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😍Read the next chapters👉 | Lexi could sense the man was staring at her swollen right cheek. It didn't seem like he would take his eyes off her anytime. "I know I'm so pretty that people can't help but gawk at me." Claude's lips curved up. "You look very familiar." Lexi's eyes remained on the climbing numbers on the elevator's digital display. "That's a tacky way to hit on someone." "I've never needed to hit on anyone." Claude flashed a reticent smile. "I'm only stating the truth. There was a laziness and silkiness to his voice. Lexi looked ahead at the elevator's mirrored walls and took in Claude, who stood to her left. She didn't recall ever interacting with him, much less meeting him. To her surprise, Claude suddenly approached her. His intimidating presence overwhelmed her so much that she took a few steps back. "Can I help you?" she questioned with a stiff voice. Lexi held her breath. They were so close to each other that she could smell the faint pine scent from his body. "Do you really not recognize me?" Claude asked. "I don't." Claude straightened his back and peered down at her. When the elevator door opened on the tenth floor, he stepped aside. Doubt gnawed at her heart. She could have sworn she didn't know the man, but why did he seem to know her? … That night, Lexi had a dream. She dreamt of the night from two months ago. The wild night left her all sweaty. Zachary held her waist and tried out several positions with her. It left Lexi limp with barely any energy left. Not to mention, she was so drunk that she was in a daze. When Lexi woke, she massaged her forehead. The dream she had turned out to be a tad frightening. The man she slept with two months ago was Zachary. Yet, for some reason, he got replaced by the man from the elevator in her dream. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61560831098071/ | 21 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | beokn.com | DCO | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=11845&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449727403_366939126055861_4561971539420395674_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KyfFL3BfOh8Q7kNvgHuM2L5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AjEx87YQnuEecx66P6GykT4&oh=00_AYATTgO-vkX-GXfR7SzpsW8Z-ORT-LPxypKPwYcHj-R1vA&oe=672FBBDA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | “Strip.” The one who commanded me was the very man I had loved. “Didn't you hear me? I said strip.” My husband, Caleb repeated, a smirk on his li-ps. I lowered my head, my hands trembling. Tears gathered at the corner of my eyes as I gingerly stepped backwards, subconsciously trying to run away. “Stop her and help her remove her clothes if she doesn't want to do it herself.” Caleb said to the security guards who stood behind me. They came forward and held me by my arms, twisting it to my back and forcing me to kneeel down. “Why?” I asked, “Why are you doing this to me?” My throat constricted. “Why?” Caleb tilted his head, “You were the one who forced my grandfather to make me get married to you. If it was for you, I would have gotten married to Emily. Now, you have to face the consequences of what you did!” Caleb said hatefully and forcefully raised my chin up, motioning for a man to bring over a bottle of wine. My eyes widened as I realized what he wanted to do. “Caleb, please, you know I can't drink that. I beg you, please let me go. Please.” I begged, but it was to no avail. My vision blurred as I choked, gasping for air in between sobs. “Wasn't that good enough?” Caleb questioned, “Now that wasn't so bad after all.” “Caleb… You…” I began coughing, my eyes were getting blurry, it was hard to see their faces. A sharp pain went through my stomach and I gasped. My baby... “C… Caleb… My… my stomach. It hurts.” I gasped again as the pain spread to my spine. I thought I saw a flicker of panic in his eyes, but I was deluding myself. Caleb didn't care, he had never cared. But I still needed help, the pain was almost unbearable now. “No. No!” I cried out as I realized exactly what was happening. I looked back at Caleb who knew that I was having a miscar-riage, I thought he would help me even upon seeing that. But once again, I was wrong. He stepped back, looking at the blood in disgust. Then the world turned black. --------- “Ah!” I gasped, shaking awake. “You shouldn't move like that, you'll open your stitches.”The one with shorter hair and gold rimmed glasses said to me. “It’s...you..” I stammered, all the cells in my body were screaming. Zade Silver, my ex boyfriend. | LEARN_MORE | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15016&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 290 | 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=15016&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/464386892_875816577950735_1493325207616159379_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ghm04sixBMcQ7kNvgGoZ_df&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AECRfM5c0GA81ZGKbNKC6B1&oh=00_AYB--p30hBUY0BSj5GOOoQ6xwYwSDDMrnGH3_uourOHkyQ&oe=672FDFDD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-05 05:00 | active | 1695 | 0 | Download Now👉👉👉 | Let Myself Free ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | WATCH_MORE | https://fblp.drama-time.com/DT-irKKyU-0912-EN-5790 | Romantic Love | https://www.facebook.com/61557838064349/ | 342 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Watch More | 0 | fblp.drama-time.com | DCO | https://fblp.drama-time.com/DT-irKKyU-0912-EN-579014.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=1749262542004264962 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459336222_3936871156638496_6284661104625823479_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AA7PnPbJ2usQ7kNvgEa1DMm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AkCJe_Ucun6PDPbdCvK1gVB&oh=00_AYBozsw_hNVOSX81K5R875qLaZjm8A-FfyeSBueLg7-W1w&oe=672FE4EB | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Romantic Love | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Improve Indoor Air Quality | Schedule an inspection today! | CONTACT_US | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/contact-us/ | Servall Martin | https://www.facebook.com/ServallMartin/ | 1,233 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Contact Us | 0 | servallpestcontrol.com | CAROUSEL | Schedule an inspection today! | https://www.servallpestcontrol.com/contact-us/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449394518_1206704243670558_682330835805237756_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vKDGWvQnXzQQ7kNvgFYNMAP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AA8w1mG3x65w0kgjP5Ynu-6&oh=00_AYBZvbuusIb0qiXn9VVLoM90mn6AdvBMMpUe3hQLwDEZEw&oe=672FD558 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Servall Martin | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 290 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | CAROUSEL | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.i}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465128361_536950392535131_6081636378861920796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hUaqGA9l0p0Q7kNvgErIzgd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A-1cANB70lwcKjx6Q1i8vzh&oh=00_AYDFpoEx8QT5YInHABv8fnuOlKpEvnFX9Gpw5vG8bcASyQ&oe=672FB71A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-05 04:39 | active | 1694 | 0 |
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❤️ Sistas Forever - Slay Together | 🎁 For You And Your Sistas! Create memories that last with this beautiful ornament featuring your squad’s names. ➡️ Get yours today! | SHOP_NOW | https://sistabag.com/products/sisters-forever-pers | Afrofuturism | https://www.facebook.com/Afrofuturismz/ | 1,262 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | sistabag.com | IMAGE | Get yours here! | https://sistabag.com/products/sisters-forever-personalized-1-side-round-glass-ornament-sburgoplm2883d | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465706063_3857179114601844_4922890129853698778_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H0QiNs3BLz4Q7kNvgGhcXzy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&_nc_gid=All8ngk8Cd7PEIlIN3cmxmH&oh=00_AYAbjXg9h2qX6tSYbB2L51BO2BNM5w8ZMAU4d5wMYSryUQ&oe=672FCA9B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Afrofuturism | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-05 04:21 | active | 1693 | 0 |
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RSVP today! | DATE: November 16, 2024 TIME: 10 am - 12 pm LOCATION: Arlington ADDRESS: 1250 E. Pioneer Pkwy, Suite 700, Arlington, TX 76010 🍂🎉 Calling all seniors with Medicare! Join us for a festive Turkey Giveaway 🦃 — plus music, games, and fun! Come celebrate the season with us and receive a turkey voucher (1 per family) while supplies last. Don’t miss out on the festivities! 🎶✨ 📲 For more details, call us at (945) 248-2705. | BOOK_TRAVEL | https://www.addevent.com/event/ma23772284 | Valora Medical Group | https://www.facebook.com/valoramedicalgroup/ | 1,013 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Book now | 0 | addevent.com | IMAGE | Join us for the Senior Turkey Giveaway! Let's spread holiday cheer by providing turkey vouchers to seniors in need. Take it! | https://www.addevent.com/event/ma23772284 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465734277_1725207288020360_1605902098207001541_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jnq-110JIQMQ7kNvgEKj5e6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=AgoG9amNYphwd6UILRM6kLd&oh=00_AYCbtBVhW37P74nIwtLk-2UKRuLCFFvAl0PV3TpfbdWCMg&oe=672FA1F4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Valora Medical Group | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | Debra gasped and opened her eyes. Everything in front of her was strikingly familiar. This place was Juan and her home. They had been married for a month, but Juan had rarely visited her. She remembered that Juan was attending a land auction, and due to the occasion, he had to bring her along. But this was all five years ago. 'How could it be? ' she thought, deeply confused, 'Am I reborn?' " Mr. Nichols has never stayed overnight before. You should seize this opportunity." a maid’s voice brought Debra back to reality. She picked out a white gown, hesitating. "How about this one, Madam?" Looking at it, Debra gave a self-deprecating smile. It was well known that Juan favored Shelia. Shelia liked white dresses. In the past, she often dressed like Shelia to please Juan. For this auction, Juan didn't inform her of the change in companion and brought Shelia instead, making her look ridiculous in a white dress similar to Shelia's. The thought of the past made her laugh. "No, I'll wear that one," she said, picking up a red dress. Debra never liked plain clothes. Shelia was just a poor college student. Debra felt that she must have lost her mind to dress like that for a man. "But Mr. Nichols likes white dresses," the maid said hesitantly. Debra simply ignored her hints. "I'll wear this one," she said. "Throw away all those white dresses. I don't like them." The maid sighed and complied. Debra looked at herself in the mirror, still vibrant and beautiful. But in a few years, she would be worn down by Juan's torment. Before that happened, she would end it all. In the evening, Debra appeared in a burgundy dress that accentuated her curves. Her delicate makeup, curls, and a mole under her eye made her mesmerizing. She looked like a painting, untouchable. Not far away, a man in a white shirt and black leather combat boots saw her. Marion Houston asked, "Who is she?" "You don't know her? She's Debra, the daughter of the Frazier family and Juan's wife," said his friend, Randy Osborne. "I just saw Juan entering with another woman. Maybe we'll witness a showdown between the mistress and the wife. It will be fun." | LEARN_MORE | https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 290 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | thebvhwysgng.com | DCO | https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13914&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459135153_832140905375376_807093524481295487_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xT9RC6KPnOoQ7kNvgG6nSWC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ATZ3CEY79aH4MAdZgs1f180&oh=00_AYCMF_2YGEc1R4oDhKI0CRIs1klXqSdfO8mHT7nS2YJ3AQ&oe=672FDE8C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-05 04:39 | active | 1694 | 0 |
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Dental Hygiene Room Personalized Christmas Ornament, Gift For Dentist | Brighten a dentist’s holiday with this dental hygiene room ornament—a gift with a smile! 👉 moerge.com/H1101-17 #DentistLife #ChristmasOrnament #HolidayGift #PersonalizedOrnament #DentalHygiene | SHOP_NOW | https://www.moerge.com/products/dental-hygiene-roo | Moerge | https://www.facebook.com/100093427419348/ | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | moerge.com | IMAGE | Enhance your home decor or gift-giving with our Two-Sided Transparent Acrylic Plexiglass Ornament. Ideal for anniversaries and birthdays, this sleek design lets you showcase your personality. Product details: Size: 3.14 in (8 cm) diameter, 0.12 in (0.3 cm) thickness. Material: Transparent acrylic pl... | https://www.moerge.com/products/dental-hygiene-room-personalized-christmas-ornament-gift-for-dentist | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465715201_476380378755816_1301245647434724474_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XoGHbXSdQ-4Q7kNvgHjaB9d&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ApMXxb0NTdb_iXxzrlYrtZO&oh=00_AYABOzKmoGdnWLTj8yOilH8-epZttzR5lE12UNBtcWy4Ng&oe=672FC1E5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Moerge | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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😍Read the next chapters👉 | Chapter 1 A Messy Life and the Mafia Six months ago, I was a promising med student on the verge of all my dreams coming true, but now I’m just a waitress trying to start over in a new city. I know this restaurant I work at has ties to the infamous Onyx Mafia, but I didn’t have much choice—it's the best-paying job I could find. Besides, the scariest thing about working here isn’t the Mafia, it is the man at table eight flagging me down, obviously fuming. “What looks wrong here?” He snaps and I scan table eight's orders. Foie gras for the blonde in red, Peking duck for the pouty daughter—check. But the impatient bald man tapping his fingers? He got the risotto, not the ribeye currently in front of him. A cold sweat sweeps down my spine as I look between the squinting gaze of the man and the squiggles that are my handwriting. I still write like a surgeon, yet another reminder of my failed dreams. "Wait, I'm sorry... you ordered--" My hands tremble, and my heart sinks as I realize the kitchen couldn’t decipher my handwriting and just took a guess. Lucky me, their guess was wrong. "I-I think the kitchen--" Before I can finish my sentence, Jessica descends upon us like a vulture, risotto in hand. "Apologies for the inconvenience," she chimes in, her voice dripping with faux sympathy. "Elise here is still learning the ropes." "I can tell," the man responds curtly, his attention entirely on Jessica, silently dismissing me. There goes my tip. "Sir, I noticed you’re drinking the 1984 Chateau. Let me send another round on the house for your troubles," Jessica offers breathlessly, her bosom on display as she leans in, her eyes batting