Confucius Ads Library: Ads

Ads for Diet on 2024-10-04

Id	Vlad	Saved	Scrape Time	Status	Scrape Result	Title	Body	Cta Type	Link Url	Page Name	Page Profile Uri	Page Like Count	Enddate	Cta Text	Caption	Display Format	Link Description	Link Url	Creation Time	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Page Is Profile Page	Is Reshared	Current Page Name	Startdate	Actions
2,086,072	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2086070}'	Yes	2024-10-04 19:59	active	1576			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/marissawhitephotography	Marissa White Photography	https://www.facebook.com/61551932771945/	21	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram Profile	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/marissawhitephotography	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461847509_1203071697612756_2286281820451487739_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Xc8v0VwY9FQQ7kNvgFhvVA2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AGCQtn0sHYdtae_0Ylj-3am&oh=00_AYDsc_stKIiYNJy43XkA4qXsN8HuaJ5TJAjUa9uW4yOuYw&oe=67064614	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Marissa White Photography	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,087,437	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2087434}'	Yes	2024-10-04 20:08	active	1577			INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE	http://instagram.com/make_up_by_rubi	make_up_by_rubi	https://www.instagram.com/_u/make_up_by_rubi	0	1969-12-31 18:00	Send Message	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/make_up_by_rubi	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/323782958_155838193884552_5573602848033559707_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=01e7c5&_nc_ohc=lrvon9t8kYAQ7kNvgG07jMP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYBnEl-ZD3es7LTF6gd8G2os0RERg4U4HP1VGYmU8GfbSQ&oe=67065801	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	0	make_up_by_rubi	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,085,248	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2085247}'	No	2024-10-04 19:52	active	1576			LEARN_MORE	https://app.hive.co/contests/contest/25094/spotlig	EDM Identity	https://www.facebook.com/EDMIdentity/	15,003	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	app.hive.co	CAROUSEL		https://app.hive.co/contests/contest/25094/spotlight/?h_slt=eyJoaXZlX3VzZXJfaWQiOjEwMjI0MDM0MiwiaGFzaCI6IjlkODQ2YmJmNWE2MTUxMyJ9	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462140072_845113417732679_1724297723535297875_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0iVpiRAlZA4Q7kNvgGEf9ss&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AHYMQ4udv4g9yZmm5Cvlr2o&oh=00_AYCWpC-hyq1umBqsmRqh3Lp8YI2482OW1MWN9PP6HwT6Ag&oe=67063D17	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	EDM Identity	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,084,732	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2084731}'	Yes	2024-10-04 19:48	active	1576	🎉 WIN American Eagle Jeans for Life! 👖		SIGN_UP	https://app.impactive.io/campaigns/headcount/activ	Well-Versed	https://www.facebook.com/100088123683149/	92	1969-12-31 18:00	Sign Up	app.impactive.io	CAROUSEL		https://app.impactive.io/campaigns/headcount/activities/ysoogslq/teams/ck9lbwnj?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/460595879_1598219914063546_2185017762792260220_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eDx9I9eHez8Q7kNvgG70t-S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ANJqmxMkCrlqiGeSHv9L5yd&oh=00_AYDHcj0nFRAuWTn6A7DT8cgh9WRO74PHUeRQap5JQYbPmw&oe=67066DBD	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Well-Versed	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,091,681	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":true,"simple_request_ratio":0.211340206185567,"is_bh_selenium":null,"selenium_ratio":null,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	No	2024-10-04 21:37	active	1579	6 Beds 9 Baths House	6 Beds 9 Baths House - $3,250,000.00 Welcome to a refined living experience where every detail speaks of luxury and sophistication. This stunning estate, nestled on an extraordinary 4.44-acre lot, represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship and elegance. From the moment you approach, the mature landscaping and grand circular driveway, accented by a porte-cochere, set a tone of distinction and exclusivity. The 6bd, 9ba, 11,000 sqft residence with private pool house features soaring ceilings, exquisite Peruvian walnut floors, and dazzling Shonbek chandeliers, setting a warm yet opulent atmosphere throughout. The first-floor master suite is a serene retreat, complete with private deck access and an en-suite, spa-like bathroom that was recently remodeled to include marble finishes, a glass-enclosed shower, separate soaking tub, and dual vanities. His-and-her offices on the main level provide both luxury and function. The 2015-renovated kitchen, designed for both beauty and functionality, features quartz countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, a cozy hearth room, and a sun-drenched eating area. Adjacent to this space is a stately den and a charming sunroom, offering more serene views of the lushly landscaped yard. Entertain in grand style with the home's spacious English basement, the ultimate gathering place, boasting a billiard area, recreation/media space, a 1,100+ bottle wine cellar, and even a cigar room with dedicated ventilation. For your convenience, the basement also includes a full kitchen, bedroom, and bath, as well as a multi-purpose workout/party room. Outdoor living spaces are equally impressive. A heated pool and spa create a personal oasis, surrounded by spacious patios and new Trex decking, perfect for hosting summer soirees. The pool house adds another layer of convenience, and there is even enough land to accommodate horses, should you desire an equestrian lifestyle. Additional high-end amenities include a whole-house filtration system, radiant heated floors in bathrooms and lower levels, smart home automation, a generator, and a new HVAC system. Moreover, nearly 600K in recent upgrades enhance both the home's beauty and functionality. Don't miss this opportunity to experience luxury living at its finest. In addition, this property is zoned for horses and enjoys significant tax credits from the town, effectively reducing the annual tax burden by approx $9,000. This extraordinary estate invites you to live your dream in a private, serene setting while still enjoying easy access to everything Chicagoland has to offer. Learn more about this listing on Facebook Marketplace: https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1222801745625090/	CONTACT_US	https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/122280174562	Christal Anna	https://www.facebook.com/Christal-Anna-386236198684395/	0	1969-12-31 18:00	Contact us		IMAGE		https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1222801745625090/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462194883_369795672768754_219856740931259189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Y_C13JfwQx4Q7kNvgFqpbm5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A2zzrVvHl3ZPuiqfmLEQC5C&oh=00_AYBgwi0LbkrvIb0R3GfqDnYjJTS2DxxqHpf_dIxs8LgHOw&oe=67068472	REGULAR_PAGE	1	0	Christal Anna	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,095,576	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2095573}'	No	2024-10-04 22:45	active	1580			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	https://www.instagram.com/_u/jennybtysupply	Jenny Beauty Supply	https://www.facebook.com/JennyBtySupply/	18,115	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram Profile	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		https://www.instagram.com/_u/jennybtysupply	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462104096_475359608791797_2854456602323012498_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bkNS7piq_8YQ7kNvgFg5bKJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ARLWImUvG07Ns8yo41lN4Gu&oh=00_AYDDmRNFQxhFeaIR1ftSY1m76uqdHcxRKhxLCOqtbyUxxg&oe=6706924F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Jenny Beauty Supply	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,085,372	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2086322}'	No	2024-10-04 19:53	active	1576	Steve Dennis & Authentic Praise	Hey everyone! Exciting news: Steve Dennis & Authentic Praise are hosting a Give-Away! We’re giving away a 65-inch TV and a $50 Visa gift card. Tickets are just $5! We’d love for everyone to join in. If you’re outside of GA, please inbox me your name, number, and how many tickets you want. Then send your payment via CashApp to $AuthPraise2016. All proceeds will support our recording, and the drawing will be on November 8th. Please spread the word to everyone! Thank you for your support!	CALL_NOW		Steve Dennis & Authentic Praise	https://www.facebook.com/AuthenticPraise1/	2,933	1969-12-31 18:00	Call now		IMAGE	GOSPEL GROUP		1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462000782_464639203264933_4239457463438197153_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ibo2bSOvQOQQ7kNvgFUwW9z&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AqTrnZiBGSCLVBl4SsATRxG&oh=00_AYBuENhjtQiFbHX41DsPS8Jx7vwt-EfvatK5vQxUnh80_g&oe=670655D1	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Steve Dennis & Authentic Praise	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,093,377	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2093169}'	No	2024-10-04 22:35	active	1580	🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉	Haley hadn't seen her husband William for a week and when she finally called him in the evening he seemed annoyed. "I have a meeting now. Excuse me." He brushed hang up the phone before she could say a word. Haley felt a little disappointed since tonight marked their third anniversary. Anyway, she decided to stay awake until he got home. Bored, she picked up her phone, checking into her tiktok to kil-l time. Just then, a piece of news popped up, featuring NK Enterprise, her husband's company. Excited, Haley tapped into the news; "William Nash, Famous CEO of NK Enterprise, Checks Into Hotel With his Mystery Girlfriend, Relationship Revealed" Her William? Haley's eyes glued to her phone's screen, shock and disbelief taking over when she saw the image of her husband entering the Hotel, his arm snaked around a woman's waist. Haley couldn’t believe her husband was with a woman. She must be mistaken. Sinking in confusion was pointless. Haley dialed his number. On her third trial, he finally picked up. “What's up?” he asked coldly. Haley inhaled deeply, controlling her emotions. “Liam, where are you? Today's our 3rd anniversary, remember?” “So?” he said through his careless tone, “Not coming home. Sleep by yourself.” His voice holding no remorse, a gut-wrenching punch to her pride. Just then, a female voice, soft and seductive, came on the phone. “Willy, I'm thirsty.” Willy? Even Haley wasn't allowed to call him that. He truly was with a woman! The phone beeped. He hung up the call. Haley sank onto the bed, her thoughts spinning and that voice echoing. It was Leah! Liam’s secretary who looked a lot like his Ex. Dazed, Haley's gaze fell on the decorations; her hard work. Tears blurred Haley's vision. Suddenly, a message notification appeared. [I'm pre-gnant. It's time for me to become the new Mrs. Nash.] Haley gripped the phone, her body trembling. It was from Leah. She'd been having second thoughts whenever she wanted to leave the man, but now she gave up her last hope. Haley stood up and retrieved the document she'd hidden in a corner of the closet and signed her name on it. Tears that reminded her of how weak and helpless she'd reduced herself to all in this marriage. Never again.	LEARN_MORE	https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12277&u	Indulge in story	https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/	810	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	redtgb.com	DCO		https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12277&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449390795_7854042474649336_272341074011239376_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pde2VUFMxDUQ7kNvgH3dzUm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AeMT_QvMipNQTIE3OLPSbeQ&oh=00_AYDT3Ddfc51qD-zFTKP-8UR4hFOwgxaOHH8FctrjRDJ0Fg&oe=67068ADE	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Indulge in story	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,088,781	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2088475}'	No	2024-10-04 20:29	active	1578	❤️😍 click to read on 👉	"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. “Let me go! Morris, this is too much!” 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. Kevin’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 ‘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. “It's ok, little cat. I'm here now,” Kevin comforted. Alessia dragged her breath. “Where 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,” 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. “It's ok, little cat. I'm back now,” 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 ‘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. “Where are you, Kevin?” Alessia asked excitedly. She just couldn't wait to see Kevin again. “I'm in Falcone state.” “Falcone state?” Alessia repeated, somehow shocked. “Where in Falcone state are you? Because I searched everywhere and I couldn't find you.” 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. “Where are you, Little cat? Tell me and I will find you as soon as possible.” “I'm currently at Phoenix Plazza. I head the place now,” 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. “I will be there soon. Just give me an hour, I will meet you there,” he assured. “Alright, Boss!” Kevin smiled at this and hung up. It wasn't like Alessia loved calling him ‘boss’. 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. “Kevin!” 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. “Thank you, Mr Mendy, for having this meeting with me.” 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. “Alright then. I will see you later,” 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. “Where are you going, Kevin? Without tidying up this place? What do you think you are doing?” Mia bombarded him when he was close enough. Kevin sighed. “I need to meet a friend of mine.” 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. “Well, this is important. Besides, Morris can clean it up since he caused it.” “Are you kidding me!” 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, “There 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. Don’t make me embarrassed!”	LEARN_MORE	https://herfv.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=14117&u	Indulge in story	https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/	809	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	herfv.com	DCO	More Free Content👉	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=a3H_-wdNg4kQ7kNvgHBHUC_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AbtMx9d3_3Br0-ItsB5cROD&oh=00_AYDwWTued9w0Q8FjDa80IE5420tSih3lCddL3nlgmlnRvA&oe=67065047	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Indulge in story	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,092,325	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-10-04 21:41	active	1579	www.ipgphotonics.com	NEW LASER SOLUTIONS FOR BATTERY MASS PRODUCTION 🔋 Join Iurii Markushov, VP of Global Applications at IPG, at The Battery Show for an insightful talk on innovative laser technology and laser solutions from IPG. Discover how they can transform battery mass production with applications in drying, cutting/notching, electrode structuring, and welding. Key technologies discussed include: 🔹 Dual-beam lasers for increased welding performance. 🔹 Real-time weld depth measurement for unmatched quality assurance. 📆 October 9th, 2024 \| 10 AM 📍 The Battery Show - Gold Room 330B Learn more about IPG at The Battery Show: https://i.mtr.cool/uampsrsxfq #TheBatteryShow #BatteryTechnology #FiberLasers #EVManufacturing #EVBattery #BatteryManufacturing #LaserTechnology	LEARN_MORE	https://www.ipgphotonics.com/events/thebatteryshow	IPG Photonics	https://www.facebook.com/IPGPhotonics/	2,571	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	ipgphotonics.com	IMAGE	The Battery Show and EVT Expo is entering its 14th year, North America’s largest advanced battery event will take over Huntington Place in Downtown Detroit this October.	https://www.ipgphotonics.com/events/thebatteryshownorthamerica	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462138040_960849539391425_8261958635113003876_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aATkUbYqNMwQ7kNvgGzfLpb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWowiLIwG2NaD_KlPclNdHa&oh=00_AYDWdLAxJCNCkfE8qaat3V6zqs80WX6kiOPr5anD-X483Q&oe=67066CBF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	IPG Photonics	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,092,330	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2092331}'	No	2024-10-04 21:41	active	1579	The Coach's Shirt - Notre Dame Edition	Take some old school style to this week's tailgate! The Coach's Shirt is a modern take on classic style, made with performance fabric to keep you cool, so you can play like a champion today.	SHOP_NOW	https://criquetshirts.com/products/university-of-n	Criquet Shirts	https://www.facebook.com/criquetshirts/	46,427	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	criquetshirts.com	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://criquetshirts.com/products/university-of-notre-dame-performance-jersey-players-shirt-leprechaun-green	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462142004_550528474108670_3823766348568827636_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Bo1QVjKvhjwQ7kNvgG5uvdA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWowiLIwG2NaD_KlPclNdHa&oh=00_AYAClDOw8sUCFu8Yd_abuZ1bRF0WpyhgGCxCBIU-uSe7Gg&oe=670689D2	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Criquet Shirts	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,094,435	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2094434}'	No	2024-10-04 22:38	active	1580	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉	“Our records show that Mr. Bianchi was discharged a few days ago.” “Oh...” Alice blinked, a pang of disappointment piercing her heart as she looked at the receptionist of that hospital “I... I didn't know...” “Even if he was here, this hospital does not allow patients to be visited by unknown people.” The woman replied, narrowing her gaze with pure contempt, measuring Alice from top to bottom “If you are the girlfriend that Mr. Bianchi's relatives talked about, then perhaps you should have come earlier, young lady.” “I didn't plan to visit him. I just wanted to leave these gifts here.” She tried to swallow the lump of discomfort in her throat and maintain her posture, even though her hands were nervously clutching the tiny bouquet and the candy wrapper “Also, my last name might be Dawsey, but the girlfriend you're talking about is my sister, Amber...” “Of course, of course...” the woman snorted, refocusing solely on her computer “Since there is no one here to receive your gifts, go away. We can’t afford to stay here talking and disturb a relative who wants to visit a patient.” Alice felt like reminding her that the huge reception was empty, but she ended up biting her tongue. She had spent enough time in nursing school to know fancy hospitals like this were usually infested with arrogant people who only offered smiles to those whose bank account was over 8 figures. Shrugging her shoulders, Alice just resigned herself and turned to walk out of the hospital, her gifts still in her hands. The small note is written in gold ink, still hanging from the stem of one of the flowers, with a name standing out. Massimo. It was ridiculous that she had come there. Massimo couldn't care less whether she was dead or alive. Especially not after the car accident that had almost taken his life. And, after how Amber had treated him, Massimo probably didn't want any gifts that came from the Dawseys. But still, she hadn't been able to stop herself from going there. Not after hearing her mother say he was about to be discharged. Well, Alice should have known that Kendra no longer cared about Massimo enough to know exactly when he was going home. After all, he was no longer the man she had dreamed of Amber marrying. It seemed that being a billionaire wasn't enough for her mother and sister if the man couldn't walk. Fighting against the melancholy that Massimo's image brought to her, Alice tried to see only the good side of that situation. Massimo was far from the ICU, safe at home. That hospital wasn't far from her family's mansion and she could give the cake to her daughter and her boyfriend. She had to talk to Casey, anyway, to tell him that she would accept his proposal for them to live together. Her savings weren't a fortune, but it would be enough to help pay the first few months' rent on the small one-bedroom apartment she had visited days ago. Enough until she accepted the first opportunity that came her way, whether it was a job that would help her realize her dream of becoming a nurse or not. Everything so that Millie, her little angel, could have a real home. With that thought, Alice finally arrived at the mansion, where her mother's servants opened the door without exchanging a single word with her, as always. Their gaze, however, had something strange in it, tense and almost mocking, following her tired footsteps to the living room, the room closest to the small bedroom next to the laundry room that she and Millicent shared... Even her eyes fell toward some sort of wet sound that was coming from one of the couches. And, there, he found Casey, trading kisses with her sister. “Alice!” Casey gasped, struggling for a moment to get Amber off of him, though Alice doubted he could do anything to hide her sister's half-ripped blouse and her lipstick-smeared face "You come home early...! I... I mean...” “I could ask what are you two doing…” Alice gritted her teeth, not knowing if that pain inside her came from the betrayal or the way Amber was looking at her over the back of the sofa, looking very satisfied “But I think that would make me sound more foolish than you two already think I am." “Alice... I...” Casey stuttered, embarrassed “I can explain...” “Explain what? That while you were asking me to move in together, you were sleeping with my sister?” she spat, disgusted. "No! It wasn't that! Amber and I never slept together, I swear! In fact, this is the second kiss we've shared...” Casey continued to try to explain himself, as Amber finally stood up, perching on Casey's shoulder, eased “I... I'm sorry you found out this way. I know that what Amber and I did was terrible. Believe me, I've tried to fight it for the last few months, because what I feel for you is also true, Alice..." “But, we both fell in love.” Amber interrupted him, hugging his arm almost as if to mark her territory “I’m really sorry, sis. It all started with the best of intentions, I swear. I noticed that Casey was always lonely while you were working, so I started spending some time with him. We realized we had a lot in common. Over time, it became too strong for us to control.” Her sister made