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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Navigating shifting market trends like NoLo, RTDs, and premiumization is a challenge for companies large and small. Watch this on-demand webinar, The Art of Profitable Decision-Making, as bev-alc expert Kelly Ann Woods and respected industry leaders explore how trends and data work together to shape decisions. ๐ Link in bio to watch โ https://info.vision33.com/the-art-of-profitable-decision-making-brutos-on-demand-webinar -- #ad | LEARN_MORE | https://info.vision33.com/the-art-of-profitable-de | Craft Beer and Brewing | https://www.facebook.com/craftbeerandbrewing/ | 85,045 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | info.vision33.com | IMAGE | https://info.vision33.com/the-art-of-profitable-decision-making-brutos-on-demand-webinar | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467726357_1099360008512744_7113386092199881175_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vK3wa2lyZq0Q7kNvgE2xD2i&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AVIgdYBCGth7f0d09zSevL3&oh=00_AYD_wZ32amNBMIfZM6v_XSeW1_9wOxolj2Ja4ASa00AIwg&oe=6746E92C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Craft Beer and Brewing | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Start your transformation today | ๐ Are you tired of living the same life again ๐ Join Kelly Siegelโs Harder Than Life Coaching Program - An empowering coaching program designed to help you improve your health, wealth, and relationships! ๐โจ For just $297/month, you'll gain: โ Personalized support within a private community โ Weekly 1-hour group coaching calls with Kelly โ Access to exclusive, in-depth content Tap "Learn more" to start your transformation today! ๐ช๐ผ๐ | MESSAGE_PAGE | Kelly Siegel - Harder Than Life | https://www.facebook.com/officialkellysiegel/ | 9 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send Message | 0 | DCO | {{product.description}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466867437_1312284259942762_8639496369155820621_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Tnjjq8xX-5YQ7kNvgGjBRh3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AVIgdYBCGth7f0d09zSevL3&oh=00_AYC6C5WIYuzcs4qhmlIP9GKf2oJkj7RMPnKMAGTDV3GsVg&oe=6746F004 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Kelly Siegel - Harder Than Life | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 | Swoony, Spicy, Why Choose Romance! | โญโญโญโญโญ Loved this one! I started it and couldnโt put it down! ๐ฅ Why Choose ๐ฅ Forbidden Romance ๐ฅ Bosses/Assistant ๐ฅ Age Gap ๐ฅ (B)DSM ๐ฅ Sัx Club โ๐๐ค๐ช ๐๐๐ก๐ค๐ฃ๐ ๐ฉ๐ค ๐ช๐จ ๐ฃ๐ค๐ฌโฆ ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ฉ๐๐๐ง๐โ๐จ ๐ฃ๐ค ๐๐ค๐๐ฃ๐ ๐๐๐๐ .โ โ๐๐โ๐ก๐ก ๐๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ก๐ก ๐ฎ๐ค๐ช๐ง ๐ฃ๐๐๐๐ฉ๐จ, ๐๐ฃ๐ ๐ฎ๐ค๐ชโ๐ก๐ก ๐๐๐ก๐ค๐ฃ๐ ๐ฉ๐ค ๐ช๐จ ๐๐ฃ ๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐ฎ ๐ฌ๐๐ฎ.โ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ฟ๐๐๐ฟ & ๐๐๐๐๐๐-๐๐๐ is a super steamy, fast paced, why choose romance with an HEA. If you love instalove novellas with lots of spice, then this one is for you! | LEARN_MORE | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHV3DDGD?maas=maas_adg | Author Elyse Kelly | https://www.facebook.com/AuthorElyseKelly/ | 511 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | amazon.com | DCO | Available now on Amazon & Kindle Unlimited! | https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHV3DDGD?maas=maas_adg_0B33FA1FDD52626B2427A28B34DC3D9F_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467779922_1076158777513453_527848123579206165_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=maPEwdtavJkQ7kNvgFUL9ib&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A3HarVNWuARNan91mgqKLXt&oh=00_AYBcuXDI9D5nNwE-cx4jdIw_1lfe1SgrIfaXnB5S8OPsIw&oe=6747039E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Author Elyse Kelly | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Know the Latest in Politics | Breaking news alert! Stay ahead of the curve with our podcast, covering policy changes and more. What will you learn today? Listen now! | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id1199070742 | Podcast App | https://www.facebook.com/podcastapp/ | 808 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Install Now | 0 | itunes.apple.com | DCO | {{product.description}} | http://itunes.apple.com/app/id1199070742 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467911835_1304859264260959_5210988833724829921_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JuHsN6rIbF4Q7kNvgG8kACz&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AaR8pHXRVeugnb7LXRO0FP5&oh=00_AYA9PCL3THN8f5qkcSCOMymqW5eG7qWj9-y9U-mj0cuH0Q&oe=6746E98E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Podcast App | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 19:51 | active | 1909 | 0 |
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๐Read the next chapters๐ | At Grace Mansion, the lanterns in the corridors cast intricate shadows on the window frames, resembling beasts looming on the walls. Carissa Sinclair sat on a chair with her hands folded in her lap, her slender body hidden beneath plain clothes. She looked at the man before herโher husband whom she had spent a year waiting for. Barrett Warren was still wearing his slightly-worn battle armor. Standing under the dim light, he looked commanding and handsome. His face showed a mix of determination and a touch of regret. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for this marriage. Aurora will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has said that General Yates is a model for all women in the kingdom. Would she be willing to be a concubine?" Barrett's eyes flashed with a hint of annoyance. "No, she wonโt be a concubine. Sheโll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, sheโs really just a concubine in disguise," Carissa replied, remaining indifferent. Barrett frowned. "What does it matter? Aurora and I developed feelings for each other on the battlefield. We earned this marriage through our achievements. I donโt need your approval." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Developed feelings, huh? Do you remember what you said to me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett had left to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before leaving, he had lifted his wifeโs veil and promised her, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Feeling awkward, Barrett turned away. "Forget what I said. When I married you, I didnโt understand love. I thought you were a suitable match for a wife until I met Rory." Talking about the woman he loved, his eyes softened and filled with deep affection. He turned back to Carissa and added, "Sheโs unlike any woman Iโve ever met. I love her deeply. I hope you'll agree to this." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite feeling a mix of disgust and unwillingness, she still asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict. Besides, Aurora is straightforward, cheerful, and lovable. She visited my mother a while ago." They agreed? Hah... How ironic! Everything Carissa had done over the past year had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting her brow. Barrett spoke of Aurora Yates with a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheโs talking to my mother. Sheโs made her very happy. Even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was seriously ill. I brought in the best physician to treat her. I managed the estateโs affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnโt seeking praise. She was stating the facts of her exhausting year. "But seeing Aurora has made my mother feel even better," Barrett said earnestly. "I know this is unfair to you, but for the greater good, please support Aurora and me." Carissa pressed her lips into a thin line as she blinked away the tears in her eyes and sharpened her gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need for that. Carissa, sheโs different from any woman you know. Sheโs a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldnโt want to meet you," Barrett refused instantly. Carissa retorted, "What kind of women do I know? What kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of a noble family. My father and my six brothers died on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatโs them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. Sheโs straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you wonโt like. Why put yourself through that?" As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under the corner of her eye became more evident in the light. She calmly said, "Itโs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iโll ignore it. Understanding the bigger picture and acting with dignity are essential virtues for any matriarch. Don't you trust me?" Chapter 2 Barrett sighed in frustration. โWhy put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, youโll be in separate wings. She wonโt compete with you for control of the household. She doesnโt care about those things.โ โDo you really think Iโm attached to managing this household?โ Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrettโs mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligationsโall these things required money. This household was practically a hollow shell. Over the past year, Carissa had used much of her dowry to keep things running. And this was her reward. โEnough, I wonโt argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,โ said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. โMy lady, my lord was too much!โ said Lulu, Carissaโs maid, wiping her tears away. โDonโt call him that!โ Carissa gave her a stern look. โWe never consummated the marriage. Heโs not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.โ โWhy the dowry list?โ Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. โSilly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?โ Lulu held her forehead and gasped. โBut your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.โ Tears finally welled up in Carissaโs eyes at the mention of her parents. Her father had stayed loyal to her mother, never taking a concubine. They had six sons and one daughter. All her brothers followed her father to the battlefield. Three years ago, none returned from the Southern Frontier. Though she was a girl, Carissa came from a family of warriors and started training as a child. At the age of seven, she was sent to study under a master, where she also learned military strategy. When she returned home at fifteen, she learned her father and brothers had died a year earlier. Her mother, who had gone blind from crying too much, held Carissa close and said, "You must live like the noble girls in the kingdom. Find a good husband, marry, have children, and lead a peaceful life. Youโre the only child I have left.โ Carissa felt like someone had gouged her heart out. The pain she felt was so intense she couldn't even bring herself to cry. Determined to please her mother, she spent a year mastering the traditional values and duties expected of a noblewoman. She also learned accounting and how to manage a household. Not only was Carissa the Marquis of Northwatch's daughter, but she was also known for her beauty. So, suitors flooded their doorstep. Her mother had chosen Barrett because he had sworn he would never take another wife if he married Carissa. But six months ago, tragedy struck. All the residents of Northwatch Estate were murdered. No one was spared, not even the children or servants. Each victim suffered numerous knife wounds, and their bodies were brutally dismembered. Carissaโs youngest nephew had been only two and a half years old, born after the death of her third brother. The local authorities and garrison unit captured a few of the assailants. After further investigation, they were discovered to be spies from an enemy kingdom, Westhaven. The war at the front line was raging, yet these spies didn't hesitate to reveal themselves just to annihilate her family. The manner of the murder suggested it was more of a personal vengeance than anything else. When Carissa received the news, she rushed home, only to find her grandmotherโs and motherโs gruesomely dismembered bodies. Blood stained every corner of the residence, and the dead were left in agonizing states. Now, Carissa was the lone survivor of the marquis' family. The idea of restoring her familyโs former glory seemed impossibleโat least to outsiders. They saw her merely as a delicate, fragile woman. However, Aurora was different. She had earned military merits for her contribution to the war and became the first female general in history. Even the queen dowager had high praise for her. With Aurora supporting Barrett, his future would be more secure. That was the reason the Warren family readily agreed to the marriage. Chapter 3 Lulu brought over the dowry list and explained, "This year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins to support the household. However, the shops, houses, and estates remain untouched. All the bank savings, along with the property deeds and land titles your mother left, are locked up in the chest." Carissa glanced at the list. "Alright." Just looking at the list put her in a melancholy mood. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she would suffer hardships in her husband's home. "My lady, where can we go? Are we returning to Northwatch Estate? Or should we go back to Meadow Ridge?" Lulu asked, looking distressed. Images of the bloodstained estate and the tragic deaths of her family members flashed through Carissaโs mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, youโll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, Iโll spend my whole life suffering as I watch those two be affectionate. Lulu, I must live well to give my parents and brothers peace in the afterlife," Carissa replied calmly. "My lady!" Lulu wept bitterly. She had been born and raised in Northwatch Estate. The murder had claimed the lives of everyone, including her own family. The images still haunted her, and returning there seemed unthinkable. "Is there no other way?" Lulu asked desperately. Carissaโs eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my familyโs achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, Iโll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissaโs expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think Iโm that silly? If I manage to reach the king, Iโll only request an edict for an amicable divorce." Barrett was able to marry Aurora because of a royal edict. So, Carissa should also be issued an official edict to leave. She shouldn't have to sneak away like she was being cast out. The wealth from Northwatch Estate was more than enough for her to live comfortably for the rest of her life. She wouldn't degrade herself unnecessarily. Just then, someone called from outside, "Madam Carissa, the matriarch has requested your presence!" "Itโs Jade, Madam Rebecca's maid. It seems like Madam Rebecca wants to try and persuade you," Lulu whispered. Carissa straightened up, her expression serious. "Then, letโs go." The evening sun glowed like blood, and the autumn wind was chilly. The late king had bestowed the Warren family's current residence, Valor Estate, upon Barrett's grandfather. Though once prestigious, it had fallen into decline. Most of the Warren family's men were warriors who fought on battlefields. Only a few were civil servants who worked in the palace. Barrettโs father, Jonathan, didnโt fare well in his official career. His second uncle, Gregory, only held a minor post in the Royal Citadel. Barrett and his eldest brother, Benjamin, were somewhat successful in the military. But before their recent victory, they were only fourth-ranked majors. Both families still lived together in Valor Estate. Splitting the family would only hasten their decline. Accompanied by Lulu, Carissa arrived at Rebeccaโs room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "Youโre here." Benjamin and his wife, Amelia Morgan, were also in the room. Barrett's