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No | 2024-10-05 20:12 | active | 1583 | 0 | Free Worldwide Shipping! | Boost your lungs, boost your performance! Get the portable Breathing Trainer for peak fitness. đď¸ââď¸ | SHOP_NOW | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/breathing-trainer | Fit Fusion Hub | https://www.facebook.com/fitfusionhub/ | 57 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | fitfusionhub.co | VIDEO | âââââ 5/5 Reviews! | https://fitfusionhub.co/products/breathing-trainer | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409159508_909907801139692_4675947778815173690_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=k4QUp7kzRpoQ7kNvgF4-ien&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Aq3d6ZETxwdQ7BlqGt-Uwak&oh=00_AYCtMUDUwFoYqAUKuKQ8YTZUDDLW3-VlGLcv_SwhxmPMpA&oe=6707C8C3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fit Fusion Hub | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Taussig Landscape | đ Holiday Lights Giveaway! đ **Light Up Your Holidays!** Weâre excited to announce our Holiday Lights Giveaway! This season, **two lucky winners** will each receive a stunning set of energy-efficient holiday lights to brighten their celebrations. **One of these winners will be a veteran**, honoring their service and sacrifice! **⨠What You Can Win:** A custom fit holiday lighting fixture for your home. **đď¸ How to Enter:** 1. **Follow us** on Facebook. 2. **Like and Share** this post to spread the cheer! 3. **Tag 3 friends** in the comments who love the holidays! 4. Share your favorite holiday tradition in the comments below. **đ Giveaway Period:** - **Starts:** 9/26/2024 - **Ends:** 10/31/2024 - **Winners Announced:** 11/1/2024 **đ Eligibility:** - Open to participants aged 18 and older. - Home must be in a 60 mile radius of Taussig Landscape. - Only one entry per person is allowed. **â¤ď¸ A special note:** One winner will be a veteran, recognizing their invaluable contributions. **⨠Donât miss out on the chance to brighten your holiday season!** Join the fun and spread the joy! *This giveaway is not affiliated with Facebook or Instagram.* Illuminate your holidaysâenter now! | CALL_NOW | Taussig Landscape | https://www.facebook.com/Taussiglandscape/ | 2,160 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Call now | 0 | IMAGE | Enriching lives through the outdoors! Full service landscape, irrigation services and retail store. | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462128240_1261910321473296_978240942136186199_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m28usipFV_MQ7kNvgFC5yIw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AshN2gwxNFbnMXFvEj-2zdQ&oh=00_AYBQdAAwGJlDqy_3lEKNGwYMvYvjzUU0LKbTnQAJtZ99Vw&oe=67079929 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Taussig Landscape | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-05 19:30 | active | 1581 | 0 |
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Hauntingly Happy Open House | đđť Join us for our Hauntingly Happy Open House and experience elevated living, simplified in there. Explore our spooky-chic apartments and enter to win a Mini Kitchen Appliance Package! Don't miss out on this frightfully fun event! đť #HalloweenOpenHouse #ApartmentLiving #ElevatedLiving #SimplifiedInThere #Giveaway | EVENT_RSVP | https://www.facebook.com/events/1486448538674016/ | Diamond Place Apartments | https://www.facebook.com/100063888348944/ | 412 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | INTERESTED | 0 | Hauntingly Happy Open House | EVENT | đđť Join us for our Hauntingly Happy Open House and experience elevated living, simplified in there. Explore our spooky-chic apartments and enter to win a Mini Kitchen Appliance Package! Don't miss out on this frightfully fun event! đť #HalloweenOpenHouse #ApartmentLiving #ElevatedLiving #SimplifiedInThere #Giveaway | https://www.facebook.com/events/1486448538674016/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462262459_424234704024735_2093447390634901298_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ND5p-ky4OSwQ7kNvgEpOF9t&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWoqIm8uSMHwbH9z2Mdy283&oh=00_AYCdgxMsRsmW0jTmsZfaPbW4jlXmB21mpn9Y5dlcs0skZQ&oe=6707A10B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Diamond Place Apartments | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | Neah "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "PleaseâŚ." I beg. "He was an AlphaâŚI⌠I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | LEARN_MORE | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783& | New world publications | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 3,708 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | wwwedb.com | DCO | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452954248_488548254128302_3071179802578548433_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Sg_L0U5nBMQ7kNvgFR8bo6&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Ai9hqgQauan48QeGRLX3YCY&oh=00_AYCBOCog4BlVYnprNYPUFVJFkXBvM6sp0g2TDSdKQFfsfw&oe=6707BC13 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New world publications | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-10-05 19:53 | active | 1582 | 0 | Sourcing a Clientâs dream bag is what we live for đ What is your dream bag? ⨠DM us to let us find it for you! . . . #hermes #mercure24 #hermeshandbag #handbags #hermesbag #luxury #luxurylifestyle #luxuryhandbags #handbags #handbag #styleinspo #nyc #newyork | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | https://www.instagram.com/_u/mercure.24 | Mercure 24 | https://www.facebook.com/100075942163935/ | 10 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram profile | 0 | www.instagram.com | VIDEO | https://www.instagram.com/_u/mercure.24 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461898910_1534928673791906_6816119309942459993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DOZ3o8nnc6EQ7kNvgGTDYqD&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AVkScGwHrSw6bwacXQNsuzk&oh=00_AYDfjMDDxnuPSIMKH2TpfTnYwipsxQNiQOjkretqall3aA&oe=6707B914 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mercure 24 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Enjaillement in Portland | Portland, you ready? We touch down on October 16th to bring you a healthy dose of afro, club, house and more. Start stretching đŚ Tickets are available now! | SHOP_NOW | https://www.more.com/music/moonshine/ | Moonshine | https://www.facebook.com/moonshinemu/ | 14,668 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | more.com | DCO | https://www.more.com/music/moonshine/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461417137_1195300271526349_2547910404371500621_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kPg38NzFSb0Q7kNvgHMS1cy&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A-G34SB5VJ2hsmXORVCdfnU&oh=00_AYAcyjBgtXodBD-RpOBuoN81iIMdyqglB6v_kSgmtQMaKg&oe=6707C1E6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Moonshine | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đĽđĽClick to read the next chapter for freeđ | CHAPTER 1 - Bridget Miller âOne, two, three! Push!â The doctor yells to the exhausted woman lying on the operating table. Soon a sound of innocent cry can be heard in the room. Hannahâs forehead was full of cold sweat and her lips were pale. Itâs been known that she has anemia and the doctors did their best to cure her bef ore giving birth to no luck. âWhere is Xander?â She asks nicely in a weak voice, her eyes are closed and her palms are sweating. âSir, your wifeâs in labor. She is waiting for you in the hospital now,â Mrs. Cooperfield frantically mumbles over the phone while the heavily in-labor Hannah is being helped to the car by other servants. Xander scoffed, âIâm at a very important meeting. She has money on her account to pay for the expenses.â He yelled over the phone before the line was cut off. âThe young master was elated to know that the baby was on the way. He said he was caught in the middle of an important meeting but will surely drive to the hospital once he is done.â Itâs not a secret that Xander never loved Hannah and their marriage was an accident but despite that Hannah played the part and played it so well that Xander bed her every chance he could. Thus, a child was conceived. âWhat a cute baby girl?â the nurse says as she puts the baby near her mother to see her face for the first time. The exhausted woman felt all her fatigue and stress washed away as she saw her daughter. âWhat would you name her?â Mrs. Copperfield asks. âBridget.â She mumbles gently as she stares at her daughter. Her eyes are still fixed on her child when she asks, âWhen will Xander visit us?â Mrs. Copperfield did not respond but she could see the sadness in her eyes. At the back of her mind; âwhatâs more important than seeing the birth of his own daughter?â She asks herself sorrowfully. AFTER two years... A toddler was running around the room while Hannah was following her. âBridget, stop running. I need to comb your hair!â She yells. The child only laughed at her mother and continued running. She then almost bumps her head into the tall figure of a man who suddenly shows up in front of her. She gazes upward, sheâs frightened. His towering height and the way he stares at her terrifies her and she starts crying. Hannah immediately carried her daughter and coaxed her. âBaby, donât cry, itâs just your father.â She says. Xander sneered. He hates the sound his daughter makes. The running. The laughter and now the crying. âMake her stop.â He yells. His voice scared the child even more and she cried louder. âYelling, will not help. Youâre scaring her even more.â She responded with her voice filled with sorrow. She glanced at him with contempt. âWhy are you even here? This is our room, weâre even far from your room and your study so we wonât disturb you.â She commented. âYeah, this is your room but this is my house. I can go wherever I want.â He yelled at her. Bridget is still crying. Mrs. Copperfield can hear it and she discreetly steps in the room to take the child away. Hannah glanced at Mrs. Copperfield with a thankful gaze. Once they are out of the room. She finally snapped at him. âWhat do you want?â The moment she said those words she met Xanderâs palm. Bam! She almost lost consciousness. She fell on the floor. Her head is spinning. This was the first time he hit her and it frightened her so much that she started to crawl away from him. Thinking he might hit her again. Xanderâs eyes widened; he didnât mean to hurt her. He is on edge, pressured, and stressed from work. He held her shoulders and helped her stand up. He sat her in the chair. He could see her cheek reddened. He then heard her weak trembling voice say, âI did everything you asked of me. I know youâre tired and stressed but Iâm exhausted too.â She explains while holding her throbbing cheek. He didnât respond. He is a man of few words and the word sorry is not one of the words he usually says nor the to accept that he is in the wrong. He only strokes her head as if coaxing a child to fall asleep. After several hours when both of their emotions subside. Xander finally broke the news to her. âLetâs get divorce.â He mumbles in a cold tone. Her face paled, hands trembled. She stared at him thinking how he said those words as if three years meant nothing. His eyes devoid of emotions, âYou have till the end of the month to read through the documents and make demands.â He added as he handed her the papers. She pleads to him to think it through and think of their daughterâs future. But her words were ignored. She saw how certain he was with his decision. Shortly, he left her with the documents. The night became sleepless. She was pacing back and forth in their room thinking what to do next. âWhat will happen once I sign the divorce papers?