante, uma jovem à porta cobriu a boca com as mãos, lágrimas escorrendo pelo rosto ao ouvir a conversa. <br /> <br /> Após um breve instante, o íntimo momento dos dois foi abruptamente interrompido. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter vestiu uma bermuda e se levantou para buscar um copo de água. Ao se deparar com Norah Wilson sentada em silêncio na sala de estar, uma expressão de surpresa se desenhou no rosto dele. <br /> <br /> Quando Norah tinha retornado e o que ela poderia ter escutado? <br /> <br /> "Você ouviu tudo?", Derek perguntou casualmente, já sentado no sofá da sala com um copo de água. <br /> <br /> Marcas sugestivas cobria o corpo de Derek, mas ele não se importou se Norah as notasse ou como ela reagiria. Ele se limitou a tomar um gole de água. <br /> <br /> "Está na hora de você assinar isso", disse Derek, tirando uma pasta de uma gaveta e a jogando sobre a mesa. "Já que provavelmente ouviu tudo, não há sentido em prolongar o assunto."<br /> <br /> Timidamente, Norah pegou o documento, seus olhos logo encontrando as palavras "Acordo de Divórcio" na página inicial. Ela folheou até o final, notando a assinatura elaborada de Derek Carter. <br /> <br /> "Você pode revisar tudo. Se você quiser adicionar algo, me avise. Se não, apenas assine", ordenou Derek. <br /> <br /> Se recostando, Derek acendeu um cigarro, a fumaça ocultando sua indiferença. <br /> <br /> "Você não pode nos dar outra chance?", Norah indagou com a voz rouca devido às lágrimas, a sua franja elegante caindo sobre a borda escura dos óculos, destacando seu olhar melancólico. <br /> <br /> Desde que Norah entrou para a família Carter, sempre se dedicava a Derek, ansiando por um futuro repleto de felicidade. <br /> <br /> As lembranças do garoto que a resgatou de uma tempestade de neve alimentavam sua esperança, desejando uma mínima oportunidade de permanecer ao lado dele. <br /> <br /> "Norah, não seja tão patética. Você sabe o que aconteceu entre mim e a Madeline. Então, por que insistir em ser minha esposa? Não se desvalorize", retorquiu Derek, demonstrando sua impaciência ao bater as cinzas no cinzeiro. Logo, ele adicionou: "Nosso casamento nunca passou de um acordo."<br /> <br /> O coração de Norah afundou. Ela finalmente compreendeu que era Madeline Powell quem Derek realmente amava. E ela finalmente entendeu isso. <br /> <br /> Ela se inclinou, brincando com a barra das vestimentas. Foi só então que relembrou que, quando Madeline aparecia, toda a atenção de Derek se voltava para ela. <br /> <br /> Há alguns anos, quando Madeline partiu para o exterior, Derek a seguiu, mas acabou sofrendo um terrível acidente de carro que o deixou inconsciente.<br /> <br /> Naquela época, Derek deveria se casar com Luna Wilson, da família Wilson. No entanto, Luna se envolveu com outro homem e teve um filho, levando os Wilsons a oferecerem Norah como substituta. Então, Norah assumiu o lugar de Luna, se tornando esposa de Derek. <br /> <br /> Norah se dedicou aos cuidados de Derek, cortando quase todos os laços com sua vida anterior. Ela abandonou as suas paixões, incluindo design, corridas de carros, medicina e programação, apenas para se concentrar exclusivamente nele. <br /> <br /> Quando Derek finalmente acordou do coma, há um ano, ainda era Norah que estava cuidando dele incansavelmente, permanecendo ao seu lado sem falhar. Mesmo assim, Derek parecia estar cego pela ternura de Madeline quabdo ela voltou do exterior. <br /> <br /> Apesar de dois anos de casamento e cuidados, Norah teve que admitir que não tinha conquistado um lugar no coração de Derek. <br /> <br /> Sem receber qualquer resposta de Norah, Derek não pôde deixar de franzir a testa, observando-a à sua frente. <br /> <br /> Embora Norah fosse indiscutivelmente atraente, com sua franja densa e óculos grandes que moldavam o seu rosto, muitas vezes, ela negligenciava sua aparência, parecendo descuidada. Sua personalidade era excessivamente reservada. <br /> <br /> Desde que Derek acordou do coma, Norah esteve ao seu lado o tempo todo. Mas, além de não sentir nenhuma conexão emocional com ela, ele a achava incrivelmente chata. <br /> <br /> O constante cuidado e atenção, juntamente com a vida rotineira, eram tão monótonos quanto água pura. Derek achava tudo isso extremamente maçante. <br /> <br /> Ele reconhecia o papel de Norah como uma competente cuidadora da família Carter nos últimos dois anos, mas nunca sentiu que ela estava preparada para ser sua parceira. <br /> <br /> Ao apagar outro cigarro, Derek comentou casualmente: "Esta é a casa da família Carter..."<br /> <br /> Ele parou e notou Norah abaixando a cabeça. A tristeza evidente na sua postura o irritou. <br /> <br /> "Estou ciente de sua infelicidade com a família Wilson. Após o divórcio, eu darei para você três casas e trinta milhões. Você pode escolher qualquer carro na garagem. Isso deve garantir uma vida confortável para você no futuro", ofereceu Derek. <br /> <br /> Derek não esqueceria a diligência de Norah em cuidar dele enquanto estava acamado e sua companhia durante seus exercícios de recuperação depois que ele acordou do coma. <br /> <br /> Embora Derek não tivesse afeto por Norah, estava disposto a oferecer um acordo generoso por seus anos de dedicação. Ela realmente dedicou os melhores dois anos de sua vida a ele. <br /> <br /> Quando Derek cruzou os braços, Norah notou uma pequena tatuagem na clavícula dele, o que aumentou sua angústia. Eram as iniciais MP, de Madeline Powell. <br /> <br /> A paciência de Derek acabou. "Dadas as circunstâncias, eu darei a você um dia para pensar sobre isso. Se os termos não forem aceitos, fique à vontade para sugerir ajustes, mas não exagere. Eu não sou conhecido pela minha paciência..."<br /> <br /> "Não tem necessidade de eu pensar sobre isso." Norah pegou a caneta da mesa e assinou suavemente os documentos do divórcio. "Eu vou arrumar minhas coisas e partir em breve. Não quero mais atrapalhar seu caminho."<br /> <br /> Derek acenou para ela em um sinal de aprovação. "Fico feliz em ouvir isso."<br /> <br /> Derek gostava de como Norah sempre obedecia a ele, como uma serva que nunca questionava as suas decisões. Hoje, por exemplo, ela poderia ter causado tumulto, mas preferiu manter a paz. <br /> <br /> Para Derek, as atitudes de Norah eram tediosas demais. Ele tinha medo de que conviver com alguém tão comum pudesse acabar o influenciando. Afinal, o amor não era algo que se podia ser forçado. <br /> <br /> No momento em que Derek estava prestes a falar algo após ler o contrato, Madeline surgiu elegantemente vestida com uma camisa branca, que mal cobria suas coxas, com apenas alguns botões fechados, revelando muita pele. <br /> <br /> Seu cabelo, que ainda estava úmido, fazia a camisa grudar levemente na sua pele, adicionando um atrativo à sua aparência. <br /> <br /> Ao perceber o movimento, Norah se virou e imediatamente reconheceu que Madeline estava usando a camisa de Derek, que ela havia selecionado para ele. <br /> <br /> Seus olhares se cruzaram e Madeline deu a Norah um sorriso presunçoso e zombeteiro. <br /> <br /> Quando o olhar de Derek seguiu na mesma direção, Madeline rapidamente disfarçou o sorriso. <br /> <br /> "Norah, nós finalmente nos encontramos. Meu nome é Madeline Powell", ela se apresentou com graça, se aproximando de Derek e se sentando ao seu lado. Se apoiando levemente sobre o ombro dele, ela disse: "Derek mencionou você várias vezes. É um prazer te conhecer."<br /> <br /> Norah, sem saber o que dizer, baixou os olhos em resposta. <br /> <br /> Madeline, então, cutucou Derek de brincadeira. "Eu ouvi dizer que você está oferecendo três casas para Norah. Você sabe que eu quero aquela casa perto do lago, certo? Por que você prometeu dar a ela? Não me ama mais?"<br /> <br /> Derek, sempre tão condescendente com os caprichos de Madeline, se voltou para Norah. "Vou encontrar outra casa para você."<br /> <br /> Norah olhou para Derek por cima dos óculos e disse: "Mas você não disse que aquela era para mim?"<br /> <br /> O beicinho de Madeline se tornou mais evidente. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> O rosto de Derek revelou o seu aborrecimento. "Norah, você não ouviu o que acabei de dizer? São casas minhas. Se não concorda com as mudanças, não obterá nenhuma delas."<br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo2 Ensinando a ela uma lição<br /> <br /> "Norah, o meu coração está naquela casa à beira do lago. Escolha uma diferente para você. Eu sonhei que aquela seria a minha nova casa com Derek", confessou Madeline, se aninhando mais perto do braço de Derek. "É um desejo que eu tenho há bastante tempo."<br /> <br /> Derek sentiu uma onda de lembranças ao ouvir as palavras dela. <br /> <br /> Norah soltou uma risada suave em resposta. <br /> <br /> "Por que você está rindo?", perguntou Derek, confuso. <br /> <br /> Madeline se recostou em Derek. Distraída brincando com uma mecha de seu cabelo, ela capturou a atenção de Derek, que então colocou a mão no ombro dela de forma natural. <br /> <br /> Norah respondeu com frieza: "Eu estou rindo da minha própria tolice."<br /> <br /> Sem hesitar, Norah pegou o copo de água de Derek da mesa e o derramou sobre Derek e Madeline, deixando eles em choque com a súbita cascata de água. <br /> <br /> Derek, indignado, exclamou: "Norah, você enlouqueceu?"<br /> <br /> Em pé, Norah replicou: "Senhor Carter, eu pensei que você fosse um homem de palavra. Já que você deu a sua palavra, a cumpra. Caso contrário, só admita que você é um homem de pouca honra e quebrará a sua promessa."<br /> <br /> Madeline, acostumada à tolerância de Derek, possuía um temperamento feroz. Ela apenas fingia vulnerabilidade e submissão para ganhar o afeto dos homens. <br /> <br /> Enfurecida, Madeline se levantou e empurrou Norah com força. "Derek já foi piedoso o suficiente com você. Acha que pode falar com a gente dessa maneira? Quem você pensa que é? Como se atreve a tratar Derek e eu com tanto desrespeito?"<br /> <br /> Então, ela buscou refúgio nos braços de Derek novamente. "Derek, Norah ultrapassou os limites. Você precisa ensinar uma lição para ela."<br /> <br /> Olhando com tristeza para Derek, ela implorou: "Veja, o meu cabelo e minhas roupas estão encharcados."<br /> <br /> A camisa branca molhada colava no corpo dela, realçando sua figura elegante. <br /> <br /> Norah observava-os calmamente, como se estivesse assistindo a um espetáculo de circo. <br /> <br /> "Eu não implorei por essas casas e propriedades. A família Carter é rica o bastante, mas ainda hesita em questões tão pequenas. Eu entendo. Você me considera não merecedora", disse Norah, num tom zombeteiro, mas sem amargura. <br /> <br /> Derek percebeu uma mudança significativa na atitude de Norah, reconhecendo que ela havia mudado consideravelmente. Ele apertou a mandíbula, enxugando a água do rosto antes de se virar para Madeline. "Há muitas casas em meu nome. Escolha qualquer outra que você quiser e ela será sua."<br /> <br /> Mesmo assim, a raiva de Madeline por Norah ainda fervia. Ninguém, além de Derek, ousava desrespeitá-la assim. A ideia de Norah, a ex-esposa indesejada de Derek, agir daquela maneira era insuportável para Madeline. <br /> <br /> Encarando Norah com hostilidade, Madeline exigiu: "Então, você vai abrir mão daquela casa ou não?"<br /> <br /> A resposta de Norah foi firme: "Não vou."<br /> <br /> Slap! <br /> <br /> O som de um tapa ecoou quando Madeline estapeou Norah com força. <br /> <br /> "Como se atreve?! Fora do círculo de Derek, você não é ninguém na família Wilson. Você é apenas uma bastarda!" Madeline retrucou. <br /> <br /> O rosto de Derek ficou nublado por um momento antes que ele recuperasse a calma, aconselhando Madeline: "Não fique chateada por causa dela."<br /> <br /> Norah tocou na sua bochecha, que tremia com a queimadura do tapa. Ela sentiu o gosto de sangue e olhou para Madeline, murmurando: "Você não tem educação..."<br /> <br /> Madeline encontrou abrigo nos braços de Derek, se gabando: "Eu tenho Derek ao meu lado. E você? Você não passa de uma... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah arremessou um vaso nela. O objeto atingiu o piso próximo ao sofá, se estilhaçando com um ruído agudo. <br /> <br /> "Se você quer latir assim, fique à vontade", rebateu Norah, se aproximando, e segurou Madeline pelos cabelos, obrigando-a a encará-la antes de dar um tapa vigoroso nela. <br /> <br /> O grito de Madeline ecoou pela sala. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek lutou contra a sua fúria, sentindo que Norah tinha ultrapassado os limites naquele momento. <br /> <br /> Após soltar Madeline, Norah recuou, dizendo despreocupadamente: "Vou deixar vocês dois a sós. Que vocês encontrem alegria, tenham muitos filhos e compartilhem um vínculo para toda a vida."<br /> <br /> Então, Norah se retirou da casa de Derek, deixando para trás o som dos soluços de Madeline. <br /> <br /> Mesmo com a porta batendo, Madeline permaneceu furiosa e reclamou para Derek: "Dá para acreditar nela? Ela nos encharcou com água e ainda me deu um tapa. Você precisa ensinr uma lição a ela..."<br /> <br /> "Já chega!", Derek interrompeu. Massageando as têmporas, ele suavizou a voz. "Estamos divorciados agora. Não quero mais me envolver com ela. Madeline, eu realizarei os seus desejos. Apenas se acalme, por favor."<br /> <br /> Com um bico, Madeline se aconchegou nos braços de Derek, expressando sua frustração: "O comportamento de Norah com você me irrita. Você sempre mencionou o quão complacente ela é, mas ela foi tudo menos isso. Ela parecia ser tão agressiva."<br /> <br /> Derek se lembrou de Norah pegando o copo e jogando a água, e do olhar gélido que ela dirigiu a Madeline quando deu um tapa forte nela. Era um lado de Norah que ele nunca presenciou antes. <br /> <br /> Naquele instante, ele percebeu que ele não conhecia Norah. Sua impressão anterior de Norah se baseava unicamente na submissão dela. <br /> <br /> Ao sair, Norah encontrou um sedã preto a aguardando no portão. O motorista, respeitosamente, informou: "Senhora Norah Carter, a senhora Juliana Carter solicitou a sua presença."<br /> <br /> Pega de surpresa e sem saber quais seriam os seus próximos passos, Norah entrou no veículo sem hesitação. <br /> <br /> O carro parou gradativamente em frente a uma grande mansão. Era a Mansão Carter, residência dos avós de Derek. <br /> <br /> "Senhora Norah Carter...", cumprimentou o mordomo, conduzindo a aparentemente apreensiva Norah para dentro. <br /> <br /> O mordomo parecia querer conversar mais, mas optou por permanecer em silêncio. "A senhora Juliana Carter mencionou que faz tempo que não te vê. O jantar ainda não foi servido. Talvez você possa passar um tempo com ela antes disso."<br /> <br /> Norah baixou os olhos e não lhe respondeu. Ela tinha a sensação de que Juliana estava tentando persuadi-la a reconsiderar o divórcio. <br /> <br /> A mansão, geralmente quieta e ocupada apenas pelos avós de Derek, ganhou vida quando Juliana Carter, avó de Derek, notou a chegada de Norah e a convidou cordialmente, dizendo: "Norah, venha aqui e se sente."