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No 2024-10-03 19:33 active 1572 0 VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE http://instagram.com/angelcompetitionbikinis Angel Competition Bikinis https://www.facebook.com/AngelCompetitionBikinis/ 29,534 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Visit Instagram Profile 0 instagram.com CAROUSEL http://instagram.com/angelcompetitionbikinis 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462010928_881533423588642_6209933756844673538_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s57iaFzK2fkQ7kNvgEID_-E&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxbxYdEifjVB1CkR728pNmp&oh=00_AYBU6xu_fOSjG0pAKM92yhdQRPOUUNbCnaBPfsAqdeVjlw&oe=6705096B PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Angel Competition Bikinis 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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Yes 2024-10-03 20:19 active 1574 0 ๐Ÿ”žAttention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐Ÿ‘‰ Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned 18, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle was always reminding me of how worthless I am. The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donโ€™t quite look right. LEARN_MORE https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783& New world publications https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ 3,707 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 wwwedb.com DCO https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&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/t39.35426-6/455172933_1561754088079517_5961363558332384002_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-daW4jWtnuQQ7kNvgG8U4rC&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AzwMlRpu3kov0GFT9Ukqbid&oh=00_AYB4h9gc30LJYO06awiIhy4H8FrhvzMdVoJZqWDr13ABnQ&oe=670503DB PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 New world publications 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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Yes 2024-10-03 20:18 active 1574 0 โค๏ธ๐Ÿ˜ click to read on ๐Ÿ‘‰ "Kneel down and apologize to Sunny, now!" Several servants were surrounding Kevin. Opposite him was a fierce dog, which was Morris's Sunny. Morris thundered. His voice attracted some of the maids and they sneaked into the large lobby of the Perry family's villa. Morris saw them but didn't say anything. His mission was to embarrass Kelvin like he used to anyway. With the maids around, it would make everything sweeter for him. "Do you even know how high and important this dog is?" Morris began with a flex of his muscle. "This dog is more expensive than the whole of your family combined. I will not stand still and watch you disregard it!" Kevin felt so humiliated, and he struggled hard, and said angrily, "It was your dog that bit me first! I'm just trying to protect myself!" Morris scoffed. "Does it look like I'm concerned a bit about you? Aren't you the useless house husband of the Perry family?" He said mockingly. The maids laughed lowly and exchanged words quietly. Something built inside Kevin. He felt a mixture of anger and sadness. For how long was he supposed to continue bearing the ill-treatment of the Perry family? As much as he was supposed to have gotten used to it by now, he was still a man. When was he going to start acting like the man of the house? "I will not apologize, Morris. The dog was being rude and I taught it a lesson. It wanted to bite me and I stopped it. If anyone should apologize, it should be you, on behalf of your dog." Morris went still for a moment and suddenly burst into laughter. He sobered up almost immediately and gave that wicked grin. "Force him down!" He ordered in a thick voice. Three men advanced forward immediately. They caught Kelvin by his hands, pushed him towards the dog, and tried to force him to the floor. They could not do so until one of them eventually kicked Kelvin by his legs. He was forced to kneel in front of Morris' dog. Kelvin tried to stand up but the men pressed him firmly on the ground. So, he gave up. The maids burst into laughter again. "He's such a useless man, that's why he would apologize to Sir Morris' dog." "Well, the dog is worth more than him. So, technically speaking, he needs to worship his master, the dog for being rude." The maids exchanged words between themselves with scoffs and mocks. โ€œLet me go! Morris, this is too much!โ€ Kevin could not get rid of these strong servants, Kevin could only plead with Morris to let him go. However, Morris responded by slapping Kevin hard across the face. Blood trickled from Kevin's mouth, but Morris ignored it. "Apologize now!" Morris demanded impatiently. Kevin's voice trembled as he replied, "No, I will never apologize to an animal. It's beneath my dignity!" "Dignity? You?" Morris erupted into laughter upon hearing Kevin's words. Suddenly, his tone turned vicious, "You think you have dignity? In our eyes, you're not even worth a dog's whimper!" Kevin gasped for air, his speech slurring from the blood in his mouth, but it was evident he had no intention of apologizing to a dog. Suddenly, Morris's demeanor changed. He smirked coldly, "Fine, if you won't apologize to Sunny, sign this, and I'll forgive you." With that, he threw a stack of papers at Kevin's face. Kevin furrowed his brow as he looked at the document. Divorce Agreement. Kevin glared angrily at Morris and exclaimed loudly, "You want to force me to divorce Mia? What gives you the right?" Morris's expression darkened, and he struck Kevin again, this time with even more force, "Right? What right do you have to ask me that?" Kevin was baffled. "If Mia wanted a divorce, she would propose it herself..." he said stubbornly. "Because I know the best for her. Besides, she will agree with me that you aren't the best one for her. So, I'm only interpreting what she wants." Kevin scoffed. "Are you her mouthpiece? Do you have so little work to do that you now talk for her?" Kevin didn't believe Morris. There was no way Mia would want a divorce now. Besides, Mia would lose her inheritance if she was divorced without a child. This was the family rule. Morris felt a stab of annoyance at his words. He rushed at Kevin quickly and punched him hard in the face, forcing his head against the table. The maids gasped as the table gave way and the glasses shattered on the floor. Kevin felt a stab of pain and a strong headache set in. "How dare you!" Morris yelled angrily. He rushed to grab Kevin by his collar. He pulled Kevin up violently. "Blood!" Some of the maids yelled and Kevin felt the blood streamed down his face. He looked at the shattered table and realized he was bleeding. A sharp pain penetrated him suddenly, and his head banged harder. Some disordered memories suddenly flooded into Kevin's mind. For the past few years, he had been in a state of amnesia. All he knew was that Mia, the eldest daughter of the Perry family, had saved him and married him, making him a son-in-law of the Perry family. However, no one in the Perry family treated him as a son-in-law; he was even worse than a servant in this family. Nevertheless, after receiving a severe blow to his head, he unexpectedly found that he seemed to remember something. He clutched his head and yelled in pain as those memories gradually began to resurface, but they brought him even greater pain than the injury on his head. "No matter what! You will sign these divorce papers!" Morris clenched his teeth in anger, oblivious to the state that Kevin was currently in. "I will not allow a lowlife like you to continue being the son-in-law of a prestige family like Perry! I will not allow that! Karim Mendy will marry my sister very soon!" He announced in a low deep voice, meaning to make Kevin jealous. But Kevin wasn't replying to him. To Morris, Kevin was just playing one of his dumb games on him. Kevin didn't hear him actually. His mind was going through a frenzy of thoughts. Flashes of images flickered across his eyes. He felt dizzy as strange memories filled his head. He closed his eyes in an attempt to shut it off but it couldn't be stopped. It felt like he was going crazy. Sensing that Kevin was ignoring him, Morris' anger turned to rage. "How dare you!" He sneered, let go of him, and punched him hard on the nose. Kelvin's nose burst and Morris smiled at this. He punched him again, in the face and forced Kevin back to the floor. Morris huffed. "He's so weak. Yet, he rebels against me? I am going to teach you a lesson you will never forget!" Morris kicked Kevin's head violently several times. Kevinโ€™s head started bleeding, but he seemed oblivious to it. Morris grew even angrier and picked up a nearby vase, he was about to smash it fiercely towards Kevin's head! That vase was extremely sturdy, and if it hit Kevin's head, he could have died! Just at that moment, Kevin suddenly opened his eyes and quickly grasped Morris's hands, pushing him away. Morris fell heavily to the ground, and the vase dropped to the floor, shattering into a myriad of pieces. Everyone around them stared in shock. Morris yelled in pain and held onto his waist. He didn't expect Kevin to make such a move. He had never made such an intelligent move. How was he able to do it? Kevin has always been the dumb husband of Mia and he has enjoyed treating him badly for a year now. The men rushed closer to him and assisted him up. But he pushed them away angrily and turned to look at the maids who had been watching the whole drama unfold. He felt embarrassed. "What are you still doing there!" He thundered. "Get lost!" The maids scampered away. Morris yelled several times before he turned to Kevin again. He was very upset. How could Kevin have made such a move and the men couldn't even stop it? "You are making a big mistake!" he yelled. "I'm telling you! You are!" Kevin didn't respond. A dark frown was on his face as he stood up slowly. More images flashed across his eyes. The dizziness increased but the headache was gone now. The images became clearer now but it seemed like his heart was racing as he went through them. "I...I'm Kevin, Kevin Di Lorenzo..." He muttered to himself, "Could I have sunk so low?" At that moment, the door of the Perry family's villa suddenly opened. A man and a woman walked in. The woman frowned upon seeing the disarray in the hall. She said discontentedly, "What are you doing again? You've made a mess in the house!" "Mia!" Morris called suddenly, pulling Kevin out of his trance. "Did you see how your husband was going to kill me?" Kevin looked at Mia. There was a young, handsome guy beside him. He was dressed in an expensive Italian suit. He looked at Mia, but wasn't as excited as he used to be. Not now that he knew who he truly was. He smiled calmly instead. "Welcome home, Mia," he said calmly. The man beside Mia held her by the waist and moved her slightly away from where she was initially. "Be careful, you could have stepped on glasses," he said, trying to show Mia he was very caring. Mia regarded the whole mess for a moment and she felt disappointed and unhappy. A dark frown played on her face. She looked at Kelvin. "You should all stop this children's play." Kevin frowned, he knew that Mia didn't care about him in the past years, but he was bleeding now! How could he be bleeding and Mia thinks it's child play? He was disappointed. Mia has always ignored his maltreatment and pretended she didn't see how her mother treated him. But he didn't expect her to take such a matter currently with such levity. He didn't let it bother him. Instead, he looked at the man standing too close to Mia. Mia doesn't like to bring business home. So, he wondered who the man was. "Who is he?" he asked instead. Mia frowned, she didn't expect him to ask her such a question because Kevin never cared about her business before. He was just a person who lost memory. At first, she thought she was only going to worry about his lost memory but now, Kevin had added dumbness to the list. How could he be interfering in her business? Mendy eyed Kevin levelly and looked at Mia. "I think you may introduce us to each other first?" He asked with a smile. Mia felt ashamed suddenly. She felt reluctant to introduce Kevin to Mendy, not with the mess that she met Kevin in. He was disgracing and she wasn't even moved to introduce him. Kevin saw the sour look on Mia's face and knew he was reluctant to tell Mendy who he really was to her. This made him sad. "Well, Mr Mendy," Mia cleared her throat meaningfully. "He's my husband," she said softly as if she was forced. "And this is Mr. Karim Mendy, a very important business partner of our family." Mendy smiled and added, "And also a good friend of Mia." He grinned slyly. "This must be that famous husband of yours?" He said in an offensive tone, while still sounding like he had an intimate relationship with Mia. Kevin looked at him, smiled. "I'm pretty famous, no?" He replied calmly. His reply made Mendy laugh. Mia cleared her throat meaningfully and looked at Kevin. "You should get clean out of this mess." She looked at the Mendy. "Mr Mendy, please, let's go to the meeting room." Mendy's hand was still resting on Mia's waist. Kevin looked at them and frowned. Mendy saw Kevin's expression and faked a gentle smile. "Actually, I think it will be nicer to talk in your room, won't it?" He said provokingly and looked at Mia with lust in his eyes. "Your room has better privacy and what we are about to discuss is equally very important." Mia felt awkward especially because of Mendy's hand that was still around her waist. She needed Mendy's help and didn't want to upset him. "Ok then. Let's go." Wendy smiled softly, feeling satisfied in himself. "Wait, I don't think it's good for you two to be alone in the room together, right?" Kevin asked with a smile, but it was clear that there was more hidden in his smile. "What do you mean?" Mia frowned and looked at Kevin, who was completely different from usual. "I mean, I can go in with you, so no one will spread rumors. This is also for your own good, right?" Kevin's voice was still calm, but there was an unmistakable note of certainty. Mia frowned. She didn't expect that from Kevin at all. Within a year that she had known him, he was always timid but she didn't know where the courage suddenly came from. When Mia first met him, Kevin was not only timid but dense. This was even one of the reasons why she decided that he was fit to be her husband. But it was strictly a deal, Kevin wasn't supposed to act like a real husband. This was why they never slept together. They have never even shared a kiss since they have been married. But then how dared he demand to get involved in a business negotiation? Who has he started seeing himself as? Morris was shocked at Kevin's utterance too. Kevin has been acting really strange since a few minutes ago. Firstly, it was the skill he displayed. Now, he was being too bold. But before he could say something, Mendy cut in quickly. "Well, you shouldn't be worried, Kevin. It's not like it's a new thing to us. Just last night, we were together in the same room in the hotel for a whole night." He said with a smile. Mia frowned. "That was just business negotiation." She said quickly. Then she hesitated and thought about it. She didn't owe Kevin any explanation actually. She could choose to do whatever she wanted. Kevin had no say. Besides, Kevin wouldn't understand business strategy. He had no skill in it. In fact, he has no skill in anything. Kevin sneered, he looked at Mendy's eyes and said, "You should be careful of what you say, Mr.Mendy." He ignored Mia's words and continued, "As you know, Mia is a married woman. So, you shouldn't say something that may cause any misunderstandings. We wouldn't want people to think she's cheating on me with you." Mendy felt a stab of annoyance at his word. He laughed out menacingly, trying his best to conceal his emotions because of Mia. He became sober almost immediately. "Cheat on someone like you? Why will that happen? Are you starting to see yourself as the husband? Do you think you are even fit to bear Mia's husband? What makes you a husband? The name?" Morris laughed. "He's so delusional to think Mia is his." "Yes! You are not worthy of Mia at all. No one is going to cheat on you because you are that useless husband!" Kevin's looked at him coldly, "Be careful of what you say." He said indifferently, but there was a trace of authority in his words, as if he were a superior. "Or what?" Mendy dared. "We both know you are very useless as the son-in-law. How dare you want to disrupt a business transaction? Do you even know what we wanted to discuss or do you have the knowledge or skill to discuss with us?" Kevin sneered, "Mr. Mendy, don't be so hypocritical. Why do you have to discuss something in my wife's room?" It was Mendy's turn to get angry. His face went red and he lurched forward to hit him. Kevin saw his move and waited, with a soft smile plastered on his face. He was ready to combat him. "Enough!" Mia yelled suddenly, putting an abrupt stop to Mendy's action. She looked at him. "Please, Mr Mendy. You have to stop this," she beseeched softly. Mendy hesitated briefly before he eventually backed away but the anger was still vivid on his face. Kevin relaxed. Mendy was no use getting angry for anyways. He was a nobody. Mia took a step closer to Kevin with a dark frown on her face. "What is wrong with you, Kevin? What do you think you are doing? Mr Mendy is not someone you should offend. Don't make any trouble here!" She said in a cold tone and turned to Mendy again. "I'm so sorry about everything that has happened here, Mr Mendy. Please, let's go and talk about business," She said in an apologetic voice. Mendy smiled victoriously, He smiled provokingly at Kevin. Kevin frowned and looked at Mia somewhat unhappily, saying, "Mia, are you sure you want to โ€˜talk business' with him in your room?" He emphasized the words "talk business", obviously not believing that the two of them would simply discuss business in the room. Mia sighed in frustration and somewhat anger. "Mr Mendy is here to help us on business. He knows Lord Phoenix." Mendy smiled with confidence, feeling so proud of himself. "At least if you don't know anything or have any skill in the business world, you should definitely know about the popular Lord Phoenix. You should know how powerful he is as well." Kevin feigned ignorance. "I don't know. Tell me." He said with a straight face. Mendy laughed and turned to Mia. "Your dumb husband doesn't how powerful Lord Phoenix is?" "Well, he doesn't know anything!" Morris joined in. Mia felt embarrassed. She wondered why Kevin wasn't letting the sleeping dog lie. He was provoking Mendy and she knew that if Mendy refused to help her, it would be trouble for her. How else was she supposed to explain to Kevin that this was very important? It looks like her husband was off to make everything go astray for her. Kevin regarded Mendy for a moment, with a sly look. "You said you know Lord