sister, Serena, and the other children of the concubines were present as well. Barrett's second aunt, Charlotte Lewis, was also seated nearby. However, her expression was cold and somewhat disdainful. "Hello, Mother. Aunt Charlotte, Benjamin, Amelia," Carissa greeted them politely. "Carissa, come here." Rebecca gestured for her daughter-in-law to sit by her bedside. The older woman held Carissa's hand affectionately and happily said, "Now that Barrett is back, you have someone to rely on. This year has been so hard on you, especially with what happened to your family. Youโre the only one left of the marquis' family. Fortunately, all of that is behind you now." Rebecca was shrewd. She made it clear that Carissa would need to depend on the Warren family in the future, since her family was gone. Carissa pulled her hand away and calmly said, "Mother, I heard you met General Yates today." Rebecca hadnโt expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. Sheโs rather rough around the edges and doesnโt compare to you in terms of looks." Carissa gazed at her mother-in-law steadily. "So, are you saying you don't like her?" Chapter 4 Rebecca forced a smile. "How can I decide that after meeting her only once? But since the king has arranged the marriage, itโs a done deal. In the future, she and Barrett will earn military merits together, while you manage the household and enjoy the benefits of their hard work. Isnโt that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But itโs quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The kingโs edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, sheโs a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials canโt be concubines. She'll be a legal wife like you. There won't be any distinction between ranks for the two of you." "No distinction? Is there such a custom in our kingdom?" Carissa asked. Rebeccaโs expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, youโve always been sensible. Now that youโve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Auroraโs contributions in this battle were greater than Barrettโs. With you managing the household, they'll be able to work together as husband and wife and focus on their military service. In the future, they'll surely become famous generals like his grandfather." Carissaโs tone remained chilly as she said, "If theyโre husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Arenโt you still in charge of the household?" countered Rebecca, displeased. "I only managed the household because Amelia was unwell. Now that she has recovered, she should resume her duties. Iโll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "Iโm still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how youโve been managing things. You should continue doing it." Carissa smiled mockingly. Everyone was satisfied because she had spent her own money to support them. Most of it went towards Rebeccaโs medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebeccaโs medicine cost over a hundred coins a month, amounting to more than a thousand coins a year. As for the other household expenses, Carissa occasionally subsidized them. For example, she would sometimes use fabrics and silks from her familyโs business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didnโt mind it before, as she had really wished to spend her life with Barrett. However, circumstances had changed. She no longer wanted to be a fool. Carissa stood up and said, "Thatโs settled, then. Iโll hand over the accounts tomorrow and wonโt be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, youโre being unreasonable. Men having multiple wives and concubines is normal. If you can't accept that, people will say you're narrow-minded and jealous." Carissaโs compliance over the past year had made the Warren family think she was easy to manipulate. They believed a few harsh words would always keep her in line. Carissaโs expression was calm, a stark contrast to her usual docility. "People can say whatever they want. I'm not concerned about their opinions." Rebecca was so angry that she struggled to breathe and coughed harshly for a long while. In the past, Carissa would have rushed to help her. She would pat the older woman's back and try to soothe her. But now, Carissa remained where she was. The soft evening light from the doorway highlighted her delicate, almost ethereal beauty. "Carissa, look how badly you've upset Mom," Serena said as she stepped forward. Her round, youthful face puffed with anger as she glared at Carissa. "This isnโt even about you. Do you think your family is still as prestigious as it once was? Your parents and brothers are gone; you're the only one left. Aren't you afraid that Barrett will divorce you if you keep putting on airs like you're a young lady from a prestigious family?" Carissa looked at her sister-in-law, who was dressed in a pale yellow outfit that Carissa had procured for her in early autumn. Now, wearing the clothes Carissa had provided, Serena dared to question her authority. How utterlyโฆ unsensible of her. "Take off that dress youโre wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serenaโs cheeks flushed with anger. "I didnโt beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you donโt want me to have it." "Fine. And donโt forget the jewelry youโre wearing. I expect it all to be returned to me." After Carissa said that, her gaze swept across the room. The only one who seemed pleased with the situation was Charlotte. Everyone else looked grim. "If thereโs nothing else, Iโll be leaving." With that, Carissa turned and walked out decisively. Chapter 5 The Warren family members exchanged puzzled glances. None expected the usually agreeable Carissa to stand her ground so firmly this time. She even defied Rebecca, the matriarch of the family! โSheโll come around. She doesnโt have any other choice,โ Rebecca said coldly. That was true. With Carissa's family gone, she had no one to rely on except the Warren family. Besides, she was still Barrett's rightful wife, and it wasnโt like she had been mistreated. - Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu returned to Northwatch Estate. The estate was bleak and covered in fallen leaves. After just half a year of neglect, the courtyard was overgrown with weeds that were taller than a person. Stepping back into the estate, Carissaโs heart ached fiercely. Six months ago, she had collapsed upon hearing that her family had been murdered. She had wept when she saw the lifeless bodies of her grandmother and motherโtheir corpses cold and devoid of warmth. Every corner of the estate had been stained with blood. Memorial plaques for her ancestors and mother had been placed at the estateโs family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parentsโ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. โDad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. Itโs not that I donโt want a peaceful life with a husband and children, but Barrett is not someone I can trust with my life. Rest assured, I promise Lulu and I will live well.โ Lulu knelt beside her, sobbing uncontrollably. After they were done, they boarded a carriage and headed straight for the palace. It was noon by the time they arrived. Under the scorching autumn sun, Carissa and Lulu stood like statues in front of the palace gates. They waited for a full hour, but no one came to let them in. Lulu was distressed and said, โMy lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks youโre here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didnโt eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?โ โIโm not hungry.โ The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. โPlease donโt be so hard on yourself. Itโs not worth getting sick over. Why donโt we just let it go? After all, youโre still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, sheโll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?โ Lulu pleaded. Carissaโs gaze was cold. โLulu, if youโre going to talk like that, donโt speak at all.โ Lulu sighed, feeling lost and unsure of what else to do. She had hoped that once Barrett returned, Carissa would find some peace. But the situation had only worsened. - In the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissaโs arrival to the king three times. โYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,โ he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. โI canโt see her. The edict has been issued, and I canโt take it back. Tell her to go home.โ โThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheโs been standing there for over an hour without moving.โ Salvador felt a pang of guilt. โBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnโt want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.โ โIf we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivanโs contributions surpass all others,โ Derek countered. Salvador remembered the Marquis of Northwatch, Hector Sinclair. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Carissa was a familiar face from those days, though she had been a delicate child. He still remembered her fair skin and endearing looks. Salvador had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers. When Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. Apart from his brother who was known as the Devil Monarch on the battlefield, the kingdom had no other capable generals. In the recent war with Westhaven, Dominic Sullivanโs third son had lost an arm. Dominic's seventh son had been murdered, though this had been kept secret. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector. โAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iโll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,โ said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. โAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!โ Chapter 6 Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Salvador remembered the Sinclair family. Knowing that Carissa was now the only one left stirred a feeling of pity in him. "Rise and speak," he commanded. Carissa bowed deeply with her hands clasped. "Your Majesty, I know it's presumptuous of me to seek an audience today. But I also wish to implore for your grace." "I have already issued the edict. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I implore you to issue another edict. I want to divorce General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "What? You want a divorce?" Salvador thought she had come to ask him to rescind the marriage edict. He never expected a plea for a divorce. Holding back tears, Carissa pleaded, "Your Majesty, General Warren and General Yates sought the marriage edict with their military achievements. "Today is the death anniversary of my father and brothers. I wish to seek an edict to divorce my husband based on my late family's military merits. Please, Your Majesty, I'm begging you." "Carissa, do you know what you'll face after the divorce?" Salvador asked, a complicated expression on his face. Carissa hadn't heard Salvador call her by name in a long time. When he was still the crown prince, he used to occasionally visit Northwatch Estate. He would always find some interesting little gifts to give her when he did. After Carissa later went to Meadow Ridge to study under her master, they never saw each other again. "I do," she affirmed. There was a hint of a smile on Carissa's stunning face. But no matter how one looked at it, the smile seemed tinged with irony. "I'm sure you know the saying that a true gentleman appreciates and helps others to fulfill their aspirations, right? Even though I'm not a gentleman, I don't want to hinder General Warren and General Yates from being together," Carissa added. "Carissa, there's no one left at Northwatch Estate. Are you really going to go back there? Have you thought about your future?" Salvador asked. "I returned to the estate today to visit my family's memorial plaques. Seeing how the estate has fallen into disrepair made me want to live there again. I'll adopt a son for my father's sake, so there will still be someone to honor his memory," Carissa explained. Salvador had thought she was being impulsive; he hadn't expected her to be so considerate. "You're Barrett's legal wife. Aurora can't undermine your position. You really don't need a divorce." Carissa looked up with tear-filled eyes that were firm with resolve. "Your Majesty, that's meaningless. I don't want to waste my life like this. I'm the only one left from the Marquis of Northwatch's' family. My father and brothers lived honorably and bravely throughout their lives. I don't want to settle for a life of mediocrity." "I know you have feelings for Barrett. Are you willing to let go?" Salvador asked. Feelings? Not really. Carissa simply admired military men, and her mother had wanted her to marry and lead a stable life. That was why she had agreed to the marriage. Carissa smiled. At this moment, she looked like a strong woman who would be able to flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. "If he can let go of me, then I can let go of him," she declared. Beneath her delicate appearance, she possessed an unyielding backbone. This stunned Salvador. He had never seen such a woman before. He felt a pang of confusion, remembering the carefree little girl who used to smile all day long. Now, she was married and soon to be abandoned. To the world, divorce still meant abandonment. This was especially true in Carissaโs situation, as Barrett had publicly sought the marriage edict. Being a woman was already difficult, and she would have it even harder. How would she negotiate future marriages? There was no one left in her family to do it for her. Thinking of this, Salvador recalled Hector's merits, especially how they had saved each other on the battlefield, and his heart softened towards Carissa. "Alright, I agree. You may leave now. In a few days, the edict of divorce will be sent to the general's residence," Salvador said. Carissa breathed a sigh of relief and bowed her head. "Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty!" As Salvador watched her, he was suddenly reminded of when she was a little girl, and his heart softened further. "Carissa, if anyone mistreats you in the future, come to the palace and see me." "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Carissa bowed once again. | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 320 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/460083192_1205140647401870_535574737225378412_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fVK4h_eDuJsQ7kNvgEbHkBa&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A-HU_vyr113c0otPCPT0i1D&oh=00_AYDdCRwlx_DcvVSo9bhNeiYkpAnb0qFlnVExDxU9Z1A27w&oe=6747169D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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MALIBU, BRAND-NEW CONSTRUCTION, $2.895M / $2.9775M OPEN HOUSES- SUN, 2-5P - 2 NEW CONSTRUCTION HOMES https://www.SeabreezeDrive.com Both are close to all, just 3 min. to sand, 4 min. to Malibu Civic center shops and dining, & Just above Solstice Canyon Waterfalls! House #1: 2901 Seabreeze Drive, Malibu 90265 3+3 on 1/4 acre lot, $2.895.000 Spectacular views from nearly every room 2881 Seabreeze Drive, 3+3 $2.977.500 panoramic ocean and Solstice views, approx. 1/4 acre double lot, 6 car parking. SEE LINK ABOVE FOR BOTH | CALL_NOW | Kelly Pessis,REALTOR - Compass, Modern Estates Group, Lic. #01254996 | https://www.facebook.com/ModernMalibu/ | 191 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Call now | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-3.