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2,067,273	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067272}'	No	2024-10-03 02:51	active	1567			LEARN_MORE	https://linktr.ee/frolicweekend	Frolic Weekend	https://www.facebook.com/100081633133211/	78	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	linktr.ee	CAROUSEL		https://linktr.ee/frolicweekend	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461875372_8075128922595816_1405989746752629859_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dklhgyRDVxAQ7kNvgHdkbJt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AJKO6aBSI_w6SuTCFAzH7wL&oh=00_AYC771vdKOfO3dUtihYFcRwHJdgu2jtthBrWDglpV4i-zg&oe=67042873	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Frolic Weekend	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,065,248	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2065241}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:07	active	1566	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉	At Grace Mansion, the lanterns in the corridors cast intricate shadows on the window frames, resembling beasts looming on the walls. Carissa Sinclair sat on a chair with her hands folded in her lap, her slender body hidden beneath plain clothes. She looked at the man before her—her husband whom she had spent a year waiting for. Barrett Warren was still wearing his slightly-worn battle armor. Standing under the dim light, he looked commanding and handsome. His face showed a mix of determination and a touch of regret. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for this marriage. Aurora will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has said that General Yates is a model for all women in the kingdom. Would she be willing to be a concubine?" Barrett's eyes flashed with a hint of annoyance. "No, she won’t be a concubine. She’ll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, she’s really just a concubine in disguise," Carissa replied, remaining indifferent. Barrett frowned. "What does it matter? Aurora and I developed feelings for each other on the battlefield. We earned this marriage through our achievements. I don’t need your approval." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Developed feelings, huh? Do you remember what you said to me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett had left to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before leaving, he had lifted his wife’s veil and promised her, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Feeling awkward, Barrett turned away. "Forget what I said. When I married you, I didn’t understand love. I thought you were a suitable match for a wife until I met Rory." Talking about the woman he loved, his eyes softened and filled with deep affection. He turned back to Carissa and added, "She’s unlike any woman I’ve ever met. I love her deeply. I hope you'll agree to this." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite feeling a mix of disgust and unwillingness, she still asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict. Besides, Aurora is straightforward, cheerful, and lovable. She visited my mother a while ago." They agreed? Hah... How ironic! Everything Carissa had done over the past year had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting her brow. Barrett spoke of Aurora Yates with a softness in his voice, "Yes, she’s talking to my mother. She’s made her very happy. Even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was seriously ill. I brought in the best physician to treat her. I managed the estate’s affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasn’t seeking praise. She was stating the facts of her exhausting year. "But seeing Aurora has made my mother feel even better," Barrett said earnestly. "I know this is unfair to you, but for the greater good, please support Aurora and me." Carissa pressed her lips into a thin line as she blinked away the tears in her eyes and sharpened her gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need for that. Carissa, she’s different from any woman you know. She’s a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldn’t want to meet you," Barrett refused instantly. Carissa retorted, "What kind of women do I know? What kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of a noble family. My father and my six brothers died on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "That’s them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. She’s straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you won’t like. Why put yourself through that?" As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under the corner of her eye became more evident in the light. She calmly said, "It’s fine. If she says anything unpleasant, I’ll ignore it. Understanding the bigger picture and acting with dignity are essential virtues for any matriarch. Don't you trust me?" Chapter 2 Barrett sighed in frustration. “Why put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, you’ll be in separate wings. She won’t compete with you for control of the household. She doesn’t care about those things.” “Do you really think I’m attached to managing this household?” Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrett’s mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligations—all these things required money. This household was practically a hollow shell. Over the past year, Carissa had used much of her dowry to keep things running. And this was her reward. “Enough, I won’t argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,” said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. “My lady, my lord was too much!” said Lulu, Carissa’s maid, wiping her tears away. “Don’t call him that!” Carissa gave her a stern look. “We never consummated the marriage. He’s not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.” “Why the dowry list?” Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. “Silly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?” Lulu held her forehead and gasped. “But your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.” Tears finally welled up in Carissa’s eyes at the mention of her parents. Her father had stayed loyal to her mother, never taking a concubine. They had six sons and one daughter. All her brothers followed her father to the battlefield. Three years ago, none returned from the Southern Frontier. Though she was a girl, Carissa came from a family of warriors and started training as a child. At the age of seven, she was sent to study under a master, where she also learned military strategy. When she returned home at fifteen, she learned her father and brothers had died a year earlier. Her mother, who had gone blind from crying too much, held Carissa close and said, "You must live like the noble girls in the kingdom. Find a good husband, marry, have children, and lead a peaceful life. You’re the only child I have left.” Carissa felt like someone had gouged her heart out. The pain she felt was so intense she couldn't even bring herself to cry. Determined to please her mother, she spent a year mastering the traditional values and duties expected of a noblewoman. She also learned accounting and how to manage a household. Not only was Carissa the Marquis of Northwatch's daughter, but she was also known for her beauty. So, suitors flooded their doorstep. Her mother had chosen Barrett because he had sworn he would never take another wife if he married Carissa. But six months ago, tragedy struck. All the residents of Northwatch Estate were murdered. No one was spared, not even the children or servants. Each victim suffered numerous knife wounds, and their bodies were brutally dismembered. Carissa’s youngest nephew had been only two and a half years old, born after the death of her third brother. The local authorities and garrison unit captured a few of the assailants. After further investigation, they were discovered to be spies from an enemy kingdom, Westhaven. The war at the front line was raging, yet these spies didn't hesitate to reveal themselves just to annihilate her family. The manner of the murder suggested it was more of a personal vengeance than anything else. When Carissa received the news, she rushed home, only to find her grandmother’s and mother’s gruesomely dismembered bodies. Blood stained every corner of the residence, and the dead were left in agonizing states. Now, Carissa was the lone survivor of the marquis' family. The idea of restoring her family’s former glory seemed impossible—at least to outsiders. They saw her merely as a delicate, fragile woman. However, Aurora was different. She had earned military merits for her contribution to the war and became the first female general in history. Even the queen dowager had high praise for her. With Aurora supporting Barrett, his future would be more secure. That was the reason the Warren family readily agreed to the marriage. Chapter 3 Lulu brought over the dowry list and explained, "This year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins to support the household. However, the shops, houses, and estates remain untouched. All the bank savings, along with the property deeds and land titles your mother left, are locked up in the chest." Carissa glanced at the list. "Alright." Just looking at the list put her in a melancholy mood. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she would suffer hardships in her husband's home. "My lady, where can we go? Are we returning to Northwatch Estate? Or should we go back to Meadow Ridge?" Lulu asked, looking distressed. Images of the bloodstained estate and the tragic deaths of her family members flashed through Carissa’s mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, you’ll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, I’ll spend my whole life suffering as I watch those two be affectionate. Lulu, I must live well to give my parents and brothers peace in the afterlife," Carissa replied calmly. "My lady!" Lulu wept bitterly. She had been born and raised in Northwatch Estate. The murder had claimed the lives of everyone, including her own family. The images still haunted her, and returning there seemed unthinkable. "Is there no other way?" Lulu asked desperately. Carissa’s eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my family’s achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, I’ll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissa’s expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think I’m that silly? If I manage to reach the king, I’ll only request an edict for an amicable divorce." Barrett was able to marry Aurora because of a royal edict. So, Carissa should also be issued an official edict to leave. She shouldn't have to sneak away like she was being cast out. The wealth from Northwatch Estate was more than enough for her to live comfortably for the rest of her life. She wouldn't degrade herself unnecessarily. Just then, someone called from outside, "Madam Carissa, the matriarch has requested your presence!" "It’s Jade, Madam Rebecca's maid. It seems like Madam Rebecca wants to try and persuade you," Lulu whispered. Carissa straightened up, her expression serious. "Then, let’s go." The evening sun glowed like blood, and the autumn wind was chilly. The late king had bestowed the Warren family's current residence, Valor Estate, upon Barrett's grandfather. Though once prestigious, it had fallen into decline. Most of the Warren family's men were warriors who fought on battlefields. Only a few were civil servants who worked in the palace. Barrett’s father, Jonathan, didn’t fare well in his official career. His second uncle, Gregory, only held a minor post in the Royal Citadel. Barrett and his eldest brother, Benjamin, were somewhat successful in the military. But before their recent victory, they were only fourth-ranked majors. Both families still lived together in Valor Estate. Splitting the family would only hasten their decline. Accompanied by Lulu, Carissa arrived at Rebecca’s room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "You’re here." Benjamin and his wife, Amelia Morgan, were also in the room. Barrett's sister, Serena, and the other children of the concubines were present as well. Barrett's second aunt, Charlotte Lewis, was also seated nearby. However, her expression was cold and somewhat disdainful. "Hello, Mother. Aunt Charlotte, Benjamin, Amelia," Carissa greeted them politely. "Carissa, come here." Rebecca gestured for her daughter-in-law to sit by her bedside. The older woman held Carissa's hand affectionately and happily said, "Now that Barrett is back, you have someone to rely on. This year has been so hard on you, especially with what happened to your family. You’re the only one left of the marquis' family. Fortunately, all of that is behind you now." Rebecca was shrewd. She made it clear that Carissa would need to depend on the Warren family in the future, since her family was gone. Carissa pulled her hand away and calmly said, "Mother, I heard you met General Yates today." Rebecca hadn’t expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. She’s rather rough around the edges and doesn’t compare to you in terms of looks." Carissa gazed at her mother-in-law steadily. "So, are you saying you don't like her?" Chapter 4 Rebecca forced a smile. "How can I decide that after meeting her only once? But since the king has arranged the marriage, it’s a done deal. In the future, she and Barrett will earn military merits together, while you manage the household and enjoy the benefits of their hard work. Isn’t that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But it’s quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The king’s edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, she’s a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials can’t be concubines. She'll be a legal wife like you. There won't be any distinction between ranks for the two of you." "No distinction? Is there such a custom in our kingdom?" Carissa asked. Rebecca’s expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, you’ve always been sensible. Now that you’ve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Aurora’s contributions in this battle were greater than Barrett’s. With you managing the household, they'll be able to work together as husband and wife and focus on their military service. In the future, they'll surely become famous generals like his grandfather." Carissa’s tone remained chilly as she said, "If they’re husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Aren’t you still in charge of the household?" countered Rebecca, displeased. "I only managed the household because Amelia was unwell. Now that she has recovered, she should resume her duties. I’ll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "I’m still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how you’ve been managing things. You should continue doing it." Carissa smiled mockingly. Everyone was satisfied because she had spent her own money to support them. Most of it went towards Rebecca’s medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebecca’s medicine cost over a hundred coins a month, amounting to more than a thousand coins a year. As for the other household expenses, Carissa occasionally subsidized them. For example, she would sometimes use fabrics and silks from her family’s business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didn’t mind it before, as she had really wished to spend her life with Barrett. However, circumstances had changed. She no longer wanted to be a fool. Carissa stood up and said, "That’s settled, then. I’ll hand over the accounts tomorrow and won’t be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, you’re being unreasonable. Men having multiple wives and concubines is normal. If you can't accept that, people will say you're narrow-minded and jealous." Carissa’s compliance over the past year had made the Warren family think she was easy to manipulate. They believed a few harsh words would always keep her in line. Carissa’s expression was calm, a stark contrast to her usual docility. "People can say whatever they want. I'm not concerned about their opinions." Rebecca was so angry that she struggled to breathe and coughed harshly for a long while. In the past, Carissa would have rushed to help her. She would pat the older woman's back and try to soothe her. But now, Carissa remained where she was. The soft evening light from the doorway highlighted her delicate, almost ethereal beauty. "Carissa, look how badly you've upset Mom," Serena said as she stepped forward. Her round, youthful face puffed with anger as she glared at Carissa. "This isn’t even about you. Do you think your family is still as prestigious as it once was? Your parents and brothers are gone; you're the only one left. Aren't you afraid that Barrett will divorce you if you keep putting on airs like you're a young lady from a prestigious family?" Carissa looked at her sister-in-law, who was dressed in a pale yellow outfit that Carissa had procured for her in early autumn. Now, wearing the clothes Carissa had provided, Serena dared to question her authority. How utterly… unsensible of her. "Take off that dress you’re wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serena’s cheeks flushed with anger. "I didn’t beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you don’t want me to have it." "Fine. And don’t forget the jewelry you’re wearing. I expect it all to be returned to me." After Carissa said that, her gaze swept across the room. The only one who seemed pleased with the situation was Charlotte. Everyone else looked grim. "If there’s nothing else, I’ll be leaving." With that, Carissa turned and walked out decisively. Chapter 5 The Warren family members exchanged puzzled glances. None expected the usually agreeable Carissa to stand her ground so firmly this time. She even defied Rebecca, the matriarch of the family! “She’ll come around. She doesn’t have any other choice,” Rebecca said