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No | 2025-03-03 18:48 | active | 2790 | 0 | Ever heard of an Inventory and Appraisement in a Texas divorce? It’s a critical step where your assets and debts are listed and valued to ensure a fair division. Learn why “he who takes the toy takes the debt” often applies in these cases. #TexasDivorceProcess #AssetDivision #FamilyLawTexas #InventoryAndAppraisement #DivorceFinance | LEARN_MORE | https://www.hembreebell.com/ | Hembree Bell Law, PLLC | https://www.facebook.com/HembreeBellLaw/ | 699 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | www.hembreebell.com | VIDEO | https://www.hembreebell.com/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481322966_1186006279790963_3969581688112190903_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v82_E68SMXQQ7kNvgHkV-z0&_nc_oc=AdiKyTr7EAw3Xujmb1Wg-5KwbDqmG6JhD8D3xG24reodWyDK2z6UOeK128qxoW2Htd0gVkBlB3IgaIFNVpY7hte_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AlW8h4lGgFrm1af7E3FnNj_&oh=00_AYACZwhSAvHLmyjbtvUrG9Y3t2onzttGmR8mLuAIfxLjGQ&oe=67CC15E6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Hembree Bell Law, PLLC | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 19:18 | active | 2792 | 0 | ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！ | 高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった | LEARN_MORE | https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&ut | 女の子が読みたい小説を大特集 | https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/ | 147 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | heplk.com | VIDEO | https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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/t39.35426-6/480573433_1336491337798870_7052080039759539818_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5TsLQEXRqMUQ7kNvgHycI46&_nc_oc=AdiTyTtB73CZ5eXwZIxq6EuMrH4RVJIN6hoEyb0FoDh50epmvhC9V2NyIPEHoTmD80wdQdTEO7Qo6aSLw7sr7_oH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AtXKjca9CKRCx8C2rY6E6WI&oh=00_AYCov0treTsWdmCMC-RHGM7Dj-QTMTdYRm92J5g7tD13nA&oe=67CC2FBC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | 女の子が読みたい小説を大特集 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 19:10 | active | 2791 | 0 |
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🔥NEW POPULAR READ🔥 | “You really broke up with your boyfriend on Valentine's Day, Why? I mean, was he seeing another woman?” “Technically, I was the other woman.” I tilted back the shot of tequila down my throat, the liquid causing a shiver through me like lightning. “What?!” Bella’s outburst drew the attention of a few onlookers at the bar, which is exactly what I didn't want. I sigh, hoping that anybody who overhears is too drunk to remember what I just said. I leaned my elbows on the bar and dropped my chin in my hands. Not even the throbbing dance music could distract my brain from thinking what an idiot I was. That Valentine's Day was great. A romantic dinner, followed by an excellent intimate time. I’d spent the whole of last night wrapped in Jackson’s arms. It was a night more precious to me than anything, especially since he was always so busy with work. It was nice. Perfect. Until he got in the shower and his phone rang. I sat up and stared at the caller ID, a bit confused by the name. ‘Boss Lady’. I figured I might as well pick up the phone for him, because I know how seriously Jackson took his job. He’d always have to cut dates short due to it, so whatever it is, it must be important. “Then I realized it was Jackson’s wife. He’s apparently in an ‘open marriage’” I told Bella, putting up air-quotations. “His wife even knew about me before I knew about her.” Of course, I’m just summarizing everything to Bella to spare my own dignity. The woman sounded so terribly lovesick when I answered the phone that day. Asking when he would be done with me so he could celebrate Valentine's Day ‘properly’. “She didn’t really seem all that phased when I answered the phone,” I add. “She even told me she was sorry he didn't tell me about her beforehand.” “What the heck!?” Bella remarks, and I feel a spark of validation run through me. If anyone has my back, it’s Bella. “At least she didn’t blow up at you or anything. He really never told you about her?” “Nope.” I say, popping the ‘p’. “He tried to get me to understand, apparently he never told me about his marriage because I’m too ‘serious’.” “Is he freaking serious? Oh my god.” Bella remarks, her voice high. I already feel tipsy, my body feeling warm and loose, so I don’t even mind her being loud about it. It feels vindicating to hear her stick up for me in such a vocal way. “And even after I chewed him out, he still wanted me to stay with him,” I mention, and Bella’s eyebrows shoot up. “Told me he still loved me, that we could work this out.” “Nonsense!” Bella spits. “Yeah. I threw his nonsense out of my apartment that night.” “Good freakin’ riddance. What a loser!” Bella huffs. “That’s awful, Aria, I know you really liked him.” Bella puts an arm on my shoulder, and I can’t help but wilt. I really liked Jackson. He was someone who I really could see myself marrying, after all of my previous situationships. I can’t help but lean into her touch, thankful I can rely on Bella at least. “Yeah. It's a nightmare...I was even thinking about asking him to move in, maybe get a dog and raise it together. I dunno.” “Ugh, screw that loser!” Bella spits, and I can’t help but smile at how fired up she is. “I can’t believe he lied about that!” “Yeah...” Even I could hear the wistfulness in my voice, and Bella easily picked up on where my negative thoughts were headed. “Oh no, you’re not going to wallow over a slimeball like Jackson.” Bella scoffs. “You are your own woman, Aria! You don’t need any guy to make you feel special.” “Bella...” I start, but she cuts me off. “No, I refuse to let you be sad about this. It takes you forever to get over a guy, even when they do crummy things,” She shakes her head in distaste. “You’re so pretty, I bet any guy in this bar would make out with you if you asked them!” “C’mon, Bella, don’t be silly.” I feel my face flush at the very thought of kissing some random stranger. Bella smells blood in the water though, I can see it on her face. “I mean... ugh, I hate to agree with that loser, but you can be a little...” Bella hesitates, and I slowly raise my eyebrow at her. “Serious?” “You said it, not me.” Bella takes a drink. I let out a huff. “I just... I take important things seriously! Is that a crime? That doesn't make me boring, it makes me...reliable?” I’m way too drunk to think of a good word to use. “I dunno. I just... don't like spontaneous stuff. Especially not stuff like kissing a random person.” “C'monn, Aria, live a little!” Bella smiles, pushing me a bit playfully. I lean with it, the drink making my body pliant. Despite her teasing, I can feel a smile on my face. “If you loosened up, I bet you could forget all about that loser Jackson.” “Okay, loosen up how?” I indulge her, putting up another hand to get another shot from the bartender. “I dunno, do exciting stuff! Skydiving! Mountain climbing!” “Seems like a lot of work,” I say sarcastically. “Okay okay, how about we start with what I suggested earlier?” Bella smirks, and I’m pinned by her gaze. “C'mon, I’m not kissing anyone at this bar.” I look around, and sure enough, I don't see anyone that's particularly my type. “Okay, then don’t kiss anyone here! How about...” Bella gets a wicked grin on her face. “You kiss the next person that walks in?” “Oh my god, no, no way.” I laugh at her, but I can tell from her gaze she’s serious. “C'mon! You gotta prove that loser wrong.” “What if the next guy that walks in looks like an orc?” I say. That third (fourth? fifth?) shot of tequila is making its way through me fast. I already feel like what she’s proposing isn't that much of a big deal. “That’s part of the thrill!” I throw Bella a judgmental glare which she just laughs off. “C’mon, it's just one kiss.” I know I’m drunk when I realize I’m actually considering this. What's one kiss in the grand scheme of things anyway? The worst that can happen is we get thrown out of the bar. I get my next shot and down it quickly. I’m going to need to be drunk to go through with this. I think distantly. It goes down like hot fire, and I slam the glass back onto the bar, mind-made. “Fine. But I can veto him if he’s not to my taste.” She pumps her fist in victory, and both of our eyes look over towards the door in anticipation. We watch for a bit, and I’m about to call it off when the door opens. I barely get a glimpse at the guy before I feel Bella push me off the barstool. “Go!” Bella urges. “Do it without thinking!” I hesitate for only a moment, but the drink makes me feel a little more confident. I walk over, head held high. The bar is so dimly lit, I can’t make out the guy's face. Just his cleanly pressed suit and long hair. Either way, the goal is not to think, right? So, without any hesitation, I walk right up to him, close my eyes, and capture his mouth in a kiss. I was intending to make it brief, just a peck, but he drew me in. His tongue feels electric against mine, and I am overcome with the desire to go even further, to put my hands into his long raven hair, and pull him in deeper. But while I am drunk, I’m not that drunk. I pull away before I am further tempted, my face flushed. I can’t believe I just did that! I scream internally. I open my eyes to see a really handsome guy looking back, with an expression of pure shock across his chiseled features. He seemed a little familiar, like I’d seen his face before. I’m shaken away from my admiration by another man, a blonde guy with a very short haircut. He steps between me and the long-haired guy, his face stormy. “What the heck are you doing?” He