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Should this be the first giveaway???? | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/wkndcardsandcollectables | wkndcardsandcollectables | https://www.instagram.com/_u/wkndcardsandcollectables | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram profile | 0 | instagram.com | IMAGE | http://instagram.com/wkndcardsandcollectables | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/316745735_569346001588378_5859041053033318646_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=pmimsUnFYx8Q7kNvgF7luwM&_nc_oc=AdilJjYJSkE-B5-Xg45J6k0V43OUQzeedDutH25YgHHWMtsEmOCwvCH9SdeO-bmXxk6TV7DsFJ5AmDe17YKyGJiB&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCmr8OZDwwxcKq2DacNG_MzCQw2lFV_Cw17LANPvKbRnw&oe=67C2DBD5 | IG_ADS_IDENTITY | 1 | 0 | 0 | wkndcardsandcollectables | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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This week's giveaway information! | Live tonight to go over this week's giveaway! I'll also be providing some cool information from Nick himself! | EVENT_RSVP | https://www.facebook.com/events/1147810920331823/ | Marked Up Editing | https://www.facebook.com/61557311480178/ | 329 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | INTERESTED | 0 | This week's giveaway information! | EVENT | Live tonight to go over this week's giveaway! I'll also be providing some cool information from Nick himself! | https://www.facebook.com/events/1147810920331823/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481922608_2782003525318067_7955291477964463375_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=t3FAevt94CcQ7kNvgFvrsmg&_nc_oc=AdhoXb_ay9_Kvk8CtJllP3Tn76ZCZUl55gl0mRXlRpnLanAMvDqyXF4wiZ71NfzIi_o&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A62ELMaOTl2t_8WmYHzS5WF&oh=00_AYAPIHNrLKT_zmpJewPQ-rx0WZCyqRAQ8ylpOC21wvRj6Q&oe=67C413FF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Marked Up Editing | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Custom name & number | All Stitched | SHOP_NOW | https://bit.ly/ehp-0sp | Bleed Green Community | https://www.facebook.com/61573205781535/ | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | nebsportgear.com | CAROUSEL | All Stitched | https://bit.ly/ehp-0sp | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480872669_1201815144680297_4284260017706574071_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LQXGTYy1Y98Q7kNvgHLa8kg&_nc_oc=AdjmvLSQEQVGrFJHglZFXNCWtqyxW_ROzv_JnT4aGqTW3NXYphE2h81ILblx0hlmJ1I&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AqcNtP_aZVCTZHdT6sGjy0V&oh=00_AYD-Fy0D23LwTsljpFvuf7mqOqkrU88I_wQPrrQPKClLoQ&oe=67C2E409 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Bleed Green Community | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-02-25 17:24 | active | 2628 | 0 | ✨JERSEY GIVEAWAY ✨ We’re giving away 3 personalized jerseys to 3 lucky winners! Here is how to enter:⬇️ 1. Comment the word GIVEAWAY & Check your DMs to finish registration. 2. Follow @officialparkfriends 3. Tag a friend in the comments (as many tags as you want!) for an extra entry Giveaway ends Sunday, March 2nd 8pm PST. The winner will be announced through stories on @officialparkfriends -this is the only account we'll use for the announcement. 🚨Beware of Scammers!🚨 | MESSAGE_PAGE | Park Friends | https://www.facebook.com/officialparkfriends/ | 6,090 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | VIDEO | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480746085_1407282050722111_7448363650195297122_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ra8qMmjftTQQ7kNvgGLylJ4&_nc_oc=AdjigFHIgtXpwzBUkTn78RgJVD8Gu72ec-gWNZHy-eOdq4L3ooXbJbl7QoKuzBoRRxg&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AGXMSWNHue-HwWATlxY25yM&oh=00_AYA1WTtXq9czGKgQLTaB6PFl03QQyu7kOoNTcW7wJj8N4w&oe=67C43A5A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Park Friends | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-02-24 19:42 | active | 2625 | 0 | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | [Mrs. Gardner, are you sure you want to hire our team to stage a fire and fake your death in ten days?] Camellia Shaw paused for a moment. Just as she was about to reply to the message, a video call suddenly popped up. "Camellia, look! Andres is spending a fortune on you again!" The video was of an auction in progress. At the front, a man of striking elegance and charm was decisively bidding on several antique collectibles worth hundreds of millions. The crowd was already abuzz with excitement. "Mr. Gardner is so good to his wife! He bought all these antiques just to make her smile!" "$400 million is nothing! I heard Mr. Gardner even built her a private estate and named it Eterna Haven. Just the name alone is proof of how much he loves her." A wealthy businessman nearby sneered. "It's all for show. Who knows what he's really like behind closed doors?" That comment immediately sparked a wave of backlash. Many argued back, talking about how devoted Andres Gardner was to his wife. "If anyone in our circle could make me believe in love, it would be those two." "Mr. Gardner had risen to fame as a genius young painter, but it was his masterpiece, 'Beyond the Ordinary,' that made him a household name. "He once said his wife was his muse and source of inspiration. You can see his affection for her in every stroke and in every shadow of his paintings." As she listened to their murmurs, Camellia forced a bitter smile. She and Andres had entered an arranged marriage to merge their powerful families, meeting for the first time at the county clerk's office. Her family had never given her much love, so she assumed her marriage would be just as emotionless. However, Andres unexpectedly showered her with a special kind of affection. He remembered her peanut allergy and lactose intolerance, and he always prepared exquisite, expensive gifts for her birthday. Her heart softened over time. She even took him to visit her late mother's grave. Andres had solemnly vowed in front of the gravestone, "Mom, I swear that if I ever betray Cam, may I lose the one I love the most." Camellia laughed bitterly to herself. When did things start to change? Perhaps it was when she learned about his first love, who had passed away long ago, and found out he had taken in her younger sister to care for her. Maybe it was the day Valentina Dawson returned from abroad, throwing herself into his arms with a familiar intimacy he did not even try to refuse. Perhaps it was the faint lipstick stains on his shirt and the barely visible bite marks on his collarbone... That was when Camellia could no longer lie to herself. "Mr. Gardner, can you tell us if these are birthday gifts for Mrs. Gardner?" The question from the video snapped her back to the present. Andres' clear and steady voice rang out from the phone, "No, these are just small trinkets. I've prepared something far better for her birthday." This response drew envious gasps from the wealthy socialites watching. As Camellia prepared to end the call, she caught fragments of teasing voices in the background. "Andres, are you really planning to throw a grand wedding for Camellia in ten days?" "Of course. Anything to do with Camellia is a top priority. Make sure it's perfect!" "Understood. So… should we invite her to Val's celebration tomorrow night?" "No need. Don't let her find out." After that, Camellia could not hear anything else that Andres said. She hung up the call, staring at the message asking for her final decision. Slowly but firmly, she typed out her reply. [I'm sure.] Chapter 2 Not long after, Andres rushed home, looking travel-worn. Camellia wobbled slightly when she stood up—perhaps because she had not eaten all day—but Andres firmly caught her. "You didn't eat properly again today, did you?" he asked, his eyes full of concern as he gently scooped her into his arms. As they drew close, the sweet, cloying scent of fruit filled the air. Camellia never used perfume, so it was obvious who the scent belonged to. "What are you thinking, baby?" Andres teased while tapping her nose affectionately. Camellia's sharp eyes caught a faint red lipstick stain on his finger. On the second day of their marriage, Andres had secretly tattooed a camellia on his ring finger. He had told her that the ring finger had a blood vessel that led directly to the heart. This was a symbol of their shared bond and how she would always be connected to his heart, but that spot now bore a mark that did not belong to her. A dull pain rose in her chest. It was heavy and piercing, like a sharp blade chiseling away bit by bit. "Are you starving yourself so much you've lost your braincells?" Andres joked, kissing her forehead lightly before asking Eva Longford to serve the food that had been kept warm for dinner. Andres used to cook for her himself every day. However, some time into their marriage, his work grew busier, and the task naturally passed to the housekeeper. "Let me join you for dinner, okay? Skipping meals can really mess up your stomach," he said while carefully setting her down on a dining chair and placing the utensils by her hand. Then, he washed his hands and began peeling apples for her. "Okay," Camellia murmured, swallowing the bitterness in her heart and eating the food he placed on her plate in small bites. They had not been eating for long when Andres' phone began ringing incessantly. He glanced at the caller ID and frowned slightly before wiping his hands and stepping aside to take the call. When he returned, his expression was frantic. "Cam, something came up at the studio. I have to go handle it. Don't wait up for me tonight. You should go to bed early." He grabbed the antiques he had bought earlier. He promised to get her something even better another day and left in a rush. Once the meal was completely cold, Camellia finally stood up and went upstairs. As soon as she lay down, she scrolled through Valentina's latest post on social media. [I only had a low fever, but my boyfriend insisted on taking care of me. He even made me a table full of delicious food. Do you know how special a meal made for you by a loved one is?] The accompanying picture showed a close-up of a man in an apron cutting vegetables. As a rising name in the art world, Valentina had tens of thousands of followers on her account. The post caused a stir among her fans. [So this is the senior of hers with a nine-figure insurance policy on his right hand that Val mentioned!] [Where can I find a man like this? Can the government issue one to everyone, please?] Camellia stared at the hands in the photo and thought of Andres' promises. Her heart felt like it was being torn apart, leaving it shattered and unrecognizable. [That's nothing! Our Mr. Gardner is the gold standard for a devoted husband!] Someone had uploaded a video of the auction from earlier that day, and the buzz quickly overtook Valentina's post. [Damn, he really spoils his wife! $400 million! That's enough to buy my entire life hundreds of times over!] [Oh my God! Has anyone not been overwhelmed by Mr. Gardner's love for his wife yet? When his wife had a car accident and was scared, he risked his life to make sure he was the first person she saw when she woke up!] [Mr. Gardner is like a saint in our elite circle. He still wears the rosary beads Camellia gave him, perfectly polished from years of use. He never takes them off!] Valentina's fans went quiet under the video. Compared to Andres' public displays of devotion, a single meal could not measure up. However, a newly-registered user suddenly posted three photos. One showed the transfer of ownership for an Aurelia winery, another depicted a necklace worth $200 million called ‘The Heart of the Ocean’, and the last featured Valentina holding car keys while sitting on the hood of a Ferrari. The user captioned it: [If someone else has it, our Val can't be without it.] Fans exploded in praise, calling her senior powerful and declaring him on par with Andres. Just then, a text message from an unsaved number came through to Camellia's phone. "You absolutely can't miss the celebration my senior is throwing for me tomorrow night!" Though she did not say anything, Camellia could almost hear Valentina's smugness. The message ended with the address of the venue. 742, Ocean Middle Road, Camellia Street. It was the restaurant where Camellia and Andres had their first meal together. He had promised her it would always remain closed to the public, so it would belong only to the two of them. Camellia stared at the address until her eyes stung. Her hand slipped, and the phone dropped onto her face. The sharp pain from the impact pushed her over the edge, and the tears she had been holding back spilled silently into the darkness. Chapter 3 Andres did not return home all night. Camellia ended up sitting alone in the empty living room, waiting from early morning until noon. Her phone buzzed with a social media notification. [Renowned artist Andres Gardner stands in support of his junior. What a deep camaraderie between peers!] Camellia let out a bitter laugh. Of course he did. She stopped waiting and went alone to visit her mother's grave. She bought a bouquet of lisianthus on her way over. At the cemetery, she carefully cleaned her mother's tombstone, placed the flowers in front of it, and leaned gently against the stone. It was as if she was trying to feel the warmth of her mother's embrace. Andres returned home late at night. Just as he was about to ask why Camellia had not gone to bed yet, he noticed a bundle of lisianthus peeking out of her bag. It suddenly hit him that today was her mother's death anniversary. Panic flashed across his face. "Baby, I'm so sorry. I've been so busy today that I completely forgot. It's all my fault," he stammered, cupping her face and instinctively stroking the beauty mark at the corner of her eye. Camellia noticed the faint trace of a lipstick mark on his hairline just behind his ear. She gently pushed him away, her voice calm as she said, "It's fine." Trying to ease the tension, Andres suggested, "How about we have an artist paint a portrait of us tomorrow? Once it's done, we can take a photo with it and place it at your mother's grave to give her peace of mind." Camellia wanted to refuse, but Andres was insistent, so she reluctantly agreed. The next morning at ten, the artist he had arranged for arrived. "Nice to meet you, Cam. I'm Valentina Dawson, Andres'… junior." Seeing Valentina, Andres' face betrayed a flicker of unease. Clearly, she was not the artist he had called. "Mr. Wilson had something come up, so I'm filling in for him," Valentina explained, her gaze sweeping over Camellia with a faint, inscrutable smile. "Has anyone ever told you that you look a lot like my sister, Cam?" she asked. "My sister