a pout that didn't seem genuine at all "Actually, the only reason we kissed today is because Casey promised me that he would clear things up with you and the two of us could be together..." Amber smiled sweetly as if she was trying to encourage Casey, although that only seemed to make him even more uneasy. “I... I'm really sorry, Alice. If I could go back in time, I would have been honest with you from the moment I realized I was in love with Amber.” The way his dark eyes looked sad almost made him look like the kind and patient man who had made Alice agree to start a relationship “And, of course, you have the right to be angry with us, but... Please, know that none of this was ever about hurting you. It was about love...” “Oh, sure.” Alice can't resist giving a cynical laugh “The same love you said you felt for me while you were drooling after my sister? Don't worry, Casey. I'll be very understanding about this. You couldn't sleep with me, so you went looking for a bed more easily, with Amber. Makes a lot of sense..." “You can’t talk to me like that!” Amber whimpered, and Alice wondered if she was not screaming, enraged, just because Casey was there “I'm still your sister! Plus, look at you! You're not even sad or anything! Everyone could see that you treated Casey like a friend and were only with him to try to be a father to your daughter! Why are you so angry just because he's trying to be happy with someone who really loves him? If you care about both of us, you’ll want to see us happy, won’t you?” "Are you serious?!" Alice growled “My sister is having an affair with my boyfriend and you think I should congratulate you both on that? If either of you two really cared about me, you would never have done this! And if it were the other way around, Amber?” Alice found herself saying, even though a part of her mind was on alert, begging her to shut up before she ended up saying something she shouldn't “What if I had fallen in love with one of your boyfriends? Would you be happy for me or would you call me a cheating woman for having…?” “What do you think you’re saying to your sister?!” A shrill voice interrupted the fight and, by instinct, Alice froze where she was, only managing to turn her neck to find her mother there, walking towards them confidently, while the sound of her high heels on the porcelain floor echoed “Oh, That's it? Are you making all this fuss and acting like a crazy person over a little boyfriend, Alice?” Kendra rolled her ice-colored eyes, exactly like Amber's. “You knew that, didn’t you?” Alice murmured, her lips pursed “Why am I not surprised?” “How can you insult your sister just because of a man? Is this how you react when you find out that a man wants better than you? Well, your life will certainly be a sea of disappointments from now on, since you didn't learn your lesson from your daughter's father, whoever he may be.” Kendra sneered and, even though Alice had heard her say much worse things than that, she still cringed “Now, stop acting like a child. We have more important matters to deal with now. And, if you really care that much about having a man around to make you feel less like a failure, then today is your lucky day.” Chapter 2 “Casey, could you excuse us for a moment?” Kendra smiled, her tone suddenly warmer and gentler, only because it wasn't Alice the one who she was talking to. “Uh... Of course...” Casey hesitated, and Alice knew him well enough to know he was eager to walk away from a possible argument. “Just... Please, Kendra, don't be so hard on Alice. It's okay for her to be sad. As much in love as Amber and I are, it was still a betrayal..." “Don’t be so hard on yourself, darling.” Kendra cut him off, with a friendly smile “What happened was just inevitable. I saw the way Alice treated you. Any man would realize sooner or later that they deserve more than a cold woman. As a mother, all I can say is that I am more than happy to continue having you as my son-in-law.” “Oh, uh... Thank you. I... I'll try to talk to Alice when things are calmer.” He promised but didn't turn his eyes toward his ex-girlfriend before leaving the living room, leaving Alice with that sour feeling inside her, watched by the prickly eyes of the last two people she wanted to talk to at that moment. “If you're here to force me to stay cool about Amber being with my ex-boyfriend, you don't need to waste your saliva.” Alice said to her mother, as she started to walk past Kendra and Amber, “I don't need an unfaithful man, anyway.” She added, though the prospect of no longer having Casey share the rent on her future apartment with her certainly complicated her plans. "Where do you think you're going?" Kendra asked, cold as ever. “Listen, Mom, if you want me to clean something up, I'll do it later. I already paid you the rent for my room this month, don't you remember? Even with all those crazy fees you put up just because Millie took a bath in the bathtub.” she grunted, exhausted “Now, I need to check on my daughter and help her with her homework...” “You better look at me while I’m talking to you, girl.” Her mother replied, “Especially because our conversation today is about Massimo Bianchi.” Those words made Alice stop, quickly turning to face Kendra, hoping that her expression wasn't betraying her and showing the feelings that the man's name awakened in her. “What’s wrong with Massimo?” She swallowed hard, feeling her blood run cold with worry “I thought he was discharged. Did he… Did he get worse again?” “No, he’s still the same.” Amber shrugged, so insensitive that anyone would doubt she was talking about the man Kendra had been trying to marry her to for the past 5 years “I think anyone would be if their legs were crushed. Mom tried to call him this morning, but, of course, he's still locked up on that old farm, miles away from town. It must be because everyone knows that he might die soon, as everyone has been talking about at the High Society parties since the accident....” “So, you decided to break things off with him at a time like this, to be with Casey?” Alice narrowed her eyes “What a noble thing to do, Amber.” “Who gave you permission to talk to Amber like that?” Kendra growled “Don't you dare be rude like that again, if you don't want me to cut off the water for you and your daughter again! And, just for your information, our family is indeed being very noble.” She crossed her arms, with a smile so light it was difficult to identify “Massimo may be about to stop being Bianchi's CEO, but even so, we won't leave him without a bride. That's why you're going to uncheck whatever you're planning to do and pack your bags. In two days, you will be the wife of the Bianchi's son.” “What...? What did you say?” Alice blinked, feeling disoriented as if she had just woken up from a dream. “Don’t play dumb.” Kendra sneered, “You heard me. Amber will stay with the Campbells’ son, who is much better suited to her.” She stopped for a moment to exchange a smile with her favorite daughter “And you will marry Massimo, so everyone knows that the Dawseys are not heartless monsters who abandoned a family friend just because he is now crippled. So you better be on your best behavior when you move in with him, so as not to embarrass our family.” “Are you… Are you listening to yourself?” Alice gasped “Do you realize you’re talking about me marrying him as if we were in the 18th century? Like I’m an object?!” “I knew you would be dramatic about something so simple.” Her mother sighed in disapproval “Well, weren't you the one who was mad at your sister for stealing your man, Alice? You’re welcome that I just solved this problem for you. Now you will have that entire farm to raise your daughter and you will be able to have a family name like the Bianchi, which is much more than you know you deserve.” "So, you're suggesting I marry my sister's man, now she's with my boyfriend?" Alice growled, even though the idea of marrying Massimo made her feel... No, she couldn't give in to those kinds of thoughts. She was no longer the same foolish and passionate little girl she had been four years ago. She had to think only about Millicent's future and give the only possible answer to Kendra's proposal. “Well, I appreciate your kindness, Mom, but I have no interest in marrying a man just because you don’t want High Society to comment on Amber’s boyfriend swap. If you really want to be of some help to Massimo, then perhaps you should try visiting him and offering a word of comfort, rather than a wife as a consolation prize.” “I don’t think you understand, Alice.” Kendra’s gaze became even sharper, if that was even possible “That’s not a request. Massimo has already agreed to this arrangement and the papers are almost ready. You will settle on his farm the day after tomorrow.” “He’s angry that I gave up on him so he wants to marry my sister to try to affect me.” Amber sighed, although there was a smile on her face “This is even a little romantic. If he wasn't chained to that wheelchair for the rest of his life, I might consider giving him a chance..." “What a shame.” Alice grumbled, hating how those words felt like acid on her skin “But my answer is still no. And there's no point in either of you trying to threaten me and saying that you're going to leave me and my daughter without water or even throw us out of here. I'm ready to leave this place soon and now I see that it's the best decision I could make since you care so little about me that you want me to marry a man who will only use me for revenge and probably treat me like dirt.” A tiny part of Alice waited for them to open their mouths to disagree, but, of course, nothing happened “Now if you'll excuse me, this conversation is over. I'm going to start packing my bags, but to move to a place very far from this mansion..." “And how do you plan to do that?” Kendra questioned, very calmly “Would it be with the money you hid in a can, among the brat's things?” “How...” Alice clutched the paper bag she was still holding, while her heart seemed to have stopped “How do you know...?” “Do you really think that little thing would be enough for you to rent even the most rat hole out there? Sometimes you surprise me with how foolish you can be, Alice.” Her mother snorted “You should have thanked me for finding that money and stopped you from taking your daughter somewhere to starve.” Chapter 3 “Did you take my money?!” she gasped, horrified, but that only seemed to make her mother and sister even more arrogant. “You have to agree that you were the only one foolish enough to hide cash, little sister.” Amber laughed. “I only did it so you guys wouldn’t convince Dad to clean out my accounts again, like you did before!” Alice started to raise her voice, but Kendra quickly cut her off. “You forget how merciful I have been to you since you were born, especially in the last four years. I could have thrown you out of this house for being a Filthy woman who doesn't even know who made you have a baby, but did I? No! Did I let you continue here, creating a child and dirtying our family name, charging only a symbolic amount of rent so that you could learn your lesson? Yes! The money you had in that can? It was nothing more than compensation for the 23 long years I raised you, receiving nothing in return but disappointment and ingratitude. But once again, Alice, I will be kind and give you a choice.” Even though Alice was looking at the ground, completely astonished, she was still able to tell that her mother was approaching, because of the sound of high heels “You can stop trying to be a problem for attention and accept becoming Massimo's wife... Or you can stay here and suffer all the punishments I still have to inflict on a stubborn child like you.” Kendra finally stopped by her side, muttering that last part against her ear. “How… How could you do something like that?” Alice tried to count the tremors in her voice and the tears accumulating “I... I'm your daughter too, you know?” “I’ll tell your father to finish the papers.” That was all Kendra replied, with contempt in her tone “You better in his office early tomorrow morning to sign them so we can send them back to Massimo. And give it to me.” She roughly snatched the candy bag from Alice's hands “You stole an apple from the kitchen this morning. Thank her that your debt has increased this month.” Unable to even react, Alice stayed exactly where she was, frozen in the middle of the living room, while Kendra began to walk away towards the stairs, but not before Amber also passed by her sister, with a clear smile in her tone of voice. "Don't worry. Hopefully, he'll remember me a little when he looks at you and won't be so hard on you and my niece. Or, who knows, Massimo will do the opposite, knowing him... Anyway, congratulations on the wedding, sister.” She leaned on Alice's shoulder "I hope you can attend my and Casey's wedding soon, too." Amber laughed softly, seeming to find the whole thing very funny, finally starting to walk in the same direction as Kendra had left. Alice, however, remained there. Maybe for a few seconds or many hours. She couldn't say. In fact, the only thing that made her know she was crying was when, between her bleary eyes, she could see several drops of water beginning to wet the perfectly polished floor. And, as if finally all the remaining strength in her body had abandoned her, she fell to her knees on the floor, scattering the bouquet's petals across the floor, holding her head in her hands, while that suffocating despair in her chest seemed to be spreading like poison in her veins. All her money, her only prospect for the future, all her hopes of giving Millicent a better future... Has all gone, with nothing she could do about it. What... What could she do, now? “Mommy?” A sweet, little voice brought her out of her terrified thoughts and, at the same moment that Alice looked up to find the little girl hiding behind one of the furniture nearby, she quickly began to wipe her face. “Hey, honey.” She smiled at her daughter, clearing her throat to hide the crying in her voice “Sorry, mommy's really late for our movie night, isn't she? I'm very sorry. I promise I will make it up to you…” “Why are you crying?” Millicent asked, running towards Alice, her big dark green eyes full of concern “Did Grandma say something that made you sad again?” “No, my love. I’m just… Tired.” Alice sniffed, keeping a smile on her face “Yes, that's just it. Today was... A very tiring day.” a sob of sadness threatened to escape, but she swallowed it down, not wanting her baby to have a terrible day too, just because her heart was broken “But, what are we doing here? You want to watch Beauty and the Beast again, don't you? Come on, we have to take a shower and have dinner before that...” Alice stood up, picking up her daughter, although Millie wasn't convinced by her word. “Will Casey watch with us today?” she asked, placing her little hands on Alice’s face with a worried expression, almost as if she already knew something was wrong. "No, dear. Nowadays, Casey and Mommy... We are no longer special friends. I’ll explain this more to you later, okay?” “So he won’t marry you one day?” Millie asked, disappointed “But he's still going to look for a new house with us, isn't he?” “No, Millie... He won't...” Alice bit her lip almost to the point of bleeding, refusing to cry “And... About our new house...” “When we move, can I get a pony?” her daughter’s face lit up with an adorable smile that only made her heart hurt even more “Oh, and a fruit bowl in the room, too? I promise I will always eat everything! I asked one of the girls in the kitchen for an apple today, but she didn't give it to me. She said they couldn't waste food on someone like me. But I didn't want to eat just one piece and then throw it in the trash. I pinky promise.” Millie lamented. “I... I know so, my angel.” Alice had to close her eyes to compose herself for a moment and be able to smile again “I was thinking... Is there a place where we can live on a farm with lots of horses and eat as many apples as we want? What do you think about that?” “Horses?” Millie repeated, delighted “And where is it? Can we go there now?!” “In two days, we will be able to. And, there will also be a man that mommy can marry, just like you always wanted.” Alice tried to sound excited, but her daughter obviously managed to see right through her. “But does he like you? And do you like him?” Millie tilted her head to the side and, if the circumstances were different, Alice might have even laughed at how complicated those two questions were and impossible to answer with just a yes or no. “He is... A friend of your great-grandfather. And I... I trust him to have a home where we can both live well.” It was all she could respond, although her heart was tight as if she wanted to disappear “In return, we both just need to be... Silent. You see, he's sick now and needs to rest as much as possible. So, what do you say? Would you be happy if we moved in with him... For a while?” “Would you be happy, mommy?” Millie asked innocently, and, to hide her reaction, Alice hugged her. “Of course, honey. As long as you can have a better life than the one we have here... Nothing could make me happier.” Chapter 4 “I don't want to hear a single word in high society about the Dawseys putting a messy brat in the house of a Bianchi who snuffed out his patience until he got even more sick..." “Millie would never do that!” Alice growled “Then stop right now!” “Who do you think you are, to talk to me like that...?” Kendra was ready to start a fight when a hand appeared in front of her face. “Take it easy on the girl, Kendra. Alice is reacting much better than you would if you were about to live with a man like Massimo.” Roger Orwell, the man who Alice had long ago realized that it didn't matter if she called him father or not, said, as always with his eyes glazed over the screen of his smartphone “And, you, Alice, don't worry. He'll probably treat you badly for a few days, but then he won't even be able to get out of bed. Just be a good wife and wait until he dies. It shouldn't take long...” “Thanks... I guess.” She sighed, although Roger did not look up to her for a second. “You are too nice to her. That’s why she ended up like this.” Her mother grunted “Oh, finally someone seems to have noticed we're here. Staying in a car for so long waiting, on a hot day like this... What do you think you're doing standing there? Get out of the limo and get your things out of the trunk quickly! The last thing I want is for Massimo to realize we’ve arrived and come over here and ask about Amber.” "Good luck darling." Roger spoke the moment Alice opened the door, still glued to his smartphone “We are proud of you. Not every woman would accept being with a paraplegic man who will require as much care from you as a child...” In a hurry, Alice got out of the limousine quickly, not wanting Millie to continue there, listening to that kind of nonsense. However, once she found herself in front of that gigantic mansion, ancient and imposing like a medieval fort, Alice couldn't help but hesitate for a moment, overcome by memories of all the times Massimo had told her about that place. So many times she had dreamed of going there, even if it was on a day when he was only bringing Amber, and she would be the nosy older sister who was disturbing the couple... And, now, there she was. Officially his wife, but not knowing how to feel about it. “Hello.” An extremely friendly female voice caught her attention and, just then, Alice noticed an old lady standing there next to them, with her gray hair tied up in a bun, an apron covering her almost from top to bottom, and a huge smile on her face “You must be Alice... And this must be Millicent, right?” She tilted her head to try and meet Millie’s gaze, but all Alice’s daughter did was hide further in her arms, embarrassed “Oh, what an adorable little angel! It's so good to have children again in this place, after so many years...” the woman sighed, with a mix of joy and melancholy “But, oh, you two must be tired from the trip here. Come on, let me introduce you both to the mansion... I mean, some parts of it. My name is Thea, by the way.” “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Thea.” Alice smiled sadly, knowing that kind housekeeper probably didn't even know that Massimo had already told Alice a little about her, a long, long time ago “I'm just going to get my suitcase and we can go.” “Oh, don’t worry, honey. I'll ask someone to bring your luggage to the mansion..." Thea was in mid-sentence, until the sight of the huge trunk completely empty, after Alice took out her single suitcase, seemed to make the housekeeper at a loss for words "Only that?" “Uh... Millie and I didn't want to bring too many things. Here is just what is necessary.” Alice lied “Now, please, let's go in. Millicent is eager to see everything, isn't she, dear? Why don't you take Hoppy out of your backpack? I'm sure he must want to see his new home, too.” She encouraged her little one, finally getting Millie to lift her face from her shoulder and, even if hesitantly, take her small school bag off her back and take the cute stuffed bunny out of it. “Oh, she looks like…” The housekeeper’s eyes widened for a moment, making Alice’s entire body froze as she realized that she seemed to be seeing someone else in Millicent’s face “Actually, forget it. It must be my imagination. I'm just so happy to have a little one to brighten up this gloomy mansion again... And your bunny is so adorable.” Thea praised “Would your little friend like a cookie? Or a piece of cake?” “Uh... Yeah...” Millie nodded shyly, hugging her stuffed animal tight Thea had walked over to one of the tables nearby, taking something out of a drawer. “Here. The boss asked me to deliver these papers for you to sign as soon as you two arrived.” She spread a thick sheaf of papers in front of Alice, and, quickly scanning the lines, there was no doubt what it was: a prenuptial agreement. Or postnuptial, perhaps, since Kendra had said the marriage papers were already duly notarized. “Of course.” Alice sighed, placing Millie's suitcase on the floor gently “Stay here for a moment, honey. I’ll just sort this out and we can continue seeing the house.” Accepting the pen that Thea had held out, she began writing her name for pages and pages, while the housekeeper sighed. “I know you might not think so, but... All of us who still work here are happy that you married Massimo... I mean, the boss. He is going through a delicate moment right now, but, who knows, the presence of a wife and a child as adorable as your daughter could be good for his health.” Thea smiled hopefully. “His health condition... Is it that bad?” Alice hesitated, with her heart sinking. “That’s a topic I don’t think the boss would want me to share.” The old lady hesitated “But... I'm sure he would be touched if he knew you were worried about him.” “Massimo spent a lot of time at my house years ago. I guess you could say that, for a while, we almost became... Friends.” Alice bit her lip “Despite everything that happened between him and my sister, and how strange this situation must seem to you... I really care about him.” She admitted, as she finally put her name on the last blank line between the documents. “That's sweet of you, but... I don't think it would do much good if you questioned the boss about that kind of thing.” As gentle as Thea's