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1,940,174	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940171}'	No	2024-07-27 19:19	active	1180	457990303683451	🔥🔥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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1,940,170	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940171}'	No	2024-07-27 19:19	active	1180	454693697469501	🔥🔥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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1,940,143	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940171}'	Yes	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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1,940,173	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940171}'	No	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."	LEARN_MORE	https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=	144939265372419	Indulge in story	https://facebook.com/61552702618591	652	1	1,183,708,982,769,539	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Indulge in story	120211512016920635	thebvhwysgng.com		NONE	image		https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=12887&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}		2024-07-25 03:26	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452904648_1526006078300366_3976192512809437731_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XLxuNeTXQ1MQ7kNvgFrYV4Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBqQCDBbOUUHcaX6-0M7Bl9omrudQAL-a3kJIr1vnMy9g&oe=66AB6FDB	person_profile	Indulge in story	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452920338_507836448271890_2812925412567757149_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=skEc5Vw9rvAQ7kNvgFXWRxq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYAIeZ7U_I-Ue6Xk5dDYbU_mZeeZhtNvGmbUEcZXLKtKZg&oe=66AB6AB1	3	Indulge in story	2024-07-26 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,404	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	773446724659094	🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉	Haley hadn't seen her husband William for a week and when she finally called him in the evening he seemed annoyed. "I have a meeting now. Excuse me." He brushed hang up the phone before she could say a word. Haley felt a little disappointed since tonight marked their third anniversary. Anyway, she decided to stay awake until he got home. Bored, she picked up her phone, checking into her tiktok to kil-l time. Just then, a piece of news popped up, featuring NK Enterprise, her husband's company. Excited, Haley tapped into the news; "William Nash, Famous CEO of NK Enterprise, Checks Into Hotel With his Mystery Girlfriend, Relationship Revealed" Her William? Haley's eyes glued to her phone's screen, shock and disbelief taking over when she saw the image of her husband entering the Hotel, his arm snaked around a woman's waist. Haley couldn’t believe her husband was with a woman. She must be mistaken. Sinking in confusion was pointless. Haley dialed his number. On her third trial, he finally picked up. “What's up?” he asked coldly. Haley inhaled deeply, controlling her emotions. “Liam, where are you? Today's our 3rd anniversary, remember?” “So?” he said through his careless tone, “Not coming home. Sleep by yourself.” His voice holding no remorse, a gut-wrenching punch to her pride. Just then, a female voice, soft and seductive, came on the phone. “Willy, I'm thirsty.” Willy? Even Haley wasn't allowed to call him that. He truly was with a woman! The phone beeped. He hung up the call. Haley sank onto the bed, her thoughts spinning and that voice echoing. It was Leah! Liam’s secretary who looked a lot like his Ex. Dazed, Haley's gaze fell on the decorations; her hard work. Tears blurred Haley's vision. Suddenly, a message notification appeared. [I'm pre-gnant. It's time for me to become the new Mrs. Nash.] Haley gripped the phone, her body trembling. It was from Leah. She'd been having second thoughts whenever she wanted to leave the man, but now she gave up her last hope. Haley stood up and retrieved the document she'd hidden in a corner of the closet and signed her name on it. Tears that reminded her of how weak and helpless she'd reduced herself to all in this marriage. Never again.	LEARN_MORE	https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12277&u	144939265372419	Indulge in story	https://facebook.com/61552702618591	652	1	944,994,014,306,831	2024-07-04 02:00	person_profile	taken-down	NONE	1	0	Learn More	Indulge in story	120211657293960646	redtgb.com		NONE	dco		https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12277&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}		2024-06-29 05:31	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449390795_7854042474649336_272341074011239376_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pNwLmRNygKAQ7kNvgG84BI7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAsdj7sISXEztrWf2zxtLaXjWVx8_zdrubd2DRqjCDg_w&oe=66AB5B1E	person_profile	Indulge in story	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449014805_398624185918279_3886630374029806424_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e73VACixK98Q7kNvgENsbE1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYDc5iWRnbIRdIHlc51tzkXlHkP-5-MRzgs0nE3dsXq8lg&oe=66AB598D	3	Indulge in story	2024-07-01 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,401	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940357}'	No	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	459582130333487	😍Read the next chapters👉	Chapter 1<br /> Lottie’s POV<br /> "So, who is coming tomorrow?" I asked my best friend Lilly, who was twirling in the mirror, the expensive satin of her wedding dress swishing around her ankles. Tomorrow was her big day, and ever the perfectionist, she just had to check everything still fit perfectly. <br /> <br /> "Umm, the usual: our pack, Daddy's business partner, bordering packs, and their alphas. It's only a small gathering." She mumbled, brushing her hands over her tiny waist. <br /> <br /> "Small." I nodded sarcastically; we clearly had a very different understanding of what small meant, but as the daughter of the ruthless Alpha of the Crimson Moon packs, I guess this was small. <br /> <br /> "You know your mating ceremony will be just like this!" Sage chuckled, watching Lilly through my eyes. <br /> <br /> "Not a chance!" I barked, looking over at Lilly and her lavish dress, fake lashes and tan. I loved her and her confidence, but I was definitely more subtle than Lilly, never one to bask in the limelight but hide in the back! So this sort of opulence wasn't for me.<br /> <br /> "Your dad and Alpha Leigh won't accept any less than an extravagant ceremony! You are screwed, as they won't allow you a low-key event! You are the Beta's daughter. You must represent the pack; you know Mike will want all this too! Frills and all!" Sage teased, making me groa-n, shutting her out. I looked at Lilly warmly, smiling at her; she was truly beautiful!<br /> <br /> "You look beautiful, Lilly, very skinny," I added, knowing it was what she wanted to hear, but the truth was she did! She was the kind of girl that would look beautiful in a garbage bag. <br /> <br /> “You think? ” her li-p twisted into a smile, I knew she was satisfied with my answer. <br /> <br /> “Yes!” I stated firmly. Clapping giddily, she gasped, running to the dressing table; she returned with a box, placing it in my lap. <br /> <br /> "I got you a gift to thank you; I know I have been a bridzillar the last few months preparing for the wedding." Taken back, I glanced between her and the beautifully box in my lap. I look at her, remembering why I love her so much! She may be spoiled, a danmed princess and an insane drama queen, but she never ceased to make me feel special and appreciated! <br /> <br /> "You shouldn't have." A polite smile painted my li-ps. <br /> <br /> "Go try it on; Mike will die when he sees you in it!" She laughed, pulling me to my feet, nodding for me to open the box. Rolling her eyes, she ushered me into one of the fitting rooms to try it on. <br /> <br /> "Wait, what?" I asked nervously as she pushed me into the fitting room, winking at me as she closed the door. "Lilly, what have you done?" I asked, but curiosity was getting the better of me. <br /> <br /> "You will thank me later when he can't keep his hands off you!" She laughed.<br /> <br /> Biting my li-p, I pulled the ribbon, svcking in a breath, seeing the racy lingerie staring back at me challengingly, silently daring me to be bold.<br /> <br /> "Oh, My God!" I moaned, shaking my head! "I can't wear this!" I laughed, feeling the blush spread across my cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fifteen minutes later, I stood up on the podium, Lilly staring at me proudly. <br /> <br /> "Fck! I'd totally do you if I weren't getting married tomorrow!" Lilly winked, circling me. "I don't understand why you don't see how hot you are!" She groa-ned.<br /> <br /> Looking in the mirror finally, I svcked in a breath; my slim figure was encased in an icy blue crot-chless cami suspender set that left nothing to the imagination. A lace embroidered halter neck with mesh panels barely covering my booobs ran down my body in a slim V.<br /> <br /> "Seriously, it's like wearing a piece of dental floss!" I shouted, ignoring Lilly's giggles. <br /> <br /> "No pain, no gain, Lottie! Go, show Mike!"she grinned knowingly. "You can tell me all about it later!" She giggled mischievously. <br /> <br /> With a final look in the mirror, I admitted she was right. It did look good! Sexy even! Rolling my li-p between my teeth, I blushed, deciding to take her advice; Mike and I had not had much alone time lately; he was always working, Alpha Leigh had been keeping him busy with safety preparations for tomorrow. <br /> <br /> "Well, this was an excellent way to get his attention." My wolf Sage cackled as I slipped my dress over Lilly’s gift. <br /> <br /> Getting to the apartment I shared with Mike didn't take long; my father had insisted we stay close to the pack house; being the Crimson Moons beta, he, like Lilly, was used to getting his way. <br /> <br /> Seizing my keys from my bag, I froze, hearing the muffled sound of talking from behind our apartment door. Mike was home! <br /> <br /> "Is he watching por-n?" My wolf Sage laughed, hearing the barely audible moans from within the apartment walls. Concentrating on the sounds coming from the other side of the door, I laughed, hearing the distinct sound of mattress springs, breathy moans and... <br /> <br /> "Mike ! Don't stop! Oh my god, Mike harder!" A female panted as the familiar sound of a headboard pounding a wall fluttered up to my ears. MY headboard! Swallowing the bile that assaulted my throat, I quietly walked into the apartment, numbly stumbling to our bedroom; the closer I got, the more I understood.<br /> <br /> "As you wish, baby girl!" MY boyfriend moaned as the squeaking got quicker, more desperate. <br /> <br /> "The fvck you are!" I roared, opening the door with a bang. <br /> <br /> "Shiiit!" Mike’s panicked voice spluttered as I flicked the light on.<br /> <br /> "Hey honey, I'm home!" I mocked, locking eyes with the guy I loved, who was balls deep in a female... a female who wasn't me!<br /> <br /> Chapter 2<br /> "I didn't think you would be back till later?" Mike dares to say, looking at me like I had grown two heads and was somehow in the wrong.<br /> <br /> "Clearly!" I mutter, walking over to the closet, grabbing my overnight bag and aggressively shoving things into it. <br /> <br /> "Baby girl...Come on..." He has the audacity to sound hurt; glancing into the mirror, I lock my eyes on him.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry, who are you talking to ... Me? Or Her?" Seeing the puzzled look on his face, I continued. "Just two seconds ago, I heard you call her 'baby girl'." I spat, knowing I was being petty over the pet name, but given that I had just walked in on him banging some chick in our bed, I felt I had earned the right to be a little childish!<br /> <br /> "No, you are mistaken." He shakes off. Spinning around, I glare at him. <br /> <br /> Is he seriously trying to make ME feel like I am going insane!<br /> <br /> "As you wish, BABY GIRL!" I yelled, repeating what I had heard him say not two minutes ago, to the who-re in his bed... Our bed!<br /> <br /> "It's not what it looks like, I promise."<br /> <br /> "Oh?" I roll my blue eyes and look at the she-wolf pulling the sheet around herself sheepishly. "Did he slip and accidentally land in your vargina?" Seeing her try to slip from the bed, I shook my head. "Stay! He is ALL yours!" I dismissed, returning to throwing the first things I could grab into my travel bag.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte, come on." Mike pushed, getting from the bed. "Work has been tough lately, and well..." Before he finished the sentence, I knew he would make this my fault somehow, just like I knew I would punch him in the face in the next thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "You have put a little weight on, and you never dress up for me anymore." His body was flush against my back. My body tightened at the irony, given the blue lace I had on under my dress, grabbing my make-up and ramming it brutally with my other things. <br /> <br /> Zipping my bag with shaky hands, I tried to remain calm as he continued. "You could try a little harder to entice me. I wouldn't have to look elsewhere then." <br /> <br /> Spinning around in his hold, I pulled my fist back and, with no warning, plunged it into his eye; satisfaction washed over me hearing the fragile bone in his nose break, blood splattered my dress; looking down at it in astonishment, I laughed in disbelief. <br /> <br /> Mike's curses were barely audible over the sound of my blood rushing through my body. <br /> <br /> "Yeah, we are done." I declare my mind made up as Mike tried to pull my elbow.<br /> <br /> “Babygirl..." He uttered, regretting it the second my eyes glared with the cold blue of Sage, who seized control and, before I could gasp, had delivered her own source of justice. Knocking Mike out cold, his body hurtled back and dropped to the floor, his limp body resembling a pretzel all limbs and bruised ego. <br /> <br /> "When he wakes up, you tell him to stay away from Lottie!" Sage growled at the quivering she-wolf, who was nodding, frozen by fear.<br /> <br /> *******<br /> "Another?" I requested, tapping the rim of my empty glass; the handsome bartender looked between Lilly and I, concern washing over his face. Apparently, our father's made him nervous. <br /> <br /> "I just caught my boyfriend shagging someone else; I think another drink is needed, don't you!" I asked, arching a brow, ignoring Lilly's sigh. Seeing him reluctantly fill my glass, a smirk pulled at the corners of my li-ps. <br /> <br /> I had spent the last few hours getting a little tipsy, dancing and trying to forget my heartbreak. But seeing Lilly look down at her phone with a frown, I knew the night was over.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte, I have to sleep." She only used my full name when she was trying to be serious, "I have to look my best tomorrow." She grinned, pulling me up from my chair. "Come on, let's go home." <br /> <br /> "I can't... I .. Can't go.. back there... HE.. is there!" I slurred, spinning around on wobbly legs; I eyed her helplessly, dramatically throwing my hands in the air. "Can I stay at yours, please!" Laughing, she nodded, pushing me towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Yeah, but I swear if you snore, I will kil-l you!" She laughed.<br /> <br /> Twenty minutes later, we pulled up at the pack house.<br /> <br /> "I will grab water; you go on up!" She laughed, waving me up the stairs as she disappeared into the kitchen. I felt like it took forever to get to her bedroom; pushing the door open, I paused, looking around the room.<br /> <br /> "I don't think I have ever seen this room THIS tidy." I laughed, pulling my dress over my head. I threw my dress aside, picking up a photo frame with a picture of Lilly's older brother standing proudly with his arm around his dad, smiling into the camera, without a care. It was his graduation day. I remember it well. He made me call him master all day. <br /> <br /> "Jackass!" I cursed, turning the frame around, not wanting his eyes on me while I slept, or at all! <br /> <br /> "Looks like this lingerie will be getting some action tonight!" I laughed bitterly while looking in the full-length mirror, thinking about how different this night could have been. Mike's cruel words about my weight were eating at what little confidence I had. Lilly's brothers had made my life hel-l growing up until they left for training a few years back, so I was used to being the but of jokes, taunted and teased, but coming from Mike, it hurt. <br /> <br /> Svcking in a breath, I froze, the sound of running water finally hitting my ears. I had left Lilly downstairs, had she slipped in while I walked around her room? <br /> <br /> Pushing the door to the ensuite open, I froze, my feet rooted to the spot; through the glass panel of the shower, Lilly's brother stood, hand pressed up against the marbled tiled wall, his knuckles turning white from the pressure, his body ripped with even more muscles then he left with. Tattoos wound the whole of his body, trailing my eyes across them giddily; I tensed seeing his tattooed hand gripping his thick steeled rod, easily 9 inches of heaven. <br /> <br /> My eyes locked on his diick as he pumped his hand around it, pleasuring himself in what I knew was meant to be a private moment.<br /> <br /> "Either join me or get out!" He rasped, looking over his shoulders at me; the second our eyes met, I felt like I had been punched, knocking me to my knees, the floor disappearing from under me; somewhere in the distance, I heard Knox's panicked scream, it was genuine concern, not laughter, I was hearing from him. Why? Confusion bled through me wildly, just before everything went black.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3<br /> Distant memories of the annual pack ball danced across my vision; Lilly and I were expected to go as we had come of age; we had both expected the twins to try to sabotage the whole evening! But they hadn't! Lilly and I had assumed it was because our fathers had insisted we attend, and they outranked the twins! Something we knew grated on the boys! <br /> <br /> The guy I had been crushing on at school had asked me to be his date; I was beyond excited! I had gone all out and had my hair, nails and make-up done. I had worked overtime to save up for a dress, I had spent a small fortune, and for once, I felt beautiful! <br /> <br /> He treated me like royalty, something I was not used to, given how the twins liked to control everything Lilly I did behind the walls of the pack house, but the twins had not said anything about me going with the young male wolf; I thought they had finally allowed me some freedom. We danced and laughed, and I thought he would kiss me! I never wanted the night to end; it had been perfect until I found the twins laughing about how desperate and pathetic I was and how they couldn't believe I had actually thought HE would like ME! <br /> <br /> Unable to watch anymore, I turned to leave only to see other classmates recording me, laughing at me and my tears. It didn't take long for it to be uploaded to social media and sent around school, making me a laughingstock! I had never understood why they were so obsessed with what I did! I got that they protected Lilly, but I was not kin! And this behavior was unwarranted! <br /> <br /> I tried to speak to my father about it, but since my mother had died, he had checked out, leaving Luna Louise to raise me; his only care was the pack and keeping it safe! And I could hardly go to her and moan that her precious sons were making my life hel-l! So I had no choice but to put up and shut up! Only when they left at 16 did things get easier; I finally knew peace, friendship, and fun! And somewhere in between, I met Mike. <br /> <br /> Opening my eyes slowly, the memories faded only to be replaced by the concerned face of Knox, staring down at me with such warmth my stomach flipped. His fingers traced my cheek as relief spread over his features. <br /> <br /> "Get. Your. Hand. Off. Me!" I seethed, slapping it away aggressively, my eyes narrowing on the ice blue hues of Knox, forcing myself to ignore the flicker of hurt that slipped across his face. <br /> <br /> "Hush, baby, let me check you over. You hit your head hard." He cooed, and my eyes widened in disbelief at the sincerity in his tone. <br /> <br /> "Get your STI-riddled hand off of me before I break it the fck off!" Snapping my mouth closed, feeling the light touch of his fingers on my li-ps.<br /> <br /> "You have a filthy mouth, do you know that!" His brows knitted together as he looked my face over, his gaze locking on my li-ps, making me uncomfortable. "I should teach you a lesson!" He mused a smirk split his face, seeing the shock wash over mine.<br /> <br /> "You're disgusting!" I spat, pushing myself up, looking around confused, seeing I was not on the floor but instead laid out carefully on the bed, Knox beside me. He had apparently swept me up and taken care of me, but I could not think why for the life of me. Shoving him aside, I attempted to climb over him. But his hands gripped my waist, locking me mid-stride over his torso. <br /> <br /> "I have to admit, you have changed a lot!" A grin slowly slipped across his face, his fingers trailing up the soft fabric of my new lingerie. Lingerie meant for Mike. "Not the whiny brat I left behind, huh" Shoving his che-st hard, framing my face in a wall of glowing white.<br /> <br /> I didn't want to admit that he had changed, too; he had grown into a gorgeous male.<br /> <br /> "And buffed up!" Sage added to my inner thoughts, bringing me back to reality. Ignoring her lude comment with a groa-n, my hands covered his that were rubbing up my sides. <br /> <br /> "Seriously, stop touching me!" Pushing his hands off me with a snort, "Dicck!" I grunted. <br /> <br /> "Hmmm, yeah, I have one... wanna see?" He taunted, his hands returning to my waist with supernatural speed.<br /> <br /> "YES, I wanna see!" Sage purred excitedly. <br /> "Seriously! Do you remember all the shiit he put us through" I snapped, trying to pull away from his grasp.<br /> <br /> "God's", A gasp escaped my li-ps, feeling his solid length rub against my core.<br /> <br /> "Crotc-hless!" He smirked up at me. "Not so innocent, it seems!"<br /> <br /> "UGH!" I growled, trying to lift off of him, but he forced me along him again, making me cry out as my pusssy clenched needily, loving the sensation of pain mixing with pleasure.<br /> <br /> "Let me make this crystal clear for you, Knox! I do not want you!"<br /> <br /> "Really? Sage seems game!" He grinned slyly.