coldly. That was true. With Carissa's family gone, she had no one to rely on except the Warren family. Besides, she was still Barrett's rightful wife, and it wasn’t like she had been mistreated. - Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu returned to Northwatch Estate. The estate was bleak and covered in fallen leaves. After just half a year of neglect, the courtyard was overgrown with weeds that were taller than a person. Stepping back into the estate, Carissa’s heart ached fiercely. Six months ago, she had collapsed upon hearing that her family had been murdered. She had wept when she saw the lifeless bodies of her grandmother and mother—their corpses cold and devoid of warmth. Every corner of the estate had been stained with blood. Memorial plaques for her ancestors and mother had been placed at the estate’s family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parents’ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. “Dad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. It’s not that I don’t want a peaceful life with a husband and children, but Barrett is not someone I can trust with my life. Rest assured, I promise Lulu and I will live well.” Lulu knelt beside her, sobbing uncontrollably. After they were done, they boarded a carriage and headed straight for the palace. It was noon by the time they arrived. Under the scorching autumn sun, Carissa and Lulu stood like statues in front of the palace gates. They waited for a full hour, but no one came to let them in. Lulu was distressed and said, “My lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks you’re here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didn’t eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?” “I’m not hungry.” The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. “Please don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s not worth getting sick over. Why don’t we just let it go? After all, you’re still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, she’ll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?” Lulu pleaded. Carissa’s gaze was cold. “Lulu, if you’re going to talk like that, don’t speak at all.” Lulu sighed, feeling lost and unsure of what else to do. She had hoped that once Barrett returned, Carissa would find some peace. But the situation had only worsened. - In the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissa’s arrival to the king three times. “Your Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,” he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. “I can’t see her. The edict has been issued, and I can’t take it back. Tell her to go home.” “The guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. She’s been standing there for over an hour without moving.” Salvador felt a pang of guilt. “Barrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didn’t want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.” “If we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivan’s contributions surpass all others,” Derek countered. Salvador remembered the Marquis of Northwatch, Hector Sinclair. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Carissa was a familiar face from those days, though she had been a delicate child. He still remembered her fair skin and endearing looks. Salvador had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers. When Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. Apart from his brother who was known as the Devil Monarch on the battlefield, the kingdom had no other capable generals. In the recent war with Westhaven, Dominic Sullivan’s third son had lost an arm. Dominic's seventh son had been murdered, though this had been kept secret. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector. “Alright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, I’ll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,” said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. “As always, you're wise, Your Majesty!” Chapter 6 Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Salvador remembered the Sinclair family. Knowing that Carissa was now the only one left stirred a feeling of pity in him. "Rise and speak," he commanded. Carissa bowed deeply with her hands clasped. "Your Majesty, I know it's presumptuous of me to seek an audience today. But I also wish to implore for your grace." "I have already issued the edict. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I implore you to issue another edict. I want to divorce General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "What? You want a divorce?" Salvador thought she had come to ask him to rescind the marriage edict. He never expected a plea for a divorce. Holding back tears, Carissa pleaded, "Your Majesty, General Warren and General Yates sought the marriage edict with their military achievements. "Today is the death anniversary of my father and brothers. I wish to seek an edict to divorce my husband based on my late family's military merits. Please, Your Majesty, I'm begging you." "Carissa, do you know what you'll face after the divorce?" Salvador asked, a complicated expression on his face. Carissa hadn't heard Salvador call her by name in a long time. When he was still the crown prince, he used to occasionally visit Northwatch Estate. He would always find some interesting little gifts to give her when he did. After Carissa later went to Meadow Ridge to study under her master, they never saw each other again. "I do," she affirmed. There was a hint of a smile on Carissa's stunning face. But no matter how one looked at it, the smile seemed tinged with irony. "I'm sure you know the saying that a true gentleman appreciates and helps others to fulfill their aspirations, right? Even though I'm not a gentleman, I don't want to hinder General Warren and General Yates from being together," Carissa added. "Carissa, there's no one left at Northwatch Estate. Are you really going to go back there? Have you thought about your future?" Salvador asked. "I returned to the estate today to visit my family's memorial plaques. Seeing how the estate has fallen into disrepair made me want to live there again. I'll adopt a son for my father's sake, so there will still be someone to honor his memory," Carissa explained. Salvador had thought she was being impulsive; he hadn't expected her to be so considerate. "You're Barrett's legal wife. Aurora can't undermine your position. You really don't need a divorce." Carissa looked up with tear-filled eyes that were firm with resolve. "Your Majesty, that's meaningless. I don't want to waste my life like this. I'm the only one left from the Marquis of Northwatch's' family. My father and brothers lived honorably and bravely throughout their lives. I don't want to settle for a life of mediocrity." "I know you have feelings for Barrett. Are you willing to let go?" Salvador asked. Feelings? Not really. Carissa simply admired military men, and her mother had wanted her to marry and lead a stable life. That was why she had agreed to the marriage. Carissa smiled. At this moment, she looked like a strong woman who would be able to flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. "If he can let go of me, then I can let go of him," she declared. Beneath her delicate appearance, she possessed an unyielding backbone. This stunned Salvador. He had never seen such a woman before. He felt a pang of confusion, remembering the carefree little girl who used to smile all day long. Now, she was married and soon to be abandoned. To the world, divorce still meant abandonment. This was especially true in Carissa’s situation, as Barrett had publicly sought the marriage edict. Being a woman was already difficult, and she would have it even harder. How would she negotiate future marriages? There was no one left in her family to do it for her. Thinking of this, Salvador recalled Hector's merits, especially how they had saved each other on the battlefield, and his heart softened towards Carissa. "Alright, I agree. You may leave now. In a few days, the edict of divorce will be sent to the general's residence," Salvador said. Carissa breathed a sigh of relief and bowed her head. "Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty!" As Salvador watched her, he was suddenly reminded of when she was a little girl, and his heart softened further. "Carissa, if anyone mistreats you in the future, come to the palace and see me." "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Carissa bowed once again.	LEARN_MORE	https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&	Random Reading	https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/	151	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	shgjfh.com	DCO		https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458361212_1520235091929360_4265655555656528585_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1vcSmRUQKuEQ7kNvgHshNtF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AZHunWkxg4X0RHxb9rme8kY&oh=00_AYB-7uOY9VhkYhxF6G0toEuppk_zquNAFkhn-NrvRjQJ5Q&oe=6703F89C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Random Reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,483	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067482}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567	Start Your Free Trial	Forgery, sabotage, and audacity - join Stephen Fry as he explores the remarkable story of the Dutch Resistance that saved thousands of Jews from death camps during WWII. Stream Stephen Fry: Willem and Frieda - Defying the Nazis	WATCH_MORE	https://www.bbcselect.com/watch/paid33/	BBC Select	https://www.facebook.com/bbcselect/	13,166	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch More	bbcselect.com	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://www.bbcselect.com/watch/paid33/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461786565_547038844528126_8411100385681682335_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DpZvthJj9fkQ7kNvgH01Ubn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AvuucuIKtLauTSD-EsO91jl&oh=00_AYC8Ivx4YfNC4svBAefXrSOUZ2Fm17hsXXOZCETYdUKu5A&oe=67043134	PERSON_PROFILE	0	BBC Select	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,249	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067319}'	No	2024-10-03 02:51	active	1567	Đặt lịch thăm khám cùng chuyên gia !	🔥 Hủy béo an toàn, hiệu quả, không cần phẫu thuật! Với công nghệ Sculpsure tại phòng khám của bác sĩ Jang Sung Su và đạt được vóc dáng săn chắc mà anh luôn mong muốn. 👉Áp dụng cho tất cả các khách hàng trong nước và các khách hàng Việt Kiều hồi hương 📌Giảm sâu cực mạnh đến 80% tất cả các dịch vụ làm đẹp --> Duy trì cân nặng chuẩn và hạn chế khả năng hồi mỡ -> Ổn định các chỉ số sức khỏe, tăng cường sức đề kháng bảo vệ cơ thể -> Người khỏe khoắn, tinh thần vui vẻ và yêu đời hơn ✓ Trực tiếp Bác sĩ - Chuyên gia đo khám, dựa vào thể trạng xây dựng phác đồ phù hợp. 👉Nhanh tay để lại SĐT để nhận ưu đãi tốt nhất ----------------⚜️ ⚜️ ⚜️ ----------------- 🔻Lưu ý : Áp dụng chỉ tính khi các anh/chị để lại "Số Điện Thoại" tại bài đăng hoặc ib để đặt và giữ lịch thăm khám nha	MESSAGE_PAGE		Dr. Jang Sung Su - Viện Giảm Mỡ Công Nghệ Cao	https://www.facebook.com/DrJangSungSuHCM/	790	1969-12-31 18:00	Send message		VIDEO			1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461268971_1027711992230963_1199092811399827956_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L_2X0kf9oN4Q7kNvgHDVJKx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ag-QN7rkQsRibsd10RMjPaM&oh=00_AYAaPkYVOHA00dr1H5Csc7-p68GySJLEu1aN6pSGhk4d7A&oe=670414AE	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Dr. Jang Sung Su - Viện Giảm Mỡ Công Nghệ Cao	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,350	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":true,"simple_request_ratio":0.593103448275862,"is_bh_selenium":null,"selenium_ratio":null,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:51	active	1567			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/itsathenabishh	itsathenabishh	https://www.instagram.com/_u/itsathenabishh	0	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram Profile	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/itsathenabishh	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/122408884_1768159753360394_1764592788753825578_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=01e7c5&_nc_ohc=LC_eKlZmK4oQ7kNvgHG5_8D&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYC6h7Ge18uDwZdu6dGtwuF729zskx7acgAh5ETyoedEHQ&oe=67041707	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	itsathenabishh	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,392	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067319}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567	Làm đẹp mùa này, giá rẻ chưa từng có, click xem ngay	😲 Chị nào sắp tới có ý định cấy chất giảm bọng mỡ mắt, quầng thâm mắt thì phải xem clip này! Cứ tưởng cấy tan bọng mỡ mắt được thực hiện dễ dàng và hiệu quả. Thế nhưng nhiều chị em đã gặp “cơn ác mộng” vì biến chứng nặng nề như sưng bầm, bọng mủ, hỏng mắt,… sau khi cấy chất ngoại lai. Hóa ra lý do nằm ở đây 👉 ---------- ✨ Hưởng trọn đặc quyền khi sử dụng gói dịch vụ Meta Elite+ cao cấp với chuyên gia Hàn Quốc duy nhất tháng 8 này: ▪️ Giảm 30% tất cả dịch vụ làm đẹp ▪️ Tặng 01 liệu trình Emsculpt Neo Muscle Building Treatment tạo eo thon bụng phẳng trị giá 18 triệu ▪️ Tặng đến 03 đêm nghỉ dưỡng tại resort 5 sao ở Vũng Tàu, Phú Quốc ▪️ Tặng 01 bộ nâng cơ & massage mắt cao cấp phiên bản giới hạn Thời gian áp dụng: Từ 1/8 đến 31/8/2024 ---------- ✨ Meta Elite+ tích hợp đa công nghệ giúp phụ nữ sở hữu vẻ đẹp sang trọng, chuẩn quý phái ☑️ Bộ đôi ma trận sợi Mega và khung nâng đỡ Mega Dome giúp đẩy cao và siết chặt mô cơ hiệu quả ☑️ Collagen tăng trưởng tự thân lấp đầy vùng trũng hóp, khôi phục thể tích da toàn diện ☑️ Công nghệ đa sóng Exion Youth xử lý bọng mắt triệt để, kích thích HA tự thân trẻ hoá vùng mắt toàn diện. ☑️ Công thức Fibrin Glass cho da căng bóng, mịn màng ☑️ Nâng cơ xóa nhăn Face Reshape "là phẳng" nếp nhăn, mang lại hiệu quả đàn hồi săn chắc ☑️ Bút khóa trắng Neuglow Pen giúp da bật tone trắng sáng tự nhiên ---------- Mega Gangnam - Tinh hoa y tế 5 sao Hàn Quốc ☎️ Hotline: 093 227 8888 🏦 Hệ thống Mega Gangnam tại Việt Nam ▪️ Cơ sở 1: Toà nhà Mega Gangnam 454 Xã Đàn, Quận Đống Đa, Hà Nội ▪️ Cơ sở 2: Toà nhà Mega Gangnam 29 Nguyễn Khắc Nhu, P. Cô Giang, Q.1, Tp HCM ▪️ Cơ sở 3: Tòa nhà Mega Gangnam 68 đường 3/2 (cuối vòng xoay Dân Chủ), P.12, Q.10, Tp HCM ▪️ Cơ sở 4: Tầng 2, Mường Thanh Luxury Sông Hàn Hotel, 115 Nguyễn Văn Linh (sảnh mặt Hoàng Diệu) P. Nam Dương, Q. Hải Châu, TP. Đà Nẵng GPHĐ: 00129/HCM-GPHĐ do Sở Y tế Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh cấp CCHN bác sĩ Lee Kil Sun: 041260/BYT-CCHN do Bộ Y tế cấp CCHN bác sĩ Trần Anh Đức: 0036216/HCM-CCHN do Sở Y tế Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh cấp CCHN bác sĩ Bùi Thị Ân: 005424/HNO-CCHN do Sở Y tế Thành phố Hà Nội cấp	MESSAGE_PAGE		Chuyên gia sắc đẹp - Lại Minh Hiếu Mega Gangnam	https://www.facebook.com/61551381837922/	145	1969-12-31 18:00	Send message		VIDEO			1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461543729_456826343373217_1375082514041406069_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CwapiGaZUO4Q7kNvgH_HvI-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AALoTAm1SfgAshtMpVWL8xB&oh=00_AYCfcQkSLkut80YAPNI_F6mKOrx4Gg8BKuUVCEHbpBpKTQ&oe=670401F0	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Chuyên gia sắc đẹp - Lại Minh Hiếu Mega Gangnam	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,459	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067457}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567			LEARN_MORE	http://instagram.com/mikriles	mikriles	https://www.instagram.com/_u/mikriles	0	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/mikriles	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/429117682_409975491562419_5592837582081353447_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=01e7c5&_nc_ohc=W3gcrKyUwxUQ7kNvgF3Tzf_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYA_-50vze1dPogOTNYKmGqA5WZzAFJQgR-jdL4Z4WqLWQ&oe=67040D49	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	mikriles	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,418	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067419}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567	Click To Read More👉	“You’re soaked,” Alpha Aden groans, kneeling between my legs. My wolf is clawing and clawing at me, desperate for his touch. But I can’t… Because he’s my boyfriend’s father. === I’d just about given up hope on ever feeling my heat. By the time most she-wolves were my age, they’d already settled down and had at least one pup. Instead, I felt like I was dead inside until I met Hudson a few months ago. He ignites a spark in me, something I think could be more. My love life is looking up, and I think I’m finally ready to take the next step. Not just because things were…awakened…today. But because Hudson is perfect. He’s sexy, thoughtful, attentive…. We can talk for hours about the books we love. And when I said I didn’t want to go too far too fast, he was okay with that. He’s never pushed for more than kissing. When I told him I wasn’t ready to sleep with him yet, he was okay and didn’t try to make me feel guilty. It made me like him even more. Today…today I’m ready. And I’m going to tell him. I take a sip of my cappuccino as I look at him. Goddess, he’s handsome. Tall and muscular but not too bulky, and I love how his curly chestnut hair falls into his green eyes. Hudson catches me staring at him as he reads, looking up and flashing me that sexy, playful grin of his. He sticks a receipt between the pages to mark his place, sets the book beside him on the couch, and then shifts his body to turn toward me. “Whatcha thinkin’, lovely?” My cheeks flush. “Do you really want to know?” “Always,” Hudson replies, placing a warm hand on my leg right above my knee. “I think I’m ready.” All of the air leaves my lungs as I finally say the words. Hudson’s eyes