just like they did back in high school. The man grunts in agreement as her fingers dig into my arm like talons. She whispers through clenched teeth, "Kitchen. Now." I bow my head obediently as I follow her into the chaos of the kitchen. When I moved here, I promised things were going to be different. I would be no one’s stepping stool, and yet here I am again, at the mercy of another girl who appears oblivious to the fact that we graduated high school. “Elise struck again, boys!” Tony, the sous chef, calls out, his laughter echoing through the kitchen. “What was it this time? Dropped another soup? Tripped and broke all the glasses?” In my defense, the soup incident happened because a man molested me, and Jessica tripped me while I was carrying glasses for an 18-person table. “Oh, tonight she gave one of our regulars the wrong meal.” “It’s the kitchen’s fault. I ordered a risotto, not a ribeye."I retort, pushing my glasses up as I glare at Jessica. “And who could tell with that chicken scratch handwriting?” Tony snorts. “Remember she wanted to be a surgeon,” Jessica sneers. “Doctors notoriously have terrible handwriting, but not waitresses.” The other kitchen staff snicker at her remark. They all think I went to med school and couldn’t cut it. But they don't know the truth, and it would be worse if they did. I take a deep breath, trying to push down my anger. "You were supposed to be a surgeon, marry Sirius, live your perfect little life," she snaps back, the mention of his name, Sirius, still a punch to the gut after all these years. I bite my lip to stifle the retort that threatens to spill from my lips and look down at my tennis shoes, a lump forming in my throat. I can still remember the feeling of the day he disappeared. I told everyone he loved me, that he would be back, and that he would never just leave me, but they were all right. He was gone. He didn’t want me anymore and wasn’t brave enough to say it to my face before disappearing. I don’t know what I’d do if I ever saw him again. It’d be a combination of running into his arms, waiting to see every bit of his life I missed, and kicking him where the sun doesn't shine. "But then you ended up at the bottom, where you’re meant to be." I hold my breath. I can’t show Jessica she’s getting to me. "Good thing Sirius came to his senses like we all knew he would," Jessica retorts. "Once he was done slumming it, he ran away from you as fast as possible. I mean, you practically ran him out of town." The lump in my throat swells as memories of his abandonment flood back, the pain still fresh. "You know what--" "Those better are words of gratitude, Elise, because I am two seconds away from firing you," Jessica interrupts, her smirk widening as she relishes in my discomfort. I swallow back my retort, facing Mr. Thompson, the restaurant manager. Mr. Thompson's stern gaze pierces through me as he approaches. "Elise, why do I have Mr. Kelsey asking for a free bottle of wine for his troubles?" "I-I'm sorry, Mr. Thompson," I stammer, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll do better, I promise." "You have been promising to do better for weeks, Elise. That is not enough anymore," he snaps. "I'll work harder, I swear," I plead, desperation creeping into my voice. "Please." Mr. Thompson holds up a hand to silence me. "You've got one more chance, Elise, but you’re out of here if I hear one more complaint. Do you understand?" I nod frantically."Yes, Mr. Thompson. I won't let you down. I promise." He scoffs, clearly unconvinced. "For the rest of your shift, you are exclusive to the VIPs upstairs," he continues, his tone stern. "They’re too drunk to notice your insolence." "Yes, sir," I whisper. "And you better be on your best behavior because the Mafia king is here," Mr. Thompson warns. "And if I don’t have your head, he will." I swallow hard, the weight of his words settling like a lead weight in the pit of my stomach, as I nod, feeling a shiver run down my spine. Mr. Thompson storms off into his office, leaving Jessica behind me with a wicked gleam in her eye. "Looks like you're on thin ice, Elise," Jessica says, her tone dripping with faux sympathy. "Better watch your step." "Why? You’re going to trip me?" "I would never, but since you are exclusive to VIPs," Jessica hands me a tray of appetizers too heavy for me to hold without almost falling over. "Take this to table 19... the King’s subjects are there." I take a deep breath as I walk out of the kitchen and into the dining room. But as I look up at the men sitting upstairs, a wave of dread washes over me, making me want to run in the opposite direction. They're overly comfortable, as if they own the place as if they own the world. And in a way, they do. The rumors swirling around the restaurant's ownership, whispers of connections to the mafia, suddenly feel all too real. Each step closer to the VIP room feels heavier, as if I am dragging myself closer. As I approach, the men’s eyes leering over me like predators sizing up their prey. The minute I set down the appetizers, a hand grips the back of my leg, sending a shiver down my spine. "Hey there, sweetheart," the man slurs, his breath reeking of booze as he pulls me into his lap. "Why don’t you clock out and hang with the big dogs?" I squirm, feeling his hand wander where it shouldn't."No. Stop it. I have to get back to work," I protest, trying to push him away. But he only laughs, his grip tightening as his friends jeer and egg him on. I squirm, feeling something hard poking me, I begin to panic. He hisses in excitement in my ear. “Yeah, baby, keep doing that.” I try to pull away, causing my glasses to go flying. Great, now I’m blind too. I struggle with my body, tears stinging as I attempt to slide out of his lap, “I need my glasses.” “You do not need glasses for what we are going to do.” He pinches my chin, leaning in as if he is going to kiss me, but the sound of a growling, cleared throat causes him to pause. Panic rises in my throat as I realize that none of these guys will help me and that going against the Mafia for some random waitress is a losing battle. "In my restaurant, we do not tolerate harassment of women," the voice declares, cutting through the VIP, firm and unwavering. The handsy man practically throws me onto the floor as he looks up at the gentleman standing in front of him. I turn to see, in my blurry haze, the silhouette of a man looming protectively over me, his presence exuding authority and strength. The handsy man stutters as the man approaches us, “King. She approached me.” “Really? Are you calling me a liar?” The Mafia King’s voice is calm and sharp, like a shard of ice. “ No, my King, but she is a call girl!” I snap, looking back at the handsy man before turning to the King to plead my case. But I pause. The King’s head is tilted as he looks at me. The King’s voice is laced with disappointment and concern, “A call girl?” Chapter 2 Mafia King Knows Me？ “What, no!” I stand up, “I am not a call girl!” My hand instinctively reaches for my glasses, but they're not there. With a frown, I protest, glaring at the accusing handsyMafia man. “No call girl is too nice for what she does on her knees.” Jessica stands next to the stairs, arms crossed, leaning on the railing. “She solicited me. Asked me to come get her after work because she needs to make some extra money,” the handsy man pleads, but the King stares at me. Jessica saunters over, her hand casually trailing between her bosoms and up to her collarbone as she walks. She stops in front of the King, a coy smile playing on her lips as she leans close to whisper in his ear. “Think about it, darling. A woman who can get close enough to you without suspicion and weasels her way into the VIP area. Doesn’t that sound like a call girl?” The movements Jessica makes intrigue me as if she can turn on and off her alluring appeal. The King's gaze never leaves my direction as Jessica whispers in his ear. Slowly, he straightens up and pushes Jessica slightly back. “You seem to know a lot about the position of a call girl,” King says, but Jessica playfully laughs that off. “I admire how they always seem to get their way.” Gears start to turn in my mind as I squint at Jessica’s blurry form. She looks innocent and inviting, as if she is just flirting, but she is fully prepared to go much further than that. But I can see past her facade now, despite my broken glasses and the blurry world they left me in. Squinting, I can just make out the calculated way she moves and the sharpness in her eyes. I interject before Jessica can respond, “King, look at her body language. Even through the blur, she’s loose, inviting, and sensual as she speaks to you.” The King's gaze shifts from me back to Jessica, a new sense of awareness in his eyes. “When you came in here my body language was stiff, closed off. If I were a call girl like her, I wouldn’t be a good one, would I?” Jessica's facade wavers for a split second before she regains her composure, letting a seductive smile spread across her face. The King lightly chuckles as he pushes Jessica away, “It takes more than a brain full of silicone and fake bosoms to be a good call girl, but I see your point.” “It’s an act some guys like, King, a little bit of fight,” Jessica goes to reach for the King again, but he grabs her wrist tightly, his body tense. “Do not touch me again,” the King drops her hand with disgust, wiping his hand on his jeans as he continues. “ I have let you humor me with your lies, but do not treat me like a fool.” “No, King I would never,” the King gives her a humorless laugh as he invades her space menacingly. “You think you could play me for a fool because I am a man I must be ruled by my hormonal drive? Is that it?” The King looks her over in disgust and turns away, “Get out of my sight.” “King, you have to be protected from her.” Jessica approaches him again, feigning innocence, but the King’s subjects block her as he moves closer to me. “You underestimate me because I have shown you kindness. I will not make that mistake again. ” He slowly looks over at Jessica, and I can tell from how her knees buckle that she sees the darkness in his eyes. “ You're fired.” “King, I’m sorry I-” “You have three minutes to exit. I would use that time wisely.” Fear strikes across Jessica’s face as she scrambles back down the stairs. I bow my head, looking at my tennis shoes, unsure of the punishment I may receive. I don’t know how long I have been looking down, but a hand holding my broken glasses evades my eyeline. “Oh, thank you.” “They are shattered, can you see otherwise?” I shake my head, not allowing my hair to fall into my face. The King pinches my chin forcing me to look at him, and I can make out the sharpness of his jawline. His touch shoots a spark of electricity down my spine, and my breath hitches. “I will-” “I have contacts downstairs. You know, in case of emergencies.” The King looks at me as if a thousand questions are running through his mind. “Why are you working here?” I struggle back, slighting, and the King releases me. Jessica was right in a way I was supposed to be so much more. I was supposed to be a surgeon. I had the brains for it. The steady hands. The determination, but it is not often a stranger can see you are meant to be so much more than what you are. In the blur, I try to find his eyes before I respond, “Most people can’t do what they truly want to.” The King nods sharply before taking a step back and clearing his throat. “I don’t want you in the VIP rooms anymore. They’re filled with dangerous people, and normal people shouldn’t be around them.” “You sound worried.” I laugh at the King’s warning. “I am serious, Elise. I don’t want you up here again.” The King’s voice is sharp, and I straighten at the command. “As you wish, King.” His lips in a tight line, he nods taking a small step to the right, allowing me to shimmy past him. I stop and turn around, “Thank you for everything.” He doesn’t respond, opting for a sharp nod. I walk forward, clutching my broken glasses, looking down when another figure blocks my exit. The blonde guy with an easygoing smile clears his throat as he nervously scratches the back of his head, “Hey," he says, his voice wavering slightly. "I'm sorry about what happened back there. Are you okay?" "I'll survive," I reply with a shrug, avoiding eye contact. His gaze lingers on me for a moment before he nods slowly. “Well, I was wondering if you would give me a chance to show you not everyone in the Mafia is not a pig?” I give him a small smile, feeling the heat of someone’s eyes behind me. “I don’t think my boyfriend would like that very much.” The snort causes me to turn around, and the King blends into the black leather couch, looking at me, “Boyfriend?” “A great boyfriend. If that matters?” The King coughs, “Not at all.” He looks over at a disappointed Jacob. “I just told her to steer clear of us, and you ask her out on a date in front of me.” “What shot would I have after this if you ban her?” “None. You get no chance.” The King growls, and I back up towards the stairs. “Leave now, Elise Caroline. I don’t want to see you up here again.” His warning is sharp and declarative. With a small squeak, I scurry down the stairs, but I pause before I enter the kitchen. I never introduced myself. I never told the King my name, yet he said it not once but twice, and the second time, he used my middle name. Does the Mafia King know me? Do I know him? Chapter 3 Rumors and Crisis I don’t breathe until the kitchen doors slam behind me. How does the Mafia King know my name, surely he knows all his employees' names. He may just be a great boss. Right, that’s it. The Mafia King is a great boss who would’ve thought? My breathing slows and I realize I’m so caught up in my thoughts I don’t feel the entire kitchen looking at me until Toni clears his throat. “Elise?” I look up at him, his eyebrows furrowed in confusion, but I don’t respond. Instead, Dawn, the pastry chef, approaches me with flour-covered hands. “Hey girly, are you okay? Did the King…hurt you?” I shake my hand no, a strangled breath releases from my lips, and Dawn sighs, squeezing my cheeks. “Good because the King has no right hurting a girl as innocent as you.” “Like that would’ve been his first time!” Kelsey, the saucier, laughs in the corner of the kitchen. “Kels, you’re not helping,” Dawn snaps, but Toni approaches us wickedly. “I heard his favorite way to murder is the bloody eagle.” “Toni!” I look at Dawn’s horrified face as she runs to cover my ears. “What's the bloody eagle?” I whisper. The dread I had swimming in my gut since the King first laid eyes on me bubbles to the surface. I feel like I could vomit. “All I’m going to say is ribs pulled through the back. If you want more details, do your research online.” I would not, but Kelsey laughs, shaking her head. “I wouldn’t put it past him. The King treats his subjects like their commodities, completely replaceable. He’s the youngest King ever, and you don’t get to be King in your twenties without a trail of blood behind you.” Kelsey points her ladle at us in warning, “So watch ya’ step, or the King will gut ya’ like a fish!” “Or hang your head above his fireplace, I heard the king loves a trophy, and a pretty head like yours would be perfect.” Toni swats at my hair and Dawn pushes him back to his station. “What is all this racket?! Kelsey you’re messing around and broke the sauce!” The Head Chef, Yolanda enters the kitchen with a stern look in her eyes, “And you! Why aren’t you running my plates?” “I-I…” I rub my hands back and