<br /> <br /> "She's a sluut!" I announced, angry at Sage's betrayal! <br /> <br /> "Mmm, My sluut?" He beamed, his hands sliding up my back;his solid length was millimeters from my core, but he was waiting for me to give him the green light.<br /> <br /> "Beg me, Knox!" I challenged!<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> "Beg?" He scoffed, eyes narrowing on me; I could see the inner fight between Knox and his wolf. He was a son of an Alpha. He had probably never begged for anything, let alone a female! But if he wanted me like he claimed to, he would beg! <br /> <br /> "Yes, Beg! Or let go of me." I declared with a newfound boldness. I was so over being weak and vulnerable, done being pushed around by those around me, and that included Mike and the danm twins!<br /> <br /> His hands released my hi-ps. Evidently, he refused to dance to my tune. <br /> <br /> "You are so danm perfect, but I won't beg!" He maintained. For once, he looked weak! The desire in his gaze filled me with a new sense of power; it had been such a long time since I felt this heat, and it was scrambling my brain.<br /> <br /> "There, that wasn't so hard, was it!" I laughed, rising onto my knees, an idea quickly springing to my mind. Years I had put up with his taunts, teasing and humiliation. It was time to return that favor. <br /> <br /> "Do it, I dare ya!" Sage encouraged.<br /> <br /> I slipped the straps off my shoulders, letting the delicate lace slide down, my booobs bouncing fre-e. <br /> <br /> "Please, Charlotte. Let me taste your pretty body; let me make you feel every inch the Queen you are!" <br /> <br /> Shiit! <br /> <br /> “ I will beg too! Let him do it! Please!" Sage wailed in my head, but she needn't! I hated myself for it, but I wanted it. I wanted him, and given the look on his face, he bloody well knew it!<br /> <br /> Nodding, I watched as he did just that, his li-ps pressed to my body in turn. Gripping his hand in mine, I tutted at him; even when drowning in lust, I refused to let him take control of the situation!<br /> <br /> "Char??" I heard Lilly call from the hallway. "Where the fck did she go?" She moaned as she walked past Knox's room; the fact she didn't even think to check in here told me everything and brought me back to the startling realisation that I had fcked up! I was lying on my best friend's brother's bed, between his legs!<br /> <br /> "Get off!" I growled, pushing Knox off; my lust turned to hate quickly. <br /> <br /> "This shouldn't have happened!" I spat accusingly at him, but I knew I had been a willing participant, and if Lilly hadn't interrupted, I hate to think just how willing of a participant I would have been!<br /> <br /> "Come on, it's fine!" He laughed as I scrambled out from under him, pulling my straps back in place while searching for my dress and pulling it on. <br /> <br /> "Where is that blood from?" Knox growled, making me jump; looking down at my blood-stained dress, I frowned- I liked this dress! How had I not noticed Mike's blood all over it?<br /> <br /> "None of your danm business!" I huffed, grabbing my shoes and glaring at him one last time.<br /> <br /> "THIS never happened!" I snapped, slipping from the room as quietly as I can, tiptoeing down the hall to Lilly's room. Seeing she was still roaming the corridors looking for me, I took the opportunity to slip into the shower. Desperate to wash the embarrassment off me. <br /> <br /> "You smell of him... Of Knox!"Sage announced as she rubbed up against the walls of my mind.<br /> <br /> "What?" I gasped, inhaling sharply, hoping the smell of the shower gel would erase not just his smell but the memories too!However, all I could smell was the heavenly scent of Knox and his danm arousal! <br /> <br /> "Fck!" I cursed, scrubbing myself raw, until I heard Lilly return. <br /> <br /> "Where the fck have you been?" She snapped as she pulled herself up on the counter in the bathroom, watching me skeptically. Making a split-second decision, I decided to lie!<br /> <br /> "I got lost and ended up in your brother Knox's room! I didn't realize he was back!" I started sxcking down a breath, groa-ning, smelling Knox STILL. <br /> <br /> "A little heads up would have been good!" I moaned, giving her an irritated half-smile.<br /> <br /> "You thought they would miss my big day?" She laughed, rolling her eyes! "They got back this evening." <br /> <br /> "No shiiit!" I sighed, giving her a 'you think' look as I bull shited her with another lie; Sage and I were both disappointed at how easily the lie left my li-ps.<br /> <br /> Giggling with my best friend on the night of her mating ceremony should have been the highlight of my night, but instead, I was left with an uneasy feeling eating at my stomach, something telling me my life was about to get a he-ll of a lot more complicated! And there was nothing I could do about it!<br /> <br /> Chapter 5<br /> "Get your lazy as-s up!" Lilly demanded, her shrill voice making me sigh; flopping onto my stomach, I pulled her pillow over my head, hoping to silence her. <br /> <br /> "No!" I grumbled, images of Knox and I last night still floating around my head, making my thi-ghs ache.<br /> <br /> "Char! Come on!" Lilly said, pulling the sheet off me; the cold air assaulting my body. <br /> <br /> "It's my big day! I need my best friend at my side!" She complained, but the edge to her tone told me she was not about to give up any time soon. <br /> <br /> "Fine! I am up!" I grumbled, throwing the pillow in the direction Lilly's voice came from while pulling myself up. Smelling strong coffee, I smiled sleepily over at Lilly, the last remnants of my dream and her sexy brother slowly fading from my mind as I took the coffee she handed me. <br /> <br /> "I can't get sick today, Char!" Lilly moaned, watching me as she handed me a mirror to show me how red-faced I was, dropping it on the bed, not needing to look to know I was blushing.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte! Are you ok? You're shaking?" Lilly inhaled, taking the coffee cup from my hands before I dropped it. Her hand pressed to my forehead sympathetically. "Charlotte?" <br /> <br /> "Do you think he will be as skilled with his tongue as you imagine him to be?" Sage added, making me blush further. <br /> <br /> "Enough!" I screamed at my wolf, cutting our link off so I could focus and calm my trembling hands and racing heart. The concern on Lilly's face startled me back to reality.<br /> <br /> "I am ok! Honestly!"I muttered, shaking my head at the images Sage had interjected into my mind on a loop.<br /> <br /> "I should tell her! In the 18 years we have been friends, I have never lied to her! I don't feel right doing so now!" I stated guiltily to Sage.<br /> <br /> It seemed since we left Knox's room, it was all she could think of! And a certain male's dicck in particular. <br /> <br /> Sxcking down my breath, seeing Lilly's frantic eyes searching my face needily. Today was her big day! She had been dreaming of this day for as long as I had known her, finding her mate, making it official and making her family and pack proud. <br /> <br /> I, on the other hand, needed more! I needed the rawest form of love, trust and security, all of which was something Knox could not offer me! The thought cemented what I already knew; It was a one-off! Sighing, I softened my features, ignoring the aching between my thi-ghs.<br /> <br /> "I think the last 24 hours have caught up with me, seeing Mike and that trollop in my bed! That's all!" I expressed lying to her face for the second time in a few hours.<br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Char; he really is a piece of shiit! Want me to ask Knox and Kane to give him a good hiding." Shaking my head dramatically with a nervous laugh, I gripped her hands and pulled her onto the bed, ignoring her protests.<br /> <br /> "NO!" It's embarrassing enough that I caught them having sax in my bed; I don't want the whole pack talking about it." I sighed, grabbing the pillow and throwing it at her with an arched brow.<br /> <br /> "Hmmm, yeah, I understand that!" She chuckled, throwing the pillow back at me as she got back off the bed, holding her hand out to pull me up. <br /> <br /> "But if he becomes a bother! I will tell them! I know you think they don't care about you, Charlotte, but they see you as a little sister! They won't stand for his bullshiit!" She expressed, looking at me in the mirror as she fixed her hair. <br /> <br /> "Lord, I hope they don't see you as a sister! Not sure how I feel about ince-st!" Sage grunted, working her way through the barrier I had put up. "Although... I am up for calling Knox Daddy if you are?" She added with a wiggle.<br /> <br /> "Way to lower the tone, sage!" I huffed, ignoring her like before as I helped Lilly prepare for her big day! <br /> <br /> Two hours later, we were making our way through an empty pack house; Alpha Leigh had seen to it that no one would see his daughter until the ceremony, so not a single person remained in the pack house but Lilly and I. <br /> <br /> "Are you not nervous?" I asked; standing at the back doors, I squeezed her hand. <br /> <br /> "No, just excited!" She whispered, pushing the doors open to peek out at the beautifully decorated garden with its subtle nod to the pack's colours. <br /> <br /> "Wow, it's stunning." I gushed as the door heaved open, and Alpha Leigh stepped in, his eyes falling on his daughter and blurring with tears instantly in a way only a proud father could.<br /> <br /> "Told you, you looked beautiful!" I grinned, nudging Lilly's waist with mine seeing him try not to cry at the sight of his daughter in her ceremonial dress. <br /> <br /> "You like Daddy?" She screeched, turning slowly to show him what his money had brought. It was an exquisite dress, floor length, made with the softest of silk. <br /> <br /> "You look like a princess!" He gushed, straightening no doubt in an attempt to control his emotions; his eyes scanned me with a warm smile, looking at my dress with a chuckle. <br /> <br /> "I half expected you to turn up in yoga pants and a hoodie Charlotte!" He teased with an affectionate wink. He was right, of course; I lived in training and gym clothes. When your Father was the Beta, you tended to spend the majority of your time training. <br /> <br /> "Daddy!" Lilly scolded, "Don't encourage her! It took me weeks to bribe her into the dress!" She scoffed, giving me a firm stare. <br /> <br /> "Charlotte, can you excuse us a moment, I would like a minute with my baby before...." He whispered, his voice cutting off as his eyes locked on his daughter with such love. <br /> <br /> "She will always be your baby girl!" I whispered, leaning up on my tiptoes to press a soft kiss to my alphas cheek; he was like a second father to me and seeing him so overwhelmed at the sight of Lilly was very out of character for him, even behind closed doors he always seemed to favour the twins.<br /> <br /> Winking at my best friend before slipping out the doors and into a solid form and familiar scent, I groa-ned audibly; even Sage was finally waking up, sensing the danger.<br /> <br /> Chapter 6<br /> "What are you doing here!" I questioned, trying to keep my tone neutral, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of seeing my upset. Allowing my eyes to roam over a dark blue pin-stripped tailored suit that barely fit the muscular form of Mike. <br /> <br /> His dark eyes trained on me, his li-ps pulled into a scowl as he looked down my body. <br /> <br /> "Nice to see you too, baby girl!" He sighed, having just referred to Lilly as 'baby girl' to her father; hearing it slip from Mike's li-ps felt wrong, but I couldn't be bothered to argue with him about his pet name for me now, not when Alpha and Lilly are on the other side of the door. <br /> <br /> "Lottie?" He huffed, waiting for me to say something, but I had nothing to say, trying to hide his frustration by running a hand through his dark hair.<br /> <br /> "I missed you last night." He tried again, clearly trying to engage me in conversation. <br /> <br /> "I wish I could say the same!" I grunted, annoyed at myself for acknowledging him, I crossed my hands across my che-st. A part of me wished he would turn and leave me alone, go back to the she-wolf he had allowed to keep him company last night, but the stu-pid, naive part of me wanted to cling to him and ask him to fight for me! <br /> <br /> "Your father sent me to find you!" He grinned a pearly smile that had my stomach fluttering; I hadn't told my father about the breakup, so he meant well, I assured myself. <br /> <br /> "I can make my own way to the ceremony." I snapped, lowering my eyes from Mike's face; the displeasure washing across his face made me feel self-conscious enough.<br /> <br /> "Lottie!" He tried as I pulled my elbows closer, hugging them around myself, his cruel remark about my weight last night still raw, even if I hadn't let him know it had hurt me. <br /> <br /> "You took forever!" He stated. "Probably putting all that slap on your face!" Pulling on my elbow, he half dragged me down the beautifully styled pathway towards the old church grounds at the back of the property. <br /> <br /> "You're hurting me!" I winced, a burn rising to my cheeks at the mention of my make-up!<br /> <br /> "Yes!" He sneered, not even looking at me.<br /> <br /> "No! You look beautiful!" Sage interjected, lending me some of her strength to try and pull my arm back from his iron-tight grip.<br /> <br /> "You don't even have time to change! The guests have all arrived!" He grumbled, ignoring me and shoving me forward so hard I slipped on one of the petals lining the old cobbled path. "Fck sake, Lottie, you always have to show me up!" He hissed, looking down at me with contempt.<br /> <br /> "Get up then!" He snarled, his eyes lingering on the deep V neckline that barely held my booobs in place.<br /> <br /> Left speechless, I sat on the floor, looking up at my so-called mate, feeling the cold stone through the thin fabric.<br /> <br /> "I can't believe you, today is an important day for the pack, and you turn up dressed like... that! Representing me! Are you trying to destroy my reputation?" He snarled, shoving his hand out and grabbing my elbow again, yanking me up by it painfully and shoving me forward. <br /> <br /> "You look like a who=re!" He growled from behind me, shaking his head angrily; I could feel Sage's anger rising, and as much as I was grateful she had my back, now wasn't the time to cause a scene. It was Lilly's big day and an important day for the pack.<br /> <br /> "Well, you'd know all about whor-es!" I seethed quietly, spinning to face my so-called mate, "How many of them have you had in our bed?" I scoffed, looking at him with pity but unable to stop.<br /> <br /> "Tell me did they fake it like I did? They must have because there is no way your .. little.. friend could have satisfied them! Lord knows it never did me!" I blurted out angrily, narrowing my eyes at him challengingly. The darkening in his iris had my heart skipping a beat, and not for the right reason. He was angry!<br /> <br /> "That's your problem, Charlotte; you have never known your danm place." He grinned manically, taking a step toward me before I had a chance to react; he pulled me non to gently into an alcove of the garden, hidden by the white Jasmine vines. <br /> <br /> "But that's ok; I will teach you now!" He breathed into my ear as he slammed my che-st against the stone wall, knocking the air from my lungs and leaving me unable to cry out even if I wanted to. Gripping my hands again, he yanked them above my head, holding them together with one of his large hands.<br /> <br /> "I can smell your arousal!" He moaned into my ear huskily. Despite my compromising position, my body was throbbing, desperate for attention! I wanted to scream at Mike, to tell him the wetness between my thi-ghs wasn't for him but leftover remnants of my time with Knox last night. <br /> <br /> "I know that you, Lottie, will always be MY who-re!" Hearing the familiar sound of his zipper, I knew what was coming and as much as I hated to admit it! <br /> <br /> I wanted it!	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1,940,448	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940357}'	No	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	852478826752589	😍Read the next chapters👉	Chapter 1<br /> Lottie’s POV<br /> "So, who is coming tomorrow?" I asked my best friend Lilly, who was twirling in the mirror, the expensive satin of her wedding dress swishing around her ankles. Tomorrow was her big day, and ever the perfectionist, she just had to check everything still fit perfectly. <br /> <br /> "Umm, the usual: our pack, Daddy's business partner, bordering packs, and their alphas. It's only a small gathering." She mumbled, brushing her hands over her tiny waist. <br /> <br /> "Small." I nodded sarcastically; we clearly had a very different understanding of what small meant, but as the daughter of the ruthless Alpha of the Crimson Moon packs, I guess this was small. <br /> <br /> "You know your mating ceremony will be just like this!" Sage chuckled, watching Lilly through my eyes. <br /> <br /> "Not a chance!" I barked, looking over at Lilly and her lavish dress, fake lashes and tan. I loved her and her confidence, but I was definitely more subtle than Lilly, never one to bask in the limelight but hide in the back! So this sort of opulence wasn't for me.<br /> <br /> "Your dad and Alpha Leigh won't accept any less than an extravagant ceremony! You are screwed, as they won't allow you a low-key event! You are the Beta's daughter. You must represent the pack; you know Mike will want all this too! Frills and all!" Sage teased, making me groa-n, shutting her out. I looked at Lilly warmly, smiling at her; she was truly beautiful!<br /> <br /> "You look beautiful, Lilly, very skinny," I added, knowing it was what she wanted to hear, but the truth was she did! She was the kind of girl that would look beautiful in a garbage bag. <br /> <br /> “You think? ” her li-p twisted into a smile, I knew she was satisfied with my answer. <br /> <br /> “Yes!” I stated firmly. Clapping giddily, she gasped, running to the dressing table; she returned with a box, placing it in my lap. <br /> <br /> "I got you a gift to thank you; I know I have been a bridzillar the last few months preparing for the wedding." Taken back, I glanced between her and the beautifully box in my lap. I look at her, remembering why I love her so much! She may be spoiled, a danmed princess and an insane drama queen, but she never ceased to make me feel special and appreciated! <br /> <br /> "You shouldn't have." A polite smile painted my li-ps. <br /> <br /> "Go try it on; Mike will die when he sees you in it!" She laughed, pulling me to my feet, nodding for me to open the box. Rolling her eyes, she ushered me into one of the fitting rooms to try it on. <br /> <br /> "Wait, what?" I asked nervously as she pushed me into the fitting room, winking at me as she closed the door. "Lilly, what have you done?" I asked, but curiosity was getting the better of me. <br /> <br /> "You will thank me later when he can't keep his hands off you!" She laughed.<br /> <br /> Biting my li-p, I pulled the ribbon, svcking in a breath, seeing the racy lingerie staring back at me challengingly, silently daring me to be bold.<br /> <br /> "Oh, My God!" I moaned, shaking my head! "I can't wear this!" I laughed, feeling the blush spread across my cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fifteen minutes later, I stood up on the podium, Lilly staring at me proudly. <br /> <br /> "Fck! I'd totally do you if I weren't getting married tomorrow!" Lilly winked, circling me. "I don't understand why you don't see how hot you are!" She groa-ned.<br /> <br /> Looking in the mirror finally, I svcked in a breath; my slim figure was encased in an icy blue crot-chless cami suspender set that left nothing to the imagination. A lace embroidered halter neck with mesh panels barely covering my booobs ran down my body in a slim V.<br /> <br /> "Seriously, it's like wearing a piece of dental floss!" I shouted, ignoring Lilly's giggles. <br /> <br /> "No pain, no gain, Lottie! Go, show Mike!"she grinned knowingly. "You can tell me all about it later!" She giggled mischievously. <br /> <br /> With a final look in the mirror, I admitted she was right. It did look good! Sexy even! Rolling my li-p between my teeth, I blushed, deciding to take her advice; Mike and I had not had much alone time lately; he was always working, Alpha Leigh had been keeping him busy with safety preparations for tomorrow. <br /> <br /> "Well, this was an excellent way to get his attention." My wolf Sage cackled as I slipped my dress over Lilly’s gift. <br /> <br /> Getting to the apartment I shared with Mike didn't take long; my father had insisted we stay close to the pack house; being the Crimson Moons beta, he, like Lilly, was used to getting his way. <br /> <br /> Seizing my keys from my bag, I froze, hearing the muffled sound of talking from behind our apartment door. Mike was home! <br /> <br /> "Is he watching por-n?" My wolf Sage laughed, hearing the barely audible moans from within the apartment walls. Concentrating on the sounds coming from the other side of the door, I laughed, hearing the distinct sound of mattress springs, breathy moans and... <br /> <br /> "Mike ! Don't stop! Oh my god, Mike harder!" A female panted as the familiar sound of a headboard pounding a wall fluttered up to my ears. MY headboard! Swallowing the bile that assaulted my throat, I quietly walked into the apartment, numbly stumbling to our bedroom; the closer I got, the more I understood.<br /> <br /> "As you wish, baby girl!" MY boyfriend moaned as the squeaking got quicker, more desperate. <br /> <br /> "The fvck you are!" I roared, opening the door with a bang. <br /> <br /> "Shiiit!" Mike’s panicked voice spluttered as I flicked the light on.<br /> <br /> "Hey honey, I'm home!" I mocked, locking eyes with the guy I loved, who was balls deep in a female... a female who wasn't me!<br /> <br /> Chapter 2<br /> "I didn't think you would be back till later?" Mike dares to say, looking at me like I had grown two heads and was somehow in the wrong.<br /> <br /> "Clearly!" I mutter, walking over to the closet, grabbing my overnight bag and aggressively shoving things into it. <br /> <br /> "Baby girl...Come on..." He has the audacity to sound hurt; glancing into the mirror, I lock my eyes on him.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry, who are you talking to ... Me? Or Her?" Seeing the puzzled look on his face, I continued. "Just two seconds ago, I heard you call her 'baby girl'." I spat, knowing I was being petty over the pet name, but given that I had just walked in on him banging some chick in our bed, I felt I had earned the right to be a little childish!<br /> <br /> "No, you are mistaken." He shakes off. Spinning around, I glare at him. <br /> <br /> Is he seriously trying to make ME feel like I am going insane!