Phoenix?" "Of course yes!" Mendy answered proudly. Kevin smirked disdainfully and looked into Mendy's eyes, asking, "Then why don't I know you?" Kevin's words stunned everyone, but only Kevin himself knew the truth. Yes, he was the legendary "Lord Phoenix." Years ago, Kevin was ambushed by his enemies and met with an accident. He suffered head injuries and lost his memory. Fortunately, he was rescued by Mia, who happened to pass by. The Perry family was in turmoil at that time, and Mia, as the heir of the family, was on the verge of being stripped of her inheritance rights because she was unmarried. According to the Perry family's rules, only married individuals could take the helm of the family! Thus, Mia set her sights on Kevin, who had lost his memory and was somewhat timid. To her, Kevin was merely a tool to enable her to smoothly take over the family. Over the past few years, she had shown no concern for Kevin. Who would care about the feelings of a mere tool? But obviously, no one would believe his words. Mendy regarded Kevin for a few minutes and suddenly burst into laughter. "This your husband is a really humorous guy," he pointed at Kevin while his words were directed at Mia. Suddenly, the laugh was gone from his face, just as it had appeared. It was replaced with a cold one. "You make it look funny but Phoenix would never love this joke." Mia's heart skipped a beat. She was frightened. Everyone knew who Phoenix was and how powerful he was. Well, except Kevin who has been acting strange since she got home from work. Phoenix wasn't the kind of person to be messed with. Not even the family of Perry can afford to stand against him. In fact, she needed Phoenix's help and not fight him. She turned to Kevin in anger and hit him across the face. Kevin was shocked while Mendy smiled secretly. He was very glad that he had successfully instigated Mia against Kevin. If Mia already hates him, it would be easy to get rid of him. "Leave now!" She yelled. She was really angry and it was evident on her face. "Your attention isn't needed here. You, in fact, have no right to meddle in it. Leave before you cause us trouble!" She said harshly. Morris chuckled. "Right, he needs to!" Mia turned to Mendy with an apologetic expression. "Please, Mr Mendy, do not be offended. I'm sure there's something you can do about all these." Mendy loved the fact that Mia was helpless. He always wanted to be a hero to her. "Well, your husband might cause a fatal disaster to your family. The Phoenix doesn't listen to explanation. He's not someone you can joke about. There will be no way for you guys to redeem yourself," he said with a hypocritical look. Mia felt embarrassed and angry the more at the statement. "You are not to interrupt this meeting!" Mia yelled suddenly, in anger, forcing Kevin out of his thoughts again. She glared at him. "Do you understand that, Kevin?" She tapped her feet in anger. Kevin sighed and nodded slowly. "Good!" She looked at Mendy again. "I'm really sorry but can we please talk in the meeting room? My room is in a mess. So, the meeting room is the best option," she explained. Mendy nodded once. "Alright. That's fine by me," he reluctantly agreed. And they both walked away. Morris laughed. "Suit you right, loser!" He mocked and walked away with the men. Kevin hesitated for a moment. He was still in shock at his discovery. He was not expecting what he just discovered. He was the courageous Phoenix, yet he became a househusband and was mistreated every single time for a whole year. Why didn't he remember earlier? But where are his people? How did he get disconnected from them? He still remembers Alessia as if he saw her the day before. He should reach out to her because she would have been worried to death. He remembered a phone number suddenly, took out his phone and dialed it. It rang for a long time before someone finally picked it up. "Yes, who is this?" a feminine voice said coldly. Kevin recognized that voice instantly. There was no way he wouldn't. It was the voice he had heard for over seven years of his life. Kevin went silent for a second. Alessia would definitely not expect this. "It's me, little cat," he said finally. There was a few minutes of silence from the other side. Alessa was probably thinking. She never would have thought it could be him. Alessia screamed suddenly, then cried. "I knew you didn't die! There's no way you would have died," she sobbed further. Kevin has really missed her. He had known Alessia for a very long time now. So, it was normal for him to miss her. โ€œIt's ok, little cat. I'm here now,โ€ Kevin comforted. Alessia dragged her breath. โ€œWhere have you been? I've searched everywhere for you. I just had to hope you would return to me unscathed. I'm so happy to hear your voice today,โ€ she said excitedly. Kevin could easily note the happiness in her voice. He was so caught up with what Alessa was saying that he didn't notice Morris creeping inside. Morris walked back inside to look for a way to make Kevin do something wrong again by the time Mia came out so that Kevin would eventually leave the house. He couldn't wait for that to happen. Mia must marry Mendy at all costs. He watched him for a moment, with curiosity. He wondered who he was talking to. Kevin looked happy which was strange. This means that the person he was talking to was somewhat special to him. โ€œIt's ok, little cat. I'm back now,โ€ he said softly, with a wide smile on his face. What! Little cat! Morris wondered for a moment who Kevin could be referring to. His eyes widened with shock as realization finally dawned on him. Kevin was cheating on Mia! No way! It was why he looked so happy and was even telling the person he was back. He even called her โ€˜little cat'. A smile evaded Morris' face. This was a perfect reason to make Kevin leave. He pulled out his phone and started to record him. If Mia sees this evidence, he will divorce Kevin. โ€œWhere are you, Kevin?โ€ Alessia asked excitedly. She just couldn't wait to see Kevin again. โ€œI'm in Falcone state.โ€ โ€œFalcone state?โ€ Alessia repeated, somehow shocked. โ€œWhere in Falcone state are you? Because I searched everywhere and I couldn't find you.โ€ Kevin smiled softly. Well, Alessia wouldn't have been able to see him when he was always in the house 24/7 working. He was a house husband anyway. โ€œWhere are you, Little cat? Tell me and I will find you as soon as possible.โ€ โ€œI'm currently at Phoenix Plazza. I head the place now,โ€ she explained. Kevin has heard about the Phoenix Plaza several times from Mia and he knew that it was headed by Alessia Anderson, the most successful businesswoman in Falcone state. Even though the name sounded familiar then, Kevin couldn't place where he had heard it from. But what people didn't know was that Alessia Anderson was the known General Tiger of the Phoenix. โ€œI will be there soon. Just give me an hour, I will meet you there,โ€ he assured. โ€œAlright, Boss!โ€ Kevin smiled at this and hung up. It wasn't like Alessia loved calling him โ€˜bossโ€™. She was merely teasing him. He placed the phone in his pocket and remembered that he was initially bleeding. He stepped inside the bathroom and washed the blood off his face. The bleeding has stopped now actually. He saw some glasses sticking out of his head. He pulled them out successfully and stepped out again. He was going to see Alessia Anderson. Morris was still hiding in a corner, waiting to see what Kevin would do. When Kevin stepped out of the bathroom and moved towards the front door, he stepped out and followed him quietly. The door of the meeting room opened suddenly, putting a stop to Morris' obsession. Mia and Mendy stepped out with a smile on their faces. Mia was fast to see the broken table. Her first thought was where Kevin was and why he wasn't cleaning the lobby. She looked up and saw Kevin walking towards the front door. โ€œKevin!โ€ She called quickly before he would open the door. Kevin stopped and turned to look at Mia. He didn't expect the meeting to be over so soon anyway. He wondered what Mia wanted again. But he nonetheless decided to move closer and see what it was all about. When Mia saw that Kevin was moving closer, she turned to Mendy. โ€œThank you, Mr Mendy, for having this meeting with me.โ€ Mendy actually wanted to stay or invite her for lunch but he decided not to push his luck further. Instead, he made a hypocritical smile. โ€œAlright then. I will see you later,โ€ he bade his farewell and walked towards the front door. Mendy and Kevin walked past each other with the latter not forgetting to spare him a dirty stare and Kevin did as if he didn't even see him. โ€œWhere are you going, Kevin? Without tidying up this place? What do you think you are doing?โ€ Mia bombarded him when he was close enough. Kevin sighed. โ€œI need to meet a friend of mine.โ€ Morris sneered from one side. He was tempted to give Mia the video and let her know who Kevin really wanted to go and meet but he seriously wanted to discuss it with Mendy first. So, he was going to give Mendy the video instead. โ€œWell, this is important. Besides, Morris can clean it up since he caused it.โ€ โ€œAre you kidding me!โ€ Morris snapped. Mia sighed, not at all in the mood to prolong the matter any further. She delved inside her bag instead and pulled out a card. She passed Kevin the card, โ€œThere are 10k dollars in the card. I need you to buy a nice gift for my grandmother. You know her birthday party is around the corner already. Just make sure you choose a nice gift. This is why I gave you a card with such a huge amount of money. Donโ€™t make me embarrassed!โ€ LEARN_MORE https://herfv.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=14117&u Indulge in story https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ 808 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 herfv.com DCO More Free Content๐Ÿ‘‰ https://herfv.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=14117&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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459556763_538303678595483_3914746117991808568_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MyJOkHnyC84Q7kNvgHpdmwm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A_9GXTbRbdbi8uU8PnrmwBD&oh=00_AYDVdpFCCf6qS3In8j9-QpYTzl97zdTlJ59ommUpY0NQFQ&oe=6704FEC7 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Indulge in story 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 21:24 active 1575 0 ๐Ÿ”žAttention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐Ÿ‘‰ 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 herโ€”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 wonโ€™t be a concubine. Sheโ€™ll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, sheโ€™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 donโ€™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 wifeโ€™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 didnโ€™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, "Sheโ€™s unlike any woman Iโ€™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, sheโ€™s talking to my mother. Sheโ€™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 estateโ€™s affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnโ€™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, sheโ€™s different from any woman you know. Sheโ€™s a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldnโ€™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-" "Thatโ€™s them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. Sheโ€™s straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you wonโ€™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, "Itโ€™s fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iโ€™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. โ€œWhy put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, youโ€™ll be in separate wings. She wonโ€™t compete with you for control of the household. She doesnโ€™t care about those things.โ€ โ€œDo you really think Iโ€™m attached to managing this household?โ€ Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrettโ€™s mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligationsโ€”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. โ€œEnough, I wonโ€™t argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,โ€ said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. โ€œMy lady, my lord was too much!โ€ said Lulu, Carissaโ€™s maid, wiping her tears away. โ€œDonโ€™t call him that!โ€ Carissa gave her a stern look. โ€œWe never consummated the marriage. Heโ€™s not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.โ€ โ€œWhy the dowry list?โ€ Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. โ€œSilly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?โ€ Lulu held her forehead and gasped. โ€œBut your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.โ€ Tears finally welled up in Carissaโ€™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. Youโ€™re the only child I have left.โ€ 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. Carissaโ€™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 grandmotherโ€™s and motherโ€™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 familyโ€™s former glory seemed impossibleโ€”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 Carissaโ€™s mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, youโ€™ll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, Iโ€™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. Carissaโ€™s eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my familyโ€™s achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, Iโ€™ll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissaโ€™s expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think Iโ€™m that silly? If I manage to reach the king, Iโ€™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!" "Itโ€™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, letโ€™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. Barrettโ€™s father, Jonathan, didnโ€™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 Rebeccaโ€™s room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "Youโ€™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. Youโ€™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 hadnโ€™t expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. Sheโ€™s rather rough around the edges and doesnโ€™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, itโ€™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. Isnโ€™t that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But itโ€™s quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The kingโ€™s edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, sheโ€™s a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials canโ€™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. Rebeccaโ€™s expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, youโ€™ve always been sensible. Now that youโ€™ve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Auroraโ€™s contributions in this battle were greater than Barrettโ€™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." Carissaโ€™s tone remained chilly as she said, "If theyโ€™re husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Arenโ€™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. Iโ€™ll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "Iโ€™m still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how youโ€™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 Rebeccaโ€™s medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebeccaโ€™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 familyโ€™s business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didnโ€™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, "Thatโ€™s settled, then. Iโ€™ll hand over the accounts tomorrow and wonโ€™t be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, youโ€™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." Carissaโ€™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. Carissaโ€™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 isnโ€™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 utterlyโ€ฆ unsensible of her. "Take off that dress youโ€™re wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serenaโ€™s cheeks flushed with anger. "I didnโ€™t beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you donโ€™t want me to have it." "Fine. And donโ€™t forget the jewelry youโ€™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 thereโ€™s nothing else, Iโ€™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! โ€œSheโ€™ll come around. She doesnโ€™t have any other choice,โ€ 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 wasnโ€™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, Carissaโ€™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 motherโ€”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 estateโ€™s family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parentsโ€™ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. โ€œDad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. Itโ€™s not that I donโ€™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.โ€ 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, โ€œMy lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks youโ€™re here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didnโ€™t eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?โ€ โ€œIโ€™m not hungry.โ€ The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. โ€œPlease donโ€™t be so hard on yourself. Itโ€™s not worth getting sick over. Why donโ€™t we just let it go? After all, youโ€™re still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, sheโ€™ll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?โ€ Lulu pleaded. Carissaโ€™s gaze was cold. โ€œLulu, if youโ€™re going to talk like that, donโ€™t speak at all.โ€ 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 Carissaโ€™s arrival to the king three times. โ€œYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,โ€ he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. โ€œI canโ€™t see her. The edict has been issued, and I canโ€™t take it back. Tell her to go home.โ€ โ€œThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheโ€™s been standing there for over an hour without moving.โ€ Salvador felt a pang of guilt. โ€œBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnโ€™t want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.โ€ โ€œIf we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivanโ€™s contributions surpass all others,โ€ 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 Sullivanโ€™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. โ€œAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iโ€™ll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,โ€ said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. โ€œAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!