widen, and his fingers tighten on my leg. Before he can answer, movement over his shoulder catches my eye. One of the biggest dudes I’ve ever seen is standing at the end of a row of books, staring at us. Intently. He looks…scary. There’s something about him that dings my radar, even though I’m used to seeing criminals in the prison. He’s well over six feet tall, and his professional suit does nothing to disguise how bulky he is. My eyes are drawn to the cruel scar that runs diagonally over his face, almost splitting his nose in two. I sniff the air. Definitely a wolf shifter, too. So how does he have a scar like that? I can’t fathom what would have happened to permanently mark him like that. A shudder runs through me at the thought. “Hudson… There’s…a guy over there. And he’s staring right at us,” I say quietly. Hudson turns to look directly at the brawny guy, and I want to sink into the floor when the guy starts walking toward us. “Don’t worry about him,” Hudson answers, frustration in his voice. “Hudson, he’s looking right at—” “He’s with me. That’s Preston. He’s…my bodyguard.” Hudson shoots a glare at the huge guy, his brow furrowing. The guys stops walking toward us. “He usually does a better job of keeping out of sight.” Wait, what? He needs a bodyguard? My eyes go to the fancy watch he’s wearing today. I’d always assumed it was a knock-off, but now I’m not so sure… The questions are stacking up, and my wolf is on edge. What else is Hudson hiding? And why has none of this ever come up before on our dates? More importantly, how did I miss all of this? I’m a trained professional. Reading people and evaluating them is literally my job right now. If I can’t even read my own boyfriend, how will I ever succeed in my chosen profession. My stomach twists. “Just ignore him. My dad gets overprotective.” Hudson rolls his eyes. “Honestly, he’s so stressed out about safety that he could use a shrink like you to give him some counseling.” He laughs, then winks at me playfully. I can tell the conversation is over and I’m not going to get anything else out of him. “Anytime,” I mutter, nervously playing with my long red hair, worrying about the mismatch between Hudson’s apparent wealth and my poor grad student status. I’ve never met anyone who has a bodyguard. “Can I get you anything else?” Hudson and I look up at the barista smiling down at us, a handsome blond-haired guy with an apron tied around his waist. The guy’s timing couldn’t be worse. “No thanks, Chase,” I say, giving him a big grin at the same time Hudson smiles and says, “Can we both get refills?” “Oh, actually…” I look up at the clock and push my hair back behind my ears. If I don’t leave now, I’m going to be late for my job doing psych evaluations at the state prison. “She’ll take hers to go then,” Hudson says, rising from our sofa. He follows Chase back to the coffee counter to grab our drinks. I start to pack up my bag so I can grab the next train, when I notice Hudson’s phone vibrating on the table. When the number disappears, his home screen shows a family photo. The tall man in the back is certainly his dad, the other maybe an older brother? As I’m staring at the picture, the phone rings again—the same number. Must be important. I grab the phone and sling my bag over my shoulder, heading towards the coffee counter. But there’s no one here. I look around, confused. I definitely just saw Chase and Hudson head this way… There’s a noise from the back room, a strange and muffled thump and a moan. I take two steps forward and peek around the door. Maybe they both— Oh my god. Not two feet from me, my boyfriend presses Chase up against the wall of the storage room. One fist is wrapped in the fabric of Chase’s shirt, the other down Chase’s pants. He’s kissing him passionately, hungrily. Chase’s eyes are closed, his hands fumbling at the button and zipper of Hudson’s pants—whispering my boyfriend’s name. My heart stops for a few seconds as I stare at the scene in front of me. Then, rage takes over—masking the hurt starting to unfurl in my chest. “Are you kidding me!?” I’m not even thinking as I chuck the phone at Hudson and his lover. The guys jump, leaping apart. “Brooklyn— I—” Hudson’s face is full of shock. Tears in my eyes, I run from the room and from the coffee shop. “Brooklyn!” Hudson spills out onto the street behind me. “You don’t understand!” He grabs my arm, pulling me back to him. If ever I forgot he was a male wolf more powerful than me, I’m reminded of his strength now. “I really like you,” he says, his eyes filled with apology. “You’re amazing… It’s just that my family wouldn’t understand, wouldn’t approve—” He scrubs a hand over his face. “You know how some wolves are about this kind of thing. How some packs are. This…me and Chase… It’s complicated.” “So, what? You just want me to be your pretend girlfriend!?” I rip my arm from his hand. “Not interested.” “Please. I can make this right! How much do you want? One million? Three million?” He pulls out his phone, and I see him tap on a banking app. “I don’t want your money.” Hudson blinks in confusion, and I turn away. “I’ll keep your secret, and you don’t need to pay me off. I just don’t want to see you again.” Just like that, my possible fairy tale with Prince Charming was over. I hurry down the street, my eyes filling with angry tears. My wolf, Lena, is struggling to take over. She wants to go back and tear Hudson to shreds. His bodyguard would probably keep that from happening, though. But a girl can dream. I manage to make it on the train in time, sinking onto the bench and closing my eyes. My head falls back to rest against the window, and I take deep, calming breaths to re-center myself. Today couldn’t have gone any worse. No wonder I’m still a vergin…my instincts were so off that I’ve been dating a gay man. Nope. Not gonna wallow. Lena chuffs in agreement. * Two hours later, I’m seated at a plastic table in a cinder-block cell, my hands are resting on my paperwork in front of me, and my hair is tied back in what I hope is a professional look. My leg jitters with nerves. I need to shift, to run off this excess energy, these raging emotions. But I straighten up in my seat, taking a deep breath. I have to concentrate on my job now, and I’m incredibly tense about my next assignment. I’ve only been assigned basic white-collar criminals thus far. Some human, some wolf, none of them dangerous. But today I have to make an assessment of Aden Kenwood. He’s not just a formidable wolf; he’s a mafia king, too. His unmatched cruelty and the unbelievable lengths he’ll go to in order to protect his power are infamous in Grayling City. As a psychology grad student working on my real-life work assignments here at the prison, they typically assign me all of the easy psych evals. But the guy who handles the werewolf inmate evals is out today, and everyone else on staff is human. The last thing they are going to do is put a human in the room with such a notorious and dangerous wolf shifter. So…I’m up to bat. And the incident with Hudson? Not helping my nerves one bit. The hallway door clangs open, and I quickly stand, pulling down on the hem of my blazer to straighten it. This is by far the most nervous I’ve been since I started this gig. The guards bring Kenwood around the corner, and I’m surprised. I’m not sure exactly what I was expecting, but I wasn’t expecting this. He looks nothing like what I could have ever pictured. This man is muscular and tall, moving with a kind of dangerous grace. My eyes follow the way his shoulders shift beneath the fabric of his orange prison uniform, the way that the guards flinch a little as they unlock the silver cuffs on his wrists. This is one powerful wolf shifter. No doubt about it. I can see why everyone fears him. His mere presence ignites something in me I’ve never felt before, and I have to squeeze my thighs together to quell the rush of desire between my legs. I stifle a gasp as my eyes finally fall on Kenwood’s face and take him in, my mouth going dry. His dark hair falling over his forehead, his square jaw, the deep frown lines etched over green eyes… Oh goddess. Is this what a she-wolf’s heat feels like? I gasp as my eyes finally fall on Kenwood’s face and take him in, my mouth going dry. His dark hair falling over his forehead, his square jaw, the deep frown lines etched over green eyes… Oh my god. I’ve seen this man before. I saw him today—on my boyfriend’s phone. And I’ve seen a younger version of him etched in the features of my boyfriend’s face. Hudson isn’t just some rich kid. He’s the son of the mafia king. Aden I follow the guards to a cinder-block cell at the end of the hallway, noting that my lawyer is standing outside the door. He rolls his eyes at me and points at his watch, indicating that he’ll have me out of here in no time. I nod, then focus my attention on the door. I’m surprised to see a girl. No, not a girl. A young woman—twenty-three, at the most. She stands up, clearly anxious, biting her lip and playing with the long red ponytail that drifts over her shoulder. Her mouth falls open, just slightly, as she takes me in. God dammit. My body tenses at the sight of her—those long legs, knocked at the knees with anxiety, her short white skirt, that ridiculous blazer that she wears so people like me will take her seriously. If my wrists weren’t bound in silver, my canines would be dropping right now, my wolf anxious for a taste of her. I can tell from a single glance that she’s pure as the driven snow—ambitious but poor, eager to prove herself. My eyes rove over her… What would she look like if I ripped that unflattering blazer off her? I focus again on those red lips, slightly parted. My breath hisses from my mouth at the sight of those lips, at the thought of what I could do with them—of what I could make them do to me. There’s a low rumble in my chest as I hold back my growl, and my pants tighten as I get hard. “Um,” she says, hesitant. I snap my attention back to her jewel-blue eyes. “My name is Brooklyn Knox? I’m here to do your preliminary interview for state psychological assessment?” I grit my teeth, denying the urge to smile slowly at the fact that her statements are presented as questions. God, she’s perfect, this little angel. The feral, leashed part of me wants to know what she’d look like with a little bit of the underworld’s grime smeared all over her. I want to ruin her, put her on her knees for me. I want to own her in every way imaginable, destroy her for any other man. They don’t call me a monster for nothing. “Hello, Brooklyn,” I say, my voice low and hungry as I move forward and settle into the chair across from her. “Where do we begin?”Brooklyn I hesitate, settling down in my chair across from Aden. He’s all feral wolf, and instead of feeling like the strong she-wolf I am, I feel like a doe waiting to feel his teeth sink into my neck for the kill. His wolf flares in his eyes as he stares at me, almost as if he could leap across the table at any moment and gobble me up. Images flash through my mind of my skirt hiked up around my waist while Aden Kenwood buries his face between my thighs, literally gobbling me up… I give myself a mental shake. Nope. This is Hudson’s father—mafia king, powerful shifter, and bad, bad news. That’s why Hudson has a bodyguard, that’s why he has so much money. I quirk my head to the side, still staring at Kenwood, realizing that this is also why Hudson is hiding his secret. Many of the powerful wolf packs and crimes families in Grayling City are notoriously conservative, and family is everything. A gay son would never be accepted in some packs—especially a son that is expected to provide an heir. I can’t imagine being Hudson…having to hide who I loved, pretending to love someone else. Pulling myself back to the here and now, I realize that the man in front of me is smiling, just slightly, his eyes moving over me as I stare at him like a deer in the headlights. My body’s response to him, thinking about his head buried between my legs…there’s no way he doesn’t smell how turned on I am. I clench my jaw, reminding myself that he is the villain. No matter how much of a traitor my wolf and my body are right now. There is NO way I’m feeling my heat for this man. Not at all. “So.” I turn back to my papers, nervously swallowing. You’ve done this a thousand times, Brooklyn! I remind myself. You could do this in your sleep! “Can you please state your name and place of birth?” I ask, trying to regain control of the assessment. “I believe,” Kenwood says slowly, “that you’re already aware of my history.” He leans back, studying me. I lift my eyes to glare at his boldness—he’s so rude. But, unfortunately, he’s right. Everyone in Grayling City knows this information. I quickly fill out the form. I glance up at him, struck once again by the grim, lethal quality to his face. Aden Kenwood is all jagged edges and rough shards…and some dark part of me wants to cut my teeth on them. I drag my gaze away from him, feeling a shiver pass through me, tapping its fingers down my spine. Somehow, I imagine that they’re Aden’s fingers… I quickly dismiss the thought and try to focus on what I’m supposed to be doing. My wolf, Lena, whines at me, and I shush her. I’m so off-kilter that I actually have to look down and read the words I’d long ago memorized. “The rest of the questions that I ask you today will be of a personal and psychological nature,” I say, giving the canned speech I’m required to say to all inmates. “The state does require that you answer all questions fully and honestly as part of the assessment. Do you understand?” Aden is silent in response, and I look up at him, a knee-jerk reaction to an unresponsive patient. He’s smirking at me, unblinking. “Little girl,” he says, slowly leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees, “what gives you the right to ask me anything about my history and my mind?” I sit straight in my chair, unnerved by such a question. “The state has hired me to administer these examinations—” “Do you have a degree?” he cuts in. “Some kind of…certificate?” The final word is heavy with derision. I frown at him and reach down to rifle through my bag, producing the certified paperwork from the state that qualifies me for this position. “Here. If you’re so curious.” I reach across the table to hand it to him. A second before he grabs my wrist, I realize my mistake. He snatches my hand, fully capturing it in his, pulling me forward against the table, careful not to let the silver binding his wrists touch my skin. It doesn’t quite hurt, but, surprised, I drop the paperwork as I gasp, looking up at him. I’m terrified as he brings my hand close to his face, and then— Oh my goddess— Slowly, indulgently, he runs his nose across the ivory skin of my wrist. “Chamomile, lavender,” he murmurs, closing his eyes, taking in my scent. “So fresh and clean…untainted by the scent of another wolf.” Then he opens his eyes and stares into my bewildered face, wanting to see my reaction as he says, “You must be a vergin.” My lip trembles. His eyes eat me up, savoring the quiver of my lips, my wide, terrified eyes. I swear I feel his tongue flick over my pulse point, hear a low groan. “So innocent, so pure…” His grip tightens, and even confined by silver that should keep it from happening, his wolf flashes in his eyes. “Two of my favorite things to destroy.” Brooklyn A guard flies through the door. “Hands off!” he yells, but Aden has already released my wrist, raising his hands over his head, perfectly calm. “Sorry,” he says, back to smirking, his eyes on me. “Won’t happen again.” I blink at him, sitting back in my chair. I straighten my shoulders, unable to take my eyes off him. “Are you all right, miss?” the guard says, leaning forward to look me over. “I’m fine.” I rub my wrist with my other hand. I’m not hurt, just…shocked? Turned on? Confused? I clear my throat and look back down at my papers. “We will…we will proceed.” I work to steel myself, determined to regain control, to finish this interview. Failure isn’t an option if I want to graduate. I give Kenwood a steady glare, raising my chin. I’m tougher than he thinks I am. Picking up my pen again, I’m grateful that my hands aren’t shaking. “Please,” I say, focusing again on the paper. “Can you tell me about the crime for which you were imprisoned? I see—” “Your little skirt,” he says, grinning wolfishly at the fact that he’s riled me so easily, “is also very precious. You have beautiful legs, and that skirt’s the perfect length to—” “Please, Mr. Kenwood,” I repeat, surprised to hear it come out with a little growl. “I demand your respect during this process. Please be aware that what I report today will affect the rest of your time in prison, as well as your chances for early release. So I suggest that you take this process seriously.” Kenwood’s response is to laugh at me. “Darling,” he says, leaning forward again. “I couldn’t take you seriously if I tried.” I blink at him, stunned, but it quickly turns to rage. I clench my fist, my knuckles almost white, working to keep Lena’s temper at bay inside of me. The last place I can shift is here. Aden looks down at my fist and grins. “Now, now, Doc. No fair teasing. I like it a little rough.” “Mr. Kenwood,” I bite out, “if you aren’t interested in cooperating with me, I’d rather not waste my time. I’ll just let the guard know you’re being combative.” I stand up with bravado I don’t feel, and raise my hand, waving to the guard standing right outside the door. In a flash, Aden’s demeanor changes. Gone is the relaxed, playful wolf who’s been teasing me. Instead of the mischievous twinkle in his eyes at knocking me off-kilter, all the sharp edges and darkness are back. I can’t look away, overwhelmed, almost hypnotized by his glare. Finally, I dart my eyes away, staring down at the floor—anywhere but at him. “You looked away first.” He studies me. “Didn’t your parents, your Alpha teach you not to show weakness? Not to take your eyes off the enemy? In the battlefield, you’d have died by my