remarks, and I suddenly feel embarrassed. I feel a hand grab my arm, and I turn to see it belongs to the bar owner. This just went from bad to extremely bad! “I’m sorry sir, I didn’t catch up to her in time. You okay?” I look back at the handsome guy, and his eyes are looking me over, scrutinizing me. I notice that his suit seems much more expensive than I thought, and I can definitely see a high-end watch brand on his wrist. I feel awash with shame, suddenly realizing how badly I just messed up. Did I just... make out with some famous VIP?! Chapter 2 Did I just... make out with a famous VIP?! The handsome VIP looks at me with a questioning glare, and I quickly try to offer some kind of justification. “I-I’m so sorry!” I stutter out, taking several steps back. “I… I just…” I flounder for a moment. How the heck would I be able to explain myself? Nobody normally kisses random strangers because of a silly dare! I decide to just lie, hoping I don’t slur my words and come across as some kind of drunk sleaze. “I just thought you were someone else!” I squeak out. “It’s dim in here, I-I didn’t realize…” The VIP just raises a singular eyebrow, and the gesture alone takes my breath away. Now that I can see him clearer, it's plain to see just how unfairly handsome he is. His expression shifts to one of disdain. “Right,” he begins, and his voice demands attention from everyone around us. He looks to the bar owner, who still has my arm in his grasp. “Do you normally allow this kind of behavior in your establishment?” “No! Of course not Mr. Avarise.” The bar owner clearly wants to impress the guy. Mr. Avarise gives a faint nod to me, as if I’m nothing more than dirt on his shoe. “Then I suggest you get rid of the problem.” He says offhandedly. I feel like I should be offended for only a moment before the more rational side of my brain takes over. It was kind of an offensive move to kiss him without permission, I think, and my shame grows even further. “Certainly, certainly.” The bar owner begins to drag me off, and I stumble in his grasp. The VIP, Mr. Avarise, just gives a curt note and walks on, giving me one last piercing stare before he leaves to go towards the upstairs of the bar, followed by the blond man and his entire entourage. They’re probably going to the exclusive VIP area on the upper floor, I realize. Once they leave, the bar owner lets go of me, and I see Bella walk up to where I am. It’s right about now I noticed just how many people were looking at this entire scene. This just keeps getting worse and worse! I internally scream. “Okay, so, I can’t really kick you out over something like that, but…” The bar owner sighs, and holds up some strange-looking clips of paper. “Here are some free vouchers. If I give these to you, could I close your tab early and see you out?” “Of course!” Bella interrupts, grabbing the vouchers out of his hand. “We were just leaving anyway!” I feel myself nodding along. I am way too embarrassed by that entire affair to be sitting around the people who just saw me do that. Bella takes over closing the tab, and I cannot wait to get out of there. It's clear the other patrons were watching the entire scene, and all of my attention was focused on trying to leave. As soon as we walk out into the cool night air, Bella lets out a high, shrill laugh. “Woooow! I didn’t know you had that in you!” She hollers, and I just put my face into my hands. “That’s probably the boldest thing you’ve ever done, Aria! I’m so proud, they grow up so fast!!” Bella chimes in cheerily, looping her arm in mine as we start our drunk walk home. “I’m never doing something like that again,” I vow. “Seriously, it's just my luck he ended up being some big shot, huh!” “I know! What are the odds! It’s a shame he didn’t seem to appreciate your attention.” Bella shakes her head. “You could’ve probably gotten his number if he is less of a prude!” “Yeah, right. Anyone normal would do the same thing if a random person kissed them out of nowhere.” I assert. “I was the misbehaved one there, if anything.” “I dunno, that kiss did seem really hot, though.” Bella sighs wistfully, but I can tell she’s trying to be funny. “Perhaps in another life…. I can see it now! Aria, the rich CEO’s doting wife!” “Oh, stop.” I scoff, shoving her playfully. “If you’re done telling jokes, let’s focus on getting home. I’d rather not hear about whatever daydream fantasy you have in your head about my love life.” I wake up the next morning with a piercing headache and a lingering feeling of shame. A typical Monday morning, all things considered. I slowly go through my morning routine, rolling out of bed, getting dressed, and cursing myself for not drinking enough water the night before. It’s only when I brush my teeth in the mirror that I remember everything that happened last night, and I let out a weary grunt of suffering. I am the worst human alive, I