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468042129_985618643604672_6474412698813111718_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eZxZa5nIi_QQ7kNvgHlBcpT&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-3.xx&_nc_gid=AaR8pHXRVeugnb7LXRO0FP5&oh=00_AYDeVFEeQT1OFXZShAdfV-cU2ZOlMZuVHf9WI1Zp7OHucw&oe=6746EA9D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Kelly Pessis,REALTOR - Compass, Modern Estates Group, Lic. #01254996 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Unleash Adventure, Unwind in Comfort | Winter magic is calling in the Smoky Mountains! โ๏ธโจ Dreaming of cozy cabins, scenic snow-dusted trails, and hassle-free camping? At Roamstead, weโve got it allโyear-round adventure with warm, comfortable accommodations and family-friendly vibes. Whether itโs a peaceful retreat or a holiday getaway, your perfect winter escape awaits. Visit our website now to book your Smoky Mountain winter adventure! | BOOK_TRAVEL | https://resnexus.com/resnexus/reservations/book/FB | Roamstead | https://www.facebook.com/roamstead/ | 2,320 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Book Now | 0 | www.roamstead.com | DCO | {{product.description}} | https://resnexus.com/resnexus/reservations/book/FBF415F2-C33B-4F06-BDCC-DD190FDF60BB | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-3.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467759825_1087148483157161_562507559311623939_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o5fivJpD5GMQ7kNvgFkskd-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-3.xx&_nc_gid=AaR8pHXRVeugnb7LXRO0FP5&oh=00_AYCXAblHXKJLoO1MpvIFLuWekEFJqXB6IP2J67rtgXhaHw&oe=67470C75 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Roamstead | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 | Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer | The must-try moisturizer that does what it says.Claim your free sample and try today! | SIGN_UP | http://fb.me/ | L'Orรฉal Paris | https://www.facebook.com/LOrealParisUSA/ | 36,000,866 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign Up | 0 | fb.me | DCO | REDEEM A FREE SAMPLE NOW! | http://fb.me/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465792587_1191267778638146_3490051208498174205_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ELOUdZ5I8zEQ7kNvgFH3Ui1&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A7b5wBKFckrj6PNGs4DflOG&oh=00_AYBjOvMca1D6Usm_doz5CDLEdi3_NsF0FmxJ32A4M8KGjw&oe=6746F9B8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | L'Orรฉal Paris | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Your Clan Aran Sweater | SHOP_NOW | https://www.aran.com/clan-aran-sweaters?ad_id={{ad | Aran Sweater Market, Aran Islands, Ireland | https://www.facebook.com/aransweatermarket/ | 161,012 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | aran.com | CAROUSEL | https://www.aran.com/clan-aran-sweaters?ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-3.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468073299_492709140451564_4621950406143423738_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9_bPVRNzB64Q7kNvgFmWR8U&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-3.xx&_nc_gid=A7b5wBKFckrj6PNGs4DflOG&oh=00_AYBlqbCZ0ZHNWPZwSsgnA57GpjCmjwF2p4C8ZGitMITO0g&oe=6746E921 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Aran Sweater Market, Aran Islands, Ireland | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Your Clan Aran Sweater | SHOP_NOW | https://www.aran.com/clan-aran-sweaters?ad_id={{ad | Aran Sweater Market, Aran Islands, Ireland | https://www.facebook.com/aransweatermarket/ | 161,012 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | aran.com | CAROUSEL | https://www.aran.com/clan-aran-sweaters?ad_id={{ad.id}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-3.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468073299_492709140451564_4621950406143423738_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9_bPVRNzB64Q7kNvgFmWR8U&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-3.xx&_nc_gid=A7b5wBKFckrj6PNGs4DflOG&oh=00_AYBlqbCZ0ZHNWPZwSsgnA57GpjCmjwF2p4C8ZGitMITO0g&oe=6746E921 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Aran Sweater Market, Aran Islands, Ireland | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Welcome inside the stunning Washburn University's, Ross House! Before I get into all the incredible details I want to point out a couple people and the incredible heart and soul they put into this house. Daniel Carlson, our general contractor, said yes to every single design concept we came up with. This made his job a thousand times more difficult, but he was just as committed to the standard we wanted to deliver on this home. I'm so grateful for his vision for this home, because it's a huge lift to be the one who actually has to make all these things work and hold up for a hundred years. Truly, grateful is an understatement for how thankful I am for him. He's also my brother, so that makes it pretty fun too. Kelly Ballard was the lead designer on this home and she just shined on this project! The unique, and often challenging role, of a designer is the ability to go back and forth from a creative/dreaming role to a detailed/execution role and this girl killed it! The level of details she created and executed would have done anyone else in, but she thrived and her vision was inspiring! What a gift she has! I'm so grateful to create this home alongside her and see her talents come to life. Today, I'm sharing the dining room and it's one of my favorite spaces she designed, well, just wait for the kitchen, I'm pretty obsessed with that too! Brett Thiessen is our estimator and manager of it all. There are a lot of moving parts with scope and design change over the six months we spent in the architectural and design phase and the twelve months of building and to know and manage all the financial happenings over a long horizon is truly a gift. Thankful for all he did behind the scenes to make this home a reality. Now, onto the pretty details! The first thing you'll notice is the gorgeous mahogany double arched door. While we were in the architectural phase of designing this home we conducted a lot of research of original buildings on Washburn's campus and a consistent theme where arched entrances. Immediately, we knew we wanted to nod to the past by selecting an arched double front door. Another key design element in older homes is intricate exterior trim details. It was important for us to incorporate this into the home, but because this isn't often done anymore (especially around here!) it proved much harder than we initially expected. We ended up having each one of these dentil moldings hand made for the front of the house! What a team effort from Sarah Grafke and her 3D renderings to figure out the exact sizing and spacing to the actual fabrication and installation of these pieces. This is the beauty of how technology and craftsmen work together in 2024! I'm just thrilled with how it turned out and all the incredible trim work on the exterior is one of my favorite elements of this home...the other is all this gorgeous Kansas Limestone! We worked on a custom blend of stone and I love the stone details we added with the window lentils and stone boarder across the house. The gas lanterns on the front and copper gutters just finish off the exterior perfectly! This custom Washburn tile in the vestibule provides so much character right when you walk in with gorgeous gold light fixtures that charmingly remind me of Kansas wheat. Turning the corner the dining room draws you right in with the dark navy walls, deep mahogany furniture and tons of gorgeous millwork! To keep a grand look in this room we concealed a track system into the ceiling to hang the curtains. I love how stately and refined it feels! It's the perfect room for all the hosting Washburn University does and it makes quite the first impression! General Contractor | Daniel Carlson Architectural & Interior Design | Tammy Thiessen & Kelly Ballard 3D Design | Sarah Grafke The team that made it happen! | Amber Allphin , Melissa Elliott , Michelle Goeden, Abby Terrell, Sarah Elizabeth & our wonderful build team! Photos | Emma Highfill Photography | NO_BUTTON | Thiessen Design + Construction | https://www.facebook.com/ThiessenDesignConstruction/ | 2,377 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No button | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468075355_551200944547785_3075800400257554803_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jJ1fXwNxTrMQ7kNvgFgp5_V&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Acdk1FDZ2aNuitzc4XnJ-w1&oh=00_AYAkCf583MySPWln2Svxp2e7s4yBNGb12ahHHmicJFQxjQ&oe=6746F2F4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Thiessen Design + Construction | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Click to get your free bottle๐ | ~Winter is coming and it's time to get ready! As seen on the Shark Tank show, 195 lbs down to 135 lbs ๐ง No rigorous training required. It worked so well that I had to stop at week 4 because it was so effective! Best gift for myself and my family! ๐ | LEARN_MORE | https://keto-officialsales.us.com/Kelly04?utm_sour | Create online Health & Beauty | https://www.facebook.com/treasurespreebinstore/ | 1,462 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | keto-officialsales.us.com | DCO | {{product.description}} | https://keto-officialsales.us.com/Kelly04?utm_source={{adset.id}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468027238_1240690450546135_4086621932186845533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pe_s9I1EmH8Q7kNvgF-gS8k&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfZ1vkN6yWRfWcGYU1Suyxl&oh=00_AYBqBvjBT9TuGjeeklbmr7mUQfeo0vynHUdxmT88BI0ibA&oe=6747125E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Create online Health & Beauty | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-22 19:51 | active | 1909 | 0 | En medio de la ruina econรณmica de su familia, ella renunciรณ a su preciado violรญn y se convirtiรณ en la dรณcil mascota de su esposo, solo para encontrarse con el desprecio de este. Afortunadamente, ella por fin despertรณ, se divorciรณ con valentรญa y reiniciรณ su carrera musical, alcanzando un gran รฉxito y provocando el remordimiento de su ex. ===== Joelle Miller examinรณ minuciosamente el feed de Twitter de Rebecca Lloyd, estudiando con mucha atenciรณn cada video, ansiosa por ver el rostro del novio de Rebecca. Rebecca, la protagonista de los videos, irradiaba ternura y delicadeza con su sencillo vestido blanco. Si bien no era tan bella, tenรญa una genuina sencillez y una sonrisa encantadora. Habรญa descubierto que, en los dรญas importantes, Nochebuena, San Valentรญn e incluso el cumpleaรฑos de Joelle, Rebecca estaba con Adrian Miller, su supuesto esposo, quien se habรญa ausentado de todos esos dรญas durante los รบltimos tres aรฑos. Esas alegres narraciones sobre su vida con su novio fueron mรกs que suficientes para hundirla en la tristeza. "ยฟLo ven? รl siempre guarda para mรญ la parte mรกs jugosa de una sandรญa". "Incluso cuando llega tarde a casa, siempre me trae algo". "ยกY miren esta sorpresa! Recogiรณ de la iglesia un amuleto de bendiciรณn para mรญ". ...... El nombre de usuario era "Cuenta Regresiva Hacia la Muerte", la รบnica cuenta a la que Joelle seguรญa. Justo cuando reflexionaba sobre el siniestro nombre, la puerta del baรฑo se abriรณ. En la habitaciรณn poco iluminada apareciรณ Adrian. Gotas de agua caรญan de su cabello. A pesar de la tenue iluminaciรณn, sus atractivos rasgos permanecรญan intactos. Joelle cerrรณ instintivamente su celular y le dio una mirada reflexiva. Hacรญa mucho tiempo desde la รบltima vez que lo vio. Esa noche รฉl no estaba ahรญ por decisiรณn propia. Su abuela, Irene Miller, estaba enferma y, como querรญa un bisnieto con desesperaciรณn, lo obligรณ a regresar. De lo contrario, tal vez nunca hubiera venido. Durante sus tres aรฑos de matrimonio, Adrian pasaba la mayor parte del tiempo en Villas Oak, por lo que rara vez estaba en casa. Todos sabรญan que en realidad no amaba a Joelle. Estaba atrapada en un matrimonio por conveniencia. "Solo te voy a dar una oportunidad. El destino dirรก si quedas e**arazada o no", declarรณ Adrian con una voz resonante. ยฟQuรฉ querรญa decir? Antes de que Joelle pudiera seguir pensando, Adrian la agarrรณ del tobillo y la atrajo hacia รฉl. Joelle palideciรณ ante su crueldad, su cuerpo se tensรณ de miedo. "ยกAdrian! Basta, no quiero...". Empezรณ a luchar frenรฉticamente. Era una completa humillaciรณn verse obligada a vivir en esa situaciรณn con el hombre que amaba. Adrian hizo una mueca de desprecio. "Te atreviste a diseรฑo una vez, asรญ que debiste haberlo visto venir. Solo aguรกntalo". Ante esas duras palabras, los ojos de Joelle se llenaron de lรกgrimas y sus pestaรฑas bailaron como mariposas heridas. Mirando su rostro severo, dijo con voz temblorosa: "Las cosas no fueron lo que imaginabas..." Pero sus protestas fueron interrumpidas. Su resistencia se desvaneciรณ a medida que la desesperaciรณn se apoderaba de ella. "Has aprendido que hacerte la difรญcil es mucho mรกs interesante que quedarse tirada como un pez muerto", comentรณ con rencor. Despuรฉs de ducharse, se marchรณ sin mirar atrรกs, como si no quisiera quedarse mรกs tiempo ahรญ. Joelle no entendรญa quรฉ papel tenรญa en su vida. ยฟSolo era un juguete para su placer? ยฟO una herramienta para cumplir las expectativas de su familia de tener un heredero? La ventana estaba completamente abierta, por lo que entraba un gรฉlido y cortante viento. A Joelle se le erizaron los pelos de la nuca y se arropรณ mรกs con su manta. No solo temblaba de frรญo, sino que sentรญa su corazรณn desgarrado, ahora no conocรญa en absoluto al hombre que habรญa adorado durante casi ocho aรฑos. Tres aรฑos atrรกs, en un lujoso banquete organizado por la familia Miller, Joelle bebiรณ demasiado. Cuando se despertรณ, en la con Adrian. Antes de que pudiera asimilar lo que estaba pasando, su hermano y varios miembros de su familia irrumpieron. Ya no podรญa revertir lo sucedido. La abuela de Adrian tomรณ las riendas y organizรณ su matrimonio. Desde entonces, รฉl estaba convencido de que Joelle lo habรญa hecho a propรณsito. A ella le desconcertaba su profunda animosidad, por mรกs que creyera que lo habรญa d**gado. Despuรฉs de todo, habรญan crecido juntos. Pero ahora lo entendรญa todo. Para รฉl, ella no era mรกs que la nefasta mujer que habรญa saboteado su relaciรณn con Rebecca. A menudo pensaba en lo perfecto que รฉl se veรญa en los videos de Rebecca, siempre tan gentil y atento. Probablemente nunca le mostrarรญa esa misma ternura. No pudo contener mรกs las lรกgrimas y sucumbiรณ a un ataque de sollozos. Esa noche no pudo dormir bien. Tuvo sueรฑos sobre el pasado, cuando ella y Adrian no estaban en malos tรฉrminos. Debido a su angustia, Joelle se levantรณ inusualmente temprano. Despuรฉs de lavarse, se puso ropa de casa y bajรณ las escaleras. Leah Jenkins, la empleada domรฉstica con muchos aรฑos de servicio, la vio bajar y rรกpidamente puso la mesa con el desayuno, ya que conocรญa sus preferencias dietรฉticas. Joelle se tomรณ su tiempo para comer lentamente. "Seรฑora Miller, ยฟpor quรฉ anoche no convenciรณ a su esposo para que se quedara? No viene a casa a menudo", comentรณ Leah con simpatรญa. Habรญa sido sirvienta de la familia Miller durante muchos aรฑos, por lo que habรญa visto cรณmo los dos se convertรญan de amigos de la infancia a enemigos. Joelle se mostrรณ incรณmoda, pero lo ocultรณ con una sonrisa serena. "Lo intentรฉ, pero no quiso quedarse". Incluso si pudiera mantener a Adrian cerca, รฉl tenรญa el corazรณn en otra parte. Mรกs concretamente, en Villas Oak, el hogar de la mujer que realmente amaba. Leah dudรณ y agregรณ con cautela: "Tal vez sea porque el seรฑor Miller estรก muy ocupado con la empresa. Dirigir una compaรฑรญa tan grande requiere mucho tiempo". Tres aรฑos atrรกs, le habรญan reasignado para cuidar de Joelle, asรญ que entendรญa los entresijos de ese matrimonio mejor que nadie. Su perspicacia trajo consigo una sincera simpatรญa hacia ella. Las pestaรฑas de Joelle temblaron mientras mordisqueaba su tostada. Sus ojos se llenaron de lรกgrimas debido a la tensiรณn emocional. Sรญ, Adrian estaba muy ocupado, pero siempre tenรญa tiempo para Rebecca. Frecuentaba la Iglesia Redenciรณn en busca de un amuleto de bendiciรณn para ella. A pesar de su apretada agenda, siempre pasaba las vacaciones con ella. De repente, su celular rompiรณ el silencio. Cuando Leah saliรณ del comedor, Joelle agarrรณ el dispositivo y vio que era una llamada de su mejor amiga, Katherine Nash. "Katherine, quiero el divorcio", confesรณ con voz ronca. Capรญtulo 2 En declive Joelle habรญa tomado una decisiรณn: querรญa el divorcio. No