hand—or my wolf’s teeth. Pitiful.” Riled, I raise my eyes to stare him down, determined not to look away first. “Good,” he laughs. “I like my girls with a little fight in them.” My face goes pale and red at once. I’m enraged, mortified to have fallen for his trick. I know better! But also—god dammit—I feel my nepps go hard under my blazer. His steely gaze moves to my chest, as if he knows it, the rumble of a growl in his chest deepening. I grab my pen again, scrawling words across the paper as fast as I can. Constantly defiant, ruthlessly sociopathic, no remorse. Recommend continued imprisonment, without parole. “This is finished.” I gather my papers as fast as I can, shoving them, crinkled, into my bag. He’s laughing softly as I hurry. I take a breath, throw my shoulders back, and then give him what I hope is a withering glare as I move towards the door. I pound twice on the metal, and the guard lets me out. I don’t look at Kenwood again as I start to leave. “Oh, Doc…” his voice echoes behind me. My cheeks burn and I grit my teeth as I turn to hear his parting words. “I’ll see you on the outside,” he says, giving me a dark smirk. “You can count on it.” “Not if I have anything to say about it,” I whisper, my voice trembling as I storm out, the guard shutting the door behind me. My paperwork recommends his eternal imprisonment. As far as I’m concerned, I’ll never see him again. And good riddance. However, when I return, I get on my laptop and open a search engine. My cheeks grow red for what feels like the millionth time today and I find myself typing “Aden Kenwood” into the search bar. I’m surprised by the results. The news channel that Dad watches every night calls Aden Kenwood the Werewolf Mafia King—or just “the Wolf King” sometimes, to appeal to the human demographic and pearl-clutchers. They are always detailing his dirty deeds, but the sites I’m looking show him standing in front of a tech company in Silicon Valley, calling him the CEO. Another site lists positive reviews of his many businesses, with employees suggesting that he’s a great boss. Still another… God, is that Brad Pitt he’s shaking hands with in that photo? Scrolling farther down, there are reports and articles about packs wanting to form and make him their Alpha. It appears he always declines… I gather my hair in my hands, passively starting to braid it as I look through the results, trying to match what I’m seeing here with the man I met in the prison the other day. “Whatcha looking at?” my sister, Jolie flops onto the couch, grabbing the laptop out of my hands. “Hey!” I squeal, snatching at it. “Jolie, give it back!” “Oooohhhh,” she says, scrolling through the photos of Aden. “Now this is a hottie who could light a little fire under me, for sure.” She nods appreciatively. “Who is this?” “Aden Kenwood,” I say, hugging my knees to my chest. “I had to interview him at the prison the other day because the shifter who usually does it was out and I was their only other shifter. He was…unnerving.” Jolie flicks her eyes to me, considering. “Did he scare you?” I shrug. “A little.” She narrows her eyes a bit, snapping the laptop shut. “Okay, that’s it. You’re coming out with me tonight, baby Brooklyn,” she says, sliding across the couch to give me a big hug. “You’ve had a hard time with your gay boyfriend and the scary Mafia King. You’ve got to have some fun!” I laugh, letting her wrap me up. “Okay, okay! Geeze, I’ll come.” Little did I know how much these separate aspects of my life would collide in just a few hours. * The music pounds in the club and, I have to admit, I’m really starting to have fun. Lena is even loosening up a little bit, and she’s not as on edge as she has been the past few days. Though, she absolutely keeps throwing up images of Kenwood in my mind. Jolie dressed me tonight, which would usually make me uncomfortable, but for once, I let her take charge and decided to step out of my comfort zone and just go with it. What she calls a “dress” is more a sheet of silver fabric that falls across my front and then wraps low around my hips. It’s strapped together across my shoulders with a spiderweb of silver strings. Gotta give it up to that wolf shifter metabolism…I’m showing a lot of skin, but I know I look good. Despite spending the last couple of days drowning myself in Ben & Jerry’s. She also curled my long red hair into waves and gave me shadowy makeup and full red lips. Looking at myself in the club’s mirrored walls, I feel…well, I blush to admit it, but I feel really sexy. It’s a strange feeling. I’m not sure what I expected when Jolie took me to one of “her” clubs, but this feels nothing like a strip club. In fact, so far every woman dancing on the stages is fully clothed. I look around from my spot in a round corner booth, curious as to where everything else happens. Jolie sits down next to me then, laughing. She waves goodbye to the man she had been talking with, then turns her attention to me. Her eyes are a little glazed. “You having fun, baby Brooklyn?” She gives me a wide, inviting smile. I can’t help but smile back. “Yes,” I say, laughing. “Though I’m curious…where does…all the oth—" Jolie stiffens next to me, and I stop talking. Lena scents fear. I follow Jolie’s gaze. There’s a man standing across the VIP area, his arms crossed, staring at her. When I look, he starts to walk over. Jolie quickly jumps to her feet, reaching out her arms to wrap this big fat potato of a man in a hug. I grimace a little—he looks like he hasn’t showered in a while. Smells a bit like it, too. Definitely human. “Davis!” she says, and I can tell her voice is falsely cheerful. “How you been, gorgeous?” “Jolie,” he says, wrapping his hands around her upper arms and pushing her way from him. “We’ve got to talk.” “Have you met my little sister, Brooklyn?” She gestures towards me with a big smile. “Brooklyn, this is Miguel Davis, an old friend. He’s the manager of the club.” Davis’s eyes rove over me, taking in the generous portion of my thigh exposed by the little dress I’m wearing. I wasn’t uncomfortable before, but now I try to tug it down lower with my fist. Lena growls low inside me at this creep, but I have to keep her leashed. We’re not allowed to shift at all in establishments where humans go. “Um, hello,” I say, hesitant. He takes Jolie by her elbow. “Come on. We’re going to talk around back.” “Okay,” Jolie murmurs, suddenly serious. She leans down to whisper to me. “It’s just work stuff, don’t worry. Plus, wolf versus human. I got this.” I give her a little smile and nod, even though I’m not sure what her wolf can even do for her right now. Between the laws we have to follow and how glazed her eyes are from…whatever she took… Jolie follows Davis into the back. They’re gone for a long time. Anxiously, I run my hand over the underwire of my bra, feeling the tiny switchblade hidden there. The only possession my mother left to me in her will. I tucked it into my bra tonight, just in case. Without the ability to use my razor-sharp claws or my wolf, I like having it with me. I don’t really know how to use it, but it calms me to know that it’s there. Half an hour more and the door opens. My stomach drops. There’s Davis, but where’s my sister? Davis’s eyes catch on me as he starts to move farther out into the club. I see him mouth the word “shit,” and then he walks over to me. “Jolie’s sister, right?” “Yes. Where is she?” “She got sick. She’s just throwing up, but she’s a little green around the gills right now,” he says, gesturing towards his own neck. Alarm bells ring in my head. Wolf shifters don’t just get “get sick.” I stand and turn towards the staff door, intending to go find my sister, but he stops me. “No, listen,” he says. “She won’t want you to see her like this. Come with me, I’ll take you someplace where you can wait more comfortably.” He pulls me forward. I follow him, confused and worried as he pulls me quickly across the club to a black door, pushing it open. The inside is barely lit—a dark room with mirrors on the ceiling and tiny pinpricks of light coming up from the floor. A wide velvet bench wraps itself around the room with little black cocktail tables lined up in front of it. I blink, trying to let my eyes adjust, as Davis settles me into a little table by the door. “Wait here for a bit,” Davis says, looking beyond me. “I’ll have someone bring you a drink. Your sister will be fine soon.” Then, he walks away. Someone does bring me a drink, and I take a sip of it. But then I realize that it’s laced with something. My head starts to spin and I push it away from me. As my eyes adjust, I look around the room and realize that I’m not alone in here. Bodies, mostly in couples, writhe together on the black velvet seating. Some of them are dancing, but some… Well, that girl is on her knees. My eyes go wide as I realize what she is doing. I jump to my feet, blushing and heading for the door. As soon as I reach it, Davis comes back in. “Whoa whoa whoa!” he says, putting up hands to stop me. I shrink in front of him. “Where you going, baby?” He rubs a hand up and down my arm. Instinctively, I jerk my arm away from him. Davis keeps moving towards me, but for every step he takes, I take one backwards. Soon, I feel myself bump into a table behind me. He presses up against me. There’s nowhere else to go. “You’d better be a good girl for me,” Davis whispers, his hot breath on my face. “Or else your sister’s gonna pay. She owes me a lot of money. Tonight, you’re going to work some of it off.” I want to push him away but somehow I lose all my strength now. I’m scared to death, a little whimper escaping my mouth. “Do you mind?” The voice drawls from behind Davis. “That’s my doctor you’re harassing there.” I feel Davis’s weight lift off me as he turns towards the voice. I peer behind him, shocked. I recognize that deep, chocolate tone, and it sends a rush of heat straight between my legs. It can’t be…	LEARN_MORE	https://stardusttime.com/kiss/booksAdvPage2/?id=66	KISS - Good Romance Novel APP	https://www.facebook.com/100091286708165/	3,013	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	stardusttime.com	VIDEO		https://stardusttime.com/kiss/booksAdvPage2/?id=66bdbe31e8071b2b5d03038d&mode=6&mediaType=fb&px=756695679720479&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461866875_8484712828309196_2996757932303820633_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ctiS7fpK1Y4Q7kNvgF8GfhB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AFQLs_fsYADVbP_lvWNrHUe&oh=00_AYCFNSfz23desrCAA4GWohp6MWtStxayNIGadArr8R5OQQ&oe=67041BA0	PERSON_PROFILE	0	KISS - Good Romance Novel APP	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,066,130	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2066015}'	No	2024-10-03 02:11	active	1566	🔥️click here to read more FREE chapters!	Maxwell arrived home well past 11:00 pm. The villa was eerily quiet, with only a night light switched on in the living room. Jennifer sat on the couch, seemingly waiting for him. As Maxwell took off his coat and loosened his tie, he spoke impatiently, "Didn't we agree on the divorce? I won't shortchange you when it comes to assets. You can rest assured about that." He thought she wanted a larger share of the assets. Jennifer's voice was hoarse when she asked, "Maxwell, did you want a divorce because of that woman?" Maxwell's expression faltered slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. He didn't want to hide anything from her, nor did he care to. "Yes. I owe it to her. That's something I must do," he admitted frankly. Jennifer chuckled bitterly. "I only discovered today how hypocritical you are. You played the victim, making me feel guilty and pushing me to get a divorce. I bet you were secretly pleased, weren't you? You finally caught me making a blunder, and you're now forcing me to leave so you can be with her." Maxwell furrowed his brows. His tone was chilling as he replied, "Jennifer, let's make things clear. Rachel and I were together in the first place. You know very well how you ended up marrying me. Now that you have someone else, we're even. Let's spare each other, shall we?" "No!" Jennifer's words were sharp. "I hate being deceived. You and her have been playing me like a fool for the past two years. Do you think I'll let you off?" Maxwell rubbed his temples, suppressing his irritation. With gritted teeth, he demanded, "Then what do you want?" "I won't get a divorce." With that, Jennifer went to the bedroom. Almost as soon as she turned around, her tears surged out. For two whole years, she had been waiting for him to return her feelings. Before her mother passed away, she was told that most marriages in this world were built on growing affection over time. Love at first sight was just infatuation, like what she felt for Maxwell. But marriage ultimately relied on tolerance and patience. Jennifer thought her perseverance would eventually warm his heart. Now she realized how wrong she was.	LEARN_MORE	https://mn.ikkly.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=12134	Free BOOKS	https://www.facebook.com/61560779513133/	496	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	mn.ikkly.com	DCO		https://mn.ikkly.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=12134&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448810168_508013721795463_5680667871745428556_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tJASrXdDvikQ7kNvgFC63Rn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Ab3RoqLrko3bAfbJtLf5ij5&oh=00_AYDUFXXavVA0-SXc4uThlQ_LUw4zrezYV9BU_WmzLoR8iw&oe=67042AF5	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Free BOOKS	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,065,507	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2065505}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:08	active	1566	😍Read the next chapters👉	Chapter 1 It's her wedding anniversary. Lexi had come to the hospital to remove her baby. Several married couples sat around her. In contrast, Lexi seemed pitiful because she was about to remove her child, and she was there alone. Lexi had accompanied Zachary on a business trip two months ago. They attended a party, which caused her to get drunk. She was alone in the hotel room when she awoke the next day. The smell of a wild night had filled the room while crumpled clothes were scattered on the floors by then. Among the items were Lexi's garments and Zachary's white shirt. Lexi's heart beat wildly and exuberantly with delight at that moment. Zachary had finally accepted her romantic feelings for him after all those years. … Alas, Zachary practically chopped Lexi's happiness into pieces with a cleaver last night. Lexi had tested the waters by asking him what would happen if she were expecting their child. Zachary touched her stomach without much care while lightly scoffing. "Remove it, then. Also, I would never let you have my baby." Those steely, candid words caused goosebumps to prickle all over Lexi's body. She had been his secretary for five years, loved him for numerous years, and had become his wife for two years. Even a dog would have developed feelings for someone after all that time! Lexi never imagined Zachary could utter such relentless words after all the time they had been together. … Lexi smiled disparagingly as she recalled the conversation with Zachary last night. Before her smile faded away, she saw Zachary strolling toward her with one arm around the other woman. She tensed and lowered her head out of instinct almost immediately. "Isn't that Ms. Loyle?" said the woman, Yvonne Xenos. She removed her face mask, raised her eyebrows in surprise, and tugged at Zachary's shirt. She motioned at him to go toward Lexi. "I'd like to speak with Ms. Loyle real quick." "You should go and see a doctor first." Zachary's tone wasn't as unyielding and as cold as usual. Instead, there was a trace of gentleness in his voice. "I haven't seen Ms. Loyle in ages. I just want to say a few things to her. That's all." Yvonne blinked her round, doe eyes at Zachary. "You don't have to worry so much. I only fainted because of menstrual pains and low blood pressure." Lexi soon noticed that someone was standing in front of her. She looked up and saw her employer and husband on paper. He stood unashamed as he hugged the woman around the waist. Lexi froze, and the cogs in her brain were unable to turn like they usually did. "Long time no see, Ms. Loyle. My, how pretty you've become!" Yvonne spoke with a delighted lilt. Meanwhile, Lexi bitterly wondered when Yvonne, Zachary's first love, had returned to the country. Unable to smile, Lexi pursed her lips. She spoke politely. "Indeed, it's been a while." Yvonne pressed her lips together, too. She let out a dainty laugh before commenting, "Thank you for going through the trouble of looking after Zach these past few years. Only you could tolerate his nasty temper." "Zach. Why's she talking as if she's close with him when they broke up four years ago!" Lexi thought. Despite that thought, Lexi put on a slight smile. "It's no trouble. After all, Jenkins Corporation pays well." That was when the nurse brought a wheelchair over. Then, Zachary gingerly helped Yvonne, whom he was hugging this entire time, into the wheelchair. It was a surprising sight to Lexi, who realized Zachary only treated certain women with such gentleness. Lexi's smile was thin. At the same time, she felt suffocated. Yvonne gazed up at Zachary to thank him before she looked back at Lexi again. "Are you here to see a doctor, Ms. Loyle?" "No, I've already seen a doctor and am about to leave." Yvonne pouted, tugged Zachary's sleeve, and leaned against his arm. She spoke with a honeyed voice. "I'm craving chocolate all of a sudden. I really want some." "Go and see a doctor first." Zachary sounded helpless. In the next second, his bland gaze shifted in Lexi's way. "Ms. Loyle, please get a box of chocolates and deliver it to the fifth floor later." The hairs on Lexi's neck stood straight as she wanted to let out a self-deprecating scoff. She couldn't believe Zachary was