had a beauty mark in the exact same spot as yours. The only difference is that hers was real, while yours… is drawn on." The room fell silent. Andres' expression darkened as he snapped, "Val, that's enough. "No one is more important to me than Camellia," he said firmly. Valentina blinked in surprise, then playfully stuck out her tongue at him. "Alright. I was just joking." She hooked one arm around Camellia's and led her toward the studio. With her other hand, she reached behind, tracing lazy circles on Andres' palm. Her gaze was sultry and inviting. "Andres, you're standing all wrong," she complained moments after starting the painting. Setting her brush down, she stood up and walked over to him. She caressed his face with one hand while the other trailed down his chest. Her fingers brushed over his Adam's apple, then came to rest on his shoulder. Leaning in close, she breathed warm air into his ear. "Why so tense, Andres?" His eyes darkened instantly. Camellia caught a glimpse of their interaction from the corner of her eye. Pain stabbed through her chest, and she forced herself to look away. Barely a few minutes later, Valentina suggested that Camellia's pose was not intimate enough. "Let me show you how it's done, Cam," she said with a sly smile. She pushed Camellia aside and tugged Andres forward by his tie. Her full figure pressed against his chest as her thumb brushed deliberately over the corner of his lips. Finally, she left a bold kiss on his mouth. Turning to Camellia, she tilted her head with a brazen expression. "Do you get it now, Cam?" When he saw Camellia's reaction, Andres quickly explained, "In the art world, we're a bit more… uninhibited." Camellia said nothing, merely clenching her trembling hands to keep herself composed. She excused herself to the bathroom, needing to escape. When she returned, muffled sounds from inside the room made her stop in her tracks. "Andres, no… You're going to ruin me," a woman's voice purred breathlessly. As she peeked inside, Camellia saw Valentina with one leg wrapped around Andres' lean waist. Her back was pressed against the windowsill, and she was moving in rhythm with him. Andres' eyes burned with passion as he kissed her fiercely. "You came all the way to my house! Wasn't this what you wanted?" he growled. Chapter 4 Camellia collapsed at the doorway of the studio, tears streaming down her face. She thought she was strong enough to endure anything, but witnessing this scene shattered her heart. She did not know how much time passed before she heard the rustling sound of clothes being put on from inside the room. Andres came to the bathroom looking for her and froze when he saw her red, swollen eyes. "Baby, why are you crying?" he asked. Camellia shook her head. "It's nothing. I accidentally got soap in my eyes." He let out a sigh of relief and playfully pinched her cheek. "You're still such a little troublemaker," he teased. When the painting was nearly finished, Andres was called away by his agent. With him gone, Valentina dropped the act entirely. "I know you saw it, Cam. Well, what can you do about it? Andres seems to love me more than you." She unbuttoned her shirt, revealing bruises on her skin. "When's the last time you were with him? Was it as passionate as just now? Can you even satisfy him?" Valentina stepped closer, her gaze condescending. She seemed to relish the idea of seeing Camellia break down, and she looked was expecting pain or hysteria. However, Camellia's expression remained calm and even unreadable. Underneath, her heart was shattered into countless pieces, leaving her barely able to breathe. After Valentina left, Camellia wandered aimlessly back to the studio. She suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to look at the paintings. Without turning on the light, she stumbled up to the third floor. She ended up twisting her ankle in the dark. Even so, the sharp pain from her ankle was nothing compared to the ache in her heart. Every painting that was celebrated by the public as symbols of her and Andre’s ‘perfect love’ now stared back at her. Each prominently featured the beauty mark that now felt like a mocking lie. Camellia pulled a craft knife from the penholder and slashed through the beauty marks in each painting one by one. With every cut, she severed another piece of the beautiful memories she once shared with Andres. When Andres returned home, Camellia had already freshened up and was lying in bed, ready to sleep. He barged into the bedroom, carrying a keyboard from his study in one hand and takeout from her favorite restaurant in the other. Without hesitation, he dropped the keyboard onto the floor, knelt on it, and faced her. "Honey, I know what happened today upset you. I've already reprimanded Val," he said earnestly. "I only think of her as a younger sister. She's still immature and doesn't know any better. As for her sister… That ended a long time ago. Besides, she's not even here anymore. "If you don't like it, I swear I won't see her again. But no matter how angry you are, please don't ruin your health by skipping meals…" The man who had been utterly consumed with Valentina earlier that day was now kneeling humbly before her, his tone desperate and full of affection. It was as if he could not live without her. For a moment, Camellia could not tell which version of Andres was real. If he loved her so much, how could he forget the vows he once made? If he loved her so much, why did he betray her? As Andres passed a dish toward her, he accidentally creased a page in the book lying on the bedside table. Camellia glanced over, and he casually smoothed it out and closed the book. "I fixed it. Now, eat," he said with a smile. The familiar aroma of the dish wafted from the bowl. Camellia took a few bites before saying, "But once a page is creased, it can never be perfectly smooth again." Andres, who was already sensitive about the day, tensed at her words. He knew it carried a deeper meaning. "Then I'll buy a new book. It'll be as good as new," he said, his bright eyes fixed on her. It was like his entire world revolved around her. "I'd pluck the stars from the sky for you if you asked." Camellia stayed silent, swallowing the words she wanted to say. Even if he had bought a new one, it would only be a replacement—it would no longer be the same book. She understood this truth, and he should have understood it even more. The two spent the night in silence. Over the next few days, perhaps out of guilt, Andres canceled all his work and stayed glued to Camellia's side. One day, he accompanied her to restore artifacts, buying a few antique treasures worth millions. The next day, he took her shopping and bought her an entire collection of the season's limited-edition items. The day after, he somehow got his hands on a pink Rolls-Royce Cullinan, parking it dramatically at the entrance of Eterna Haven in the city center as a grand gesture of love. This display led to a wave of online ridicule, with netizens mocking Andres' for being wrapped around his wife’s finger. Andres posted a self-deprecating tweet with a picture of himself kneeling on a keyboard. [I made my wife mad. How do I fix this if nothing works?] Only then did people realize Andres' predicament, with many pleading for Camellia to forgive him. With two days left until Camellia's birthday, she still had things to take care of. Seeing Andres' desperate efforts, she decided to go along with it and let the matter drop. Andres was overjoyed, lifting her in his arms and spinning her around several times. "Baby, I love you more than anything in this life! You’re my only love!" On the way to dinner, Andres received several phone calls. The number flashing on the screen was one Camellia knew well—Valentina's. He declined the calls four times before finally receiving a message. When he opened it, a single glance made his expression falter. "Baby, my agent says there's an issue with the new painting contract. I need to handle it right away," Andres said apologetically. Camellia did not call out his lie and let him leave. She then bought a baseball cap and mask from a roadside shop and hailed a car to follow him. She trailed him into a mall and all the way to her once-favorite bridal boutique. The dressing room curtain opened, and there stood Valentina, radiant in the wedding dress Camellia had loved most. "Do I look beautiful, Andres?" Valentina asked. She reached out, her hand sliding from Andres' shoulder, tracing his Adam's apple, and stopping just shy of his lips in a teasing caress. Andres' eyes darkened. He cupped her face and kissed her deeply. Both of them were breathless by the time they pulled apart. Valentina curled into Andres' chest, tracing lazy circles on it with her finger. "Andres, if Cam finds out I wore this dress first, she'll probably lose it," she murmured. Andres' breathing grew heavier as he pulled her into the dressing room and drew the curtain shut. "She won't know. I owe you a wedding, and it's my fault you've been wronged," he replied. "Today, you're my most beautiful bride." With those words, the sound of running water filled the dressing room, accompanied by intimate whispers. Chapter 5 Camellia stood in a distant corner, watching through the gap in the dressing room curtains as Valentina and Andres’ entwined figures moved. Her heart twisted in unbearable pain. Her stomach churned violently, and she could not suppress the urge to dry heave. Her entire body was now convulsing uncontrollably. Tears streamed down her face, draining all her strength. She collapsed onto the floor, feeling utterly spent. As she turned to leave, she did not get to see the satisfied smile on Valentina's face inside the dressing room. Back home, the oppressive silence was suffocating. Camellia turned on the television, flipping to a random channel. It was broadcasting a segment on Andres' latest art exhibition. The painting featured a girl in a bright yellow dress running freely through a field. The commentators remarked on how drastically different this piece was from Andres' earlier works. It no longer exuded a soft, reserved gentleness but instead brimmed with vitality and energy. Though the girl's face was not visible, her back displayed the painter's tenderness and love for her. One critic observed sharply, "Even the strands of her flying hair are perfect, like the wind itself favors her." Online, viewers joked about Andres' newfound spark, saying his marriage with Camellia must have entered a second spring. Only Camellia knew the truth. That was not her. It was Valentina, or perhaps it was Nelina Dawson, the woman from his dreams. Taking a deep breath, she tried to suppress the ache in her chest and called her best friend, Penelope Hall. While waiting for Penelope's arrival, Camellia began sorting through the gifts Andres had given her over the years. In the first year of their marriage, he noticed her concerns and gave her a diamond bangle. "I've locked you in for this lifetime. You belong to me now, so don't even think about leaving," he had said. In their second year, he noticed how much she missed her mother and folded her a jar of wishing stars. "When you miss your mom, open one. No matter where I am or what time it is, I'll come back to make your wish come true. This life might be long, but I'll always be here with you." Camellia began unwrapping the stars one by one. [Plant a little tree.] [Adopt a corgi.] [Grow old together.] … She picked up her phone, snapped a picture of one of the stars, and sent it to Andres. Her phone screen remained dark. There was no response from him. Half an hour later, a package arrived. It was the painting Valentina had made for them that day. However, instead of depicting the two of them sitting side by side, the image showed two entangled figures of Andres and Valentina in bed. Something cold slid down Camellia's cheek. She raised her hand to wipe it away and realized her face was already soaked with tears. In a daze, she placed the painting with all of Andres' other works in the studio. Then, she gathered every gift he had ever given her into a box, carried it into the yard, and set it ablaze. Later, Penelope would recall the moment she saw Camellia that day. She felt as if Camellia was on the verge of breaking into pieces. Penelope walked over and held her close without saying a word, letting Camellia lean on her silently. After a long while, once Camellia calmed down, she made another request. "Help me arrange a funeral. But Andres must not attend it. Only then, reveal the truth about my 'death' to him." Camellia handed Penelope an envelope containing evidence of Valentina's relentless provocations over the past few months. Penelope glanced through it and nodded firmly while suppressing her anger. Once everything was set, it was already late at night. That day, Andres quietly slipped into the house at 2 a.m. Seeing Camellia still awake did not surprise him. He approached her like a child with a prize, his eyes brimming with excitement. "I knew you'd still be up. I was too busy earlier to check my messages, but look—I'm here to make your wish come true!" He moved the small tea table by the window to the bed, fetched two bowls, and divided the seafood boil he had brought home into portions. The wish on the paper star Camellia had sent to Andres earlier in the day was to eat her favorite food with him. For some reason, Camellia's mind wandered back to the first time they went to that seafood restaurant together. It might have been Andres' first time eating at a small roadside restaurant. Before eating, he had wiped the oily table repeatedly with napkins and was clearly uncomfortable. However, he smiled at her with mock innocence when she looked his way, almost playfully. "Cam, feed me," he had said. "I'll try anything if it makes you happy." "Andres." Camellia fixed her gaze on his face. "If you could do it all over again, would you still choose this?" Andres did not think much of her question and assumed she was feeling insecure again. He gently stroked her dark hair and answered with certainty. "I would. I'd make the same choices every time. "I'd love you, spoil you, and stay devoted to you for the rest of my life." Chapter 6 The following day, Andres did not leave the house early like he usually did. He squeezed toothpaste onto Camellia's toothbrush and stood by, watching as she finished washing her face. "It's extremely windy today. We can't let it ruin my baby's delicate little face," he said with playful affection. Then, he told her he had a big surprise planned for the next day with an air of mystery. Before he could finish explaining, Cohen Palmer called a few times, saying there was an issue he could not resolve and needed Andres to come immediately. Andres gave Camellia an apologetic glance, and