โ€ 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 Carissaโ€™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/ 154 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 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/t39.35426-6/459497241_1365969727707455_8385084210198722521_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rdIXSLR-bb4Q7kNvgEVqIst&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ah-UCje4Oo_f7WIg64tZ6v9&oh=00_AYBFuCBsPKSn6MYCoyrKQh5L6IMAnRK8heSZ2g4Dr73Xiw&oe=6704FF34 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Random Reading 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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Yes 2024-10-03 20:17 active 1574 0 ๐Ÿ˜Read the next chapters๐Ÿ‘‰ 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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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 naรฏve. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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 documentโ€”Tundratide Entertainmentโ€”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 atโ€”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. โ€ฆ 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 hereโ€”" 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. โ€ฆ 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. Loyleโ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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 toโ€ฆ" 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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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 nowโ€”" 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 Zacharyโ€ฆ? Are youโ€ฆ" 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 mistressโ€”" "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. โ€ฆ 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. โ€ฆ 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 expectingโ€ฆ 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 memberโ€”" 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. โ€ฆ 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? โ€ฆ 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 collegeโ€”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. โ€ฆ 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 hereโ€ฆ 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. 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Yes 2024-10-03 19:58 active 1573 0 ๐ŸŒŸ Join Us This Sunday for the Mind, Body & Spirit Wellness Expo Pt 2โ€”It's FREE! ๐ŸŒฟโœจ Bring your friends and experience an incredible day filled with wellness, inspiration, and empowerment! You wonโ€™t want to miss this! ๐Ÿ“… Date: Sunday, October 6th, 2024 โฐ Time: 10 AM - 5 PM ๐Ÿ“ Location: Holiday Inn Downtown Rochester, NY โœจ Why You Should Be There: ๐Ÿ‘‰ Over 70 local businesses showcasing exclusive health, wellness, and beauty services ๐Ÿ‘‰ Live classes, demos, energy healings, and readings throughout the day ๐Ÿ‘‰ Explore the NEW Zen Lounge from Ancient Paths Wellness ๐Ÿ‘‰ Hear from amazing speakers ready to motivate and inspire! ๐ŸŒŸ Keynote Speakers: Kim Fischer and Kelly Breuer - Opening Show (10:30 - 10:45 AM) Joanne Ryan -Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, NY Inc.(11:45 AM - 12:30 PM) Brett Richardson - Yoga by Brett (11:00 - 11:30 AM) Jason Minnamon - NuME (2:00 - 2:30 PM) Root to Rise Panel - Tracy Dando, Meghan Thomas, & Jaime "JJ" Weisburg (2:00 - 2:45 PM) โœจ Spotlight Speakers: Kera Wasserbach - Travel Event Planner (2:50 - 3:20 PM) Kim Fisher - The Voice Lab (4:00 - 4:45 PM) Emily Derrenbacher - Mental Health Coach (3:30 - 3:55 PM) โšก Expert Panel (12:45 - 1:45 PM) Featuring professionals in wellness, mental health, photography, fitness, and more! Elena Dilai - Elena Dilai Photography Analusette Shaello - DNA Bodyworx Dr Larry Peshkin - IronChiro Krista Hudson - Hudson Life Coaching Raeanne Lacatena - Holistic Business Coaching Angelo Piperni - Always Positive Apparel & Social Media Influencer Paul Coffman - Ape & Canary Jenny Na'Cole - Healthy Life Transformation Joelle Harleston - Harleston Consulting Teneika Gravely - TAG Family NP Lisa Wagner - Lisa Wagner Art ๐ŸŽ PLUS: FREE entry, swag bags, and chances to WIN fabulous prizes! ONLY 2 vendor spots leftโ€”donโ€™t wait! ๐ŸŽŸ Register NOW and secure your spot: (Ticket Link) https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/rochester-woman-online/mind-body-spirit-wellness-expo-pt-2 Donโ€™t miss this powerful and uplifting event! ๐Ÿ’ซ See you there! #MindBodySpirit #WellnessExpo #RochesterEvents #FreeEvent #Empowerment #ShopLocal #LiveWell Kelly Breuer https://www.facebook.com/kelly.breuer.12/ 962 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 IMAGE 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461939119_406528082491839_5610940596794430223_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MvEW1qZo3rwQ7kNvgEYakj9&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AAFdz2lCgARVQQ388TWZplh&oh=00_AYD8IV6u6NX6YfEu8gL4x_JFbrYEZopNX40MinHvu_HBxw&oe=670520E5 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Kelly Breuer 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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Yes 2024-10-03 21:23 active 1575 0 ๐Ÿ”žAttention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐Ÿ‘‰ Debra gasped and opened her eyes. Everything in front of her was strikingly familiar. This place was Juan and her home. They had been married for a month, but Juan had rarely visited her. She remembered that Juan was attending a land auction, and due to the occasion, he had to bring her along. But this was all five years ago. 'How could it be? ' she thought, deeply confused, 'Am I reborn?' " Mr. Nichols has never stayed overnight before. You should seize this opportunity." a maidโ€™s voice brought Debra back to reality. She picked out a white gown, hesitating. "How about this one, Madam?" Looking at it, Debra gave a self-deprecating smile. It was well known that Juan favored Shelia. Shelia liked white dresses. In the past, she often dressed like Shelia to please Juan. For this auction, Juan didn't inform her of the change in companion and brought Shelia instead, making her look ridiculous in a white dress similar to Shelia's. The thought of the past made her laugh. "No, I'll wear that one," she said, picking up a red dress. Debra never liked plain clothes. Shelia was just a poor college student. Debra felt that she must have lost her mind to dress like that for a man. "But Mr. Nichols likes white dresses," the maid said hesitantly. Debra simply ignored her hints. "I'll wear this one," she said. "Throw away all those white dresses. I don't like them." The maid sighed and complied. Debra looked at herself in the mirror, still vibrant and beautiful. But in a few years, she would be worn down by Juan's torment. Before that happened, she would end it all. In the evening, Debra appeared in a burgundy dress that accentuated her curves. Her delicate makeup, curls, and a mole under her eye made her mesmerizing. She looked like a painting, untouchable. Not far away, a man in a white shirt and black leather combat boots saw her. Marion Houston asked, "Who is she?" "You don't know her? She's Debra, the daughter of the Frazier family and Juan's wife," said his friend, Randy Osborne. "I just saw Juan entering with another woman. Maybe we'll witness a showdown between the mistress and the wife. It will be fun." LEARN_MORE https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 Random Reading https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ 154 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 thebvhwysgng.com DCO https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13914&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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459135153_832140905375376_807093524481295487_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Wopq0aUS-kgQ7kNvgHvd8li&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AZtLcThZmkQ8hoavNm6-_bc&oh=00_AYCu4BauKAEbIE_iE9mJQKxnzf8YFXu356m4tPSwj9h5WQ&oe=670505CC PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Random Reading 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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Yes 2024-10-03 20:17 active 1574 0 ๐Ÿ˜Read the next chapters๐Ÿ‘‰ Chapter 1 โ€œSir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. Iโ€™m not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. โ€œWhat did he say?โ€ The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. โ€œMadam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.โ€ Zoraโ€™s eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. โ€œOkay. Letโ€™s go.โ€ Zoraโ€™s heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrahโ€™s stance was clear through it all. โ€œWhen everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.โ€ Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. โ€œLetโ€™s hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but donโ€™t expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but itโ€™s definitely not you.โ€ The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Cocoโ€™s birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zoraโ€™s phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, โ€˜Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.โ€™ Zoraโ€™s eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldnโ€™t bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. โ€œEzrah is in the bathroom.โ€ Zoraโ€™s hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. โ€œWho are you?โ€ The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, โ€œPiper, his fiancรฉe. And you are?โ€ โ€œWhatever he saved my name with,โ€ Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. โ€œOh, Zora. If itโ€™s urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.โ€ The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. โ€œJust tell him to call me.โ€ Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. โ€œWhat are you doing with my phone?โ€ He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, โ€œand I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?โ€ The pout on Piperโ€™s lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. โ€œIs it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.โ€ Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partnerโ€™s sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. โ€œI told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldnโ€™t be seen together.โ€ Ezrahโ€™s voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didnโ€™t want Piperโ€™s presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, โ€œI could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I donโ€™t want to be away from you anymore.โ€ Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasnโ€™t easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. โ€œDid anyone call?โ€ He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zoraโ€™s name. โ€œYeah. Zora. She said you should call her,โ€ Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. โ€œWhat did you tell her?โ€ Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. โ€œI pretended not to know about her existence.โ€ Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrahโ€™s attention was on the phone in his hand. โ€œDo me a favor and donโ€™t answer my calls again.โ€ His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. โ€œIโ€™m sorry. I thought it was urgent.โ€ Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, โ€œNothing about Zora is ever urgent.โ€ Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. โ€œEzrah, are you sure you will divorce her?โ€ Ezrah hated to be doubted. โ€œYou donโ€™t believe me? Iโ€™m only with her because sheโ€™s carrying my child. As soon as heโ€™s born, I will divorce her.โ€ Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. โ€œCan you go shopping with me? I didnโ€™t bring enough clothes.โ€ Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didnโ€™t know to send it. โ€œI have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,โ€ Ezrah said softly. Zoraโ€™s heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. โ€œDid he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?โ€ The butlerโ€™s throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. โ€œIโ€™m sorry, maโ€™am. I just didnโ€™t want to see you sad.โ€ Zoraโ€™s heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldnโ€™t recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husbandโ€™s number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. โ€œZora. Iโ€™m busy.โ€ That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, โ€œEzrah, I want these shoes.โ€ โ€œTry them on. If they fit, you can have them.โ€ โ€˜So, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.โ€™ That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. โ€œMadam, you are awake. Thank God.โ€ Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. โ€œMrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?โ€ The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. โ€œHow is my baby?โ€ Zora asked. The doctorโ€™s eyes dulled. โ€œIโ€™m very sorry, but your baby couldnโ€™t survive the impact.โ€ Tears brimmed in the back of Zoraโ€™s eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her fatherโ€™s company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. โ€œItโ€™s alright. She would have just suffered anyway.โ€ Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. โ€œExcuse me?โ€ The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrahโ€™s indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. โ€œSorry, that was not directed at you.โ€ There was no warmth in Zoraโ€™s apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldnโ€™t do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. โ€œWhere is Ezrah?โ€ Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zoraโ€™s voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. โ€œMadam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,โ€ Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. โ€œThat isnโ€™t my question.โ€ โ€œBoss left here a few minutes ago,โ€ Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. โ€œDonโ€™t lie to my face again.โ€ Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. โ€œBoss said, and I quote. โ€˜Itโ€™s rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. Iโ€™m very busy at the moment.โ€ Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. โ€œThank you, and please excuse me.โ€ Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. โ€œMaโ€ฆโ€ โ€œI said, excuse me, Rudolph,โ€ Zoraโ€™s voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. โ€œOkay.โ€ As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. โ€œSophโ€ฆโ€ โ€œDad, Iโ€™m sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.โ€ Zora didnโ€™t hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, โ€˜I told you soโ€™ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. โ€œWhat happened, Zora?โ€ โ€œI had an accident and lost the baby. Iโ€™m coming home.โ€ The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, โ€œOh Zora. Iโ€™m coming to get you. Just send me your location.โ€ Zora refused. She couldnโ€™t leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. โ€œNo dad, I have a few things to do first.โ€ โ€œWhat is that? Let me help you with it?โ€ Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. โ€œDonโ€™t worry. Itโ€™s nothing I canโ€™t handle. โ€œOkay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.โ€ Zora smiled and didnโ€™t refuse her fatherโ€™s kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrahโ€™s return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, โ€œGood news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so letโ€™s get a divorce.โ€ The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldnโ€™t help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasnโ€™t going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldnโ€™t have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zoraโ€™s gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. โ€œWhat is this?โ€ Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. โ€œDo I need to get you a pair of glasses?โ€ Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. โ€œWhy? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?โ€ Ezrahโ€™s expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didnโ€™t care anymore. โ€œPlease sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,โ€ she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. โ€œWe shall talk about it later,โ€ he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: Iโ€™m sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You donโ€™t believe me? Iโ€™m only with her because sheโ€™s carrying my child. As soon as heโ€™s born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. โ€œWhere did you get that?โ€ He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. โ€œYou have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,โ€ he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didnโ€™t even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. โ€˜Mr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.โ€™ This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldnโ€™t find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldnโ€™t hurt. โ€œIt doesnโ€™t matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.โ€ Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. โ€œYou want to blackmail me? How much do you want?โ€ He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. โ€œWhat I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.โ€ She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. โ€œYour fatherโ€™s company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.โ€ This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. โ€œNo. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?โ€ Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. โ€œDid you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.โ€ Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasnโ€™t โ€˜interested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? โ€œYou may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.โ€ Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. โ€œTrust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.โ€ โ€œI donโ€™t believe you,โ€ Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. โ€œAs soon as the papers are signed, you wonโ€™t hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,โ€ Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. โ€œAlright. Iโ€™m not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,โ€ he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrahโ€™s phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasnโ€™t supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, โ€œAre you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?โ€ She couldnโ€™t hear Piperโ€™s response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. โ€œEzrah, itโ€™s time to finalize our divorce in court.โ€ Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, โ€œjust a few minutes.โ€ An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. โ€œYou should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you wonโ€™t like what I will do,โ€ Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. โ€œI have a gift waiting for you at home.