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1,941,492	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1941493}'	No	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	983386476547788	A drop witnesses the rocket ascending – this is the best gift for yourself.🥰❤️	A drop witnesses the rocket ascending – this is the best gift for yourself.🥰❤️<br /> Click on the link below to receive your best gift for half price🥰❤️😍<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dealwbig.top%2Fproducts%2Fdthgfgghfhfgjgjn&h=AT2GANOqChp59zwSmmbVfBlpTM9Tf47VGb-r532Sbqz3_DXAFzaedNL9oz1jtNkm3QIWpBMG_97ZFBhvlY8edm4VREYvg2ytxgMFHVrHokbM2abw93Lm2CFayY_FDWsdu3X_vEW2rhXQMw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.dealwbig.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://www.dealwbig.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn	214429651760593	Cassey Edmonds World	https://facebook.com/61556118337565	4	5	265,647,039,929,826	2024-03-20 02:00	person_profile	taken-down	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Cassey Edmonds World	120206525817020638	www.dealwbig.top	NONE	video		https://www.dealwbig.top/products/dthgfgghfhfgjgjn		2024-03-20 07:17	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434061840_298553116589258_3849041646729052766_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HJfF9ajpgkAQ7kNvgHjEGhD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDsqbOrSoB9P3gstBcg0YQ0zcP7mls9rWD7l1srHG_SYg&oe=66ABA5A6	person_profile	Cassey Edmonds World	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433648115_1087994055783712_5916866709637000879_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=K4VyD7MX40YQ7kNvgFto51q&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBT8wUVOpB3rPLRfl6nBaJZO5P1OqOp0Wy9qOYMJofjdw&oe=66ABBABD	3	Cassey Edmonds World	2024-03-20 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,939,908	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1939909}'	Yes	2024-07-27 19:12	active	1179	348513178296350	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"What were you doing, Mitch!" Kelly said.<br /> "Oh god, Kel!" Mitch said. He pulled away and got dressed as did his assistant. She threw the bag of food at him.<br /> "I can't believe you!" Kelly said.<br /> "Baby please," Mitch said.<br /> "Don't call me that, not anymore, we are done! It's over!" Kelly yelled. She ran out the door and got on the elevator and the doors closed and she ran out when she got on the ground floor.<br /> "Leave me alone!" Kelly yelled.<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly sat in her office at the bakery she owned with her twin sister and best friends.<br /> "Sis, what's wrong?" Kate asked.<br /> "It was our anniversary yesterday and he never showed up, he called and said he had to go out of town for work, but I called my father-in-law and he said there was no reason for him to go out of town," Kelly said.<br /> "So, he lied about it," Kate said.<br /> "Yeah, it's becoming a habit, I don't know what to do," Kelly said.<br /> "You two should ivorce," Kate said.<br /> "Sis," Kelly said.<br /> "He's a prick who left his wife alone on your anniversary and lied to you," Kate said.<br /> "Hey guys," Melanie said.<br /> "Mel, where is that good for nothing brother of yours," Kate said.<br /> "At work I assume?" Melanie said.<br /> "Do you have any clue where he was last night?" Kate asked.<br /> "Home?" Melanie asked.<br /> "Nope," Kelly said.<br /> "What happened?" Melanie said.<br /> "He called and said he was going out of town for work, I called your dad, he said there was no work out of town for him to go for," Kelly said.<br /> "That lying sack of prick, I'll be back, sis," Melanie said. She left. Kelly sat back in her chair. Kate sat down at her desk.<br /> "Hey girls," Tara said.<br /> "How's it looking out there?" Kelly asked.<br /> "It's okay, Sarah has it covered," Tara said.<br /> "Where's my beautiful wife?" Ryan asked.<br /> "Baby!" Kate said. She jumped up and went to him and hugged him.<br /> "I missed you today," Ryan said.<br /> "I missed you too," Kate said.<br /> "Hey bro," Kelly said.<br /> "Hey sis, what's going on?" Ryan asked.<br /> "Not much, just my husband is a lying sack of prick," Kelly said.<br /> "I'm what now?" Mitch asked.<br /> "You're in trouble man," Ryan said.<br /> "Prick," Kate said.<br /> "What did I do?" Mitch asked.<br /> "You lied to me that's what," Kelly said.<br /> "You didn't go out of town yesterday," Kate said.<br /> "I called your dad," Kelly said.<br /> "Kel, baby, I'm sorry," Mitch said.<br /> "It was our three year wedding anniversary yesterday and you couldn't come home and made up some excuse, where were you," Kelly said.<br /> "I went on a road trip to get something for you," Mitch said.<br /> "What did you get," Kelly said.<br /> "It's outside," Mitch said.<br /> "Mitch," Kelly said.<br /> "Kel, come on," Mitch said. She shook her head and got up and walked out the door and went to the front door and opened it and and saw it.<br /> "What the?" Kelly asked.<br /> "It's the one you wanted right?" Mitch asked.<br /> "Yes," Kelly said.<br /> "I found it at a car dealership about two hours away," Mitch said.<br /> "But there are dealerships here," Kelly said.<br /> "They didn't have your color baby," Mitch said.<br /> "Mitch," Kelly said.<br /> "Happy Anniversary, baby," Mitch said.<br /> "Wow, I guess this made up for missing the actual day," Kate said.<br /> "Kate," Kelly said.<br /> "Baby," Ryan said.<br /> "It's fine, I'll be making it up to her for awhile, this is a start, next week is birthdays," Mitch said.<br /> "Better not come up with an excuse to forget it," Kate said.<br /> "No because she is going with me to the Maldives," Mitch said.<br /> "What?" Kelly asked.<br /> "Happy Early Birthday baby, a second honeymoon," Mitch said.<br /> "Okay I was wrong," Kate said.<br /> "What's that, Kate?" Mitch asked.<br /> "Sis," Kelly said.<br /> "Sorry," Kate said. Kelly looked at her husband and hugged him tight. He buried his face in her neck.<br /> "I love you and I'm sorry about yesterday," Mitch said.<br /> "Just don't do it again," Kelly said.<br /> "I promise baby," Mitch said. He pecked her and they went for a drive.<br /> Two weeks later, Kelly walked into the bakery after coming home from the trip she and Mitch took. Sarah and Tara were there.<br /> "Hello ladies," Kelly said.<br /> "Hey girl, how was the trip?" Tara asked.<br /> "Amazing, it was like our honeymoon all over again," Kelly said.<br /> "So you guys never left the bed?" Sarah asked.<br /> "Oh we did, we would do things like snorkeling at the Banana Reef, went to the beach, swimming, romantic dinners, and every night we would be in bed making love," Kelly said.<br /> "So babies could be coming soon?" Tara asked.<br /> "I'm still on the pill, he still says he's not ready yet," Kelly said.<br /> "Kel, you have a visitor," Tara said.<br /> "Who is it?" Kelly asked.<br /> "Matt," Tara said. Kelly got up and went out and saw her brother-in-law standing at the counter drinking coffee.<br /> "Matt," Kelly said.<br /> "Hey beautiful, I've missed you," Matthew said.<br /> "Oh you have huh," Kelly said.<br /> "Yeah, heard you just got back from a trip with your husband," Matthew said.<br /> "Your brother yes I did," Kelly said.<br /> "Have a good time?" Matthew asked.<br /> "Yes I did, it was a second honeymoon," Kelly said.<br /> "That's great, so you guys making me an uncle soon?" Matthew asked.<br /> "Not yet," Kelly said.<br /> "Hey guys," Benjamin said<br /> "Hey Ben," Kelly said.<br /> "Hey boys what's up?" Sarah asked.<br /> "Hey Sarah, just a coffee to go, I've got to get back to the job site," Benjamin said.<br /> "I better get back to the office, see ya sis," Matthew said.<br /> "Bye Matt," Kelly said.<br /> "How are you gorgeous," Benjamin said.<br /> "I'm good, how's the job?" Kelly asked.<br /> "It's going very well," Benjamin said.<br /> "That's good," Kelly said.<br /> "I better get going, gorgeous, see you soon," Benjamin said. He went out the door and she looked at the girls.<br /> "Gorgeous? Beautiful? I think they have the hots for you," Tara said.<br /> "They've always called me those names and Mitch knows and agreed of them calling me," Kelly said.<br /> "He's okay with his brothers calling you gorgeous and beautiful," Tara said.<br /> "Yeah because he knows that nothing will happen with them, he trusts me and he trusts his brothers, he knows they won't cross the boundaries," Kelly said.<br /> "Yet," Sarah said.<br /> "What," Kelly said.<br /> "They both were looking at you," Tara said.<br /> "Both were eye watching you," Sarah said.<br /> "Oh yeah," Tara said.<br /> "They wouldn't do that to their brother," Kelly said.<br /> "They both want you in their bed," Sarah said.<br /> "You both are wrong, okay, you are wrong," Kelly said. She went to the office and sat down and worked on some bills.<br /> Three days later, Kelly was at the bakery helping a customer when Benjamin came in.<br /> "Hey gorgeous," Benjamin said.<br /> "Hi Ben," Kelly said.<br /> "How's my favorite sister-in-law doing?" Benjamin asked.<br /> "I'm fine and I'm your only sister-in-law," Kelly said.<br /> "I know that, that's why you are my favorite one," Benjamin said.<br /> "Hey Ben," Sarah said.<br /> "Sarah, how are you," Benjamin said.<br /> "I'm good," Sarah said.<br /> "Are you ready?" Benjamin asked.<br /> "Yeah, is it okay for me to go, Kel?" Sarah asked.<br /> "You guys got a date?" Kelly asked.<br /> "Yeah I asked her the other day," Benjamin said.<br /> "Go on, have a good time," Kelly said.<br /> "Okay see ya tomorrow," Sarah said.<br /> "Bye sis!" Benjamin said. They left and Kelly smiled and cleaned the counter.<br /> "Hey beautiful," Matthew said.<br /> "Matt, what's up?" Kelly asked.<br /> "I came to see my favorite sister-in-law," Matthew said.<br /> "As I told Ben, I'm your only sister-in-law," Kelly said.<br /> "And I'm sure he said that it makes you our favorite," Matthew said.<br /> "Yeah so what would you like?" Kelly asked.<br /> "A latte please sis," Matthew said.<br /> "Coming right up," Kelly said.<br /> "Hey baby, hey bro," Mitch said.<br /> "Hey bro," Matthew said.<br /> "Hey what brings you by?" Kelly asked.<br /> "Just letting you know that I'll be working late," Mitch said.<br /> "Oh babe," Kelly said.<br /> "I'm sorry baby," Mitch said.<br /> "It's fine, I'll be okay," Kelly said.<br /> "If you have to work late, how did you manage to get away?" Matthew asked.<br /> "I took a lunch break and came here to tell her, I didn't want to tell her over the phone," Mitch said.<br /> "And I appreciate you coming to tell me, babe," Kelly said. He came over to her and hugged her close and pecked her softly.<br /> "I will text you when I'm headed home okay, I know you have an early morning so you don't need to wait up for me," Mitch said.<br /> "Okay, love you," Kelly said.<br /> "Love you baby," Mitch said. He pecked her and went out the door. Matthew looked at her and smiled.<br /> After work，<br /> Kelly drove to Mitch's office with some food and went to his office and heard sounds coming from inside and she opened the door slowly and saw something that made her heart break. Her husband slept with his assistant on his desk.<br /> "What were you doing, Mitch!" Kelly said.<br /> "Oh god Kel!" Mitch said. He pulled away and got dressed as did his assistant. She threw the bag of food at him.<br /> "I can't believe you!" Kelly said.<br /> "Baby please," Mitch said.<br /> "Don't call me that, not anymore, we are done! It's over!" Kelly yelled. She ran out the door and got on the elevator and the doors closed and she ran out when she got on the ground floor.<br /> "Leave me alone!" Kelly yelled. She went to Kate's house and went to the door and knocked. Ryan opened it and saw her.<br /> "Kel, sis, what happened?" Ryan asked. She broke down crying and he pulled her in and closed the door.<br /> "I took food to Mitch at his office and found him sleeping with his assistant on his desk," Kelly said crying.<br /> "Oh my god, he's so dead!" Ryan said.<br /> "No he's not worth it, I told him I was done," Kelly said.<br /> Three days later, Kelly went home and found him there sitting on the couch. She went to the bedroom and began packing her bags. She sent a quick text as she packed. He came to the door.<br /> "Kelly please," Mitch said.<br /> "Don't! I don't want to hear any excuses, there is no excuse for what you did, how long has it been going on?" Kelly asked.<br /> "Kelly," Mitch said.<br /> "How long?!" Kelly yelled.<br /> "Three months," Mitch said.<br /> "And you said you loved me," Kelly said.<br /> "I do!" Mitch said.<br /> "No you don't or you never would have slept with her in the first place! No man who says he loves his wife would ever cheat on her! You are not a man, you are nothing!" Kelly yelled.<br /> "Mitch!" Matthew yelled. Matthew cam and pulled his brother away from the door.<br /> "Matt," Mitch said.<br /> "I heard what you did, how could you do that!" Matthew said.<br /> "It was a mistake!" Mitch said.<br /> "A mistake is one time, three months isn't!" Matthew said.<br /> "How did you find out?" Mitch asked.<br /> "From her sister, she told me when I went to get coffee this morning," Matthew said.<br /> "Matt," Mitch said.<br /> "Leave her be, Mitch, go for a walk for an hour and let her get her things out," Matthew said.<br /> "I'm not giving her a divorce," Mitch said.<br /> "You better," Kelly said.<br /> "I don't want to lose you!" Mitch said.<br /> "You lost me the moment you put your private part inside Delia," Kelly said.<br /> "Go Mitch now!" Matthew said.<br /> "Get him out, I'll help her finish up and get her stuff in her car," Matthew said. Harris pulled Mitch out the door. Matthew went to Kelly and she broke down in his arms.<br /> "Oh beautiful it will be all right, let's get your stuff and get out of here," Matthew said. They finished packing up her stuff and got it all in her car and his.<br /> "Thank you Matt," Kelly said.<br /> "You're welcome, now where are you staying? Matthew asked.<br /> "I was staying at Kate's, being there for her and Ryan, she's having a rough time with her pregnancy," Kelly said.<br /> "Let's go then," Matthew said. They went to Kate's house and got out. Ryan came out.<br /> "Hey Matt," Ryan said.<br /> "Hey man, got her stuff here," Matthew said.<br /> "Let's get it inside," Ryan said. They got her stuff moved into the house and she got her clothes in the bedroom and the rest in the other spare room for the time being.<br /> "So I'll be going now," Matthew said.<br /> "Thanks for the help, Matt," Kelly said.<br /> "Of course beautiful, see you later," Matthew said. He pecked her cheek and hugged her and left. Kelly sat on the bed. Ryan sat next to her.<br /> "You okay sis?" Ryan asked.<br /> "I guess so, are you okay with me staying here?" Kelly asked.<br /> "Of course, Kate wants you here, I'm glad you are here for her, it makes me feel better knowing you are helping her," Ryan said.<br /> Three weeks later, Kelly found herself a house close to Kate and Ryan. She got all moved in and settled. <br /> Then she heard the front door ding announcing there was a customer. Kelly and Sarah went up front and the person there was the last person she was expecting to see, Mitch’s assistant.<br /> "What are you doing here," Kelly said.<br /> "I wanted to talk to you please," Delia said.<br /> "What could you have to say to me," Kelly said.<br /> "I wanted to explain it to you," Delia said.<br /> "I really don't care, he slept with you for three months, I can't forgive and forget," Kelly said.<br /> "Kelly, please," Delia said.<br /> "Why should I listen to anything you say, did he send you here to plead his case so I would take him back, tell him to go away," Kelly said.<br /> "Kelly, he's checked into rehab," Delia said.<br /> "What for?" Kelly asked.<br /> "He had an accident at work five months ago, it wasn't bad but he required some painkillers to keep you from finding out because he didn't want you to worry or anything, he got hooked on them and he was so in need for them that he got mixed up and thought I was you, he called me Kelly," Delia said.<br /> "Oh geez," Kelly said.<br /> "Seems like nonsense to me," Sarah said.<br /> "Yeah he's just trying to get me to take him back, tell him I'm not going to take him back ever, he and I were over the moment his private part was inside you so get out of here and stay away from me," Kelly said.<br /> "Okay I'll go and I'm sorry for my part in all this," Delia said. She left and Sarah looked at Kelly. Kelly went back to her office. Benjamin came in and smiled and pecked her.<br /> "Hey baby," Benjamin said.<br /> "Hey," Sarah said.<br /> "What's going on?" Benjamin asked.<br /> "You won't believe it," Sarah said. She told him what happened. He sent a text and soon the door opened and Matthew came in. Kelly came out of her office and saw him and he took her in his arms as she sobbed against him.<br /> "It's okay beautiful, I'm here," Matthew said.<br /> "Why can't he understand that I can't be with him anymore," Kelly said.<br /> "I don't know but I do know that he never deserved you," Matthew said.	LEARN_MORE	https://b.chaptersapps.com/ad/ZHJlYW1zLzI1MjUxMi8y	193333657187812	Cha112	https://facebook.com/61554217282088	58	1	883,295,520,512,254	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Cha112	120212329516820120	b.chaptersapps.com	NONE	video		https://b.chaptersapps.com/ad/ZHJlYW1zLzI1MjUxMi8yMDI0MDcyNTE2NTMzOC9wYWdl?adid={{ad.id}}		2024-07-25 03:56	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452620737_1222703799145059_1885347913618591985_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1w7uoCOn6RoQ7kNvgH0fk-Z&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AYATPuo3kL3pUzhSHdsdI2XYC86gCgNLXi_oEQ-LmVZJHg&oe=66AB59BB	person_profile	Cha112	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452867896_855489245942994_8694341151200725353_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YN1ffuFA-LIQ7kNvgETJmP0&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBRHXIIQ_to6k2nQqAInYVfmFtS2KJ7i2g-0sPZbulYtQ&oe=66AB6B70	3	Cha112	2024-07-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,939,799	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-27 19:12	active	1179	512267991373386	Medford Oktoberfest & Music Festival Day 2	Day 2 of Medford's Biggest Party of the Year. Free admission, multiple stages of live music, massive beer tent, German food, music and dancing, food trucks, local businesses, steinholding competition, charity bratwurst eating contest, trivia, cornhole competition, kids' activities, kids' music, and so much more! Live music on the Cornerstone PEO stage from JEM recording artists The Weeklings, Taylor Kelly, The Tisburys, Foes of Fern, Sug Daniels and Von Roz. Live music on the Archerlaw stage from All Systems Go, The Gender Gnomes, Swing That Cat, The DT's, Valendina, and The Loan Rangers. Live German music throughout the festival grounds by Doppelganger. It all happens at Freedom Park. 86 Union Street, Medford NJ. Learn more at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medfordoktoberfest.com%2F&h=AT1l2cPNioSrwEWhkDADfvScZcUQg_2qWfOci7SlyS1XKFImsD5xXeFBAXY6hPGKyo7ZhoHYCGPYrlUdmeUu3l4YMYTSxOMGHOl9v5S6WdvtO9qUsF7fiHtccBve0lEx9MwWXv79s6irVw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">www.medfordoktoberfest.com</a>	EVENT_RSVP	https://www.facebook.com/events/7191370234321806/	1902935280032396	Medford Oktoberfest	https://facebook.com/oktoberfestmedfordnj	1,675	1	1,024,433,552,564,017	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	INTERESTED	Medford Oktoberfest	6641338256523	Medford Oktoberfest & Music Festival Day 2	NONE	event	Day 2 of Medford's Biggest Party of the Year in Freedom Park with free admission for all ages. Multiple stages of live music, massive beer tent, German food and music, food trucks, local businesses, steinholding competition, charity, bratwurst eating contest, cornhole competition, kid's activities, and so much more! Live music on the Cornerstone PEO stage from JEM recording artists The Weeklings, Taylor Kelly, The Tisburys, Foes of Fern, Sug Daniels and Von Roz. Live music on the Archerlaw stage from All Systems Go, The Gender Gnomes, Swing That Cat, The DT's, Valendina, and The Loan Rangers. Live German music throughout the festival grounds by Doppelganger. It all happens at Freedom Park. 86 Union Street, Medford NJ. Learn more at www.medfordoktoberfest.com	https://www.facebook.com/events/7191370234321806/		2024-07-27 15:35	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453240165_505489768672423_6532396833077078273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r7O3VhX4cTsQ7kNvgGx39Ud&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&gid=ANp-YfUmjJBaM9IuixBuSYL&oh=00_AYDimAUtxhDRnzqtYilPtQWtlqV1SPJ6S5CKcyLZLiHHgQ&oe=66AB5F6E	person_profile			3	Medford Oktoberfest	2024-07-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,143	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940171}'	No	2024-07-27 19:19	active	1180	370743489127276	🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉	Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office. Today was the first time I went to his company.<br /> After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me?<br /> Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from losing my baby lingered, even though it had been a long time since that accident. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came.<br /> I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own.<br /> Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company.<br /> My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. <br /> But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other.