<br /> <br /> Se sentando, Norah cumprimentou Juliana com um sorriso, apesar da agitação interna. <br /> <br /> Juliana segurou a mão de Norah, demonstrando preocupação: "Faz muito tempo que você não nos visita. Como andam as coisas com Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah pensou que Juliana estava a avaliando. Ela duvidava que Juliana não soubesse da volta de Madeline ao país. <br /> <br /> Com calma, Norah compartilhou: "Derek acredita que nós deveríamos nos separar. Bem, eu acabei de assinar o nosso acordo de divórcio, abrindo caminho para Madeline."<br /> <br /> A resposta de Juliana foi direta. "Madeline? Foram as ações dela que causaram o incidente com o carro de Derek. Como ela ousa voltar para a vida dele? Não se preocupe com isso, prefiro você do que essa mulher. Então, existe alguma chance de você reconsiderar o divórcio?"<br /> <br /> A preocupação de Juliana deixou Norah triste. Por dois anos, ela teve amor por Derek, mas não conseguiu despertar o mesmo sentimento nele. <br /> <br /> "Divorciados? Ótimo!" A mãe de Derek, Sharon Carter, se aproximou com um sorriso astuto, sua presença emanando elegância e charme enquanto ela se movia com uma graciosidade cativante. <br /> <br /> Juliana, ao observar o seu comportamento, ficou furiosa. "Ande direito! Por que você está andando assim? Onde está sua educação?"<br /> <br /> Surpreendida pela repreensão, a expressão de Sharon mudou para uma de desconforto. Ela olhou para Norah, sentada ao lado de Juliana, e disse com um tom gélido: "Ainda bem que vocês estão separados. Inicialmente, Derek iria se casar com Luna Wilson, a filha mais velha da família Wilson. E adivinha? Luna se envolveu vergonhosamente com uma outra pessoa e acabou ficando grávida."<br /> <br /> Ela continuou: "Durante os meus longos anos em Glophia, eu nunca ouvi falar de a família Wilson ter outra filha. Fico me perguntando de onde veio essa mulher ilegítima... Assumindo o papel de esposa de Derek nos últimos dois anos, esta mulher não aproveitou riqueza e prosperidade suficientes?"<br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo3 A transformação de Norah<br /> <br /> Norah segurou a mão de Juliana, seu rosto radiante com um sorriso, aparentemente alheio aos comentários ríspidos de Sharon. "Parece que você está tossindo um pouco. Eu conheço uma sopa que vai te ajudar. Darei a receita ao mordomo depois."<br /> <br /> Juliana, sempre admirando a gentileza e a consideração natural de Norah, respondeu calorosamente: "Você é um anjo, Norah. Bem, eu não sou mais uma jovem e minha saúde tem se deteriorado com o tempo. Você, minha querida, é a única que se preocupa tanto comigo."<br /> <br /> Se sentindo ignorada, Sharon empalideceu enquanto debochava: "Ah, pare com isso. Pare com essa encenação! Agora que o divórcio foi assinado, você não precisa mais fingir. Você realmente acha que ficar perto de Juliana lhe dará o direito de continuar se beneficiando da família Carter?"<br /> <br /> Antes que Norah pudesse responder, Juliana interveio: "Norah sempre foi gentil conosco desde que se uniu à nossa família. Ela esteve ao lado de Derek durante todo o coma, cuidando dele com dedicação. Sem contar que sempre tratou eu e você com respeito. Por que você está sendo tão ingrata agora, depois de tudo que ela fez pela nossa família nos últimos dois anos?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Norah não passa de uma filha bastarda dos Wilsons. Por que você continua defendendo ela?" Sharon bateu com os pés. <br /> <br /> Ela olhou para Norah e insistiu: "E eu disse algo errado? Como essa mulher merece ser esposa de Derek? Se não fosse pela insistência sua e do seu marido para que ela se casasse com Derek, eu nunca teria aceitado essa mulher. Além disso, ela vive às custas da fortuna da família Carter desde o casamento. É claro que ela deveria tratar Derek e nós com respeito."<br /> <br /> Ela prosseguiu: "Por que você faz parecer que ela fez algo extraordinário? Além disso, ela não engravidou nos dois anos desde que se juntou à nossa família. Você quer ter bisnetos, não quer? Eu aposto que Derek se divorciou dela por isso."<br /> <br /> A expressão de Juliana se tornou severa. "Sharon, cuidado com as palavras. Como você pode dizer isso?"<br /> <br /> Surpresa com a expressão séria de Juliana, Sharon respondeu: "Estou apenas apontando fatos. Felizmente, ela não engravidou, pois isso poderia ter complicado o divórcio. Qualquer filho dela seria igualmente indesejável."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visivelmente perturbada pelas palavras de Sharon, segurou a mão de Norah para confortá-la e aconselhou: "Ignore ela, Norah. Ela é grosseira e mal-educada. Por favor, não tome decisões precipitadas sobre o divórcio. Enquanto eu estiver viva, só reconhecerei você como a esposa de Derek. Meu marido e eu realmente gostamos de você. Não se preocupe com a reação de Derek. Se concentre em se entender com ele e construir uma vida juntos."<br /> <br /> Sharon, com os olhos cheios de irritação, perguntou: "Juliana, o que aconteceu com você? Por que você está sempre defendendo Norah? Norah, aceitar o fim do casamento com Derek seria melhor para todos."<br /> <br /> Norah levantou os olhos para Juliana, com lágrimas reluzindo neles. <br /> <br /> Juliana, mantendo a sua compostura, disse: "Chega, Sharon. Você não tem voz nenhuma no casamento de Derek. Fique fora disso. E eu quero ressaltar novamente o quanto eu gosto de Norah. Se quer ficar falando bobagens, é melhor sair da minha frente. Agora!"<br /> <br /> Com isso, o rosto de Sharon se tingiu de vermelho, cheio de raiva e constrangimento, enquanto seus lábios se fechavam com firmeza, contendo qualquer objeção adicional. <br /> <br /> Juliana então se voltou para Norah com atenção, perguntando: "E você, o que pensa, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah encontrou o olhar de Juliana, com lágrimas deslizando pelo seu rosto enquanto ela lutava para falar. "Eu... agradeço muito, Juliana. Mas, hoje vi o que Madeline e Derek fizeram pelas minhas costas... Além disso, a indiferença de Derek comigo me mostrou que eu não tenho razão alguma para continuar nesse casamento."<br /> <br /> O semblante de Juliana empalideceu, sua expressão carregada de preocupação quando ela disse: "A culpa é de Derek."<br /> <br /> Juliana segurou as mãos de Norah com firmeza, oferecendo consolo: "Você sofreu muito nesses últimos dois anos."<br /> <br /> Norah permaneceu calada, e um breve momento de silêncio preencheu a sala. <br /> <br /> No instante seguinte, a voz estridente de Sharon rompeu o silêncio. "Madeline? Ela está de volta? Juliana, eu estou saindo agora. Tenho que fazer aquela mulher pagar."<br /> <br /> Sharon pegou sua bolsa às pressas e saiu da sala. <br /> <br /> Norah enxugou as lágrimas e sorriu, se sentindo aliviada. "Eu estou bem. Sério."<br /> <br /> Com o coração cheio de pesar, Juliana respondeu: "Bem, eu não vou insistir mais. Norah, por favor, venha me visitar sempre que puder. Sua companhia por si só é tudo para mim."<br /> <br /> Lágrimas se acumularam nos olhos de Juliana enquanto ela falava. Ela realmente apreciava Norah, reconhecendo sua importância na recuperação de Derek do coma. <br /> <br /> Norah, com doçura, enxugou as lágrimas de Juliana, reconhecendo a genuína gentileza oferecida. "Claro que irei. Bem, vou me despedir agora. Por favor, peça à empregada que prepare aquela sopa para você."<br /> <br /> Com isso, Norah partiu sem olhar para trás, despercebendo a determinação nos olhos de Juliana. <br /> <br /> Juliana, enxugando seus olhos, instruiu o mordomo: "Prepare para que Derek e os demais retornem para a Mansão Carter amanhã ao meio-dia."<br /> <br /> O mordomo assentiu: "Entendido."<br /> <br /> Ao deixar a Mansão Carter, Norah foi abordada pelo motorista da família. "Senhora, para onde devo levá-la?"<br /> <br /> Os modos do motorista se mantiveram respeitosos, embora agora Norah já não fosse mais considerada a esposa de Derek. <br /> <br /> Com o documento do divórcio assinado, Norah sabia que ela havia cortado os laços com a família Carter. Olhando para o seu celular, percebeu que tinha uma nova mensagem. <br /> <br /> Era de sua amiga, Joanna Andrews. <br /> <br /> "Norah, você está livre esta noite para ir ao Clube Glamour comigo? Eu ouvi dizer que Madeline voltou e Derek está dando uma festa de boas-vindas para ela. Vai ser um evento incrível. Vamos fazer nossa presença ser notada."<br /> <br /> A resposta de Norah foi breve. "Pode contar comigo."<br /> <br /> A resposta de Joanna era apenas um ponto de interrogação, porque a rápida concordância de Norah a surpreendeu. <br /> <br /> Norah explicou: "Estou oficialmente divorciada. Então, estou sozinha a partir de agora."<br /> <br /> Houve um breve silêncio na conversa, seguido por uma resposta entusiasmada e repleta de pontos de exclamação de Joanna. "Norah, onde você está agora? Vou te buscar imediatamente! Me dê dez segundos e eu estarei aí!"<br /> <br /> Se divertindo com o entusiasmo de Joanna, Norah enviou a ela a localização do Edifício Esplendor e instruiu o motorista: "Por favor, leve-me ao Edifício Esplendor."<br /> <br /> O Edifício Esplendor era conhecido em Glophia por ser um centro de luxo, apresentando marcas de renome internacional. <br /> <br /> Ao chegar lá, Norah foi calorosamente recebida. "Noelle, que prazer te ver. Veio aqui para entregar os esboços do projeto?"<br /> <br /> O luxuoso camarim estava repleto de vestidos deslumbrantes, cada um adornado com diamantes cintilantes. <br /> <br /> O estilista de alta-costura proveniente de Asodence, Aaron Harvey, aproximou-se teatralmente de Norah, segurou-a pelo braço e disse: "É uma pena ver você assim. Por que esconder esse rosto lindo? Você é como uma flor exótica, pronta para desabrochar."<br /> <br /> Norah piscou e concordou: "Você está certo, Aaron. Pode me ajudar com uma transformação?"<br /> <br /> Esperando uma resposta negativa de Norah, Aaron estava prestes a continuar a persuasão, mas, de repente, congelou diante da rápida concordância dela. "Espere aí. Você... Noelle, você está realmente querendo uma transformação? Meu Deus! Me procurar foi a melhor escolha que já fez!"<br /> <br /> Deixando de lado os rascunhos de design, Aaron conduziu Norah até a cadeira de maquiagem, dizendo: "Fique aqui. Garanto que você se transformará numa mulher deslumbrante quando eu deixar a sua beleza natural e o seu charme irresistível realizarem a mágica deles."<br /> <br /> Aaron olhou para a roupa simples e o cabelo despenteado que Norah tinha e começou ansiosamente a fazer a transformação dela com um pincel de maquiagem na mão. <br /> <br /> Quando Joanna chegou, Norah ainda estava sendo maquiada. <br /> <br /> Joanna já conhecia Aaron. Depois de cumprimentá-lo, ela se acomodou na cadeira de maquiagem próxima e disse: "Parabéns, Norah, pelo seu retorno oficial ao seu eu livre e desimpedido. Sua companheira leal, Joanna, está pronta e ansiosa para seguir o seu exemplo."<br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo4 Clube Glamour<br /> <br /> Norah emitiu um sorriso. "Você realmente sabe escolher suas palavras, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Curiosa, Joanna perguntou: "Ei, você não se apaixonou por Derek? O que te fez acordar e deixar de estar apaixonada por ele?"<br /> <br /> A voz de Norah soou fria quando ela respondeu: "Eu flagrei Madeline e Derek passando um momento íntimo juntos..."<br /> <br /> Joanna não conseguiu segurar o riso. "Madeline está tão carente de atenção? Ela mal chegou e já está nos braços do marido de outra pessoa. Isso me faz questionar como era a vida dela no exterior. Mas, devo admitir que você e Derek pareciam loucos de amor. Ele estava encantado com seu primeiro amor, e você era dedicada a ele, que não te retribuiu. O amor realmente cega as pessoas?"<br /> <br /> Enquanto Joanna falava, os pensamentos de Norah vagavam. Hoje foi a primeira vez que ela tinha visto Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah só tinha ouvido falar dela por meio de Derek e dos funcionários da casa, que a descreviam como gentil, empática, educada e descontraída, o que provavelmente era o tipo de mulher que atraía Derek. <br /> <br /> Norah sempre se esforçou para agradar Derek, adotando as supostas características de Madeline e até tentando se parecer com ela para chamar a atenção dele. <br /> <br /> Mas ser uma substituta nunca foi o suficiente. Além disso, Madeline não era como Norah imaginava. <br /> <br /> Com pouco entusiasmo, Norah respondeu: "Você entenderia se já tivesse sentido o amor te machucar."<br /> <br /> A testa de Joanna se enrugou. "Norah, eu não quero me perder com um amor. Eu prefiro estar alerta e ao seu lado. Desde que você se juntou à família Carter, nós mal nos vemos."<br /> <br /> Depois do casamento, Norah se dedicou a Derek e à família Carter, deixando sua vida anterior e suas amizades para trás. <br /> <br /> "Norah, agora que você está divorciada, vai participar da corrida na Montanha Krusa daqui a cinco dias?"<br /> <br /> "Não", Norah recusou firmemente: "Eu não corro há dois anos. Estou fora de forma."<br /> <br /> Joanna não parecia estar convencida. "Fora de forma? Tente dar uma desculpa melhor da próxima vez. Me diga, Norah, você ainda tem esperanças de voltar com Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna estava prestes a falar mal de Derek, mas mudou de assunto. "Você se lembra daquela corrida há três anos? Nocturne era o único que conseguia te acompanhar. Desde que você parou, ele ganhou o primeiro lugar na Corrida de Montanha Krusa nos últimos dois anos. Ele deve competir de novo esse ano. Você não quer ir ver ele?"<br /> <br /> A Corrida de Montanha Krusa era um evento emocionante e clandestino, onde a elite jovem e rica de Glophia se reunia para apreciar corridas de carros modificados. Este evento ficou famoso por suas corridas emocionantes e atraía uma audiência apaixonada por esportes radicais. <br /> <br /> Para preservar o anonimato dos participantes, os organizadores forneciam máscaras a cada piloto e eles adotavam codinomes durante a competição. <br /> <br /> Um aspecto especial da corrida era que o vencedor tinha o direito de pedir que os pilotos derrotados retirassem suas máscaras. <br /> <br /> Norah se lembrou da emocionante corrida de três anos atrás, na qual Nocturne quase conquistou o primeiro lugar, perdendo por apenas três segundos. <br /> <br /> Uma faísca de empolgação iluminou seus olhos quando ela comentou: "Bem, acho que não custa nada dar uma olhadinha nele."<br /> <br /> A menção ao "divórcio" despertou o interesse de Aaron. Ele perguntou: "Você está divorciada, Noelle? Esse sujeito realmente não sabe o que perdeu. Aposto que vai se arrepender de ter deixado uma pessoa tão especial como você. De qualquer jeito, sobre esses esboços de design..."<br /> <br /> Joanna desviou sua atenção para Aaron, perguntando: "Norah, você ainda está trabalhando nos designs para a BelleVogue? Não é surpresa que algumas das linhas de luxo deles se pareçam com as suas criações."