tenรญa sentido seguir alargรกndolo. Tras un silencio atรณnito, Katherine soltรณ una estridente carcajada. "ยฟTe quedarรกs con la mitad de los bienes de Adrian? ยกOh, por Dios! ยกJoelle, te convertirรกs en una multimillonaria!". "No, no serรก asรญ". Joelle habรญa firmado un acuerdo cuando se casรณ con Adrian. Si se divorciaban, ella no recibirรญa nada. "Entonces, ยฟpor quรฉ te estรกs divorciando? ยกTienes que seguir siendo su esposa!". Joelle recordรณ la brutalidad de Adrian la noche anterior, asรญ como la humillaciรณn posterior. Habรญa sido muy ingenua al creer que su amor por รฉl la ayudarรญa a soportar cualquier dificultad. Pero ahora sabรญa que habรญa sido una completa tonta. ยฟEl sufrimiento hacรญa que Adrian la amara mรกs? Claro que no. Para empezar, un hombre que realmente la amara nunca le harรญa sufrir. Joelle se rio de sรญ misma y cambiรณ de tema: "Por cierto, ยฟrecuerdas el favor que te pedรญ?". "Sรญ, justo te iba a contar eso. Me pediste que estuviera atenta a un trabajo, y tengo algo para ti. Vas a enseรฑar a un estudiante a tocar el violรญn, aunque debo decir que serรก un desperdicio de tu talento". "Estรก bien", respondiรณ Joelle con una leve sonrisa. "No serรก un desperdicio en absoluto. Llevo tres aรฑos siendo ama de casa. Es suficiente con que alguien quiera contratarme". "ยฟCรณmo que no serรก un desperdicio? Casi formaste parte de una orquesta internacional. Si no fuera por el matrimonioโฆ". Katherine se quedรณ en silencio, demasiado indignada por su amiga. Despuรฉs de su boda, a Joelle ni siquiera le permitieron trabajar. Las familias adineradas se aferraban a esas reglas obsoletas. Era bastante ridรญculo. Hacรญa tres aรฑos, la carrera de Joelle como violinista despegaba. Pero las estrictas tradiciones de la familia Miller le prohibรญan tocar en pรบblico. El primer dรญa de su matrimonio, la madre de Adrian le dijo: "No tienes que trabajar. Adrian te proveerรก en todo lo que necesites. Tu รบnico trabajo es tener bebรฉs y cuidar a tu esposo". Una vez que terminรณ su llamada con Katherine, Joelle subiรณ las escaleras y fue al estudio para agarrar su violรญn abandonado. Habรญa sido un regalo especial de su padre en su decimoctavo cumpleaรฑos. No obstante, poco despuรฉs de recibirlo, este sufriรณ un derrame cerebral y cayรณ en coma. Su hermano mayor terminรณ asumiendo la responsabilidad de sustentar a la familia, asรญ que la dejรณ perseguir su sueรฑo de tocar el violรญn. Mientras recordaba el pasado, Joelle moviรณ el arco sobre las cuerdas. Aรฑos atrรกs, un accidente le habรญa lesionado la muรฑeca y desde entonces no habรญa vuelto a tocar. A pesar del dolor agudo que sentรญa en esa zona mientras tocaba, no se detuvo y confiรณ en su memoria muscular para tocar una pieza corta. Al final, soltรณ una risa amarga. Sonaba horrible. De repente, escuchรณ la alegre voz de Leah en la puerta. "ยกSeรฑor, ha regresado!". Estaba secretamente aliviada de ver a Adrian, ya que eso tal vez significaba que todavรญa se preocupaba por Joelle. Quizรกs si ella le decรญa algo amable, su relaciรณn podrรญa mejorar. Por su parte, Joelle estaba sorprendida. Adrian rara vez venรญa a casa durante el dรญa. Apenas habรญa dejado el violรญn cuando se abriรณ la puerta. Ahรญ estaba la alta e imponente figura de su esposo. Sus ojos la recorrieron con el ceรฑo fruncido. Recordaba que Joelle habรญa aprendido a tocar el violรญn cuando era niรฑa y que un reconocido profesor la habรญa elogiado por su talento. Sin embargo, por alguna razรณn, habรญa dejado de tocar. Hacรญa un momento, la habรญa escuchado desde afuera y le pareciรณ una interpretaciรณn mediocre. ยฟCรณmo era posible que la elogiara por su talento? Joelle lo mirรณ y bajรณ la cabeza para volver a guardar el violรญn en su estuche. "ยฟQuรฉ te trae por aquรญ?", murmurรณ. "ยฟNecesitas algo?". "Vine a recoger algo y recordarte que maรฑana tenemos que visitar a la abuela", respondiรณ รฉl frรญamente. Era una regla familia visitar a su abuela al menos una vez al mes, y maรฑana era el dรญa. De no ser por esa obligaciรณn, Adrian no habrรญa regresado. Irene se enfadarรญa si no iban juntos. Joelle sonriรณ con amargura. Recordaba las normas de los Miller mejor que Adrian y siempre las cumplรญa. Ni siquiera Irene, tan estricta como siempre, podรญa encontrarle defectos. "No lo he olvidado, me alegra que tรบ tampoco lo hayas hecho", respondiรณ. Su tono acusatorio hizo que Adrian pusiera una mueca. Una ira latente empezรณ a hervir dentro de รฉl. Sin decir nada mรกs, se dirigiรณ al vestidor para buscar algo. Aunque รฉl no solรญa estar en casa, Joelle aseaba meticulosamente su guardarropa, por lo que tenรญa la ropa lavada, planchada y ordenada. Era como si su papel se redujera a realizar las tareas del hogar, algo que Leah tambiรฉn podรญa hacer. Su รบnica ventaja, tal vez, era ser mรกs joven y mรกs guapa que Leah. Sus ojos siguieron los movimientos de Adrian. Tenรญa el dedo anular desnudo, sin el anillo de bodas. Una punzada de dolor le atravesรณ el corazรณn. "Adrian, hay que divorciarnos", declarรณ con una voz tan suave como la brisa. Habรญa agotado todas sus fuerzas al pronunciar esas palabras, pero se sintiรณ extraรฑamente aliviada. Adrian se dio la vuelta y la mirรณ con una sonrisa burlona. "Tienes que pensar muy bien antes de hablar. La familia Watson estรก en declive. Sin mi apoyo, ยฟvas a dormir en la calle con tu hermano?". Desde la caรญda de la familia Watson, Joelle pasรณ de ser amada a quedar en ridรญculo. La familia Miller la despreciaba y la miraba por encima del hombro, como si ella y su hermano fueran sanguijuelas de las que no podรญan librarse. Incluso sus momentos รญntimos con Adrian la hacรญan sentir degradada. Joelle se mordiรณ el labio y se enderezรณ. "Ya he alquilado un apartamento. Incluso si terminara durmiendo en la calle, es asunto mรญo". Solo querรญa que su esposo la respetara, pero tres aรฑos de cautiverio la habรญan dejado sin orgullo ni dignidad. "ยฟY de dรณnde sacaste el dinero para alquilar un apartamento? Si tanto querรญas ser independiente, no deberรญas haber gastado ni un solo centavo de mi familia". De espaldas a ella, Adrian encontrรณ entre unos muebles el anillo de bodas perdido y lo sostuvo en la palma de su mano. Joelle no se dio cuenta. Las palabras de ese hombre la dejaron sin aliento. Sรญ, habรญa utilizado sus escasos ahorros para alquilar el apartamento. Pero como estaba casada con Adrian, ยฟlo que era suyo no era tambiรฉn de รฉl? Ademรกs, el apoyo financiero que Adrian les habรญa dado a los Watson durante todos esos aรฑos ascendรญa a una suma significativa. Joelle siempre habรญa despreciado la idea de deberle algo, pero su deuda con รฉl era infinita. Si se divorciaban, tal vez dejarรญa de darle apoyo financiero a la familia Watson. ยฟEstaba sugiriendo que ella debรญa salir del matrimonio con las manos vacรญas? Cuando Adrian se dio la vuelta para irse, Joelle dijo con una dignidad apenas intacta: "Tengo derecho legรญtimo a este matrimonio y a reclamar lo que supuestamente es mรญo. Pero no te preocupes, no pedirรฉ mucho, solo lo suficiente para ayudar al Grupo Watson a superar esta crisis". Adrian se quedรณ paralizado y su mirada se agudizรณ. Sus labios formaron una fina lรญnea mientras apretaba la mandรญbula. Eran claras seรฑales de su creciente furia. Aunque Joelle ya se habรญa preparado mentalmente, no podรญa soportar su intensidad. Cada segundo bajo su mirada severa la ponรญa mรกs ansiosa. De repente, sonรณ el celular de Adrian, quien lo sacรณ de su bolsillo y estuvo a punto de alejarse. "ยกAdrian!". Capรญtulo 3 Siempre mantendrรฉ la cabeza en alto La frustraciรณn de Adrian crepitaba como estรกtica. "Si tu hermano necesita dinero, dile que vaya al Grupo Miller". "ยกNo se trata de eso!", replicรณ Joelle. La habรญa malinterpretado por completo. Con el corazรณn latiendo con urgencia, corriรณ tras รฉl. "ยกAdrian, quiero el divorcio!". Adrian dejรณ de subir las escaleras y girรณ la cabeza. El celular en su mano habรญa dejado de sonar. Con un metro noventa de altura, se alzaba sobre ella. "Joelle, ยฟno se te ocurre un mejor juego que este interminable tira y afloja?", preguntรณ burlonamente con una mirada gรฉlida. "Si de verdad quieres divorciarte, ยฟpor quรฉ no se lo dices tรบ misma a la abuela? ยกNo quiero volver a escucharte pronunciar esa palabra!". La puerta se cerrรณ de golpe detrรกs de รฉl, haciendo eco a su irrevocable decisiรณn. Joelle se apoyรณ contra la pared y sus piernas cedieron hasta que se deslizรณ al suelo. Una risa amarga emergiรณ de sus labios. Irene habรญa organizado su matrimonio. Adrian se habรญa visto obligado a aceptar, y Joelle lo sabรญa muy bien. Si de verdad querรญa el divorcio, lo mรกs efectivo serรญa hablar con Irene. Sin embargo, una pequeรฑa y estรบpida parte de ella se habรญa aferrado a la esperanza de que ella y Adrian eran una verdadera pareja. Por eso se lo habรญa mencionado primero a รฉl, porque lo veรญa como su esposo. Sin embargo, olvidรณ un detalle crucial: Adrian nunca habรญa querido casarse con ella. Su reticencia habรญa sido evidente desde el principio, aunque ella habรญa intentado pasarla por alto. Sus รบltimas palabras no solo fueron despectivas, sino una orden. Si de verdad querรญa el divorcio, deberรญa enfrentarse a Irene. Joelle se dio una ducha, se puso ropa limpia y se preparรณ para visitar a la anciana. Irene era estricta, autoritaria y temida por toda la familia. Gobernaba con puรฑo de hierro y no toleraba la desobediencia. Pero Joelle tenรญa un vรญnculo muy especial con ella. En parte, habรญa aceptado casarse con Adrian para cumplir las expectativas de Irene. Querรญa cuidar de Adrian, construir un hogar y asegurarse de que la anciana falleciera sin remordimientos. Pero ahora ya no aguantaba mรกs. Ver a Adrian tan preocupado por otra mujer le llenaba de una amargura que parecรญa consumirla. Era consciente de que รฉl no la amaba. ยกNunca lo hizo y nunca lo harรญa! Estaba a punto de irse cuando sonรณ su celular. Era su hermano, Shawn Watson. "ยฟShawn? ยฟQuรฉ ocurre?". "ยกSeรฑora Miller!". Era el asistente de Shawn. Su voz sonaba muy asustada, algo que Joelle nunca habรญa escuchado. Se le helรณ la s**gre y agarrรณ el celular con mรกs fuerza mientras permanecรญa en la escalera. "ยฟDรณnde estรก mi hermano? ยฟQuรฉ le pasรณ?". "Anoche el seรฑor Watson asistiรณ a una reuniรณn de negocios, donde lo presionaron para que b*iera. Supuestamente volverรญa a casa, pero Erick Lloyd insistiรณ en llevarlo a unas aguas termales". Joelle se quedรณ congelada y la furia recorriรณ sus venas. "ยฟErick no sabรญa que eso podrรญa matarlo?". "ยกErick es un s**vergรผenza! Se jacta de su poder desde que su padre y su hermano se volvieron chรณferes de la familia Miller. ยกSeรฑora Miller, tiene que venir rรกpido! El seรฑor Watson estรก siendo operado y los mรฉdicos han emitido dos avisos de condiciรณn crรญtica. ยกNo pude aguantar mรกs, asรญ que la llamรฉ!". El asistente parecรญa estar al borde de las lรกgrimas. Joelle sabรญa que รฉl no se habrรญa puesto en contacto con ella a menos que la situaciรณn fuera bastante desesperada. Shawn siempre la habรญa protegido de las malas noticias, sin importar lo sombrรญas que fueran las circunstancias. Si su asistente estaba tan conmocionado, la vida de su hermano debรญa estar en peligro. Joelle sintiรณ como si el mundo se cerrara a su alrededor y un nudo se formรณ en su garganta. Al bajar del รบltimo escalรณn, tropezรณ y se cayรณ con fuerza, torciรฉndose bruscamente el tobillo. El dolor abrasador la devolviรณ a la realidad y las lรกgrimas brotaron de sus ojos. "ยกOh, no, seรฑora Miller, tenga mรกs cuidado cuando camina!". Leah corriรณ a ayudarla a levantarse. Joelle agarrรณ el brazo de Leah con la visiรณn borrosa a causa de las lรกgrimas. Intentรณ hablar, pero las palabras le salรญan entrecortadas porque estaba sollozando. "Mi hermano... ยกTengo que ir al hospital para verlo!". Leah sintiรณ su urgencia y respondiรณ sin dudar: "De acuerdo, no se preocupe. ยกLe pedirรฉ al conductor que la lleve de inmediato!". Leah era una criada experimentada y confiable que llevaba aรฑos al servicio de la familia Miller. Cinco minutos despuรฉs, el auto ya estaba aparcado delante de la villa. Joelle estaba a punto de subir cuando se volviรณ hacia Leah. "Por favor, no se lo cuentes a Irene. No quiero preocuparla". El corazรณn de la criada se ablandรณ. Incluso con el rostro pรกlido y surcado de lรกgrimas, Joelle se preocupaba por la salud de Irene. ยกQuรฉ muchacha tan rara y extraordinaria! "No se preocupe, seรฑora Miller. Yo sรฉ quรฉ hacer. Vaya a ver a su hermano". Cuando Joelle llegรณ al hospital, Shawn acababa de salir del quirรณfano. Al ver a su jefe conectado a tubos y cables, el asistente casi se desplomรณ. Joelle se acercรณ y lo encontrรณ arrodillado contra la pared, con los ojos hundidos e inyectados en s**gre. Tuvo que contener el impulso de regaรฑarlo por no haber protegido mejor a su hermano. Mรกs tarde habrรญa tiempo para eso. Cuando la condiciรณn de Shawn fue mรกs estable, Joelle llevรณ al asistente a un lado. "Cuรฉntamelo todo. ยฟCรณmo ocurriรณ esto?". El asistente vacilรณ, con el rostro desencajado. "Seรฑora Miller, el seรฑor Watson nos ordenรณ especรญficamente que no la involucremos en los asuntos comerciales". "Pero esto es una cuestiรณn de vida o muerte. ยฟPiensas que todavรญa es una opciรณn no decirme nada?". Ya sin paciencia, Joelle se dio la vuelta para alejarse. "Seรฑora Miller, eso no sirve de nada", respondiรณ el asistente desesperadamente. "Usted sabe que desde la muerte de su padre, el Grupo Watson ha dependido por completo de su hermano. Ha estado luchando para defender la dignidad de la familia, porque quiere que su vida con los Miller sea mรกs llevadera". Durante esos aรฑos, Shawn habรญa luchado valientemente para mantener a la familia a flote. No obstante, sin el apoyo financiero de Adrian, sus esfuerzos se habrรญan desvanecido hacรญa mucho tiempo. Su deseo mรกs profundo era que su hermana viviera cรณmodamente, pero a pesar de sus incansables esfuerzos, nunca pudo hacerle ganar el respeto que merecรญa por parte de su esposo. No importaba lo mucho que se sacrificara, ella seguirรญa siendo infravalorada en la familia Miller. Joelle estaba hirviendo de rabia, pero sabรญa que no podรญa cambiar su realidad. Entonces, inspirรณ profundamente y preguntรณ: "ยฟNo mencionaron mi relaciรณn con Adrian?" Esperaba que alinearse con los Miller pudiera ayudar a Shawn a mantenerse firme en sus actividades sociales. "El seรฑor Watson se niega a tocar ese tema, pues teme que eso le haga las cosas mรกs difรญciles a usted". Joelle soltรณ una risa amarga. Jamรกs habรญa estado en igualdad de condiciones con Adrian. No le extraรฑaba que la despreciara, ya que apenas podรญa soportarse a sรญ misma. Solo hacรญa una hora que le habรญa pedido el divorcio. Y ahora se aferraba al nombre de su esposo, desesperada por facilitarle la vida a su hermano. "Dile a Shawn que soy la esposa de Adrian Miller, Irene me eligiรณ personalmente. ยกMientras sea la seรฑora Miller, mantendrรฉ la cabeza en alto dentro de la familia!". De repente, escucharon unos pasos detrรกs de ella. Joelle se dio la vuelta y vio a Adrian, que tenรญa una sonrisa frรญa en su rostro. A su lado, se encontraba una muchacha de aspecto frรกgil, con grandes ojos inocentes, aferrada a รฉl. Adrian la miraba desdeรฑosamente, como si incluso le costara reconocer su presencia. Ya se habรญa dado cuenta de que ella realmente no querรญa el divorcio. La mujer que habรญa parecido tan decidida a irse, ahora estaba haciendo alarde de su tรญtulo como la seรฑora Miller. Su amenaza de divorcio no habรญa sido mรกs que una estrategia, como una pelea de amantes que terminaba en amenazas vacรญas. Era tan astuta que lo habรญa d**gado para obligarlo a casarse. Con tรกcticas tan engaรฑosas, ยฟcรณmo podrรญa irse tan fรกcilmente? Su matrimonio eran un salvavidas para las dificultades de su familia. Adrian le daba cien millones cada aรฑo al Grupo Watson. Joelle serรญa una tonta si se arriesgaba a perderlo divorciรกndose de รฉl. Capรญtulo 4 Por fin se dio cuenta Hacรญa mucho que Joelle se habรญa vuelto insensible ante la indiferencia de Adrian. Observรณ sin decir nada los brazos entrelazados de la pareja y recordรณ los dulces momentos capturados en los videos de Rebecca, que provocaban la envidia de mucha