<br /> What is going on? I thought in alarm. <br /> Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. <br /> My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. <br /> They both looked up, startled. <br /> And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. <br /> Serena Foster! <br /> She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. <br /> The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. <br /> My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.”<br /> I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. <br /> They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? <br /> All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. <br /> “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow.<br /> “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. <br /> But much to my dismay, he didn’t. <br /> It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. <br /> “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” <br /> She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. <br /> She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.”<br /> “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me.<br /> Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.”<br /> "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here.<br /> Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in.<br /> “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.”<br /> Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. <br /> Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.”<br /> I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. <br /> I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. <br /> “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.”<br /> I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.”<br /> Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. <br /> The way he treated me had only gotten worse after losing my baby.<br /> What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you.<br /> As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband’s mother Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid.<br /> I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. <br /> When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. <br /> I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. <br /> Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. <br /> A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. <br /> I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d prepared before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. <br /> It read: Divorce Agreement. <br /> CHAPTER 2<br /> The divorce agreement was written after I accidentally lost my baby. During that time, I couldn’t even look at Elijah’s face without thinking about our baby. The pain was unbearable, so I believed divorce was my salvation. Looking back, preparing the divorce agreement was not a mistake, now that leaving was my only option.<br /> My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. <br /> Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. <br /> She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full of disdain. <br /> As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.”<br /> Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby in your belly, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had lost your baby and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?"<br /> Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.”<br /> Sure enough, she already knew that Serena worked at Elijah's company. She asked me to deliver the papers today just to make a fool of me.<br /> The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side.<br /> I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again.<br /> I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. <br /> With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. <br /> I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. <br /> I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. <br /> I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. <br /> My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. <br /> This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity!<br /> That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. <br /> I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. <br /> “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips.<br /> I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. <br /> “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. <br /> He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” His lips traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally, the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered.<br /> “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration.<br /> As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him.<br /> Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn’t believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. <br /> “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.”<br /> Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me.<br /> He’s probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn’t want him anywhere near me.<br /> But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. <br /> I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.”<br /> I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. <br /> “Maybe it’s because of the baby we lost…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?”<br /> I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. <br /> My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. <br /> I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. <br /> “I want to divorce you.”<br /> CHAPTER 3<br /> I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. <br /> I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. <br /> My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. <br /> But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. <br /> “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.”<br /> Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. <br /> My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. <br /> This is it. I’m going to be free. <br /> And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce!<br /> I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. <br /> The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. <br /> He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same.<br /> “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.”<br /> His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. <br /> Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing!<br /> But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. <br /> A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.”<br /> He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. <br /> Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. <br /> “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. <br /> While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.”<br /> With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.”<br /> Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly.<br /> I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely!<br /> But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!”<br /> Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. <br /> Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after I lost my baby, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. <br /> That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. <br /> Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. <br /> It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla:<br /> That Elijah! You have no idea what I saw! Elijah was out partying and flirting with that Serena, which he never did with you!<br /> My heart sank, anger and sadness clouded my mind as I realized he was indeed getting back together with Serena and flaunting her around.<br /> Forcing back my tears, I told Kayla: <br /> It’s over between me and Elijah. We were divorced.<br /> CHAPTER 4<br /> “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!”<br /> Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. <br /> “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. <br /> “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!”<br /> “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.”<br /> Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.”<br /> “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart.<br /> “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.”<br /> Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history.<br /> “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?”<br /> “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—”<br /> “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!”<br /> I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.”<br /> “Oh, but you will be!”<br /> Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself.<br /> But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up.<br /> Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.”<br /> As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!”<br /> “Wait, what do you mean?”<br /> “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. <br /> I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.”<br /> “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. <br /> I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. <br /> “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately.<br /> She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. <br /> I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved to after my adoptive father Tom Bennett passed away. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. <br /> But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. <br /> Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!”<br /> Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. <br /> “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for anything from him anymore.”<br /> “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. <br /> Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family.<br /> At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. <br /> One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. <br /> “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. <br /> Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!”<br /> CHAPTER 5<br /> My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.”<br /> Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!”<br /> “But…” Brenda began to protest. <br /> I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?”<br /> They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. <br /> “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.”<br /> On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. <br /> All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. <br /> But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the loss. <br /> “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility.<br /> The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach.<br /> I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me.<br /> Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man.<br /> “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. <br /> “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?”<br /> I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. <br /> “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.”<br /> I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. <br /> As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside.<br /> The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. <br /> “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. <br /> “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.”<br /> “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.”<br /> “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.”<br /> “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.”<br /> I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment.<br /> Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…”<br /> “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. <br /> I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up.<br /> “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.”<br /> He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.”<br /> I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!”<br /> “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” <br /> He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.”<br /> “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.”<br /> “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.”<br /> Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue.<br /> “And then I lost my baby...It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?”<br /> He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?”<br /> “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. <br /> “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.”<br /> I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.”<br /> Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…”<br /> My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!”<br /> He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.”<br /> I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.”<br /> “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?”<br /> “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.”<br /> Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?”<br /> His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…”<br /> Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. <br /> “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.”<br /> CHAPTER 6<br /> Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away.<br /> “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.”<br /> I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. <br /> “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. <br /> I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child?<br /> The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. <br /> “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking.<br /> My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. <br /> Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. <br /> “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. <br /> I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. <br /> What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. <br /> Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. <br /> If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me?<br /> My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. <br /> This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby?<br /> Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful.<br /> As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. <br /> Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. <br /> Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away.<br /> In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. <br /> As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. <br /> The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me.<br /> Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” <br /> His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. <br /> I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. <br /> By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me.<br /> As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. <br /> Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. <br /> Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. <br /> This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile.<br /> “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me.<br /> "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied.<br /> Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.”<br /> I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.”<br /> He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” <br /> I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” <br /> We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.”<br /> “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?”<br /> Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.”<br /> I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.”<br /> He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.”<br /> I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years.<br /> Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.”<br /> As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. <br /> “Hello?” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. <br /> “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient.<br /> My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. <br /> I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allowed to go anywh...."<br /> I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath.<br /> It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me.<br /> Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care?<br /> No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved?<br /> Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety.<br /> "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question.<br /> I sighed, <br /> "My husband. No, ex-husband."	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1,940,972	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940967}'	No	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	803639001839005	Read next chapter👉	Because of cheating, he divorced her. She left a sentence, "You will regret it." 4 years later, he saw her on TV and introduced her as a top 100 female CEO and a single mother of triplets. The faces of her three children are exactly like his ...<br /> =============<br /> Chapter 1 Ex-girlfriend Returns<br /> <br /> Raegan Hayes was a little absent-minded at the moment. <br /> <br /> All she could think of since this afternoon was the doctor's words. "Congratulations! You are going to be a mom."<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Mitchel Dixon pinched her arm. His low voice came the next second. "Come back to earth. What are you thinking about?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel was her husband. They had been married secretly for two years. He was her superior at work, the president of the Dixon Group. <br /> <br /> Everything had happened so fast. She was newly employed in the company when they unexpectedly got married. <br /> <br /> At that time, Mitchel's grandfather fell seriously ill. It was then he proposed a fake marriage just to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. <br /> <br /> They signed a prenup, agreeing to hide their marriage from the public. Their union could be terminated at any time. <br /> <br /> It was an unconventional thing to do. However, Raegan only considered herself lucky at that time. <br /> <br /> Never in a million years did she think she would ever get married to the man she had a crush on for eight years. She delightfully agreed. <br /> <br /> After their marriage, Mitchel was very busy. He spent most of his time working. <br /> <br /> Raegan wished she could spend more time with him at home. However, she was rest assured because there hadn't been any rumors or scandals about him with women in the past two years. <br /> <br /> Except for his mild indifference, Mitchel was a perfect husband. <br /> <br /> Raegan had mixed feelings as she stared at the medical report. <br /> <br /> In the end, she decided to tell Mitchel this news. <br /> <br /> She also wanted to tell him that she hadn't learned about him for the first time two years ago and that she had been crushing on him for many years before then. <br /> <br /> Just then, Mitchel’s phone rang. He went to the balcony and answered the phone. <br /> <br /> Raegan checked the time and found that it was already midnight. <br /> <br /> She felt a little uneasy. Who would call Mitchel at this hour? <br /> <br /> Mitchel spent a few minutes on the balcony. Thereafter, he returned and changed into formal attire. His handsome face which had a clear outline made him look dignified. <br /> <br /> He was something to see now. <br /> <br /> "Don't wait up for me. Good night," he said finally. <br /> <br /> What? He was on his way out? At this hour? <br /> <br /> Raegan's grip on the report tightened as she stared at him in disappointment. Unconsciously, she withdrew slightly. After thinking for a while, she blurted out, "It's already so late."<br /> <br /> Mitchel's fingers froze on his tie. With a faint smile, he pinched her earlobe and said, "Be good, okay? There's something I have to do. Don't wait up."<br /> <br /> With that, he headed for the door. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel."<br /> <br /> Raegan quickly ran and caught up with him. <br /> <br /> Mitchel turned around and looked at her seriously. <br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> There was a tinge of coldness to his voice. An icy cloud hung over them as they stared at each other. <br /> <br /> A little distressed, Raegan asked in a low voice, "I would like to visit my grandma tomorrow. Can you accompany me there?"<br /> <br /> Her grandmother always wanted to see her. As a result, Raegan wanted to take Mitchel there to assure her grandma they were happy. <br /> <br /> "Let's talk about it tomorrow, okay?" Without agreeing or declining, Mitchel left in a hurry. <br /> <br /> Several thoughts were threading Raegan's mind. She couldn't sleep a wink. <br /> <br /> After tossing and turning for a long time, she went to the kitchen and made herself a warm glass of milk. <br /> <br /> A few notifications from some online blogs came into her phone. <br /> <br /> However, she wasn't interested in them. She was about to swipe them away when one of them caught her attention. The familiar name made her click on it. <br /> <br /> The news read, "Famous designer, Lauren Murray was spotted at the airport with her mysterious boyfriend earlier today."