<br /> <br /> Aaron sorriu com orgulho, afirmando: "Noelle é uma estilista renomada reconhecida pela Associação de Alta Moda. Os designs dela são conhecidos mundialmente e alcançam preços exorbitantes. Felizmente, por estar próximo de Noelle, eu fui um dos poucos a ter acesso a algumas de suas criações nos últimos dois anos."<br /> <br /> Joanna revirou os olhos e comentou: "Isso tudo por causa do talento de Norah. O que isso tem a ver com você, afinal de contas? Vamos lá, agilize. Eu preciso estar deslumbrante esta noite, assim como Norah."<br /> <br /> "Tudo bem, tudo bem. Apenas relaxem, e eu vou garantir que vocês duas estejam fabulosas."<br /> <br /> Uma hora depois, elas entraram no Clube Glamour. <br /> <br /> Na pista de dança, luzes brilhantes giravam e preenchiam o ambiente com vida. A música pulsava com energia enquanto as pessoas se moviam, seus rostos irradiando felicidade em meio ao aroma de bebida que pairava no ar. <br /> <br /> No segundo andar, Norah descansava sozinha num sofá, tomando sua bebida, enquanto atraía olhares curiosos. Ela estava vestindo um minivestido prateado sem alças, e seus cachos castanhos caíam suavemente por suas costas. A elegante curva de seu pescoço brilhava sob a luz enquanto ela saboreava sua bebida. <br /> <br /> "Essa é minha Norah!", exclamou Joanna, se sentando em frente a ela. "Você mal se encontrou comigo nos últimos dois anos, sempre vestida com aqueles trajes formais na casa dos Carters. Você não se sentia sufocada? É tão bom ver você de volta ao seu ambiente. Isso me deixa muito feliz."<br /> <br /> Norah tomou um gole de sua bebida em silêncio, sem dizer uma palavra. <br /> <br /> Enquanto o líquido quente deslizava por sua garganta, seu corpo se aquecia gradualmente. <br /> <br /> No início, apesar de ter se integrado na família Carter e cuidado de Derek diariamente, ela ainda apreciava se vestir elegantemente e usar maquiagem. No entanto, Sharon e a irmã de Derek, Kathy, frequentemente a criticavam por seu estilo chamativo. Elas alegavam que, com Derek inconsciente, ela não deveria se vestir de maneira tão extravagante. <br /> <br /> No final, Norah parou de se preocupar com seu visual para se dedicar inteiramente aos cuidados de Derek, se tornando totalmente a sua cuidadora. <br /> <br /> Mas aqueles tempos tinham ficado no passado. Agora, livre da família Carter, Norah podia se vestir como desejava, sem se importar com as críticas. <br /> <br /> Joanna olhou para o celular e depois ergueu os olhos. "Norah, você tem algum plano para estragar a festa de boas-vindas que Derek está preparando para aquela mulherzinha mais tarde? Quer que eu traga algumas pessoas para causar um alvoroço?"<br /> <br /> Norah fixava os olhos no líquido dourado que girava em seu copo enquanto o movia delicadamente. "Nós não viemos ao Clube Glamour à toa, não é verdade? Então, quem é essa pessoa que você quer que eu conheça?"<br /> <br /> Joanna pareceu surpresa por um momento e em seguida esboçou um sorriso astuto. "Norah, o que quer dizer com isso? Estamos aqui apenas para agitar as coisas!"<br /> <br /> "O Clube Glamour pertence à família Morris. Prefiro não perturbá-los ou irritá-los", disse Norah tranquilamente. "Eu sei que essa festa do Derek é apenas uma distração. Então, pode contar comigo. Quem está tentando me encontrar por meio dos seus arranjos?"<br /> <br /> A conversa delas foi interrompida por um telefonema. Joanna atendeu rapidamente, seu semblante mudando com a chamada. Indicando que precisava se afastar, ela sussurrou: "Eu tenho que atender. Volto logo."<br /> <br /> Norah percebeu a preocupação no rosto de Joanna e entendeu que a amiga tinha algo urgente para resolver, então concordou com a cabeça e colocou o copo na mesa, fazendo um leve barulho. <br /> <br /> Independentemente dos planos que Joanna estava tramando, Norah confiava plenamente que ela não a trairia. <br /> <br /> "Ei, linda, está sozinha? Se importa se eu me juntar a você para tomar uma bebida?"<br /> <br /> ...<br /> &3&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.lera.mobi/11659409-fb_contact-pta125	159129143942156	Hello reading	https://facebook.com/61552535188096	37,861	2	1,620,631,698,763,009	2024-05-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Hello reading	120211361276740729	fbweb.lera.mobi	NONE	image		https://fbweb.lera.mobi/11659409-fb_contact-pta125_6-0410-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=832388428540649		2024-04-30 00:59	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421941927_1130155378129241_3603584215336636141_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MKaef4cWMAkQ7kNvgG29p0m&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAc0JWPcTL9tZZSGEg-KWIMXQFLKBBQoSE2zNYrZkoUdw&oe=6642554B	person_profile	0	Lera	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438082927_985752979557650_2481218191034735535_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bW3HftQt318Q7kNvgGT4s_a&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB6WHEah0WnrgW8ecaTwB_lnS2iK2g6hjmLz3PnOX73Gw&oe=66423453	3	Hello reading	2024-05-03 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,784,953	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1785017}'	No	2024-05-09 01:57	active	766	956658502429224		After the divorce, she made a spectacular comeback as a top designer, elite race car driver, renowned healer, and genius hacker, stunning everyone and leaving her scoundrel ex-husband full of regret!<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &4&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-fb_contact-e	109739908479801	Love Story House	https://facebook.com/100083774743284	23,675	1	426,185,933,495,528	2024-05-05 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Watch more	Love Story House	120207578269160410	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-fb_contact-ena125_5_0409-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=091588&accid=988284659350238		2024-04-27 23:00	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438060246_451508687253065_1918369527533437019_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=go6_n15yhywQ7kNvgG3RcSB&_nc_oc=Adg4VagzHEG7ayFrQV7QMRJj9fmMi4PBqVCBNtKpAg6mZf0r89Y3wD79yu_SK-Z-QbIf7RfPdwrqvC8htFZfj_lL&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBVmJVeWVa5NBfw6F6dAjwazMo19Bku8lR5TZueV-Dibg&oe=66422D6F	person_profile	0	Love Story House	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438100614_945351626968948_1750994460896018064_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ARAhiLb4cG0Q7kNvgGwGSGI&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfASWjBllN19b71QOtEvvLNDFt7r9E3hKSiFWk15WkTJuQ&oe=6642455F	3	Love Story House	2024-05-04 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,785,098	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1784784}'	No	2024-05-09 01:57	active	766	1559625277917659	Continuer la lecture	Chapitre1 Divorce<br /> Dans la chambre à la lumière tamisée, un homme et une femme installés sur un lit spacieux se livraient à des moments d'affection.<br /> « Imagine que Norah nous surprenne ici, dans son lit. Crois-tu qu'elle serait furieuse au point de pleurer ? », a dit la femme d'un ton enjoué.<br /> « Ce n'est pas son lit. Après toutes ces années, je n'ai jamais partagé le moindre contact avec elle. Elle dort toujours dans la chambre d'amis d'à côté », a répondu l'homme en ricanant.<br /> « Derek, tu es si bon avec moi... »<br /> <br /> Les doux murmures des deux se sont mêlés à leur respiration lourde.<br /> <br /> Au-dessus du lit, le mur immaculé était orné d'une photo de mariage représentant une jeune mariée dont l'expression était empreinte d'une douce joie.<br /> <br /> Après un moment, leur intimité a cessé.<br /> <br /> À ce moment-là, une jeune femme qui se trouvait à la porte s'est couvert la bouche de ses mains, des larmes coulant sur son visage en les entendant.<br /> <br /> Derek Carter a mis son short pour aller chercher un verre d'eau. Il a été surpris de trouver Norah Wilson assise silencieusement dans le salon. Il se demandait quand celle-ci était revenue et ce qu'elle avait pu entendre.<br /> <br /> « Est-ce que tu as tout entendu ? », a demandé Derek après s'être installé sur le canapé du salon avec un verre d'eau.<br /> <br /> Les suçons laissaient entrevoir la minceur de Derek, mais il ne se souciait pas de savoir si Norah les voyait ou ce qu'elle pouvait ressentir. Il s'est contenté de boire une gorgée d'eau.<br /> <br /> « Il est temps que tu signes ceci. » Derek a sorti un document d'un tiroir et l'a jeté sur la table. « Puisque tu as peut-être déjà tout entendu, il est inutile de faire traîner les choses. »<br /> <br /> Norah a timidement pris le document, son regard posé rapidement sur les mots « Accord de divorce » sur la première page. Elle l'a feuilleté jusqu'à la fin, notant la signature flamboyante de Derek Carter.<br /> <br /> « Révise-le. Si tu veux ajouter des conditions, fais-le-moi savoir. Sinon, signe-le », a ordonné Derek.<br /> <br /> Se penchant en arrière, Derek a allumé une cigarette, la fumée masquant son attitude détachée.<br /> <br /> Depuis son mariage dans la famille Carter, Norah était dévouée à Derek, espérant un avenir rempli de bonheur.<br /> <br /> Elle se souvenait du garçon qui l'avait protégée dans une tempête de neige et elle souhaitait toujours rester à ses côtés.<br /> <br /> « Tu ne peux pas faire une autre tentative pour nous ? » La tête baissée et la voix rauque à cause des larmes, la frange lisse de Norah tombait sur le bord sombre de ses lunettes, soulignant son air triste.<br /> <br /> « Norah, tu fais vraiment pitié. Tu savais ce qui s'était passé entre Madeline et moi. Alors pourquoi tu t'accroches à être ma femme ? Ne sois pas si mesquine. » L'impatience de Derek s'est manifestée lorsqu'il a tapé des cendres dans le plateau et a ajouté : « Notre mariage n'a jamais été plus qu'un arrangement pratique. »<br /> <br /> Norah a senti son cœur se briser, se rendant compte que Madeline Powell était celle que Derek aimait vraiment. Elle l'a enfin compris.<br /> <br /> Des années auparavant, lorsque Madeline était partie à l'étranger, Derek l'avait poursuivie, mais il avait été victime d'un tragique accident de voiture qui l'avait laissé inconscient. Derek devait épouser Luna Wilson, de la famille Wilson. Cependant, Luna s'était mise à fréquenter un autre homme et avait eu un enfant, incitant les Wilson à proposer Norah comme épouse de substitution. Norah avait donc pris la place de Luna pour devenir la femme de Derek.<br /> <br /> Norah s'était consacrée aux soins de Derek, coupant presque tous les liens avec sa vie antérieure pour lui. Elle avait abandonné ses passions, y compris le design, la course automobile, la chirurgie médicale et le codage, pour se concentrer uniquement sur lui.<br /> <br /> Lorsque Derek était sorti du coma il y a un an, Norah était toujours à ses côtés pour s'occuper de lui sans relâche. Pourtant, Derek semblait touché par la tendresse de Madeline lorsqu'elle est revenue de l'étranger.<br /> <br /> Malgré deux ans de mariage et de soins, Norah a dû admettre qu'elle n'avait pas réussi à gagner une place dans le cœur de Derek.<br /> <br /> Ne recevant aucune réponse de Norah, Derek n'a pas pu s'empêcher de froncer les sourcils, étudiant la jeune femme assise en face de lui.<br /> <br /> Norah était indéniablement séduisante, même avec sa frange épaisse et ses grosses lunettes encadrant son visage, mais elle négligeait souvent son apparence, paraissant débraillée. Elle avait une personnalité très réservée.<br /> <br /> Lorsque Derek était sorti du coma, Norah était à ses côtés vingt-quatre heures sur vingt-quatre, mais il ne ressentait aucun lien affectif avec elle. Au lieu de cela, il la trouvait terriblement ennuyeuse.<br /> <br /> Les soins et l'attention constants, l'aspect banal et la routine de la vie étaient aussi ennuyeux que de l'eau plate. Derek trouvait tout cela extrêmement barbant.<br /> <br /> Il reconnaissait le rôle de Norah en tant que femme au foyer de la famille Carter au cours des deux dernières années, mais il n'avait jamais pensé qu'elle était digne d'être son épouse.<br /> <br /> Tout en éteignant une autre cigarette, Derek a dit avec désinvolture : « Je suis au courant de tes difficultés avec la famille Wilson. Après le divorce, je te donnerai trois villas et trente millions. Tu pourras prendre n'importe quelle voiture au garage. Cela devrait te garantir une vie confortable à l'avenir », a proposé Derek.<br /> <br /> Celui-ci n'oublierait jamais les soins prodigués par Norah lorsqu'il était cloué au lit et sa compagnie lors de ses exercices de récupération après son réveil du coma.<br /> <br /> Bien qu'il n'éprouve aucune affection pour Norah, Derek était prêt à lui offrir un règlement généreux pour ses années de dévouement. En effet, elle lui avait consacré les deux années entières de sa vie.<br /> <br /> Pendant que Derek croisait les bras, Norah a aperçu un petit tatouage sur la clavicule de l'homme, aggravant son angoisse. Il portait les initiales MP pour Madeline Powell.<br /> <br /> La patience de Derek s'est épuisée. « Vu les circonstances, je te laisse un jour pour y réfléchir. Si les conditions ne te conviennent pas, n'hésite pas à proposer des modifications, mais ne va pas trop loin. Tu sais que je n'ai toujours pas beaucoup de patience... »<br /> <br /> « Je n'ai pas besoin d'y réfléchir. » En prenant le stylo sur la table, Norah a écrit son nom sur les papiers du divorce. « Je vais faire mes bagages et partir bientôt. Je ne vous dérangerai plus à tous les deux. »<br /> <br /> Derek a approuvé d'un signe de tête. « C'est bon à entendre. »<br /> <br /> Derek appréciait la façon dont Norah se conformait toujours, un peu comme une domestique qui ne contestait jamais ses décisions. Comme aujourd'hui, par exemple. Elle aurait pu faire du grabuge, mais elle s'est contentée de garder la paix.<br /> <br /> Pour Derek, le comportement de Norah était trop terne. Il avait peur que le fait de côtoyer quelqu'un d'aussi banal ne finisse par déteindre sur lui. Après tout, l'amour n'était pas quelque chose qui pouvait être forcé.<br /> <br /> Alors que Derek s'apprêtait à dire quelque chose après avoir parcouru l'accord, Madeline, vêtue d'une chemise blanche, est sortie élégamment.<br /> <br /> Sa chemise couvrait à peine ses cuisses, et seuls quelques boutons étaient relevés, exposant beaucoup de peau.<br /> <br /> Ses cheveux étaient humides, ce qui faisait que la chemise collait légèrement à sa peau, ajoutant un aspect séduisant à son apparence.<br /> <br /> En entendant le mouvement, Norah s'est retournée pour voir Madeline portant ce qu'elle a immédiatement reconnu comme étant la chemise de Derek, qu'elle avait choisie pour lui.<br /> <br /> Leurs regards se sont croisés et Madeline a adressé à Norah un sourire suffisant et moqueur.<br /> <br /> Mais lorsque le regard de Derek a suivi, Madeline a rapidement masqué son sourire.<br /> <br /> « Norah, nous nous rencontrons enfin. Je suis Madeline Powell. » Avec grâce, Madeline s'est approchée de Derek et a pris place à ses côtés. S'appuyant sur son épaule, elle a dit : « J'ai entendu Derek parler souvent de toi. Je suis ravie de te rencontrer. »<br /> <br /> Norah a baissé les yeux, sans rien répondre.