gente. ยกQuรฉ pareja tan perfecta! Ese pensamiento la golpeรณ. "ยกJoelle, por favor, no nos malinterpretes!", dijo Rebecca con urgencia mientras retiraba su mano del brazo de Adrian. "No me siento bien y no puedo caminar, asรญ que Adie simplemente tuvo la amabilidad de sostenerme". Joelle esbozรณ una leve sonrisa. "ยฟQuรฉ te trae al hospital?", preguntรณ mirando a Adrian, como si no hubiera escuchado la explicaciรณn de Rebecca. "Es por Erick", dijo Rebecca, con las manos entrelazadas como una niรฑa arrepentida. "Tambiรฉn vine a pedirte perdรณn, Joelle. Lamento que Erick haya sido tan descuidado para provocar que tu hermano terminara en el hospital". "ยฟDescuidado?", replicรณ ella. "Tu hermano casi m*ta al mรญo, ยฟy crees que una disculpa bastarรก para arreglarlo?". Rebecca se estremeciรณ y agarrรณ la manga de Adrian en busca de apoyo. "Ya es suficiente, Joelle", respondiรณ รฉl con una voz tan gรฉlida como el invierno. "No fue a propรณsito". Luego, se volviรณ hacia Rebecca y agregรณ suavemente: "Vamos, ยฟno viniste para ver a Erick?". Fue entonces cuando Joelle lo entendiรณ todo. Habรญa esperado ingenuamente que Adrian viniera para ver a Shawn. Pero no, habรญa venido con Rebecca para ver a Erick. Incluso si visitara a Shawn, serรญa por obligaciรณn, nada mรกs. Pero sabรญa que no debรญa esperar que รฉl la defendiera. "ยกRebecca, no olvidarรฉ lo que hizo Erick!", espetรณ. Rebecca doblรณ las piernas y se desplomรณ sobre el pecho de Adrian, quien la atrapรณ justo a tiempo y la abrazรณ con fuerza. "Joelle, Erick no tenรญa malas intenciones. ยกTambiรฉn estรก en el hospital!". "ยฟYa estรก muerto? ยกSi no, tendrรก que pagar por lo que hizo!". Joelle no solรญa arremeter, pero esta vez era diferente. Shawn era la รบnica familia que le quedaba. Su padre, incapacitado por un derrame cerebral, se encontraba en estado vegetativo con poca o ninguna esperanza de recuperaciรณn, y su madre habรญa fallecido en un accidente de trรกfico. Desde los dieciocho aรฑos, habรญan sido solo ella y Shawn, enfrentรกndose juntos a las dificultades del mundo. En sus momentos mรกs oscuros, Shawn llevรณ sola la carga para dejar que Joelle persiguiera su pasiรณn por el violรญn. Ahora la idea de perderlo tambiรฉn a รฉl era insoportable. Su รบnico deseo era que Erick muriera. "Joelle, ยฟcรณmo puedes decir eso?", sollozรณ Rebecca con incredulidad. Ya sin paciencia, Adrian fijรณ su frรญa mirada en Joelle. "ยฟQuรฉ deseas?". "Shawn recibiรณ dos avisos de condiciรณn crรญtica. ยฟQuรฉ hay de Erick?". Rebecca jadeรณ, su frรกgil cuerpo estaba temblando como una hoja en el viento. "ยกJoelle, por favor! Solo me queda un hermano. ยกPor favor, ten compasiรณn!". Se desmayรณ antes de que la otra mujer pudiera responder. Adrian la levantรณ en sus brazos y le dio una รบltima mirada de reproche a Joelle. Luego, se alejรณ y la dejรณ clavada en el mismo lugar, incapaz de moverse o incluso de pensar, lo que pareciรณ una eternidad. Antes de su matrimonio, habรญa sido una chica adinerada, pero luego se convirtiรณ en la sirvienta de Adrian. Ahora se daba cuenta de lo ingenua que habรญa sido. Ella solรญa ser una persona muy orgullosa, pero ahora soporta todo tipo de agravios sรณlo para complacer a su marido. ยกQuรฉ patรฉtico! Han pasado tres aรฑos, es hora de divorciarnos y comenzar una nueva vida... ...... ยฟQuรฉ sucederรก en adelante? Los capรญtulos disponibles son limitados aquรญ, haga click el botรณn abajo para instalar APP y disfrutar leyendo mรกs contenidos maravillosos. (Al abrir el APP, directo accederรก a este libro) &9& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.manobook.com/14484375-fb_contact-spa | Online Reading | https://www.facebook.com/100083320248142/ | 43,855 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.manobook.com | VIDEO | https://fbweb.manobook.com/14484375-fb_contact-spa220_2-1023-core2.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=1164004058227180&rawadid=120214339776590186 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467510584_3558450847788489_4226271241603049066_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kovYKc_cM-8Q7kNvgE7wSea&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AcXyT0sH8GTDjLJtKa4dThh&oh=00_AYB-QbGlIon37i1sj53mvzFYacKllDoK5PQYTRaHTapWiw&oe=6746EC04 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Online Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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๐Attention! Do not read in public๏ผ๐ | "Carissa, the king has issued a decree allowing Aurora to marry into our general's house. I hope you can accept and respect this fact." The person who said this is Carissa Sinclair's husband, Barrett Warren. A year ago, on the night of their wedding, Barrett set out to lead his army into battle. Now, after finally returning victorious, he brings Carissa this kind of "good news." Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has said that General Yates is a model for all women in the kingdom. Would she be willing to be a concubine?" Barrett's eyes flashed with a hint of annoyance. "No, she won't be a concubine. She'll be my legal wife and equal to you." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Equal to me, huh? Do you remember what you said to me before you left for war?" On the wedding night a year ago, he personally lifted Carissa's veil and promised affectionately: "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Feeling awkward, Barrett turned away. "Forget what I said. When I married you, I didn't understand love. I thought you were a suitable match for a wife until I met Rory." Talking about the woman he loved, his eyes softened and filled with deep affection. He turned back to Carissa and added, "She's unlike any woman I've ever met. I love her deeply. I hope you'll agree to this." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite feeling a mix of disgust and unwillingness, she still asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict. Besides, Aurora is straightforward, cheerful, and lovable. She visited my mother a while ago." They agreed? Hah... How ironic! When Barrett left, the general's mansion had already fallen into decline. All the expenses were supported by the dowry Carissa had brought. Barrett's mother, Rebecca, was suffering from a strange illness, and she had invited a reclusive divine doctor to treat her. Each month, dozens of silver coins were spent on exorbitant medical fees, not to mention Carissa's constant care by Rebecca's bedside. In the end, she got such a reward. So, the kindness that this family shows is merely because they are relying on Carissa's dowry. If Barrett's betrayal was like a sharp sword, then Rebecca's hypocrisy was like thousands of silver needles, piercing deeply into Carissa's heart. Carissa pressed her lips into a thin line as she blinked away the tears in her eyes and sharpened her gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need for that. Carissa, she's different from any woman you know. She's a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldn't want to meet you," Barrett refused instantly. Carissa retorted, "What kind of women do I know? What kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of a noble family. My father and my six brothers died on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "That's them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. She's straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you won't like. Why put yourself through that?" As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under the corner of her eye became more evident in the light. She calmly said, "It's fine. If she says anything unpleasant, I'll ignore it. Understanding the bigger picture and acting with dignity are essential virtues for any matriarch. Don't you trust me?" "Never mind. I don't want to argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,"said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. "My lady, my lord was too much!" said Lulu, Carissa's maid, wiping her tears away. "Don't call him that!" Carissa gave her a stern look. "We never consummated the marriage. He's not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list." "Why the dowry list?" Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. "Silly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?" Lulu held her forehead and gasped. "But your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children." Tears finally welled up in Carissa's eyes at the mention of her parents. Carissa actually came from a family of warriors, and she had been training in martial arts since she was young, showing great talent. However, when she was 15, her father and several brothers died on the battlefield. Since then, her usually open-minded mother advised Carissa to hide her skills and, like other noble girls, find a husband to live a stable life. But now it seems she has betrayed her mother's expectations. Lulu brought over the dowry list and explained, "This year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins to support the household. However, the shops, houses, and estates remain untouched. All the bank savings, along with the property deeds and land titles your mother left, are locked up in the chest." Carissa glanced at the list, narrowed her eyes, and sneered, "No wonder they covet my dowry so much." The dowry her mother provided was quite substantial; she hadn't paid much attention to it before. Now she realized how much effort her mother had put in for her. "Then, my lady, what shall we do now?" Carissa's eyes grew cold. "I could confront the king and use my family's achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, I'll kill myself in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissa's expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think I'm that foolish? If I manage to reach the king, I'll only request an edict for an amicable divorce." Barrett was able to marry Aurora because of a royal edict. So, Carissa should also be issued an official edict to leave. She shouldn't have to sneak away like she was being cast out. In addition, the law states that if a woman is divorced, her husband has the right to keep all her dowry. Right now, Barrett doesn't dare to divorce her, mindful of his reputation, but who knows what will happen in the future? Carissa no longer wanted to believe in this hypocritical man, nor did she want to live under the same roof with him. She once hoped to build a life with Barrett, so naturally she would not be stingy with her dowry. However, circumstances had changed. She intended to leave the general's residence with dignity and take every last coin of her dowry back home! | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831& | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 320 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/464183718_1608087840126342_8310047084193887164_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hZRDrJJ2lKoQ7kNvgG4-oeK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ATXFUMibGwMhSpb0htSU9DN&oh=00_AYBYJsUVxavON1ohBLlBHx_pFjNoHs9Qqhz_FNNe-BxFOg&oe=6746F5DB | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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๐Read the next chapters๐ | Chapter 1 "You'll have the test results in about an hour." The nurse's smile was gentle and reassuring as she took the vial of blood from Madeline Sanders. Madeline held a cotton swab to her arm and settled into a chair in the waiting area. She was a bit pale, but her eyes sparkled with hope. She had a hunch she was conceived, and that hospital visit was just to make sure. Three years ago, Trevon Gibson was involved in a terrible car crash that left him comatose, with doctors saying he would never wake up. Lydia Sanders, Trevon's high school sweetheart and Madeline's half-sister, did not waste any time and jetted off abroad for her studies. Somehow, Trevon's grandmotherโEdith Gibsonโfigured that Madeline was Trevon's lucky charm and insisted she marry him. The Gibson family promised to care for Madeline's mother, who was lost in her own world of madness. Madeline felt trapped but agreed to the marriage. Little did everyone know that Madeline was secretly in love with Trevon for years. To everyone's surprise, Trevon woke up after the wedding. However, Madeline's joy was short-lived. Trevon's first words to her were icy and calculated. "Out of respect for my grandmother, I'll take you as Mrs. Gibson for three years. When Lydia returns in three years, I will marry her." Madeline had braced herself to play along with that deal, ready to step aside when the time came. However, life threw a curveball a month and a half ago. Trevon stumbled home after drowning his sorrows in wine that day, and Madeline single-handedly managed to drag him inside. Supporting a drunken Trevon was like moving a boulderโeach step a battle of strength. Madeline and Trevon could no longer keep themselves upright and crumpled to the floor just inside the front door. Their lips brushed together in the fall, an accidental kiss that sent Madeline's heart racing. Trevon was a notorious germaphobe, avoiding physical contact like the plague. However, that unexpected kiss seemed to unlock something in him, and he leaned in for another. Madeline was caught off guard, but she did not resist. Later, in the quiet aftermath, Madeline could not bear to stay in the bed they shared. She tiptoed around the sleeping Trevon, erasing any trace of what had happened between them. The hospital was a hive of activity, but Madeline felt alone in the crowd. With trembling hands, she opened the lab results. 'Early stage of conceive. Recommend a follow-up ultrasound.' Joy flickered across her face, quickly hidden behind her hand to muffle her giggles. Regardless of the state of her marriage, that baby was a precious gift. She was eager to tell Trevon, her fingers hovering over her phone. However, she hesitated. Trevon's germaphobia was not just about objectsโit extended to people. She had seen him scrub his hands raw after a mere handshake. However, wine had loosened his inhibitions that one night. Would he believe the baby was his? Doubt clouded Madeline's mind, bringing a headache and a wave of nausea. She was jostled as a group of doctors in white coats rushed by, nearly sending her phone flying. "Emergency! Please step aside," a nurse said, flashing Madeline a quick, apologetic smile before dashing off. Madeline took a deep breath, watching the commotion unfold. Her gaze drifted to the emergency room doors without much thought. However, in a heartbeat, her eyes widened in shock. Trevon was there, shielding Lydia as they stepped down from the ambulance. He guided her gently onto a stretcher and, with a team around them, made a beeline for the VIP suite. A chilling shiver sliced through Madeline, her knees buckling as she clung to the nearby railing for support. Lydia was back. In the hospital room, the doctor briefed Trevon. "It seems like a mild concussion, but we'll need the test results to be sure." Trevon's expression was serious. "Speed it up. Use the VIP route." Lydia, stretched out on the gurney, smiled weakly at Trevon. "You're always so kind to me." Lydia pouted as she continued, "I wasn't paying attention. Who would've thought a bike bump could lead to a concussion? In Ameristan, people usually slow down on their own." Trevon gave her a fleeting, detached look. A flicker of worry crossed Lydia's face. "Trevon, with Skylandia's tight deadlines, isn't my accident going to set us back a lot?" Skylandia was the latest venture from Trevon's gaming empire, Xystos Tech, and Lydia had returned to lead the art on it. "I won't stay here. I have to get back to work," she declared, attempting to get out of bed. Trevon was quick to intervene, his hand on her shoulder easing her back down. "Don't be childish." As the tender scene unfolded, Madeline watched them outside the VIP room with gritted teeth. Trevon was notorious for his meticulous ways, but he did have a soft spot. He was not always distant. He just saved all his warmth for Lydia. Madeline felt a wave of emotion as she teared up. She touched her nose and fought the tears. Without really