โ€ Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. โ€˜EZRAH.โ€™ He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zoraโ€™s handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, โ€œZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?โ€ LEARN_MORE https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13232&u Indulge in story https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ 808 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn more 0 shgjfh.com VIDEO https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13232&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/t39.35426-6/455677798_482039274610719_912490823027754281_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YhQ6uk9Tc5IQ7kNvgHG2xK3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A-FgVEzt4rt2q1s2js6onvf&oh=00_AYDFoCjA3RM13MhcTIoa0G936r8t6pfERE8tbGlRn0hrtA&oe=67050344 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Indulge in story 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 20:16 active 1574 0 ๐Ÿ”žAttention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐Ÿ‘‰ ๐Ÿ’”My fated mate is my deceased sisterโ€™s boyfriend? The guy who accused me of killing my own sister and caused me to be tortured and shunned for 6 years? How could that be possible? LEARN_MORE https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&u Indulge in story https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ 808 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 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/t39.35426-6/450253454_816199537279779_5081182667160556282_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nbkt2nGRriIQ7kNvgF5WTA7&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AHFzNWDdvvuMf29bPvrcB0Y&oh=00_AYBdwftyxEMuJx5HoK0AHqGkc8wPKUrW3YEChyUcqmzDWA&oe=6704FC5D PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Indulge in story 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 21:29 active 1575 0 Restaurant Surplus Liquidation Restaurant Surplus Liquidation - $25.00 Our next Auction will be October 16th in Lompoc, Ca. Restaurant Surplus Liquidation. Bidding is now open and will have a live Auction preview October 16th 9:am-3:pm Auction will close first lot October 16th 7:pm PST. www.precisionwarehouse.com #precisionwarehouse #auction #AgSourceMagazine #restaurantequipment #liquidation #lompoc #hobart Facebook Marketplace CONTACT_US https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/879450453389 Jeff Fandrick https://www.facebook.com/Jeff-Fandrick-745719592489366/ 0 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Contact us 0 IMAGE https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/8794504533894449/ 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462066627_478454251553745_7024349270630075051_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fXSXvAV9HEkQ7kNvgEJ3_OI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AQ1chg2oZd64n6wXiCRlUER&oh=00_AYC71l4KPZP4kUVjxjjjazxK72DwONW6HMZkdBL0jX_oFw&oe=67052D25 REGULAR_PAGE 1 1 0 Jeff Fandrick 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 21:21 active 1575 0 ๐Ÿ˜Read the next chapters๐Ÿ‘‰ 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 herโ€”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 wonโ€™t be a concubine. Sheโ€™ll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, sheโ€™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 donโ€™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 wifeโ€™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 didnโ€™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, "Sheโ€™s unlike any woman Iโ€™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, sheโ€™s talking to my mother. Sheโ€™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 estateโ€™s affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnโ€™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, sheโ€™s different from any woman you know. Sheโ€™s a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldnโ€™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-" "Thatโ€™s them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. Sheโ€™s straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you wonโ€™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, "Itโ€™s fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iโ€™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. โ€œWhy put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, youโ€™ll be in separate wings. She wonโ€™t compete with you for control of the household. She doesnโ€™t care about those things.โ€ โ€œDo you really think Iโ€™m attached to managing this household?โ€ Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrettโ€™s mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligationsโ€”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. โ€œEnough, I wonโ€™t argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,โ€ said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. โ€œMy lady, my lord was too much!โ€ said Lulu, Carissaโ€™s maid, wiping her tears away. โ€œDonโ€™t call him that!โ€ Carissa gave her a stern look. โ€œWe never consummated the marriage. Heโ€™s not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.โ€ โ€œWhy the dowry list?โ€ Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. โ€œSilly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?โ€ Lulu held her forehead and gasped. โ€œBut your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.โ€ Tears finally welled up in Carissaโ€™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. Youโ€™re the only child I have left.โ€ 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. Carissaโ€™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 grandmotherโ€™s and motherโ€™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 familyโ€™s former glory seemed impossibleโ€”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 Carissaโ€™s mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, youโ€™ll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, Iโ€™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. Carissaโ€™s eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my familyโ€™s achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, Iโ€™ll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissaโ€™s expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think Iโ€™m that silly? If I manage to reach the king, Iโ€™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!" "Itโ€™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, letโ€™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. Barrettโ€™s father, Jonathan, didnโ€™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 Rebeccaโ€™s room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "Youโ€™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. Youโ€™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 hadnโ€™t expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. Sheโ€™s rather rough around the edges and doesnโ€™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, itโ€™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. Isnโ€™t that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But itโ€™s quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The kingโ€™s edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, sheโ€™s a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials canโ€™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. Rebeccaโ€™s expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, youโ€™ve always been sensible. Now that youโ€™ve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Auroraโ€™s contributions in this battle were greater than Barrettโ€™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." Carissaโ€™s tone remained chilly as she said, "If theyโ€™re husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Arenโ€™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. Iโ€™ll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "Iโ€™m still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how youโ€™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 Rebeccaโ€™s medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebeccaโ€™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 familyโ€™s business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didnโ€™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, "Thatโ€™s settled, then. Iโ€™ll hand over the accounts tomorrow and wonโ€™t be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, youโ€™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." Carissaโ€™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. Carissaโ€™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 isnโ€™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 utterlyโ€ฆ unsensible of her. "Take off that dress youโ€™re wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serenaโ€™s cheeks flushed with anger. "I didnโ€™t beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you donโ€™t want me to have it." "Fine. And donโ€™t forget the jewelry youโ€™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 thereโ€™s nothing else, Iโ€™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! โ€œSheโ€™ll come around. She doesnโ€™t have any other choice,โ€ 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 wasnโ€™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, Carissaโ€™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 motherโ€”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 estateโ€™s family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parentsโ€™ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. โ€œDad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. Itโ€™s not that I donโ€™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.โ€ 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, โ€œMy lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks youโ€™re here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didnโ€™t eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?โ€ โ€œIโ€™m not hungry.โ€ The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. โ€œPlease donโ€™t be so hard on yourself. Itโ€™s not worth getting sick over. Why donโ€™t we just let it go? After all, youโ€™re still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, sheโ€™ll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?โ€ Lulu pleaded. Carissaโ€™s gaze was cold. โ€œLulu, if youโ€™re going to talk like that, donโ€™t speak at all.โ€ 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 Carissaโ€™s arrival to the king three times. โ€œYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,โ€ he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. โ€œI canโ€™t see her. The edict has been issued, and I canโ€™t take it back. Tell her to go home.โ€ โ€œThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheโ€™s been standing there for over an hour without moving.โ€ Salvador felt a pang of guilt. โ€œBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnโ€™t want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.โ€ โ€œIf we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivanโ€™s contributions surpass all others,โ€ 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 Sullivanโ€™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. โ€œAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iโ€™ll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,โ€ said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. โ€œAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!โ€ 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 Carissaโ€™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. 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No 2024-10-03 21:26 active 1575 0 Continuer la lecture Elle fut stupรฉfaite de dรฉcouvrir qu'elle n'รฉtait pas la fille biologique de ses parents. ร€ cause des manigances de sa vraie fille, elle fut chassรฉe et devint la risรฉe de la ville. Pensรฉe comme รฉtant nรฉe de parents paysans, elle fut surprise de dรฉcouvrir que son vrai pรจre รฉtait l'homme le plus riche de la ville. ===== ยซ Madisyn, pendant toutes ces annรฉes que nous t'avons รฉlevรฉe, nous ne t'avons jamais imaginรฉe capable d'une telle cruautรฉ. Cette maison n'est plus en mesure de supporter ta prรฉsence. Tu dois partir immรฉdiatement ยป. A dรฉclarรฉ l'imposante femme, dont le regard รฉtait chargรฉ de dรฉdain et d'un froid glacial et l'รฉlรฉgance vestimentaire contrastait fortement avec la duretรฉ de ses propos, devant Madisyn Chapman. ยซ Maman, je t'en prie, c'รฉtait un accident. J'ai perdu pied et j'ai dรฉvalรฉ les escaliers toute seule. Madisyn n'a rien ร  voir lร -dedans ยป, a dรฉclarรฉ une jeune fille assise dans le canapรฉ. Ressemblant physiquement ร  la femme en face d'elle, elle les yeux pleins de larmes. Une demi-heure plus tรดt, Jenna Chapman, la fille biologique des Chapman, avait fait une chute dans l'escalier. Madisyn รฉtait alors seule ร  l'รฉtage supรฉrieur. Tout le monde pensait que Madisyn avait poussรฉ Jenna... Maintenant, les regards que les Chapman lanรงaient ร  Madisyn รฉtaient remplis de dรฉgoรปt et de venin, un contraste frappant avec leur attitude une semaine auparavant, lorsqu'ils avaient professรฉ devant les journalistes leur rรฉticence ร  se sรฉparer d'elle. Madisyn a baissรฉ les yeux vers le sol, une ombre fugace d'ironie traversant son regard. Autrefois, Madisyn รฉtait la seule fille des Chapman. Mรชme si elle n'avait jamais bรฉnรฉficiรฉ du favoritisme de ses parents, elle ne manquait de rien, ses besoins essentiels รฉtant toujours satisfaits. Mais la faรงade avait volรฉ en รฉclats lorsque Jeffry Chapman, qu'elle connaissait comme son pรจre, avait รฉtรฉ victime d'un grave accident qui avait nรฉcessitรฉ une transfusion s*nguine urgente. Les analyses suivantes avaient rรฉvรฉlรฉ que Madisyn n'รฉtait pas son enfant biologique. Jeffry avait ensuite fait appel ร  son vaste rรฉseau pour retrouver sa vรฉritable fille, Jenna. La famille Chapman รฉtait une famille prestigieuse dans la ville de Gemond, et les nouvelles de ce genre s'รฉtaient naturellement rรฉpandues rapidement. Pour gรฉrer l'opinion publique et prรฉserver leur rรฉputation, ils avaient dรฉclarรฉ un engagement inรฉbranlable envers Madisyn, la fille qu'ils avaient รฉlevรฉe, affirmant leur intention de la traiter comme leur propre fille pendant un certain temps avant qu'elle ne retourne dans sa famille biologique. Cependant, derriรจre les portes closes, leurs plans รฉtaient radicalement diffรฉrents. Une fois le regard du public dรฉtournรฉ, ils avaient l'intention de renvoyer discrรจtement Madisyn. ร€ l'arrivรฉe de Jenna, la famille Chapman avait reprochรฉ ร  Madisyn les annรฉes de galรจre de Jenna, relรฉguant Madisyn de sa chambre ร  un simple espace de rangement, diminuant ainsi considรฉrablement son statut. Elle รฉtait chargรฉe de tรขches subalternes, son statut รฉtant bien infรฉrieur ร  celui des domestiques. Jenna, elle, voulait toujours que Madisyn s'en aille. Elle avait montรฉ plusieurs plans contre Madisyn, mais ses parents fermaient les yeux, leur mรฉpris pour Madisyn รฉtant ร  peine voilรฉ. Ces tribulations ont รดtรฉ ร  Madisyn toute illusion sur cette famille hypocrite et l'ont poussรฉe ร  affronter les injustices qui lui รฉtaient imposรฉes. Alors que les tensions atteignaient leur paroxysme, elle a fait face ร  Jenna, d'une voix rรฉsolue : ยซ Je vais partir, mais pas avant d'avoir remis les pendules ร  l'heure. Je refuse d'endosser tes malversations plus longtemps, Jenna! ยป Le calme de Jenna a vacillรฉ sous l'intensitรฉ du regard glacial de Madisyn, son corps tremblant lรฉgรจrement. S'agissait-il de la mรชme Madisyn que celle qui s'รฉtait pliรฉe ร  toutes les avanies ? Une lueur sombre s'est reflรฉtรฉe dans les yeux de Jenna. Elle รฉtait l'hรฉritiรจre lรฉgitime des biens de la famille Chapman, pas cette usurpatrice, Madisyn, qui vivait dans un luxe immรฉritรฉ. Elle devait cรดute que coรปte chasser cet imposteur! ยซ Madisyn, j'ai aucune idรฉe de ce que tu racontes! ยป La voix de Jenna รฉtait empreinte d'une confusion feinte. ยซ Depuis que j'ai repris ma place, que j'ai reรงu l'affection qui m'รฉtait due par nos parents, j'ai senti ton mรฉcontentement. Malgrรฉ tes actions, je suis restรฉe tolรฉrante. Mais pour mes jambes... Comment pourrais-tu?La danse est ma passion et l'expression de mon รขme. Si j'avais su que tu convoitais si dรฉsespรฉrรฉment la place au concours national, je ne l'aurais pas disputรฉe. ยป Son insinuation รฉtait trรจs claire que Madisyn l'avait sabotรฉe par jalousie. Le regard de la mรจre de Jenna, Phyllis Chapman, s'est durci aux paroles de sa fille biologique, sa voix รฉtant empreinte de dรฉdain. ยซ Jenna, tu possรจdes un talent remarquable que Madisyn ne pourra jamais รฉgaler. Cette place en compรฉtition te revenait de droit. Et toi, Madisyn! ยป Elle s'est retournรฉe brusquement vers Madisyn et a ajoutรฉ : ยซ Fais tes valises et pars immรฉdiatement! ยป L'expression habituellement sombre de Madisyn n'a fait qu'attiser son mรฉpris. Pendant ce temps, Jenna, toujours docile et talentueuse, brillait de mille feux dans ses yeux ; c'รฉtait une vรฉritable Chapman. Au milieu de ce drame, Jeffry a finalement rompu le silence, la voix lourde de dรฉception. ยซ Madisyn, notre accord รฉtait de te garder jusqu'ร  ce que les regards du public s'apaisent, mais nous voilร  confrontรฉs ร  ton profond ressentiment envers Jenna. Nous n'avons pas d'autre choix que de te rendre ร  ta vraie famille aujourd'hui. ยป Les yeux de Jenna ont brillรฉ d'une lueur triomphante lorsque son pรจre a annoncรฉ le dรฉpart imminent de Madisyn. En revanche, le visage de cette derniรจre est restรฉ un masque indรฉchiffrable tandis qu'elle montait les escaliers pour rassembler ses affaires. La longue durรฉe de Madisyn ร  l'รฉtage supรฉrieur inquiรฉtait Jenna. ยซ Et si elle essayait de tout emporter avec elle?