<br /> <br /> Lauren was wearing a bucket hat. The man's figure was vague, but the outline of his body was enough to show that he was dashing. <br /> <br /> Raegan zoomed in on the picture. The next second, her heart dropped. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was the man in the picture! <br /> <br /> So, he canceled the afternoon meeting just to go pick up his ex-girlfriend from the airport? <br /> <br /> This realization settled like a boulder in Raegan's gut, rendering her flustered. <br /> <br /> Her hands trembled. Subconsciously, she dialed Mitchel's number. <br /> <br /> The dial tone brought her back to her senses. Just as she was about to hang up, the line connected, and a voice came from the other end. <br /> <br /> "Hello!"<br /> <br /> It was a particularly gentle woman's voice. <br /> <br /> Raegan froze for a second and then threw the phone away. <br /> <br /> She suddenly felt sick in her stomach. Covering her mouth, she ran into the bathroom and threw up in the toilet bowl. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Raegan went to work on time. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had tried to get her to stop working after they got married. Stubbornly, she insisted on making her own money. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't kick against her decision, but he asked her to work as his assistant, helping him with the daily chores. <br /> <br /> The head assistant, Matteo Jenkins was left to take care of the major affairs Mitchel had. <br /> <br /> Matteo was the only Dixon Group employee who knew about their marriage. <br /> <br /> Since inception, only male assistants were hired for the president's office. Reagan was the first and only female. Her employment broke the protocol. As a result, other workers couldn't help but wonder if she was involved with Mitchel. <br /> <br /> It took a while before they realized that Mitchel never gave Raegan special treatment. Strangely, this made them despise her even more. <br /> <br /> After all, no one would last long in anything while taking advantage of their looks.<br /> <br /> At this time, one of Raegan's colleagues handed her a document and ordered her to take it to Mitchel's office. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't return home last night. Raegan was so worried that she didn't sleep at all. <br /> <br /> All she kept thinking about was the woman who answered his phone when she called. What was her relationship with Mitchel?<br /> <br /> Raegan already knew the answer to that, but she was still in denial. <br /> <br /> It was difficult for her to come to terms with that fact. <br /> <br /> Raegan tried to remain calm now. She reasoned that no matter what happened, she deserved a result that would be rewarding for all the years she spent loving Mitchel. This couldn't be all for nothing, right? <br /> <br /> She pressed the elevator button calmly and went up to the president's office. Before she walked out of the elevator, she smoothed her hair to make sure she looked good. <br /> <br /> She had arrived at the office, only to see that the door was ajar. A man's voice came. She halted instantly. <br /> <br /> "Come on, man! Do you have any feelings for Raegan or not?"<br /> <br /> The voice belonged to Luis Stevens, a childhood friend of Mitchel's. <br /> <br /> "What do you mean exactly?" Mitchel asked in a cold voice. <br /> <br /> "You know exactly what I mean!" Luis clicked his tongue impatiently and added, "I think Raegan is a good girl. Isn't she your type?"<br /> <br /> "Do you want me to hand her over to you?" Mitchel asked carelessly. <br /> <br /> "You know what, forget it!"<br /> <br /> The scornful laughter of Luis sounded particularly harsh in Raegan's ears. <br /> <br /> They were talking about her as if she were an object. <br /> <br /> Raegan took a deep breath and tightened her grip on the document. <br /> <br /> Soon, Luis's voice was heard again. <br /> <br /> "By the way, I saw the gossip news about Lauren's mysterious boyfriend this morning. That was you, right?"<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> "Well, well, well! That woman still has you wrapped around her little finger. You always want to please her."<br /> <br /> Luis sighed and continued to tease Mitchel. "As the old saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Tell me, did you two..."<br /> <br /> Their conversation was like a thunder exploding over Raegan's head. <br /> <br /> Her face turned pale and her body was as cold as ice. <br /> <br /> The woman was indeed Lauren! <br /> <br /> Absence made the heart grow fonder! <br /> <br /> Every word drove a knife into her heart. <br /> <br /> Several whispering voices filled her head at this time. She suddenly felt light-headed. Her vision became blurry. <br /> <br /> She held the wall and took a step backward. Suddenly, the door was opened from inside. <br /> <br /> "Raegan?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 One-sided Love<br /> <br /> Luis was the one who opened the door. It appeared he was on his way out. <br /> <br /> Raegan balled her hands, turned to him, and nodded. "Hey, Mr. Stevens!"<br /> <br /> Without waiting for him to respond to her greeting, she walked past him and entered the office with the document. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was seated behind a large luxurious desk. In an expensive suit and matching tie, he looked particularly handsome. <br /> <br /> Raegan noticed it wasn't the same suit he had on when he left home last night. How did he get changed? <br /> <br /> With her eyes lowered, she swallowed that question and said instead, "Mr. Dixon, this is from the Marketing Department. Please sign it."<br /> <br /> Mitchel was expressionless as he signed the document at a glance. <br /> <br /> Raegan walked out the door as soon as he handed the document back to her. Luis was still standing at the threshold. <br /> <br /> It wasn't until she went out of sight that Luis turned to Mitchel and said in a hushed tone, "Do you think she heard us?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel's appealing eyes were expressionless at the moment. Obviously, he wasn't paying attention to what Luis was saying. <br /> <br /> To Mitchel, Raegan had always been docile and never felt jealous of anyone. <br /> <br /> Her strict obedience was all Mitchel demanded from her in exchange for treating her well. <br /> <br /> In the elevator. <br /> <br /> Raegan held her breath just to hold back her tears. Unfortunately, it didn't work. <br /> <br /> She had thought two years would be enough for Mitchel to realize how much she loved him and reciprocate her love. <br /> <br /> Now, it turned out that was just a pipe dream. <br /> <br /> She realized she would always play second fiddle to Lauren, Mitchel's true love. <br /> <br /> Reagan wiped her tears when the elevator halted. Save for her pale face, she looked normal when the doors opened. <br /> <br /> She dragged herself to the break room, intending to make herself a cup of tea. <br /> <br /> Several employees were chatting inside. <br /> <br /> "Guys, have you heard? Lauren Murray is back."<br /> <br /> "And who is that?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, my! You don't know her? Lauren is the heiress of the Murray Group as well as a world-class designer. Most importantly, she's the only girlfriend Mr. Dixon has ever shown off in public. She's his first love!"<br /> <br /> "Why is her return such a big deal? Isn't it rumored that there is something between Mr. Dixon and Raegan?"<br /> <br /> "Raegan? She's nothing to Mr. Dixon. Mr. Dixon never admitted that he was dating her. And that is no surprise to me. After all, look at her. She's not even that beautiful. Yet, she behaves as if she's already Mrs. Dixon. What a fool!"<br /> <br /> Standing at the door, Raegan smiled with self-mockery as she listened to them. It turned out everyone else saw the truth except her. <br /> <br /> The love was one-sided. <br /> <br /> "Ha-ha, have you finally woken up from your wild dream, Raegan?"<br /> <br /> A voice of mockery suddenly came from behind. Raegan turned around to see Tessa Lloyd, Mitchel's cousin, who had always despised her. <br /> <br /> Tessa must have also heard the employees gossiping. <br /> <br /> The last thing Raegan wanted to do now was argue with Tessa in the company. She turned to leave, but Tessa blocked her way. <br /> <br /> With a cup of coffee in her hand, Tessa uttered sarcastically, "Lauren is back now. Do you think Mitchel will still give you any attention?"<br /> <br /> Raegan said nothing to that. <br /> <br /> Seconds later, Tessa continued the ridicule. "Maybe it’s time for you to seek out another man, you pathetic fool."<br /> <br /> Raegan clenched her fists and said coldly, "Ms. Lloyd, if you are interested in that kind of thing, feel free to pursue it yourself."<br /> <br /> "You..."<br /> <br /> Raegan's retort made Tessa's face change. <br /> <br /> The next second, Tessa raised her hand and emptied the cup of coffee on Raegan. <br /> <br /> Raegan didn't think for a second that Tessa would do something so crazy. She held up her arms just to block the liquid from her face. In no time, the coffee drenched her clothes. <br /> <br /> Raegan frowned. "What did you do that for? Are you out of your mind?"<br /> <br /> It was lunch break and many employees were free to watch the drama. Tessa was even more complacent when she saw growing onlookers. <br /> <br /> She put on a mean-girl look as she said, "What makes you so smug every day, huh? Do you seriously think that others don't know you are just an orphan? The nerve of..."<br /> <br /> Tessa was silenced by Raegan’s shove. <br /> <br /> Her jaw dropped to the floor. She had never expected that Raegan, who was so quiet and timid, would shove her. <br /> <br /> Tessa stuttered, "You... You pushed me? How dare you!"<br /> <br /> Raegan eyed her and replied, "Yes, I did! It seems you need to be taught simple politeness."<br /> <br /> Indeed, she lost her parents when she was a child. But that didn't mean she would allow someone to walk over her for it. <br /> <br /> Wrinkles appeared on Tessa's face as she frowned in anger. As Mitchel's cousin, she was used to being fawned over and respected. This was the first time she had been treated like this. <br /> <br /> Tessa charged at Raegan like a raging bull, poised to retaliate. <br /> <br /> This time, Raegan was fully prepared for what was coming. She grabbed Tessa's wrist so that the latter couldn't move another inch. <br /> <br /> Tessa was shorter than Raegan. As a result, she struggled like an octopus that had one of its tentacles stuck in a fishing trap. <br /> <br /> Tessa cursed angrily, "How dare you put your hands on me? Who do you think you are?"<br /> <br /> These harsh words attracted more people to the break room. <br /> <br /> "That's enough!"<br /> <br /> Out of the blue, a baritone came from behind. Mitchel had left his office and ran into this hullabaloo. <br /> <br /> The entire room fell silent. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel?" Tessa's blood ran cold at the sight of Mitchel. She had always been scared of him. Her mother also warned her against provoking him. <br /> <br /> But when she remembered that Raegan humiliated her, she put on a pitiful expression and sobbed. "Mitchel, she bullied me."<br /> <br /> The sunlight from outside fell on Mitchel's handsome face. <br /> <br /> Raegan felt so grieved all of a sudden, and lowered her head to look at her clothes which were soaked with coffee. <br /> <br /> Their gaze met in the air. With a deep frown, Mitchel looked at Raegan and said, "Raegan, have you forgotten the rules of the company?"<br /> <br /> His ruthlessness made Raegan's breathing cease. She couldn't believe her ears. <br /> <br /> No one dared to make a sound at this moment. <br /> <br /> Raegan just stood straight there with her slender figure. <br /> <br /> When she got employed here, Mitchel had told her that the Dixon Group wasn't a place for her to mess around and that he would not tolerate her making any mistakes. <br /> <br /> Raegan could understand why he took this stand. <br /> <br /> However, at this moment, she was desperate to know whether Mitchel had heard those hard words Tessa scolded her or he was just pretending not to have heard because he agreed to those words. <br /> <br /> Was she truly insignificant to him?<br /> <br /> Scared to death by Mitchel's rage, the crowd soon dispersed. A few employees were bold enough to peep from a distance, unwilling to miss the good show. <br /> <br /> Mitchel's cold eyes made Raegan shiver from head to toe. <br /> <br /> Raegan pinched her palm to suppress her emotions as she looked at Tessa. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Ms. Lloyd. As an employee of the Dixon Group, it was wrong of me to have offended you."<br /> <br /> Eyeing Raegan, Tessa raised her chin complacently. "Humph! Don't think you'll be let off the hook just by making a simple apology. I don't buy..."<br /> <br /> "The offence has nothing to do with the company. Personally, I refuse to apologize to you. Now, if you'd excuse me," Raegan chimed in. <br /> <br /> She then walked past Mitchel without sparing him another look. <br /> <br /> "You..."<br /> <br /> Tessa's face turned blue after hearing what Raegan said. <br /> <br /> Never in her years of being alive had she been so humiliated. She was always the bully, not the victim! <br /> <br /> The humiliation was so much that scolding Raegan wouldn't appease her anger. <br /> <br /> Pointing in Raegan's direction, Tessa shouted, "Mitchel, did you hear what that woman just said? She humiliated me, yet she's still so arrogant. Call her back. I have to teach her some manners!"<br /> <br /> Mitchel, staring at Raegan's thin back, had an ambiguous expression at this moment. <br /> <br /> "Enough!" he said coldly, raising his hand. <br /> <br /> As someone who lived and breathed drama and cruelty, Tessa didn't think Mitchel was partial to Raegan just now. She assumed that Mitchel didn't care about Raegan at all. <br /> <br /> Tessa gritted her teeth and said viciously, "Next time, I'll get someone to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> "Tessa!" Mitchel's tone and squint made it a reproof. <br /> <br /> Tessa trembled at once. <br /> <br /> With a somber face, Mitchel said, "I'll only say it once. Forget about what happened here today. Leave Raegan alone."<br /> <br /> The aura he exuded made her tongue go dry. All the vicious ideas she had in store against Raegan disappeared in an instant. <br /> <br /> She stammered, "Ok... Okay, got it..."<br /> <br /> Mitchel cast a cold glance at her and spoke to Matteo. "Irrelevant people wouldn't be allowed in here from today onwards."<br /> <br /> Without catching the drift, Tessa flattered Mitchel. "Nice call. This is a top company. Not everyone gains access in here."<br /> <br /> Matteo nodded to Mitchel and then walked over to Tessa. He gestured to the exit. "Ms. Lloyd, this way, please."<br /> <br /> It wasn't until this moment that Tessa realized that she was the irrelevant person Mitchel just mentioned. She tried to speak to him, but Matteo blocked her way. The security guards then escorted her out. <br /> <br /> They showed her no mercy. Her struggle was useless. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Raegan got changed when she returned to her office. <br /> <br /> Her heart was filled with sadness as she thought of how Mitchel looked at her minutes ago. <br /> <br /> Closing hour soon rolled by. <br /> <br /> Raegan took her bag and headed for the exit. However, Matteo stopped her. <br /> <br /> He said, "Mr. Dixon has something urgent to deal with, so he asked me to drive you home."<br /> <br /> Raegan declined the ride without thinking twice. <br /> <br /> She was blind before, but now she could see through the situation. <br /> <br /> In Mitchel's eyes, she was just a nobody. <br /> <br /> How could Mitchel agree to accompany her to visit her grandmother when he didn't even care about her? <br /> <br /> Upon arriving at the hospital, Raegan saw that the nurse was about to feed her grandmother dinner. Raegan took the job over and did it by herself. <br /> <br /> All her life, her grandmother had been living in the countryside, enjoying a quiet life. Everything changed last month when her routine medical checkup showed that she was in need of medical care. Raegan insisted on bringing her to the city for better treatment. <br /> <br /> Her grandmother wasn't aware of her marriage to Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan had planned to surprise her today. But as it turned out, that was no longer necessary. <br /> <br /> Raegan waited for her grandmother to fall asleep before she left. She walked out of the hospital and waited for a taxi. <br /> <br /> In the distance, a black luxury car pulled into the entrance of the hospital. <br /> <br /> Raegan's eyes lit up when she saw it. She recognized that car as Mitchel's. <br /> <br /> Did he come to pick her up? <br /> <br /> At this moment, she forgot all the pain she had been feeling. <br /> <br /> Were her thoughts about him all wrong? Did he care for her, contrary to the gossip? <br /> <br /> The door of the driver's side opened and Mitchel got out. <br /> <br /> Raegan started walking toward him with her heart brimming with joy. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, she stopped dead in her tracks. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had just walked over to the other side and carried a woman out of the car. <br /> <br /> Worry and compassion were written all over his handsome face. <br /> <br /> This wiped the smile on Raegan's face. Her heart sank. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Let's Divorce<br /> <br /> Mitchel's tall and straight figure got closer and closer to Raegan. And then, without saying a word, he strode past Raegan. <br /> <br /> It was hard to tell if Mitchel saw Raegan or just ignored her. <br /> <br /> Regardless, Raegan noticed that the woman in his arms was the same one who had been photographed with him yesterday. <br /> <br /> She was Lauren. <br /> <br /> Raegan's shoes felt like they were made of lead as she walked away. <br /> <br /> She lost all awareness of her surroundings. She got into a taxi absentmindedly. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, the driver uttered, "Ma'am, where to?"<br /> <br /> Raegan was stunned for a moment. <br /> <br /> She didn't want to go back to Serenity Villas. It was only a matter of time before that place stopped being her home. <br /> <br /> After a while, she replied, "Please take me to Crystal Bay."<br /> <br /> She had purchased an apartment at Crystal Bay after getting married to Mitchel. <br /> <br /> At the time, she had hopes of bringing her grandmother to the city, so she bought the apartment on mortgage. It wasn't that big, but it had more than enough space for two people. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't understand why she wanted to buy an apartment. He offered to give her a bigger one, but she declined. <br /> <br /> Looking back now, she realized that buying that apartment was the only wise decision she had ever made in the last two years. <br /> <br /> When she arrived at the apartment complex, Raegan sat in the park alone, trying to cool herself down. <br /> <br /> The memories of the past two years were bittersweet. <br /> <br /> Two years had passed in the blink of an eye even though it was more than seven hundred days and nights. <br /> <br /> Love could move mountains, they said. <br /> <br /> Yet, her love didn't move that stone of a man. She finally realized what a fool she had been. She had been making herself a laughingstock in front of everyone. <br /> <br /> It was already late in the night before Raegan finally decided to go into her apartment. <br /> <br /> As soon as she stepped out of the elevator, she saw Mitchel standing in front of the door. <br /> <br /> His sleeves were rolled up casually, and the top buttons of his shirt were undone, which revealed his long neck and part of his collarbone. He was leaning on the wall by the door, his handsome face straight. <br /> <br /> Raegan froze for a moment. <br /> <br /> Why was he here? Didn't she see him at the hospital with Lauren? What brought him here? <br /> <br /> Their eyes met. With his coat draped over his arm and one of his hands in his pocket, Mitchel squinted at her. <br /> <br /> "Why didn't you answer the phone?" he asked, sounding a little grumpy like someone who hadn't slept in a long time. <br /> <br /> Raegan took out her phone and saw she had accidentally put it on DND. <br /> <br /> There were five missed calls from Mitchel. <br /> <br /> This marked the first time in their two-year marriage. <br /> <br /> Mitchel blew up her phone because he couldn't find her? Surprising! <br /> <br /> Before today, she would have been overjoyed by this. People would've thought she won the lottery. <br /> <br /> But now, she just threw her phone back into her bag, folded her arms, and said in a hoarse voice, "I didn't hear it ring."<br /> <br /> Mitchel raised his hand to check the time on the watch, and said impatiently, "I've been looking for you for two hours."