when she reassured him that she understood, he left. Once he was gone, Camellia contacted the team she had hired to confirm every detail for the next day. Then, she drove to Eterna Haven. She had not visited in several days, and everything felt unfamiliar. She called the Saltsburg Museum, and the curator arrived in person an hour later. "Cam, are you sure you want to donate all of this to the country for free?" The curator, Felix Cross, was a fellow apprentice of her mentor. Camellia nodded without hesitation. "You can tell me if you're facing any difficulties. Don't try to handle it all on your own," he said with concern. Camellia remained silent, her gaze fixed on the goddess statue in the center of the room. With its head bowed and its elegant, serene posture, the statue seemed to smile compassionately. Covered in moss and denied the light of day, it exuded a quiet sorrow toward the world. Camellia was leaving, but these artifacts should not be buried with her. "It's nothing, Felix. Don't worry about me," she said softly. Seeing her unwillingness to elaborate, Felix did not press further. After instructing his assistants to carefully transport the artifacts, he patted her shoulder before leaving. "Take care of yourself," he said as he departed. Once again, she was alone. The once vibrant Eterna Haven now felt hollow and empty. Her phone buzzed with a notification. It was about Valentina's online book signing event for her new illustration collection. The clickbaity title read: [The Beautiful Artist Who Once Had a Miscarriage for Love.] Camellia's fingers moved almost involuntarily to click on the link. The video cut to Valentina showing a scar on her abdomen. "Back then, he said I was too young, and the pregnancy was on the risky side. Out of concern for me, he stayed by my side for the procedure," Valentina said with a blissful expression. "It must have been about three years ago when he went to Faren to further his studies… "He even picked out a name for our lost baby—Cale. He said he hoped she'd return to us one day and live a life full of brilliance and light…" Camellia's phone slipped from her grasp, crashing to the floor. The screen shattered, forming a spider web of cracks. Cale? That was the nickname Andres had given their child after their first night together. He had held her tenderly afterward, murmuring the name as if it were a promise. Him and Valentina… had a child… Not to mention that it was three years ago. It had not just been going on for the past three months. Andres had lied to her for three entire years. Suddenly, Valentina was pulled into the frame as someone's arm draped around her shoulders. The sound of kissing filled the audio feed. When she reappeared on screen, her lips were swollen, and her cheeks were flushed pink. She giggled, saying her boyfriend was jealous and insisted they should ‘work harder’ to bring Cale back soon. Her fans erupted in excitement, flooding the chat with playful teasing, though their blessings were genuine. The illustration book sold well, as though it was part of their celebratory gift. Camellia did not know when the signing event ended. The last rays of sunlight disappeared from the room, leaving behind a suffocating darkness. It felt like a giant beast was ready to devour her. She simply sat motionless in her chair with the lights off. Suddenly, her phone screen lit up and became blindingly bright. It was a video message from Valentina, accompanied by a single line. "I told you I'd have you under my feet one day." The video showed two intertwined, bare legs. Camellia was about to delete it when something caught her eye—the rosary beads she had once given Andres. She had it blessed for him, but now they were wrapped around Valentina's ankle. The beads that were slightly large for her looped around her ankle twice. The excess length dangled, with a few beads pressed under Valentina's toe. "They're just rosary beads. If you want them, they're yours," Andres' voice in the video sounded indifferent and dismissive. Camellia's mind flashed back to the day Andres received the beads. "Cam, I'll always keep these with me, even in death," he had promised. The color drained from Camellia's face. She wanted to cry and let out all the pain, but no tears came. The light in her eyes had faded completely. Late at night, as the world slept, no one noticed when Eterna Haven went up in roaring flames. Andres was up early the next morning, preparing for the day. He had just arrived at Quaint Hotel and finished tidying up when Cohen burst in, pale and clutching at his phone. "Andres! Something terrible has happened!" Before Cohen could continue, Andres' phone rang. He held up a finger to silence him and answered the call. As he listened, his gaze shifted to Cohen's phone, where an image stopped him cold. The once-familiar pink Cullinan was now charred black, surrounded by the smoldering remains of Eterna Haven. Smoke billowed from the scene, and a stretcher held a body covered by a white sheet nearby. The voice on the phone interrupted his thoughts. "Hello, is this Mr. Andres Gardner? This is the Saltsburg Police Department. We regret to inform you of a tragic incident. "The property under your wife's name, Eterna Haven, caught fire last night. Unfortunately, your wife did not survive. Our condolences." | LEARN_MORE | https://www.qknymufd.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 373 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | www.qknymufd.com | VIDEO | https://www.qknymufd.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18306&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/t39.35426-6/477987826_1790592741507590_6752741319908369918_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xrzrO9kICUwQ7kNvgF6F8jW&_nc_oc=AdjP1xopCHeRg_r4DbWQUWox2qYEb7Ix_AvWc45DdMjeDAegDNf8hJmkC0tyALeh87s&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ApHNEA94I8WMDqUMcBYrUob&oh=00_AYCJSPhSYxZEpddFGANFesZjnr_CGwWO3IjSES1P4QJgFQ&oe=67C2D352 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-02-24 19:12 | active | 2624 | 0 |
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She and her husband made a pact—if either cheated, the "home wrecker" would pay the price. Here's the full story. | In 2014, Kelly Cochran killed her lover, made and served her neighbors' barbecue, and then murdered her husband—before finally confessing. Here's her chilling story. | NO_BUTTON | https://en.guiltyeats.com/view/?id=kelly-cochran-k | Tale Tapestry | https://www.facebook.com/100095568222109/ | 752 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No button | 0 | en.guiltyeats.com | IMAGE | https://en.guiltyeats.com/view/?id=kelly-cochran-killer-12u&src=facebook | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481983911_4060889784164898_6471638173873122570_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eFLaBvbv29MQ7kNvgE3nGgz&_nc_oc=AdgQNDyjjWELIkl68VKEDVpr5vKg8nWfE44Zo_CVZBnnuUxp90_aSAxI6TBx0lCzVpA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AVdZbqClTeEqFcoYYd-AogG&oh=00_AYCr-LwTfTZWt9djJDhjdUANDdC_G3i8nqOgV6fvjxXA6g&oe=67C3043B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Tale Tapestry | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-02-24 19:42 | active | 2625 | 0 | Chronic Overthinking Test 👉 | ✨️️️️️️️ Stop overthinking and start living today ✨️️️️️️️ 🎯 Boost confidence: Develop strategies for better decision making and self-esteem 💫 Eliminate negative thoughts: Learn how to identify and reduce toxic thought patterns ⌛ Live in the present moment: Become calm, happy, and trust your intuition | LEARN_MORE | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1&locale=EN_US | Mindway | https://www.facebook.com/61555945144541/ | 19,636 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | mindway.app | VIDEO | https://mindway.app/start?qz=mw1&locale=EN_US | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469807822_603739382299377_3761972540267461300_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VxAfdwzGRM0Q7kNvgGzb7OG&_nc_oc=AdjuZz76iON1UywKquqTZpmxHy_PxVDicVQUe-RYSOZ1E30dzDlLPmgSVPz5qtCkKqE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AGbwgMpFMZ1X2V7c4bKiHPD&oh=00_AYBD0tSUSawh2Nqje0NnQxTktBm0k6spxWdfDdUPmZeblA&oe=67C2E13E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mindway | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-02-25 16:51 | active | 2627 | 0 | 🔞Click to read on📜The Rejected Rogue Luna📜 | “This is such a pleasant surprise, Seth” I croon, running to meet my mate. It has been so long since I have seen him last and I miss the familiar scent of him and his laughter. I throw my hands around him but he does not hug me back. If anything he seems like he does not want me to be here. “I had no idea you were throwing a party for my homecoming” I tell him, kissing him slightly on the cheek. “I had no idea you were back, Rowena. You should not be here” He pushes me, holding me away from his body. “Did you not get my letter?” I ask, my smile falling from my face. “What letter?” He grunts. “The one where I told you I will be coming back today. You missed my graduation and I thought to surprise you by returning but it seems you did not know” My feet grows cold at this information and I back away from him. He is staring at me, his eyes not giving the usual warmth that I am used to. It could only explain why he had not responded to any of my letters for the past months. I gave excuses that he must be busy as Alpha and head of the pack and he could not write to me but… Seth de Beaufort, my childhood friend and mate was staring at me like I was some stranger. “Who then is the party for?” I ask. I am interrupted by cheers erupting from the members of our pack and then I see her walk in, holding freshly picked flowers in her hand and a crown on her head. I know who this is, she is my best friend, Isobel but what is she doing? I am pushed back into the crowd as she approaches. She is yet to see me as she only has eyes for Seth who is smiling back at her. “Hello mate” I hear her whisper. Mate? I gasp. I push forward, stopping her approach. “Rowena” She jolts. “What are you doing here?” She glances at Seth who shrugs his shoulders. “I should be asking you that question, don’t you think? What are you doing?” I cry out. “I am getting engaged” She smiles brightly at me. “It is great that you are here, maybe you could be my chief’s bridesmaid?” “You have got to be joking” I scoff. “Not now, Rowena. We will talk about this after” Seth stops me, putting out a hand for Isobel. “No” I raise my voice, my insides shaking with confusion. I cannot believe my eyes as I watch them turn to me. “We have to talk about it now” I tell him, braving the stares I am getting from every member of the pack. “Okay, if you want to do this here then that is fine by me” Seth growls, stepping away from Isobel and approaching me. “Seth, what is the meaning of this? We are mates… you can still feel it so why?” “I, Seth de Beaufort reject you, Rowena Stuart as my mate and future Luna” He declares. “No, stop it please… do not do this” I grunt, my chest tearing apart with pain. I double over, clutching my pounding heart. “Accept the rejection!” He spits. “Accept it and leave so that I might have a great day with my true mate” He announces. “I, Rowena Stuart… accept your rejection” My chest eases up a little bit as I say this but I cannot stop the tears gushing from my eyes as I watch them walk up, smiling into each other’s eyes. I feel betrayed by every single step and every single smile. To think I was coming back to my fiance and my best friend and they were doing this behind my back. I turn around, dashing out and into the dark, my eyes blinded with tears. This should not be happening. I collapse to the ground outside the party, my heart beating rapidly like it is about to burst. I do not turn around even when I hear the patters of feet until a throat clears behind me. “Rowena, I…” “Have you not done enough, Isobel?” I rise to my feet and face her. She has a smirk on her face “How could you? I trusted you, you are my best friend!” I cry out. “It is hardly my fault that Seth took a liking to me while you were away pursuing the career of your dreams.” she scoffs at this. I had gone to learn modern healing and had been supported by every member of the clan, including Seth. “Who do you think comforted him on the nights when he was alone and needed company?” I make to slap her but she catches my hand in the air, throwing it back at me. “This is the least of your problems, I promise you” She tells me instead. “What is that supposed to mean?” I ask “Did you come here straight from the airport?” She throws her head back to laugh. I did come there straight because I thought… “What do you mean?” I ask her again. “I don’t know, friend. You should probably run along home now before it is too late” She turns around and walks back into the party. I stand there in confusion not understanding what her talk was about. I move however, heading straight to my home with her warning ringing in my ears. I can hear screaming coming in the direction of my home which only speeds my steps. “What is happening?” I mutter, running inside. Sybillia, my sister has tears streaming down her face and her clothes torn to shreds. “What happened, talk to me” I shake her. “Father was taken” Her voice broke. “Taken?” I ask, confusion dotting my forehead “They say he is a traitor and they are going to kill him, Rowena. You have to do something.” She holds me, crying some more. “Where is mother?” I ask her. She shakes her head in the negative which told me that she had no idea where our mother was. “Listen, Sybil… I need you to find mother” I shake her again. “Do you hear me? I want you to find her and then I want you both to hide” I tell her. “What are you going to do?” She asks. “I need to find out what is going on” I mutter vaguely. I turn around and exit, heading back to the party where I burst in regarding Seth with baleful eyes. He notices me immediately and rolls his eyes but I approach, stopping when his guards block my path. “My father, what has he done?” I ask, my voice breaking. Seth, my one time lover and mate regards me with disgust, his lips quirking up in a sneer. “He is a traitor and for that he must die” .............................................................................. ROWENA “That is a lie” I scream. There are murmurs everywhere by members of the pack and I know they must think that I have lost my head coming here and yelling at the Alpha of the pack but I am too far gone to understand what I am doing. “I will allow you leave this place and we will speak when my party is over” Seth warns me. “I want to know what crimes my father has committed for you to lock him up” I repeat. “Look at her” Isobel grunts, turning to Seth. “She does not respect you, my