knowing why, she found herself pulling out her phone and calling Trevon. In the sterile silence of the hospital room, Trevon's face froze for a moment as he checked his phone, then casually handed it off to his assistant, Simon Taylors. "Tell her I'm tied up in a meeting." Madeline's heart clenched as Trevon's annoyed expression flickered across his face. Simon, moving to the side, answered Madeline's call softly. "Hello, Mrs. Gibson. Mr. Gibson is busy in a meeting. Is there something you need?" Madeline's lips twitched with a defeated smile. "No, it's nothing. I just hit the wrong button." Simon frowned. "Mr. Gibson's schedule is packed. Please be more careful in the future, Mrs. Gibson." The future? Was there even a future to speak of? Lydia, overhearing Simon, gave Trevon a subtle glance. She casually showed off the pink Hello Kitty bandage on her hand. Trevon's eyes snapped to it, his voice laced with a hint of longing. "You still haven't kicked that old habit, I see." Lydia forced a smile. "Well, you know I've always been fond of Hello Kitty." Their eyes met, and for a moment, the world around them seemed to soften. Madeline could not stand it any longer. Clutching her phone, she turned around and left. She thought one night could change things, but it was just wishful thinking. Despite the autumn season, Redenbaugh City was sweltering, and the hospital's air conditioning was cranked up, sending chills down her spine. She felt light-headed, as if she were floating on air. Suddenly, a little boy darted into her path, bumping into her. Madeline's face went pale as she caught the little boy, but in doing so, she lost her footing and tumbled to the ground. The fall sent a chill up her spine, and she held her belly, too afraid to move. The boy, however, started wailing, drawing curious glances from passersby. His mother rushed over and gave him a quick once-over. When she found him unscathed, she pulled him into a tight embrace before turning to Madeline with fury. "Can't you watch where you're going? You ran into my baby! How will you make this right?" Madeline, her mind on the baby she was carrying, bit back her pain and chose not to retaliate. Instead, she made her way to the maternity ward upstairs. The mother was not having it, yanking on Madeline's arm. "You think you can just hit someone and leave?" Madeline, nearly tripping over, turned slightly and offered calmly, "Should we review the security footage?" The woman, clutching her son, stormed off. Madeline felt her vision darken as she clutched her chest. She leaned against the railing, immobilized. In the VIP ward, Lydia gazed at Trevon longingly and leaned in for a kiss. Trevon, who was aloof, felt a wave of nausea as she got close. His vision blurred, and his chest tightened. He flinched and shoved Lydia away. Chapter 2 "Here's the divorce agreement. Take a look." Trevon, fresh from the hospital, confronted Madeline with a request for divorce. The image of Lydia's hurt look lingered in his mind, leaving him with a sense of resignation. His rejection was not just about his aversion to germs. It was also the sudden sickness and weakness that overtook him. He dismissed it as a one-off, which was not worth worrying about. However, faced with Madeline, the discomfort was undeniable. Madeline, still reeling from her hospital visit, was blindsided by the divorce papers laid out before her. It took a moment for her to find her voice, and when she did, it quivered. "Do we really have to end this?" "Yes." Madeline's grip tightened, and the question she could not suppress spilled out. "Is it because Lydia's back?" Trevon loosened his tie, his face turning to stone. "Didn't I make myself clear three years ago?" He had, and she had accepted it. Howeverโฆ "If... Just if..." Madeline hesitated, biting her lip. Trevon was impatient. "Madeline, you can't always want more." She looked up sharply, disbelief etched on her face. Did he think she was haggling over the divorce terms? With several deliberate taps on the table, Trevon continued, "Indeed, you've done everything required of being a wife these past three years. There's a modest place near Johnsrud. It's yours now. That's the best I can do. Don't make me lose respect for you." Madeline's response was trapped in her throat as she smiled bitterly. Three years of marriage, and her reward was a house. Should she be thankful? He was determined to get the divorce over with, by any means necessary. There was no need to mention the baby. It would only complicate how he saw her. She did not need a man whose heart belonged to another. Madeline felt nauseous, feeling like she needed to purge immediately. She crouched down to clutch the bin and gagged, but nothing came up. Trevon watched, his brow furrowed in disbelief. Why did her sickness stir something in him? Was it a mere coincidence? Seeing her ashen face, it was clear she was unwell. Trevor gave Madeline a questioning look. "Are you sick? When did it start? What's wrong?" Madeline felt the urge to throw up but could not, which only intensified her discomfort. Clinging to the trash can seemed like the only thing she could do. At the sound of his question, her fingers tensed uncontrollably. She forced a casual response. "Maybe it's just a cold. No big deal." "Answer me!" His voice turned sharp, sending a jolt through Madeline, and she murmured almost without thinking. "This afternoon, when you wereโฆ I'm just feeling a bit of chest tightness, weak limbs, and a touch of nausea. Typical cold symptoms." She did not bring up the hospital visit, quickly labeling it a cold to avoid any wild guesses. The timing and the symptoms lined up perfectly. 'So, it's because we caught a cold at the same time?' Trevon wondered. Madeline finally let go of her resistance. She deliberately avoided the divorce papers on the table and fetched the sour orange she had bought earlier from the fridge. Her mouth was unbearably uncomfortable, and she craved the relief of something sour. After all, she would need some strength in her hand to sign those papers. The moment she took out the sour orange, its tangy scent filled the room. Catching a glimpse of Trevon standing to the side, watching her with a frown, she hesitated before offering, "Want one?" Trevon looked away, clearly uninterested. Madeline chuckled awkwardly. "Sorry, it slipped my mind. You're not into sour stuff." However, as she sliced into the vibrant sour orange and its juicy interior burst with a potent tangy aroma, Trevon seemed unable to look away. Madeline was about to take a bite when she noticed Trevon approaching. His towering presence felt like a wall closing in, making the kitchen feel smaller by the second. Instinctively, Madeline stepped back. "If you don't like it, then I'll just..." Before she could finish, Trevon was at the sink, lathering up with soap, washing his hands with deliberate care three times before reaching for a piece of the sour orange. He scrunched his forehead, eyeing the orange for a long moment before popping it into his mouth. Madeline's jaw dropped in astonishment. However, Trevon did not spit it out. He chewed thoughtfully and swallowed before looking at her seriously. "Next time, make sure the knife's washed three times, okay?" The urge to bite into that tangy orange slice was irresistible. Sure enough, the sour kick seemed to soothe his queasy stomach. It was not just some bug. His nausea had kicked in right after Madeline's, as if he was only sick because she was. What was up with that? Trevon made a mental note to get to the bottom of it. Madeline gave a simple "Oh" in response. They finished the orange together, a moment of closeness they had not felt in three years. After washing her hands, Madeline looked up at Trevon. Sharing that sour fruit seemed to have bridged the gap between them, if only a little. However, their journey together was nearing its end. She murmured, "I'll sign the divorce papers." It was like cashing out after three years. A million and five hundred thousand, and a house to her name. She was coming out ahead. When she was about to sign, Trevon snatched the papers away. "We'll add another house to the deal. Wait for the lawyer's final draft." Madeline nodded, still in a daze. Suddenly, Trevon's phone buzzed and Lydia's whiny voice came through as he picked up the call. "Trevon, when are you coming? I'm bored." Madeline gripped her pen so hard her thumb whitened, nearly snapping it. Trevon ended the call, grabbed his jacket, and headed for the door. Madeline stepped forward, her voice tinged with concern. "How am I supposed to explain this to Grandma?" "We'll talk when I'm back," Trevon replied before the door slammed shut behind him. The house, once filled with life, echoed with emptiness. Madeline chuckled at herself, shook off the silence, and went to the kitchen to whip up some noodles. After all, she had to think about the little one growing inside her. A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. Expecting Trevon, who might have forgotten something, she swung the door open only to be greeted by unwelcome faces. Madeline's warmth vanished. "What are you two doing here?" Cilix Sanders, her father, smiled and said, "You weren't picking up, so your mom and I thought we'd drop by." Her phone did show a string of missed calls. Ignoring their calls was nothing new, but their sudden visit was unexpected. "My mom's lost her mind, locked up in Sunshine Psychiatric Hospital. Did you forget to visit her, or did you forget she's there?" Skylar Lowe, Madeline's stepmother, stood beside Cilix in her flawless outfit. She looked nothing like someone who had toiled in the fields. However, her sharp and calculative eyes matched her biting tone. "Such disrespect! Where are your manners?" Madeline was furious. If she truly lacked manners, Skylar would have been long gone. It was Skylar's appearance, after all, that had tipped her mother over the edge. However, Madeline had been biding her time, collecting proof. They would all pay, eventually. Pushing down the bile, she asked coolly, "So, what brings you here?" "Let's talk inside," was all they said. Once they were in, Madeline poured water into two glasses, her hands steady as stone. Madeline's calm and compliant facade only fueled Skylar's ego. With an arrogant head tilt, she announced, "Your sister's back in town. It's time you end things with Trevon and give up your title as Mrs. Gibson to her!" Madeline fought the impulse to douse Skylar with water as she gripped the kettle firmly. "Give it up? I'm not following you." Madeline's gaze shifted to Cilix. "You told me when Trevon was in that coma, the company was strapped for cash. Marrying Trevon was the only way to afford my mom's medical bills. I married into the Gibson family for the sake of the Sanders family. How did Lydia end up taking my place as the daughter-in-law of the Gibson family?" Chapter 3 "I was looking out for the Sanders family too," Cilix said as he sipped his water. "The Sanders-Gibson family alliance is crucial. Three years by Trevon's side, and what? No kids, no hold on his heart, no benefits for the Sanders family. Now that Lydia's back, along with her bond with Trevon, these issues will vanish. I can even afford better care for your mother." Cilix's duplicity struck Madeline once more. Madeline countered, "Did you forget why Lydia left the country? Or do you think the Gibsons have forgotten too?" "That's why we're asking you to initiate the divorce with Trevon," Cilix replied. Madeline saw right through their plot. She would step aside, letting Lydia take the lead, and the Sanders family would reap all the rewards. After a tense silence, Madeline broke the ice. "I'm willing to divorce Trevon, but on one condition. I want my mom's sharesโthe ones she's entitled to." Cilix instantly became furious. Once upon a time, the Sanders family was a picture of unity. Cilix, who came from nothing, married Bella ZieglerโMadeline's motherโand quickly turned his fortune around with a garment factory. However, Bella paid a steep price, severing ties with her own family. It was not until Skylarโpreviously 'Jolene', with her kids in towโshowed up that Bella realized the magnitude of her mistake. She battled depression for years, and the strain of the revelation only deepened her illness. That was when Cilix dropped the divorce bomb. He played the bankruptcy card during the split, claiming all assets were tied up. Bella was left with scraps. However, once the divorce papers were signed, Cilix's business miraculously bounced back. Ever the opportunist, Cilix kept footing Bella's medical bills, basking in the glow of his newfound reputation. Madeline only pieced it all together as she grew upโher mother had been played. She had been nursing a plan to set things right ever since. The meeting ended with frosty treatment all around. Madeline shut the door behind them, collapsed onto the couch, and lost herself in the darkness outside the window. โฆ Dawn's light crept into the room. Madeline shielded her eyes and took a moment to adjust before getting up reluctantly. Nausea washed over her in an unforgiving wave. Trevon had not come home all night. Madeline's emotions were a messโresignation laced with a hint of disappointment. However, above all, there was relief. It was as if her decision to let go the day before had freed her from hope. Madeline sank back into the pillows. The click of the electronic lock signaled an arrival at the door. Madeline glanced up, and there was Lydia, swathed in designer elegance, striding in with a smile that could light up the room. "Madeline, it's been ages." Rising slowly, Madeline perched on the edge of the couch, her eyes a storm of loathing. "Who said you could come in? Leave!" Lydia's smile only grew. "Trevon sent me, of course. He spent last night at the hospital with me, then dashed off to work at dawn. He asked me to pick up a suit for him." A shadow crossed Madeline's face. So, Trevon was with Lydia last night. She had waited like a fool on that couch all night long, clinging to his promise. 