<br /> <br /> After arranging everything for Lauren, he returned home to find an empty house. He looked for Raegan everywhere. When he couldn't find her, he asked Matteo to check the surveillance footage of all the roads that led away from the company. <br /> <br /> He later found out that Raegan went to Crystal Bay without telling him. <br /> <br /> "Next time, tell me when you are coming here, okay? Let's go home now." After that, Mitchel walked toward the elevator without sparing her another glance. <br /> <br /> He meant to go back to Serenity Villas. <br /> <br /> Raegan didn't move an inch. She just stared at his broad back and pondered reluctantly. <br /> <br /> Would they have a future? <br /> <br /> Mitchell turned around, only to see that Raegan hadn't taken a single step. He frowned and asked, "Can't you walk? Do you want me to carry you instead?"<br /> <br /> The light in the corridor illuminated his face, making his side profile almost impeccable. <br /> <br /> Raegan took a deep breath and said, "Let's divorce."<br /> <br /> "What do you mean?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel's voice was cold, and his handsome face changed immediately. <br /> <br /> "I want to move into my own place. After all, we will be strangers soon."<br /> <br /> Raegan forced a smile, but her heart was aching as if someone was tearing it apart bit by bit. <br /> <br /> "We will be strangers?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel smiled coldly. "Raegan, what do you think our relationship is now?"<br /> <br /> His questioning left Raegan stunned for a moment. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had made it very clear to her from the very beginning. This facade of their marriage had happened by mutual agreement. There was no love. In the eyes of others, they were nothing more than just a superior and a subordinate. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was quite the catch in Ardlens. Many young ladies longed for his love and were even willing to throw themselves at him. <br /> <br /> His question just now reminded her of that fact. Was he afraid that she wouldn't let him go that easily? If that was the case, he couldn't be more wrong... <br /> <br /> After biting her lower lip to conceal her bitterness, Raegan said, "I'm sorry, Mr. Dixon. I was giving it too much thought. Anyway, please leave me alone from now on. You don't have to come here again."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Raegan couldn't help but burst into tears. <br /> <br /> How could she not be sad when she was cutting ties with the man she had loved for a decade? It was such a long time. <br /> <br /> Regardless of how difficult it was, she knew it was time to let go. <br /> <br /> It was high time she stopped being a fool. <br /> <br /> Strangely, the light in the corridor began flickering. <br /> <br /> The deathly stare Mitchel was giving Raegan right now made the atmosphere seem like the moment before an attack in a horror movie. <br /> <br /> Although he understood that Raegan sometimes could throw a tantrum, he felt that she had just crossed the line now. <br /> <br /> His eyes shone like blazing torches at this moment. But when he saw the tears in her eyes, the rage inside him extinguished in an instant. He said in a low voice, "If this is about what happened between you and Tessa, I..."<br /> <br /> "No, this isn't about her. Mr. Dixon, please leave now."<br /> <br /> A lot of things happened between them. And the incident with Tessa didn't come close to any. <br /> <br /> Raegan felt exhausted. She passed by Mitchel and was about to open the door. <br /> <br /> Yet, Mitchel was displeased with her stubbornness. <br /> <br /> He loosened his tie irritably. He then took a step forward and grabbed her wrist. <br /> <br /> "Stop this, will you?"<br /> <br /> A second later, he put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her into his arms. <br /> <br /> He instantly realized that she was burning up like someone who had been set on fire. <br /> <br /> "You have a fever?"<br /> <br /> Raegan felt dizzy. She rested her head on his chest weakly. <br /> <br /> This made the whole situation complicated. <br /> <br /> Reagan was slow to catch that. When she finally realized that her body was too close to his, she put her hands against his chest and tried to pull back. <br /> <br /> Before she could escape, Mitchel pulled her back and held her by the waist. With a cold face, he said in a low voice, "Where do you think you are going?"<br /> <br /> The light flickered again. Out of the blue, Mitchel lifted her up. <br /> <br /> He then headed for the elevator. <br /> <br /> In a daze, Raegan asked softly, "What are you doing?"<br /> <br /> "What does it look like I am doing?" Mitchel remarked. "Taking you to the hospital, of course."<br /> <br /> "No way!" Raegan cried out in surprise and seemed to regain more strength. <br /> <br /> Mitchel might find out about her condition if they went to the hospital.<br /> <br /> Raegan struggled to get out of Mitchel's arms. However, his tight grip made her efforts fruitless. <br /> <br /> "Don't be so stubborn. You are sick, so you must see the doctor," Mitchel said firmly. <br /> <br /> He walked to the elevator with her in his arms. At this moment, Raegan's heart was thumping so hard that it could jump out of her chest. She flailed in protest. <br /> <br /> "Put me down! I don't want to go to the hospital!"	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-fb_contact-e	215069711684182	Late reading	https://facebook.com/61554989897813	15,037	1	477,596,654,915,060	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Late reading	120211736624160758	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-fb_contact-enj57-1125-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=791750052879575		2024-07-24 07:07	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452650089_330237713493493_4939895970187849347_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FYwpsHTQ5V0Q7kNvgFnKmxm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBwKuxCkhdQg4f__Pzj1DMi1l2BYnC0btYjHij6tbRF9A&oe=66AB5D4E	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452668669_865353188850177_3114475949654549083_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z06-rRuh7asQ7kNvgG1pKJZ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDPhHGdLBMjm_YDaVGU1FHmBIPsRpG8KLLmZ3CJR0bQ3Q&oe=66AB75B4	3	Late reading	2024-07-26 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,939,359	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1939351}'	No	2024-07-27 19:06	active	1178	1441234223245943	Enter Our Biggest Giveaway Ever! 🚨	🚨 Toyota Tundra Giveaway is LIVE! 🚨<br /> <br /> We're giving away this 2010 Toyota Tundra Double Cab and we want YOU to win it! It's so easy to enter:<br /> <br /> 1️⃣ - Head to hcsigns.store<br /> 2️⃣ - Every $1 Spent = 30x entries to win<br /> 3️⃣ - Win This 2010 Toyota Tundra<br /> <br /> What are you waiting for? Get yourself entered to win our biggest giveaway EVER!<br /> <br /> ➡️ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhcsigns.store%2F&h=AT1mhe6KZ4kWevzh3o4IIj1d_6NdnInpoztZd_vp0eq6cA_NBZ0dBBDoBKXLixUqUiNEQrPP3GfmG9FrBQEuzp83ALSKrqqAZGoGL2KCNhsArpxhGCNrw3wNJubMsGrtyCd3LoolMFaz0g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hcsigns.store/</a><br /> ➡️ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fhcsigns.store%2F&h=AT0L_der2Rnro9WHtL5FgdnqjE7Ro_nNga2BEfxhbXPPbFQjLLJknmBRvyy_kSFo0BFgfgpDgCjVvVN62qatLvlMof0qarOz-NMw9o_3Xn2JdZHklqMEVnPlDpUyZZrlfSewgciygq5jCg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://hcsigns.store/</a>	SHOP_NOW	https://hcsigns.store/	1679773088961570	High Country Signs	https://www.facebook.com/hcsigns/	533	2	1,662,773,197,813,796	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Shop now	High Country Signs	120209753383740262	hcsigns.store	NONE	video	Get More Entries This Week	https://hcsigns.store/		2024-07-25 06:21	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453042082_997616282152109_8746851292235529404_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PQeSZZ5r1yUQ7kNvgHFwsQj&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AYB8ToxXjid7eK8n9mv8G6AZ6iJYPOfkapBw1bDwkIKK_A&oe=66AB5714	person_profile	HIGH COUNTRY SIGNS	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452931932_1021227109796163_230061095637489404_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U1QUH6vRpIYQ7kNvgG4veqL&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDG0Ce9xtqIYrrNpKKlMhpWsrRWIuOJWaBdKl3kA50b1g&oe=66AB4EE8	3	High Country Signs	2024-07-25 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,194	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	1421381308431253		Ravin offers 1 Crossbow per Household after a lawsuit over misleading advertising prices 😎 Check eligibility 👉 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F3f532wpc&h=AT1T3Thh5untsXkkYUIzULAioHCp7sP_RrYf-nzZV1r2vkgPwUOvk_ZcMlY7bcI9p8GLB2eA-4EYE720xNHsejoG8IOlf3ZYQf3iX7qLNHb8ED1KXVU9a_gu16jxH4fqciXfMJX8IFaYHg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">tinyurl.com/3f532wpc</a>	APPLY_NOW	https://grabgrove.site/?key=xq15rjxmtejq6kcd5vyj&a	367843246411910	Crossbow for you	https://facebook.com/61562197389397	30	1	1,933,410,803,801,280	2024-07-13 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Apply now	Crossbow for you	120209981934090274		NONE	image		https://grabgrove.site/?key=xq15rjxmtejq6kcd5vyj&asn=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&pla=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&adn=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&son=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&adi=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&cai=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&asi=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&fbpixel=4018724614932970&t1=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&td=td		2024-07-12 05:16	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450616732_1645170189609869_1031713306868474900_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Qm6IW0ASUlcQ7kNvgFiz8_e&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAAXzy2ATlIWQbu2230eJSyuog2BXpBGG9JVXcyn5SA5g&oe=66AB9CED	person_profile	Crossbow for you	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450763028_1922424448191588_5780148134070395790_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qp7l8UYjrPMQ7kNvgHoTpF0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDHXObe01XIIiXrt3mp8qtewQJdknT8KE0bSVVzBA4iwQ&oe=66AB9D9C	3	Crossbow for you	2024-07-12 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,241	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	1150011079587771		Ravin offers 1 Crossbow per Household after a lawsuit over misleading advertising prices 😎 Check eligibility 👉 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2Fyvb72ude&h=AT2g704mCuScMDhYd1-lGHRImk7lk8y-6219tc2sOzT2dpFa5PLxY1D6MhvXe7kl4p8Ma5RgsMye_iZsxf8zGyD3Aw5aWq59hmgZbN8BNkk4T0tZoAVcVewBFFSQAD2ib9oGnMeymi-1hQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">tinyurl.com/yvb72ude</a>	APPLY_NOW	https://pocketpromo.site/?key=wnouot1fjg4v5q7gpykx	337637516108249	Crossbows For you	https://facebook.com/61561662806429	40	1	496,320,466,132,991	2024-06-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Apply now	Crossbows For you	120210440377960298		NONE	image		https://pocketpromo.site/?key=wnouot1fjg4v5q7gpykx&asn=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&pla=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&adn=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&son=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&adi=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&cai=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&asi=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&fbpixel=4018724614932970&t1=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&td=td		2024-06-27 03:51	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449067180_1162631364995514_8801512956545277818_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mP1dS8XX7M8Q7kNvgF3dVct&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCP69OKtYAj63pZpGyt8OPSOhw6Daq1BgksLP0cjwWmlw&oe=66AB902D	person_profile	Crossbows For you	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449279663_432439219760919_648178520751667546_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MV1usAaCtAwQ7kNvgFeR_uy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDBantKFS14EqyBykOmzFZoMaLAT2FHacRIGwY3suFNvg&oe=66ABB989	3	Crossbows For you	2024-06-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,120	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	880603100571570		😎These bluetooth sunglasses are so cool!<br /> 🎶You can listen to music and answer phone calls without wearing earbuds!<br /> 🔊Theres no visual speaker on it.<br /> ⚡The gold part you see id how they charge.<br /> Buy here：<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ft.site%2F3LIkPx3&h=AT1wH32ZwC75JNeRhuiVRiqBLxGVCZzK7NgIZ0fBg0JtAvG8Ojt3QLC0GcI1NrIUOG4geQQYe_gVhQkOO-BpyQBaUpxaXWLXohsmwZ0DWv3TwC3KezS4QUEXs5iVia3HpxiV1_cxdJZ1Jg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://t.site/3LIkPx3</a>	SHOP_NOW	https://www.ascertainy.com/products/sunglasses	105193442381637	Ascertainy	https://facebook.com/100086436146727	1,666	2	1,474,318,353,449,738	2024-07-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Shop now	Ascertainy	120210351789720176	www.ascertainy.com	NONE	video		https://www.ascertainy.com/products/sunglasses		2024-07-23 21:45	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452508624_873909957885621_962863918110392720_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KKozx4tmHvwQ7kNvgHFm76B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC1AJMwVPfvYn2pXAUdjQdNunTRe7xQZNJAdQmT7W4OVA&oe=66ABA2E8	person_profile	Ascertainy	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452590404_1583609832197292_1806120003762542636_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kjT7BS_-6JAQ7kNvgEU3_iD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYB0lmwahqFG8DkC0S-l4iSvrXBW6iE9RpYAviRkWOdr6Q&oe=66ABBE14	3	Ascertainy	2024-07-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,166	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	461378553416995	Smart Wireless Headphone Sunglasses	😎These bluetooth sunglasses are so cool!<br /> 🎶You can listen to music and answer phone calls without wearing earbuds!<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.certainow.com%2Fproducts%2Fsunglasses-2&h=AT0KLFA_eWMKvQXEPxKkbp6fsBOoZh9VOpcmtgkgztveGT1-bg8eCfnk17HsIlpWfUEHKqJRJmGnKEkX31UZPdqDN1dDdCAB2ysxKUZbcn-Qb2mVN8aj50ZaE5TgWKBFPDwDFeis_XScvg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.certainow.com/products/sunglasses-2</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://www.certainow.com/products/sunglasses-2	111013675049927	Certainow-LL	https://facebook.com/100084719409373	2,234	3	466,621,529,337,003	2024-07-18 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Certainow-LL	120210160556150508	www.certainow.com	NONE	video		https://www.certainow.com/products/sunglasses-2		2024-07-16 04:56	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451479254_445726681625814_7567793795253087970_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nAbRUO4s9GMQ7kNvgEFbKWB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBmeoOzfV_erZm2ayWL1eSeWXxJ2BXz2zjXnM1O6Li7kw&oe=66ABC1D8	person_profile	Certainow-LL	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451489219_1002209941186235_196843856089006784_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yddnxWARYcEQ7kNvgFzEfE-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYC5NKhiaPFlol8zAdEjOOoLWBYdRu0alsbpVd80iFkQtg&oe=66ABC078	3	Certainow-LL	2024-07-17 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,188	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	1139082584037240		Ravin offers 1 Crossbow per Household after a lawsuit over misleading advertising prices 😎 Check eligibility 👉 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F2fh3frae&h=AT2Km8VYUILy0MsAW6a7HTUmVFXUDUllD1OztSxkOlAPLzZbTuCadxc9rXFGe32q1xFM89FtPEhCTbHmOje3OG4IoZeiD_42EYQ5tzfp79r_MaVkpnSKdl9H1hziw5CTS1i_hLDwzY8SlQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">tinyurl.com/2fh3frae</a>	APPLY_NOW	https://grabgrove.site/?key=3dhnzpmcw76r9l71pk9o&a	335213399682657	Ravin for everyone	https://facebook.com/61561353158058	40	1	1,428,872,317,795,200	2024-07-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Apply now	Ravin for everyone	120212069360920723		NONE	image		https://grabgrove.site/?key=3dhnzpmcw76r9l71pk9o&asn=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&pla=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&adn=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&son=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&adi=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&cai=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&asi=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&fbpixel=4018724614932970&t1=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&td=td		2024-07-13 02:17	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451013528_503781888737047_2547179154893131660_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y879LTHWseAQ7kNvgH73R1c&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDaaLbKrz5kX3DwIa4c5Vzhu1tMOyyrstvBJY1KjwGHAg&oe=66ABB2B1	person_profile	Ravin for everyone	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451198544_1238885757099649_7087626930801679124_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FhOiAhj2JvkQ7kNvgF10M8d&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD10jPhwBthSUn5KMH0QeuBJRlJFTuxNohDlSf2oxfocA&oe=66ABB7BD	3	Ravin for everyone	2024-07-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,190	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	2187771391586641		Ravin offers 1 Crossbow per Household after a lawsuit over misleading advertising prices 😎 Check eligibility 👉 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2Fyn8yutf5&h=AT2m1SBgFtYxwjuxjh17f99n_vmRXE-LLjd8Ydg2tFsQ9ypk8qxWUu-YrM5VIbge26qoSP_3qcDeS0oe43AKM9jEWnTHwIE2ZEv8r_dCNOgQYwPU1ZlH-Jz1yEgGOrjxpALLvLdOtxcrbQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">tinyurl.com/yn8yutf5</a>	APPLY_NOW	https://grabgrove.site/?key=7idbm8zhk5xd7nm03d2c&a	337637516108249	Crossbows For you	https://facebook.com/61561662806429	40	1	1,485,397,039,528,452	2024-07-13 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Apply now	Crossbows For you	120211064409270233		NONE	image		https://grabgrove.site/?key=7idbm8zhk5xd7nm03d2c&asn=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&pla=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&adn=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&son=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&adi=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&cai=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&asi=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&fbpixel=4018724614932970&t1=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&td=td		2024-07-13 02:10	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450940534_7348631301903740_6595873822438490442_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uluQrtdCTLcQ7kNvgEdw1r_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCd1g65Nboxz35iZyZDWVWUGCdn11gCOHtBLh45VLSMMA&oe=66AB9AED	person_profile	Crossbows For you	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450909445_370155439118429_1239619371012795920_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BjXwGqHcnEEQ7kNvgHDDTzM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDRHrv5yczT-wjTLMKs6AT7tbhmm2350j4sxgf1jpDo-Q&oe=66AB943A	3	Crossbows For you	2024-07-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,123	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	519695450628820		😎These bluetooth sunglasses are so cool!<br /> 🎶You can listen to music and answer phone calls without wearing earbuds!<br /> 🔊Theres no visual speaker on it.<br /> ⚡The gold part you see id how they charge.<br /> 🛒Grab yours>><a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ft.site%2F3SiJsV5&h=AT3xByjY8FiAI6WukXeBZLauIJQ5Yy1mzdl0qhgfyxHXbLQ2IqgoyOhW-m_te7poN4-t0kJNrra5rKsgWT_2AIOTO8Kzcj-MTLphvvVydIIkfRPDmBMbQhNjByNkfSv8V95EG-00vtG6Hg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://t.site/3SiJsV5</a>	SHOP_NOW	https://www.snrtrplant.com/products/sunglasses	223925447480283	Snrtrplant	https://facebook.com/61558151068303	1,017	3	1,445,273,499,507,342	2024-07-23 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Shop now	Snrtrplant	120209680728480225	www.snrtrplant.com	NONE	video		https://www.snrtrplant.com/products/sunglasses		2024-07-23 04:56	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452480877_992887139286163_7302759595771181993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YRG7DtnY9mcQ7kNvgEc39it&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDvXx5ky7l1yhV0-RHWwcKs4r6toDjC2SMq8IrivhLjuQ&oe=66ABA0B0	person_profile	Snrtrplant	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452645718_840163071637689_2331936090929184823_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lrEkgtxXZssQ7kNvgEEIaDL&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCbx7mgF9_ykOz7hOppoLj6Qz0TwefX1MUDgwHNl2zczQ&oe=66ABAFFD	3	Snrtrplant	2024-07-23 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,183	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	997775218607693	Smart Wireless Headphone Sunglasses	🕶2024 new bluetooth glasses make a grand debut! 😎Wireless Bluetooth connection,,allowing you to enjoy a free and unfettered world of music! Fashionable design, comfortable to wear.