words were, Alice immediately understood that it was a warning and not just simple advice. “Of course. The last thing I want is to meddle in his affairs.” She stated, handing the prenup back to Thea “Now, honey, let's go...” Alice looked down, but found nothing but the dark floor, with no sign of her daughter. Chapter 5 “Millie? Millie?!” Alice panting, looking around nervously but unable to find anything “Millicent!” “Oh, God... Don't worry, she couldn't have gone far or left the house. A little girl like her wouldn't even reach the doorknob...” They also started spinning around, trying to find Millie “Uh... Listen. You look down here and I'll go up and look up there. I'm sure we'll find her in no time, okay?” “Yes, thank you.” Alice nodded, knowing that she shouldn't be so worried, since, as big as that mansion was, Millie had limited places to hide, but still... "I'll look here and, if I don't find her, I'll come up to help you...” “Uh... Maybe it's better not to...” Thea shook her head, as if that were a bad idea “That wing is... Anyway, I'll let you know if I find her, I promise. But I'm sure she must be around here... I’ll be back in a moment.” The housekeeper didn't seem willing to explain much more, as she just turned and walked up the stairs much more quickly than Alice expected from someone her age. “Alright...” Alice muttered to herself, walking through the huge entrance room of the mansion, until a whistle sound caught her attention, exactly like the one Hoppy the bunny made when he was squeezed “Millie?” she called, looking up at the stairs, which ended at a fork that led to two hallways “Millie?” Even though she knew she shouldn't, Alice found herself climbing some of the steps, again hearing the whistle, this time coming from further away, but undoubtedly in the same direction in which Thea had gone “Millie! You shouldn't have left Mommy's side! Millie, are you listening? We can't cause problems for Thea...” she continued calling, until she found herself on the second floor of the mansion, facing a long gloomy hallway, also with all the curtains closed “Millie. You know you can't leave Mommy's side, especially in places where we don't know anyone....” As she spoke, Alice began to walk around the place, not finding much other than some decorations, very old paintings of members of the Bianchi family on the walls, and countless locked doors that she knocked on a few times, just to make sure that Millie wasn't there. With each corner of the hallway she needed to turn, Alice became more and more worried, not knowing where Millie could be or if she could meet someone from Massimo's mansion who wasn't as welcoming as Thea... Until finally, she found her, standing in front of one of the doors that made her look even smaller than Millie was, holding Hoppy in one arm as she jumped to try and reach the doorknob with her free hand. “Millie!” Alice called, running to pick her up “Millie, why did you leave Mommy?” “Sorry, mommy, I... I just wanted to find a horse or a pony, I swear.” Her daughter pouted guiltily “This house is so big... They must have a room for the horses too, right? I heard a noise and thought maybe that could be one of them. I just wanted to say hi...” “Oh, Millie…” Alice sighed “Don't ever do that again. We don’t know where we might end up…” Her sentence was interrupted when the door in front of them was suddenly opened, startling them both. And, when Alice saw a pair of dark green eyes shining in the darkness, her heart stopped and her stomach twisted. “What are you two doing here?” the figure growled, but as threatening as he sounded, Alice could only hug her daughter tighter, trying to hide Millie's face as a single word escaped her mouth. "Massimo." “I asked…” Massimo growled, and in the next instant, he pushed his wheelchair forward, stepping out of the shadows of the room “What do you think you're doing here? I left clear orders for Thea to forbid you from coming to my wing of the mansion!” For a few seconds, Alice just stood in shock, watching what that man, the same man who had inhabited her thoughts for years, had transformed into. His hair, previously always cut short, was longer, with waves that almost fell in his eyes. There was a thick beard hiding most of the features of his face and, what had once been clear, cunning green eyes now seemed to have been covered by shadows, as well as hatred and resentment. Unlike most times she had seen him, he wasn't wearing a suit, but rather loose nightwear. He was definitely thinner and paler, with deep dark circles under his eyes. And, of course, he was sitting in that wheelchair, gripping the armrest so tightly that she could see every single nerve and vein in his perfectly shaped arms. “What are you looking at?!” he growled, making her and Millie shiver in fright again. “We... We're sorry, Massimo.” Alice finally found her voice “Millie was excited to see the house and... We ended up stopping here. It’s… It’s good to see you again, anyway.” "Good?" he sneered, with a grimace that couldn't be called a smile in any other universe “You think it's good to see me like this?” “No... That's not what I said...” “I'm sure you must be very happy to have married Bianchi's failure after your sister rejected me, right?” the way his eyes flashed with anger disturbed her deeply “Are you happy to be the wife of an unable?! Or did they promise you that I would die soon, so you wouldn't have to bear this humiliation for a long time, just like Amber didn't want to...?” “Stop it, Massimo!” she pleaded “I know the circumstances of this marriage weren’t the best, but that doesn’t mean I….” “You Dawseys must feel so charitable, don’t you? Sending a woman to me as if they were doing me a favor. As if I were an old dog that needed someone to put a bone in its mouth...” he gritted his teeth, before looking up into those green eyes that had been part of her dreams for so long, but now seemed capable of causing nightmares at anyone “But now, Alice, you are my wife, do you understand? I joined the Dawseys' surname to mine as everyone always wanted me to do and I won't let that be undone! You belong to Me! And, whether I'm in this wheelchair or in a hospital, you'll still be mine, because that's what those freaking pieces of paper say!” “Enough, Massimo!” she raised her voice, disturbed “How can you say that kind of thing with a child around?” For the first time, he looked at Millicent's cowering, frightened figure. Gradually, his eyes narrowed, making Alice think that he was ready to continue screaming, regardless of whether there was a little girl there or not. However, in the end, all he did was raise his finger in their direction, not even needing to look up to face her, since he was tall enough to reach almost Alice's height even while sitting in the wheelchair. “That’s the only warning I’m going to give you…!” he growled “Stay out of my way and don't you dare disturb me or disobey me! Neither you nor this girl! You understood? I won't be merciful if you ignore my orders and sneak into my wing again! You understood?" Chapter 6 The first response Massimo received after that scream was a whimper from Millie, who hugged Alice's neck even tighter, looking like she was about to cry at any moment. And, as uncomfortable as that situation was, Alice couldn't help but feel irritated with that foolish man, who had dared to scare her daughter. “What happened today was just an accident.” She replied, her voice now firmer “Rest assured that if this is how you plan to treat us, because of what Amber did, then we will do our best to stay away from you. There is no need to threaten us for this. I thought maybe I could find the man I once considered my friend...” she admitted, crestfallen “But now you've made it very clear that it was a futile hope.” “That...” Massimo’s chest rose and fell quickly, without Alice knowing whether he was about to get sick or have a tantrum “How dare you...?” He shifted in his chair and, surprised, Alice watched the oversized sleeves of his sweater rise a little, revealing deep scars on his arms, dark red and certainly very painful. he growled, quickly pulling his sleeves back up to his wrists “Get out of here! Now!" Massimo demanded. “Massimo…” Alice hesitated, worried “If… If you need any help, you know I spent a year at nursing school and…” "You did not listen to me?" he suddenly exploded, making her flinch “Do you think I need your pity? That I called you here to do things for me because I’m not capable anymore?” the corners of his eyes turned almost scarlet “Get out of here! And don’t let me see your face again, understand?” “Alright, Massimo…” she nodded, returning his glare with disappointment “We’ll leave you alone, as you seem to want it so much.” Without another word, Alice just snuggled Millicent even more against her chest and took her daughter away from that man, not wanting him to scare her little angel even more. She had promised Millie that they would both be happy in that house, regardless of the reasons that led her to marry Massimo. However, if instead of a sick man with fragile health, he had become a grumpy and embittered idiot who had no shame in shouting and swearing like that in front of a child, just like a monster, then... She would have to keep Millie away not just from the Dawseys, but from him as well. Well, it wasn't like she didn't have experience in this. But still, there was something very painful about it. Maybe because, even without her realizing it, there was still a part of 19-year-old Alice hidden inside her, eager to see Massimo again just like she used to feel whenever he visited her house, years ago... “Oh, there you two are!” a sigh of relief saved her from giving Millicent an answer for now “I was so worried! Glad you found her! Please, little dear, don’t run like that again.” Thea pleaded, though her eyes were darting nervously down the hall behind them as if she were expecting to see a wheelchair appear from the shadows at any moment “So... Uh... Would you happen to...” “I'm sorry I went against your request, but I needed to find my daughter.” Alice answered her silent question “And... We ended up meeting Massimo, without meaning to. But do not worry. He has already made it very clear that he does not want to be disturbed and I will make sure nothing like this happens again.” “Oh, God... I wish I could have avoided this...” Thea sighed sadly “The boss is... Going through a delicate moment in the last few months after the accident and this ended up changing his personality drastically. But who knows... The feeling of having a family might help you get through these dark times.” She nodded, even though she didn't seem too sure about it “Now, please, let's go. Let me take you to the wing of the mansion where your two rooms are, so you can take a shower while I make you a hearty snack. You deserve it, after all... This.” “Thanks, Thea,” Alice murmured, already noticing that Millie was tense just by the way her little fists were gripping the fabric of Alice's blouse. "Do not worry, dear. We will be very happy here.” Even though uncertainty and fear were crushing Alice's heart with thoughts of what the future would be like, she made a silent promise to herself that, no matter how much she might suffer in that place, Millicent would always be happy and safe "You can trust Mommy.” Chapter 7 “Mr. Bianchi is just like the Beast, don’t you think?” Millie seemed deeply focused on that thought “He's big, hairy, and screams a lot. And a little rude, too.” "Yes." Alice smiled sadly “You’re right, honey.” “If you fall in love with him, could he become a prince?” her daughter asked, full of expectation, making her blush. “Well, I don't think I'll have time to do something like that, because I'll be too busy loving you.” she leaned in, starting to tickle Millicent before she could dwell on the subject any further “I just need my little princess to be happy.” Alice assured, kissing Millie's chubby cheek as her daughter laughed. “So you don’t miss having a special friend?” her daughter asked, curious “Don’t you want another one, now that Casey is no longer our friend?” “No, honey. Me and Mr. Bianchi are... Helping each other.” Alice felt a little bad distorting the truth, but there was no other way “He needed someone who could live here with him and we needed a better place to live than Grandma's house. And here is exactly what we needed, don't you think? It’s beautiful, there’s plenty of space for you to play, and you’ll be able to see the horses whenever Thea gives you permission to do so.” She stroked her daughter’s hair, before kissing her forehead. “We can have a good life here. And that's all that matters. Do you think you can be happy here, honey?” “I do.” Millicent nodded solemnly, even though she still looked thoughtful “I hope we can be friends with Mr. Bianchi. Being sick is very annoying. Maybe he wouldn’t have time to think about his boo boo if he had someone to play with.” "Yes, who knows." Alice forced herself to agree, not wanting her daughter to lose that innocent optimism so soon. “Now, let's go to sleep, shall we? This way you will be full of energy to meet the horses tomorrow. And, don't worry, Mommy will stay with you, holding your hand, until you fall asleep. I know a new room can be scary." “Good night, mommy.” Millicent smiled one last time, before hugging Hoppy in her arms and snuggling between the covers, holding Alice's hand for much less time than she expected. A few minutes later, her little angel already had her mouth open, snoring deeply. Certainly, most children would take a little longer to adapt to a new house and a new room, but... Somehow, Millicent seemed to have been born to be there, in that huge and luxurious room, in the middle of the Bianchi mansion. No! What was Alice thinking? Fate had played a trick by putting them there and even that would be temporary. Eventually, Massimo's thirst for revenge for being abandoned by Amber would end and he would realize that there was no reason to keep her there as his surrogate wife. Alice just hoped that, by then, she had managed to gather at least half of the money her mother had stolen, to give Mililie the comfortable and peaceful home she deserved, away from the Dawseys, the Bianchis and anyone else who could be bad for her. Feeling her head weighing down, Alice gently let go of Millie's hand, before getting up from the armchair next to the bed. After everything that had happened that day, she also needed to rest as much as possible to give Milliecent a little more confidence the next day. God knew that, if her daughter realized that she was insecure about living in that house with Massimo around, then her plans to make that mansion Millie's new home, however temporary, would all go down the drain. Closing the bedroom door softly, Alice shuffled down the long hallway as she stretched, her eyes almost burning after so many bad nights of sleep. Millie would probably be up earlier than usual tomorrow in anticipation of seeing the stables, but if Alice could just get some rest and forget that now, before the law, she was also a Bianchi... A growl nearby made her freeze in her tracks immediately. She had spent enough time in her internships and her work as a home nurse to know that that was the sound of a person who was in pain. A lot of pain, probably. And, even though the hoarse timbre already made it clear to her who it was, Alice still couldn't stop herself from turning towards the sound, following the trail of visceral wails, not only painful but also angry, until she reached even one of the doors, which didn't seem to have been closed very well. However, the moment her hand reached out on its own to reach the doorknob, she hesitated, remembering the expression in Massimo’s face earlier. He hadn't married her for Alice to meddle in his affairs, much less act as his nurse. So, should she really...? That thought was interrupted when a new grunt of pain sounded, much louder than the others, followed by a muffled scream. “Why do you keep me alive?!” “Massimo!” Alice gasped and, before she realized what the worry was causing her to do, she opened the door. She found Massimo on the bed, without his pants, several bandages thrown on the floor, the sheets dirty with his own blood, and a deep open wound on his leg.	LEARN_MORE	https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=14341&u	Random Reading	https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/	159	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	redtgb.com	DCO		https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=14341&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/t39.35426-6/461157002_1577790853131154_840256102571963068_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=su9yBTh6zDUQ7kNvgG17y0f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Abtze0VOEgkA1fErVLwVFCL&oh=00_AYBVTVTB-hsqAVlHF9H_7durl8ykWems1jhYECJblMrSvQ&oe=67067156	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Random Reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,084,743	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-10-04 19:48	active	1576			LEARN_MORE	https://www.instagram.com/concordshows/	Concord Theatricals	https://www.facebook.com/ConcordShows/	56,271	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		https://www.instagram.com/concordshows/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461978748_1067930034707633_8916487203095516122_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ND33sArs3bUQ7kNvgEuN7Kk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AKkQ81Gv2IU4b7wPqc2mbkr&oh=00_AYAK47wvVvyo6LY7ZRYXCGGz2IuII-jFPYuZkBkq6tIzIg&oe=67063AAF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Concord Theatricals	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,085,376	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-10-04 19:53	active	1576			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/ballagrio	ballagrio	https://www.instagram.com/_u/ballagrio	0	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram Profile	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/ballagrio	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/261137203_1468008530248244_3205235618468747271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=01e7c5&_nc_ohc=JC7KScoRApoQ7kNvgFV0_r4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDp_RgWVP57PQ8XmiIQwp1PjlYBaSKBWoOKBE0C0u0AWQ&oe=67064464	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	0	ballagrio	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,085,749	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-10-04 19:57	active	1576			VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/covercraft	Covercraft	https://www.facebook.com/covercraftindustries/	12,177	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram Profile	instagram.com	CAROUSEL		http://instagram.com/covercraft	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462141343_2742037645970431_3082428037087142739_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MgiBD0NJIvgQ7kNvgE0PeIP&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AmEvM5_Pr9PklU9Y8mUAu30&oh=00_AYCJNrw0Z4UFtY98VbPO2JQixbz3LMn_-lRgDgIp4JGYXA&oe=67065CFE	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Covercraft	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,086,278	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2086220}'	Yes	2024-10-04 20:01	active	1576	CLICK NOW FOR $100 Walmart 👉	Want to shop smart? 💸 Win a FREE $100 Walmart gift card. Instant access and endless shopping options. Tap here to claim your gift card now! 🎁	LEARN_MORE	https://yourgiveawayday.online/Z6EVW7Xc-7FZf2jU_sd	Giveaway Today	https://www.facebook.com/61564657756157/	2	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	yourgiveawayday.online	IMAGE		https://yourgiveawayday.online/Z6EVW7Xc-7FZf2jU_sdOLkuRMzR0pCJDGCMbHkSYHUg/?sid={{campaign.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461922417_1021400559734142_5669439835224453410_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zkW94WDpQfUQ7kNvgEIw9ig&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Atbfkc2uNXfAFhfAEj3jKmz&oh=00_AYDTjqQ1WIYkpEmNHZ4SiLqc47Ps3Tk9_ZWYn_24qOh1Ig&oe=6706556E	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Giveaway Today	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,088,662	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2088763}'	No	2024-10-04 20:29	active	1578	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉	At Grace Mansion, the lanterns in the corridors cast intricate shadows on the window frames, resembling beasts looming on the walls. Carissa Sinclair sat on a chair with her hands folded in her lap, her slender body hidden beneath plain clothes. She looked at the man before her—her husband whom she had spent a year waiting for. Barrett Warren was still wearing his slightly-worn battle armor. Standing under the dim light, he looked commanding and handsome. His face showed a mix of determination and a touch of regret. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for this marriage. Aurora will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has said that General Yates is a model for all women in the kingdom. Would she be willing to be a concubine?" Barrett's eyes flashed with a hint of annoyance. "No, she won’t be a concubine. She’ll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, she’s really just a concubine in disguise," Carissa replied, remaining indifferent. Barrett frowned. "What does it matter? Aurora and I developed feelings for each other on the battlefield. We earned this marriage through our achievements. I don’t need your approval." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Developed feelings, huh? Do you remember what you said to me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett had left to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before leaving, he had lifted his wife’s veil and promised her, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Feeling awkward, Barrett turned away. "Forget what I said. When I married you, I didn’t understand love. I thought you were a suitable match for a wife until I met Rory." Talking about the woman he loved, his eyes softened and filled with deep affection. He turned back to Carissa and added, "She’s unlike any woman I’ve ever met. I love her deeply. I hope you'll agree to this." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite feeling a mix of disgust and unwillingness, she still asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict. Besides, Aurora is straightforward, cheerful, and lovable. She visited my mother a while ago." They agreed? Hah... How ironic! Everything Carissa had done over the past year had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting her brow. Barrett spoke of Aurora Yates with a softness in his voice, "Yes, she’s talking to my mother. She’s made her very happy. Even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was seriously ill. I brought in the best physician to treat her. I managed the estate’s affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasn’t seeking praise. She was stating the facts of her exhausting year. "But seeing Aurora has made my mother feel even better," Barrett said earnestly. "I know this is unfair to you, but for the greater good, please support Aurora and me." Carissa pressed her lips into a thin line as she blinked away the tears in her eyes and sharpened her gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need for that. Carissa, she’s different from any woman you know. She’s a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldn’t want to meet you," Barrett refused instantly. Carissa retorted, "What kind of women do I know? What kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of a noble family. My father and my six brothers died on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "That’s them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. She’s straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you won’t like. Why put yourself through that?" As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under the corner of her eye became more evident in the light. She calmly said, "It’s fine. If she says anything unpleasant, I’ll ignore it. Understanding the bigger picture and acting with dignity are essential virtues for any matriarch. Don't you trust me?" Chapter 2 Barrett sighed in frustration. “Why put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, you’ll be in separate wings. She won’t compete with you for control of the household. She doesn’t care about those things.” “Do you really think I’m attached to managing this household?” Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrett’s mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligations—all these things required money. This household was practically a hollow shell. Over the past year, Carissa had used much of her dowry to keep things running. And this was her reward. “Enough, I won’t argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,” said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. “My lady, my lord was too much!” said Lulu, Carissa’s maid, wiping her tears away. “Don’t call him that!” Carissa gave her a stern look. “We never consummated the marriage. He’s not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.” “Why the dowry list?” Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. “Silly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?” Lulu held her forehead and gasped. “But your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.” Tears finally welled up in Carissa’s eyes at the mention of her parents. Her father had stayed loyal to her mother, never taking a concubine. They had six sons and one daughter. All her brothers followed her father to the battlefield. Three years ago, none returned from the Southern Frontier. Though she was a girl, Carissa came from a family of warriors and started training as a child. At the age of seven, she was sent to study under a master, where she also learned military strategy. When she returned home at fifteen, she learned her father and brothers had died a year earlier. Her mother, who had gone blind from crying too much, held Carissa close and said, "You must live like the noble girls in the kingdom. Find a good husband, marry, have children, and lead a peaceful life. You’re the only child I have left.” Carissa felt like someone had gouged her heart out. The pain she felt was so intense she couldn't even bring herself to cry. Determined to please her mother, she spent a year mastering the traditional values and duties expected of a noblewoman. She also learned accounting and how to manage a household. Not only was Carissa the Marquis of Northwatch's daughter, but she was also known for her beauty. So, suitors flooded their doorstep. Her mother had chosen Barrett because he had sworn he would never take another wife if he married Carissa. But six months ago, tragedy struck. All the residents of Northwatch Estate were murdered. No one was spared, not even the children or servants. Each victim suffered numerous knife wounds, and their bodies were brutally dismembered. Carissa’s youngest nephew had been only two and a half years old, born after the death of her third brother. The local authorities and garrison unit captured a few of the assailants. After further investigation, they were discovered to be spies from an enemy kingdom, Westhaven. The war at the front line was raging, yet these spies didn't hesitate to reveal themselves just to annihilate her family. The manner of the murder suggested it was more of a personal vengeance than anything else. When Carissa received the news, she rushed home, only to find her grandmother’s and mother’s gruesomely dismembered bodies. Blood stained every corner of the residence, and the dead were left in agonizing states. Now, Carissa was the lone survivor of the marquis' family. The idea of restoring her family’s former glory seemed impossible—at least to outsiders. They saw her merely as a delicate, fragile woman. However, Aurora was different. She had earned military merits for her contribution to the war and became the first female general in history. Even the queen dowager had high praise for her. With Aurora supporting Barrett, his future would be more secure. That was the reason the Warren family readily agreed to the marriage. Chapter 3 Lulu brought over the dowry list and explained, "This year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins to support the household. However, the shops, houses, and estates remain untouched. All the bank savings, along with the property deeds and land titles your mother left, are locked up in the chest." Carissa glanced at the list. "Alright." Just looking at the list put her in a melancholy mood. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she would suffer hardships in her husband's home. "My lady, where can we go? Are we returning to Northwatch Estate? Or should we go back to Meadow Ridge?" Lulu asked, looking distressed. Images of the bloodstained estate and the tragic deaths of her family members flashed through Carissa’s mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, you’ll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, I’ll spend my whole life suffering as I watch those two be affectionate. Lulu, I must live well to give my parents and brothers peace in the afterlife," Carissa replied calmly. "My lady!" Lulu wept bitterly. She had been born and raised in Northwatch Estate. The murder had claimed the lives of everyone, including her own family. The images still haunted her, and returning there seemed unthinkable. "Is there no other way?" Lulu asked desperately. Carissa’s eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my family’s achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, I’ll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissa’s expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think I’m that silly? If I manage to reach the king, I’ll only request an edict for an amicable divorce." Barrett was able to marry Aurora because of a royal edict. So, Carissa should also be issued an official edict to leave. She shouldn't have to sneak away like she was being cast out. The wealth from Northwatch Estate was more than enough for her to live comfortably for the rest of her life. She wouldn't degrade herself unnecessarily. Just then, someone called from outside, "Madam Carissa, the matriarch has requested your presence!" "It’s Jade, Madam Rebecca's maid. It seems like Madam Rebecca wants to try and persuade you," Lulu whispered. Carissa straightened up, her expression serious. "Then, let’s go." The evening sun glowed like blood, and the autumn wind was chilly. The late king had bestowed the Warren family's current residence, Valor Estate, upon Barrett's grandfather. Though once prestigious, it had fallen into decline. Most of the Warren family's men were warriors who fought on battlefields. Only a few were civil servants who worked in the palace. Barrett’s father, Jonathan, didn’t fare well in his official career. His second uncle, Gregory, only held a minor post in the Royal Citadel. Barrett and his eldest brother, Benjamin, were somewhat successful in the military. But before their recent victory, they were only fourth-ranked majors. Both families still lived together in Valor Estate. Splitting the family would only hasten their decline. Accompanied by Lulu, Carissa arrived at Rebecca’s room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "You’re here." Benjamin and his wife, Amelia Morgan, were also in the room. Barrett's sister, Serena, and the other children of the concubines were present as well. Barrett's second aunt, Charlotte Lewis, was also seated nearby. However, her expression was cold and somewhat disdainful. "Hello, Mother. Aunt Charlotte, Benjamin, Amelia," Carissa greeted them politely. "Carissa, come here." Rebecca gestured for her daughter-in-law to sit by her bedside. The older woman held Carissa's hand affectionately and happily said, "Now that Barrett is back, you have someone to rely on. This year has been so hard on you, especially with what happened to your family. You’re the only one left of the marquis' family. Fortunately, all of that is behind you now." Rebecca was shrewd. She made it clear that Carissa would need to depend on the Warren family in the future, since her family was gone. Carissa pulled her hand away and calmly said, "Mother, I heard you met General Yates today." Rebecca hadn’t expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. She’s rather rough around the edges and doesn’t compare to you in terms of looks." Carissa gazed at her mother-in-law steadily. "So, are you saying you don't like her?" Chapter 4 Rebecca forced a smile. "How can I decide that after meeting her only once? But since the king has arranged the marriage, it’s a done deal. In the future, she and Barrett will earn military merits together, while you manage the household and enjoy the benefits of their hard work. Isn’t that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But it’s quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The king’s edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, she’s a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials can’t be concubines. She'll be a legal wife like you. There won't be any distinction between ranks for the two of you." "No distinction? Is there such a custom in our kingdom?" Carissa asked. Rebecca’s expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, you’ve always been sensible. Now that you’ve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Aurora’s contributions in this battle were greater than Barrett’s. With you managing the household, they'll be able to work together as husband and wife and focus on their military service. In the future, they'll surely become famous generals like his grandfather." Carissa’s tone remained chilly as she said, "If they’re husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Aren’t you still in charge of the household?" countered Rebecca, displeased. "I only managed the household because Amelia was unwell. Now that she has recovered, she should resume her duties. I’ll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "I’m still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how you’ve been managing things. You should continue doing it." Carissa smiled mockingly. Everyone was satisfied because she had spent her own money to support them. Most of it went towards Rebecca’s medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebecca’s medicine cost over a hundred coins a month, amounting to more than a thousand coins a year. As for the other household expenses, Carissa occasionally subsidized them. For example, she would sometimes use fabrics and silks from her family’s business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didn’t mind it before, as she had really wished to spend her life with Barrett. However, circumstances had changed. She no longer wanted to be a fool. Carissa stood up and said, "That’s settled, then. I’ll hand over the accounts tomorrow and won’t be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, you’re being unreasonable. Men having multiple wives and concubines is normal. If you can't accept that, people will say you're narrow-minded and jealous." Carissa’s compliance over the past year had made the Warren family think she was easy to manipulate. They believed a few harsh words would always keep her in line. Carissa’s expression was calm, a stark contrast to her usual docility. "People can say whatever they want. I'm not concerned about their opinions." Rebecca was so angry that she struggled to breathe and coughed harshly for a long while. In the past, Carissa would have rushed to help her. She would pat the older woman's back and try to soothe her. But now, Carissa remained where she was. The soft evening light from the doorway highlighted her delicate, almost ethereal beauty. "Carissa, look how badly you've upset Mom," Serena said as she stepped forward. Her round, youthful face puffed with anger as she glared at Carissa. "This isn’t even about you. Do you think your family is still as prestigious as it once was? Your parents and brothers are gone; you're the only one left. Aren't you afraid that Barrett will divorce you if you keep putting on airs like you're a young lady from a prestigious family?" Carissa looked at her sister-in-law, who was dressed in a pale yellow outfit that Carissa had procured for her in early autumn. Now, wearing the clothes Carissa had provided, Serena dared to question her authority. How utterly… unsensible of her. "Take off that dress you’re wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serena’s cheeks flushed with anger. "I didn’t beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you don’t want me to have it." "Fine. And don’t forget the jewelry you’re wearing. I expect it all to be returned to me." After Carissa said that, her gaze swept across the room. The only one who seemed pleased with the situation was Charlotte. Everyone else looked grim. "If there’s nothing else, I’ll be leaving." With that, Carissa turned and walked out decisively. Chapter 5 The Warren family members exchanged puzzled glances. None expected the usually agreeable Carissa to stand her ground so firmly this time. She even defied Rebecca, the matriarch of the family! “She’ll come around. She doesn’t have any other choice,” Rebecca said coldly. That was true. With Carissa's family gone, she had no one to rely on except the Warren family. Besides, she was still Barrett's rightful wife, and it wasn’t like she had been mistreated. - Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu returned to Northwatch Estate. The estate was bleak and covered in fallen leaves. After just half a year of neglect, the courtyard was overgrown with weeds that were taller than a person. Stepping back into the estate, Carissa’s heart ached fiercely. Six months ago, she had collapsed upon hearing that her family had been murdered. She had wept when she saw the lifeless bodies of her grandmother and mother—their corpses cold and devoid of warmth. Every corner of the estate had been stained with blood. Memorial plaques for her ancestors and mother had been placed at the estate’s family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parents’ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. “Dad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. It’s not that I don’t want a peaceful life with a husband and children, but Barrett is not someone I can trust with my life. Rest assured, I promise Lulu and I will live well.” Lulu knelt beside her, sobbing uncontrollably. After they were done, they boarded a carriage and headed straight for the palace. It was noon by the time they arrived. Under the scorching autumn sun, Carissa and Lulu stood like statues in front of the palace gates. They waited for a full hour, but no one came to let them in. Lulu was distressed and said, “My lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks you’re here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didn’t eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?” “I’m not hungry.” The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. “Please don’t be so hard on yourself. It’s not worth getting sick over. Why don’t we just let it go? After all, you’re still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, she’ll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?” Lulu pleaded. Carissa’s gaze was cold. “Lulu, if you’re going to talk like that, don’t speak at all.” Lulu sighed, feeling lost and unsure of what else to do. She had hoped that once Barrett returned, Carissa would find some peace. But the situation had only worsened. - In the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissa’s arrival to the king three times. “Your Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,” he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. “I can’t see her. The edict has been issued, and I can’t take it back. Tell her to go home.” “The guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. She’s been standing there for over an hour without moving.” Salvador felt a pang of guilt. “Barrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didn’t want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.” “If we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivan’s contributions surpass all others,” Derek countered. Salvador remembered the Marquis of Northwatch, Hector Sinclair. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Carissa was a familiar face from those days, though she had been a delicate child. He still remembered her fair skin and endearing looks. Salvador had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers. When Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. Apart from his brother who was known as the Devil Monarch on the battlefield, the kingdom had no other capable generals. In the recent war with Westhaven, Dominic Sullivan’s third son had lost an arm. Dominic's seventh son had been murdered, though this had been kept secret. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector. “Alright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, I’ll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,” said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. “As always, you're wise, Your Majesty!” Chapter 6 Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Salvador remembered the Sinclair family. Knowing that Carissa was now the only one left stirred a feeling of pity in him. "Rise and speak," he commanded. Carissa bowed deeply with her hands clasped. "Your Majesty, I know it's presumptuous of me to seek an audience today. But I also wish to implore for your grace." "I have already issued the edict. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I implore you to issue another edict. I want to divorce General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "What? You want a divorce?" Salvador thought she had come to ask him to rescind the marriage edict. He never expected a plea for a divorce. Holding back tears, Carissa pleaded, "Your Majesty, General Warren and General Yates sought the marriage edict with their military achievements. "Today is the death anniversary of my father and brothers. I wish to seek an edict to divorce my husband based on my late family's military merits. Please, Your Majesty, I'm begging you." "Carissa, do you know what you'll face after the divorce?" Salvador asked, a complicated expression on his face. Carissa hadn't heard Salvador call her by name in a long time. When he was still the crown prince, he used to occasionally visit Northwatch Estate. He would always find some interesting little gifts to give her when he did. After Carissa later went to Meadow Ridge to study under her master, they never saw each other again. "I do," she affirmed. There was a hint of a smile on Carissa's stunning face. But no matter how one looked at it, the smile seemed tinged with irony. "I'm sure you know the saying that a true gentleman appreciates and helps others to fulfill their aspirations, right? Even though I'm not a gentleman, I don't want to hinder General Warren and General Yates from being together," Carissa added. "Carissa, there's no one left at Northwatch Estate. Are you really going to go back there? Have you thought about your future?" Salvador asked. "I returned to the estate today to visit my family's memorial plaques. Seeing how the estate has fallen into disrepair made me want to live there again. I'll adopt a son for my father's sake, so there will still be someone to honor his memory," Carissa explained. Salvador had thought she was being impulsive; he hadn't expected her to be so considerate. "You're Barrett's legal wife. Aurora can't undermine your position. You really don't need a divorce." Carissa looked up with tear-filled eyes that were firm with resolve. "Your Majesty, that's meaningless. I don't want to waste my life like this. I'm the only one left from the Marquis of Northwatch's' family. My father and brothers lived honorably and bravely throughout their lives. I don't want to settle for a life of mediocrity." "I know you have feelings for Barrett. Are you willing to let go?" Salvador asked. Feelings? Not really. Carissa simply admired military men, and her mother had wanted her to marry and lead a stable life. That was why she had agreed to the marriage. Carissa smiled. At this moment, she looked like a strong woman who would be able to flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. "If he can let go of me, then I can let go of him," she declared. Beneath her delicate appearance, she possessed an unyielding backbone. This stunned Salvador. He had never seen such a woman before. He felt a pang of confusion, remembering the carefree little girl who used to smile all day long. Now, she was married and soon to be abandoned. To the world, divorce still meant abandonment. This was especially true in Carissa’s situation, as Barrett had publicly sought the marriage edict. Being a woman was already difficult, and she would have it even harder. How would she negotiate future marriages? There was no one left in her family to do it for her. Thinking of this, Salvador recalled Hector's merits, especially how they had saved each other on the battlefield, and his heart softened towards Carissa. "Alright, I agree. You may leave now. In a few days, the edict of divorce will be sent to the general's residence," Salvador said. Carissa breathed a sigh of relief and bowed her head. "Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty!" As Salvador watched her, he was suddenly reminded of when she was a little girl, and his heart softened further. "Carissa, if anyone mistreats you in the future, come to the palace and see me." "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Carissa bowed once again.	