love. Tell me how she is going to remain in this pack if she is this defiant towards you” She mutters. Seth’s eyes darkens as he rises to his feet, pointing a hand towards me. “You dare speak back to your Alpha?” He snaps, approaching me. I do not take a step back even as I am intimidated by him. It is as though we are now enemies because I do not recognize him anymore as the man I used to be in love with. “Your father has admitted to his crimes and come noon tomorrow, he will be beheaded as a traitor and so will your mother” He announces The crowd cheers again “You will denounce them, yourself and your sister or you will leave me no choice” “I cannot do that… I cannot-” “And for the crime of speaking back at me, Rowena Stuart… you will be reduced to the life of a maid and you will serve Isobel who is going to be my Luna” My friend smiles, clasping her fingers together. “Guards” Seth calls The door swished open again and they enter. “Get her out of her and make sure to keep her locked up until she denounces her bloodline. Make the announcement that I shall be marrying Isobel Howard tomorrow’s noon after the execution of Grant and Helena Stuart” He declares. “No” I rave, trashing as both men drag me out of his tent. They are laughing at my struggle and then I hear the loud thunk of the metal gate leading to the dungeons. I am thrown into it, flung like useless waste paper. I do not know how long I am in that dim pit before the doors burst open and I hear the fall of footsteps approaching where I lay. “Rowena?” A voice calls out. I recognize it immediately as Isobel and wonder what she wants. “What the do you want?” I rave, my eyes red from all the crying I have been doing the past hour. She is standing in front of me now, her lips quirked up in a smile. “I hate you” I snap. “What do you hate me for? For sleeping with her fiance or reporting your parents for…” She pauses as my eyes widens in realization. “Oops” She laughs. “You are a slut who moved on her friend’s man almost immediately she…” “Almost immediately?” She stops me, scoffing. “Have you been so utterly blind, Rowena?” Rowena, I think… she used to call me Row but I guess when you betray your friend, you do not get to use pet names any longer. “Seth and I have been together before you both began dating. The engagement to you was his father’s idea… you do not think he wanted to get married to you, did you?” She asks. “What are you talking about?” I mutter. She laughs then, her voice grating on my ears. “You have always had a stupid crush on Seth, always saying he will be your mate and so when you claimed he was your mate and your wolf has…” “I claimed?” I stop her. “Seth is my mate!” I scream at her “But he is also mine!” Isobel screams back at me. “You are lying, that is not possible” “It is rare but not impossible and that is what we are going to tell the members of the pack. They are going to hear that my wolf has mated with his and he has rejected your bond because of your family. They are going to accept me as Luna of the pack and if you want to save yourself then you will accept Seth’s offer” “You plotted this, didn’t you? You plotted this treason and you somehow roped my family into it” I accuse. “Whatever are you talking about, dear girl” She mocks, her eyes wide with innocence. “Get out” I snarl, my eyes blue with rage. “Your parents have been arrested but we are yet to catch Sybillia. Where did you send her?” She questions. I am confused at this because I know I sent Sybil to find our mother and so if they have both been arrested then she is supposed to be with them. “I have no idea where she is” I mutter. “Yes you do and you are going to tell me. Tomorrow is my wedding and I am not going to have you ruin my chances at being Luna of this pack” My lips curve up in a smile but I say nothing. “Where the is she?” Isobel asks again, approaching me. “I have no idea” I repeat. She stares at me, the anger evident in her gaze. “You will pay for this” She declares right before walking out and leaving me in the darkness. I do not know how long the night lasts but the doors open again and I hear a tumble and then a yelp. “Who’s there?” I mutter. “Rowena?” I hear my sister. “Sybil?” I ask, scampering to my feet. “How are you here? I thought you somehow escaped” “I was caught. They have mom and dad and they… they are going to kill them” She cries out. “Come here” I mutter. I put my hand out through the opening and touch my sister, our hands connecting and holding. I can feel her panic and I am sure she can feel mine too. “Everything will be alright” I reassure her. “What are we going to do?” She asks me. “We have to do something” “We ask the moon goddess for help” I tell her. We both close our eyes and begin praying to the moon goddess. I feel peaceful for the first time since our ordeal began and so I close my eyes, my hand still intertwined with my sister’s and I drift into sleep. … “Drag her out!” The loud boom of voice arouses me from my sleep. I hear screaming right before my sister is yanked from my grasp. “No, leave her alone” I yell. The door to my prison is also opened and I am dragged out too. “Leave my sister the …” One of the guards back hand me across the face and blood spurts out of my mouth. “Shut your mouth, cunt” He snaps. I can still hear her screams as I am led out into the open with members of the pack staring at me with disgust evident on their faces. I stare back, refusing to lower my gaze. I am not a traitor and neither is any member of my family so why should I be ashamed? I am pushed forward until we come to the clearing and I see Seth and Isobel both seated with my father and mother kneeling. They are tied up and I can see that they have both taken beatings but I do not see Sybillia anywhere. “We are gathered here today to sentence Grant and Helena Stuart for the crime of dabbling into the dark arts” Seth announces. The crowd cheers and I can feel the bile rising in my mouth at the sound of their hooping. They are happy, I think. I knew we were hated but I did not think they would be happy to see us die. Where is my sister? Where was she taken? I think to myself. “How do you both plead?” Seth roars, rising to his feet. My father says nothing and so does my mother. “I will spare both your daughters if they denounce your family right this minute” He declares. There are hushed protest about this but no one dares say anything to counter the Alpha of the pack. I can see that my father is about to speak up but we are interrupted by a commotion and sounds of running. I turn around, my eyes happening upon Sybillia who is holding a crossbow aimed at Seth. She has blood running from the center of her legs and I can see that she can hardly stand. “No” I scream, rising to my feet to stop her but I am held back by the guards. “You asshole” She pants. “You cannot do this, Sybil… it is treason” I scream, tears streaming down my face. “Put the crossbow down, Sybillia” My father’s calm voice comes through. My sister’s eyes are bright as she stares pointedly at Seht who has not breathed a word and then she drops the crossbow. I heave a sigh of relief at this while the guards grab the weapon, taking it away from her grasp. There is still a hushed silence, like everyone was waiting for a reaction from the Alpha with bated breath. I turn to Seth, his eyes are black with rage and I know there is trouble. “Do it” I hear him say. Do what? I am confused but I follow his eyes to where my sister remained standing. I see the swing of the sword too late as my sister is cut down. There is a scream, a tiny high pitched scream… I realize it is me screaming before I pass out. .............................................................................. ROWENA “Rowena, open your eyes” My eyes flutters open, my mother’s face in view. I am laying on the ground and my thoughts are scattered. I turn immediately to the place I had seen my sister fall, very sure it was a bad dream. Her body is no longer there but I see the blood decorating the ground, seeping into the sand. “No” I begin to cry, my mother holding unto me. “Sybil” I quiver. “She is with the goddess” My mother says, trying to comfort me. The goddess be damned! Where is the goddess as my family is facing persecution. “You have to denounce us” My mother whispers urgently in my ears while I cry. “I cannot do that” I argue. “You are going to do it for your father and I, Rowena. We are going to die, that is for sure but you do not have to die with us” We are sitting in the sand with Seth staring at us and every member of the pack. None of them trying to help “Mom” I wail “Do it, Rowena” She snaps at me. “Do it for us” “That’s enough” Seth commands, breaking our conversation. I rise to my feet, shaking like a leaf and my eyes meet my father’s. He nods at me once, a smile on his face like he is giving his approval and he wants me to do exactly as my mother had said. “I denounce them” I mutter, my voice breaking. “Louder, Rowena” My mother encourages, nodding her head. “I denounce them!” I shout, the tears streaming down my cheeks. “I am not with these traitors and I do not identify as their family” The crowd begins jeering at me and my parents but I am staring into Seth’s face imagining all the ways I am going to make him suffer before I kill him. And Isobel? I am going to make sure she suffers for the rest of her life. “You have done the right thing” Seth finally smiles in my direction. He moves his head to the side and the guards grab me, dragging me away. I am led to the side and my parents are strung up while the executioner grabs his sword and begins taking slow, measured steps around them. I make sure to leave my eyes open and my face blank. I want to see it all, I want to feel their pain and I want the hate to blossom in my heart so that when it is finally time for my revenge, I will not hesitate. “Any last words?” Seth asks. My father sighs at this and then he turns to me. “You are special, Rowena. Very special and I want you to remember that” He says. The crowd boos him while I struggle to regulate my breathing so I do not cry out loud. I can feel my wolf wailing inside me but I shut her out, not wanting to give in to the torment I am feeling. There will be plenty time to cry when I am done avenging my family. “You may begin” Seth declares. The sword swings once, taking my father’s head with it. I watch as the blood sputters from his neck and my mother scream. It is almost as if I am watching the event unfolding from far away. My mother follows next, her body crumpling beside my father’s and then I am pushed by the crowd. I am walking to where the marriage ceremony of Seth and Isobel will take place and I watch as the elder of our pack binds them in matrimony. I cannot get over the ringing in my ears even as I go on my knees as the rest of the crowd, hailing them both as Alpha and Luna of the pack. “Follow me” Isobel’s voice drags me out of my reverie. I walk behind her, stopping as she enters Seth’s tent. “Come inside” She orders. I walk in, my eyes coming up to hers. “What is your plan?” She asks me. “What are you talking about?” I shoot back. “You denounced your family. I know you, Rowena and you would rather die than do that so what do you have planned? And do not think I do not know that you are plotting something” “Just as you plotted?” I ask her. “ bitch!” She raves. “He should have killed you too and somehow you are still standing here in front of me” “I plan to serve you to the best of my ability, Isobel” I smirk at her. I can see that she is afraid judging by the way her teeth grits in her mouth and then she raises her hand to slap me across the face. She is stopped however by Seth who had come in without our knowledge. “What are you doing?” He bellows. “She insulted your Luna, Seth” Ana whines. “That does not give you the right to slap her, Isobel. Go to your room till I call for you” He commands. Isobel eyes me then asks me to follow her. “Rowena will stay here” He stops her. “What do you mean? You promised she will be my maid and serve me” She reminds him. “I know what I said but promises can change and I want her to serve me instead.” He announces. I raise my eyes, my lips parting in shock. He betrays me, rejects me as his mate, kills my family and now he wants me to serve him? How low could one get? I think to myself. “You cannot do that. What would the people of our pack say when they hear or see this? You just beheaded her parents in front of her and her sister, you seem to be forgetting she is a traitor” Isobel spat. “It is you who is forgetting your place, Isobel Howard. I am Alpha and my word is law and you might be my Luna but you do not talk back at me.” Seth snaps. I watch this display with mild interest. “She is no longer your mate, Seth… I am and I want her to serve me” She tries again. “Do not question my orders, Isobel… now leave” Seth responds to her. “I am sorry” She mutters, exiting the tent. I am left alone now with Seth and my heart is pounding rapidly in my chest. “Are you okay?” He asks, touching my arm. I try not to flinch, merely nod at his enquiry while I bite the inside of my cheek till it bleeds. “You should sit” He says, leading me to his bed. “I did not want this” He mutters as he caresses the side of my face. “It is not your fault” I tell him, bringing my hand up to touch him. My skin crawls and my wolf shrinks within me but I pay them no mind. I am going to kill him but first, I plan to make him think all is forgotten and forgiven. Seth de Beaufort will not know what hit him until it is damn well too late… I will make sure of that. | LEARN_MORE | https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/dvbl2moa4 | Le | https://www.facebook.com/100092986922851/ | 73 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | www.novel-oasis.com | VIDEO | https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/dvbl2moa4htcowwvvmfc2vjt?