forth, feeling the tension of being in trouble for the third time tonight. “She just had an interaction with the King. Leave her alone.” Dawn snaps. Dawn and Yolanda are childhood best friends, and Dawn is the only one who can talk to Yolanda that way and still have her job. Yolanda’s face pales as she walks closer to me, “You interacted with the King and made it out alive? Count your lucky stars.” Yolanda approaches me cautiously and I don’t realize all the stress is forcing tears to burn in my eyes. “That man is cold-blooded like a snake.” Despite the bile I balance in the back of my throat, I look Yolanda in the eye and shake my head, “No, he protected me. He knew my name.” “He knew your name because you have a name tag on your shirt.” Yolanda flicks my name tag and I look down at it, a pang of disappointment shivering through me. “Protect you?” Dawn questions, “You didn’t say anything about the King protecting you.” “That may be worse. A dangerous man like him may like you, want you.” Yolanda whispers. My eyes widened. My skin flushes as Yolanda and Dawn share a look with each other. The King knew my name. The King wants me. I remember the way he said boyfriend as if it was the most disgusting word on his tongue. But just as I spiral, Dawn and Yolanda break into laughter. “Girl, bless your heart! A man that fine wants you. You better be over the moon happy.” Dawn lightly hits her rag on my right arm, and I flinch, holding my breath. “I mean, those gray eyes are just delicious!” Kelsey chimes in. “Nope, it has to be black curly hair.” Those eyes, that hair remind me of Sirius. His eyes could be a storm with everyone else and clear with me. How a single curl always danced in the middle of his forehead, and I’d spend all day pushing it back. The days when he was my Sirius. The laughter snaps me out of my daze. “I bet he wakes up with his hair like that, just messy and perfect!” “Yolanda, I don’t know if you want to be him or sleep with him?” “Does it matter?” The entire kitchen erupts into laughter. “I would take him any way I could get him. He is so fine!” “So how did he look up close, Elise? A walking daydream, huh?” Kelsey leans over her pot, wiggling her eyebrows. I hide my head slightly, blush to creep up the apple of my cheeks. “I don’t know,” I show the kitchen my glasses. “I broke my glasses. All I could see was tall, charming, and hot.” The entire kitchen boos. “You get close to the Mafia King, and your glasses break!” Dawn pouts, pushing me away, and I giggle for the first time in this entire situation. “Sorry, I can’t tell you how hot he is. You’re going to have to figure that out yourselves!” “Hey! Why is no one helping me out on the floor?” An upset waiter enters the kitchen looking around at us. “I’ll be right there, just let me get my contacts.” I head towards the break room and rummage inside my purse, revealing my contact lenses. I begin to replace my contacts, looking into the crappy workplace mirror, but once my vision is clear, all I can see is my missing earring. One of my silver earrings from Sirius, he got me for our last anniversary together. He’s already missing. I can lose the last thing he’s ever given me. I look over at the floor near my locker, but I know where it is. It’s in the VIP area. I turn on my heel towards the VIP area. The Mafia King's warning echoed in my mind, I don’t want you in the VIP rooms anymore. It’s filled with the type of dangerous people, normal people shouldn’t be around.” I push his warning into the back of my mind. With a deep breath, I start walking up the stairs. I’ll be quick! In and out before anyone notices. As I enter the VIP area, I immediately fall to my knees, crawling around for the earring and hiding from the boisterous men laughing around the bar. I freeze when the King’s voice booms through the area, “You’re lucky I don’t collect your freaking head!” The music in the VIP clicks off. “Boss, it was just a girl!” The man snaps back and the entire area seems to hold their breath as the twinkle of something catches my eye. “A girl under my protection. The same way you are under my protection.” The King's voice is even and controlled again, “And don’t I always protect mine?” I contort my body, grabbing the dangled earring from underneath the couch. “Let me provide you with this small mercy. I promise you the alternative is lethal, and it would be a shame to murder you when you’re still useful to me.” The club music clicks back on as if nothing happened. I sit up on the floor, fixing the earring in my ear. When the footsteps descend towards me. I am not quick enough when I hear the humorless laughter of the handsy man, “You are the freaking pain of my existence. I’m on grunt duty because of you.” I look up, my eyes darting between him and the stairs. If I jump up and run. I should make it. I will make it. I propel myself off the floor, running towards the stairs, but the handsy man is quicker. He pulls me back by my hair, caging me in. My breath hitches as cold metal digs into my side. His breath gushes over my face in puffs thick with the scent of tobacco and gin. “ Go on and scream. No one will hear you, and it’ll only make this more fun for me.” Chapter 4 The Mafia King is My Ex? “ Go on and scream. No one will hear you, and it’ll only make this more fun for me.” His fingernails dig into my wrist, but I bite back any response watching his nostrils flare. “You got me suspended from duties because you rather spread your legs for the King than me.” He pulls me against him, snarling at my confident facade. I look down at the mark forming on my wrist, keeping my voice as even as possible, I say, “I do not want the King. I do not know the King.” He pushes me against the brick wall, and with my better judgment, I whimper, gripping the back of my head, “You dare lie to me? After all you have done, you freaking lie to me?” Spit sprays over my face, his eyes bulge out of his head as he holds me against the wall. The concrete dug into my skin. “Please,” I whisper. “Please?! Please! You purposefully lead me to the freaking slaughter, shaking your tight body for the king, begging him to punish me for your fault.” His wet breath drips down my face, and I look away towards the hallway leading to the King. I didn’t know the King. He did not need to come to my rescue, yet he did. Maybe the King liked me the way Dawn said, but what did it matter? I did not want him. “I am not sorry you were punished. I said no.” “Oh, so this is the little game we’re going to play? You say no, and mean yes.” A greedy, devious smile spread across the man's lips as if the idea of conquering me in such a manner excited him. “You little freaking tease.” His palm digs into my waist, and my eyes water over, straining to look down the hallway to the King. “No.” “You like causing trouble, huh? You like luring men in to watch them. ” I hear the click of his belt, a dooming sound. “You need to be taught a lesson, and I love punishing little girls with fresh mouths.” A voice and the click of a door opening cut the tension. “Boss, who even was she?” He pulls me into a corner. He pulls me in front of him and presses himself on me. His gun is tucked under my chin, and his arm is wrapped around my waist as he whispers in my ear, “Don’t make a freaking sound.” I watch the King walk down the hallway, most of his subjects a step or two behind him. The young member with dirty brown hair and colorful tattoos walks almost in step with him. The King’s voice almost sounds bored as he responds. “That is none of your concern, Taylor.” “You punished one of your own men for her. I think you owe us an explanation.” Taylor snaps, stopping the King in his steps. “Owe?” He slowly turns, and I can see the King’s face clearly through a sliver of light. The girls downstairs didn’t do him any justice. He was breathtaking. Dressed in a tailored black suit, the fabric stretched taut over his muscular frame, his white button-up exposed the tattoo in swirling patterns on his chest and up part of his neck. His curly black hair was gelled back into a style of sorts, but two unruly curls escaped and framed his face. His eyes swirled like a storm, erupting and flashing between the calming gray and black. He looked almost like a tortured angel. He almost looks like Sirius. “You think I owe you?” The King snarls at Taylor, who instantly turns pale. “N-no, I just mean-” “You just mean I should allow subordinates to run rampant to assault and pillage like average thugs.” “Sir it just seemed like you cared about the girl too much.” “What I choose to care and not care about is none of your freaking business, but Dan was punished for lying to me,” The King leans in closer, “ I was feeling gracious, so he was given a slap on the wrist, next time I will cut out his tongue. But my kindness has expired.” “King.” Desperation drips in the boy’s tone, but the King dismisses him with the flick of his wrist, and a man drags Taylor away. “Step foot in my territory again, and you will be destroyed on sight.” The King continues walking forward as if he did not send someone to their death, but the gasp that escapes my lips makes him pause. “Dan?” The handsy man behind me shifts, a grunt escaping his throat. Then a shot rang out, something sliced through the air, and Dan shrieked, falling to his knees. “I show you kindness, and this is how you repay me?” The King’s voice is deathly low as he approaches, and I dare not move. I dare not breathe. “The call girl freaking deserves it.” A low rumble of laughter escapes the King, lowering himself over a bleeding Dan. He pushes the barrel of the gun into the wound in his shoulder. “You are freaking mad, murdering innocents just because they won’t sleep with you?” The King pistol whips Dan into the floor, and a strangled sound fills the room. Dan spits onto the floor. “This is the thanks I get for letting you keep your life?” “My King, she seduced me-” The King grips him by the collar dragging him close. “You think it is wise to lie again?” Dan audibly swallows, a whimper escaping his lips. The King snaps his finger, and a buff, bald man with the word mercy over his knuckles comes up behind him. “Yes, boss?” “I want his tongue and right hand.” With a curt nod, the man grips Dan by his injured shoulder and drags him deeper into the VIP area. “I thought I told you not to come back in here.” The King looks in the direction of a weeping, sounding annoyed. I slowly at the King from the corner of my eye, my mouth completely dry and my hands feverishly shaking. The scars on the King’s face glitter in the low lighting making my stomach twist, so I focus on the silver, twisted ring on his ring finger. It looks almost like tree branches gripping his skin. “I-I left something here.” “What?” His empty grey eyes lock on me. “An earring.” A short grunt leaves his lips, “You risked your life for an earring?” “It’s sentimental.” I whisper, narrowing my eyes closer to the ring, recognizing the red ruby in the center of a rose, and I almost choke, drilling my eyes into his, “Sirius?!” Chapter 5 An Unexpected Reunion “Sirius?!” My heart is practically beating out of my chest. I can’t breathe, staring into his eyes, I know. I know it’s him. He turns to me a blank look on his face. The silence in the room creeps over me, and I slowly look around the room. Every mafia member is staring at me, with tension in their necks, awaiting the command of their king. I almost believe I’ve misspoken as I watch the King’s jaw click. “Elise.” “Oh my god!” I take a step back, looking him over. He looks just like he did in high school, but buffed up and toned, no longer lean and boyish. He’s a full man now. “When I told you to stay away from here, I meant it. Earring or not.” “These were…you cannot tell me what to do, Sirius.” He tilts his head to the side, looking me over. “You gave these to me…before you…” “I know, earring or not. Do not come back up here. Stay away from the mafia.” His voice is ice-cold and distant. He starts to walk away from me, and I almost leap out of my skin following him. “Do not speak to me like that, not after what you did. You abandoned me, and now you dismiss me.” “We both know what really happened back then, don’t act like you don’t know. Do not make me into some villain.” “No, but you are heartless. You leave without a word. You disappear, then you come back and ignore me as if we were nothing. As if you didn’t even—” My words get caught in my chest as if I am about to cry, but Sirius turns sharply towards me, heat rising in his eyes. “Once. I had a heart once, but now when I tell you to do something, you listen, Elise, and that’s final.” Sirius speaks lowly in my face, his voice feathers over me. “Now leave.” My eyes cannot help but flicker at his lips, but I immediately take a step back when he licks them. “No. Just because you say jump, d-does not mean I have to follow, Sirius.” I can hear the click of a gun, and Sirius doesn’t even move as he watches my actions. I raise my hands up and grit my teeth, “I guess you won’t even let me say thank you before murdering me, huh? ” “Lower your weapons, no one is allowed to point a gun at her ever.” I put my hands down slowly, my anger and grief swirling into panic as he turns to leave again. “If I mean so little to you, why are you still wearing your ring?” The branching ring with a single ruby was part of a promise ring set Sirius and I had brought when we were silly and in love. My ring is in my jewelry bag, hidden so Alston won’t find it and ask questions. “For sentimental reasons. I engraved it with something to remind me of the past.” He looks down at the ring longingly before snapping his eyes to my hands. “Where is your ring?” “I lost it years ago.” I don’t know why I lie or what I try to hide, but I know I can’t let him think anything can happen between us. He just nods sharply, not letting any emotions pass over his face. A throat clears in the background, and the tension in the room deflates slightly at the fakely bubbly voice of Mr. Thompson. He stands between Sirius and me a sharp look in his eyes. “Is everything okay here?” “Just a conversation,” Sirius responds evenly, his eyes not leaving mine. Mr.Thompson gives an empty chuckle, “Ah yes, I had to have a conversation with this employee multiple times. She is lazy. She constantly elicits complaints for her promiscuity and irresponsible nature.” He turns to me, hard eyes in his eyes, raising his voice, “Elise, I told you one more time.” “Mr.Thompson, this isn’t what it looks.” I begin, but he puts a hand in my face silencing me. “No, no, the time has come Elise you have embarrassed yourself in front of the King. You have constantly caused problems. You are the most terrible waitress I have ever had the displeasure of managing--” Sirius clocks his gun, placing the barrel against the back of Mr.Thompson’s head and he freezes. “No, no, continue your rant with a gun to your head.” “Sir, I was just firing insubordinate who was causing you trouble.” Mr.Thompson raises his hands up shakily. “Do you think of me as a damsel in need of saving, Thompson?” “Absolutely not sir.” “So why would I need you to come to my rescue?” “Sir, she has been a terrible employee, and I think--” “I do not care what you think. One more insult at her, and I am blowing your freaking brain across this room, understand?” Mr.Thompson nods slowly. “Good.” Sirius puts his gun away, and I can’t help but roll my eyes. “Is this what you do all day? Threaten people’s lives?” “No normally I am not protecting my ex-girlfriend.” Sirius tucks the gun in his waistband, shrugging at