✨<a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ft.site%2F4f5EdBY&h=AT0653Iakc-q02MLhHGYTUNKQAzPAXwfz6LLb7ITZICj-DjzMByhPiBemuE9YbQ1t3u_l5f94sSVpB6n6iwbynkpQb4OcBz_zh8Xe7qcCTly7_dXn35ZX8xIrUAdwsUsoAYMabFsY5BbUA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://t.site/4f5EdBY</a>	SHOP_NOW	https://www.brightmeteors.com/products/sunglasses-	291239024075096	Brightmeteors.Q	https://facebook.com/61559070989182	422	1	994,078,099,396,719	2024-07-21 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Shop now	Brightmeteors.Q	120209060063100318	www.brightmeteors.com	NONE	video		https://www.brightmeteors.com/products/sunglasses-3		2024-07-15 04:08	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451295354_1216390236185440_8425031855223220918_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vxj53YcAO0sQ7kNvgFn6VdT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCfdXv_XE2mdo-sBAj7Hvy5VWWGNKu1jj8EYgfjVheUzQ&oe=66ABAD2E	person_profile	Brightmeteors.Q	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450955509_499955392541317_4799439601109088439_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4FjYkzBfRyEQ7kNvgE-aJmb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDwmFH2ZKx6bUL5hDgBXj3-nm41fr0duseHgBuJGETXAg&oe=66ABAAA0	3	Brightmeteors.Q	2024-07-15 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,939,886	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1939800}'	Yes	2024-07-27 19:12	active	1179	446844604989412	Kelly's Laser Parlor	$299.00 Full Face & Neck Laser hair removal includes 8 sessions ONE WEEK ONLY 734-444-9260 #beauty #laserhairremoval #michigan #love	CALL_NOW		360172090745535	Kelly's Laser Parlor	https://facebook.com/KellysLaserParlor	790	1	504,675,172,081,437	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Call now	Kelly's Laser Parlor	6641321252923		NONE	image	laser hair removal : 24hr cancellation or $25 fee. All packages expire one year from purchase date		{"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":"How much does this cost?","response":""},{"title":"Can you recommend something for me?","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","ig_boost_ctx_convo_starter_update_status":"\"\""}	2024-07-27 11:30	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453074471_1124706845283205_3517987232262336086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=usDKApEhxN8Q7kNvgHIYz4X&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAfWtNlv_Ne4y8uKGZuUiZxoXePVUtWwoIZlNoQk0Z_rQ&oe=66AB66F2	person_profile	Kelly’s Laser Parlor	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453268577_1921421305044771_1565312379629978835_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YhWjooOi6eQQ7kNvgFlkwyD&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDigGI6MoU7HKRZ19SQlokTakkVL_U1A2d3qZNzUMFpBA&oe=66AB7AE1	3	Kelly's Laser Parlor	2024-07-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,881	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	1571343750103586	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉	Today is my 14th birthday. There will not be birthday cake, singing, or a party. Instead, we are attending a funeral. My sister's funeral, to be exact. Before my sister... died... we had a large party planned for me. I normally do not have a big party, but 14th birthdays are a really big event to werewolves. They are the day that we first meet our wolves. The next monumental birthday is our 20th birthday; that is when can first identify our fated mates. I am our Beta’s youngest daughter, and my father is loved and well-respected. Everyone was excited to meet my wolf and to see what type of wolf she would be. Thus, the guest list for my party was pretty large, and it included ranked wolves from nearby packs. I am normally a little bit of a loner, hence why I usually do not have a big birthday party. However, for this particular occasion, I was happy to have a lot of guests. Meeting your wolf comes with the first shift/ transition, and that can be incredibly painful. As inherently social creatures, the only thing known to help wolves with the pain of the first shift is to have supportive family, friends, and community around you. The way that it typically works is that the pack will host a dinner or barbeque in your honor. As night falls, and the moon replaces the sun in the sky, everyone will gather inside the pack amphitheater. The shifter-to-be will stand in the middle of the amphitheater while guests quietly chant well wishes and prayers to the Moon Goddess. The energy in the space can be electrifying for everyone present, no matter whether there are 25 attendees or 500. Once the first shift is completed, the new wolf will prance around the stage and strut their stuff. The crowd will “ooh” and “aah” until the pack alpha approaches, learns the new wolf’s name, and introduces the wolf to the crowd. The new wolf will also swear his or her allegiance to the pack and to the alpha, allowing the wolf to mind-link with other pack wolves. Finally, the new wolf and any guests old enough to shift will go for a pack run. The whole process is incredibly special and exciting. As you might imagine, décor is also an important part of the party planning process. Each shifter gets to decide the decorations and party theme that will be used for their party. If more than one wolf turns 14 on the same day, the wolves can either agree on a theme or split the party into parts that they can individually decorate. The pack luna will then work some sort of magic that somehow blends the individual areas into one cohesive theme in the center. My birthday is in October, and despite how large our pack is, I am the only one born on that day. I love having an October birthday because my favorite season is fall. For my décor, I had picked flowers and decorations in rich fall colors, including deep oranges, reds, and greens. Unfortunately, none of my party decorations will be used. Or rather, none of my decorations will be used for me. As I mentioned, we are holding a funeral today instead. My oldest sister, Stephanie, died this morning. Pack and religious tradition dictates that we must hold funerals within 24 hours of death. Because Stephanie died shortly after midnight, her funeral must be held today. All food and décor set aside for my birthday party was therefore immediately diverted for the funeral; thankfully my fall themed colors were sufficiently somber-ish to work. All decorations that seemed relatively “happy”, celebratory, or that mention me have been removed. Pictures of Stephanie have now been placed on tables and podiums, and the music I selected has been swapped out for songs about loss or Stephanie’s favorites. The loss of Stephanie is a really hurting. Not only was she my sister and my parents’ oldest and favorite child, she was also widely anticipated to be the mate of Alpha Randall’s son, James, which meant she was most likely the future luna of our pack. Stephanie would have turned 20 in three months, and she and James would have been able to confirm that they were mates then. The pack was so sure that they were mates —and Alpha Randall was so eager to turn the pack over to James and his mate, once she was identified and ready to take on the luna position— that they deviated from standard protocols and decided to begin Stephanie’s Luna training just after she turned 18. If I am being completely honest, something never sat right with me about Stephanie starting Luna training. Part of it is what Stephanie's Luna training meant for me, but that is a separate conversation. The biggest thing was that I did not understand why luna training could not wait until Stephanie turned 20 and could confirm who her mate was. Lunas for generations have waited for their training; why couldn't Stephanie? It also bothered me quite a bit to watch Stephanie hang all over James at pack functions. Our pack frowned upon dating and public displays of affection prior to finding your mate; it created too much risk for problems, anger, and jealousy once your mate was located. For whatever reason, an exception was made for Stephanie. But then again, exceptions always were made for her. Stephanie was strong and absolutely beautiful, and the pack knew her as being kind, smart, and energetic. She could do no wrong in the eyes of my parents, the alpha, or the pack. I hope I do not sound too jealous or bitter. I loved my sister, and her death is hitting me really hard. It’s just that…. I knew a different side of my sister than everyone else, and I know more than anyone that my sister was far from perfect. Had I spoken up before she died, I would have been accused of jealousy and lying. And were I to speak up now, well… I would be accused of jealousy, lying, AND improperly speaking ill of the dead. It is easier to just let it go. Along with my birthday. It isn't that important anyway. I do not want to be selfish or self-centered. The only immediate problem with letting go is that --bad timing or not-- I am going to shift for the first time tonight. There is nothing I can do to stop or postpone it, as much as I would like to do so. I am worried about how it is going to go. Hopefully, during the reception, my mother or father or brother or someone will be willing to step aside with me for a 20-30 minutes just to get me through it. We could then return and act like everything is normal. Or as normal as it can be with Stephanie now gone. Sadly, I should have known that nothing in life is that easy. Chapter 2: The Little Brat (James POV) I watch sadly as the casket is carried from the temple to the burial grounds. It is a cold October day, and the gray sky and drizzly weather adds to the overall somber atmosphere. I cannot help but be impressed at how quickly the pack was able to pull everything together for Stephanie's funeral. All funerals happen quickly in our world, but because of how fast the funerals must take place, the décor and guest list is usually somewhat lacking. It is a testament to how much Stephanie was loved that they were able to put together so many beautiful floral arrangements in her honor, and that so many people were able to be here to honor her life, including many wolves from other packs. If it wasn't for it being such a horrible occasion, I would actually describe the color scheme as beautiful. Then again, fall has always been one of my favorite seasons. I am vaguely aware that we had some other function on the calendar today, but I honestly cannot think of what it was. With a large pack —the West Mountain Pack has over 10,000 members— we have a lot of functions. As the future alpha, I am expected to attend as many of them as I possibly can, but no one expects me to remember what they all are… even if I try to pretend in the moment. Unless reminded by an Omega or my amazing girlfriend, I can't even seem to remember my own mother and father's birthdays most of the time. My amazing girlfriend. I sigh, wiping a tear from my eye. She will never again be around to remind me about birthdays. Sadly, there will be no pretending that I know what today's ceremony is about. Stephanie Brogan was the love of my life, and she was my future mate and luna. I still cannot believe that she is gone. We never even got to fully experience the mate bond, including the sparks betwwen us. Had she lived just three months longer, our wolves would have confirmed one another as mates and Stephanie would have been able to formally claim her proper place in my bed and in my life. Instead of welcoming her body into my bed, I am saying good-bye to her today. I am also saying good-bye to all of our future plans and dreams together. I cannot help but feel anger and resentment about that. This is not how things were supposed to be. As I watch the funeral procession go by --my father, mother, and I, along with the beta family, must stand at the entrance as guests move from the temple to the burial grounds-- I catch a glimpse of Stephanie’s younger sister, Lily. She is standing next to her mother. She looks both sad and innocent, which causes the anger in my body to rise even more. That little brat is the reason that Stephanie is dead. *FLASHBACK TO LAST NIGHT* Stephanie and I are cuddled on the couch in the packhouse living room watching a movie. I have my hand on her arm and I am about to kiss her when she gets distracted by a text message. Stephanie did not let me see the message, which annoys me, but she quickly explains that Lily is lost in the forest after having snuck out to meet a boy. Stephanie’s sister is 13 or 14 years old. She has all the teenage acne and attitude that comes along with being that young. Unlike Stephanie —who has beautiful blond hair and hazel eyes— Lily has reddish brown hair and bright green eyes. Or at least I think they are bright green; she usually has them covered up with large black glasses. Stephanie gets up and tells me that Lily has texted her, begging her to come and find her. I am annoyed by the interruption, but I offer to go with Stephanie to get the little brat. Stephanie says Lily will be upset if anyone else knows about her little escapade. Stephanie reassures me that she will be fine, and then gives me a quick peck. My wolf and I have a bad feeling when Stephanie leaves, but Stephanie has us wrapped around her little finger. It is almost impossible for my wolf and I to disagree with her about anything. We pause the movie and decide to get some work done in my dad's office while we wait for Stephanie to get back. I am a night owl anyway, so I do not mind waiting. Unfortunately, about an hour after Stephanie leaves, I get an urgent mind-link from our pack warriors. They report that the Little Brat had been spotted running out of the woods screaming for help. Before they can say much more, I shift into my wolf form and take off running. I follow Stephanie’s scent far into the woods…. until I come to a small clearing, which is covered in Stephanie’s blood. Her bloody clothes are tossed around, and chunks of her hair are thrown about as well. It is the worst, most savage site that I have ever seen. The smell of rogues is all over, so it is fairly obvious what has happened. The a---holes didn’t even bother to leave her body. *END OF FLASHBACK* Tears threaten to continue to fall as I think back to the scene last night. I have not slept or eaten since I found what was left of Stephanie, and I am having trouble holding my emotions together. Now that my eyes have spotted Lily, my anger with her becomes a welcome distraction. I have a very hard time looking away from her. The truth is that I have always found myself strangely curious about her, but today… today all I want to do is take my anger out on someone, and she seems as good a target as anyone else. Her teenage behavior cost me my mate! And it cost this pack its future luna! My wolf, Luke, begs me to calm down. It is an interesting thing, having the wolf side try to calm the human side. As upset and angry and emotional as I am, it is tempting to ignore him and immediately start teach that Little Brat a lesson. However, I decide to follow Luke's advice after he reminds me that Stephanie deserves to have her funeral be all about her and not some whiny teenage brat. That does not mean that I am going to let Lily get away with what she has done, but I wait until a more appropriate time to take my revenge. I turn my focus back to Stephanie’s casket, which we filled with her bloody clothes, hair, and anything that could be found at the site that had her blood on it. The casket has been brought to the center of the amphitheater. The alpha and beta families take their seats in the front row, and my father and the pack priest move beside the casket to begin the ceremony. The ceremony involves a lot of prayers, rituals, and speakers. The average ceremony takes 2-3 hours, and Stephanie's will most likely take closer to 4-5 hours given her status in the pack and how beloved she was. During the ceremony, I keep trying to distract myself by looking around as others around me. I do not want to be seen as weak by curling into the fetal position and wailing like a baby, even though that is the only thing I want to do right now. My heart breaks as I glance at Stephanie’s parents next to me in the front row, holding on to one another as they cry. Seeing Stephanie’s father —a strong, powerful Beta wolf— break down is a sight I have very rarely seen. The pain in his eyes is heart-wrenching. I also notice Stephanie's brother, Nick, as he clings to his mate, Jenny. Both of them are crying as well. Nick is my best friend, and I have known him since we were tiny pups, but I have literally never seen him cry. I notice that there are no dry eyes anywhere. Even my father has a few stray tears running down his cheeks, although I am sure he would punch anyone who pointed it out. He is a proud man, just like me. As the sky continues to darken, I notice the Little Brat starting to act like she is uncomfortable in her seat. I can tell that Stephanie's mother is getting agitated, and rightly so. For once, can the Little Brat not think about something other than herself? Seriously. It is one ceremony. Just one. For an older sister who died trying to help her. How dare the Little Brat not hold herself together? The next thing I know, the moon is high in the sky and the final rites are being spoken by the priest. As exactly that moment, the Little Brat whispers something in her mother’s ear. Her mother turns and glares at her, causing the Little Brat to put her head down. I then watch as the Little Brat stands up and walks away. She looks like she is in pain, and I hope that she is. How dare she walk away from her sister’s funeral! Especially in the middle of the last rites! I am tempted to follow her and give her a piece of my mind, but Stephanie means more to me than that. I remind myself once again that I will get my revenge on Lily aka the Little Brat soon enough. For tonight, I must remain focused on the love of my life. Chapter 3: Lily Meets Rose “Y-yes.” “Good. Now open your eyes.” I opened my eyes and immediately noticed that I was not human anymore. My feet and hands were paws. I then looked into the water that pooled at the edge of the waterfall, and I saw my reflection… or rather the reflection of Rose. My heart stopped. There are many different types of wolves —alpha wolves; beta wolves; gamma wolves; warrior wolves; silver wolves; white wolves; red wolves; omega wolves. And even within those categories, there are varying sizes and colors and markings. We learn about the types of wolves in school. “Expect the unexpected” was a phrase that was often said about the first transition, but in reality your wolf generally follows your lineage: the children of alpha wolves will generally be alpha wolves; the children of beta wolves will generally be beta wolves; and so on. Typically, the big excitement —especially with children of ranked wolves— centers on the size, color, and personality of the new wolf. Looking back at me in the reflection of the pool was a type of wolf I had never seen or learned about in school. Rose’s fur was a beautiful bluish-silver color that almost glowed. On the right side of her rump was a large black crescent moon symbol, and the black coloring of that symbol matched her solid black paws and black tail. In addition, I noticed that Rose was huge. Although it was tough to tell, it appeared to me that Rose was at least as large as some alpha wolves. “What type of wolf are we, Rose?” “A special type. You will learn more as time goes on, but know that the Moon Goddess has blessed you and I, Lily.” I did not say anything; I was not sure what to say. Rose and I sat by the waterfall for a while longer, until I remembered Stephanie’s funeral. “We need to get back!” I told Rose in a panic. Rose guided me through how to transform back to our human form, and I frantically searched the nearby trees for clothes. I found a men’s t-shirt and shorts. Both were far too big for my small frame, so I opted to just put the t-shirt on. I also grabbed my eye-glasses off the ground and put them on; thankfully they did not break during the transition. Now that I had Rose, I would not need the glasses anymore because she would heal my eyes. However, Rose warned me that —for now— it was best that I continue to wear the glasses and let the pack believe that I did not yet have my wolf. I thought it was a curious thing for her to say, but I had no reason to not trust her. I hurried back to the packhouse and got into the beta suite, hoping to quickly change clothes and re-join the mourning crowd. Unfortunately, once I got in the suite, I was met with the angry, accusing eyes of my mother. “WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN? HOW DARE YOU MAKE A SCENE AT YOUR SISTER’S FUNERAL! HAVE YOU NO SHAME? ARE YOU SO SELFISH AND SELF-CENTERED THAT YOU CAN THINK OF NO ONE BUT YOURSELF?” I said nothing. What could I say? My mother then did something that, in my 14 years, she had never done before. She slapped me. Hard. And the beating continued from there. Chapter 4: Living in the Shadows (6 years later) (Lily POV) Six years have now passed since that fateful day that Stephanie died. I wish that I could say that life has moved on, and that we have found good in the bad... but for the most part, it isn't true. Stephanie is just as much a part of this pack today as she was before she died. And the grief felt in the pack is just as raw and angry as it was that first day. If anything has changed, it is that --instead of Stephanie being out in the center of things-- she lives on almost like a shadow over everything. She now has a couple of streets named after her --Stephanie Lane and Steffie Avenue (her nickname was "Steffie"); and you can quite literally find some of her favorite outfits on display in glass cases at various places throughout the pack. Even more bizarre, the day she died was turned