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120213973302000267&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467667500_799011202317626_6525814098426569156_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Iy69ugEKiQEQ7kNvgG6fGlU&_nc_oc=AdjYEzO8KmzI41pfcmQ8UNCAmqajovKXnGYQeLI4AhwMHxoKA8pzzWT2Cgq67Sw87foSwXp0XjYfJCMAEDKGfUkD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AtP0RGK_pJVdXpAkCuJo3Im&oh=00_AYCRhWn1xxwhkpi5dRnsXKCy9ixw1TFKgt4wIrYeCMCIWg&oe=67C4083A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Le | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Read next chapter | On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &9& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-e | Romance Novel | https://www.facebook.com/100083771162998/ | 48,210 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.moboreader.net | IMAGE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=934080944896999&exdata=DD7CCA935D14747F1071D7651EFB20096CFC934162031CC3 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475231188_3879205132298075_5192744119042073073_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jHBvvBvUDDMQ7kNvgEtS6PD&_nc_oc=AdiJ4DmQa6Bw68mJgf0dNOe-4jBNNZaxAbUBRHG8dfMhzVJcTrNug-Tc6sJ4Hkm0Pkkm_tWWR_LmjX-lg6Jee9n5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AfUdkNrvo3JwlFG_CpGETkf&oh=00_AYD7i8RtMkisgh2R5e5FHzcXa-4WKopdX3XTt8YqkiaAQA&oe=67C30C31 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Romance Novel | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-02-24 19:12 | active | 2624 | 0 | Find the right EHR | See how choosing the right EHR was the key to Kelley Steven’s thriving private practice. | LEARN_MORE | https://www.simplepractice.com/resource/how-to-sta | SimplePractice | https://www.facebook.com/simplepractice/ | 28,741 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | simplepractice.com | DCO | {{product.description}} | https://www.simplepractice.com/resource/how-to-start-a-private-practice/choosing-an-ehr-system/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/467911252_2353204171684765_8894399000542906342_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8Q6qiO4l2J0Q7kNvgFts3s2&_nc_oc=AdhPiygzuIqK0Nsmd1ThxnYxfeBy2BPnFA3YecYJlU6rJDHlL5t3_wyW-akSDTL57ME&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxxK0YkYwP-k0leq5Oewl2I&oh=00_AYCaSyTZLkZzTe3LSXuqGR9ac59eeVm0Wf1DBmtSqsS-DA&oe=67C2DEE0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | SimplePractice | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-02-24 19:12 | active | 2624 | 0 | 🔥 Conrad's betrayal shattered my family. Unforgivable!😤 | My fiancé, Conrad Reese, fell in love with his secretary, Kelly Dunn, and insisted on breaking off our engagement. I tried to reason with him. "She doesn't have any power behind her; she can't help you become the heir to the Reeses' fortune. You'd be better off keeping her as your mistress." Kelly, feeling insulted, threw herself off a building in front of everyone. Five years later, after he became the heir, the first thing he did was divorce me, destroying my family in the process. "This is what you owe Kelly," he said. I woke up again, and it was my 22nd birthday. Conrad's grandfather asked me what my wish was. "I hope Conrad and Ms. Dunn… will live happily ever after." I bowed slightly and said, "Please, Mr. Jonathan. I hope you'll let me end my engagement with Conrad." Chapter 1 I died on a rainy day. The vibrant maple leaves, usually scattered across the mountainside, were nowhere to be seen because Conrad Reese couldn't wait any longer. I tumbled down the steps, blood pooling beneath me. But he wasn't satisfied. He shoved me down the stairs again and again, each time more forcefully. The pain was so intense that I could barely make a sound, but I still couldn't help but ask, "Why… are you doing this?" I didn't understand. Our families had always been close, and Conrad and I grew up together. For over a decade, my family had supported him in securing his position as the heir. But he set a trap, pulling my father into it, leading to the destruction of my family and my father's death from a heart attack. "Why, Conrad?" I gripped his clothes, desperate. Conrad's face was pale, almost ghostly, and though he was the one who ruined my family, his expression made it seem as if I was the one who had wronged him. "This is what you all owe Kelly," he spat, gritting his teeth. Kelly? Kelly Dunn? The name felt unfamiliar, and it took me a moment to remember her. Then I remembered her face—the innocent, fragile look that came to mind without warning. I couldn't stop myself from laughing. Five years had passed. It turned out that Conrad had never forgotten her during all this time. He had blamed her death on me, blaming the entire Harmon International. "Conrad, you're really—" An idiot! I didn't get the chance to say the words before Conrad had his hands tightly around my neck. My breath was slowly drained from my chest. Blood dripped from the corner of my mouth. It looked just like the red leaves that had fallen on the ground. "Shirley, are you having another headache?" The cold rain vanished. The hard floor disappeared. The crisp autumn air filled the space, and the room buzzed with guests. It was my 22nd birthday party and my engagement party with Conrad. Maybe God wanted to give me a second chance; in the blink of an eye, I was reborn. Not only was I alive, but I was back at the age of 22. This year, Harmon International was thriving, and my father had made it into the top ten on the Forbes list. This year, Conrad and I were still not engaged. "Of course, she's having a headache," someone behind me chimed in with a tone of malicious glee. "Yesterday, Conrad admitted in front of the media that the little secretary is his girlfriend." My best friend, Melanie Jennings, turned around and tried to confront that person, but I stopped her. It wasn't just an admission of her being his girlfriend. Three months ago, when Conrad had gone out of town for business, his competitors had drugged him, and Kelly had slept with him to "save" him. Conrad suddenly realized that she was his true love and wanted to marry her. Including yesterday, the media had already caught them together three times. "Shirley, don't listen to the media. You and Conrad have known each other since you were kids. You've shared so many years together…" I looked at Melanie and shook my head. Her words stopped abruptly. I knew exactly what she wanted to say. A week ago, I had woken up in my home. One week was enough for me to sort out everything that had happened in the past five years. "Shirley," Melanie suddenly reminded me, "Conrad is coming." Chapter 2 I looked up and saw Conrad walking toward me, surrounded by a crowd. As he approached, the whispers of the crowd immediately ceased. Conrad and I had grown up together. When we were five or six, our families arranged an engagement between us. Whenever anyone bullied me, he was always the first to stand up for me. When he made a mistake and got punished, I was the first to plead for him. Until now, no one had ever doubted that I was Conrad's true love. But today, on my 22nd birthday, he brought another woman with him. Kelly was thin and delicate, a fragile little flower standing close to his side. Conrad smiled, speaking affectionately in her ear. She looked at me, her face instantly panicked and flustered. She quickly stepped forward, bowing to me in a deep ninety-degree gesture. It was exactly the same as in my previous life. Even the single teardrop hanging from her eyelash was identical. In my last life, it was this pitiful, helpless look that had bewitched Conrad. I had grown up in a family where marriages were arranged for business and status, so I never expected love. Her appearance made me feel a pang of bitterness, but it didn't cloud my judgment. When Conrad wanted to break off our engagement, I didn't cry or throw a fit. I just calmly tried to reason with him, considering the many years our families had known each other. "Kelly's just an orphan. She doesn't have much work experience. Even though you two… "But if you marry her, your grandpa won't approve. It'll only bring trouble. "Conrad, why don't you just keep her as your mistress for now? Once…" I left my words vague. "Once you're the heir, won't you be able to do whatever you want?" I had said these things to protect her, but it only ended up causing me trouble. In my past life, the moment I saw Kelly bowing, I had rushed to help her up. This time, I just watched coldly. When she realized no one was paying attention to her, she crumbled to the ground without hesitation and groveled at my feet. She was practically kissing the ground, drawing gasps from everyone present. Melanie tugged at my sleeve. There were many guests today, all eyes on us. I tightened my grip on her hand. What was the rush? "Kelly!" Conrad’s face was already dark with anger. Kelly slowly lifted her head. With her tear-filled eyes, it was hard not to feel a little sympathy. She glanced back at Conrad, then at me, biting her lip as she continued groveling. I leisurely took a sip of the red wine in my glass. I couldn't help but wonder—just how long could she keep up this act? Yes, Kelly was acting. Her innocent demeanor was all a facade, and even when she "committed suicide" by jumping off a building in my past life, it was an act. I was on the rooftop, all alone, when I overheard her sweet, almost melodic voice. She was crying, pleading with a man. "I'm just an orphan. If I don't use some tricks, how would Mr. Reese ever care about me? Please, help me again. Let me make him feel guilty! Mr. Reese loves me, but because of my status, his family will never approve of me. He promised he'd marry me. I have to do something and make him feel guilty, so he'll feel sorry for me! Please, just one more time! I just need to pretend to jump off the building, and Mr. Reese will feel indebted to me for the rest of his life!" She was such a good actress. She fooled Conrad, fooled me, and even fooled the press. I once asked Conrad why he cared so much about Kelly. "I was born as the Reeses’ heir. Everyone caters to me and worships me. They respect and love me, all because of my family's money and power. Even you, Shirley—if I wasn't a Reese, would you still marry me?" His words left me speechless. If he and I weren't of similar backgrounds, we never would've grown up together, let alone gotten engaged or married. "Only Kelly—she's the only one who truly loves me and is willing to give everything for me. Shirley, how could I resist such pure love?" Chapter 3 His words almost tricked me. As the daughter of the Harmons, I'd always been cautious and reserved. I had to consider my parents and the family; I couldn't just give everything up for one person. We both missed one important possibility. Whether Conrad was poisoned or drugged, Kelly's intentions were clear from the start. She had planned to climb her way into his life from the very beginning. "Enough!" Conrad snapped. The room fell silent. Kelly trembled, slowly looking up, her eyes filled with pleading. The message was clear. She had ruined my engagement and turned me into a joke in front of everyone—she felt guilty. If I didn't say anything, she wouldn't stop. Fine. Let her keep going. I raised an eyebrow and continued sipping my wine. Kelly gritted her teeth, preparing to grovel again. Conrad suddenly stepped forward, slapping my wine glass out of my hand. "Shirley, don't go too far!" "Shirley, is this how the Harmons taught you to behave?" Conrad's face was cold, and the room fell silent in shock. He pulled Kelly into his arms, gently cradling her. "Shirley, apologize. If you apologize now, I'll pretend nothing happened." I almost laughed out loud. I'd been so naïve back then. The moment I caught Kelly's lie, I called Conrad, telling him everything I had seen. I warned him to be cautious of Kelly. The next day, Kelly was dead. She was really dead. The media reported that she had jumped because she never got a legitimate place in Conrad's life. Conrad told me, "I'm glad you warned me. Otherwise, I would've been tricked." After that, I always believed he had truly forgotten about Kelly. After all, he hated being deceived. But the day I died, I realized that when he said he had been tricked, he was talking about me. "Shirley, are you mute? Kelly didn't do anything. I wanted to break off the engagement. Apologize to her. I won't hold it against you for the humiliation she experienced." I looked at Conrad, and couldn't help but tug the corner of my lips into a smile. I must've been blind. I'd always thought he was intelligent. "Are the elders inside?" I asked a passing waiter. I then elegantly walked toward the door. Conrad followed me, asking, "What are you doing? Are you going to tell on me?" I ignored him. He continued following me right up to the door. "Shirley, don't think just because you're the Harmons' daughter, you can force me into marriage. I've already promised to marry Kelly. I will never marry you." I turned to look at him. As he'd said, he was born into privilege. Everything had come so easily for him. He had no idea what it meant to have a strong wife by his side. Perhaps my cold gaze stunned him for a moment. Just as we reached the door, Conrad's grandfather, Jonathan Reese, asked, "Shirley, what's going on here? Are you two that inseparable?" The entire room of guests watched. I took a step forward and bowed. "Mr. Jonathan, today is my birthday, and I'd like to make a wish. Conrad and Ms. Dunn are in love, and I admire their relationship. I don't want to tear them apart. Mr. Jonathan, I hope you'll let me break off the engagement with Conrad." The room fell into silence immediately. | LEARN_MORE | https://www.qknymufd.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 | Fantasy Story | https://www.facebook.com/61573231130692/ | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | www.qknymufd.com | VIDEO | https://www.qknymufd.