Elise. “Where even is he?” “What are you talking about, Sirius?” He walks closer to me a teasing smile on his lips. “Where is your boyfriend? Why is he not here to step in during every crisis, like I am?” Sirius stands a breath away from me, and from his tone, I can tell he is taunting me, that he wants a rise out of me. For a second, I want to smile at his boyish ways. His jealousy-fueled mockery reminds me of my Sirius. “My relationship with Alston has nothing to do with you!” I snapped, crossing my arms over my chest. His eyes dip to my chest, but his eyes narrow, looking at me just as quickly. “I thought you were dating my brother Lester?” “No, he is like a brother to me.” He chuckles. “It would destroy him to hear you say that.” “Why would you think I was with Lester?” “I never would have guessed Alston because he is such a good guy. Taking down major corporations, defending the little guy. I thought you liked your guys with a little edge to them.” Sirius shrugs, a carefree look in his eyes. “You used to be a good guy.” Sirius flashes his million-dollar smile that makes my knees weaken. “I was never a good guy, you just always saw the good in me.” Sirius’s voice is barely above a whisper, causing shivers down my spine. Alston was good. After Sirius went missing, Alston pursued me and when Lester was severely injured, Alston was the one who gathered most of the money for the medical expenses. His good deeds made me fall for him. He was always saving the day, and knowing that he was my personal superhero made me feel secure, supported, and loved. Most importantly, I never felt like he would abandon me. “I agreed to be his girlfriend because he makes me feel safe, Sirius, physically and emotionally.” Sirius’s eyes widen and the careless smile on his face fizzles out. I want to reach up and cup his face. I want to tell him that despite moving on he was my first, I have never been crazy, or foolish in love with anyone else. It’s only been him. “Thompson, leave.” Sirius doesn’t break eye contact with me as Mr.Thompson scurries to leave, but before he can make his grand escape, “I want your office cleared out by the morning.” “What?” Mr.Thompson slows, looking over his shoulder, shock across his face. “Elise will be the new owner, effective in the morning.” Simultaneously Mr.Thompson and I both look at Sirius as if he has lost his mind, screaming, “What? Why?” “Because Alston is not the only person who can make you feel safe, Elise.” | LEARN_MORE | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12158&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61560831098071/ | 21 | 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=12158&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449044422_1575931366327027_957907443075673983_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0icgVcVIzWAQ7kNvgEYN7XQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AW_bbjFj9IMDhmHUpnQTC6C&oh=00_AYBQmn-Zvouiq8hKwsPX_qRl4gc-wwcnKCoTBnYP0DmOHQ&oe=672FBE2D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🎃 Happy Halloween Giveaway! 🎃 2 Winners will be chosen to bring some magic into their Halloween! Follow the rules below to enter now! 🌙🦇 Giveaway Rules: 🙌 Follow @eatzachschicken 📲 Tag 3 friends who crave crispy chicken ❤️ Like this post! 🔥 Extra entry: Repost on your stories! Prizes: 1 lucky winner gets a Zach's Chicken Family 4-Pack 👨👩👧👦 2nd winner wins Bomb Fries + Zach’s Chicken Slider! 🍟🍔 Good luck! Winner will be chosen on November 8th! #ZachsChicken #EatZachsChicken #chickenlover #LagunaHills #HappyHalloween #HappyHalloween #giveaway | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | https://www.instagram.com/_u/eatzachschicken | Zach's Chicken | https://www.facebook.com/zachschicken/ | 43 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram profile | 0 | instagram.com | IMAGE | https://www.instagram.com/_u/eatzachschicken | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465890796_2614331818775752_6155431991473763637_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nGvBZ95AhmUQ7kNvgEb2vEq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A1TCEnuR8e9FmMcyis2Gpyx&oh=00_AYC1Y94OdgC23G3WO0Vh-JtObBjv7-owdNeXHmgHTSL1Uw&oe=672FCE02 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Zach's Chicken | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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www.fb.com | ITS GIVEAWAY TIME AGAIN!!🎄 🎅 Get ready for Christmas!! LIKE THIS POST ✅ COMMENT SIZE ✅ SHARE THIS POST ✅ TAG A FRIEND ✅ For a chance to win a FREE Tshirt!! Help Me Grow during this holiday season!!🎄 @followers | VISIT_PROFILE | http://www.fb.com/100898291761963 | DeSigns by Shae | https://www.facebook.com/designsbyshae4321/ | 514 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Profile | 0 | fb.com | IMAGE | http://www.fb.com/100898291761963 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465533987_923380809677136_1832453788609033712_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TWDckVXAzTUQ7kNvgFQV0UM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AMook_WwZTk_nazYuMWlGNQ&oh=00_AYCSP6FUF4lgMrXlbH8Vy-R8xagqo-uVXodFg0g9hwhS0g&oe=672FB17C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | DeSigns by Shae | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-05 04:21 | active | 1693 | 0 | It’s giveaway time!!! 🎉👏🏼🎊 Who likes winning? Prizes include: 👨🏻🍳 gift cards to local restaurants 🥤 rodeo hydrojug traveler bottle 💰Amazon gift cards 🧼 THREE FREE DEEP CLEANS To enter: •Follow @tidy_texas_clean and like this post •Click the giveaway link in bio/stories and complete the entry form. •For extra entries comment and tag 2 friends and share this post to your stories. | LEARN_MORE | http://www.tidytexasclean.com/ | Tidy Texas Clean | https://www.facebook.com/61562971126749/ | 10 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | www.tidytexasclean.com | VIDEO | http://www.tidytexasclean.com/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465667644_1486811421990620_1455011739496426068_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bUYWG_kGFwUQ7kNvgGzNhYM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AFGIgyEnkXn27-ETcsjM-jo&oh=00_AYCaA1tKKOCev31XQ7Mhk9350ElMmbIGEVveJQebO2EVXQ&oe=672FBFB7 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Tidy Texas Clean | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Enter TODAY for your chance to win an experience of a lifetime!!! | Mommas don't let your babies grow up... before capturing their childhood innocence. For a limited time only, ENTER TO WIN a Fairytale Portrait and an unforgettable magical experience. Winners will be drawn weekly. This Fairytale Giveaway is valued at $1000 Selected entry winners will receive a session in our Magical Forest and a 10" fine art print of your choice. | SIGN_UP | http://fb.me/ | Bluebird Portraits | https://www.facebook.com/61555057457910/ | 2,155 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign up | 0 | fb.me | IMAGE | http://fb.me/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465782084_1285541796216132_2126935326672623378_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LxdgRKxbd9IQ7kNvgFfMw5n&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-1.fna&_nc_gid=Akafpfs2bJR2kOYmJdyXmNX&oh=00_AYDDNl-xLX3QwtwBFxQGRQo82o_bJg2AoTSEs3bOWTXn5A&oe=672FD3C4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Bluebird Portraits | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... “Where is she?!” I hear the Beta Kyle scream. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment he 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. “Neah, how useless your are! You still have not cleaned the office.” He snaps. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. “We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!” I don’t answer, I keep my eyes low so that I didn’t have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, and he was even claimed to have killed his 9 ex-girlfriends. “He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!” Beta Kyle continues. He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin, ”Useless Wolf.” He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned 18, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle was always reminding me of how worthless I am. The clearing of a throat makes me jump. I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don’t quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. “Is this the way you greet all Alpha’s?” His deep voice rumbles through the room, 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. I do as I’m told. Allowing him to see me properly and I am met with narrowed crimson eyes. I close my own eyes, expecting the worst. “You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?” My head moved up and down, though I couldn’t tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth 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 am…I am a Wolf.” I couldn’t help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? I wasn’t sure how much more my body could take. “How is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.” “I…..” I hated the question. “I haven’t got all day!” He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldn’t scent him. I knew why I hadn’t been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever liked to do. They never hear my side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. “You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. 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 direct eye contact. “My Wolf abilities were bound.” “Why?” 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.” “For what?” His deep voice rumbles through me. “For killing my parents.” I whispered. At this moment, the door swings open abruptly and my brother screeches at me “Neah, what are you doing in my office?!" He then turns to the crimson eyed man. “I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it was him... | LEARN_MORE | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783& | New world publications | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 3,751 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | wwwedb.com | DCO | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/450507312_504875771992548_1042971113131940252_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vWgTt8AsKxQQ7kNvgFALyV5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AazBlnzK80cMwE3ji0WtKWL&oh=00_AYAjA9pj6gUl4g5J6DAC2W8Z_Dyrn0-JJLU__Gc5ipMQ3A&oe=672FB4FC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New world publications | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-05 05:00 | active | 1695 | 0 | Read next chapter | On her wedding anniversary, she dressed up for a date but was drugged and manipulated by her husband's mistress, leading to spend a night with a stranger. To her surprise, he turned out to be her husband's half-brother and business rival! ===== In the dimly lit, opulent private cinema, the most exclusive jewelry auction was being broadcast live. "One million, going once, going twice--" The rich cadence of the auctioneer's voice echoed through the room, the man tightened his grip around Alicia Bennett's waist... With the intensity between them only grew fiercer as time passed... The auctioneer's gavel fell. "Sold for ten million! Let's give a round of applause to Mr. Joshua Yates!" The name struck Alicia like a lightning bolt. Her body instantly went rigid, something that the man couldn't help but notice, flicked lazily toward the screen. The camera zoomed in on Joshua Yates's face, every detail of his familiar features displayed in perfect clarity. "Joshua Yates, the second son of the Yates family... an acquaintance perhaps?" he drawled, the corners of his mouth tugging into a sly smile. Alicia's frown deepened. The last thing she wanted was to discuss it, she didn't respond. The man, upon seeing the situation, chuckled lightly before his movements grew even more relentless... ...... When it was over, Alicia took advantage of the man's time in the shower and quietly made her escape. When Caden Ward finally emerged from the bathroom, not catching sight of the woman's figure, he curled his lips slightly. Moments later, his assistant, Hank Ford, burst into the room, clearly on edge, "Er, apologies, Mr. Ward. I let my guard down. Give me a moment, and I'll have her brought back immediately." They had just returned to the country, taking every precaution. And yet, a woman had managed to slip through the cracks of their security. Caden's features calm, almost indifferent. "No need. I was... a willing participant." Hank's eyes widened in shock. In all the time he'd known Caden, the man had never slept with a woman,even physical contact. There were even rumors that Caden might suffer from some secret ailment. Yet now, those whispers seemed to evaporate in the face of this unexpected turn of events. Before Hank could make sense of it, Caden's deep voice pulled him back to reality. "I want you to look into Joshua's personal life. Have the report on my desk in half an hour." Tonight, Alicia had stumbled into his room, feverish and desperate. It was obvious she'd been framed. And then came the revelation--Alicia was still a pureness. Two years of marriage to Joshua... Yet she was still untouched? Caden's lips curled into a satisfied smile. But as he reflected, one thing became abundantly clear--Alicia had no idea who she'd been with due to the d*ug's effects. ... By the time Alicia returned home, the first light of dawn filtered through the windows. Only then did she realize how long she had been out. But before she could dwell any further, her phone rang. It was her bestie, Monica Flynn, calling. "Alicia!" Monica practically screeched from the other end of the line, her voice high-pitched with worry. "How are you now?" Alicia exhaled deeply, kicking off her shoes carelessly. "I've been better," she murmured. Monica's anger bubbled over, her words sharp and unrelenting. "Joshua's beyond disgusting! If he doesn't want to stay married, he should just grow a spine and divorce you already! What kind of sick man would scheme against his own wife?" The sharp pain of betrayal shot through Alicia's chest. Yesterday was their second anniversary. Joshua had texted her, suggesting they celebrate. Daring to hope he had changed, she had dressed up to the nine's, only to be met with disappointment and a d*ug-laced drink that sent her spiraling into a night of confusion and chaos. Was Joshua really the mastermind behind this? Swallowing the bitterness that tried clawing its way to the surface, Alicia forced herself to climb the stairs, her movements slow and weary. "It's fine, Monica. I'll handle it." Monica, ever protective, wasn't convinced. "'Handle it'? What do you mean you'll handle it? Just say the word, and I'll be over in a heartbeat." Alicia couldn't help the small, tired smile that tugged at her lips, hanging up the phone. But her heart still felt heavy, just as she lost focus, the door to her bedroom creaked open. She lifted her gaze, and almost instantly, her stomach dropped. There, fresh from a shower, a towel wrapped loosely around his waist, stood Joshua. He stared down at her. Chapter 2 Divorce Alicia snapped out of her daze as soon as she met the icy gaze of Joshua, her so-called husband. His expression remained unchanged, cold and indifferent as ever, as though he was looking at a stranger. The only thing out of place was the scars on his lips. A wave of disgust washed over her, she pushed him away and was about to enter. Joshua frowned, his hand shooting out to grab her wrist. "Alicia, what's with the attitude?" He seemed quite unhappy with her this time, which was a rare thing, considering how little he bothered to come home. Normally, Alicia would have welcomed him back with open arms, a flicker of joy lighting up her tired features, but today she looked drained, almost hollow. She didn't resist his grip, meeting his gaze with a calmness that unnerved him. "Haven't I always been like this? Obedient, sensible, making sure the house is in order, ensuring you're comfortable, ready to give your best at work." A small, bitter smile tugged at her lips. "Isn't that what you like most about me? It makes things easier for you, doesn't it? Frees up time for your other... 