â She asks herself while staring at her sleeping daughter. CHAPTER 2 - Drunk THE coldness of the night added dread to the sleepless Hannah. She glances at her bedside table where the documents are neatly arranged inside a brown envelope waiting for her signature. Itâs haunting and taunting at the same time. She thought they were doing great. He works hard and does everything that pleases him. He could stay out all night and go home drunk and she would still welcome him with open arms. Even when he called her Denise the name of his ex while thrusting her he didnât hear her complain. Hannah on the other hand, is a full-time housewife, even with a lot of servants in the mansion sheâs the one who personally tends to Xander and his family. She cooks and serves them. Sheâs not even allowed to eat in the dining area with them. The only time she does is when there are visitors as the Millers donât want any rumors circulating that they are hurting her. She might not be the one who washed his clothes but she made sure his clothes were arranged properly in his walk-in closet according to his liking. He specifically demanded that all his clothes be arranged according to color from light to dark. All of his socks should be folded in a specific way and his coffee should be made in a specific measurement of coffee, cream, sugar, and temperature one mistake and heâll demand a new brew. With all the servants in the mansion, only Hannah can satisfy his delicate needs. Thatâs the reason why all the servants likes her and whenever their young master forgets any special day like Hannahâs birthday and their anniversary. They make sure to bring flowers and boxes of chocolates for her and address it to Xander as it sender. For Hannah, it was clear as day what she is for him but she thinks he will come around if she shows him love and care. Hoping that one day she could warm his cold heart. From the first day she set foot on the Miller mansion she never slept in his room. He made it clear from the very beginning that their marriage was only on paper but once the news of their unplanned wedding dies down theyâll get a divorce immediately, but things change when he develops an urge towards her. Their separate rooms are useless when he is drunk and high in libido. He will bang on her door and will not stop till she opens it and as his wife, itâs her marital duty to satisfy his desires while taking care of his well-being. Soon those nightly trips he does in her room got her with child. Not even once does he convey happiness in knowing heâll have a child. He didnât accompany her to any of her monthly checkups. Despite his lack of concern he never asks her to get rid of the baby and never mentions the word divorce again. Not until tonight. She frowns, âWhat change? Did I do something wrong?â She asks herself as she slowly opens the door and discreetly walks outside. Planning to knock on his door and wish he was in the mood to speak. She walks in the long corridor on the other end of the mansion. She knocked three times and he did not answer. Feeling defeated she started to walk back to her room when she suddenly felt her phone buzz. She checked who it was and to her surprise it was him, she answered the call immediately, âXander, where are you?â She asks politely. The music coming from the other line was so loud that she needed to move the phone away from her ear. âHello?â She added in confusion. She was about to disconnect the call thinking he accidentally dialed her number but before she could do that she heard a voice, âHey, wait Hannah!â The voice on the other line yelled. âToby? Is that you?â She asks. âYes! Can you pick up Xander? He is too drunk to drive home.â Toby explained. âSure.â She replied immediately. âThanks. We are at a bar called The HideOut.â He exclaimed. Shortly, the call ended and Hannah hurriedly changed her clothes. She woke up one of the maids to accompany Bridget and then drove to the bar. When she got in there she was ushered by a waiter to the VIP room where there was a private club filled with rich men and beautiful women. On one of the booths, she saw her husband Xander together with two gorgeous women beside him. She ignored the ladies near him, she knew that Xander was not the type to cheat, especially with these types of women. She marched to him directly, âCan you walk?â She asks softly. Xander sneered, âWhy are you here?â He yelled then glanced at Toby who was sitting on the opposite side of him, âDid you call her?â Toby nods. âIâm too tired to drive you home.â He remarks while chugging his beer. âNow I know why the ambiance is off. Your stalking wife is here, Xander,â Ashton says mockingly as he sits on the other vacant seat in the booth. Toby and Ashton are Xanderâs closest friends. If Toby is friendly, nice, and soft-spoken. Ashton is the opposite heâs hot-tempered, bad-mouthed, impulsive, and most of all he doesnât like Hannah. He sees her as a cunning, gold digger that took something that doesnât belong to her. It is known to Hannah that Ashton and Denise, Xanderâs ex-girlfriend were pretty close. She knew too well that even after the scandal Denise got herself into, Xanderâs wedding to her and having their daughter. Ashton still thinks that Denise should be Mrs. Miller. Hannah ignored Ashtonâs remarks and continued to talk Xander into coming home with her, âIf you canât walk I can guide you to the car.â She says coaxingly while lightly tugging his arm. Xander grunted and closed his eyes. Ashton took it as a sign of disrespect. âHey!â He yelled at her. âDonât you ever ignore me!â He added as he took a glass of water and poured it on Hannahâs head. She was dumbfounded as the cold water drenched her. Xander didnât even bat an eye to what Ashton did and the girls beside him started laughing at her. In their minds, Hannah is one of those low-end call grils who want to get in a rich personâs pants. Hannah stared at Xander pitifully as if begging him to defend her or at least act like he cared but he did not he glanced away from her as if she was not his wife or the mother of his child. She heaved deeply and was about to burst into rage, but before she could Toby stood up for her. âAshton! What the heck? Why did you do that?â He exclaimed while handing Hannah his handkerchief. He soon stared at the laughing women in the booth. âLeave... Now!â He yelled his voice so loud that it frightened them and they hurriedly left. âHey!â Ashton growled in dismay at what Toby did. âWhy did you shoo my girls away.â He exclaimed. Toby smirked, âWhy do you need to be so rude to Hannah? Sheâs our friendâs wife. Treat her with respect.â He stated. Ashton scoffed, âIâll respect her if she is someone worth respecting. Have you forgotten what she did? and what kind of person she is?â He clamored while glaring at Hannah. She glances at Toby with a thankful gaze. Then to Ashton, sheâs about to defend herself against his claims when suddenly Xander stands up and speaks, âNext time when Toby asks you to pick me up donât go.â He says to her. âYouâre not needed here or anywhere.â He added as he stared at her like dirt. She frowns instantly. She could hear Ashtonâs taunting sneer, she felt embarrassed and out of place. She lowered her head and walked away with tears in her eyes. âI shouldnât have come here.â She yelled internally as she wiped her tears with the hanky Toby lent to her. As she walked to her car she saw a figure puffing a cigie in the parking lot but brushed it off and continued walking. Soon she heard the man calling her. âHannah?â She stared at the manâs location, narrowed her gaze then her eyes beamed, âZane?â she cried out. Zane walks to her and starts having a conversation. She was happy to see him, she felt safe seeing a familiar face. Zane is one of her oldest friends and he is also her best friendâs boyfriend. âAre you here with Clarise?â She asks. He shook his head, âIâm with Leon. He is in the restroom puking his guts out.â He remarks. She giggled, âIt seems like he hasnât changed.â She uttered. Unknown to them someone witnessed their closeness and the way she laughed at his words. He nods and continued puffing. âYou on the other hand changed a lot. Clarise, Leon, and I. We missed you.â He mumbles. ~I miss you all too...~ Thatâs what she wants to say but her words came to an abrupt end, âI miss you a...â âHannah!â Xander screamed while staring at her in displeasure. She turned around only to see the burning gaze of her husband, âXander,â she mumbled softly. She was about to introduce him to Zane but before she could he carried her like a sack of potatoes and hurriedly walked to his car and threw her at the passenger seat. Zane was dumbfounded and couldnât fathom what happened he was about to follow them and save Hannah but Leon arrived looking like a corpse when he glanced back at the car it was gone. âDid I miss something?â Leon asks weakly as he holds his stomach. CHAPTER 3 - Jealousy âYOU miss him!?â Xander yells as he drives fast. Hannahâs hand trembled and could only cling to her seat firmly as Xander drove 100 km/h on a 50 km/h road. He is clearly upset about the scene he saw and the words he heard. He sneered, âYou must be celebrating when I told you Iâm filing for divorce. I didnât know you were already dating someone. Did you really even go there for me? Have you forgotten you are still my wife?â He added as his hold on the steering wheel tightened. She shook her head, her heart was pounding. She knows when Xander is angry he doesnât listen to reason, but it will anger him more if she canât provide an answer. He might not love her, but he values his name and dignity. His main concern is if someone saw her with another man while still married to him, âHe... is Zane... A friend from high school. Iâm just telling him I miss them too. Him, his girlfriend Clarise, and another friend of ours. Itâs a coincidence that I saw him there. After I moved to the Miller mansion I grew apart from them,â she said stammeringly, her voice raspy and her eyes teary. He sighed, the way she spoke sounded believable to him, âDonât you ever do that again. At least wait for divorce.â He replied, his eyes devoid of emotion. Soon he drove slower. The car ride turned silent, but Hannah could feel his burning gaze as if he wanted to poke a hole in her. She could smell the booze as he breathed, she wanted to tell him to park the car, and sheâd drive. It was much safer for them. But she could vividly remember how he slapped her, and it still frightened her that she didnât want to make unnecessary movements that would anger him. Soon they reach the Miller mansion and she heaves a sigh of relief. After he parked the car, she waited for him to leave, but it seemed like he had no plans to go out. She clears her throat, slowly unlocks her side of the door, and gets out. Soon he followed her. None of them spoke, but she could feel his dark aura surrounding her. She brushed it off and walked to the east side of the mansion before she could take her first step. He held her wrist and dragged her to the west side where his room was. âXander,â she cried out as she tried to get herself out. He scoffed, âWhat? Are you refusing me now? You think too highly of yourself, Hannah.â He clamored. Her eyes reddened in exasperation. He has no right to treat her that way. Sheâs his wife, the mother of his child, and most of all, sheâs the person who saved him from the scandal 3 years ago. âWhy are you treating me like that? Am I not a good wife to you? I always keep my mouth shut, even if your family humiliates me. You, as my husband, should defend my name and honor. You know the truth, Xander.â She exclaimed. He grunted, âWhat are you even blabbering about? Should I thank you for throwing yourself at me?â He cried out his voice so loud that it started to wake people in the mansion. She wants to retort his accusation as thatâs not what happened. âWhatâs the meaning of this?â Lani screamed while looking at Hannah in disdain. âItâs in the middle of the night and I hear shouting.â Hannah glanced away and took advantage of the situation to escape Xanderâs grasp. Xander stared at his mother, âWhy donât you go back to your room? This is between me and Hannah.â He said as he gestured for her to go away. Lani sneered, âAre you drunk?â She mumbles, moves to Xander, then glares at Hannah. âDid you get my son drunk so you could charm him to have another child with you!â Her accusations are so absurd that Hannah canât help but chuckle. Laniâs face contorted in rage, âAre you laughing at me?â she exclaimed, then suddenly pulled Hannahâs hair, but Hannah did not fight back and only raised her hands in defense. âYou gold-digging.â âMoney-chasing. âVile woman.â At every harsh word, Lani yells, a piece of Hannahâs dignity leaves her body. âEnough!â Xander screamed dominantly. âGo back to your room, mother!â His words were so authoritative that Lani felt her heart skip a bit. She glowered at Hannah one last time and then marched back to her room. Hannahâs eyes were red in shame, in anger, in frustration. Her dry black hair made her look deranged. She took care of Xander so much that she let herself go. When she saw Lani walk away, she thought of leaving as well. âDid I permit you to leave?â Xander questions in a deep husky voice. She stopped dead in her tracks and stared at his dark brown eyes that matched his clean-cut hair. âWhat do you need from me?â She inquired in a low voice. Like a scared bunny in front of a dangerous predator. He breathes out, âFulfill your marital duty.â He declares, then holds her arm and walks her to his room. Inside the room. He stripped her down, pushed her belly flat on the bed, and penetrated her from behind. No kisses. No foreplay. Straight down to business. As if sheâs a call girl. After he relieved his desires, he would throw her out of the room like a dirty peasant, but tonight is different. He let her stay and hugged her till they fell asleep. THE NEXT DAY. Hannah was awakened by a ringing phone. She checked hers but it was not it. She searched for the source of the sound and found it was coming from his pants which were now on the floor. Still undressed she gently got out of bed and slowly fished his phone from his pants. She looked at the caller ID and it was an unsaved number. Not thinking anything about it sheâs about to answer the call. But Xander suddenly woke up. âWhat are you doing?â He asks in a cold tone. âUnsave number calling. I donât want to wake you up so--â âYou decided youâll answer the phone? What if itâs something important, what will you do then?â He intervenes. âIâll pretend to be your assistant and take the message.