<br /> <br /> "As you wish, BABY GIRL!" I yelled, repeating what I had heard him say not two minutes ago, to the who-re in his bed... Our bed!<br /> <br /> "It's not what it looks like, I promise."<br /> <br /> "Oh?" I roll my blue eyes and look at the she-wolf pulling the sheet around herself sheepishly. "Did he slip and accidentally land in your vargina?" Seeing her try to slip from the bed, I shook my head. "Stay! He is ALL yours!" I dismissed, returning to throwing the first things I could grab into my travel bag.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte, come on." Mike pushed, getting from the bed. "Work has been tough lately, and well..." Before he finished the sentence, I knew he would make this my fault somehow, just like I knew I would punch him in the face in the next thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "You have put a little weight on, and you never dress up for me anymore." His body was flush against my back. My body tightened at the irony, given the blue lace I had on under my dress, grabbing my make-up and ramming it brutally with my other things. <br /> <br /> Zipping my bag with shaky hands, I tried to remain calm as he continued. "You could try a little harder to entice me. I wouldn't have to look elsewhere then." <br /> <br /> Spinning around in his hold, I pulled my fist back and, with no warning, plunged it into his eye; satisfaction washed over me hearing the fragile bone in his nose break, blood splattered my dress; looking down at it in astonishment, I laughed in disbelief. <br /> <br /> Mike's curses were barely audible over the sound of my blood rushing through my body. <br /> <br /> "Yeah, we are done." I declare my mind made up as Mike tried to pull my elbow.<br /> <br /> “Babygirl..." He uttered, regretting it the second my eyes glared with the cold blue of Sage, who seized control and, before I could gasp, had delivered her own source of justice. Knocking Mike out cold, his body hurtled back and dropped to the floor, his limp body resembling a pretzel all limbs and bruised ego. <br /> <br /> "When he wakes up, you tell him to stay away from Lottie!" Sage growled at the quivering she-wolf, who was nodding, frozen by fear.<br /> <br /> *******<br /> "Another?" I requested, tapping the rim of my empty glass; the handsome bartender looked between Lilly and I, concern washing over his face. Apparently, our father's made him nervous. <br /> <br /> "I just caught my boyfriend shagging someone else; I think another drink is needed, don't you!" I asked, arching a brow, ignoring Lilly's sigh. Seeing him reluctantly fill my glass, a smirk pulled at the corners of my li-ps. <br /> <br /> I had spent the last few hours getting a little tipsy, dancing and trying to forget my heartbreak. But seeing Lilly look down at her phone with a frown, I knew the night was over.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte, I have to sleep." She only used my full name when she was trying to be serious, "I have to look my best tomorrow." She grinned, pulling me up from my chair. "Come on, let's go home." <br /> <br /> "I can't... I .. Can't go.. back there... HE.. is there!" I slurred, spinning around on wobbly legs; I eyed her helplessly, dramatically throwing my hands in the air. "Can I stay at yours, please!" Laughing, she nodded, pushing me towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Yeah, but I swear if you snore, I will kil-l you!" She laughed.<br /> <br /> Twenty minutes later, we pulled up at the pack house.<br /> <br /> "I will grab water; you go on up!" She laughed, waving me up the stairs as she disappeared into the kitchen. I felt like it took forever to get to her bedroom; pushing the door open, I paused, looking around the room.<br /> <br /> "I don't think I have ever seen this room THIS tidy." I laughed, pulling my dress over my head. I threw my dress aside, picking up a photo frame with a picture of Lilly's older brother standing proudly with his arm around his dad, smiling into the camera, without a care. It was his graduation day. I remember it well. He made me call him master all day. <br /> <br /> "Jackass!" I cursed, turning the frame around, not wanting his eyes on me while I slept, or at all! <br /> <br /> "Looks like this lingerie will be getting some action tonight!" I laughed bitterly while looking in the full-length mirror, thinking about how different this night could have been. Mike's cruel words about my weight were eating at what little confidence I had. Lilly's brothers had made my life hel-l growing up until they left for training a few years back, so I was used to being the but of jokes, taunted and teased, but coming from Mike, it hurt. <br /> <br /> Svcking in a breath, I froze, the sound of running water finally hitting my ears. I had left Lilly downstairs, had she slipped in while I walked around her room? <br /> <br /> Pushing the door to the ensuite open, I froze, my feet rooted to the spot; through the glass panel of the shower, Lilly's brother stood, hand pressed up against the marbled tiled wall, his knuckles turning white from the pressure, his body ripped with even more muscles then he left with. Tattoos wound the whole of his body, trailing my eyes across them giddily; I tensed seeing his tattooed hand gripping his thick steeled rod, easily 9 inches of heaven. <br /> <br /> My eyes locked on his diick as he pumped his hand around it, pleasuring himself in what I knew was meant to be a private moment.<br /> <br /> "Either join me or get out!" He rasped, looking over his shoulders at me; the second our eyes met, I felt like I had been punched, knocking me to my knees, the floor disappearing from under me; somewhere in the distance, I heard Knox's panicked scream, it was genuine concern, not laughter, I was hearing from him. Why? Confusion bled through me wildly, just before everything went black.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3<br /> Distant memories of the annual pack ball danced across my vision; Lilly and I were expected to go as we had come of age; we had both expected the twins to try to sabotage the whole evening! But they hadn't! Lilly and I had assumed it was because our fathers had insisted we attend, and they outranked the twins! Something we knew grated on the boys! <br /> <br /> The guy I had been crushing on at school had asked me to be his date; I was beyond excited! I had gone all out and had my hair, nails and make-up done. I had worked overtime to save up for a dress, I had spent a small fortune, and for once, I felt beautiful! <br /> <br /> He treated me like royalty, something I was not used to, given how the twins liked to control everything Lilly I did behind the walls of the pack house, but the twins had not said anything about me going with the young male wolf; I thought they had finally allowed me some freedom. We danced and laughed, and I thought he would kiss me! I never wanted the night to end; it had been perfect until I found the twins laughing about how desperate and pathetic I was and how they couldn't believe I had actually thought HE would like ME! <br /> <br /> Unable to watch anymore, I turned to leave only to see other classmates recording me, laughing at me and my tears. It didn't take long for it to be uploaded to social media and sent around school, making me a laughingstock! I had never understood why they were so obsessed with what I did! I got that they protected Lilly, but I was not kin! And this behavior was unwarranted! <br /> <br /> I tried to speak to my father about it, but since my mother had died, he had checked out, leaving Luna Louise to raise me; his only care was the pack and keeping it safe! And I could hardly go to her and moan that her precious sons were making my life hel-l! So I had no choice but to put up and shut up! Only when they left at 16 did things get easier; I finally knew peace, friendship, and fun! And somewhere in between, I met Mike. <br /> <br /> Opening my eyes slowly, the memories faded only to be replaced by the concerned face of Knox, staring down at me with such warmth my stomach flipped. His fingers traced my cheek as relief spread over his features. <br /> <br /> "Get. Your. Hand. Off. Me!" I seethed, slapping it away aggressively, my eyes narrowing on the ice blue hues of Knox, forcing myself to ignore the flicker of hurt that slipped across his face. <br /> <br /> "Hush, baby, let me check you over. You hit your head hard." He cooed, and my eyes widened in disbelief at the sincerity in his tone. <br /> <br /> "Get your STI-riddled hand off of me before I break it the fck off!" Snapping my mouth closed, feeling the light touch of his fingers on my li-ps.<br /> <br /> "You have a filthy mouth, do you know that!" His brows knitted together as he looked my face over, his gaze locking on my li-ps, making me uncomfortable. "I should teach you a lesson!" He mused a smirk split his face, seeing the shock wash over mine.<br /> <br /> "You're disgusting!" I spat, pushing myself up, looking around confused, seeing I was not on the floor but instead laid out carefully on the bed, Knox beside me. He had apparently swept me up and taken care of me, but I could not think why for the life of me. Shoving him aside, I attempted to climb over him. But his hands gripped my waist, locking me mid-stride over his torso. <br /> <br /> "I have to admit, you have changed a lot!" A grin slowly slipped across his face, his fingers trailing up the soft fabric of my new lingerie. Lingerie meant for Mike. "Not the whiny brat I left behind, huh" Shoving his che-st hard, framing my face in a wall of glowing white.<br /> <br /> I didn't want to admit that he had changed, too; he had grown into a gorgeous male.<br /> <br /> "And buffed up!" Sage added to my inner thoughts, bringing me back to reality. Ignoring her lude comment with a groa-n, my hands covered his that were rubbing up my sides. <br /> <br /> "Seriously, stop touching me!" Pushing his hands off me with a snort, "Dicck!" I grunted. <br /> <br /> "Hmmm, yeah, I have one... wanna see?" He taunted, his hands returning to my waist with supernatural speed.<br /> <br /> "YES, I wanna see!" Sage purred excitedly. <br /> "Seriously! Do you remember all the shiit he put us through" I snapped, trying to pull away from his grasp.<br /> <br /> "God's", A gasp escaped my li-ps, feeling his solid length rub against my core.<br /> <br /> "Crotc-hless!" He smirked up at me. "Not so innocent, it seems!"<br /> <br /> "UGH!" I growled, trying to lift off of him, but he forced me along him again, making me cry out as my pusssy clenched needily, loving the sensation of pain mixing with pleasure.<br /> <br /> "Let me make this crystal clear for you, Knox! I do not want you!"<br /> <br /> "Really? Sage seems game!" He grinned slyly.<br /> <br /> "She's a sluut!" I announced, angry at Sage's betrayal! <br /> <br /> "Mmm, My sluut?" He beamed, his hands sliding up my back;his solid length was millimeters from my core, but he was waiting for me to give him the green light.<br /> <br /> "Beg me, Knox!" I challenged!<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> "Beg?" He scoffed, eyes narrowing on me; I could see the inner fight between Knox and his wolf. He was a son of an Alpha. He had probably never begged for anything, let alone a female! But if he wanted me like he claimed to, he would beg! <br /> <br /> "Yes, Beg! Or let go of me." I declared with a newfound boldness. I was so over being weak and vulnerable, done being pushed around by those around me, and that included Mike and the danm twins!<br /> <br /> His hands released my hi-ps. Evidently, he refused to dance to my tune. <br /> <br /> "You are so danm perfect, but I won't beg!" He maintained. For once, he looked weak! The desire in his gaze filled me with a new sense of power; it had been such a long time since I felt this heat, and it was scrambling my brain.<br /> <br /> "There, that wasn't so hard, was it!" I laughed, rising onto my knees, an idea quickly springing to my mind. Years I had put up with his taunts, teasing and humiliation. It was time to return that favor. <br /> <br /> "Do it, I dare ya!" Sage encouraged.<br /> <br /> I slipped the straps off my shoulders, letting the delicate lace slide down, my booobs bouncing fre-e. <br /> <br /> "Please, Charlotte. Let me taste your pretty body; let me make you feel every inch the Queen you are!" <br /> <br /> Shiit! <br /> <br /> “ I will beg too! Let him do it! Please!" Sage wailed in my head, but she needn't! I hated myself for it, but I wanted it. I wanted him, and given the look on his face, he bloody well knew it!<br /> <br /> Nodding, I watched as he did just that, his li-ps pressed to my body in turn. Gripping his hand in mine, I tutted at him; even when drowning in lust, I refused to let him take control of the situation!<br /> <br /> "Char??" I heard Lilly call from the hallway. "Where the fck did she go?" She moaned as she walked past Knox's room; the fact she didn't even think to check in here told me everything and brought me back to the startling realisation that I had fcked up! I was lying on my best friend's brother's bed, between his legs!<br /> <br /> "Get off!" I growled, pushing Knox off; my lust turned to hate quickly. <br /> <br /> "This shouldn't have happened!" I spat accusingly at him, but I knew I had been a willing participant, and if Lilly hadn't interrupted, I hate to think just how willing of a participant I would have been!<br /> <br /> "Come on, it's fine!" He laughed as I scrambled out from under him, pulling my straps back in place while searching for my dress and pulling it on. <br /> <br /> "Where is that blood from?" Knox growled, making me jump; looking down at my blood-stained dress, I frowned- I liked this dress! How had I not noticed Mike's blood all over it?<br /> <br /> "None of your danm business!" I huffed, grabbing my shoes and glaring at him one last time.<br /> <br /> "THIS never happened!" I snapped, slipping from the room as quietly as I can, tiptoeing down the hall to Lilly's room. Seeing she was still roaming the corridors looking for me, I took the opportunity to slip into the shower. Desperate to wash the embarrassment off me. <br /> <br /> "You smell of him... Of Knox!"Sage announced as she rubbed up against the walls of my mind.<br /> <br /> "What?" I gasped, inhaling sharply, hoping the smell of the shower gel would erase not just his smell but the memories too!However, all I could smell was the heavenly scent of Knox and his danm arousal! <br /> <br /> "Fck!" I cursed, scrubbing myself raw, until I heard Lilly return. <br /> <br /> "Where the fck have you been?" She snapped as she pulled herself up on the counter in the bathroom, watching me skeptically. Making a split-second decision, I decided to lie!<br /> <br /> "I got lost and ended up in your brother Knox's room! I didn't realize he was back!" I started sxcking down a breath, groa-ning, smelling Knox STILL. <br /> <br /> "A little heads up would have been good!" I moaned, giving her an irritated half-smile.<br /> <br /> "You thought they would miss my big day?" She laughed, rolling her eyes! "They got back this evening." <br /> <br /> "No shiiit!" I sighed, giving her a 'you think' look as I bull shited her with another lie; Sage and I were both disappointed at how easily the lie left my li-ps.<br /> <br /> Giggling with my best friend on the night of her mating ceremony should have been the highlight of my night, but instead, I was left with an uneasy feeling eating at my stomach, something telling me my life was about to get a he-ll of a lot more complicated! And there was nothing I could do about it!<br /> <br /> Chapter 5<br /> "Get your lazy as-s up!" Lilly demanded, her shrill voice making me sigh; flopping onto my stomach, I pulled her pillow over my head, hoping to silence her. <br /> <br /> "No!" I grumbled, images of Knox and I last night still floating around my head, making my thi-ghs ache.<br /> <br /> "Char! Come on!" Lilly said, pulling the sheet off me; the cold air assaulting my body. <br /> <br /> "It's my big day! I need my best friend at my side!" She complained, but the edge to her tone told me she was not about to give up any time soon. <br /> <br /> "Fine! I am up!" I grumbled, throwing the pillow in the direction Lilly's voice came from while pulling myself up. Smelling strong coffee, I smiled sleepily over at Lilly, the last remnants of my dream and her sexy brother slowly fading from my mind as I took the coffee she handed me. <br /> <br /> "I can't get sick today, Char!" Lilly moaned, watching me as she handed me a mirror to show me how red-faced I was, dropping it on the bed, not needing to look to know I was blushing.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte! Are you ok? You're shaking?" Lilly inhaled, taking the coffee cup from my hands before I dropped it. Her hand pressed to my forehead sympathetically. "Charlotte?" <br /> <br /> "Do you think he will be as skilled with his tongue as you imagine him to be?" Sage added, making me blush further. <br /> <br /> "Enough!" I screamed at my wolf, cutting our link off so I could focus and calm my trembling hands and racing heart. The concern on Lilly's face startled me back to reality.<br /> <br /> "I am ok! Honestly!"I muttered, shaking my head at the images Sage had interjected into my mind on a loop.<br /> <br /> "I should tell her! In the 18 years we have been friends, I have never lied to her! I don't feel right doing so now!" I stated guiltily to Sage.<br /> <br /> It seemed since we left Knox's room, it was all she could think of! And a certain male's dicck in particular. <br /> <br /> Sxcking down my breath, seeing Lilly's frantic eyes searching my face needily. Today was her big day! She had been dreaming of this day for as long as I had known her, finding her mate, making it official and making her family and pack proud. <br /> <br /> I, on the other hand, needed more! I needed the rawest form of love, trust and security, all of which was something Knox could not offer me! The thought cemented what I already knew; It was a one-off! Sighing, I softened my features, ignoring the aching between my thi-ghs.<br /> <br /> "I think the last 24 hours have caught up with me, seeing Mike and that trollop in my bed! That's all!" I expressed lying to her face for the second time in a few hours.<br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Char; he really is a piece of shiit! Want me to ask Knox and Kane to give him a good hiding." Shaking my head dramatically with a nervous laugh, I gripped her hands and pulled her onto the bed, ignoring her protests.<br /> <br /> "NO!" It's embarrassing enough that I caught them having sax in my bed; I don't want the whole pack talking about it." I sighed, grabbing the pillow and throwing it at her with an arched brow.<br /> <br /> "Hmmm, yeah, I understand that!" She chuckled, throwing the pillow back at me as she got back off the bed, holding her hand out to pull me up. <br /> <br /> "But if he becomes a bother! I will tell them! I know you think they don't care about you, Charlotte, but they see you as a little sister! They won't stand for his bullshiit!" She expressed, looking at me in the mirror as she fixed her hair. <br /> <br /> "Lord, I hope they don't see you as a sister! Not sure how I feel about ince-st!" Sage grunted, working her way through the barrier I had put up. "Although... I am up for calling Knox Daddy if you are?" She added with a wiggle.<br /> <br /> "Way to lower the tone, sage!" I huffed, ignoring her like before as I helped Lilly prepare for her big day! <br /> <br /> Two hours later, we were making our way through an empty pack house; Alpha Leigh had seen to it that no one would see his daughter until the ceremony, so not a single person remained in the pack house but Lilly and I. <br /> <br /> "Are you not nervous?" I asked; standing at the back doors, I squeezed her hand. <br /> <br /> "No, just excited!" She whispered, pushing the doors open to peek out at the beautifully decorated garden with its subtle nod to the pack's colours. <br /> <br /> "Wow, it's stunning." I gushed as the door heaved open, and Alpha Leigh stepped in, his eyes falling on his daughter and blurring with tears instantly in a way only a proud father could.<br /> <br /> "Told you, you looked beautiful!" I grinned, nudging Lilly's waist with mine seeing him try not to cry at the sight of his daughter in her ceremonial dress. <br /> <br /> "You like Daddy?" She screeched, turning slowly to show him what his money had brought. It was an exquisite dress, floor length, made with the softest of silk. <br /> <br /> "You look like a princess!" He gushed, straightening no doubt in an attempt to control his emotions; his eyes scanned me with a warm smile, looking at my dress with a chuckle. <br /> <br /> "I half expected you to turn up in yoga pants and a hoodie Charlotte!" He teased with an affectionate wink. He was right, of course; I lived in training and gym clothes. When your Father was the Beta, you tended to spend the majority of your time training. <br /> <br /> "Daddy!" Lilly scolded, "Don't encourage her! It took me weeks to bribe her into the dress!" She scoffed, giving me a firm stare. <br /> <br /> "Charlotte, can you excuse us a moment, I would like a minute with my baby before...." He whispered, his voice cutting off as his eyes locked on his daughter with such love. <br /> <br /> "She will always be your baby girl!" I whispered, leaning up on my tiptoes to press a soft kiss to my alphas cheek; he was like a second father to me and seeing him so overwhelmed at the sight of Lilly was very out of character for him, even behind closed doors he always seemed to favour the twins.<br /> <br /> Winking at my best friend before slipping out the doors and into a solid form and familiar scent, I groa-ned audibly; even Sage was finally waking up, sensing the danger.<br /> <br /> Chapter 6<br /> "What are you doing here!" I questioned, trying to keep my tone neutral, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of seeing my upset. Allowing my eyes to roam over a dark blue pin-stripped tailored suit that barely fit the muscular form of Mike. <br /> <br /> His dark eyes trained on me, his li-ps pulled into a scowl as he looked down my body. <br /> <br /> "Nice to see you too, baby girl!" He sighed, having just referred to Lilly as 'baby girl' to her father; hearing it slip from Mike's li-ps felt wrong, but I couldn't be bothered to argue with him about his pet name for me now, not when Alpha and Lilly are on the other side of the door. <br /> <br /> "Lottie?" He huffed, waiting for me to say something, but I had nothing to say, trying to hide his frustration by running a hand through his dark hair.