think, shoving my head into my hands. I am never going to drink tequila with Bella on Sundays ever again!! As my headache dissipates (thank you, painkillers), I notice that another part of my body seems to be smarting as well. I peel back my shirt collar to reveal a strange-looking mark. It looks almost like a burn, my skin raised red in the shape of crescent around my collarbone. When did I get that? I wonder. Probably something I did last night and forgot about. I write it off, vowing to pick up some kind of ointment for it while I’m out, and continue my morning routine. I dress pretty casually for today, partially because I’m taking care of a large number of dogs for today and partially because I am way too hungover to wear something cute but uncomfortable. I slip on some shades and head out the door to begin my walking route, picking up the dogs I need to walk along the way. Being a dog walker isn't glamorous, it's true, but it's something fun to do to make money along with my other part-time jobs. Besides, my neighbors’ dogs are unfairly adorable, and they need someone to walk them while everyone else is away at work. I’ve always been a dog lover, so I don’t really mind the simplicity of the job. I walk along with the various dogs, feeling a bit better as my headache lessens with every step. Seeing as it's a nice day, I decided to swing by the park. All five of the dogs seemed excited to play in the wide space today, so I quickened my pace to keep up with them. That is, until all of the dogs in my care suddenly come to a dead stop. Each one of them is looking forward, ears high and on alert. I’m a bit confused by the behavior, I’ve been walking them for a while and they’ve never done anything like this. I try to determine what has them on alert, and that's when I notice an extremely large dog bounding toward us. The dog appears to be a husky, but it's huge, much larger than any husky I’ve seen. I could almost confuse it for a wolf, until it gets closer and begins to try and sniff at me. My other dogs seem scared of it, moving out of their way and whimpering, trying to be still. These dogs are never still, so I exercise caution when I put my hand out for the husky to sniff. It nuzzles my hand, and it doesn't look aggressive in any way. It doesn't really seem all too dangerous… I think. I decide to bury my hands in its soft fur, giving it a few long head scratches. The wolf, no, husky, seems happy to be given attention. “Who is your owner, little guy?” I say offhandedly, not really expecting a response. “Sorry, that would be me.” I’m startled by the shout of a deep, familiar male voice. I quickly remove my attention from the dog and spin around, coming face to face with that same handsome guy from last night running up to me. He isn’t dressed as sharply as he was last night, but he is still a sight to behold. Broad shoulders under a clean white button down, dark long pants which are somehow free of any dog hair. His long black hair is tied up, revealing graying sideburns. The sun reveals that the dim lighting in the bar didn't hide anything, he really was just as handsome as I remembered! “O-Oh, sorry, he’s, uh, pretty friendly, huh?” Heck! Just my luck! I inwardly panic, pulling myself away from his husky. I hope he doesn't recognize me! He narrows his gray eyes at me, and I’m once again captivated by that lingering stare. The hope of me remaining unrecognizable dies in my throat at his words. “Oh. Why is it you again?” Chapter 3 “Ah, right! Um…” I nervously laugh, a habit I’ve never been able to fully get rid of. This is the worst thing that could’ve possibly happened to me this morning! He barely looks at me, his attention firmly focused on his dog. “Lucas.” At just his words, the dog underneath my hand shifts, ears going straight up. He sits, ears at attention, but refuses to leave my side. Mr. Avarise seemed a bit frustrated, and I hurried to try and find some way to salvage this horrible social interaction. “I...-I am really sorry about last night,” I start, trying for a smile. “I was super drunk, and… well, you could probably tell that, I just mean-” “It’s fine.” He cuts me off, his tone cold. “R-Right.” I stutter. He seems unwilling to continue any kind of conversation, so I do what I normally do in any social situation where I’m in over my head; try to pet the nearest animal. Thankfully, the dog (apparently named Lucas) was still sitting right in front of me. I stick my hand out, eager to pet him again. Wait.” The VIP’s tone is so commanding it stops me in my tracks. I look back up at him, and he stares at me warily. “I don’t know what method you used to make Lucas run to you, but he is not an affectionate dog. He bites.” “He ran here on his own. And… he seemed fine when I pet him earlier,” I remark, and a look of surprise crosses over Mr. Avarise’s handsome features. To prove I’m not lying, I let my hands brush