Ads for Diet on 2024-12-02
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Yes | 2024-12-02 20:12 | active | 1952 | 0 |
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | "You'd be willing to be my mistress?" I took a deep breath. "Yes." He'd got rid of me as his wife, to replace me with his sweetheart, but he still wanted to keep me as his mistress. The shame was almost too much to bear. The next day, my father told us that our debts had all been repaid. Suddenly, Joseph had become an angel in my mother's eyes. How he must love me to help us so much. All I could do was force a smile and bite my tongue. As far as my parents knew, I was still his wife. To them, I was on my way to spend a happy evening with my husband, not to be used as his toy. But what other choice did I have? I was well aware that I was giving up my dignity. Joseph's room was the very same bedroom we had shared while we were married. Yet now, it felt very different. I had no idea when Joseph would return. When I awoke, there seemed to be a great weight pressing down on me. As my senses gradually returned, I realized that Joseph was on top of me. What's more, his hands were moving underneath my clothes. "How ... How dare you!" Without thinking, I raised my hands to push him off. But before I knew it, he had grabbed hold of my wrists and forced them down. "Even now, your pampered temper's still intact." He jeered at me. I gazed around at the familiar room and then at the familiar man before me. It took me a while to fully remember where I was. This bedroom we were in was now his, and I was nothing more than his mistress. My arms went limp, I meekly let out a soft apology, "I'm sorry". He laughed, standing up and heading towards the bathroom. As he cleaned himself, I wrung my hands nervously. Before all this, once I had begun to have feelings for him, the thought of his touch had not been an unpleasant one. But this was different. There was nothing mutual or respectful about our current situation. This was simply possession and revenge. In such circumstances, the thought of what was to come was horrifying, but I had nowhere to run. After what seemed like an age, he finally emerged from the bathroom. The sound of the door opening once more was almost more than my frayed nerves could take. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15053&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 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=15053&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/t39.35426-6/464446123_872410864981319_4606585567578669790_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VFMyOHJbgJ8Q7kNvgHjRZjy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A0p4E08cuVi92sb96tnpmm7&oh=00_AYDFuH70wuZPIwLUjhKgOcHcBvrRb0qmob8W0B-waqgB3g&oe=67543BD3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-12-02 18:48 | active | 1950 | 0 |
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âď¸âď¸âď¸âď¸âď¸"One of the best authors out there." | đ When hard-hitting DC reporter Jillian Chambord learns that her twin sister, Isla, has disappeared from a luxury train traveling through the Alps, not even the threat of losing her coveted position at The Washington Daily can stop her from hopping on the next flight to France. Never mind the fact that Samuel Kellyâthe handsome former CIA agent whom Jillian has sworn off foreverâhas been assigned as the lead investigator on the case. When Jillian and Samuel arrive in the Alps, they soon learn that their midnight train isnât leading them to Isla, but has taken them back in time to 1937, to a night when another young woman disappeared from the same Orient Express train. Given a chance to save both women, Jillian and Samuel are unprepared for what they discover on the train that night, for the sparks that fly between themâŚand for what theyâll have to do to keep each other alive. âď¸âď¸âď¸âď¸âď¸ What readers are saying: "I could not put this story down, read it in one day!" "Anyone in the mood for a delicious, satisfying read couldn't do better than this book." "This is the first novel by Juliette Sobanet that I've read, and it definitely will not be my last." "Great writer, great story. I couldn't put it down." "Another wonderful romance from this very talented author!" "I devoured this book in two days." "Loved every minute of the story." "If there is a sequel, I WILL be reading it." âI am looking forward to many more books by this fresh, fun author." đ Find out what happens in MIDNIGHT TRAIN TO PARIS, which is part of the International Bestselling City of Light Series. It is one of the 7 eBooks offered in this Ultimate Paris eBook Bundle. Save over 70% on the entire City of Love AND City of Light Series bundle when you buy directly from Juliette! Itâs an amazing way to support the author while reading sizzling romance novels that will sweep you away to Paris! â Click LEARN MORE, check out, and receive an email with the link to your eBooks. You can read on your favorite device or app, and there are paperback options available too! | LEARN_MORE | http://welcome.juliettesobanet.com/ebook-welcome/ | Juliette Sobanet, Author | https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJulietteSobanet/ | 1,735 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | store.juliettesobanet.com | IMAGE | http://welcome.juliettesobanet.com/ebook-welcome/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468986507_957845413072488_1063304848986153823_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_zzcp9TZ9oEQ7kNvgHNXrQJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A5g8Ge-RdcAN-R4-I-zQ-Jj&oh=00_AYCO19yUD5Dqs_FIaW8jClcjUYWfdBhOgnYZITSBDgrL-Q&oe=67542701 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Juliette Sobanet, Author | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-12-02 18:36 | active | 1949 | 0 | It's the gift that keeps on giving đ. Our 12 Days of Subs Giveaway is back! This year we're giving fans a chance to win items from our holiday gift shop and gift cards. Head to our Instagram @jerseymikes for a chance to win. | LEARN_MORE | https://jmikes.co/Insta | Jersey Mike's Subs | https://www.facebook.com/jerseymikes/ | 1,108,033 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | jmikes.co | VIDEO | https://jmikes.co/Insta | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468620981_871126535104137_254387402047196974_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pdxrDSGWQAsQ7kNvgGuW14v&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOXxxpG1A2N4KtqTFf4AiXs&oh=00_AYBzB6jm5sZdh-YjnEhB6-8CZKLxBfiJmLO87YCHB1Utgg&oe=67540327 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Jersey Mike's Subs | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-12-02 19:09 | active | 1951 | 0 | đĽđĽLUST IS SWEETER THE SECOND TIME AROUNDđđ | "Puta!"Sambit ni Ken sa kaulyaw nyang si Alice.Pumunta ito sa opisina nya para makikipag meeting.Pero ito ang meeting na ibig nyang sabihin."Mating"pala.Isa lang si Alice sa mga babae nya pero wala cyang girlfriend na matatawag sa isa man sa kanila. "Ohhh Ken,more."Sambit nito sarap na sarap sa ginagawa nya.Naka pwesto ito patalikod sa kanya habang pinapaligaya nya..Pagod sana cya sa araw na iyon pero ang palay ang lumapit sa kanya para tukain...sino ba naman cya para hindian ang grasya ng langit. Nasa kasarapan sila ng pag-niniig ng biglang nagbukas ang pinto...Pumasok ang secretary nyang si Jonie...Naka yuko ito habang nakatingin sa dalang mga papel na papa-pirmahan sa kanya,kinakagat-kagat pa nito ang dulo ng ballpen kaya hindi sila napansin ng dalaga. "Sir,may meeting kayo with Ms.Alice today..." "I'm already here Puta"sagot ni Alice habang sarap na sarap sa ginagawa niya.Hinahawakan nya ang balakang nito para sagad na sagad ang pag labas masok nya sa perlas nito."ahhh..ahhh...ahhhh..." "Ay kabayo!!!Napatalon sa gulat si Jonie ng makita silang nagba-babakbakan ni Alice.Naitapon nito pataas ang mga hawak na papel dahilan kaya nagkalat ang mga iyon sa buong opisina nya.Dali daling pinulot iyon isa-isa ni Jonie. Lihim cya napangiti....hindi kasi muna kumakatok bago pumasok....ayan tuloy!sambit nya sa isip "Sorry Sir,I donât know na andito na pala si Ms Alice.."sambit ng secretarya nya habang patuloy sa pag pulot ng mga papel.Hindi ito tumitingin sa kanila,napako ang tingin nito sa sahig habang pinupulot isa-isa ang mga papel. Hindi cya nagpatinag kahit pa andiyan ang secretarya nya,hindi nya tinitigil ang pagkadyot kay Alice kaya patuloy din ito sa pag ungol.."ahhh Ken.." Napako ang tingin nya sa sekretarya,naaliw kasi sya sa ekspresyon ng mukha nito...habang umuungol si Alice ay napapangiwi ang mukha ito sa mga narinig mula sa kanila,tila nandidiri.Sumasabay ang pag-ngiwi ng mukha nito sa mga ungol ni Alice.Gusto nyang humalakhak....ang cute kasi tingnan ng sekretarya nya. Halos pagapang na ang posisyon nito para lang mapulot ang lahat ng mga papel sa sahig.Tila hingal na hingal sa ginagawa eh nagpupulot lang naman!Natatawa cya sa isip. Maya-maya pa ay humarap ito sa banda nya pero nakatutok pa din ang atensyon sa sahig kaya wala ito sa sarili na nakikitaan nya na ito ng panti dahil sa igsi ng palda nito.Black ang panti ni Jonie at sumilip ang perlas ng silangan. "Ahh lintik!"sambit nya....Lalo cyang ginanahan,pero hindi dahil kay Alice. "Ken,moreee!" Patuloy sya sa pag galaw sa puwitan ni Alice pero ang mata nya ay nakatingin sa perlas ni Jonie,hindi pa din nito alam na nasisilapan nya na ito,patuloy ito sa pagpulot ng papel. Sana hindi maubos ang papel sa bandang harapan nya.Mas gusto nya ang view doon.Bahagyang pang nalaylay ang blouse nito at sumisilip din ang malulusog na suso ng dalaga.Napapikit nalang cya ng mata.Anu ba yan!...Si Alice ang ka-niig nya pero si Jonie ang nasa isip nya! Nang matapos mapulot ang mga papel ay patakbong lumabas si Jonie ng office at sinara ang pinto. "Baby,Pumasok ka sa loob ko, mas gusto kita, gusto kita grabe! !!!"Sambit ni Alice. Bumalik ang atensyon nya kay Alice nang makalabas na si Jonie. "Ahhh...ooh Baby, ang laki mo na, gusto ko pa. aahhh ahhh.aahhh" Parang nawalan na tuloy sya ng gana sa ingay ng babae,parang star ito kung maka ungol,dagdag pa na pagod cya...humugot muna sya ng malalim na hininga saka tinapos nya na agad ang pagpapaligaya sa dalaga. "Ahhhhhh..mahabang ungol ni Alice ng nilabasan na cya. "Ang galing mo talaga Ken.."tumayo si Alice at inayos ang palda nito. "Next time ulit ha....Bye!"Nag flying kiss pa ito sa kanya bago lumabas "Puta"Sambit nya sa utak.Kinuha nya ang kondomsa ari nya at tinapon iyon sa basurahan.Kahit ilang babae pa ang lumapit sa kanya ay kaya nya yan....ang importante ay nagpa-practice sya ng safe talik. Inayos nya ang pantalon at umupo sa sofa.Napagod cya sa ginawa nila ni Alice.Masyado kasi itong wild.Bakit kasi ganito ang papel nya sa mundo?Ang magpaligaya ng mga babaeng tigang!Natawa cya sa mga naiisip. Naalala nya ang mukha ng sekretarya nya kanina.Aliw na aliw cya habang pinagmamasdan itong pinupulot ang lahat ng papel na naka-kalat,hindi na nito alam kung ano ang uunahing gagawin.Natawa sya Nakita nya din ang panti nito,kakaiba ang naramdaman nya kanina ng masilip ang panti ng dalaga.Madami naman cyang nakitang puki pero bakit parang ang puki ng sekretarya nya ang gusto nyang makita?Saka ang suso nitong tayo-tayo!...parang hindi pa nalamas ng lalaki...Ah Lintik! Bigla cyang nakaramdam ng init...panti palang ang nakita nya pero bakit ang lakas na ng epekto nito sa kanya?Maganda din ang sekretarya nyang si Jonie,fresh graduate ito,halatang wala pang karanasan sa pag-ibig.Sa tantiya nya ay 24 palang ito. Four months palang ang dalaga bilang sekretary nya at masasabi nyang very efficient ito sa work.Dati nilang OJT si Jonie. Inabsorb ng kompanya nga ang dalaga dahil Summa cum Laude ito nung grumaduate sa college.Kung bibitawan pa nya ay siguradong pag aagawan ito ng ibang kompanya. Ibang-iba din ito sa mga naging sekretarya nya dati.Lahat kasi ng naging sekretarya nya ay inaakit cya.Isa sa mga gusto nyang maging sekretarya ay maganda,mestiza at seksi.Gusto nyang maganda lagi ang nakikita habang nagta-trabaho,mas ginaganahan cya kapag ganun...at pasok na pasok si Jonie sa mga requirements nya na yun. Ang pinagkaiba lang ni Jonie sa mga naging sekretarya nya ay matalino ito.Ang iba kasi ay puro katawan lang at walang utak.Hindi rin ito nagpapakita ng ano mang pagka gusto sa kanya.Pure work lang ang dalaga kaya feeling nya ay wala itong interes sa kanya.Ito lang ata ang babaeng hindi nahuhumaling sa kagwapuhan nya.Alam nya iyon kasi hindi man lang ito kinikilig habang kausap cya.Bagkus ay parang takot pa nga ito sa kanya.Ahhh!bakit nga ba si Jonie ang iniisip nya eh kakatapos nya lang makikipag-niig kay Alice? Sumilay ang ngiti sa labi nya.Parang gusto nya tuloy tuksuhin si Jonie.May naisip cyang kalokohan...Naaaliw cya habang inaalala ang mukha nito kanina.Ang cute kasi ng dalaga.Tumayo sya at pumunta sa desk nya.Tinawagan nya ito sa intercom. "S-sir may kailangan po kayo?"Nag-aalangang sagot ng dalaga.Parang may takot na naman sa boses nito. "Pasok ka sa office ko..."Utos nya.Seryoso ang boses nya habang kausap ang dalaga. "Lintik!"Narinig pa nyang pabulong na sambit ng dalaga.Lalong natawa sya sa isip.Maya-maya pa ay kumatok ito ng dalawang beses. "Pasok!"Sigaw nya.Pagpasok ng dalaga ay hindi ito makatingin sa mata nya,nakayuko lang ito. "Ahm Sir my kailangan po ba kayo?"tanong ni Jonie habang hawak ang ballpen na halos mabali na sa kakalapirot nito...hindi ito mapakali. "Itatanong ko lang kung bakit kanina hindi ka kumatok kung marunong ka naman pala kumatok?"Seryosong tanong nya kay Jonie.Gusto nyang makita ang expresyon ng mukha nito. "Ah eh Sir,hindi ko po kasi akalain na andito ba si Ms.Alice sa loob ng opisina nyo"Mukhang takot na takot na naman ito sa kanya.Hindi ito tumitingin sa mata nya.Patuloy lang itong naka yuko.Gusto nya nang tumawa ng malakas.Aliw na aliw cya sa dalaga...napaka inosente nito. "Hmmm...."tumango lang cya bilang sagot sa dalaga."So kamusta naman ang performance ko kanina?" "Sir???"Napangiti sya sa reaksyon ni Jonie.Nagulat ito sa tanong nya.Ang cute talaga ng pagka inosente ni Jonie "Wala..next time kumatok ka muna para hindi ka maalangan palagi." "Y-yes sir...May iuutos po ba kayo?" "Wala naman..." "S-sige po Sir labas na ako." Sinundan nya ng tingin ang paglabas nito sa opisina nya.Halos madapa na ito sa kakamadali makalabas lang doon.Napahalakhak cya ng wala na si Jonie.Mas natutuwa pa ata cya kay Jonie kesa sa ginawa nila ni Alice. MARIA LEONORA GOMEZ: Hapong hapo cyang lumabas sa office ng boss nya.Paano kasi nakita nya kanina na may kaulyawan ito sa opisina.Bad trip kasi bakit hindi nya naisipang kumatok!Haaay.. Sa dinami-daming babaeng pumupunta sa office nila ay first time nya lang nakakita ng ganun.Para tuloy cyang nakapanood ng live scandal!Ang ingay pa ng babaing yun....Akala mo naman ay kinatakay! Well,hindi nya namam ma-judge ang babae...wala pa naman cyang experience sa pakikipagtalik kaya hindi nya alam kung bakit maingay itong mga babae kapag ginaganun! Umupo cya sa desk nya.Executive secretary siya ni Kenneth Enriquez.Isa ito sa mga pinaka mayamang tao sa Pilipinas.Ito ang nag mamay-ari ng mga malalaking subdivision sa iba't ibang parte ng bansa. As an executive secretary,sya ang pinagkakatiwalaan nito sa lahat ng mga schedules ng binata,kasama na doon ang pang babae nito. Babaero ang boss nya....Na saksihan nya lahat ng iyon dahil cya ang nag-aayos ng schedules nito sa mga bawat babae na gusto nitong makapiling.Sinisigurado nya na hindi magka hulihan ang mga babae ng boss nya.Wala naman itong exclusive girlfriend,ayaw nito ng commitment. Matangkad,pogi at matipono si Ken kaya madaming babaeng gusto maging boyfriend ito pero wala ni isa sa mga babae nito ang serious girlfriend....lahat ito ay panandalian lamang.Playtime lang kung baga.Kapag nagsawa ito ay basta-basta nalang nito itatapon na parang basahan. Bakit kasi ang kati-kati ng boss nya?Hindi ba ito nakokontento sa isa?Saka kawawa naman ang mga kabaro nyang mga babae!...pinaglalaruan lang ng isang lalaking katulad ng boss nya! Sabagay hindi nya naman masisi si Sir Ken kasi ang mga babae naman ang naghahabol dito.Pero kahit pa!Hindi ito dapat nag te-take advantage sa kahinaan ng mga babae! Kaya ako,hinding hindi ako mafa-fall sa boss ko na yan!Gwapo at macho at mayaman at....Ayy anu ba yan!akala ko ba hindi ka ma fa-fall?bakit kinikilig ka hahang dini-discribe mo ang manyakis mong boss!Erase erase!galit nya sa sarili.Nagring ang landline sa desk nya kaya bumalik cya sa huwisyo. "Hello,good morning Enriquez Builders?" "I would like to have an appointment with Mr.Ken Enriquez." "May I know who's on the line mam?" "Ann Valdez." "Give me a minute Mam.I'll just check on Mr Enriquez's schedule. Nilagay nya sa table ang telepono at pumunta sa opisina ng boss nya.Pag mga ganitong babae kasi ang tumatawag at nagpapa-appointment ay alam nya na ang pakay ng mga ito,hindi naman talaga business ang habol ng mga to....Nagpapa"kwan"lang sa boss nya!Ay ano ba yan!Iwinaksi nya sarili sa mga maduduming naiisip. Kumatok muna cya bago pumasok.Baka may kababalaghan na namang ginagawa ang boss nya doon. Nang hindi ito sumagot ay muli cya kumatok at sumigaw."Sir pasok po ako!"Saka nya binuksan ang pinto.Nasa table lang pala ito busy sa laptop.Hindi man lang cya sinagot kung pwede cya pumasok o hindi. "Sir,nagpapa-appointment si Ms.Ann Valdez..ano po sasabihin ko?" "SirâŚ...."Tawag nya ulit dito,parang hindi kasi cya narinig.Masyadong busy ito sa ginagawa sa laptop. âWhat is it?âPasigaw na tanong nito sa kanya,napatalon tuloy cya.Mukhang magkaka nerbyos pa ata cya dito sa boss nya.Kanina lang ang okay ito...ngayon naman ay galit!May sayad na ata ang boss nya...Natuyuan na ata ito ng utak sa dami ng babaeng nakaniig nito. Yun din ang rason kaya bawal cyang magkamali sa trabaho dahil kung hindi ay sangkatutak na sermon ang matatanggap nya.Sala sa init,sala sa lamig kasi ito.Pabago-bago ng emosyon. "A-hm nagpapa appointment po si Ms Ann Valdez.Kelan daw cya pwedeng pumunta?" âOk..mamaya 3PM.âHindi na ito nag aksaya pa na tapunan cya ng tingin.Naka tutuk pa din ito sa laptop. "Ok sir..."Yun lang ang tanging nasagot nya saka tumalikod na at dali-daling lumabas sa office.Baka kasi mabuntungan pa ulit cya galit nito. Matindi ang takot niya sa kaniyang striktong boss. Kung hindi niya sana kailangan ng malaking halaga para sa operasyon ng kaniyang ina dulot ng cancer, matagal na siyang nag-resign. Ang plano nya ay mang-empleyo lang muna sa ibang kompanya katulad ng kay Sir Ken pagkaptapos kapag makapag-ipon na cya ng malaki ay plano nyang magpatayo ng sariling kompanya na cya mismo ang magpapatakbo. Aaminin nya malaki ang swledo na natatanggap nya sa kumpanya ni Sir Ken.First job nya iyon,Summa cum Laude sya pagka graduate ng college as Business Management kaya hindi mahirap para sa kanya ang mag hanap ng trabaho. Sa kompanya ni Sir Ken cya nag OJT,madaming kompanya ang gusto cyang i-hire pero pinili nya ang kompanya ni Sir Ken dahil kahit papaano ay may mga kakilala na cya doon. "Hello Ms Valdez?"sambit nya nang kunin ulit ang telepono. "What took you so long?"singhal ng babae sa kanya. Matagal nga cya kasi naman ang boss nya matagal din sumagot sa opisina."Sorry about that Mam.Chinek ko pa kasi ang schedule ni Sir..."pagsisinungaling nya. "Ang sabihin mo tatanga-tanga kang sekretarya!"muling singhal nito sa kanya. Nagpanting ang tenga nya!Gusto nya din sagutin ang babae na at least cya hindi nagpapakamot sa boss nya!Naku kung hindi lang talaga cya makapagtimpi baka hindi pa nya bigyan ng appointment ito sa boss nya! "Your appointment will be on 3PM later...that would be all mam?"mahinahon na wika nya sa kabilang linya.Hindi na cya sinagot nito,binagsakan pa cya ng telepono. âBwisit! Nakakairita ang babaeng iyon!â Huminga siya ng malalim; ayaw niyang masira ang araw niya dahil dito. Nang makakalma na siya ng kaunti, lumabas siya ng opisina at nagpunta sa company cafeteria.Wala masiyadong tao sa cafetaria dahil ala una na ng hapon. Halos lahat ng empleyado ay tapos na mag-lunch break. Dalawang set ang binili nyang lunch,ang isa ay para sa kanya at ang isa naman ay para sa Boss nya.3 cups of rice ang binili nya,isa para sa kanya at dalawa para sa Boss nya.Alam nyang kulang ang 1 cup of rice dito dahil nakipag bakbakan ito kanina.Beef broccoli naman ulam na pinili nya. Bumili na din cya ng dalawang leche flan para panghimagas nila.Hindi nya alam kung mahilig ang Boss nya sa sweets pero kasi cya ay parang hindi kompleto ang pagkain kapag walang dessert.Mabuti nga at hindi naman cya tumataba dahil sa katakawan nya sa sweets. After nyang bumili ng lunch para sa kanila ay bumalik na cya ng office.Iniwan na nya si Fe doon,sa cafeteria na ito kakain. Nang makarating na cya sa opisina ay pinatong muna ang pagkain nya sa table nya saka pumunta sa opisina ng boss nya dala-dala ang pagkain na binili nya para dito.Kumatok muna cya bago pumasok....mahirap na baka may makita na naman cya. "Pasok!"sigaw ng boss nya mula sa loob. Binuksan nya ang pinto at pumasok.Naka tutuk pa din ito sa laptop."Sir binilhan na kita ng lunch....nakalimutan mo ata kumain."Nag angat ito ng tingin...tiningnan muna cya nito mula ulo hanggang paa..nahiya cya bigla,baka my dumi sya sa mukha. "Sir?...."pukaw nya dito. "Thank you Jonie...nakalimutan ko nga 1 PM na pala....kaya pala masakit na ang tyan ko.I was about to go out para mag lunch pero dahil binilhan mo na ako ay di nako lalabas...thank you."wika nito sa kanya saka inabot ang pagkain. Seryoso pa din ang mukha ng boss nya.Ewan ba nya bakit nagkaka-crush ang mga babae dito eh parang dragon kaya ito kung magalit!...Or baka sa kanya lang.Lumabas na cya ng office pagkatapos nyang maibigay ang food. Haaay hindi talaga cya makahinga ng tama kapag nasa loob ng office ng boss nya o kapag malapit ito sa kanya...parang hinihigop kasi nito ang lahat ng oxygen. Napatalon cya ng biglang nagring ang intercom nya."Sir,may ipag-uutos po ba kayo?"sagot nya....ito lang naman ang naka connect sa intercom nya. "Dito ka na kumain sa loob wala ako kasama eh.nakaka-bored kumain mag-isa..."wika nito sa kanya. "Ah eh....wag na ho,madami pa kasi akong trabaho dito sa desk ko."pagdadahilan nya. "Di ba nga lunch time?After lunch mo na gawin yan,and thats an order!" "O-ok sir...."wala na cyang magawa.That's an order daw eh!Dala-dala nya ang lunch na binili saka pumasok sa loob ng office.Gusto nyang magreklamo pero wala naman cyang magagawa. Umupo sya sa coffee table.May pangdalawahang chair doon...doon nalang cya kakain para medyo malayo sa boss nya,nakaupo kasi ito sa desk nito at nag sisimula ng kumain. Binuksan na nya ang pagkain nya at magsisimula na dapat kumain ng biglang lumapit ito sa kanya dala-dala din ang lunch nito saka umupo sa tabi nya.Hindi na naman cya makahinga...Nawawalan na naman cya ng oxygen.Di kaya may hika cya?Pa-check-up na kaya cya? "Dito nalang din ako kakain....Pinapasok nga kita dito para may kasabayan ako eh...tapos ang layo naman ng upuan mo sa akin!"Reklamo nito sa kanya. "Sorry po...."Yun lang ang tanging nasambit nya.Pinag patuloy na nito ang pagkain.Sya naman ay hindi pa nakasubo kahit isa....nahihiya kasi cya. "Nahihiya ka ba sa akin Jonie?O natatakot?" "Ahm...hindi naman Sir....naiilang lang cyempre boss po kita..." "Kumain ka na kung hindi ay ubusin ko yang pagkain mo....gutom pa naman ako!"Naubos na nito ang isang cup ng rice..Mabuti pala at 2 cups ang binili nya dito kung hindi ay mabibitin talaga ito. "Ah eh...gusto mo Sir sayo na lang?Hindi naman kasi talaga ako gutom...."pagsisinungaling nya. "I'm just joking...kain ka na!"simpleng sambit nito sa kanya. Kahit nahihiya ay pinilit na din nyang kumain.Kinuha nya ang kutsara at tinidor.Dahan-dahan nyang hinihiwa ang beef pero hindi kaya iyon kapag dadahan-dahanin nya.Sinulyapan nya ang Boss...walang tigil ito sa kakakain.Parang wala naman ito pakialam sa kanya kaya kumain na din cya.Kanina pa din kasi talaga cya gutom. Kahit hindi masyadong masarap ang luto sa cafeteria ay nagiging masarap na iyon sa panlasa nya lalo na't gutom cya.Pero mas masarap pa din ang luto nya kesa sa cafeteria.Sa isip nya. KENNETH POV: Pasimpleng pinagmamasdan nya si Jonie habang kumakain.Magana itong kumain kaya nakapagtataka kung bakit hindi ito tumataba.Napansin nyang mahilig din ito sa sweets.May leche flan pa itong dala para sa kanya.Actually hindi cya mahilig sa sweets pero dahil dala ito ni Jonie para sa kanya ay kakainin nya. Kilig na kilig cya ng dinalhan sya ng pagkain ng sekretarya nya.Hindi nya lang pinapahalata pero naa-appreciate nya iyon.Parang wala lang naman ito sa dalaga pero malaking bagay na iyon sa kanya. "Nga pala Jonie,ilang months ka na pala dito sa office?"pagbasag nito ng katahimikan sa pagitan nila. "4 months na Sir...pagka graduate ko ay dito agad ako nakapag trabaho sa kompanya mo.Dito din kasi ako nag OJT." Nakikinig lang cya sa dalaga na kunyari ay hindi nya alam."Balita ko ay Summa com Laude ka daw?"Napayuko ito...tila nahihiya. "Opo Sir....." "Matalino ka pala kung ganun?Swerte ko naman at sa akin ka napunta!....Este dito ka nakapagtrabaho...Galingan mo ha,kapag nakita ko ang work ethics mo ay tataasan ko sweldo mo para hindi ka ma-pirate ng ibang kompanya." "Naku Sir wag na ho!Malaki na po ang sweldo ko para sa isang fresh graduate na tulad ko." "Bakit ayaw mo ng increase?You deserve it dahil you graduated with flying colors!" "Ahhhh gusto Sir!..."biglang sagot nito. "Yun naman pala eh hahaha.."Sa lahat ng mga babaeng nakakasama nya ay ngayun lang ata cya nakatawa ng ganito kalakas at sa sekretarya pa nya. "Ilang taon ka na pala?"tanong ulit nya ulit dito.Alam nyang nahihiya at naiilang ito sa kanya kaya kinakausap nya ito ng kinakausap para mawala ang hiya nito sa kanya. "24 po..." Lintik ang layo pala agwat namin!30 na kasi cya...sa isip nya.Habang tumatagal ay gusto nya ang personality ng serectary nya.Ngayun lang sila nakapag-usap ng ganito.Palagi kasi itong ilag sa kanya.Matalino ito....may sense kausap. Pasimpleng tinitingnan nya ito habang kumakain..nahihiya ito sa kanya,ramdam nya iyon.Maliit kasi ang subo nito sa pagkain.Pero kapag hindi naman cya nakatingin ay malaki naman ito sumubo.Gusto nyang matawa pero pinigilan nya. Kasalukuyan na itong kumakain ng dessert.Kanina pa dapat cya tapos pero dinahan-dahan nya na din ang pagkain para hindi ito mailang sa kanya kapag mag-isa nalang itong kumakain.Tila sarap na sarap ito sa pagkain ng leche flan..Gumagalaw-galaw pa ang ulo ito habang sumusubo.Lihim cyang napangiti.Ang cute kasi nito...parang bata. "Sir labas na po ako ha,mag aalas-tres na pala.May meeting po kau with Ms.Ann Valdez." Akmang tatayo na ito ng pigilan nya."Cancel mo nalang yun,tinatamad nako eh.Mas gusto ko pang makipag-usap sayo kesa humarap sa babaeng yun."Biro nya dito pero hindi ito tumawa...napahiya tuloy cya,baka sabihin nito na feeling close cya. "Ah eh Sir baka po pagalitan ako ni Ms.Ann?" "Bahala ka na mag-alibi basta cancel my appointment to her..." "S-sige po sir..."Alanganing sagot nito. Lumabas na si Jonie at tinawagan si Ann.Alam nyang pagagalitan ito ni Ann pero wala na cyang magawa,ayaw nyang masira ang mood nya.Ang gusto nya ay si Jonie lang ang babaeng makikita ng mga mata nya sa araw na yun. Mag-isa nalang siya sa office.Natutuwa cya sa dalaga,masarap ito kausap...may sense...alam mong hindi bobo.Ilang sandali lang silang nag-usap ay parang naging interesado na cya sa babae.Pero