ยป Aprรจs tout, tout ce qui avait de la valeur dans la maison lui revenait de droit ; comment pouvait-elle permettre ร  une imposture de partir avec une partie de ses richesses? Madisyn a fini par rรฉapparaรฎtre, descendant lentement l'escalier, ses mouvements รฉtant dรฉlibรฉrรฉs. Elle transportait un petit sac noir sans prรฉtention. Lorsque son regard a balayรฉ froidement le salon, il a suffisamment troublรฉ Jeffry pour qu'il dรฉtourne les yeux. Les sourcils de Phyllis se sont froncรฉs ร  la vue du bagage minimal de Madisyn. ยซ C'est tout ce que tu veux emporter?Qu'y a-t-il lร -dedans?Montre-moi ยป, a-t-elle demandรฉ, le ton suspicieux. Jeffry a levรฉ la main pour mettre fin ร  l'interrogatoire de sa femme. ยซ Laisse-la tranquille. ยป Il s'agissait sans doute de la carte bancaire qu'il lui avait donnรฉe et sur laquelle il ne restait qu'une centaine de milliers de dollars. Sans se laisser dรฉconcerter, Madisyn a posรฉ son sac sur la table, l'air stoรฏque. ยซ Inspecte-le si tu veux. ยป Phyllis, incapable de masquer sa mรฉfiance, s'est moquรฉe. ยซ Elle a peut-รชtre emportรฉ quelque chose de prรฉcieux ยป, a-t-elle marmonnรฉ en ouvrant le sac. En jetant un coup d'ล“il ร  l'intรฉrieur, elle n'a trouvรฉ qu'un carnet, quelques graines et une petite somme d'argent, loin des objets de valeur qu'elle craignait. Phyllis, le visage rougi par l'embarras de son accusation sans fondement, s'est redressรฉe. ยซ Je vais laisser le chauffeur t'emmener lร -bas ยป, a-t-elle dit d'un ton sec. Jeffry, sous le poids de la situation, a fouillรฉ dans sa poche et en a sorti une carte. ยซ Madisyn, ร  ton retour, รฉcoute tes parents. Ce sont des fermiers, certes... mais ils sont bons, ce sont des gens simples. Tu devrais les aider. ยป Madisyn a regardรฉ la carte offerte avec ses beaux yeux, son expression calme. ยซ Chacun a son propre destin ร  accomplir ยป, a-t-elle rรฉpondu tranquillement, en repoussant la carte vers Jeffry. ยซ Mais avant que je ne parte, il faut que les choses soient claires. Jenna, comment es-tu vraiment tombรฉe dans ces escaliers?C'est ta derniรจre chance de dire la vรฉritรฉ. ยป Jenna fulminait intรฉrieurement, exaspรฉrรฉe par le calme serein de Madisyn, qui semblait l'รฉlever au-dessus de tout le monde malgrรฉ ses origines modestes. Madisyn ne venait pas d'une famille riche! Elle รฉtait juste la fille de deux fermiers! ยซ Madisyn, qu'est-ce que tu insinues?Que je me suis jetรฉe dans les escaliers?ยป, a rรฉtorquรฉ Jenna. ยซ Mes jambes, c'est ma vie, elles sont indispensables ร  ma danse. Pourquoi me blesserais-je?ยป Au fur et ร  mesure qu'elle parlait, les รฉmotions de Jenna sont allรฉes crescendo, et elle a fondu en larmes de faรงon thรฉรขtrale, s'effondrant dans les bras de Phyllis. Soudain, Jenna se leva instinctivement ร  cause d'un vase brisรฉ. Le silence s'est installรฉ dans la piรจce et tout le monde, y compris Phyllis et Jeffry, a tournรฉ son regard choquรฉ vers elle. L'agilitรฉ soudaine de Jenna a รฉtรฉ surprenante ; n'avait-elle pas dit qu'elle ne pouvait pas se tenir debout ร  cause de ses blessures ? Chapitre 2 Le plus riche de Gemond Se rendant compte de son erreur, Jenna s'est effondrรฉe dans le canapรฉ, s'agrippant ร  ses jambes avec une dรฉtresse exagรฉrรฉe. ยซ Aรฏe, mes jambes! Elles me font si mal! ยป La rรฉponse de Jeffry n'รฉtait pas de la colรจre mais une culpabilitรฉ dirigรฉe vers Madisyn. ยซ Madisyn, comprends que Jenna est encore trรจs jeune. Ne lui en veux pas... ยป Madisyn รฉtait habituรฉe ร  entendre ce genre d'excuse trop souvent. ยซ Bien sรปr, je ne me vengerais pas si un chien me mordait. Aprรจs tout, il apprend ce genre de comportement de ses maรฎtres, n'est-ce pas?ยป Avec un dernier ricanement qui a tranchรฉ l'air tendu, Madisyn a pris son modeste sac et s'est dirigรฉe vers la porte, d'un pas dรฉcidรฉ et inรฉbranlable. Elle ne s'est pas retournรฉe vers la famille qu'elle laissait derriรจre elle. Le trio qu'elle laissait dans son sillage fulminait de fureur. Dehors, le chauffeur attendait, inconscient de l'agitation qui rรฉgnait entre les murs de la maison des Chapman. Depuis le retour de Jenna, le respect du personnel de la maison pour Madisyn s'รฉtait considรฉrablement dรฉgradรฉ ; mรชme le chauffeur ne l'avait pas saluรฉe comme il se devait lorsqu'elle s'รฉtait approchรฉe. Ignorant sa prรฉsence, Madisyn est passรฉe devant lui, la posture droite et rรฉsolue. Le chauffeur, la rattrapant avec un soupรงon d'urgence dans ses pas, a appelรฉ : ยซ Madisyn, on m'a dit de te conduire ร  ta destination. ยป Madisyn s'est arrรชtรฉe, se tournant lรฉgรจrement pour donner sa rรฉponse, son ton glacial : ยซ Pas la peine. ร€ partir de maintenant, je ne veux plus rien avoir ร  faire avec la famille Chapman. ยป Sur ces derniers mots, elle a hรฉlรฉ un taxi et a indiquรฉ au chauffeur l'adresse que Jeffry lui avait envoyรฉe sur son tรฉlรฉphone. La destination รฉtait un village humble et dรฉlabrรฉ, loin de l'opulence qu'elle avait connue. En arrivant, elle a remarquรฉ l'รฉtat de dรฉlabrement de la maison de ses parents biologiques, l'air rempli de cris รฉtouffรฉs qui lui ont serrรฉ le cล“ur. En entrant, elle a vu beaucoup de monde. Le contraste รฉtait saisissant. Un homme vรชtu d'un costume propre et รฉlรฉgant, entourรฉ de gardes du corps, se tenait devant un couple en pleurs, vรชtu d'un simple costume de paysan. Alors que Madisyn contemplait ce tableau surrรฉaliste, l'homme s'est retournรฉ, les yeux remplis de rouge et d'incrรฉdulitรฉ. Il s'est prรฉcipitรฉ vers elle, les bras grands ouverts. ยซ Ma fille, c'est bien toi! Je ne peux pas croire que tu sois vraiment vivante! ยป La voix de l'homme grand et imposant s'est brisรฉe sous le coup de l'รฉmotion. Madisyn est restรฉe bouche bรฉe. Qui รฉtait cet homme et pourquoi agissait-il de la sorte ? Madisyn a absorbรฉ les regards larmoyants du couple de paysans devant elle. Sa voix, tremblante de confusion, a finalement rompu le silence. ยซ Maman, papa, qu'est-ce qui se passe?ยป Le fermier a soupirรฉ lourdement, sa voix รฉtant fatiguรฉe par le poids de vรฉritรฉs inavouรฉes. ยซ Madisyn, nous ne sommes pas tes vรฉritables parents. Jenna est la fille lรฉgitime des Chapman, mais toi, tu n'es pas la nรดtre. Notre bรฉbรฉ est mort-nรฉ. ยป Il a marquรฉ une pause, faisant un geste vers l'homme bien habillรฉ. ยซ Cet homme est ton vrai pรจre. ยป Madisyn a regardรฉ l'รฉtranger, notant les similitudes indรฉniables entre leurs traits. L'homme a sorti un document de sa mallette, sa main tremblant lรฉgรจrement. ยซ Madisyn, quand je t'ai vue pour la premiรจre fois ร  l'hรดpital, quelque chose en toi m'a interpellรฉ, mรชme si je l'ai รฉcartรฉ ร  ce moment-lร  ยป, a-t-il expliquรฉ, la voix รฉtranglรฉe par l'รฉmotion. ยซ Aprรจs avoir entendu parler des retrouvailles des Chapman avec leur vraie fille, j'ai voulu savoir s'il n'y avait pas eu une erreur. Ce test de paternitรฉ a confirmรฉ mes soupรงons. Tu es bien ma fille. ยป En prenant le rapport, Madisyn a vu noir sur blanc la preuve indรฉniable. D'ailleurs, mรชme sans cela, leur ressemblance en disait long. La rรฉponse de la jeune femme รฉtait un silence rempli de pensรฉes tumultueuses. Cette rรฉvรฉlation, ce nouveau rebondissement dans son rรฉcit dรฉjร  complexe, l'a submergรฉe. L'homme a continuรฉ : ยซ C'est beaucoup de choses ร  assimiler, je sais. Mais voici la vรฉritรฉ. La nuit de ta naissance, une erreur tragique s'est produite au sein de l'hรดpital. ร€ cause de la nรฉgligence d'une infirmiรจre, trois familles ont vu leurs vies s'entremรชler sans le savoir. L'enfant de ce couple a รฉtรฉ dรฉclarรฉ mort-nรฉ et nous a รฉtรฉ remis par erreur, tu as fini chez les Chapman, et Jenna a รฉtรฉ amenรฉe ici. ยป ยซ Ta mรจre et moi รฉtions dรฉvastรฉs, pensant que nous t'avions perdue ยป, a-t-il ajoutรฉ, les yeux humides. ยซ Tu ne peux pas savoir ร  quel point cela a affectรฉ ta mรจre. Elle attend anxieusement ร  l'hรดtel, espรฉrant enfin te rencontrer. ยป Touchรฉe par sa sincรฉritรฉ, Madisyn a hochรฉ lentement la tรชte, son regard se portant ร  nouveau sur les fermiers. La voix de l'homme en costume s'est adoucie lorsqu'il a promis : ยซ Tout cela n'รฉtait qu'un accident. Ils sont eux aussi des victimes. J'ai l'intention de leur offrir une compensation pour leur perte. ยป Le fermier a fait un signe de la main dรฉdaigneux, mais sa voix est restรฉe ferme. ยซ Nous n'avons pas besoin de compensation, la vรฉritรฉ nous suffit. ยป Il y avait dans la voix du fermier une pointe de lassitude mรชlรฉe ร  une subtile dรฉsillusion. Sa relation avec Jenna, la fille que sa femme et lui avaient รฉlevรฉe comme leur propre fille, s'รฉtait dรฉtรฉriorรฉe aprรจs qu'elle avait retrouvรฉ sa famille biologique ; elle avait cessรฉ toute communication avec eux. ยซ Vous devriez rentrer chez vous maintenant. Votre famille sera enfin rรฉunie, ne perdez pas votre temps ici ยป, a-t-il dit, son expression mรชlant tristesse et dรฉtachement, tandis qu'il guidait Madisyn et l'homme en costume vers la porte. Madisyn a suivi l'homme en costume jusqu'ร  une rutilante Rolls-Royce garรฉe sur le trottoir. L'opulence du vรฉhicule contrastait fortement avec la modeste maison dont elle venait de sortir. ยซ Madisyn, moi c'est Glenn Johns, ton pรจre. ร€ partir de maintenant, je suis lร  pour toi ; n'hรฉsite pas ร  me demander ce dont tu as besoin ยป, a dit l'homme en costume, d'une voix douce mais ferme. La prise de conscience s'est faite lentement : Glenn Johns n'รฉtait pas seulement un homme riche, il รฉtait le PDG du Groupe Johns, l'homme le plus riche de Gemond. Les implications de sa nouvelle lignรฉe ont commencรฉ ร  s'installer, lourdes et profondes. Madisyn a acquiescรฉ lentement. L'Hรดtel d'Alpenglow รฉtait le plus luxueux de Gemond. Jenna, vรชtue d'une robe Chanel fluide, incarnait l'รฉlรฉgance lorsqu'elle est entrรฉe dans le grand hall d'entrรฉe avec ses parents. L'occasion รฉtait capitale ; Phyllis venait d'apprendre que Lynda Johns, vice-prรฉsidente de l'Association Nationale de Danse et juge de la compรฉtition nationale, รฉtait en ville. Phyllis avait vite compris que le fait d'รชtre sous la tutelle de Lynda pouvait permettre ร  Jenna de remporter le championnat. Dans cette optique, elle avait fait habiller Jenna de ses plus beaux atours et l'avait emmenรฉe en vitesse ร  l'hรดtel. Mais ร  leur arrivรฉe, une surprise les attendait. De l'autre cรดtรฉ du hall, Madisyn se tenait debout, habillรฉe simplement d'un T-shirt et d'un jean, mais elle se comportait avec une grรขce posรฉe qui semblait attirer les regards. ร€ cรดtรฉ d'elle se trouvait un homme en costume, dont la prรฉsence รฉtait impressionnante, mรชme si Phyllis ne voyait pas les traits de celui-ci. ยซ Madisyn?Qu'est-ce qu'elle fait ici?ยป, a murmurรฉ Phyllis sous sa respiration, son ton mรชlant confusion et agacement. Chapitre 3 Sa vraie famille ยซ La nouvelle de l'arrivรฉe de Mme Johns a sans doute รฉtรฉ divulguรฉe ยป, a dรฉclarรฉ Jenna avec une faรงade d'innocence, sa voix รฉtant basse et teintรฉe de curiositรฉ. ยซ On dirait que Madisyn veut aussi apprendre de Mme Johns qui ne sait peut-รชtre pas encore que Madisyn a รฉtรฉ chassรฉe de chez nous. On dirait que nous pourrions toutes les deux finir par devenir ses รฉlรจves! ยป Le visage de Phyllis s'est assombri d'inquiรฉtude aux paroles de Jenna. Elle s'est prรฉcipitรฉe, son intention รฉtant claire : intercepter Madisyn avant qu'elle n'ait pu รฉtablir des relations influentes. Mais Madisyn se dirigeait dรฉjร  rapidement vers la Salle d'ร‰meraude, la salle la plus exclusive et la plus privรฉe de l'hรดtel. Phyllis est restรฉe perplexe. Pourquoi Madisyn se rendrait-elle dans la Salle d'ร‰meraude ? Jenna, rattrapรฉe par son retard, a partagรฉ la surprise de sa mรจre. ยซ Maman, cette salle n'est pas ouverte ร  tout le monde. On dirait que Madisyn a plus de contacts qu'on ne le pensait. Elle doit avoir des amis trรจs impressionnants. ยป ยซ Quel genre d'amis pourrait-elle bien avoir?ยป, a marmonnรฉ Phyllis avec amertume, son esprit s'emballant avec des hypothรจses dรฉfavorables. Le dรฉgoรปt l'a momentanรฉment envahie alors que Phyllis รฉtait aux prises avec ces pensรฉes, mais elle n'a pas eu le temps de s'y attarder. Avec un sentiment d'urgence, elle a sorti son tรฉlรฉphone et a appelรฉ Lynda. ยซ Toutes mes excuses, je suis en train de traiter une affaire urgente. ยป La voix de Lynda รฉtait dรฉtachรฉe et vive au tรฉlรฉphone avant qu'elle ne mette fin ร  l'appel. Jenna รฉtant accablรฉe par le dรฉcouragement, son moral a chutรฉ et elle s'est masquรฉ le visage avec ses mains, des larmes coulant entre ses doigts. Jeffry l'a enlacรฉe, sa voix empreinte d'une douce assurance. ยซ Jenna, ne t'inquiรจte pas. Nous aurons d'autres occasions. Nous trouverons un autre moyen. ยป Pendant ce temps, Lynda a reposรฉ son tรฉlรฉphone sur le coussin ร  cรดtรฉ d'elle. Son frรจre Glenn avait organisรฉ une rรฉunion de famille immรฉdiate aprรจs la dรฉcouverte de sa fille perdue de vue depuis longtemps. ยซ Madisyn a dรป traverser beaucoup d'รฉpreuves au fil des ans ยป, a dรฉclarรฉ Kristine Johns, assise รฉlรฉgamment ร  cรดtรฉ de Lynda. Elle avait des traits remarquables, un maquillage exquis et รฉtait habillรฉe d'une robe luxueuse. Bien qu'elle renvoie l'image d'une dame raffinรฉe, son expression trahissait une profonde inquiรฉtude. Lynda a rรฉpondu pensivement : ยซ J'ai entendu dire que son ancienne famille l'avait bien traitรฉe. Elle n'a peut-รชtre pas รฉtรฉ confrontรฉe aux difficultรฉs que nous imaginons. ยป La rรฉponse de Kristine รฉtait empreinte de conviction. ยซ Il est essentiel que nous lui apportions notre chaleur et notre soutien. ยป Lynda a caressรฉ affectueusement la tรชte de Kristine, fiรจre du bon caractรจre de son รฉlรจve. Cette derniรจre avait รฉtรฉ adoptรฉe par la famille Johns. L'accueil qu'elle a rรฉservรฉ ร  Madisyn a mis en รฉvidence son esprit gรฉnรฉreux et sa gentillesse. Elle n'avait pas peur que le retour de Madisyn menace son statut. Dans un coin, Elaine Johns รฉtait assise tranquillement, le regard fixรฉ sur la porte, impatiente et dans l'expectative. Kristine a perรงu l'intensitรฉ du regard d'Elaine et s'est sentie mal ร  l'aise. Enfin, la porte s'est ouverte, la jeune femme qui entrait รฉtait magnifique, ses traits exquis et distants reflรฉtant ceux d'Elaine de maniรจre suffisamment frappante pour affirmer leur parentรฉ. Kristine a ressenti un vide inexplicable ร  cette vue. Elaine, incapable de contenir ses รฉmotions plus longtemps, s'est รฉlancรฉe en avant. ยซ Ma fille! ยป, s'est-elle exclamรฉe en serrant Madisyn dans ses bras, ses larmes coulant ร  flots. Madisyn est restรฉe momentanรฉment abasourdie par l'intensitรฉ de l'accueil, ses mains tapotant avec hรฉsitation le dos d'Elaine. Elle sentait naรฎtre en elle une nouvelle chaleur, une chaleur familiale. C'รฉtait donc รงa, avoir une famille aimante. ยซ Laisse Madisyn s'asseoir d'abord ยป, a dit Glenn d'une voix douce. Alors qu'ils s'installaient dans le canapรฉ, Elaine s'est accrochรฉe ร  Madisyn, essayant de stabiliser sa voix ร  travers ses larmes. ยซ Madisyn, je suis dรฉsolรฉe qu'il nous ait fallu autant de temps pour te retrouver. Tu as dรป endurer tellement de choses. ยป ยซ Je... ร‡a va, รงa va. Je vais bien. ยป Les larmes d'Elaine, chaudes et sincรจres, ont coulรฉ sur la main de Madisyn, laissant celle-ci quelque peu dรฉsemparรฉe. Touchรฉe par une telle dรฉmonstration de sincรฉritรฉ, elle a gentiment rassurรฉ Elaine : ยซ Ne pleure pas, maman. Nous sommes ensemble maintenant. ยป Le terme ยซ maman ยป a semblรฉ susciter une joie profonde chez Elaine, dont la voix s'est mise ร  trembler lorsqu'elle a rรฉpondu : ยซ Oui, tu es de retour. Et je promets de tout arranger. ยป Glenn a observรฉ l'รฉchange avec un sourire radieux, son impatience รฉtant palpable lorsqu'il a regardรฉ Madisyn. Sentant le poids de son regard, la jeune femme s'est tournรฉe vers lui. ยซ Hum... Papa. ยป ยซ Nous sommes si heureux d'รชtre rรฉunis avec toi, ma Madisyn. ยป Glenn rayonnait, son visage s'illuminant de bonheur, une expression rare de pure joie. ยซ Laisse-moi te prรฉsenter ร  notre famille. Voici ta tante Lynda. ยป Lynda a observรฉ Madisyn, lui adressant un lรฉger signe de tรชte en guise de reconnaissance. Madisyn lui a rendu le geste avec une chaleur polie. Puis c'รฉtait au tour de Kristine. Le sourire de celle-ci รฉtait radieux lorsqu'elle s'est adressรฉe ร  Madisyn. ยซ J'attendais depuis si longtemps de pouvoir enfin le dire ; j'ai maintenant une sล“ur dont je peux me vanter. ยป Elaine est intervenue, la voix teintรฉe d'une pointe d'hรฉsitation : ยซ Voici Kristine. Son pรจre รฉtait un ami proche de ton pรจre. Kristine a perdu ses parents quand elle รฉtait enfant, et nous l'avons recueillie. Si cela te met mal ร  l'aise... ยป ยซ Ce n'est pas grave. ยป Madisyn l'a interrompue doucement, comprenant ce qu'elle voulait dire. ยซ Tu as aussi trois frรจres, mais ils ne sont pas lร  pour l'instant. Nous ferons en sorte que tu les rencontres plus tard! ยป Elaine a continuรฉ, un sourire illuminant son visage alors qu'elle observait le hochement de tรชte de Madisyn qui acceptait. Glenn a pris son tรฉlรฉphone. ยซ ร‡a a sans doute รฉtรฉ dur pour toi pendant toutes ces annรฉes, Madisyn. Commenรงons par รฉchanger nos numรฉros ยป, a-t-il suggรฉrรฉ. Elaine s'est empressรฉe de lui emboรฎter le pas en sortant aussi son tรฉlรฉphone. ยซ ร‰change ton numรฉro avec moi aussi ยป, a-t-elle ajoutรฉ avec empressement. Aprรจs que Madisyn a รฉchangรฉ ses numรฉros avec eux, son tรฉlรฉphone a bourdonnรฉ de deux notifications. Son pรจre lui avait envoyรฉ dix millions de dollars par le biais de Venmo, et sa mรจre avait fait de mรชme. Glenn a souri, sa voix empreinte d'une gรฉnรฉrositรฉ dรฉsinvolte. ยซ Voici un peu d'argent de poche de la part de maman et papa. Si ce n'est pas assez pour toi, fais-le-moi savoir. ยป La chaleur d'Elaine n'a pas faibli. ยซ Et j'ai choisi des vรชtements pour toi. Tu pourras les essayer quand nous rentrerons ร  la maison! ยป Ce tourbillon de gรฉnรฉrositรฉ n'รฉtait pas familier ร  Madisyn, mais il lui apportait une chaleur qu'elle n'avait jamais connue. Mais Kristine se sentait ร  la fois mal ร  l'aise et choquรฉe. Glenn et Elaine venaient de transfรฉrer en toute dรฉcontraction vingt millions de dollars ร  Madisyn, une somme qui รฉclipsait sa propre allocation mensuelle, relativement modeste. ร‰tait-ce parce que Madisyn รฉtait leur enfant biologique et qu'elle avait รฉtรฉ adoptรฉe ? Chapitre 4 Son frรจre Pendant tout le repas, Elaine et Glenn se sont relayรฉs pour dรฉposer de la nourriture dans l'assiette de Madisyn, la nourriture empilรฉe ressemblant ร  une petite montagne. Lorsque Madisyn a tout fini, son estomac รฉtait plein. C'รฉtait un vรฉritable flot d'affection, inรฉdit et rรฉconfortant, qui s'exprimait ร  travers chaque plat offert par ses parents. La sonnerie soudaine du tรฉlรฉphone de Glenn a coupรฉ court ร  ce moment. Il a jetรฉ un coup d'ล“il ร  l'identifiant de l'appelant et un large sourire s'est dessinรฉ sur son visage. ยซ Madisyn, c'est l'un de tes frรจres aรฎnรฉs qui est en ligne, le plus jeune d'entre eux. Il est impatient de te rencontrer. ยป Il a rรฉpondu ร  l'appel vidรฉo, et une voix dรฉbordante d'enthousiasme s'est fait entendre. ยซ Tu l'as retrouvรฉe?J'ai hรขte de la voir! ยป Glenn a jetรฉ un coup d'ล“il ร  Madisyn, qui a fait un timide signe de tรชte, ce qui a incitรฉ Glenn ร  orienter le tรฉlรฉphone vers elle. ยซ La voilร , ta petite sล“ur, Madisyn. ยป ยซ Ouais, on est vraiment de la mรชme famille! ยป Le visage ร  l'รฉcran s'est illuminรฉ d'un sourire malicieux. Le cล“ur de Madisyn a sautรฉ un battement lorsqu'elle a reconnu Waylon, une cรฉlรจbre star de cinรฉma laurรฉate d'un prix. En un instant, son univers s'est รฉlargi, ses liens familiaux s'รฉtant รฉtendus ร  des domaines qu'elle n'avait jamais imaginรฉs. ยซ Salut ยป, a dit Madisyn, sa voix n'รฉtant qu'un doux chuchotement. L'excitation de Waylon Johns a traversรฉ le tรฉlรฉphone. ยซ Madisyn, je suis coincรฉ sur le plateau en ce moment, donc je ne peux pas revenir, mais je t'enverrai bientรดt quelque chose de spรฉcial! ยป Son affection รฉtait รฉvidente. Malgrรฉ leur lien biologique rรฉcemment dรฉcouvert, la chaleur de Waylon รฉtait authentique et immรฉdiate. Waylon et ses frรจres espรฉraient depuis longtemps avoir une petite sล“ur. Ils avaient bien Kristine, mais elle avait รฉtรฉ adoptรฉe par leurs parents alors qu'elle n'รฉtait plus un bรฉbรฉ, et elle n'รฉtait pas liรฉe ร  eux par le sang, ce qui faisait qu'ils n'รฉtaient pas si proches. Waylon s'est alors tournรฉ vers l'homme noble et distant qui se trouvait ร  ses cรดtรฉs. ยซ Andrew, voici ma sล“ur. N'est-elle pas adorable?