over Lucas’ head, and sure enough, the dog seemed right at home. Panting heavily, tail wagging, he seems extremely enthusiastic to have my hands in his gray fur. “How did you manage that?” He asks, and he genuinely sounds interested. “Lucas is… particularly picky with who he likes.” “Oh, well…” I flounder for a bit, unsure as to how I can explain. “Dogs have always liked me, ever since I was young. In fact, I’m the most professional dog walker in the area!” I try to put off a cheery attitude despite my low energy this morning. “If you need some help with him, let me know, I could-” “I don’t need to pay someone to do something so frivolous.” He states, and the words stop me in my tracks. Right, he still hates me for last night. I think. “Right, sorry.” I stop my fervent petting of Lucas, and level him with an apologetic smile. “I just realized, you don’t even really know me, and I’m here asking to take care of your dog…” “I’m Aria.” I hold my hand out, hoping that he doesn’t hate me enough to rebuke me. He stares at my hand for only a moment before taking it, his grip firm and unflinching. “Darren. Darren Avarise.” I feel a rush of relief, finally happy I’ve learned his name after so long. “Right! Um,” I took a look around, seeing how my other dogs seemed to cower away from Lucas. I feel a spark of worry hit me as I notice, and I deduce that getting them away from Lucas would probably be the wisest option, before they start getting all riled up. “I suppose I’ll let you get on with your day then!” I say, feeling a bit awkward and worried I’m taking up too much of his time. “Likewise.” He states neutrally. I take a step away from Lucas, but as I do, Lucas quickly lunges. His teeth grab onto my sweatpants, not roughly, just enough to try to get me to stay. I look down at Lucas in alarm before looking up at Darren. He seems just as surprised as me, eyes locked onto his dog. The two of them exchange glances, almost like they are having some kind of mental battle, and I can’t help but laugh at the ridiculousness of what’s happening to me. “Ah, guess he really likes my pants,” I say nervously, giving a little pat on his head, and encouraging Lucas to let go. With my goading, he reluctantly lets go of the black fabric. I let out a laugh, almost unintentionally. “What a sweetheart…” I say offhandedly. The dog really was cute, even if he was much bigger than almost any other dog I’ve ever seen. As much as I want to stay here petting Lucas all day, I get the feeling Darren wouldn’t approve. “Wait.” As I begin to start walking off, I’m stopped by Darren’s commanding voice. “I… It is…rare to find someone Lucas accepts.” He says every word begrudgingly, almost like he regrets even stopping me. “What is your contact information?” “O-Oh! Um, here!” I hold out my business card, thankful that I usually remember to bring them on my dog walks. I’m completely shocked that he’s actually giving me a chance! I let a genuine smile out as he goes to grab it, my fingers mere inches from his. “That should have my email and everything,” I say, and there’s a moment he stares me down, gray eyes cataloging my face. I can’t help but blush under the scrutiny, and he quickly takes the card away from me. “Don’t worry about it. It’s just a precaution.” He says quickly. “Still, I appreciate it.” He gives me one last glare before he looks back down at his dog. “Lucas, Come.” He states with his commanding tone, and the dog gives me one last look before it bounds back to its owner, seemingly full of energy. Darren quickly turns around without as much as a goodbye. “Um! Hope you and Lucas have a good day!” I let out, and Darren merely waved his hand above his head in lieu of a verbal goodbye. I can’t help thinking it rude before I write it off as him being busy. A rich guy like him probably has better things to do on a Monday than let me pet his dog all day! I can’t help but think. Come to think of it, so do I. I look down at all the dogs around me, who have perked up with energy now that Lucas has left. I quickly resume my walk, replaying the interaction in my head over and over. I can’t wait to tell Bella! After I finish my walk, return home, and take a shower, I’m still thinking over what happened. I can’t believe he actually wanted my help. Considering what a bad first impression I made, it wouldn't have been out of the ordinary if he just yelled in my face for even daring to touch him. The fact he was willing to give me a chance was a miracle. That is, if I call him. I can’t help but remind myself. I sit down at my computer, trying to put the interaction out of my thoughts for now so I can actually focus on working through my emails. Instantly, when I open up my email, one sticks out in particular. An email from that pet company I applied to ages ago! I quickly opened it up, and I swear I could feel my heart skip a beat. They actually want an interview