'We'll talk when I get back.' "You're just like your mother, always the homewrecker," Madeline spat. Lydia's laughter rang out. "Who's the real homewrecker? It's the unloved one. Even the lock's code is my birthday. Trevon's heart is still with me. Madeline, you've been using my birthday to open this door for the past three years. That must sting, doesn't it?" Madeline's eyes flickered, her grip tightening on the blanket. She inhaled sharply before smiling mockingly. "Is technology that archaic where you come from? We've moved on to facial recognition, or fingerprints at the very least. Key codes are a thing of the past." Lydia's smile faltered, her composure slipping for a split second. "Outdated or not, Trevon's word is law." Madeline could not be bothered with petty squabble. Her nausea was getting worse. She gestured toward Trevon's bedroom. "His stuff's in there. Help yourself." With a smug grin, Lydia disappeared into the room and emerged moments later, a bundle of clothes in her arms. Before she took off, she sauntered over to Madeline, flashed her hand, and there it wasโa dazzling diamond ring. There was also that cutesy pink bandage on her finger. "My mom says you're dragging your feet on the divorceโkinda funny, don't you think? Trevon's put a ring on it, so why embarrass yourself? Time to get a clue." She leaned in, whispering to Madeline, "Face it, you've never been able to outdo me in anything since we were kids." Old memories came rushing back. Her favorite things, her mentors, her dad, her very homeโLydia had snatched them all away with just a few words. Madeline squinted and swiftly yanked the bandage off Lydia's hand. "You've always been into taking my stuff, huh?" She eyed Lydia's pristine hand and tossed the bandage into the bin with a look of disgust. "Bandages are disposable. Get a new one, and it's as good as ever. However, you know what's really scary about a guy who's been down the aisle twice?" Madeline rose to her feet, locking eyes with Lydia as she smiled slyly. "It's the lingering lessons from his ex. His style, habits, tastes, thoughtsโthey're all tinged with the ghost of the woman before you. Chew on that. Good luck." "Madeline!" Ignoring her, Madeline grabbed a bag of clothes and thrust it into Lydia's arms. "So long, no need for goodbyes!" Behind the wheel on her way to work, Lydia smacked the steering wheel, Madeline's parting shot replaying in her head. The phone buzzed. Lydia answered with a huff. "What's up with the wake-up call?" Wren Naylor, Lydia's assistant, hesitated before speaking up with caution. "Ms. Sanders, the planning team wants to add an illustrator to the project. They've already picked someone out." "They've what now? Since when does planning get to call the shots on art hires? They really need to stay in their lane." Wren stayed quiet. Lydia bit back her frustration. "Alright, I'm heading to the office soon. I'll sort it out with them." Instead of going to her department when she arrived at the office, Lydia went to the top floor to drop off some clothes for Trevon. Trevon accepted the clothes, but his brow creased in confusion. Lydia felt a twinge of worry. "Something wrong with the clothes?" They were definitely not his usual brand. Madeline would not slip up like that. "Madeline wasn't there when you picked these up?" Realizing the brand mismatch, Lydia understood her mistake. Madeline's earlier words echoed in her head. Lydia bit her lip, looking hurt. "Madeline just handed me these and shooed me out when I arrived. You know she's never been fond of me." She sighed resignedly and continued, "Typical Madeline, knowing you're in a rush and still acting petty with me. Should I run to the store and grab you a new set?" Trevon cut her off. "Don't bother. You've got work to do." Lydia clammed up, stepping back into silence. Trevon let out a quiet sigh. "Don't sweat it. It's not your fault. Clothes are the least of our worries. We've got the Skylandia project to focus on." In just a week, Skylandia would unveil its magical realms to eager eyes, with artistry at its heart. Lydia, fresh from her hiatus, was steering that shipโthe crown jewel of the year for Xystos Tech. She knew the drill, but duty called, and she stepped out with a promise to return for lunch. Madeline, alone then, rinsed a handful of cherry tomatoes, trying to quell the unease bubbling inside her. She scrolled through her phone, the barrage of prenatal check-ups looming large and daunting. Midway through her meticulous note-taking, the doorbell chimed. She opened the door to find Simon pulling a long face. Chapter 4 "Mr. Gibson sent me some clothes." Madeline raised an eyebrow. "Again?" Simon's eyes flickered with annoyance as he asked, "Why'd you send Mrs. Yagle's clothes?" Simon referred to Trevon's mom, Riley Yagleโa woman whose kindness was only matched by her absentmindedness. Madeline recalled the ill-fitting, off-brand clothes that Trevon probably ditched without a second thought. "Mr. Gibson says, 'Don't get snippy and hold things up,'" Simon relayed with a hint of sternness. Madeline could not help but chuckle, amused by his blind trust. "Lydia told Trevon I picked out the clothes?" Did Trevon need to believe everything Lydia said? Simon rushed her along. Madeline handed him a fresh set of clothes, but her grip lingered as she responded steadily. "Simon, you've been Trevon's right-hand man for what, three, four years now? Do you realize why you're still at the bottom rung, just an assistant? You're good at sizing people up by their titles, but that's not really a skill an assistant needs. Why don't you take a page from Mr. Harris's book?" Trevon did have a star assistantโDaniel Harrisโwho was so capable that he was sent overseas to handle big deals. That was when Simon got the call to step in. Simon's face went through a mixture of pale and flushed as he absorbed her criticism. Madeline, who was usually quiet, had just thrown shade in his face. He bit back his retort, finally huffing in annoyance and storming off. Madeline let out a soft laugh, brushing off the encounter. With visiting hours ticking closer, Madeline headed to Sunshine Psychiatric Hospital to see Bella. It was more of a wellness retreat than a hospital, nestled right next to Redenbaugh City's fanciest private clinic. Getting in was not easy, but thanks to the Gibson family pulling strings, Bella got a spot. Madeline wheeled her mom out into the courtyard, catching her up on the week's gossip and happenings. Bella was her usual selfโunresponsive and staring off into space. Madeline sighed and took her mom's hand, resting it gently on her belly. "Mom, right here, there's a little one on the way. Even with Trevon talking about divorce, I'm keeping this baby. You've got to come back to us. Who will help me with this little one if you don't?" She nestled against Bella's legs, craving the comfort of her mother's presence. Unseen by Madeline, Bella's eyes flickeredโa brief, almost missed flutter. "Madeline?" A voice, laced with surprise, called out for her. Madeline looked up to see a man in a lab coat looking her way. The sun was blinding, and Madeline squinted without recognizing the figure before her. There was something oddly familiar about the silhouette. It was not until he was close that she could see it was Caleb Jabs, her old college friend. With a warm smile, Caleb teased, "Madeline, can't you recognize an old friend after just three years?" He opened his arms for a hug, like nothing had changed. Madeline hesitated, then offered a hand for a handshake instead. Caleb's smile faltered, then returned. "Right, we're not on campus anymore." He shook her hand before releasing it, stealing a glance at the wedding ring on her finger. Through their chat, Madeline learned that he had just returned from overseas and that his uncle was running the local private hospital. Caleb nodded toward Bella with a slight smile. "And who is this?" Madeline's smile vanished. "My mom. She's been like this since she had a breakdown three years ago." A breakdown? It looked serious, as if she had lost all touch with the world. What could have caused it? Caleb pushed down his questions, his heart aching for Madeline. "These past three years must've been tough on you." Madeline seemed more grounded than in her college days, but her eyes were shadowed with concern. Madeline shook her head. "It's time for us to head back." She was not one to bare her soul to just anyone. As she rose to leave, she wobbled slightly. Caleb reached out to steady her. "You're looking a bit pale. Maybe you should get checked out." Madeline steadied herself and took a step back. "It's just low blood sugar. I'm fine." Caleb watched Madeline sidestep with a calm smile, not the least bit ruffled. "Back in college, you were always dealing with low blood sugar. Still battling that, huh? Skipped breakfast today?" He was already taking the wheelchair's handles as he spoke, and Madeline allowed it. They got Bella settled and swapped numbers. Then, Caleb pressed a chocolate bar into her hand. "For your sugar levels, have a bite." Madeline's laughter bubbled up. "Caleb, you still keep chocolate on you after all this time?" "Just a habit," he said with a chuckle. That little piece of chocolate seemed to bridge the gap that had grown between them. "How about lunch? It's already noon." Madeline bit her lip, uncertain. However, Caleb was already tugging her along. "There's this great little place I know nearby. You'll love it." Trevon managed to swing by the hospital after his meeting wrapped up. The doctors gave him a clean bill of health. They suggested bringing Madeline in, thinking she might be the key to why he felt off. He left the hospital with that thought, only to see Madeline and Caleb, all smiles, heading into a cozy diner. Madeline's smile was something new, something he had never seen, and it stopped him in his tracks. He took a moment before climbing into his car. From the driver's seat, Simon caught Trevon in the mirror. "Mr. Gibson, wasn't that Mrs. Gibson? Should we pick her up?" Trevon watched them disappear into the diner, a place he would never dream of entering. "No, let's not," he murmured. Simon arched an eyebrow, shot a look of faint scorn at the diner, and sped off. Trevon was reclining in the back seat, eyes closed, soaking in a moment of peace. A few minutes in, a wave of relief washed over him, leaving him feeling surprisingly refreshed. It took him a moment to realize that he was embodying Madeline's happiness. What could possibly be so special about that little shop to make her that cheerful? However, that sour beef and cabbage soup with noodles they served was exceptionalโtangy and invigorating. It had been days since Madeline had enjoyed a meal so thoroughly. She even decided to get an extra serving to go. Caleb chuckled. "Noodles never taste as good reheated. Wait, didn't you love spicy food? What's with the switch?" Madeline smiled. "I haven't really switched. This is just that good." She was known for her love of spicy dishes, and even Trevon, the health nut, had found his tastes swayed by her. It was hard to argue with Madeline's culinary magic. Her cooking was irresistible to most. Back home, Madeline had barely set down her takeout when her phone rang. It was Yeneth Collins, her best friend. "Madeline, I've got some good and bad news." Feeling a bit worn out, Madeline sank into the couch. "Go on." "The good news is that you've been chosen to draw the new character for Skylandia. They've sent the contract over to you already." A spark of excitement flickered across Madeline's face as she reached for her laptop to check her email. "And the bad news?" Yeneth sighed heavily. "Lydia is the new art director for Skylandia. She just got the job today. I wouldn't have pushed you to take this gig if I'd known." Since marrying Trevon right after college, Madeline had not returned to the workforce, finding solace and passion in her art. Her style was distinctive, not exactly mainstream, with a focus on creating captivating illustrations. When Yeneth got involved with Skylandia, she thought Madeline's artwork was a perfect fit and put her name forward. Madeline smiled. "No way. The contract's terms are decent. Can't miss an opportunity of making money just because of her." She was always hustling for cash, especially with Bella's medical bills piling up. It meant biting her tongue whenever the Sanders family got tight-fisted. "Are you sure you're okay with this?" "Totally. I freelance under the name 'Lily Mora'. Who will connect the dots?" Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of a door swinging open as Trevon walked in. Chapter 5 Madeline's instinct was to snap her laptop shut. "Give me a second." She quickly ended the call and turned to face Trevon. "What's got you home at this hour?" Trevon eyed her hurried movements and washed his hands before replying, "Just needed to pick something up." Madeline responded with a noncommittal hum. His gaze landed on a nearby takeaway box. It was the sour beef and cabbage soup with noodles. It looked just like the one she had had for lunch. Was it really that tasty? A jolt of panic hit Madeline, and she blurted out, "It's for Yeneth, not me." Back when they were newlyweds, Madeline had grabbed some street sausages, and Trevon had gone into a tailspin, bombarding her with articles about the filth of street vendors and the dangers of eating out. Since then, she had avoided eating street food around him. However, she had slipped up and forgotten to stash the evidence. Trevon's chuckle was detached as his eyes drifted to a notebook on the table. Madeline's heart was pounding, and she pushed aside the wave of nausea to dash toward the notebookโher secret journal of conceive appointments. The last thing she wanted was for Trevon to find out she was expecting. However, Trevon was quicker. He stretched out his arm and lifted the notebook from Madeline's reach. Without regard for her protests, he calmly flipped it open. The 'Prenatal Appointment Schedule' header stared back at him. He raised an eyebrow, his cool gaze landing on Madeline. Madeline felt her heart jump into her throat. "Is this for Yeneth, too?" Trevon asked. "Huh?" Caught off guard, Madeline quickly nodded. "Yeah, yeah. Yeneth's getting married, thinking about having kids, so I was helping her research." Trevon's suspicion did not wane. "So, why the panic?" Madeline's forehead creased. She let go of the notebook and looked away. "I didn't want you to think I was up to something." Madeline's beauty was marred by her recent illness. Her pale face was then tinged with the flush of sickness, making her look even more vulnerable. Trevon felt a twinge in his chest, and his annoyance grew. Her cold was messing with his work. He tossed the notebook back to Madeline. "I don't have time for this. You should be resting, not running around. If you show up to a divorce proceeding looking like this, people will think I'm the bad guy." Madeline silently clutched the notebook with her head bowed. โฆ At the steakhouse, Lydia stared at her barely touched steak, her mood souring by the minute. When she heard Trevon returned to the Angelic Garden Residence, her annoyance turned to outright anger. "Madeline, that witch!" She whipped out her phone and dialed Skylar's number. Madeline had just reviewed the casting call from Skylandia, wrapped up her draft, and was stretching after a long day when Skylar's call came through. "Get over here tonight. If you don't show up, I'm tossing your mom's stuff." The line went dead. Madeline thought she had taken care of all Bella's things, so what could possibly be left at the Sanders' place? She could not risk it, so she hailed a cab and headed over. The Sanders' mansion was ablaze with lights, screaming new money from every gilded corner. Madeline stood at the entrance, taking in the garish display, and figured Skylar was behind it. Skylar greeted her with a grin, tugging her inside. "I just knew you'd come." Madeline jerked her hand away. "Cut the act, Skylar. There's no one else here. I did what you asked, so where's my mom's stuff?" Chapter 6 Before Skylar could answer, a sharp snap echoed from the side. "Madeline, watch how you talk to my mom!" It was Yale Sanders, Lydia's little brother. With his shoulder-length purple hair and arms sleeved in tattoos, he looked every bit the wannabe gangster. He had been coddled by Skylar all his life, and with the Sanders' wealth, he had gathered a gang of street toughs to back him up. Madeline did not expect him to be there but gave him a cool look and brushed him off. Just then, Cilix descended the stairs, his voice cutting through the air. "Yale!" Yale sulked, his lips puckered as he flopped onto the sofa, clearly annoyed. Cilix motioned for Madeline to take a seat at the dining table. "It's not every day we get your sister back home. I figured a family dinner was in order. Have a seat, will you? I had Mom whip up your favorite fish tacos." Skylar quickly dished some out for her. The oily sheen and the subtle fishy scent made Madeline wrinkle her nose and push the plate away. "I caught a cold and lost my appetite. I'm just here to grab a few things, and I'll be out." Cilix squinted, and Skylar, unable to contain herself, plopped down next to Madeline. "When are you planning on divorcing Trevon, huh? Your dad and I have already scoped out a new guy for you. He's ready to tie the knot and won't wait forever." A resigned feeling washed over Madeline. With a mocking smile, she murmured, "Really? Who's this wonderful match?" Skylar perked up and replied, "He's from a solid family. One of your dad's business partners. The guy owns a string of factories. Marry him, and you'll be the boss. They wouldn't even look twice at a divorcee if it wasn't for your dad's connections." She made it sound like a fairy tale. Madeline cut to the chase. "The owner of these factories? How old?" Skylar hesitated, then chuckled. "Not too old. He's just a bit over forty and in the prime of his life. It'll be your second marriage, so you can't afford to be choosy. Plus, they've promised to cut your dad a deal if you marry in. Consider it a tribute to your mom." Three years had passed, and Madeline's disdain