â She explains. He scoffed, stood up, and took the phone away from her. Sight still blurry, âWear some clothes would you and make some coffee.â He demanded. His face clearly shows displeasure. She was still picking up her clothes when his phone rang again. She saw that it was the same number. She witnessed how he answered the call and the expression on his face changed from annoyed to calm. She even saw him smile. Her eyes dilated in disbelief, âWho is he talking to?â She asks herself, as she tries to listen to their conversation. When he saw her staring at him, he moved away from her and went to the balcony while gesturing to her to leave the room, shooing her like a dog. Her heart sank as she walked away. She could feel that a storm was coming her way. CHAPTER 4 - Daddyâs Little Girl AFTER the weird phone call Xander received, he went down to the dining area in a seemingly good mood. Hannah could only steal glances at her husband as she served the food on the table. Soon Lani and Katarina join Xander in the dining area. When Hannah saw them she immediately walked to the kitchen as they didnât like seeing her when they were eating. While the Millers enjoy the warm food she cooks, sheâs in the kitchen eating with her daughter and Mrs. Copperfield. âMomma,â she mumbles as she points at the pieces of bananas beside the pancakes. Hannah gave her a small piece that she devoured in seconds. Hannah and Mrs. Copperfield laugh at how adorable Bridget is. LATER THAT DAY, at the Miller Group. Itâs bring your child to work day at the company. Xander stared at the kids seated beside their parents staring at the type of work they were doing. He doesnât detest children he is not just fond of crying, vomiting, pooing, and peeing. Thatâs the reason why he never got close to his daughter. In fact, the child is afraid of him. He once heard her say, âMomma, thereâs... Monster...â While pointing at him. He could vividly remember the horror on Hannahâs face. She immediately hid Bridget behind her and apologized to him. Remembering it now left a sour taste in his mouth. âMaybe I am a monster,â he mumbles to himself as he watches the kids playing with their parents. When Xander got home. He purposely went to the east wing of the mansion to check on Hannah and Bridget. When he knocks on the door only Mrs. Copperfield and Bridget are inside the room. The old woman doing her best to play with the energetic child but as she is in her 50âs it is a bit hard for her. âWhereâs Hannah?â He inquired his voice so deep that it frightened Bridget and hid behind Mrs. Copperfield. âShe is preparing dinner as we speak.â She replied politely as she breathed rapidly. He could sense that she was tired and needed a break. He stared at the child behind her and gestured for her to come near him. Mrs. Copperfield coaxed the child and assured her that it was safe. Hesitantly, Bridget walked to him when he held Bridgetâs hand he was surprised at how small her hand was. âHow old are you now?â He asks casually. âTwo!â She mumbles softly as she gestures her age with her fingers. âTwo, I wonder how small she is as a newborn,â he thought as a smile escaped his lips. âHow about you come with me and we let Mrs. Copperfield rest she seems tired.â He says as he bents in front of her. Bridget nods. Mrs. Copperfieldâs eyes well up. The scene in front of her is something only in dreams could happen. She discreetly pinches herself and winces in pain. Despite that, she smiled gleefully and watched how Xander carried Bridget over his shoulder and he smiled in joy. When Hannah finished cooking and setting up the dining area, she asked the maids to call Lani and Katarina to eat while she checked if Xander was in his room. As she walks to the west wing of the mansion she canât help but hear laughter. She was weirded out as the west wing should always be silent because it is where the Millers stay. Lani and Katarina are on the third floor and Xander is on the second floor. She hurriedly walks to the origin of the sound as the giggle and soft footsteps are familiar, âBridget,â she mumbles as her hands shiver in fear. Thinking Bridget got away from Mrs. Copperfield and got lost in the west wing. Sheâs afraid that Bridget might break a vase or an ornament. Like the last time. When she was cooking Bridget sneaked away and accidentally broke an angel figurine owned by Katarina. She witnessed how Katarina almost hit her daughter, if she hadnât arrived soon she wondered what could have happened. She fought against her sister-in-law but as it always been Lani came and berated her and her daughter. Called her names. All she could do was cover Bridgetâs ear as she listened to their mockery of her. When Xander arrived he didnât even bat an eye and hurriedly went to his room. She soon arrived at her destination. Her heart was pounding and slowly she opened the door. Only to see Xander playing with Bridget. They made a makeshift port using the sofa cushion and Bridget hid while Xander was counting. Hannahâs eyes well up. The day she always hoped finally came. Xander is starting to act like a father to their daughter. âMomma!â Bridget yelled as she ran to Hannah. She carried her daughter in her arms like she always does. Bridget smiles. âPoppa, carry...me .. higher...â She says while pointing at her motherâs shoulder. Hannah understood what she meant, âWell, Iâm not that tall and not that strong to carry you on my shoulder.â She explains softly. Bridget puckered her lips and then crossed her arms. Then glances at Xander with a pleading look. She wants her father to carry her again. Xander understood her and marched towards them and took her from her motherâs hand. As he does he canât help but stare at his wifeâs light brown eyes. âHas her eyes always been that brown?â He asks himself. The situation felt surreal for her and her face turned red. Being that close to her he notices it immediately. âAre you sick?â He asks as he holds Bridget then touches Hannahâs forehead with his other hand. âIâm fine,â she smiles. Still standing close to her. Xander felt things move slowly as if he was seeing her for the first time. Unknowingly he starts caressing her face and then kisses her on the lips as it happens both of them are dumbfounded and taken aback. Hannah lowered her head, âThe food is ready.â She mumbles awkwardly trying her best to change the weird ambiance. âFood!â Bridget yelled in glee. Soon they went downstairs, Xander still carrying his daughter while Hannah followed them behind. At that time Katarina and Lani are already in the dining area. When they saw them. Lani canât help but sneer, âAre you trying to win my son using your daughter?â Katarina then added fuel to Laniâs accusations, âWhat do you expect from a gold-digging trash and her useless daughter.â Hannah canât take it anymore. âSay what you want about me but never call my daughter like that. We were legally married when Bridget was conceived. The only trash Iâm seeing here is you.â She exclaimed while looking at Lani. It is not a secret in the Miller household that Lani Miller is not a legitimate child from a wealthy family sheâs a product of the infidelity of Xanderâs grandfather with a call girl. Despite that, she acts high and mighty. Lani and Katarinaâs faces contorted in anger. âXander, look at the woman you brought home. How insolent?â Lani yelled at the top of her lungs. Xander eyes enlarge upon hearing the words that came out of Hannah. âWhy must you say that?â He stated. She shook her head then took Bridget from him and went straight to the kitchen when suddenly Katarina stood up and grabbed Hannahâs hair. âHow dare you use such words on my mother?â She yelled. Bridget started crying, âBad! Bad! Trina!â She yelled then clenched her small hands into a fist to hit her aunt. Xander was dumbstruck by the chaos in front of him. âEnough!â He yelled dominantly. âKatarina go back to your seat!â He exclaimed. She obeyed Xanderâs words but didnât stop glaring at Hannah. He then moved to Hannah and took Bridget from her. âWhat are you doing? Give her back to me!â She roared at him. He held her hand while carrying Bridget in his other hand. Hannah did not fight anymore as he might accidentally let go of their daughter. The child starts wailing and it annoys Katarina. âPut a lid on that child.â She commented. As soon as the words left her Xander stared at her with a darkened gaze. She cowered in fear and could only lower her head. He handed the inconsolable Bridget to Mrs. Copperfield and then dragged Hannah to his room. The people in the dining area could only stare at them. INSIDE Xanderâs room. He pushed Hannah face down into his bed and pinned her using his knee. âWhy are you so feisty all of a sudden?â He yelled. She sneered, âIf I donât what do you think will happen to me and my daughter in this house? You saw how your mother and sister speak to me... Heck, even your friend and what did you do? NOTHING!â She screamed. She let out all her frustrations that she had been bottling up since the first day she set foot in the Miller mansion. âYou want a divorce!?â She shouted. She could feel his knee pressing her harder against the bed. âIâll sign the papers now, but I want sole custody of my daughter.â She declared with certainty. CHAPTER 5 - In-Laws XANDER laughs sarcastically. âNow you canât wait to divorce me? Is it because of that Zane guy?â He exclaimed in annoyance. Hannah gasped, âI already told you he is just a friend.â She remarked with conviction. He pressed his knee harder on her back. She winces. âForget about the divorce. From now on you canât leave this house.â He yells. Her body stiffened upon hearing his words. âXander!â She cried out, she felt his hands under her skirt. âWhat are you doing?â He did not answer and the next sound she heard was her skirt and shirt ripped out of her body, stripping her to her underwear. She shivers in fear and shame. He stood up and rummaged through his cabinet. She took advantage of it and slowly got out of bed to run out. The way he spoke scared her. She has no idea why he is acting the way he does. One moment heâd shout divorce, the next he wouldnât let her get away from him. âWhatâs wrong with you?â She thought as she discreetly walked to the door. She smiled as she turned the knob. She opened the door, one of her hands was holding the knob while the other was leaning for support on the door frame. Before she could get out, Xander forcefully shut the door and it collided with her hand. Stunned. She felt her heart skipped a beat. Soon she shouted in pain at the top of her lungs. The pain was unbearable. She gasped when she saw that two of her fingers had dislocated. Her knees weaken and slowly sits on the floor and starts sobbing. Her hand was throbbing and instead of helping her, he held her by the shoulder and dragged her back to bed. She continued sobbing. He looked at her hand then scoffed, âThatâs what you get for being a bad wife.â He exclaimed. He then showed her what he had taken from his drawer. Four pieces of necktie, seeing it she tried to stand but he held her shoulders and pinned her on the bed. Helpless, all she could do was watch him as he tied her limbs on his bed. Tears rolled down her cheeks, âXander, I donât understand you.â She yelled while looking at him. âWhat do you want from me? You ask me for divorce, now that Iâm giving it to you. Youâre acting like that.â She added as her vision blurred. He smirked, âYou will stay here and think of all the things you did yesterday and today,â he said dominantly. When he finished tying her up, he went to the restroom to get the first aid kit and started rubbing pain reliever medicine on her injured hand. âYour hand is injured, and youâre bound. Donât do anything naive.â He warned. Suddenly, he forced her broken finger back into place. She heard her bone snapped and felt her bones move. The shock made her almost lose consciousness. She yelled in pain, she arched her back and clung to her bonds tightly. He sneered at her, âDonât be overdramatic, Hannah,â he said mockingly. He then stood up and went to his walk-in closet where he searched for a change of clothes as the one he was wearing was creased due to the commotion. She lifted her head trying to follow his movements, âWhere are you going?â She cried out. âUntie me,â She pleads. He grins devilishly, âNo! You will stay there. Till I return from work.â He roared at her. She gasped, âBridget might be looking for me.â She pointed out. He marched back to her and stared at her intently. She tilted her head to the side and closed her eyes. She knew he was making fun of her. Even with her eyes closed she knew he was looking at her in contempt. Sheâs well aware that Xander only sleeps with her when he is intoxicated. In his exact words, he told her, âI can only use you when Iâm drunk because you disgust me.