<br /> <br /> Madeline a ensuite donné un coup de coude à Derek pour l'amuser. « J'ai entendu dire que tu offrais trois villas à Norah. Tu ne savais pas que je voulais la villa près du lac ? Pourquoi lui as-tu promis cela ? Est-ce que tu ne m'aimes plus ? »<br /> <br /> Derek, toujours aussi indulgent à l'égard des demandes de Madeline, s'est retourné vers Norah. « Je vais te donner une autre villa. »<br /> <br /> Norah a regardé Derek à travers ses lunettes. « Mais tu n'as pas dit que celle-là m'était destinée ? »<br /> <br /> La moue de Madeline s'est intensifiée. « Derek... »<br /> <br /> Le visage de Derek a laissé transparaître une pointe d'agacement. « Norah, n'as-tu pas compris ce que je viens de dire ? Considère ça comme une faveur. Si tu n'es pas d'accord avec les changements, tu pars sans rien. »<br /> <br /> Chapitre2 Lui donner une leçon<br /> « Norah, j'ai jeté mon dévolu sur cette villa au bord du lac. Choisis quelque chose d'autre pour toi. J'ai rêvé qu'elle devienne ma nouvelle maison avec Derek », a avoué Madeline, en se blottissant plus étroitement dans les bras de Derek. « C'est mon rêve depuis longtemps. »<br /> <br /> Derek a ressenti une vague de nostalgie à ses mots.<br /> <br /> Norah a laissé échapper un petit rire en entendant cela.<br /> <br /> « Ça te fait rire ? », a demandé Derek, confus. Il trouvait étrange qu'elle sourie, surtout après ce qu'il venait de dire.<br /> <br /> Madeline s'est blottie contre Derek, l'encolure ouverte de sa chemise révélant une grande partie de sa peau douce. En tournoyant distraitement une mèche de ses cheveux, elle a capté l'attention de Derek, qui a aussitôt posé la main sur l'épaule de celle-ci.<br /> <br /> La réponse de Norah a été glaciale. « Je ris en pensant à quel point j'ai été stupide. »<br /> <br /> Sans hésiter, Norah a pris le verre d'eau de Derek sur la table et l'a versé sur ce dernier et Madeline. La soudaine cascade d'eau les a laissés sous le choc.<br /> <br /> Derek, outré, a crié : « Norah, es-tu devenue folle ? »<br /> <br /> Debout, Norah a rétorqué : « M. Carter, je pensais que tu étais un homme de parole. Puisque tu as donné ta parole, tiens-la. Sinon, admets que tu es un escroc. »<br /> <br /> Madeline, habituée à l'indulgence de Derek, avait un tempérament féroce. Elle avait simplement l'habitude de feindre la vulnérabilité et la soumission pour obtenir l'affection des hommes.<br /> <br /> Furieuse, Madeline s'est levée et a bousculé Norah avec force. « Nous avons été trop indulgents avec toi. Tu crois que tu peux nous parler ainsi ? Pour qui te prends-tu ? Comment oses-tu nous manquer de respect, à Derek et à moi ? »<br /> <br /> Elle s'est ensuite réfugiée à nouveau dans les bras de Derek. « Derek, Norah a dépassé les bornes. Tu dois lui donner une leçon. »<br /> <br /> Regardant Derek pitoyablement, elle a imploré : « Regarde, mes cheveux et mes vêtements sont trempés. »<br /> <br /> Sa chemise blanche trempée lui collait à la peau, mettant en valeur sa silhouette élégante.<br /> <br /> Norah les a regardés calmement, comme si elle assistait à un numéro de cirque.<br /> <br /> « Je n'ai pas demandé ces villas et ces propriétés. La famille Carter est assez riche, mais elle hésite encore pour de si petites choses. Je comprends. Tu considères que je ne le mérite pas », a dit Norah, le ton plein d'autodérision et d'amertume. Cependant, Derek a senti un changement profond dans l'attitude de Norah.<br /> <br /> Derek a serré la mâchoire, essuyant l'eau de son visage avant de se tourner vers Madeline. « Il y a de nombreuses villas à mon nom. Choisis-en d'autres et elles t'appartiendront. »<br /> <br /> Pourtant, la colère de Madeline à l'égard de Norah couvait. À part Derek, personne n'avait osé lui manquer de respect de cette façon. L'idée que Norah, l'ex-femme indésirable de Derek, se comporte ainsi était insupportable.<br /> <br /> Madeline a lancé un regard noir à Norah, exigeant : « Alors, vas-tu me céder cette villa ou non ? »<br /> <br /> La réponse de Norah était catégorique. « Non. »<br /> <br /> Clac ! Le bruit d'une gifle a retenti lorsque Madeline a frappé Norah avec force.<br /> <br /> « Comment oses-tu ? Sans la grâce de Derek, tu es juste une personne sans importance dans la famille Wilson. Tu n'es qu'une bâtarde ! », s'est emportée Madeline.<br /> <br /> Le visage de Derek s'est assombri brièvement avant qu'il ne retrouve son calme, conseillant à Madeline : « Ne t'énerve pas pour elle. »<br /> <br /> Norah s'est touché la joue, grimaçant à cause de la brûlure de la gifle. Elle a goûté le sang et a lancé un regard à Madeline, marmonnant : « Tu manques de savoir-vivre... »<br /> <br /> Madeline s'est réfugiée dans l'étreinte de Derek en se vantant : « J'ai Derek à mes côtés. Et toi ? Tu n'es rien d'autre qu'une vagabonde abandonnée... Ah ! Norah ! »<br /> <br /> Norah a lancé un vase, qui s'est écrasé contre le sol près du canapé, se brisant en morceaux avec un bruit sec.<br /> <br /> « Si tu as envie d'aboyer ainsi, ne te gêne pas », a rétorqué Norah en s'approchant. Elle a pris Madeline par les cheveux, l'obligeant à lever les yeux vers elle avant de la gifler férocement.<br /> <br /> Le cri de Madeline emplissait la pièce. « Derek ! »<br /> <br /> Derek a réprimé sa rage, estimant que Norah avait dépassé les bornes aujourd'hui.<br /> <br /> Après avoir relâché Madeline, Norah s'est retirée, disant avec désinvolture : « Je vous laisse tous les deux. Je vous souhaite de trouver la joie, d'avoir beaucoup d'enfants et de partager un lien qui durera toute votre vie. »<br /> <br /> Norah a ensuite quitté la résidence de Derek, laissant derrière elle le bruit des sanglots de Madeline.<br /> <br /> Même lorsque la porte a claqué, Madeline, toujours furieuse, s'est plainte à Derek : « Comment ose-t-elle ? Elle nous a versé d'eau et m'a giflée. Il faut que tu lui donnes une leçon... »<br /> <br /> « Ça suffit ! », l'a interrompue Derek. Se massant les tempes, Derek a adouci sa voix. « Nous avons signé l'accord de divorce. Je ne veux plus être mêlé à elle. Madeline, j'exaucerai tes souhaits. Calme-toi, s'il te plaît. »<br /> <br /> Avec une moue, Madeline s'est blottie dans les bras de Derek, exprimant sa frustration : « Le comportement de Norah à ton égard m'énerve. Tu as toujours dit qu'elle était docile, mais elle n'était pas du tout comme ça. Elle semblait si agressive. »<br /> <br /> Derek s'est souvenu de Norah attrapant la tasse et versant l'eau, du regard froid qu'elle avait lancé à Madeline lorsqu'elle l'avait giflée. C'était une facette de Norah qu'il n'avait jamais vue auparavant. À ce moment-là, il s'est rendu compte qu'il ne la connaissait pas bien. L'impression qu'il avait eue de Norah n'était qu'une femme docile.<br /> <br /> En partant, Norah a trouvé une berline noire qui l'attendait à la porte. Le chauffeur, avec respect, a dit : « Mme Norah Carter, Mme Juliana Carter veut vous voir. »<br /> <br /> Prise au dépourvu et incertaine de ce qu'elle allait faire, Norah est entrée dans le véhicule sans réfléchir.<br /> <br /> La voiture s'est lentement arrêtée devant une grande villa. Il s'agissait du Manoir Carter, la résidence des grands-parents de Derek.<br /> <br /> « Mme Norah Carter... », a salué le majordome, guidant Norah qui était apparemment préoccupée à l'intérieur.<br /> <br /> Le majordome semblait vouloir poursuivre la conversation, mais il a finalement choisi de rester silencieux. « Mme Juliana Carter m'a dit qu'elle ne vous avait pas vue depuis un moment. Le dîner n'est pas encore servi. Vous pourriez parler avec elle avant. »<br /> <br /> Norah a baissé les yeux et n'a pas répondu. Elle avait l'impression que Juliana essayait de la convaincre de reconsidérer le divorce.<br /> <br /> Le manoir, habituellement calme et habité uniquement par les grands-parents de Derek, était animé lorsque Juliana Carter, la grand-mère de Derek, a remarqué l'arrivée de Norah et l'a chaleureusement invitée en disant : « Norah, viens ici et assieds-toi. »<br /> <br /> En s'installant, Norah a salué Juliana avec un sourire, malgré l'agitation qui régnait en elle.<br /> <br /> En prenant la main de la jeune femme, Juliana a exprimé son inquiétude : « Cela fait longtemps que tu n'es pas venue me rendre visite. Comment ça se passe avec Derek ? »<br /> <br /> Norah a deviné que Juliana la testait. Elle se doutait bien que la vieille dame n'était pas au courant du retour de Madeline dans le pays.<br /> <br /> Norah a répondu d'une voix paisible : « Derek pense que nous devrions divorcer. Eh bien, je viens de signer l'accord de divorce, pour laisser la place à Madeline. »<br /> <br /> La réponse de Juliana était vive. « Madeline ? C'est elle qui a provoqué l'accident de voiture de Derek. Comment ose-t-elle entrer à nouveau dans sa vie ? Ne t'inquiète pas. C'est toi que je préfère plutôt que cette femme. Alors, y a-t-il une chance que tu reconsidères le divorce ? »<br /> <br /> La préoccupation de Juliana a rendu Norah mélancolique. Pendant deux ans, elle a été profondément amoureuse de Derek, mais en vain.<br /> <br /> « Le divorce ? C'est peut-être mieux ainsi ! » Sharon Carter, la mère de Derek, s'est approchée avec un sourire en coin, sa présence dégageant sophistication et charme tandis qu'elle se déplaçait avec une grâce captivante.<br /> <br /> Juliana, témoin de son comportement, est devenue furieuse. « Marche convenablement ! Pourquoi marches-tu ainsi ? Tu n'as pas de bonnes manières. »<br /> <br /> Prise au dépourvu par la réprimande, Sharon a changé d'expression et s'est sentie mal à l'aise. Jetant un coup d'œil à Norah qui s'est assise à côté de Juliana, elle a dit d'un ton glacial : « Heureusement qu'ils sont divorcés. À l'origine, Derek devait se marier avec Luna Wilson, la fille aînée de la famille Wilson. Devinez quoi ? Luna a eu une liaison honteuse avec quelqu'un d'autre et s'est retrouvée enceinte.<br /> <br /> Depuis que je vis à Glophia, je n'ai jamais entendu dire que la famille Wilson avait une autre fille. Je me demande bien d'où vient cette fille illégitime... En jouant le rôle de l'épouse de Derek ces deux dernières années, cette femme n'a-t-elle pas assez profité de la richesse et de la prospérité ? »<br /> <br /> Chapitre3 Le changement de Norah<br /> Norah a pris la main de Juliana, son expression illuminée d'un sourire, semblant ignorer les commentaires acerbes de Sharon. « Tu sembles tousser un peu. Je connais une soupe qui t'aidera à calmer la toux. Je donnerai la recette au majordome plus tard. »<br /> <br /> Juliana, qui avait toujours apprécié la docilité et la gentillesse de Norah, a répondu chaleureusement : « Tu es un ange, Norah. Eh bien, je suis vieille et ma santé décline avec l'âge. Ma chérie, tu es la seule à te soucier autant de mon bien-être. »<br /> <br /> Se sentant ignorée, le visage de Sharon est devenu pâle et elle a raillé : « Oh, arrête ! Maintenant que l'accord de divorce est signé, tu n'as plus besoin de jouer la comédie. Crois-tu honnêtement que rester proche de Juliana te donnera le droit de continuer à profiter de la famille Carter ? »<br /> <br /> Avant que Norah ne puisse répondre, Juliana s'est interposée : « Norah a toujours été gentille avec nous tous depuis qu'elle a rejoint notre famille. Elle était aux côtés de Derek pendant son coma, s'occupant de lui avec diligence. Sans parler du fait qu'elle nous a toujours traités avec respect, toi et moi. Pourquoi es-tu si ingrate maintenant, après tout ce qu'elle a fait pour notre famille ces deux dernières années ? »<br /> <br /> « Juliana ! Norah n'est rien d'autre qu'une bâtarde de la famille Wilson. Pourquoi continues-tu à la défendre ? » Sharon a tapé du pied.<br /> <br /> Sharon a lancé un regard noir à Norah, en insistant : « Ai-je dit quelque chose de mal ? Comment cette salope mérite-t-elle d'être la femme de Derek ? Si ton mari et toi n'aviez pas insisté pour qu'elle épouse Derek, je n'aurais jamais accepté cette femme. De plus, elle profite de la fortune de la famille Carter depuis le mariage. C'est normal qu'elle nous traite avec respect.<br /> <br /> Pourquoi donnes-tu l'impression qu'elle a fait quelque chose de formidable ? De plus, elle n'a pas conçu d'enfant depuis qu'elle a rejoint notre famille il y a deux ans. Tu veux des arrière-petits-enfants, n'est-ce pas ? Je parie que Derek a divorcé à cause de cela. »<br /> <br /> L'expression de Juliana est devenue sévère. « Sharon, fais attention à ce que tu dis. Comment peux-tu dire de telles absurdités ? »<br /> <br /> Même si elle était déconcertée par l'expression sévère de Juliana, Sharon a rétorqué : « Je ne fais qu'énoncer des faits. Heureusement, elle n'a pas conçu d'enfant, car cela aurait pu compliquer le divorce. N'importe lequel de ses enfants serait aussi malvenu. »<br /> <br /> Juliana, visiblement troublée par les propos de Sharon mais serrant la main de Norah de manière rassurante, a conseillé : « Ignore-la, Norah. Elle est grossière et impertinente. S'il te plaît, je te conseille vivement de ne pas te précipiter dans le divorce. Tant que je serai en vie, je ne reconnaîtrai que toi comme la femme de Derek. Mon mari et moi t'apprécions beaucoup. Ne t'inquiète pas de la réaction de Derek. Concentre-toi sur la bonne entente avec Derek et sur une vie de couple épanouie. »<br /> <br /> Sharon, les yeux remplis de frustration, a demandé : « Juliana, qu'est-ce qui ne va pas chez toi ? Pourquoi toi et ton mari défendez-vous toujours Norah ? bon sang ! Norah, ne te ridiculise pas, c'est fini entre toi et Drek. »<br /> <br /> Norah a levé les yeux vers Juliana, des larmes y brillant.<br /> <br /> Juliana, gardant son calme, a affirmé : « Arrête tes bêtises, Sharon. Tu n'as pas ton mot à dire concernant le mariage de Derek. Reste en dehors de cette affaire. Et nous devons être reconnaissants à Norah. Si tu continues à dire des bêtises, sors de ma vue. Maintenant ! »<br /> <br /> À ces mots, le visage de Sharon est devenu rouge de colère et d'embarras, et elle s'est pincé les lèvres pour retenir toute autre objection.<br /> <br /> Juliana s'est à nouveau tournée vers Norah et a demandé : « Qu'en penses-tu, Norah ? »<br /> <br /> Norah a rencontré le regard de la vieille dame, des larmes roulant sur ses joues alors qu'elle luttait pour parler. « Je... Je te remercie, Juliana. Mais aujourd'hui, j'ai surpris Madeline et Derek en train de faire l'amour au lit... De plus, l'indifférence de Derek à mon égard m'a fait comprendre qu'il ne servait à rien de continuer ce mariage. »<br /> <br /> Juliana est devenue pâle comme la mort, son visage plissé d'inquiétude lorsqu'elle a dit : « C'est la faute de Derek. »<br /> <br /> Juliana a tenu fermement les mains de Norah, lui offrant du réconfort : « Tu as enduré énormément de choses au cours de ces deux dernières années. »<br /> <br /> Norah est restée silencieuse, et un bref silence s'est installé dans le salon.<br /> <br /> La seconde suivante, la voix forte de Sharon a rompu le silence. « Madeline, cette garce, est de retour ? bon sang ! Juliana, je vais sortir maintenant. Je dois faire payer cette garce. »<br /> <br /> Sharon s'est empressée de prendre son sac et de sortir du salon.