making his wife get chocolates for his ex-girlfriend. Lexi's lips curled up out of the blue. She figured it was fine to get an surgery in another hospital. Yvonne gave a gentle tap on Zachary's arm. She rolled her eyes as if she couldn't believe him. "Ms. Loyle must be unwell since she came to the hospital today. How could you request her to buy some chocolates? Gosh!" "It's her job to do what I tell her to." Those words rolled off Zachary's tongue like he couldn't care less. Even so, Lexi agreed it was her job to do as told. Upon hearing Zachary's response, she lowered her head to disguise the sorrow in her eyes. The pride in her veins prevented her from looking too much like a loser in front of her competitor. So, she flashed a faint smile. "That's indeed my job as a secretary, Ms. Xenos." After giving the two a respectful nod, she clutched her bag tight and hurried away. … Lexi went to a supermarket near the hospital to buy a box of chocolates. Then, she returned to the hospital and took the elevator to the fifth floor. Once the bell rang and the doors opened, she saw Yvonne hugging Zachary's waist as the duo kissed. Lexi's stomach turned at once. She covered her pale lips and couldn't help dry-heaving while placing a hand against the mirrored walls in the elevator for support. The duo's eyes met hers in that instant. Yet, the elevator doors soon shut. Tears gathered in Lexi's eyes, and she was still dry-heaving in the elevator. Fortunately, she was the only person in the elevator. Yvonne's eyes widened at the closing elevator doors. She had heard some hurling sounds, so she asked, "What's wrong with Ms. Loyle?" Zachary's eyes were dark and solemn by then. He was deep in thought and reflecting on how Lexi had abruptly asked about expecting a child last night. … Lexi handed the box of chocolates to the nurse. She asked the nurse to take it to Zachary, who was on the fifth floor. She drove home, and the first thing she did was pack her suitcase to move out the next day. As Lexi expected, her and Zachary's two years of marriage were so flimsy that they crumbled after one blow. She accepted her fate. She knew it was time to end this dream she had been living in. Zachary's grandma, Martha Inman, wanted to see Zachary get married while she was still alive. At the time, Zachary casually asked Lexi if she wanted to get married with a prenuptial agreement. He even offered to pay Lexi a great sum to get married. Lexi had a crush on Zachary for forever. Not to mention, she urgently needed the money back then. So, she agreed to the marriage contract. Despite it being a contractual marriage, Lexi still gave her utmost sincerity to it. She figured her genuine love could one day win over Zachary. Yet, Yvonne had returned to the country now, which made Lexi realize how ridiculous her former optimism was. She snorted at herself for being so naïve. … Lexi forced herself to remain calm while waiting for Zachary to come home that night. She wanted to resolve the situation once he returned. So, she waited from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and even called Zachary several times. Alas, he never answered. Zachary didn't go home that night. Lexi received a message from Zachary's younger sister, Mary Jenkins. Mary had forwarded a post from Yvonne's social media account. In the photo, Zachary donned a bathrobe as he helped blowdry Yvonne's hair. It was late at night. Yet, he was elsewhere in a bathrobe. He was even helping to dry his ex-girlfriend's hair. Lexi's gaze hardened at the photo. Her eyes burned as she blinked a few times. Then, she scoffed. Emotionless, Lexi opened the drawer and searched for the marriage contract she signed two years ago. Once she located it, she read the last clause in the contract. "The party who initiates a divorce before the five years of contractual marriage ends must pay the other party 200 million as compensation for liquidated damages." When they got married, Lexi asked for 30 million as her dowry. To her surprise, Zachary transferred 100 million to her bank account right away. Lexi calculated her bank savings. She had 90 million left after deducting her younger brother's chemotherapy costs. She didn't have enough for the 200 million compensation if she initiated a divorce now. That caused Lexi to squish her cheeks with both hands in frustration. Eventually, she put away the marriage contract, got changed, grabbed her keys, and headed out. … There were many bars in Sootfort City. Lexi had never been to such places before. Today, she came to a bar and get drink, but she didn't drink it. After thinking about the child in her stomach, she put down her glass. She pursed her lips bitterly. She was frustrated that she couldn't even vent her anger by drinking. Lexi exited the bar and sniffled. She felt like an idiot for crying. Despite loving him for all those years, she ended up all alone. A taxi was parked in front of her, its roof sign still illuminated. Thinking that it was vacant, Lexi opened the door and got in before speaking in a nasal voice. "Please take me to Flowerhill Estate." The taxi driver looked at the man and woman in the backseat through the rearview mirror. He assumed the two were an arguing couple and offered some advice out of kind intent. "Sir, from one man to another, you should be more patient with women." Then, the driver started the engine and drove ahead. That was when Lexi snapped to her senses. She whipped her head to the side. Her red, swollen eyes blearily snapped toward the man beside her. The man wore a face mask, which prevented her from seeing his full face. "Sir, please stop the car. I'm so sorry. I got into the wrong taxi," she said. Speechless, the driver stopped along the road. Lexi apologized several times before getting out. Then, her wandering eyes caught sight of the man in the backseat, who was also looking at her. … Zachary only came home the next morning to change into a fresh set of clothes. He had noticed the few suitcases in the living room when he returned. So, he casually asked about it in his hoarse voice while taking off his shirt. "Who's the guest that's staying over at our place?" "Those suitcases are mine." Lexi's gaze snapped toward the lipstick stain on Zachary's white dress shirt. She pointed at it while stating, "That's a woman's lipstick." Zachary pulled his collar lower and examined it. To his surprise, there was indeed a lipstick stain. For a split second, his features tensed. Yet, he quickly resumed his usual frosty demeanor and didn't bother explaining himself. "I knew he'd react like this," Lexi thought while scoffing. A frown marred Zachary's forehead. "What's with the laugh?" "Oh, it's nothing. I merely read a joke earlier this morning. I'm going to work now." Lexi picked up her handbag and subconsciously changed into a pair of flats while heading out the door. Meanwhile, Zachary headed upstairs to the bedroom. He stripped and went into the bathroom but soon realized Lexi hadn't left a change of clothes for him in there. It was odd because Lexi would always prepare a fresh set of clothes for him beforehand if he wanted to shower. His eyes narrowed as he left the bathroom. He phoned Lexi while walking to the closet. "I forgot to ask you something." He opened a drawer and continued, "You're carrying a child, are you?" His voice lacked warmth as it rang into Lexi's ear, and it made her heart race fervently. Chapter 2 Lexi parked her car by the roadside. She calmly denied Zachary's assumption by saying, "I'm not. It's just that my stomach hasn't been feeling well these past few days." Zachary leaned against the closet. His eyes were steely as he sneered. "You'd better not be lying to me, Lexi. It's no longer popular for women to secure their position as a wealthy man's wife just by bearing the man's child." Lexi's heart sank to her stomach. She couldn't believe that was what Zachary thought of her. While caressing her still flat stomach, she spoke calmly. "How could I be a mother, Mr. Jenkins? We used protection that night." Zachary rise a brow. He was speechless at her response. … After half a day of meetings at the office, Lexi delivered a cup of freshly made coffee to Zachary's office around noon. She also placed the documents he had asked her for a few days prior on his desk. Her gaze swept past the information on the document just then. Jenkins Corporation owned businesses. However, they had never been involved with the entertainment industry. Yet, the company stated on the document—Tundratide Entertainment—was a major company in said industry. Lexi had also just seen the news and learned Yvonne had officially signed with Tundratide Entertainment today. Yvonne was now one of their contracted artists. With that in mind, Lexi wondered if Zachary planned to acquire Tundratide Entertainment and become the company's main shareholder for Yvonne's sake. Lexi didn't leave the office. Instead, she was determined to discuss what happened last night with Zachary. "I see that Ms. Xenos is back in the country." Zachary stopped working and leaned against his chair at once. A frosty stare radiated from him. "You shouldn't poke your nose into places it doesn't belong, Mrs. Jenkins." He had called her "Mrs. Jenkins" as a warning. Lexi paused for a few seconds. It would be a lie to say she wasn't upset. Still, she was determined to ask what was necessary. "Are you planning to divorce me now that she's back?" Zachary glanced at her impassively. "You may continue being Mrs. Jenkins since Grandma likes you." He knew there was one other thing Lexi was good at—making Martha happy. Lexi's hands balled into fists once she heard his response. Sorrow and disappointment weighed down her. From what Zachary said, he still wanted to continue their marriage only because Martha liked her. He was willing to stay married to her longer to keep Martha happy in the latter's last years of life. But what about her? Was she to continue existing as a joke between Zachary and Yvonne? Zachary's phone was on the table, and it rang at that moment. Lexi saw the name "Yvonne" on the caller ID. Zachary had always saved Lexi's contact as "Ms. Loyle." Meanwhile, he had saved the name of his first love and ex-girlfriend on his phone. Lexi remained emotionless as she waited for Zachary to finish his phone call. Then, she informed him that the Zox family's banquet was tonight. Zachary flipped through Tundratide Entertainment's documents. At the same time, he responded to Lexi without bothering to raise his head. "I have something else to do tonight. I want you to deliver my gift to Mr. Zox Senior on my behalf." "Understood." Lexi turned to leave the office. Zachary peered at her. He watched her leave before going back to browsing the document. … Tonight was Harold Zox's 66th birthday celebration. His family, the Zoxes, had organized the banquet to be at Mullaby Hotel. Lexi donned a blue custom-made gown when she brought Zachary's present to the hotel that night. "Welcome, Ms. Loyle. And thank you for coming." A smiling Harold Zox shook hands with Lexi. Jenkins Corporation only made big business and was Zox Corporation's biggest client. Not only that, but Lexi was also one of Zachary's most capable secretaries. With all that in mind, Harold was respectful toward Lexi. "Mr. Jenkins couldn't make it since something came up at the last minute. On his behalf, I wish you a blessed and happy birthday, Mr. Zox Senior." Lexi's lips curved into a polite smile as she dedicated a toast to him. Harold nodded understandingly. He admired Lexi's capability to execute her job well. "I'm happy enough that you made it here—" He froze after saying that, and the atmosphere around them became tense. Lexi noticed the brief awkward look from Harold. She instinctively turned around, only to see Yvonne in a white dress. The latter held hands with Zachary as they entered the banquet hall. Lexi's faint smile turned stiff. So, this was what Zachary meant by he had something else to do tonight." "Happiest of birthdays, Mr. Zox Senior!" Yvonne's eyes twinkled with delight as she beamed at Harold. "Thank you." "Happy birthday, Mr. Zox Senior." Zachary picked up a wine glass from a waiter's tray. He then raised it to clink glasses with Harold. Yvonne glanced at Lexi and greeted her. "Ms. Loyle." A soft smile appeared on Lexi's face as she nodded. "Ms. Xenos." The band hired to be in the banquet began playing a tune for a classical ballroom dance. Some male guests had invited other female guests to dance by then. "Did you come here alone, Ms. Loyle?" Yvonne asked. "My companion got into a car accident on the way here," Lexi answered. With widened eyes, Yvonne exclaimed, "Is he alright?" Harold joined in to ask about Lexi's companion with concern. After all, it was his birthday banquet. It would seem like bad luck if his guests got into a car accident. Lexi explained with a smile, "Don't worry, Mr. Zox Senior. His and someone's car scratched each other from being too close on the road. He's merely held back because the other party is insisting on getting compensation." A noticeable sigh of relief came from Harold. "Oh, that's good to hear." Once Harold went to mingle with the other guests, Lexi's friendly countenance dropped. She marched away with her back straight. Her expression was frosty, and her heels clicked on the floor as she paced away. She wanted to go home and type her resignation letter at once. A confused Yvonne whispered, "Doesn't Ms. Loyle seem unhappy?" Zachary's attention was on Lexi as she left. That was when he noticed Harold's oldest son, Xavier Zox, inviting Lexi to dance. With his eyes narrowing slightly, he remarked, "She's not unhappy." "How could she feel unhappy? She was in the mood to dance with another man." Zachary thought. Zachary couldn't believe Lexi would dare dance with Xavier, a womanizer. He wondered if she had a death wish. On the flip side, Lexi never imagined Xavier would grab her arm and force her onto the dance floor. She didn't want to cause a scene by resisting him since they were at a banquet. So, it left her in an extremely foul mood. The stench of liquor wafted into her nostrils, causing her brows to knit. "Please unhand me, Mr. Zox." Xavier had one arm around her waist. He held her tighter after she said that, and his lips curved with determination. "Why don't you consider working at Zox Corporation instead, Ms. Loyle? The pay is double what you earn at Jenkins Corporation. What do you think?" With disgust, Lexi pointed out the facts indifferently. "You won't be in control of Zox Corporation anytime soon." Despite getting smacked in the face by Lexi's harsh rejection, Xavier wasn't upset. He was always patient when dealing with beautiful women. So, his hand continued to linger on Lexi's waist as he caressed it. Lexi's expression darkened as she raised her leg and stomped hard on Xavier's leather shoe. Her tall heel pierced through the leather and landed on the top of Xavier's foot. Pain shot throughout Xavier's foot. His features twisted into a hideous scowl as he released Lexi's arm. Lexi spun on her heel to flee at once. She left the banquet and exited the hotel. "Hold it right there, Lexi Loyle!" Xavier barked. Lexi frowned and regretted not stomping harder on his foot. Xavier grabbed her hand. "Watch yourself, Mr. Zox," said an impatient and frosty Lexi. Xavier focused on her unfriendly yet alluring face. Excitement bubbled up within him. A woman with such unapproachable energy but also tempting curves was attractive. As such, he had long desired Lexi. A chuckle left his lips as he commented, "Must you do this, Ms. Loyle? Why bother with this act of sternness? I'm sure Mr. Jenkins has gotten tired of toying with you by now." Lexi inhaled sharply but still flashed a smirk. "You can ask Mr. Jenkins if he's grown tired of me." She lifted her chin and motioned for him to look behind them where Zachary and Yvonne stood. Lexi saw how Zachary watched her get harassed by another man. He didn't do anything about it. Chapter 3 Zachary stood there with his ex-girlfriend, who he linked arms with. Meanwhile, he watched Xavier attacking Lexi. It was ironic because someone once said that a man would show some possessiveness over a woman if he truly loved her. As she stood beneath the warm lights, Lexi felt like her heart had been ripped to shreds. Xavier thought Lexi was trying to lie to him, so he chuckled viciously. "Mr. Jenkins is keeping a beautiful lady company. Don't even think about fooling me. Shall we take this conversation elsewhere, Ms. Loyle? What do you think?" Lexi held Zachary's gaze and spoke with a bland tone. "Mr. Jenkins, Mr. Zox is asking whether you've grown tired of toying with me." She then watched him in silence while waiting for his response. Zachary held Yvonne's hand as they walked past Lexi. In that instance, Lexi realized that Zachary's answer no longer mattered. Yvonne turned around just then. She shot a megawatt smile at Xavier while clarifying things. "Zachary and Ms. Loyle are merely employer and employee. Watch your words, Mr. Zox. Otherwise, I'll be mad at you." Xavier chuckled and nodded. "Alright, alright. I won't utter any nonsense." Once Zachary and Yvonne walked away hand-in-hand, he forced Lexi into his car and kissed her cheek. "I'll call the cops on you, Xavier!" Lexi screamed as she shoved Xavier off her in disgust. Alas, her strength was no match for a man whose stature was bigger than her. Xavier held her slim waist while guffawing. "Cry out all you want, Ms. Loyle. I'm not afraid. Also, there's no use in you calling the cops. I'm merely touching and kissing you, not screwing you." Rage brimmed in Lexi as she felt offended by the former's shamelessness. Xavier was about to kiss her again. Lexi's striking eyes morphed into a vicious glare as she kneed him. "Argh!" Xavier hunched his back. … Later in the dead of night, Lexi followed Quinton Shaw out of the police station. Like Lexi, Quinton was also one of Zachary's secretaries. "Please take me to Watton Hotel, Mr. Shaw. Thank you for helping me