nakikita nya sa mata nito na wala talaga ito pagtingin sa kanya.Boss lang talaga ang turing nito sa kanya kahit pa nagpapahaging na cya dito. Na-curious tuloy cya...gumana na naman ang kapilyuhan nya...parang gusto nyang gawing project si Jonie...make her fall in love with him!Napangiti cya sa mga naiisip. Pero nag-aalala din cya baka kasi umalis ang dalaga kapag ginawa nya iyon at ayaw nya mangyari yun!Jonie is an asset to him...kapag umalis ito sa kanya ay siguradong makakahanap agad ito ng trabaho at pag-aagawan pa ng ibang kompanya. Ah Lintik...pagpapalaglag mission!!!hindi nya pwedeng paglaruan ang dalaga.Sa iba nalang sya maglalaro!!!Nalungkot tuloy cya bigla sa desisyon nya. Dahil kinancel nya ang appointment with Ann ay wala na cyang ginagawa sa office.Nakatingin na lang cya sa labas,naka glass kasi ang buong wall ng kanyang office...nakikita nya ang mga tao sa labas pero hindi cya nakikita ng mga ito sa loob.Nakamasid lang sya sa mga ginagawa ni Jonie.Mahinhin kumilos ang dalaga,napakalambot nito....babaeng babae.5'5"lang ata ang height nito,cya naman ay 6 footer..Hmmm its ok,I like petite woman.parang masarap alagaan....sambit nya... Ah ano bang pinagsasabi nya?Hindi nga pwede si Jonie di ba???pagpapalaglag mission!!!Nakita nyang nag-aayos na ito ng mga gamit,pinapasok na ang mga gamit nito sa bag,tiningnan nya ang oras,5:30 na pala...malamang ay uuwi na ang babae.Dalidali na din cyang nag-ayos at lumabas ng office. "Oh Jonie bakit andito ka pa?5:30 na ah?"kunwaring tanong nya. "Ah may tinapos lang po...pauwi na din po ako Sir." Natawa cya sa sarili.Syempre alam nyang pauwi na ang dalaga!....kanina pa kaya nya ito pinagmamasdan! "Sakto!kung gusto mo sumabay ka na sa akin...pauwi na din ako..."wika nya.Ang galing nya talagang artista! "Ay wag na Sir...may dadaanan pa kasi ako..." "Saan naman yun?ihahatid kita..."Minsan naiinis na cya dito sa babaeng ito...hindi talaga effective ang charisma nya sa dalaga.Kung ibang babae siguro ay nagkukumahog na iyon na sasama sa kanya. "Wag na po...baka out of way sayo." "Saan nga?Paano ko malalaman na out of way kung hindi mo sasabihin?"Tila nawawalan na din cya ng pasencya sa dalaga at napalakas ang boses nya. "Sa Mendez hospital po..."Nahihiyang sagot ni Jonie sa kanya. "Sakto may pupuntahan din ako banda doon,sabay ka na sa akin..."Lihim cyang napangiwi...ang lousy na mga'the moves'nya!Bakit ba kasi nya ginagawa ito?Di ba nga pagpapalaglag mission na si Jonie sa kanya?Off limits na ang dalaga!!!Haaay bahala na....eh sa gusto nya eh! "Sure ka Sir?Baka nakakahiya..." "Hindi...tara na baka matraffic pa tayo."Nagpatiuna na cya sa paglakad para hindi na ito maka hindi pa sa kanya. JONIE POV: Pumayag nalang si Jonie sa offer ng boss nya...sayang din kasi ang pamasahe.Nag ga-grab pa kasi cya papunta sa ospital.Pag ganitong oras ay punuan na ang mga jeep kaya siguradong mahihirapan na cyang makarating sa ospital kaagad...dadalawin nya ang mama nya.Andun naman ang pinsan nya na nagbabantay,sinuswelduhan nya ito para magbantay sa mama nya,mag-isa lang kasi cyang anak. Wala din cyang Papa.Naanakan lang ang nanay nya ng amerikano kaya mestiza cya.Hindi pa nya nakita ang Papa simulang ng isinilang cya. "Jonie!"pukaw ni Sir Ken sa kanya. "Ay opo Sir...tara na."Nagpatiuna ito sa paglakad papuntang elevator.May sarili itong elevator kaya wala silang magiging kasabay. Nang makarating sa harap ng elevator ay hinintay siya nito na pumasok.Hinawakan cya nito sa beywang para igiya papasok.Napaikgtad cya ng bahagya ng maramdaman ang palad nito sa bewang nya.Pasimple nya itong tiningnan...parang wala lang naman ito dito...Baka nagpapaka gentleman lang. Haaay.masyado kang over reacting Jonie!Nag papaka-gentleman lang ang Boss mo...wag mo bigyan ng malisya!saway nya sa sarili. Wala silang pansinan habang nasa elevator.As usual hindi na naman cya makahinga...inuubos na naman ng boss nya ang oxygen sa loob ng elevator. "Are you ok?bakit parang hindi ka pamakali?" "Ah eh....wala po Sir...naiihi lang.Joke lang!" "Hahaha....nakakatawa ka talaga." First time nyang nakita ang boss nya na tumawa sa joke nya.Marunong din pala itong tumawa?Nang nasa parking na sila ay sumakay sila sa Ferrari red na sasakyan ng boss nya.Isa lang ito sa mga napakadami nitong sasakyan.Halos iba-iba ang kotse na ginagamit nito araw-araw. "Ano nga pala ang gagawin mo sa ospital?May sakit ka ba?" "Ah wala po...bibisitahin ko lang ang mama ko." "Why?ano nangyari sa mama mo?" "May cancer po cya.naka-admit cya sa ospital...naka schedule po cya for chemo. "Ohhhh...."tanging sagot nito sa kanya. Wala na sila pansinan habang nagba-byahe.Mabilis lang sila nakarating sa ospital dahil may mga short cut itong dinaanan.Akala nga nya kung saan na cya dadalhin nito,hindi nya kasi kabisado ang mga daan na dinadaanan nito. "Ah Sir thank you ha...mauna na po ako."Paalam nya ng makarating na sila sa parking ng hospital. "No...I want to go with you..." "Ay hindi na po kailangan!Nakakahiya!"Hinatid na nga cya sa ospital pati ba naman sa kwarto ng Mama nya ay uhahatid pa cya? "No,I insist...saka tigilan mo na ang kaka'Po'mo sa akin bata pa ako,kayang kaya ko pang hanggang 10 rounds." "Ano po yun Sir?" "Ahh...wala!" ******************* KEN POV: Kahit anong pigil nya ay hindi nya taalga maiwasan na magpahaging kay Jonie.Natural na sa kanya ang pagka pilyo kaya kusa nang lumalabas iyon sa bibig nya.birhen pala ang secretary nya kaya wala ito alam.Ang sarap tuloy paglaruan ang mga ganitong inosenteng babae... pagpapalaglag mission!!!pagpapalaglag mission!!sigaw na naman ng utak nya.Pinapaalala nito na off limits ni Jonie."Lintik!!!"napa mura cya.Nagulat si Jonie sa kanya.Napalakas pala ang pagmura nya "Ayy sorry....hindi ikaw ang minumura ko...may natapakan lang ako kaya nagulat ako."Pagdadahilan nya.Tumango lang ito sa kanya. Pumasok na ito sa ospital.Ramdam nyang nahihiya ito dahil nakasunod cya.Pasimpleng tinitingnan nya ito habang naglalakad.Ang ganda ng kurbada ng katawan nito....payat pero mabalakang.Napansin nyang malaman din ang suso nito.Nakikita nya iyon kapag medyo mababa ang pagka V-leeg ng suot na blouse nito...naramadaman nyang gumalaw si manoy.... Lintik Lintik Lintik!....pagpapalaglag pagpapalaglag pagpapalaglag!hindi ka pwede tayuan dito!Nakakahiya!..Nasa ospital ka pa man din!Galit nya sa sarili. "Ahm Jonie?"tawag nya sa dalaga,nilingon cya nito.Pasimpleng tinabuhan nya ang harapan nya.Baka mapansin nito ang galit na si manoy. "Ano ang room ng mama mo?susunod nalang ako doon...mag CR lang ako sandali" "Ah ok Sir....room 208 po si Mama." "Ok I'll be there...."sambit nya saka tumalikod at naghanap ng CR.kakalmahin nya muna ang sarili bago puntahan ang dalaga.Bakit kasi kung ano-ano ang mga iniisip nya?sinabi ng pagpapalaglag eh!Tigas din kasi ng ulo eh ayan tuloy tinigasan ka!!!galit ng utak nya sa kanya. Nang maramdamang ok na cya ay saka sya lumabas ng CR at pumunta sa room 208.Naabutan nyang kinakausap ng doctor si Jonie.Tulog ang mama nito,payat na ito pero halatang maganda noong kabataan nito.Dito nagmana si Jonie sa ganda pero morena ang mama nito,hindi katulad ni Jonie na mestiza.Malamang ay foreigner ang papa ni Jonie..Saan kaya ang papa ni dalaga?tanong nya sa isip.Pagkatapos makipag usap ng doctor kay Jonie ay umalis na ito. "Kamusta ang mama mo?"tanong nya dito...nakatulala lang kasi ito....Mukhang paiyak na.Ayaw nya naman hawakan ito at i-comfort,baka lalo mailang ito sa kanya.Kanina pa nga lang nung nasa elevator sila ay napaiktad pa ito ng hinawakan nya sa bewang...nagkunyari nalang cyang hindi nya iyon napansin para hindi ito lalong mailang. Hindi cya sinagot nito...parang walang narinig.Nakatingin lang ito sa mama nito."Ate!..."tawag ng isang babae na naroon din kay Jonie.Baka kamag-anak nya ito...may resemblance ang dalawang babae pero mas maganda pa din si Jonie. "Bakit?...." "Sino po cya?"Tanong nito sabay turo sa kanya. "Ay boss ko pala si Sir Ken....Sir pinsan ko po si Bebe...cya po ang nag babantay kay Mama habang nasa trabaho ako."Pakilala nito sa kanya. "Hi bebe..."bati nya dito.Kinilig naman ito ng binati nya.lihim nalang cyang natawa. "Bebe ikaw na ang bahala dito kay mama ha.Uuwi muna ako,babalik nalang ulit ako bukas." "Ok ate.dalhan mo ako pasalubong ha?" "Anu ba gusto mo?" "Jabee..."nakangiting sambit nito.Jolibee ang ibig sabihin nito pero ginagaya ang mga bata sa jabee ang tawag. "Mag order ka na jan sa app...eto pambayad."Inabutan ito ni Jonie ng 500.Tuwang tuwa naman ang pinsan nito. "Sige na...alis na kami ha...." "Bye ate....bye boss pogi!..."Pinandilatan ito ng mata ni Jonie...baka nahihiya sa inakto ng pinsan nito. "Pasencya ka na sa pinsan ko Sir.pilya lang talaga yan....tara na po?"Nginitian nya naman ito at tinanguan.. JONIE POV: Nagpatiuna na naman cya sa paglakad.Iniisip nya ang sinabi ng doctor.kailangan ng operahan ang mama nya sa lalong madaling panahon para maiwasan ang pag kalat ng cancer sa katawan nito. Kailangan nya ng malaking halaga.1 milyon ang hinihingi ng doctor sa kanya!Saan naman sya kukuha ng ganun kalaking pera!Wala pa nga sa kalahati ang ipon nya.Kung sana ay wala iyong maintenance ay siguro malaki-laki na ang naiipon nya.Bukod kasi sa pang oopera ng Mama nya ay kailangan nya din ng budget para sa maintenance nito. Kahit pa patayin nya ang sarili sa pagtatrabaho at pagluto ng ulam araw araw ay hindi pa din kaya punuin ang 1 milyon.Saka pagod pagod naman ang katawan nya.Baka pati cya ay ma-ospital na din sa kakahanap ng pera.Naiiyak nalang cya..pasimpleng pinahid nya ang luha nya. "Hey anything wrong?"tanong ng boss nya.Malamang ay napansin nito ang pananahimik nya at ang pasimpleng pagpahid nya ng luha. "Ah wala po sir...."pagsisinungaling nya.Nakakahiya at nakita pa cya ng Boss nya sa ganoong sitwasyon. Nang makalabas na sila ng ospital ay nag paalam na cya sa boss nya. "Salamat sa paghatid Sir ha...dito nalang po ako mag aabang ng jeep...."balak nya sana mag grab pero sayang din ang pera na pambayad.Pandagdag pa yun sa ipon nya para sa operasyon ng mama nya. "Mahihirapan kang maka uwi nyan...kita mo punuan ang mga jeep?Sumabay ka na sa akin,ihahatid na kita..."alok nito sa kanya. "Naku wag na po Sir!Nakakahiya na talaga! Saka may pupuntahan ka pa malapit dito di ba?" Sandaling napa-isip si Ken..Oo nga pala,yun pala ang alibi nya kanina para pumayag si Jonie na ihatid nya sa ospital. "Ah eh...wala na....tumawag na ang ka meeting ko dito,bukas nalang daw kami mag kita..."pagsisinungaling nito. "Ganun po ba..." "Tara na...ihahatid na kita."sambit ng boss nya.Nagpatiuna na din ito sa paglakad papuntang parking kung nasaan ang sasakyan nito.Hindi na tuloy cya naka hindi.Tinalikuran na cya at naunang sumakay ng kotse. Nahihiya man cya pero sumakay na din.Mahihirapan talaga cya makasakay...Friday pa naman ngayun at araw ng swedo. "Saan ba ang sa inyo?"tanong nito sa kanya ng makasakay na cya. Wala sa sariling binigay nya ang adress ng bahay nya..Iniisip pa din ang sinabi ng doctor kanina. "What happened Jonie?Ano ang sinabi ng doctor tungkol sa kalagayan ng mama mo?" Humikbi sya....ang bigat na kasi ng nararamdaman nya...Bakit kasi wala cyang tatay at mga kapatid?Solo nya lang tuloy ang problema. "K-kailangan daw operahan si Mama.Malaking halaga ang kailangan.Konti palang kasi ang ipon ko,kailangan na daw kasi pigilan ang pagkalat ng cancer sa katawan nya...."tumutulo ang luha na kinukwento nya sa boss.Hindi nya alam kung bakit cya napa-kwento dito....siguro dahil kailangan nyang ilabas ang sakit ng dibdib nya. "Magkano ba kailangan?" "Isang milyon daw po..." "I will give you 1 milyon."Simpleng sabi lang nito sa kanya habang nagda drive. "Naku wag po Sir!Hindi po ako tumatanggap ng abuloy....nakakahiya!!!"utal-utal na tanggi nya. "Hindi ito abuloy...tulong ko sau." "Kahit na Sir!hindi ko kayang bayaran yan sayo!" "Maliit na halaga lang sa akin ang isang milyon." "Oo nga Sir pero hindi ko pa din kayang bayaran yun..."Kahit pa kailangan nya ng pera ay hindi naman cya basta basta lang tatanggap sa boss nya.Hindi cya ganoong tao. "Edi bayaran mo ako sa paraang gusto ko!" Napatingin sya sa Boss nya."P-paano po Sir?" "I'll give you 10 million....be my lover for 3 months." "What!"Napalakas ng boses nya. "Ayaw mo ng abuloy di ba?Ayaw mo din na na tulungan kita,kaya bayaran mo nalang sa paraan ng gusto ko.10 million for your body.Alam ko birhen ka pa kaya kulang ang isang milyon.Gagawin ko sampung milyon pumayag ka lang."Normal lang ang pag sabi nito sa kanya.Parang nanghihingi lang ito ng tinapay.Pero hindi ba nito alam ang kapalit ng hinihingi nito?Buhay at kinabukasan nya ang nakasalalay dito!Masisira ang pagkatao nya kapag pumayag cya! "Pero Sir hindi po ako ganung babae!"Pilit nyang ipinapaintindi dito na iba sya sa mga babaeng nagkakandarapa dito...Iba cya! "Alam ko...kaya nga nagustuhan kita eh.Alam kong iba ka sa mga babaeng pumupunta sa office ko." "P-pero Sir....hindi ko po kaya ang ipapagawa mo sa akin."Hindi nya lubos maisip kung bakit sya nito inalok ng ganun?May nagawa ba cyang pagpapakita ng motibo sa boss nya para gawin nito iyon sa kanya?Sa pagkaka-alam nya ay wala naman.Maingat pa nga cya sa mga galaw nya kapag kaharap ang Boss dahil alam nyang maloko ito sa mga babae.Ayaw nyang matulad sa kanila. "Pag-isipan mo....Para sa Mama mo.Kung ayaw mo ay hindi kita pipilitin." Napayuko cya...hindi nya akalain na ooferan cya ng boss nya ng indecent proposal..Kahit pa wala pa cyang ginagawa ay parang napakababa na ng tingin nya sa sarili nya.Pero paano naman ang Mama nya?papayagan nya bang mamatay nalang ito dahil sa prinsipyo nya?Bubuhayin ba sila ng prinsipyo nya?Lintik!ano ang gagawin nya? Wala na silang pansinan buong byahe.Wala cyang masabi at malamang ay wala na din itong sasabihin sa kanya.Nasabi na nito lahat ang gustong sabihin...nasa kanya nalang ang desisyon.Sa kakaisip nya ay hindi nya namalayan na nasa harap na sila ng bahay nya.Tumigil ito sa harap ng gate nila. "Pag isipan mo Jonie.I want your answer tomorrow morning.Kung hindi ka tatawag bukas ay ibig sabihin hindi ka pumapayag."Sambit nito sa kanya.Hindi pa din ito tumitingin sa kanya...nasa harap lang ito nakatingin.Hindi nya din naman kayang harapin ito ng mata sa mata. Dahan-dahan cyang lumabas ng kotse...walang salitang lumabas sa bibig nya.Kahit nga magpasalamat dahil sa paghatid nito sa kanya ay hindi nya nagawa. Nang makalabas na cya ay tinapunan muna sya nito ng tingin...Nag tama ang kanilang mga mata.Ewan lang pero nakikita nya sa mga mata nito ang pagsusumamo na sana ay pumayag cya sa proposal nito.Ilang segundo pa silang nagka tinginan bago nito ulit paandarin ang makina at nagdrive na palayo sa kanya... KENNETH POV: Lintik!napamura si Ken...wala sa plano nya ang alukin si Jonie ng ganun.Di ba nga off limits si Jonie?Yan ang sabi ng utak nya pero sabi ng puso nya gusto nya ang dalaga.Gusto nya lagi itong nakikita...gusto nya ito lagi sa tabi nya. He wants her...hindi lang bilang sekretarya,gusto nya itong maging kanya!Gusto nya ito ang pagpapa-init sa kanyang kama. Sana ay pumayag si Jonie...kung hindi ay wala na cyang mukhang maihaharap pa sa dalaga.Isang malaking sampal iyon sa kanya!Hanggang bukas ng umaga lang ang palugit nya dito.Ayaw nya na pinaghihintay cya ng matagal. Sa kakaisip nya sa dalaga ay hindi nya namalayan na nasa harap na sya ng gate nila.Pinagbuksan cya ng security guard saka pinasok nya ang sasakyan sa parking. "Good evening po seniorito...kakain po na kayu ng dinner?"Tanong ni Aling Meding na kasambahay nya ng salubungin sya nito. "Hindi na ate...hindi ako gutom." Dumiretso cya ng kwarto,hinubad ang damit at pumunta ng banyo para maligo.Itinuon ang ulo sa baba ng shower.Hinayaan nyang mabasa ang buo nyang katawan.Inalala nya ang tagpo kanina sa office...nakita nya ang panti ni Jonie...parang gusto nyang hawiin ang panti nito at silipin ang nakatagong perlas doon."ahhh..."napaungol cya.Tumayo ang pagkalalaki nya..Lintik! Hinimas nya ang alaga nya."ohhhh...."grabi ang epekto ni Jonie sa kanya...iisipin palang nya ang dalaga ay ang laki na ng epekto nito sa kanya."ahhh...ahhhh...ahhhh..."ungol nya habang pinapaligaya ang sarili. "Jonie....."sambit nya sa pangalan ng dalaga.Lalo nyang binilisan nag pag-akyat baba sa palad nya..hanggang sa labasan cya.."aaahhhh....." Tinapos na nya ang pagligo at lumabas ng banyo..pumasok na naman sa isip nya ang dalaga.Sabado bukas...wala silang work.Sana ay tawagan cya ni Jonie.Sya ang pinaka masayang lalaki kung mangyayari yun.Humiga cya sa kama at pinikit ang mata...nakatulog cyang may ngiti sa labi at pag-asang tatawagan cya ni Jonie bukas at papayag sa alok nya. ***** Kinaumagahan ay maaga cyang nagising,tiningnan nya agad ang telepono...wala pang tawag si Jonie sa kanya. Ano ka ba?Alas singko palang ng umaga!Nagmamadali?...Galit nya sa sarili. Lumabas cya ng kwarto para magkape.Panay pa din ang silip nya sa cellphone nya...parang timang lang na naghihintay ng chat o tawag ng dalaga. Pagkatapos nya magkape ay nag gym naman cya.Alas-dyes na ng umaga wala pa din tawag ni Jonie sa kanya.Hindi na cya mapakali...umiinit na ang ulo nya.Gusto nya cya na misno tatawag sa dalaga pero wala cyang contact number nito,sa work lang silang nag-uusap. Tinawagan nya ang isa pa nyang executive secretary na si Alex.Lalaki naman ito...ito ang kasa-kasama nya sa field pag-umaalis cya samantalang si Jonie naman ang in-charge sa office kapag wala cya. "Good morning Sir,may kailangan po ba kayo?"bati ni Alex sa kanya nang tawagan nya.Malamang ay nagulat ito dahil wala naman silang pasok sa araw na yun. "Ahm..may personal number ka ba ni Jonie?"Nag-aalangan cyang sabihin iyon,alam kasi nito na hindi sya nanghihingi ng personal number ng mga empleyado."May nakalimutan lang akong ibilin sa kanya."Pagdadahilan nya. "Ano po ba yun Sir?"gusto nyo ako na po ang magsasabi sa kanya?" "No!..ako na." "Ah..okay sige po sir,I'll text you her number."alam nyang nagdududa na ito sa kinikilos nya pero hindi cya magpapahalata.Pagkababa nya ng telepono ay nakatanggap agad cya ng text galing kay Alex...number iyon ni Jonie..Lihim cyang napangiti. Dinayal nya ang telepono ni Jonie...nang magring ito ng isang beses ay agad nyang pinatay.Bigla cyang natauhan...hindi cya dapat ang tatawag kay Jonie kundi ang dalaga.Hindi nya iba-bargain ang sarili nya para sa isang babae!Si Jonie dapat ang lalapit sa kanya at hindi cya!...Kailangan cya ng dalaga kaya sigurado cyang tatawag ito sa kanya. Lintik!!!ang pinaka-ayaw nya talaga sa lahat ay ang pinaghihintay cya!Dumating na ang alas-dose pero wala talaga tawag ang dalaga sa kanya.Bigla cyang nalungkot.Natapos na ang palugit nya sa dalaga...hindi talaga cya gusto ni Jonie...masakit iyon para sa kanya. Biglang tumigas ang ekspresyon ng mukha nya.Ngayon palang cya napahiya sa babae ng ganito...at sa sekretarya pa nya!Bakit sino ba cya?galit na wika nya sa sarili.Kinuha nya ang cellphone at tinawagan si Anne,dito nya ibubuhos ang galit nya ky Jonie. "Hello Ann...are you free today?"wika nya "Hi pogi!mabuti naman at naisipan mo akong tawagan?" "Can we meet?"Sambit nya.Hindi nya sinagot ang tanong nito...kinansel nya kasi ang pagkikita nila dapat ni Ann kahapon dahil na din kay Jonie.Alam nyang susumbatan lang sya nito...Sinabi nya kung saan sila magkikita at pinatay ang telepono. Pumasok na sya ng kwarto at nagbihis.Galit pa din cya...kailangan nyang ma-divert ang atensyon nya kay Jonie.Hindi nya matanggap na binale-wala cya nito!Galit na galit cya...hindi kaya ng pride nya ang ginawa ng dalaga sa kanya.Pagkatapos nyang magbihis ay pumunta na sya ng kotse at pinaharurut iyon palayo..Pupunta sya sa meeting place nila ni Ann. Nauna na cya sa hotel kung saan sila magme-meet ni Ann.Maya-maya pa ay may kumatok na sa hotel room nya.Pagbukas nya ay si Ann iyon.Siniil nya agad ito ng halik...hindi na nya binigyan ng pagkakataon ang babae...dali-dali nyang hinubad ang damit ng dalaga... | LEARN_MORE | https://bioplm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=12380&u | Philip Spicy Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61561349855790/ | 52,400 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | bioplm.com | VIDEO | đđTumakbo siya palayo sa kanya at hinabol siya, hindi makakalipad nang walang pakpakđđ | https://bioplm.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=12380&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/t39.35426-6/467851876_870368451906322_8856167702313687024_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=arA_OXA5_XwQ7kNvgET3PLg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AhXlzwskRE0Kb4f5rZf-QR6&oh=00_AYC5Fu4aqbgKDh5HNZPQCL4HLW1suGFon1Zydn-kOzsRCg&oe=67544326 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Philip Spicy Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Merry & Bright FREE Shows | âMerry & Brightâ Free Outdoor Holiday Shows are this Friday-Sunday. Mark your calendars for these magical performances. | LEARN_MORE | https://www.snoopyshomeice.com/holidays-events?utm | Snoopy's Home Ice | https://www.facebook.com/SnoopysHomeIce/ | 16,798 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | snoopyshomeice.com | IMAGE | Free Holiday Shows at Snoopyâs | https://www.snoopyshomeice.com/holidays-events?utm_source=bayareadigitalsolutions&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=holidays | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469028692_1062980962236572_7046882771533391686_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eUcoehXxgkoQ7kNvgF-RYYZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AuAhGU-FabgZVQ3dUMKbuZm&oh=00_AYCaUJui-JHa_KVyehJDtN372uTQa5Yd_cEvVHFm9WhNjg&oe=6754365D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Snoopy's Home Ice | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-12-02 18:36 | active | 1949 | 0 |
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Now is your chance to help financially support LEASH, Inc through the Mount Dora Community Trust Week of Giving! We canât do this without your help! LEASH, Inc is a small Lake County, all volunteer, non-profit organization with a big impact to our communities đâđŚşđžđ In case you didnât know, here is a sample of LEASH, Inc.âs impact: âĄď¸ Nearly 5,500 Volunteer Hours so far this year 525 Dogs Spayed and Neutered since the program started in 2019 âĄď¸ Over 5,000 Community Cats served in the TNVR (trap, neuter, spay, return) program âĄď¸ Over 1,000 Dogs and Cats Microchipped since 2020 âĄď¸ Nearly $25,000 spent in Veterinary Medical Assistance since 2020 âĄď¸ Nearly $3,000 spent and over 1 ton of foot provided in the LEASH, Inc Pet Food Giveaway since the program started earlier this year âĄď¸ Over 15,000 children educated in responsible pet ownership through the LEASH, Jr. program LEASH, Inc has the opportunity to qualify for matching funds through the Mount Dora Community Trust Giving Week event. This event runs from December 2, 2024 at 9 am through December 9, 2024, and we are asking for your support! Please click or copy the link below into your Internet browser and make your donation, choosing LEASH, Inc as the recipient. All money collected in this manner will go directly to LEASH, Inc. Every dollar has a chance for matching funds from the Mount Dora Community Trust to help in the upcoming year for animals in Lake County! Instructions: Go to: đđđđ Mountdoracommunitytrust.com/givingweek Click on: đâChoose Your Organizationâ - A list of non-profit organizations will display âźď¸ Click onâźď¸: L.E.A.S.H, Inc đ˛: Specify the amount you would like to donate and follow the prompts for entering payment information. This payment method is safe and secure. Thank you for helping support the LEASH, Incâs mission to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats in Lake County through Education, Advocacy, Safety and Health programs. If you are unable to donate, please still consider sharing our post đđž | MESSAGE_PAGE | LEASH, Inc | https://www.facebook.com/LEASHinc/ | 3,937 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | IMAGE | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469083328_1263960761308569_2742604747780590761_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ph_LDAAi_18Q7kNvgGcQFni&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AmFSkOeI3T7a71aHJVWheD9&oh=00_AYBiLA_rP-78oZjkw2otjrQtO6iVhg0eOwPeCZKsxBJIDw&oe=67540713 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | LEASH, Inc | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-12-02 18:48 | active | 1950 | 0 | â¤ď¸đO que acontece a seguirđClique aqui para continuar lendođ | Eu testemunhei meu namorado e minha prima se contorcendo na minha cama, enquanto minha famĂlia ainda me deixou participar do casamento dela, sem me considerar. Furiosa, eu dormi com um homem sexy na festa Ă fantasia. NĂŁo esperava que naquela noite eu engravidasse. O pai da criança era meu chefe... -- â Ah, querido, vocĂŞ ĂŠ incrĂvel... â E quem ĂŠ melhor, eu ou a Catarina? â NĂŁo mencione ela, como ela pode se comparar a vocĂŞ... ... Eu testemunhei meu namorado ClĂĄudio traindo minha prima, e os sons lascivos deles ainda ecoavam na minha mente. E hoje, meus pais me deixaram ir ao casamento da minha prima! Eu olhei para eles com firmeza e disse: â Eu nĂŁo vou ao casamento dela! Ela nĂŁo ĂŠ minha prima! - Errado foi ele, Catarina, que era seu namorado. â Minha mĂŁe argumentou. â A Kelly, coitada, foi seduzida, ele a desonrou, agora vai se casar com ela pra ela nĂŁo ficar mal falada na cidade. - Ah, mĂŁe! Me poupe e se poupe! A cidade inteira sabe que a Kelly ĂŠ uma vadia... â Perdi a paciĂŞncia. - Catarina, olha o vocabulĂĄrio! â Meu pai chamou a minha atenção. â Olha aqui, se vocĂŞ nĂŁo quer conviver com a Kelly tudo bem, mas vocĂŞ vai a esse casamento. E chega desse comportamento grosseiro. Achei que eu tinha ouvido errado. - VocĂŞ vai ao casamento da sua prima, Catarina. Isso ĂŠ uma ordem! NĂłs somos os seus pais e vocĂŞ vai obedecer. â Minha mĂŁe falava brava comigo, como se eu fosse a errada nessa situação. - Sinto muito, mĂŁe, mas eu nĂŁo vou! Eu sigo as regras de vocĂŞs, eu sou uma boa filha, mas dessa vez nĂŁo vai dar. Eu fui a ofendida! Eu tenho todo o direito de nĂŁo querer ser a piada da famĂlia mais. â Falei jĂĄ chorando. - CHEGA, CATARINA! â Meu pai gritou e me assustou. â VocĂŞ vai a esse casamento e ponto final. - Mas, pai... - NĂŁo quero saber, Catarina! Ă importante pra sua mĂŁe manter a paz na famĂlia. EntĂŁo vocĂŞ vai e pronto. â Meu pai falou nĂŁo dando margem para questionamentos. Fui para o meu quarto e passei a noite chorando. No dia seguinte, eu contei tudo para minha melhor amiga, Melissa. Ela ficou furiosa, mas tambĂŠm queria que eu nĂŁo ficasse presa a essa raiva. Ela planejou me levar ao baile de mĂĄscaras para relaxar, e eu nĂŁo recusei. No sĂĄbado nos arrumamos na casa dela. - QuĂŞ isso, hein, amiga! TĂĄ gata demais! â Ela me entregou uma mĂĄscara dourada, linda, toda trabalhada como se fosse uma renda, que cobria atĂŠ o nariz e eu a coloquei. Eu usava um vestido de cetim vermelho brilhante e a mĂĄscara combinou perfeitamente. â EntĂŁo, estamos prontas? - Sim estamos prontas. â Respondi e peguei minha bolsa. â Ih, esqueci meu perfume. - NĂŁo, tem problema, vocĂŞ vai usar o perfume novo da minha mĂŁe. Ela nĂŁo se importa. Quando o Fernando, namorado da Mel, nos viu sorriu, deu um beijo na Mel e disse: - Garotas, vocĂŞs estĂŁo lindĂssimas! Acho que vocĂŞ vai sair dessa festa com um namorado novo, Cat. - Sem namorado, Nando. Na verdade, eu acho que ĂŠ melhor eu ficar, eu nĂŁo estou no clima pra festa. Por favor, Mel, deixa eu ficar? NĂŁo teve jeito, minha amiga me arrastou para o baile. Logo que entramos a Mel nos arrastou para o bar e falou no meu ouvido: - A festa ĂŠ open bar, entĂŁo hoje vocĂŞ vai beber para afogar de vez a tristeza! âA Mel me entregou dois shots de tequila e com mais dois em suas mĂŁos me falou: - Vamos virar! â viramos a tequila e o Fernando jĂĄ entregava uma taça de cosmopolitan para cada uma. Melissa me arrastou para a pista de dança e atĂŠ que eu estava me divertindo. Começou uma mĂşsica lenta e o Nando e a Mel começaram a dançar agarradinhos, aproveitei a deixa e me encaminhei para o buffet, mas nĂŁo consegui chegar, senti uma mĂŁo puxando a minha e quando olhei para trĂĄs havia um homem com uma mĂĄscara preta sorrindo pra mim, e que sorriso! Ele beijou minha mĂŁo e me puxou para perto dizendo no meu ouvido com uma voz rouca: - A mulher mais linda do salĂŁo nĂŁo vai me negar uma dança, vai? - E por que nĂŁo? Vamos dançar. â Sorri pra ele. Era impossĂvel resistir aquela voz rouca sedutora e aquele sorriso lindo meio de lado! Ele era alto, ombros largos, um sorriso encantador e olhos azuis, tĂŁo azuis que eram quase violeta. Ele tinha uma boca que convidava ao pecado, cabelos castanhos, e quando me puxou pela cintura eu apoiei as mĂŁos em seu corpo e percebi que ele era uma parede de mĂşsculos bem definidos. Embora a mĂĄscara nĂŁo permitisse ver seu rosto, ele era muito charmoso e encantador. - Eu estava observando vocĂŞ desde que chegou. â Aquele homem, com ar misterioso, falou no meu ouvido. â VocĂŞ ĂŠ tĂŁo linda! - VocĂŞ ĂŠ gentil. Mas vocĂŞ nĂŁo ĂŠ da cidade, ĂŠ? â Ele tinha uma presença forte, emanava poder. - NĂŁo. Um amigo me convenceu a vir a essa festa. - Parece que temos algo em comum, meus amigos tambĂŠm me convenceram a vir. - Sorte minha! - E por que? â Sorri. - Porque eu fiquei fascinado quando te vi. VocĂŞ ĂŠ muito linda. â Enquanto ele falava no meu ouvido eu ia me arrepiando, sentindo meu rosto esquentar e o corpo formigar, ele realmente me encantou. - Mesmo com a mĂĄscara? - Mesmo com a mĂĄscara! VocĂŞ ĂŠ linda demais. - VocĂŞ ĂŠ um sedutor. - VocĂŞ me acha sedutor? - VocĂŞ sabe que ĂŠ. E lindo tambĂŠm. - Que bom que vocĂŞ gosta do que vĂŞ. â Eu me senti um pouco zonza, nĂŁo sei se pela bebida ou pelo perfume delicioso que aquele homem usava. Acabei tropeçando nos meus prĂłprios pĂŠs. - VocĂŞ estĂĄ bem? - Acho que preciso de um pouco de ar. - Vem comigo. - Ele me puxou para um corredor sem iluminação que dava para uma saĂda de emergĂŞncia e ficou assoprando o meu rosto. â Eu quero muito te beijar. Posso? Esse homem, mesmo com a mĂĄscara, exalava sensualidade em cada movimento. De repente, pensei: por que eu deveria continuar mergulhada na dor da traição? A vida ainda tem muitas coisas maravilhosas, nĂŁo tem? Como agora. Como se estivesse hipnotizada, eu assenti levemente e entĂŁo lentamente abri meus lĂĄbios... | LEARN_MORE | https://hunled.