LEARN_MORE	https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&	Random Reading	https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/	159	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	shgjfh.com	DCO		https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459171136_2276643906039074_3026189410358466697_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YIi-ANoSo2IQ7kNvgEEugm8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AzdNLHygttF5IouGJ9M1KXF&oh=00_AYBKsxokUrq0kxRG3T6PyLiBHRWpU_Mp9Mtl8ttzeAPdRA&oe=67067165	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Random Reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,094,779	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-10-04 22:40	active	1580	Antique hanging Shelf/Hutch for China Vase Displays	Antique hanging Shelf/Hutch for China Vase Displays - $150.00 Antique display hanging shelf unit curio, china vase Hutch height 30 width 29 depth 9 English Circa late 1800s Walnut Height 30 width 29 Depth 9" There are 2 doors in the middle with a single shelf behind the doors There are shelves on either side Vases and curios are not included Excellent quality and condition Can be seen in Terrell Texas 75160 Firm price $150 Delivery available at reasonable price China curio shelf unit dining kitchen entryway Dallas Ft worth Shreveport Southlake Marshall Austin Odessa Oklahoma City Nacogdoches Tyler nacogdoches Monroe kaufman highland park Wylie Frisco McKinney Richardson Rockwall adedsa Facebook Marketplace	CONTACT_US	https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/107371421699	DeWayne Hopson	https://www.facebook.com/DeWayne-Hopson-512898245784615/	0	1969-12-31 18:00	Contact us		IMAGE		https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/1073714216992086/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462004192_2885075221662005_5445709257102251448_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T0hwscWCu30Q7kNvgEeCmSa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Addg4kJq2pnkDc2fZAfXrwF&oh=00_AYAqe1Y6V5sSfICMFp3dGGP8D88AKfHWg-qjlf0Ure5K6w&oe=67066640	REGULAR_PAGE	1	1	DeWayne Hopson	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,093,479	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2093110}'	No	2024-10-04 22:35	active	1580	😍Read the next chapters👉	Chapter 1 "Jenna, you're so wet!" Jenna gasped as Angelo's fingers moved inside her. He teased her gently while she struggled to gather herself. "B-Babe, someone might see us…" Jenna gasped again, trying to catch her breath. Angelo focused on her body, caressing them endlessly. "No one's gonna catch us here, babe. Trust me." Angelo had invited Jenna to his condo near their school, saying he missed her. He waited in the elevator, texting that he was on his way. Suddenly, Angelo pulled Jenna by the waist into the elevator and kissed her passionately. "I miss you, babe," he whispered, pressing the button to close the elevator to his unit on the 11th floor. Their kisses were intense, and Jenna felt both thrilled and worried about the elevator opening and someone catching them. Angelo's hands roamed her body, caressing her back and sliding down to her waist. He was about to slip his fingers inside her trousers when she stopped his hand. "B-Babe, not here," Jenna pleaded. "Trust me, babe, this will be fun." Jenna was wearing a short skirt and a crop top, so Angelo had free rein over her body. His fingers were already inside her and she couldn't stop his hand. The sensation was too intense for Jenna to resist. "Ooooh, baaabe," she gripped his neck. Angelo gazed at Jenna intensely while pleasuring her. His fingers moved in and out of her until Jenna felt something inside her. "I couldn't suppress the pleasure anymore... Ahhhh…" Jenna hugged Angelo tightly, almost collapsing from exhaustion. "Did you enjoy it, babe?" he asked, grinning at her. "Pervert!" Jenna pretended to be annoyed as the elevator doors opened, and they stepped out. - At Jenna's house. "Jenna, wake up!" She jolted awake, holding her head and sighing. 'Ugh, I dreamt about Angelo again.' Angelo was her ex-boyfriend and her first in everything: first boyfriend, first love, first kiss, first bed experience. Jenna didn't know why she kept thinking about him lately, even in her dreams. Maybe it was true what they said, "First love never dies." Angelo came from a rich and influential family. He had a younger brother, Luke, who was expected to take over their family businesses. Unlike Angelo, Luke was carefree and a dandy. There was a three-year age gap between them. Jenna felt sad remembering the past. She cried every time she thought about what had happened between her and Angelo. They never had a formal breakup—she just left Elaraquinn without a word, too young to handle the pain of her first love. ‘Why can't you move on, self? Why do you keep thinking about Angelo?' Jenna asked herself. Maybe it was because they had no closure, leaving endless questions in her mind. She cried again as she remembered the past. ‘It's been two years, but the memories feel like it happened yesterday... When will I be able to move on? What am I doing to myself? Am I becoming a masochist? There are plenty of guys pursuing me, but I haven't said yes to any of them. I don't want to be unfair because deep down, I still love Angelo... It's still him.' Jenna ended her internal monologue and got up. She had an interview for a secretary position at an accounting firm. Although she wanted to practice what she had learned as an accountant, she hadn't passed the CPA Board Exam after graduation and had traveled to Veloria. As a result, she decided to apply for the secretary position first. After showering, she put on her new outfit. "I went shopping yesterday for my interview today. I need to impress my future boss." Jenna smiled as she looked at herself in the mirror. Jenna's POV: I'm half-American because my dad is American. Standing at 5’10", people often tell me I could compete in beauty contests. They say my body is well-proportioned, with a small waist, and perfectly shaped behinds. Not to boast, but I'm also smart, though not the smartest. My mom is a retired teacher and my dad is a retired pilot. I'm an only child, and we live a comfortable life, but I've never relied on my parents. Even though they provide for my needs, I’m not spoiled. I still prefer to earn my own money. 'I'll wear a black V-neck blouse, but not vulgarly. I'll pair it with a white coat and long pants that fit my body shape… I look sophisticated. Let's spray some perfume before leaving the room.' "Mom, I won't have breakfast, okay? I might hit heavy traffic," I shouted as I said goodbye to my mom. "Okay, take care, dear. I hope you get accepted at your new job," she shouted back while having breakfast with my dad in the garden. "Thanks, Mom. Bye, Dad." I blew them a flying kiss and got into my car, waving as I drove away. I have missed being busy and am really excited about my new job. I'll do my best in my interview to get accepted. Although I'm sure I'll get it because my childhood friend, Jason Jones, offered me the job. He said his business partner needs a secretary. I've only been back in Elaraquinn for a month. I used to work as a model in Veloria. My cousin, Abby Miller, felt pity for me when Angelo and I broke up. She helped me get away from Elaraquinn. I worked as a model in Veloria for two years, participating in fashion shows, becoming a magazine cover model, and appearing on billboards for a famous makeup company. I exhausted myself to divert the emptiness I felt in my heart. "You should come back home. We miss you," my mom said lovingly when I called her. "Okay, Mom. I'll file for a vacation so we can bond," I replied, making my mom smile. "Really? By the way, do you have a boyfriend there?" she asked with a smile. "Why are you asking that, Mom? You know I'm busy with work here." My mom knew why I went to Veloria. To get away from my heartache and move on. She didn't stop me from leaving because I was with Abby. I buried myself in work to forget, but when I returned to my apartment, he was still on my mind. Maybe that's how it is with your first love. How will I move on from this? I suddenly felt sad again as I pondered. I just realized I am already in the parking lot, lost in thought. I smiled bitterly. It was 8:30 a.m. when I arrived at the AF Accounting Firm building. My interview was at 9:00 am, so I still had time to freshen up. AF Accounting Firm was one of the respected firms in Elaraquinn, with high-profile clients. I saw Jason waiting for me by the elevator. "Hi, doll," Jason greeted me with a smile and kissed my cheek. He used to call me "doll" instead of "beautiful". Jason and I are childhood friends from Ventus. My family and I moved to Vesperia for university, but we kept in touch. His family is extremely rich, and he manages their family business. "Hi, hunk," I replied, using my nickname for him. "How's Veloria? It seems you're getting more beautiful," Jason teased. "Come on. I've been beautiful for a long time. You're just crazy about me, aren't you?" I joked. "It's your fault. You just won't say yes to being my girlfriend." "Don't you dare add me to your collection unless you want my dad to bury you alive," I teased, making him laugh. "By the way, are you ready? Your future boss is waiting in his office. If I knew you wanted to be a charming-tary, I would have hired you," he teased. "Mr. Ferrer's secretary reportedly resigned, so he's urgently looking for a new one." Jason continued to chatter in the elevator as we headed to the 18th floor where the CEO's office of AF Accounting Firm was located. However, I wasn't focused on his story—I was lost in thought. 'Is Mr. Ferrer related to Angelo? Angelo's last name is also Ferrer. I hope not... I'm not ready to see him again…' I pushed aside my worries. There are many Ferrers in Elaraquinn—it's just unlucky if that's the case. When we arrived on the 18th floor, I was about to ask Jason for Mr. Ferrer's first name when the office door suddenly opened. To my surprise, out came none other than my ex-boyfriend, Angelo Ferrer. I can't move from where I stand. It feels like everything from two years ago is coming rushing back. 'AF' stands for Angelo Ferrer? ‘You're so silly, Jenna! Why didn't you think of that?' I scolded myself. "Angelo, this is Ms. Jenna Smith. She's the one I was telling you about," said Jason as he introduced me to Angelo. Angelo stared at me intently, his eyes betraying a hint of pain. Chapter 2 "H-Hello Mr. Ferrer," I said, extending my hand. He didn't accept my handshake. Jason was shocked by Angelo's behavior. "Ms. Smith, please come to my office. I want to talk to you in private," Angelo ordered and then abruptly turned around. I followed Angelo with my head down and knees trembling. I am not sure if I can make it to the office without collapsing. Jason was left standing, confused by what was happening. "Close the door, Ms. Smith," Angelo said, sitting in his swivel chair as if he owned the world. In fairness, he looks even more handsome. His 1.82-meter height makes his striking face even more noticeable. Angelo used to be a varsity basketball player, so his physique is still very fit. Angelo and I were classmates at Ateneo, both pursuing a BS in Accountancy. I was the basketball team's cheerleader, and Angelo was the MVP. We were university sweethearts. Since our first year, Angelo had been protecting me, keeping other boys away. They were afraid of him since his family was on the university's board of trustees. Many girls liked him, but I was the lucky one who caught his attention. Well, he wasn't missing out with me either. Many said we were a perfect match—a beautiful girl and a handsome guy. - Narrator's POV: Jenna couldn't help but scrutinize her ex-boyfriend. He was still very handsome. 'I wonder how many abs he has under that shirt... If it weren't embarrassing, I might have hugged him. I admit, I miss him so much, but no, Jenna, control yourself. You left because he has a fiancée, remember?' Jenna shook her head to suppress her imagination. "Ms. Smith," Angelo called, bringing her back to reality. "So, Jenna, long time no see. How are you? Why are you here? Were you looking for me? Haven't you moved on from me yet?" Angelo asked, pretending not to know that Jenna was coming. He had been restless, waiting for her arrival. Jenna's ears burned at Angelo's words. "Excuse me, Mr. Ferrer, but I didn't know you were here, and I didn't know you'd be my boss. For your information, I moved on from you a long time ago," Jenna lied to hide her embarrassment. How could she move on when just looking at his body made her want to feast on it? "Well, I don't just work here, Jenna. I'm the CEO of this company. And this building is mine," Angelo said. If someone else had said that, Jenna would think they were bragging. But when Angelo said it, it sounded impressive. 'Hush, Jenna, stop it. Angelo might notice,' Jenna scolded herself inwardly. "Since I urgently need a secretary and you're the most qualified for the position, you're already hired," Angelo said, staring at her. Jenna didn't know whether to be happy about what Angelo said. 'What now, Jenna? Can you handle seeing him every day if you work here? Do you want to be hurt again?' she thought, feeling crazy for talking to herself. "H-Hmm, I think there must be a mistake. I can't accept the job," Jenna stammered. "Why? Oh, I get it. You're not over me yet?" Angelo teased. 'How arrogant! Am I that obvious? I need to regain my composure. I won't let you win, Angelo Ferrer,' she told herself. "I'm so over you! After all, it's been two years. I went to Veloria after we broke up. What do you think I did there? Stay in a convent?" Jenna said with her head held high. She didn't know why she said that, but she needed to hide her embarrassment and defend herself. She seemed to have succeeded. Angelo's face darkened, and he gave her a sharp look. His eyes blazed as he stared at her as if he wanted to devour her. "Accept the position if it's not a problem for you then. And to correct you, Ms. Smith, we didn't break up. You ran away without any explanation! You just assumed we were over." 'Huh? What did he say?' Jenna thought, puzzled. "What now, Jenna?" Angelo asked, snapping her out of her thoughts. "Are you going to leave and hide again as you did before?" Angelo asked. 'What is he talking about? I was the one who got hurt, right? I was the one who got cheated on, right?' Jenna wanted to shout and make Angelo understand what she was thinking. "Okay! I'll accept your offer!" Jenna blurted out. She was stunned. 'What did I just say?!' Even she was surprised by what she said. Her heart must have spoken, not her mind. Her traitorous heart betrayed her! "Okay, good. You may start tomorrow. You can leave now, Ms. Smith. See you tomorrow," Angelo said, turning his swivel chair around, not giving her a chance to take back what she said. 'Rude! What have I gotten myself into? Help me, God. There's no turning back now. Whatever happens, happens.' Jenna thought. Angelo ended their conversation abruptly, leaving Jenna no opportunity to reconsider. 'God, I missed her so much,' he thought, closing his eyes. He didn't think he could handle seeing her again today. He had been restless since last night, thinking he was ready. He had been under the impression he had moved on and wouldn't be hurt. But he was wrong—so many wrong assumptions. He wasn't ready at all. 'What have you gotten yourself into, Angelo?' - Last night, at the club: Angelo was with his friends. Jason and Miguel Alvarez were already seated when he arrived, and as usual, Inigo Malone was late. "How's your secretary, bro? I heard he's in critical condition," Miguel asked. Angelo's secretary had been hit by a truck and was in the hospital recovering. "He's fine. But it will take a while for him to recover. He won't be back at work for some time," Angelo replied. "So you're without a secretary now? That's tough, bro, with all your businesses. You need an assistant," Inigo said. Angelo sighed. "I can help you find a temporary secretary, bro. I have a friend who's perfect for the position. Actually, she's not looking for a job. She's just here for a vacation. She's a model in Veloria." "Hmmm, sounds interesting!" Inigo responded with a grin. "I don't want a female secretary!" Angelo interjected. His friends laughed. He didn't want to mix work with complications. Every female secretary he had had, had tried to seduce him. His friends knew that he hadn't gotten over his ex-girlfriend, so he had no social life. Women were forbidden on their nights out if Angelo was around. They said he was boring to hang out with. "Are you sure about that?" Jason asked, pulling out his phone and showing Angelo a picture. "Owww!" his friends exclaimed in unison. Angelo was stunned. The woman in the picture was none other than his first love and heartbreak, Jenna Smith. He fell silent. Angelo had spent years immersing himself in work to forget Jenna. He had started his own company, fulfilling the dream they had shared after graduating from university. He didn't want to rely on a position his father would offer in the family business. Now, he found himself both confused and hopeful about seeing Jenna again. She was back. "What? Cat got your tongue, bro? If you don't want her, I'll take her. I'll fire my secretary right away," Miguel joked. Angelo gave him a sharp look. He didn't mention that he knew the woman in the picture. "So, what makes you think she'll take the job if she's not looking for one?" Angelo asked Jason. "Leave it to me. I've got this," Jason said with a grin. Angelo suddenly felt a pang of jealousy. He didn't show it, but he felt like ending Jason. Just thinking about another man in Jenna's life made him furious. "Tell her to come to my office tomorrow morning," Angelo said. His friends laughed heartily at his command. "So, you're giving in, huh? Looks like Mr. Grumpy fell in love," his friends teased. "Shut up, guys!" Angelo said, making them laugh even harder. He sighed. His friends knew exactly how to annoy him. - Angelo went home but still couldn't calm down about seeing Jenna the next day. Lying in bed and staring at the ceiling, he recalled their passionate moments. - Back then. "Babe, come over to the condo after your class. I miss you so much," Angelo said sweetly over the phone. "Okay, babe. I'll just finish my assignment. I'll be there by 6:00 pm," Jenna replied. Jason grinned, thinking about what he would do to his girlfriend. He missed her so much, even though they saw each other every day. They never got tired of each other. Jenna arrived at 6:30 p.m., delayed by her assignments. "Hi, babe," she greeted, but before she could say more, Angelo kissed her. "I missed you," he whispered in her ear, teasing her. His hands roamed her body. "Stop it, babe. Someone might see us," Jenna protested. "No one will see us..." "Let's have dinner, babe. I'm hungry," Jenna tried to change the subject, knowing Angelo's plan. "Later, babe. I have something to do for you. This hard thing here misses you," Angelo said with a grin. Jenna laughed at his words. They quickly entered Angelo's unit. He wasted no time, kissing Jenna passionately. Jenna held onto his neck. "Oh, babe!" She gasped as his hands explored her body. He went straight to her sweet spot, teasing her until she was breathless. "God, you're so wet, baby," Angelo said. She was soaking wet, and Angelo knelt, lifting her skirt. Jenna was lost in pleasure. "You're so ready for me, babe, dripping wet," he said with a grin, making her blush. "Oh, ah, please don't stop, babe," Jenna pleaded, barely able to stand. Angelo smiled at her words, increasing his efforts. He inserted a finger, playing inside her while kissing her. "Ohhh, babe!" Jenna cried. "I want you inside me... Babe, please," she begged. Angelo stood up and granted her wish, bending her over the table for support. "I don't just do it, babe. I do it hard. Are you ready?" he asked. "Yes," Jenna answered. Angelo aimed his thing at Jenna's entrance and forcefully thrust it in without warning. Jenna gasped at the pleasure her boyfriend was giving her. Angelo's movements quickened, his thrusts becoming more intense. "Ahhhhh, ohhhhh, aahhhhh... I love you so much, babe. I will never hurt you," Angelo whispered as he pleasured his girlfriend. Luckily, the table Jenna was holding onto was sturdy, or it might have collapsed under the force and speed of Angelo's thrusts. Jenna was utterly overwhelmed, not knowing where to turn her head from the intense pleasure. "I'm coming, baaabee. Please don't stop," Jenna cried out. "Come with me, Jenna," Angelo urged, thrusting deeply until they climaxed together. Jenna collapsed onto the table, both of them catching their breath. "I love you so much, babe," Angelo whispered in Jenna's ear. "I love you too, babe," Jenna replied, her voice barely audible from exhaustion. Chapter 3 Angelo snapped back to the present from his memories of Jenna. "Gosh." His pants were tented, and he was painfully aroused. He headed to the bathroom to take a cold shower and cool off. It had been two years, but Jenna still had the same effect on him. "You witch, Jenna, what did you do to me? Why can't I forget you?" he asked himself. Jenna had left him without any explanation, without giving him a chance to explain. Now, he planned to turn the tables. He would make her fall for him again and then leave her just like she had done to him. "Be ready, Jenna Smith. I'll make your life miserable." - Jenna had just arrived home. "How was your interview, honey?" her mom, Cathy Baker, asked. "I'll start my work tomorrow, Mom," Jenna replied. She didn't mention that Angelo would be her boss. Cathy might not let her go back if she knew. "That's good to hear. Does this mean you won't return to Veloria?" "We'll see, Mom," Jenna answered. Jenna lay in bed, feeling melancholic. After all these years, Angelo still had the same effect on her. She teared up, not expecting to see him again. She wasn't ready. The two years she had spent in Veloria trying to heal were wasted—it still hurt. Jenna looked at her wrist, where the scar was still visible. She touched it, remembering the pain of the past. She fell asleep with tears in her eyes. - Two years ago. "Babe, I can't pick you up. We have a party at the court," Angelo told Jenna over the phone. His basketball team had won, and as usual, he was the MVP. "Come after your class." "Okay, babe, I'll be there. Congratulations! I love you, bye." "I love you more," Angelo replied before hanging up. Jenna was thrilled by his words. After hanging up, Angelo continued celebrating with his teammates when someone called his name. Celine Gobble, a family friend from America, ran excitedly toward him. Angelo didn't know she had arrived. Celine was the girl his father, Marco Ferrer, wanted him to marry, but he saw her only as a sister. His parents didn't know about Jenna because he had been living in a condo near their school since university. Celine's family was as wealthy as his, which made her appealing to his father. Celine was three years younger and the same age as Luke. The latter had always had a crush on Celine, but Celine liked Angelo, probably due to their parents' influence. "Hey, Angelo, congratulations!" Celine hugged and kissed him in front of everyone, catching him off guard. As they stood there, a sudden noise made Angelo look up. He saw Jenna, with her friends, Felice Lopez and Sarah Taylor, holding a "Congratulations" cake. Jenna dropped the cake and ran out of the court crying. Angelo tried to follow, but Celine stopped him. "Who's that girl?" Celine asked. "My girlfriend," Angelo replied. "What?! How come you have a girlfriend? I'm your fiancée, Angelo!" Celine exclaimed. Angelo ignored her and ran after Jenna, but she was gone. He tried calling her, but her phone was off. Dejected, he returned to the court, seeing Celine arguing with Luke. Angelo ignored them, focusing instead on Jenna. He needed to explain what had happened. He didn't want her to be hurt—he loved her and didn't want to lose her. - For three days, Angelo couldn't reach Jenna. She was avoiding him. He went to her house, but Cathy said she wasn't there and seemed unaware of the situation. Jenna's friends didn't know where she was either. - "Jenna, what's your plan? You're wasting away!" Abby said. Jenna was staying with Abby to avoid Angelo, knowing he would come to her house to explain. But what was there to explain? She had seen him kissing another girl in front of everyone! "I'm going back to Veloria in two weeks. Want to come with me? Instead of moping around, you can hide there if you don't want to talk to Angelo. Maybe it's time to pursue your dream of becoming a model, like me? You idolize me, right?" Abby teased. Abby was a model in Veloria and had long tried to recruit Jenna, who had resisted because she wanted to finish school first. "Okay, I'll think about it," Jenna replied. - "Girl, how are you? Where are you?" Sarah asked over the phone. Jenna had ignored several calls but finally answered. "I'm fine," she said. "Angelo's been looking for you. We don't know where you are." No one knew where Jenna was. She hadn't told anyone, knowing Angelo would get the truth out of them. Jenna had been in Ventus for three days. Her cousin Abby had a beach house there, having just arrived from Veloria for a three-week vacation. Angelo didn't know Abby because she lived in Veloria. Abby had accompanied Jenna to the beach house, where Jenna had spent days crying and unwashed, wanting to die. She couldn't believe Angelo had done that to her—her chest ached with pain. Jenna realized Sarah was still talking. "Girl, are you still there? There's a rumor at school that Angelo has been engaged to that witch he was kissing." Jenna's heart shattered at Sarah's words, and she started crying again. She didn't think she had any tears left. She clutched her chest, unable to breathe from the pain. Sarah heard her sobs and started crying too, hating to see Jenna hurt. "Sorry, Jenna." "Where are you? Felice and I will come to you," Sarah asked. "Don't bother, Sarah," Jenna replied. "You might just get caught up in this mess with Angelo. You know he won't stop until he finds me. It's better if you don't know where I am." "Just take care of yourself. Don't do anything drastic... Your beauty would be wasted," Sarah joked, trying to lighten the mood. Jenna managed a small laugh at her friend's attempt to cheer her up. Sarah then excused herself, saying she had a class. Sarah's words gave Jenna an idea. Maybe it would be better if she just ended it all. Her life was meaningless without Angelo, who had betrayed her. "I can't take this pain anymore," she whispered. Sobbing, she stood up and went to the kitchen. She saw a knife and slowly cut her wrist. Blood started to flow, but she felt no physical pain—her heartache was worse. As blood pooled around her, Abby found her. "Jenna, what are you doing?!" Abby screamed, running over to grab the knife. Jenna collapsed, pale from blood loss. "Abby," she whispered, tears streaming down her face before she lost consciousness. "Jenna, wake up! Wake up!" Abby cried desperately. - When Jenna woke up, she saw only white. Her head hurt, and she remembered cutting her wrist. 