tonight," said Lexi. Quinton peered at her from the corner of his eye before looking ahead to say, "Mr. Jenkins was the one who asked me to pick you up." Lexi's lips tugged into a thin line as she coldly responded, "I see." Zachary was nowhere to be seen when she was being harassed by Xavier. Because of that, she didn't feel any hint of gratitude toward Zachary. Quinton hesitated to speak but ultimately explained, "Ms. Loyle… Mr. Jenkins wanted to pick you up himself." "Oh? So where is he? Why isn't he here." Quinton closed his mouth. He felt it was too awkward to continue. Lexi looked down at her phone and saw another text from Mary. The latter had forwarded Yvonne's latest post. That was when Lexi discovered why Zachary hadn't picked her up from the police station in person. Zachary had accompanied his ex-girlfriend to the hospital yet again. A low chuckle rumbled from Lexi as she replied to Mary's text. She asked Mary to invite Yvonne out for a meeting tomorrow on her behalf. … Quinton's car soon arrived outside Watton Hotel. Lexi told Quinton not to send her inside since it was unnecessary. Exhausted, she exited the car and get into the hotel. The lobby was mostly quiet at that hour. When she made it to the elevator, there happened to be a tall and fit man talking on the phone there. He get into the elevator once its doors opened. Lexi went in, too. She had just gone inside when her heel slipped, and she subconsciously reached ahead to grab the man. The man held her arm and supported her from stumbling. Lexi's palms grew clammy. She was still rattled. After regaining her footing, she apologized to the man. "S-Sorry. I didn't mean to…" The man wore a mask, so she could only see his dark gaze. He looked like the man she had encountered in the taxi that one time. He had dropped his phone because he had reached out to support Lexi. Not only that, but the man was also holding a coffee cup in his left hand, which had also fallen. That caused the coffee to spill onto his white shirt. "Did you burn yourself, sir?" She worried the cup he held earlier contained hot coffee. The man glanced at her with his brows slightly furrowed. He bent forward to pick up his phone from the ground. Then, his voice rang out lazily as he told the person on the other end that he was ending the call. Lexi spoke with sincerity. "I'm so, so sorry. I'll reimburse you for the damages." The man's name was Claude Quall. His eyes glanced over Lexi again. He took in her formal dress, slender waist, and curvy figure. He didn't say much except, "That won't be necessary." His voice was low and gravelly. He turned sideways. Then, he casually stepped back to put some distance between him and Lexi. Lexi feigned a calm demeanor as she pressed the button to her floor. She stayed on the tenth floor while the man's room was on the 12th. Claude's gaze shifted downward while he fell into deep thought. He had found Lexi oddly familiar when he saw her in the taxi last night. It felt like she was the woman who got into his bed and beded him for two months. "Let's discuss the details of your compensation," he said. Lexi paused midway while exiting the elevator when she heard that. … The two soon stood in the hallway on the 12th floor. Claude had already taken off his coffee-stained dress shirt, and his sculpted abs were exposed. A frown creased his forehead, making it obvious he was uncomfortable. He would take off his shirt if Lexi weren't here. Lexi dared not stare past Claude's shirt and to his bare body. She could only force her attention to remain on Claude's eyes. "How much should I compensate you for the damages, sir? I'll transfer it." "I've changed my mind," Claude abruptly stated. He had only stopped Lexi from leaving because he wanted to see whether she was the woman from before. Lexi's brows arched with slight confusion. She watched the man swipe his card on the door's scanner before disappearing into his hotel room. Then, she left the 12th floor. … Light jazz music played in Nullem Cafe. Yvonne sat opposite Lexi. Since she was a big-time celebrity, she wore a hat and mask to conceal her face. With a slight smile, she asked, "Did you ask to meet me because you needed something from me, Ms. Loyle?" Lexi nodded. A half-smile flickered on her face. "There is something I need." She held herself with reticence while sternly staring at Yvonne. It felt like a scene in a movie where the wife confronted her husband's mistress. It was clear to Lexi that the only way to get Zachary to initiate a divorce was by provoking Yvonne. So, she said, "Ms. Xenos, I don't want you to interfere with me and Zachary's life. Since you chose to leave him back then, you shouldn't seek him out after returning to the country now—" Everyone in the industry knew Zachary once had an ex-girlfriend he loved dearly. However, Martha disliked Yvonne, so the latter could never marry into the Jenkins family. Yvonne didn't want to give up on her singing career at the time either. Because of that, she chose to break up with Zachary and go abroad to study music. Lexi continued in a gentle voice, "Since you've given up on your relationship with Zachary, please cut off all ties with him for good. Can you do that?" Yvonne's eyes snapped wide open in disbelief. "You and Zachary…? Are you…" Lexi nodded. "Zachary and I have been married for two years." After Lexi said that, Yvonne stiffened in utter shock. Her eyes reddened almost instantly. "You and Zachary are married?" Lexi felt like the wicked villain who got in between two lovers in every story. "Yeah, we're married." Just then, Zachary sat in the booth behind the women's. He heard Lexi revealing their marriage to Yvonne. Right away, a thunderous expression shrouded his face, his lips pressed into a thin line, and his eyes narrowed to pinpricks. The cafe was designed well. All the tables came with partitions, which created private booth seating for everyone. Zachary and Lexi had agreed not to tell anyone about their marriage. It seemed that Lexi had grown arrogant and possessive, even though they were only in a contractual marriage. Yvonne frowned. She was still in disbelief. "You're lying to me, aren't you, Ms. Loyle?" A brief pause passed before Lexi answered, "I'm not. I can show you our marriage certificate." She had come prepared, so she fetched the marriage certificate from her bag and showed it to Yvonne. Yvonne removed her mask and revealed her pretty face. She had a sweet, innocent beauty. It was the kind of beauty that most movie characters' first loves had. Meanwhile, Lexi possessed a more striking, gorgeous appearance. "Zachary didn't tell me you two are married when he was with me last night, Ms. Loyle. I could've sworn I felt he was still in love with me." Yvonne's expression dulled as she mentioned that. She hinted to Lexi that she and Zachary were together last night. Lexi maintained her smile as if unbothered. "Men are the same in bed. He says he loves me too, when he's bedding me." A hostile energy oozed from Zachary, who suppressed his anger when he heard this from his booth. He already had the desire to choke Lexi to death. On the other hand, Yvonne covered her lips upon hearing that. Tears even streamed down her eyes. However, Lexi wasn't satisfied and wanted to take things further. She was doing everything in her power to make Zachary initiate a divorce. "Ms. Xenos, I can't stop you if you're that determined to be a mistress—" "That's enough!" A man's infuriated voice rang out. Lexi whipped her head around, only to be startled by a seething Zachary. He was trying hard to suppress his fury. Lexi was stunned. Chapter 4 Zachary first had Quinton send Lexi back to Flowerhill Estate. Once Lexi got into the car, she looked through the window and saw Zachary hugging Yvonne. He seemed to be comforting her. The corners of Lexi's lips curved upward with a hint of bitterness yet relief. When she asked Mary to invite Yvonne out last night, she knew Mary would rat her out to Zachary. None of this was surprising to her. Everything had gone according to her plan. Quinton soon drove ahead. Upon stopping for a red light, he turned around to look at Lexi. "You're intelligent, Ms. Loyle. Why did you have to upset Boss?" He and Lexi had worked together for five years, so he witnessed how Lexi looked after Zachary with the utmost care. Lexi even took cooking classes every night after work to better care for Zachary's stomach. She trained her cooking skills until they were comparable to an award-winning chef's. She looked after Zachary with great attentiveness. Lexi tucked her loose strands of hair behind her ears and rested her arm against the car window frame. Her eyes glistened with clarity like never before. After all, why insist on winning over a man's affections when he never loved her? She tilted her head with a playful wink at Quinton. "It's because I'm incredibly intelligent, Mr. Shaw." That rendered Quinton speechless, but he soon scoffed. "How can you be in the mood to joke around at a moment like this?" What he meant by that was, "How can you still joke around when Zachary's already angry?" A soft chuckle came from Lexi, who was in a good mood. Then, the two no longer spoke. … There were bodyguards stationed outside Flowerhill Estate. Because of that, Lexi couldn't flee even if she wanted to. Quinton dropped Lexi off at Flowerhill Estate before driving off. Lexi couldn't leave the villa in the estate if Zachary didn't allow it. She fell asleep on the couch for the rest of the night. Meanwhile, the living room television was tuned to a boring channel. Zachary stared down at the slumbering Lexi when he came home. There was a relaxed, welcoming energy to her when she was asleep. It was unlike her aloof demeanor when she was his secretary in the daytime. Zachary's forehead creased as he frowned. He bent forward. Lexi awoke from her sleep when she felt someone pinching her chin. Zachary had used brute force when doing it, so Lexi was in immense pain. It struck her hard and snapped her out of her bleary state. She was more alert now. Her eyes opened wide to see a cold Zachary staring at her. She could even smell Yvonne's perfume lingering on him. Lexi's forehead creased, and her stomach turned in disgust. The lights inside the villa weren't on, save for one desk lamp and the light from the television. Those light sources faintly illuminated the darkness. Half of Zachary's attractive face was hidden in the darkness. Only an icy tone rang out when he spoke. "Who gave you the nerve to blabber nonsense to Yvonne, Lexi?" Lexi was lying on the couch, and she lowered her gaze. She did not say anything because anything she said would be wrong. "Did a cat get your tongue? Speak!" He gripped her chin without mercy. He exerted so much strength that he forced Lexi's slender neck to curve as he made her look at him. Lexi was forced to raise her head. Her striking eyes soon settled on his cold expression. Her jaw hurt so badly that tears naturally flowed from her eyes. Still, she responded calmly, "I only told her the truth. You and I are indeed legally married. Did I say anything wrong?" Zachary held her chin in a tight grip while spouting venomous words. "It's only a marriage certificate, Lexi. Have you forgotten about our marriage contract? You were despicable enough to sign the contract just because you needed money." Lexi knew she likely looked pale then. She blinked while processing his words. So, he thought she was despicable, huh? She soon gritted her teeth, snorted, and spoke up. "I'm not despicable. It's that we were both only using each other." Sheer loathing echoed in Zachary's voice. "What silver tongue you have, Ms. Loyle. Only you could do something as vile as bartering your body off." "What do you mean by 'barter'?" A frown marred Lexi's face. Zachary let out a low chuckle. He drew a strong finger from her chin to her slim, frail neck and continued downward. Lexi froze at once. "You've got a decent body. It's no wonder that brat, Xavier, wanted to lure you to his company with a high salary," he said with a low growl. Then, he lifted the hem of her top and reached beneath it. That took Lexi by surprise. She held his hand in place and prevented it from advancing. Zachary suddenly pinched her plump skin, causing her to glare at him with red eyes. An uncaring look came from Zachary. Lexi noticed that his other hand was also moving downwards. She looked at him with a dark expression but spoke sardonically. "For you to be interested in my body means you don't love Yvonne as deeply as I thought." It was hard to discern the meaning behind Zachary's smile just then. With a scoff, he commented, "You think too highly of yourself. I wouldn't have slept with you if I hadn't had a fever and been drunk that night." Zachary's hand still lingered on Lexi's skin. His eyes narrowed with hatred but also confusion. They supposedly bedded for the first time two months ago, but he couldn't remember it at all. He figured it could have been because his fever left him delirious, and Lexi seized the chance to do it with him. Regardless, the way he spoke about it now sounded like he was utterly repulsed by that night. Lexi took a deep breath. She stood, linked an arm around his neck, and leaned into his ear while chuckling lightly. "But you seemed very into me that night. We had a second round." She brazenly traced one of her fingers around his leather belt. Zachary's expression soured while his gaze deepened with even more detestation. He pried Lexi's arm off his neck and stood. "Don't waste your time doing unnecessary things, Lexi. If Grandma didn't like you so much, I wouldn't mind giving you to Xavier after the stunt you pulled today." Upon hearing that, Lexi felt like a true and complete failure. Since Zachary could say something as cruel as giving her away to someone, it meant he never once had feelings for her these past few years. "Remember to visit Grandma at the hospital tomorrow. Don't tell her anything you shouldn't." Zachary coldly straightened his shirt before glaring daggers at Lexi and hurrying off. … Martha beamed brilliantly when her precious grandson and granddaughter-in-law held hands and entered the hospital. "Come and sit here with me, my darling Lex." Only a gentle look filled her eyes as she gazed at Zachary. "I dreamt you two gave me an adorable great-grandbaby last night, Zachary. It was the cutest little baby." Zachary gave her a faint smile. It was a rare moment when he tried to cheer Martha up. "I promise we're trying hard, Grandma." Martha's cancer cells had begun spreading in her body, so she only had one to two years left to live. Zachary usually let his grandma down when it came to topics like marriage and children. So, he'd always tell white lies to appease her. "You two have been married for two years! Why hasn't there been any good news yet?" Martha was inexplicably obsessed with getting a great-grandchild before her death. Lexi didn't say a word and only lowered her head while pretending to be shy. Martha only nagged at Zachary briefly before turning to comfort Lexi. "There's no need to worry, Lex. I'm only bringing it up casually. It's not time for us to meet your future baby yet. You two are still young, after all." "I know, Grandma." Lexi suddenly felt uncomfortable. Her expression shifted as she sprinted to the bathroom to puke. Excitement coursed through Martha's veins when she heard the sounds of Lexi hurling. She held Zachary's hands at once, asking, "Could Lexi expecting… a baby?" A light snort came from Zachary while his gaze darkened. "She's just having an upset stomach, Grandma." Chapter 5 "Are you sure? Did you take her to the hospital to get checked up?" Martha refused to drop the topic. That was when Lexi exited the bathroom. Only she knew how unnerved and panicked she was in that instant. "Lex, are you carrying a baby?" Martha asked with delight while gazing at the former's stomach. Lexi flashed a faint smile while shaking her head. "Grandma, I've already gone for a check-up at the hospital. I just have an upset stomach, is all." Martha was a little disappointed. "You must take care of your health. Pay more attention to your recent eating habits." Lexi nodded. Zachary left the room to answer a phone call while Lexi fed Martha some sliced apples. Lexi also chatted with Martha and tried to lift her spirits. After chatting for a while, Lexi left the ward with the empty fruit bowl. As she passed the private lounge area, she heard Mary's voice. It sounded like Mary was mocking her. "Zach, I was outside the ward earlier. I overheard Grandma nagging at you to give her a great-grandchild." Mary sounded annoyed as she continued, "Grandma's probably lost her mind now that she's old. How's Lexi worthy of birthing our family's great-grandchild?" Zachary's dead-eyed stare flickered toward her. He was warning her not to continue. He didn't mind it if Mary insulted Lexi, but he refused to let Mary show any disrespect to Martha. Mary cowered before sticking her tongue out playfully. "Sorry, Zach. I was only venting about how unfair it is for you." "She won't have my baby," said Zachary, his voice bland. "I knew you'd be sensible." Mary merrily left once she got the response she wanted. She opened the door and saw Lexi standing outside. One of her brows arched almost immediately. "A woman Zachary bought for 100 million doesn't deserve to give birth to our family's children. You'd best know your place, Lexi. Got it?" Mary loved mocking Lexi for being the bride that cost 100 millions. That was when Lexi lowered her voice and spoke with a gentle, soothing tone. "Oh, sweet Mare, your brother can't do it. So he and I won't have any children. Do you understand?" "Why, you!" Mary scowled at Lexi. "Quit spewing lies, you vile brat!" Lexi smirked. "I'm not lying, dear sister-in-law. I'm speaking based on my experience." Mary's face grew harder when she heard that. "You shameless woman! You're unworthy of being my sister-in-law and can never match up to Yvonne!" "Indeed, you're right. I'll never compare to