for her family's ways was as strong as ever. She glared at Cilix. "Over forty? You're okay with this, being not much older yourself?" Cilix looked pained as he spoke, "Skylar's just trying to do what's best for you. Remarrying and bringing your mom into the mix, finding someone okay with that wasn't easy. Skylar really went out of her way for you." Skylar nodded earnestly. It had indeed been a challenge. Madeline needed to be married off and kept far away to avoid causing Lydia any more headaches. "Don't worry, the guy doesn't have kids. Everything in the future will be yours and your children's. It's a real stroke of luck." Madeline suddenly chimed in, "It's true. These kinds of terms are hard to come by. You've really outdone yourself, butโฆ" Breaking from her usual composure, Madeline locked eyes with Cilix. "I was clear yesterday. I just want what my mom is entitled toโher shares. Those shares are peanuts compared to being Mrs. Gibson of the Gibson family." Cilix remained expressionless, but his eyes were calculative. "Your mom's shares?" Thinking she had swayed Cilix, Skylar piped up in a shrill tone. "What shares does her mother have? The Sanders family fortune is all thanks to me and Cilix. It's got nothing to do with your loony mom." Madeline's glare whipped towards Skylar, sharp enough to shut her up. "Apologize." "Why should I? Your mom's the crazy one." Without warning, a cup of scalding water splashed across Skylar's face, and she let out a scream. However, before Madeline could react, she was yanked back forcefully. A second later, she was punched in the face. "You owe her an apology!" Chapter 7 Each word Yale spat was accompanied by a punch landing on Madeline. Madeline shielded herself with her purse, narrowly avoiding a serious injury. Blinded by anger, she had not thought things through, never imagining Yale would actually hit her. Conceived had left her weak, and she could only dodge Yale's vicious blows in a clumsy dance of desperation. The Sanders family seemed petrified by the spectacle, each too scared to even twitch. Cilix wanted to speak, but Skylar cut him off. "What's Yale got, a little muscle? Let her take a hit. It might teach her to listen." Cilix's face darkened as he sat back down. She had written her dad off long ago, but the sting of disappointment was as sharp as ever. As Yale moved in again, Madeline knew she was on her own. With a swift kick, she toppled a chair and snatched a fruit knife from the table, aiming it straight at him. "One more step, and I swear I'll stab you!" Yale, thrown off by the chair, nearly slipped. He wiped his mouth and sneered. "You think you've got the guts?" Knife in hand, Madeline's face was ghostly, but her eyes blazed with defiance, "Try me. I'm still Mrs. Gibson of the Gibson family. If I take you down, they'll make sure it never sees the light of day." Her gaze flicked to Cilix. "You think our dad's got the spine to cross the Gibsons for you?" Yale did not budge. Skylar stepped forward with a nervous chuckle. "Come on, we're family. Knives? Really? Madeline, put it down." Madeline looked at Skylar icily and aimed the knife at her. "Stay back." Skylar froze, then looked pleadingly at Cilix. Cilix broke the silence. "Madeline, what's going on?" Madeline stood there with a cold expression, ignoring the blood that had started to drip from the corner of her mouth. She bit her lip, refusing to say a word. The recent scuffle had taken a toll on her, leaving her with a heavy feeling in her chest. She was afraid she would throw up if she opened her mouth. However, she was determined not to let them see her weakness. Amid the tense moment, the nanny burst in with unexpected joy. "Mr. Gibson and Ms. Sanders have arrived!" The pair entered the room. Trevon's face was a mask of seriousness, his lips pressed into a thin line. Lydia, catching sight of the knife in Madeline's grip, let out a sharp cry. "Madeline! Why are you holding a knife? What are you planning to do?" Cilix rose swiftly to welcome Trevon. "Mr. Gibson, please come in. Let's sit and talk. Madeline, put that knife down now." With a glance at Trevon, Madeline reluctantly set the knife aside. Skylar exhaled in relief and grumbled, "This is all Madeline's doing, causing a scene for no reason. Since when do we bring knives into family disputes?" Madeline inhaled deeply, pushing down the wave of nausea, and retorted with a frosty laugh. "So, now it's all my fault, just like that? I'm trying to do the right thing here, and I'm still the one to blame?" "Is this enough for you?" Trevon's voice, frosty and laced with anger, cut through the room. He had been feeling sick to his stomach the whole way there. That sensation had become all too familiar in the last couple of days, and he did not need to guessโit was Madeline's doing again. He had warned her just at lunchtime to take it easy, but what did she do? She ran off to her family's home to pick a fight, knife in hand. She might not be bothered by it, but he was fed up. The room fell silent. Madeline looked at him in disbelief. Was he really going to blame her without even asking why? Trevon had no interest in dragging out the conversation. He grabbed Madeline's hand and led her away with urgency. Madeline stumbled as he pulled her along, a sharp pain throbbing in her heart. Lydia tried to keep up, her voice tinged with concern. "Trevon, you haven't eaten yet." He barely paused, his voice dismissive. "Some other time." With that, he ushered Madeline into the car and shut the door behind her. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10922&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=10922&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449437764_2559123607604310_3298283948021123177_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a1e61cqcwaEQ7kNvgGSmKY3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfXOnHbZFhYu4mx5_R07fP5&oh=00_AYAdqz3j2qNm4f6TqRI7tiA7e-eSjInGYo3UMc9CPfYYhw&oe=67471F1F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2506147}' |
Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 | Non-Surgical Knee Pain Solution in Waterbury, CT | Knee pain, swelling and stiffness got you down? ๐ค You're not alone! 90% of the time it's due to joint damage... and could be a sign of something more serious. But here's the good news: our Rapid Knee Pain Relief Program can get you back to living life without pain! Limited time offer: Get a FREE consultation & insurance verification! Don't wait - your deductible resets Jan 1st. Sign up now or call (475) 252-5558 today! Serving Waterbury & surrounding areas. Joint Pain Treatment Center | 417 Highland Ave. Suite B, Waterbury, CT 06708 | SIGN_UP | http://fb.me/ | Joint Pain Treatment Center | https://www.facebook.com/61551018860356/ | 22 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign Up | 0 | fb.me | DCO | Insurance-Covered Rapid Knee Pain Relief Program โ | http://fb.me/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468040631_1086758339278789_1884124695471165315_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9iW5k8y6uxQQ7kNvgE1d0mb&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Af6pJnTwMlqpDOyFrJXdw4t&oh=00_AYBH1zwgSachTUB4oLWTNFmlhTlbtJORDToGatDkLfmYyg&oe=6746EC37 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Joint Pain Treatment Center | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2506328}' |
Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 | Non-Surgical Knee Pain Solution in Waterbury, CT | Tired of gritting your teeth through constant knee pain? ๐ฌ Want to finally get back to a normal and pain-free life? Join many Waterbury residents who have restored their lives and mobility with this all-natural knee treatment protocol. โ We treat knee pain at all phases, whether you suffer from mild discomfort or excruciating bone-on-boneโฆ and the best part isโฆ NO SURGERY OR HARMFUL DRUGS. These revolutionary treatments are now available in Waterbury, CT ๐ Stop putting up with your pain, find relief with our knee treatment protocol: โ Reverse years of wear and tear on your knees โ NO steroid shots โ NO addictive and harmful drugs โ 100% safe and NO negative side effects โ NO surgery Donโt ignore the dangers of wildly invasive knee surgeries: โ Ghastly hospital bills โ Months or years of painful recovery โ Potentially serious complications and life-long side effects โ Even the possibility of death! โ ๏ธ Is this breakthrough knee treatment protocol for you? Find out with a ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ฑ ๐๐ป๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐บ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐ป๐ฒ๐ฒ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐ฒ๐ณ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ ๐๐ผ๐ป๐๐๐น๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ป๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฉ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ณ๐ถ๐ฐ๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ALL for ๐๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ฒ. To see if you qualify, click โSign Upโ to fill out our Quick Questionnaire. Any information submitted is secured and will not be shared or used in spam. "๐๐ผ๐ป'๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ถ๐ป๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ฎ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ญ๐๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ฐ๐ผ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ ๐๐ ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ด๐ฒ๐ ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ!" ๐Click โSign Upโ or Call "(475) 252-5558" Today ๐ Serving Waterbury, and all surrounding areas. Joint Pain Treatment Center 417 Highland Ave. Suite B Waterbury, CT 06708 (475) 252-5558 | SIGN_UP | https://regenjointsolution.org/joint-pain-treatmen | Joint Pain Treatment Center | https://www.facebook.com/61551018860356/ | 22 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign Up | 0 | regenjointsolution.org | DCO | Insurance-Covered Rapid Knee Pain Relief Program โ | https://regenjointsolution.org/joint-pain-treatment-center-knee-pa-6 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-3.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468089935_1119056709823547_5025228592229693261_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xRE8ucv5FiEQ7kNvgH8nJnI&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-3.xx&_nc_gid=Af6pJnTwMlqpDOyFrJXdw4t&oh=00_AYBlJZ_Fq2L4EHN51pxI3jDSC06iMyGBFYGNoLzxZAp_KQ&oe=674702F1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Joint Pain Treatment Center | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2,506,343 |
/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281)
'{"alias":2506147}' |
Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 | Foot Pain? Feel long-lasting relief after just ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง | Numbness, burning, tingling, loss of balanceโฆ ๐ค put an end to hands and feet pain! We are APRM Solutions and until now people suffering from feet and nerve pain only had 2 basic options: (1) Live with the pain; (2) Mask the pain with prescription medications; With the latest medical technology available, we are able to offer a clinically proven ๐ฅ๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ฑ ๐ก๐ฒ๐๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ฎ๐๐ต๐ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐น๐ถ๐ฒ๐ณ ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ that can reduce or eliminate nerve symptoms in hands and feet for our patients. Imagine no more medicationsโฆ But a fast-acting and long-term solution for: โ Numbness โ Diabetic nerve pain โ Sharp electric-like pain โ Burning or tingling โ Muscle weakness โ Difficulty sleeping from leg or foot discomfort โ Sensitivity to touch โ Pain while walking โ Nerve damage from chemotherapy ๐๐โ๐ ๐๐ถ๐บ๐ฒ ๐๐ผ ๐๐น๐ถ๐บ๐ถ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐ฃ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ป, ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ & ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐ด๐ฒ๐ป๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ! APRM Solutions is now accepting new patients that are looking for an alternative to addictive medications. ๐ Sign Up or Call โ(475) 255-3983โ to schedule a ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ง๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ญ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง. "๐๐ผ๐ป'๐ ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ด๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ต๐ฎ๐ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ ๐ถ๐ป๐๐๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฑ๐๐ฐ๐๐ถ๐ฏ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐น๐น ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ฎ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ญ๐๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ฐ๐ผ๐ป๐๐ฎ๐ฐ๐ ๐๐ ๐ป๐ผ๐ ๐๐ผ ๐ด๐ฒ๐ ๐ถ๐ป ๐ฏ๐ฒ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฒ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฑ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐ฟ!" Serving Shelton and all surrounding areas. APRM Solutions 10 Progress Dr. Unit 2F Shelton, CT 06484 (475) 255-3983 | SIGN_UP | http://fb.me/ | APRM Solutions | https://www.facebook.com/100094257686414/ | 31 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign up | 0 | fb.me | VIDEO | http://fb.me/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468071261_543113478704255_51119330561667871_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nooh0Q8nfLsQ7kNvgETD7aD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A-Mvtf48ceXO-GFjImwIQBn&oh=00_AYBbLnyOVHLBqNngQBbA98050HJHi388pcakAp2prwzP-A&oe=6746EA8E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | APRM Solutions | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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null |
Yes | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Michael Kelly Patriot Instinct SB Mod Shop Duncan Electric Guitar - BF - HR | Would you use this? | ORDER_NOW | http://www.homerecorder.com/product.php?pid=1387 | Home Recorder | https://www.facebook.com/homerecorder/ | 57,378 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Order now | 0 | homerecorder.com | IMAGE | Michael Kelly Patriot Instinct SB Mod Shop Duncan Electric Guitar - BF | http://www.homerecorder.com/product.php?pid=1387 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466975569_9347065612010588_1742218787318821525_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xkzqhkIkY7wQ7kNvgEsqBnm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ay6nrsRM9qR-zjM_nv9yFjQ&oh=00_AYCvq2aoC9sjP5gIiygEiOer3bBWsj6jDWHKoKB9PRfUVg&oe=6746F9E5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Home Recorder | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2,506,437 |
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'{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":1,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}' |
No | 2024-11-22 18:57 | active | 1907 | 0 |
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Michael Kelly Forte Exotic JE Java Acoustic Guitar - Ebony - HR | Would you use this? | ORDER_NOW | http://www.homerecorder.com/product.php?pid=809 | Home Recorder | https://www.facebook.com/homerecorder/ | 57,378 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Order now | 0 | homerecorder.com | IMAGE | Michael Kelly Forte Exotic JE Java Acoustic Guitar - Ebony | http://www.homerecorder.com/product.php?pid=809 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-3.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467202067_1246385603266871_1555401588272242201_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jY5VrEKhhCkQ7kNvgElcmZn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-3.xx&_nc_gid=Ay6nrsRM9qR-zjM_nv9yFjQ&oh=00_AYDG2pLAmpryOrd9TD5c18KMhJpRXzc2yiPRRFMn3jA5IA&oe=67470CC6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Home Recorder | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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