<br /> <br /> "I missed you last night." He tried again, clearly trying to engage me in conversation. <br /> <br /> "I wish I could say the same!" I grunted, annoyed at myself for acknowledging him, I crossed my hands across my che-st. A part of me wished he would turn and leave me alone, go back to the she-wolf he had allowed to keep him company last night, but the stu-pid, naive part of me wanted to cling to him and ask him to fight for me! <br /> <br /> "Your father sent me to find you!" He grinned a pearly smile that had my stomach fluttering; I hadn't told my father about the breakup, so he meant well, I assured myself. <br /> <br /> "I can make my own way to the ceremony." I snapped, lowering my eyes from Mike's face; the displeasure washing across his face made me feel self-conscious enough.<br /> <br /> "Lottie!" He tried as I pulled my elbows closer, hugging them around myself, his cruel remark about my weight last night still raw, even if I hadn't let him know it had hurt me. <br /> <br /> "You took forever!" He stated. "Probably putting all that slap on your face!" Pulling on my elbow, he half dragged me down the beautifully styled pathway towards the old church grounds at the back of the property. <br /> <br /> "You're hurting me!" I winced, a burn rising to my cheeks at the mention of my make-up!<br /> <br /> "Yes!" He sneered, not even looking at me.<br /> <br /> "No! You look beautiful!" Sage interjected, lending me some of her strength to try and pull my arm back from his iron-tight grip.<br /> <br /> "You don't even have time to change! The guests have all arrived!" He grumbled, ignoring me and shoving me forward so hard I slipped on one of the petals lining the old cobbled path. "Fck sake, Lottie, you always have to show me up!" He hissed, looking down at me with contempt.<br /> <br /> "Get up then!" He snarled, his eyes lingering on the deep V neckline that barely held my booobs in place.<br /> <br /> Left speechless, I sat on the floor, looking up at my so-called mate, feeling the cold stone through the thin fabric.<br /> <br /> "I can't believe you, today is an important day for the pack, and you turn up dressed like... that! Representing me! Are you trying to destroy my reputation?" He snarled, shoving his hand out and grabbing my elbow again, yanking me up by it painfully and shoving me forward. <br /> <br /> "You look like a who=re!" He growled from behind me, shaking his head angrily; I could feel Sage's anger rising, and as much as I was grateful she had my back, now wasn't the time to cause a scene. It was Lilly's big day and an important day for the pack.<br /> <br /> "Well, you'd know all about whor-es!" I seethed quietly, spinning to face my so-called mate, "How many of them have you had in our bed?" I scoffed, looking at him with pity but unable to stop.<br /> <br /> "Tell me did they fake it like I did? They must have because there is no way your .. little.. friend could have satisfied them! Lord knows it never did me!" I blurted out angrily, narrowing my eyes at him challengingly. The darkening in his iris had my heart skipping a beat, and not for the right reason. He was angry!<br /> <br /> "That's your problem, Charlotte; you have never known your danm place." He grinned manically, taking a step toward me before I had a chance to react; he pulled me non to gently into an alcove of the garden, hidden by the white Jasmine vines. <br /> <br /> "But that's ok; I will teach you now!" He breathed into my ear as he slammed my che-st against the stone wall, knocking the air from my lungs and leaving me unable to cry out even if I wanted to. Gripping my hands again, he yanked them above my head, holding them together with one of his large hands.<br /> <br /> "I can smell your arousal!" He moaned into my ear huskily. Despite my compromising position, my body was throbbing, desperate for attention! I wanted to scream at Mike, to tell him the wetness between my thi-ghs wasn't for him but leftover remnants of my time with Knox last night. <br /> <br /> "I know that you, Lottie, will always be MY who-re!" Hearing the familiar sound of his zipper, I knew what was coming and as much as I hated to admit it! <br /> <br /> I wanted it!	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1,940,234	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	410298232049888	Commencez maintenant!	Créez un plan alimentaire personnalisé pour la perte de poids en fonction de l'âge, du poids, de la taille, de l'activité quotidienne et des préférences alimentaires 🥗 Démarrez le quiz d'1 minute 👇	LEARN_MORE	https://betterme-meal-plan.com/fr/first-page-gener	111039638500829	Meal Plan by BetterMe	https://facebook.com/100088143044843	12,913	1	1,644,241,969,663,083	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Meal Plan by BetterMe	120210956572670417	betterme-meal-plan.com		NONE	image		https://betterme-meal-plan.com/fr/first-page-generated?flow=2578&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=Local_FR_MealPlan_HighProtein_Flow2578_28_Jul_Set1_Image_WW_Wide_F_LC_Auto_438861398391579%2F475&utm_content=27_2024-07-23_tanya_Nastya_Protein-Diet_lunchbox_11908_fb_FR.jpg		2024-07-26 09:23	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452948890_1010708687093422_2913346805546515948_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y0lKfdiBMSEQ7kNvgH3OfoP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYC2DNDJ1r24XpUlgIHjRSLLyW_CzS79QxmEwtQJ4GTgWg&oe=66AB464C	person_profile		https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452958744_797053875581721_2624739813459587383_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7b65cuyRGG4Q7kNvgF03KL4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBQT3l1RaPVSN3KcSTGMJGXfaogSEZl-l-6xSwCD8q2Pg&oe=66AB77F2	3	Meal Plan by BetterMe	2024-07-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,940,960	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	348460204967502	Leer el siguiente capítulo👉	Ella firmó el acuerdo de divorcio y se fue sin su teléfono. Él revisó su móvil, leyendo un mensaje: ¡Vuelve mañana para tu chequeo prenatal!<br /> ------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /> Capítulo 1 El regreso de la exnovia<br /> <br /> Raegan Hayes estaba un poco distraída. <br /> <br /> No podía pensar en nada más que en las palabras del médico. "¡Felicitaciones! Está embarazada". <br /> <br /> De repente, Mitchel Dixon le pellizcó el brazo. "Oye, ¿en qué estás pensando?". <br /> <br /> Antes de que ella pudiera responder, Mitchel se levantó. <br /> <br /> Luego, él entró al baño. <br /> <br /> Raegan permaneció inmóvil en la enorme cama. Sus mechones húmedos se pegaban a sus sienes y mejillas. Estaba mirando al techo con los ojos llenos de lágrimas. <br /> <br /> Después de un rato, sacó el informe de embarazo del cajón del velador. <br /> <br /> Había ido al hospital por un incesante dolor de estómago. Tras un análisis de orina, el médico le dio la noticia. ¡Tenía alrededor de cinco semanas de embarazo! <br /> <br /> Era toda una sorpresa. Mitchel y ella nunca planeaban el embarazo. <br /> <br /> Tras devanarse los sesos, recordó el día de la concepción. Había sido el mes pasado, después de una fiesta. Mitchel la llevó a casa...<br /> <br /> Adentro del baño, se escuchaba correr el agua. Mitchel era su esposo y llevaban dos años casados en secreto. Era su jefe en el trabajo, el presidente del Grupo Dixon. <br /> <br /> Todo había sucedido con suma rapidez. Recién la habían contratado en la empresa cuando accidentalmente se conocieron en una fiesta. <br /> <br /> Días más tarde, el abuelo de Mitchel enfermó de gravedad. Fue entonces cuando él propuso un matrimonio falso para cumplir el último deseo del anciano. <br /> <br /> Ambos firmaron un acuerdo prenupcial y acordaron esconder su matrimonio al público. Era probable que su unión terminara en cualquier momento. <br /> <br /> Era una ocasión poco convencional. Sin embargo, Raegan se consideraba afortunada. <br /> <br /> Ni en un millón de años pensó que se casaría con el hombre del que estuvo enamorada durante ocho años, así que aceptó con entusiasmo. <br /> <br /> Mitchel estuvo muy ocupado después de la boda, ya que trabajaba la mayor parte del tiempo. <br /> <br /> Raegan deseaba estar más con él en casa. Pero se sentía tranquila porque no tenía rumores ni escándalos con otras mujeres. <br /> <br /> A pesar de su leve indiferencia, Mitchel era el esposo perfecto. <br /> <br /> Raegan tuvo sentimientos encontrados mientras observaba el resultado de la prueba de embarazo. <br /> <br /> Finalmente decidió contarle la verdad a Mitchel. <br /> <br /> También quería decirle que no lo había conocido recientemente, sino que lo había amado desde hacía muchos años. <br /> <br /> De repente, la ducha del baño dejó de sonar. <br /> <br /> En cuanto Mitchel salió, sonó su teléfono, así que salió al balcón con una toalla de baño para contestar la llamada. <br /> <br /> Raegan comprobó la hora y vio que ya era medianoche. <br /> <br /> No pudo evitar sentirse incómoda. ¿Quién lo llamaba a una hora tan intempestiva? <br /> <br /> Mitchel estuvo unos minutos en el balcón. Luego, regresó a la habitación. <br /> <br /> Su cuerpo era un espectáculo digno de contemplar. Tenía voluminosos abdominales en su vientre y sus brazos eran fuertes y musculosos. ¡Era un excelente hombre! <br /> <br /> Aunque Raegan lo había visto así antes, se sonrojó y su corazón comenzó a acelerarse. <br /> <br /> Ajeno a sus miradas, Mitchel agarró su camisa y sus pantalones de traje de la cama, se los puso y se anudó la corbata con sus delgados dedos. Su hermoso rostro tenía un contorno claro que lo hacía verse más digno esa noche. <br /> <br /> Era toda una obra de arte. <br /> <br /> "No me esperes despierta". <br /> <br /> ¿Qué? ¿Iba a salir? ¿A estas horas? <br /> <br /> Raegan agarró con más fuerza la prueba de embarazo mientras le daba una mirada decepcionada. Inconscientemente retiró la mano. "Ya es muy tarde", soltó después de pensar un rato. <br /> <br /> Los dedos de Mitchel se quedaron congelados sobre su corbata. Con una leve sonrisa, le pellizcó el lóbulo de la oreja. "¿Te da miedo la oscuridad?". <br /> <br /> Raegan se sonrojó hasta la raíz del cabello. Estaba a punto de responder cuando Mitchel la soltó. "Pórtate bien, ¿sí? Necesito hacer algo. No me esperes despierta". <br /> <br /> Tras esas palabras, se dirigió hacia la puerta. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel". <br /> <br /> Raegan corrió para alcanzarlo. <br /> <br /> Mitchel se dio vuelta y la miró con seriedad. <br /> <br /> "¿Qué pasa?". <br /> <br /> Había un ápice de frialdad en su voz. Una nube negra descendió sobre ellos mientras se miraban fijamente. <br /> <br /> Un poco angustiada, Raegan dijo en voz baja: "Me gustaría visitar mañana a mi abuela. ¿Puedes acompañarme?". <br /> <br /> Su frágil y enferma abuela siempre quería verla. Por eso quería llevar a Mitchel y asegurarle que eran muy felices. <br /> <br /> "Hablemos mañana al respecto". Sin aceptar ni negarse, Mitchel se marchó apresuradamente. <br /> <br /> Varios pensamientos rondaban la mente de Raegan mientras se duchaba y regresaba a la cama. No podía conciliar el sueño. <br /> <br /> Tras dar vueltas y vueltas, se levantó de la cama y se preparó un vaso de leche caliente. <br /> <br /> Algunas noticias en línea llegaron a su teléfono. <br /> <br /> Pero, como no le interesaban, estaba a punto de eliminarlas cuando una llamó su atención. El conocido nombre la hizo abrir el artículo. <br /> <br /> La noticia decía: "La famosa diseñadora Lauren Murray fue vista hoy en el aeropuerto con su misterioso novio". <br /> <br /> Lauren llevaba un sombrero amplio. La figura del hombre se veía vaga, pero el contorno de su cuerpo bastaba para mostrar que era apuesto. <br /> <br /> Raegan agrandó la imagen y su corazón dio un vuelco. <br /> <br /> ¡Era Mitchel! <br /> <br /> ¿Había cancelado la reunión de la tarde para recoger a su exnovia del aeropuerto? <br /> <br /> Raegan se sintió molesta, como si tuviera una roca en el estómago. <br /> <br /> Sus manos estaban temblando y marcó inconscientemente el número de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> El tono de llamada la devolvió a sus sentidos. Estaba a punto de colgar cuando, de repente, se conectó la línea y se escuchó una voz desde el otro lado. <br /> <br /> "¡Hola!". <br /> <br /> Era una suave voz de mujer. <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó paralizada y tiró el teléfono. <br /> <br /> Fue entonces cuando sintió náuseas y la bilis subió a su garganta. <br /> <br /> Cubriéndose la boca, fue corriendo al baño y vomitó en la taza del váter. <br /> <br /> A la mañana siguiente, Raegan llegó temprano al trabajo. <br /> <br /> Mitchel le había insistido en que dejara de trabajar después de casarse, pero ella quería ganar su propio dinero. <br /> <br /> A pesar de que no se opuso, Mitchel le pidió que trabajara como su asistente y lo ayudara con las tareas diarias. <br /> <br /> Matteo Jenkins, el asistente principal, estaba a cargo de sus asuntos más importantes. <br /> <br /> Era el único empleado de la empresa que sabía sobre su matrimonio. <br /> <br /> Desde el principio, la oficina del presidente solo tenía asistentes hombres. Reagan era la primera y única mujer. Su contratación había roto el protocolo, así que otros trabajadores se preguntaban si estaba aquí por la puerta trasera o era alguien especial para Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Pero luego se dieron cuenta de que él no le daba un trato especial. Curiosamente, eso hizo que la despreciaran más. <br /> <br /> Después de todo, la empresa es un campo de batalla. Era extraño que Raegan mantuviera tanto tiempo su trabajo siendo tan incompetente. <br /> <br /> En ese momento, uno de sus colegas le entregó un documento y le pidió que lo llevara a la oficina de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> El hombre no había regresado a casa anoche. Raegan estaba tan preocupada que no pudo pegar un ojo toda la noche. <br /> <br /> No podía pensar en nada más que en la mujer que contestó su teléfono cuando ella había llamado. ¿Mitchel estaba con esta en aquel momento? <br /> <br /> Raegan no podía aceptar ese hecho. <br /> <br /> Pero intentó mantener la calma momentáneamente. Pasara lo que pasara, merecía un resultado gratificante por todos sus años amando a Mitchel. No podía ser en vano, ¿verdad? <br /> <br /> Con mucha calma, presionó el botón del ascensor y subió a la oficina del presidente. Antes de salir, se alisó el cabello para asegurarse de tener buen aspecto. <br /> <br /> Cuando llegó a la oficina, vio que la puerta estaba entreabierta. Adentro se escuchaba la voz de un hombre, así que se detuvo al instante. <br /> <br /> "¡Vamos! ¿Sientes algo por Raegan o no?". <br /> <br /> Era Luis Stevens, un amigo de la infancia de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> "¿Qué quieres decir?", preguntó Mitchel fríamente. <br /> <br /> "¡Sabes exactamente lo que quiero decir!". Luis chasqueó la lengua con impaciencia. "Raegan me parece una buena chica. ¿No es tu tipo?". <br /> <br /> "¿Acaso a ti te gusta ella?", preguntó Mitchel descuidadamente. <br /> <br /> "¿Sabes qué? ¡Olvídalo!". <br /> <br /> La risa de Luis sonó bastante dura en los oídos de Raegan. <br /> <br /> Hablaban de ella como si fuera una cosa. <br /> <br /> Respirando hondo, agarró con más fuerza el documento. <br /> <br /> Pronto volvió a escucharse la voz de Luis. <br /> <br /> "Por cierto, esta mañana vi los rumores sobre el misterioso novio de Lauren. Eras tú, ¿verdad?". <br /> <br /> "Sí". <br /> <br /> "¡Vaya, vaya! Esa mujer todavía te tiene comiendo de la palma de su mano. Siempre la complaces". <br /> <br /> Luis suspiró y siguió burlándose de Mitchel. "La ausencia aumenta el cariño. Dime, ¿ustedes dos...?". <br /> <br /> Su conversación explotó como un trueno sobre la cabeza de Raegan. <br /> <br /> Su rostro palideció y su cuerpo se volvió tan frío como el hielo. <br /> <br /> ¡Así que el que al lado de Lauren sí fue Mitchel! <br /> <br /> Cada palabra se clavó en su corazón como un cuchillo. <br /> <br /> De repente, varias voces susurrantes llenaron su mente. Estaba mareada. Su visión se puso borrosa. <br /> <br /> Raegan se sostuvo de la pared y retrocedió un paso. Fue entonces cuando la puerta se abrió desde dentro. <br /> <br /> "¿Raegan?". <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo 2 Amor unilateral<br /> <br /> Fue Luis quien abrió la puerta, como si fuera a salir. <br /> <br /> Raegan juntó las manos y se volvió hacia él con un asentimiento. "¡Hola, señor Stevens!". <br /> <br /> Sin esperar una respuesta a su saludo, pasó junto a él y entró a la oficina con el documento. <br /> <br /> Mitchel estaba sentado tras un amplio y lujoso escritorio. Se veía bastante guapo con ese traje y corbata a juego. <br /> <br /> Raegan notó que no era el mismo atuendo que llevaba cuando salió de casa anoche. ¿Cómo se había cambiado? <br /> <br /> Con la mirada gacha, se tragó la pregunta y dijo: "Señor Dixon, esto es del Departamento de Marketing. Por favor, fírmelo". <br /> <br /> Mitchel miró inexpresivo el documento mientras lo firmaba. <br /> <br /> Raegan salió inmediatamente después. Luis aún seguía parado en el umbral. <br /> <br /> No fue hasta que ella se perdió de vista que se volvió hacia Mitchel. "¡Oye!", susurró. "¿Crees que nos escuchó?". <br /> <br /> Los atractivos ojos de Mitchel no mostraron ninguna emoción. Era obvio que no estaba escuchando a su amigo. <br /> <br /> En su opinión, Raegan siempre había sido dócil y nunca había tenido celos de nadie. <br /> <br /> Su obediencia era todo lo que él le exigía a cambio de tratarla bien. <br /> <br /> En el ascensor, Raegan aguantó la respiración para retener sus lágrimas. <br /> <br /> Pero no le funcionó. <br /> <br /> Había pensado que dos años serían suficientes para que Mitchel se diera cuenta de lo mucho que ella lo amaba y le correspondiera. <br /> <br /> Ahora resultaba que no era más que una ilusión. <br /> <br /> Siempre tendría un papel secundario frente a Lauren, su verdadero amor. <br /> <br /> Reagan se secó las lágrimas una vez que el ascensor se detuvo. De no ser por su rostro pálido, se veía normal cuando se abrieron las puertas. <br /> <br /> Luego, fue hacia la sala de descanso para prepararse una taza de té. <br /> <br /> Varios empleados estaban charlando adentro. <br /> <br /> "Chicos, ¿se han enterado? Lauren Murray ha regresado del extranjero". <br /> <br /> "¿Y quién es ella?". <br /> <br /> "¡Oh, Dios mío! ¿No la conoces? Es la heredera del Grupo Murray y una diseñadora bastante reconocida. Y sobre todo es la única novia que el señor Dixon ha mostrado públicamente. ¡Es su primer amor!". <br /> <br /> "¿Por qué es tan importante que haya vuelto? ¿No se rumorea que el señor Dixon tiene algo con Raegan?". <br /> <br /> "¿Raegan? ¡Imposible! El señor Dixon nunca admitió estar saliendo con ella, y es exigente a la hora de elegir pereja. Solo mírala. Ni siquiera es tan hermosa. Sin embargo, se comporta como si ya fuera la señora Dixon. ¡Qué ridícula!". <br /> <br /> En la puerta, Raegan esbozó una sonrisa burlona mientras los escuchaba. Todos los demás veían la verdad excepto ella. <br /> <br /> Su amor era unilateral. <br /> <br /> "¡Ja, ja! ¿La señora Dixon se despertó de su sueño salvaje?". <br /> <br /> De repente, escuchó una voz detrás de sí. Raegan se volvió para encontrarse con Tessa Lloyd, la prima de Mitchel, quien siempre la había despreciado. <br /> <br /> Tessa también debía haber oído los chismes de los empleados. <br /> <br /> Lo último que Raegan quería era discutir con ella en la empresa, así que se dio la vuelta para irse, pero la mujer le bloqueó el camino. <br /> <br /> Con una taza de café en la mano, Tessa comentó sarcásticamente: "Lauren ha regresado. ¿Crees que Mitchel te seguirá dando atención?". <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó callada. <br /> <br /> Tras unos segundos, Tessa continuó con sus burlas. "Me enteré de que eres buena en fingir. ¿Qué pasará si te desenmascaro delante de todos? Sé que te gusta la compañía de hombres...". <br /> <br /> Raegan apretó los puños. "Señorita Lloyd, estamos en la empresa", espetó. "Si te interesan esos negocios, ya sabes adónde ir". <br /> <br /> "Tú...". <br /> <br /> El rostro de Tessa se transformó. <br /> <br /> Rápidamente levantó la mano y vació la taza de café sobre Raegan. <br /> <br /> Esta última no pensó ni por un segundo que Tessa haría una locura como esa, así que alzó los brazos para bloquear el líquido de su cara. El café le quemó el brazo. <br /> <br /> "¡Ay!", gritó Raegan, frunciendo el ceño debido al dolor. "¿Por qué hiciste eso? ¿Estás loca?". <br /> <br /> Como era la hora del almuerzo, muchos empleados pudieron ver el escándalo. Tessa se mostró aún más complaciente cuando vio que el número de espectadores aumentaba. <br /> <br /> "¿Por qué eres tan engreída?", escupió. "¿De verdad crees que todos no saben que eres una pobre sin padres? Y tienes el descaro de...". <br /> <br /> De repente, se escuchó un grito. <br /> <br /> Tessa había sido silenciada por una bofetada. <br /> <br /> Ahora estaba boquiabierta. No había esperado que la callada y tímida Raegan la abofeteara. <br /> <br /> Tessa se sostuvo la mejilla y se la quedó mirando un rato. "Tú...", tartamudeó. "¿Me pegaste? ¡¿Cómo te atreves?!". <br /> <br /> "¡Sí, te pegué!", espetó Raegan. "Parece que necesitas aprender a tener cortesía". <br /> <br /> Sí, había perdido a sus padres cuando era niña, pero no permitiría que alguien la pisoteara por eso. <br /> <br /> Tessa crispó el rostro mientras fruncía el ceño rabiosamente. Como prima de Mitchel, estaba acostumbrada a que la elogiaran y respetaran. Esto nunca había sucedido antes. <br /> <br /> "¡Raegan!". <br /> <br /> Tessa arremetió contra Raegan como un toro furioso y alzó la mano para devolverle la bofetada. <br /> <br /> Pero Raegan estaba preparada para lo que se avecinaba, así que agarró la muñeca de Tessa con tanta fuerza que esta no pudo moverse. <br /> <br /> Como era más baja, luchó como un pulpo, cuyos tentáculos se habían atascado en una trampa, "¿Cómo te atreves a ponerme tus sucias manos encima?", maldijo. "¿Quién te crees que eres? ¡Solo eres la sirvienta de Mitchel!". <br /> <br /> Sus duras palabras atrajeron a más personas a la sala de descanso. <br /> <br /> "¡Suficiente!". <br /> <br /> De la nada, se escuchó una fuerte voz desde atrás. Mitchel había salido de su oficina, solo para encontrarse con ese alboroto. <br /> <br /> Toda la sala se sumió en un profundo silencio. <br /> <br /> "¿Mitchell?". Tessa se quedó helada cuando vio a su primo, ya que siempre le había tenido miedo. Su madre también le advertía que no lo provocara. <br /> <br /> No obstante, cuando recordó a Raegan abofeteándola, puso una expresión lastimera y comenzó a sollozar. "Mitchel, mira mi rostro. ¡Me abofeteó!". <br /> <br /> La luz del sol caía sobre el hermoso rostro de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan se sintió muy afligida y bajó la cabeza para mirar la parte posterior de su brazo, quemada por el café. <br /> <br /> Las miradas de ambos se encontraron. Con el ceño fruncido, Mitchel dijo: "Raegan, ¿olvidaste las reglas de la empresa?". <br /> <br /> Raegan contuvo la respiración ante su crueldad. No podía creer lo que estaba escuchando. <br /> <br /> Nadie se atrevió a hacer ningún sonido. <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó parada con su esbelta figura. <br /> <br /> Cuando la contrataron, Mitchel le advirtió que el Grupo Dixon no era un lugar para que perdiera el tiempo y que no toleraría ningún error suyo. <br /> <br /> Raegan entendía por qué adoptaba esa postura. <br /> <br /> No obstante, estaba desesperada por saber si había oído esas duras palabras de Tessa o si solo estaba fingiendo porque estaba de acuerdo. <br /> <br /> ¿En serio solo la veía como una sirvienta? <br /> <br /> Aterrada de recibir la ira de Mitchel, la multitud no tardó en dispersarse. Algunos empleados se atrevieron a mirar desde la distancia, pues no quería perderse de un buen espectáculo. <br /> <br /> Raegan se estremeció de pies a cabeza cuando vio los ojos fríos de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Mirando a Tessa, se pellizcó la palma de la mano para reprimir sus emociones. <br /> <br /> "Lo siento, señorita Lloyd. Como empleada del Grupo Dixon, fue mi error golpearla". <br /> <br /> Tessa alzó la barbilla con complacencia. "¡Ja! No crees que quedarás libre de culpa con una simple disculpa. No lo creo...". <br /> <br /> "La bofetada no tiene nada que ver con la empresa, así que me niego a disculparme contigo. Ahora me retiro", agregó Raegan. <br /> <br /> Luego, pasó junto a Mitchel sin mirarlo de nuevo. <br /> <br /> "Tú... ¡Alto!". <br /> <br /> Tessa estaba echando humo. <br /> <br /> Jamás en toda su vida había sido tan humillada. Siempre era la acosadora, no la víctima. <br /> <br /> La humillación era tanta que ni siquiera se tranquilizaría haciendo pedazos a Raegan. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel, ¿escuchaste lo que acaba de decir esa mujer?", gritó señalándola. "A pesar de que me abofeteó, sigue siendo muy arrogante. Dile que regrese. ¡La abofetearé hasta que llore pidiendo piedad!". <br /> <br /> Mitchel observó la delgada espalda de Raegan con una expresión ambigua. <br /> <br /> "¡Basta!", espetó alzando la mano. <br /> <br /> Tessa no creía que su primo tuviera debilidad por Raegan. Supuso que ella no le importaba en absoluto. <br /> <br /> "La próxima vez, conseguiré a alguien que le dé una lección a esa tipa", siseó con los dientes apretados. <br /> <br /> "¡Tessa!". Mitchel la reprendió con un tono helado mientras entrecerraba los ojos. <br /> <br /> Tessa empezó a temblar. <br /> <br /> "Solo te lo diré una vez", agregó él sombríamente. "Olvídate de lo que pasó hoy. Deja tranquila a Raegan". <br /> <br /> Tessa sintió su boca secarse. Todas las malvadas ideas que tenía contra Raegan desaparecieron en un instante. <br /> <br /> "Está bien...", tartamudeó. "Entiendo...". <br /> <br /> Mitchel le lanzó una mirada fría y se volvió hacia Matteo. "A partir de hoy, las personas irrelevantes no tendrán permitida la entrada". <br /> <br /> Tessa empezó a halagar su decisión. "¡Muy bien! Esta es una empresa muy importante. No todo el mundo puede entrar aquí". <br /> <br /> Matteo dio un asentimiento a su jefe, se acercó a Tessa y le mostró la salida. "Señorita Lloyd, por aquí, por favor". <br /> <br /> Solo entonces Tessa se dio cuenta de que ella era la persona irrelevante. Si bien intentó hablar con su primo, Matteo le bloqueó el paso y los guardias de seguridad la echaron. <br /> <br /> No tuvieron ni un poco de piedad. Era inútil luchar. <br /> <br /> Mientras tanto, Raegan se cambió de ropa cuando regresó a su oficina. <br /> <br /> Tenía el corazón lleno de tristeza mientras recordaba la mirada de Mitchel hacía unos minutos. <br /> <br /> Pronto llegó la hora de salida. <br /> <br /> Raegan tomó su bolso y se dirigió hacia la puerta, pero Matteo la detuvo. <br /> <br /> "El señor Dixon tiene que resolver algo urgente, así que me pidió que la llevara a casa". <br /> <br /> Raegan lo rechazó sin pensarlo dos veces. <br /> <br /> Antes estaba ciega, pero ahora veía toda la situación. <br /> <br /> No era nadie a los ojos de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> ¿Cómo podía acompañarla a visitar a su abuela si ni siquiera se preocupaba por ella? <br /> <br /> Al llegar al hospital, Raegan encontró a la enfermera a punto de darle la cena a su abuela. Raegan asumió su puesto e hizo el trabajo. <br /> <br /> Su abuela siempre había vivido en el campo, disfrutando de una vida tranquila. Pero todo cambió el mes pasado, cuando su chequeo médico mostró que sus páncreas estaban mal. Raegan insistió en traerla a la ciudad para que recibiera un mejor tratamiento. <br /> <br /> Su abuela no sabía sobre su matrimonio con Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan había planeado sorprenderla, pero ya no era necesario. <br /> <br /> Una vez que su abuela se quedó dormida, salió del hospital y esperó un taxi. <br /> <br /> A lo lejos, un lujoso auto negro se detuvo en la entrada. <br /> <br /> Los ojos de Raegan se iluminaron. Era el vehículo de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> ¿Había venido para recogerla? <br /> <br /> En ese momento, olvidó todo el dolor que había sufrido. <br /> <br /> ¿Lo había malinterpretado? ¿De verdad se preocupaba por ella, contrariamente a los rumores? <br /> <br /> La puerta del conductor se abrió y Mitchel salió del auto. <br /> <br /> Raegan caminó hacia él con el corazón rebosante de alegría. <br /> <br /> Pero se detuvo en seco. <br /> <br /> Mitchel acababa de caminar hacia el otro lado para sacar a una mujer del vehículo. <br /> <br /> Su hermoso rostro era una máscara de angustia y compasión. <br /> <br /> La sonrisa de Raegan desapareció y su corazón se hundió. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo 3 Hay que divorciarnos<br /> <br /> La figura alta de Mitchel se acercaba cada vez más a Raegan; sin pronunciar una palabra, pasó junto a ella. <br /> <br /> Era difícil saber si realmente la vio o si decidió ignorarla a propósito. <br /> <br /> Raegan, por su parte, notó que la mujer que lo iba tomando del brazo era la misma que ayer fue fotografiada con él; su nombre era Lauren. <br /> <br /> Raegan sintió como si sus zapatos estuvieran hechos de plomo mientras se alejaba, perdiendo por completo la noción de las cosas que sucedían a su alrededor; distraída, paró un taxi y lo abordó. <br /> <br /> De repente, el chófer dijo: "Señorita, ¿a dónde la llevo?". <br /> <br /> Raegan quedó atónita por un momento. <br /> <br /> Volver a su casa en Villas Serenity era el último que quería hacer en ese momento, después de todo, era solo cuestión de tiempo antes de que ese lugar dejara de ser su hogar. <br /> <br /> Después de un rato, finalmente respondió: "Por favor, lléveme a Crystal Bay". <br /> <br /> Ella compró un apartamento en dicha zona después de casarse con Mitchel. <br /> <br /> En su momento, tenía esperanzas de traer a su abuela a la ciudad, por lo que compró ese apartamento con ayuda de una hipoteca; no era tan grande, pero tenía espacio más que suficiente para dos personas. <br /> <br /> Su esposo nunca entendió por qué quería comprar un apartamento; incluso se ofreció a regalarle uno más grande, pero ella se negó. <br /> <br /> Al recapitular todo lo que hizo en el pasado, se dio cuenta de que comprar ese apartamento fue la única decisión acertada que tomó a lo largo de los últimos dos años. <br /> <br /> Cuando llegó al complejo de apartamentos, Raegan se sentó sola en el patio, esto en un intento por despejar su mente. <br /> <br /> Los recuerdos de los últimos dos años eran agridulces; el tiempo pareció transcurrir en un abrir y cerrar de ojos a pesar de que fueron más de setecientos días y noches. <br /> <br /> Bien decían que el amor podía mover montañas, pero en el caso de Raegan, su amor no fue capaz de mover en lo más mínimo aquella piedra llamada Mitchel. Finalmente se dio cuenta de lo tonta que fue, convirtiéndose en el hazmerreír de todos. <br /> <br /> Ya era tarde en la noche cuando la chica finalmente decidió entrar a su apartamento. <br /> <br /> En cuanto salió del ascensor, vio a su esposo parado frente a la puerta. <br /> <br /> Sus mangas estaban arremangadas casualmente y los botones superiores de su camisa desabrochados, lo que dejaba al descubierto su largo cuello y parte de su clavícula; apoyado en la pared junto a la puerta, su hermoso rostro lucía serio. <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó paralizado por un momento. <br /> <br /> ¿Por qué él estaba ahí? ¿No se suponía que estaba en el hospital con Lauren? ¿Qué lo trajo aquí? <br /> <br /> Sus ojos se encontraron casi de inmediato. Con el abrigo doblado sobre su brazo y una de las manos en el bolsillo, el hombre entrecerró los ojos en cuanto se percató de su presencia. <br /> <br /> "¿Por qué no contestaste el teléfono?", preguntó él con un poco de molestia en su tono.<br /> <br /> Raegan sacó su celular y vio que accidentalmente lo había puesto en modo silencioso; descubrió que tenía cinco llamadas perdidas de su esposo. <br /> <br /> ¿Mitchel le hizo tantas llamadas porque no pudo encontrarla? ¡Era un suceso sorprendente! <br /> <br /> Antes de hoy, esto la habría hecho sentir fascinada. <br /> <br /> Pero ahora, la chica simplemente puso de vuelta su celular en su bolso, se cruzó de brazos y dijo con voz ronca: "No lo escuché sonar". <br /> <br /> Mitchel levantó la mano para revisar la hora en su reloj antes de pronunciar con impaciencia: "Te estuve buscando durante dos horas seguidas". <br /> <br /> Después de arreglar todo para Lauren, regresó a casa solo para encontrarla vacía. Buscó a su esposa por todas partes, pero al no hallarla por ningún lado, le pidió a Matteo que revisara las imágenes de las cámaras de vigilancia de todos los caminos que salían de la empresa. <br /> <br /> Más tarde descubrió que la chica había ido a Crystal Bay sin notificarle con antelación. <br /> <br /> "La próxima vez avísame cuando tengas planeado venir aquí, ¿de acuerdo? Anda, volvamos a casa", dicho esto, el hombre caminó hacia el ascensor sin dedicarle otra mirada, mostrando abiertamente su intención de volver a las Villas Serenity. <br /> <br /> Pese a sus palabras, Raegan no se movió ni un centímetro; ella se limitó a mirar su ancha espalda mientras reflexionaba con cierto disgusto. <br /> <br /> Quería que le avisara cuando tuviera planeado volver aquí... Pero, ¿acaso habría un futuro para ambos? <br /> <br /> Mitchell se dio vuelta solo para ver que su esposa no había avanzado ni un solo paso. Frunciendo el ceño, él le preguntó: "¿No puedes caminar? ¿Quieres que te cargue?". <br /> <br /> La luz del pasillo iluminaba su rostro, haciendo que su perfil lateral luciera casi perfecto. <br /> <br /> La chica respiró hondo antes de declarar: "Hay que divorciarnos". <br /> <br /> "¿De qué hablas?", la voz de Mitchel sonó fría y su hermoso rostro cambió de inmediato. <br /> <br /> "Quiero vivir en mi propia casa, después de todo, pronto nos convertiremos en completos extraños". <br /> <br /> La chica forzó una sonrisa, pero su corazón se estrujó dolorosamente, como si alguien lo estuviera destrozando poco a poco. <br /> <br /> "¿Seremos completos extraños?", Mitchel sonrió con frialdad antes de lanzar una pregunta directa: "¿Qué clase de relación crees que sostenemos actualmente?". <br /> <br /> Su interrogatorio dejó a Raegan atónita por un momento. <br /> <br /> Este hombre se lo había dejado muy en claro desde el principio; su matrimonio era una mera fachada que se produjo de mutuo acuerdo y donde no existía el amor. En opinión de los demás, no eran más que jefe y subordinada. <br /> <br /> Mitchel era uno de los hombres más atractivos y codiciados en Ardlens; muchas jóvenes ansiaban su amor e incluso estaban dispuestas a emprender toda clase de acciones con tal de obtener su atención. <br /> <br /> La pregunta que le hizo momentos atrás le recordó a la chica todos estos hechos. ¿Acaso Mitchel tenía miedo de que ella no lo dejara ir tan fácilmente? Si ese fuera el caso, no podría estar más equivocado... <br /> <br /> Después de morderse el labio inferior para ocultar su amargura, Raegan dijo: "Lo siento, señor Dixon. Creo que pensé demasiado las cosas, pero sí necesito que de ahora en adelante me dejes en paz. No tienes que volver a venir aquí". <br /> <br /> Después de decir eso, ella no pudo evitar romper en llanto. <br /> <br /> ¿Cómo no iba a estar triste después de cortar todo vínculo con el hombre que había amado durante una década? Se trataba de un periodo bastante considerable, pero independientemente de lo difícil que fuera, sabía que era hora de superarlo; tenía que dejar de soñar. <br /> <br /> Curiosamente, en ese momento la luz del pasillo empezó a parpadear. <br /> <br /> La mirada hostil que Mitchel le estaba dedicando a la chica hizo que la chica se estremeciera. <br /> <br /> Aunque él entendía que las mujeres a veces se comportaban de manera extraña, sentía que Raegan acababa de cruzar la línea. <br /> <br /> Los ojos del hombre brillaban como antorchas ardientes en ese momento, pero cuando vio las lágrimas que derramaba su esposa, la rabia dentro de él se extinguió al instante. Entonces, dijo en voz baja: "Si esto es por lo que pasó entre Tessa y tú, yo...". <br /> <br /> "No, no se trata de ella. Señor Dixon, por favor, vete lo antes posible". <br /> <br /> En realidad habían sucedido muchas cosas entre ambos, y el incidente con Tessa era el más insignificante de todos. <br /> <br /> Sintiéndose exhausta, Raegan pasó junto a su esposo y se preparó para abrir la puerta. <br /> <br /> Mitchel no estaba nada satisfecho con esta exhibición de terquedad; tras desatarse la corbata con irritación, él dio un paso adelante y la agarró por la muñeca. <br /> <br /> "Detente, ¿quieres?". <br /> <br /> Un segundo después, le pasó el brazo por el hombro y la abrazó; en ese instante se dio cuenta de que la chica estaba ardiendo, como si alguien acabara de prenderle fuego. <br /> <br /> "¿Tienes fiebre?". <br /> <br /> Raegan se sintió mareada, por lo que apoyó débilmente la cabeza sobre el hombro de su esposo. <br /> <br /> Esto complicó aún más la situación; Mitchel bajó la cabeza para mirarla.<br /> <br /> Reagan tardó en percatarse de lo que estaba sucediendo; cuando finalmente se dio cuenta de que su cuerpo estaba demasiado cerca del de él, trató de alejarse. <br /> <br /> Para su mala suerte, antes de que pudiera escapar, el hombre tiró de ella hacia atrás y la sujetó por la cintura. Con una expresión gélida, dijo en voz baja: "¿A dónde crees que vas?". <br /> <br /> La luz volvió a parpadear. De la nada, Mitchel la levantó y luego se dirigió al ascensor. <br /> <br /> Aturdida, Raegan preguntó suavemente: "¿Qué estás haciendo?". <br /> <br /> "¿Qué te parece que estoy haciendo?", comentó él. "Obviamente te voy a llevar al hospital". <br /> <br /> "¡Por supuesto que no!", la chica gritó a causa de la sorpresa y pareció recuperar más fuerzas. <br /> <br /> Existía la posibilidad de que se complicara su embarazo en caso de recibir un tratamiento inadecuado; aunque el bebé no llegó en un momento adecuado, seguía siendo su pequeño y era su deber protegerlo. <br /> <br /> Raegan siguió luchando por liberarse de los brazos que la mantenían cautiva. Sin embargo, su fuerte agarre hizo que sus esfuerzos fueran en vano. <br /> <br /> "No seas tan terca. Estás enferma, así que debes ver al médico", le aclaró Mitchel con firmeza mientras caminaba hasta el ascensor con ella en brazos. De repente, ella le dio una patada en señal de protesta. <br /> <br /> "¡Bájame! ¡No quiero ir al hospital!". <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> &9&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.manobook.com/11878375-fb_contact-spj	103551482442967	Romantic Novel House	https://facebook.com/100083766102286	52,089	1	8,038,660,266,213,275	2024-07-23 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Romantic Novel House	120209977230680766	fbweb.manobook.com		NONE	image		https://fbweb.manobook.com/11878375-fb_contact-spj57-0227-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1593369501516705		2024-07-19 06:14	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451583679_1536300433908453_2914079057899386287_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=r1H2e4ALJMgQ7kNvgHQ1mnw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYA96D9wVVthPZiJfisSU5oQZy8QklQlGwMarDk-2A5Uyw&oe=66AB4D09	person_profile	Manobook - Yo soy tuya y tú eres mío	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451796926_979222363682947_1015087340859615461_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dpKdau9AhW8Q7kNvgH9rVHN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDkYNrmaTK0eSJbDpAW4KYfybYotGaQ_q84b5pM6l1MJQ&oe=66AB5DB4	3	Romantic Novel House	2024-07-22 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,619	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940357}'	No	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	1949443145517180	😍Read the next chapters👉	Chapter 1<br /> Lottie’s POV<br /> "So, who is coming tomorrow?" I asked my best friend Lilly, who was twirling in the mirror, the expensive satin of her wedding dress swishing around her ankles. Tomorrow was her big day, and ever the perfectionist, she just had to check everything still fit perfectly. <br /> <br /> "Umm, the usual: our pack, Daddy's business partner, bordering packs, and their alphas. It's only a small gathering." She mumbled, brushing her hands over her tiny waist. <br /> <br /> "Small." I nodded sarcastically; we clearly had a very different understanding of what small meant, but as the daughter of the ruthless Alpha of the Crimson Moon packs, I guess this was small. <br /> <br /> "You know your mating ceremony will be just like this!" Sage chuckled, watching Lilly through my eyes. <br /> <br /> "Not a chance!" I barked, looking over at Lilly and her lavish dress, fake lashes and tan. I loved her and her confidence, but I was definitely more subtle than Lilly, never one to bask in the limelight but hide in the back! So this sort of opulence wasn't for me.<br /> <br /> "Your dad and Alpha Leigh won't accept any less than an extravagant ceremony! You are screwed, as they won't allow you a low-key event! You are the Beta's daughter. You must represent the pack; you know Mike will want all this too! Frills and all!" Sage teased, making me groa-n, shutting her out. I looked at Lilly warmly, smiling at her; she was truly beautiful!<br /> <br /> "You look beautiful, Lilly, very skinny," I added, knowing it was what she wanted to hear, but the truth was she did! She was the kind of girl that would look beautiful in a garbage bag. <br /> <br /> “You think? ” her li-p twisted into a smile, I knew she was satisfied with my answer. <br /> <br /> “Yes!” I stated firmly. Clapping giddily, she gasped, running to the dressing table; she returned with a box, placing it in my lap. <br /> <br /> "I got you a gift to thank you; I know I have been a bridzillar the last few months preparing for the wedding." Taken back, I glanced between her and the beautifully box in my lap. I look at her, remembering why I love her so much! She may be spoiled, a danmed princess and an insane drama queen, but she never ceased to make me feel special and appreciated! <br /> <br /> "You shouldn't have." A polite smile painted my li-ps. <br /> <br /> "Go try it on; Mike will die when he sees you in it!" She laughed, pulling me to my feet, nodding for me to open the box. Rolling her eyes, she ushered me into one of the fitting rooms to try it on. <br /> <br /> "Wait, what?" I asked nervously as she pushed me into the fitting room, winking at me as she closed the door. "Lilly, what have you done?" I asked, but curiosity was getting the better of me. <br /> <br /> "You will thank me later when he can't keep his hands off you!" She laughed.<br /> <br /> Biting my li-p, I pulled the ribbon, svcking in a breath, seeing the racy lingerie staring back at me challengingly, silently daring me to be bold.<br /> <br /> "Oh, My God!" I moaned, shaking my head! "I can't wear this!" I laughed, feeling the blush spread across my cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fifteen minutes later, I stood up on the podium, Lilly staring at me proudly. <br /> <br /> "Fck! I'd totally do you if I weren't getting married tomorrow!" Lilly winked, circling me. "I don't understand why you don't see how hot you are!" She groa-ned.<br /> <br /> Looking in the mirror finally, I svcked in a breath; my slim figure was encased in an icy blue crot-chless cami suspender set that left nothing to the imagination. A lace embroidered halter neck with mesh panels barely covering my booobs ran down my body in a slim V.<br /> <br /> "Seriously, it's like wearing a piece of dental floss!" I shouted, ignoring Lilly's giggles. <br /> <br /> "No pain, no gain, Lottie! Go, show Mike!"she grinned knowingly. "You can tell me all about it later!" She giggled mischievously. <br /> <br /> With a final look in the mirror, I admitted she was right. It did look good! Sexy even! Rolling my li-p between my teeth, I blushed, deciding to take her advice; Mike and I had not had much alone time lately; he was always working, Alpha Leigh had been keeping him busy with safety preparations for tomorrow. <br /> <br /> "Well, this was an excellent way to get his attention." My wolf Sage cackled as I slipped my dress over Lilly’s gift. <br /> <br /> Getting to the apartment I shared with Mike didn't take long; my father had insisted we stay close to the pack house; being the Crimson Moons beta, he, like Lilly, was used to getting his way. <br /> <br /> Seizing my keys from my bag, I froze, hearing the muffled sound of talking from behind our apartment door. Mike was home! <br /> <br /> "Is he watching por-n?" My wolf Sage laughed, hearing the barely audible moans from within the apartment walls. Concentrating on the sounds coming from the other side of the door, I laughed, hearing the distinct sound of mattress springs, breathy moans and... <br /> <br /> "Mike ! Don't stop! Oh my god, Mike harder!" A female panted as the familiar sound of a headboard pounding a wall fluttered up to my ears. MY headboard! Swallowing the bile that assaulted my throat, I quietly walked into the apartment, numbly stumbling to our bedroom; the closer I got, the more I understood.<br /> <br /> "As you wish, baby girl!" MY boyfriend moaned as the squeaking got quicker, more desperate. <br /> <br /> "The fvck you are!" I roared, opening the door with a bang. <br /> <br /> "Shiiit!" Mike’s panicked voice spluttered as I flicked the light on.<br /> <br /> "Hey honey, I'm home!" I mocked, locking eyes with the guy I loved, who was balls deep in a female... a female who wasn't me!<br /> <br /> Chapter 2<br /> "I didn't think you would be back till later?" Mike dares to say, looking at me like I had grown two heads and was somehow in the wrong.<br /> <br /> "Clearly!" I mutter, walking over to the closet, grabbing my overnight bag and aggressively shoving things into it. <br /> <br /> "Baby girl...Come on..." He has the audacity to sound hurt; glancing into the mirror, I lock my eyes on him.