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15216&u | Casa dos livros | https://www.facebook.com/61558148557550/ | 17,016 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | hunled.com | VIDEO | đĽMais grandes romances aquiđĽ | https://hunled.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15216&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/t39.35426-6/468819003_3940788849511088_4374709716336332331_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XwGlLCoj-ewQ7kNvgHScnU4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWSOg9VUOEe_2Y8RO4Jg8TX&oh=00_AYCU3urALXiJj0Dl4I_WI_F0i6Zd2lvH43Y36wKD86-TOQ&oe=67543911 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Casa dos livros | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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instagram.com | â¨đHOLIDAY GIVEAWAYđ⨠Our annual holiday giveaway is here and this year we are giving away a 3CT Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet! How To Enter: âď¸Like this post and tag 3 friends đ Follow @gdcstpete đRepost on your story OR đ Come in store and fill out an entry form (no purchase necessary) Giveaway winner will be announced on 12/20 @ 12pm Good luck and happy holidays! âď¸đ #holidaygiveaway #jewelrygiveaway #goldanddiamondcenter #tampabayjewelry #stpeteluxury #stpetejewelry #stpetejewelers #holidaygiftideas #holidaygifts #holidaygiftguide | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/gdcstpete | The Gold & Diamond Center | https://www.facebook.com/GDCStPete/ | 350 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram profile | 0 | instagram.com | IMAGE | http://instagram.com/gdcstpete | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468973267_2280428165665763_7956302111303128273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TM9sUBMPRhwQ7kNvgEWp-9D&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALvgqWDnBpEtAC_xAZ-BAoI&oh=00_AYAj2nx6IGQF_A6Ek35wCh6AyVO80yhdCJn7uIxOLmZ8oQ&oe=675412C6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | The Gold & Diamond Center | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-12-02 18:48 | active | 1950 | 0 | ÂĄMĂĄs episodios! đđ | Betty trabaja en dos empleos para ayudar a su madre. Ella es stripper y limpiadora de un hotel. Una noche, Marcus, el jefe de la mafia, entra en el club donde Betty trabaja. Todas las mujeres le resultan decepcionantes, a excepciĂłn Betty. Ăl se enamora de ella al instante, sin saber que el amigo de Betty, Anthony, tambiĂŠn estĂĄ dispuesto a sacrificarlo todo por ella. Ella debe tomar una decisiĂłn: un mafioso dominante o un heredero inocente. ÂżA quiĂŠn elegirĂĄ ella? | WATCH_MORE | https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DLLPF1053442. | DramaBox-Movies and drama | https://www.facebook.com/61554338662625/ | 485,139 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Watch more | 0 | fb.dramabox.com | VIDEO | https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DLLPF1053442.html?language=es×tamp=1733109093319&channelCode=DLLPF1053442&bid=41000108065&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&ad_group_name={{adset.name}}&ad_group_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469071314_467902855916222_1641265223600808167_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ESYELantNJIQ7kNvgFBpWOD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AKNx2POP3Hv9W3D5WrFDSQd&oh=00_AYBQD3CcvdykilAMYkG3X-1ltChfibXwecZPHHPONHQTcw&oe=67540C8B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | DramaBox-Movies and drama | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-12-02 20:12 | active | 1952 | 0 |
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage with Aurora. She will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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 wonât be a concubine. Sheâll be my legal wife, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Fell in love, huh? Have you forgot what you promised me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett was called away to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before he left, he lifted his wifeâs veil and vowed, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Embarrassed, Barrett avoided her eye contact. "Just forget what I said. Back then, I only considered you a suitable match for a wife. I knew nothing about love until I met Rory." When he spoke of the woman he loved, his eyes softened with deep affection. Turning back to Carissa, he added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply, and I hope you'll be generous enough to welcome her." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and mother liked her a lot upon seeing her." They agreed? Huh... How ironic! Seems like everything Carissa had done for this household had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting a brow. Barrett carried a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother and making her very happy. Even mother's health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was just laying out 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 lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "you're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her." As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under her eye became more evident in the light. Calmly, she said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. A true matriarch must understand the bigger picture and act with dignity. Donât you trust me?" Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? The king has approved this marriage, and Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things.â âOh, you think that's what I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa countered. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carissa's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted for me?' Soon, Carissa lifted her gaze, determination tightening her grip on the dowry list, âLulu, make preparations. Weâre going to see His Majesty tomorrow.â Luluâs brow furrowed, as if knowing Carissa's purpose, âBut, my lady, I donât think His Majesty will revoke his edictââ Carissa shook her head, âNo, Lulu, Iâm not asking him to change the edict, but to request a new oneâan amicable divorce from Barrett.â Luluâs eyes widened that instant, âA divorce! My lady, you want a divorce?â Carissa nodded firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barrett Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowry and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831& | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 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/t39.35426-6/464975882_1204712524149205_7926569809786181278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6uUfVOrci44Q7kNvgFjzPaa&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A0p4E08cuVi92sb96tnpmm7&oh=00_AYCplO3fpmeF6jXXxz9kY-hUC4dOFfeY75JUn3yU9B7jdg&oe=675422C3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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www.fb.com | đ GIVEAWAY TIME đ Open for Canada and USA. HOW TO ENTER: 1. Follow our Facebook Page and/or Instagram Account 2. Comment and Tag 2 friends on this post 3. Share this post to your page or story PRIZE: There will be 3 winners of this giveaway. Each winner will receive 1 brand new designed hoodie of their sizing, 1 Bad Investments vehicle banner, and a small bundle of mystery decals. DEADLINE: Enter today until Friday morning. Winners will announced later on Friday December 6th. We will contact the winners and ask for your shipping information to be able to send your package early the following week. Good Luck to all! â˘ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ đ˛đđđ đ´đđđđđđđđđ đđđđ đđ đđđ đ´đđđđđđđđđđââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ â˘ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ âď¸BANNERS, DECALS, & APPARELâď¸ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ Website: badinvestmentsauto.caââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ DM for custom: decal sizes as big as 120"x120"ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ Etsy: BadInvestmentsAutoââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ â˘ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ âď¸THANK YOUâď¸ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ To everyone who has supported us so far in this awesome journey and being a part of our fam đđźđ¤đźđĽââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ ⢠ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ âď¸TAGSâď¸ââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââââ #badinvestments #badapparel #badinvestmentsauto #customdecals #carclub #ontariocars #stickershop #automotivephotography #decal #trucktok #cartok #customapparel #ontario #carsticker #christmasgiveaway #WinnerWednesday #giveaway | VISIT_PROFILE | http://www.fb.com/100063588620170 | Bad Investments Auto | https://www.facebook.com/BadInvestmentsAuto/ | 582 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Profile | 0 | fb.com | IMAGE | http://www.fb.com/100063588620170 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469021184_593355896485934_3237804729099979155_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UyLW9X8sSskQ7kNvgGeNDQE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AEsflI371P2fK5C7c1vPFKW&oh=00_AYBSH42azf5C194pRPMs7P1JyMLsO_k9GXFxhd1jbbpM1A&oe=67540A79 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Bad Investments Auto | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-12-02 19:09 | active | 1951 | 0 |
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | One Neah âWhere the heck is she?â I hear the Beta scream. I already knew Beta Kyle was talking about me, the only servant of the house. I groan and get to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with me. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I donât make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times and only speak when spoken too, even if what they are doing to me hurts. âAlpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office like you were asked.â Beta Kyle spits at me I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If I could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. I resisted, he was stronger than me and I didnât need locking up for another week with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. âWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!â I donât answer, I know it's a trick, to try and get me to say something so that he can give himself a reason to punish me. I keep my eyes low so that I didnât have to look at his face. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. Words exchanged between the other pack members when I was in the room. From what I gathered, he was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnât mess around and he had the largest pack. âHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!â Beta Kyle continues. Yet he doesnât tell me why. We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He places his hands on my shoulders, digging his nails into my thinning skin and turns me around, kicking me in the but as he shoves me towards the office. âUseless Wolf.â He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of drink. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donât quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. âIs this the way you greet all Alphaâs?â His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. âIâm sorry.â I whisper, getting to my feet. âIâŚI thought I was alone.â I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. He doesnât introduce himself either, why should he? âCome forward.â He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to finish me. I step around the corner, doing as Iâm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. âYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?â I nod, though I couldnât tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. âI would prefer it if you spoke to me.â He growls, âIâm not in the mood to play games.â âYes.â I whisper. I couldnât help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? âWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.â âIâŚ..â I hated the question. âSpit it out, I havenât got all day!â He takes a swig from his drink. I knew why I couldnât scent him. I knew why I hadnât been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something I ever wanted or liked to do. They never let me tell my side of the story. All they do is laugh and mock me. âYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itâs rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?â His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. âMy Wolf abilities were bound,â I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnât interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, âWhy would someone do that?â If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. âIt was a punishment.â I whisper. It wasnât far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereâs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnât tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me âNeah, what the heck are you doing in my office?â He turns to the crimson eyed man. âI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.â Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. âI wouldnât do that if I were you.â Alpha Daneâs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. âNeah,â My name rolls off of his tongue, âwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.â What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. âGo and get Beta Kyle.â Alpha Trey seethes. âTell him that our guest is here.â I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. âBeta Kyle,â I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. âAlpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you.â He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. âYouâre lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't be seeing sunlight for a few days.â Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesnât speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesnât last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. âNeah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating.â I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveâŚ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. âNeah is your sister, correct?â Alpha Dane questions my brother. âShe is.â Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. âWhy do you treat her like vermin?â Straight to the point, my brother wouldnât like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnât know what to do. I couldnât move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. âNeah was responsible for our parents' death.â Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. âResponsible how?â Alpha Daneâs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. âShe served them Wolfsbane.â Two Neah Donât make a sound. Donât make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. Slowly, his hand latches onto my throat but he doesnât squeeze. âYou poisoned your parents?â âI was six.â I splutter. âI just made them lemonade.â My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. âHardly seems fair to blame a six year old.â âA six year old should know the difference between plants.â Alpha Trey snaps âSounds to me like she was set up.â Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of my throat. âWe all know that standard wolfsbane doesnât affect us anymore. We evolved from that thing centuries ago.â What? What did he mean? Wolfsbane wasnât lethal. It had been drummed into me since I could walk. âWhich only leaves Blood of Wolfsbane.â Alpha Dane mutters âYou werenât there, Alpha Dane.â My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. âIt was Wolfsbane.â He nods his head. âYou are right, I was not present.â Great, now there was someone else who could remind me of something I had done by accident, years ago. âBut tell me this, where would a six year old get Blood of Wolfsbane?â âI didnât ask you here to talk about my slave!â Alpha Trey spits. âOr what happened to my parents.â Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alphaâs he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alphaâs, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. âYouâre right and now I have a few things to mull over.â âI thought we agreed.â My brother exclaims âNothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out.â The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. âWhat the heck did you say to him?â My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. âN..nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny.â âDid you tell him?â Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. âWELL?â My brother yells when I donât immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. âBut I didnât say it was you.â I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. If they werenât Wolves, they probably wouldnât have heard me. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. âIf you have ruined this, you wonât see daylight again.â He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. âPleaseâŚ.â I beg. âHe was an AlphaâŚI⌠I had to answer him.â My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull.. âAlpha Dane, I thought you had left.â Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. âI said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?â âAs I said,â my brother holds his ground, âShe is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves.â âYou should keep your nose out of other packs' business!â Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. âIf I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?â âWe donâtâŚ.â âReally?â He cocks a brow, âYou really expect me to believe that you would have just let her sleep? I have already stopped you from hitting her once. " His eyes roam over me. "She is underfed, bags hover under her tired blue eyes. For a sister of an Alpha, she is certainly not treated like one. Regardless of what she allegedly did when she was a pup.â âShe did do it!â Alpha Trey seethes âAnd she has nothing to do with our deal.â âThatâs for me to decide.â His crimson eyes flicker around the hallway. âWhere is your mate? I would be interested to know how she feels about this.â I close my eyes, silently begging my brother not to call his Luna. Luna Cassandra is worse than Beta Kyle and Alpha Trey together. âOn second thoughts, why bother her. Iâm certain she is just as vile as you.â He sneers I peer through slits to see his crimson eyes on me. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. âI have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey.â Alpha Dane is smirking at my brother âWe have already agreed on terms.â âWell, Iâm adding one. And if you donât agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you donât want that.â âI take it that your new terms have something to do with her?â Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. âYou would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal.â Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? âDeal.â Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesnât take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. âI will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow.â He reaches a hand out and cups my face, âEnsure you have everything packed.â He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. âIf I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about.â He struts out, slamming the door behind him. âGet out of my sight!â My brother snaps at me. Hurrying away, I make my way up the stairs and into my tiny bedroom. It was practically empty, the only things I had were a few changes of clothes. It would take me less than a minute to pack By morning, I hadnât slept. Alpha Danes questions were on repeat and why was I so interesting to a Wolf like him. There was a reason he had the biggest pack. They were known for their fighting abilities, thatâs why my brother wanted to link Moonshine with Alpha Danes pack, but where did I fit in to all this? And what o earth is Blood of Wolfsbane? Three Dane âTenth brideâs the charm.â Jenson mocks as the driver pulls up in front of Moonshines packhouse. âShut up!â Eric snaps at him âBoth of you shut your mouths. Before you say something you regret!â âHe will never learn.â My wolf, Aero muses. The driver pulls open the door. âJust give me a second, I need to speak to my men.â The door closes and neither one of them speaks. âShe isnât like the others. Donât speak to her, donât look at her. And you Jenson, keep your hands to yourself or you might just lose them this time.â I was more rattled than usual. Neah was different to the previous selected mates. I didnât know what it was or whether it was because I was used to confident women, but there was something about her. And Aero appeared to like her too, more than any of the others. I had to have her. âI mean it!â I snap at Jenson's smug face, âBeing my brother wonât change my mind!â He runs his fingers over his lips as though he was zipping them shut. They follow me from the car. Standing in front of the old packhouse, all three of us stare up at it. Because until a month ago, I knew nothing about them and even after my visit, all I had learned was the Alpha is a beast. My knuckles hammer on the door. Itâs barely open an inch when I force myself through making his Beta stumble back. I spot her straight away, hiding herself behind a corner. âAre you ready?â I call out. âIf you just want toâŚ..â Beta Kyle starts. âI was not talking to you. I was speaking to Neah.â The expression on Beta Kyleâs face was a picture. His jaw hung open and his eyes are wide. He clearly had never been told what to do, even by his Alpha. Neah steps out from her hiding spot, clutching a barely full carrier bag. She drags her teeth across her bottom lip and nods her head. âWhere are the rest of your things? I told you everything needs to be packedâ âThatâs all she has.â Trey snorts as he makes his appearance. âThatâs it?â I stare at him. âThatâs all her belongings? Sheâs what, in her early twenties and thatâs all she has?â âWhat more does she need?!â His Beta sneers. âKill him, let me rip out his throat and he will regret the day he crossed us.â âWhat are you waiting for?â I hear a horrible shrill voice that seems to vibrate through the floors. Looking away from the Beta, I see a woman holding on to a statue of herself that sat at the bottom of the stairs. Her blonde hair hung in waves around her face as her green eyes studied me and she sways her hips as she moves to Trey. I noticed Neahâs reaction yesterday. When I asked Trey where his mate was. Her whole body had tensed up in fear. She was afraid of this woman and I wanted to know why. âTake her Alpha Dane. Iâm sure she will be as useful a slave to you as she is to us.â Her shrill voice goes straight through me. âLook at the silly girl, sheâs going to pass out.â The blonde bimbo laughs âYou donât get to talk about her like that anymore.â I glare at the blonde, âShe is not your toy. She is not your slave and I suggest that you, Alpha Trey keep your wife in check. There is only so much disobedience that I will tolerate.â âDISOBEDIENCE!â The woman screeches just as Neahâs hip hits the floor. âHow dare you! If anyone is disobedient, itâs that rat in the corner.â âWho the heck is she calling a rat?â Aero growls âYou should make yourself familiar with our agreement.â I snap. âIt seems your mate has not told you everything.â Waving Eric forward, he pulls a thick wad of paper from the folder under his arm. The contract that I have drawn up. âAll that for your help?â His mateâs eyes are wide âI donât do half-witted contracts.â Taking the contract from Eric, I shove it against Treyâs chest âShall we go to the office?â Trey leads the way with his mate clinging on to him and his Beta hurrying behind. My men follow them while I stay behind to check on my new mate. âYou are more than welcome to join us, after all, you are involved in this deal. Or my car is outfront, you can take your stuff and wait there for me.â âAre those my only options?â she whispers, keeping her eyes low âFor now. Personally, I think you should sit in with us. It will give me great pleasure in pissing off that mate of your brothers.