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18776&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/t39.35426-6/480711469_1674534660109267_4981512564413880336_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w7elaL2j674Q7kNvgFUyc8G&_nc_oc=AdhOunq_LYI8G9a4m2L3fh1Jb_9O15ljmNnFKF33OC0xarka63t0BYWiejJsNd7hGBM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AwNRtJkUSl-txMzeWDFYZ_K&oh=00_AYDWXg9nirr2_X-_F56ikSygkzkJsmcdl3no85Mn_RTu0Q&oe=67C2F81E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fantasy Story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-02-24 19:43 | active | 2625 | 0 | Read next chapter | On her wedding day, her stepsister set her up, framing her with accusations of promiscuity, academic fraud, and attempted murder. She was personally brought to court by her fiancé and imprisoned for three years, enduring inhuman torment! ===== On the day Khloe Evans was put on trial by her fiance, it was raining heavily. "Khloe Evans, you are suspected of bribing competition judges, academic fraud, and attempted homicide. Do you plead guilty or not?" Inside the silent and solemn courtroom, the judge's gavel echoed, signaling the start of a tense moment. Khloe's bl**dshot eyes were filled with anger and desperation, staring at Eric Watson, her fiance. She couldn't help but sneer. They had spent four years from falling in love to getting married; she had always believed that he loved her deeply and that their married life would be blissful. But on their wedding day, he personally put her on trial because of her stepsister's words. The Watson family was one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the country. No one would dare to offend them for a nobody like her. Khloe said word by word, "I have nothing to say." All along, she thought Eric was the love of her life. But it turned out he had been having an a**air with her stepsister, Sloane Evans. What was more, he had stolen her academic achievements. And now, he falsely accused her of being a m*rderer. He was ruthless. What else could she say? The judge banged his gavel again and gave his verdict. "The court hereby sentences the defendant, Khloe Evans, to eight years in prison and a fine of three hundred thousand dollars." The trial concluded, and the prison guards escorted Khloe. As she walked out of the courtroom, Khloe turned and looked back at Eric, sitting in the plaintiff's seat, her eyes burning with deep hatred and fury. ...... Three years had passed. "Khloe Evans, someone has bailed you out. You're free to go." Upon hearing that, Khloe raised her head, her pale face filled with shock. After suffering from endless torture for three years, she had thought that she was bound to stay there for the full sentence. She didn't expect that she would be released one day. An hour after she was released from prison, Khloe was taken to a hospital. She entered a ward, and her heart clenched when she saw her mother through the ICU door, lying motionless in the hospital bed. With a pale face and various apparatus connected to her body, she looked lifeless. "Mom..." Khloe got all worked up, her voice trembling with emotion. She wanted to open the door and go in. "Stop it! This ward is specially secured. No one is allowed to enter without my permission." A female voice suddenly rang out behind her. Khloe turned around and was surprised to see the person who spoke. "Sloane? My mom severed ties with the Evans family long ago. Why are you still doing this to her?" As she spoke, she glared at Sloane with eyes full of hatred. Sloane looked at Khloe, a flicker of jealousy and disdain flashing across her eyes. Then, she sneered, "Khloe, looks like you are mistaken. I'm saving her. Without me, your mother would have died long ago. Perhaps, by the time you come out of prison, you will only see her tomb." Khloe took a deep breath to calm herself down. "Sloane, stop being so hypocritical. You are saving my mother? Only a fool will believe that. What are you really up to? You're using her to manipulate me, right?" "Khloe, you're as clever as ever. No wonder they called you the rising star of academia. But it's a pity that you are now a convict for attempted murder. And your fate is in my hands," Sloane taunted. "So, today, all you need to do is spend a night with Karl Russell. Then, I'll arrange for your release and your mother's treatment." "Karl Russell? That old man is already in his sixties. Are you out of your mind?" Khloe's eyes widened in disbelief. "So what? Should I care? It's you who are going to sleep with him, not me. As long as you spend one night with him, our family can secure the Russell family's arms deal. It's a very lucrative business. You should feel honored that you are selling out your body to make so much money for us. But if you refuse..." Sloane pointed to the ICU. "I'll have them remove your mom's life support, and she'll die right in front of you. I'll give you five seconds to decide. Five, four, three..." "Fine! I'll go," Khloe agreed in despair. This time, she could no longer suppress the tears she had been holding back. She was left with no choice. For the sake of her mother, she had to do it. After freshening up, Khloe was put into a car. Tonight, she was destined to sleep with a sixty-something disgusting man. And she was still a v**gin. Chapter 2 Henrik Watson That night, the car glided through the deserted streets, headlights cutting into the night's inky darkness. Bang! A g*nshot shattered the silence, deafening and ominously close. Glass sprayed across the seats as the car window exploded, fragments glittering in the dim streetlights. All hell broke loose. Terrified creams echoed in the street as the few remaining shops hurried to lower their shutters. The driver, white-faced and trembling, veered in a panic. The car skidded, tires screeching before slamming into the curb. He slumped forward, unconscious. Beside him, Khloe blinked, disoriented from the impact. Pressing a hand to her throbbing head, she tried to make sense of what had happened. Through the cracked window, she glimpsed flickering orange flames a short distance away. "Oh, no!" She'd stumbled straight into the deadly crossfires of a g*nfight. It was likely a turf war turned ugly by two warring gangs. Steadying herself, Khloe pushed open the door and crouched low, inching towards the roadside. But before she could move further, a figure emerged from the darkness. Tall and powerfully built, he was moving fast. Even though a mask obscured most of his features, she could still see his intense eyes and the proud outline of his nose. A dark stain spread across his side, seeping through his clothes--bl**d. He stumbled towards her, breathing heavily, and collapsed at her feet. Just then, another group of burly men burst from the shadows, each armed to the teeth. Their faces were etched with vicious determination, each bearing a t**too on the hand. "Perfect! He's down. Now, finish him off!" The leader, bald and snarling, held up his g*n and pointed it towards the fallen man. Then, his gaze fell on Khloe. She was dressed to the nines, as she was meant to be a gift for a man tonight. A tight red dress hugged her perfect figure, accentuating her curves and complimenting her porcelain skin. Her glossy hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a delicate, doll-like face with wide, innocent eyes. In a word, she looked like a vision from a dream--or a man's t**ptation made flesh. The bald man's grin widened, his eyes gleaming with le**erous intent. He had never seen such a beautiful woman before, and he wasn't about to let an opportunity like this slide. "While you're finishing him off, I'll help myself to this beauty." He lunged, shoving Khloe back against the shattered window, pressing his weight against her. "No, please!" she pleaded, her voice trembling as she tried to pull away. "Please don't hurt me." "Why would I hurt a beauty like you?" he taunted, his fingers gripping her shoulder tightly as he leaned closer, his hot breath on her skin. His men jeered behind him, urging him on, enjoying the show. But Khloe's hand moved, almost imperceptibly, reaching into her purse. In one swift, desperate motion, her fingers closed around a pen, and she drove it up into his neck with a fierce thrust. The bald man's eyes widened in shock as bl**d spurted from the wound, his grip loosening. Gone was the look of a damsel in distress; her eyes, which were so full of fear just a second earlier, now glinted with a cold light. What was once a delicate, angelic beauty had transformed into a bl**d-stained rose, dark and dangerous. "B**ch, you're asking for it!" The henchmen froze for a split second, then fury overcame them, and they charged at Khloe with murderous intent. Her voice cut through the chaos, sharp and commanding. "Don't move, or I'll pull the pen out! He'll bleed out on the spot!" The men abruptly stopped in their tracks. No one dared to move a muscle. At this moment, the man who'd been lying motionless suddenly sprang to life, g*n in hand, and unleashed a hail of b*llets on the stunned th*gs. He moved with such agility that it was clear his injury had only been a ruse. Even the bald man Khloe held hostage collapsed in a bl**dy heap, a bullet having shattered his skull in an instant. Khloe spun her head just in time, avoiding the bl**d splatter. But her clothes and legs weren't so lucky; they were stained with bl**d, sticky and warm. "Ugh!" The sickly, metallic scent hit her, and her stomach churned. She couldn't stop herself from retching, knees buckling as she collapsed sideways. But before she hit the ground, an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her upright. The man's grip was firm, his eyes dancing with amusement. "Feisty little thing, weren't you so badass just a second ago? What happened?" Khloe recoiled, shoving him away, her face twisting in defiance. "Let go of me!" Before she could get another word out, black-clad men suddenly emerged from the shadows, their faces hard, eyes cold. Even the surrounding rooftops showed silhouettes of these men, controlling all sniper points. Each man moved with such deadly precision, and Khloe could tell at a glance that they were all experienced killers. They brandished machine guns and rocket launchers with practiced ease, as though these were everyday items. In a word, they looked like an elite strike force--battle-hardened, lethal. Unexpectedly, one by one, they all started dropping to their knees, as though bowing before a king. Thousands of them bowed in unison. "Awaiting your orders, Mr. Watson," the leader announced reverently. Khloe's breath hitched. "Are you Henrik Watson?" Chapter 3 The Kiss Henrik accepted a handkerchief from his trusted aide, Rhett Foster, wiping the bl**d from his hands with deliberate, almost regal precision. He then removed his mask slowly, revealing a face that could seize anyone's breath. His eyes were dark, magnetic pools, deep enough to pull anyone in. And above his perfectly-shaped lips was a prominent, sculpted nose. His chiseled features conveyed both power and beauty, almost too flawless to belong to any ordinary man. It was the kind of face that could eclipse even the brightest stars in the showbiz. But more than his appearance, it was his aura--commanding, indomitable--that sent shivers down spines. This was a man who held dominion over countless lives. Henrik smiled, a flash of danger glinting in his eyes. "So what if I am?" Khloe's eyes went as wide as saucers. Henrik Watson--that name carried the weight of legend. Henrik had once been a branch member of the Watson family before vanishing into obscurity for ten long years. When he resurfaced, he singlehandedly seized control of the nation's underworld, rendering him a king without rival. In fact, he was so powerful that even the president treaded carefully around him. Khloe's ex-fiance, Eric, was a member of the Watson family, which had ascended from obscurity to supremacy solely thanks to Henrik. By blood, Eric was Henrik's nephew. So, if her marriage to Eric pushed through, Henrik would be her husband's uncle. Khloe's stepsister, Sloane, had maneuvered her into offering herself to Karl Russell. Though Karl held sway in the city, he was nothing against Henrik's underworld might. It was like comparing a lion to a mouse. As the thought struck her, hope flickered within Khloe. If she could gain Henrik's support, she might escape her forced sacrifice, and her mother could be saved. Steadying her breath, she asked tentatively, "Since I just helped you, could I ask you a favor?" Henrik's gaze sharpened, eyes gleaming with intrigue. It was the first time a woman had faced him with such poise, especially after witnessing him kill so many people. Interest piqued, Henrik strode towards Khloe with an almost lazy confidence, each step measured and unhurried. His sculpted fingers pinched her chin, lifting it so she was looking right at him. He held her gaze as he studied her with a trace of amusement in his eyes. His voice, low and rich, sent a chill through the air. "Do you have any idea who you're talking to? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?" A shiver raced through Khloe's heart. His presence was overwhelming, like a storm cloud closing in, suffocating in its intensity. He was dangerous--merely speaking to him was like playing with fire. But she had nowhere else to turn; Henrik was her only chance. "I have a Ph.D. in chemistry and medicine, along with patents--highly profitable ones. If you help me, I can make you money," she said, voice steady but with a glint of desperation. Henrik shook his head, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Money?" he murmured, his fingers brushing her cheek. "Do I look like I lack money?" The scent of bl**d clung faintly to his skin, chilling her even as he remained outwardly gentle. Khloe's guard went up instinctively, her body tensing beneath his touch. "What do you want?" she ventured cautiously. "If it's within my power, I'm willing to exchange anything." A spark flickered in Henrik's dark eyes, something enigmatic and unreadable. He let his gaze drift over her as if considering her offer. "Anything, you say?" All of a sudden, he let out a chilling laugh. "Then I want this." In one swift motion, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. And there, before all his men, he kissed her. Chapter 4 Decisive Action The kiss came unexpectedly. Khloe was caught off guard, unable to respond in time. Henrik's subordinates stood frozen, their eyes wide with disbelief. They had all worked for him for years, and never once had they seen him so close with a woman. Henrik had always been the type to keep his distance from women. In the past, women who approached him either ended up as fish food or were sent to toil in the mines at his orders. What kind of spell had this woman cast? How was it that she managed to make Henrik abandon all his usual rules, and all on their very first meeting? As the crowd remained stunned and puzzled, Khloe's thoughts swirled in chaos, making it impossible to think straight. Henrik's kiss was overwhelming, like a storm crashing down on her, leaving her breathless and dizzy. She found herself trapped in his arms, held so tightly it felt as though she were a flower caught in a violent storm. Yet she was anything but fragile. Once the shock wore off, a surge of anger rose within her. For years, she had endured humiliation, her fall from grace plunging her into the darkest depths. But giving up was never an option; she had always been plotting her revenge. It was only natural that she refused to yield. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with equal ferocity. After all, what harm could a kiss do? And the man was both devastatingly handsome and of high standing. She would not suffer any losses. She skillfully fought back with her t**gue, refusing to let him dominate her entirely. Instead of pulling back, she met his intensity head-on, taking the lead. What began as a one-sided kiss quickly transformed into a fierce exchange, each of them vying for control, pushing and pulling in a heated battle for dominance. The kiss was fierce and all-consuming, each second more passionate than the last, until they were both gasping for air. When they finally pulled away, their lips were swollen and stained with bl**d, a testament to the intensity of the moment. Henrik let go of Khloe, his hand brushing against the corner of his mouth where her teeth had left their mark. His gaze was intense, locking onto her with a depth that seemed to pierce right through her. Khloe held his stare steadily, not flinching or showing even the slightest sign of discomfort. Her fearless attitude earned her the respect of those watching. It was clear now why Henrik was drawn to her. She was bold, with a courage that couldn't be ignored. She had the audacity to bite Henrik's lips, unafraid of the consequences. Henrik continued to gaze at Khloe, a growing satisfaction building within him. The sting on his lips reminded him sharply of what had just happened. The woman standing before him, with a face as stunning as an angel's, was no delicate flower. She was a thorny rose, and anyone foolish enough to underestimate her would undoubtedly pay the price. But that was exactly what made her so captivating--it was the danger beneath the beauty that drew him in. "Mr. Watson, is everything to your liking?" Khloe asked, breaking the stillness. "Yes, let's go," Henrik replied with a smile. "Now, let's take care of your little issue." ...... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &9& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-e | Romance Novel | https://www.facebook.com/100083771162998/ | 48,210 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.moboreader.net | VIDEO | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65284322-fb_contact-enp98_2-1210-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=934080944896999&exdata=DD7CCA935D14747F9947339671939C08A6C81F37E195EF3D | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/475215054_1141983604132563_2924596320133288438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IjJ9hZb7bHoQ7kNvgEnxG7F&_nc_oc=AdjBlBxeeC1r6WK3MezBo16DyrQhioYvlJJaf_SnsQsY160yJBvdWdwWO9J2M3ahWzjR0in70qPWf3L8cHjqJmaE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AHnDIHd1vO8SiV58v592ypa&oh=00_AYB68LImyWPR01UkLZrsT-088klGf_UGj4vGVWD6l5u-PA&oe=67C304D6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Romance Novel | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-02-24 19:00 | active | 2623 | 0 | "GIVEAWAY TIME" We're excited to announce a contest giveaway for a brand new pair of Nike shoes! TO ENTER: 1⃣ LIKE our page (The Mixed Bag) 2⃣ SHARE this post with your friends and family BONUS ENTRY: Tag 3 friends who love Nike shoes as much as you do! CONTEST RULES: • One winner will be randomly selected and announced on 4/31/2025 • Winner must be 18 years or older • Prize cannot be exchanged for cash or other items Stay tuned for upcoming giveaways, where you'll have the chance to win amazing prizes‼️ GOOD LUCK! We can't wait to see who will be the lucky winner of these awesome Nike shoes! #TheMixedBag #Nike #Giveaway #Contest #Shoes #Fashion | MESSAGE_PAGE | The Mixed Bag | https://www.facebook.com/61573193588573/ | 60 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | VIDEO | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480922435_1389071225838817_8175873995015200869_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=er-gAqIgwTAQ7kNvgEShKtC&_nc_oc=AdiFhBdZpEYkY2MLA7lbn2UpsFVeHXGFpC0_MouuBgZs67_VOvDO0jszMzRgvmJUXT3hBfYvBz4G6phvLwVCog7g&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A6QAJppp147pnzAZlbPRYq3&oh=00_AYAaPKTc1XEshhklLLIAWV9491CIM70p7ADJy9D8tcmeKA&oe=67C2E544 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | The Mixed Bag | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-02-25 16:51 | active | 2627 | 0 | Unleash Your Accuracy with This Powerful Crossbow! | 😎I never knew accuracy could be so powerful! 🏹This crossbow offers unparalleled precision and control, perfect for any target. | SHOP_NOW | https://www.oyews.vip/products/interceptor?token=3 | Oyewsb | https://www.facebook.com/61572181948746/ | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | www.oyews.vip | VIDEO | https://www.oyews.vip/products/interceptor?token=35RCTqZZ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480608136_877044771109579_2853946377794969096_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CM1s638ALRoQ7kNvgHANFzS&_nc_oc=AdhoQndv9ITjMTR5xVpukPbVdXQvSlOGIWLZjkiNh5cAjEmwiN2rjKQKc278F4HvmOcQPyveu_8lisrAxB0x0eOF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AdXUty5rjyKLdaIFzKZKRrV&oh=00_AYD5E5mXZmfUndKkuensrOhRNHR8rjDPwsMvG7r8dwiL2w&oe=67C428FD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Oyewsb | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-02-24 19:43 | active | 2625 | 0 | Read next chapter | To survive, she climbed into her so-called uncle's bed. Two years later, she realized she was just a toy. Heartbroken, she left after seeing him at his first love's prenatal checkup. ===== The winters in Ulares were bone-chilling, but inside Cloudscape Mansion, the air was thick with warmth and passion. "Uncle Ethan…" Nyla Green gasped, her voice catching. Ethan's lips quirked into a satisfied smirk. "Being so well-behaved tonight, aren't you?" "Don't you like it when I'm well-behaved?" The hunger in Ethan's eyes was undeniable. "What is it you want?" Settling into the armchair by the window, he asked, his mood seemingly lighter than usual. "Will you give me anything I ask for?" Nyla's voice was soft, hesitant, her hopeful gaze fixed on his sharp, handsome face. "Depends on what it is," Ethan replied evenly. "I want to be Mrs. Brooks." The warmth in Ethan's expression disappeared, replaced by a glacial stare that sent a chill down her spine. Nyla's heart sank as he let out a mocking laugh. "I've been too soft on you," he said coldly. "You think that gives you the right to ask for something like that?" Nyla bit her lip, "Callie's back, isn't she? You're planning to marry her, aren't you?" Callie Higgins--the name itself was enough to twist Nyla's gut. She was Ethan's first love--the woman who had once saved his life from kidnappers when he was eighteen. After the incident, their families agreed that Ethan and Callie would get engaged when the time was right. Ethan's expression flickered, just for a moment, but it was enough for Nyla to know she'd struck a nerve. She'd been with him for two years; she knew him well. "I just want a status. You know how hard it is for me in the Brooks family. Without protection, I--" "Protection?" Ethan cut her off, his tone sharp. In a flash, he was in front of her, gripping her chin firmly. His dark eyes bored into hers, fierce and unyielding. "Do you think I don't see through you, Nyla? You think you're worthy of being Mrs. Brooks?" Chapter 2 Time To Let Go "Ethan Brooks, you haven't changed a bit--still as cold-hearted as ever," Nyla snapped. The warm atmosphere had long since turned to ice. Nyla's expression was calm, though her intentions were anything but hidden. Tears glimmered in her defiant eyes. "If you're not willing to give me what I want, then this is it. From today, we're done. Beyond being my step-uncle, you have nothing to do with me anymore." Ethan's sneer was sharp, cutting through the tension like a bl*de. "You're the one who climbed into my b*d back then. And now you want to walk away? Nyla, do you really think I'm that easy to deal with?" It had been a while since the Green family's sudden collapse. Overnight, Nyla's world unraveled. Her father, Lorenzo Green, took his own life to prove his innocence, and her brother was thrown behind bars. Her mother, desperate to survive, became the mi**ress of Ethan's elder brother, Ryland Brooks. When Ryland's wife passed away, Nyla's mother--pregnant with Ryland's child--married him. The Brooks family made no secret of their disdain. Nyla had always known her place, keeping her distance from the Brooks family whenever possible. But they never intended to stop tormenting her. Out of options, she had turned to Ethan. As the current leader of the Brooks family and one of the most powerful men in Ulares, Ethan was the only one who could offer her protection. "So, what do we call this... arrangement?" Her voice was low, almost mocking. Ethan's gaze lingered on her face--dangerously beautiful, the kind that brought chaos wherever it went. "If you want something else, I might consider it," he said, his tone indifferent as he released her. The implication was clear: he wasn't letting go, not yet. Bitterness rose in Nyla's throat. She could endure being his b*dmates, but she wouldn't let herself become the other woman. That was one boundary she refused to cross. "Ethan, I'm tired. This... whatever it is, it's over." The word "over" felt hollow--Ethan had never acknowledged what they had in the first place. She pulled her torn dress over her body, her hands trembling but her resolve firm. Ethan's expression darkened. "What are you trying to prove with this tantrum?" Nyla paused, holding herself together with every ounce of willpower. She stood tall, meeting his gaze. "Mr. Brooks, if you can't give me what I want, then let's not waste any more time. I need to move on." Her words struck a nerve. Ethan grabbed her arm, "Move on? To who?" His voice dripped with menace. "Who else could ever satisfy you like I do? Don't act like this was all some mistake. You crawled into my b*d, Nyla. Don't think I'll let you forget that." Nyla's composure cracked as anger flared in her chest. She glared at him, tears brimming. "So what if I did? I regret it! You're going to marry Callie, and I'm supposed to sit here and wait for your scraps? I may be shameless, Ethan, but I'm not that pathetic." The air between them was suffocating, heavy with unspoken truths and unbearable tension. A sudden ring shattered the silence. Ethan glanced at his phone, irritation flickering across his face. He was about to ignore the call until he saw the name. Callie. He released Nyla and answered without hesitation. Nyla watched in silence, her heart sinking at his gentle tone. He'd only ever used it with her in b*d. She felt the humiliation settle deep in her ch*st. "I'll be there soon." Ethan finished the called and then dressed. He turned to Nyla. "I'll have Jackson transfer the money to your account. Don't even think about leaving." The door clicked shut behind him. Nyla sat still, staring at the empty space he left behind. Then, with a bitter laugh, she wiped her tears away. If she couldn't have what she wanted, then she'd take back what little was left of her dignity. It was time to let go. Chapter 3 So What If I Am? Nyla, now in her senior year of college, had already begun her internship while managing her own studio--a venture she had started during her junior year. She specialized in fashion design, and her studio was her pride and joy. But lately, the pressure from competitors had been relentless. Someone clearly wanted her out of Ulares. Despite the frustration, Nyla refused to back down. After a restless night, her body ached as she got ready for the day. She couldn't bring herself to wear her usual professional attire, opting instead for a casual outfit. Even in simple clothes, her elegance and charisma turned heads wherever she went. As she walked into the studio, her receptionist hesitated before approaching her. "Miss Green... um, your mother is here," she said nervously. "We tried to stop her, but... she's holding a baby, and we didn't want to risk anything." Nyla gave her a reassuring smile. Her mother, Vicki Brooks, was difficult to deal with. "It's fine. I understand. You can get back to work." Relieved, the receptionist nodded and returned to her desk. Nyla's studio wasn't large, but every inch of it reflected her touch. She had designed the interior herself, favoring a minimalist elegance that radiated sophistication. In the lounge area, she spotted her mother cradling a baby in her arms. Nolan Brooks, a premature baby, had come into the world when Vicki was in her forties. His arrival had nearly cost both their lives, and since then, Vicki's world revolved entirely around him. Standing silently in the doorway, Nyla observed her mother. Vicki's expression softened as she gently rocked Nolan, her maternal warmth unmistakable. For a fleeting moment, Nyla saw the woman Vicki used to be--a gentle, understanding wife and mother, back when the Green family was intact. But that version of her mother was gone. Now, Vicki was only a mother to Nolan. The thought stung, but Nyla pushed the feeling aside and walked into the lounge. She sat across from Vicki, who glanced up briefly before returning her attention to Nolan. Nyla's assistant quickly brought over a cup of coffee and slipped away without a word. Picking up the cup, Nyla stirred it slowly, the clinking of the spoon breaking the silence. "Why are you here?" she asked, her tone even. Vicki's gaze flickered disapprovingly over Nyla's casual outfit. "You're going out dressed like that? Don't you realize you're representing the Brooks family now? Everything you do reflects on us." Leaning back on the sofa, Nyla replied with a calm, measured voice, "My last name is Green. I've never been part of the Brooks family." Vicki's lips tightened, her frustration evident. "You--" She stopped herself, glancing down at Nolan, who stirred in her arms. Lowering her voice, she continued, "Ryland has arranged a date for you tomorrow at Delight Restaurant. You'll be meeting the second son of the Fowler family. He's from a respectable background, and it's time you start thinking about your future." Nyla raised an eyebrow, a bitter smile tugging at her lips. The second son of the Fowler family had recently been released from prison. Ryland certainly had a knack for picking matches. "I don't have time," Nyla replied dismissively, taking a sip of her coffee. Vicki's composure cracked. "No time? You didn't go to school or your studio yesterday. And you didn't come home last night either. I heard you were at a bar." She had done her homework. Nyla's late-night escapades and partying were the reason Vicki had stormed over. That kind of behavior was unacceptable. If it weren't for Nolan dozing off in her arms, she'd have already started yelling. Then Vicki's sharp eyes zeroed in on a faint red m*rk on Nyla's neck. Her expression darkened. "What's that on your neck?" she hissed. "I'm warning you, Nyla. If you're fooling around, I won't tolerate it!" Nyla paused mid-sip, setting her cup down deliberately. She met Vicki's glare with calm indifference. Her mother still looked youthful despite her age. Money sure did wonders, Nyla mused. "And what if I am?" she said, leaning back. "You haven't cared about me in years, so why pretend now? Take your precious son and leave." Chapter 4 Family Dinner "Nyla!" Vicki shot to her feet, her sudden movement jolting Nolan awake in her arms. The baby let out a wail that pierced through the studio. "It's okay, Nolan. Shh, you're okay," Vicki murmured, turning her attention to him and pointedly ignoring Nyla. "We'll go home soon, sweetheart. Be good for Mommy." Nyla rubbed her ears, the irony of the scene grating on her nerves. Without