'special someone'." Joshua's eyes darkened at the veiled accusation. Denial hovered on his lips, but he didn't bother. Why should he? He dropped her hand and said gruffly, "Actually, that's why I'm here. We need to talk." Alicia vigorously rubbed her wrist, as though she was trying to erase his touch. "So, are you planning to finally go public with her?" Joshua's expression twisted instantly, his calm facade cracking. "What do you know? Did you have me stalked by a private investigator or something?" Alicia let out a soft, humorless laugh. "Is that necessary? Last night, you spared no expense to make her happy. Even a blind person could tell you're mad about her." He stared at her, unsettled by her icy tone. It was still her voice, still Alicia, but there was something different about her... For some reason, he felt inexplicably hurt, like a thorn pricking his heart. Perhaps it was the way she looked at him now--her eyes, once warm and filled with love for him, were now completely empty. There was no anger, no pain, just... nothing. It was a stark contrast to the woman who used to look at him as if he were her entire world. For reasons he couldn't explain, the sight of her like this stirred something in him, an unfamiliar dissatisfaction. Annoyed by his own reaction, Joshua decided to hit back, his voice harder now. "She's pregnant. It's a delicate pregnancy, so I bought her a little something to lift her spirits." Alicia's fists clenched before she could stop them. P**gnant? So, the nights she had stayed up waiting for him to come home, he'd been with another woman, working diligently to start a new family? Seeing Alicia wince a little, Joshua felt a flicker of satisfaction. "It's not that I don't want to touch you," he said, voice dripping with condescension. "You're just about as thrilling as watching paint dry. No man would want that." His cruel words pierced through Alicia, yet she managed to remain composed on the surface. It wasn't that she avoided intimacy; she just wasn't the one to initiate it. Did that make her so undesirable? Was it a sin? Taking a slow, steady breath, Alicia willed herself to stay calm. "Fine," she replied quietly. "Let's get a divorce then. You can give her the title she wants." The word "divorce" made Joshua's eyelid twitch involuntarily. He scoffed, eyes narrowing with suspicion. "Is this another one of your games?" Convinced he was right, his voice grew colder, more biting. "Alicia, for two years, you've pulled every childish stunt, begging for my attention. Aren't you tired yet? Because I sure as hell am." He paused, letting his disdain sink in. "You claim to love me so much. Could you really walk away from me?" Alicia couldn't help the bitter laugh that escaped her. Love him? Did he even understand what that meant? When Joshua's business had crumbled, leaving him with nothing but debt and shattered dreams, it had been Alicia who emptied her savings to pull him from the wreckage. Out of gratitude--or maybe obligation--he had married her. For two long years, she had been the dutiful wife, supporting him as he clawed his way to success. And what had Alicia gotten in return? She had been cast aside like a useless relic, while another woman carried his child. Her love, her loyalty, had been ground into the dirt beneath his feet. To care for this man any longer would be masochism. Her voice steady, Alicia said, "Draft the divorce agreement. I'll agree to whatever terms you want." And with that, she turned and disappeared through the door, leaving Joshua standing alone in the hallway. For a moment, he stared after her angrily, but then a cold, mocking smile tugged at his lips. Fine, she can play the martyr. He doubted she could keep it up for long. Storming out of the house, Joshua headed straight to the apartment where his lover, Lilliana Green, awaited him. "Well, that was fast," she teased upon hearing Joshua was getting a divorce, raising a brow. "Seems she wasn't as tough to deal with as you claimed." "She's cunning," Joshua muttered, the edge of suspicion creeping into his voice. "I don't know if she's actually agreeing to the divorce or just playing me." Lilliana's arms draping lazily around his neck, "Relax, Joshua, even if she changes her mind, it's too late." Joshua's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?" Chapter 3 Letting Go Lilliana's eyes flickered with shadowy intent. She wasn't foolish enough to show her cards now, so she waved it off with an effortless excuse. "During your two-year marriage, she has lived quietly in the shadows as a mere housewife, disconnected from your world. When you're assertive, would she dare to say a word?" Joshua pursed his lips into a hard line. During the past two years, Alicia had indeed done everything for him--given him support and solace. She had loved him fiercely, but at the end of it all, what value did love truly hold? Against all odds, he had clawed his way to the top, and he'd finally grasped the power he craved. That success, however, hadn't come easy, and it wasn't love that secured his position--it was alliances with the powerful. The prestige of the Green family daughter, that title alone, was worth far more than Alicia's devoted love. As these thoughts plagued his mind, Lilliana said happily, "Joshua, congratulations on escaping the grind. Shall we celebrate?" For a moment, Joshua's gaze flickered down to her, but Alicia's indifferent face suddenly flashed before his eyes. Since leaving the house earlier, Alicia hadn't once called him to ask for his whereabouts. Before, if he had been upset with her, she would've called him in a panic. A sharp, inexplicable irritation surged within him. Without thinking, he pushed Lilliana back, "You're only a few weeks' pregnant. Be careful." Lilliana, sharp as ever, sensed he was distracted. "Joshua, what's wrong?" she asked gently. "Don't you want to get divorced?" Joshua's response was instant. "Of course I want to divorce her." Her eyes narrowed as she studied him. "Then why don't you seem very happy?" Joshua offered a quick excuse, his voice steady but distant. "My father's condition has worsened. He doesn't have much time left, and Caden returned last night. He's likely here to claim his inheritance. I need to figure out how to handle him." Lilliana blinked, momentarily thrown. "Caden? Your brother from your father's first marriage? He doesn't even carry the Yates name anymore. What right does he have to fight you for the inheritance?" Joshua's expression darkened. It was true--but at the end of the day, he was still the son of a home-wrecker. All these years of relentless effort had not only been to carve out a name for himself in the Yates family, but to push Caden into the shadows where he belonged. One way or another, Joshua was hell-bent on winning. Meanwhile, Alicia stirred from her sleep. Darkness had already fallen, yet she felt even more drained than before. It was because her dreams revolved around that stranger. when her phone buzzed with a call from Monica did she snap out of her daze. "Alicia, I got your bl**d test results. I passed them to a friend of mine with some serious connections. He's digging around to see who bought the stuff." Alicia sat up a little straighter, her mind sharpening. "Thanks, Monica. Appreciate it." "If you really want to thank me, do me a favor: stop obsessing over that j**k. And after the divorce, focus on your career. You owe me that much." Alicia's chest warmed, her head lowering in quiet gratitude. "I know, I know." Now that she thought about it, she had come to the realization that her feelings for Joshua had never been pure love--they were born out of a debt, a sense of obligation. Her family's expectations had always weighed heavily on her, and in that lonely, stifled childhood, it was Joshua who had been there. His companionship had nurtured a vague affection she'd confused for love. "Lucky for me, love's never been something I've held onto tightly," Alicia murmured. "These last two years... I'll just see it as repaying his kindness." Monica paused, her usual boldness tempered with thoughtfulness. She knew better than anyone how, once upon a time, Joshua had indeed loved Alicia. But, it turned out love could be a fleeting thing. "Alicia, I really hope you've let go for good," Monica said with a convicted sigh. A sharp pang hit Alicia's chest, her eyes stinging as she fought back the urge to cry. Quickly, she pressed her hand to her eyelids, refusing to let the tears fall. It was only then she noticed something startling. Stunned, she stared at her hand. The wedding ring--something she had once held onto so tightly--was gone. Gone for a whole day and night, and she hadn't even noticed. Suddenly, her heart felt lighter, the weight of everything she'd been carrying beginning to lift. She whispered, more to herself than anyone, "Yes, I've truly let go." ... It didn't take long for Joshua to notice. He had returned to grab something quickly when his eyes fell on her hand. His brow furrowed as he asked, without thinking, "Where's your wedding ring?" Chapter 4 Her Nemesis Alicia's only concern now was leaving Joshua, so she ignored his question and asked flatly, "Are the divorce papers ready yet?" That word again--"divorce". Irritation flickered across Joshua's eyes. "What's the rush?" he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. "My father's finalizing his will, and if word gets out about my divorce, it'll ruin my standing. Now, pack your things--we're having dinner at the Yates Mansion this afternoon." With Caden's return, the family was throwing a welcome-home dinner for him. They also hoped that by doing so, it'd lift the spirits of Jerald Yates, Joshua's father. However, maintaining the charade of a happy marriage was the last thing on Alicia's mind. "I'm not going," she announced curtly. "Just get the divorce finalized and stop wasting my time." Joshua laughed, a sound that held no warmth. "Oh, come on, Alicia. Stop pretending. You hid the ring because you don't actually want to leave me, right? You can't stand the thought of being without me." He leaned in, smirking, and added, "You've worked hard these past two years. Even if we divorce, I'll still take care of you--as long as you keep me happy." Alicia's eyes widened, disbelief turning into anger. Hid the ring? Couldn't bear to be without him? His arrogant words sounded like nails on a chalkboard to Alicia's ears. With a sharp sneer, she shot back, "Oh, Mr. Yates, how could I possibly make you happy? Don't worry, I'll return the ring--wouldn't want this plain Jane to irk you, right? Once you have it, we're finalizing the divorce immediately." But Joshua wasn't fazed by her venom. He thought he knew her too well, convinced this was just another ploy to get his attention. Without thinking too much, he tossed a bag at her. "We've got guests today. Dress appropriately, and don't make me look bad." Alicia looked down at the bag, her mind flashing back to the countless times she had visited the mansion dressed in modest, unassuming clothes-- doing everything to blend in, to please him and his family. But now, with their divorce looming on the horizon, Alicia no longer cared to play the part of a dutiful wife. After slipping into the outfit, she carefully applied a touch of makeup, just enough to bring out the vibrance in her already flawless complexion. The subtle enhancements accentuated her smooth skin and delicate features, lending her a certain glow. When Joshua saw her descending the staircase, he froze for a brief moment, eyes lingering. Perhaps it was the way the dress hugged Alicia's graceful curves, making her seem more alluring than usual. At the entrance of the Yates Mansion, they both slipped into their familiar roles, masking the tension between them with practiced ease. Alicia casually looped her arm through Joshua's, their movements synchronized as they walked into the courtyard. Though Jerald was too ill to receive anyone, the grand hall bustled with life, relatives filling the space with chatter. The noise hummed around her, but for some reason, as soon as Alicia crossed the threshold, a sharp chill pricked at her skin. She instinctively looked up, her gaze immediately drawn to the figure lounging casually at the far end of the room. Legs crossed, dark shirt unbuttoned just enough to reveal a sliver of his collarbone, the man oozed arrogance, his presence commanding. When Alicia's eyes finally met his-- a familiar, authoritative stare that pinned her in place-- her mind raced as emotions began to surge uncontrollably. Joshua noticed the shift in her demeanor, his brows furrowing as he asked, "What's going on with you?" Alicia's breath caught in her throat. One word escaped her lips, barely audible. "Caden?" Just the mention of his name sent a chill down her spine. To her, Caden was the embodiment of her nightmares. Due to their families' friendship, their paths first crossed at the tender age of ten. Caden, having taken a year off, transferred to her school, and from that moment, Alicia's perfect world began to unravel. She could no longer claim the top spot. No matter how relentless her efforts, no matter how late she stayed up studying, Caden was always a step ahead. He would outscore her by the smallest of margins--a point, maybe two--leaving her perpetually stranded in second place. Anyone else might have accepted defeat, settled into the role of runner-up. But not Alicia. Born into the once prestigious Bennett family, she was raised under the suffocating weight of living up to her family name. Excellence wasn't just a goal--it was the currency by which she could earn her parents' affection. Failure was not an option, yet Caden had the audacity to snatch away everything she'd worked for with what seemed like effortless ease. It was as if he'd set his sights on her from the very beginning, and Alicia, stubborn to a fault, refused to back down. Their rivalry spanned over a decade, a relentless battle fought both openly and in the shadows, and their final showdown took place in college, just before their graduation, at the national competition. Alicia poured her heart and soul into that moment, her focus razor-sharp as she aimed for nothing less than perfection. And she achieved it, having garnered a perfect score. But Caden, ever the serpent, had bribed the judges, twisting the results in his favor. Alicia was forced, once again, into second place. The sting of injustice was deep, but the harshest blow came from her father, Phil Bennett. Over the phone, his voice dripped with disappointment in her ranking. Alicia, having grown accustomed to his tirades, said nothing. She waited for his anger to ebb, then asked quietly, "I'm graduating soon. Will you come back?" Her mother, Donna, had always been her softer solace. She comforted Alicia that