<br /> <br /> Norah a essuyé ses larmes et a souri de soulagement en disant : « Je vais bien. C'est vrai. »<br /> <br /> Le cœur lourd, Juliana a répondu : « Eh bien, je n'insisterai pas plus. Norah, s'il te plaît, rends-moi visite une fois que tu en auras l'occasion. Je me contenterais que tu viennes de temps en temps me tenir compagnie. »<br /> <br /> Les larmes se sont accumulées dans les yeux de Norah pendant que Juliana parlait. Cette vieille dame était sincèrement reconnaissante à Norah, sachant l'importance de cette dernière dans le rétablissement de Derek après son coma.<br /> <br /> Norah a tendrement essuyé les larmes de Juliana, reconnaissant l'authentique gentillesse dont elle avait fait preuve. « Je le ferai. Eh bien, je vais maintenant partir. S'il te plaît, demande à la domestique de te préparer la soupe. »<br /> <br /> Norah est partie sans se retourner, ignorant la résolution dans les yeux de Juliana.<br /> <br /> Se tamponnant les yeux, Juliana a dit au majordome : « Dis à Derek et aux autres de rentrer au Manoir Carter demain à midi. »<br /> <br /> Le majordome a répondu : « Compris. »<br /> <br /> Alors que Norah sortait du Manoir Carter, le chauffeur de la famille s'est approché d'elle. « Madame, où voulez-vous aller ? »<br /> <br /> Le chauffeur est resté poli, considérant toujours Norah comme la femme de Derek.<br /> <br /> Mais avec la signature de l'accord de divorce, Norah a compris qu'elle avait rompu les liens avec la famille Carter.<br /> <br /> En jetant un coup d'œil à son téléphone, Norah a remarqué un nouveau message.<br /> <br /> Il provenait de son amie, Joanna Andrews. « Norah, es-tu libre ce soir pour me rejoindre au Club Glamour ? J'ai entendu dire que Madeline était revenue et que Derek lui organisait une fête de bienvenue ce soir. Ça va être un véritable événement. Allons-y aussi. »<br /> <br /> La réponse de Norah a été courte. « D'accord. »<br /> <br /> Le seul commentaire de Joanna était un point d'interrogation. Le consentement rapide de Norah l'a prise au dépourvu.<br /> <br /> Norah a répondu : « Je suis officiellement divorcée. Je suis donc célibataire à partir de maintenant. »<br /> <br /> La discussion est restée silencieuse pendant un moment, puis la réponse de Joanna est arrivée, pleine d'enthousiasme et de points d'exclamation. « Norah, où es-tu maintenant ? Je te rejoins tout de suite ! Donne-moi juste dix secondes, et j'y serai ! »<br /> <br /> Trouvant amusant l'enthousiasme de son amie, Norah lui a indiqué une adresse dans le Bâtiment Splendor et a demandé au chauffeur : « S'il te plaît, emmène-moi au Bâtiment Splendor. »<br /> <br /> Le Bâtiment Splendor était bien connu à Glophia pour être un centre commercial de luxe, où l'on trouvait des marques haut de gamme du monde entier.<br /> <br /> Dès son arrivée, Norah a été chaleureusement accueillie. « Noelle, je suis ravie de te voir. Tu es là pour m'apporter les ébauches ? »<br /> <br /> La somptueuse garde-robe était remplie de magnifiques robes haute couture, chacune ornée de diamants étincelants qui accrochaient la lumière.<br /> <br /> Aaron Harvey, le designer haute couture d'Asodence, s'est approché théâtralement de Norah, lui a pris le bras en disant : « Je suis triste chaque fois que je te vois comme ça. Pourquoi tu caches ton beau visage ? Tu es la fleur la plus exquise, prête à s'épanouir courageusement. »<br /> <br /> En clignant des yeux, Norah a répondu : « Je suis d'accord avec toi, Aaron. Peux-tu m'aider à me refaire une beauté ? »<br /> <br /> S'attendant à ce que Norah réplique, Aaron était sur le point de poursuivre la persuasion et s'est soudainement figé aux mots de Norah. « Attends une minute. Tu... Noelle, tu envisages vraiment une transformation ? Oh, mon Dieu ! Venir me voir a été la meilleure décision que tu aies jamais prise. »<br /> <br /> Mettant de côté le sujet des projets de design, Aaron a guidé Norah jusqu'à un fauteuil de maquillage, en disant : « Ne bouge pas. Je t'assure que tu te transformeras en une femme éblouissante lorsque je laisserai ta beauté naturelle et ton charme irrésistible opérer leur magie. »<br /> <br /> Aaron a regardé la tenue simple et les cheveux ébouriffés de Norah, puis a commencé maquiller avec impatience, son pinceau de maquillage à la main.<br /> <br /> Lorsque Joanna est arrivée, Norah était encore en train de se faire maquiller.<br /> <br /> Joanna connaissait bien Aaron. Après l'avoir salué, elle s'est installée dans le fauteuil de maquillage voisin et a piqué : « Félicitations, Norah, pour ton retour officiel à ton célibat. Ta fidèle admiratrice, Joanna, est à ta disposition à tout moment. »<br /> <br /> Chapitre4 Club Glamour<br /> Norah a esquissé un sourire. « Tu me flattes, Joanna. »<br /> <br /> Joanna a demandé avec curiosité : « Hé, tu n'as pas éprouvé de sentiments profonds pour Derek ? Qu'est-ce qui t'a amenée à t'en sortir et à cesser d'être amoureuse ? »<br /> <br /> La voix de Norah était glaciale lorsqu'elle a répondu : « J'ai surpris Madeline et Derek au lit. »<br /> <br /> Joanna n'a pas pu s'empêcher de rire. « Madeline est-elle à ce point impatiente ? Elle est à peine revenue et elle s'est déjà retrouvée au lit avec le mari d'une autre. Je me demande à quoi ressemblait sa vie à l'étranger. Eh bien, je dois dire que toi et Derek étiez tellement malades d'amour. Il était accroché à son premier amour, et tu étais dévouée à Derek qui ne te rendait pas la pareille. Est-ce que l'amour rend les gens aveugles à ce point ? »<br /> <br /> Au fur et à mesure que Joanna continuait, l'esprit de Norah venait en foule. Aujourd'hui, c'était la première fois qu'elle rencontrait Madeline.<br /> <br /> Norah avait seulement entendu parler de Madeline par l'intermédiaire de Derek et du personnel de maison. Ils ont décrit Madeline comme étant gentille, empathique, polie et facile à vivre, probablement le genre de personne qui attirait Derek.<br /> <br /> Norah avait toujours fait des efforts pour s'occuper de Derek, adoptant les traits supposés de Madeline et essayant même de lui ressembler pour attirer l'attention de Derek.<br /> <br /> Mais être une remplaçante n'a jamais été à la hauteur. De plus, Madeline ne ressemblait pas du tout à la personne que Norah avait imaginée.<br /> <br /> Norah a répondu avec peu d'enthousiasme : « Tu comprendrais si tu avais déjà ressenti toi-même la piqûre de l'amour. »<br /> <br /> Les sourcils de Joanna se sont froncés. « Norah, je ne veux pas me perdre dans l'amour. Je préfère rester vive et être là pour toi. Depuis que tu as intégré la famille Carter, nous nous voyons à peine. »<br /> <br /> Après son mariage, Norah a consacré sa vie à Derek et à la famille Carter, laissant derrière elle sa vie passée et ses amitiés.<br /> <br /> « Norah, maintenant que tu es divorcée, vas-tu à la course à la Montagne Krusa dans cinq jours ? »<br /> <br /> « Non », a refusé fermement Norah. « Je n'ai pas couru depuis deux ans. Je ne suis plus dans le coup. »<br /> <br /> Joanna ne semblait pas convaincue. « Pas dans le coup ? Trouve une meilleure excuse la prochaine fois. Dis-moi, Norah, tu as toujours l'espoir de te remettre avec ce salaud de Derek ? »<br /> <br /> Joanna était sur le point de dire du mal de Derek, mais elle s'est reprise. « Tu te souviens de la course d'il y a trois ans ? Nocturne était le seul à pouvoir te suivre. Depuis ton abandon, il a remporté la première place à la Course de Montagne Krusa ces deux dernières années. On s'attend à ce qu'il participe à nouveau cette année. Ne veux-tu pas le voir ? »<br /> <br /> La Course de Montagne Krusa était un événement clandestin exaltant, un rassemblement de l'élite jeune et riche de Glophia qui était passionnée par les courses de voitures modifiées. Cet événement était connu pour ses courses palpitantes et attirait un public amateur de sports extrêmes.<br /> <br /> Pour protéger la vie privée des participants, chaque coureur recevait un masque de la part des organisateurs et utilisait un nom de code pendant la course.<br /> <br /> Un aspect unique de la course était que le vainqueur pouvait demander aux coureurs vaincus d'enlever leur masque.<br /> <br /> Norah se souvenait de la course passionnante d'il y a trois ans, où Nocturne avait échoué de justesse à la première place, à trois secondes près.<br /> <br /> L'excitation se lisait dans ses yeux lorsqu'elle a dit : « Eh bien, je suppose qu'il n'y a pas de mal à aller le voir. »<br /> <br /> L'intérêt d'Aaron a été éveillé par la mention du « divorce ». Il a demandé : « Tu es divorcée, Noelle ? Cet homme ne se rend vraiment pas compte de ce qu'il a perdu. Je suis sûr qu'il regrettera d'avoir laissé partir quelqu'un d'aussi précieux que toi. Quoi qu'il en soit, à propos de ces projets de design... »<br /> <br /> L'attention de Joanna s'est reportée sur Aaron et elle a demandé : « Norah, tu travailles toujours sur des designs pour BelleVogue ? Ce n'est pas étonnant qu'une partie de leur ligne de luxe ressemble à tes créations. »<br /> <br /> Avec fierté, Aaron a dit : « Noelle est une designer de mode exceptionnelle, reconnue par l'Association de la Haute Couture. Elle est connue dans le monde entier pour ses créations, qui atteignent des prix exorbitants. Heureusement, étant proche de Noelle, j'ai été le seul à obtenir quelques-unes de ses créations au cours des deux dernières années. »<br /> <br /> Roulant des yeux, Joanna a dit : « Tout ça, c'est grâce au talent de Norah. Qu'est-ce que cela a à voir avec toi de toute façon ? Allez, dépêche-toi. Je dois être éblouissante ce soir, tout comme Norah. »<br /> <br /> « D'accord, d'accord. Détends-toi, et je ferai en sorte que vous soyez toutes les deux splendides. »<br /> <br /> Une heure plus tard, elles ont fait leur entrée au Club Glamour.<br /> <br /> Sur la piste de danse, des lumières vibrantes virevoltaient et illuminaient les murs et le sol. La musique était entraînante et les gens dansaient, le visage rayonnant de joie dans l'odeur d'alcool et de fumée qui flottait dans l'air.<br /> <br /> Le deuxième étage proposait une ambiance plus calme, où Norah, qui se prélassait seule sur un canapé en sirotant sa boisson, attirait les regards curieux. Norah portait une mini robe blanche argentée sans bretelles, ses cheveux châtains légèrement bouclés tombaient en cascade dans son dos. La courbe élégante de son cou brillait d'une lueur douce tandis qu'elle penchait la tête pour siroter sa boisson.<br /> <br /> « Voilà ma Norah ! », s'est exclamée Joanna, assise en face de Norah. « Tu ne t'es pas jointe à moi ces deux dernières années, toujours vêtue de ces robes démodées à la résidence des Carter. Ne te sentais-tu pas étouffée ? C'est si bon de te revoir dans ton élément. J'en suis très heureuse. »<br /> <br /> Norah sirotait silencieusement son verre, sans rien dire.<br /> <br /> Alors que le liquide brûlant glissait le long de sa gorge et dans son ventre, son corps se réchauffait peu à peu.<br /> <br /> Bien que Norah se soit mariée dans la famille Carter et qu'elle ait pris soin de Derek tous les jours, elle aimait toujours porter des tenues élégantes et un joli maquillage. Pourtant, Sharon et Kathy, la sœur de Derek, lui reprochaient souvent d'être trop voyante. Selon elles, Derek étant cloué au lit, elle n'avait pas à s'habiller de façon aussi étincelante.<br /> <br /> Finalement, pour le bien de Derek, Norah avait réduit ses soins de toilette pour se consacrer entièrement à lui, devenant son aide-soignante permanente.<br /> <br /> Mais cette époque appartenait au passé. Libérée de la famille Carter, Norah pouvait désormais s'habiller comme elle le souhaitait, sans se soucier de leurs critiques.<br /> <br /> Joanna a jeté un coup d'œil à son téléphone, puis a levé les yeux. « Norah, tu as prévu de perturber la stupide fête de bienvenue de Derek pour cette salope tout à l'heure ? Veux-tu que j'amène quelques personnes pour faire une scène ? »<br /> <br /> Les yeux de Norah étaient fixés sur le liquide doré qui tourbillonnait dans son verre alors qu'elle le déplaçait doucement. « Nous ne sommes pas venues au Club Glamour pour Derek, n'est-ce pas ? Alors, qui est la personne que tu veux que je rencontre ? »<br /> <br /> Joanna semblait surprise, puis a affiché un sourire malin. « Norah, où veux-tu en venir ? Nous sommes là pour mettre le feu aux poudres ! »<br /> <br /> « Le Club Glamour appartient à la famille Morris. Je préfère ne pas me mettre dans leur dos », a dit calmement Norah. « Je sais que la stupide fête de Derek n'est qu'une excuse. Alors, dis-moi la vérité. Qui cherche à me rencontrer par le biais de tes arrangements ? »<br /> <br /> Leur conversation a été coupée par une sonnerie de téléphone. Joanna a rapidement décroché, son visage changeant au fur et à mesure de l'appel. Faisant signe qu'elle devait s'éloigner, elle a murmuré : « Je dois répondre. Je reviens vite. »<br /> <br /> En voyant l'inquiétude sur le visage de Joanna, Norah a compris que celle-ci devait s'occuper de quelque chose d'urgent. Elle a donc acquiescé et a posé son verre, qui a légèrement tinté sur la table.<br /> <br /> Quels que soient les plans élaborés par l'intermédiaire de Joanna, Norah était sûre que cette dernière ne se retournerait pas contre elle.<br /> <br /> « Hé, ma jolie, tu es toute seule ? Ça te dérange si je me joins à toi pour boire un verre ? »<br /> <br /> Pendant les deux années de son mariage, Norah aimait son mari de toute son âme et a espéré lui rendre la pareille.<br /> Mais lorsque la première amour de Derek est revenue, ce dernier a demandé le divorce.<br /> Norah a signé l'accord de divorce sans hésiter.<br /> Bien qu'elle soit considérée comme une femme délaissée, peu de gens connaissaient ses véritables talents.<br /> Elle était pilote de course, designer de renom, hacker talentueuse et docteure réputée.<br /> Regrettant sa décision, Derek l'a suppliée de lui pardonner.<br /> À ce moment-là, un charmant PDG est soudain apparu, serrant Norah dans ses bras et disant à Derek : « Va-t'en, c'est ma femme ! »<br /> Norah a été choquée et s'est exclamée : « Qu'est-ce que tu as dit ? »<br /> <br /> Que se passe-t-il ensuite? <br /> Le nombre de chapitres affichés est limité. Appuyez sur le bouton ci-dessous pour installer notre application et lire les chapitres suivants. <br /> (Accéder automatiquement à ce livre en ouvrant l'application)<br /> &7&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.kifflire.com/17678410-fb_contact-fra	277708475430260	Love Bible	https://facebook.com/61558417004295	239	1	744,862,911,179,116	2024-05-06 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Love Bible	120207434993660480	fbweb.kifflire.com	NONE	video		https://fbweb.kifflire.com/17678410-fb_contact-fra125_8-0424-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=1179389016560285		2024-04-29 05:38	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438253375_403995912598253_2713084499596103001_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f8YPJPwLhhEQ7kNvgH6LO4g&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAncxGZn0rXQ9opWEV-GxcGzfDuo02IcAUPMRO-B5moLQ&oe=66424614	person_profile	0	Love Bible	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440473997_1480160712883043_1837132155880657966_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aneUJoGnXv0Q7kNvgFyRLFB&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC9TRzWPi9VYLfgkpiuLk0LCCadJW_l_s7xjAkBHEublw&oe=66425674	3	Love Bible	2024-05-04 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,781,553	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1781475}'	No	2024-05-08 19:29	active	763	759307206372475	How to Win Oxbridge Scholarships	Ready to win thousands in scholarships to fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD? 