your precious Yvonne, but the undeniable truth is I'm Zachary's wife." A smug grin spread across Lexi's face. "How dare you?" Mary raised her hand and wanted to slap Lexi's face, which she felt was unnecessarily charming. She believed Lexi's beauty was what allowed Lexi to seduce men everywhere. Lexi lifted the empty bowl in her hand and promptly blocked the incoming slap. Mary's delicate hand slammed against the bowl, causing her to shriek in pain. That was when the private lounge door opened, and Zachary appeared at the doorway. "Zach, she hit me with her bowl! Look! My hand's all red now!" Mary pouted pitifully while lying. She claimed that Lexi had attacked her first. "She's the one who hit the bowl," Lexi calmly explained. Zachary's indifferent gaze swept toward Lexi. "Be aware of your place." "What is my place?" Lexi asked. "Mary is a Jenkins family member—" Zachary had just started speaking, but Lexi reached up and slapped her right cheek hard. It was a resounding slap. Lexi's face reddened in seconds, proving how merciless she was to herself. Zachary was baffled for a split second. He never imagined that Lexi would slap herself. A triumphant smirk smeared all over Mary's face as she peered at Lexi. She then snickered and said, "I'm heading off now, Zach." Her heels clicked as she strolled off pridefully. Not a trace of emotion showed on Lexi's face as she was about to leave to wash the empty bowl. "Wait," Zachary called out. His eyes narrowed to pinpricks as he studied her. Lexi took one step back. She watched as Zachary took out his phone and made a call. Her heart sank with dread once she heard what he said on the phone. Zachary later hung up and told Lexi, "Let's go to the gynecology department now to perform a check-up on your body. Are you okay with that, Ms. Loyle?" Lexi's mind went blank just then. She felt Zachary would undoubtedly blame her for having a baby and say she was trying to secure her position as his wife forever. The irony was she had planned to get a surgery. At that point, Lexi had no clue what to do. All her senses had shut down, save for the uneasy, tingly sensation she felt on her scalp. Zachary first entered the elevator but noticed Lexi wasn't moving. So, he snapped, "Ms. Loyle?" Lexi lied. She said she needed to use the washroom because her stomach was hurting. She did so, hoping to stall for time. Lexi placed a hand on her stomach, ran to the toilet, and thought about how to resolve this situation. The dire circumstances left Lexi with no choice. She texted Yvonne. "Ms. Xenos, Zachary is accompanying me to the gynecologist for a body check-up now. We're planning to conceive a baby through IVF treatments." Lexi sent that text before emotionlessly putting away her phone. She refused to believe Yvonne could remain unbothered by that text. She waited in the stall for about 15 minutes. During that time, she received a call from Zachary, who rushed her. Lexi clutched her stomach. Her breathing sounded weaker as she spoke. "I've been having stomach issues lately. Everything I eat won't stay in my stomach for long." She pretended to awkwardly describe her "diarrhea" in a less jarring way. "You'd better not be up to something, Lexi." Zachary frowned. His gaze sharpened. Lexi figured it was time to head outside, so she washed her hands and left the washroom. Following that, she took the elevator to the gynecology department. Zachary was already waiting outside for her. "Let's head in." Yvonne didn't show up. That left Lexi nervous but helpless. She gradually calmed her emotions and convinced herself everything would work out. If the truth about her baby had to be revealed now, then so be it. They were about to open the door to the gynecology department when Zachary's phone rang. "Slow down, Yvonne. What's happening? Okay, I'll be right over." Zachary snuck a grim glance at Lexi as he answered the phone. He froze when he noticed her still swollen cheek, but it didn't last long. He soon walked off without hesitation. Lexi interpreted Zachary's grim look as him warning her not to pull any tricks. Only after she exited the hospital and saw the entertainment news online did she learn Yvonne had encountered a psychotically obsessive fan. The male fan had pushed Yvonne over and broken Yvonne's hand. It was no wonder Zachary went to her in such a hurry. … Once Lexi returned to the hotel, she encountered the man she had bumped into at the elevator last night. He was also holding a coffee cup today. Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. Although she felt flustered, she didn't avoid his stare. Instead, she maintained a stoic expression and spoke sarcastically. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. As he sipped his coffee, his Adam's apple bobbed attractively. Eventually, he said, "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. At the same time, she met Claude's intense gaze. Claude stared into her eyes as he removed the mask and revealed his dashing face. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Lexi left right away. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … Lexi had just finished showering when someone rang the doorbell to her room. It was the hotel's employee. He said, "A gentleman on the 12th floor instructed us to pass this facial cream to you, Ms. Loyle." "Thank you." Lexi accepted the tube of cream but was even more perplexed by the situation. She didn't end up using the facial cream, of course. Claude was a stranger, after all. That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. Chapter 6 Lexi never expected that she would be implicated in the incident of Yvonne being assaulted by a fan. She was eating lunch when one of Zachary's bodyguards came to the restaurant and brought her to Royaltree Estate. This property belonged to Zachary as well. However, their marital home was Flowerhill Estate, which was a gift from Martha. That was why she rarely came over to this particular property. As she get into Royaltree Estate, she saw that Yvonne was there too. Instantly, an ominous feeling washed over her. Half an hour later, Lexi was standing in the same spot while Zachary fed Yvonne meticulously and tenderly at the dining table. Yvonne had broken her right arm, and she was not used to using her left hand to hold the cutlery. So, Zachary fed her. "I'm full, Zach. I can't eat anymore." Yvonne leaned in to give him a quick peck on the cheek. "Ms. Loyle arrived a while ago." Zachary handed Yvonne a napkin to wipe her mouth. Then, he looked at Lexi, "Bring him in." Following his command, a bodyguard brought in a bald middle-aged man. Lexi looked on, feeling puzzled. Zachary asked coldly, "Ms. Loyle, do you know this man?" Lexi glanced at the man and shook her head. "I don't." "What about you?" He turned to the middle-aged man. "Do you know her?" The middle-aged man shook his head vigorously, "No, I don't." Zachary sneered. The bodyguard holding the man kicked the back of his knee. Lexi pursed her lips and watched as the scene unfolded. "Ms. Loyle, I've decided not to interfere between you and Zachary anymore. Yet, you got this man to harm me. You're so wicked!" Yvonne accused angrily, glaring at Lexi. Lexi looked up and stared back at her. "Harm you? I don't even know this man." Yvonne looked disappointed. "Are you still going to deny it?" "Deny what? I don't even know what's going on," Lexi replied calmly. Zachary stared at her frostily and requested for a woman to be brought in. As soon as she entered, Lexi recognized her. It was her classmate from college—Layla Zimmer. Upon seeing the bodyguard bringing his daughter in, the middle-aged man suddenly cried out, "I'm sorry! I shouldn't have done such a thing! This has nothing to do with my daughter. I'm sorry! I just wanted to help Ms. Loyle." Lexi frowned and asked, "Help me with what?" Yvonne sighed helplessly. Her voice was tinged with anger. She said, "Ms. Loyle, you instructed this man to pretend to be my fan and molest me in public. You made me the subject of ridicule in the entertainment industry. I can't believe how cruel you are!" "I never did such a thing." Lexi finally understood what was going on. She looked at Zachary and stated, "I didn't do it. I would never do something like this." Zachary retorted emotionlessly, "I only believe in evidence." His words made Lexi feel stifled. It was clear he didn't believe her. She straightened her back and challenged, "What evidence?" As soon as she finished speaking, the bodyguard grabbed Layla's hair roughly and started to drag her out to beat her up. "No! Dad, help me! Lexi, please save me!" Layla cried out while holding her scalp in pain. "It was Ms. Loyle who put me up to it! It has nothing to do with my daughter," Owen Zimmer whimpered as he tried to stop them from hurting Layla. In a steady tone, Lexi said, "Just because you claim I put you up to it doesn't mean it's true." "Ms. Loyle, you transferred 200 thousand to my daughter previously. I was very grateful about that and agreed to do your bidding." Owen then apologized profusely, "I'm sorry, Ms. Loyle. I owe you one for this." Lexi looked at the silent Layla, and then at Owen, who kept apologizing. She said with a sneer, "You two owe me one indeed. Never did I imagine the fable of the Snake and the Farmer would resonate so strongly with me one day." Lexi had never met Layla's father before, but his face would be etched in her mind after this. Some people could turn around and betray those who helped them before without conscience. Half a year ago, Layla had been hospitalized and needed to undergo surgery. However, her family had no money, so they sought help on a crowdfunding platform and borrowed money from everyone they could reach out to. Lexi came to know about it. Since they were roommates in college and were good friends, she lent Layla 200 thousand. She never expected that she would be famed by lending Layla that money. Layla suddenly looked up and said, "Lexi, I'm very grateful for the money that you have lent me, but you shouldn't have asked my father to do something like this. I will repay your money." "You can't just say whatever you please to slander me." Lexi turned around to look at Yvonne. "Ms. Xenos, I lent Layla 200 thousand for her treatment, but that doesn't mean I instructed them to do anything." "Well..." Yvonne looked at Zachary and said hesitantly, "Zach, Ms. Loyle has a point. I just broke an arm. So, let's leave it at that." Hearing this, Lexi felt a lump in her throat that nearly suffocated her. Zachary poured Yvonne a cup of water. He had a stern look in his eyes as he said, "Take good care of your hand. I won't let anyone who harms you get away. I'll handle this." Yvonne blushed and smiled at those words. Lexi, on the other hand, felt a chill run down her spine. The bodyguards took Layla and Owen away as Zachary went to the balcony to make a call. Yvonne approached Lexi and said in a lowered voice, "Ms. Loyle, you may have a marriage certificate, but does it hold any value? Besides, Zachary told me your marriage is purely contractual." Lexi couldn't believe that Zachary had told Yvonne about their contractual marriage! Her expression turned glacial. "Even if we're in a contractual marriage, the marriage certificate is real. As long as we're not divorced, you'll always be the homewrecker." Yvonne shook her head helplessly. "Ms. Loyle, Zachary doesn't love you. Why hold on to him? You should let go." "Make him divorce me, then," Lexi replied with a smile. She didn't have enough money to pay the compensation for breaching the contract. Yvonne responded to her smile with an amused smirk in return. "Ms. Loyle, come over and visit me here. This is where I'm living now." Zachary had even let his ex-girlfriend move into Royaltree Estate. The next moment, he came back in and asked Lexi to go to the study with him after finishing his call. Yvonne watched Lexi go upstairs with a gleeful grin. She was thinking of something else. She wondered if Lexi would go mad if she found out that she had slept with a stranger. At that thought, her grin turned into a wide smile. … The silence was stifling inside the study. Lexi clenched her hands into fists while feeling slightly nervous. "I didn't instruct Mr. Zimmer to harm Ms. Xenos. I will investigate this and give her a satisfactory explanation," Lexi said. Investigating the matter would be difficult. The other party had set her up by accusing her of something hard to disprove. No matter what, she was in trouble. Lexi suspected that Yvonne had framed her. She was not likely to be a kind person. Four years ago, Lexi had seen Yvonne crush a kitten to death with her high heels. Martha had witnessed it too. Perhaps that was why she was so strongly opposed to Zachary marrying Yvonne. In the silent study, Zachary walked up to Lexi. As he neared her, she could feel the pressure mounting on her. Finally, he said, "I will have someone investigate this matter." This showed that he didn't believe her at all. He then asked, "Where have you moved to?" He only realized she had moved out of Flowerhill Estate after she had been gone for a few days. "A hotel." "Why did you move out?" After a moment of silence, Lexi took a deep breath. "You have gotten back together with Yvonne. I don't feel like staying there." Flowerhill Estate was their marital home and a gift from Martha. Staying there was torture for her, and she didn't want to put up with it. Zachary stared at her with his deep-set eyes. "Do you think you have the right to talk about this?" When they signed the contract two years ago, she lost the right to do as she pleased. Lexi laughed in exasperation. "I just want to live somewhere else for a change. Are you telling me I can't do that?" "If Grandma finds out about you moving out, you won't be able to handle the consequences," he said with a cold smile. "Don't try to be clever with me, Lexi." He tapped her head lightly with his cool fingers. "Don't play with fire." Chapter 7 Lexi felt her stomach churn and couldn't help but vomit right onto Zachary, who was in front of her. Zachary's expression stiffened with disgust. He looked at the vomit all over himself and glared at her with widened eyes filled with rage. Lexi covered her mouth in apology, though she felt a trace of satisfaction inside. "Sorry. I've been feeling unwell for the past few days." Utterly disgusted, Zachary took off his soiled clothes and threw them into the laundry basket. His lean but muscular physique was exposed. Before he left the study, he warned Lexi coldly, "Move back to Flowerhill Estate. If Grandma finds out you've moved out, I won't let you off." Lexi couldn't move back to Flowerhill Estate now. She had something very important to do. She had to find a safe place to get an surgery. Otherwise, the fear of Zachary finding out about the truth would loom over her constantly. Once Lexi made up her mind, she acted swiftly. She booked a flight to a small city. She caught a plane that took her there that very night. Next, she took a taxi to a small town and booked a room at a motel near Adstrum Hospital. At dawn, she arrived at the hospital to see a doctor at the gynecology clinic as soon as the doctors started their shifts. Feeling a bit self-conscious, she requested to see a female doctor. The nurse responded impatiently, "If everyone made such requests, how would we manage? Only Dr. Quall has a slot available. Do you want it or not?" Lexi flinched at the nurse's irritable tone. She hesitated for a second and replied meekly, "Yes." She then made her way to the clinic on the first floor. When there were two numbers left before it was her turn, there came a phone call from Quinton. "Ms. Loyle, why didn't you come to work again?" he asked. "I've submitted my resignation letter. I'm on annual leave now," Lexi replied. She then added, "I'm traveling now, Mr. Shaw. I'll be back in a week to hand over my work. Please handle things in my absence." She hung up decisively. Quinton was left speechless. He relayed Lexi's message to the busy Zachary. "Boss, Ms. Loyle is traveling. She said she will return in a week to hand over her duties." Zachary frowned and sipped his coffee. He found the taste unsatisfactory. "Who made today's coffee? Go make me another." Quinton took the coffee away and instructed the assistant secretary to go and brew Zachary a fresh cup. It took four attempts before their boss reluctantly accepted the coffee presented. Seeing this, Quinton surmised that Zachary must have gotten accustomed to the coffee Lexi made. "Book a table at the Cadorian restaurant for tonight. I have a date with Yvonne. Order a bouquet of roses as well." Zachary's request surprised Quinton, who started to doubt his initial guess. Could it be that Zachary's true love was still his ex-girlfriend, after all? Quinton collected his thoughts and replied, "Sure. I'll see to it." Before he left, he turned to Zachary and said, "Zach, Lexi has always done her job well. You... Don't regret this in the future." He and Zachary were college mates. Right now, he was speaking to Zachary as a friend. Zachary looked up, and his eyes were cold. "Why would I regret it? I've always loved Yvonne." Why would anyone think he would regret it? Zachary sneered and didn't think much of it. ... Lexi was unaware of the conversation that had taken place between Quinton and Zachary. The nurse opened the door and called out, "Ms. Loyle." Lexi nodded and entered. As she walked in, she overheard another nurse saying coquettishly, "You're so mean, Dr. Quall." The nurse's voice was overly sweet and coy. It made Lexi cringe. She glanced at the doctor, who was enjoying this attention, and realized that it was the man she'd encountered in the elevator. It didn't occur to her that he could be a doctor when she saw him. The tall man with broad shoulders was standing at the sink and washing his hands meticulously. He was wearing a white coat. With his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, his strong arms were exposed, revealing the tattoo of a black mamba coiled around a rose. Lexi didn't know what to make of this. This was her first time seeing a doctor with such scary tattoos on his arms. Claude, who was wearing a surgical mask, noticed Lexi and raised an eyebrow. He wondered why she had come to such a remote town to seek treatment. He sat down and dried his hands leisurely. Then, he asked in a laid-back tone, "What's wrong?" After waiting for some time, he didn't hear any answer from Lexi. Claude asked again, "Is your throat so sore that you can't speak?" Doing her best to maintain her composure, Lexi whispered, "I'm here… to get a surgery." Claude fell silent. Lexi blinked at him and stayed quiet too. He had not expected this. "Have you given birth before?" "No. This is my first time." "When was your last period?" "I think it was around the end of April." After inquiring about her medical history, Claude said, "Let's do an ultrasound." Lexi nodded. She had come this far, so she didn't want to waste her time and effort. She followed the nurse and walked to the back of the curtain. After taking off her shoes and lying on the hospital bed, she pulled her shirt up to reveal her body. With gloved hands, Claude applied some gel to her. As she took in rasped, nervous breaths, her belly moved up and down rapidly too. "Relax," Claude reassured her. When he noticed her shaky fingers, Claude raised an eyebrow. "The procedure can be done tomorrow afternoon." Lexi wiped the gel off her stomach with some tissues. "Okay." Claude noticed that her hands were trembling even more now. For once, he decided to be kind and advised, "You should keep it." "The father is abusive. It would be cruel for me to keep the child," Lexi replied indifferently while tidying her clothes. "That's unfortunate." Lexi agreed, "Yes, it's very unfortunate." Claude stepped out from behind the curtains. As she looked at his broad shoulders, Lexi recalled the dream she had a few nights ago. She pondered that maybe she had it in her to become a promiscuous woman. While keying Lexi's information into the computer, Claude explained the precautions for surgery in detail. Lexi listened to him attentively. When Claude saw her name, he paused for a moment. Finally, he knew her name.	