<br /> <br /> "I am sorry, who are you talking to ... Me? Or Her?" Seeing the puzzled look on his face, I continued. "Just two seconds ago, I heard you call her 'baby girl'." I spat, knowing I was being petty over the pet name, but given that I had just walked in on him banging some chick in our bed, I felt I had earned the right to be a little childish!<br /> <br /> "No, you are mistaken." He shakes off. Spinning around, I glare at him. <br /> <br /> Is he seriously trying to make ME feel like I am going insane!<br /> <br /> "As you wish, BABY GIRL!" I yelled, repeating what I had heard him say not two minutes ago, to the who-re in his bed... Our bed!<br /> <br /> "It's not what it looks like, I promise."<br /> <br /> "Oh?" I roll my blue eyes and look at the she-wolf pulling the sheet around herself sheepishly. "Did he slip and accidentally land in your vargina?" Seeing her try to slip from the bed, I shook my head. "Stay! He is ALL yours!" I dismissed, returning to throwing the first things I could grab into my travel bag.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte, come on." Mike pushed, getting from the bed. "Work has been tough lately, and well..." Before he finished the sentence, I knew he would make this my fault somehow, just like I knew I would punch him in the face in the next thirty seconds.<br /> <br /> "You have put a little weight on, and you never dress up for me anymore." His body was flush against my back. My body tightened at the irony, given the blue lace I had on under my dress, grabbing my make-up and ramming it brutally with my other things. <br /> <br /> Zipping my bag with shaky hands, I tried to remain calm as he continued. "You could try a little harder to entice me. I wouldn't have to look elsewhere then." <br /> <br /> Spinning around in his hold, I pulled my fist back and, with no warning, plunged it into his eye; satisfaction washed over me hearing the fragile bone in his nose break, blood splattered my dress; looking down at it in astonishment, I laughed in disbelief. <br /> <br /> Mike's curses were barely audible over the sound of my blood rushing through my body. <br /> <br /> "Yeah, we are done." I declare my mind made up as Mike tried to pull my elbow.<br /> <br /> “Babygirl..." He uttered, regretting it the second my eyes glared with the cold blue of Sage, who seized control and, before I could gasp, had delivered her own source of justice. Knocking Mike out cold, his body hurtled back and dropped to the floor, his limp body resembling a pretzel all limbs and bruised ego. <br /> <br /> "When he wakes up, you tell him to stay away from Lottie!" Sage growled at the quivering she-wolf, who was nodding, frozen by fear.<br /> <br /> *******<br /> "Another?" I requested, tapping the rim of my empty glass; the handsome bartender looked between Lilly and I, concern washing over his face. Apparently, our father's made him nervous. <br /> <br /> "I just caught my boyfriend shagging someone else; I think another drink is needed, don't you!" I asked, arching a brow, ignoring Lilly's sigh. Seeing him reluctantly fill my glass, a smirk pulled at the corners of my li-ps. <br /> <br /> I had spent the last few hours getting a little tipsy, dancing and trying to forget my heartbreak. But seeing Lilly look down at her phone with a frown, I knew the night was over.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte, I have to sleep." She only used my full name when she was trying to be serious, "I have to look my best tomorrow." She grinned, pulling me up from my chair. "Come on, let's go home." <br /> <br /> "I can't... I .. Can't go.. back there... HE.. is there!" I slurred, spinning around on wobbly legs; I eyed her helplessly, dramatically throwing my hands in the air. "Can I stay at yours, please!" Laughing, she nodded, pushing me towards the door. <br /> <br /> "Yeah, but I swear if you snore, I will kil-l you!" She laughed.<br /> <br /> Twenty minutes later, we pulled up at the pack house.<br /> <br /> "I will grab water; you go on up!" She laughed, waving me up the stairs as she disappeared into the kitchen. I felt like it took forever to get to her bedroom; pushing the door open, I paused, looking around the room.<br /> <br /> "I don't think I have ever seen this room THIS tidy." I laughed, pulling my dress over my head. I threw my dress aside, picking up a photo frame with a picture of Lilly's older brother standing proudly with his arm around his dad, smiling into the camera, without a care. It was his graduation day. I remember it well. He made me call him master all day. <br /> <br /> "Jackass!" I cursed, turning the frame around, not wanting his eyes on me while I slept, or at all! <br /> <br /> "Looks like this lingerie will be getting some action tonight!" I laughed bitterly while looking in the full-length mirror, thinking about how different this night could have been. Mike's cruel words about my weight were eating at what little confidence I had. Lilly's brothers had made my life hel-l growing up until they left for training a few years back, so I was used to being the but of jokes, taunted and teased, but coming from Mike, it hurt. <br /> <br /> Svcking in a breath, I froze, the sound of running water finally hitting my ears. I had left Lilly downstairs, had she slipped in while I walked around her room? <br /> <br /> Pushing the door to the ensuite open, I froze, my feet rooted to the spot; through the glass panel of the shower, Lilly's brother stood, hand pressed up against the marbled tiled wall, his knuckles turning white from the pressure, his body ripped with even more muscles then he left with. Tattoos wound the whole of his body, trailing my eyes across them giddily; I tensed seeing his tattooed hand gripping his thick steeled rod, easily 9 inches of heaven. <br /> <br /> My eyes locked on his diick as he pumped his hand around it, pleasuring himself in what I knew was meant to be a private moment.<br /> <br /> "Either join me or get out!" He rasped, looking over his shoulders at me; the second our eyes met, I felt like I had been punched, knocking me to my knees, the floor disappearing from under me; somewhere in the distance, I heard Knox's panicked scream, it was genuine concern, not laughter, I was hearing from him. Why? Confusion bled through me wildly, just before everything went black.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3<br /> Distant memories of the annual pack ball danced across my vision; Lilly and I were expected to go as we had come of age; we had both expected the twins to try to sabotage the whole evening! But they hadn't! Lilly and I had assumed it was because our fathers had insisted we attend, and they outranked the twins! Something we knew grated on the boys! <br /> <br /> The guy I had been crushing on at school had asked me to be his date; I was beyond excited! I had gone all out and had my hair, nails and make-up done. I had worked overtime to save up for a dress, I had spent a small fortune, and for once, I felt beautiful! <br /> <br /> He treated me like royalty, something I was not used to, given how the twins liked to control everything Lilly I did behind the walls of the pack house, but the twins had not said anything about me going with the young male wolf; I thought they had finally allowed me some freedom. We danced and laughed, and I thought he would kiss me! I never wanted the night to end; it had been perfect until I found the twins laughing about how desperate and pathetic I was and how they couldn't believe I had actually thought HE would like ME! <br /> <br /> Unable to watch anymore, I turned to leave only to see other classmates recording me, laughing at me and my tears. It didn't take long for it to be uploaded to social media and sent around school, making me a laughingstock! I had never understood why they were so obsessed with what I did! I got that they protected Lilly, but I was not kin! And this behavior was unwarranted! <br /> <br /> I tried to speak to my father about it, but since my mother had died, he had checked out, leaving Luna Louise to raise me; his only care was the pack and keeping it safe! And I could hardly go to her and moan that her precious sons were making my life hel-l! So I had no choice but to put up and shut up! Only when they left at 16 did things get easier; I finally knew peace, friendship, and fun! And somewhere in between, I met Mike. <br /> <br /> Opening my eyes slowly, the memories faded only to be replaced by the concerned face of Knox, staring down at me with such warmth my stomach flipped. His fingers traced my cheek as relief spread over his features. <br /> <br /> "Get. Your. Hand. Off. Me!" I seethed, slapping it away aggressively, my eyes narrowing on the ice blue hues of Knox, forcing myself to ignore the flicker of hurt that slipped across his face. <br /> <br /> "Hush, baby, let me check you over. You hit your head hard." He cooed, and my eyes widened in disbelief at the sincerity in his tone. <br /> <br /> "Get your STI-riddled hand off of me before I break it the fck off!" Snapping my mouth closed, feeling the light touch of his fingers on my li-ps.<br /> <br /> "You have a filthy mouth, do you know that!" His brows knitted together as he looked my face over, his gaze locking on my li-ps, making me uncomfortable. "I should teach you a lesson!" He mused a smirk split his face, seeing the shock wash over mine.<br /> <br /> "You're disgusting!" I spat, pushing myself up, looking around confused, seeing I was not on the floor but instead laid out carefully on the bed, Knox beside me. He had apparently swept me up and taken care of me, but I could not think why for the life of me. Shoving him aside, I attempted to climb over him. But his hands gripped my waist, locking me mid-stride over his torso. <br /> <br /> "I have to admit, you have changed a lot!" A grin slowly slipped across his face, his fingers trailing up the soft fabric of my new lingerie. Lingerie meant for Mike. "Not the whiny brat I left behind, huh" Shoving his che-st hard, framing my face in a wall of glowing white.<br /> <br /> I didn't want to admit that he had changed, too; he had grown into a gorgeous male.<br /> <br /> "And buffed up!" Sage added to my inner thoughts, bringing me back to reality. Ignoring her lude comment with a groa-n, my hands covered his that were rubbing up my sides. <br /> <br /> "Seriously, stop touching me!" Pushing his hands off me with a snort, "Dicck!" I grunted. <br /> <br /> "Hmmm, yeah, I have one... wanna see?" He taunted, his hands returning to my waist with supernatural speed.<br /> <br /> "YES, I wanna see!" Sage purred excitedly. <br /> "Seriously! Do you remember all the shiit he put us through" I snapped, trying to pull away from his grasp.<br /> <br /> "God's", A gasp escaped my li-ps, feeling his solid length rub against my core.<br /> <br /> "Crotc-hless!" He smirked up at me. "Not so innocent, it seems!"<br /> <br /> "UGH!" I growled, trying to lift off of him, but he forced me along him again, making me cry out as my pusssy clenched needily, loving the sensation of pain mixing with pleasure.<br /> <br /> "Let me make this crystal clear for you, Knox! I do not want you!"<br /> <br /> "Really? Sage seems game!" He grinned slyly.<br /> <br /> "She's a sluut!" I announced, angry at Sage's betrayal! <br /> <br /> "Mmm, My sluut?" He beamed, his hands sliding up my back;his solid length was millimeters from my core, but he was waiting for me to give him the green light.<br /> <br /> "Beg me, Knox!" I challenged!<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> "Beg?" He scoffed, eyes narrowing on me; I could see the inner fight between Knox and his wolf. He was a son of an Alpha. He had probably never begged for anything, let alone a female! But if he wanted me like he claimed to, he would beg! <br /> <br /> "Yes, Beg! Or let go of me." I declared with a newfound boldness. I was so over being weak and vulnerable, done being pushed around by those around me, and that included Mike and the danm twins!<br /> <br /> His hands released my hi-ps. Evidently, he refused to dance to my tune. <br /> <br /> "You are so danm perfect, but I won't beg!" He maintained. For once, he looked weak! The desire in his gaze filled me with a new sense of power; it had been such a long time since I felt this heat, and it was scrambling my brain.<br /> <br /> "There, that wasn't so hard, was it!" I laughed, rising onto my knees, an idea quickly springing to my mind. Years I had put up with his taunts, teasing and humiliation. It was time to return that favor. <br /> <br /> "Do it, I dare ya!" Sage encouraged.<br /> <br /> I slipped the straps off my shoulders, letting the delicate lace slide down, my booobs bouncing fre-e. <br /> <br /> "Please, Charlotte. Let me taste your pretty body; let me make you feel every inch the Queen you are!" <br /> <br /> Shiit! <br /> <br /> “ I will beg too! Let him do it! Please!" Sage wailed in my head, but she needn't! I hated myself for it, but I wanted it. I wanted him, and given the look on his face, he bloody well knew it!<br /> <br /> Nodding, I watched as he did just that, his li-ps pressed to my body in turn. Gripping his hand in mine, I tutted at him; even when drowning in lust, I refused to let him take control of the situation!<br /> <br /> "Char??" I heard Lilly call from the hallway. "Where the fck did she go?" She moaned as she walked past Knox's room; the fact she didn't even think to check in here told me everything and brought me back to the startling realisation that I had fcked up! I was lying on my best friend's brother's bed, between his legs!<br /> <br /> "Get off!" I growled, pushing Knox off; my lust turned to hate quickly. <br /> <br /> "This shouldn't have happened!" I spat accusingly at him, but I knew I had been a willing participant, and if Lilly hadn't interrupted, I hate to think just how willing of a participant I would have been!<br /> <br /> "Come on, it's fine!" He laughed as I scrambled out from under him, pulling my straps back in place while searching for my dress and pulling it on. <br /> <br /> "Where is that blood from?" Knox growled, making me jump; looking down at my blood-stained dress, I frowned- I liked this dress! How had I not noticed Mike's blood all over it?<br /> <br /> "None of your danm business!" I huffed, grabbing my shoes and glaring at him one last time.<br /> <br /> "THIS never happened!" I snapped, slipping from the room as quietly as I can, tiptoeing down the hall to Lilly's room. Seeing she was still roaming the corridors looking for me, I took the opportunity to slip into the shower. Desperate to wash the embarrassment off me. <br /> <br /> "You smell of him... Of Knox!"Sage announced as she rubbed up against the walls of my mind.<br /> <br /> "What?" I gasped, inhaling sharply, hoping the smell of the shower gel would erase not just his smell but the memories too!However, all I could smell was the heavenly scent of Knox and his danm arousal! <br /> <br /> "Fck!" I cursed, scrubbing myself raw, until I heard Lilly return. <br /> <br /> "Where the fck have you been?" She snapped as she pulled herself up on the counter in the bathroom, watching me skeptically. Making a split-second decision, I decided to lie!<br /> <br /> "I got lost and ended up in your brother Knox's room! I didn't realize he was back!" I started sxcking down a breath, groa-ning, smelling Knox STILL. <br /> <br /> "A little heads up would have been good!" I moaned, giving her an irritated half-smile.<br /> <br /> "You thought they would miss my big day?" She laughed, rolling her eyes! "They got back this evening." <br /> <br /> "No shiiit!" I sighed, giving her a 'you think' look as I bull shited her with another lie; Sage and I were both disappointed at how easily the lie left my li-ps.<br /> <br /> Giggling with my best friend on the night of her mating ceremony should have been the highlight of my night, but instead, I was left with an uneasy feeling eating at my stomach, something telling me my life was about to get a he-ll of a lot more complicated! And there was nothing I could do about it!<br /> <br /> Chapter 5<br /> "Get your lazy as-s up!" Lilly demanded, her shrill voice making me sigh; flopping onto my stomach, I pulled her pillow over my head, hoping to silence her. <br /> <br /> "No!" I grumbled, images of Knox and I last night still floating around my head, making my thi-ghs ache.<br /> <br /> "Char! Come on!" Lilly said, pulling the sheet off me; the cold air assaulting my body. <br /> <br /> "It's my big day! I need my best friend at my side!" She complained, but the edge to her tone told me she was not about to give up any time soon. <br /> <br /> "Fine! I am up!" I grumbled, throwing the pillow in the direction Lilly's voice came from while pulling myself up. Smelling strong coffee, I smiled sleepily over at Lilly, the last remnants of my dream and her sexy brother slowly fading from my mind as I took the coffee she handed me. <br /> <br /> "I can't get sick today, Char!" Lilly moaned, watching me as she handed me a mirror to show me how red-faced I was, dropping it on the bed, not needing to look to know I was blushing.<br /> <br /> "Charlotte! Are you ok? You're shaking?" Lilly inhaled, taking the coffee cup from my hands before I dropped it. Her hand pressed to my forehead sympathetically. "Charlotte?" <br /> <br /> "Do you think he will be as skilled with his tongue as you imagine him to be?" Sage added, making me blush further. <br /> <br /> "Enough!" I screamed at my wolf, cutting our link off so I could focus and calm my trembling hands and racing heart. The concern on Lilly's face startled me back to reality.<br /> <br /> "I am ok! Honestly!"I muttered, shaking my head at the images Sage had interjected into my mind on a loop.<br /> <br /> "I should tell her! In the 18 years we have been friends, I have never lied to her! I don't feel right doing so now!" I stated guiltily to Sage.<br /> <br /> It seemed since we left Knox's room, it was all she could think of! And a certain male's dicck in particular. <br /> <br /> Sxcking down my breath, seeing Lilly's frantic eyes searching my face needily. Today was her big day! She had been dreaming of this day for as long as I had known her, finding her mate, making it official and making her family and pack proud. <br /> <br /> I, on the other hand, needed more! I needed the rawest form of love, trust and security, all of which was something Knox could not offer me! The thought cemented what I already knew; It was a one-off! Sighing, I softened my features, ignoring the aching between my thi-ghs.<br /> <br /> "I think the last 24 hours have caught up with me, seeing Mike and that trollop in my bed! That's all!" I expressed lying to her face for the second time in a few hours.<br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Char; he really is a piece of shiit! Want me to ask Knox and Kane to give him a good hiding." Shaking my head dramatically with a nervous laugh, I gripped her hands and pulled her onto the bed, ignoring her protests.<br /> <br /> "NO!" It's embarrassing enough that I caught them having sax in my bed; I don't want the whole pack talking about it." I sighed, grabbing the pillow and throwing it at her with an arched brow.<br /> <br /> "Hmmm, yeah, I understand that!" She chuckled, throwing the pillow back at me as she got back off the bed, holding her hand out to pull me up. <br /> <br /> "But if he becomes a bother! I will tell them! I know you think they don't care about you, Charlotte, but they see you as a little sister! They won't stand for his bullshiit!" She expressed, looking at me in the mirror as she fixed her hair. <br /> <br /> "Lord, I hope they don't see you as a sister! Not sure how I feel about ince-st!" Sage grunted, working her way through the barrier I had put up. "Although... I am up for calling Knox Daddy if you are?" She added with a wiggle.<br /> <br /> "Way to lower the tone, sage!" I huffed, ignoring her like before as I helped Lilly prepare for her big day! <br /> <br /> Two hours later, we were making our way through an empty pack house; Alpha Leigh had seen to it that no one would see his daughter until the ceremony, so not a single person remained in the pack house but Lilly and I. <br /> <br /> "Are you not nervous?" I asked; standing at the back doors, I squeezed her hand. <br /> <br /> "No, just excited!" She whispered, pushing the doors open to peek out at the beautifully decorated garden with its subtle nod to the pack's colours. <br /> <br /> "Wow, it's stunning." I gushed as the door heaved open, and Alpha Leigh stepped in, his eyes falling on his daughter and blurring with tears instantly in a way only a proud father could.<br /> <br /> "Told you, you looked beautiful!" I grinned, nudging Lilly's waist with mine seeing him try not to cry at the sight of his daughter in her ceremonial dress. <br /> <br /> "You like Daddy?" She screeched, turning slowly to show him what his money had brought. It was an exquisite dress, floor length, made with the softest of silk. <br /> <br /> "You look like a princess!" He gushed, straightening no doubt in an attempt to control his emotions; his eyes scanned me with a warm smile, looking at my dress with a chuckle. <br /> <br /> "I half expected you to turn up in yoga pants and a hoodie Charlotte!" He teased with an affectionate wink. He was right, of course; I lived in training and gym clothes. When your Father was the Beta, you tended to spend the majority of your time training. <br /> <br /> "Daddy!" Lilly scolded, "Don't encourage her! It took me weeks to bribe her into the dress!" She scoffed, giving me a firm stare. <br /> <br /> "Charlotte, can you excuse us a moment, I would like a minute with my baby before...." He whispered, his voice cutting off as his eyes locked on his daughter with such love. <br /> <br /> "She will always be your baby girl!" I whispered, leaning up on my tiptoes to press a soft kiss to my alphas cheek; he was like a second father to me and seeing him so overwhelmed at the sight of Lilly was very out of character for him, even behind closed doors he always seemed to favour the twins.<br /> <br /> Winking at my best friend before slipping out the doors and into a solid form and familiar scent, I groa-ned audibly; even Sage was finally waking up, sensing the danger.<br /> <br /> Chapter 6<br /> "What are you doing here!" I questioned, trying to keep my tone neutral, not wanting to give him the satisfaction of seeing my upset. Allowing my eyes to roam over a dark blue pin-stripped tailored suit that barely fit the muscular form of Mike. <br /> <br /> His dark eyes trained on me, his li-ps pulled into a scowl as he looked down my body. <br /> <br /> "Nice to see you too, baby girl!" He sighed, having just referred to Lilly as 'baby girl' to her father; hearing it slip from Mike's li-ps felt wrong, but I couldn't be bothered to argue with him about his pet name for me now, not when Alpha and Lilly are on the other side of the door. <br /> <br /> "Lottie?" He huffed, waiting for me to say something, but I had nothing to say, trying to hide his frustration by running a hand through his dark hair.