â Words that always haunt her dreams. He stared at her with scrutiny. He never saw her undressed while he was sober and the lights werenât dim and every time all he could see was her back. The way she was tied with legs akimbo in the bed was inviting. He got into bed and removed her underwear, stripping her undressed. Hannah continued to close her eyes and didnât think much of it. When suddenly she felt his lips intertwined with hers. His kiss was so gentle, that she opened her eyes immediately, thinking someone else was in the room. She gasped in disbelief. She felt like she was dreaming. Xander continued kissing her and nibbling her neck. She canât help but moan at his movements. When he heard her sound, his gaze darkened, then started penetrating her roughly. Her soft moaning turns to a cry for help. He covers her mouth to muffle her voice. Her eyes are wide open as he roughly thrust her. Tears rolled down her face with her blurry vision she could no longer see him clearly. She could feel his thing inside her and instead of pleasure, she could feel a stabbing pain in her insides. Nothing worth enjoying for her. She started shouting and begging him to stop, but he didnât. She didnât even remember when he left. Later that day, Hannah woke up still tied to Xanderâs bed. She opens her eyes only to see her mother-in-law standing in front of her with phone in hand taking pictures of her bare body. She wanted to scream, but her mouth was dry, and her voice came out raspy, âWhat are you doing?â She inquired. Lani smirked, âNot so feisty now are we Hannah? I will upload these photos of you over the internet.â She remarks. Hannah laughs. âWhatâs funny? Arenât you ashamed that people will see you undressed? Wonât that be degrading, or you are such a low-class dirt that you donât even care?â Lani says mockingly. Hannah sneered, âYou donât get it, do you? Iâm a nobody. Upload my photos all you want, no one will bat an eye on me, but once they learn Iâm Xander Millerâs wife, I think it will hurt your sonâs career more than me.â She declared with certainty. Her words made sense and Laniâs face contorted in rage as he didnât think it through. Luckily for her, she hasnât uploaded any of the images she took. Lani stumped her foot in annoyance that, even with a tied-up Hannah, she was still defeated. Soon an idea slipped into her mind. She went to Xanderâs bathroom and when she returned she was holding a clipper. Hannahâs eyes widened instantly, âGet away from me!â She yelled. âOh, look, are you scared now,â Lani says hauntingly. Hannah starts tugging on her bonds, but Xander ties her up too well. She starts squirming and arching her back, but itâs useless when Katarina suddenly arrives. âMom, whatâs happening? I heard yelling.â She says, then smiles ear to ear when she sees Hannah on the bed. âGood, youâre here. Come on and help me with her.â Lani demanded. Katarina grinned, âWith pleasure Mother.â She said in a malevolent tone. âHow bad is my brother,â she commented as she stared at Hannah, then slowly moved to the bed, sat on Hannahâs stomach, and started slapping her while Lani began cutting her hair with the clippers. Hannah shouts but Katarina covers her mouth. They only stopped when they heard the sound of Xanderâs car. âXanderâs here. What are we going to do now?â Katarina asked anxiously. âWhy are you scared? Do you think your brother will care? Even if we take care of this fool he wonât do anything to us. The only thing he will comment on is how we left the room dirty with this useless womanâs blood.â Lani remarks while spatting at Hannahâs face. Hannahâs face was swollen from Katarinaâs slaps. She couldnât fully open her eyes. Shortly, the two hurriedly left the room. When Xander stepped into his room, it was pitch dark, but he could see Hannahâs silhouette on the bed still tied. âI hope you learned your lesson,â he says as he turns on the light. Hannah was so exhausted, starving, and thirsty that she could not form any words or sound to get his attention. In her mind, she kept on asking herself, âWould he actually care? Or will he just say it serves me right for disrespecting her mother?â Without looking at her, he walked to his walk-in closet where he changed his clothes. When he finally caught a glimpse of her, his eyes widened in horror. âHannah!?â He calls out to her. CHAPTER 6 - Sly Fox âWHAT happened?â Xander asks in shock. He could see her hair on the floor. The clipper was stuck on the corner of her head. Itâs clear someone tried to cut her hair with his beard trimmers, but her hair was too thick. Her face was swollen, her lips bloodied, and her body filled with scratches. Hannah did not speak and only closed her eyes. Xander did not push her as it is obvious who did it. He removed her bonds and saw the marks they left on her body. The moment he untied her, she slowly got up. âWhere are you going?â Xander asks curiously. âI need to prepare dinner for you,â she replied while trying to remove the stuck clipper on her hair. He shook his head. âYouâll scare Bridget. Have you seen yourself in the mirror?â He replied concernedly, but the choice of words sounded mockery to her. She smiled bitterly, then sat on the bed. Undresseded. Tired. Hungry and thirsty. He witnessed how she stared blankly at the floor. âStay here. Iâll ask the servants to bring you food and a change of clothes.â He mumbles as he goes in the bathroom. She could only nod in agreement. Once more, Xander took out the first aid kit, cleaned her wounds, and applied topical pain relief. Shortly, he starts cutting the hair stuck in the clippers and fixing her hair. In the end, the only haircut passable was a pixie cut. âThere, thatâs the best cut I could come up with,â he uttered proudly. Hannah stared at herself and kept on brushing what was left of her hair. âI canât be here anymore. I donât want to be here. Letâs go our separate ways.â She exclaimed. âI said no more talk about divorce again,â he muttered. âWhy? Isnât that what you want? Why bring it up, then change your mind? The news had died down long ago, and I thinkâŚâ She paused then heaved profoundly, âNO... I know Bridget would be better off without the Millers.â He smirked then held her shoulder. âIâm tired Hannah.â He clamored. âStop talking nonsense and tell that boyfriend of yours to back away.â He accused. She frowned. âWhat?â She uttered. She is tired of explaining who Zane is. Xander took her silence as accepting defeat. âAs I said, stay here. I donât want anyone seeing you like that. They might say Iâm hurting you.â He clamored. She scoffed, âOf course, all he thinks of is himself and what others would think about him.â She mumbled under her breath. His audacity shook her and left a pit in her stomach. In the kitchen, Xander told the maid to prepare dinner and advised Mrs. Copperfield to take care of Bridget. âIs young Mrs. Miller okay, young master?â She asks in concern. He ignored her question and soon left. The old woman felt pity for Hannah as it was not a secret that the Miller family was hard to please and easy to offend. Mrs. Copperfield could only lower her head and take good care of Bridget in Hannahâs absence. CONCURRENTLY, Katarina is in Laniâs room. Sheâs pacing back and forth while sheâs biting her nails. She was scared of what Xander might do to her. Lani sighed in annoyance, âWould you stop panicking?â She mumbled as she sat comfortably in front of her vanity mirror, fixing her hair and removing Hannahâs dark hair that clung to her. Katarinaâs hands were sweating. She swallowed slowly and then uttered, âI think we overdid it.â She could still remember the fear on Hannahâs face when her mother moved the clipper near her. At that moment, she felt impulsive and helped her mother, but soon she felt a wave of guilt. Lani mocked, âOverdid? That sly fox had it coming. Have you seen how she was trapped on the bed? She probably tried to seduce Xander, but your brother is not that fool, and he tied her up there as punishment. How shameless.â She remarks in disgust. Lani then held her hand and assured her, âEverything we did to that trash, she deserves it. Have you forgotten that if not for her, you would have had a grand celebration for your 18th birthday?â She says. The remorse Katarina felt earlier dissipated instantly. She could vividly remember how Hannahâs arrival in the Miller mansion changed everything. Sheâs been planning her 18th birthday since she was a child. All of a sudden, Xander forbids her from celebrating extravagantly. With the scandal he is in and the unplanned wedding, he doesnât want to be on the news as it might affect the fragile state of the company. Being Xanderâs sister, everything she does reflects on her brother. Her hands clench in a fist. She couldnât forget the humiliation she had been put through. She had already given out her invitation and bragged to everyone that her birthday would be the biggest celebration the city had ever seen, that it would be put in the newspapers and various online sites and would go down in history. None of that happened, and she shamefully called off the event a month before her birthday. She was mocked by other rich kids who usually wouldnât go out of her way. It was the most embarrassing thing that happened to her. As she remembers it now, she felt that she could have hurt Hannah more. A knock on the door called her back to her senses. Without any hesitation, she opened the door and saw Xanderâs cold gaze. The fear she had earlier was now gone, and she stared at her brotherâs head held high. âWhat do you want, brother? Did your good-for-nothing wife ask you to avenge her?â She commented as she crossed her arms. Xander ignored her remarks and stepped into the room. Lani gestured for Katarina to leave them alone and she did. âMother.â He muttered perfunctory. Lani narrowed her gaze, âWhat? Are you going to take her side?â She stated in annoyance. He shook his head, âThatâs not important. Whatâs important is Denise has returned, and I canât leave Hannah looking like that. What do you think people will say?â he exclaimed. Laniâs eyes widened in glee. âDenise is back? That means...â âYes!â He confirmed hastily. She stood up and marched to her son, âYou should have told me that. If I knew, I wouldnât have let Katarina hit her in the face.â She commented while patting his back as she smiled merrily. Her words surprised him but he brushed them off. âFinally, the rightful wife has returned. We could get rid of the sly fox.â She added as she hummed in happiness. | LEARN_MORE | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=14304&u | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | redtgb.com | DCO | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=14304&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/t39.35426-6/461130637_998149928730487_7761764593139129907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e0ksQIiL_oEQ7kNvgFVaB89&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=As8BJ3Y7HDR6-Egw2HqGYd6&oh=00_AYB4wBOKDKkujdqS_cCMMWI_Zm5jvZhDrWi0W3d2DAEzoQ&oe=6707C4FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-10-05 19:56 | active | 1582 | 0 | Start your dream practice | Ready to take the leap? Learn the fundamentals of starting a private practice. | LEARN_MORE | https://www.simplepractice.com/resource/how-to-sta | SimplePractice | https://www.facebook.com/simplepractice/ | 26,451 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | simplepractice.com | DCO | {{product.description}} | https://www.simplepractice.com/resource/how-to-start-a-private-practice/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461716605_1043083250937845_3669615879240235888_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DuNIlNsU1QoQ7kNvgFhVfkX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AlLamxO4zmTNEbLZKpNTUlr&oh=00_AYANtUC9d8ZUSO_JrFdIL_MwqqUmVeGTE-Ft7FdN6fjJDg&oe=6707BF45 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | SimplePractice | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Each October, we demonstrate our support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by sharing patient stories, getting involved, and advocating. Kelly Mazmanianâs breast cancer survival story is one we hope will inspire you to take action with a gift to support Hoag. Kelly was just seven weeks pregnant with her second baby when she found out she had cancer. She was assigned a multidisciplinary team at Hoag to protect her and her babyâs lives and facilitate the best treatment options to reduce the chance of her cancer returning. Kellyâs personalized treatment plan included a mastectomy, 11 rounds of chemo, and daily radiation. Two years later, Kelly is cancer-free, back at work, and taking care of her family. âSharing my story makes it feel like my journey was worth it,â she said. Your gift today helps people like Kelly receive personalized, patient-centered care from a compassionate team of experts. Click the link to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month, bit.ly/HoagBreastCancerAwarenessMonth #BreastCancerAwareness #BreastCancerSupport #PinkOctober #hoag | LEARN_MORE | https://www.hoaghospitalfoundation.org/2024-breast | Hoag Hospital Foundation | https://www.facebook.com/hoaghospitalfoundation/ | 3,018 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | hoaghospitalfoundation.org | IMAGE | https://www.hoaghospitalfoundation.org/2024-breast-cancer-awareness-month-social.html | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462169901_536030845743626_7981255472352456761_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4W35LX0HJLYQ7kNvgHJgS3m&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A8lAGjdedMBTzMTFjjVE6qu&oh=00_AYAft6GQfM7SHIhmWPTVZbqlpgROycGr14ZX1filBZpDMw&oe=6707BE78 