💰 I'm talking FAR beyond those hyper-competitive internal funding schemes that are harder to win than a Harvard acceptance. (Though I did do that, too.) But actually finding hidden scholarships with little - or NO - competition! All so that you can attend WITHOUT having to take on student debt or distract yourself with a part-time job while you study just to make ends meet. Even if you: 👉 Didn't win a big scholarship from Oxford or Cambridge themselves 👉 Are an international student and have been told it's even HARDER for you to win Oxbridge funding (spoiler alert: not necessarily!) 👉 Are still looking and it's already April, May, or even June! As a once-Oxbridge outsider and current Oxford PhD student, I know how CONFUSING the Oxbridge postgraduate admissions process can be, especially when it comes to winning the funding you need to turn your acceptance into actual attendance. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to my NEW FREE class for aspiring Oxbridge postgraduates, How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge For Free (without getting lost in the funding maze). You'll learn: 💰 How to win over £100k in Oxbridge scholarships - even AFTER you've applied (or gotten accepted!) 💰 How to turn your international student status into an advantage - with less competition 💰 The little-known alternative to funding your studies in full: no debt, no job, and no giant scholarship required! (And YES, even if it's May and you're still searching for scholarships to fund your Oxbridge offer for this coming autumn, this free training can help you!) Ready to turn your Oxbridge acceptance into a fully funded reality? Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/	SIGN_UP	https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-fr	123456247520114	Oxbridge Admissions Club	https://facebook.com/61550912507035	175	1	2,918,973,238,245,161	2024-05-08 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	1	1	1	Sign Up	Oxbridge Admissions Club	6566022185150	oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com	NONE	dco	If you're looking to fully fund your Oxbridge Master's or PhD in 2024 or beyond, then you have to join me for my free video workshop: "How to Attend Graduate School at Oxbridge for Free - Without Getting Lost in the Funding Maze." Sign up now, it's free! https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/	https://oxbridgeadmissionsclub.com/scholarships-free-training-sign-up/		2024-05-08 16:44	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438173272_417394051245934_3519003543464973290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bHQJrnLd6MQ7kNvgGeT23V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBd-0-k1yeMzDNgVwLsITT1z7DvqIfWLeQA1oPk7AOS5A&oe=6641D8C5	person_profile	0	CLAIRE \| Oxford PhD & Admissions Guide 🎓	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438159777_947857260211076_7419827924341420416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mu4dLNbxz24Q7kNvgG02b15&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBf2FSJPC5MJGKFko67le68hePAdfV9uOHH2SzqhbaBzA&oe=6641E0A7	3	Oxbridge Admissions Club	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,784,935	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1785017}'	No	2024-05-09 01:57	active	766	770216625241870		After the divorce, she made a spectacular comeback as a top designer, elite race car driver, renowned healer, and genius hacker, stunning everyone and leaving her scoundrel ex-husband full of regret!<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &4&	WATCH_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-fb_contact-e	109739908479801	Love Story House	https://facebook.com/100083774743284	23,675	1	382,225,051,473,727	2024-05-06 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Watch more	Love Story House	120207577962950410	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-fb_contact-ena125_5_0409-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=091588&accid=988284659350238		2024-04-27 22:46	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101396_1659441604887326_4103105299246263449_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u9gHNXf8FfUQ7kNvgH7Ytsf&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAw2uQ2gtOyJId7YKyYRKbyYSV2ip2bQh8nqFNSueG5Ug&oe=66422C07	person_profile	0	Love Story House	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438088616_2667660860059071_2432044267487614388_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CzNGjvtX-0gQ7kNvgHDSgzX&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCMadQZJy3Pj3XPOtrcNZBtdhZ45mdhfwVXueCfqGp6Dg&oe=664245B1	3	Love Story House	2024-05-04 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,781,831	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1781309}'	No	2024-05-08 19:30	active	763	443343604896450		Just in Time for Mother's Day!! Natural mined genuine Diamonds!<br /> Diamond solitaire earrings in 14 kt white gold are on Sale in various total diamond weights.<br /> <br /> Featured Pair showed....14 kt white gold natural diamond solitaire with friction backs. Available in yellow or white gold<br /> <br /> The earrings have a total weight of 2.00 carats, with a color of G-H and a clarity of SI1 to SI2. Value Priced at $4,600 to $8,800.<br /> <br /> The earrings have a total weight of 1.00 carats, with a color of G-H, and a clarity of SI1 to SI2. Value Priced at $2,200 to $3,850.<br /> <br /> The earrings have a total weight of .50 carats, with a color of G-H, and a clarity of SI1 to SI2. Value Priced at $899. to $1,550.<br /> <br /> We offer only naturally mined Diamonds; each is beautiful, precious, and brilliant.<br /> <br /> Layaway Now for Mother's Day, anniversary, or special birthday, or use our 12 Months of No Interest.<br /> <br /> Please feel free to call or text me at (936) 661-5363 or book an appointment online - <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.elliottsjewelers.com%2Fbook-an-appointment%2F&h=AT3w2nNjH-e8PIco9nvhakYB5DxMDp8XUVVLe1sBpzvX7VzFO5vuRIU4FApxVhHL7Glhix78avWz3sj1FbyKNrlYn32AvpFu_q62jytDq2u36AqQPwDJ-FSk5-JfZ-lcUyFdbeEba7XCog" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.elliottsjewelers.com/book-an-appointment/</a><br /> <br /> Visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.elliottsjewelers.com%2F&h=AT1k_iagz6YRbeo-nyCJuJ8oNu7glgQJxiTdyqAKaKCJu1n-WhDVPDRFuS3HGuA5M2GzUvgHOYyG9NXuQdmZSALzuzghad04wNCZ7D6VZ8zlGaYlL0dC7LrItsulpMsmm2T_fJl8hqs0vQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.elliottsjewelers.com</a>	CALL_NOW		573308900028680	Elliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX	https://facebook.com/elliottsjewelershuntsvilletx	5,058	1	2,790,165,437,798,446	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Call now	Elliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX	6555729305190		NONE	multi_videos				2024-05-08 16:12	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440451316_3403879409903424_4984417565352478860_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qQpVJM30sc4Q7kNvgH2CXvh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC0qGYnZLQ1sGc3SgOW_Y3ozatC0MHqT89dOGbknHuh1A&oe=6641D4F6	person_profile	0			3	Elliott's Jewelers - Huntsville, TX	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,786,404	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1786407}'	No	2024-05-09 02:12	active	767	419817074315501			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/thebluebootboutique	111401065336869	The Blue Boot Boutique	https://facebook.com/100093819565602	47	1	1,488,505,002,081,182	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Visit Instagram Profile	The Blue Boot Boutique	120208039147270638	instagram.com	NONE	carousel		http://instagram.com/thebluebootboutique		2024-05-08 15:08	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441902345_342723388457034_9105177996085303239_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OPpK0aJJv4kQ7kNvgF64RRl&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCB1b-nBX2qd4JcH4-FVcaGR95y3GlN30pj_QNrq3R8BA&oe=6642621A	person_profile	0	The Blue Boot Boutique ~Cloey🤎	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440115357_1158820602211026_6077768819516458716_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=C3KK-qa66j0Q7kNvgFnkkWS&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDKXrU27hBIWSB8RgHd98kAcOQEAoI3RjAMyqKYMi8k6g&oe=66425C27	3	The Blue Boot Boutique	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,779,871	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1779869}'	No	2024-05-08 19:22	active	762	1478146939774969		B L A C K 💖 S K I E S 🖤⛅️<br /> ⭐️streaming N0W in allll the places ❤️‍🔥 <br /> <br /> Black Skies 🖤⭐️Song Credits: <br /> Writers: @micall x @jeffbluemusic x @jacobbunton <br /> Produced by: @jeffbluemusic x @jacobbunton <br /> Mixed by: @jacobbunton <br /> Instrumentals {Piano, violin, viola, guitar, bass, synth} by @jacobbunton <br /> Drums by @jeffbluemusic <br /> <br /> Music Video credits:<br /> Videography and Editing: @vidfirst Brandon & Frances<br /> Hairstylist: @kelly.kel <br /> Makeup Artist: @jlizartistry <br /> Fashion Styling: @micall <br /> Wardrobe: @shopakira<br /> <br /> #newmusic #poprockmusic #fyp #today #poprock #rock	LEARN_MORE	https://linktr.ee/micallmusic	104409028267766	micall	https://www.instagram.com/_u/micall	0	8	1,118,812,542,457,629	2024-05-08 02:00	ig_ads_identity	eligible	NONE	1	1	1	Learn more	micall	120208864717700156	linktr.ee	NONE	video		https://linktr.ee/micallmusic		2024-05-08 12:23	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/369675835_1003234364428326_5364289723822503827_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=D1x2kAOH5tQQ7kNvgHqSpCi&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AfDkuaevFgwHC7Dc3CkbjWvXkxFWzqs-6uBqgyTpnYib9Q&oe=6641FE5D	ig_ads_identity	1	MICALL מיכל 🎗️	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438239060_1650700168668456_7003718608154788634_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LhgtrGu5sccQ7kNvgG7dGF8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBET26Jhq9THyJT-QBqGyJGQ3yYR0n_dmFABdNStNKE0g&oe=6641DF59	3	micall	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,783,276	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1782671}'	No	2024-05-09 01:53	active	765	1145026153204724	EARN $82,550 to $102,775	Automotive Technicians near Leander!<br /> ❗Urgently Hiring Automotive Technicians<br /> ✅EASY to apply, 60 seconds!<br /> <br /> 👉Tired of working flat rate?<br /> 👉Do you want a guaranteed hourly pay?<br /> 👉GREAT benefits? <br /> 👉Do you feel like you're stuck and your career is going nowhere?<br /> 👉Or your current shop is not investing in you, making you a better tech?<br /> <br /> With over 50 FIVE STAR Google ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviews, you can tell we really care about our clients and our staff.<br /> <br /> I’m Therk from HD Motorsports. We are Austin's Premier Performance Shop and we are now looking for two technicians to join our team of performance enthusiasts!<br /> <br /> 🟦First - An Experienced Automotive Technician, self-starter, own set of tools, strong diagnostic and drivability skills. 5+ years experience. <br /> <br /> 🟦Second - An Automotive Technician with a minimum of 3 years experience and a good basic toolset. (We Provide all specialty tools)<br /> <br /> A few of the many benefits HD Motorsports offers:<br /> <br /> * PAYCHECK <br /> ✅Weekly Pay<br /> ✅Direct Deposit<br /> ✅Never run out of work<br /> <br /> Work Environment <br /> ✅Friendly and Professional, where you can grow your career<br /> ✅Organized, clean, and fast-paced operation<br /> ✅Well ventilated, well lit, and VERY clean<br /> ✅Climate Controlled Shop<br /> ✅Effective and Supportive Service Advisors<br /> ✅Each Technician has their own iPad Pro<br /> ✅State of the art equipment <br /> ✅Most Factory Scan Tools <br /> ✅Stellar ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Google Ratings<br /> <br /> ADDITIONAL BENEFITS *<br /> ✅Annual Bonuses<br /> ✅Matching 401K<br /> ✅Fully Paid Health Insurance<br /> ✅Dental Insurance<br /> ✅Vision Insurance<br /> ✅Short Term and Long Term Disability<br /> ✅Vision Insurance<br /> ✅Paid Holidays<br /> ✅Paid Vacation<br /> ✅Paid Training<br /> ✅Closed on Saturdays and Sundays (We do have occasional weekends 3 to 4 times per year)<br /> <br /> Seasoned technicians find it takes the paycheck, work environment, and additional benefits TOGETHER to make any shop a great place to work, and that is where we shine above all the other shops around Leander.<br /> <br /> Want to learn more about the job opportunity? Click Apply Now below and answer 3 short questions. (Takes about 60 seconds)<br /> <br /> Click Apply Now below.<br /> <br /> 📍 Our shop is located at 2118 Downing Ln #120, Leander, TX 78641	APPLY_NOW	http://fb.me/	119901154548515	We Value Mechanics	https://facebook.com/61551636517913	251	1	1,147,666,533,324,722	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Apply now	We Value Mechanics	120208847319020253	fb.me	NONE	image		http://fb.me/		2024-05-03 14:26	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438097766_1506882836880807_905636253556377908_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e6Iwzdvta_IQ7kNvgG7fJQV&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDqT6U1vdj6k4lpIDdQxF5UFkpHDync3ia3ZyVsKxLaLA&oe=66424284	person_profile	0			3	We Value Mechanics	2024-05-03 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,781,451	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-08 19:29	active	763	1777451159332391	Vizcosa	Online Boutique<br /> Resortwear, Maxidress and kaftans<br /> Discover the world in style<br /> <br /> FREE SHIPPING AUSTRALIA AND USA<br /> $10 off your first order.	LIKE_PAGE	https://facebook.com/vizcosa	115185668641403	Vizcosa	https://facebook.com/vizcosa	1,828	1	417,086,574,476,440	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Like Page	Vizcosa	6615677344106	facebook.com	NONE	image		https://facebook.com/vizcosa		2024-05-08 16:56	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438304201_830223425642406_4290086709429063188_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9tiohzACQecQ7kNvgGtt-UB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA8dXRhMESfxoxMhZ4T-KlTOw_acqPst12fe9vQPONseQ&oe=6641CEC7	person_profile	0			3	Vizcosa	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,780,102	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1780034}'	Yes	2024-05-08 19:23	active	762	1622386895250957	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"I, Christina Fellows, reject you, Cole Mathews-"<br /> "You're rejecting me?!" Cole asked surprised.<br /> "So you knew we were mates this whole time?" I asked slowly.