into a pack holiday, as was her birthday. Everyone but pack omegas have both days off from work, school, and training, and there are somber celebrations and remembrances planned to commemorate each occasion. I once made the mistake of asking my parents whether this was a normal reaction to the death of a single she-wolf. We can love and miss her, but to continue to hold large ceremonies every year? And to treat her as a saint and forget that she had a human side too? That seemed a bit too much to me. As far as I know, the pack has never done this for any other luna or future luna, and it only honors 2-3 historical alphas in such a manner. I was rewarded for my questions by being called jealous and hateful. (I also received a significant beating, but beatings had become commonplace from my mother, so I cannot say that my question necessarily triggered the beating I received that day. Plus, the beating hurt far less than what I received before Stephanie died. But for the slight pain and who did the beating, I almost would not have minded.) Overall, I think the worst part of losing Stephanie six years ago wasn't losing Stephanie... it was how losing Stephanie impacted my relationship with my parents and other pack members. Before Stephanie died, I was well aware that Stephanie was my parents' favorite. My older brother Nick and I would even joke about it from time to time. But even though Stephanie was their favorite, they still treated me really well and loved me. They never would have raised a hand to me before Stephanie died. After Stephanie died, however, my parents could barely look at me. And when they did, I saw the unmistakable wish in their eyes that it had been me, not Stephanie, that died that fateful night. In addition, my parents stopped caring about my well-being generally. I lived in their house until I was 17, but I was responsible for my own meals and necessities. I was forced to take on a part-time job at a nearby diner just to ensure I had clothes and food to eat. (I technically could have eaten the food that was available in the packhouse, but the dirty looks and mean comments made by my parents, James, and other pack members were enough to make that an unrealistic option.) Also, in case you are wondering, I have not celebrated a birthday since Stephanie died. Not one single soul other than Rose has bothered to tell me happy birthday. No one even bothered to ask me whether I had received my wolf. That wasn't because birthdays stopped being important; it was just mine whose meaning changed. I attended plenty of birthday parties, and the pack hosted plenty of 14th birthday celebrations. In fact, I think it was because of one of those birthday celebrations that someone finally questioned whether I had received a wolf. It was a legitimate question, given that I was over 14 and never joined a pack run. Rose encouraged me early on to skip them "for safety reasons," and I was all too happy to do so. Had anyone bothered to ask me directly about my wolf or about why I was skipping the pack runs, I would have been honest... but no one ever did. Instead, a rumor spread that I was wolfless. Pack members speculated that I lost my wolf as a result of post-traumatic stress from losing Stephanie and/or guilt for what I had done to Stephanie. That latter theory was the one that really got under my skin, because I knew that was a theory and rumor spread by James. Shortly after Stephanie's funeral, he told my parents and most of the pack that Stephanie was only in the forest that night to save me. He also said I had gone out to meet a boy. I have no idea why he would say such things; I have never had a boyfriend and Stephanie was the one who asked me to meet her in the forest. This rumor was the main reason that I received a beating from my mother the night of my first shift. And it probably adds to the reason that pack members wish me dead. Notably, though, I have never dared to defend myself. To tell the truth would be the equivalent of talking negatively of both Stephanie and our future alpha.... and would likely lead to a death sentence. So instead, I have always just pushed through. One of the ways that I have survived is to hold on to the faith that one day things will be different. Another thing that I have done is take every last opportunity to leave the pack. For example, I hurried through high school so that I could graduate early, and I then went away to college. To avoid coming home, I have been loading up on credit hours and taking every term of school -including the mini winter sessions-- that I can get. I am also taking advantage of a unique expedited program offered just for werewolves doctors. Given all of these things, I actually expect that I can become a fully licensed werewolf doctor in just a couple more years. Until I become fully licensed and independent, I will have to continue to bear the shadow of my sister and the pain that comes with it. I am required to be present for both of her holidays --all pack members are; there are no exceptions-- but thankfully those are among the very few times that I can reliably be found at the Western Mountain pack these days. My ultimate goal is to meet my mate and become a pack doctor in his pack... which I pray to the Moon Goddess is not the Western Mountain pack. If, Goddess forbid, my mate is in this pack, perhaps I can convince him to transfer packs with me. Goddess willing. Tomorrow is my birthday. I guess we will find out then. Chapter 5: Without His Luna (James POV) Tomorrow will mark six years since Stephanie died. Everything and nothing has changed. I still think of Stephanie every single day. Her beautiful smile. Her laugh. The kindness that she showed to pack members. The ethusiam that she showed for her luna training. Stephanie would have been an amazing and strong luna. Had Stephanie lived, we would have been happily married by now. We would probably have already had at least two adorable pups, who would have been doted on by two loving sets of grandparents. Together, Stephanie and I would have been leading the West Mountain Pack to new heights. Of course, Stephanie is no longer here. And without Stephanie… Well, without Stephanie, I am only a fraction of the man that I used to be, and only a fraction of the wolf. Without Stephanie, I am not even Alpha yet. In our world, most alpha heirs take over from their fathers between 25 and 30 years old. That timing ensures that most alphas will have already found their mates before they take over the running of a pack. Running a pack is not easy to do by yourself. Even with a strong beta and a strong gamma, a luna’s importance to a pack cannot be underestimated. A luna brings heart and balance to a pack and to the alpha himself. She is the alpha’s equal, and she is one of the few werewolves in the pack who can get away with challenging and questioning an alpha’s decisions. If she exercises her role properly and judiciously, a luna’s presence can lead to better overall outcomes, decisions, and governing. This is especially true if the luna is the alpha’s fated mate, because it means she takes on her role with the blessing of the Moon Goddess. Alpha heirs who take over their packs prior to turning 25 typically do so either out of necessity, or because they have been fortunate to have been mated very early to a strong luna. Six years ago, when Stephanie was still alive, my father thought we were going to be part of the lucky latter category. He had been very eager to take an early retirement. He and my mother had fantasized about all the European trips and Caribbean cruises that they would take after I was sworn in as alpha, and they had already had tentative plans for at least one of those trips. Of course, all of those plans were ultimately scrapped. Today, I am old enough to take over as alpha, even without a luna by my side… but my father is concerned that I am not mentally strong enough to do so yet. He sees me as broken. My father is probably right. It is a little hard not to feel broken. The reminders of Stephanie are everywhere. Even after six long years, I feel like I cannot escape from the reminders or from my grief, and it is suffocating. The packhouse has practically turned into a mini museum to her, and almost all of the local businesses have some sort of small dedication, whether it be a dedicated drink, food item, picture, or shelf of Stephanie-inspired items. Worse, twice a year, we hold a series of ceremonies and remembrances for Stephanie. As Stephanie’s mate and as the future alpha heir, I am expected to attend every one of them. I want to be there. I know that I should be there. But… It is complete and utter torture. Every day without Stephanie is difficult, but Stephanie’s birthdays and death anniversaries always hit me the hardest. What I want to do more than anything on those two days is be by myself so that I can process my grief. There is a waterfall that I like to go to. If I could, I would spend all day there on both days. The waterfall isn’t exactly hidden, but to find it, you have to go pretty far within the woods and know where to go. As far as I know, I am the only one in our pack who ever goes there. Being at the waterfall brings me comfort; it always has. That is where I want to be when I am grieving or upset. Unfortunately, instead of spending time in the comfort of my waterfall, I have to spend the two hardest days each year out in public with almost 20,000 eyes watching my every move and every reaction. Instead of just… grieving… I have to be conscientious of how every display of emotion can impact and be perceived by the pack members. As I listen to pack members, Stephanie’s parents, and my own parents take turns telling stories about Stephanie and her good deeds, I am expected to somehow strike an impossible balance between sadness and strength. At each of the events, year after year, the remembrances are largely the same. At this point, I practically have the speeches memorized. The speeches usually include stories about how Stephanie would bake cookies and send her sister to deliver them to the guards working the late-night shift on the borders. And stories about how any time anyone was injured in training or at battle, she would not only have her sister deliver care baskets to patients at the hospital, but she would also put one together for any family members separated from them while they were recovering. My parents talk about how eager Stephanie was to take on her position as luna, and how dedicated she was to her training, even working on lessons for hours at home multiple times per week. Stephanie’s parents talk about their prior dreams for their daughter and the hole they continue to feel in their hearts. Nick talks about how family celebrations do not feel the same without Stephanie there, and Jenny talks about wishing that she still had a sister-in-law to bond with and engage in girl talk. The only blessing is that —as the grieving mate— no one expects me to say anything at these events. But that does not spare me from the staring and judgment. If I show too much sadness, pack members worry that I am weak and will not able to be the leader of the pack in the future. If I seem too stoic or show too much “strength,” pack members could perceive me being disrespectful towards Stephanie’s memory. They will also worry that my reign as alpha will lack balance and compassion…. which I already hear whispers about from time to time. Sometimes, I feel angry about the whole thing. I would never, ever expect anyone who has lost their mate to put themselves on a stage multiple times a year and be judged on whether their external grief is appropriate enough. And yet my parents have no problem doing it to me. I tried to push back once, but only once. As you can imagine, it did not go well. I started the conversation by telling my parents that I did not think it was healthy for me to be surrounded by constant reminders of Stephanie, and I told them that I thought the constant remembrances were counterproductive to my mental health. I suggested that we scale back the events, or make them more private affairs. My father got angry and accused me of being selfish. He told me that being uncomfortable and coping with the pressure of judgmental pack members is part of being an alpha. Meanwhile, my mother reminded me that the ceremonies had been Stephanie’s parents’ idea, and she asked me if I wanted to be the one to tell them it was no longer important to celebrate Stephanie’s life. No, of course I did not want to tell Stephanie's parents that. No, I did not want to be selfish. I just wanted --and still want-- to not feel so sad all the time. Six years in, and the only reprieve I ever get from my grief is when the Little Brat is around. She has made herself scarce the last few years, but when she is around, my wolf and I can sense her from a mile away. My wolf and I fight about her all the time --for some reason, Luke seems to have a soft spot for the Little Brat-- but we can agree that it is nice having her around. For me, it's because I have a worthy target for my anger and rage. Chapter 8: Daddy's Girl (Lily POV) The drive to the pack house was eerily silent. After my father and I arrived at the pack house, my father quickly exited the vehicle and headed to his office, leaving me on my own. I timidly and cautiously got into the beta suite, but I was relieved to find that my mother was already in bed. I decided to go directly to my room and try to sleep as well. Unfortunately, I ended up tossing and turning all night. The look on my father's face when talking to the guards continued to haunt me. When I did sleep, I had nightmares. Strangely, Rose seemed restless too, but other than briefly wishing me a happy birthday after it hit midnight, she did not say anything. I think the main thing that provoked my nightmares and kept me up was that my heart ached for my father. I knew that I wanted to help him with his pain and ease his suffering, but I was not sure what I could do or say to make things better. It has already been six years. If time has not helped heal his heart, what could I do? The truth is, I am not Stephanie and I never will be. The only thing I have ever known how to do for my father is to try to stay out of his way. At least for my mother, I can serve as a literal punching bag to help her relieve her grief. And for others in the pack, I can serve as both a literal and metaphorical punching bag. But, I am nothing to my father: my father has neglected me and ignored the sufferings I went through, but he has never directly participated in any of them. Perhaps that is one reason his pain upsets me more than the pain of everyone else. He is the least awful amongst my current tormentors, and I can sometimes lie to myself that he does not know or agree with how much I have suffered. I know that it probably seems strange that my heart aches for him at all, given that he is someone who, for the most part, could care less about me. However, please understand that for my own sanity, I have chosen to remember and hold on to the good times in my childhood. Of course, there is also the fact that... regardless of how my father currently feels about me... I have always been --and will probably always be-- a daddy's girl. It is just part of who I am. Since I was in diapers, I have looked up to my father and considered him to be my superhero. Before Stephanie died, I never saw an ounce of weakness in him. He was my strength and my rock. I always had an strong desire to make him proud of me. He was always the first one I ran to when I got a good grade on a test, or when I drew a picture I thought he might like. And ...before Stephanie died... he was always the first one to dry my tears when I got hurt or to give me reassuring praise when I felt down. Even though I knew Stephanie was his favorite... even though I knew Stephanie's accomplishments would always be greater, and that he would always be more proud of her... those little things mattered to me. I lived for those moments. Sigh. By 5:30 am, I gave up on any hope of further sleep. Stephanie's first remembrance event was not scheduled until 11 am, so I knew I had a little bit of time. Eager to take advantage of that time and also avoid my mother, I took a quick shower, packed a small backpack, and headed out of the house. Predictably, my feet led me to the waterfall that I had shifted in front of six years ago. I have come here at least twice a year since Stephanie died, usually on her birthday and death anniversary. The waterfall brings me an odd sense of peace. As beautiful as it is, I do not know anyone else who comes here. Perhaps that is why I like it so much. I sighed. "It is easy to tell myself that when I am away from the pack and not having to cope with the consequences. It is a lot harder to believe that I am blameless when everyone around me is crying and upset all the time. You saw my dad last night. That nearly broke me. He is still hurting so much." "That does not make any of it your fault," Rose protests. "Rose, the day before Stephanie died, I prayed that the Moon Goddess stop Stephanie from continuing to hurt me." "She was not hurting you, Lily. She was torturing you. There is nothing wrong with you praying that it stop." "There is if it cost Stephanie her life." "Lily, you are not giving the Moon Goddess enough credit. You are smarter and stronger than this. You need to stop with the emotional vomit and ---" Suddenly Rose stops talking through the link. She is pacing back in forth in my head. I have no idea what is going on, until the overwhelming scent of vanilla and coffee beans hits my nose. "Mate! Lily, our mate is here! Mate, mate, mate, mate, mate!!!" I stand, dust the ashes off of my jeans, and turn around. My heart drops when I recognize the werewolf standing about 200 feet away from me. This has to be a joke. This cannot be happening.	LEARN_MORE	https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&u	144939265372419	Indulge in story	https://facebook.com/61552702618591	652	4	1,601,599,260,600,599	2024-05-15 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn More	Indulge in story	120212453100680311	getokn.com	NONE	dco		https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}		2024-05-06 03:55	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441866873_1137363157576250_598973008033730763_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dF_CtZfAclwQ7kNvgEYM_J_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAOQSfhysYX7VRZDsvU2xV26mVoyp_DiO2EQEfvPPgrSw&oe=66AB606E	person_profile	Indulge in story	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441522267_234334103095825_3731390516192046479_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uD6RpMOpWU8Q7kNvgGk9kib&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAg01Z4CuytMC-hWNCpRMro8GButahe6SOQVZgDqwPJAw&oe=66AB6167	3	Indulge in story	2024-05-12 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,127	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	3760006880945608	Vanguard Crossbows	🦌🎯 Hunting season is just around the corner! Are you ready? Upgrade your crossbow now with Vanguard Crossbows, your trusted reseller of top brands. Get the best gear to ensure a successful hunt. Visit our website and check out our range of high-quality crossbows and accessories. 🏹🌲<br /> <br /> 🔗 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fvanguardcrossbows.com%2F&h=AT1T0XdfzbzQ3fuxFjY5pSf-IkBeekCYYk3qKhqxz-PpXk_2gkAk3FKrqp-TtWP6iwKA6zfn5TauNidOhmcHNUpRn2qTipQR3nILyE9v4AOFC9Anp9DelIAnTc4bfQYbjWwFYqHbHz5ohg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">vanguardcrossbows.com</a><br /> <br /> #HuntingSeason #Crossbow #HuntingGear #TopBrands #VanguardCrossbows #BePrepared	SHOP_NOW	http://vanguardcrossbows.com/	292908203911349	Vanguard Crossbows	https://facebook.com/61559400629120	9	1	7,922,523,967,861,478	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Shop now	Vanguard Crossbows	120210513780740671	vanguardcrossbows.com	NONE	image	Welcome to Vanguard Crossbows, your premier destination for top-quality crossbows designed for both hunting and target practice. At Vanguard Crossbows, we believe that hunting is more than just a pastime – it's an immersive experience, an escape from the ordinary, and a journey back to the fundame...	http://vanguardcrossbows.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":"Can I make a purchase?","response":""},{"title":"How much does this cost?","response":""},{"title":"Can I see more products?","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","ig_boost_ctx_convo_starter_update_status":"\"\""}	2024-07-22 21:58	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452585744_826231656148852_2373614930814659011_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s65fFCbkAZkQ7kNvgGkbZEC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAdUd5tqDRypbnVTcRwzFGszSs0d4KBFoDZPlO_BqCkAA&oe=66AB934E	person_profile	Vanguard Crossbows	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452059489_799335162188920_5260486717992837162_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GTyvr8XdQTEQ7kNvgEMv0Ju&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCAXSgrxGMWTA9zHPEw-gadGrH3UKV5YI-wFZ-0iopq-Q&oe=66ABB635	3	Vanguard Crossbows	2024-07-22 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,941,040	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-07-28 00:21	active	1182	855145379412000	Bowfishing Kit	🎣 Back in Stock Alert! 🎣<br /> <br /> Our Bowfishing Kit is back and ready to help you reel in your next big catch! This kit has everything you need for a successful day crossbow fishing on the water<br /> <br /> Don’t miss out again—grab yours now at the link below! 