â She keeps her blue eyes low as she continues to clutch that bag of hers. This close to her, I could really see how ill she looked. Even her heart beat is slow, like itâs fighting to hang on to life. âSo what will it be?â âIâŚ.â Her head rotates between the front door and the direction of the office. âIâŚ.. The office I guess.â âGood choice.â I hold out a hand for her but she doesnât take it. Pushing herself up to her feet. She wobbles a little, but steadies herself. Walking a few steps behind her, I see the evil glares she receives from Trey and the other two idiots as she enters the office.. âTake a seat.â I whisper as I walk past her. My hand grazes her lower back and she immediately tenses up. She stands, frozen to the spot. Only her eyes dart about when she shakes her head. âSit!â I say it a little louder âShe doesnât have that privilege here!â The blonde snaps, with her lips curved up in amusement âSitting is not a privilege.â I growl, wondering what else they were forcing her to do. I couldnât see any bruises on her arms or legs, a good sign, I hoped. âIt better be!â Aero paces in my head. He wanted her out of this place as much as I did. The blonde physically recoils in her seat. Her mouth falls wide open, shocked that I had said something. âAnd I suggest,â I look at Trey, âYou tell your mate to keep her mouth shut. Or I can shut it for her.â âAlpha Dane, you are in my homeâŚ..â âAnd you want my help, correct?â The three of them were fuming. No one liked being told what to do in their own home, yet they were doing just that to Neah. I point to the empty chair between Jenson and Eric and she finally sits down. âLetâs just get this done.â Trey snaps, âThe sooner she is gone, the happier I can be.â âYou should read the contract.â I muse âI agreed that you could take her as part of our deal.â âIdiot!â Eric murmurs. He knew as well as I did that contracts should be read before they are signed They sign without reading and practically throw the contract back at me. âDone.â Trey mutters âGood, you can get her out of my house.â Treyâs mate screeches. If I had it my way, I would just take Neah, then I wouldnât have to put up with the twidles, but this way, they canât have her back. Even if they begged. A contract was a contract and it was impossible for them to get out of. Getting to my feet, I hold a hand out to Neah, âCome, we are leaving this rat hole before I lose my temper.â Her warm fingers slip into my hand as she rises to her feet. Her other hand clutches the bag to her chest as she walks with me to the front door. She doesnât even look back to say goodbye and that confirmed everything I needed to know. She hated them as much as they hated her. She pauses at the open front door, her hand falling from mine. Her blue eyes are wide as she stares at the limo. âCome.â I instruct Eric and Jenson are standing behind her, watching her curiously. âIs she okay?â Eric links me. âNeah?â I step in front of her and she doesnât move. She seems to be staring right through me. âItâs time to go.â âOkay.â Her lips barely move She takes a step forward, almost as if she is in slow motion. Her hands grip the door frame, her knuckles turn white as her heartbeat increases. Her lips part a little and her hand falls from the door frame just as her eyes roll to the back of her head. âIâve got you.â I mutter, catching her just before she hits the floor. Her entire body tenses up as I lift her and carry her to the car. She was so weak and was even lighter than I expected. She probably didnât weigh much more than a small child. Jenson and Eric get in the car first. Jenson cocks his eyebrow at me and has a smirk plastered to his face as I slide in with Neah on my lap. âKeep your thoughts to yourself, Jenson!â I hold her close, listening to her breathe and her heart as it slowed. Letting my fingers comb through her dark hair as she becomes a little more with it. Suddenly, she sits up right, moving away from me and trying to make herself as small as possible. Deciding not to force her to do anything, I keep my attention on my Beta and my brother, talking about pack stuff while casting a glance over to her every so often to make sure she was alright. âCome.â I mutter as the limo comes to a stop. I donât wait for the driver and get out myself, holding a hand out for her. âIâm fine.â She speaks at last while glancing at the others and shuffles herself forward to the open door. She stares up at my home, gasping a little. It was easily three times the size of her previous home and I hoped that she would be happy here. That I could provide her with a life that was better than her last. âLet me give you a tour.â I suggest as she continues to clutch that carrier bag to her chest. She follows me in, not speaking a word. I had no idea if she was listening to what I was saying or not âThe omegas swap out on a rotational basis. Good for the youngsters to learn some responsibilities before they get proper jobs.â I tell her while showing her the dining hall with a table long enough to fit twenty people around. We move through to the kitchen. Where I point out a board on the wall. âIf there is anything you need, you just add it to the board and it will be ordered in.â Her brow furrows and still she says nothing. Picking up a pen, I smile. Maybe she felt intimidated by me. âSo tell me, what do you need because there is no way you are living under my roof with just the things that are in that bag.â Her dazzling blue eyes dart around the room âWell?â I ask. âI donât need anything.â She whispers Sighing, I start scribbling things down. Underwear, jeans, workout clothes, dresses, shoes, anything I can think of that will cover her for a few days. Holding the pen between my teeth, I grab her around the waist. My thumbs meet just above her belly button and my fingers touch her spine. She was so thin, how was she even alive? Four Dane She looked like a deer caught in headlights as I write her size down. She was tinier than I thought. Skin and bone. If I had moved my hands up any higher, I would have felt every rib sticking out. It sickened me, she should be strong, powerful, she had Alpha blood running through her veins. I also saw how she scrunched her face up when I measured her. It wasnât fear, it was pain. She was hiding something underneath the baggy maids dress. âI know you want to say something, so just say it. Iâm not interested in the crap Trey drummed into you. You donât have to wait until someone asks you a question. You are free to say what you want. Are you injured?" "No." She was lying, I could feel it. She shakes her head as if it would confirm her answer and a lock of her black hair falls from the band that was supposed to be holding it back. Neah was going to be a tough girl to crack. A life of being starved had made her quite protective over herself. I will make Trey pay for what he has done to her. âYou have to say something, Neah. I cannot read your mind. When I mark you, at least I will know what you are feeling.â âMark me?â I didnât think her eyes could get any wider. âYes, I will mark you.â She was completely and utterly shocked by the idea. Her pink lips part a little as she continues to stare at me. I thought she knew. I thought that was why she came so willingly. My Beta had kept asking me if I was certain I wanted her as my bride. There was no doubt about it, she had a strange scent but something was luring me to her. I couldnât take my eyes off of her when I first saw her. My Wolf Aero was going mad for her too. Though he hadnât said a word about her. Annoyed with me for not taking her home with us yesterday. âYouâŚ.You brought me so that you could mark me.â She takes a step back, walking into the kitchen island. She winces a little and quickly covers up her pain, relaxing her face.. âIf Trey had bothered reading the contract, he would have discovered that you are to be my bride, not a slave. He would also have read that if he or his ridiculously silly mate tried doing anything to you going forward, that pack would become mine, or rather, yours. I never bought you, Neah, you were always destined to be mine.â âIâm a murderer.â She gasps. âWhy would someone like you want me for a bride?â âBloodâ Aero growls interrupting my thoughts. I glance down at her baggy dress. A blood stain had appeared right where I had my hands wrapped around her. âWhatâs that? Are you injured?â I demand, I had barely touched her. She covers the stain with her hand. âItâs nothing. Itâs just a cut that I keep knocking and it opens up again. I forget itâs there.â Forget? How could she forget a wound? âWhy isnât she healing?â I feel Aeroâs panic. âSheâs been with us less than two hours and already she has some form of injury.â His need to protect her was strong. It hadnât occurred to me that her lack of abilities included not being able to heal. I would have to find someone who could reverse the binding and soon. âShow me!â âItâs fine.â She mumbles I was already so sick of hearing that phrase. âItâs not optional.â I mutter. âIf you wonât show me, I will have to find a way to look, myself.â Her heart skips a beat. She looks around the kitchen. âCan.... can we go somewhere more private?â âPrivate?â I didnât really do privacy. What Wolf did?! She bobs her head but still keeps her focus slightly off of me. Almost afraid to look me directly in the eyes. âOffice,â Aero mutters. âI was just going to suggest that!â I snap back at my Wolf. I feel his eyes roll as he retreats to some dark corner of my mind. âThis way.â I gesture to the door. Neah waits for me and follows closely behind. The scent of blood steadily grew stronger, it was more than just a cut. I already knew that. In the office, I hit the remote and the blinds start to drop, blocking out the sunlight. Neah hesitates and slowly begins to unfasten the buttons of the dress but only where the large blood stain was. Keeping everything else covered from me. She pulls the dress to one side. The wound was about four inches long and already fairly infected. âSee, itâs fine.â she whispers. âYou need to stop saying that.â She closes her mouth and starts to fasten the buttons. âNo,â I grabbed her hands, I had caught sight of another bruise. âLet me see the rest of them.â It wasnât optional. She gasps as my fingers rip apart the rest of the buttons. Her sports bra had seen better days, just the same as her underwear. But it was the bruising I was most concerned about. Bruise upon bruise, scars that had come from whips. Her hip bones and ribs stuck out too. Turning her around, and pulling the dress from her, I find that her back is just the same. Yet interestingly, there was nothing above her chest and nothing below her thighs. Her arms were completely bare of wounds too. There was only one reason why someone would do that. To either hide what they were doing to someone, or to keep up appearances. They didnât want guests to see. More importantly, they didnât want me to see, considering the meeting was arranged over a month ago. She fumbles with the dress, pulling it tightly around her thin frame. âYou need to see a doctor.â âItâs âŚ..â she trails off when she sees the anger on my face. âIt always heals, eventually.â âDid Trey do this?â I mutter with my teeth gritted and gesture to her body She lowers her blue eyes. âCassandra?â She still doesnât answer me. âThat prick that follows Trey around? All three of them?â She pulls her dress tighter around her and silently nods. She brings her hand up to her face, brushing her cheek, wiping away an escaped tear. âAnyone else?â âThe pack.â She whispers. âIâm going to kill them all.â Aero growls. He will have to get in line, âBecause of what you allegedly did to your parents.â She nods. âI donât believe you were responsible.â She tilts her head up towards me, her brow knits together as her eyes finally find mine. âBecause of Blood of Wolfsbane?" Five Neah âIâŚI donât know what Blood of Wolfsbane is?â I whisper He frowns at me. âYour brother said you knew the difference between plants.â âIâŚâ I didnât have an answer. I couldnât remember, not fully. âBlood of Wolfsbane is Wolfsbane fed by our blood. The leaves will have a red hue to them. I canât imagine a child would know what it is because it is not freely grown. Your brotherâs story doesnât add up.â âOh.â âI wonât stop until I find out who did this, Neah.â His crimson eyes narrow. âI will make them pay for the suffering you have endured.â He sits on the edge of his desk, studying me. âRight now, you do need to see someone about the infection.â I kept my mouth closed, I was still trying to process his news of me being set up. Why had my brother never considered it? âCome, I will show you our bedroom. You can shower before we see the pack doctor.â Frozen to the spot, I donât move. Did he just say âour bedroom,â? As in, we are sharing a bedroom? I guess he thinks he can mke love with me whenever he wants if Iâm his contract bride. A shiver runs down my spine at the thought. Glancing up, I see him watching me. He is stood at the open door, waiting for me. Ensuring my dress has me covered, I step out into the hallway. No one was around and the hallways were quiet. As we moved, Alpha Dane would tell me what each room was, but he seemed more focussed on getting me to the bedroom. His bedroom is huge, with massive windows, just like the rest of the house. The bed sat pressed up against the wall. All around it, thin drapes hung from the ceiling, but they were tied back at each bed post. What surprised me the most was that the bath and the shower were in the same room. Only the toilet was in a small room to the side of the shower. No privacy, whatsoever. Though, he didnât seem to care about that. He makes me jump when I feel his warm breath on my skin. âYou donât need to be afraid.â I may not be able to smell him, but he would be able to scent the changes in my emotions. Crossing the room, he pulls open the glass door to the shower and turns it on. The moment he closes the door, the steam of the shower quickly fogs up the glass. And still, I find myself afraid. He gave me no clue as to what he was expecting from me. âHey,â His rough fingers tip my face up. âItâs just you and me and for now, I will let you shower in peace.â Walking away, he pulls his phone out of his pocket and messes around with it before placing it on the bedside table. âThe alarm is set for ten minutes. I will come back then. I will bring you something to wear so just stay in the towel. Understand?â He stares at me, waiting for an answer and I just nod. A ten minute shower. I was lucky if I got a minute shower back home and the water was always cold. He moves to the door and with his hand resting on the door knob he looks back over his shoulder at me. âI really wish you would talk more, Neah.â Alpha Dane leaves me in peace and I make a mad dash for the shower as if Iâm in some kind of fantasy land and this was all a dream. Maybe it was, maybe I was about to wake up in the basement of my home. The smells of the soaps and shampoos are divine as I lather them into myself. And my hair has never felt so clean. The wound on my stomach stung as the hot water hit it, but I didnât care, it was worth it. Someone in the room clears their throat and I freeze. Thanking the steam for keeping me semi hidden. âNeah, are you done? The alarm went off five minutes ago.â Alpha Daneâs voice seems louder in here. I had been so caught up in the freedom of a simple shower that I hadnât even heard the alarm or the Alpha come back into the room. âComing.â I mutter, turning off the water and pulling a towel around me to hide the hideousness underneath. Stepping out, I already see that my ripped dress, underwear and worn sandals had been removed from the floor. Alpha Dane sits on the end of the bed with what looked like folded clothes on his lap and a pair of trainers. âItâs not much, as we donât have anyone with as small a waist as you.â He smiles as he hands over the clothes. A matching navy blue sweatshirt and joggers. âYou will have to make do without the underwear for now. Should be here first thing tomorrow.â He watches me with a cocked eyebrow as I pull the joggers on and tug the sweatshirt over my head before removing the towel. Maybe he was used to the women parading themselves in front of him, or throwing themselves at him because he has power, but I wasnât like that. âLetâs go.â He rises to his feet and this time, I follow him. Something told me that if I didnât get this wound looked at, it would put him in a bad mood. The pack doctor was young, unlike the one back home who was old and afraid to let anyone take over from him. She smiles at us as we enter the pack hospital and rewraps her dark hair into a bun. âRaven, this is Neah.â Alpha Dane introduces me with a grin. I keep my eyes low as I hear Raven say, âAlpha Dane, what seems to be the problem apart from the strange smell she has brought with her.â It didnât sound like a hurtful comment like I was used to, but more a comment of curiosity. âShe will tell you herself when she finds her tongue.â âI have a wound.â I whisper. âAnd you are not healing?â Raven asks, confused âI donât have my Wolf.â I hated saying it. It was just a constant reminder that I did not fit in. âHer Wolf was bound when she was a kid.â Alpha Dane tells her. âThatâs why her scent is strange. Her Wolf is there, locked away, waiting to be freed.â My eyes flicker up only to find him staring straight back at me. I had always believed that my Wolf was gone. Not that she was trapped. Ravenâs dark eyes hover on me. âWow, okay.â She grabs my hand. âThis way, letâs take a look at this wound of yours.â She leads me into an empty room and asks me to lay on the bed and to show her my wound. Pulling up the sweatshirt, just enough for her to see the wound. Her eyes widen, a flicker of rage passing over them as she takes in the infected wound and the bruising that surrounds it. Her fingers carefully press around the wound. âHow long ago?â âA few days.â I mutter, though I wasnât sure. Every beating blurred into another one. Any day that I wasnât hit was a good day. Raven shakes her head. âThis is longer than a few days ago, the infection has had at least a week to develop.â âNeah, you need to tell us the truth.â Alpha Dane orders âI donât know.â âNEAH!â His deep voice rumbles through me and I close my eyes, fearing his anger. Anger brought punishment, punishment brought pain. âI swear, I donât know. The beatings, they happen so often that they just kind ofâŚ. Iâm never not bruised.â Thereâs silence and I was too afraid to open my eyes. Alpha Trey had said it over and over, that if anyone found out, he would make my life a misery, more than it already was. I used to wonder who would ever find out that didnât already know. Now here I was, sitting in another packâs hospital, revealing the truth. âHeal her!â Alpha Dane shouts after what seems like forever. He storms from the room, pulling a phone out of his pocket. âYou will have to forgive my brother. His temper is short, especially when it comes to things like this.â Raven mutters as she gently inspects my wound âYour brother?â I whisper, opening my eyes âAh, I see he informed you. Iâm guessing he didnât tell you that Jenson is our brother too?â I shake my head, Iâm guessing Jenson was one of the men that came to my brother's house. She chuckles. âJenson is considered to be our brotherâs Gamma.â âGamma?â I had never heard of the term. âYep and Alpha Dane has a love/hate for me working here. He wants me to represent our family, but he knows this is what Iâm good at.â She grabs a pot of cream from the cupboard. âNow this needs to be applied three times a day. It should clear up the infection, if it hasnât changed in a couple of days, I will take another look. My brother is waiting for you out front.â âThanks.â I mumble, taking the pot of cream from her. I looked at the label, but couldnât read it. I had never learned to read. She bobs her head at me as I hurry out to find Alpha Dane on his phone, snapping at someone. He hangs up as soon as he sees me and asks what Raven said. âCream, three times a day.â I show him the pot and he takes it from me. âGood, come.â He strides off and I have to run to keep up with him. I follow him through the house and into the office. âShow me.â He orders, pulling the lid off the pot. It wasnât going to be negotiable, not when he had used the same tone moments before he ripped my dress open earlier. Slowly lifting my sweatshirt, he crouches down in front of me and gently smothers the wound in the cold cream. âI donât want you to lie to me, Neah. Not ever. If you canât remember, that is what you need to tell me. Is that clear? I donât want to have to guess what you mean.â âOkay.â I couldnât say anything else, I was too focussed on the warmth of his hands. One presses against my lower back, holding me steady while the other gently rubs cream into my wound. The only touch I had received from another man was a beating. âStop holding your breath.â He tells me, getting to his feet. âI am not going to hurt you.â It seemed impossible to believe given my history. The act, the words coming from him, it just didnât feel real. | LEARN_MORE | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&u | Galaxy in the Story | https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/ | 1,582 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | wwwedb.com | DCO | https://wwwedb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=11782&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/448791819_801329188771681_1239684611142513538_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MYkW9W8J4KQQ7kNvgHA4xsJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AR_k4HPjl7ALysXpl9Bhsx-&oh=00_AYDqkY67EVaUYvZnTd-LTK6TLmfuEMpufdQe7lYRpEVtQg&oe=67542473 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-12-02 18:36 | active | 1949 | 0 | Holiday Giveaway | đ HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY đ Get ready to celebrate the season with a chance to WIN an amazing prize package valued at $300! đ đ Five (5) Lucky Winners will each receive: ⨠$100 Sprouts Farmers Market Gift Card ⨠$100 Marshalls Gift Card ⨠$50 Starbucks Gift Card ⨠$50 Surprise Gift Card to one of the following stores (Staples Stores, Half Price Books, PetSmart, Black Angus Steakhouse, OR Panera Bread) đ Enter between December 1â8, 2024 for your chance to win! Donât miss outâđđĄđ§đđĽ đĄđ˘đŞ: https://marketingguru.wufoo.com/forms/holiday-giveaway/ Winners will be notified on or about Monday, December 9, 2024, via email from contact@citrustowncenter.com. Gift cards only valid at Citrus Town Center and Greenback Square locations. Winner must be a local resident. #citrustowncenter #greenbacksquare #makeityourcenter #discoversmp #holidaygiveaway Sponsored By: Sunrise MarketPlace âŁâŁâŁâŁâŁâŁâŁ âŁâŁâŁâŁâŁ**âŁâŁ No purchase necessary to enter or win. We will not contact you regarding this promotion from an alternate account. We will never ask you to provide any personal credit card information in our communications. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or associated with Facebook.âŁâŁâŁâŁ For full contest rules visit: https://www.citrustowncenter.com/digital-sweepstakes-rules/ | SIGN_UP | https://marketingguru.wufoo.com/forms/holiday-give | Citrus Town Center | https://www.facebook.com/citrustowncenter/ | 33,696 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign up | 0 | marketingguru.wufoo.com | VIDEO | https://marketingguru.wufoo.com/forms/holiday-giveaway/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468836996_1072233711317780_5355796250258020414_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=a8m8xAb1TkYQ7kNvgFJT57W&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AN1SB3FIXicyhCp3hbP6LTt&oh=00_AYAdBrT-ClZoRZp6cZT1GcOuSdvpPEX0K9iy0tlQSbkxEA&oe=6754356E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Citrus Town Center | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-12-02 18:48 | active | 1950 | 0 | Clique para ler mais đ | Meu marido estĂĄ profundamente apaixonado por seu primeiro amor. Quando eu disse a ele, brincando, que estava grĂĄvida, ele me disse sĂŠrio: "VocĂŞ nĂŁo pode ter esse bebĂŞ. Eu o amava, mas nĂŁo queria amĂĄ-lo cegamente, entĂŁo fugi". Nove meses depois, quando eu estava dando Ă luz meu bebĂŞ em um hospital de uma pequena cidade, recebi um telefonema de uma amiga: "Quer saber? Seu marido ĂŠ louco por vocĂŞ". ======== CapĂtulo 1 A ex-namorada dele retornou Raegan Hayes estava um pouco distraĂda no momento e sĂł conseguia pensar nas palavras do mĂŠdico desde aquela tarde. "ParabĂŠns por sua gravidez!" De repente, Mitchel Dixon beliscou o braço dela com força e falou em voz baixa no segundo seguinte: "Planeta Terra chamando Raegan. Sobre o que estĂĄ pensando tanto?" Antes que ela pudesse responder, Mitchel gentilmente a colocou no sofĂĄ e foi para o banheiro. Raegan ficou imĂłvel no sofĂĄ enorme, com mechas Ăşmidas de cabelo grudando em suas tĂŞmporas e bochechas. EntĂŁo, ela olhou para o teto com os olhos marejados, sentindo um pouco de dor pelo corpo. Raegan tinha ido ao hospital por causa de uma dor de estĂ´mago incessante. Pensando nisso, ela tirou o relatĂłrio do teste de gravidez da gaveta da mesa de cabeceira e se lembrou da notĂcia que o mĂŠdico deu a ela apĂłs um exame. Ela estava grĂĄvida fazia quase cinco semanas! Isso foi um verdadeiro choque, pois ela sempre usava proteção quando satisfazia Mitchel. Depois de quebrar a cabeça, imaginando o que poderia ter acontecido de errado, ela traçou o momento da concepção do bebĂŞ. Tinha sido no mĂŞs passado, depois de uma festa, quando Mitchel a levou para casa e de repente perguntou, ainda na porta, se ela estava em um perĂodo seguro para relaçþes. SĂł agora ela percebeu que aquele perĂodo estava longe de ser seguro! Um barulho de ĂĄgua veio do banheiro. Mitchel era o marido dela e eles jĂĄ estavam casados secretamente hĂĄ dois anos. Ele tambĂŠm era superior dela no trabalho, sendo o presidente do Grupo Dixon. Tudo aconteceu muito rĂĄpido. Ela tinha acabado de ser contratada pela empresa quando eles tiveram uma noite selvagem ao acaso pela primeira vez depois de uma festa. O avĂ´ de Mitchel adoeceu gravemente apĂłs alguns dias. Foi entĂŁo que ele propĂ´s um casamento falso apenas para realizar o Ăşltimo desejo do avĂ´. Eles assinaram um acordo prĂŠ-nupcial, concordando em manter o casamento em segredo do pĂşblico e em poder encerrar a uniĂŁo a qualquer momento. NĂŁo era uma situação muito comum, mas Raegan se considerou sortuda naquela ĂŠpoca. Afinal, nem em um milhĂŁo de anos ela pensou que se casaria com o homem por quem estava apaixonada hĂĄ oito anos algum dia. Sendo assim, ela concordou com tudo com muito prazer. ApĂłs o casamento, Mitchel andou muito ocupado, passando a maior parte do tempo em compromissos de trabalho. Mesmo desejando poder passar mais tempo com ele em casa, Raegan estava tranquila porque nĂŁo havia rumores nem escândalos sobre ele estar na companhia de mulheres nos Ăşltimos dois anos. Exceto pela leve indiferença, Mitchel era um marido perfeito. Raegan ficou com sentimentos confusos ao olhar para o resultado do teste de gravidez agora. Por fim, ela decidiu contar tudo a Mitchel. Ela tambĂŠm queria revelar que nĂŁo o tinha conhecido pela primeira vez apenas hĂĄ dois anos e que estava apaixonada por ele muitos anos antes disso. O chuveiro finalmente foi desligado. Assim que Mitchel saiu