with me! Chapter 4 I quickly began to try to get ready for the interview, mind racing a thousand miles a minute. I take the fastest shower of my life in order to wash off any lingering dog hairs. I’d applied to them almost three months ago, and received radio silence in response. It was a bit of a long shot of an application anyway, I hadn't thought I had high chances of getting in anyway. By now, I thought it was a lost opportunity, I never thought that they’d actually reply! I took care in selecting what outfit to wear. I never got to go to college, so big jobs like these were always such a long shot to get in. I could only ever get freelance and part-time jobs, which made employers think I wasn’t stable enough a lot of the time. If I was able to grab this job, it would be the exact stability I was looking for! Plus, with that stability, I could actually go ahead and adopt a dog, just like I've always wanted to. Along with the other benefits that come with stability, like an actual disposable income. I put on the best outfit I had, a red business suit with a long professional-length skirt, and hurried to the location detailed in the email. I’d run out of time trying to get ready, so I did my makeup on the subway, not even really caring about the stares I was receiving. My heart was leaping out of my throat, extremely nervous about being accepted into such a stable position. My hands twisted in my red skirt, and I couldn't help but continue to check my reflection on any surface to see if my makeup was perfect. Try to calm down, I think to myself. It’s just an advertising job for the dog-focused department. You know dogs! You’ve worked at dog shelters for years, and you’ve done excellent work with creative writing gigs. You got this! I repeated that self-affirmation over and over internally as I exited the train and headed over towards the company building. It was an imposing steel structure deep within the business area of the city. I swallowed my nerves and headed inside, head held high. As soon as I entered the modern-looking welcoming area, I felt dozens of pairs of eyes on me. It seemed like everyone around me was looking in my direction, and I could feel myself blush. Am I really that odd-looking? I think Maybe the red was a mistake? I head to the main reception area, trying to dispel my nerves. “Hi, I’m here for an interview?” I ask once I reach the main desk. The receptionists, a man and a woman, look at me in surprise for a solid moment. I dart them a confused smile, and the woman looks back at her computer, analyzing something behind the screen. The man joins her, and they both give a few suspicious looks towards me and back at the computer. “You’re human?” The man asks me. “Pardon?” I ask, but he doesn't repeat himself. I awkwardly laugh, figuring it's some weird joke. “Uh, I mean, what else would I be?” The two of them stare at me for a charged moment before they start to exchange words, too hushed for me to hear. I start to think I've got the wrong address, that is, until the woman steps out from behind the desk. “Come with me,” She says unenthusiastically, and I hesitantly follow her as she begins to walk through the complex. Everywhere we go, I seem to draw attention, eyes and heads turning to look exactly at me. I start to look at myself in the many reflective doors we pass by, but I don’t see anything outwardly strange about my appearance. Why is everyone looking at me? Am I just imagining it? I try to put them out of my mind as I’m led right up to the small interview room. The receptionist gestures for me to open it, and once I do, I see a well-dressed-looking man with a pair of large glasses on his face. The first thing he asks upon shaking my hand throws me once again. “Human?” His handshake is firm, and I try to match its intensity. I nervously laugh. They must really like this joke at this pet company, huh? I think. “Yes, of course,” I say like I’m in on the joke. The glasses on the man's face do nothing to hide the disdain. He seems almost… disappointed by my answer? “Uh, haha, right.” He says, taking a seat at his desk. I quickly sat on the opposite side, eager to really impress him. “I just want to say, I’m super thankful for this opportunity,” I say with a smile. “I’ve always been super passionate about dogs, ever since I was young!” “Mmhmm.” The interviewer isn't even looking at me, he’s on his computer, looking at something else. I’m a little insulted, but I try to carry on. “Right. Well, I think I’ve got a lot of experience for the position, I’ve done a lot of freelance writing, and with my extensive experience with your main clientele, I think-” “Look,” The man interrupted me, and I quickly shut up, mentally cursing my nerves. You talked too much!! “I’ll be honest with you, I don’t think your experience is going to be relevant here.” “P-Pardon?” “Your education is also lackluster. I don’t