ยป Andrew Klein, connu pour sa rรฉserve et sa prestance, a jetรฉ un coup d'ล“il ร  l'รฉcran. Dรจs qu'il a vu la jeune fille sur l'รฉcran, son regard jusqu'alors dรฉcontractรฉ s'est instantanรฉment figรฉ. Les longs cheveux souples de Madisyn descendaient sur ses รฉpaules et ses traits dรฉlicats, qui reflรฉtaient remarquablement les traits de la famille Johns, รฉtaient trรจs sรฉduisants. Ses yeux ambrรฉs, empreints d'un soupรงon de paresse et d'indiffรฉrence, semblaient apaiser quiconque entrait en contact avec sa vue. Les yeux d'Andrew รฉtaient profonds. Madisyn est restรฉe calme pendant l'appel vidรฉo, mais la rรฉaction de Kristine a รฉtรฉ moins contrรดlรฉe. ร€ la mention de ยซ Andrew ยป, le corps de cette derniรจre s'est raidi, ses yeux s'รฉtant fixรฉs sur l'รฉcran oรน Andrew apparaissait plus frappant que jamais. Son attitude distante lui a fait soupรงonner qu'il n'accorderait pas beaucoup d'attention ร  Madisyn. ยซ Salut. ยป La salutation d'Andrew รฉtait brรจve, sa voix basse. Kristine a ressenti un malaise, ses ongles s'enfonรงant dans sa paume. Elle s'est rassurรฉe silencieusement en se disant que le salut d'Andrew n'รฉtait qu'une formalitรฉ. Madisyn a rรฉpondu par un hochement de tรชte poli, son attitude รฉtant calme et dรฉtachรฉe. Waylon a continuรฉ ร  bavarder au tรฉlรฉphone avec Madisyn jusqu'ร  ce que Glenn intervienne, lui rappelant de ne pas priver Madisyn de son repas. Mรชme si son pรจre lui a raccrochรฉ au nez, Waylon รฉtait visiblement ravi, se retournant vers Andrew avec un sourire. ยซ C'est ma petite sล“ur perdue de vue depuis longtemps. N'est-elle pas adorable?Il faut que je finisse vite et que j'aille la retrouver. ยป Il lui a ensuite lancรฉ une invitation dรฉcontractรฉe. ยซ Andrew, tu veux venir avec moi?ยป Il savait qu'Andrew รฉvitait gรฉnรฉralement de se rendre ร  la rรฉsidence de la famille Johns en raison de l'affection manifeste de Kristine. Il y avait eu un ancien arrangement concernant un mariage potentiel entre la famille Johns et la famille Klein, mais il s'agissait simplement d'un accord verbal conclu par les aรฎnรฉs. Les Klein, une famille importante de la ville d'Ansport, รฉtaient bien supรฉrieure en statut et en influence aux Johns de Gemond, et Kristine semblait encore plus dรฉlirante lorsqu'elle s'accrochait ร  l'idรฉe d'รฉpouser Andrew. Andrew, le regard intense et distant, lui a rรฉpondu nonchalamment : ยซ Bien sรปr, รงa fait un moment que je n'ai pas vu tes parents. ยป Waylon a clignรฉ des yeux, dรฉcontenancรฉ par l'acceptation inattendue d'Andrew. ร‰tait-il vraiment sรฉrieux ? Chapitre 5 La sotte arrogante ร€ la fin du repas, tous les membres de la famille Johns se sont dirigรฉs vers leur vaste manoir, qui รฉclipsait la villa plus simple de la famille Chapman, tant par son ampleur que par sa splendeur. La propriรฉtรฉ dรฉgageait une รฉlรฉgance royale, ร  l'image d'un chรขteau par sa grandeur. Elaine a impatiemment escortรฉ Madisyn ร  travers les vastes couloirs jusqu'ร  une chambre spรฉcialement prรฉparรฉe. La chambre รฉtait une vรฉritable vision de la grรขce fรฉminine, dรฉcorรฉe de teintes dรฉlicates et d'ornements bien pensรฉs, qui rendaient Madisyn muette ร  cause de son ambiance trop fรฉminine. Au milieu de cette retraite enchanteresse, Elaine a regardรฉ Madisyn avec des yeux pleins d'attente et lui a demandรฉ doucement : ยซ Madisyn, est-ce que c'est ร  ton goรปt?ยป ยซ Oui, j'adore ยป, a rรฉpondu Madisyn, la voix teintรฉe d'un soupรงon d'impuissance. Elaine รฉtait ravie et lui a serrรฉ la main avec douceur. ยซ C'est trรจs agrรฉable! Si tu as besoin de quoi que ce soit, tu n'as qu'ร  me le dire ยป, a-t-elle dit, pรฉtillante de joie. ยซ Maintenant, laisse-moi te montrer la garde-robe que ton pรจre et moi avons choisie pour toi! ยป Elaine a ouvert les portes de l'armoire d'un geste majestueux. Les yeux de Madisyn se sont รฉcarquillรฉs devant la multitude de robes exquises et opulentes qui scintillaient sous l'รฉclairage tamisรฉ. ยซ Ce n'est que le dรฉbut. Il y en a d'autres qui arriveront demain ยป, a annoncรฉ Elaine. ยซ Merci, maman, mais n'est-ce pas un peu trop?ยป, a demandรฉ Madisyn. Elaine a รฉclatรฉ de rire, รฉcartant l'inquiรฉtude. ยซ Oh, jamais! Une fille n'a jamais trop de robes. Cet aprรจs-midi, nous allons faire du shopping pour que tu puisses ajouter tout ce qui te plaira! ยป, a-t-elle dรฉclarรฉ avec un sourire gรฉnรฉreux. Madisyn, bien que dรฉpassรฉe, a ressenti une profonde chaleur dans les gestes qui l'entouraient. Elaine avait l'intention d'attendre quelques jours avant de changer le nom de Madisyn. Mais celle-ci, sentant l'amour sincรจre d'Elaine et de Glenn, ne voyait aucune raison d'attendre. L'aprรจs-midi mรชme, ils se sont rendus ร  la mairie locale, oรน Madisyn a officiellement adoptรฉ le nom de famille Johns, devenant Madisyn Johns. Une fois les formalitรฉs lรฉgales accomplies, Elaine a serrรฉ la main de Madisyn, la voix pleine d'excitation. ยซ Chรฉrie, allons faire du shopping et voyons ce qui attire ton attention. ยป Glenn les a observรฉes d'un regard tendre, avec du regret dans le ton. ยซ Amusez-vous bien toutes les deux. J'ai du travail cet aprรจs-midi et je ne peux pas vous accompagner. Voilร  dix millions, faites-vous plaisir, peu importe ce que vous trouverez. ยป S'adaptant au style de vie fastueux de ses parents, Madisyn a remerciรฉ Glenn et a pris la gรฉnรฉreuse somme. Il lui a tapotรฉ la tรชte avec amour, ses yeux dรฉbordant d'affection paternelle. Le Mall de Moonshine รฉtait le centre commercial de luxe le mieux classรฉ de Gemond. Elaine a conduit Madisyn ร  la boutique chic de Chanel, les yeux brillants d'excitation alors qu'elle imaginait sa fille dans chaque piรจce. Rapidement, elle a choisi une collection de vรชtements. ยซ Chรฉrie, essaie-les. S'ils te conviennent, nous les prendrons tous. ยป Madisyn, qui se sentait un peu dรฉpassรฉe, a acquiescรฉ et a rassemblรฉ les vรชtements. Alors qu'elle se dirigeait vers la cabine d'essayage, elle a remarquรฉ que Phyllis et Jenna s'approchaient. Jenna, manifestement de mauvaise humeur, a รฉtรฉ amenรฉe par Phyllis pour se livrer ร  une thรฉrapie de shopping. Sa surprise de voir Madisyn รฉtait รฉvidente. ยซ Madisyn! ยป, s'est-elle exclamรฉe, sa voix rรฉsonnant d'incrรฉdulitรฉ. Elaine, qui s'est retournรฉe ร  la voix, a reconnu le couple instantanรฉment. Elle s'est radoucie, connaissant le rรดle important de la famille Chapman dans l'รฉducation de Madisyn. Pour rendre la pareille, Glenn avait dรฉjร  acceptรฉ de travailler avec l'entreprise de la famille Chapman, et il รฉtait retournรฉ ร  l'entreprise un peu plus tรดt pour rencontrer Jeffry et discuter de la coopรฉration. Alors qu'Elaine prรฉparait un accueil chaleureux, prรฉvoyant mรชme de payer les courses de Phyllis et de Jenna en signe de bonne volontรฉ, le ton de cette derniรจre a changรฉ brusquement. ยซ Madisyn, que fais-tu ici?Nous sommes dans une boutique Chanel. Est-ce que tu peux te permettre quoi que ce soit?ยป Phyllis a regardรฉ attentivement Madisyn, son visage s'assombrissant au fur et ร  mesure qu'elle se souvenait de la scรจne ร  laquelle elle avait assistรฉ ร  l'Hรดtel d'Alpenglow plus tรดt dans la journรฉe. ยซ Madisyn, pourquoi tu n'es pas avec tes parents pauvres?Tu achรจtes des produits de luxe ici, oรน as-tu trouvรฉ cet argent?ยป Madisyn, le visage figรฉ dans un masque de dรฉtachement glacial, a rรฉpondu sans la moindre chaleur : ยซ Mes affaires ne vous regardent plus. ยป L'opinion de Madisyn sur la famille Chapman a pris forme ร  ce moment-lร , reflรฉtant des annรฉes de loyautรฉ non rรฉciproque. Elle avait รฉlevรฉ leur modeste entreprise au rang de centrale cotรฉe en bourse, pensant qu'elle avait remboursรฉ la dette de gratitude pour l'avoir รฉlevรฉe. Pourtant, les Chapman n'รฉtaient pas conscients de son aide. L'expression d'Elaine est devenue sรฉvรจre alors qu'elle absorbait la duretรฉ des mots de Phyllis. La famille qu'elle avait imaginรฉe comme faisant partie du passรฉ de Madisyn รฉtait loin de la rรฉalitรฉ qui se prรฉsentait ร  elle. Ils traitaient Madisyn non pas avec une attention familiale, mais avec une franche hostilitรฉ. ยซ Excusez-moi, j'ai cru comprendre que cette jeune femme รฉtait autrefois une fille pour vous, mais pourquoi la traitez-vous ainsi maintenant?ยป, est intervenue Elaine, incapable de retenir sa consternation. Avec un public maintenant prรฉsent, Phyllis a expirรฉ profondรฉment, son visage รฉtant un masque de rรฉsignation douloureuse. ยซ En effet, elle รฉtait une fille pour moi autrefois. Mais je dois vous avertir, madame, de ne pas vous laisser abuser par sa faรงade. Elle a profรฉrรฉ de nombreux mensonges et a mรชme volรฉ de l'argent ร  notre famille. C'est une honte! ยป Elle a poursuivi, la voix chargรฉe d'une feinte dรฉtresse : ยซ Ma dรฉception a รฉtรฉ profonde et je n'ai eu d'autre choix que de l'รฉloigner de notre famille, malgrรฉ les annรฉes que nous avons passรฉes ร  l'รฉlever. ยป Phyllis รฉtait dรฉterminรฉe ร  dรฉpeindre Madisyn sous le pire jour possible, en s'assurant qu'aucune dame fortunรฉe ne penserait du bien de Madisyn, de peur que le bruit ne se rรฉpande qu'elle a รฉtรฉ trop sรฉvรจre avec cette fausse fille. Pour rendre ses paroles plus convaincantes, elle s'est mรชme tamponnรฉ les yeux, simulant des larmes pour souligner son prรฉtendu dรฉsespoir. Phyllis รฉtait en train de la discrรฉditer devant sa propre mรจre. L'expression de Madisyn s'est durcie, une รฉtincelle dangereuse s'allumant dans son regard lorsqu... ...... ==== Madisyn a dรฉcouvert avec stupeur qu'elle n'รฉtait pas l'enfant biologique de ses parents. ร€ cause des manigances de la vraie fille, elle a รฉtรฉ mise ร  la porte et est devenue la risรฉe de tous. Alors qu'on la croyait issue d'une famille de paysans, Madisyn a dรฉcouvert que son vrai pรจre รฉtait l'homme le plus riche de la ville et que ses frรจres รฉtaient des personnalitรฉs renommรฉes dans leur domaine respectif. Ils la couvraient d'amour, avant d'apprendre que Madisyn avait sa propre entreprise florissante... Que se passe-t-il ensuite? Le nombre de chapitres affichรฉs est limitรฉ. Appuyez sur le bouton ci-dessous pour installer notre application et lire les chapitres suivants. 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Yes 2024-10-03 21:22 active 1575 0 ๐Ÿ˜Read the next chapters๐Ÿ‘‰ 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 herโ€”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 wonโ€™t be a concubine. Sheโ€™ll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, sheโ€™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 donโ€™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 wifeโ€™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 didnโ€™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, "Sheโ€™s unlike any woman Iโ€™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, sheโ€™s talking to my mother. Sheโ€™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 estateโ€™s affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnโ€™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, sheโ€™s different from any woman you know. Sheโ€™s a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldnโ€™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-" "Thatโ€™s them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. Sheโ€™s straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you wonโ€™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, "Itโ€™s fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iโ€™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. โ€œWhy put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, youโ€™ll be in separate wings. She wonโ€™t compete with you for control of the household. She doesnโ€™t care about those things.โ€ โ€œDo you really think Iโ€™m attached to managing this household?โ€ Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrettโ€™s mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligationsโ€”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. โ€œEnough, I wonโ€™t argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,โ€ said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. โ€œMy lady, my lord was too much!โ€ said Lulu, Carissaโ€™s maid, wiping her tears away. โ€œDonโ€™t call him that!โ€ Carissa gave her a stern look. โ€œWe never consummated the marriage. Heโ€™s not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.โ€ โ€œWhy the dowry list?โ€ Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. โ€œSilly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?โ€ Lulu held her forehead and gasped. โ€œBut your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.โ€ Tears finally welled up in Carissaโ€™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. Youโ€™re the only child I have left.โ€ 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. Carissaโ€™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 grandmotherโ€™s and motherโ€™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 familyโ€™s former glory seemed impossibleโ€”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 Carissaโ€™s mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, youโ€™ll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, Iโ€™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. Carissaโ€™s eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my familyโ€™s achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, Iโ€™ll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissaโ€™s expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think Iโ€™m that silly? If I manage to reach the king, Iโ€™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!" "Itโ€™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, letโ€™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. Barrettโ€™s father, Jonathan, didnโ€™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 Rebeccaโ€™s room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "Youโ€™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. Youโ€™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 hadnโ€™t expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. Sheโ€™s rather rough around the edges and doesnโ€™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, itโ€™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. Isnโ€™t that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But itโ€™s quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The kingโ€™s edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, sheโ€™s a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials canโ€™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. Rebeccaโ€™s expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, youโ€™ve always been sensible. Now that youโ€™ve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Auroraโ€™s contributions in this battle were greater than Barrettโ€™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." Carissaโ€™s tone remained chilly as she said, "If theyโ€™re husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Arenโ€™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. Iโ€™ll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "Iโ€™m still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how youโ€™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 Rebeccaโ€™s medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebeccaโ€™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 familyโ€™s business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didnโ€™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, "Thatโ€™s settled, then. Iโ€™ll hand over the accounts tomorrow and wonโ€™t be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, youโ€™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." Carissaโ€™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. Carissaโ€™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 isnโ€™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 utterlyโ€ฆ unsensible of her. "Take off that dress youโ€™re wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serenaโ€™s cheeks flushed with anger. "I didnโ€™t beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you donโ€™t want me to have it." "Fine. And donโ€™t forget the jewelry youโ€™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 thereโ€™s nothing else, Iโ€™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! โ€œSheโ€™ll come around. She doesnโ€™t have any other choice,โ€ 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 wasnโ€™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, Carissaโ€™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 motherโ€”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 estateโ€™s family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parentsโ€™ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. โ€œDad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. Itโ€™s not that I donโ€™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.โ€ 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, โ€œMy lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks youโ€™re here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didnโ€™t eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?โ€ โ€œIโ€™m not hungry.โ€ The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. โ€œPlease donโ€™t be so hard on yourself. Itโ€™s not worth getting sick over. Why donโ€™t we just let it go? After all, youโ€™re still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, sheโ€™ll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?โ€ Lulu pleaded. Carissaโ€™s gaze was cold. โ€œLulu, if youโ€™re going to talk like that, donโ€™t speak at all.โ€ 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 Carissaโ€™s arrival to the king three times. โ€œYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,โ€ he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. โ€œI canโ€™t see her. The edict has been issued, and I canโ€™t take it back. Tell her to go home.โ€ โ€œThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheโ€™s been standing there for over an hour without moving.โ€ Salvador felt a pang of guilt. โ€œBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnโ€™t want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.โ€ โ€œIf we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivanโ€™s contributions surpass all others,โ€ 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 Sullivanโ€™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. โ€œAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iโ€™ll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,โ€ said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. โ€œAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!