do banheiro, o celular dele tocou. Ele foi atĂŠ a varanda apenas com uma toalha de banho enrolada na cintura e atendeu a ligação. Raegan verificou a hora e viu que jĂĄ era meia-noite. Nesse momento, ela se sentiu um pouco desconfortĂĄvel, tentando imaginar quem ligaria para Mitchel a uma hora dessa? Ele passou alguns minutos na varanda antes de voltar e tirar a toalha de banho. O corpo dele era um espetĂĄculo para ser visto! A barriga apresentava vĂĄrios mĂşsculos e as pernas eram longas e musculosas. Esse homem era um verdadeiro deus! Vendo seu mĂşsculo perfeito, Raegan corou e seu coração começou a disparar. Alheio ao olhar errante sobre ele, Mitchel pegou a camisa e a calça do terno. Ele as vestiu, colocou a gravata e deu um nĂł com seus dedos delgados. Seu belo rosto de contorno definido o fazia parecer mais digno do que nunca nesta noite. Ele estava muito bonito agora. "NĂŁo espere por mim. Boa noite", ele disse finalmente. O quĂŞ? Ele ia sair a essa hora? Raegan segurou o resultado do teste de gravidez com mais força enquanto olhava para ele desapontada. Inconscientemente, ela colocou o papel de lado e deixou escapar depois de pensar um pouco: "Mas jĂĄ ĂŠ tĂŁo tarde." Os dedos de Mitchel congelaram na gravata, entĂŁo ele beliscou o lĂłbulo da orelha dela e perguntou com um leve sorriso: "VocĂŞ ainda quer mais? Quer que eu faça vocĂŞ gozar de novo?" Raegan ficou completamente corada ao ouvir isso e seu coração bateu com mais força. Ela estava prestes a dizer algo quando Mitchel a soltou, dizendo: "Descanse e fique bem, ok? HĂĄ algo que preciso fazer agora, entĂŁo nĂŁo me espere acordada." Logo em seguida, ele se dirigiu para a porta. "Mitchel!" Raegan correu rapidamente e o alcançou. Ele se virou e olhou para ela com seriedade. "Qual ĂŠ o problema?" Havia um tom de frieza em sua voz, o que fez uma nuvem gĂŠlida pairar entre eles enquanto se entreolhavam. Um pouco angustiada, Raegan perguntou em voz baixa: "Eu gostaria de visitar a minha avĂł amanhĂŁ. VocĂŞ poderia me acompanhar?" FrĂĄgil e doente, sua avĂł sempre queria vĂŞ-la. Raegan queria levar Mitchel para que a avĂł se certificasse de que eles estavam felizes. "Vamos conversar sobre isso amanhĂŁ, tudo bem?" Sem concordar nem recusar, Mitchel saiu apressado. VĂĄrios pensamentos passaram pela mente de Raegan enquanto ela tomava banho antes de voltar para se deitar. Ela nĂŁo conseguiu pregar o olho. Depois de muito tempo se revirando, ela se levantou e foi preparar um copo de leite quente. Havia algumas notificaçþes de uns blogs online no celular dela. No entanto, nenhum deles era interessante. Ela estava prestes a deixar o celular de lado quando um dos alertas chamou a sua atenção. Um nome familiar a fez clicar nele. Era o alerta de uma notĂcia que dizia: "A famosa designer Lauren Murray foi vista no aeroporto com o namorado misterioso hoje cedo." Na imagem, Lauren estava usando um chapĂŠu e a figura do homem era vaga, mas o contorno do corpo dele era suficiente para mostrar que ele era bem atraente. Raegan ampliou a imagem e seu coração parou no segundo seguinte. O homem da foto era Mitchel! Quer dizer que ele cancelou a reuniĂŁo da tarde sĂł para ir buscar a ex-namorada no aeroporto? Essa percepção caiu como uma pedra no estĂ´mago de Raegan. Ela se sentiu nervosa e suas mĂŁos começaram a tremer. Inconscientemente, ela ligou para Mitchel. O toque da chamada a trouxe de volta aos sentidos. Ela estava prestes a desligar, mas foi atendida e uma voz veio do outro lado da linha. "OlĂĄ!" Era uma voz de mulher particularmente gentil, o que fez Raegan congelar por um segundo antes de jogar o celular de lado. De repente, ela sentiu um enjoo e a bile subiu atĂŠ a garganta. Cobrindo a boca, ela correu para o banheiro e vomitou no vaso. Na manhĂŁ seguinte, Raegan foi trabalhar no horĂĄrio. Mitchel tentou fazer com que ela deixasse o trabalho depois que se casaram. PorĂŠm, ela teimou e insistiu em ganhar o prĂłprio dinheiro. Mitchel nĂŁo censurou a decisĂŁo dela, mas pediu que ela trabalhasse como sua assistente, ajudando-o nas tarefas diĂĄrias da empresa. O assistente-chefe, Matteo Jenkins, ficou encarregado de cuidar dos assuntos importantes de Mitchel. Ele era o Ăşnico funcionĂĄrio do Grupo Dixon que sabia do casamento deles. Apenas assistentes homens eram contratados para o gabinete da presidĂŞncia. Reagan era a Ăşnica mulher e, por ter sido a primeira, seu cargo quebrou o protocolo. Por causa disso, outros trabalhadores nĂŁo puderam deixar de se perguntar se ela estava envolvida com Mitchel de alguma forma. Demorou certo tempo para que eles percebessem que Mitchel nunca dava tratamento especial a ela. Estranhamente, isso fez com que os funcionĂĄrios a desprezassem. Afinal, ninguĂŠm duraria muito tempo tirando vantagem da aparĂŞncia. O que era estranho era que Raegan estava mantendo o emprego por muito tempo. Assim que Raegan chegou ao trabalho, um de seus colegas lhe entregou um documento e ordenou que ela o levasse ao escritĂłrio de Mitchel. Ele nĂŁo voltou para casa ontem Ă noite, por isso ela ficou tĂŁo preocupada que nĂŁo conseguiu dormir. Na verdade, ela passou a noite toda pensando na mulher que atendeu o celular quando ela ligou. SerĂĄ que Mitchel passou a noite com aquela mulher? Raegan jĂĄ sabia a resposta, mas negava porque era difĂcil aceitar esse fato. De qualquer forma, Raegan tentou manter a calma agora, raciocinando que, nĂŁo importava o que acontecesse, ela merecia algo gratificante por ter amado Mitchel durante todos esses anos. Isso nĂŁo poderia ser tudo em vĂŁo, certo? Ela apertou o botĂŁo do elevador com calma e subiu ao gabinete do presidente. Antes de sair do elevador, ela alisou o cabelo para ter certeza de que estava bem apresentĂĄvel. Ela foi atĂŠ o escritĂłrio e viu que a porta estava entreaberta. Dava para escutar a voz de um homem lĂĄ dentro. Ela parou instantaneamente. "Vamos lĂĄ, cara! VocĂŞ tem algum sentimento por Raegan ou nĂŁo?" Era Luis Stevens, amigo de infância de Mitchel. "O que vocĂŞ quer dizer exatamente?", perguntou Mitchel com uma voz fria. "VocĂŞ sabe exatamente o que eu quero dizer!" Luis estalou a lĂngua com impaciĂŞncia e acrescentou: "Acho que ela ĂŠ uma boa garota. Por acaso ela nĂŁo ĂŠ o seu tipo?" "VocĂŞ quer que eu a entregue para vocĂŞ?", perguntou Mitchel com despreocupação. "Esqueça isso!" A risada desdenhosa de Luis soou particularmente ĂĄspera aos ouvidos de Raegan nesse momento. Eles estavam falando como se ela fosse um objeto. Raegan respirou fundo e segurou o documento com força. EntĂŁo, a voz de Luis foi ouvida novamente. "A propĂłsito, vi as fofocas sobre o namorado misterioso de Lauren esta manhĂŁ! Era vocĂŞ, nĂŁo era?" "Sim." "Muito bem... certo. Aquela mulher ainda tem vocĂŞ em uma coleira bem apertada. VocĂŞ sempre quer agradĂĄ-la." Luis suspirou antes de continuar a provocar Mitchel: "VocĂŞs dois passaram a noite juntos. Como diz o velho ditado, a ausĂŞncia torna o coração mais afetuoso. Agora, conte tudo. VocĂŞs dois..." A conversa deles era como um trovĂŁo explodindo sobre a cabeça de Raegan. Seu rosto ficou pĂĄlido e seu corpo estava frio como gelo. Lauren e Mitchel passaram a noite juntos! A ausĂŞncia tornava o coração mais afetuoso! Cada palavra era como uma faca sendo enfiada no coração dela. VĂĄrias vozes sussurrantes encheram sua cabeça de repente e ela se sentiu tonta, com a visĂŁo embaçada. EntĂŁo, ela se apoiou na parede e deu um passo para trĂĄs. Nesse momento, a porta foi aberta por dentro. "Raegan?" CapĂtulo 2 Amor unilateral Luis abriu a porta, provavelmente estava de saĂda. Raegan cerrou as mĂŁos, se virou para ele e assentiu, dizendo: "Ei, senhor Stevens!" Sem esperar que ele falasse alguma coisa, ela passou por ele e entrou no escritĂłrio com o documento que precisava entregar. Mitchel estava sentado atrĂĄs de uma grande mesa luxuosa, parecendo particularmente bonito com um terno caro e uma gravata combinando. Raegan percebeu que nĂŁo era o mesmo terno que ele colocou quando saiu de casa na noite anterior. Como ele trocou de roupa? Olhando para baixo, ela engoliu a pergunta e apenas disse: "Senhor Dixon, isso veio do Departamento de Marketing. Por favor, preciso que assine o documento." Mitchel estava inexpressivo ao colocar a sua assinatura. Raegan saiu pela porta assim que ele devolveu o documento assinado para ela. Luis ainda estava parado na soleira e se virou para Mitchel quando ela desapareceu de vista. EntĂŁo, ele disse em voz baixa: "VocĂŞ acha que ela ouviu a nossa conversa?" Os olhos atraentes de Mitchel estavam inexpressivos. Obviamente, ele nĂŁo estava prestando atenção ao que Luis dizia, pois sabia que Raegan sempre foi dĂłcil e nunca sentiu ciĂşme de ninguĂŠm. A obediĂŞncia estrita dela era tudo o que Mitchel exigia em troca de tratĂĄ-la bem. Enquanto isso, Raegan prendeu a respiração apenas para conter as lĂĄgrimas no elevador. Infelizmente, isso nĂŁo funcionou. Ela pensou que dois anos seriam suficientes para Mitchel perceber o quanto ela o amava e retribuir esse amor. Agora, ela descobriu que isso era apenas um sonho e percebeu que sempre ficaria em segundo plano em relação Ă Lauren, que era o verdadeiro amor dele. Reagan enxugou as lĂĄgrimas rapidamente quando o elevador parou e, exceto pelo rosto pĂĄlido, parecia que tudo estava normal quando a porta se abriu. Ela se arrastou atĂŠ a sala de descanso para preparar uma xĂcara de chĂĄ. Havia vĂĄrios funcionĂĄrios conversando lĂĄ dentro. "Gente, vocĂŞs ouviram falar que Lauren Murray estĂĄ de volta?" "Quem ĂŠ ela?" "Ah, meu Deus! VocĂŞ nĂŁo a conhece mesmo? Lauren ĂŠ a herdeira do Grupo Murray e ĂŠ uma designer reconhecida internacionalmente. Mais importante que isso ĂŠ que ela ĂŠ a Ăşnica namorada que o senhor Dixon jĂĄ exibiu em pĂşblico. Ela foi o primeiro amor da vida dele!" "E por que o retorno dela ĂŠ tĂŁo importante? NĂŁo hĂĄ rumores de que hĂĄ algo entre Raegan e ele agora?" "Raegan? Ela ĂŠ provavelmente apenas um dos muitos brinquedos dele. Ele nunca admitiu que estava namorando com ela e isso nĂŁo ĂŠ surpresa para mim. Ah, olhe para ela! Ela se gaba de si mesma como se jĂĄ fosse a senhora Dixon. Que ridĂculo!" Parada na porta, Raegan deu um sorriso zombeteiro enquanto os ouvia. Todo mundo via a verdade, exceto ela. Era um amor unilateral. "Ha-ha! VocĂŞ finalmente acordou do seu sonho de se tornar a senhora Dixon?" Uma voz de zombaria veio de trĂĄs de repente. Raegan se virou e viu a prima de Mitchel, Tessa Lloyd, que sempre a desprezava. Tessa tambĂŠm devia ter ouvido os funcionĂĄrios fofocando, mas a Ăşltima coisa que Raegan queria agora era discutir com ela na empresa. EntĂŁo, ela se virou para sair, mas Tessa bloqueou seu caminho. Com uma xĂcara de cafĂŠ na mĂŁo, Tessa disse sarcasticamente: "Lauren estĂĄ de volta e vocĂŞ acha que Mitchel ainda te darĂĄ alguma atenção agora?" Raegan nĂŁo disse nada. Segundos depois, Tessa continuou a ridicularizĂĄ-la: "Que tal eu apresentar alguns homens a vocĂŞ? Eles realmente poderiam gostar das suas habilidades. Ouvi dizer que vocĂŞ ĂŠ muito boa na..." Raegan cerrou os punhos e a interronpeu friamente: "Senhorita Lloyd, estamos em uma empresa. Se estĂĄ interessada nesse tipo de negĂłcio, vocĂŞ sabe muito bem aonde ir." "Sua..." O que Tessa ouviu fez seu rosto mudar e ela levantou a mĂŁo no segundo seguinte, esvaziando sua xĂcara de cafĂŠ quente em cima de Raegan. Raegan nĂŁo imaginou que essa mulher faria algo tĂŁo louco assim. Ela ergueu as mĂŁos apenas para tentar bloquear o lĂquido quente escorrendo por seu rosto. Em pouco tempo, o cafĂŠ desceu por seus braços e queimou sua pele, que ficou vermelha imediatamente. "Ai!" Raegan franziu a testa de dor. "Por que vocĂŞ fez isso? Por acaso ficou louca?" Era hora do almoço e muitos funcionĂĄrios estavam livres para assistir ao drama com atenção. Tessa ficou ainda mais arrogante quando viu mais espectadores se aglomerando ao redor. Ela fez cara de garota malvada e disse: "Por que vocĂŞ ĂŠ tĂŁo presunçosa, hein? VocĂŞ realmente acha que ninguĂŠm sabe que vocĂŞ ĂŠ apenas uma miserĂĄvel sem pais? Ă muita coragem..." Um som nĂtido foi ouvido de repente e Tessa foi silenciada por um tapa ardido no rosto. O queixo dela caiu no chĂŁo, pois ela nunca esperou que Raegan, que era uma garota tĂŁo quieta e tĂmida, iria dar um tapa nela no meio de todas essas pessoas. Tessa colocou a mĂŁo na bochecha e ficou paralisada por um tempo. Em seguida, ela balbuciou: "Sua... como ousa me bater assim?" Raegan olhou para ela e retrucou: "E daĂ? Parece que vocĂŞ precisa aprender regras simples de educação." Raegan perdeu os pais quando era criança, mas isso nĂŁo significava que ela permitiria que alguĂŠm passasse por cima dela. Tessa franziu a testa com raiva. Afinal, ela estava acostumada a ser bajulada e respeitada por ser a prima do poderoso Mitchel. Essa foi a primeira vez que alguĂŠm a maltratou. "Raegan!" Tessa atacou Raegan como um touro furioso, levantando a mĂŁo para revidar o tapa. Desta vez, Raegan estava totalmente preparada para o que estava por vir, entĂŁo agarrou o pulso de Tessa com tanta força que a garota nĂŁo conseguiu se mover nem mais um centĂmetro. Tessa era mais baixa que Raegan, por isso teve que se debater como um passarinho preso debaixo de uma arapuca. Nesse momento, ela falou com raiva: "Como ousa colocar as mĂŁos imundas em mim? Quem vocĂŞ pensa que ĂŠ? VocĂŞ nĂŁo passa de um brinquedo do meu primo Mitchel!" Essas palavras duras atraĂram ainda mais funcionĂĄrios para a sala de descanso. "JĂĄ chega!" Do nada, uma voz grave veio de trĂĄs. Era Mitchel que tinha saĂdo de seu escritĂłrio e se deparou com aquele alvoroço. O local ficou em silĂŞncio no mesmo instante. "Mitchel?" O sangue de Tessa gelou ao ver o primo ali porque ela sempre tinha medo dele. A mĂŁe dela tambĂŠm a alertou para nunca o provocar. PorĂŠm, quando ela se lembrou que tinha levado um tapa de Raegan, ela fez uma expressĂŁo lamentĂĄvel e falou soluçando: "Mitchel, veja sĂł o meu rosto! Ela me deu um tapa!" A luz do sol lĂĄ fora incidiu sobre o belo rosto de Mitchel. Raegan ficou muito triste e baixou a cabeça para olhar para a parte de trĂĄs do seu braço, a qual estava escaldada pelo cafĂŠ. Quando ela olhou para cima e encontrou os olhos de Mitchel, ele fez uma carranca profunda e disse: "Raegan, vocĂŞ se esqueceu das regras da empresa?" A crueldade dele fez a respiração de Raegan parar e ela nĂŁo conseguia acreditar no que estava ouvindo. NinguĂŠm se atreveu a fazer nenhum barulho nesse momento e Raegan apenas ficou parada com sua figura esbelta. Quando ela conseguiu um emprego nessa empresa, Mitchel disse que o Grupo Dixon nĂŁo era um lugar para brincadeiras e que ele nĂŁo toleraria que ela cometesse nenhum erro. E ela entendia perfeitamente por que ele tinha tomado essa posição. No entanto, Raegan estava desesperada apenas para saber se Mitchel tinha ouvido as palavras duras que Tessa falou ou se ele estava apenas fingindo nĂŁo ter ouvido porque concordava com aquilo tudo. Ele realmente a via como uma mera ferramenta para satisfazer seus prazeres? Morrendo de medo da raiva de Mitchel, a multidĂŁo logo se dispersou, mas alguns funcionĂĄrios foram ousados o suficiente para ficar espiando de longe, sem querer perder o desfecho daquele espetĂĄculo. Os olhos frios de Mitchel fizeram Raegan estremecer da cabeça aos pĂŠs, entĂŁo ela beliscou a palma da mĂŁo para conter suas emoçþes enquanto olhava para Tessa. "Sinto muito, senhorita Lloyd. Como funcionĂĄria do Grupo Dixon, reconheço que essa situação nĂŁo deveria ter acontecido." Tessa ergueu o queixo com superioridade enquanto observava Raegan. "Humpf! NĂŁo pense que vocĂŞ vai se safar apenas fazendo um simples pedido de desculpas. Eu nĂŁo acredito na sua sinceridade..." "A bofetada nĂŁo tem nada a ver com a empresa e me recuso a pedir desculpas a vocĂŞ. Agora, se me der licença", disse Raegan antes de se virar e passar por Mitchel sem lhe dar outro olhar. "Sua..." O rosto de Tessa ficou roxo de raiva depois de ouvir o que Raegan disse. Ela nunca tinha sido tĂŁo humilhada. Na verdade, ela sempre foi a agressora e nĂŁo a vĂtima! A humilhação foi tanta que, se ela pudesse quebrar Raegan em pedaços, isso nĂŁo iria aplacar a sua raiva agora. Apontando na direção de Raegan, Tessa gritou: "Mitchel, vocĂŞ ouviu o que aquela mulher acabou de dizer para mim? Ela me deu um tapa na cara e ainda age com essa arrogância. Chame-a de volta. Tenho que bater nela atĂŠ ela pedir misericĂłrdia!" Mitchel observava as costas esbeltas de Raegan com uma expressĂŁo ambĂgua. "JĂĄ chega!", ele disse friamente, levantando a mĂŁo. Tessa vivia e respirava drama e crueldade, e nĂŁo achava que o primo gostasse de Raegan agora. Ela presumiu que ele nĂŁo se importava nem um pouco com aquela garota, entĂŁo cerrou os dentes e disse cruelmente: "Da prĂłxima vez, vou arrumar alguĂŠm para dar uma lição nela." "Tessa!", exclamou Mitchel com um tom de reprovação e com o olhar semicerrado. Ela estremeceu imediatamente quando viu isso. Em seguida, ele disse com uma expressĂŁo sombria: "SĂł vou dizer uma vez. Esqueça o que aconteceu aqui hoje e deixe Raegan em paz." Tessa sentiu a boca seca por causa da aura que ele exalava e todas as ideias cruĂŠis que ela tinha contra Raegan desapareceram em um instante. EntĂŁo, ela balbuciou: "Tudo bem... certo, entendi..." Mitchel lançou um Ăşltimo olhar frio para ela antes de falar com Matteo: "NĂŁo quero ver pessoas irrelevantes aqui a partir de hoje." Sem entender o que estava acontecendo, Tessa elogiou o primo. "Isso ĂŠ Ăłtimo! Afinal, esta ĂŠ uma empresa de topo e nem todo mundo pode ter acesso a este local." Matteo acenou com a cabeça para Mitchel e, depois, foi atĂŠ Tessa, apontando para a saĂda. "Senhorita Lloyd, venha por aqui, por favor." Nesse momento, Tessa percebeu que ela era a pessoa irrelevante que Mitchel acabara de mencionar e tentou falar com ele, mas Matteo bloqueou seu caminho. Em seguida, os seguranças a expulsaram sem demonstrar piedade. Foi inĂştil ela tentar resistir. Enquanto isso, Raegan trocou de roupa e voltou ao escritĂłrio. Ela pensou em como Mitchel olhou para ela minutos atrĂĄs e seu coração se encheu de tristeza. O fim do expediente logo chegou, entĂŁo Raegan pegou a bolsa e se dirigiu para a saĂda. Nesse momento, Matteo apareceu e disse: "O senhor Dixon tem algo urgente para resolver e me pediu para levĂĄ-la para casa." Raegan recusou a carona sem pensar duas vezes. Ela estava cega antes, mas compreendia toda a situação agora. Aos olhos de Mitchel, ela nĂŁo era ninguĂŠm. Se ele nem se importava com ela, como ele poderia concordar em acompanhĂĄ-la em uma visita Ă avĂł? Ao chegar ao hospital, Raegan viu que a enfermeira estava prestes a dar o jantar para a avĂł. Ela logo assumiu essa tarefa. Durante toda a vida, a avĂł viveu no campo, desfrutando de uma vida tranquila. Tudo mudou no mĂŞs passado, quando um exame mĂŠdico de rotina mostrou que havia algo errado com o pâncreas da idosa. Foi por isso que Raegan insistiu em trazĂŞ-la para a cidade, para que pudesse ter um tratamento melhor. A avĂł ainda nĂŁo sabia do casamento, por isso Raegan tinha planejado surpreendĂŞ-la hoje. PorĂŠm, depois de tudo o que aconteceu, isso nĂŁo era mais necessĂĄrio. Um tempo depois, quando a avĂł adormeceu, Raegan saiu do hospital e esperou por um tĂĄxi. De repente, um carro preto de luxo parou na entrada do hospital. Os olhos de Raegan brilharam quando ela o viu, pois reconheceu que era o carro de Mitchel. EntĂŁo, ele veio buscĂĄ-la pelo menos? Nesse momento, ela se esqueceu de toda a dor que vinha sentindo. Seus pensamentos sobre ele estavam todos errados? Ao contrĂĄrio das fofocas, ele se importava com ela? A porta do veĂculo se abriu e Mitchel saiu. Raegan começou a caminhar em direção a ele com o coração cheio de alegria, no entanto, parou no meio do caminho. Mitchel tinha dado a volta para ajudar uma mulher a sair do carro. O belo rosto dele estava marcado por preocupação e compaixĂŁo. Isso apagou o sorriso de Raegan instantaneamente e seu coração afundou. CapĂtulo 3 Vamos nos divorciar A figura alta e ereta de Mitchel se aproximou cada vez mais de Raegan. Sem dizer nem uma palavra, ele passou por ela. Era difĂcil dizer se ele nĂŁo a viu ou se simplesmente a ignorou. Por sua vez, Raegan percebeu que a mulher nos braços dele era a mesma que havia sido fotografada com ele ontem. Era Lauren. Raegan tentou se mover, mas seus sapatos pareciam feitos de chumbo. Ela perdeu a consciĂŞncia de tudo o que estava ao seu redor e acabou entrando em um tĂĄxi distraidamente. De repente, o motorista disse: "Senhora? Para onde vamos?" Raegan ficou atordoada por um momento. Ela nĂŁo queria voltar para a Vila Serenity. Afinal, era apenas uma questĂŁo de tempo atĂŠ que aquele lugar deixasse de ser seu lar. Depois de um tempo, ela respondeu: "Por favor, me leve para a BaĂa Cristal." Ela tinha comprado um apartamento lĂĄ depois de se casar com Mitchel. Na ĂŠpoca, ela tinha a esperança de trazer a avĂł para a cidade, por isso comprou a propriedade com um financiamento. NĂŁo era muito grande, mas tinha espaço mais que suficiente para duas pessoas viverem confortavelmente. Mitchel nĂŁo entendeu por que ela quis comprar esse apartamento e se ofereceu para lhe dar um maior, mas ela recusou. Olhando para trĂĄs, ela percebeu que essa compra foi a Ăşnica decisĂŁo sĂĄbia que ela tinha tomado nos Ăşltimos dois anos. Depois que chegou ao complexo de apartamentos, Raegan ficou sentada no parque sozinha por um tempo, tentando se refrescar. As memĂłrias dos Ăşltimos dois anos eram doces e tristes. Tudo passou em um piscar de olhos, apesar de terem sido mais de setecentos dias e noites de casamento. As pessoas diziam que o amor podia mover montanhas, mas o dela nĂŁo moveu nem a pedra no coração daquele homem. Ela finalmente percebeu como tinha sido estĂşpida e se tornado o motivo de chacota na frente de todos. JĂĄ era tarde da noite quando Raegan finalmente decidiu ir para o seu apartamento. Assim que saiu do elevador, ela viu Mitchel parado na frente da porta. As mangas da camisa dele estavam arregaçadas casualmente e os botĂľes superiores estavam desabotoados, revelando seu pescoço e parte da clavĂcula. Ele estava encostado na parede, perto da porta, e seu lindo rosto estava com uma expressĂŁo sĂŠria. Raegan congelou, tentando imaginar por que ele estava aqui. Ele nĂŁo estava no hospital com Lauren? O que ele queria agora? Os olhos deles se encontraram. Com o casaco pendurado no braço e uma das mĂŁos no bolso, Mitchel semicerrou os olhos e perguntou: "Por que vocĂŞ nĂŁo atendeu o seu celular?" Parecia que ele estava um pouco mal-humorado, como alguĂŠm que nĂŁo dormia hĂĄ muito tempo. Raegan pegou o celular e viu que o colocou acidentalmente no modo silencioso. Havia cinco chamadas perdidas de Mitchel. Isso marcou a primeira vez em seu casamento de dois anos que Mitchel explodiu. E sĂł porque nĂŁo conseguiu encontrĂĄ-la pelo celular? Era surpreendente! Se fosse antes, ela teria ficado muito feliz com essa situação, e as pessoas chegariam a pensar que ela tinha ganhado na loteria. Mas agora, ela simplesmente jogou o celular de volta na bolsa, cruzou os braços e disse com uma voz rouca: "NĂŁo o ouvi tocar." Mitchel ergueu o pulso para verificar a hora no relĂłgio e disse impaciente: "Estou procurando por vocĂŞ hĂĄ duas horas." Depois de organizar tudo para Lauren no hospital, ele voltou para casa, mas nĂŁo encontrou ninguĂŠm lĂĄ. Ele procurou por Raegan em todos os lugares. Mas como nĂŁo conseguiu encontrĂĄ-la de jeito nenhum, pediu para Matteo verificar as imagens de vigilância de todas as estradas que saĂam da empresa. Assim, ele acabou descobrindo que ela tinha ido para a BaĂa Cristal sem avisar. "Da prĂłxima vez, avise quando vier para cĂĄ, tudo bem? Vamos para casa agora." Nesse momento, ele caminhou em direção ao elevador sem lhe dar outro olhar. Ele pretendia voltar para a Vila Serenity, porĂŠm Raegan nĂŁo se moveu nem um centĂmetro. Ela apenas olhou para as costas largas dele e ponderou com relutância. Da prĂłxima vez? SerĂĄ que eles ainda teriam um futuro? Mitchel se virou apenas para ver que Raegan nĂŁo havia dado nem um Ăşnico passo. Ele franziu a testa e perguntou: "VocĂŞ nĂŁo consegue andar? Quer que eu carregue vocĂŞ no colo?" A luz do corredor iluminou o rosto dele, tornando seu perfil impecĂĄvel. Raegan respirou fundo e disse: "Vamos nos divorciar." "Como?" A voz dele estava fria e seu belo rosto mudou imediatamente. "Quero me mudar para a minha prĂłpria casa. Afinal, seremos dois estranhos em breve." Raegan forçou um sorriso, mas seu coração doĂa como se alguĂŠm o estivesse destruindo aos poucos. "Seremos dois estranhos?" Mitchel sorriu friamente antes de falar: "Raegan, como vocĂŞ acha que o nosso relacionamento estĂĄ agora?" O questionamento dele a deixou atordoada por um momento. Ele tinha deixado bem claro desde o inĂcio que essa fachada do casamento aconteceu por acordo mĂştuo. Portanto, nĂŁo havia amor. Para todos os efeitos, eles nada mais eram do que superior e sua subordinada. Mitchel era um grande partido em Ardlens e muitas jovens ansiavam por seu amor, dispostas atĂŠ a se atirarem aos pĂŠs dele. A pergunta dele a lembrou desse fato agora. SerĂĄ que ele estava com medo de que ela nĂŁo o deixasse ir com facilidade? Se fosse esse o caso, nĂŁo havia como ele estar mais errado... Depois de morder o lĂĄbio inferior para esconder o amargor que sentia, Raegan disse: "Sinto muito, senhor Dixon. Eu estava pensando demais nisso tudo. De qualquer forma, me deixe em paz de agora em diante, por favor. VocĂŞ nĂŁo precisa vir aqui de novo." Depois de dizer isso, Raegan nĂŁo pĂ´de evitar o choro. Como ela poderia nĂŁo ficar triste se estava cortando relaçþes com o homem que amou por anos? Era quase uma dĂŠcada de amor! Independentemente de ser difĂcil, ela sabia que era hora de deixĂĄ-lo ir. Estranhamente, a luz do corredor começou a piscar e o olhar mortal que Mitchel estava lançando para Raegan naquele momento fez a atmosfera parecer o instante do ataque em um filme de terror. Embora entendesse que as mulheres se comportavam de forma irracional Ă s vezes, ele sentia que Raegan tinha acabado de passar dos limites agora. Os olhos dele brilhavam como tochas. Foi entĂŁo que ele viu as lĂĄgrimas nos olhos dela e a raiva dentro dele se extinguiu instantaneamente. Em seguida, ele disse em voz baixa: "Se isso estĂĄ relacionado com a situação entre vocĂŞ e Tessa, eu..." "NĂŁo tem nada a ver com ela. Senhor Dixon, apenas saia agora, por favor." Muitas coisas aconteceram entre eles e o incidente com Tessa nĂŁo chegou nem perto. Sentindo-se desesperada, Raegan passou por Mitchel, prestes a abrir a porta de seu apartamento. Mitchel nĂŁo gostou da teimosia dela e afrouxou a gravata, irritado. EntĂŁo, ele deu um passo Ă frente e agarrou o pulso dela com força. "Pare com isso, tudo bem?" Um segundo depois, ele colocou o braço em volta do ombro dela e a puxou para um abraço. Ele imediatamente percebeu que ela estava queimando, como se tivesse sido incendiada. "VocĂŞ estĂĄ com febre?" Raegan se sentiu tonta e descansou a cabeça no peito dele fracamente. Isso complicou toda a situação. Ela se deu conta de que seus corpos estavam muito prĂłximos, entĂŁo colocou as mĂŁos contra o peito dele e tentou se afastar. Antes que ela pudesse escapar, Mitchel a puxou de volta e a segurou pela cintura. Com uma expressĂŁo fria, ele disse em voz baixa: "Aonde vocĂŞ pensa que estĂĄ indo?" A luz do corredor piscou novamente. Do nada, ele a levantou e se dirigiu para o elevador. Atordoada, Raegan perguntou suavemente: "O que vocĂŞ estĂĄ fazendo?" "O que parece que estou fazendo?", ele retrucou. "Vou levar vocĂŞ para o hospital." "De jeito nenhum!", exclamou Raegan de surpresa e pareceu recuperar as forças. Havia uma chance de ela perder a gravidez se nĂŁo fosse tratada adequadamente. O bebĂŞ veio na hora errada, mas era seu filho e era seu dever protegĂŞ-lo. Raegan lutou para sair dos braços de Mitchel, no entanto, a força dele tornava seus esforços infrutĂferos. "NĂŁo seja tĂŁo teimosa. VocĂŞ estĂĄ doente e precisa ser examinada por um mĂŠdico", ele disse com firmeza ao caminhar atĂŠ o elevador com ela ainda nos braços. O coração de Raegan batia tĂŁo forte que poderia pular do peito a qualquer instante. Ela afundou as unhas no braço dele e chutou em protesto. "Me coloque no chĂŁo! NĂŁo quero ir para o hospital!" CapĂtulo 4 Eu gostaria de ficar sozinha Mitchel parou e olhou para os dedos delgados dela segurando sua camisa. Seus olhos escureceram e ele perguntou: "Por que nĂŁo?" Raegan baixou os olhos e tentou mentir, dizendo: "Eu... nĂŁo gosto de hospitais. HĂĄ algo neles que me deixa muito assustada." Ela estava com tanto medo de que tudo fosse revelado nesse momento que nĂŁo conseguia nem olhar nos olhos dele. PorĂŠm, nĂŁo sabia se ele acreditou nisso ou nĂŁo. Vendo que ele nĂŁo disse nada, ela acrescentou suavemente: "AliĂĄs, jĂĄ tomei um remĂŠdio e ficarei bem quando descansar um pouco." Mitchel olhou para baixo e sĂł conseguiu ver metade do lindo rosto dela. O rosto dela era muito pequeno e seus longos cĂlios encaracolados tremiam enquanto ela mantinha o olhar baixo. Talvez a febre a tivesse feito corar, f &17& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.lera.mobi/10343409-fb_contact-ptj57- | O Livro do Amor | https://www.facebook.com/61558821114909/ | 3,572 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.lera.mobi | VIDEO | https://fbweb.lera.mobi/10343409-fb_contact-ptj57-0308-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=450321974015969&rawadid=120212688127800290 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468813159_619397067667152_4798501610017525369_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kQw915NDP3AQ7kNvgHc2HBM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ABDt4-OwpAEWDRdzB7rzBC3&oh=00_AYASW9Ce7fzD2Ve3Dqq8JPFoLExK3ztw3FEzRolAl6ca5w&oe=6754274A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | O Livro do Amor | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | In Merika State, the two of them lay close together on the hotel bed. As their passion grew, Justin Yatesâs husky voice, filled with allure, murmured, âEm, how about having a child with me?