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Hoag Hospital Foundation | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE | http://instagram.com/dannygonzalezcoach | START UP MĂĄs que Coaching de Daniela Laura Gonzalez | https://www.facebook.com/STARTUPmasquecoaching/ | 1,746 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send Message | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/dannygonzalezcoach | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462118956_1813764632696947_7831830712687111876_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1XoGvnE3678Q7kNvgEBcusB&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXweInVMCfS8bSrofSI2tjM&oh=00_AYD3GYx75Lv1eZbRk0hoPFQ5vdurLS--S0PXyI6lrbEbnA&oe=6707B010 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | START UP MĂĄs que Coaching de Daniela Laura Gonzalez | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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LEARN_MORE | https://get24-tcg.com/ | ďźminnyé貊ĺş&大厎ĺşďź | https://www.facebook.com/100083651340123/ | 14 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | get24-tcg.com | CAROUSEL | https://get24-tcg.com/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461986928_1920701548430115_8010733830704050170_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U4TN_NuUIAgQ7kNvgEx9I7g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A9z6yrla2JeyeecmdQEWsHe&oh=00_AYA2wPsdIYmc6yEiex3ekefuEuS22KquoEptVrI7RlTMJw&oe=6707CEE4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | ďźminnyé貊ĺş&大厎ĺşďź | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Fall Festival | đ Returning to our McPherson Campus this October 31st, we are so excited to invite you to our annual Fall Festival! đ FREE FAMILY FUN FOR ALL AGES | THURSDAY, OCT 31ST | 6-8 PM Massive Trunk or Treat with TONS of free candy | Bounce Houses and Carnival Games | Free Food | Balloon Twisting and Face Painting | Family Friendly Environment | Close proximity to popular 'Trick or Treating' neighborhoods! For more info: https://thevillagebc.church/fallfestival đ906 S McPherson Church Rd | EVENT_RSVP | https://www.facebook.com/events/1098247735281087/ | The Village Baptist Church | https://www.facebook.com/thevillagebcnc/ | 2,809 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | INTERESTED | 0 | Fall Festival | EVENT | Returning to our McPherson Campus this October 31st, we are so excited to invite you to our annual Fall Festival! Join us on Thursday, October 31st at 6:00pm for one of Fayetteville's largest Trunk or Treat and Fall Carnival events! Enjoy a parking lot full of festive trunks, carnival games, bounce houses, food, and tons of candy. Wear your best and silliest costumes, and bring your family, friends, and neighbors ready for some Fall Fun! We promise you won't walk away disappointed. Best of all, this event is completely free to everyone in the community! We can't wait to connect with you at this year's Fall Festival. For more info: https://thevillagebc.church/fallfestival FREE FAMILY FUN FOR ALL AGES Massive Trunk or Treat with TONS of free candy | Bounce Houses and Carnival Games | Free Food | Balloon Twisting and Face Painting | Family Friendly Environment | Close proximity to popular 'Trick or Treating' neighborhoods! Village family, are you interested in serving at this year's Fall Festival? We need all hands on deck to serve and make this event possible! Contact kelly@villagebc.church to sign-up and serve at this yearâs Fall Fest! | https://www.facebook.com/events/1098247735281087/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461875830_1055144209356456_1237537816171414657_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6peHJ_y872QQ7kNvgG1nerF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AYVGyQJahAHLsFQVw-Z7ym8&oh=00_AYCo6SH0geXCGLFBOIormHmgUy37pHAvVW0o4zwH8BqltQ&oe=6707C050 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | The Village Baptist Church | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đĽđĽClick to read the next chapter for freeđ | The day I was kidnapped and suffered torture, my husband was busy cheating with another woman... When I opened my eyes, I knew I was done. My brother had really sold me off to this border town, only to cover his own gambling debts... I freightenedly fought back when a few disgusting man approached me about to tear my dress off, only to receive relentless beating. "Please no! Let me call my husband. He is very rich!" I screamed uncontrollably. The leader Ken finally halted his men, looking interested. With that, he flung a phone to me. "20 million dollars. Anything less than that," He smirked as his lusty eyes glued on me, "you'll have to serve us all before selling your body for us." 20 million...a shiver ran down my spine as I shook from terror. I married Nathan only a month ago. Would he be willing to sacrifice that much money for me? "I see," my voice trembled. At this point, Nathan was my last hope. I dialed his number with shaking hands. Luckily it was picked up soon, but a woman's voice came from that end. "Hi? Who's that?" My heart sank that instant, but I carried on pleading. "I'm Suzanne, Nathan Morrison's wife. Please pass the phone -." "He's not available..." "Who is it, Sally? Come back to bed..." Just then, Nathan's gentle voice came from the background. "Just a scam call." Sally ended the call hurriedly. Immediately, laughter burst out around me. "Your husband is busy with his sweetheart. Stop daydreaming, woman!" I slowly closed my eyes. A sharp pang cut through my heart. Suddenly, one men asked Ken nervously, "Say, about the name she said earlier. Her husband can't be the leader of Norvanian military, can he?" "Impossible. No idiot would dare to sell Nathan Morrison's wife. Besides, from what I know, he's still single." Ken stated confidently. I smiled bitterly in my heart. Everyone here knew Nathan Morrison - the most legendary name in military, but who would believe I, the woman now humiliated like trash, was actually his newlywed wife... "30 minutes. You only have 30 more minutes. Get us 20 million, or you'll beg under the crotch of us all!" Ken roared at me. The men surrounding me were like drooling vultures, counting down on my final moment... I slumped into the corner in despair... -- BOOM! Some time passed before a deafening boom suddenly resounded, shaking the ground. Someone from outside cried, terrified, "Boss! Someone blasted our gate apart!" I shuddered and opened my eyes... | LEARN_MORE | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1102 | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | theryfhvn.com | IMAGE | đRead the next chaptersđ | https://theryfhvn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11024&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449621252_830973875797114_481079146861211813_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=af3pQ0AR3B0Q7kNvgFuTm0g&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ANK-XsXLi_Mic6D-TxmV-0Y&oh=00_AYBquRpQ3nQrPhAnwZLu-bn01O8LWFgVM5QdqPKu5-b0PQ&oe=6707CD99 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-05 20:13 | active | 1583 | 0 | đĽđĽClick to read the next chapter for freeđ | Two years of marriage, and I'd never set foot in my husband Elijah's office. Today was the first time I went to his company. After all this time, why was I suddenly entrusted to deliver these important documents? Could it be possible that theyâre finally learning to accept me? Taking a deep breath, I gently placed my hand on my stomach. The emptiness from losing my baby lingered, even though it had been a long time since that accident. I still felt lost and fragile, wishing for solace that never came. I missed my husband's presence, longing for a comforting word or touch. But he and his family remained distant and uninvolved, leaving me to recover on my own. Now, I was about to step into Elijahâs world â his beloved company. My heart skipped a beat as I entered Elijah's large, elegant office. The room was tastefully decorated, with rich mahogany furniture and a large sign that said Sinclair Realty Group. But what made me stop in my tracks was the sight of my husband huddled with an attractive blonde over some papers. Their shoulders were touching, their cheeks almost brushing against each other. What is going on? I thought in alarm. Suddenly, the woman whispered something in Elijahâs ear while she gently laid her perfectly manicured hands on his arm. My heart jumped. I heard a loud thud on the floor and realized Iâd dropped the folder I was holding. They both looked up, startled. And thatâs when my gaze locked with that of the woman. I felt a shudder creeping through my skin. Serena Foster! She used to be a classmate of ours at Fairview University. She also happened to be Elijahâs ex-girlfriend. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks. So this is why my evil mother-in-law asked me to deliver this document! Morgana had probably known that Serena was here now. My husband rose from his chair, abruptly pulling away from Serena who was throwing me daggers with her eyes. âYou remember Serena, right? She works here now.â I nodded, my heart leaping into my throat and my thoughts raging in a storm. Theyâre just colleagues, nothing else, I thought, but not with full conviction. Elijah wouldnât cheat on me, would he? All this time, Iâd remained hopeful that he could still fall in love with me. But now, with Serena in the picture, time might just be running out for us. âSo why are you here?â Elijah asked, a frown creasing his brow. âYour mom asked me to deliver this,â I explained, hastily picking up the folder and handing it to him. Then narrowing my eyes at Serena, I waited for him to explain why they were working closely, or to at least introduce me as his wife. But much to my dismay, he didnât. It felt as though my heart was being squeezed tightly, as it dawned on me that heâd never really introduced me to anyone as his wife. Ever. âSophia, you look shaken up. Didnât you know Elijah hired me to work here?â Her voice dripped with sarcasm. âApparently, we make a great team. Funny, I donât recall seeing you here before.â She was purposely rubbing it in my face, and I wanted to slap that smile away from her face. She then added, âOh, right, you donât know anything about business. You might just mess things up.â âI take care of our home,â I said bitterly, looking down on the floor for a bit. I felt belittled, and my husband couldnât even defend me. Serena looked at me with disbelief and laughed. Just then, Elijah said, âNext time, Sophia, just contact me and Iâll have my assistant come over.â "Fine," I murmured, my voice barely audible, wishing the ground would swallow me up. The weight of hurt and embarrassment pressed down on me, crushing my spirit. My heart thudded as I blinked back tears. He doesn't want me here. Suddenly, Elijahâs secretary came in. âAlice, please prepare coffee for the ladies,â he instructed. âJust black for Serena. No sugar.â Serenaâs eyes lit up. âHey, you remembered!â she exclaimed, obviously delighted. Elijah nodded at her. âOf course.â I watched the exchange with a sinking feeling in my heart. Serena gave me a smug look as if she was reveling in some secret victory. I couldnât help but feel more depressed. Here was my husband, effortlessly remembering Serena's coffee preferences, yet he couldn't recall something as simple as my allergy to caffeine. âJoin us, Sophia,â Serena invited with a devilish grin. âJust like how we used to hang out together in college.â I struggled to contain my emotions, not wanting to break down in front of them. âI have to go,â I managed to say, my voice slightly cracking. âIâll see you at home.â Elijahâs expression remained unchanged, and my heart felt heavy with the realization of how little I meant to him. The way he treated me had only gotten worse after losing my baby. What did you expect? a small voice hissed in my head. He only married you because he got you to have a baby. Youâre the one who keeps hoping heâll eventually fall for you. As his assistant Connor Hayes drove me home, I thought about how my husbandâs mother Morgana had begun ignoring me after I lost the baby. Then one day, she started talking to me again, only to treat me like a housemaid. I fought back tears as the heaviness in my heart escalated. My marriage was falling apart so fast that I couldnât seem to catch up. When we pulled up the spacious driveway of the Sinclair mansion, a feeling of dread and loneliness engulfed me. Iâm back in this prison. Trapped. Helpless. I want to escape this prison! I screamed in my head, glad that Morgana was nowhere to be found. Yet. Running to my room and throwing myself on my bed, sobs wracked my body. And as I cried my eyes out, I felt something with my hand that made me sit up. A small portion of a brown envelope was peeking from under the pillow. My heart tightened, and more tears filled my eyes. I knew exactly what it contained â the papers Iâd prepared before. I pulled them out and stared at the title that blurred before my teary eyes. It read: Divorce Agreement. CHAPTER 2 The divorce agreement was written after I accidentally lost my baby. During that time, I couldnât even look at Elijahâs face without thinking about our baby. The pain was unbearable, so I believed divorce was my salvation. Looking back, preparing the divorce agreement was not a mistake, now that leaving was my only option. My hands shook as I held the papers in my hand. I could hear Morganaâs voice outside. âSophia!