โ€ 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 Carissaโ€™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/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u Random Reading https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ 154 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 shgjfh.com DCO https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459610380_1042624133927545_3798084507760860138_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=puzJ4bQRjvYQ7kNvgGjAJav&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AKND0gqgHQOmqfRNTyMXY7_&oh=00_AYAnpFCVtH4PfslfGZt--omeU55nJOQDPQUugZ5c_1opsg&oe=6704FED3 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Random Reading 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 20:16 active 1574 0 ๐Ÿ”žAttention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐Ÿ‘‰ Debra gasped and opened her eyes. Everything in front of her was strikingly familiar. This place was Juan and her home. They had been married for a month, but Juan had rarely visited her. She remembered that Juan was attending a land auction, and due to the occasion, he had to bring her along. But this was all five years ago. 'How could it be? ' she thought, deeply confused, 'Am I reborn?' " Mr. Nichols has never stayed overnight before. You should seize this opportunity." a maidโ€™s voice brought Debra back to reality. She picked out a white gown, hesitating. "How about this one, Madam?" Looking at it, Debra gave a self-deprecating smile. It was well known that Juan favored Shelia. Shelia liked white dresses. In the past, she often dressed like Shelia to please Juan. For this auction, Juan didn't inform her of the change in companion and brought Shelia instead, making her look ridiculous in a white dress similar to Shelia's. The thought of the past made her laugh. "No, I'll wear that one," she said, picking up a red dress. Debra never liked plain clothes. Shelia was just a poor college student. Debra felt that she must have lost her mind to dress like that for a man. "But Mr. Nichols likes white dresses," the maid said hesitantly. Debra simply ignored her hints. "I'll wear this one," she said. "Throw away all those white dresses. I don't like them." The maid sighed and complied. Debra looked at herself in the mirror, still vibrant and beautiful. But in a few years, she would be worn down by Juan's torment. Before that happened, she would end it all. In the evening, Debra appeared in a burgundy dress that accentuated her curves. Her delicate makeup, curls, and a mole under her eye made her mesmerizing. She looked like a painting, untouchable. Not far away, a man in a white shirt and black leather combat boots saw her. Marion Houston asked, "Who is she?" "You don't know her? She's Debra, the daughter of the Frazier family and Juan's wife," said his friend, Randy Osborne. "I just saw Juan entering with another woman. Maybe we'll witness a showdown between the mistress and the wife. It will be fun." LEARN_MORE https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 Random Reading https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ 154 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn More 0 thebvhwysgng.com DCO https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13914&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-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461326695_1040510124435025_5317424030811283259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=riJXv4LfsgwQ7kNvgE7jjBh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A6kJCeLz1MhdORnQ5XgxzG9&oh=00_AYAraM6uy3J5UiFxstsr6QT9f3852_qAVlA9cf_TjNJ_Ug&oe=6704FD33 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Random Reading 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 19:58 active 1573 0 Echoes of a Tender Heart โœจAfter Sandra Glock graduated from high school, her grandfather reached out to her mother, Kelly Youth, who had remarried. Kelly then brought Sandra to live with the Ruths in Kagos. Over time, Sandra grew increasingly heartbroken by her mother's repeated disappointments. However, James Lande, a senior who fell in love with Sandra at first sight, always stood by her side. He protected, cherished, and unconditionally trusted her. In the end, his unwavering care helped Sandra find true love. LEARN_MORE https://fbpx.16447.com/share/middle/derenm4ovmbkn2 Kalos TV 19 https://www.facebook.com/61558987317897/ 800 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn more 0 fbpx.16447.com VIDEO https://fbpx.16447.com/share/middle/derenm4ovmbkn2zdo2btdn2r?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120212135337610498&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}} 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461504009_325645763939233_3566910300199358676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J58yhbj4XXcQ7kNvgFUc4Sj&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ABOad53feKJIhZZvmWl6-MG&oh=00_AYBd1-eoNUYEsgumtSfqq9CYAez4BnwpoalXSTsCCoEkhQ&oe=67052204 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Kalos TV 19 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 19:57 active 1573 0 โœจ ๐‘ท๐’Š๐’•๐’„๐’‰๐’†๐’” ๐‘ฉ๐’† ๐‘ช๐’“๐’‚๐’›๐’š G!veaway โœจ SLOW BURN EDITION โ€ โšพ๐Ÿ€โšพ๐Ÿ€โšพ๐Ÿ€โšพ๐Ÿ€โšพ โ€ The #sportsromance giveaways continue today! My FOURTH BOOK is out this week and I'm celebrating by doing four giveaways with a few bookish friends. ๐Ÿ˜ โ€ Today, you could win signed paperback copies of: โ€ ๐‘ท๐’Š๐’•๐’„๐’‰๐’†๐’” ๐‘ฉ๐’† ๐‘ช๐’“๐’‚๐’›๐’š by Kelly Reynolds ๐‘ถ๐’–๐’• ๐’๐’‡ ๐‘ฉ๐’๐’–๐’๐’…๐’” by Kristin Lee โ€ ๐‡๐จ๐ฐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐ž๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ: โžก๏ธ Follow @authorkellyrey and @kristinleewritesromance โžก๏ธ Like and save this post โžก๏ธ Tag a bookish bestie (or two, or five!) โžก๏ธ Tell us your favorite sports team (real or fictional) โ€ G!veaway ends on ๐Ž๐œ๐ญ๐จ๐›๐ž๐ซ ๐Ÿ•๐ญ๐ก ๐š๐ญ ๐Ÿ๐Ÿ:๐Ÿ“๐Ÿ— ๐ฉ.๐ฆ. ๐„๐’๐“ and is in no way affiliated with Instagram. U.S. only, Ages 18+ โ€ #giveaway #newrelease #bookish #bookgiveaway #baseballromance #sportsromance #bookstagram #bookgiveaway #romancegiveaway #goldenretrieverhero #grumpysunshine #grumpysunshineromance #agegapromance #plussizeromance #booktok #sportsromance #romancebooks #agegap #romancereader #bibliophile #bookworm #basketballromance #slowburn #slowburnromance VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE http://instagram.com/authorkellyrey authorkellyrey https://www.instagram.com/_u/authorkellyrey 0 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Visit Instagram profile 0 instagram.com IMAGE http://instagram.com/authorkellyrey 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/345552789_790360802446693_5975748069738807610_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=01e7c5&_nc_ohc=AHYsisHLO5EQ7kNvgFieMJw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDPEAT0zrnmYZYvMOfEQDaQIdP2hNMTy7yjpa9VjU65Kg&oe=6704F6E3 IG_ADS_IDENTITY 1 0 0 authorkellyrey 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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Yes 2024-10-03 19:58 active 1573 0 A Spooky, Sweet & Spicy Romcom "I never knew I could love this many, this much."๐Ÿ˜ DOWNLOAD https://a.co/d/j1YuGT2 Kelly Finley Books https://www.facebook.com/KellyFinleyBooks/ 853 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Download 0 a.co DCO I love Halloween so much itโ€™s scary. After a heartbreaking year, I need some candy, role-play, and wicked thrills. So why not turn one spell-binding night into a week of forbidden fun? Fortunately for me, my husband thirsts for my spooktacular plans. So do our partners, our paramours, our sixsome of love and laughs. Weโ€™re known for our holidays, and with eleven of our friends coming too โ€” this one is sure to have lots of bumps in the night. But just how far will we go to thrill each other? Most think I, little Eily Van de May, am too cute to spook, but Iโ€™ve found a secret villain whoโ€™ll help me deliver some scream-worthy fun. Thereโ€™s only one freaky problem. Our bewitching fantasies might have conjured a haintโ€”a spooky spirit who wants to join the naughty nights. Was this the kind of boneyard I planned? From best-selling author Kelly Finley, comes a steamy romcom of forced proximity and found family, in this interconnected standalone. Featuring the six MCs and their friends you canโ€™t get enough of, this friends-to-lovers romance will trick your treats. https://a.co/d/j1YuGT2 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461931614_545626507827607_3197889931916563262_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6HyTP44pw-IQ7kNvgHvv0Tg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AGPtfNmYEvBUZIe2Hfom1Lr&oh=00_AYAdorbR2DwPmfAJ0s-_lbO3TCyPFls8pp6RkWF0AuWKjg&oe=67051635 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Kelly Finley Books 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 19:59 active 1573 0 All-On-4โ„ข Dental Implants Transform your life with Dental Implants! Now offering Full Mouth Dental Implants for $9,990 Per Arch. This offer includes Extractions, Implants, Bone Grafting, Temporary & Final Teeth. Offer Expires 10/31/2024 LEARN_MORE https://www.newlifeimplantcenter.com/, https://www New Life Implant Center https://www.facebook.com/61555883603224/ 345 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn more 0 www.newlifesmile.com VIDEO $9,990 Per Arch - Expires 10/31/2024 https://www.newlifeimplantcenter.com/, https://www.newlifesmilecenter.com/, https://www.newsmilearizona.com/ 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461767873_549221234154114_2231436996118747262_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=sqZMFXazsVgQ7kNvgFcMW5U&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AdbwqdbsKcAmTiz26Frc85i&oh=00_AYDWeI07xFL-9vcTkOADQKucqSxZaiVhhyMDWPrvEZkAPw&oe=67052701 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 New Life Implant Center 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 20:15 active 1574 0 ๐ŸŽ Claim yours free now! ๐ŸŽ‰ Claim Your Free Offer Now! Donโ€™t waitโ€”this exclusive, limited-time deal is almost gone. Donโ€™t miss the excitementโ€”grab yours before itโ€™s too late! LEARN_MORE https://www.secret-sweeps.com/ Secret Sweeps https://www.facebook.com/61558503526865/ 428 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn more 0 secret-sweeps.com IMAGE Get yours before it's gone! https://www.secret-sweeps.com/ 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458411971_902310698378310_1153312792818305052_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MFsre8u3BXYQ7kNvgEmczuY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ABlg_bJgvIGofQZj_-sjSEZ&oh=00_AYDR0lLYytwxzrk4Auq9X7C9RSX8_yOtBVQ5ZAm3RxIbxQ&oe=67051A21 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Secret Sweeps 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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No 2024-10-03 20:21 active 1574 0 Read next chapter๐Ÿ‘‰ โ€œPresident, look at your ex-wifeโ€™s social media platform!โ€ "Leaving the capital has nothing to do with me!" "In the photo, she is holding a child who looks very similar to you. Doesn't it matter?" He immediately dropped the document and rushed out! ============= Chapter 1 Ex-girlfriend Returns Raegan Hayes was a little absent-minded at the moment. All she could think of since this afternoon was the doctor's words. "Congratulations! You are going to be a mom." Suddenly, Mitchel Dixon pinched her arm. His low voice came the next second. "Come back to earth. What are you thinking about?" Mitchel was her husband. They had been married secretly for two years. He was her superior at work, the president of the Dixon Group. Everything had happened so fast. She was newly employed in the company when they unexpectedly got married. At that time, Mitchel's grandfather fell seriously ill. It was then he proposed a fake marriage just to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. They signed a prenup, agreeing to hide their marriage from the public. Their union could be terminated at any time. It was an unconventional thing to do. However, Raegan only considered herself lucky at that time. Never in a million years did she think she would ever get married to the man she had a crush on for eight years. She delightfully agreed. After their marriage, Mitchel was very busy. He spent most of his time working. Raegan wished she could spend more time with him at home. However, she was rest assured because there hadn't been any rumors or scandals about him with women in the past two years. Except for his mild indifference, Mitchel was a perfect husband. Raegan had mixed feelings as she stared at the medical report. In the end, she decided to tell Mitchel this news. She also wanted to tell him that she hadn't learned about him for the first time two years ago and that she had been crushing on him for many years before then. Just then, Mitchelโ€™s phone rang. He went to the balcony and answered the phone. Raegan checked the time and found that it was already midnight. She felt a little uneasy. Who would call Mitchel at this hour? Mitchel spent a few minutes on the balcony. Thereafter, he returned and changed into formal attire. His handsome face which had a clear outline made him look dignified. He was something to see now. "Don't wait up for me. Good night," he said finally. What? He was on his way out? At this hour? Raegan's grip on the report tightened as she stared at him in disappointment. Unconsciously, she withdrew slightly. After thinking for a while, she blurted out, "It's already so late." Mitchel's fingers froze on his tie. With a faint smile, he pinched her earlobe and said, "Be good, okay? There's something I have to do. Don't wait up." With that, he headed for the door. "Mitchel." Raegan quickly ran and caught up with him. Mitchel turned around and looked at her seriously. "What's the matter?" There was a tinge of coldness to his voice. An icy cloud hung over them as they stared at each other. A little distressed, Raegan asked in a low voice, "I would like to visit my grandma tomorrow. Can you accompany me there?" Her grandmother always wanted to see her. As a result, Raegan wanted to take Mitchel there to assure her grandma they were happy. "Let's talk about it tomorrow, okay?" Without agreeing or declining, Mitchel left in a hurry. Several thoughts were threading Raegan's mind. She couldn't sleep a wink. After tossing and turning for a long time, she went to the kitchen and made herself a warm glass of milk. A few notifications from some online blogs came into her phone. However, she wasn't interested in them. She was about to swipe them away when one of them caught her attention. The familiar name made her click on it. The news read, "Famous designer, Lauren Murray was spotted at the airport with her mysterious boyfriend earlier today." Lauren was wearing a bucket hat. The man's figure was vague, but the outline of his body was enough to show that he was dashing. Raegan zoomed in on the picture. The next second, her heart dropped. Mitchel was the man in the picture! So, he canceled the afternoon meeting just to go pick up his ex-girlfriend from the airport? This realization settled like a boulder in Raegan's gut, rendering her flustered. Her hands trembled. Subconsciously, she dialed Mitchel's number. The dial tone brought her back to her senses. Just as she was about to hang up, the line connected, and a voice came from the other end. "Hello!" It was a particularly gentle woman's voice. Raegan froze for a second and then threw the phone away. She suddenly felt sick in her stomach. Covering her mouth, she ran into the bathroom and threw up in the toilet bowl. The next morning, Raegan went to work on time. Mitchel had tried to get her to stop working after they got married. Stubbornly, she insisted on making her own money. Mitchel didn't kick against her decision, but he asked her to work as his assistant, helping him with the daily chores. The head assistant, Matteo Jenkins was left to take care of the major affairs Mitchel had. Matteo was the only Dixon Group employee who knew about their marriage. Since inception, only male assistants were hired for the president's office. Reagan was the first and only female. Her employment broke the protocol. As a result, other workers couldn't help but wonder if she was involved with Mitchel. It took a while before they realized that Mitchel never gave Raegan special treatment. Strangely, this made them despise her even more. After all, no one would last long in anything while taking advantage of their looks. At this time, one of Raegan's colleagues handed her a document and ordered her to take it to Mitchel's office. Mitchel didn't return home last night. Raegan was so worried that she didn't sleep at all. All she kept thinking about was the woman who answered his phone when she called. What was her relationship with Mitchel? Raegan already knew the answer to that, but she was still in denial. It was difficult for her to come to terms with that fact. Raegan tried to remain calm now. She reasoned that no matter what happened, she deserved a result that would be rewarding for all the years she spent loving Mitchel. This couldn't be all for nothing, right? She pressed the elevator button calmly and went up to the president's office. Before she walked out of the elevator, she smoothed her hair to make sure she looked good. She had arrived at the office, only to see that the door was ajar. A man's voice came. She halted instantly. "Come on, man! Do you have any feelings for Raegan or not?" The voice belonged to Luis Stevens, a childhood friend of Mitchel's. "What do you mean exactly?" Mitchel asked in a cold voice. "You know exactly what I mean!" Luis clicked his tongue impatiently and added, "I think Raegan is a good girl. Isn't she your type?" "Do you want me to hand her over to you?" Mitchel asked carelessly. "You know what, forget it!" The scornful laughter of Luis sounded particularly harsh in Raegan's ears. They were talking about her as if she were an object. Raegan took a deep breath and tightened her grip on the document. Soon, Luis's voice was heard again. "By the way, I saw the gossip news about Lauren's mysterious boyfriend this morning. That was you, right?" "Yes." "Well, well, well! That woman still has you wrapped around her little finger. You always want to please her." Luis sighed and continued to tease Mitchel. "As the old saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Tell me, did you two..." Their conversation was like a thunder exploding over Raegan's head. Her face turned pale and her body was as cold as ice. The woman was indeed Lauren! Absence made the heart grow fonder! Every word drove a knife into her heart. Several whispering voices filled her head at this time. She suddenly felt light-headed. Her vision became blurry. She held the wall and took a step backward. Suddenly, the door was opened from inside. "Raegan?" Chapter 2 One-sided Love Luis was the one who opened the door. It appeared he was on his way out. Raegan balled her hands, turned to him, and nodded. "Hey, Mr. Stevens!" Without waiting for him to respond to her greeting, she walked past him and entered the office with the document. Mitchel was seated behind a large luxurious desk. In an expensive suit and matching tie, he looked particularly handsome. Raegan noticed it