🏹👇<br /> <br /> 🔗 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fvanguardcrossbows.com%2Fproducts%2Fbowfishing-kit&h=AT1MeliVr1opeiNkJtIHXBnie5dgN9Yu00n4iD9FhdinU70g71j9xEOja_vHpjZMS_Kgqe2IF5iF-DgiyUoKBGFaiT6U6AfOiaobszvrfLghZ-cXtTKSjw-khmjfWdCpsPfQrWDOCGQtuA" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://vanguardcrossbows.com/products/bowfishing-kit</a><br /> <br /> #Bowfishing #BackInStock #VanguardCrossbows #FishingGear #ballista	SHOP_NOW	https://vanguardcrossbows.com/products/bowfishing-	292908203911349	Vanguard Crossbows	https://facebook.com/61559400629120	9	1	992,964,752,554,194	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Shop now	Vanguard Crossbows	120210603970630671	vanguardcrossbows.com	NONE	image	DESCRIPTION Explore the exciting world of bowfishing with the BALLISTA Bowfishing Kit, your ultimate companion for every adventure on the water. This comprehensive kit is designed for compatibility with the Ballista BAT, Ballista BAT Reverse, and other crossbows, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless....	https://vanguardcrossbows.com/products/bowfishing-kit	{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Can I make a purchase?","response":""},{"title":"Can I see more products?","response":""},{"title":"How much does this cost?","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","ig_boost_ctx_convo_starter_update_status":"\"\""}	2024-07-26 22:26	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453032939_840198661390283_7182296384819698149_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-_TJyci78KwQ7kNvgGzl7g2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCsEekedKApGmhzEhJvkvXBEFYSmz-pubYNzjA80q87uw&oe=66ABA265	person_profile	Vanguard Crossbows	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453004825_483397614338211_12001462360302766_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=t0m8IS0Mg6kQ7kNvgFetqfX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC61nzDW_R8U3LIpO64CVGWnwjiSDWqySS6juMa-QcPlw&oe=66ABC137	3	Vanguard Crossbows	2024-07-26 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,173	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940171}'	Yes	2024-07-27 19:19	active	1180	456718203841032	🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉	Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office. Today was the first time I went to his company.<br /> After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that they’re finally learning to accept me?<br /> Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from losing my baby lingered, even though it had been a long time since that accident. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came.<br /> I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own.<br /> Now, I was about to step into Elijah’s world — his beloved company.<br /> My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. <br /> But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other.<br /> What is going on? I thought in alarm. <br /> Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijah’s ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. <br /> My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized I’d dropped the folder I was holding. <br /> They both looked up, startled. <br /> And that’s when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. <br /> Serena Foster! <br /> She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijah’s ex-girlfriend. <br /> The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. <br /> My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. “You remember Serena, right? She works here now.”<br /> I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. <br /> They’re just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldn’t cheat on me, would he? <br /> All this time, I’d remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. <br /> “So why are you here?” Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow.<br /> “Your mom asked me to deliver this,” I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. <br /> But much to my dismay, he didn’t. <br /> It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that he’d never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. <br /> “Sophia, you look shaken up. Didn’t you know Elijah hired me to work here?” Her voice dripped with sarcasm. “Apparently, we make a great team. Funny, I don’t recall seeing you here before.” <br /> She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. <br /> She then added, “Oh, right, you don’t know anything about business. You might just mess things up.”<br /> “I take care of our home,” I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldn’t even defend me.<br /> Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, “Next time, Sophia, just contact me and I’ll have my assistant come over.”<br /> "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here.<br /> Suddenly, Elijah’s secretary came in.<br /> “Alice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,” he instructed. “Just black for Serena. No sugar.”<br /> Serena’s eyes lit up. “Hey, you remembered!” she exclaimed, obviously delighted. <br /> Elijah nodded at her. “Of course.”<br /> I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. <br /> I couldn’t help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. <br /> “Join us, Sophia,” Serena invited with a devilish grin. “Just like how we used to hang out together in college.”<br /> I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. “I have to go,” I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. “I’ll see you at home.”<br /> Elijah’s expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. <br /> The way he treated me had only gotten worse after losing my baby.<br /> What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. You’re the one who keeps hoping he’ll eventually fall for you.<br /> As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husband’s mother Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid.<br /> I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldn’t seem to catch up. <br /> When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. I’m back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. <br /> I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. <br /> Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. <br /> A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. <br /> I knew exactly what it contained — the papers I’d prepared before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. <br /> It read: Divorce Agreement. <br /> CHAPTER 2<br /> The divorce agreement was written after I accidentally lost my baby. During that time, I couldn’t even look at Elijah’s face without thinking about our baby. The pain was unbearable, so I believed divorce was my salvation. Looking back, preparing the divorce agreement was not a mistake, now that leaving was my only option.<br /> My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morgana’s voice outside. “Sophia!” she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. <br /> Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. That’s when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. <br /> She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full of disdain. <br /> As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. “Elijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,” she said with a scoff. “You can’t even be relied on for such a simple task.”<br /> Her words cut deep. “When you first came to our house carrying a baby in your belly, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,” she continued. “Then you had lost your baby and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?"<br /> Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, “My son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.”<br /> Sure enough, she already knew that Serena worked at Elijah's company. She asked me to deliver the papers today just to make a fool of me.<br /> The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side.<br /> I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again.<br /> I don’t deserve this, I thought sourly. It’s time for me to escape, to save myself. <br /> With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers I’d hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. <br /> I’ve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, I’d always seemed invisible to them. <br /> I’ve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking… But no one cares. Not even my own husband. <br /> I’m nothing to him. He doesn’t love me and he never learned to. That’s the most painful of all. <br /> My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. <br /> This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or I’ll lose my sanity!<br /> That evening, I hadn’t realized I’d already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. <br /> I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasn’t, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. <br /> “Hey, playing hard to get, aren’t you?” he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips.<br /> I didn’t have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. <br /> “When did Serena start working at your company?” I asked him coldly. <br /> He shrugged, but didn’t stop what he was doing. “Not sure. Probably recruited by HR.” His lips traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally, the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered.<br /> “Serena is such a talented addition to our team,” he remarked with admiration.<br /> As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him.<br /> Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldn’t believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. <br /> “You know,” he said, oblivious to my disappointment, “she's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.”<br /> Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gaze—a kind of infatuation—that he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me.<br /> He’s probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didn’t want him anywhere near me.<br /> But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. “What’s wrong with you?” he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. <br /> I didn’t answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. “You’ve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought you’d snap out of it, but you’ve only gotten worse. It’s depressing to even see you.”<br /> I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldn’t even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. <br /> “Maybe it’s because of the baby we lost…” he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, “Why don’t we just make another baby?”<br /> I couldn’t believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didn’t understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. <br /> My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury I’ve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesn’t get it. Or maybe he just doesn’t care. <br /> I was totally pissed off. And that’s when I blurted it out. <br /> “I want to divorce you.”<br /> CHAPTER 3<br /> I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. <br /> I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. <br /> My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another — strangers who’d been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. <br /> But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. <br /> “I want a divorce,” I repeated, keeping my voice steady. “I’m serious.”<br /> Slowly he nodded. “Yes, sure,” he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. <br /> My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. <br /> This is it. I’m going to be free. <br /> And yet somehow, I didn’t feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth — he never loved me at all. He’s not even upset about the divorce!<br /> I sighed. It’s time for me to move on. <br /> The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. “We should sign this,” I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. <br /> He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same.<br /> “Elijah, please,” I whispered, making sure my voice wouldn’t break. “Let's end this.”<br /> His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didn’t sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. <br /> Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serena’s name, making my heart tighten. I can’t believe this woman’s timing!<br /> But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didn’t want to answer it because I was in the room with him. <br /> A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. “Why don’t you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.”<br /> He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. <br /> Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings — relief, frustration, anger, sadness. <br /> “I’m finally free,” I murmured to myself incredulously. <br /> While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, “The morning’s almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.”<br /> With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. “Sorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.”<br /> Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly.<br /> I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesn’t matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely!<br /> But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. “You know what? It's actually quite nice,” she said, her tone almost mocking. “Elijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!”<br /> Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. I’m done here. I’m done with all this. <br /> Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after I lost my baby, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. <br /> That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. “Luckily I hadn’t sold it,” I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. <br /> Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. <br /> It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla:<br /> That Elijah! You have no idea what I saw! Elijah was out partying and flirting with that Serena, which he never did with you!<br /> My heart sank, anger and sadness clouded my mind as I realized he was indeed getting back together with Serena and flaunting her around.<br /> Forcing back my tears, I told Kayla: <br /> It’s over between me and Elijah. We were divorced.<br /> CHAPTER 4<br /> “Aaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!” Kayla hissed. “If I had known he’d treat you like that, I wouldn’t have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldn’t have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!”<br /> Being the daughter of Raven Media’s renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. <br /> “You should have seen them at the party last night!” she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. <br /> “They didn’t even care that I was there! They were just… Aaahhh! I really couldn’t take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!”<br /> “Oh, wow,” I uttered in disbelief. “But it’s over now, Kayla. I’m doing my best to move on.”<br /> Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. “I’m always here for you, Sophia. You know that.”<br /> “Thanks so much. I’m really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,” I responded with a fluttering heart.<br /> “Well, you’ve always had my back even in high school. So now it’s my turn to return the favor.”<br /> Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. We’d hit it off at once, and the rest was history.<br /> “Anyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesn’t deserve you, Sophia,” she went on. “So what are you planning now?”<br /> “Well, I’ve been giving it some thought…” I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. “A few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in France—”<br /> “You did not!” she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. “This will surely be your big break!”<br /> I laughed. “I haven’t been accepted yet, you know.”<br /> “Oh, but you will be!”<br /> Kayla’s enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself.<br /> But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijah’s name popping up on the screen. I froze up.<br /> Kayla’s eyes narrowed when she saw it too. “Go ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.”<br /> As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijah’s sharp tone of voice on the other end. “You filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!”<br /> “Wait, what do you mean?”<br /> “You know I’m busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!” Elijah railed angrily. <br /> I felt mortified and helpless. “I’ll talk to Troy.”<br /> “Good. Make sure he doesn’t come back again ever.” Then he hung up. <br /> I was so shocked that I couldn’t speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. <br /> “Sorry I have to go now, Kayla,” I said, bravely deciding to act immediately.<br /> She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. <br /> I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved to after my adoptive father Tom Bennett passed away. He’d left me the original house where he’d taken care of me like his real own child. <br /> But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. They’d bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. <br /> Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. “What did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!”<br /> Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. <br /> “It was never going to work out,” I said, trying to maintain my composure. “Just please stop bothering him. We’ve cut our ties. You can’t ask for anything from him anymore.”<br /> “Oh, man!” Troy exclaimed with frustration. <br /> Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family.<br /> At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. <br /> One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. <br /> “Did you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!” Brenda said, looking desperate. <br /> Troy scoffed. “When I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. I’m guessing there’s a third party involved! People who don’t know better would think that woman is his wife!”<br /> CHAPTER 5<br /> My heart felt like it would explode any time now. “It doesn’t matter,” I eventually said to Troy. “It’s none of my business now. I don’t care what he does with that woman or with whomever.”<br /> Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, “We’re definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!”<br /> “But…” Brenda began to protest. <br /> I raised my hand to stop her. “Elijah and I are over. Besides, I’ll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijah’s wealth, then now you won’t have any more need for me, right?”<br /> They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. <br /> “All thing that you swindled out of my ex-husband’s pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,” I went on in a steady voice. “We don’t have to see or talk to each other ever again.”<br /> On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. <br /> All of this drama’s taking a toll on me, I guess. <br /> But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadn’t fully recovered since the loss. <br /> “Could you please take me to the hospital?” I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility.<br /> The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach.<br /> I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me.<br /> Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man.<br /> “Are you okay? You look like you're about to faint,” he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. <br /> “Oh, wait! It’s you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?”<br /> I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. “Uh, Daniel?” I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. <br /> “Yes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.”<br /> I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. <br /> As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside.<br /> The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. <br /> “How are you feeling now?” Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. <br /> “A little better, but still kinda dizzy,” I answered honestly. “Thanks for the assistance, but it’s okay if you have somewhere to be. You’ve already done too much for me.”<br /> “Oh, it’s okay,” he said with a smile. “Unless you don’t want me here.”<br /> “It’s nothing like that, of course!” I quickly replied. “Thanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while I’m here.”<br /> “Well, I’m all ears. People say I’m a good listener.”<br /> I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment.<br /> Chuckling, I said, “I don’t really know you, Daniel…”<br /> “You know my name. That’s a start.” His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. <br /> I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up.<br /> “I remember… Daniel Pierce…” I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. “High school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.”<br /> He laughed. “You’ve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too — the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.”<br /> I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. “You’re joking!”<br /> “No, it’s true… Really! I’m sure you’ve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?” <br /> He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. “Good-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.”