LEARN_MORE	https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&ut	Random Reading	https://www.facebook.com/61560831098071/	20	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	beokn.com	DCO		https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449445292_1156517425397692_933354150349995798_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W5arnCNjb2cQ7kNvgFfUbap&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AM6eiQDS8lz7Ckh85Y3Mtw_&oh=00_AYDGZazzi-RK_5vRmTthL8WCxeIyGwp2zengVj94nhEx4w&oe=6703F74A	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Random Reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,065,997	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2064808}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:11	active	1566	Dependable Moving Solutions	Get in touch now!	LEARN_MORE	https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distan	Delaney Worldwide	https://www.facebook.com/61557773368721/	5	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	delaneyworldwide.com	CAROUSEL	Get in touch now!	https://www.delaneyworldwide.com/local-long-distance/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441399617_1017638039650615_5708233538021390002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3I2kGHclgCwQ7kNvgEMxgZJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A2ZWyIPxCOfiPPIGzDw67ut&oh=00_AYB_H0_2mgDcw9zqutkUncBojc5CkB9bOPFFwE_dETfz1g&oe=67041AAF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Delaney Worldwide	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,743	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067319}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:53	active	1567		@Jesús Utiel Escribano I usually wear chains and pendants to emphasize the chest, one of my favorite body parts. Know more →https://bit.ly/gravity-sparkle 10% OFF CODE: OLUVSUB10 Thank you, @oluv_jewelry, for creating these two necklaces, one made of silver and natural pearls and the other of silver and carved crystal. It is worth noting that the natural pearl ensures durability, and the 925 silver, the shine that sparkles, perfectly fuse quality, design, tradition, and modernity, without a doubt, values made "jewel" that complements me perfectly. #OLUV #OLUVjewelry #OLUVstory #LGBTQ #LGBT #gaylovers #cooljewelry #modernjewelry #jewelrydesigner #jewelry #fashion #fashionstyle #fashionjewelrytrends #gaylove #GAY	MESSAGE_PAGE		OLUV	https://www.facebook.com/oluvjewelry/	1,201	1969-12-31 18:00	Send message		MULTI_IMAGES			1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461420952_424726360637234_4405473341820293807_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KU856baqNW8Q7kNvgENXGUc&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AZ7QdObfDCYd807uX3kHQGc&oh=00_AYA8cG0n5oERiizQcS7Ur2SkltCzmB3NUuTBANc_RQenIw&oe=67043792	PERSON_PROFILE	0	OLUV	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,064,314	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2064309}'	Yes	2024-10-01 19:18	active	1564	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉	My sister Stephanie died on my fourteenth birthday, and everyone suspected I was the murderer. But as fate would have it, James, my sister's boyfriend, the person who hates me the most, is my mate... -- I returned to my pack on my birthday for the anniversary of my sister's death. Six years ago, Stephanie died on my birthday. Rumors spread throughout the pack that I was the cause of her death. I was bullied by everyone, it became unbearable, so I left here. But funny enough, Stephanie was so beloved that everyone should come for the anniversary of her death. Before the ceremony started, I came to the familiar waterfall. As I pray to the Moon Goddess, My wolf Rose start to pace back in forth in my head. I have no idea what is going on, until the overwhelming scent of vanilla and coffee beans hits my nose. "Mate! Lily, our mate is here! Mate, mate, mate, mate, mate!!!" I stand, dust the ashes off of my jeans, and turn around. My heart drops when I recognize the werewolf standing not far away from me. That's a bolt from the blue. There are a million different emotions running through my body as I continue to stare at the werewolf in front of me. “Rose, please tell me this is a joke,” I whisper through our link. “I can’t,” she whispers back. “This is real. He is our mate.” “How? How can this be? It does not make any sense!” I whisper-yell to her. “But he looks pretty happy.” Rose tells me. By the time Rose said something, James had moved much closer to me, and we could now see his eyes and the look on his face. To my utter shock, Rose was right. James looked… happy. No, not happy. James looked thrilled. He stared at me with astonishment, amazement, and… love? “Rose, how is this possible? James hates me. He loves my sister. How could he be our mate? And how could he possibly be happy about it?” “The mate bond is a powerful thing, Lily,” Rose responds. Okay, Rose is right about that. As much as I hate James, I feel a strong, powerful draw to him right now. It is almost suffocating. This is not right. Something is wrong here. I want to protest more… I want to ask how I could be mated to the male that has loved and grieved for my sister and has spread rumors about me causing me to be tortured and shunned for the past six years… Life does not flip on a switch. Six years of heartache cannot be erased so easily. Rose is a wolf, and she is blinded by instinct and the mate bond. My role as her human counterpart is to help us see logic and reason. … but James keeps coming closer to me, the love in his eyes has only become more obvious. And the closer James comes, the more his scent and the mate bond overpowers any sense of logical thought in my brain. James reaches out and gently strokes my cheek with his thumb. The sparks from his touch are my undoing. I lean my face into his palm. “You are back!!! Oh, I cannot believe that you are back!!! How long have I hoped... and prayed that you would come back! And… you are my mate,” he whispers, in a tone suggesting that he is just as shocked as I am. “You are so beautiful. How is it possible for you to become so much more beautiful than before?” I blush as he pulls me into a hug, leans down, and buries his face in my neck. “You smell like chocolate and raspberries. My favorite scents in the entire world.” After taking another big whiff of my scent, James stands up straight so that he can peer into my eyes. He takes my hand and spins me around. “You have changed so much.” “I must say, I always loved your blond hair, but the reddish brown really suits you.” He said. Wait, blond hair? “James, I ----” I haven't finished yet, James leans down and kisses me. His lips feel so soft, and the sparks are so strong, that I immediately forget what I was worrying about. His tongue runs along the seam of my lips, begging for entrance, which I immediately give him. The kiss quickly becomes more and more passionate and heated. We continue kissing until we need to break for air. James smirks proudly, “You, Stephanie Brogan, are mine. All mine.” I felt my world crashing down all around me.	LEARN_MORE	https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&u	Indulge in story	https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/	806	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	getokn.com	DCO		https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/456814624_1667274690481432_3956193502403313806_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DRnV-EyoyeYQ7kNvgHK85uu&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AYD3PnU8s0xohBYcpGlDy2GDQwlokvKLcxlCs3TRb_xpvQ&oe=67024818	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Indulge in story	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,481	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067478}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567	20% OFF Now - >>	No more dryness, no more reapplications. Essential Day Moisturizer is based on a revolutionary moisture-delivery system and puts a stop to it all. How will the intense, all-day hydration show on your skin? 🗹 Reduced lines & wrinkles 🗹 Smooth, silky softness 🗹 Shocking luminosity Finally, get perfectly hydrated, now at 20% OFF 🌺	SHOP_NOW	https://www.ahava.com/pages/essential-day-moisturi	AHAVA	https://www.facebook.com/ahavaus/	273,786	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	ahava.com	DCO	Order now and pay later	https://www.ahava.com/pages/essential-day-moisturizer	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/460870341_413288868094340_1762495866195690280_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bJx3HwsDfIQQ7kNvgE52XHM&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AvuucuIKtLauTSD-EsO91jl&oh=00_AYBfjr0uZalnjcCgozaTFb-q5cQFAd5xKGDeYdEqrAueaQ&oe=670416E4	PERSON_PROFILE	0	AHAVA	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,343	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067342}'	No	2024-10-03 02:51	active	1567	You're Invited Seattle!		SIGN_UP	https://aseattlechurch.com/events	A Seattle Church	https://www.facebook.com/aseattlechurch/	1,415	1969-12-31 18:00	Sign Up	https://aseattlechurch.com	CAROUSEL		https://aseattlechurch.com/events	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461588231_405118169067699_6613314453154050022_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oeBfPRXhyYsQ7kNvgHOy0jr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AuQ0M-ZuCl5wYbwGHA4CH2B&oh=00_AYA4aeEWL_dQMaRFyh7edNxl53bSohVzIlrC7IFgTCJmnw&oe=670407E7	PERSON_PROFILE	0	A Seattle Church	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,066,589	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067319}'	No	2024-10-03 02:48	active	1567	Inbox hoặc để lại số điện thoại để nhận tư vấn trực tiếp từ BS Võ Thanh Sang	1 ĐÊM THAY ĐỔI VÓC DÁNG - HÚT M.Ỡ CÓ THẬT SỰ THẦN THÁNH NHƯ LỜI ĐỒN? 😱 Chị em tự ti vì sở hữu ngoại hình quá khổ, vóc dáng “bồng bềnh” kém hoàn hảo >> Ảnh hưởng lớn đến công việc, tình cảm và ngay cả trong cuộc sống giao tiếp thường ngày. 👉 Thời đại kỹ thuật số, 1m2 có 3 cơ sở thẩm mỹ quảng cáo về Hút M.ỡ với những lời nói có cánh khiến chị em có nhiều lầm tưởng không đúng khi làm đẹp. Thậm chí, gây ra những biến chứng hậu phẫu không đáng có “tiền mất tật mang” ❓ Vậy thực tế thì hút m.ỡ cần mất bao lâu để hồi phục, có thật là “Làm xong đẹp liền, không đau, không sưng”? Bất kì một phương pháp phẫu thuật thẩm mỹ nào dù lớn hay nhỏ cũng cần có thời gian để hồi phục, phụ thuộc vào 4 yếu tố: ++ Vùng hút m.ỡ: Các vùng khác nhau sẽ có thời gian hồi phục khác nhau. Ví dụ, vùng bụng thường mất nhiều thời gian hơn so với vùng cánh tay. ++ Lượng m.ỡ hút: Lượng m.ỡ hút càng nhiều thì thời gian hồi phục càng lâu. ++ Phương pháp hút m.ỡ: Mỗi phương pháp hút m.ỡ sẽ có thời gian hồi phục khác nhau. ++ Cơ địa của mỗi người: Mỗi người có một cơ địa khác nhau, nên thời gian hồi phục cũng khác nhau. Vì thế, khách hàng sẽ mất ít nhất 2-3 tuần, tối đa 2- 3 tháng để cơ thể được thích ứng và hoàn thiện đẹp nhất 💪 Với kinh nghiệm hơn 16 năm trong nghề, kiến tạo vẻ đẹp cho hơn 12.000 khách hàng trong và ngoài nước. Bác sĩ Sang tự tin chia sẻ đến chị em những thông tin hữu ích và cấp thiết trước những lời quảng cáo hoa mỹ, trèo kéo khách hàng quá đà. 💃 Là phụ nữ hiện đại, hãy thật tỉnh táo và đặt niềm tin vào những nơi uy tín chất lượng vì “ Muốn đẹp thì có thể sửa nhưng SỨC KHỎE thì KHÔNG”	MESSAGE_PAGE		Phòng khám thẩm mỹ Bs Võ Thanh Sang	https://www.facebook.com/bacsivothanhsang/	38,041	1969-12-31 18:00	Send message		VIDEO			1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461794854_1569035623991251_3963575512912989241_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tnEoFBcGIVwQ7kNvgGVM_xp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AhywSMTUNKVZqc9_01VniYW&oh=00_AYBCuz6ahZ18gcBIe6rVlevvrOgrQ0wiNxtVEKWQL0rsxA&oe=670406B3	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Phòng khám thẩm mỹ Bs Võ Thanh Sang	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,774	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067772}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:53	active	1567	❄️ Almost Gone! Family Matching Holiday Collection	🎄✨ Almost gone! Grab your Holiday family pajamas before they're gone for good! ✨🎄 It's the most wonderful time of the year—and what better way to celebrate than with matching pajamas for the whole family? 😍👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 ❄️ The cutest holiday family outfits (dogs included) 🎅 Premium, buttery soft bamboo fabric ❄️ 250K+ mamas choose our breathable bamboo over cotton 🎅 FREE SHIPPING on orders $50+ & FREE RETURNS!	SHOP_NOW	https://bumsandroses.com/collections/santa-reindee	Bums & Roses	https://www.facebook.com/bumsandrosesofficial/	130,749	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	bumsandroses.com	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://bumsandroses.com/collections/santa-reindeer	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461706634_1449436458982516_5106900030394757730_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Sx8pBP4_PJIQ7kNvgGsvxo3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A-fD20HZ-Tk3wKaRTW3Bq5Z&oh=00_AYAXbDTkpMv099wMIqMUzP3cOD9wG0Q7XeOk7-A-x72D4Q&oe=6704216D	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Bums & Roses	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,399	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2066697}'	Yes	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567		All of your friends are watching. Download now to get more!🤩	WATCH_MORE	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s	DramaBox- movies&drama	https://www.facebook.com/DramaBoxMoviesDrama/	6,439,099	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.storymatrix.drama	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461575602_7845483242220458_7611556953357984031_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=emviusQMxp0Q7kNvgHh_WXy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AGboUUqmKOQLm_QsgAf92Ku&oh=00_AYCTHvqNnSwtcZMzmPNjRghANfMF4a96jK9uMsJcCkB5CQ&oe=6704166E	PERSON_PROFILE	0	DramaBox- movies&drama	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,528	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567	The Perfect Holiday Trivet Set! 🎄✨	WOW your guests with our tree trivet!	SHOP_NOW	https://shopverna.com/products/wooden-holiday-tree	Verna	https://www.facebook.com/61565803676042/	6	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop now	shopverna.com	VIDEO	Limited Time Buy One Get One FREE!	https://shopverna.com/products/wooden-holiday-tree-trivet	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461528401_834768492158123_634968954550559863_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UsrcdKjzMaQQ7kNvgHpW1gV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A_UPkgqhluIZmdS37i-Al3v&oh=00_AYAHfIX8_VzO-vS_BFDpQygXDYUf3hCThoGPxc6a4tjx4g&oe=67040002	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Verna	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,067,509	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2067502}'	No	2024-10-03 02:52	active	1567			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/briannietzel	Brian Nietzel	https://www.facebook.com/MakingThingsRightBrian/	475	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram Profile	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/briannietzel	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461677298_1544586696185084_9065278345175617819_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6ECyyf0nLPMQ7kNvgFtOX1U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A_UPkgqhluIZmdS37i-Al3v&oh=00_AYB5W1ieZaDQqVfCB76H0so9ujiqAXWAHGWDNGNjGmi2WA&oe=670408F1	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Brian Nietzel	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete

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