wasn't the same suit he had on when he left home last night. How did he get changed? With her eyes lowered, she swallowed that question and said instead, "Mr. Dixon, this is from the Marketing Department. Please sign it." Mitchel was expressionless as he signed the document at a glance. Raegan walked out the door as soon as he handed the document back to her. Luis was still standing at the threshold. It wasn't until she went out of sight that Luis turned to Mitchel and said in a hushed tone, "Do you think she heard us?" Mitchel's appealing eyes were expressionless at the moment. Obviously, he wasn't paying attention to what Luis was saying. To Mitchel, Raegan had always been docile and never felt jealous of anyone. Her strict obedience was all Mitchel demanded from her in exchange for treating her well. In the elevator. Raegan held her breath just to hold back her tears. Unfortunately, it didn't work. She had thought two years would be enough for Mitchel to realize how much she loved him and reciprocate her love. Now, it turned out that was just a pipe dream. She realized she would always play second fiddle to Lauren, Mitchel's true love. Reagan wiped her tears when the elevator halted. Save for her pale face, she looked normal when the doors opened. She dragged herself to the break room, intending to make herself a cup of tea. Several employees were chatting inside. "Guys, have you heard? Lauren Murray is back." "And who is that?" "Oh, my! You don't know her? Lauren is the heiress of the Murray Group as well as a world-class designer. Most importantly, she's the only girlfriend Mr. Dixon has ever shown off in public. She's his first love!" "Why is her return such a big deal? Isn't it rumored that there is something between Mr. Dixon and Raegan?" "Raegan? She's nothing to Mr. Dixon. Mr. Dixon never admitted that he was dating her. And that is no surprise to me. After all, look at her. She's not even that beautiful. Yet, she behaves as if she's already Mrs. Dixon. What a fool!" Standing at the door, Raegan smiled with self-mockery as she listened to them. It turned out everyone else saw the truth except her. The love was one-sided. "Ha-ha, have you finally woken up from your wild dream, Raegan?" A voice of mockery suddenly came from behind. Raegan turned around to see Tessa Lloyd, Mitchel's cousin, who had always despised her. Tessa must have also heard the employees gossiping. The last thing Raegan wanted to do now was argue with Tessa in the company. She turned to leave, but Tessa blocked her way. With a cup of coffee in her hand, Tessa uttered sarcastically, "Lauren is back now. Do you think Mitchel will still give you any attention?" Raegan said nothing to that. Seconds later, Tessa continued the ridicule. "Maybe itโ€™s time for you to seek out another man, you pathetic fool." Raegan clenched her fists and said coldly, "Ms. Lloyd, if you are interested in that kind of thing, feel free to pursue it yourself." "You..." Raegan's retort made Tessa's face change. The next second, Tessa raised her hand and emptied the cup of coffee on Raegan. Raegan didn't think for a second that Tessa would do something so crazy. She held up her arms just to block the liquid from her face. In no time, the coffee drenched her clothes. Raegan frowned. "What did you do that for? Are you out of your mind?" It was lunch break and many employees were free to watch the drama. Tessa was even more complacent when she saw growing onlookers. She put on a mean-girl look as she said, "What makes you so smug every day, huh? Do you seriously think that others don't know you are just an orphan? The nerve of..." Tessa was silenced by Raeganโ€™s shove. Her jaw dropped to the floor. She had never expected that Raegan, who was so quiet and timid, would shove her. Tessa stuttered, "You... You pushed me? How dare you!" Raegan eyed her and replied, "Yes, I did! It seems you need to be taught simple politeness." Indeed, she lost her parents when she was a child. But that didn't mean she would allow someone to walk over her for it. Wrinkles appeared on Tessa's face as she frowned in anger. As Mitchel's cousin, she was used to being fawned over and respected. This was the first time she had been treated like this. Tessa charged at Raegan like a raging bull, poised to retaliate. This time, Raegan was fully prepared for what was coming. She grabbed Tessa's wrist so that the latter couldn't move another inch. Tessa was shorter than Raegan. As a result, she struggled like an octopus that had one of its tentacles stuck in a fishing trap. Tessa cursed angrily, "How dare you put your hands on me? Who do you think you are?" These harsh words attracted more people to the break room. "That's enough!" Out of the blue, a baritone came from behind. Mitchel had left his office and ran into this hullabaloo. The entire room fell silent. "Mitchel?" Tessa's blood ran cold at the sight of Mitchel. She had always been scared of him. Her mother also warned her against provoking him. But when she remembered that Raegan humiliated her, she put on a pitiful expression and sobbed. "Mitchel, she bullied me." The sunlight from outside fell on Mitchel's handsome face. Raegan felt so grieved all of a sudden, and lowered her head to look at her clothes which were soaked with coffee. Their gaze met in the air. With a deep frown, Mitchel looked at Raegan and said, "Raegan, have you forgotten the rules of the company?" His ruthlessness made Raegan's breathing cease. She couldn't believe her ears. No one dared to make a sound at this moment. Raegan just stood straight there with her slender figure. When she got employed here, Mitchel had told her that the Dixon Group wasn't a place for her to mess around and that he would not tolerate her making any mistakes. Raegan could understand why he took this stand. However, at this moment, she was desperate to know whether Mitchel had heard those hard words Tessa scolded her or he was just pretending not to have heard because he agreed to those words. Was she truly insignificant to him? Scared to death by Mitchel's rage, the crowd soon dispersed. A few employees were bold enough to peep from a distance, unwilling to miss the good show. Mitchel's cold eyes made Raegan shiver from head to toe. Raegan pinched her palm to suppress her emotions as she looked at Tessa. "I'm sorry, Ms. Lloyd. As an employee of the Dixon Group, it was wrong of me to have offended you." Eyeing Raegan, Tessa raised her chin complacently. "Humph! Don't think you'll be let off the hook just by making a simple apology. I don't buy..." "The offence has nothing to do with the company. Personally, I refuse to apologize to you. Now, if you'd excuse me," Raegan chimed in. She then walked past Mitchel without sparing him another look. "You..." Tessa's face turned blue after hearing what Raegan said. Never in her years of being alive had she been so humiliated. She was always the bully, not the victim! The humiliation was so much that scolding Raegan wouldn't appease her anger. Pointing in Raegan's direction, Tessa shouted, "Mitchel, did you hear what that woman just said? She humiliated me, yet she's still so arrogant. Call her back. I have to teach her some manners!" Mitchel, staring at Raegan's thin back, had an ambiguous expression at this moment. "Enough!" he said coldly, raising his hand. As someone who lived and breathed drama and cruelty, Tessa didn't think Mitchel was partial to Raegan just now. She assumed that Mitchel didn't care about Raegan at all. Tessa gritted her teeth and said viciously, "Next time, I'll get someone to teach her a lesson." "Tessa!" Mitchel's tone and squint made it a reproof. Tessa trembled at once. With a somber face, Mitchel said, "I'll only say it once. Forget about what happened here today. Leave Raegan alone." The aura he exuded made her tongue go dry. All the vicious ideas she had in store against Raegan disappeared in an instant. She stammered, "Ok... Okay, got it..." Mitchel cast a cold glance at her and spoke to Matteo. "Irrelevant people wouldn't be allowed in here from today onwards." Without catching the drift, Tessa flattered Mitchel. "Nice call. This is a top company. Not everyone gains access in here." Matteo nodded to Mitchel and then walked over to Tessa. He gestured to the exit. "Ms. Lloyd, this way, please." It wasn't until this moment that Tessa realized that she was the irrelevant person Mitchel just mentioned. She tried to speak to him, but Matteo blocked her way. The security guards then escorted her out. They showed her no mercy. Her struggle was useless. Meanwhile, Raegan got changed when she returned to her office. Her heart was filled with sadness as she thought of how Mitchel looked at her minutes ago. Closing hour soon rolled by. Raegan took her bag and headed for the exit. However, Matteo stopped her. He said, "Mr. Dixon has something urgent to deal with, so he asked me to drive you home." Raegan declined the ride without thinking twice. She was blind before, but now she could see through the situation. In Mitchel's eyes, she was just a nobody. How could Mitchel agree to accompany her to visit her grandmother when he didn't even care about her? Upon arriving at the hospital, Raegan saw that the nurse was about to feed her grandmother dinner. Raegan took the job over and did it by herself. All her life, her grandmother had been living in the countryside, enjoying a quiet life. Everything changed last month when her routine medical checkup showed that she was in need of medical care. Raegan insisted on bringing her to the city for better treatment. Her grandmother wasn't aware of her marriage to Mitchel. Raegan had planned to surprise her today. But as it turned out, that was no longer necessary. Raegan waited for her grandmother to fall asleep before she left. She walked out of the hospital and waited for a taxi. In the distance, a black luxury car pulled into the entrance of the hospital. Raegan's eyes lit up when she saw it. She recognized that car as Mitchel's. Did he come to pick her up? At this moment, she forgot all the pain she had been feeling. Were her thoughts about him all wrong? Did he care for her, contrary to the gossip? The door of the driver's side opened and Mitchel got out. Raegan started walking toward him with her heart brimming with joy. Suddenly, she stopped dead in her tracks. Mitchel had just walked over to the other side and carried a woman out of the car. Worry and compassion were written all over his handsome face. This wiped the smile on Raegan's face. Her heart sank. Chapter 3 Let's Divorce Mitchel's tall and straight figure got closer and closer to Raegan. And then, without saying a word, he strode past Raegan. It was hard to tell if Mitchel saw Raegan or just ignored her. Regardless, Raegan noticed that the woman in his arms was the same one who had been photographed with him yesterday. She was Lauren. Raegan's shoes felt like they were made of lead as she walked away. She lost all awareness of her surroundings. She got into a taxi absentmindedly. Suddenly, the driver uttered, "Ma'am, where to?" Raegan was stunned for a moment. She didn't want to go back to Serenity Villas. It was only a matter of time before that place stopped being her home. After a while, she replied, "Please take me to Crystal Bay." She had purchased an apartment at Crystal Bay after getting married to Mitchel. At the time, she had hopes of bringing her grandmother to the city, so she bought the apartment on mortgage. It wasn't that big, but it had more than enough space for two people. Mitchel didn't understand why she wanted to buy an apartment. He offered to give her a bigger one, but she declined. Looking back now, she realized that buying that apartment was the only wise decision she had ever made in the last two years. When she arrived at the apartment complex, Raegan sat in the park alone, trying to cool herself down. The memories of the past two years were bittersweet. Two years had passed in the blink of an eye even though it was more than seven hundred days and nights. Love could move mountains, they said. Yet, her love didn't move that stone of a man. She finally realized what a fool she had been. She had been making herself a laughingstock in front of everyone. It was already late in the night before Raegan finally decided to go into her apartment. As soon as she stepped out of the elevator, she saw Mitchel standing in front of the door. His sleeves were rolled up casually, and the top buttons of his shirt were undone, which revealed his long neck and part of his collarbone. He was leaning on the wall by the door, his handsome face straight. Raegan froze for a moment. Why was he here? Didn't she see him at the hospital with Lauren? What brought him here? Their eyes met. With his coat draped over his arm and one of his hands in his pocket, Mitchel squinted at her. "Why didn't you answer the phone?" he asked, sounding a little grumpy like someone who hadn't slept in a long time. Raegan took out her phone and saw she had accidentally put it on DND. There were five missed calls from Mitchel. This marked the first time in their two-year marriage. Mitchel blew up her phone because he couldn't find her? Surprising! Before today, she would have been overjoyed by this. People would've thought she won the lottery. But now, she just threw her phone back into her bag, folded her arms, and said in a hoarse voice, "I didn't hear it ring." Mitchel raised his hand to check the time on the watch, and said impatiently, "I've been looking for you for two hours." After arranging everything for Lauren, he returned home to find an empty house. He looked for Raegan everywhere. When he couldn't find her, he asked Matteo to check the surveillance footage of all the roads that led away from the company. He later found out that Raegan went to Crystal Bay without telling him. "Next time, tell me when you are coming here, okay? Let's go home now." After that, Mitchel walked toward the elevator without sparing her another glance. He meant to go back to Serenity Villas. Raegan didn't move an inch. She just stared at his broad back and pondered reluctantly. Would they have a future? Mitchell turned around, only to see that Raegan hadn't taken a single step. He frowned and asked, "Can't you walk? Do you want me to carry you instead?" The light in the corridor illuminated his face, making his side profile almost impeccable. Raegan took a deep breath and said, "Let's divorce." "What do you mean?" Mitchel's voice was cold, and his handsome face changed immediately. "I want to move into my own place. After all, we will be strangers soon." Raegan forced a smile, but her heart was aching as if someone was tearing it apart bit by bit. "We will be strangers?" Mitchel smiled coldly. "Raegan, what do you think our relationship is now?" His questioning left Raegan stunned for a moment. Mitchel had made it very clear to her from the very beginning. This facade of their marriage had happened by mutual agreement. There was no love. In the eyes of others, they were nothing more than just a superior and a subordinate. Mitchel was quite the catch in Ardlens. Many young ladies longed for his love and were even willing to throw themselves at him. His question just now reminded her of that fact. Was he afraid that she wouldn't let him go that easily? If that was the case, he couldn't be more wrong... After biting her lower lip to conceal her bitterness, Raegan said, "I'm sorry, Mr. Dixon. I was giving it too much thought. Anyway, please leave me alone from now on. You don't have to come here again." After saying that, Raegan couldn't help but burst into tears. How could she not be sad when she was cutting ties with the man she had loved for a decade? It was such a long time. Regardless of how difficult it was, she knew it was time to let go. It was high time she stopped being a fool. Strangely, the light in the corridor began flickering. The deathly stare Mitchel was giving Raegan right now made the atmosphere seem like the moment before an attack in a horror movie. Although he understood that Raegan sometimes could throw a tantrum, he felt that she had just crossed the line now. His eyes shone like blazing torches at this moment. But when he saw the tears in her eyes, the rage inside him extinguished in an instant. He said in a low voice, "If this is about what happened between you and Tessa, I..." "No, this isn't about her. Mr. Dixon, please leave now." A lot of things happened between them. And the incident with Tessa didn't come close to any. Raegan felt exhausted. She passed by Mitchel and was about to open the door. Yet, Mitchel was displeased with her stubbornness. He loosened his tie irritably. He then took a step forward and grabbed her wrist. "Stop this, will you?" A second later, he put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her into his arms. He instantly realized that she was burning up like someone who had been set on fire. "You have a fever?" Raegan felt dizzy. She rested her head on his chest weakly. This made the whole situation complicated. Reagan was slow to catch that. When she finally realized that her body was too close to his, she put her hands against his chest and tried to pull back. Before she could escape, Mitchel pulled her back and held her by the waist. With a cold face, he said in a low voice, "Where do you think you are going?" The light flickered again. Out of the blue, Mitchel lifted her up. He then headed for the elevator. In a daze, Raegan asked softly, "What are you doing?" "What does it look like I am doing?" Mitchel remarked. "Taking you to the hospital, of course." "No way!" Raegan cried out in surprise and seemed to regain more strength. Mitchel might find out about her condition if they went to the hospital. Raegan struggled to get out of Mitchel's arms. However, his tight grip made her efforts fruitless. "Don't be so stubborn. You are sick, so you must see the doctor," Mitchel said firmly. He walked to the elevator with her in his arms. At this moment, Raegan's heart was thumping so hard that it could jump out of her chest. She flailed in protest. "Put me down! I don't want to go to the hospital!" &35& LEARN_MORE https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-fb_contact-e Hello reading https://www.facebook.com/61552535188096/ 46,589 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 0 0 0 0 0 0 Learn more 0 fbweb.moboreader.net VIDEO https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-fb_contact-enj57-1125-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=798859118295947&rawadid=120215948219080091 1969-12-31 18:00 https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461747179_1076012847465996_3852830067840811686_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yWWHcvmx1YcQ7kNvgEFQ0nn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ABGsQuL1QjhuKRfSmOORvPK&oh=00_AYDzoz6gDwaAGiT6hkyF0JHAjRZv6VjXTa9LK8PXNx9Emw&oe=67051B45 PERSON_PROFILE 0 0 0 Hello reading 0 0 1969-12-31 18:00 View Edit
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