<br /> “Oh.” His expression changed immediately. “I’m sorry to hear that.”<br /> “You know, it's been a rough few months,” I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. “I'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.”<br /> Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue.<br /> “And then I lost my baby...It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?”<br /> He nodded in understanding. “I’m so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. I’m sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?”<br /> “Yeah, starting anew in a foreign land,” I answered, thinking about my application in France. <br /> “Hmm… sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. “It takes courage to make such a big change.”<br /> I smiled weakly. “Actually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.”<br /> Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in Paris…”<br /> My jaw dropped. “What? I’m planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!”<br /> He looked at me with astonishment. “What are the odds, huh? Looks like we’ll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.”<br /> I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. “That’s really… something else.”<br /> “Surely you’ll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?”<br /> “The Latin Quarter, of course. I’m looking at an apartment there, since it’s where most students live.”<br /> Daniel chuckled. “And it looks like we’ll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.” He gave me a lopsided grin. “Who knows? Maybe we’re destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Let’s fly together. I mean, if that’s alright with you?”<br /> His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Daniel…”<br /> Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. <br /> “Miss Sophia Bennett?” she informed me. “Your test results are here.”<br /> CHAPTER 6<br /> Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away.<br /> “Well, Sophia,” he began, his tone measured, “the results are in. Congratulations to you both.”<br /> I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. <br /> “You’re going to be parents. Congratulations!” the doctor added. <br /> I’m… pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child?<br /> The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. <br /> “Other than that, you’re perfectly healthy, Sophia,” the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking.<br /> My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. <br /> Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didn’t know what to say either. <br /> “Let me drive you home, Sophia,” he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. <br /> I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. <br /> What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and I’m supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. <br /> Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. <br /> If I have this baby, it won’t have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I don’t have anyone to help me?<br /> My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. <br /> This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby?<br /> Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful.<br /> As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. I’m so sorry, baby. It’s just all too sudden. But I know that I’m going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. <br /> Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. <br /> Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrived—I had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away.<br /> In just a week’s time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. “Call me when you get there!” she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. <br /> As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. <br /> The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me.<br /> Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. “Everything will be okay,” he reassured me. “I'm here. We'll do this together.” <br /> His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. <br /> I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, You’re my lucky charm, my baby. <br /> By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me.<br /> As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed past—the Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. <br /> Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. <br /> Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. <br /> This was it—the start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile.<br /> “Looks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,” he remarked, glancing back at me.<br /> "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied.<br /> Daniel chuckled. “Just remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.”<br /> I rolled my eyes. “I'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.”<br /> He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. “I'm just saying, you’ll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!” <br /> I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. “Oh, shut up.” <br /> We both laughed. He added, “You need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.”<br /> “Oh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?”<br /> Daniel grinned. “Hey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.”<br /> I playfully nudged him. “I think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.”<br /> He appeared pleased with that statement. “Fair enough,” he answered with a teasing smile. “But you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.”<br /> I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years.<br /> Sighing, I went over to my bags. “Come on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.”<br /> As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. <br /> “Hello?” I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. <br /> “Who the hell is this? Where's Sophia?” a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient.<br /> My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. <br /> I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allowed to go anywh...."<br /> I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath.<br /> It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me.<br /> Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care?<br /> No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved?<br /> Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety.<br /> "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question.<br /> I sighed, <br /> "My husband. No, ex-husband."	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1,939,916	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-07-27 19:12	active	1179	469171972515745	Read with Your Ears➤➤	"I, James Rodriguez, soon to be alpha of Eclipse Pack reject you, Nikolina Reed as my mate and Luna. “ <br /> The pain was blinding for Nikolina. Her next words took both of them by surprise. She was anything but weak and she knew she deserved a lot better than some douche bag who was disrespectful towards his own mate. Alpha or not, he shouldn't be the one who gets the last laugh.<br /> ***<br /> Nikolina POV<br /> 4 hours earlier<br /> I woke up in a very good mood. I am finally eighteen and today is the day I find my mate. It actually depends on both sides. If they are of age, they'll find each other soon enough, seventeen is the youngest you can be when you find your mate.<br /> However, most of the time, the guy or the girl have to wait for their other half to come of age, which I think is a great idea.<br /> Yes, I'm a werewolf, specifically the current Beta's daughter and soon to be Beta's sister. The disappointment of the family. But that's okay; I'm not very inclined to make them proud or follow in their footsteps, but mostly they want Alex to do it.<br /> Don't get me wrong. I'm not abused or bullied; except for the occasional remarks, shunned from society, the usual stuff.<br /> They say I'm ugly, but I know better than to believe that. I could have been popular due to my blue eyes and gold speckles, blonde hair and hourglass figure. But I like to keep to myself. Plus my hair was naturally blonde unlike my mother's peroxide bleached hair that comes out of bottles and pricey extensions. Actually, dad and Alex both have brown hair so I don't know how I have blonde hair. For months, I even checked the roots of my hair to find some sort of discoloration to prove that even my hair was bleached. But in vain.<br /> My mom was the stereotypical cheerleader in high school while my dad was the “douche” and quarterback. Apparently they want me to be like them, and social hierarchy exists in packs as well. And my brother is following our parents footsteps, sleeping with more than half of the population, while I'm not.<br /> They revel in attention and bullying people who are lower than them, as they say. To the outside world, my family and I love each other. On the inside it’s an extreme hate relationship, something the pack is aware of except for the Alpha and Luna.<br /> If they knew the truth, my parents, Tiffany and Mark, would lose their respect and beloved Alex's position would be taken away from him. Which would obviously take his popularity down a notch. Horrifying for him. Entertaining for me.<br /> Anyways, today is also the soon-to-be Alpha's eighteenth birthday. James Rodriguez.<br /> Sometimes I wonder how someone as sweet and kind as Diana and George, produce a kid like James.<br /> In short, James is the snobby player. It’s actually really surprising how none of the girls are pregnant yet...<br /> Back to me, I dressed up with more care than usual. I wore a baby pink sundress with black gladiator sandals. I applied a bit of winged liner to make my eyes pop. I've always read stories about loving mates. Who knows how much of it is true? For all I know, it’s some made up fantasy to make mates seem like the ultimate endgame. Maybe one day, I would meet my mate and then we could run away towards the sunset............or something, I don't really care.<br /> Apparently, all mates are compatible with their other half. It’s like love at first sight and the males getting all possessive about their mates is very appealing and a turn on, or so I've heard.<br /> It's all hearsay. And I think it’s stupid. It’s like the males are all custom made robots. Why else would their behavior be so alike?<br /> And there was a paragraph about heat and shifting and marking. Maybe, my mate's gonna go all caveman on me and tear my throat out.<br /> I'm just kidding, morbid thoughts on my birthday are kind of my thing. And its wishful thinking. I don't care. He might even be an omega and I still wouldn't care. Even if he's a human, it wouldn't matter. And if he's not in this pack then..... Oh well... It's better for me. I don't want to stay in a pack where I have no respect and people treat me bad. Status had once mattered to me. But when you have parents like mine, you kind of start praying not to ever be like them.<br /> Not once did they look at me but of course, Alexander was doted on by everyone. Kids. Parents. Friends. You name it.<br /> Apparently, it's because he's a boy. And according to my mother, girls are good for getting screwed, getting hit on, obeying their men, acting flirty along, and popping out heirs.<br /> And lucky for you all, my mother happens to be exhibit A.<br /> You should all be jealous because it's not everyday that you have a live walking, talking example to show the word and tell them what a hoe your mother is.<br /> Third Person POV <br /> Nikolina walked to school as she was not allowed a car. Though Alex was the proud owner of a shiny Silver Volvo. Double standards were very common in the Reed family. She had always wanted her own car, something that was a stunning shade of bright canary yellow, but that dream was nowhere close to becoming a reality.<br /> All of a sudden, she smelt an amazing scent; peppermint and honey. Lydia purred and rolled around in happiness, barely able to contain her excitement.<br /> On searching for the source, her eyes met warm, hazel orbs. His eyes expressed lust and adoration as they raked all over her body.<br /> Realization finally hit her hard when she saw that James-freaking-Rodriguez was her mate! The next Alpha of Solaris Eclipse Pack. And he was Portia's long-standing boyfriend.<br /> You know what he did next? James went back to groping the head cheerleader. “Portia.... “ Oh, sorry. Rookie mistake. Portia Scott.<br /> Tears threatened to fall while her wolf Lydia whimpered, seeing her mate touch another...<br /> “Our mate is beautiful.” James's wolf, Jace said. Nikolina was more than just beautiful. Many males of the pack thought she was gorgeous but never mentioned it out loud due to the fear of facing Alex's wrath. Alex was the one to start it all: the petty insults, the hateful words and making an outcast out of her. Others had just followed his footsteps. And of course, some of the girls were shallow enough to find happiness by making Nikolina feel miserable, because they were insecure about themselves.<br /> But the main issue was, though James thought Nikolina was pretty, he would never accept her as his mate and Luna. Though she was Beta Mark's daughter and was of high status, both him and his ego considered her a nobody. He knew about the insults and he had done it as well. In his eyes, she was worthless and all everyone ever did was talk down on her and she never fought back.<br /> He couldn't have a... thing like that as his mate. Beauty just wasn't enough for him, being a ruthless woman was a requirement.<br /> “She might be beautiful but I don't want her. She's a nobody. If people know that she is my mate, I would become the laughing stock of my pack. Seriously, people walk all over her. She can never be my Luna.” That was the thought going through his mind as he sucked on Portia's neck hard enough to bruise.<br /> “Ow! You're hurting me, boo! You know Kelly has my concealer today.” Portia whined but still made no move to shove James away. She just proceeded to grind her lower body into James and trying to get as close as humanly possible without getting rid of her clothes in public.<br /> James finally pried Portia off his body and walked towards his mate. In some ways, Portia was like a bloodsucking leech or an annoying wart, never leaving without a fight.<br /> “Baby, where are you going? I need you!” Her voice was like a cat dragging its claws across a board.<br /> James just signalled her to shut up before walking towards his mate. He would do the right thing, of course, as the future Alpha of Solaris Eclipse Pack and give Nikolina what she deserves.<br /> He stopped in front of her and asked, “What's your name?”<br /> “Nikolina,” she stated. He soon noticed that she had no friends and no car and he felt the curious stares on his back as everyone's attention was on him.<br /> “I, James Rodriguez, soon to be alpha of Eclipse Pack reject you, Nikolina Reed as my mate and Luna. “ As he rejected her, Jace whimpered and cowered. And James felt bad but he knew this was the right thing to do for himself and the pack. From his perspective, Nikolina was someone who brought out the worst in people and Portia was way more deserving to be his mate and Luna, considering that she was fearless and wasn't afraid to fight dirty for her rights.<br /> James was an egoistic douche bag who mistook petty behavior for fearless but he was blinded by the greed for power and popularity.<br /> The pain was blinding for Nikolina. She would have collapsed if not for the anger that surged through her. She was furious. At James. The Moon Goddess. Not realizing how painful rejection was. Her fate. It was a never ending list.<br /> It felt like she was being drowned in liquid bleach, her lungs burned and she saw red. Anger took over the pain she was feeling and she didn't want to give him the satisfaction of knowing how hurt she was.<br /> Her next words took both of them by surprise. She was anything but weak and she knew she deserved a lot better than some douche bag who was disrespectful towards his own mate. Alpha or not, he shouldn't be the one who gets the last laugh.<br /> “I, Nikolina Reed, accept your rejection as my mate and Alpha. I sincerely hope you get the clap!”<br /> With that, she turned on her heel and left the school premises.<br /> “Who needs a mate? Especially someone like James. People like him need girls like Portia by their sides, who cater to their whims and needs and whatever freaky carnal desire they might have.” Nikolina thought darkly. She wasn't going to give in to her pain and this rejection was the final push that encouraged her to chase after her freedom and break bonds with the family who had clipped off her wings.<br /> James felt a tiny bit of hurt realizing that she didn't even think twice before accepting the rejection and all he could wonder was how did she not burst into tears or grovel at his feet to take her back. Jace did not talk. He just whimpered, feeling the loss of his mate. Before James could think of it anymore, Portia dragged him to an empty classroom to distract her beloved Jamie boo. It seemed as if James wasn't the least bit affected by the incident with Nikolina, because his actions didn't falter as he hitched Portia's skirt up and ripped her panties, drilling her like an animal and releasing himself on her clothes and face as he left her alone to clean up.<br /> Nikolina POV<br /> “Well, he can go drill his toy as much as he wants.” I thought darkly while making my way towards home. All Lydia did was whimper. The moment I saw James, I knew something like this was bound to happen. You don't have any expectations when someone like him is supposed to be your destined mate. He was born with a big ego and he can just stuff it up his.<br /> “Maybe he regrets hurting us, you know.” Lydia whimpered.<br /> Before I could reply, searing hot pain flooded my senses. I felt myself fall on the pavement and the pain started to become more intense. It is obvious, isn't it? He's already drilling someone just minutes after rejecting me. It felt like my body was set on fire and the blistering flames charred my skin.<br /> I slowly got up and almost keeled over as my vision turned white. Dizziness washed over me. I had to clench my fists and dig my fingers hard enough to draw blood. Getting away from him and this stupid pack is my best bet. He was doing it intentionally considering the fact he knows that we're both connected unless one of us dies or gets marked by another. Walking never felt so strenuous and with every step I had to force myself to not curl up on the pavement and cry. I know I deserve someone better but I did want to cry my pain away.<br /> After what seemed like hours, the pain slowly ebbed away. Painful times ahead. The only problem is that the mate bond doesn't break even after being rejected. Only if the rejected is marked by the first mate or by another, or if one of the mates die, will the bond break.<br /> I entered my house and went to my room to pack my bags. You know, in every werewolf story the rejected mate writes letters before leaving. There's no logic to it. I mean, don't you get it? No one cares if you leave. No one cares if you die. No one cares if you slit your throat or get molested or murdered. That's the harsh truth. Why should I open my feelings on a letter make them feel pity? I can just run away and live my best life, away from them. It's not like they will send out search teams for you.<br /> I don't want pity. I can do better than that. I picked up my red lipstick and wrote in capitals before leaving. I know I'm dramatic but it serves them right. They'll remember this for years to come: women can walk away without feeling a twinge of guilt or regret.<br /> Showing vulnerability would only make me seem weak and I've let people walk over me way too many times.<br /> My mom was probably busy getting her hair done or something. That's the only thing she ever does. Or her nails. Or maybe she was out shopping with snobby people like herself. It's obvious that birds of a feather flock together. The only thing I ever liked about her is that she cooked for us, sometimes. Mom made a mean lasagna.<br /> Dad was probably with Alpha George. That's usually where he is. But then again, he also has this terrible habit of getting drunk during daylight hours. And once he even groped some other girl in front of the whole pack. Mom turned an ugly shade of red as she kicked him in the crotch. Those were the good days. It was fun when he laid on the couch with a bag of frozen peas on his groin and mom was nowhere around.<br /> Leaving was better for me anyway. Nothing was tying me down to this place. No friends. No proper family. I would be doing myself and them a favor.<br /> I took my dad's sleek black Porsche for my escapade. I might as well leave loaded and in style, besides it's high time I had a car.<br /> Just as I reached the pack border, I said, “I, Nikolina Reed, break all ties with the Solaris Eclipse Pack.” The patrol guards looked at me, but its not like they would stop me.<br /> The pack links broke and with that I revved up the engine and sped through the borders, driving towards my new life. A better life. It was a blessing that this pack did not care enough to stop me.<br /> <br /> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><br /> Keep the story going! Download our app and listen to the rest of the audiobook ID:99168.	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