day, promising they'd be there for her graduation. But life had other plans. Phil and Donna, rushing back from Itrubisite to attend the graduation, perished in a tragic plane crash. Overnight, Alicia's world crumbled, left an orphan in this cruel world. Since that day, she had never challenged Caden again. Afterward, Caden left Warrington to build his career overseas. ... "He's back for the inheritance," Joshua muttered, his voice barely audible. Alicia cast him a sidelong glance as he continued, "With a family empire as big as ours, an eldest son like him wouldn't give up so easily." Her brow furrowed slightly. It was true--the Yates empire was massive, a legacy most would kill for. But Caden had accumulated his own fortune, surpassing even the family's vast wealth. Did he really care about the inheritance? Then again, this was Caden. Competing was in his blood. Even if he didn't care about the fortune itself, he'd fight tooth and nail just to win, to toy with everyone else. The man had a knack for stirring chaos purely for his own amusement. Alicia had been his rival for as long as she could remember, and even now, the thought of giving him so much as a glance felt like a waste of energy. She turned to walk away. But Joshua caught her wrist, his grip firm yet tense. "I know you two don't get along," he said. "But he's still my elder brother. We need to maintain appearances." Her body stiffened at the touch, and she immediately tried to pull her hand free. Joshua's frown deepened. "Alicia, behave," he hissed. Irritation flared in her chest. "I'm not refusing to go in. Just let go of me first. I don't want your filthy hands touching me." A flicker of something dark passed over Joshua's face, and instead of releasing her, he intertwined their fingers, squeezing them tight. Alicia bit her tongue, silently fuming. As they neared, Caden's gaze slowly lifted, his eyes narrowing in a lazy, almost bored assessment of them. "Caden," Joshua greeted, his tone strained, meeting his brother's gaze with forced cordiality. Caden's eyes flicked to their entwined hands, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Your girlfriend?" he asked indifferently, as though he didn't recognize Alicia. Chapter 5 We Meet Again So Soon Alicia's nerves coiled tight like a spring. That voice... Her messy thoughts blurred into chaos, but one thing broke through the haze--Joshua's calm declaration. "Alicia and I have been married for two years now. She cares about me, so we kept it low-key. Just went straight for the registration; no ceremony. You were busy abroad at the time, so we didn't bother you." Caden arched a brow, his voice laced with venomous mockery. "Oh, so she's my sister-in-law." The way he spat the words "sister-in-law" felt more like a s*ap than a title, leaving no doubt about his contempt for her. Alicia could feel the man's sneer underneath every syllable. And all this was thanks to her so-called husband, Joshua. Her hand trembled as she snatched a tissue, vigorously wiping her hand. "Looks like Alicia's a bit of a germophobe," Caden observed, his tone a casual jab at her disgust. Joshua's expression darkened, the tension between them thickening. He hadn't expected her to humiliate him like this. "It seems I've spoiled her too much," he muttered, his voice low and tight with irritation. Caden's eyes gleamed with a dangerous glint. "If it's a serious condition, she should get treated. It could impact her role as a mother. You know how badly our father has wanted a grandchild." At this, something flickered across Joshua's eyes. Even though Alicia, his wife, was right beside him, he went ahead and lied through his teeth. "Thanks for the concern, Caden, but I already have good news for Dad. I just haven't gotten around to telling him yet." Caden's smirk deepened, his gaze flicking toward Alicia, who was about done with the bullshit of a charade. She quietly excused herself and strode off. "How far along is she?" he asked meaningfully. "Doesn't seem like she's pregnant." Joshua didn't miss a beat. "Just a month." The answer was as much a threat as it was an announcement. Now, the inheritance stakes had just been raised, and Jerald, ever focused on continuing the family line, would certainly take his unborn grandchild into consideration. Caden's smile hardened, and Joshua delivered the final blow with a smug undertone. "You'd better catch up, Caden. I can't always be one step ahead." Caden, unfazed, waved his hand lazily. "No rush." ... Alicia stepped onto the terrace, the cool night breeze washing over her skin. She drank in the fresh air hungrily to steady her nerves. Pulling out her phone, she quickly dialed the manager of the private cinema again. "Have you found the ring?" she asked anxiously. The manager hesitated, sounding troubled. "Ms. Bennett, we've searched thoroughly and questioned all the staff, but... we really couldn't find any ring." "Then..." Alicia clenched her fist, her mind racing. "Do you have the contact details of the guest who booked the room that day?" "I'm sorry, but due to our privacy policy, we can't disclose any information on our clients." Her heart sank. "I see," she sighed with resignation. "Please tell me immediately if anything turns up, okay?" In a perfect world, she could've just bought an identical ring and pass it off for the original. Unfortunately, Joshua had that ring custom-made, and it wasn't easy to replicate. After dinner, it started to rain. The relatives began to trickle out one by one. Joshua stood by her side as they made their way to the car, his eyes trailing down to her bare wrist. "If you liked that bracelet at the auction, then I can buy you something like it," he said coolly. Alicia had to resist the urge to roll her eyes sardonically. She didn't believe for a second that Joshua had a change of heart towards her. "Trying to buy my silence, huh?" Her words were sharp, slicing right through Joshua's tender facade. "No need. I have no desire to be tangled up in your affairs." Joshua hadn't intended to sound like that, but her mocking tone struck a nerve. His jaw clenched, and a bitter smile crossed his lips. "Fine. Don't take it. The money I spend on you is a waste anyway." Alicia bit the inside of her cheek before adding firmly, "Joshua, I already told you. I'm willing to leave this marriage empty-handed. Let's sign the divorce papers tomorrow morning and end this once and for all." His smile twisted into something dark, something dangerous. "What about the ring?" "I lost it." Joshua's eyes narrowed, his tone unrelenting. "I don't care about anything else. I want the ring." She could barely contain her frustration, her breath hitching as he delivered his final blow. "If you can't find it," he said coldly, "I'll assume you're holding onto it because you still care about me." Just then, Joshua's phone rang; it was Lilliana calling. "Joshua." She mewled his name pitifully. "The thunder is so loud. I'm scared to sleep alone... Can you come over?" The car wasn't heading anywhere near Lilliana's and Joshua was furious with Alicia, so without a second thought, he kicked her out into the rain and sped off. He didn't even leave her an umbrella. Alicia stood frozen by the roadside, the downpour quickly soaking through her clothes. The cold rain seeped into her bones, chilling her to the core. Gritting her chattering teeth, she swallowed the bitter taste in her mouth and began trudging along the drenched pavement. Behind her, the soft hum of an engine crept closer. A sleek, low-profile Maybach rolled up beside her, its headlights cutting through the rain. "Mr. Ward," the driver said, glancing back, "I believe that's Ms. Bennett." The car slowed to a stop. Caden glanced out the window, his sharp eyes narrowing on Alicia's lonesome figure. She had just paused, her fingers gathering the fabric of her soaked dress, tying it up to ease her stride. Caden's lips curled into a faint. "Invite her inside," he drawled. The car came to a halt next to Alicia. The driver stepped out, holding a large umbrella over her head, his voice polite. "Ms. Bennett, it's hard to find a cab at this hour. May I offer you a ride home?" Alicia's eyes flicked up, recognizing the man as the Yates family's driver. She hesitated for a moment before nodding, her voice soft but steady. "Thank you. Sorry for the inconvenience." However, as soon as she slipped into the backseat of the car, she locked eyes with its other passenger--Caden. "We meet again so soon, sister-in-law?" His voice, smooth as velvet, carried a hint of mischief. ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &3& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/63310322-fb_contact-e | Heat Novel A | https://www.facebook.com/100089743291944/ | 540 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.moboreader.net | VIDEO | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/63310322-fb_contact-ena265_2-1019-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=934080944896999&rawadid=120213385622010714 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/464773196_1210234336939652_1092295958990264861_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nGxEzZLARxMQ7kNvgHIekxO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ANEGhMDloAf_NeJcXISPf6k&oh=00_AYC4563_blFFCiFeitz9mszBBuRuKwyOHtFBnj2njIMVZg&oe=672FC02A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Heat Novel A | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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🔥🔥Sextuplets Para Sa Hot CEO📖💕Hindi ko na ma-distinguish between love and hate, ito ba?💑 | 💑🔞Baby,Maligayang pagdating sa mundo ng mga nasa hustong gulang😍💘 Kabanata 0001 Busy si Amy sa kanyang laptop nang biglang tumunog ang kanyang phone, halos hindi na dapat niya papansinin ang tawag dahil abala nga siya pero nagpasya siyang tingnan ang screen ng telepono nang malapit nang matapos ang tawag. Nang makitang ang caller ID ay si Joan, ang secretary ng asawa niya, mabilis niyang kinuha ang telepono habang nagtataka kung bakit siya nito tinawagan. Nai-save lang niya ang numero ni Joan dahil secretary ito ng asawa niya at sa mga araw na hindi niya makontak ang asawang si Callan, sa trabaho, tatawagan na lang niya si Joan para ipasa ang dito. Pero ito ang unang pagkakataon na tinawagan siya ni Joan. Sinagot niya ang tawag habang dahan-dahang inilagay ang telepono sa kanyang tainga, pero ikinagulat niya ang maruruming tunog na kanyang narinig. Tinignan niya muli ang screen ng telepono para masigurado na si Joan ang tumawag, muli niyang inilagay ang telepono sa kanyang tainga at narinig ang parehong maruruming tunog, ang mga ito ay matigas at malalakas na ungol at malinaw na may nagtatalik sa kabilang linya. Sa ilang beses na nakausap ni Amy si Joan, nakilala niya ang boses nito at alam niyang ang mga ungol na yun ay tiyak na kay Joan. Nagkamali ba siya sa pag-dial ng kanyang numero sa gitna ng intimate session nila ng kanyang boyfriend? Naisip ni Amy na maaring magkamali ito kaya gusto niya nang ibaba ang tawag pero ang sumunod na narinig ni Amy ay halos ika-atake ng puso niya. Kinailangan niyang itabi ang laptop para lang makasigurado na tama ang narinig niya, nakinig ulit siya ng malinaw at inulit ni Joan, "Fuck me, baby....sige pa Callan, go deeper, gusto ko yan...oh my gosh!" Nabagabag ang puso ni Amy, nabalisa siya at kailangan niyang tumayo. Hindi pwede yun! Natahimik siya at ibinaba na ang tawag. Pinagkatiwalaan niya si Callan ng kanyang buhay at mahal na mahal niya ito. Bagama't hindi pa sila nakakabuo at di pa siya nagbubuntis para sa kanya, pareho silang nagpakita ng pagmamahal at pagmamahal sa isa't isa. Imposibleng niloloko siya ni Callan. Hindi pwede yun. Iniling niya ang ulo dahil hindi siya naniniwala. Siguro, napagdesisyunan lang ni Joan na maging kontrabida ang sarili sa kanilang pagsasama pero sa kasamaang palad, hindi iyon gagana. Umupo ulit si Amy at gusto niya sanang huwag nang pansinin ang nangyari pero isang malumanay na boses na nagsasalita sa loob niya ay hindi nagpapahinga sa kanyang isip. Sa mundo kung saan posible ang anumang bagay, paano kung niloloko nga siya ni Callan? Habang malalim ang iniisip niya ay biglang tumunog ang phone niya at nakita niyang may isang bagong text message, kinuha niya ito. Bumilis ang tibok ng puso niya nang mapagtantong ang nagpadala ng mensaheng ito ay walang iba kundi si Joan. Nabasa niya ang text na nagsasabi sa kanya na pumunta sa isang lokasyon, ito ay isang hotel at ang eksaktong kwarto na kanyang pupuntahan ay nakasaad din sa text. Ano ang nangyayari? Lalong gumulo ang isip ni Amy. Isinara niya ang kanyang laptop at mabilis na naglakad patungo sa kanyang closet. Nakasuot siya pa siya ng pambahay kaya kailangan niyang magpalit ng damit. Nang matapos siya, lumabas siya ng kanyang kwarto at gustong sabihin sa mother-in-law niyang kasama nila sa iisang bahay na may kailangan siyang puntahan. Naglakad si Amy papunta sa kwarto nito at kumatok pero wala doon ang biyenan niya, saan pa kaya siya naroon maliban sa kusina? Mabilis siyang humakbang patungo sa kusina at nang malapit na siya sa pinto ay narinig niya ang isang malakas na tawa mula doon. Ito ay mula sa kanyang biyenan. Matapos humalakhak, nagsalita ang mother-in-law niya, wala itong kamalay-malay na si Amy ay nasa labas lang, "Napakabobo talaga ng baog na babaeng 'yun, di ko nga alam ano bang nakita ng anak ko sa kanya. Kumokonsumo lang naman yun ng pera ng anak ko at hindi namang magawang makabuo man lang ng apo ko. Napakakapal ng mukha!" Natawa na naman siya pagkasabi nun, halatang may kausap siya sa phone. Hindi makapaniwala si Amy na masasabi ito ng kanyang biyenan, halos tumulo ang mga luha sa kanyang mga mata pero pinigilan niya ito, bigla siyang sumugod sa loob ng kusina at ang kanyang biyenan na si Wilma ay biglang napalingon sa kanya na may kalabog na puso. Thirty minutes lang ang nakalipas, sinabihan ni Amy si Wilma na magiging busy siya sa loo ng kwarto hanggang gabi, hindi inaasahan ni Wilma na nandito siya sa ganitong oras. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit siya nakakapagsalita nang malaya at walang ingat sa telepono. Iniisip ni Wilma kung narinig ba ni Amy ang kanyang sinabi, pagkatapos ng maikling sandali ng matinding katahimikan sa pagitan nila, nagpeke si Wilma ng ubo at sinabing, "Amy, erm...Akala ko ba nasa...Aalis ka?" "Ma, bakit parang natakot ka bigla?" Nakangiting tanong ni Amy na parang walang sakit. "Natakot...bakit?...bakit? Bakit ako ma-- matatakot?" Nauutal niyang sabi. "Aalis na ako, may importante akong gagawin, ma," sabi ni Amy at tumalikod, sinadya niyang iwan ang babae na nalilito. Hindi niya alam kung narinig ni Amy ang sinasabi niya sa telepono o hindi. Maya maya lang ay na dumating si Amy sa hotel at naglakad patungo sa mismong pintuan na nakasaad sa text ni Joan. Gustong kumatok ni Amy noong una pero mukhang hindi iyon isang matalinong hakbang. Pinihit niya ang knob at bumukas ang pinto, halos lumuwa ang mga mata niya nang makitang hubo't hubad sina Callan at Joan. Sa katunayan, sa oras na pumasok siya, binibigyan ni Joan si Callan ng bl*w job. Nalaglag ang handbag ni Amy at nanlambot ang mga binti niya, sabay dasal na sana ito ay panaginip lang. Ang mainit na luha ay dumaloy sa kanyang pisngi at naramdaman niya ang matinding sakit na nagpapasikip sa kanyang dibdib. "Call...an!" Nagawa niyang tumawag sa pagitan ng kanyang sakit at paghihirap. Gayunpaman, natawa si Callan na ikinagulat niya, nakisabay na rin si Joan sa pagtawa, nakasandal na ngayon si Joan kay Callan at wala ni isa sa kanila ang nakaramdam ng pagsisisi. "Bakit ka umiiyak, ikaw baog ka?" tanong ni Callan. "Akala mo ba titiisin kita habambuhay? Naku! Ayaw mo ba akong magkaanak? Tadhana mo siguro na hindi magkaanak kailanman pero hindi ko yun kapalaran." Lalong umiyak si Amy, hindi siya makapaniwala na masasabi ng kanyang pinakamamahal na asawa ang mga yun. Niloloko lang ba siya nito sa lahat ng panahon? Nagsimula lang ba ito kamakailan? Pero dati naman nagmamahalan sila, ano ang nagbago? "Ang galing niya pa palang umiyak," sabi ni Joan kay Callan at nginisian. Parang gustong sumugod si Amy kay Joan at hampasin ang ulo niya pero kasalanan ba ni Joan kung bakit niloko siya ng asawa niya? Ang kasalanan ay kay Callan. Ipinagkanulo niya ang pagmamahal at tiwala nito sa kanya. Napangisi si Amy at itinigil ang pag-iyak. "Pinagtaksilan mo ako, Callan. Tapos na tayo." Dinampot niya ang kanyang handbag at lumabas ng kwarto, pero halos hindi pa siya nakakalakad ng ilang hakbang sa pasilyo nang sumubsob na lang siya sa dingding at umiyak nang husto. Ang sakit na nararamdaman niya sa mga sandaling ito ay ang pinakamatinding sakit na naranasan niya sa buong buhay niya. Para bang ang tanging paraan para malagpasan ito ay ang magpakamatay, hindi nagtagal ay pumasok siya sa kanyang sasakyan, galit na nagmaneho sa korte, nagsampa ng divorce paper at nagmaneho pauwi. Nakita niya ang kanyang biyenan na umiinom ng mainit na tsaa sa kainan. Inilagay niya ang divorce paper sa harap ni Wilma. Si Amy pa lang ang pumirma pero pipirmahan pa iyon ni Callan pag nakauwi siya, "Ma, narinig ko ang sinabi mo sa telepono bago ako umalis." Halos mabulunan si Wilma nang marinig iyon. Tinuro ni Amy ang divorce paper sa harap niya, "Nahuli ko rin si Callan na niloloko ako kasama ng secretary niya. Halatang hindi na ako nirerespeto sa pamilyang ito. Eto yung divorce paper, pinirmahan ko na. Pag nakauwi na siya sabihin niyo na lang sa kanya na pirmahan ito at sabihin niyo na rin na umalis na ako." Tuwang-tuwa si Wilma sa loob dahil sa wakas ay iiwan na ni Amy si Callan pero umasim ang mukha nito na parang malungkot. "Wag ka nang umarte na parang malungkot ka, ma. Alam naman natin pareho na di mo ako gusto para sa anak mo," sabi ni Amy at tumalikod na para umalis pero tumayo si Wilma at nagsalita. "Saan ka pupunta?" Tanong ni Wilma, wala nang kwenta pang itago ang tunay niyang kulay. Bumalik si Amy sa kanya at sumagot, "para kunin ang mga gamit ko syempre." "Wala ka ngang dapat kunin diyan eh kasi wala naman iyo diyan. Lahat ng meron ka dito ay binili ng pera ng anak ko, kaya umalis ka na lang," walang pusong sabi ni Wilma. Lalong kumirot ang naramdaman ni Amy nang marinig iyon pero nagawa niyang magtanim ng ngisi sa kanyang mga labi, "Okay sige!" Ang pinakamahalagang bagay sa kanya ay ang pulseras na ibinigay sa kanya ng kanyang ina ilang taon na ang nakakaraan. Dahil nasa kamay naman niya ang bracelet, tumingin siya sa pintuan na patungo sa labas at dahan-dahan na lumabas at lumayo sa kabila ng sakit. Kabanata 0002 Naupo si Amy sa isa sa pinaka-marangyang club buong gabi kung kailan laging abala at puno ang club, may dalawang bote ng alak sa harap niya at nilunod niya ang sarili sa kanyang kalungkutan. Sa nakaraang tatlong taon ng kasal nila, naging matapat siyang asawa sa gag*ng 'yun. Ni hindi niya binigyan ng pagkakataon ang ibang lalaki na lumapit sa kanya o pumorma man lang. Lalong di niya naisip na pagtaksilan ang asawa niya. Sobrang nagtitiwala siya kay Callan pero sinaktan nito ang puso niya na parang wala lang. Sa sobrang kalasingan niya, umaasa siyang nakalimutan niya ang kanyang kalungkutan pero tila hindi nakakatulong ang inumin habang patuloy na naglalaro sa kanyang isipan ang hubad na imahe nina Joan at Callan. Galit na galit siyang tumayo at tumingin sa paligid sa mga taong sumasayaw sa club. Naisipan niyang pumili ng isang random na lalaking pwede niyang maka-night stand. Pagkatapos ng lahat, siya ay divorced naman at single na uli. Nakita niya ang isang matangkad na lalaki na papasok sa isang kwarto at mabilis siyang tumakbo papunta doon. Bago pa man maisara ang pinto ay pumasok na siya. Sabay sandal sa lalaki at ginamit ang kaliwang kamay para isara ang pinto sa likod nila. Agad nagtagpo ang kanyang bibig aat ng labi ng lalaki, at ilang sandali pa bago tumugon ang mga labi ng lalaki. Maya maya lang ay napunta sila sa isang mainit na session kaya mabilis niyang hinubad ang kanyang damit, tinulungan niya ang lalaking alisin din ang mga damit nitoat sa isang iglap, nasa kama na sila at nasa ibabaw na niya ang lalaki, umuungol sila ng malakas habang nasa loob niya ang lalaki. Ito ay isang kasiya-siya at nakakapagod na sandali para sa dalawa dahil tumagal ito ng kalahating oras, nang sa wakas ay nasiyahan silang dalawa, nahiga na sila sa kama at natulog. Nagising si Amy makalipas ang ilang oras at nakita niya ang lalaking natutulog sa madilim na kwarto. Hindi pa nagbubukas ang ilaw ng kwarto nang pumasok siya at sinimulang halikan ang lalaki ilang oras na ang nakalipas. "Ang galing at ang sarap niya ha," bulong ni Amy at naglabas ng ilang dollar notes mula sa kanyang pitaka saka inilagay sa palad ng lalaki. Kahit pa natutulog ang lalaking gigolo, hindi niya ito dadayain sa pamamagitan ng pag-alis nang hindi nagbabayad. Maingat siyang naglakad palabas ng kwarto, ayaw niyang gisingin ang lalaki. Umalis si Amy sa NorthHill at sumakay ng tren patungo sa isang maliit na lungsod kung saan nilalayon niyang mamuhay ng simpleng buhay. Ang pamumuhay sa kanyang lungsod, sa NorthHill, ay magdudulot lamang sa kanya ng higit na trauma. Hindi maiiwasan ni Amy si Callan dahil isa itong makapangyarihang lalaki at dahil naglakas-loob itong hiwalayan ito, baka gusto lang nitong pahirapan ang buhay niya. Kaya mas mabuting pumunta siya sa ibang lugar at magsimula ng bagong buhay. Naghihinala si Amy sa kanyang sarili makalipas ang ilang linggo nang magsimula siyang magkaroon ng morning sickness. Sa tuwing gusto niyang isipin na baka ito ay senyales ng pagbubuntis, ipapaalala niya sa kanyang sarili na tatlong taon silang kasal ni Callan at hindi siya kailanman nagbuntis. Siya ay baog at tulad ng sinabi ni Callan, iyon ang kanyang kapalaran. Gusto man niyang magkaroon ng anak at maging ina pero tila hindi siya nabiyayaan ng ganoon. Nakatanggap siya ng pinakamalaking pagkabigla sa kanyang buhay nang bumisita siya sa ospital at sinabi sa kanya na siya ay tatlong linggong buntis. Paano ito naging posible? Tuwang-tuwa siya at sa paglipas ng mga buwan, lumalaki nga ang kanyang tiyan kaysa sa karaniwan pero minsan nababahala pa rin siya at iniisip pa nga niya kung buntis nga ba siya ng isang bata lang dahil nagtataka siya kung bakit mas malaki ang pagusbong ng kanyang tiyan kaysa sa normal. Pagkalipas ng siyam na buwan, nanganak si Amy sa ospital. Nakaka-stress, alam niyang sunud-sunod ang paglalabas ng mga bagay pero kahit siya ay nagdududa kung mga sanggol ba iyon. Ipinikit niya ang kanyang mga mata at nagdasal na sana ang lumabas sa kanya ay isang bata, iminulat niya ang kanyang mga mata makalipas ang ilang segundo at nakita niya ang dalawang doktor at apat na babaeng nurse na nagsisiksikan sa buong kwarto. Bawat isa sa kanila ay may bagong silang na sanggol, lahat sila ay may ngiti sa kanilang mga mukha. Napakurap siya at nagtanong, hindi niya alam baka nakakaloko ang tanong niya pero nagawa niyang magtanong, "Teka, mga anak ko silang lahat?" "Oo," masayang sagot ng lahat sa kwarto. Hindi naniwala si Amy sa kanyang pandinig at inisip na baka nananaginip siya. Paano posible para sa isang baog na tulad niya na magkaroon ng lahat ng mga sanggol na ito? Pagkatapos ay binilang niya ang mga ito, "isa, dalawa, tatlo, apat lima..." huminto siya sa pagbibilang at pinunasan ang kanyang mukha, "anim" "Anim na sanggol?" Tanong niya. "Oo, congratulations!" lahat ng tao sa kwarto ay nagsimulang bumati sa kanya. Tumulo ang luha sa kanyang pisngi, dahan-dahang dumapo ang dalawang palad sa malambot na pisngi. Masayang-masaya siya at nagpasalamat siya sa kanyang Diyos sa sobrang pagpapala nito sa kanya. Nakakuha siya ng lakas mula sa mabuting balita at umupo ng tuwid, "hayaan ko ang mga ito?" Masayang sabi niya at sunod sunod na binigay ang baby. Tuwang-tuwa siyang makita ang mga cute na sanggol, binasbasan niya ang mga ito at hinalikan silang lahat sa noo. Ilang buwan lang ang nakararaan, naranasan niya ang pinakamasamang araw ng buhay niya, pero ngayon andito siya sa pinakamasayang araw ng buhay niy. ********* Pagkalipas ng anim na taon, umupo si Amy sa isang mahabang upuang kahoy at nagtawag, "Elijah," "Moses," "Elisha!" Tatlong cute na lalaki ang tumakbo patungo sa kanya ng napakabilis, lahat sila ay may matingkad na ngiti sa kanilang mga mukha at kahit na ang kanilang mga damit ay hindi mamahalin, kapansin pansin ang kanilang kagwapuhan, kasama ang katotohanan na ang tatlong lalaki ay magkamukha at identical. "Halikayo," sumenyas si Amy sa kanila na lumapit at tumabi sila sa kanya. Masaya niyang ginulo ang buhok nila at sinabing, "tawagan niyo rito ang mga kapatid niyo." "Angel!" Tumawag si Elijah. "Queen," sigaw ni . "Debby," tawag ni Moses. Tatlong kaibig-ibig na mga batang babae ang lumitaw sa lalong madaling panahon, sila ay may mahabang buhok at ang kanilang hairstyle ay parepareho, sila ay naggagandahang magkakapatid at identical din ang mga itsura. Sa paglipas ng mga taon, pinalaki ni Amy ang kanyang mga anak sa abot ng kanyang makakaya at gumugol siya ng kalidad ng oras kasama sila. Madalas silang nagbibiruan at mga oras na kailangang pagsabihan sila sa paggawa ng mali, ginawa rin niya ito. Ang pag-ibig sa pagitan niya at ng anim na bata ay tunay ring malakas. Walang nakapagsasabi sa kanya na naging mahusay siya sa pagharap sa stress ng pagpapalaki ng anim na anak sa loob ng anim na taon. Napakalaking gawain iyon. Umalis si Amy sa stool at umupo sa madamong lupa habang ang mga bata ay nakaupo sa paligid niya ng paikot-ikot, "Pupunta tayo ng NorthHill bukas." "Bakit po mommy?" tanong agad ni Elijah nang matapos magsalita si Amy. "'Di kasi gaanong mataas ang standards ng mga schools dito, kahit na mapayapa na sana tayo dito gusto kong maranasan ninyong lahat ang mas magandang edukasyon at mamuhay sa mas modernong syudad," sabi ni Amy. "Mommy, hindi ba sabi mo hindi tayo makakapunta sa NorthHill dahil may mga masasamang tao doon?" tanong ni Moses. Minsang tinanong ng mga bata si Amy kung bakit sila nananatili sa probinsya at sinabi niya sa kanila noon na nakatira talaga siya sa NorthHill pero nagtago dito dahil sa ilang masasamang tao na nagtatangkang saktan siya. "Hindi ka ba sasaktan ng masasamang tao, ma?" Tanong ni Angel gamit ang maliit at mala-anghel niyang boses. Ngumiti si Amy, "Anim kayong nakapaligid sa akin at sa tingin mo may makakasakit sa akin?" Iginulong ni Elijah ang manggas at ipinakita ang kanyang kalamnan saka sinabing, "Tama, tingnan mo ang muscles ko, kung sino ang magtangkang manakit kay mommy ay masusuntok sa mukha." "Tama, pagpunta natin sa NorthHill , hindi natin hahayaang mabully si mommy," tumayo si Elisha at inihagis ang dalawang kamay sa ere, "Sobrang powerful ko, kung sino ang gustong saktan si mama ay dapat dumaan muna sa akin." "Oo, hindi ba sinabi ni mama na pinangalanan niya kaming Elijah, Elisha at Moses dahil naniniwala siyang makapangyarihan kaming mga lalaki? Mommy, huwag kang mag-alala, andito kami palagi sa tabi mo. Ang mga masasamang tao ay di magtatangkang saktan ka." dagdag ni Moses. Ang tatlong babae ay nanood at tumango na lamang, bagamat kaedad nila ang mga lalaki, hindi sila kasing lakas ng katawan gaya ng mga lalaki pero pakiramdam nila ay ligtas sila sa paligid ng mga lalaki. Sa katunayan, sa lungsod, walang nangahas na saktan ang tatlong babae dahil alam nila kung gaano ka-protective ang kanilang mga kapatid. "Oo, may tiwala ako kay Elijah, Moses at Elisha, hindi nila hahayaang may masaktan sa atin," sabi ni Queen. Si Debby ang tahimik at kumpiyansa lang na makakabalik sila sa NorthHill at walang makakasakit sa kanila. Masaya si Amy sa pagpapakita ng kapangyarihan ng kanyang maliliit na anak. "Mommy, makikita rin ba natin si daddy?" tanong ni Elisha. Lalong itinuon ng mga bata ang atensyon kay Amy. Minsan nang sinabi ni Amy sa kanila na nasa NorthHill ang tatay nila pero kahit siya, hindi siya makilala plus anim na taon na ang nakalipas at malaking lungsod ang NorthHill , nagdududa siya kung makikilala pa niya ang kanilang ama, lalo na't nakita niyang gigolo lang ito. . Pero ayaw niyang mawalan ng pag-asa ang mga bata sa pakikipagkita sa kanilang ama kaya't sumagot siya ng, "Oo." Nagtatalon ang mga bata kay Joy at nagsimulang magsaya. Mas handa na silang pumunta sa NorthHill kinabukasan, umaasa na makikilala nila ang kanilang ama na matagal na nilang inaasam na makilala. Kabanata 0003 Sa kalaunan ay bumalik si Amy sa NorthHill at siya ay tumira sa isang two-bedroom na apartment. Iyon ang kaya ng budget niya sa sandaling iyon. Sa katunayan, ang pagkuha ng apartment na iyon ay nagkakahalaga ng halos lahat ng perang naipon niya sa anim na taong pagtatrabaho niya sa maliit na lungsod na pinanggalingan niya. Dahil may degree na siya, hindi na siya dapat mag-effort para makakuha ng trabaho dito sa NorthHill. Kahit na magkataong makita niya si Callan, sapat na panahon ang anim na taon para hindi siya maapektuhan sa mga nangyari noon sa pagitan nila. Malaki ang posibilidad na ikinasal na siya sa kanyang secretary. Hindi pinansin ni Amy ang iniisip niya tungkol kay Callan at nagsimulang maghanap ng mga job opportunity online. Nag-apply siya sa maraming kumpanya hangga't kaya niya. Hindi niya gugustuhing magutom ang kanyang mga anak, ang pagpapakain sa anim na bata sa isang malaking responsibilidad at tiyak na malaki ang gastos lalo pa at tiniyak niya sa kanila ang mas mahusay na edukasyon dito kaya kailangan niyang maipasok ang mga bata sa isang magandang paaralan sa lalong madaling panahon. Noong gabi ng sumunod na araw, nakatanggap siya ng offer na ipagpatuloy ang trabaho bilang isang dental assistant sa ospital. Bagama't medyo mababa ang suweldo, okay pa rin ito kumpara sa wala. Umaasa pa rin siya na makakakuha siya ng mas magandang alok sa trabaho mula sa isa sa iba pang kumpanyang kanyang inaplayan. Ipinagpatuloy niya ang trabaho kinabukasan at nagsimulang magpursige nang husto, ang dentista na direktang tinutulungan niya ay palakaibigan at sila ay magkasundo naman. Ayaw niyang makaltasan ang kanyang suweldo sa anumang kadahilanan kaya naging maingat siya sa lahat ng kanyang ginagawa. Sa kanyang ikatlong araw ng trabaho, pinatawag siya ng kanyang amo at sa sandaling siya ay humarap sa kanyang mesa, ang lalaki ay nagsalita, "Magpunta ka sa laboratory at siguraduhin mong ang lahat ng kinakailangang kit ay magagamit natin sa 2PM appointment mamaya, isang espesyal na tao ang darating para sa dental check up at kailangan maging maingat ka, okay?" "Opo, sir," magalang na ibinaba ni Amy ang ulo bago naglakad palayo. Pagsapit ng 2PM, nasa kwarto na si Amy dala ang lahat ng kinakailangang kit at hindi na makapaghintay na makita kung sino ang espesyal na taong ito. Bigla siyang nakarinig ng kaguluhan sa labas at sumilip siya sa bintana at nakita niya ang humigit-kumulang pitong itim na jeep na nakaparada at may Lamborghini sa gitna ng mga jeep na iyon. Halatang escort ang anim na jeep na ito sa kung sino man ang nasa loob ng Lamborghini. Mabilis na nagtipon ang mga tao at maging ang maraming tao ay sumilip sa bintana para makita ang tao sa loob ng Lamborghini. Lalong naging curious si Amy, gaano kaya ka-espesyal ang taong ito na ang presensya niya lang ang nakakaakit ng napakaraming tao. Dalawang lalaking nakasuot ng itim na suit ang nakatayo sa likod ng pinto ng Lamborghini na bumukas ng mag-isa at isang spender legs ang bumaba bago tuluyang lumitaw ang kanyang katawan. Ang sinag ng araw ay direktang sumikat sa kanyang mukha at ang kanyang hitsura ay naglalabas ng kamahalan at kakisigan. Siya ay mukhang isang tao mula sa maharlikang pamilya at siya ay nagpapalabas ng napakaraming kapangyarihan na masasabi ng sinumang nanonood ng sandali. Hindi masyadong maaninag ni Amy ang kanyang mukha pero iniisip niya kung ang lalaking ito ba ang espesyal na lalaki na darating para sa dental check up? Kung siya nga, dapat itong maging maingat sa paligid niya. Ang huling bagay na gusto niya ay ang mahulog sa anumang gulo ng mga makapangyarihang lalaki sa NorthHill . Ang gusto lang niya ay magkaroon ng sapat na pera para mapangalagaan ang kanyang mga anak. Maya-maya, bumukas ang pinto at napalingon agad si Amy at nang makita ang amo ay nakahinga siya ng maluwag. "Nakahanda na ang lahat ha?" Tanong ng dentista. "Yes, sir. Sorry, ngayon lang ako nakakita ng isang lalaki na bumaba sa isang Lamborghini, siya ba ang aasikasuhin natin?" Tanong niya. "Tama, siya ang pinakamakapangyarihang tao sa NorthHill at maraming tao ang halos walang pagkakataon na makita siya kaya naman nakikita mo ang mga tao sa paligid. Kaya siguraduhin mo ha na ang lahat ay magiging maayos dahil narinig ko na mainitin ang ulo niya," sabi ng dentista. "Ito ba ang unang beses na sayo siya nagpacheck up, sir?" tanong ni Amy. "Oo, and sincerely, kinakabahan ako. Let's just hope everything works well," sabi niya at kinumpirma pa niya na inayos niya ang lahat ng dapat. Pinakamakapangyarihang tao sa NorthHill? Ang pag-uugali nang walang ingat sa harap ng ganoong uri ng tao ay isang suicide mission. Maya-maya ay may lumitaw na dalawang matipunong lalaki na naka-suit, ang isa ay may dalang briefcase habang ang isa naman ay walang hawak pero pareho silang matangkad at nakakatakot, hindi man lang sila nakangiti. Napuno ng maringal na presensya ang kwarto at mabilis na nahulog ang mga mata ni Amy sa makapangyarihang lalaking ito. Siya ay matangkad at balingkinitan at napakagwapo. Damang-dama ang kanyang kakisigan. 