â she called in a sharp tone. She probably heard me come in and was now wondering where I was. Quickly, I hid the divorce agreement and washed my face in the bathroom. Thatâs when the door swung open. I dried my face with a towel and looked at my mother-in-law. She responded with a cold gaze. She immediately instructed me to do the housework, her tone full of disdain. As I began my chores, she stood there taunting me. âElijah told me not to ask you to deliver things in the future,â she said with a scoff. âYou canât even be relied on for such a simple task.â Her words cut deep. âWhen you first came to our house carrying a baby in your belly, it was okay that you couldn't do anything,â she continued. âThen you had lost your baby and you had to spend months recovering and regaining your health. Now you can't even deliver a document, so what's the meaning for Elijah of having you as a wife?" Her words were like daggers, each one piercing my heart. And then, in a cruel twist, she added, âMy son would be better off with Serena. She's prettier, smarter, and she even managed to land a job at his company! Unlike you... You can't even perform simple housework that well.â Sure enough, she already knew that Serena worked at Elijah's company. She asked me to deliver the papers today just to make a fool of me. The room felt suffocating, the burden of her words pressing down on me. I felt utterly alone, realizing that no one had ever been on my side. I clenched my fists, struggling against the wave of tears threatening to spill. Sweeping the floor became a mechanical task, a facade to hide my turmoil. The repeated humiliations and frustrations drained me of the energy to fight back or explain myself yet again. I donât deserve this, I thought sourly. Itâs time for me to escape, to save myself. With bitter tears streaming down my cheeks, I rushed to my room and grabbed the papers Iâd hidden. Staring at me from the front page were the words: Divorce Agreement. Iâve had enough. Flashbacks of how Elijah and Morgana had been treating me filled my mind. Despite my efforts to be the dutiful wife and daughter-in-law, Iâd always seemed invisible to them. Iâve been obedient, helpful, and hardworking⌠But no one cares. Not even my own husband. Iâm nothing to him. He doesnât love me and he never learned to. Thatâs the most painful of all. My heart tightened. His indifference cut deeper than any overt cruelty could. And now, with Serena back in the picture, their attention gravitated toward her. I felt more isolated than ever. This is the last straw! I must get out of here, or Iâll lose my sanity! That evening, I hadnât realized Iâd already fallen asleep when I heard the bedroom door open. Something made a loud, clattering noise. I quickly sat up and saw Elijah staggering toward me. He mumbled something about a dinner party as he plopped on the bed and started sliding his fingers down my bare arm. I hastily moved backward, giving him a look of disbelief. He was obviously drunk. If he wasnât, he would have just ignored me and gone straight to bed. âHey, playing hard to get, arenât you?â he said in a slurred manner, his bloodshot eyes becoming more intense. Then without warning, he leaned forward and kissed me on the lips. I didnât have time to react, though, because he suddenly started unbuttoning my oversized nightshirt. âWhen did Serena start working at your company?â I asked him coldly. He shrugged, but didnât stop what he was doing. âNot sure. Probably recruited by HR.â His lips traveled down and then his tongue followed. Finally, the last button on my sleep pajama surrendered. âSerena is such a talented addition to our team,â he remarked with admiration. As I reminisced about the scene I witnessed at the company, my husband and his ex-girlfriend Serena were closely nestled together, sharing laughter and conversation. But I couldn't muster the courage to confront her and ask her to keep her distance from him. Jealousy and pain gripped my chest. I couldnât believe he was saying all this while undressing me! I knew then that he still had feelings for her. âYou know,â he said, oblivious to my disappointment, âshe's even outperforming many of the senior colleagues who've been with the company for years.â Even as we locked eyes, there was something in his gazeâa kind of infatuationâthat he never seemed to exhibit when it came to me. Heâs probably picturing me as her! I thought with disgust. I was so disappointed in him, and didnât want him anywhere near me. But when I pulled away, he threw me an irritated look. âWhatâs wrong with you?â he asked, taken aback that I was saying no to his advances unlike before. I didnât answer. He narrowed his eyes at me. âYouâve been down in the dumps for months now! I thought youâd snap out of it, but youâve only gotten worse. Itâs depressing to even see you.â I cringed at his words, the searing pain crushing my heart. He couldnât even see how my spirit was being shattered because of him. âMaybe itâs because of the baby we lostâŚâ he mused. Sliding his fingers down the surface of my cheek and then my neck, he added in a drunken slur, âWhy donât we just make another baby?â I couldnât believe my ears. I knew that whenever he was drunk, he spoke without inhibitions. He was often brutally honest in this state. Hence, he meant every word and that only showed how much he didnât understand me or the problem we had in this marriage. My whole body was shaking as the misery and fury Iâve been keeping inside rose to the surface. He doesnât get it. Or maybe he just doesnât care. I was totally pissed off. And thatâs when I blurted it out. âI want to divorce you.â CHAPTER 3 I could sense his mind reeling from the unexpected news. He opened his mouth as if to say something. I expected him to respond, to react, to ask questions. Anything at all! But he never said anything. My heart thumped hard as we gazed at one another â strangers whoâd been forced to live together. I had tried so hard to make this marriage work even after we had lost the baby. But it takes two to succeed at this, I realized. âI want a divorce,â I repeated, keeping my voice steady. âIâm serious.â Slowly he nodded. âYes, sure,â he answered before getting up and disappearing into the bathroom. My heart felt like it was about to explode. I pulled my open shirt around me, desperately covering myself up, as I coiled into a fetal position with my head throbbing. A tear dropped down my cheek, and I quickly brushed it away. This is it. Iâm going to be free. And yet somehow, I didnât feel that ecstatic. His reaction only confirmed my worst suspicions. Now I know the truth â he never loved me at all. Heâs not even upset about the divorce! I sighed. Itâs time for me to move on. The next day, after eating breakfast on my own, I mustered up all my courage and called Elijah to the study. âWe should sign this,â I said without any emotion, showing him the divorce papers. He sat on the sofa across from me, looking at me quietly. His gaze always made me feel a little nervous, but today was different. I signed the papers and urged him to do the same. âElijah, please,â I whispered, making sure my voice wouldnât break. âLet's end this.â His face contorted in a horrible expression as he ruthlessly grabbed the agreement from me. But he didnât sign immediately. He took a long time going over each page while I waited impatiently. Then his phone suddenly rang. I saw it light up with Serenaâs name, making my heart tighten. I canât believe this womanâs timing! But Elijah only glanced at it before returning to reviewing the papers. Perhaps he didnât want to answer it because I was in the room with him. A myriad of emotions threatened to engulf me. I stood up and positioned myself in front of him with my arms crossed against my heart. âWhy donât you just hurry up and sign those so you can get going? Someone might be waiting for you in the office.â He glanced at me warily, then took out his pen and signed everything. With an angry grunt, he threw the papers down on the sofa and stormed out of the room. Watching him go, I was filled with overwhelming feelings â relief, frustration, anger, sadness. âIâm finally free,â I murmured to myself incredulously. While I was packing my bags in the bedroom, Morgana suddenly charged inside. In her usual bossy voice, she said, âThe morningâs almost over, Sophia! Go do the laundry now.â With a sarcastic huff, I turned around to face her. âSorry, but Elijah and I just signed a divorce agreement. I will no longer do any housework for you.â Her face reddened in anger. I could almost see steam coming out of her ears as she crossed her arms on her pit and scolded me angrily. "You married into our family for two years, no children, and now you want a divorce," she spat out bitterly. I scoffed, not bothering to respond. It doesnât matter anymore. I can finally ignore her completely! But then, almost as quickly as her anger had surfaced, her mood changed. âYou know what? It's actually quite nice,â she said, her tone almost mocking. âElijah can finally marry someone better, like Serina. Every single day that I see you hanging your head in despair, it just makes my blood boil. Anyone would make a better wife than you!â Her words infuriated me. I wanted to slap away that haughty look on her face, but it would just be a waste of energy. Iâm done here. Iâm done with all this. Suddenly, memories flooded back of a time when Morgana had shown kindness, especially during my pregnancy with her grandchild. She had been caring and considerate. However, after I lost my baby, her demeanor changed drastically. She began treating me like a mere servant rather than a member of the family. I could never understand why she became so hostile all of a sudden. Sometimes I wondered if it had more to do with herself than with me. That afternoon, I went home to where I grew up. As I settled in, I felt relieved that at least I had a place I could call my own. âLuckily I hadnât sold it,â I muttered, looking around the living room and remembering my adoptive father. This house is the only connection I have left with him. Night swept in quickly. I was worn out and exhausted. Climbing onto my old bed, I was ready to relax when I received a message from my best friend Kayla. It showed a secretly taken photo of Elijah and Serena in a club, sitting intimately close and laughing together. A chill ran down my spine as I read the angry message from Kayla: That Elijah! You have no idea what I saw! Elijah was out partying and flirting with that Serena, which he never did with you! My heart sank, anger and sadness clouded my mind as I realized he was indeed getting back together with Serena and flaunting her around. Forcing back my tears, I told Kayla: Itâs over between me and Elijah. We were divorced. CHAPTER 4 âAaarrgghh! I so hate that guy for doing this to you!â Kayla hissed. âIf I had known heâd treat you like that, I wouldnât have allowed you to even come near him during our grad celebration! And I wouldnât have kept pushing you to hook up with him, no matter how gorgeous he was!â Being the daughter of Raven Mediaâs renowned CEO, Kayla Davis always hung out with high society. She saw Elijah a lot at parties since they belonged to the same circle. We also all happened to attend Fairview University where Kayla and I had majored in Interior Design. Hence, she not only knew Elijah but Serena too. âYou should have seen them at the party last night!â she cried out, causing some people to give us a dirty look. Lowering her voice, she leaned forward with a repulsed look. âThey didnât even care that I was there! They were just⌠Aaahhh! I really couldnât take it, so I went over there and gave them a piece of my mind. I told them they ought to be ashamed of themselves!â âOh, wow,â I uttered in disbelief. âBut itâs over now, Kayla. Iâm doing my best to move on.â Kayla was still fuming. But then, she eventually smiled and leaned over to squeeze my hands. âIâm always here for you, Sophia. You know that.â âThanks so much. Iâm really grateful to have someone who really cares about me,â I responded with a fluttering heart. âWell, youâve always had my back even in high school. So now itâs my turn to return the favor.â Kayla and I became best friends during our freshman year in high school. We came to know each other well when we first worked on an art project together. Weâd hit it off at once, and the rest was history. âAnyway, I can see that Elijah never loved you and he doesnât deserve you, Sophia,â she went on. âSo what are you planning now?â âWell, Iâve been giving it some thoughtâŚâ I began, suddenly feeling excited for the future. âA few weeks ago, I applied for this postgraduate program at Goldwell Institute of Art in Franceââ âYou did not!â she interrupted me, her lips turning up into a huge grin. Suddenly, she jumped up from her seat and gave me a hug. âThis will surely be your big break!