<br /> <br /> "I missed you last night." He tried again, clearly trying to engage me in conversation. <br /> <br /> "I wish I could say the same!" I grunted, annoyed at myself for acknowledging him, I crossed my hands across my che-st. A part of me wished he would turn and leave me alone, go back to the she-wolf he had allowed to keep him company last night, but the stu-pid, naive part of me wanted to cling to him and ask him to fight for me! <br /> <br /> "Your father sent me to find you!" He grinned a pearly smile that had my stomach fluttering; I hadn't told my father about the breakup, so he meant well, I assured myself. <br /> <br /> "I can make my own way to the ceremony." I snapped, lowering my eyes from Mike's face; the displeasure washing across his face made me feel self-conscious enough.<br /> <br /> "Lottie!" He tried as I pulled my elbows closer, hugging them around myself, his cruel remark about my weight last night still raw, even if I hadn't let him know it had hurt me. <br /> <br /> "You took forever!" He stated. "Probably putting all that slap on your face!" Pulling on my elbow, he half dragged me down the beautifully styled pathway towards the old church grounds at the back of the property. <br /> <br /> "You're hurting me!" I winced, a burn rising to my cheeks at the mention of my make-up!<br /> <br /> "Yes!" He sneered, not even looking at me.<br /> <br /> "No! You look beautiful!" Sage interjected, lending me some of her strength to try and pull my arm back from his iron-tight grip.<br /> <br /> "You don't even have time to change! The guests have all arrived!" He grumbled, ignoring me and shoving me forward so hard I slipped on one of the petals lining the old cobbled path. "Fck sake, Lottie, you always have to show me up!" He hissed, looking down at me with contempt.<br /> <br /> "Get up then!" He snarled, his eyes lingering on the deep V neckline that barely held my booobs in place.<br /> <br /> Left speechless, I sat on the floor, looking up at my so-called mate, feeling the cold stone through the thin fabric.<br /> <br /> "I can't believe you, today is an important day for the pack, and you turn up dressed like... that! Representing me! Are you trying to destroy my reputation?" He snarled, shoving his hand out and grabbing my elbow again, yanking me up by it painfully and shoving me forward. <br /> <br /> "You look like a who=re!" He growled from behind me, shaking his head angrily; I could feel Sage's anger rising, and as much as I was grateful she had my back, now wasn't the time to cause a scene. It was Lilly's big day and an important day for the pack.<br /> <br /> "Well, you'd know all about whor-es!" I seethed quietly, spinning to face my so-called mate, "How many of them have you had in our bed?" I scoffed, looking at him with pity but unable to stop.<br /> <br /> "Tell me did they fake it like I did? They must have because there is no way your .. little.. friend could have satisfied them! Lord knows it never did me!" I blurted out angrily, narrowing my eyes at him challengingly. The darkening in his iris had my heart skipping a beat, and not for the right reason. He was angry!<br /> <br /> "That's your problem, Charlotte; you have never known your danm place." He grinned manically, taking a step toward me before I had a chance to react; he pulled me non to gently into an alcove of the garden, hidden by the white Jasmine vines. <br /> <br /> "But that's ok; I will teach you now!" He breathed into my ear as he slammed my che-st against the stone wall, knocking the air from my lungs and leaving me unable to cry out even if I wanted to. Gripping my hands again, he yanked them above my head, holding them together with one of his large hands.<br /> <br /> "I can smell your arousal!" He moaned into my ear huskily. Despite my compromising position, my body was throbbing, desperate for attention! I wanted to scream at Mike, to tell him the wetness between my thi-ghs wasn't for him but leftover remnants of my time with Knox last night. <br /> <br /> "I know that you, Lottie, will always be MY who-re!" Hearing the familiar sound of his zipper, I knew what was coming and as much as I hated to admit it! <br /> <br /> I wanted it!	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1,940,961	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940960}'	Yes	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	358870627046522	Leer el siguiente capítulo👉	Ella firmó el acuerdo de divorcio y se fue sin su teléfono. Él revisó su móvil, leyendo un mensaje: ¡Vuelve mañana para tu chequeo prenatal!<br /> ------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /> Capítulo 1 El regreso de la exnovia<br /> <br /> Raegan Hayes estaba un poco distraída. <br /> <br /> No podía pensar en nada más que en las palabras del médico. "¡Felicitaciones! Está embarazada". <br /> <br /> De repente, Mitchel Dixon le pellizcó el brazo. "Oye, ¿en qué estás pensando?". <br /> <br /> Antes de que ella pudiera responder, Mitchel se levantó. <br /> <br /> Luego, él entró al baño. <br /> <br /> Raegan permaneció inmóvil en la enorme cama. Sus mechones húmedos se pegaban a sus sienes y mejillas. Estaba mirando al techo con los ojos llenos de lágrimas. <br /> <br /> Después de un rato, sacó el informe de embarazo del cajón del velador. <br /> <br /> Había ido al hospital por un incesante dolor de estómago. Tras un análisis de orina, el médico le dio la noticia. ¡Tenía alrededor de cinco semanas de embarazo! <br /> <br /> Era toda una sorpresa. Mitchel y ella nunca planeaban el embarazo. <br /> <br /> Tras devanarse los sesos, recordó el día de la concepción. Había sido el mes pasado, después de una fiesta. Mitchel la llevó a casa...<br /> <br /> Adentro del baño, se escuchaba correr el agua. Mitchel era su esposo y llevaban dos años casados en secreto. Era su jefe en el trabajo, el presidente del Grupo Dixon. <br /> <br /> Todo había sucedido con suma rapidez. Recién la habían contratado en la empresa cuando accidentalmente se conocieron en una fiesta. <br /> <br /> Días más tarde, el abuelo de Mitchel enfermó de gravedad. Fue entonces cuando él propuso un matrimonio falso para cumplir el último deseo del anciano. <br /> <br /> Ambos firmaron un acuerdo prenupcial y acordaron esconder su matrimonio al público. Era probable que su unión terminara en cualquier momento. <br /> <br /> Era una ocasión poco convencional. Sin embargo, Raegan se consideraba afortunada. <br /> <br /> Ni en un millón de años pensó que se casaría con el hombre del que estuvo enamorada durante ocho años, así que aceptó con entusiasmo. <br /> <br /> Mitchel estuvo muy ocupado después de la boda, ya que trabajaba la mayor parte del tiempo. <br /> <br /> Raegan deseaba estar más con él en casa. Pero se sentía tranquila porque no tenía rumores ni escándalos con otras mujeres. <br /> <br /> A pesar de su leve indiferencia, Mitchel era el esposo perfecto. <br /> <br /> Raegan tuvo sentimientos encontrados mientras observaba el resultado de la prueba de embarazo. <br /> <br /> Finalmente decidió contarle la verdad a Mitchel. <br /> <br /> También quería decirle que no lo había conocido recientemente, sino que lo había amado desde hacía muchos años. <br /> <br /> De repente, la ducha del baño dejó de sonar. <br /> <br /> En cuanto Mitchel salió, sonó su teléfono, así que salió al balcón con una toalla de baño para contestar la llamada. <br /> <br /> Raegan comprobó la hora y vio que ya era medianoche. <br /> <br /> No pudo evitar sentirse incómoda. ¿Quién lo llamaba a una hora tan intempestiva? <br /> <br /> Mitchel estuvo unos minutos en el balcón. Luego, regresó a la habitación. <br /> <br /> Su cuerpo era un espectáculo digno de contemplar. Tenía voluminosos abdominales en su vientre y sus brazos eran fuertes y musculosos. ¡Era un excelente hombre! <br /> <br /> Aunque Raegan lo había visto así antes, se sonrojó y su corazón comenzó a acelerarse. <br /> <br /> Ajeno a sus miradas, Mitchel agarró su camisa y sus pantalones de traje de la cama, se los puso y se anudó la corbata con sus delgados dedos. Su hermoso rostro tenía un contorno claro que lo hacía verse más digno esa noche. <br /> <br /> Era toda una obra de arte. <br /> <br /> "No me esperes despierta". <br /> <br /> ¿Qué? ¿Iba a salir? ¿A estas horas? <br /> <br /> Raegan agarró con más fuerza la prueba de embarazo mientras le daba una mirada decepcionada. Inconscientemente retiró la mano. "Ya es muy tarde", soltó después de pensar un rato. <br /> <br /> Los dedos de Mitchel se quedaron congelados sobre su corbata. Con una leve sonrisa, le pellizcó el lóbulo de la oreja. "¿Te da miedo la oscuridad?". <br /> <br /> Raegan se sonrojó hasta la raíz del cabello. Estaba a punto de responder cuando Mitchel la soltó. "Pórtate bien, ¿sí? Necesito hacer algo. No me esperes despierta". <br /> <br /> Tras esas palabras, se dirigió hacia la puerta. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel". <br /> <br /> Raegan corrió para alcanzarlo. <br /> <br /> Mitchel se dio vuelta y la miró con seriedad. <br /> <br /> "¿Qué pasa?". <br /> <br /> Había un ápice de frialdad en su voz. Una nube negra descendió sobre ellos mientras se miraban fijamente. <br /> <br /> Un poco angustiada, Raegan dijo en voz baja: "Me gustaría visitar mañana a mi abuela. ¿Puedes acompañarme?". <br /> <br /> Su frágil y enferma abuela siempre quería verla. Por eso quería llevar a Mitchel y asegurarle que eran muy felices. <br /> <br /> "Hablemos mañana al respecto". Sin aceptar ni negarse, Mitchel se marchó apresuradamente. <br /> <br /> Varios pensamientos rondaban la mente de Raegan mientras se duchaba y regresaba a la cama. No podía conciliar el sueño. <br /> <br /> Tras dar vueltas y vueltas, se levantó de la cama y se preparó un vaso de leche caliente. <br /> <br /> Algunas noticias en línea llegaron a su teléfono. <br /> <br /> Pero, como no le interesaban, estaba a punto de eliminarlas cuando una llamó su atención. El conocido nombre la hizo abrir el artículo. <br /> <br /> La noticia decía: "La famosa diseñadora Lauren Murray fue vista hoy en el aeropuerto con su misterioso novio". <br /> <br /> Lauren llevaba un sombrero amplio. La figura del hombre se veía vaga, pero el contorno de su cuerpo bastaba para mostrar que era apuesto. <br /> <br /> Raegan agrandó la imagen y su corazón dio un vuelco. <br /> <br /> ¡Era Mitchel! <br /> <br /> ¿Había cancelado la reunión de la tarde para recoger a su exnovia del aeropuerto? <br /> <br /> Raegan se sintió molesta, como si tuviera una roca en el estómago. <br /> <br /> Sus manos estaban temblando y marcó inconscientemente el número de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> El tono de llamada la devolvió a sus sentidos. Estaba a punto de colgar cuando, de repente, se conectó la línea y se escuchó una voz desde el otro lado. <br /> <br /> "¡Hola!". <br /> <br /> Era una suave voz de mujer. <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó paralizada y tiró el teléfono. <br /> <br /> Fue entonces cuando sintió náuseas y la bilis subió a su garganta. <br /> <br /> Cubriéndose la boca, fue corriendo al baño y vomitó en la taza del váter. <br /> <br /> A la mañana siguiente, Raegan llegó temprano al trabajo. <br /> <br /> Mitchel le había insistido en que dejara de trabajar después de casarse, pero ella quería ganar su propio dinero. <br /> <br /> A pesar de que no se opuso, Mitchel le pidió que trabajara como su asistente y lo ayudara con las tareas diarias. <br /> <br /> Matteo Jenkins, el asistente principal, estaba a cargo de sus asuntos más importantes. <br /> <br /> Era el único empleado de la empresa que sabía sobre su matrimonio. <br /> <br /> Desde el principio, la oficina del presidente solo tenía asistentes hombres. Reagan era la primera y única mujer. Su contratación había roto el protocolo, así que otros trabajadores se preguntaban si estaba aquí por la puerta trasera o era alguien especial para Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Pero luego se dieron cuenta de que él no le daba un trato especial. Curiosamente, eso hizo que la despreciaran más. <br /> <br /> Después de todo, la empresa es un campo de batalla. Era extraño que Raegan mantuviera tanto tiempo su trabajo siendo tan incompetente. <br /> <br /> En ese momento, uno de sus colegas le entregó un documento y le pidió que lo llevara a la oficina de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> El hombre no había regresado a casa anoche. Raegan estaba tan preocupada que no pudo pegar un ojo toda la noche. <br /> <br /> No podía pensar en nada más que en la mujer que contestó su teléfono cuando ella había llamado. ¿Mitchel estaba con esta en aquel momento? <br /> <br /> Raegan no podía aceptar ese hecho. <br /> <br /> Pero intentó mantener la calma momentáneamente. Pasara lo que pasara, merecía un resultado gratificante por todos sus años amando a Mitchel. No podía ser en vano, ¿verdad? <br /> <br /> Con mucha calma, presionó el botón del ascensor y subió a la oficina del presidente. Antes de salir, se alisó el cabello para asegurarse de tener buen aspecto. <br /> <br /> Cuando llegó a la oficina, vio que la puerta estaba entreabierta. Adentro se escuchaba la voz de un hombre, así que se detuvo al instante. <br /> <br /> "¡Vamos! ¿Sientes algo por Raegan o no?". <br /> <br /> Era Luis Stevens, un amigo de la infancia de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> "¿Qué quieres decir?", preguntó Mitchel fríamente. <br /> <br /> "¡Sabes exactamente lo que quiero decir!". Luis chasqueó la lengua con impaciencia. "Raegan me parece una buena chica. ¿No es tu tipo?". <br /> <br /> "¿Acaso a ti te gusta ella?", preguntó Mitchel descuidadamente. <br /> <br /> "¿Sabes qué? ¡Olvídalo!". <br /> <br /> La risa de Luis sonó bastante dura en los oídos de Raegan. <br /> <br /> Hablaban de ella como si fuera una cosa. <br /> <br /> Respirando hondo, agarró con más fuerza el documento. <br /> <br /> Pronto volvió a escucharse la voz de Luis. <br /> <br /> "Por cierto, esta mañana vi los rumores sobre el misterioso novio de Lauren. Eras tú, ¿verdad?". <br /> <br /> "Sí". <br /> <br /> "¡Vaya, vaya! Esa mujer todavía te tiene comiendo de la palma de su mano. Siempre la complaces". <br /> <br /> Luis suspiró y siguió burlándose de Mitchel. "La ausencia aumenta el cariño. Dime, ¿ustedes dos...?". <br /> <br /> Su conversación explotó como un trueno sobre la cabeza de Raegan. <br /> <br /> Su rostro palideció y su cuerpo se volvió tan frío como el hielo. <br /> <br /> ¡Así que el que al lado de Lauren sí fue Mitchel! <br /> <br /> Cada palabra se clavó en su corazón como un cuchillo. <br /> <br /> De repente, varias voces susurrantes llenaron su mente. Estaba mareada. Su visión se puso borrosa. <br /> <br /> Raegan se sostuvo de la pared y retrocedió un paso. Fue entonces cuando la puerta se abrió desde dentro. <br /> <br /> "¿Raegan?". <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo 2 Amor unilateral<br /> <br /> Fue Luis quien abrió la puerta, como si fuera a salir. <br /> <br /> Raegan juntó las manos y se volvió hacia él con un asentimiento. "¡Hola, señor Stevens!". <br /> <br /> Sin esperar una respuesta a su saludo, pasó junto a él y entró a la oficina con el documento. <br /> <br /> Mitchel estaba sentado tras un amplio y lujoso escritorio. Se veía bastante guapo con ese traje y corbata a juego. <br /> <br /> Raegan notó que no era el mismo atuendo que llevaba cuando salió de casa anoche. ¿Cómo se había cambiado? <br /> <br /> Con la mirada gacha, se tragó la pregunta y dijo: "Señor Dixon, esto es del Departamento de Marketing. Por favor, fírmelo". <br /> <br /> Mitchel miró inexpresivo el documento mientras lo firmaba. <br /> <br /> Raegan salió inmediatamente después. Luis aún seguía parado en el umbral. <br /> <br /> No fue hasta que ella se perdió de vista que se volvió hacia Mitchel. "¡Oye!", susurró. "¿Crees que nos escuchó?". <br /> <br /> Los atractivos ojos de Mitchel no mostraron ninguna emoción. Era obvio que no estaba escuchando a su amigo. <br /> <br /> En su opinión, Raegan siempre había sido dócil y nunca había tenido celos de nadie. <br /> <br /> Su obediencia era todo lo que él le exigía a cambio de tratarla bien. <br /> <br /> En el ascensor, Raegan aguantó la respiración para retener sus lágrimas. <br /> <br /> Pero no le funcionó. <br /> <br /> Había pensado que dos años serían suficientes para que Mitchel se diera cuenta de lo mucho que ella lo amaba y le correspondiera. <br /> <br /> Ahora resultaba que no era más que una ilusión. <br /> <br /> Siempre tendría un papel secundario frente a Lauren, su verdadero amor. <br /> <br /> Reagan se secó las lágrimas una vez que el ascensor se detuvo. De no ser por su rostro pálido, se veía normal cuando se abrieron las puertas. <br /> <br /> Luego, fue hacia la sala de descanso para prepararse una taza de té. <br /> <br /> Varios empleados estaban charlando adentro. <br /> <br /> "Chicos, ¿se han enterado? Lauren Murray ha regresado del extranjero". <br /> <br /> "¿Y quién es ella?". <br /> <br /> "¡Oh, Dios mío! ¿No la conoces? Es la heredera del Grupo Murray y una diseñadora bastante reconocida. Y sobre todo es la única novia que el señor Dixon ha mostrado públicamente. ¡Es su primer amor!". <br /> <br /> "¿Por qué es tan importante que haya vuelto? ¿No se rumorea que el señor Dixon tiene algo con Raegan?". <br /> <br /> "¿Raegan? ¡Imposible! El señor Dixon nunca admitió estar saliendo con ella, y es exigente a la hora de elegir pereja. Solo mírala. Ni siquiera es tan hermosa. Sin embargo, se comporta como si ya fuera la señora Dixon. ¡Qué ridícula!". <br /> <br /> En la puerta, Raegan esbozó una sonrisa burlona mientras los escuchaba. Todos los demás veían la verdad excepto ella. <br /> <br /> Su amor era unilateral. <br /> <br /> "¡Ja, ja! ¿La señora Dixon se despertó de su sueño salvaje?". <br /> <br /> De repente, escuchó una voz detrás de sí. Raegan se volvió para encontrarse con Tessa Lloyd, la prima de Mitchel, quien siempre la había despreciado. <br /> <br /> Tessa también debía haber oído los chismes de los empleados. <br /> <br /> Lo último que Raegan quería era discutir con ella en la empresa, así que se dio la vuelta para irse, pero la mujer le bloqueó el camino. <br /> <br /> Con una taza de café en la mano, Tessa comentó sarcásticamente: "Lauren ha regresado. ¿Crees que Mitchel te seguirá dando atención?". <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó callada. <br /> <br /> Tras unos segundos, Tessa continuó con sus burlas. "Me enteré de que eres buena en fingir. ¿Qué pasará si te desenmascaro delante de todos? Sé que te gusta la compañía de hombres...". <br /> <br /> Raegan apretó los puños. "Señorita Lloyd, estamos en la empresa", espetó. "Si te interesan esos negocios, ya sabes adónde ir". <br /> <br /> "Tú...". <br /> <br /> El rostro de Tessa se transformó. <br /> <br /> Rápidamente levantó la mano y vació la taza de café sobre Raegan. <br /> <br /> Esta última no pensó ni por un segundo que Tessa haría una locura como esa, así que alzó los brazos para bloquear el líquido de su cara. El café le quemó el brazo. <br /> <br /> "¡Ay!", gritó Raegan, frunciendo el ceño debido al dolor. "¿Por qué hiciste eso? ¿Estás loca?". <br /> <br /> Como era la hora del almuerzo, muchos empleados pudieron ver el escándalo. Tessa se mostró aún más complaciente cuando vio que el número de espectadores aumentaba. <br /> <br /> "¿Por qué eres tan engreída?", escupió. "¿De verdad crees que todos no saben que eres una pobre sin padres? Y tienes el descaro de...". <br /> <br /> De repente, se escuchó un grito. <br /> <br /> Tessa había sido silenciada por una bofetada. <br /> <br /> Ahora estaba boquiabierta. No había esperado que la callada y tímida Raegan la abofeteara. <br /> <br /> Tessa se sostuvo la mejilla y se la quedó mirando un rato. "Tú...", tartamudeó. "¿Me pegaste? ¡¿Cómo te atreves?!". <br /> <br /> "¡Sí, te pegué!", espetó Raegan. "Parece que necesitas aprender a tener cortesía". <br /> <br /> Sí, había perdido a sus padres cuando era niña, pero no permitiría que alguien la pisoteara por eso. <br /> <br /> Tessa crispó el rostro mientras fruncía el ceño rabiosamente. Como prima de Mitchel, estaba acostumbrada a que la elogiaran y respetaran. Esto nunca había sucedido antes. <br /> <br /> "¡Raegan!". <br /> <br /> Tessa arremetió contra Raegan como un toro furioso y alzó la mano para devolverle la bofetada. <br /> <br /> Pero Raegan estaba preparada para lo que se avecinaba, así que agarró la muñeca de Tessa con tanta fuerza que esta no pudo moverse. <br /> <br /> Como era más baja, luchó como un pulpo, cuyos tentáculos se habían atascado en una trampa, "¿Cómo te atreves a ponerme tus sucias manos encima?", maldijo. "¿Quién te crees que eres? ¡Solo eres la sirvienta de Mitchel!". <br /> <br /> Sus duras palabras atrajeron a más personas a la sala de descanso. <br /> <br /> "¡Suficiente!". <br /> <br /> De la nada, se escuchó una fuerte voz desde atrás. Mitchel había salido de su oficina, solo para encontrarse con ese alboroto. <br /> <br /> Toda la sala se sumió en un profundo silencio. <br /> <br /> "¿Mitchell?". Tessa se quedó helada cuando vio a su primo, ya que siempre le había tenido miedo. Su madre también le advertía que no lo provocara. <br /> <br /> No obstante, cuando recordó a Raegan abofeteándola, puso una expresión lastimera y comenzó a sollozar. "Mitchel, mira mi rostro. ¡Me abofeteó!". <br /> <br /> La luz del sol caía sobre el hermoso rostro de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan se sintió muy afligida y bajó la cabeza para mirar la parte posterior de su brazo, quemada por el café. <br /> <br /> Las miradas de ambos se encontraron. Con el ceño fruncido, Mitchel dijo: "Raegan, ¿olvidaste las reglas de la empresa?". <br /> <br /> Raegan contuvo la respiración ante su crueldad. No podía creer lo que estaba escuchando. <br /> <br /> Nadie se atrevió a hacer ningún sonido. <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó parada con su esbelta figura. <br /> <br /> Cuando la contrataron, Mitchel le advirtió que el Grupo Dixon no era un lugar para que perdiera el tiempo y que no toleraría ningún error suyo. <br /> <br /> Raegan entendía por qué adoptaba esa postura. <br /> <br /> No obstante, estaba desesperada por saber si había oído esas duras palabras de Tessa o si solo estaba fingiendo porque estaba de acuerdo. <br /> <br /> ¿En serio solo la veía como una sirvienta? <br /> <br /> Aterrada de recibir la ira de Mitchel, la multitud no tardó en dispersarse. Algunos empleados se atrevieron a mirar desde la distancia, pues no quería perderse de un buen espectáculo. <br /> <br /> Raegan se estremeció de pies a cabeza cuando vio los ojos fríos de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Mirando a Tessa, se pellizcó la palma de la mano para reprimir sus emociones. <br /> <br /> "Lo siento, señorita Lloyd. Como empleada del Grupo Dixon, fue mi error golpearla". <br /> <br /> Tessa alzó la barbilla con complacencia. "¡Ja! No crees que quedarás libre de culpa con una simple disculpa. No lo creo...". <br /> <br /> "La bofetada no tiene nada que ver con la empresa, así que me niego a disculparme contigo. Ahora me retiro", agregó Raegan. <br /> <br /> Luego, pasó junto a Mitchel sin mirarlo de nuevo. <br /> <br /> "Tú... ¡Alto!". <br /> <br /> Tessa estaba echando humo. <br /> <br /> Jamás en toda su vida había sido tan humillada. Siempre era la acosadora, no la víctima. <br /> <br /> La humillación era tanta que ni siquiera se tranquilizaría haciendo pedazos a Raegan. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel, ¿escuchaste lo que acaba de decir esa mujer?", gritó señalándola. "A pesar de que me abofeteó, sigue siendo muy arrogante. Dile que regrese. ¡La abofetearé hasta que llore pidiendo piedad!". <br /> <br /> Mitchel observó la delgada espalda de Raegan con una expresión ambigua. <br /> <br /> "¡Basta!", espetó alzando la mano. <br /> <br /> Tessa no creía que su primo tuviera debilidad por Raegan. Supuso que ella no le importaba en absoluto. <br /> <br /> "La próxima vez, conseguiré a alguien que le dé una lección a esa tipa", siseó con los dientes apretados. <br /> <br /> "¡Tessa!". Mitchel la reprendió con un tono helado mientras entrecerraba los ojos. <br /> <br /> Tessa empezó a temblar. <br /> <br /> "Solo te lo diré una vez", agregó él sombríamente. "Olvídate de lo que pasó hoy. Deja tranquila a Raegan". <br /> <br /> Tessa sintió su boca secarse. Todas las malvadas ideas que tenía contra Raegan desaparecieron en un instante. <br /> <br /> "Está bien...", tartamudeó. "Entiendo...". <br /> <br /> Mitchel le lanzó una mirada fría y se volvió hacia Matteo. "A partir de hoy, las personas irrelevantes no tendrán permitida la entrada". <br /> <br /> Tessa empezó a halagar su decisión. "¡Muy bien! Esta es una empresa muy importante. No todo el mundo puede entrar aquí". <br /> <br /> Matteo dio un asentimiento a su jefe, se acercó a Tessa y le mostró la salida. "Señorita Lloyd, por aquí, por favor". <br /> <br /> Solo entonces Tessa se dio cuenta de que ella era la persona irrelevante. Si bien intentó hablar con su primo, Matteo le bloqueó el paso y los guardias de seguridad la echaron. <br /> <br /> No tuvieron ni un poco de piedad. Era inútil luchar. <br /> <br /> Mientras tanto, Raegan se cambió de ropa cuando regresó a su oficina. <br /> <br /> Tenía el corazón lleno de tristeza mientras recordaba la mirada de Mitchel hacía unos minutos. <br /> <br /> Pronto llegó la hora de salida. <br /> <br /> Raegan tomó su bolso y se dirigió hacia la puerta, pero Matteo la detuvo. <br /> <br /> "El señor Dixon tiene que resolver algo urgente, así que me pidió que la llevara a casa". <br /> <br /> Raegan lo rechazó sin pensarlo dos veces. <br /> <br /> Antes estaba ciega, pero ahora veía toda la situación. <br /> <br /> No era nadie a los ojos de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> ¿Cómo podía acompañarla a visitar a su abuela si ni siquiera se preocupaba por ella? <br /> <br /> Al llegar al hospital, Raegan encontró a la enfermera a punto de darle la cena a su abuela. Raegan asumió su puesto e hizo el trabajo. <br /> <br /> Su abuela siempre había vivido en el campo, disfrutando de una vida tranquila. Pero todo cambió el mes pasado, cuando su chequeo médico mostró que sus páncreas estaban mal. Raegan insistió en traerla a la ciudad para que recibiera un mejor tratamiento. <br /> <br /> Su abuela no sabía sobre su matrimonio con Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan había planeado sorprenderla, pero ya no era necesario. <br /> <br /> Una vez que su abuela se quedó dormida, salió del hospital y esperó un taxi. <br /> <br /> A lo lejos, un lujoso auto negro se detuvo en la entrada. <br /> <br /> Los ojos de Raegan se iluminaron. Era el vehículo de Mitchel. <br /> <br /> ¿Había venido para recogerla? <br /> <br /> En ese momento, olvidó todo el dolor que había sufrido. <br /> <br /> ¿Lo había malinterpretado? ¿De verdad se preocupaba por ella, contrariamente a los rumores? <br /> <br /> La puerta del conductor se abrió y Mitchel salió del auto. <br /> <br /> Raegan caminó hacia él con el corazón rebosante de alegría. <br /> <br /> Pero se detuvo en seco. <br /> <br /> Mitchel acababa de caminar hacia el otro lado para sacar a una mujer del vehículo. <br /> <br /> Su hermoso rostro era una máscara de angustia y compasión. <br /> <br /> La sonrisa de Raegan desapareció y su corazón se hundió. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo 3 Hay que divorciarnos<br /> <br /> La figura alta de Mitchel se acercaba cada vez más a Raegan; sin pronunciar una palabra, pasó junto a ella. <br /> <br /> Era difícil saber si realmente la vio o si decidió ignorarla a propósito. <br /> <br /> Raegan, por su parte, notó que la mujer que lo iba tomando del brazo era la misma que ayer fue fotografiada con él; su nombre era Lauren. <br /> <br /> Raegan sintió como si sus zapatos estuvieran hechos de plomo mientras se alejaba, perdiendo por completo la noción de las cosas que sucedían a su alrededor; distraída, paró un taxi y lo abordó. <br /> <br /> De repente, el chófer dijo: "Señorita, ¿a dónde la llevo?". <br /> <br /> Raegan quedó atónita por un momento. <br /> <br /> Volver a su casa en Villas Serenity era el último que quería hacer en ese momento, después de todo, era solo cuestión de tiempo antes de que ese lugar dejara de ser su hogar. <br /> <br /> Después de un rato, finalmente respondió: "Por favor, lléveme a Crystal Bay". <br /> <br /> Ella compró un apartamento en dicha zona después de casarse con Mitchel. <br /> <br /> En su momento, tenía esperanzas de traer a su abuela a la ciudad, por lo que compró ese apartamento con ayuda de una hipoteca; no era tan grande, pero tenía espacio más que suficiente para dos personas. <br /> <br /> Su esposo nunca entendió por qué quería comprar un apartamento; incluso se ofreció a regalarle uno más grande, pero ella se negó. <br /> <br /> Al recapitular todo lo que hizo en el pasado, se dio cuenta de que comprar ese apartamento fue la única decisión acertada que tomó a lo largo de los últimos dos años. <br /> <br /> Cuando llegó al complejo de apartamentos, Raegan se sentó sola en el patio, esto en un intento por despejar su mente. <br /> <br /> Los recuerdos de los últimos dos años eran agridulces; el tiempo pareció transcurrir en un abrir y cerrar de ojos a pesar de que fueron más de setecientos días y noches. <br /> <br /> Bien decían que el amor podía mover montañas, pero en el caso de Raegan, su amor no fue capaz de mover en lo más mínimo aquella piedra llamada Mitchel. Finalmente se dio cuenta de lo tonta que fue, convirtiéndose en el hazmerreír de todos. <br /> <br /> Ya era tarde en la noche cuando la chica finalmente decidió entrar a su apartamento. <br /> <br /> En cuanto salió del ascensor, vio a su esposo parado frente a la puerta. <br /> <br /> Sus mangas estaban arremangadas casualmente y los botones superiores de su camisa desabrochados, lo que dejaba al descubierto su largo cuello y parte de su clavícula; apoyado en la pared junto a la puerta, su hermoso rostro lucía serio. <br /> <br /> Raegan se quedó paralizado por un momento. <br /> <br /> ¿Por qué él estaba ahí? ¿No se suponía que estaba en el hospital con Lauren? ¿Qué lo trajo aquí? <br /> <br /> Sus ojos se encontraron casi de inmediato. Con el abrigo doblado sobre su brazo y una de las manos en el bolsillo, el hombre entrecerró los ojos en cuanto se percató de su presencia. <br /> <br /> "¿Por qué no contestaste el teléfono?", preguntó él con un poco de molestia en su tono.<br /> <br /> Raegan sacó su celular y vio que accidentalmente lo había puesto en modo silencioso; descubrió que tenía cinco llamadas perdidas de su esposo. <br /> <br /> ¿Mitchel le hizo tantas llamadas porque no pudo encontrarla? ¡Era un suceso sorprendente! <br /> <br /> Antes de hoy, esto la habría hecho sentir fascinada. <br /> <br /> Pero ahora, la chica simplemente puso de vuelta su celular en su bolso, se cruzó de brazos y dijo con voz ronca: "No lo escuché sonar". <br /> <br /> Mitchel levantó la mano para revisar la hora en su reloj antes de pronunciar con impaciencia: "Te estuve buscando durante dos horas seguidas". <br /> <br /> Después de arreglar todo para Lauren, regresó a casa solo para encontrarla vacía. Buscó a su esposa por todas partes, pero al no hallarla por ningún lado, le pidió a Matteo que revisara las imágenes de las cámaras de vigilancia de todos los caminos que salían de la empresa. <br /> <br /> Más tarde descubrió que la chica había ido a Crystal Bay sin notificarle con antelación. <br /> <br /> "La próxima vez avísame cuando tengas planeado venir aquí, ¿de acuerdo? Anda, volvamos a casa", dicho esto, el hombre caminó hacia el ascensor sin dedicarle otra mirada, mostrando abiertamente su intención de volver a las Villas Serenity. <br /> <br /> Pese a sus palabras, Raegan no se movió ni un centímetro; ella se limitó a mirar su ancha espalda mientras reflexionaba con cierto disgusto. <br /> <br /> Quería que le avisara cuando tuviera planeado volver aquí... Pero, ¿acaso habría un futuro para ambos? <br /> <br /> Mitchell se dio vuelta solo para ver que su esposa no había avanzado ni un solo paso. Frunciendo el ceño, él le preguntó: "¿No puedes caminar? ¿Quieres que te cargue?". <br /> <br /> La luz del pasillo iluminaba su rostro, haciendo que su perfil lateral luciera casi perfecto. <br /> <br /> La chica respiró hondo antes de declarar: "Hay que divorciarnos". <br /> <br /> "¿De qué hablas?", la voz de Mitchel sonó fría y su hermoso rostro cambió de inmediato. <br /> <br /> "Quiero vivir en mi propia casa, después de todo, pronto nos convertiremos en completos extraños". <br /> <br /> La chica forzó una sonrisa, pero su corazón se estrujó dolorosamente, como si alguien lo estuviera destrozando poco a poco. <br /> <br /> "¿Seremos completos extraños?", Mitchel sonrió con frialdad antes de lanzar una pregunta directa: "¿Qué clase de relación crees que sostenemos actualmente?". <br /> <br /> Su interrogatorio dejó a Raegan atónita por un momento. <br /> <br /> Este hombre se lo había dejado muy en claro desde el principio; su matrimonio era una mera fachada que se produjo de mutuo acuerdo y donde no existía el amor. En opinión de los demás, no eran más que jefe y subordinada. <br /> <br /> Mitchel era uno de los hombres más atractivos y codiciados en Ardlens; muchas jóvenes ansiaban su amor e incluso estaban dispuestas a emprender toda clase de acciones con tal de obtener su atención. <br /> <br /> La pregunta que le hizo momentos atrás le recordó a la chica todos estos hechos. ¿Acaso Mitchel tenía miedo de que ella no lo dejara ir tan fácilmente? Si ese fuera el caso, no podría estar más equivocado... <br /> <br /> Después de morderse el labio inferior para ocultar su amargura, Raegan dijo: "Lo siento, señor Dixon. Creo que pensé demasiado las cosas, pero sí necesito que de ahora en adelante me dejes en paz. No tienes que volver a venir aquí". <br /> <br /> Después de decir eso, ella no pudo evitar romper en llanto. <br /> <br /> ¿Cómo no iba a estar triste después de cortar todo vínculo con el hombre que había amado durante una década? Se trataba de un periodo bastante considerable, pero independientemente de lo difícil que fuera, sabía que era hora de superarlo; tenía que dejar de soñar. <br /> <br /> Curiosamente, en ese momento la luz del pasillo empezó a parpadear. <br /> <br /> La mirada hostil que Mitchel le estaba dedicando a la chica hizo que la chica se estremeciera. <br /> <br /> Aunque él entendía que las mujeres a veces se comportaban de manera extraña, sentía que Raegan acababa de cruzar la línea. <br /> <br /> Los ojos del hombre brillaban como antorchas ardientes en ese momento, pero cuando vio las lágrimas que derramaba su esposa, la rabia dentro de él se extinguió al instante. Entonces, dijo en voz baja: "Si esto es por lo que pasó entre Tessa y tú, yo...". <br /> <br /> "No, no se trata de ella. Señor Dixon, por favor, vete lo antes posible". <br /> <br /> En realidad habían sucedido muchas cosas entre ambos, y el incidente con Tessa era el más insignificante de todos. <br /> <br /> Sintiéndose exhausta, Raegan pasó junto a su esposo y se preparó para abrir la puerta. <br /> <br /> Mitchel no estaba nada satisfecho con esta exhibición de terquedad; tras desatarse la corbata con irritación, él dio un paso adelante y la agarró por la muñeca. <br /> <br /> "Detente, ¿quieres?". <br /> <br /> Un segundo después, le pasó el brazo por el hombro y la abrazó; en ese instante se dio cuenta de que la chica estaba ardiendo, como si alguien acabara de prenderle fuego. <br /> <br /> "¿Tienes fiebre?". <br /> <br /> Raegan se sintió mareada, por lo que apoyó débilmente la cabeza sobre el hombro de su esposo. <br /> <br /> Esto complicó aún más la situación; Mitchel bajó la cabeza para mirarla.<br /> <br /> Reagan tardó en percatarse de lo que estaba sucediendo; cuando finalmente se dio cuenta de que su cuerpo estaba demasiado cerca del de él, trató de alejarse. <br /> <br /> Para su mala suerte, antes de que pudiera escapar, el hombre tiró de ella hacia atrás y la sujetó por la cintura. Con una expresión gélida, dijo en voz baja: "¿A dónde crees que vas?". <br /> <br /> La luz volvió a parpadear. De la nada, Mitchel la levantó y luego se dirigió al ascensor. <br /> <br /> Aturdida, Raegan preguntó suavemente: "¿Qué estás haciendo?". <br /> <br /> "¿Qué te parece que estoy haciendo?", comentó él. "Obviamente te voy a llevar al hospital". <br /> <br /> "¡Por supuesto que no!", la chica gritó a causa de la sorpresa y pareció recuperar más fuerzas. <br /> <br /> Existía la posibilidad de que se complicara su embarazo en caso de recibir un tratamiento inadecuado; aunque el bebé no llegó en un momento adecuado, seguía siendo su pequeño y era su deber protegerlo. <br /> <br /> Raegan siguió luchando por liberarse de los brazos que la mantenían cautiva. Sin embargo, su fuerte agarre hizo que sus esfuerzos fueran en vano. <br /> <br /> "No seas tan terca. Estás enferma, así que debes ver al médico", le aclaró Mitchel con firmeza mientras caminaba hasta el ascensor con ella en brazos. De repente, ella le dio una patada en señal de protesta. <br /> <br /> "¡Bájame! ¡No quiero ir al hospital!". <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> &9&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.manobook.com/11878375-fb_contact-spj	103551482442967	Romantic Novel House	https://facebook.com/100083766102286	52,089	2	875,727,487,934,628	2024-07-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Romantic Novel House	120209977221510766	fbweb.manobook.com		NONE	video		https://fbweb.manobook.com/11878375-fb_contact-spj57-0227-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1593369501516705		2024-07-19 06:14	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451847049_465361643023870_1850258735322261635_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GM9b59rLRA8Q7kNvgEiYY2a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYDNVhZhgNeHxaM2hZeg9KHBwtMbVqNkMKTpzZNK0UjuZg&oe=66AB67AF	person_profile	Manobook - Yo soy tuya y tú eres mío	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/451875299_505340165221021_1034906200331022442_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sZ3gcvreqjUQ7kNvgEOR6iO&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYBD5oUVDWo_KdGXoYEA_-Pjg_6RNRaWzfnp8z8rJoek1w&oe=66AB48F7	3	Romantic Novel House	2024-07-22 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,985	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940980}'	Yes	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	3316163288677437	Leer el siguiente capítulo👉	"Señora, el examen que le realizamos indica que las paredes de su útero son inusualmente delgadas, lo que pone en riesgo la vida del feto. Es fundamental que cuide su alimentación y evite la actividad física extenuante". explicó el médico, al mismo tiempo que le entregaba a Sabrina Chavez una prescripción. "Aquí tiene. Vaya por su medicamento". <br /> <br /> "Entendido, doctor", respondió la joven, tomando con cuidado la prescripción de las manos del médico. <br /> <br /> "No olvide cuidarse muy bien. Este es un asunto serio", enfatizó el galeno. <br /> <br /> "Gracias, doctor. Me cuidaré muy bien", aseguró Sabrina, esbozando una sonrisa decidida. <br /> <br /> Llevaba casada tres años, tiempo durante el cual había anhelado ese bebé, de modo que estaba decidida a hacer todo lo que estuviera a su alcance para protegerlo. <br /> <br /> Al salir del consultorio, la joven fue por su medicamento y regresó a su auto. <br /> <br /> Después de poner en marcha el vehículo, el chófer la miró por el espejo retrovisor, y le informó: "Señora, está previsto que el vuelo del señor Blakely llegue a las tres de la tarde. Aún faltan veinte minutos. ¿Quiere que la lleve al aeropuerto?". <br /> <br /> "Sí, por favor". <br /> <br /> La idea de reunirse con su marido en tan solo unos minutos llenó el corazón de Sabrina de ternura, y dibujó en su rostro una sonrisa. <br /> <br /> Su marido, Tyrone Blakely, había estado en un viaje de negocios durante casi un mes, de modo que lo extrañaba mucho. <br /> <br /> Una vez que llegaron al aeropuerto, el chófer estacionó el auto, y preguntó: "¿Va a llamar a su esposo?". <br /> <br /> Sabrina echó un vistazo a su reloj de pulso y trató de llamar a Tyrone, pero no obtuvo respuesta. <br /> <br /> "Tal vez su vuelo se retrasó. Esperemos un poco más", sugirió la joven. <br /> <br /> Tras una larga espera, el susodicho seguía sin aparecer. <br /> <br /> Sabrina volvió a llamarlo, pero el resultado fue el mismo... <br /> <br /> "Sigamos esperando", dijo la chica. <br /> <br /> Después de todo, los retrasos en los vuelos eran algo común, y a veces incluso eran de horas. <br /> <br /> Dos horas más tarde, Sabrina volvió a llamar a su marido. En esa ocasión recibió respuesta casi de inmediato. "Tyrone, ¿ya llegaste?". <br /> <br /> Después de un silencio inesperado, una voz femenina desconocida dijo: "Lo lamento. Tyrone está en el baño. Te llamará más tarde". <br /> <br /> &5&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.manobook.com/11387375-fb_contact-spj	103551482442967	Romantic Novel House	https://facebook.com/100083766102286	52,089	5	787,947,189,858,788	2024-07-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Romantic Novel House	120211227610050535	fbweb.manobook.com		NONE	image		https://fbweb.manobook.com/11387375-fb_contact-spj40-hys-1104-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=761442412605802		2024-07-25 22:13	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452912612_345149221973556_2829763614120643283_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mZXsI31jxiIQ7kNvgEInw-_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYAA5PrUUUkH0k18XgERc4Bjbc4Fe8gFMRu-70RQf_hdyA&oe=66AB4D81	person_profile	Manobook - Yo soy tuya y tú eres mío	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453102385_870552958295902_6335631033096693212_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Xam7L-9nyEQ7kNvgHYCoRD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AYCW3i8cJGfU3fcqB_uAS4r-OgBGVJljApYeECMAYz-UsQ&oe=66AB7A76	3	Romantic Novel House	2024-07-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,940,833	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1940763}'	Yes	2024-07-27 19:22	active	1181	983640860056110	😍Read the next chapters👉	I had never seen Felix like this - fury was written all over his face, and his lanky figure was trembling slightly. I've known Felix since we were born. Our mothers were best friends and they were trying to pair us up again just now. I had a crush on him, and he always treated me kindly. But now, he glared at me and spat, "This is all your fault. You're constantly following me around! That's why they misunderstood! Stay away from me!" I hadn't expected him to say something like that. I stared at him dumbfounded. Both my parents and Felix's parents ceased their conversation about our wedding and future. Felix wasn't done yet. "Who gave you guys the right to make my life decisions for me? I'm my own man. I'll never marry her, so you all can just stop trying to pair us up!" Felix shouted as he glared at everyone in the house. His eyes were filled with hate. It made me want to curl up into a ball out of embarrassment. The house remained completely silent. Everyone's gaze was on me, and I could feel my heart throbbing in pain. 18 years. We spent every day together for 18 years. He was my world, and I gave him everything. Yet, all I got was humiliation. He had trampled all over my dignity and self-worth in front of his whole family and mine… My father, usually calm, flushed crimson at Felix's harsh words, his fists clenched. Mom, too, looked angry and embarrassed, jaw agape, her expression one of disbelief. Uncle Austin, Felix's father, slapped Felix, scolding, "You rebellious boy! Who taught you to behave like that?" The impact of slap sent Felix reeling, and he hit his head on the corner of the wall. Felix slumped to the floor in pain, leaving an unmistakable streak of red on the white walls. Aunt Mel rushed forward with concern, "Felix, my son! Are you alright?" Felix shot me a scathing glare as if I had committed an unspeakable crime. "Are you happy now, Luna?" he spat. I stared back at him with wide eyes, tears streaming down my face and onto the floor. Even though I liked him, that didn't mean he could throw wild accusations and embarrass me as he pleased! I liked him, but I, too, had my sense of dignity! If loving him was a crime and the reason why he thought he could humiliate me, then I would gladly change! "I'm sorry, Felix. I never thought that my actions would have bugged you so much," I forced the humiliation down as I continued, "I, Luna Lawson, swear that from this moment onward, I will never bother you again, Felix." I bit my lip hard, and the sharp tang of blood exploded across my tongue. I, Luna Lawson, also swear to myself - I won't endure the same humiliation AGAIN!	LEARN_MORE	https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&u	144939265372419	Indulge in story	https://facebook.com/61552702618591	652	1	1,592,647,948,185,177	2024-06-23 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn More	Indulge in story	120211638136610002	ocankn.com		NONE	dco		https://ocankn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10463&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}		2024-06-09 06:57	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/442413509_1168159974181754_2081695541940543314_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mRtULgP1bHIQ7kNvgE_d-wR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYCRSY2jDc2Rg0PXVTiskF2e-19Xq1b7BDQ2ME8dGhzDvQ&oe=66AB5B7A	person_profile	Indulge in story	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436221251_982320400063709_2912401993780467416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Em-uDikI56AQ7kNvgFulpXS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYBXP7aVe06SmEhLwgh15RpAhx7BdmzUfz1qoGKSO0NUcA&oe=66AB58F7	3	Indulge in story	2024-06-20 02:00	View Edit Delete

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