'Am I in heaven?' she wondered. Looking around, she saw her mom sleeping on a sofa. Realizing she wasn't dead, she understood she was in a hospital. Cathy woke up upon sensing Jenna was awake and rushed to her side, crying. "Thank goodness you're awake! How are you feeling?" Cathy told her she had been in a coma for two days due to extreme stress and blood loss. "What day is it?" Jenna asked. Cathy told her, and she started to cry again—it was supposed to be her graduation day. "Don't cry, dear. It won't help you. Try to rest," Cathy gently encouraged her. Jenna closed her eyes, tears rolling down her cheeks. - After discussing with Abby, Jenna decided to go to Veloria once she was out of the hospital. The pain Angelo had caused was too much. They had been together for four years, and she never knew he had a fiancée. She felt like a fool for giving him everything. 'I believed he loved me,' she thought tearfully. 'From now on, I won't shed another tear for you, Angelo Ferrer. Mark my words!' Cathy looked at her with deep sympathy, feeling her daughter's pain. - At AF. "Ms. Smith, come to my office now," Angelo commanded as Jenna arrived at the office. Angelo sat in his swivel chair. "What's my schedule for today?" "You have a lunch meeting with Ms. Celine Gobble at noon," Jenna replied, checking her tablet for other details. When she looked up, she saw Angelo staring at her. Their eyes met, and neither wanted to break the silence. "Ah, excuse me, sir. Ms. Celine Gobble is here," a staff member interrupted, knocking on the door. The door opened, and a tall, beautiful woman walked in. "Hi, babe, ready for lunch?" Celine said, making Jenna's heart sink. 'Babe?' Jenna thought. 'Is that what they call each other? How unoriginal.' Angelo glanced at Jenna before responding to Celine. "Yes, I'm ready. Shall we go?" Celine looked Jenna up and down before focusing on Angelo. "Sure, babe," Celine replied, linking her arm with Angelo's. Jenna scowled as she watched them leave. "That's the woman Angelo kissed two years ago! So they're still together… He really did cheat on me!" Jenna seethed. A knock on her office door brought her back from her painful memories. "Jenna, is that you?" asked a handsome man who walked in. It was Luke, Angelo's brother. Jenna smiled and stood up to greet him with a kiss on the cheek. "Yes, Luke, it's me!" "What brings you here? Are you and my brother back together?" Luke asked with a grin. "No, I work here now. It's my first day," Jenna replied, shaking her head. Luke looked puzzled. "Why here? I heard you were already a successful model in Veloria." "I wanted to practice what I studied. If it doesn't work out, I'll go back to Veloria," Jenna explained. "So you're leaving again?" A voice echoed from behind them. It was Angelo. Neither Jenna nor Luke had noticed him enter. Angelo had returned to retrieve his forgotten phone. He approached Jenna, glaring at her. "Hey, Angelo, you didn't tell me your first love works here," Luke teased. "Shut up, Luke!" Angelo snapped. Jenna stood in stunned silence at Luke's words. "So, Jenna, are you leaving again?" Angelo barked. Jenna felt uneasy. "I don't know. My parents don't want me to leave, but they won't stop me if that's what I decide." Angelo's eyes blazed with anger. "Luke, let's have lunch. My treat," Jenna interrupted, trying to change the subject. "Sure, let's go!"`Luke agreed, and they left the office together. Chapter 4 Angelo stood frozen as Jenna and Luke walked away. Jenna had just returned, but it already felt like she was planning to leave again. He hadn't even begun his plan to make her fall for him once more, only to abandon her as she had done to him two years ago. - In a restaurant. While having lunch, Jenna asked Luke about Celine. "H-Hmm Luke, is it true that Celine is Angelo's fiancée?" "Yes, Jenna. That's what our parents want, but I'm against it. I like Celine, but she prefers my brother," Luke revealed with a laugh. "I know Celine doesn't love Angelo like that. He's more like a brother to her. She's possessive of him because he always indulges her. She's an only child, and my brother and I give her all the attention she craves." "Why doesn't she like you if you like her?" Jenna asked, curious. "She said we're both too childish. She prefers Angelo because he's more mature. But Angelo never dated her. He hasn't moved on from his first love," Luke said with a wink at Jenna. "But now that you're back, Angelo will be too distracted to give Celine any attention. Don't worry. I'll take care of Celine. You can have your first love back," Luke teased. Jenna pretended not to hear the last part. "Let's go. Angelo might be looking for me," she said, changing the subject. "Kiss him if he scolds you. I'm sure he'll melt," Luke joked, making Jenna laugh. "You're silly!" Jenna said with a smile. - When Jenna returned to the office, Angelo called her through the intercom. "Come in!" he said. He watched her approach. "Yes, sir. Do you need anything?" Jenna asked. "You… I need you, Jenna," Angelo replied, his gaze intense. "What?" Jenna thought, 'Why did that sound like it has a double meaning?' Angelo stood up and moved closer to her. Jenna stepped back, feeling uneasy with his proximity. She feared she might hug him if he got any closer. "Scared, Jenna?" Angelo asked. "N-No… Why would I be?" she stammered. "Good," Angelo replied simply. "I have a party with a client tonight. Come with me," he instructed. Jenna began to protest, "But, sir—" "No buts," Angelo interrupted. "Wear something nice. I'll pick you up at 8:00 p.m." Jenna didn't want to go, fearing her heart might betray her again. She didn't want Angelo to know she still had feelings for him. Angelo moved closer until there was no space between them. He tilted her chin up as if to kiss her. Jenna closed her eyes, waiting for his lips to touch hers. "You may go, Jenna." Angelo's words caused her to snap her eyes open. Had she just imagined he was going to kiss her? How embarrassing! "Okay, sir," she replied, quickly leaving the room. Jenna headed to the restroom to catch her breath. She felt suffocated, overwhelmed by Angelo's closeness. She couldn't deny she still loved him, but Angelo mustn't know. Their relationship was long over, and he was engaged. Tears filled her eyes as her thoughts raced. 'Stop it, Jenna,' she scolded herself. - 'I couldn't help but get close to Jenna. I wanted to touch her, kiss her, and cover her with kisses until she was weak in my arms. God, I missed her so much! She's even more beautiful now. If she was charming before, now she's perfect. She's more mature, her laughter is like music, and she moves with such grace,' Angelo thought. Angelo closed his eyes, lost in thought. Unbeknownst to Jenna, he had been watching her from a distance since she started working in his office. He felt like a stalker, unable to take his eyes off her. "Jenna… My Jenna." She had become a famous model in Veloria, and Angelo was proud of her achievements. They had shared the same university course, but she hadn't taken the board exams because she left for Veloria to escape him. He smirked at the memory of their past. - Two years ago. Angelo searched everywhere for Jenna, interrogating classmates and acquaintances, but no one knew where she was. "Never mind, graduation is in less than a week... I'll see her there. I need to explain everything about Celine. I can't lose Jenna. I love her so much." - Graduation day came, but Jenna didn't attend. Angelo found out she had gone to Veloria. The pain was excruciating. Why did she leave without hearing his side? Was she just giving up that easily, handing him over to Celine? - 'You're so weak, Jenna. You left me,' Angelo thought bitterly and smiled wryly as he recalled the past. - That evening, at exactly 8:00 p.m., Angelo picked Jenna up from her house for the party. He was awestruck by her beauty as she approached him, looking like a goddess in her white cocktail dress. The dress had a plunging neckline that revealed her perfect shape and was knee-length, hugging her curves. A long slit on the right side of the dress made it both inviting and tantalizing. 'Oh, I miss kissing her there... I miss the feeling of being inside her tight…' he thought, feeling his pants tighten as Jenna drew near. 'Relax, Angelo,' he told himself. 'Just wait. Tonight she will be mine again,' he promised himself. Jenna felt uncomfortable under Angelo's intense gaze. Was she overdressed? "H-Hi, sir," Jenna greeted as she got into the car. She noticed Angelo looked momentarily flustered but quickly regained his composure, nodding slightly and waiting for her to settle in. They didn't speak during the drive. Angelo noticed from the corner of his eye that Jenna was rubbing her wrist, where a long scar was visible. 'What happened to her? How did she get that scar?' Angelo wondered. - At the venue, Angelo got out first and opened the door for Jenna. "Stay close to me. I don't want other guys to get near you. That dress is a sin," Angelo whispered, his breath tickling her ear. Jenna felt uneasy. 'Did he do that on purpose? 'Shh, Jenna, focus! You're here for work. Don't be silly... As if Angelo still wants you. He has Celine now,' she thought, composing herself as she walked alongside Angelo. She saw Luke and Celine talking in the garden, seemingly arguing. She decided to leave them be. - "Where's Angelo?" Celine asked Luke. "Why are you looking for Angelo when I'm here?" Luke teased, trying to annoy her. "I want to be with my bro, not you!" Celine retorted. Celine was quite strange. She called Angelo "Babe" in front of others but "Bro" when they were alone. Only the three of them knew this. Everyone else thought she was Angelo's fiancée. Celine was possessive, not wanting any other woman to get Angelo's attention, spoiled by his indulgence. This possessiveness was why Angelo and Jenna had broken up. Jenna had seen Celine kiss Angelo on the court, and rumors had spread that she was his fiancée. - Back then. Luke had scolded Celine, "Why did you do that, Celine? Angelo has a girlfriend!" Celine pouted. "So what?" Luke snapped, "You're such a brat!" In truth, Luke had feelings for Celine for a long time. They were the same age, but she didn't like him because she thought they were both childish and bratty. He shook his head, frustrated. 'What do you want me to do, Celine, to make you love me?' Luke wondered silently. Chapter 5 Angelo saw Jason, Miguel, and Inigo on the other side. He steered Jenna in a different direction, hoping to avoid them. He was afraid they would tease Jenna. Unfortunately, it was too late—Jason spotted them and quickly approached. "Oh, hi there, doll," Jason greeted Jenna with a kiss. Miguel and Inigo followed behind Jason. Jenna smiled sweetly at Jason and hugged him tightly. "Hi, hunk!" She nestled into Jason's arms, resting her head on his shoulder. They were so affectionate together. Angelo gritted his teeth, feeling a surge of jealousy. "So this is the gorgeous model from Veloria you've been talking about?" Inigo and Miguel asked Jason. "Hi, I'm Inigo Malone," Inigo introduced himself, shaking hands with Jenna and giving her a kiss. "Hi, I'm Miguel Alvarez." Miguel kissed her as well. "I'm Jenna Smith," she introduced herself with a smile. "Stop it, guys. She's mine!" Angelo snapped, frustrated with his friends' flirtation. "Yours? What do you mean, yours?" Jason teased. "Ah, I mean she's with me. So back off!" Angelo retorted. Angelo tried to assert himself, but his friends just laughed it off, ignoring him. He wanted to punch them! Celine and Luke approached their group. "Jenna, this is Celine," Luke introduced them. Celine glanced at Jenna dismissively, then turned her attention to Angelo. "Babe, why didn't you come to pick me up?" "Luke did, didn't he? He's your date, not me," Angelo replied, annoyed. "But I don't like him. He always bullies me!" Celine complained. "Why don't you like me, huh? Am I not handsome enough for you? I could kiss you right now," Luke teased. "Yuck!" Celine said. "Stop it, Luke. Don't tease Celine," Angelo defended her. Jenna suddenly felt a pang of jealousy. A passing waiter with a glass of wine caught Jenna's eye, and she grabbed it and took a sip, surprising everyone. "Wow, Jenna's pretty cool," Inigo remarked, and everyone chuckled—except Angelo, who watched Jenna with a stern gaze. Despite his feelings, Angelo enjoyed the company of his friends. Celine and Luke drifted away, caught up in their debate once more. Jenna was glad to meet new friends and found herself enjoying their company. She seemed to be having a good time, although she had had a bit too much to drink and was becoming quite talkative. Her laugh had changed. Angelo suddenly grabbed her from where he stood. Jenna pressed against his chest, feeling a jolt of electricity as their bodies touched. "Let's go, Jenna," Angelo said firmly. "But why? The night is still young," Jason protested. "She's tipsy. She's my responsibility at work tomorrow. She can't afford to be absent," he lied to his friends. "Luke, you're in charge of Celine. Drive her home," he ordered his brother. Jenna noticed Celine's envious look. It was clear she felt well taken care of by Angelo. Angelo led Jenna to the parking lot where his car was parked. As they got in, Jenna suddenly kissed him, catching him by surprise. "Babe, what does Celine have that I don't? And why do you both call each other 'babe'? Don't you have any originality?" Jenna asked tearfully. She was drunk and saying things Angelo could barely understand. He just let it be. 'She can't go home like this... What would her mother say if she saw me bringing Jenna home? She might distance herself from me again,' Angelo thought. They headed straight to his condo. He carried Jenna into his unit and laid her on the bed. He was about to leave when Jenna held him. "Babe, I missed you," she said, kissing him. "I know you miss me too!" Angelo knew she wasn't thinking straight. She had a low wine tolerance and got drunk quickly. "My body misses you, babe. Only you can make me feel this good," she said. Hearing this, Angelo kissed Jenna passionately, as if they were running out of air. "Ahhh… Oh, babe..." Jenna moaned. Angelo released her for a moment to adjust her position, but she started taking off clothes as if she were feeling hot. Her body was now exposed. He eagerly took them in his mouth, switching between them and making Jenna squirm. 'I missed this woman so much,' Angelo thought. Jenna was the only one who could satisfy him like this. He pulled down Jenna's underwear and slid a finger inside her. "Ahhhh..." Jenna arched her back. He had waited so long to do this to Jenna again. His finger felt hot inside her. Angelo, overwhelmed by the sensations, didn't know what to do. He was so excited he couldn't take it any longer. Jenna yelled as he entered her. "God, Jenna, you're so tight. I missed your folds!" Angelo whispered. "Ahhh! Babe, do me hard please!" Jenna begged. He positioned her on all fours and pounded away. Jenna gripped the edge of the bed, seeking strength. "Babe, I'm coming… Don't stop... Don't stop! Ahhh!" Angelo collapsed on top of her, both of them exhausted. He noticed Jenna had fallen asleep, likely due to the wine. He smiled as her head rested on his arm and gazed at her with love. If she hadn't left before, he might have married her, and they could have had kids by now. He chuckled, remembering Jenna's words just now. Would she remember them? He'd find out when she woke up. A big smile spread across his face as he recalled her declaration of love. He had proven that she still loved him, that he still owned her heart and body. Angelo caressed Jenna's face, fixing her hair. She was really beautiful. He would never tire of having her. He needed to find a way to keep her from leaving again. The thought of her abandoning him once more terrified him. He couldn't handle that a second time. He kissed her forehead. "Sleep well, babe," he whispered. Angelo soon fell asleep with a smile on his lips. - Jenna sat up in bed. "Was I dreaming again?" Her head hurt as she tried to remember last night. Why did it feel so real? Why was her body sore? She looked around—this wasn't her room! She was shocked to see Angelo lying next to her. She peeked under the blanket covering her. Angelo woke up from her sudden movement. "Oh, good morning, babe," he greeted with a smile, wrapping his arm around her waist. Her ears rang! She slapped Angelo! "What babe? I'm not Celine!" Angelo was stunned by the slap. He held his cheek, confused by what Jenna had said. Did she think he had mistaken her for Celine because he called her "babe"? She was the one calling him "babe" all night while he had been pounding her… Angelo smirked at the thought. He wouldn't correct Jenna's misconception. This was the perfect time to execute his plan to hurt her. He'd let her believe he had a relationship with Celine and make her die of jealousy. He knew she still loved him because of her revelations last night. He laughed suddenly. 'Apparently, wine is all it takes.' Jenna got up from the bed, but Angelo pulled her back. "Did you enjoy what we did last night, Jenna?" Jenna blushed at Angelo's question. She couldn't deny she still loved him… In the end, she didn't answer. "Don't bother answering... I know I'm still the one who makes you happy, the one your body craves. No other man can do that, and I won't let anyone else try. You're mine, Jenna Smith!" he whispered in her ear, scolding her like a child. Angelo sat up straight, giving them some space so Jenna could be comfortable. She seemed too ashamed to move because he could read her heart and mind. This was his chance. "I have a proposition," Angelo began. "You can have me as long as you want. You can have my body if you're thirsty. You can use my body for your pleasure. But no strings attached. No feelings involved." Jenna was shocked by what Angelo said. 'Is this real? Is my desire for him that obvious?' She remained silent, unsure of what to say. After a while, Angelo touched her body and twirled his finger around it like a child playing. He didn't notice it was exposed. It was tempting him again. "What do you think, Jenna?" Angelo asked. She remained silent. Angelo took Jenna's hand and placed it on his now hard thing. 