â I laughed. âI havenât been accepted yet, you know.â âOh, but you will be!â Kaylaâs enthusiasm was so contagious that I could already picture myself studying there, exploring France, and enjoying myself. But then, my mood suddenly changed again when I heard my phone ringing and saw Elijahâs name popping up on the screen. I froze up. Kaylaâs eyes narrowed when she saw it too. âGo ahead and answer it. See what he has to say.â As soon as I accepted the call, I heard Elijahâs sharp tone of voice on the other end. âYou filed for our divorce, and now your family wants cash from me?! Unbelievable!â âWait, what do you mean?â âYou know Iâm busy in the office, then here comes your brother with another excuse for needing financial help! He had the nerve to barge into the conference room and disrupt our meeting!â Elijah railed angrily. I felt mortified and helpless. âIâll talk to Troy.â âGood. Make sure he doesnât come back again ever.â Then he hung up. I was so shocked that I couldnât speak for a while. My family's constant demands for cash had reached a tipping point. No matter how many times I tried to set boundaries, they continued to use me and interrupt Elijah. It felt like I had no control over the situation, and it was greatly upsetting. âSorry I have to go now, Kayla,â I said, bravely deciding to act immediately. She nodded in understanding and we said goodbye. I immediately rushed to the house where my adoptive mother and brother had moved to after my adoptive father Tom Bennett passed away. Heâd left me the original house where heâd taken care of me like his real own child. But the rest of the inheritance had been taken by his wife and son. Theyâd bought a bigger house and I never heard from them again. Not until they learned of my marrying a wealthy man in the famous Sinclair clan. Brenda was certainly not pleased to hear what I had to say. âWhat did you say?! You divorced Elijah, the billionaire CEO of Sinclair Realty Group?!! Are you out of your mind?!!â Behind her, my brother Troy looked as if he wanted to punch the wall. âIt was never going to work out,â I said, trying to maintain my composure. âJust please stop bothering him. Weâve cut our ties. You canât ask for anything from him anymore.â âOh, man!â Troy exclaimed with frustration. Two years ago, after I married Elijah, Brenda and Troy came back and pretended like we were a tight-knit family. At first, Elijah was kind and understanding of their needs. But when he noticed how abusive they had become, always asking for financial support, he became impatient and angry. One time, they even borrowed cash in my name and never paid it back. It had become one of the reasons why Morgana was so angry with me. âDid you fight? Maybe you can still fix it!â Brenda said, looking desperate. Troy scoffed. âWhen I went to his office, I saw him talking to this beautiful, sexy blonde. Iâm guessing thereâs a third party involved! People who donât know better would think that woman is his wife!â CHAPTER 5 My heart felt like it would explode any time now. âIt doesnât matter,â I eventually said to Troy. âItâs none of my business now. I donât care what he does with that woman or with whomever.â Then staring hard at him and my foster mother, I said sharply, âWeâre definitely not getting back together, so the two of you should just stop going to him for anything! Just stop!â âButâŚâ Brenda began to protest. I raised my hand to stop her. âElijah and I are over. Besides, Iâll soon move to France and study there. And since you only contacted me again because of Elijahâs wealth, then now you wonât have any more need for me, right?â They were both shocked at my words because I had never spoken like that in the past. But it was time for me to step up and put myself first for once. âAll thing that you swindled out of my ex-husbandâs pocket, consider it as your payment for raising me,â I went on in a steady voice. âWe donât have to see or talk to each other ever again.â On the way home, I began to feel a migraine coming. I closed my eyes and massaged my temples as I sat in the back seat of a cab. All of this dramaâs taking a toll on me, I guess. But as I neared the house, I felt increasingly queasy and unwell. I realized my health hadnât fully recovered since the loss. âCould you please take me to the hospital?â I asked the driver, trying to keep my voice steady despite the rising nausea. He nodded and quickly changed course, navigating toward the nearest medical facility. The ride felt endless, each bump in the road exacerbating my discomfort. By the time we arrived, I could barely contain the churning in my stomach. I burst through the hospital doors, a wave of dizziness threatening to overwhelm me. My vision blurred, and I stumbled forward, nearly colliding with a figure in front of me. Before I could hit the ground, strong hands gripped my arms, steadying me. Gasping for breath, I looked up and found myself staring into the concerned eyes of a very handsome and familiar-looking man. âAre you okay? You look like you're about to faint,â he said, his brows furrowed with worry. With our eyes locked on each other, before I could even reply, a look of recognition crossed his features. âOh, wait! Itâs you. Sophia Bennett from Green Valley High, right?â I was surprised, looking at him closely. His features reminded me of someone I knew a long way back. âUh, Daniel?â I eventually said, recalling his name. We had gone to the same high school, but he was a year older than me. âYes, yes. Wait, let me bring you to our family doctor. You look really pale.â I felt too sick to pretend I was fine, so I just let him lead me through the corridor and into one of the clinics. He quickly introduced me to the doctor whom he seemed to know well. As the doctor greeted me, concern etched across his face, I explained how I'd been feeling. He listened attentively, nodding as I spoke. After a brief discussion, he led me to an examination room, asking Daniel to wait outside. The examination was thorough, and I appreciated the doctor's calming demeanor. Afterward, he suggested some basic tests to determine the cause of my symptoms. âHow are you feeling now?â Daniel asked kindly once I sat down beside him in the waiting area. âA little better, but still kinda dizzy,â I answered honestly. âThanks for the assistance, but itâs okay if you have somewhere to be. Youâve already done too much for me.â âOh, itâs okay,â he said with a smile. âUnless you donât want me here.â âItâs nothing like that, of course!â I quickly replied. âThanks for accompanying me. It feels good to have someone to talk to while Iâm here.â âWell, Iâm all ears. People say Iâm a good listener.â I beamed at him, his presence a comforting anchor in the sterile hospital environment. Chuckling, I said, âI donât really know you, DanielâŚâ âYou know my name. Thatâs a start.â His grin seemed to brighten up the surroundings, and I just felt immediately comfortable with him. I couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and trust wash over me. We hadn't been close in high school, but something about his calm demeanor and genuine concern made me want to open up. âI remember⌠Daniel PierceâŚâ I began, smiling. I could feel my headache and nausea diminishing. âHigh school jock, but a bit geeky and always at the top of the class.â He laughed. âYouâve got a good memory, Sophia Bennett. I remember you too â the smart, quiet, very talented artist whom all the boys noticed but never had the nerve to approach.â I laughed too at his astonishing description of me. âYouâre joking!â âNo, itâs true⌠Really! Iâm sure youâve managed to get yourself a very good-looking husband. Let me guess, a CEO?â He was kidding, but hitting close to home made me frown as I remembered Elijah. âGood-looking, yes. CEO, yes. But husband? Not anymore.â âOh.â His expression changed immediately. âIâm sorry to hear that.â âYou know, it's been a rough few months,â I began tentatively, twiddling my thumbs in my lap. âI'm actually going through a divorce, and my family... they keep asking for cash from my ex-husband, which just complicates things even more.â Daniel's expression shifted to one of empathy, and he nodded, encouraging me to continue. âAnd then I lost my baby...It's been tough, physically and emotionally. I just feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders, you know?â He nodded in understanding. âIâm so sorry to hear all that, Sophia. But you seem like a really strong woman. Iâm sure you can get back on your feet in no time. Usually, it helps to be in a change of environment. Have you considered that?â âYeah, starting anew in a foreign land,â I answered, thinking about my application in France. âHmm⌠sounds like a pretty bold move," Daniel remarked, his eyes reflecting admiration and amusement at the same time. âIt takes courage to make such a big change.â I smiled weakly. âActually, I've applied for graduate studies in France. It's something I've always wanted to do.â Daniel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. âReally? That's incredible! I recently got accepted at the Goldwell Business School in ParisâŚâ My jaw dropped. âWhat? Iâm planning to go to the Goldwell Institute of Art!â He looked at me with astonishment. âWhat are the odds, huh? Looks like weâll be seeing more of each other. Those institutions share practically the same campus.â I couldn't believe the coincidence, though I was still feeling down. âThatâs really⌠something else.â âSurely youâll get in. Where do you plan to stay in Paris?â âThe Latin Quarter, of course. Iâm looking at an apartment there, since itâs where most students live.â Daniel chuckled. âAnd it looks like weâll be neighbors too. I think we were meant to cross paths again right now, right here.â He gave me a lopsided grin. âWho knows? Maybe weâre destined to explore France together! When you book your plane ticket, let me know. Letâs fly together. I mean, if thatâs alright with you?â His offer warmed my heart, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope. âThank you, DanielâŚâ Suddenly, I heard my name being called by the assistant, motioning for me to come back into the clinic. âMiss Sophia Bennett?â she informed me. âYour test results are here.â CHAPTER 6 Daniel followed me into the doctor's office, providing support. The doctor smiled warmly at us, his expression giving nothing away. âWell, Sophia,â he began, his tone measured, âthe results are in. Congratulations to you both.â I felt a rush of confusion and disbelief. âYouâre going to be parents. Congratulations!â the doctor added. Iâm⌠pregnant?! How could that be? My last baby had left me only months ago. Even I just signed divorce papers with Elijah, and now I'm carrying his child? The room spun around me as embarrassment flooded my cheeks. Probably because he was mistaken for the baby's father, Daniel looked surprised but did not contradict the doctor. âOther than that, youâre perfectly healthy, Sophia,â the doctor assured me. He went on to discuss some things with Daniel, but I hardly heard them talking. My heart pounded crazily, and my mind felt fuzzy. Once again, I felt like I was caught up in a weird dream. None of it was real. Daniel was quiet as we left the hospital. I didnât know what to say either. âLet me drive you home, Sophia,â he offered once we were outside. His eyes were filled with concern for me. I was just too tired and confused to say no, so I simply nodded. He did not ask any questions, and I was glad. What am I going to do? I asked myself in silence while in the car, feeling the panic rising in my throat. This is the worst timing ever. Elijah and I just got divorced, and Iâm supposed to have a whole new life ahead of me. Anxiety took over me. Everything was about to change again. If I have this baby, it wonât have a father, I thought bitterly. And how can I take care of it on my own while living in a different country where I donât have anyone to help me? My hand moved toward my tummy. There was no baby bump yet, but knowing that there was a little one growing inside gave me chills. Suddenly, I remembered how painful it had been to lose my baby before. This is a blessing, a second chance for me to become a mother. Would I want to risk losing another baby? Slowly I began to calm down. I took deep breaths until my head began to clear. This is a miracle, I told myself. I should be grateful. As I rubbed my belly, I spoke in my mind. Iâm so sorry, baby. Itâs just all too sudden. But I know that Iâm going to take care of you and love you with all my heart. Days flew by, bringing a welcomed calm without Elijah, Brenda, and Troy in the picture. However, internally, I remained in turmoil. Then, the news I had been eagerly awaiting arrivedâI had been accepted into my dream university to study art and design once more! Despite the uncertainty of juggling studies with a baby, I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. In just a weekâs time, I found myself waving goodbye to Kayla at the airport. âCall me when you get there!