â Caught up in the moment, Emily Yates replied without thinking. It wasnât until they were lying together afterward that she remembered what he had said. âA child?â she repeated, a trace of intimacy lingering in her eyes. The look stirred Justinâs desire again. She was a constant temptation to him. Pushing those thoughts aside, he pulled out a ring and slipped it onto her left hand. âAre you proposing to me?â she asked. âYes.â âCan I finally have your child now?â Justin asked, smiling. His eyes were warm, but there was no love in them, as if he were gazing past her, waiting for someone elseâs answer. âIâll give you plenty,â she replied, momentarily surprised. Proposing in bed wasnât exactly romantic or formal, but she didnât mind. She had waited three years for this moment, and it was worth it. Three years ago, she had been injured near the beach, hitting her head on a rock. When she woke up, she had no memory. Justin had saved her. The first thing she saw when she woke was his face, and one look left her captivated. Later, she learned that Justin had paid her hospital bills. She also learned of his identity. He was the CEO of RC Corporation. He proposed that she be his contract lover, and without hesitation, she agreed. They signed an agreement, defining their relationship, and he gave her the name Emily Yates. Yes, she was drawn to his looks. Despite their arrangement, the past three years felt like any other relationship. In the first year, she was a hidden lover. In the second, he introduced her as his girlfriend to his circle. Now, with three years approaching, he was proposing. Once she was part of his social circle, she heard whispers about a woman who had been his first love, someone he cherished deeply in college. She had disappeared without a trace, and he had been searching for her ever since. Over the years, Justin had lost hope she was still alive. That was why he finally proposed. Emily didnât mind. Everyone has a past. Looking at the diamond ring on her left ring finger, she felt like it had all been worth it. The sound of running water came from the bathroom. Justin was showering. Calming down, Emily wrapped a towel around herself and got out of bed to pick up their scattered clothes. A soft *clink* echoed as something hit the floor. It was Justinâs cardholder. She bent down to pick it up, and a photo slipped out. It was old, with frayed edges, as if it had been looked at countless times. The woman in the photo looked like her but younger, just how she would have looked three years ago. Emily didnât remember ever taking this photo, but she had lost her memory. Maybe she had forgotten. She was just about to put the cardholder back when a large, slender hand appeared, taking it from her. Justin emerged from the bathroom, his hair still damp and falling over his eyes, now tinged with a hint of displeasure. âDonât touch my things,â he said coldly, his tone a sharp contrast to the intimacy they had just shared. Turning away from her, he put the cardholder back in his briefcase, his whole demeanor suddenly distant and guarded. Emily froze. Was he really getting defensive over a photo? She looked at him, confused. Wasnât that her old picture? Before she could ask, Justin seemed to realize that his reaction had been out of line. He turned back and grasped her chin. With a playful glint in his eye, he ran his thumb over her still-swollen lips, toying with them. His voice was cool, devoid of warmth, but his words were deeply suggestive, clearly aiming to change the subject. âWeâre going to be late for the art exhibit. If you rather stay here, I wouldnât mind going another round.â Her cheeks flushed at his teasing, and she gently pushed him away. Her thoughts were scattered, and she quickly forgot about the photo. Justin had come to Merika State on business and had received an invitation to an art exhibition by Haley Quinn. He brought Emily along, planning to take her to the show once his work was done. Haley, a painter who had withdrawn from the public eye three years ago, rarely held exhibitions, making this one a rare event. Emily dressed quickly, while Justin had already changed into a fresh suit. The gallery was close to the hotel, so they walked there. Arm in arm, they strolled down the street, enjoying the perfect atmosphere. Just as Emily felt an overwhelming sense of happiness, Justin suddenly stopped. âJustin, whatâs wrong?â She followed his gaze. Across the street, a disheveled woman, her clothes too dirty to recognize their original color, was recklessly crossing the traffic, oblivious to the danger. The woman pushed Emily aside and wrapped her arms tightly around Justinâs waist. She sobbed uncontrollably, gasping for air. âJustin, I finally found you. You came looking for me, didnât you?â Emily stumbled from the shove, the bright sunlight momentarily blinding her. The woman looked eerily familiar. She resembled the one in the photo from the cardholder and, in a way, even looked like Emily herself. âEmma? Is that really you?â Justinâs voice trembled, his eyes locked onto the woman in his arms, as if afraid she might disappear again. Just moments ago, he had proposed to Emily. Now, right there in the street, he held another woman. He gently wiped away the womanâs tears with a tenderness so delicate, as if afraid of breaking something precious. âYes, itâs me,â the woman sobbed, nodding desperately. Frail as she was, she clung to him. Justin was known for his fastidiousness and love of cleanliness, but he now held her tightly. He was soothing her with gentle words, as if she were a lost treasure he had finally recovered. He was afraid that even the slightest rough movement might hurt her. They seemed oblivious to everything around them, including Emily. Justin seemed to have forgotten Emily was still there. The woman in his arms had cried herself into unconsciousness. He took off his expensive jacket and draped it over her. He then slipped his arms under her knees and held her tightly as he carried her back toward the hotel. Emily stood there, feeling like an outsider. Her arm still ached from where she had been shoved, and she could still feel the warmth of Justinâs touch lingering around her waist. Just minutes ago, he had been tangled up with her in bed, proposing marriage. Now, he was leaving her in the middle of the street, carrying a woman who seemed to come out of nowhere. He had tossed aside his usual grace, holding this woman, who looked like a beggar, and rushed back to the hotel. The people around them pointed and whispered, like they were watching some sort of spectacle. Emily wanted to follow him, but her first step faltered. She steadied herself against a nearby building, catching a glimpse of her reflection in the window. Her flawless makeup now showed a hint of disarray. Chapter 2 Tears had fallen without her noticing, smudging the fresh makeup around her eyes. Emily glanced down at the diamond ring on her left hand, a sense of foreboding spreading through her. The sudden appearance of this woman might shatter the happiness she had been waiting for. She couldnât just stand here. She had to know who this woman was. After a moment to gather herself, she headed back to the hotel. The plane flew from Merika State back to Haven State. At Lichfield Hospital, Emily stood at the door of a hospital room, arms crossed, trying to see inside through the window. Justinâs friend, Zac White, the director of Lichfield Hospital, along with other doctors, were examining the restless woman on the hospital bed. Two female nurses held her steady as they conducted their checks. On the plane, her face had already been cleaned, and she had been given fresh clothes. âEmma Xander? Hasnât she... disappeared for the past four years?â Zac was shocked. Where had Justin found her? The Yates and White families had pulled every string they could to find Emma, but after four years with no trace, they had finally given up. And now, here she was. After completing their examination, the doctors and nurses left the room. A heavy silence fell over the space. A moment later, Justinâs voice seemed to echo from a distance as he gazed at the woman, now sound asleep after a sedative. âHow is she doing?â âSheâs malnourished, traumatized, and a bit disoriented, but otherwise fine. She just needs some time to recover.â Justin stood by her bedside, clearly prepared to stay with her. Zac hesitated, wanting to say something, but thought better of it and left the room. He opened the door to find Emily waiting outside. Feeling awkward for his friend, Zac adjusted his silver-framed glasses and greeted her with a polite smile. âHi, Miss Yates.â Emily nodded in acknowledgment. âDr. White, whatâs her name? And what is her relationship with Justin?â she asked bluntly, desperate to know who this woman was. Zac hesitated, uncertain how to explain that Emma was Justinâs long-lost first love. This was his friendâs private matter, after all, and not his to reveal. Before he could find the words, Justin opened the door and saw them standing outside. He frowned, clearly displeased. âDidnât I tell you to go home? Why are you still here?â Justinâs voice dripped with disdain and impatience, as if his irritation had taken on a life of its own. Emily stood her ground, unafraid. She needed answers. âYou proposed to me in Merika State just 16 hours ago, but now youâre holding another woman and completely ignoring me. And youâre not even coming home? Staying out all night?â âStop being unreasonable. Leave. Now,â he ordered, his voice cold and commanding, his gaze on her as though she were an unruly employee who had crossed the line. Seeing Justinâs dark expression, Zac stepped in, concerned that Emily might end up on the losing side of this argument. When Justin was angry, it rarely boded well for anyone. âItâs late. Let me arrange a car to take Miss Yates home,â Zac offered, trying to ease the tension. Emily, however, refused Zacâs offer. She wasnât leaving without answers. âYou think Iâm being unreasonable? Iâm your fiancĂŠe. You left me on the street in a foreign country to carry another woman away without a second thought. Did you ever consider how I felt? âIâll go, but only if you leave the hospital with me. There are doctors and nurses here to care for that woman. Right now, youâre coming home with me.â Desperate, Emily reached out to grab Justinâs arm. But before she could make contact, her arm was blocked by Justinâs personal bodyguard, William Carter. Emily was stunned, unable to believe what she was seeing. It felt as though her heart was being torn in two. Justin had always been there for her, always caring, always the first to pick up her calls, no matter if he was in a meeting or on a business trip. If she ever needed him, he would show up immediately. If she couldnât be reached, he would search the whole city until he found her. But now, with this woman in the hospital room, he wouldnât even let her near him? âWhat do you mean by this?â Emilyâs voice trembled, mirroring the unease in her heart. Justin didnât respond. He stared at her with cold, detached eyes, as if she were a stranger and not the fiancĂŠe he had just proposed to. Time seemed to stretch, each second feeling like an eternity. Finally, he spoke, his words sharp and emotionless. âDonât be childish.â Childish? Once, he had said he loved how she depended on him, how she claimed him for herself. And now he was calling her childish? âIf you want to stay here with her, then what about our marriage? You proposed to me just today!â Emilyâs heart ached, squeezing painfully in her chest. She knew it wasnât the right moment to bring this up, but she couldnât accept the idea that her future husband would spend the night in the hospital with another woman. Zac stood nearby, listening in shock. Marriage? Had Justin really proposed to Emily? And what about Emma in the hospital room? Justin glanced over his shoulder, worried that the woman asleep in the hospital bed might hear them and wake up. Emily noticed the concern in his eyes. It was an expression she had seen many times when he had worried about her. But now, that look was for someone else. He turned back to Emily, his voice still icy. âIf you donât want to get married, we can call it off. This isnât the place for your drama. William, have the driver take her home.â He didnât like being threatened, especially when it came to his marriage. Without another glance at her, he opened the door to the hospital room and went back inside. William stepped forward, maintaining his respectful tone. âMiss Yates, please donât make this difficult for me. Itâs time for you to go home.â Zac looked at Emily with sympathy. âMiss Yates, itâs late. Maybe itâs best to talk things over with Justin another time.â But how could they ever discuss this again? Her fiancĂŠ had just left her humiliated, choosing to stay with another woman without a care for her dignity. The hospital hallway lights felt harsh, blinding her with their brightness. Realizing that staying there made her look like a fool, Emily decided she wouldnât let herself be a spectacle for others to watch. Clenching her purse tightly, Emily turned to leave. As she took a step, her vision blurred, and she nearly collapsed. Both Zac and William rushed to steady her, their grip gentlemanly but firm. âIâll walk you to the car,â Zac offered. Leaning against the wall, Emily took a moment to steady herself, then shook her head. âIâm fine. I can get back on my own.â Her footsteps wobbled as she walked down the hallway, but she managed to keep her head high until she was out of their sight. After returning to the hospital room, Justin glanced down at Emma, who lay pale and frail on the bed. A strange weight settled in his chest, and the pervasive smell of antiseptic only added to his irritation. He tugged at his shirt collar, unbuttoning the top two buttons, but the air still felt suffocating. He stepped back out into the hallway, finding Zac and William waiting there. Emily was gone. âShe left?â he asked, visibly more at ease now that she was no longer around. He didnât want her disturbing Emmaâs rest. âYes, sheâs gone,â Zac replied, hands in the pockets of his lab coat, nodding. With both of them standing there, Justin didnât bother asking how Emily had left. âIâm stepping out for a break,â he said. Chapter 3 âSo, Emma Xanderâs back. What are you going to do?â Zac asked, breaking the silence. He didnât mention Emily, but they both knew what he meant. One woman was the college sweetheart, the first love who had once saved Justinâs life. The other was the girlfriend who had been with him for three years, sharing his most intimate moments, and now, his fiancĂŠe. After a long pause, Justin replied, his voice cold and detached. âShe was just a stand-in. She could never compare to Emma.â He went on, his tone utterly indifferent, as if he hadnât been the one to propose to Emily in Merika State. âThe role of Mrs. Yates will never be hers. It can only belong to Emma.â In a way, Emily had saved him the trouble of saying it himself when she had brought up their marriage in the hallway. Zac and Justin had been close friends since childhood, both growing up in privileged families, each carrying a bit of that self-centered mindset typical of their social circle. But this time, Zac couldnât help feeling sorry for Emily. Emily, though an orphan with no family or wealth, was straightforward and honest. Over the past three years, she had complemented Justin perfectly, and in Zacâs eyes, they had seemed genuinely happy together. On the other hand, considering how long Emma had been abroad, it wasnât hard to guess what she might have gone through. Zac didnât care about things like V-card or a womanâs past, but he had always found Emma to be somewhat pretentious. Even back in college, she often disregarded Justinâs concerns, running off on her own without a second thought. After graduation, she mysteriously vanished during an overseas reunion party organized by a close group of alumni. Despite mobilizing every possible connection, they never found her. Even the police suggested they give up, implying that a young woman disappearing overseas was likely gone for good. At that time, Justin hadnât fully taken over the company and wasnât yet experienced in handling crises like these. Around the same time, his father, Henry Yates, was in a car accident and died despite emergency treatment. After the funeral, Justin was suddenly thrust into the dual responsibilities of inheriting the company and fending off his uncle, Harry Yates, who was trying to seize control. Thanks to his grandfatherâs intervention, Justin managed to stabilize the corporation. By then, the critical window to find Emma had long passed, and any chance of finding her had all but disappeared. Zac clearly remembered how Justin had been consumed with frustration and self-blame during those days. And then Emily had come into his life, bringing him some peace. For that, Zac was truly grateful to her. âEmilyâs been with you for three years,â Zac said, trying to speak up for her. âSheâs an orphan, with no one else in the world. Isnât it a bit cruel to treat her like this?â âThen Iâll keep her around,â Justin replied casually, brushing it off like it was no big deal. âBut marriage? Thatâs not going to happen.â His tone was so offhanded, as if having another woman around didnât matter at all. He didnât see a problem with it. Keep her around? Really? Was he expecting her to stay hidden away as his stand-in lover, someone he kept out of sight? A mistress? A side piece? Emily didnât leave the hospital right away. She sat on a bench behind the flower bed, letting the cold night air wash over her. She hadnât expected to find out the truth like this. It turned out she was only here because she happened to look almost exactly like his lost one true love. And since she had lost her memory, he saw the perfect opportunity to mold her into the image of the woman he truly missed, hiding the truth from her and using her as a substitute. All the affection and indulgence he had shown her, it was never really for her. It was for the woman he had lost. Emma Xander. So that was her name, the one he had loved all his life. That was why he named her Emily, a name that allowed him to keep calling out for the one he had always loved. Even in their most intimate moments, he would call her âEm.â Whenever he whispered âEmâ in that deep, seductive voice, full of passion, she would lose herself completely, sinking further into him. It turned out he was simply looking at her face and calling out another womanâs name all along. It dawned on her that the photo in Justinâs wallet must have been of Emma, not her. She had foolishly assumed the woman in that picture was herself. What a joke. From start to finish, Justin had shaped her into the image of his hidden love, his one true love. And she had naively believed that she had won him over, making him fall in love with her. In truth, she was nothing more than a piece in their story. Emily felt her heart plunge from a mountaintop to the depths of despair. She had gone from being a proud fiancĂŠe to a hidden stand-in, a shadow. She had liked, maybe even loved Justin. But her pride couldnât accept that she had been someone elseâs replacement all along, or that she was now the secret other woman. Resolved to leave, she felt a small sense of relief that Justin had only proposed. They werenât married yet, and breaking up would be far easier than going through a divorce. For a moment, she felt grateful for Emmaâs sudden appearance. âMiss Yates, where are you?â the driver called, stepping out of the car after waiting a while. âIâm here.â Emily pulled herself from her thoughts, putting on her usual calm expression. âIs it just you? Whereâs Mr. Yates?â he asked. âHeâs not coming back.â Emily rose from the bench by the flower bed and walked back to the car with the driver. She wore a cream-colored, knee-length dress in a sweet, innocent style. As an artist, she was open to trying any look, but it was Justin who had said he liked this style. So, for the past three years, she had dressed this way for him. The spring breeze brushed her bare calves, sending a chill through her. Zac looked a bit uncomfortable, âEmily didnât leave?â So, she had heard everything they had said. Justinâs tone was just as indifferent, cold, and unfeeling. âGood. Let her hear it. She needs to know her place and avoid causing any more scenes like tonight.â With that, he turned and walked away from the garden, completely unfazed by the fact that Emily had overheard him. Emily sat quietly during the ride back to Villa One. Mrs. Zimmer greeted her at the door, her face lighting up warmly after a few days apart. âYouâre back! It mustâve been tiring, traveling with Mr. Yates.â Emily nodded wearily, barely acknowledging her. âYes.â âWhereâs Mr. Yates?â Mrs. Zimmer glanced behind her, looking for Justin. âHe wonât be back tonight.â Emilyâs voice was detached, as if his return made no difference to her. Mrs. Zimmer looked slightly disappointed at first, but then her face lit up with a knowing smile, the kind that came from having seen a lot in life. She took Emilyâs suitcase and gently urged her to go get some rest in the bedroom. Once inside, Emily understood Mrs. Zimmerâs smile. The room was dimly lit, with candles arranged at various heights, casting a soft, romantic glow. Flowers and scented candles adorned the surfaces, and a bottle of champagne sat open on the table. Even the usual heavy gray curtains had been replaced with delicate lace, adding an air of intimacy. The bed was covered in thick rose petals, the entire room transformed into a romantic setting. Clearly, this had been Justinâs arrangement before their trip. Exhausted, Emily didnât have the energy to clean up, and it was too late to bother Mrs. Zimmer. Chapter 4 Emily found the remote to turn on the lights, then looked for something handy to snuff out each candle one by one. Afterward, she retrieved her nightgown from the closet and headed for a shower. As she walked into the bathroom, she noticed the ring still on her left hand. She slipped it off and tossed it into the corner of her jewelry box. When she returned to the bedroom, she brushed all the rose petals off the bed and settled under the covers, pulling them over her head. She instinctively lay on the left side of the bed, where she was used to sleeping. Justin would always hold her close, gradually shifting over to the left with her until they were practically glued together. Now, the right side of the bed was glaringly empty. To fill the space, she scooted to the center, tossing the extra pillow onto the floor, finally feeling comfortable. She turned off the lights and went to sleep. Two days passed without any word from Justin. He was likely at the hospital with Emma or busy with work. Emily didnât care and hadnât reached out, maintaining a complete radio silence. The morning sun was bright, and the spring breeze was warm as she lounged on a deck chair in the villaâs garden, enjoying a face mask. Her mind wandered to practical matters. She had spent some time reviewing the contract she signed three years ago to be Justinâs âcontract lover.â It was set to expire automatically after three years, which was now less than four months away. When it ended, she would receive a payout of twenty million. Between that, and the allowance and holiday bonuses he had given her over the years, she had saved nearly six million. She had barely spent any of it, so it was all tucked away. It seemed she would be in decent shape financially, and finding a job after leaving wouldnât be too hard. As for a place to live, she could buy a similarly sized home, and maybe invite Helen to move in as a roommate. It would be nice to have company. She did regret not being able to take Mrs. Zimmer with her. If she could, it would be perfect. The phone on the coffee table buzzed, interrupting her thoughts. Emily picked it up, unlocked it with her fingerprint, and a new message notification popped up at the top of the screen. She tapped to open it. It was from her friend, Helen Walker. They had met a year ago while shopping, when Helen insisted on becoming friends after seeing her just once. With no memory of any past friendships, Emily had found Helen easy to talk to, and they had gradually become close. âHow was your time in Merika State? When are you coming back?â Helen had attached a mischievous emoji with a smirk. âIâm already back.â âAlready? That was quick.â âI thought Justin looked strong. Guess he didnât last long? Not up to it?â âNot just ânot up to itâ. He canât even get started.