'Ang swerte siguro ng girlfriend niya,' naisip ni Amy. "Welcome, sir," yumuko ang dentista at sinenyasan siyang maupo kung saan siya masusuri. Tahimik siyang umupo at pagkatapos ay sinimulan ng dentista ang pagsusuri sa kanyang mga ngipin. "Cotton forceps, please?" Tanong ng dentista kay Amy habang abala sa pagtatrabaho. Nakatayo si Amy at ibinibigay sa kanya ang lahat ng kailangan niya sa lalong madaling panahon pero hindi niya mahanap ang cotton forceps. Nakalimutan ba niyang dalhin? Paano siya naging pabaya? "Na...nalimutan ko po, kukunin ko na ngayon din," sabi niya at mabilis na lumabas. Hay naku naman! Paano niya ito makakalimutan? Nang makuha niya ito, mabilis siyang tumakbo pabalik sa lab pero sa kanyang pagtataka, wala na ang lalaki o isa sa mga bodyguard nito ang nakita niya, kundi ang dentista. Habang nasa kamay ang cotton forceps, nagtatakang tanong niya, "Nasaan na siya?" Inabot ng dentista ang isang sulat sa kanya at walang sabi-sabing lumabas. Napakunot ang noo niya at iniisip kung ano ang laman ng sulat. Marahan niyang ibinagsak ang cotton forceps at nakita niyang natanggal na siya sa trabaho. Ganun lang? Para lamang sa maling paglimot sa isang kagamitan. Malamang 'yung 'espesyal na lalaki' na 'yon ang nag-utos na tanggalin siya sa trabaho. Ganun ba siya kasungit at walang konsiderasyon? Napaisip si Amy. Hindi ba pwedeng magkamali ang isang tao? Lumabas siya sa lab at nagmakaawa sa dentista, "Sir, pasensya na po nalimutan ko lang talaga, sana po mapagbigyan niyo ako. Hindi ko po yun sinasadya. Hindi ko alam kung paano ko nakalimutan... please, hindi na po mauulit" "Hindi ordinaryong tao ang nag-utos na tanggalin ka sa trabaho, kung ano man ang sabihin niya ay final na. Kaya kung gusto mong magmakaawa, puntahan mo siya at makiusap," sabi ng dentista at nagpatuloy sa kanyang trabaho. Masasabi ni Amy na walang anumang pagsusumamo ang makakaimpluwensya sa dentista na labagin ang utos ng 'espesyal na lalaki' na ito. Lumabas siya at tumakbo pababa, umaasang masusubukan niya ang kanyang kapalaran na makausap ang 'espesyal na lalaki' at ipaliwanag sa kanya na ikatlong araw pa lang niya sa trabaho at para sa kapakanan ng kanyang mga anak, kailangan niyang magpatuloy sa pagtatrabaho. Hindi niya makita ang lalaki pero may nakita siyang apat na matipunong lalaki na naglalakad patungo sa Lamborghini. Masasabi niyang may nauna sa kanila. Gaano man kakulit ang makapangyarihang lalaki na ito, dapat siyang maging makatwiran at subukang unawain siya. Sinugod niya ang matipunong lalaki at bago pa nila malaman ang nangyayari, nakatayo na siya sa harapan ng 'espesyal na lalaki.' Noon lang niya nakita ng malinaw ang mukha nito. Siya ay may pagkakahawig sa tatlo niyang anka na lalaki. Coincidence naman siguro diba? Nagtakbuhan ang mga matipunong lalaki patungo sa kanya at gusto siyang ilayo sa kanyang harapan pero sumenyas ang 'espesyal na lalaki' na huminto sila. Nagulat silang lahat. Natulala at natigilan si Amy saglit kaya naligaw siya ng tingin sa guwapong mukha nito. Napakurap siya at nanumbalik ang kanyang pakiramdam nang mapagtantong nasa harapan niya ang pinakamakapangyarihang tao sa lungsod. "Sir, patawarin niyo po ako. Pangatlong araw ko lang po ito sa trabaho at hindi ko alam na may nakalimutan akong gamit. Ayokong matanggal sa trabaho, masipag po talaga ako, sir," taos-pusong pakiusap ni Amy. Nakatitig lang ang lalaki sa mukha niya ng walang pakialam at nang hindi na ito nagsasalita ng tatlumpung segundo, kinabahan si Amy at inisip kung may mali ba itong nasabi, "Sorry po kung may mali akong nasabi, sir." Naisip ni Amy na mas mabuting umalis na lang siya at tanggapin ang kanyang kapalaran kaysa mahulog sa gulo ng lalaking ito. Masyadong delikado ang itsura niya at parang lalamunin siya, kinakabahan siya at gustong tumalikod para umalis pero nagsalita ang lalaki, "Ang kapal ng mukha mong talikuran ako?" Natigilan si Amy sa kinatatayuan. Ang kanyang boses ay parang kulog at ito ay nagpapadala ng labis na panginginig sa kanyang gulugod. Dinala ba niya ang problemang pilit niyang iniiwasan sa sarili niya ngayon? Kusang umaalog ang bibig ni Amy nang masabi niya ang isang bagay pero lahat ng mga salita niya ay bumabara sa kanyang lalamunan. Ang 'espesyal na lalaki' ay humakbang pa patungo sa Lamborghini at sinabing kaswal na, "Itapon ang babaeng ito." Kabanata 0004 Ipinulupot ni Amy ang kanyang dalawang paa sa kanyang kama at umiyak, nalungkot at nahihiya siya pagkatapos ng nangyari ngayon. Una nawalan siya ng trabaho at pangalawa, itinapon siya sa harapan ng lalaki. Hindi nagustuhan ni Amy ang lalaki, at alam niyang mayabang itong lalaki. Paano siya maglakas-loob na hamunin ang pinakamakapangyarihang tao sa NorthHill ? Lasing ba siya? Saan siya makakakuha ng trabaho ngayon? Ang lahat ng mga kumpanyang pinadalhan niya ng alok ay hindi nakabalik sa kanya. Biglang bumukas ang pinto at bumungad si Angel, "Mommy!" Tumakbo siya papunta kay Amy bago pa niya matapos ang paglilinis ng kanyang mga luha. Ayaw niyang makita siya ng mga bata na umiiyak. She believed that it will make them trouble, she eventually cleaned all her tears and smiled. Nag-aalalang tanong ni Angel, "Mommy, sad ka ba?" "Ay hindi, masaya nga ako kasi andito kayong lahat eh," pagsisinungaling ni Amy. "Pero never naman kaming nawala sayo eh," sabi ni Angel. Bago pa makapagsalita si Amy ay pumasok na sina Queen at Debby at umakyat sa kama. Tuwang-tuwa si Amy nang makita ang mga mukha nila. "Mommy, maaga po kayong nakabalik galing sa trabaho ngayon," sabi ni Queen. "Oo, maaga akong umalis sa trabaho kasi namiss ko kayong girls eh," sabi ni Amy at ngumiti ang mga babae. "Ma, pasok na kami sa school next month di ba?" Tanong ni Angel habang pasimpleng nakasandal si Debby sa balikat ni Amy. "Oo, tuloy pa rin yan," umaasang sabi ni Amy. Actually, naisip niya na gagamitin niya ang sahod niya bilang dentist assistant bilang pambayad ng mga bata sa school by the end of the month pero natanggal na pala siya pero kailangan pa rin niyang panatilihin ang pag-asa ng mga bata at mag-apply ng mas kabaliwan sa trabaho. . "Nasaan ang mga kapatid niyo?" tanong ni Amy. "Naglilinis po sila," sagot ni Queen at tumango si Amy. Ginulo ni Amy ang buhok ni Debby at tinanong, "Debby, kumusta ang bagongneighborhood? Gusto mo ba dito?" "Gu...gusto ko lang makilala si daddy," sabi ni Debby sa mahinang boses at naging malungkot ang atmosphere ng usapan. "Makikilala mo din siya, sisiguraduhin ko yun," sabi ni Amy at saka sinabi kay Angel, "bakit hindi kayong lahat makipaglaro sa mga kapatid mo? Gusto ko munang magpahinga. Pupunta ako at makipaglaro sa inyo pagkagising ko." "Okay, mommy," naniniwala ang mga bata na karapat-dapat magpahinga ang kanilang ina pagkatapos ng trabaho. Nang mawala ang mga babae sa kwarto, napabuntong-hininga si Amy. Wala siyang matatakbuhan para humingi ng tulong, kailangan niyang maging matatag para sa kanyang mga anak. Tumunog ang kanyang telepono at bagama't hindi kilalang numero iyon, sinagot niya ito gayunpaman, "Si Amy Owen ba ito?" "Opo ito nga," sagot ni Amy na umaasang magandang balita ito. "Nagpadala kami sa iyo ng email theree days ago at wala kaming natanggap na sagot, pakicheck ng spam folder niyo at ipaalam sa amin kung ano ang tingin mo sa offer," sabi ng lalaki sa kabilang linya at ibinaba ang tawag. Tinitingnan ni Amy ang kanyang mail araw-araw at kahit bawat oras para makita kung may nakabalik sa kanya sa kumpanya. Paano niya na-miss ito? Mabilis niyang pinuntahan ang kanyang folder ng spam at nakitang may ipinadala ngang mail sa kanya, ipinadala ito mula sa Alessandro’s Corporation. Ang Alessandro’s Corporation? Pinakamataas ang kanilang offer na sweldo at siguradong mapalad ang sinumang makatrabaho sila. Napuno ng tuwa ang kanyang puso at hindi na siya makapaghintay na ipagpatuloy ang trabaho kinabukasan. Nang gabi na, nakipaglaro siya sa kanyang anim na anak. Napakasaya nila bago matulog ang lahat. Pero alam niyang kahit gaano pa kasaya ang mga anak, hindi magiging kumpleto ang kanilang kaligayahan hangga't hindi nila nakikilala ang kanilang ama. Kahit si Amy ay hindi masabi kung sino ang kanilang ama. Mayroong higit sa isang milyong lalaki sa NorthHill. Paano niya makikilala ang gigolo na kanyang naka-one night stand six years ago? Agad siyang pumunta sa Alessandro’s Corporation ng sumunod na araw, at pagkatapos na ipakilala ang sarili sa receptionist, nainterbyu siya at nagtrabaho sa parehong araw. Sinamahan siya ng receptionist sa itaas at ipinakita sa kanya kung nasaan ang kanyang mesa at ipinakilala siya sa kanyang pinuno ng departamento. "Welcome sa Alessandro’s Corporation, Miss Amy," sabi ng pinuno ng departamento, si Abe. "My pleasure, sir," sagot ni Amy. Kumpiyansa siyang umupo sa harap ng lalaki. “Eto yung orientation book natin, it contains the rules and regulations of the company,” inabot ni Abe ang isang dokumento sa kanya. Tinanggap niya ito at sinabing, "Sige, sir. Babasahin ko po." " | LEARN_MORE | https://grounpcorp.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=148 | Philip Spicy Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 44,109 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | grounpcorp.com | DCO | 💑🔞Tumakbo siya palayo sa kanya at hinabol siya, hindi makakalipad nang walang pakpak😍💘 | https://grounpcorp.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=14853&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/464308186_1062575202205812_7290308345970551258_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bfDq7zvDkKoQ7kNvgHxu20n&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AR-Vqj35oW5aNMaMHTnNrN0&oh=00_AYBcuvPRX3GkOouqvIlv4rZSEfDN1hf8fUUhnslOdDQ5OQ&oe=672FE31F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Philip Spicy Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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BOOK_NOW | http://instagram.com/thatbeachyphotographer | Alexandria's photography | https://www.facebook.com/Alexssnapshots/ | 1,104 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Book now | 0 | Opens Instagram | IMAGE | http://instagram.com/thatbeachyphotographer | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465577055_1073643057788800_2946604978846389004_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=YhkgawLPRpQQ7kNvgHoBx_J&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=AceW6dh94J1CeN3rgfKOaLT&oh=00_AYCMSgcduxsfP1gUasZmHoGBpt7yNAxvFcrRllpJjHHS7g&oe=672FBD7D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Alexandria's photography | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Veterans Day Mattress Giveaway | Honor the heroes in your life with a great night's sleep! This Veterans Day, enjoy up to $1,750 OFF our top-rated Ortho mattresses. Limited time offer - don't miss out! | SUBSCRIBE | https://www.orthomattress.com/ | Ortho Mattress | https://www.facebook.com/orthomattress/ | 14,761 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Subscribe | 0 | www.orthomattress.com | DCO | Join our newsletter for a chance to receive a free Ortho Mattress this Veterans Day! | https://www.orthomattress.com/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.fagc3-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465712978_1457081014966030_6837200759874865450_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hCzB1UYc7akQ7kNvgHJZ4mF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent.fagc3-2.fna&_nc_gid=A4ueXUH4IjdmA0mjvwX9tR4&oh=00_AYD_We5i3Gyuy7Yzx3ryir_ycGpN9p0c1tW76NFKV2QgbQ&oe=672FD0E6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Ortho Mattress | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Webinar: Own Luxury Cottages in Paradise | Discover the unparalleled luxury of owning a private Caribbean cottage at Kokomo Botanical Resort & Spa in Turks & Caicos! 📅 Date: November 12th, 2024 🕒 Time: 12:00PM (EST) 🎙️ Host: Kelly Sullivan, Visionary Developer 🔹 Explore Ownership Benefits: Learn about the exquisite features and unique perks of owning a cottage at Kokomo. 🔹 Interactive Q&A Session: Get your questions answered live by the developer himself. 🔹 Exclusive Insights: Understand why Kokomo is the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. 📌 Secure Your Spot Now: https://landing.kokomobotanicalresort.com/nov12-webinar | SIGN_UP | https://landing.kokomobotanicalresort.com/nov12-we | Kokomo Botanical Resort - Caribbean Family Cottages | https://www.facebook.com/kokomobotanicalresort/ | 2,029 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign Up | 0 | landing.kokomobotanicalresort.com | DCO | Join our exclusive webinar on November 12th with Kelly Sullivan to learn about owning a serene, luxurious cottage in the Turks and Caicos Islands. 🔹 Engage with the Developer. 🔹 Explore Investment Potential. Discover how you can own a piece of paradise and enjoy a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Sign up today! | https://landing.kokomobotanicalresort.com/nov12-webinar | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465611240_1491957501519218_5945300450294908111_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dmzGgdSMI1UQ7kNvgES-kPi&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=At_Tn_B23zSnhlMVNaX254r&oh=00_AYC_NK9z7FKU9lW6-sD2ZsYNk8-ly9Hua-gAJqWQrXhVnA&oe=672FBFEC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Kokomo Botanical Resort - Caribbean Family Cottages | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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