â she said, her eyes gleaming with tears. It was the first time we would be apart for a long time, and we were like sisters. As I settled into my seat on the airplane, bound for Paris, excitement and nervousness mingled within me. The prospect of starting a new life in a different country threatened to overwhelm my senses. The plane began its ascent, lifting off the ground. I felt a wave of panic wash over me. Beside me, Daniel sensed my unease and reached over, gently squeezing my hand. âEverything will be okay,â he reassured me. âI'm here. We'll do this together.â His words were a comforting balm to my anxious soul, and I found great comfort in his presence. As we chatted throughout the plane ride, ate together, fell asleep, and then chatted some more, I began to relax and come to terms with the situation. I can do this, I thought with more confidence. Then touching my tummy, I silently whispered, Youâre my lucky charm, my baby. By the time we landed safely, Daniel and I were like old buddies. I was truly grateful that he was with me. As the cab wound through Paris, iconic landmarks flashed pastâthe Eiffel Tower dominating the skyline, the majestic Louvre in the distance, and quaint streets bustling with cafes and shops. Despite my worries, the beauty of the city had me momentarily elated, filling me with a sense of excitement and wonder. Beside me, Daniel seemed entranced, his eyes wide with wonder. Soon, we were unloading my bags at my new apartment. It was semi-furnished, and I was immediately drawn to the light blue walls and the inviting white sofa. But my favorite part of all was the large window that gave me a fantastic view of the busy city street below. This was itâthe start of my new life in Paris. I turned to Daniel, who was looking around the apartment with a satisfied smile. âLooks like you've got yourself a nice little place here,â he remarked, glancing back at me. "Yeah, I think I'm going to like it here," I replied. Daniel chuckled. âJust remember to take it easy, okay? You've had a long journey.â I rolled my eyes. âI'm fine, Daniel. I'm not going to keel over from exhaustion.â He raised an eyebrow, and then grinned. âI'm just saying, youâll be too heavy for me to carry if you collapse!â I threw the throw pillow at him jokingly. âOh, shut up.â We both laughed. He added, âYou need to get some beauty sleep, Sophia. I'm sure you'll want to look your best when you meet your new classmates.â âOh, so now you're concerned about my appearance?â Daniel grinned. âHey, a little rest never hurt anyone. And who knows, maybe you'll meet a cute French guy who'll sweep you off your feet.â I playfully nudged him. âI think I'll pass on that, thank you very much. I'm here to focus on my studies, not my love life.â He appeared pleased with that statement. âFair enough,â he answered with a teasing smile. âBut you never know what could happen. Paris is the city of love, after all.â I felt a little flutter in my heart, wondering if I could learn to look at him as more than a friend. Perhaps it's more accurate to say he's akin to a brother rather than just a friend. The assistance he's provided far exceeds anything I've received from Elijah in years. Sighing, I went over to my bags. âCome on, just help me unpack already so we can check out your apartment next.â As we were unpacking, my phone rang. I figured it was Kayla so I asked Daniel to answer it, showing him that my hands were full at the moment. âHello?â I heard Daniel say. He put the call on speaker mode. âWho the hell is this? Where's Sophia?â a very familiar male voice demanded, his tone aggressive and impatient. My heart felt like it had just plummeted to the ground. I felt my whole body trembling when Daniel handed the phone to me. I didn't have to hold the phone to my ear to hear Elijah's furious growling, "Sophia, YOU CAN'T just walk away like this! Where the hell are you now?! Without my permission, you are not allowed to go anywh...." I pressed the button to end the call without hearing his entire words, calming my quivering heart with a big and deep breath. It's true that Elijah has never been very considerate or tender with me, but he hasn't really stepped on me rudely either. It's just that lately, he's been indifferent to me. Anyway, he'd never been as emotionally cranky as he was now. Did my leaving make him care? No, don't be silly, Sophia, he can be with Serena again now. He's free. How do you expect that he would care about you, a woman he had never loved? Daniel noticed my paradoxical anxiety. "Who is he?" Daniel inquired. But I could see in his eyes that he clearly knew the answer to that question. I sighed, "My husband. No, ex-husband." | LEARN_MORE | https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid= | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | thebvhwysgng.com | VIDEO | https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=12887&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458167184_1188404859113124_1590084820451847360_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GHTuf5mMtXEQ7kNvgEz0p_5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AzAsh-0ngt5HZcEv7Wvon_c&oh=00_AYC4HnHoWFE0cmJsifssQR6EyM2KleRJ_GE8vhb22Jopgw&oe=670796F5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-10-05 20:12 | active | 1583 | 0 | Free Worldwide Shipping! | Say goodbye to ankle pain with our versatile Ankle Ice Pack, providing soothing hot and cold therapy for ultimate relief and recovery! âď¸ | SHOP_NOW | https://theorthoshoppe.com/products/ankle-ice-pack | Ortho Shoppe | https://www.facebook.com/theorthoshoppes/ | 28 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | theorthoshoppe.com | VIDEO | âââââ 5/5 Reviews! | https://theorthoshoppe.com/products/ankle-ice-pack | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448035296_1604702547016984_1003779477555107990_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5Cs3mQGu0bsQ7kNvgHP94yn&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Aoe2flC9S_ufY4pZ_AAqm6r&oh=00_AYDpjPsKkFu7BuYiuxcilKd7yGOi7tbB8ZVao8NfeMaQnw&oe=6707AB3A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Ortho Shoppe | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-10-05 21:51 | active | 1584 | 0 |
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New England toy and record show | Back again in kittery Maine with awesome vendors from all over the east coast brining vintage toys, comics, records, art, and more ! Plus 2 awesome celebrity guests TBA !! | EVENT_RSVP | https://www.facebook.com/events/1593179411581188/ | New England Toy and Record Show | https://www.facebook.com/NewEnglandToyandRecordShow/ | 2,623 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | INTERESTED | 0 | New England toy and record show | EVENT | Back again in kittery Maine with awesome vendors from all over the east coast brining vintage toys, comics, records, art, and more ! Plus 2 awesome celebrity guests TBA !! | https://www.facebook.com/events/1593179411581188/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462276389_1055675636252284_2258509998427951855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7QdO0naRMOoQ7kNvgHmOuNE&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AI3DtPksstdC4XMunJE9zz7&oh=00_AYCcKXePVKLKqstSVXZJjZECYy6rl6CN3HJOTyXGvAWOnQ&oe=6707CFDE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New England Toy and Record Show | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-05 20:15 | active | 1583 | 0 |
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | Lily POV After my mother slapped me and pushed me down the stairs on the morning of my sister Stephanie's death memorial, I fell unconscious, but the moment I woke up, I was in Stepahnie's memorial while my fated mate Alpha James mind-linked me, "Little Mate, don't you want to know who spent the night in my bedroom last night?" James smirked at me. This is his revenge for Stephanie, his late girlfriend. "You deserve this. Vile murderer! That's how you pay for causing my girlfriend's death!" He roared at me the other day by the waterfall when we found each other to be fated mates. My dead sister's boyfriend and I. What a joke the Moon Goddess plays. But I will not sit idly when the betrayal pains were about to rip my heart apart. "I, Lily Borgen, reject you Alpha James!" I snarled back. ... James POV It's been a few months since I accepted Lily rejection and she ran away from the pack. Regrets are the only thing I ever feel these days. I love her, she is my fated mate! For god's sake. Dr. Hyden from the neighboring pack brought me the information of Lily. Thank godness, she is alive! But she won't come back to the pack that has tortured her for years. "Son, I am sorry for what happened between you and Lily. But you need to move on." My mother comforted me,"Maybe it's a good idea to have another woman to be by your side." I know what she meant. "Mom, I couldn't forget Lily. Please stop this. I was so wrong to her." Thinking back how I bullied her and punished her by sleeping with othe women, my heart ached. "Actually, I have a question for you." Suddenly, I became suspicious of why my mother was so keen on my moving on. "Did you know how Stephanie really die?" An unprecedented terror appeared on her face. | LEARN_MORE | https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&u | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | getokn.com | DCO | https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=10745&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/452881097_997002018825746_404254399323238589_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HRnQLnFiJ4kQ7kNvgFaV6ef&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=As8BJ3Y7HDR6-Egw2HqGYd6&oh=00_AYAVYbq5uyEXR5jqe27RBPh7MdcpUjd-km98boC2n1DtCg&oe=6707CB03 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-05 19:32 | active | 1581 | 0 |
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Last Chance To Score Tickets To Opening Night | Tickets are going fast! This is your last chance to see the debuts of the newest Sharks on Opening Night! | SHOP_NOW | https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1C0060D8ECDC7EA | San Jose Sharks | https://www.facebook.com/SanJoseSharks/ | 889,788 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | sjsharks.com/promotions | DCO | Don't miss the Opening Night | https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1C0060D8ECDC7EA6?utm_source=paid-social&utm_medium=paid-fbig | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462108570_2027130071077226_802478484999963541_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CI89WoOUxvAQ7kNvgHfoF3h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A_X-kRP56U36ZOIUKsatAny&oh=00_AYD9z3zaHlGcPNO5VNvoAZqW8agb7_i2-6c4W8ujLr8mzg&oe=6707C17A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | San Jose Sharks | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-05 21:50 | active | 1584 | 0 |
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BIGGEST HALLOWEEN BASH IN TOWN! OCTOBER 26th Saturday 9pm-12am! Blind Squirrel Louisville - Music, Grub, Sports and WICKED SENSATION will be hosting the hottest, biggest, and wildest HALLOWEEN BASH in Louisville GUARANTEED! This will be a HUGE BLOWOUT ROCK N ROLL PARTY as we celebrate HALLOWEEN and 80s rock music...the DECADE OF DECADENCE! Lots of WICKED SURPRISES! Join us for a SENSATIONAL GOOD TIME! Never Stop Rockin'! Check out our webpage: www.WickedSensationRocks.com Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WickedSensationRocks/ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickedsensationrocks/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@wickedsensationrocks #livemusic #rocknroll #80smusic #motleycrue #defleppard #Aerosmith #HairMetal #vanhalen #bonjovi #gunsnroses #hardrock #heavymetal #80smetal #80srock #kiss #judaspriest #ozzyosbourne #metallica | Wicked Sensation | https://www.facebook.com/WickedSensationRocks/ | 3,738 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | IMAGE | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462203329_953130426599757_8309366634715491979_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EBVQiiiu_1wQ7kNvgGeXMuw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A-ln5wX2nGaSqFWvRSJPjDL&oh=00_AYD5L5ul9ps8kT37ICEwaFac0CQeEI1z8HHc3fTuclM6Lg&oe=6707A7E5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Wicked Sensation | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-05 19:49 | active | 1582 | 0 |
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Proper training and nutrition go hand in hand for your horse's success! đ´ Ensure they reach their full potential with the right feed and care. Contact me to find the best nutrition plan for your horses! #YourLocalPurinaExpert #FeedGreatness | MESSAGE_PAGE | Purina Lifestyle Product Specialist Kelly Harper | https://www.facebook.com/PurinaLifestyleProductSpecialistKellyHarper/ | 27 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | IMAGE | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461975569_1193524615284228_4704105369619988948_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nrrC_M_A8tkQ7kNvgFm5g6r&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A8lAGjdedMBTzMTFjjVE6qu&oh=00_AYD7f7zC3_EgKXMyOiMVW1TajXl0dPEVHZHC0a-e70huWA&oe=670796E6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Purina Lifestyle Product Specialist Kelly Harper | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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