â Emily replied, seizing the chance to curse him. On the other end, Helen raised an eyebrow. It looked like Justin had managed to tick off her friend. But she wasnât too concerned as they had argued before. Couples fought, and it usually blew over. âPerfect timing then. Iâm heading to the TC Mall in a bit to stock up on some new clothes. Letâs hit the mall together and grab some food afterward. Get ready and meet me there.â âSounds good. Iâll see you at the mall.â Emily agreed readily. She had spent the past couple of days clearing out the sweet, youthful clothes she didnât like. Her wardrobe could use a refresh. She put down the phone and washed off her face mask. Glancing at the nearly empty wardrobe, she picked out a casual athletic outfit and did a quick, simple makeup look. Fresh and tidy, she got ready to head out. âMrs. Zimmer, Iâm meeting a friend to go shopping. Iâll have lunch out,â Emily said, slinging her bag over her shoulder. âAlright, Miss Yates. Will you be back for dinner?â Mrs. Zimmer, who was supervising the housekeeperâs cleaning, looked up to ask. Emily paused while slipping on her shoes, thinking about how unpredictable Helen could be and that they hadnât seen each other in a while. She might not be back for dinner. âNot sure yet. Iâll text you later if Iâll be back in time.â âUnderstood.â As Emily opened the door, she found Justinâs assistant, Sam Spencer, just about to knock. âHi, Sam,â she greeted him coolly, planning to step around him to leave. âHi, Miss Yates. Mr. Yates has a flight out of town this afternoon for a business trip. Could I trouble you to help pack his things before you go?â Samâs tone was respectful, as usual. Emily didnât move. âMrs. Zimmer, Justinâs going on a trip. Could you please help with his packing?â âMiss Yates, thisâŚ?â Samâs face showed confusion. âWhat? Before I came along, didnât Justin have someone to handle his luggage?â Her expression was calm, her tone light. âOf course. Youâre absolutely right, Miss Yates,â Sam replied, beads of sweat forming as he carefully balanced his response, not daring to offend either side. In the past, Emily had always packed for Justinâs business trips. She had done it so many times that she knew exactly what he would need for any occasion. But now, she had no desire to continue. He had used her as a stand-in, and every time he watched her pack his bags, he must have thought she looked foolish. Three years. Now that she thought back, there had been plenty of strange looks and behaviors from Justin that she hadnât picked up on. She had been utterly blind. But she wouldnât be foolish anymore. Emily was ready to leave, but Sam was blocking the door, preventing her from going. She urged Mrs. Zimmer to hurry with the packing. Mrs. Zimmer quickly filled the suitcase and handed it to Sam, who was waiting in the living room. He glanced at his watch. Ten minutes had barely passed. That was fast. "Mrs. Zimmer, are you sure itâs all packed? Should we check to make sure nothingâs missing?" he asked cautiously. Emily replied without emotion, âIsnât the flight at noon? If you keep dragging your feet, heâll miss it. Besides, anything he needs can be bought over there.â She checked her watch, starting to feel a bit pressed for time. If she delayed much longer, Helen would end up waiting impatiently, and they would miss out on shopping before lunch. And who wanted to try on clothes with a full stomach? âOf course, Miss Yates. Iâll head over to the office to pick up Mr. Yates,â Sam said with a polite smile, making his way out. Emily nodded and headed down to the garage. She chose a white luxury car and drove off. Meanwhile, Sam took the suitcase to the sleek black car parked discreetly by the curb. He placed it in the trunk, then settled into the front passenger seat. The driver, Justinâs bodyguard, William, started the car. But instead of heading to the airport, they were bound for Lichfield Hospital. âHow much longer until Emilyâs contract is up?â Justinâs voice was calm and emotionless, as if he were discussing a routine business matter. Sam immediately understood that the question was directed at him. He quickly recalled the contract details. âLess than four months, Mr. Yates.â âDraft a new agreement and deliver it to her when the time comes,â Justin instructed. Keeping her around for three years had cost him little, and continuing to support her wasnât an issue. But he was done with her. He wouldnât touch her again or return to Villa One. Recalling the scene from the hospital hallway two nights ago, he added without hesitation, âInclude a clause that ensures she never shows up in front of Emma again.â Sam was momentarily taken aback but quickly regained his professional composure. âUnderstood, Mr. Yates.â Chapter 5 People said billionaires were cold and indifferent in their personal lives, switching women as easily as they changed clothes. For the past three years, Mr. Yates had only been with Miss Yates, making him seem like a devoted man. But it looked like he could move on in an instant. Who knew how long Miss Xander would last by his side? Sam had joined the company three years ago, right when Justin took over RC Corporation, so he wasnât familiar with the complicated history between Emma and Justin. Inside TC Mall, Emily was browsing through clothes, each piece a far cry from her usual sweet and innocent style. âBabe, switching things up?â Helen asked, watching as Emily picked up a long black dress with a slitted hem. It would look stunning on Emilyâs curves. Emily held the dress up to herself in the mirror, unfazed. âYep, time for a change. Do you think this would look better with a shawl or a jacket?â She turned to give Helen a look. âA shawl, definitely. Itâll highlight your figure beautifully,â Helen replied with her usual style advice. âThatâs what I thought too.â Helen eyed the dress. âThat dress is so feminine. Will your guy even let you wear it out? Doesnât Justin only let you wear those sweet, innocent schoolgirl outfits?â Helen couldnât help but mentally criticize Justinâs taste. What kind of fashion sense did he have anyway? A multinational CEO, a man with a grip on the Haven State economy, yet he liked her to dress like a schoolgirl. âHis taste doesnât matter anymore. Itâs not something Iâm concerned about,â Emily replied casually, completely indifferent. She handed the dress to a fitting assistant with a similar build, having her try it on for her. High-end stores like this one often had staff who modeled the clothes for clients, so she didnât have to try them on herself. Emily picked out a few more items in different styles for the assistant to model. If she liked them, she would buy them. When she was satisfied with her choices, she scanned her card and paid, then filled out the delivery details for Villa One. The clothes would be sent straight there. After they had finished shopping, they went for lunch. With no one else around, Emily finally shared her situation with Helen that she had been Justinâs stand-in for his one true love. Now that his true love had returned, she was planning to leave him. âThat despicable man!â Helen burst out, her emotions flaring. âKeep it down.â Emily quickly covered Helenâs mouth and glanced around to see if anyone at nearby tables was paying attention to them. Helen lowered her voice but was still fuming. âJustin might look put-together, but heâs not even half a man. His first love disappears, so he goes and finds a stand-in? âWhy didnât he just get plastic surgery to look like her? Then he could see her every time he looked in the mirror. âGood for you for walking away. You should break up with him. No! Just breaking up is too good for that pompous human garbage! You need to dump him into the sewers!â LMAO, where did Helen even learn these insults from? Just then, the server brought out a tray with seasoned meats, fresh vegetables, and a variety of salsas. Emily began assembling her own tacos, adding the toppings she liked best. âThe contractâs up in four months. Iâm planning to buy a place.â âWhat for? Just stay with me. Iâve got a room for you.â âMy address is still tied to Justinâs place. Since Iâve decided to leave, I need a clean break. Iâll need my own place to change everything over,â Emily explained, outlining her plan. Her heart felt numb now, no longer as raw as it had been the night sheâd learned the truth in the hospital garden. âThen you can cancel your lease and move in with me! Weâll be family!" Emily suggested excitedly. Helen suppressed the impulse to tell Emily that they were already family. Given Emily's amnesia, she didnât want to overwhelm her with too much information all at once. Instead, she nodded. âAlright, Iâll move in with you. Iâll start looking around for a place for you. Actually the place I rent now is quite nice. The location and neighborhood are perfect. Iâll check if the landlordâs interested in selling, though itâs a resale property.â âI donât care if itâs new or used. As long as itâs clean and ready to go, Iâm good.â Emily didnât need much. After leaving the cushy life she had been used to, she was perfectly fine doing things on her own. She found the independence kind of refreshing. After lunch, they picked up some accessories to go with the new outfits, light enough to carry back on her own. Emily said goodbye to Helen and drove back to Villa One. By the time she got back, the clothes she had bought that morning had already been delivered, ironed, and neatly hung in the walk-in closet by the house staff. She hadnât bought much, just enough to last the next few months and to keep the move as hassle-free as possible. The womenâs side of the closet was nearly empty, with only a few of her favorite pieces hanging. She grabbed a new loungewear set to change into and happened to glance over at the menâs side, packed with Justinâs clothes. Emily didnât linger. She strode past it without a second thought. As she was heading to the bathroom, her phone rang from the sofa. She put down the clothes and picked up the call. âHello, is this Miss Yates?â âYes, this is.â âIâm a nurse from Lichfield Hospital. Your health screening results are in. When would be a convenient time for you to come pick them up?â Emily remembered that Justin had taken her for a checkup just before their trip to Merika State. She had forgotten all about it until this call. âIâll come by tomorrow morning.â âVery well. Have a nice day.â The next day, Emily went to Lichfield Hospital. âPlan to have a baby?â âThatâs right. Mr. Yates specifically requested it during his screening. Your health is excellent, Miss Yates. Your ovulation cycle is regular, so we recommend folic acid, Vitamin B1, and plenty of protein. With the right timing and frequency, you should be expecting good news soon.â The doctor adjusted his glasses and smiled warmly. Emilyâs fingers tightened around the report, a heavy feeling settling in her chest. She had been trying hard not to think about Justin lately, but this report hit her unexpectedly hard. âMiss Yates, Iâll prescribe you two boxes of folic acid and Vitamin B1. Be sure to take them regularly.â Emily interrupted him, finding an excuse to refuse. âThanks, doctor, but that wonât be necessary. Iâll get them on my own.â The doctor wasnât surprised. Wealthy women like her often had access to premium brands from various sources, so declining hospital-prescribed supplements wasnât unusual. Emily left the hospital in a daze, only coming to her senses when she reached a sunny spot outside. She tossed the health report into the trash bin. With Emma back, Justin clearly had no intention of having children with her. And she certainly didnât want to give him one, either. It was easier to pretend she didnât know what the checkup had really been for. Meanwhile, in the hospitalâs garden, the spring sunlight was warm and gentle. Justin was pushing Emmaâs wheelchair, letting her enjoy the sunshine. âJustin, youâre busy with work. You donât have to be here with me all the time. I can manage on my own,â Emma said, her voice soft and considerate. âFocus on getting better. Donât worry about anything else.â Justin felt a deep guilt about Emmaâs disappearance, blaming himself for not protecting her better. He believed his negligence had allowed her to be taken and vanish without a trace. Over the past few days, he had tried to gather clues from her about what happened, but whenever he brought it up, she would break down, unable to share any details. Emily hadnât expected to see Justin at the hospital. Hadnât Sam said Justin was out of town on a business trip? | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15056&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 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=15056&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/t39.35426-6/464668396_838968851777178_6862484548457197291_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GbNW26-eeiAQ7kNvgEKeW_E&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ApvClzotAfR5NlviZ-XCtHq&oh=00_AYDpJ6NjgmBRKkMCxxve0njaSxiAyo1BN8UsBPLx2IptWQ&oe=67542AA5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/craig_inthe_catskills | craig_inthe_catskills | https://www.instagram.com/_u/craig_inthe_catskills | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/craig_inthe_catskills | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/435895823_1547236822520699_1500301619138219515_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=WOGY8-X4KowQ7kNvgE0FZmD&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYBdsbSY9L0C3wpfyTxi4cllwbaaHCwPGg_JQKySivdaTw&oe=67540666 | IG_ADS_IDENTITY | 1 | 0 | 0 | craig_inthe_catskills | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | "I, Barrett Warren, vow with my life that I'll take no concubine! Carissa Sinclair shall be my one and only!" These were the words that convinced Carissa Sinclair, the daughter of general, to hide her martial talents and forsake her promising future to marry into the crumbling Warren family. Even on their wedding night, when Barrett was abruptly summoned to the battlefield, Carissa never complained. She used her dowry to support the struggling Warren household, waiting faithfully for his return. But she never imagined that when Barrett finally returned, the first thing he would do was marrying his new love... --- At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage to Aurora." he said, his voice steady, " She will be joining our household. There's no question about it." Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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 wonât be a concubine. Sheâll be my legal wife, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Fell in love? Huh, looks like he is determined in breaking the vow he made a year ago... Carissa's soft smile wiped off by a mocking one, she had once believed Barrettâs victory would earn him a higher rank, freeing her from the burden of supporting the Warren household with her dowry. Yet instead, in exchange for his victory, he only asked the king for another woman's hand, and now he even dared to silence her with his so-called 'glorified victory'... Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and Aurora is amicable. Mother liked her a lot upon seeing her, even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." "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 be generous enough to welcome Aurora." Carissa lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them." Barrett interrupted, "You're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her. Also rest assured. Mother has promised me that Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things." âOh, that's what you and mother think I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa couldn't help but laughing. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. In the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissaâs arrival to the king three times. âYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,â he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. âI canât summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken back. Tell her to go home.â âThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheâs been standing there for over an hour without moving.â Salvador felt a pang of guilt. âBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnât want to agree, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left in the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowry and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465007860_556303920324636_9012944690241824242_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X1J2Mj-0YPgQ7kNvgF3oeQy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ApvClzotAfR5NlviZ-XCtHq&oh=00_AYCol_spDr7DJs20vDHBakup4NKCRMOIj8MpJvrXxmV2vw&oe=675421C2 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | As the daughter of Alpha, I have been abused by my brother Alpha Trey and the pack, all because of an unforgivable mistake I made at 6. Ouch! Beta Kyle rudely kicks me to the floor in front of the office door and yells, âUseless Stupid Wolf! Clean the office asap! Our guest, Alpha Dane will be arriving soon!â Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didnât mess around and he had the largest pack. âHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!â Beta Kyle continues. He digs his nails into my thinning skin before he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned 18, I could finally escape, but 4 years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. âUhheemâ Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donât quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. âIs this the way you greet all Alphaâs?â His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. âIâm sorry.â I whisper, getting to my feet. âIâŚI thought I was alone.â I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. âCome forward.â He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey was going to kill me. I step around the corner, doing as Iâm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. âYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?â I nod, though I couldnât tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. âI would prefer it if you spoke to me.â He growls, âIâm not in the mood to play games.â âYes.â I whisper. I couldnât help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? âWhy do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.â âIâŚâ I hated the question. âSpit it out, I havenât got all day!â His deep voice sends a shiver through me, âYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Itâs rude to not look at them.â Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact. âMy Wolf abilities were bound,â I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasnât interested in that part. He leans forward, carefully placing his glass on the small table next to the chair. I could feel him staring at me, âWhy would someone do that?â If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. âIt was a punishment.â I whisper. It wasnât far from the entire truth but it was the simplest answer I could give. Thereâs a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldnât tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me âNeah, what the fuck are you doing in my office?â He turns to the crimson eyed man. âI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane.â Crap, it was him. My brother spins around, his hand stretching out to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. âI wouldnât do that if I were you.â Alpha Daneâs voice rumbles through the room. Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He was taller than my brother, more muscly too. âNeah,â My name rolls off of his tongue, âwas kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested. I was lucky someone was present, at least someone understands the importance of this deal.â What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. I was going to pay for this later. I would have to try and steal some food. âGet out now!â Alpha Trey seethes. I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. I try to keep myself busy to stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace is short-lived when I hear my brother calling out for champagne and some glasses. Quickly finding what he asked for, I bow my head as I re-enter the office. I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move; even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one has ever watched me this closely. Approaching the small table by Alpha Danes chair, I start to fill the glasses. He takes the champagne bottle from me, telling me he is more than capable of filling his own glass. I feel my cheeks flame, not from embarrassment, but because I knew that I would be punished for this. I should have been quicker. I should have filled the glasses before entering the office. I should haveâŚ. My brain freezes when I see my brother glaring at me. âNeah is your sister, correct?â Alpha Dane questions my brother. âShe is.â Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. âWhy do you treat her like shit?â Straight to the point, my brother wouldnât like that. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didnât know what to do. I couldnât move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. âShe's an unforgiven murderer.â Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. âMurdered who?â Alpha Daneâs voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. âOur parents.â | LEARN_MORE | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783& | New world publications | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 3,764 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | wwwedb.com | DCO | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/463716564_849071077033660_7419585111381032995_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=abhXWnX6srAQ7kNvgFccm8n&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A0p4E08cuVi92sb96tnpmm7&oh=00_AYDpcGx3EY2sYsLB8WnImOTIfFcAO6Be2gSnLu3G-2twuQ&oe=675433B4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New world publications | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-12-02 19:09 | active | 1951 | 0 |
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Read next chapter | Emerging from the confines of marriage, she blossomed from a mundane housewife to a renowned painter with a legion of admirers. When her ex-husband sought reconciliation at her doorstep, he witnessed her in the arms of a prominent man. "Meet your new sister-in-law!" ===== In the dimly lit, opulent private cinema, the most exclusive jewelry auction was being broadcast live. "One million, going once, going twice--" The rich cadence of the auctioneer's voice echoed through the room, the man tightened his grip around Alicia Bennett's waist... With the intensity between them only grew fiercer as time passed... The auctioneer's gavel fell. "Sold for ten million! Let's give a round of applause to Mr. Joshua Yates!" The name struck Alicia like a lightning bolt. Her body instantly went rigid, something that the man couldn't help but notice, flicked lazily toward the screen. The camera zoomed in on Joshua Yates's face, every detail of his familiar features displayed in perfect clarity. "Joshua Yates, the second son of the Yates family... an acquaintance perhaps?" he drawled, the corners of his mouth tugging into a sly smile. Alicia's frown deepened. The last thing she wanted was to discuss it, she didn't respond. The man, upon seeing the situation, chuckled lightly before his movements grew even more relentless... ...... When it was over, Alicia took advantage of the man's time in the shower and quietly made her escape. When Caden Ward finally emerged from the bathroom, not catching sight of the woman's figure, he curled his lips slightly. Moments later, his assistant, Hank Ford, burst into the room, clearly on edge, "Er, apologies, Mr. Ward. I let my guard down. Give me a moment, and I'll have her brought back immediately." They had just returned to the country, taking every precaution. And yet, a woman had managed to slip through the cracks of their security. Caden's features calm, almost indifferent. "No need. I was... a willing participant." Hank's eyes widened in shock. In all the time he'd known Caden, the man had never slept with a woman,even physical contact. There were even rumors that Caden might suffer from some secret ailment. Yet now, those whispers seemed to evaporate in the face of this unexpected turn of events. Before Hank could make sense of it, Caden's deep voice pulled him back to reality. "I want you to look into Joshua's personal life. Have the report on my desk in half an hour." Tonight, Alicia had stumbled into his room, feverish and desperate. It was obvious she'd been framed. And then came the revelation--Alicia was still a pureness. Two years of marriage to Joshua... Yet she was still untouched? Caden's lips curled into a satisfied smile. But as he reflected, one thing became abundantly clear--Alicia had no idea who she'd been with due to the d*ug's effects. ... By the time Alicia returned home, the first light of dawn filtered through the windows. Only then did she realize how long she had been out. But before she could dwell any further, her phone rang. It was her bestie, Monica Flynn, calling. "Alicia!" Monica practically screeched from the other end of the line, her voice high-pitched with worry. "How are you now?" Alicia exhaled deeply, kicking off her shoes carelessly. "I've been better," she murmured. Monica's anger bubbled over, her words sharp and unrelenting. "Joshua's beyond disgusting! If he doesn't want to stay married, he should just grow a spine and divorce you already! What kind of sick man would scheme against his own wife?" The sharp pain of betrayal shot through Alicia's chest. Yesterday was their second anniversary. Joshua had texted her, suggesting they celebrate. Daring to hope he had changed, she had dressed up to the nine's, only to be met with disappointment and a d*ug-laced drink that sent her spiraling into a night of confusion and chaos. Was Joshua really the mastermind behind this? Swallowing the bitterness that tried clawing its way to the surface, Alicia forced herself to climb the stairs, her movements slow and weary. "It's fine, Monica. I'll handle it." Monica, ever protective, wasn't convinced. "'Handle it'? What do you mean you'll handle it? Just say the word, and I'll be over in a heartbeat." Alicia couldn't help the small, tired smile that tugged at her lips, hanging up the phone. But her heart still felt heavy, just as she lost focus, the door to her bedroom creaked open. She lifted her gaze, and almost instantly, her stomach dropped. There, fresh from a shower, a towel wrapped loosely around his waist, stood Joshua. He stared down at her. Chapter 2 Divorce Alicia snapped out of her daze as soon as she met the icy gaze of Joshua, her so-called husband. His expression remained unchanged, cold and indifferent as ever, as though he was looking at a stranger. The only thing out of place was the scars on his lips. A wave of disgust washed over her, she pushed him away and was about to enter. Joshua frowned, his hand shooting out to grab her wrist. "Alicia, what's with the attitude?" He seemed quite unhappy with her this time, which was a rare thing, considering how little he bothered to come home. Normally, Alicia would have welcomed him back with open arms, a flicker of joy lighting up her tired features, but today she looked drained, almost hollow. She didn't resist his grip, meeting his gaze with a calmness that unnerved him. "Haven't I always been like this? Obedient, sensible, making sure the house is in order, ensuring you're comfortable, ready to give your best at work." A small, bitter smile tugged at her lips. "Isn't that what you like most about me? It makes things easier for you, doesn't it? Frees up time for your other... 