a word, she turned to leave. "Don't forget." Vicki's strained voice rang out behind her. "I've always been the one begging for help for your brother. Do you have any idea how much he's suffered in prison? And your sister-in-law? I've been the one sending her money to survive. If you had even a shred of consideration for me, you'd listen to what I say!" Nyla froze mid-step, her gaze drifting up to the ceiling as a wave of helplessness rolled over her. After the incident all those years ago, her brother had been jailed, and her pregnant sister-in-law had been so traumatized she ended up hospitalized. The baby--already five months along--couldn't be saved, and her sister-in-law's health had never recovered. The family sold everything they owned, borrowed from anyone who'd listen, and still came up short. Eventually, their options ran dry, and even close relatives cut ties. Nyla's sister-in-law finally gave up, saying she didn't want to be a burden. Vicki's marriage into the wealthy Brooks family had brought temporary relief, but her sister-in-law's lingering illness had turned into a lifelong battle--one that drained both money and hope. And Vicki, to her credit, had been the one subsidizing the expensive treatments. Nyla's fingers curled and relaxed along the edge of her sleeve--a quiet gesture of powerless compromise. "Fine. I'll go." Vicki let out a relieved sigh, her tone softening. "There's a family dinner at the Brooks Mansion tonight. Leave work early and make sure you're there. You can't miss it." Nyla felt an immediate headache brewing. She'd planned to avoid Ethan for at least a little while longer, but her plans were thwarted before they'd even begun. "I know you hate going to these things, but think about me. Think about your little brother. He's just a child, Nyla. If you don't look out for him, who will? Please, just do this for me." Vicki's words left no room for refusal. Nyla was at a loss for words. Her mother asked her to protect Nolan, but who would protect her? The Brooks family wore their civility like sheep's clothing, but beneath it, she knew better. They were wolves--every single one of them--and none would spare her if given the chance. And yet, Nyla never voiced these grievances to Vicki. It would only be pointless. Vicki would call her immature, blame her for the Brooks family's hostility, insist that Nyla brought it all upon herself. So Nyla could only swallow her resentment. Later that afternoon, Nyla left work early as instructed. She took her time getting home and changed clothes, knowing Vicki would nitpick if she didn't look the part. She settled on a gray, short tweed jacket over a black skirt--poised, polished, and appropriately elegant. Nyla despised the cold. If it weren't for the Brooks family gathering, she would have bundled herself in two down jackets and called it a day. These social charades were a performance she loathed--hollow and suffocating. But Vicki insisted she need to integrate. Half an hour later, Nyla stepped out of the taxi in front of the imposing Brooks Mansion. Just as she turned to head inside, a sleek Maybach pulled up beside her. Nyla didn't intend to acknowledge anyone--until the license plate caught her eye. Ethan's car. The tinted window rolled down slowly, and two faces came into view--elegant, pristine, and altogether too perfect. "Hello, Nyla." A woman's voice broke the moment. "I'm Callie." Chapter 5 Rivals In Love Nyla had imagined meeting Callie in countless scenarios. Maybe it would happen during one of those stolen moments with Ethan, where they'd be caught red-handed. Or perhaps at Callie and Ethan's engagement party, where Nyla would dutifully offer her congratulations as a younger member of the Brooks family. But never like this--never with Callie deliberately approaching her. Nyla glanced at Ethan, suspicious. Was he behind this? But Ethan's gaze remained locked on her, his dark eyes betraying nothing. Those eyes had a way of pulling people in. She quickly looked away, her voice cold. "Hello. Did you need something?" Nyla didn't like the Brooks family, and she liked Callie even less. Callie was, after all, a rival in love. "Oh, nothing at all. I'd just heard Ethan had a breathtakingly beautiful niece, and I couldn't resist coming to meet you. I hope that's all right," Callie replied, her voice soft and syrupy, the kind of tone that made others instinctively want to protect her, a stark contrast to Nyla's cool tone. "You're exaggerating. I'm just an ordinary person." An ordinary person who was all too easy to manipulate. The moment the words left her mouth, Nyla felt Ethan's gaze on her--sharp, teasing. She met his eyes, her expression frosty, but he didn't look away. Instead, his lips parted, and his cool voice cut through the air. "Let's go. Don't waste time on people who don't matter." Callie offered an apologetic smile. "We'll head in, then. Would you like to join us? It's a bit of a walk." The words "people who don't matter" stung more than Nyla cared to admit. Last night, Ethan had been so close--so possessive he wouldn't let her leave--and now he was acting like a stranger. Huh. If Ethan chose acting as his career, he would win the Best Actor award, and Nyla would gladly be the one throwing tomatoes at his acceptance speech. Plastering on a bitter smile, she replied, "No thanks. I don't feel comfortable riding in a stranger's car." Without waiting for a response, she turned and walked away. Behind her, the sleek Maybach sped off, its icy wind brushing her cheeks and nearly drawing tears from her eyes. But she refused to cry--not here, not at the Brooks family estate. The sprawling Brooks Mansion loomed ahead, its gardens and private villas spread across more than seven thousand square feet. It was the largest private residence in Ulares and an unyielding symbol of the Brooks family's influence. The family dinner was held in the main house of the estate, and by the time Nyla arrived, the room was already packed. Her eyes immediately found Ethan, standing beside Callie, who was chatting amicably with the wife of Ethan's second brother. They looked disturbingly at ease with one another. "Why are you so late? Didn't I tell you to leave work early?" The voice belonged to Vicki, who appeared beside Nyla in a black gown and white mink shawl, exuding effortless grace. Nyla forced a smile, though she detested the way Vicki had shed her real self to fit into the Brooks family mold. "It's a long drive. Besides, I'm here now, aren't I?" Her eyes roved over the crowd. Faces turned her way, some barely hiding their disdain. "Honestly, we shouldn't have bothered coming." Vicki tightened her grip on Nyla's hand, her voice dropping to a whisper. "If you listened to Ryland and made connections with the Fowler family, we wouldn't be in this position." Nyla's tone sharpened. "If you're in such a rush, feel free to go see my blind date yourself." "Don't be ridiculous!" Vicki hissed, glancing around nervously. The last thing she wanted was to cause a scene here. "Then stop nagging me," Nyla retorted. "Unless you want me to make a real fuss." Vicki bit back her frustration, unwilling to press further. Nyla slipped away and found an empty corner, determined to stay invisible until the endless family dinner wrapped up. But, of course, the peace didn't last. "Nyla, why are you sitting here all by yourself? Are you feeling out of place?" Callie's sugary voice rang in her ear. "I can show you around if you'd like." Chapter 6 Definition Of Decorum "Thank you, I appreciate your concern, Miss Higgins, but that won't be necessary." Nyla blinked leisurely, suppressing a yawn. The previous night had been relentless and exhausting, and as she sat in the quiet corner, weary and disinterested, she had thought no one would disturb her. Unexpectedly, Callie had come over, initiating conversation. As Nyla observed the gentle expression on Callie's face, a sardonic grin took root in her thoughts. She now understood Ethan's distaste for her; he evidently preferred someone more like Callie. "Leave her be, Callie. That woman is nothing but trouble. Who knows who she'll charm next? You're too good for her." These words came from Stella Brooks, the daughter of Ethan's second brother. Nyla turned toward Stella, her expression teasingly challenging. "Perhaps you're right. Maybe I should seek out Lukas for an enlightening chat in his bedroom. He'd probably appreciate it. And perhaps tomorrow I'll drop by Austen's place--I still know how to get in." Lukas Brooks, Stella's younger brother, had been captivated by Nyla from the start, wanting nothing more than to stay by her side. His family, convinced of Nyla's manipulative charm, met her with cold disdain. Consequently, Lukas found himself transferred to a distant boarding school. Austen Mitchell, the focus of Stella's unrequited affections, had grown up next door to Nyla. Their families were intertwined, and he always saw Nyla as kin, a fact unknown to many. This was the root of Stella's vehement animosity toward Nyla. Originally, Nyla endured her insults, but Stella's escalation to physical threats forced Nyla to retaliate. "Shame on you!" Stella seethed, her cheeks burning. "Don't think for a moment you belong in the Brooks household just because you share our roof! You're no better than your mother. It's clear now why your family crumbled--you thrive on being a shameless intruder!" Shadows flickered in Nyla's eyes, her fist tightening inside her sleeve, though her expression remained calm. "Has Austen actually accepted your advances? You seem to be the one relentlessly pursuing him. He freely opens his door to me. Can you say the same? Your efforts seem futile. He shows no interest in you." Stella's eyes welled up, her hand lifted for a slap, but Callie intervened just in time. "Stella, that was uncalled for. Why would you say such things?" Callie's voice carried the weight of a mentor scolding a student. Flushed and tearful, Stella bit her tongue following Callie's sharp scolding. With a restrained smile but firm voice, Callie maintained her composed aristocratic air. "You're under the Brooks' roof now, Nyla. It's high time to leave your old ways behind. We expect decorum in a family of the Brooks family's standing." Nyla noted Callie's attempt to shame her and wondered about her motives. Her secret with Ethan was safe. What was driving Callie's hostility? Was it just a personal dislike? Nyla's lethargy vanished, replaced by simmering annoyance. "Stella called me a shameless intruder and hurled insults, yet you don't accuse her of indecorum. I merely stated some facts, less harshly than her, and yet here you are, Miss Higgins, accusing me of impropriety." Nyla's voice was measured as she locked eyes with Callie, her laughter tinged with scorn. "So, this is your definition of decorum, Miss Higgins? Your upbringing must indeed be exemplary." Chapter 7 Lecture Me On Callie's Behalf? Callie's expression shifted, her eyes softening with a tinge of apology. "I didn't mean it like that," she said gently. "I just thought… it might help you to fit in better with the Brooks family." Nyla's gaze swept over the two women in front of her. Stella still looked like she was ready to tear her apart, while Callie's carefully composed friendliness had started to crumble. Suddenly, the family dinner didn't seem so dull after all. One person warned her not to dream too big about the Brooks family, and the other subtly reminded her of her place as an outsider. How delightfully amusing. "And what does that have to do with you, Miss Higgins?" Nyla asked, standing abruptly. A sly smile curved her lips as she added, "Stella does have a point, though. Who knows who I'll charm next? Maybe one day… Ethan will end up in my b*d too. Instead of worrying about me, Miss Higgins, you might want to keep an eye on yourself." The smile vanished as quickly as it had appeared. Without waiting for a response, Nyla turned and strode toward the garden. "You b**ch! How dare you even think about Uncle Ethan!" Stella's shrill voice pierced the air. "Callie, see? She doesn't deserve your kindness. She's shameless!" Callie's eyes lingered on Nyla's retreating figure, all pretense of kindness gone. Her voice was cold and measured. "Just an outsider. Does she really think the Brooks family will protect her? Let's see how long she lasts." The garden, though chilled by the winter air, offered a quiet sanctuary to Nyla. Dinner still hadn't been served--Roger Brooks, Ethan's father, hadn't arrived yet. Nyla was grateful she wasn't particularly hungry. Otherwise, she might have had an outright clash with Vicki and left. Most of the flowers had withered, leaving the once vibrant landscape barren and forlorn. She studied the decayed flowers, finding an odd comfort in their desolation. Settling onto a swing tucked in the corner of the garden, Nyla pushed herself back and forth lightly, lost in thought. The Ethan situation was spiraling. If things ended between them now, her carefully laid plans would collapse. When she first approached Ethan, she'd told herself it was all calculated--a means to an end. But somewhere along the way, her emotions had betrayed her. She'd been starved of love for so long that the taste of it--however fleeting--had made her greedy. She didn't want to let him go. "Do you think you can hide out here after stirring trouble?" Ethan's voice cut through the stillness, sharp yet calm. "Do you think the Brooks family is that forgiving?" Nyla froze for a second before resuming her lazy swaying. The light from the house spilled onto her figure, casting her in an ethereal glow that made her seem almost otherworldly--a delicate flower in a crumbling garden. She tilted her head slightly, her hair spilling across her chest, and smiled faintly. "So, are you here to lecture me on your future fiancée's behalf?" Her eyes, glimmering with playful defiance, locked onto his. Ethan hated and loved those eyes--the mischievous glint that made her look like a sly little fox, always drawing him closer. "You're getting bolder." "If that's your reason, you can save your breath," Nyla retorted, bitterness threading her words. "I won't apologize. And you don't have to remind me of my place either. Whether the Brooks family hates me or not is none of your concern. After all, I'm just… insignificant, right?" Ethan's expression darkened instantly. He crossed the distance between them in a few long strides and pulled her down onto his lap as sat on the swing, its frame gr*aning under their combined weight. "Have you already forgotten who was in my b*d yesterday, pleasing me?" Nyla's eyes widened as she struggled against him, "Let go of me! Ethan, this is the Brooks Mansion. Someone will see!" ...... What happens next? 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