'Ahhh, whatever!' Jenna thought. - Jenna finally made it home. When Cathy asked where she had spent the night, she casually said at a girlfriend's house. Her parents still didn't know that Angelo was her boss. If they found out, they might push her to go back to Veloria. Jenna couldn't believe she had agreed to Angelo's proposal to be friends with benefits. Her former boyfriend was now her FUBU. No strings attached, no feelings involved? Could she handle that? Perhaps this was all she could offer since he had Celine. Didn't Angelo even mistake Jenna for Celine after they slept? Jenna was confused about her situation. Did Angelo see her as that cheap? She was annoyed with herself for drinking last night, knowing her low wine tolerance, and now she was in trouble again. It pained her, but she realized this was the only way to get close to Angelo again. She couldn't deny that she still loved him. She would think about the consequences later. For now, it was enough that she was happy with Angelo, even if it was "no strings attached, no feelings involved." Jenna sighed deeply. Angelo didn't let her go to work that day, telling her to rest. With nothing to do at home, she called Sarah and Felice and invited them to go shopping. She had only seen them twice since she returned from Veloria. Both were busy with their work: Sarah had an advertising agency, and Felice managed her family's chain of restaurants. She needed friends right now. She needed to talk about her situation with Angelo. - They met at a popular coffee shop. Jenna arrived first since she was free that day. Her two friends arrived together. Not to boast, but her friends were truly beautiful and could easily pass as models like her. At university, many people were envious of them when they were together. It always felt like a fashion show with all eyes on them. Jenna laughed at the memory. "What?! Jenna, are you out of your mind?" Sarah and Felice exclaimed in unison. "What's wrong with you, Jenna? Have you gone crazy? You're just putting yourself in danger. Didn't you almost die because of him?" They threatened, "If you don't stop this, we're telling your parents!" "Girls, please... you know he's my greatest love, right? I can handle any consequences, as long as we're okay again. I also feel guilty about what I did to him before. I didn't fight for him against Celine. I let Celine take him from me." "That's nonsense, Jenna. They were already engaged long before you came into the picture!" "Girls, please understand me. I didn't call you to condemn me. I need a friend right now." Sarah and Felice looked at each other and sighed. "Alright," Felice said. "We'll let you be with your craziness. But if you can't handle it anymore, exit, okay? And don't do anything silly like cutting yourself!" Jenna laughed at her friends. They really loved each other. - The next day, Jenna went to the office. "Ms. Smith, come to my office," Angelo called her on the intercom. Jenna entered and spotted Angelo sitting in his swivel chair. "Come here," he said. Jenna approached. "Closer... Closer." She was now standing in front of Angelo. "What's my schedule for today?" Angelo asked while stroking her leg. She was wearing a short skirt, giving him easy access. Angelo inserted a finger inside her. The entire office was made of glass, but people outside couldn't see inside. "Uhm, you have a meeting with Mr. Montero at 10:00 a.m. and a meeting with Mr. Lee at 3:00 p.m." "That's all?" "Yes, sir." Angelo suddenly pushed his whole finger inside her. Jenna gasped at his action. "Okay... You can go." "Y-Yes, sir." She composed herself before leaving. Angelo grinned at what was happening. He used to be the one seduced by secretaries. Now, he was the one seducing his secretary. He used to say he wouldn't mix work with fooling around, but it looked like he was breaking his own rule. He chuckled, spinning in his swivel chair. Jenna was surprised by what Angelo had done, but she liked it. Her body was becoming Angelo's slave. She didn't know if they could ever go back to their previous relationship, but even the little attention Angelo gave her made her happy. That was how much she loved him. Chapter 6 Jenna really missed Angelo. Since he called her to his office earlier, he hadn't come out yet. He was busy with a conference meeting. It was already 5:00 p.m. when Angelo finally emerged from his office, seeming in a bad mood. He didn't even glance at her as he passed by her office. He went straight to the elevator. What could have happened again? Angelo deliberately ignored Jenna as he passed by her office, wanting to make her miss him. He chuckled at his own mischief, surprised to find he still had some left in him. Jenna was upset, packing her things to go home. She angrily stuffed her belongings into her bag. After flirting with her in his office, he didn't even acknowledge her now—not even a glance. "Hmph. He's so annoying!" Jenna’s cell phone rang. Jason was calling her. "Hi, Jason!" she greeted her friend. "How's my gorgeous best friend? Where are you?" Jason asked. "At the office." "Can you treat me to dinner? I miss you," Jason teased. "Okay, pick me up here. I'll wait for you," Jenna said with a smile. - Angelo was at a coffee shop in front of his office, waiting for Jenna to come out. He knew she was upset with him for not acknowledging her—he just wanted to tease her. He planned to give her a ride home when she left the office. After a while, she came out of the building, but she was with Jason, her friend, who had his arm around her. They were laughing happily, and Angelo stiffened with jealousy. He quickly left the coffee shop to intercept them. "Where do you think you're going?" Jenna and Jason were surprised by the voice from behind them—it was Angelo. Jason greeted him, "Hey, Angelo. You're still here? I thought you went home. I passed by your office." "Exactly, you're here because I'm not, right? Sneaking in while I'm away?" Angelo retorted. Jason was confused by Angelo's response. "What are you talking about?" "Ahem, Jason, let's go," Jenna interrupted, afraid of what Angelo might do to Jason without him knowing. "Okay, doll," Jason replied. "You wanna come with us, bro? Jenna's treating me to dinner!" "I can buy my own dinner," Angelo replied curtly. 'Hmm... Smells fishy,' Jason thought. 'Is he jealous? This is fun!' Jason wanted to tease Angelo even more. He held Jenna's hand, and she didn't resist as they often did this. Jason noticed Angelo seething with anger. He leaned Jenna's head against his chest. "You must be hungry. Let's go, doll," Jason invited Jenna. "Angelo, we'll go ahead since you don't want to come... My date is hungry," Jenna teased with a laugh. Jason was thoroughly enjoying teasing Angelo. 'This jealousy thing is interesting. Angelo seems like he could murder someone.' Jason quickly got into his car, not wanting to get in trouble. He revved up the car engine, laughing loudly. Jenna sat quietly in the passenger seat. "Explain, doll." "Explain what?" Jenna replied. "Explain why Angelo is acting like that. Is there something going on between you and him?" Jenna looked down, feeling embarrassed to admit it to Jason. "He's my ex... The one I'm talking about," Jenna confessed. "What?! Your university ex-boyfriend? Your first heartbreak?! Is that why you went to Veloria?" "Y-Yes." "Ohh…" Jason responded shortly, processing Jenna's revelation. "That nerdy guy is really lucky. Who would've thought you were his girlfriend? No wonder he's head over heels for you! Haha! "Sorry, doll, I didn't know you had a history with Angelo. If I knew, I wouldn't have teased you there. That's why his reaction was so weird when he saw your picture, hahaha. Now I understand." "What picture?" Jenna asked. "Never mind," Jason quickly replied. He was still friends with Angelo and didn't want to spill the beans. "Do you know he's engaged to Celine?" Jason asked. "Y-Yes." "So, what are you doing? Are you a masochist? You know they're getting married." "I still love him, hunk... You know our story, right?" "Hmm, you want me to help you get back together? Let's make Angelo jealous! Hahaha! Let's pretend I'm courting you." "I feel bad involving you in this, hunk. You shouldn't get caught up in our mess." "Don't worry, doll... I volunteered myself. If it were someone else, I'd charge a talent fee. But for you, it's free, hahaha." - Luke picked up Celine from her university. She was graduating from her Fashion Design course. He waited for her in the parking lot, amused by the students who stared at him and whispered excitedly. He was used to the attention and couldn't blame the girls—he was incredibly handsome. He just smiled. "Hi, love." He kissed Celine on the cheek when she arrived. "Don't call me 'love'! We're not in a relationship!" "Not yet," Luke replied cheekily. "I don't like womanizers. I want someone like Angelo, a 'Stick to One' type of guy!" "Ouch! Are you comparing me to Angelo? I can give you all the attention you want. Just love me back, Celine..." Suddenly, a seducing student passed by and flirted with Luke. He smiled back at her. "See! You just said it, but you're already flirting with someone else?!" Celine punched him in the chest. Luke chuckled and gently caught her hand to stop her. "What can I do, love? Your future boyfriend is so handsome. You should be proud that you're my choice. Many want to get my sweet 'yes'." Luke looked at her with love in his eyes. He lowered his head as if about to kiss her on the lips. Celine was startled and quickly pulled away from Luke. "Hmph!" She pretended to be annoyed, crossing her arms, but deep inside, she was thrilled with their situation. She also liked Luke and just wanted to make things a bit difficult for him. She was afraid his ego might grow if he knew she had a crush on him. Luke was handsome and seemed to have no worries in the world. He was easygoing and about to graduate from the Business Management course. Angelo and Luke came from a family with many businesses. As the only girl in the family, Celine was spoiled by them. Her father expected her to marry Angelo in due time to merge their businesses. Although she was engaged to Angelo, she saw him only as a brother, and Angelo felt the same way about her. She didn't understand why their families couldn't see that there was no romantic relationship between them. In truth, she liked Luke. Maybe it was because Angelo was the eldest. They expected him to marry first. Celine wouldn't fix the situation right now. If she was ready to accept Luke, she would tell their parents that she wanted to marry him, not Angelo. In truth, she had done something terrible to Angelo. Jenna had left him because she had seen him kissing another girl. She was young back then. How could she have known? Luke had scolded her at the time, and Angelo hadn't looked at her for months. - Two years ago. "Angelo, I am sorry! I didn't know you had a girlfriend. I just wanted to tease you." "That's it! You're such a spoiled brat that you think the world revolves around you," Luke retorted. "I already said sorry, right? Don't interfere in this! You're just jealous because I didn't kiss you! Hmph!" "Why would I be jealous? I don't even like you." Luke replied. "That's enough!" Angelo intervened. "You two are acting like children. You're not helping.” "I'll leave our situation to destiny, Jenna," Angelo sadly said. "Ewww! So cheesy!" Luke chimed in, and they laughed together. "I said enough, both of you! Get out!" - It had been three days, and Angelo still hadn't shown up. Was this his way of making Jenna miss him? Angelo hadn't come to the office. He said he was busy with their other business. He also hadn't called her. Jenna really missed him. She didn't want to initiate a conversation. She decided to wait until they saw each other at the office. Jenna was arranging her things when Angelo suddenly arrived. "Ms. Smith, come to my office now." She followed him. "Close the door," he ordered, already seated in his swivel chair. "Come here," he said as if she had become a robot, obedient to Angelo's commands. Jenna approached him. "Did you miss me, babe?" She grimaced. Was it her or Celine that he missed? He held her by the waist and kissed her on her stomach. Jenna was again affected by Angelo's actions. He was enticing her. "Do you feel what I feel, Jenna, hmm?" He held her hand and placed it on his hard thing. "Can you free him? Unzip me, babe, please..." Jenna did as Angelo commanded. She was very aroused as she caressed it. She looked at Angelo in the eyes, begging, "Can you make me happy?" She knelt to position herself properly… and lovingly swallowed Angelo. He groaned loudly. "Oh Jenna, you're so good..." Jenna continued to pleasure Angelo. He held her head and synchronized the movement of her head up and down. "I can't take it any longer." He stood her up. "Sit on my lap." Jenna yelled as she felt Angelo inside her… He held her waist and guided her up and down as she sat on him. Jenna and Angelo enjoyed themselves all night long.	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2,090,670	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2090661}'	No	2024-10-04 21:31	active	1579	😍Read the next chapters👉	Chapter 1 A Messy Life and the Mafia Six months ago, I was a promising med student on the verge of all my dreams coming true, but now I’m just a waitress trying to start over in a new city. I know this restaurant I work at has ties to the infamous Onyx Mafia, but I didn’t have much choice—it's the best-paying job I could find. Besides, the scariest thing about working here isn’t the Mafia, it is the man at table eight flagging me down, obviously fuming. “What looks wrong here?” He snaps and I scan table eight's orders. Foie gras for the blonde in red, Peking duck for the pouty daughter—check. But the impatient bald man tapping his fingers? He got the risotto, not the ribeye currently in front of him. A cold sweat sweeps down my spine as I look between the squinting gaze of the man and the squiggles that are my handwriting. I still write like a surgeon, yet another reminder of my failed dreams. "Wait, I'm sorry... you ordered--" My hands tremble, and my heart sinks as I realize the kitchen couldn’t decipher my handwriting and just took a guess. Lucky me, their guess was wrong. "I-I think the kitchen--" Before I can finish my sentence, Jessica descends upon us like a vulture, risotto in hand. "Apologies for the inconvenience," she chimes in, her voice dripping with faux sympathy. "Elise here is still learning the ropes." "I can tell," the man responds curtly, his attention entirely on Jessica, silently dismissing me. There goes my tip. "Sir, I noticed you’re drinking the 1984 Chateau. Let me send another round on the house for your troubles," Jessica offers breathlessly, her bosom on display as she leans in, her eyes batting just like they did back in high school. The man grunts in agreement as her fingers dig into my arm like talons. She whispers through clenched teeth, "Kitchen. Now." I bow my head obediently as I follow her into the chaos of the kitchen. When I moved here, I promised things were going to be different. I would be no one’s stepping stool, and yet here I am again, at the mercy of another girl who appears oblivious to the fact that we graduated high school. “Elise struck again, boys!” Tony, the sous chef, calls out, his laughter echoing through the kitchen. “What was it this time? Dropped another soup? Tripped and broke all the glasses?” In my defense, the soup incident happened because a man molested me, and Jessica tripped me while I was carrying glasses for an 18-person table. “Oh, tonight she gave one of our regulars the wrong meal.” “It’s the kitchen’s fault. I ordered a risotto, not a ribeye."I retort, pushing my glasses up as I glare at Jessica. “And who could tell with that chicken scratch handwriting?” Tony snorts. “Remember she wanted to be a surgeon,” Jessica sneers. “Doctors notoriously have terrible handwriting, but not waitresses.” The other kitchen staff snicker at her remark. They all think I went to med school and couldn’t cut it. But they don't know the truth, and it would be worse if they did. I take a deep breath, trying to push down my anger. "You were supposed to be a surgeon, marry Sirius, live your perfect little life," she snaps back, the mention of his name, Sirius, still a punch to the gut after all these years. I bite my lip to stifle the retort that threatens to spill from my lips and look down at my tennis shoes, a lump forming in my throat. I can still remember the feeling of the day he disappeared. I told everyone he loved me, that he would be back, and that he would never just leave me, but they were all right. He was gone. He didn’t want me anymore and wasn’t brave enough to say it to my face before disappearing. I don’t know what I’d do if I ever saw him again. It’d be a combination of running into his arms, waiting to see every bit of his life I missed, and kicking him where the sun doesn't shine. "But then you ended up at the bottom, where you’re meant to be." I hold my breath. I can’t show Jessica she’s getting to me. "Good thing Sirius came to his senses like we all knew he would," Jessica retorts. "Once he was done slumming it, he ran away from you as fast as possible. I mean, you practically ran him out of town." The lump in my throat swells as memories of his abandonment flood back, the pain still fresh. "You know what--" "Those better are words of gratitude, Elise, because I am two seconds away from firing you," Jessica interrupts, her smirk widening as she relishes in my discomfort. I swallow back my retort, facing Mr. Thompson, the restaurant manager. Mr. Thompson's stern gaze pierces through me as he approaches. "Elise, why do I have Mr. Kelsey asking for a free bottle of wine for his troubles?" "I-I'm sorry, Mr. Thompson," I stammer, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll do better, I promise." "You have been promising to do better for weeks, Elise. That is not enough anymore," he snaps. "I'll work harder, I swear," I plead, desperation creeping into my voice. "Please." Mr. Thompson holds up a hand to silence me. "You've got one more chance, Elise, but you’re out of here if I hear one more complaint. Do you understand?" I nod frantically."Yes, Mr. Thompson. I won't let you down. I promise." He scoffs, clearly unconvinced. "For the rest of your shift, you are exclusive to the VIPs upstairs," he continues, his tone stern. "They’re too drunk to notice your insolence." "Yes, sir," I whisper. "And you better be on your best behavior because the Mafia king is here," Mr. Thompson warns. "And if I don’t have your head, he will." I swallow hard, the weight of his words settling like a lead weight in the pit of my stomach, as I nod, feeling a shiver run down my spine. Mr. Thompson storms off into his office, leaving Jessica behind me with a wicked gleam in her eye. "Looks like you're on thin ice, Elise," Jessica says, her tone dripping with faux sympathy. "Better watch your step." "Why? You’re going to trip me?" "I would never, but since you are exclusive to VIPs," Jessica hands me a tray of appetizers too heavy for me to hold without almost falling over. "Take this to table 19... the King’s subjects are there." I take a deep breath as I walk out of the kitchen and into the dining room. But as I look up at the men sitting upstairs, a wave of dread washes over me, making me want to run in the opposite direction. They're overly comfortable, as if they own the place as if they own the world. And in a way, they do. The rumors swirling around the restaurant's ownership, whispers of connections to the mafia, suddenly feel all too real. Each step closer to the VIP room feels heavier, as if I am dragging myself closer. As I approach, the men’s eyes leering over me like predators sizing up their prey. The minute I set down the appetizers, a hand grips the back of my leg, sending a shiver down my spine. "Hey there, sweetheart," the man slurs, his breath reeking of booze as he pulls me into his lap. "Why don’t you clock out and hang with the big dogs?" I squirm, feeling his hand wander where it shouldn't."No. Stop it. I have to get back to work," I protest, trying to push him away. But he only laughs, his grip tightening as his friends jeer and egg him on. I squirm, feeling something hard poking me, I begin to panic. He hisses in excitement in my ear. “Yeah, baby, keep doing that.” I try to pull away, causing my glasses to go flying. Great, now I’m blind too. I struggle with my body, tears stinging as I attempt to slide out of his lap, “I need my glasses.” “You do not need glasses for what we are going to do.” He pinches my chin, leaning in as if he is going to kiss me, but the sound of a growling, cleared throat causes him to pause. Panic rises in my throat as I realize that none of these guys will help me and that going against the Mafia for some random waitress is a losing battle. "In my restaurant, we do not tolerate harassment of women," the voice declares, cutting through the VIP, firm and unwavering. The handsy man practically throws me onto the floor as he looks up at the gentleman standing in front of him. I turn to see, in my blurry haze, the silhouette of a man looming protectively over me, his presence exuding authority and strength. The handsy man stutters as the man approaches us, “King. She approached me.” “Really? Are you calling me a liar?” The Mafia King’s voice is calm and sharp, like a shard of ice. “ No, my King, but she is a call girl!” I snap, looking back at the handsy man before turning to the King to plead my case. But I pause. The King’s head is tilted as he looks at me. The King’s voice is laced with disappointment and concern, “A call girl?” Chapter 2 Mafia King Knows Me？ “What, no!” I stand up, “I am not a call girl!” My hand instinctively reaches for my glasses, but they're not there. With a frown, I protest, glaring at the accusing handsyMafia man. “No call girl is too nice for what she does on her knees.” Jessica stands next to the stairs, arms crossed, leaning on the railing. “She solicited me. Asked me to come get her after work because she needs to make some extra money,” the handsy man pleads, but the King stares at me. Jessica saunters over, her hand casually trailing between her bosoms and up to her collarbone as she walks. She stops in front of the King, a coy smile playing on her lips as she leans close to whisper in his ear. “Think about it, darling. A woman who can get close enough to you without suspicion and weasels her way into the VIP area. Doesn’t that sound like a call girl?” The movements Jessica makes intrigue me as if she can turn on and off her alluring appeal. The King's gaze never leaves my direction as Jessica whispers in his ear. Slowly, he straightens up and pushes Jessica slightly back. “You seem to know a lot about the position of a call girl,” King says, but Jessica playfully laughs that off. “I admire how they always seem to get their way.” Gears start to turn in my mind as I squint at Jessica’s blurry form. She looks innocent and inviting, as if she is just flirting, but she is fully prepared to go much further than that. But I can see past her facade now, despite my broken glasses and the blurry world they left me in. Squinting, I can just make out the calculated way she moves and the sharpness in her eyes. I interject before Jessica can respond, “King, look at her body language. Even through the blur, she’s loose, inviting, and sensual as she speaks to you.” The King's gaze shifts from me back to Jessica, a new sense of awareness in his eyes. “When you came in here my body language was stiff, closed off. If I were a call girl like her, I wouldn’t be a good one, would I?” Jessica's facade wavers for a split second before she regains her composure, letting a seductive smile spread across her face. The King lightly chuckles as he pushes Jessica away, “It takes more than a brain full of silicone and fake bosoms to be a good call girl, but I see your point.” “It’s an act some guys like, King, a little bit of fight,” Jessica goes to reach for the King again, but he grabs her wrist tightly, his body tense. “Do not touch me again,” the King drops her hand with disgust, wiping his hand on his jeans as he continues. “ I have let you humor me with your lies, but do not treat me like a fool.” “No, King I would never,” the King gives her a humorless laugh as he invades her space menacingly. “You think you could play me for a fool because I am a man I must be ruled by my hormonal drive? Is that it?” The King looks her over in disgust and turns away, “Get out of my sight.” “King, you have to be protected from her.” Jessica approaches him again, feigning innocence, but the King’s subjects block her as he moves closer to me. “You underestimate me because I have shown you kindness. I will not make that mistake again. ” He slowly looks over at Jessica, and I can tell from how her knees buckle that she sees the darkness in his eyes. “ You're fired.” “King, I’m sorry I-” “You have three minutes to exit. I would use that time wisely.” Fear strikes across Jessica’s face as she scrambles back down the stairs. I bow my head, looking at my tennis shoes, unsure of the punishment I may receive. I don’t know how long I have been looking down, but a hand holding my broken glasses evades my eyeline. “Oh, thank you.” “They are shattered, can you see otherwise?” I shake my head, not allowing my hair to fall into my face. The King pinches my chin forcing me to look at him, and I can make out the sharpness of his jawline. His touch shoots a spark of electricity down my spine, and my breath hitches. “I will-” “I have contacts downstairs. You