'special someone'." Joshua's eyes darkened at the veiled accusation. Denial hovered on his lips, but he didn't bother. Why should he? He dropped her hand and said gruffly, "Actually, that's why I'm here. We need to talk." Alicia vigorously rubbed her wrist, as though she was trying to erase his touch. "So, are you planning to finally go public with her?" Joshua's expression twisted instantly, his calm facade cracking. "What do you know? Did you have me stalked by a private investigator or something?" Alicia let out a soft, humorless laugh. "Is that necessary? Last night, you spared no expense to make her happy. Even a blind person could tell you're mad about her." He stared at her, unsettled by her icy tone. It was still her voice, still Alicia, but there was something different about her... For some reason, he felt inexplicably hurt, like a thorn pricking his heart. Perhaps it was the way she looked at him now--her eyes, once warm and filled with love for him, were now completely empty. There was no anger, no pain, just... nothing. It was a stark contrast to the woman who used to look at him as if he were her entire world. For reasons he couldn't explain, the sight of her like this stirred something in him, an unfamiliar dissatisfaction. Annoyed by his own reaction, Joshua decided to hit back, his voice harder now. "She's pregnant. It's a delicate pregnancy, so I bought her a little something to lift her spirits." Alicia's fists clenched before she could stop them. P**gnant? So, the nights she had stayed up waiting for him to come home, he'd been with another woman, working diligently to start a new family? Seeing Alicia wince a little, Joshua felt a flicker of satisfaction. "It's not that I don't want to touch you," he said, voice dripping with condescension. "You're just about as thrilling as watching paint dry. No man would want that." His cruel words pierced through Alicia, yet she managed to remain composed on the surface. It wasn't that she avoided intimacy; she just wasn't the one to initiate it. Did that make her so undesirable? Was it a sin? Taking a slow, steady breath, Alicia willed herself to stay calm. "Fine," she replied quietly. "Let's get a divorce then. You can give her the title she wants." The word "divorce" made Joshua's eyelid twitch involuntarily. He scoffed, eyes narrowing with suspicion. "Is this another one of your games?" Convinced he was right, his voice grew colder, more biting. "Alicia, for two years, you've pulled every childish stunt, begging for my attention. Aren't you tired yet? Because I sure as hell am." He paused, letting his disdain sink in. "You claim to love me so much. Could you really walk away from me?" Alicia couldn't help the bitter laugh that escaped her. Love him? Did he even understand what that meant? When Joshua's business had crumbled, leaving him with nothing but debt and shattered dreams, it had been Alicia who emptied her savings to pull him from the wreckage. Out of gratitude--or maybe obligation--he had married her. For two long years, she had been the dutiful wife, supporting him as he clawed his way to success. And what had Alicia gotten in return? She had been cast aside like a useless relic, while another woman carried his child. Her love, her loyalty, had been ground into the dirt beneath his feet. To care for this man any longer would be masochism. Her voice steady, Alicia said, "Draft the divorce agreement. I'll agree to whatever terms you want." And with that, she turned and disappeared through the door, leaving Joshua standing alone in the hallway. For a moment, he stared after her angrily, but then a cold, mocking smile tugged at his lips. Fine, she can play the martyr. He doubted she could keep it up for long. Storming out of the house, Joshua headed straight to the apartment where his lover, Lilliana Green, awaited him. "Well, that was fast," she teased upon hearing Joshua was getting a divorce, raising a brow. "Seems she wasn't as tough to deal with as you claimed." "She's cunning," Joshua muttered, the edge of suspicion creeping into his voice. "I don't know if she's actually agreeing to the divorce or just playing me." Lilliana's arms draping lazily around his neck, "Relax, Joshua, even if she changes her mind, it's too late." Joshua's brow furrowed. "What do you mean?" Chapter 3 Letting Go Lilliana's eyes flickered with shadowy intent. She wasn't foolish enough to show her cards now, so she waved it off with an effortless excuse. "During your two-year marriage, she has lived quietly in the shadows as a mere housewife, disconnected from your world. When you're assertive, would she dare to say a word?" Joshua pursed his lips into a hard line. During the past two years, Alicia had indeed done everything for him--given him support and solace. She had loved him fiercely, but at the end of it all, what value did love truly hold? Against all odds, he had clawed his way to the top, and he'd finally grasped the power he craved. That success, however, hadn't come easy, and it wasn't love that secured his position--it was alliances with the powerful. The prestige of the Green family daughter, that title alone, was worth far more than Alicia's devoted love. As these thoughts plagued his mind, Lilliana said happily, "Joshua, congratulations on escaping the grind. Shall we celebrate?" For a moment, Joshua's gaze flickered down to her, but Alicia's indifferent face suddenly flashed before his eyes. Since leaving the house earlier, Alicia hadn't once called him to ask for his whereabouts. Before, if he had been upset with her, she would've called him in a panic. A sharp, inexplicable irritation surged within him. Without thinking, he pushed Lilliana back, "You're only a few weeks' pregnant. Be careful." Lilliana, sharp as ever, sensed he was distracted. "Joshua, what's wrong?" she asked gently. "Don't you want to get divorced?" Joshua's response was instant. "Of course I want to divorce her." Her eyes narrowed as she studied him. "Then why don't you seem very happy?" Joshua offered a quick excuse, his voice steady but distant. "My father's condition has worsened. He doesn't have much time left, and Caden returned last night. He's likely here to claim his inheritance. I need to figure out how to handle him." Lilliana blinked, momentarily thrown. "Caden? Your brother from your father's first marriage? He doesn't even carry the Yates name anymore. What right does he have to fight you for the inheritance?" Joshua's expression darkened. It was true--but at the end of the day, he was still the son of a home-wrecker. All these years of relentless effort had not only been to carve out a name for himself in the Yates family, but to push Caden into the shadows where he belonged. One way or another, Joshua was hell-bent on winning. Meanwhile, Alicia stirred from her sleep. Darkness had already fallen, yet she felt even more drained than before. It was because her dreams revolved around that stranger. when her phone buzzed with a call from Monica did she snap out of her daze. "Alicia, I got your bl**d test results. I passed them to a friend of mine with some serious connections. He's digging around to see who bought the stuff." Alicia sat up a little straighter, her mind sharpening. "Thanks, Monica. Appreciate it." "If you really want to thank me, do me a favor: stop obsessing over that j**k. And after the divorce, focus on your career. You owe me that much." Alicia's chest warmed, her head lowering in quiet gratitude. "I know, I know." Now that she thought about it, she had come to the realization that her feelings for Joshua had never been pure love--they were born out of a debt, a sense of obligation. Her family's expectations had always weighed heavily on her, and in that lonely, stifled childhood, it was Joshua who had been there. His companionship had nurtured a vague affection she'd confused for love. "Lucky for me, love's never been something I've held onto tightly," Alicia murmured. "These last two years... I'll just see it as repaying his kindness." Monica paused, her usual boldness tempered with thoughtfulness. She knew better than anyone how, once upon a time, Joshua had indeed loved Alicia. But, it turned out love could be a fleeting thing. "Alicia, I really hope you've let go for good," Monica said with a convicted sigh. A sharp pang hit Alicia's chest, her eyes stinging as she fought back the urge to cry. Quickly, she pressed her hand to her eyelids, refusing to let the tears fall. It was only then she noticed something startling. Stunned, she stared at her hand. The wedding ring--something she had once held onto so tightly--was gone. Gone for a whole day and night, and she hadn't even noticed. Suddenly, her heart felt lighter, the weight of everything she'd been carrying beginning to lift. She whispered, more to herself than anyone, "Yes, I've truly let go." ... It didn't take long for Joshua to notice. He had returned to grab something quickly when his eyes fell on her hand. His brow furrowed as he asked, without thinking, "Where's your wedding ring?" Chapter 4 Her Nemesis Alicia's only concern now was leaving Joshua, so she ignored his question and asked flatly, "Are the divorce papers ready yet?" That word again--"divorce". Irritation flickered across Joshua's eyes. "What's the rush?" he snapped, his voice cold and sharp. "My father's finalizing his will, and if word gets out about my divorce, it'll ruin my standing. Now, pack your things--we're having dinner at the Yates Mansion this afternoon." With Caden's return, the family was throwing a welcome-home dinner for him. They also hoped that by doing so, it'd lift the spirits of Jerald Yates, Joshua's father. However, maintaining the charade of a happy marriage was the last thing on Alicia's mind. "I'm not going," she announced curtly. "Just get the divorce finalized and stop wasting my time." Joshua laughed, a sound that held no warmth. "Oh, come on, Alicia. Stop pretending. You hid the ring because you don't actually want to leave me, right? You can't stand the thought of being without me." He leaned in, smirking, and added, "You've worked hard these past two years. Even if we divorce, I'll still take care of you--as long as you keep me happy." Alicia's eyes widened, disbelief turning into anger. Hid the ring? Couldn't bear to be without him? His arrogant words sounded like nails on a chalkboard to Alicia's ears. With a sharp sneer, she shot back, "Oh, Mr. Yates, how could I possibly make you happy? Don't worry, I'll return the ring--wouldn't want this plain Jane to irk you, right? Once you have it, we're finalizing the divorce immediately." But Joshua wasn't fazed by her venom. He thought he knew her too well, convinced this was just another ploy to get his attention. Without thinking too much, he tossed a bag at her. "We've got guests today. Dress appropriately, and don't make me look bad." Alicia looked down at the bag, her mind flashing back to the countless times she had visited the mansion dressed in modest, unassuming clothes-- doing everything to blend in, to please him and his family. But now, with their divorce looming on the horizon, Alicia no longer cared to play the part of a dutiful wife. After slipping into the outfit, she carefully applied a touch of makeup, just enough to bring out the vibrance in her already flawless complexion. The subtle enhancements accentuated her smooth skin and delicate features, lending her a certain glow. When Joshua saw her descending the staircase, he froze for a brief moment, eyes lingering. Perhaps it was the way the dress hugged Alicia's graceful curves, making her seem more alluring than usual. At the entrance of the Yates Mansion, they both slipped into their familiar roles, masking the tension between them with practiced ease. Alicia casually looped her arm through Joshua's, their movements synchronized as they walked into the courtyard. Though Jerald was too ill to receive anyone, the grand hall bustled with life, relatives filling the space with chatter. The noise hummed around her, but for some reason, as soon as Alicia crossed the threshold, a sharp chill pricked at her skin. She instinctively looked up, her gaze immediately drawn to the figure lounging casually at the far end of the room. Legs crossed, dark shirt unbuttoned just enough to reveal a sliver of his collarbone, the man oozed arrogance, his presence commanding. When Alicia's eyes finally met his-- a familiar, authoritative stare that pinned her in place-- her mind raced as emotions began to surge uncontrollably. Joshua noticed the shift in her demeanor, his brows furrowing as he asked, "What's going on with you?" Alicia's breath caught in her throat. One word escaped her lips, barely audible. "Caden?" Just the mention of his name sent a chill down her spine. To her, Caden was the embodiment of her nightmares. Due to their families' friendship, their paths first crossed at the tender age of ten. Caden, having taken a year off, transferred to her school, and from that moment, Alicia's perfect world began to unravel. She could no longer claim the top spot. No matter how relentless her efforts, no matter how late she stayed up studying, Caden was always a step ahead. He would outscore her by the smallest of margins--a point, maybe two--leaving her perpetually stranded in second place. Anyone else might have accepted defeat, settled into the role of runner-up. But not Alicia. Born into the once prestigious Bennett family, she was raised under the suffocating weight of living up to her family name. Excellence wasn't just a goal--it was the currency by which she could earn her parents' affection. Failure was not an option, yet Caden had the audacity to snatch away everything she'd worked for with what seemed like effortless ease. It was as if he'd set his sights on her from the very beginning, and Alicia, stubborn to a fault, refused to back down. Their rivalry spanned over a decade, a relentless battle fought both openly and in the shadows, and their final showdown took place in college, just before their graduation, at the national competition. Alicia poured her heart and soul into that moment, her focus razor-sharp as she aimed for nothing less than perfection. And she achieved it, having garnered a perfect score. But Caden, ever the serpent, had bribed the judges, twisting the results in his favor. Alicia was forced, once again, into second place. The sting of injustice was deep, but the harshest blow came from her father, Phil Bennett. Over the phone, his voice dripped with disappointment in her ranking. Alicia, having grown accustomed to his tirades, said nothing. She waited for his anger to ebb, then asked quietly, "I'm graduating soon. Will you come back?" Her mother, Donna, had always been her softer solace. She comforted Alicia that day, promising they'd be there for her graduation. But life had other plans. Phil and Donna, rushing back from Itrubisite to attend the graduation, perished in a tragic plane crash. Overnight, Alicia's world crumbled, left an orphan in this cruel world. Since that day, she had never challenged Caden again. Afterward, Caden left Warrington to build his career overseas. ... "He's back for the inheritance," Joshua muttered, his voice barely audible. Alicia cast him a sidelong glance as he continued, "With a family empire as big as ours, an eldest son like him wouldn't give up so easily." Her brow furrowed slightly. It was true--the Yates empire was massive, a legacy most would kill for. But Caden had accumulated his own fortune, surpassing even the family's vast wealth. Did he really care about the inheritance? Then again, this was Caden. Competing was in his blood. Even if he didn't care about the fortune itself, he'd fight tooth and nail just to win, to toy with everyone else. The man had a knack for stirring chaos purely for his own amusement. Alicia had been his rival for as long as she could remember, and even now, the thought of giving him so much as a glance felt like a waste of energy. She turned to walk away. But Joshua caught her wrist, his grip firm yet tense. "I know you two don't get along," he said. "But he's still my elder brother. We need to maintain appearances." Her body stiffened at the touch, and she immediately tried to pull her hand free. Joshua's frown deepened. "Alicia, behave," he hissed. Irritation flared in her chest. "I'm not refusing to go in. Just let go of me first. I don't want your filthy hands touching me." A flicker of something dark passed over Joshua's face, and instead of releasing her, he intertwined their fingers, squeezing them tight. Alicia bit her tongue, silently fuming. As they neared, Caden's gaze slowly lifted, his eyes narrowing in a lazy, almost bored assessment of them. "Caden," Joshua greeted, his tone strained, meeting his brother's gaze with forced cordiality. Caden's eyes flicked to their entwined hands, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Your girlfriend?" he asked indifferently, as though he didn't recognize Alicia. Chapter 5 We Meet Again So Soon Alicia's nerves coiled tight like a spring. That voice... Her messy thoughts blurred into chaos, but one thing broke through the haze--Joshua's calm declaration. "Alicia and I have been married for two years now. She cares about me, so we kept it low-key. Just went straight for the registration; no ceremony. You were busy abroad at the time, so we didn't bother you." Caden arched a brow, his voice laced with venomous mockery. "Oh, so she's my sister-in-law." The way he spat the words "sister-in-law" felt more like a s*ap than a title, leaving no doubt about his contempt for her. Alicia could feel the man's sneer underneath every syllable. And all this was thanks to her so-called husband, Joshua. Her hand trembled as she snatched a tissue, vigorously wiping her hand. "Looks like Alicia's a bit of a germophobe," Caden observed, his tone a casual jab at her disgust. Joshua's expression darkened, the tension between them thickening. He hadn't expected her to humiliate him like this. "It seems I've spoiled her too much," he muttered, his voice low and tight with irritation. Caden's eyes gleamed with a dangerous glint. "If it's a serious condition, she should get treated. It could impact her role as a mother. You know how badly our father has wanted a grandchild." At this, something flickered across Joshua's eyes. Even though Alicia, his wife, was right beside him, he went ahead and lied through his teeth. "Thanks for the concern, Caden, but I already have good news for Dad. I just haven't gotten around to telling him yet." Caden's smirk deepened, his gaze flicking toward Alicia, who was about done with the bullshit of a charade. She quietly excused herself and strode off. "How far along is she?" he asked meaningfully. "Doesn't seem like she's pregnant." Joshua didn't miss a beat. "Just a month." The answer was as much a threat as it was an announcement. Now, the inheritance stakes had just been raised, and Jerald, ever focused on continuing the family line, would certainly take his unborn grandchild into consideration. Caden's smile hardened, and Joshua delivered the final blow with a smug undertone. "You'd better catch up, Caden. I can't always be one step ahead." Caden, unfazed, waved his hand lazily. "No rush." ... Alicia stepped onto the terrace, the cool night breeze washing over her skin. She drank in the fresh air hungrily to steady her nerves. Pulling out her phone, she quickly dialed the manager of the private cinema again. "Have you found the ring?" she asked anxiously. The manager hesitated, sounding troubled. "Ms. Bennett, we've searched thoroughly and questioned all the staff, but... we really couldn't find any ring." "Then..." Alicia clenched her fist, her mind racing. "Do you have the contact details of the guest who booked the room that day?" "I'm sorry, but due to our privacy policy, we can't disclose any information on our clients." Her heart sank. "I see," she sighed with resignation. "Please tell me immediately if anything turns up, okay?" In a perfect world, she could've just bought an identical ring and pass it off for the original. Unfortunately, Joshua had that ring custom-made, and it wasn't easy to replicate. After dinner, it started to rain. The relatives began to trickle out one by one. Joshua stood by her side as they made their way to the car, his eyes trailing down to her bare wrist. "If you liked that bracelet at the auction, then I can buy you something like it," he said coolly. Alicia had to resist the urge to roll her eyes sardonically. She didn't believe for a second that Joshua had a change of heart towards her. "Trying to buy my silence, huh?" Her words were sharp, slicing right through Joshua's tender facade. "No need. I have no desire to be tangled up in your affairs." Joshua hadn't intended to sound like that, but her mocking tone struck a nerve. His jaw clenched, and a bitter smile crossed his lips. "Fine. Don't take it. The money I spend on you is a waste anyway." Alicia bit the inside of her cheek before adding firmly, "Joshua, I already told you. I'm willing to leave this marriage empty-handed. Let's sign the divorce papers tomorrow morning and end this once and for all." His smile twisted into something dark, something dangerous. "What about the ring?" "I lost it." Joshua's eyes narrowed, his tone unrelenting. "I don't care about anything else. I want the ring." She could barely contain her frustration, her breath hitching as he delivered his final blow. "If you can't find it," he said coldly, "I'll assume you're holding onto it because you still care about me." Just then, Joshua's phone rang; it was Lilliana calling. "Joshua." She mewled his name pitifully. "The thunder is so loud. I'm scared to sleep alone... Can you come over?" The car wasn't heading anywhere near Lilliana's and Joshua was furious with Alicia, so without a second thought, he kicked her out into the rain and sped off. He didn't even leave her an umbrella. Alicia stood frozen by the roadside, the downpour quickly soaking through her clothes. The cold rain seeped into her bones, chilling her to the core. Gritting her chattering teeth, she swallowed the bitter taste in her mouth and began trudging along the drenched pavement. Behind her, the soft hum of an engine crept closer. A sleek, low-profile Maybach rolled up beside her, its headlights cutting through the rain. "Mr. Ward," the driver said, glancing back, "I believe that's Ms. Bennett." The car slowed to a stop. Caden glanced out the window, his sharp eyes narrowing on Alicia's lonesome figure. She had just paused, her fingers gathering the fabric of her soaked dress, tying it up to ease her stride. Caden's lips curled into a faint. "Invite her inside," he drawled. The car came to a halt next to Alicia. The driver stepped out, holding a large umbrella over her head, his voice polite. "Ms. Bennett, it's hard to find a cab at this hour. May I offer you a ride home?" Alicia's eyes flicked up, recognizing the man as the Yates family's driver. She hesitated for a moment before nodding, her voice soft but steady. "Thank you. Sorry for the inconvenience." However, as soon as she slipped into the backseat of the car, she locked eyes with its other passenger--Caden. "We meet again so soon, sister-in-law?" His voice, smooth as velvet, carried a hint of mischief. ...... What happens next? 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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | "I, Barrett Warren, vow with my life that I'll take no concubine! Carissa Sinclair shall be my one and only!" These were the words that convinced Carissa Sinclair, the daughter of general, to hide her martial talents and forsake her promising future to marry into the crumbling Warren family. Even on their wedding night, when Barrett was abruptly summoned to the battlefield, Carissa never complained. She used her dowry to support the struggling Warren household, waiting faithfully for his return. But she never imagined that when Barrett finally returned, the first thing he would do was marrying his new love... --- At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage to Aurora." he said, his voice steady, " She will be joining our household. There's no question about it." Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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 wonât be a concubine. Sheâll be my legal wife, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Fell in love? Huh, looks like he is determined in breaking the vow he made a year ago... Carissa's soft smile wiped off by a mocking one, she had once believed Barrettâs victory would earn him a higher rank, freeing her from the burden of supporting the Warren household with her dowry. Yet instead, in exchange for his victory, he only asked the king for another woman's hand, and now he even dared to silence her with his so-called 'glorified victory'... Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and Aurora is amicable. Mother liked her a lot upon seeing her, even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." "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 be generous enough to welcome Aurora." Carissa lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them." Barrett interrupted, "You're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her. Also rest assured. Mother has promised me that Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things." âOh, that's what you and mother think I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa couldn't help but laughing. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. In the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissaâs arrival to the king three times. âYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,â he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. âI canât summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken back. Tell her to go home.â âThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheâs been standing there for over an hour without moving.â Salvador felt a pang of guilt. âBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnât want to agree, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left in the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowry and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831& | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/463384564_1258191665321352_3920804691950976922_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D6XzBIcPNXcQ7kNvgEZX9wn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ApvClzotAfR5NlviZ-XCtHq&oh=00_AYBZdFc8R9pBDRFbe64YfcWRsTYyb1OUyIIJLX002RuMzg&oe=67543C95 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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