<br /> "Yeah."<br /> I slapped him.<br /> "I hate you." I spat out, my eyes filling with tears.<br /> "No-"<br /> "Yes I do! You used me when we are supposed soul mates?" I screamed, tears pouring down my face.<br /> "You are dead to me! You don't want me and I'm sure I don't want you." I cried out.<br /> "Cole I don't want you as a mate." I whispered.<br /> ****** <br /> "Christina! WAKE UP!" Mom screamed from downstairs.<br /> Today was my first day at Lincoln High School. Surprisingly, I was excited. No, excited would be an understatement, I was ecstatic. At my old school, I was constantly being bullied and abused by fellow students and my so called friends. Going to a new school was something I wanted- no, needed.<br /> I stood there. Eyes wide and mouth hanging open.This school must have been at least four times the size of my old school. I gulped and began confidently walking towards the entrance. I reached the front desk in a matter of minutes because, yes, I had gotten lost on my way there.<br /> I cleared my throat, "Excuse me, my name is Ch-"<br /> "Christina Fellows! The new student! Oh it's very nice to meet you!" The front desk lady said happily.<br /> "Yes.. That's me." I smiled nervously, " Could I by chance have my schedule?"<br /> "Of course darling!" She practically sang.<br /> 10 minutes later<br /> I stood in the middle of the hallway, papers, packets, instructions, maps, filling my hands . Locker, I thought to myself, I will find my locker then try to make it to at least part of my first class.<br /> Eventually I found my locker, and with the help of multiple maps, I stood breathlessly in front of the door to my English room. Be cool Christina, I thought to myself, first impressions count. Before I could knock on the door, it was flung open and a furious teenage boy stood in front of me.<br /> "Out of my way, bimbo." He snarled. Before I could even respond or react, I was slammed in the lockers across the hall. Withough even a glance back, the guy stalked off and turned the corner and was gone.<br /> "Are you okay?" the teacher questioned, worry written all over her face.<br /> "I'm fine," I managed to say weakly.<br /> After introducing myself, I sat in an empty desk in the back of through. Even though English is my favorite subject, I couldn't focus. All I could think about was that guy. His dirty blond hair and gorgeous blue eyes had me entranced, it was like I was sucked into a dark hole and all I could do is think about him.<br /> As I left English, I realized I had no idea how to get back to my locker. At that same moment a smiling blonde haired girl came bounding over to me.<br /> "Hiya!! You must be the new girl Christina! My name is Mandy." She said<br /> I laughed, "Yeah I'm the new girl. It's nice to meet you Mandy, do you mind helping me find my way back to my locker?"<br /> In about two minutes flat, I was right in front of my locker with a smiling Mandy by my side.<br /> I stayed my Mandy the whole day, having all the same morning classes as her. We were still talking when we entered the lunchroom, which was surprisingly quiet. I glanced at Mandy to see her looking fearfully at something behind me. Slowly I turned around, only to be face to face with the jerk from earlier.<br /> "You're Christina Fellows?" He sneered<br /> "Yeah, that's my name, what's it to ya?" I snapped, glaring at him, secretly I was shocked that I had the courage to even say something. By now no one was moving and the silence was unbearable.<br /> "Shut up bimbo, you need to learn your place here." He growled, taking at step forward.<br /> I stood my ground, "Go to inferno, jerk."<br /> Suddenly I was being dragged out of the lunchroom. The second the doors closed, the normal lunchroom chatter resumed. I struggled, but it didn't last long as I was soon pushed to the ground. The guy stood above me, glaring.<br /> "That's your place. Do you understand? Now why don't you do this school a favor and leave."<br /> I quickly stood up, face to face with him. I took a step closer.<br /> "I'm not going anywhere." I said venomously, before shouldering past him, back towards the lunchroom. As I left I heard him call out, "You don't know what I'm capably of bimbo!" Without turning around I gave him the finger and entered the lunchroom, not before hearing a him...<br /> Growl?<br /> What?<br /> No that must have been my imagination.<br /> <br /> After lunch, Mandy was pretty much ignoring me. Even though I had only known her for a few hours, it hurt that she never really wanted to be my friend. With only three classes left, I slowly made my way back to my locker to leave my backpack and books and go to gym class.<br /> 15 minutes later<br /> "AHHHH!" I screamed angrily. I was now ten minutes late for gym class and my hopes for eventually finding the gym were quickly diminishing. I was ready to head back to my locker when I heard laughter coming from the courtyard.<br /> I quietly entered the courtyard, scanning my surroundings, hoping to find someone to help me. As I was about to give up, I heard the laughter again. I walked around the corner and froze.<br /> The devil himself aka Cole Mathews, the jerk with anger issues.<br /> Cole and three other guys stood leaning against the wall of the building, smoking and joking around. I was going to just go back into school without being noticed, but because of my stealthy ninja skills, I ended up falling after tripping over a rock- no, a clump of grass. Leave it to Christina Fellows to trip over a clump of freaking grass.<br /> "You nosy little bimbo."<br /> My face heated up as I stood. "Oh shut up Cole, I was just looking for someone to help me."<br /> "Well baby, how can I be of service? I can help with anything. Anything." One of Cole's friends suggested with a wink.<br /> "Gross Ian. How desperate are you for a STD." Cole sneered.<br /> Now I was officially pissed off. "Cole I don't have a STD! You are such a jerk." Cole narrowed his eyes and growled at me. Growled. Yep, looks like someone has a bad case of anger management.<br /> "Bimbo, back off."<br /> "You started this!" I snapped. By now I was shaking a little, but not from anger, from fear. The look Cole gave me was deadly.<br /> "Whatever bimbo. Get away from here." He said threateningly, taking a step forward, towards me.<br /> "I don't have a STD! I've never even-" I paused.<br /> Oh no.<br /> Cole's eyes widened before he and his friends burst out laughing. In my embarrassment. I quickly left the courtyard, the sounds of their laughter taunting me.<br /> 20 minutes later<br /> I give up.<br /> I bet there actually isn't a gym in this stupid school. Come to think of it, I don't think I even have gym anymore. I'm pretty sure I'm supposed to be in Biology right now. I sighed, frustrated.<br /> "Hey do you need any help?"<br /> I looked up to see a tall, gorgeous girl in front of me.<br /> "Oh, um, yeah do you know where the Biology room is?" I asked nervously.<br /> "Are you in Mr. Kelly's class? Just take a left then a right at the end of the hallway." She stated with a smile. Mr. Kelly? I had no idea who my teacher was.<br /> "Thanks so much. I should go now." I mumbled as I walked around her.<br /> "Nice to meet you!" She called out before walking away. Hmm, I didn't even know her name. Whatever.<br /> I followed her instructions. I'm sure I followed them exactly! Take a right then a left. Or was is take a left then another left?<br /> I groaned. This was way too confusing. I decided to head back to my locker, maybe I would be able to go to my last class. Now, how do I get back to my locker?<br /> 10 minutes later<br /> I dragged my feet across the tiled hallway. I swear to the dear lord, if I don't find my locker in a minute, I will go crazy.<br /> One minute I was walking, then I was pressed up against a locker. Without hesitation, I threw a punch to where I assumed my attacker's face was. Instead of making contact with his or her face, a large hand enveloped my fist. Definitely a guy.<br /> "Feisty.. I like it."<br /> "Cole!" I screamed. I started struggling. Within a matter of seconds I my arms pinned to above my head with only one of his arms, holding them still. He was literally pressed up on me. I couldn't move for the life of me.<br /> "So bimbo.." He whispered, smirking.<br /> "C-Cole. Get off of me." I begged, "You're hurting me." I whimpered a little. Cole looked startled and backed up only a bit. I took advantage of his confusion and kneed him in his "special" place.<br /> "Ahhh!" He screamed as his fell to the ground in pain. The next look he gave me made me turn and run. I sprinted down the hallway.<br /> "Get her!" Cole bellowed. Soon I could hear footsteps behind me. Sure enough, I was pinned up against a locker by one of Cole's friends-- Ian I think.<br /> Immediately I started thrashing around to escape his death grip. As I was about to give up, Cole and his two other friends turned the corner, heading towers me and Ian. My struggles increased and I managed to escape.<br /> Three steps.<br /> That's all I took before realizing I there were no exits. I was freaking trapped.<br /> Dark chuckling tore me away from my thoughts, and I slowly turned around. I gulped loudly, fear evident on my face.<br /> Smirking, Cole pushed himself off the wall he was leaning on and took a couple of steps in my direction. After about a minute of just staring straight into my eyes, he finally spoke.<br /> "Well boys, why don't we teach this little bimbo a lesson?"<br /> Oh no.<br /> <br /> I gulped. Cole was smirking at me, with his friends behind him.<br /> He took a step forward, I took one back, he took another and I fell back. Nice, I thought to myself. Way to fall.<br /> "Well it looks like this is gonna be easier than I thought." Said Cole who was now standing over me. "I'll see you guys later." Without hesitation, Ian and the two other guys left.<br /> I started to stand up, only to be pushed back down by Cole.<br /> "Listen bimbo. You are nothing, and I don't need you walking around here like you own this school. This is MY school, these people listen to ME. I don't need some bimbo like you messing everything up." He snarled.<br /> I sat there emotionless. I didn't even react when he grabbed my arm and forced me to stand.<br /> "Cat got you tongue, bimbo?"<br /> I have no idea where all this confidence came from, but the next thing I did was quite outrageous.<br /> I slapped him.<br /> But it didn't stop there. All my anger, my pain, my hurt, it came flooding out. I threw myself at Cole, flailing my arms, hoping to inflict pain upon this jerk. This was my revenge against all those jerks who used and abused me.<br /> I was blinded by my anger one moment, attacking Cole, then I was slammed up against the lockers. Cole used his own body to hold me there, my arms were pinned at my sides and and my legs were trapped by his. Both of Cole's hands were placed at either side of my head, making it impossible to move the slightest bit.<br /> To my surprise, he didn't have a single bruise or even red mark on himself. He looked perfectly fine.<br /> And angry. No- angry would be an understatement.<br /> Cole was furious. He was breathing heavily, and with each breath, he seemed to press in closer to me.<br /> "C-C-Cole, get away." I stuttered, fear lacing each word.<br /> "Christina..." He breathed out, staring straight into my eyes, "I warned you."<br /> There I lay.<br /> Listening to his retreating footsteps, after being flung like a rag doll to the other end of the hallway. I couldn't move. There was so much pain, my head felt like a bomb went off in it, and my whole body ached.<br /> Right before I passed out, I realized, maybe this new school wouldn't be so different.<br /> <br /> The faint noise of a machine is what I heard as I woke up. The pounding in my head wasn't as bad, and despite the searing pain coursing my body, there hadn't seemed to be any permanent damage. I looked around the hospital room, I couldn't see much since the lights were off and it was dark outside.<br /> Wait. Hospital room? Dark outside?<br /> How long have I been out and how did I get here? At that moment the door opened and a nurse walked in.<br /> "Hun you're awake!! This is good!! How are you feeling?" She asked.<br /> "Better, thanks." I answered with a small smile, "How did I get here?"<br /> "Well Hun, you are one lucky duck. With the concussion you have, you would have had some serious damage if this young handsome man hadn't brought you in. Unfortunately, he had to leave but he told me to give this." She replied, holding out a folded note.<br /> I sat up and reached for it, ignoring the worsening pain that followed as a result. Before I could open it, the nurse excused herself and left, reassuring me that she would be back soon.<br /> After taking a couple of deep breaths, I opened the note.<br /> Tell anyone what happened and you won't be so lucky next time<br /> I stopped breathing.<br /> I'm screwed.<br /> <br /> After spending the rest of the week there, I was finally released. It took forever to convince my mom that I was okay to leave, but in the end she caved.<br /> I was lying on my bed, still sore with most of my back covered in bruises.<br /> My door opened a little, "Christina, do you need anything?" My mom asked<br /> "I'm fine, thanks." I sighed. More pain pills would be nice, but if I had said that my mom would have freaked an taken me back to the hospital. I watched her as she opened the door all the way and came to sit on the edge of my bed.<br /> "Christina, I know you are shaken, and in a lot of pain, but sooner or later you're going to tell me what happened." She said firmly<br /> "Okay, later than." I muttered. She groaned, annoyed at how closed up I was being, and left my room. If only she knew that I was being threatened.<br /> Ever since my dad's death, I have been really close to my mom, and have told her everything. I didn't tell her right away about the abuse at school, but that was when I thought I could handle it. After a while, when I broke, I told her and she pulled me from school and had us move. That is how strong our relationship is.<br /> Monday<br /> I had to walk to school.<br /> My mom offered to drive me, but you all know my fear with cars... Anyways after she left I went to get my bike, when I realized how badly that would end up. I was covered in bruises, most on my back and yes, I had to wear a neck brace because of my concussion. Another reason I couldn't ride my bike.<br /> I sighed and left the house. Maybe if I limp quickly enough, I will be able to make it to school on time. Yeah right.<br /> 30 minutes later<br /> I was huffing and puffing on the steps on school. I probably missed at least half of first period, but I really didn't care anymore. I hobbled into the school and got a late slip- the once cheerful front desk lady now glared at me with annoyance and anger. I threw a nasty look right back at her- HA! From the shocked look on her face, I could tell she didn't expect that.