know, in case of emergencies.” The King looks at me as if a thousand questions are running through his mind. “Why are you working here?” I struggle back, slighting, and the King releases me. Jessica was right in a way I was supposed to be so much more. I was supposed to be a surgeon. I had the brains for it. The steady hands. The determination, but it is not often a stranger can see you are meant to be so much more than what you are. In the blur, I try to find his eyes before I respond, “Most people can’t do what they truly want to.” The King nods sharply before taking a step back and clearing his throat. “I don’t want you in the VIP rooms anymore. They’re filled with dangerous people, and normal people shouldn’t be around them.” “You sound worried.” I laugh at the King’s warning. “I am serious, Elise. I don’t want you up here again.” The King’s voice is sharp, and I straighten at the command. “As you wish, King.” His lips in a tight line, he nods taking a small step to the right, allowing me to shimmy past him. I stop and turn around, “Thank you for everything.” He doesn’t respond, opting for a sharp nod. I walk forward, clutching my broken glasses, looking down when another figure blocks my exit. The blonde guy with an easygoing smile clears his throat as he nervously scratches the back of his head, “Hey," he says, his voice wavering slightly. "I'm sorry about what happened back there. Are you okay?" "I'll survive," I reply with a shrug, avoiding eye contact. His gaze lingers on me for a moment before he nods slowly. “Well, I was wondering if you would give me a chance to show you not everyone in the Mafia is not a pig?” I give him a small smile, feeling the heat of someone’s eyes behind me. “I don’t think my boyfriend would like that very much.” The snort causes me to turn around, and the King blends into the black leather couch, looking at me, “Boyfriend?” “A great boyfriend. If that matters?” The King coughs, “Not at all.” He looks over at a disappointed Jacob. “I just told her to steer clear of us, and you ask her out on a date in front of me.” “What shot would I have after this if you ban her?” “None. You get no chance.” The King growls, and I back up towards the stairs. “Leave now, Elise Caroline. I don’t want to see you up here again.” His warning is sharp and declarative. With a small squeak, I scurry down the stairs, but I pause before I enter the kitchen. I never introduced myself. I never told the King my name, yet he said it not once but twice, and the second time, he used my middle name. Does the Mafia King know me? Do I know him? Chapter 3 Rumors and Crisis I don’t breathe until the kitchen doors slam behind me. How does the Mafia King know my name, surely he knows all his employees' names. He may just be a great boss. Right, that’s it. The Mafia King is a great boss who would’ve thought? My breathing slows and I realize I’m so caught up in my thoughts I don’t feel the entire kitchen looking at me until Toni clears his throat. “Elise?” I look up at him, his eyebrows furrowed in confusion, but I don’t respond. Instead, Dawn, the pastry chef, approaches me with flour-covered hands. “Hey girly, are you okay? Did the King…hurt you?” I shake my hand no, a strangled breath releases from my lips, and Dawn sighs, squeezing my cheeks. “Good because the King has no right hurting a girl as innocent as you.” “Like that would’ve been his first time!” Kelsey, the saucier, laughs in the corner of the kitchen. “Kels, you’re not helping,” Dawn snaps, but Toni approaches us wickedly. “I heard his favorite way to murder is the bloody eagle.” “Toni!” I look at Dawn’s horrified face as she runs to cover my ears. “What's the bloody eagle?” I whisper. The dread I had swimming in my gut since the King first laid eyes on me bubbles to the surface. I feel like I could vomit. “All I’m going to say is ribs pulled through the back. If you want more details, do your research online.” I would not, but Kelsey laughs, shaking her head. “I wouldn’t put it past him. The King treats his subjects like their commodities, completely replaceable. He’s the youngest King ever, and you don’t get to be King in your twenties without a trail of blood behind you.” Kelsey points her ladle at us in warning, “So watch ya’ step, or the King will gut ya’ like a fish!” “Or hang your head above his fireplace, I heard the king loves a trophy, and a pretty head like yours would be perfect.” Toni swats at my hair and Dawn pushes him back to his station. “What is all this racket?! Kelsey you’re messing around and broke the sauce!” The Head Chef, Yolanda enters the kitchen with a stern look in her eyes, “And you! Why aren’t you running my plates?” “I-I…” I rub my hands back and forth, feeling the tension of being in trouble for the third time tonight. “She just had an interaction with the King. Leave her alone.” Dawn snaps. Dawn and Yolanda are childhood best friends, and Dawn is the only one who can talk to Yolanda that way and still have her job. Yolanda’s face pales as she walks closer to me, “You interacted with the King and made it out alive? Count your lucky stars.” Yolanda approaches me cautiously and I don’t realize all the stress is forcing tears to burn in my eyes. “That man is cold-blooded like a snake.” Despite the bile I balance in the back of my throat, I look Yolanda in the eye and shake my head, “No, he protected me. He knew my name.” “He knew your name because you have a name tag on your shirt.” Yolanda flicks my name tag and I look down at it, a pang of disappointment shivering through me. “Protect you?” Dawn questions, “You didn’t say anything about the King protecting you.” “That may be worse. A dangerous man like him may like you, want you.” Yolanda whispers. My eyes widened. My skin flushes as Yolanda and Dawn share a look with each other. The King knew my name. The King wants me. I remember the way he said boyfriend as if it was the most disgusting word on his tongue. But just as I spiral, Dawn and Yolanda break into laughter. “Girl, bless your heart! A man that fine wants you. You better be over the moon happy.” Dawn lightly hits her rag on my right arm, and I flinch, holding my breath. “I mean, those gray eyes are just delicious!” Kelsey chimes in. “Nope, it has to be black curly hair.” Those eyes, that hair remind me of Sirius. His eyes could be a storm with everyone else and clear with me. How a single curl always danced in the middle of his forehead, and I’d spend all day pushing it back. The days when he was my Sirius. The laughter snaps me out of my daze. “I bet he wakes up with his hair like that, just messy and perfect!” “Yolanda, I don’t know if you want to be him or sleep with him?” “Does it matter?” The entire kitchen erupts into laughter. “I would take him any way I could get him. He is so fine!” “So how did he look up close, Elise? A walking daydream, huh?” Kelsey leans over her pot, wiggling her eyebrows. I hide my head slightly, blush to creep up the apple of my cheeks. “I don’t know,” I show the kitchen my glasses. “I broke my glasses. All I could see was tall, charming, and hot.” The entire kitchen boos. “You get close to the Mafia King, and your glasses break!” Dawn pouts, pushing me away, and I giggle for the first time in this entire situation. “Sorry, I can’t tell you how hot he is. You’re going to have to figure that out yourselves!” “Hey! Why is no one helping me out on the floor?” An upset waiter enters the kitchen looking around at us. “I’ll be right there, just let me get my contacts.” I head towards the break room and rummage inside my purse, revealing my contact lenses. I begin to replace my contacts, looking into the crappy workplace mirror, but once my vision is clear, all I can see is my missing earring. One of my silver earrings from Sirius, he got me for our last anniversary together. He’s already missing. I can lose the last thing he’s ever given me. I look over at the floor near my locker, but I know where it is. It’s in the VIP area. I turn on my heel towards the VIP area. The Mafia King's warning echoed in my mind, I don’t want you in the VIP rooms anymore. It’s filled with the type of dangerous people, normal people shouldn’t be around.” I push his warning into the back of my mind. With a deep breath, I start walking up the stairs. I’ll be quick! In and out before anyone notices. As I enter the VIP area, I immediately fall to my knees, crawling around for the earring and hiding from the boisterous men laughing around the bar. I freeze when the King’s voice booms through the area, “You’re lucky I don’t collect your freaking head!” The music in the VIP clicks off. “Boss, it was just a girl!” The man snaps back and the entire area seems to hold their breath as the twinkle of something catches my eye. “A girl under my protection. The same way you are under my protection.” The King's voice is even and controlled again, “And don’t I always protect mine?” I contort my body, grabbing the dangled earring from underneath the couch. “Let me provide you with this small mercy. I promise you the alternative is lethal, and it would be a shame to murder you when you’re still useful to me.” The club music clicks back on as if nothing happened. I sit up on the floor, fixing the earring in my ear. When the footsteps descend towards me. I am not quick enough when I hear the humorless laughter of the handsy man, “You are the freaking pain of my existence. I’m on grunt duty because of you.” I look up, my eyes darting between him and the stairs. If I jump up and run. I should make it. I will make it. I propel myself off the floor, running towards the stairs, but the handsy man is quicker. He pulls me back by my hair, caging me in. My breath hitches as cold metal digs into my side. His breath gushes over my face in puffs thick with the scent of tobacco and gin. “ Go on and scream. No one will hear you, and it’ll only make this more fun for me.” Chapter 4 The Mafia King is My Ex? “ Go on and scream. No one will hear you, and it’ll only make this more fun for me.” His fingernails dig into my wrist, but I bite back any response watching his nostrils flare. “You got me suspended from duties because you rather spread your legs for the King than me.” He pulls me against him, snarling at my confident facade. I look down at the mark forming on my wrist, keeping my voice as even as possible, I say, “I do not want the King. I do not know the King.” He pushes me against the brick wall, and with my better judgment, I whimper, gripping the back of my head, “You dare lie to me? After all you have done, you freaking lie to me?” Spit sprays over my face, his eyes bulge out of his head as he holds me against the wall. The concrete dug into my skin. “Please,” I whisper. “Please?! Please! You purposefully lead me to the freaking slaughter, shaking your tight body for the king, begging him to punish me for your fault.” His wet breath drips down my face, and I look away towards the hallway leading to the King. I didn’t know the King. He did not need to come to my rescue, yet he did. Maybe the King liked me the way Dawn said, but what did it matter? I did not want him. “I am not sorry you were punished. I said no.” “Oh, so this is the little game we’re going to play? You say no, and mean yes.” A greedy, devious smile spread across the man's lips as if the idea of conquering me in such a manner excited him. “You little freaking tease.” His palm digs into my waist, and my eyes water over, straining to look down the hallway to the King. “No.” “You like causing trouble, huh? You like luring men in to watch them. ” I hear the click of his belt, a dooming sound. “You need to be taught a lesson, and I love punishing little girls with fresh mouths.” A voice and the click of a door opening cut the tension. “Boss, who even was she?” He pulls me into a corner. He pulls me in front of him and presses himself on me. His gun is tucked under my chin, and his arm is wrapped around my waist as he whispers in my ear, “Don’t make a freaking sound.” I watch the King walk down the hallway, most of his subjects a step or two behind him. The young member with dirty brown hair and colorful tattoos walks almost in step with him. The King’s voice almost sounds bored as he responds. “That is none of your concern, Taylor.” “You punished one of your own men for her. I think you owe us an explanation.” Taylor snaps, stopping the King in his steps. “Owe?” He slowly turns, and I can see the King’s face clearly through a sliver of light. The girls downstairs didn’t do him any justice. He was breathtaking. Dressed in a tailored black suit, the fabric stretched taut over his muscular frame, his white button-up exposed the tattoo in swirling patterns on his chest and up part of his neck. His curly black hair was gelled back into a style of sorts, but two unruly curls escaped and framed his face. His eyes swirled like a storm, erupting and flashing between the calming gray and black. He looked almost like a tortured angel. He almost looks like Sirius. “You think I owe you?” The King snarls at Taylor, who instantly turns pale. “N-no, I just mean-” “You just mean I should allow subordinates to run rampant to assault and pillage like average thugs.” “Sir it just seemed like you cared about the girl too much.” “What I choose to care and not care about is none of your freaking business, but Dan was punished for lying to me,” The King leans in closer, “ I was feeling gracious, so he was given a slap on the wrist, next time I will cut out his tongue. But my kindness has expired.” “King.” Desperation drips in the boy’s tone, but the King dismisses him with the flick of his wrist, and a man drags Taylor away. “Step foot in my territory again, and you will be destroyed on sight.” The King continues walking forward as if he did not send someone to their death, but the gasp that escapes my lips makes him pause. “Dan?” The handsy man behind me shifts, a grunt escaping his throat. Then a shot rang out, something sliced through the air, and Dan shrieked, falling to his knees. “I show you kindness, and this is how you repay me?” The King’s voice is deathly low as he approaches, and I dare not move. I dare not breathe. “The call girl freaking deserves it.” A low rumble of laughter escapes the King, lowering himself over a bleeding Dan. He pushes the barrel of the gun into the wound in his shoulder. “You are freaking mad, murdering innocents just because they won’t sleep with you?” The King pistol whips Dan into the floor, and a strangled sound fills the room. Dan spits onto the floor. “This is the thanks I get for letting you keep your life?” “My King, she seduced me-” The King grips him by the collar dragging him close. “You think it is wise to lie again?” Dan audibly swallows, a whimper escaping his lips. The King snaps his finger, and a buff, bald man with the word mercy over his knuckles comes up behind him. “Yes, boss?” “I want his tongue and right hand.” With a curt nod, the man grips Dan by his injured shoulder and drags him deeper into the VIP area. “I thought I told you not to come back in here.” The King looks in the direction of a weeping, sounding annoyed. I slowly at the King from the corner of my eye, my mouth completely dry and my hands feverishly shaking. The scars on the King’s face glitter in the low lighting making my stomach twist, so I focus on the silver, twisted ring on his ring finger. It looks almost like tree branches gripping his skin. “I-I left something here.” “What?” His empty grey eyes lock on me. “An earring.” A short grunt leaves his lips, “You risked your life for an earring?” “It’s sentimental.” I whisper, narrowing my eyes closer to the ring, recognizing the red ruby in the center of a rose, and I almost choke, drilling my eyes into his, “Sirius?!” Chapter 5 An Unexpected Reunion “Sirius?!” My heart is practically beating out of my chest. I can’t breathe, staring into his eyes, I know. I know it’s him. He turns to me a blank look on his face. The silence in the room creeps over me, and I slowly look around the room. Every mafia member is staring at me, with tension in their necks, awaiting the command of their king. I almost believe I’ve misspoken as I watch the King’s jaw click. “Elise.” “Oh my god!” I take a step back, looking him over. He looks just like he did in high school, but buffed up and toned, no longer lean and boyish. He’s a full man now. “When I told you to stay away from here, I meant it. Earring or not.” “These were…you cannot tell me what to do, Sirius.” He tilts his head to the side, looking me over. “You gave these to me…before you…” “I know, earring or not. Do not come back up here. Stay away from the mafia.” His voice is ice-cold and distant. He starts to walk away from me, and I almost leap out of my skin following him. “Do not speak to me like that, not after what you did. You abandoned me, and now you dismiss me.” “We both know what really happened back then, don’t act like you don’t know. Do not make me into some villain.” “No, but you are heartless. You leave without a word. You disappear, then you come back and ignore me as if we were nothing. As if you didn’t even—” My words get caught in my chest as if I am about to cry, but Sirius turns sharply towards me, heat rising in his eyes. “Once. I had a heart once, but now when I tell you to do something, you listen, Elise, and that’s final.” Sirius speaks lowly in my face, his voice feathers over me. “Now leave.” My eyes cannot help but flicker at his lips, but I immediately take a step back when he licks them. “No. Just because you say jump, d-does not mean I have to follow, Sirius.” I can hear the click of a gun, and Sirius doesn’t even move as he watches my actions. I raise my hands up and grit my teeth, “I guess you won’t even let me say thank you before murdering me, huh? ” “Lower your weapons, no one is allowed to point a gun at her ever.” I put my hands down slowly, my anger and grief swirling into panic as he turns to leave again. “If I mean so little to you, why are you still wearing your ring?” The branching ring with a single ruby was part of a promise ring set Sirius and I had brought when we were silly and in love. My ring is in my jewelry bag, hidden so Alston won’t find it and ask questions. “For sentimental reasons. I engraved it with something to remind me of the past.” He looks down at the ring longingly before snapping his eyes to my hands. “Where is your ring?” “I lost it years ago.” I don’t know why I lie or what I try to hide, but I know I can’t let him think anything can happen between us. He just nods sharply, not letting any emotions pass over his face. A throat clears in the background, and the tension in the room deflates slightly at the fakely bubbly voice of Mr. Thompson. He stands between Sirius and me a sharp look in his eyes. “Is everything okay here?” “Just a conversation,” Sirius responds evenly, his eyes not leaving mine. Mr.Thompson gives an empty chuckle, “Ah yes, I had to have a conversation with this employee multiple times. She is lazy. She constantly elicits complaints for her promiscuity and irresponsible nature.” He turns to me, hard eyes in his eyes, raising his voice, “Elise, I told you one more time.” “Mr.Thompson, this isn’t what it looks.” I begin, but he puts a hand in my face silencing me. “No, no, the time has come Elise you have embarrassed yourself in front of the King. You have constantly caused problems. You are the most terrible waitress I have ever had the displeasure of managing--” Sirius clocks his gun, placing the barrel against the back of Mr.Thompson’s head and he freezes. “No, no, continue your rant with a gun to your head.” “Sir, I was just firing insubordinate who was causing you trouble.” Mr.Thompson raises his hands up shakily. “Do you think of me as a damsel in need of saving, Thompson?” “Absolutely not sir.” “So why would I need you to come to my rescue?” “Sir, she has been a terrible employee, and I think--” “I do not care what you think. One more insult at her, and I am blowing your freaking brain across this room, understand?” Mr.Thompson nods slowly. “Good.” Sirius puts his gun away, and I can’t help but roll my eyes. “Is this what you do all day? Threaten people’s lives?” “No normally I am not protecting my ex-girlfriend.” Sirius tucks the gun in his waistband, shrugging at Elise. “Where even is he?” “What are you talking about, Sirius?” He walks closer to me a teasing smile on his lips. “Where is your boyfriend? Why is he not here to step in during every crisis, like I am?” Sirius stands a breath away from me, and from his tone, I can tell he is taunting me, that he wants a rise out of me. For a second, I want to smile at his boyish ways. His jealousy-fueled mockery reminds me of my Sirius. “My relationship with Alston has nothing to do with you!” I snapped, crossing my arms over my chest. His eyes dip to my chest, but his eyes narrow, looking at me just as quickly. “I thought you were dating my brother Lester?” “No, he is like a brother to me.” He chuckles. “It would destroy him to hear you say that.” “Why would you think I was with Lester?” “I never would have guessed Alston because he is such a good guy. Taking down major corporations, defending the little guy. I thought you liked your guys with a little edge to them.” Sirius shrugs, a carefree look in his eyes. “You used to be a good guy.” Sirius flashes his million-dollar smile that makes my knees weaken. “I was never a good guy, you just always saw the good in me.” Sirius’s voice is barely above a whisper, causing shivers down my spine. Alston was good. After Sirius went missing, Alston pursued me and when Lester was severely injured, Alston was the one who gathered most of the money for the medical expenses. His good deeds made me fall for him. He was always saving the day, and knowing that he was my personal superhero made me feel secure, supported, and loved. Most importantly, I never felt like he would abandon me. “I agreed to be his girlfriend because he makes me feel safe, Sirius, physically and emotionally.” Sirius’s eyes widen and the careless smile on his face fizzles out. I want to reach up and cup his face. I want to tell him that despite moving on he was my first, I have never been crazy, or foolish in love with anyone else. It’s only been him. “Thompson, leave.” Sirius doesn’t break eye contact with me as Mr.Thompson scurries to leave, but before he can make his grand escape, “I want your office cleared out by the morning.” “What?” Mr.Thompson slows, looking over his shoulder, shock across his face. “Elise will be the new owner, effective in the morning.” Simultaneously Mr.Thompson and I both look at Sirius as if he has lost his mind, screaming, “What? Why?” “Because Alston is not the only person who can make you feel safe, Elise.”	LEARN_MORE	https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12158&u	Random Reading	https://www.facebook.com/61560831098071/	20	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	redtgb.com	DCO		https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12158&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/t39.35426-6/449044422_1575931366327027_957907443075673983_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pnVflCQeTTcQ7kNvgHsYZMG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AFAe68tAT3O0E-b25QgH2Qt&oh=00_AYA64Nw61tKiYP8ymhL-c9_6sJ3ka1LNKhK-eu_NT42dXw&oe=67066F2D	PERSON_PROFILE	0	0	Random Reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete

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