<br /> I was walking- or whatever you would like to call it, to my locker when I felt a presence behind me. Because of my neck brace I couldn't just look back, so I continued walking. The feeling followed me, but I still ignored it. I was putting away my books when I heard someone talk.<br /> "What happened to you, bimbo?"<br /> I saw red. Letting out a snarl, I turned and lunged, only to be caught in the air. I began fighting- scratching, kicking, and waving my arms around in attempt to injure my attacker. I only stopped when I was placed on the ground and pinned against the locker.<br /> "Christina calm down." The voice ordered.<br /> Only then did I look up and see that it wasn't Cole, it was Ian. I don't know Ian, but I don't trust him. I mean, he is a friend of Cole's... why should I?<br /> "You jerk! Get away from me!" I spat at him, struggling again.<br /> "Christina. Why are you mad?" Ian asked<br /> "Are you serious?! You friend nearly kills me and I was stuck in a hospital for six days! SIX DAYS! And you just stand there are ask me what's wrong?!" I scream, thrashing in Ian's arms. I ended up hitting my head on the locker behind me, and then I got all lightheaded.<br /> "You did this to yourself." Ian stated calmly.<br /> Speechless. Despite the fatal pounding in my head and aching all over my body, I managed to stay still and not say a single word.<br /> "He warned you and you freaked on him." Ian said looking into my eyes.<br /> "You did this to yourself." He repeated again<br /> I felt shattered. Was this seriously my fault?<br /> "Cat got your tongue, bimbo?"<br /> Cole.<br /> Standing there at the end of the hallway.<br /> I lost it.<br /> I pushed Ian away with all the force I could muster, and I did the only thing left for me to do.<br /> I ran.<br /> I ran out the school, past the gate. I ran still I felt numb. I ended up collapsing near the woods. I was breathing heavily, but still I refused to cry. I wouldn't let down my walls just because I was by myself. I had to stay strong.<br /> 2 hours later<br /> Yup. I was still lying near the woods. I felt dead and probably looked it too. I finally sat up, and took off my sweatshirt leaving me in my sweatpants and sports bra. I began walking through the woods, the pain with each step I took was pushed aside. I was too busy thinking to worry or care. I reached a clearing, where I decided to sit against a rock and rest.<br /> Was I really the one to blame for my incident?<br /> Was it my fault?<br /> I coundn't think about it. It made me sick, the idea of blaming myself never crossed my mind. Maybe Ian was ri-<br /> No.<br /> All this I have endured was not self inflicted.<br /> Tomorrow Cole better watch out. I don't care if he owns this school, I will show him his place. I stood up, confidence and courage rushing through myself, only to be replaced by pain. Abusive much? I thought as I remember what Cole had done to me.<br /> I reached down to grab my sweatshirt- only now realizing my neck brace wasn't on. I'm so oblivious.<br /> Then I froze at the sound of a twig snapping.<br /> "Bimbo, why so many scars?? Are you cutter?"<br /> *<br /> I wouldn't turn around. I couldn't. I just straightened up my back, shaking.<br /> "So you are a cutter?"<br /> No answer<br /> "Bimbo, you might want to answer me."<br /> No answer<br /> "I'm warning you."<br /> I whirled around, my body protesting my sudden movement. I nearly jumped back from shock, seeing as Cole was only four feet away from me, much closer than I thought.<br /> "Why? Why should I have to answer you? So I can give another reason to insult me? I don't think so." I breathed out heavily, avoiding his eyes.<br /> "So you are a cutter." Cole stated, amused.<br /> I didn't respond, just stared at the ground.<br /> "Look at me."<br /> I stayed still, willing myself to not look up of even make the slightest movement. I cringed though, when he took a step closer.<br /> "Bimbo, you deaf?"<br /> No response, another step closer. I realized that if I didn't respond he would be right up in my face.<br /> "Christina?" He asked so softly<br /> I was going to crack, I could feel it. I squeezed my eyes shut, praying that he would just walk away. To my surprise, I managed to stay still, even when his hand stroked my cheek. My steady breathing became shaky breaths, my walls were cracking.<br /> But no. I wasn't going to let Cole Mathews get the best of me. No way.<br /> "Christina, I'm sorry."<br /> My eyes flew open and I stumbled backwards, I started to fall, but before I could hit the ground, two strong arms wrapped around my waist.<br /> I was speechless, second time today.<br /> "I shouldn't have hurt you." Cole murmured, no longer looking into my yes, but staring at my body. I felt self conscious, yet safe in his arms. I wanted him to never let go. But then I remembered. This is Cole Mathews, the same guy who's eyes turned BLACK before flinging you all the way down a hallway.<br /> Then it came to me.<br /> Cole is some supernatural demon.<br /> Yeah, it had to be that, a demon with anger management and bi-polar issues. I began pushing myself away from him, panic setting in. Fortunately, I caught him off gaurd, and was able to pull away and back up enough to put a good ten feet between us.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.crazynovelapp.com/ad/TXlsaWIvMTcxNjI0LzI	149788454881544	Cra0004	https://facebook.com/61552123302606	47	1	733,902,422,232,281	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Cra0004	120210245812680400	a.crazynovelapp.com	NONE	video		https://a.crazynovelapp.com/ad/TXlsaWIvMTcxNjI0LzIwMjQwNTA4MDkyNjI3L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}		2024-05-07 20:31	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422008479_465947089186756_7696722845340664960_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MK5OzJGhyGUQ7kNvgFp-r5G&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVZHVuQrN56gJrD8dp2hzczJpxAE5f89j4tY_hpmMu3Q&oe=6641EEFC	person_profile	0	Cra0004	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438164756_7821627594556751_4260529997317313788_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1IipI-DtDJMQ7kNvgHxivm-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDp-hS2G4K2N-utvaDSC1GSm9S_2YGQx41o8r4w3DMI-w&oe=6641F3E4	3	Cra0004	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,785,416	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1786755}'	No	2024-05-09 02:06	active	767	1090310275366969		👩‍👧‍👧🌸🥩🍗🌮🌶 🔥 <br /> <br /> Listos Para el dia De las Madres? Celebra con una rica Parrillada de parte de nosotros! La Esperanza Food Center regalara una parrillada completa para 2 ganadores afortunados. Este paquete podría ser tuyo simplemente ...<br /> <br /> - Asegúrate en seguir nuestra pagina ☀️ 🌵<br /> - Etiqueta a 5 amigos👨🏼‍💼👩🏻‍💻🕺🏻👨🏽‍🔧👩🏼‍💼<br /> - Dale like y reproduce este anuncio 👍🏼♻️ <br /> <br /> Los ganadores serán elegidos al azar y serán anunciados el domingo 12 de mayo <br /> Buena Suerte #FelizDiaDeLasMadres 👩‍👧‍👧<br /> <br /> Paquete Incluye:<br /> <br /> 5lb Arrachera Preparada<br /> 5lb Pollo Preparado<br /> 5 lb Piernitas de pollo<br /> 1 pk Fud Franks 40 oz<br /> 2 pk hot dog buns <br /> 1 7lb bag of Carbon Mesquite <br /> 1 lb Guacamole <br /> 1 lb pico de gallo<br /> 1 35 pk Coca Cola cans<br /> 1 40 pk kirkland waters<br /> 2 Bags of Lays Chips 11 oz<br /> 1 bolsa de hielo 10 lb<br /> 1 bolsa tortillas guerrero 80 ct maiz<br /> 10 limones verdes<br /> 1 sazonador Carne Asada D’Tradicion 28 oz<br /> 1 Sazonador Pollo Asado D’Tradicion 28 oz<br /> <br /> ——————————————<br /> <br /> 👩‍👧‍👧🌸🥩🍗🌮🌶 🔥<br /> <br /> Ready for Mothers Day ? Get your Grills ready and Celebrate Moms with A feast on us!! La Esperanza Food Center will be doing a BBQ package giveaway to 2 Lucky winners This package could be yours by simply....<br /> <br /> - Make Sure you are following us ☀️ 🌵<br /> - Tag 5 friends 👨🏼‍💼👩🏻‍💻🕺🏻👨🏽‍🔧👩🏼‍💼<br /> - Like & Share this post 👍🏼 ♻️<br /> <br /> Winners will be chosen at random and will be announced Sunday, May 12. Goodluck😄 #happymothersday 🌸👩‍👧‍👧<br /> <br /> Package includes:<br /> <br /> 5lb Marinated Arrachera<br /> 5lb Marinated Chicken<br /> 5 lb Chicken Drumsticks<br /> 1 pk Fud Franks 40 oz<br /> 2 pk hot dog buns <br /> 1 7lb bag of Carbon Mesquite <br /> 1 lb Guacamole <br /> 1 lb pico de gallo<br /> 1 35 pk Coca Cola cans<br /> 1 40 pk kirkland waters<br /> 2 Bags of Lays Chips 11 oz<br /> 1 bag of ice 10 lb<br /> 1 bolsa tortillas guerrero 80 ct maiz<br /> 10 limones verdes<br /> 1 Carne Asada seasoning D’Tradicion 28 oz<br /> 1 Pollo Asado seasoning D’Tradicion 28 oz<br /> <br /> #LaEsperanza #losbanos #madera #CarneAsada #foodie #foodiesofinstagram #giveaway #Sorteo	MESSAGE_PAGE		993953577406730	La Esperanza Food Center	https://facebook.com/laesperanzafoodcenter	8,213	1	7,688,509,947,871,991	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Send message	La Esperanza Food Center	6605161458519		NONE	image			{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?","response":""},{"title":"Can I see a menu?","response":""},{"title":"Where are you located?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"}	2024-05-08 23:41	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301227_747778870863643_1444613089095452426_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TLanpHeCRaoQ7kNvgFfYAvB&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAASxAeHdds9p6_GafvZkG370cILFnDXnXBhhg2ijGw-A&oe=664237AA	person_profile	0	La Esperanza Food Center	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440944391_920896149812717_9008539466179082781_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u3ytQImIRvUQ7kNvgHYySTd&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBvQcUo0zGQIX6wcRKG8CjsAkEuQ3-QlgUOQT4Sa_RSaQ&oe=6642502A	3	La Esperanza Food Center	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,782,201	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-08 19:30	active	761	454745493700622	🎟 Shrewsbury Street Nurses Day Pub Crawl 2024	🚨LAST CHANCE ALERT!🚨 Don't miss out on this year's Nurses Pub Crawl happening this Saturday!<br /> <br /> Round up your colleagues, friends, and loved ones to celebrate National Nurses Day in style! 🎉 Join us for a day of eating, drinking, and fun as we embark on a memorable pub crawl down Shrewsbury Street, starting at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 11th.<br /> <br /> Hurry, time is running out and tickets are vanishing fast! Secure yours now to join in the celebration of National Nurses Day! 🎉 <br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.eventbrite.com%2Fe%2Fshrewsbury-street-nurses-day-pub-crawl-2024-tickets-872218116867&h=AT0pp06aIYqsWCTDsR8vfUuGclXAflWq9xSFKDmfOL-kUsNCYduFHp_2IbjJD-MIkenYFDufB_1BktsbHn6OL9pYHJXAM3q_B1DYC0kMLDduzJNVf7oSQWSl9wY3sYckGn6o2u1hUllT1ZLDVbgFByh_5QfsQw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shrewsbury-street-nurses-day-pub-crawl-2024-tickets-872218116867</a><br /> <br /> #NursesDay #PubCrawl #ShrewsburyStreetNursesDayPubCrawl2024 🍻🎊	BUY_TICKETS	https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shrewsbury-street-nur	104799872166793	Shrewsbury Street Nurses Pub Crawl	https://facebook.com/ShrewsburyStNursesPubCrawl	191	1	1,105,142,637,249,663	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Buy tickets	Shrewsbury Street Nurses Pub Crawl	120209660224850635	eventbrite.com	NONE	image	Don't Miss Out!	https://www.eventbrite.com/e/shrewsbury-street-nurses-day-pub-crawl-2024-tickets-872218116867?aff=ebpredboostfbandigads&td_campaign_id=658048		2024-05-08 13:59	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440461780_337518182339108_6994260058106266520_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5tAuLOc13fUQ7kNvgES7Bqa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD6X6ksmi3c2TovZp0eUHtiSz7cuzW4fghrtszPb4o0hQ&oe=6641E90A	person_profile	0	Shrewsbury Street Nurses Pub C	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441953053_456579676782443_2073551210890320214_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3ZKAcGAN6LcQ7kNvgGNcxTy&_nc_oc=Adj50djxAWMNrrVekK2CzKsKBMLLnvIVyTB8Js94cOPBjOR_c30Hf6M4kIb7_v-96EC6L-HnghXYS6iVhndXFLz9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBlujy1Z-ctYS_HTSzWDphOoTqRozmT_OzPKPTtRIs-Vg&oe=6641E915	3	Shrewsbury Street Nurses Pub Crawl	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,786,670	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1786683}'	Yes	2024-05-09 02:13	active	767	465850139241817		Hello introduce company CashApp🤩🥳<br /> 1000$ for all users Get now 🥳🫢<br /> Sponsored by @CashApp<br /> 🎁𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗶𝗼🎁⬆️<br /> 🎁𝗚𝗼 𝗧𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗼 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸🎁⬆️	SIGN_UP	https://cashisapp.blogspot.com/	132479979940603	yuimxj	https://www.instagram.com/_u/yuimxj	0	1	792,547,522,839,588	2024-05-08 02:00	ig_ads_identity	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Sign up	yuimxj	120208427683370406	cashisapp.blogspot.com	NONE	video		https://cashisapp.blogspot.com/		2024-05-08 14:12	https://scontent-lga3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/441304036_747806030891591_4342783215953710369_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s200x200&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=3fd06f&_nc_ohc=gQoyinRJXYEQ7kNvgGwc2MR&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AfCtViOBklkHJvbOnXVB3-IxcmujNCk1CpALjIhjPnlH3Q&oe=66423CBF	ig_ads_identity	1		https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440934313_794582185994813_8482586912618993597_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MJyYLq-9mdIQ7kNvgHOTbFL&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDNz_FCFal2sPQytXlGfinsyzRnypfSoo-oZfODWGvYZw&oe=66423EAF	3	yuimxj	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,785,033	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-09 01:57	active	766	1188955379193494		Drift through sunny days with handkerchief dress and fun accessories ☀️<br /> #joannascuties #girlsoutfit #toddlerstyle #pointpleasantbeachnj #cuteoutfit #summerstyle #summervibes #childrensboutique	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/joannascuties	410369942701686	Joanna's Cuties	https://facebook.com/joannascuties	394	1	1,151,445,159,332,130	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Visit Instagram profile	Joanna's Cuties	120209953142340283	instagram.com	NONE	image		http://instagram.com/joannascuties		2024-05-04 17:00	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440172817_1117713536177379_9177366585702349195_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NTDTjWL8tuQQ7kNvgGVIRMc&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAGKWVgT-Sza9qoFiVs1lhdoffLD1FVpi2EHK6occB5Jw&oe=66422981	person_profile	0	Joanna's Cuties	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440254064_944668483974760_2322051556913062878_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zjyaGlxZREIQ7kNvgHb3kLh&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDlINIcUtxk3hNz3DHCx5barsOjXdApiFxEbZp3-SA2Tg&oe=664239F5	3	Joanna's Cuties	2024-05-04 02:00	View Edit Delete

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