really think you have the requirements to join our company.” His words hit me like a slap to the face. I feel a twinge of rage mixed in with my overwhelming shock. “I don’t understand,” I start, trying to keep my composure. “Why call me in if I didn’t meet the requirements? You had that information already!” “Ah, my apologies then,” he says, and I can tell he isn’t slightly sorry. He still isn't even looking at me, just locked onto his computer screen. “Our system glitches sometimes, it was probably a mistake that your resume was accepted.” “My job application was submitted three months ago,” I say, feeling more heartbroken with every second I spend in this room. “Why accept a months’ old application if you aren't even interested?” “Look, we’re very sorry, but you just don't meet our requirements. One of my subordinates must have made some kind of mistake.” I can feel angry hot tears start to form in my eyes, but before I can say another word, the door to the room opens with a slam. “I called her in.” Darren’s at the door, Lucas right on his heels. Lucas quickly ran in and circled around the chair I was sitting in, clearly happy to see me. “Do you think that was my mistake?” “Oh! Um, of course not, Alp-” He cuts himself off, looking at me. “Sir Avarise.” Darren glares at him, and suddenly the pieces are starting to connect. I sit there shocked as Lucas starts to nudge at me with his wet nose. This is when I realized Darren must be his boss, and this interview was set up right after I talked to him this morning. Did he actually want to hire me? Even though he said he didn’t want to before? And more importantly…did that mean I accidentally kissed the CEO of a multimillion-dollar pet company last night?! I can’t help but inwardly scream. Chapter 5 “My apologies, Sir.” The interviewer grabs a few papers, looking eager to leave. “I didn’t know it was you who requested such an interview. I’d never question the Alpha’s decision.” Alpha? I almost ask, but I figure it’s some weird ‘employee-at-a-pet-company’ hierarchy gimmick. These people are strange! “See that you don’t,” Darren says, and with a single dismissive nod, the interviewer leaves quickly. The two of us stand in the room for a moment, and I can’t help but let my questions bubble to the surface. “So, you’re the boss around here?” “Indeed.” He answers cooly, and I feel my temper rise “So you did want to hire me,” I say, standing up from my seat. “Why? I thought you didn’t want someone ‘frivolous’.” I couldn’t help but throw up air quotes, a little annoyed by the fact he made me nervous for no reason. He could’ve just asked me to work for him at the park, honestly! Making me go through this whole embarrassing situation left me wrong-footed. “Lucas was very taken by you,” Darren says simply, and I feel my eyebrows rise in surprise. “He became… restless, upon our return home.” “Really? He liked me that much?” “It appears so.” He seems a little annoyed by the fact. “Name a price, any price, and I’ll hire you to be his full-time caretaker.” “Well…” I hesitated, feeling off-balance. A gig like that sounded extremely tempting, not to mention lucrative. But, if it ever fell through, I’d be right back where I started with no way to support myself long-term. I pause before speaking up again; “I only applied here so I could work in the advertising department. Did you even look at my resume?” “You wouldn't have to work in this position.” Darren asserted. “It would be more trouble than it's worth, not to mention more work. All I need is a full-time dog sitter.” “Well-” He senses my hesitation, and he leaps to interrupt me. “You could be making double what you would be if you worked here traditionally. Like I said, name your price, and I will accommodate.” “Look, Darren, it's awfully nice of you to offer,” I start, looking him over. His expression is intense, and I get the feeling he’s probably used to just getting his way with a snap of his fingers. He wants me specifically, for what reason I’m not sure, but it's clear I do have some leverage here. “Honestly, if caring for Lucas is the only reason you hired me, I don’t think I can accept your deal. Don’t get me wrong; I like dog sitting, and Lucas is a sweetheart, but…” I try for a weak smile. “Well, a job with more stability and advancement is something I’ve been really searching for. If that isn't in the cards then… you might as well not hire me at all.” I begin to take a step towards the door, but Lucas stops me in my tracks. He practically howls, the sound sharp in the small interview room. I take a step back in surprise, and Lucas looks at me with shining puppy-dog eyes. He seems really distressed, and he rushes to stand right in between me and the door. I look back up at Darren, who seems lost in thought. Darren POV ‘Let Mommy stay!’ Lucas said in our mind link, sounding on the brink of a temper tantrum. I can’t help but let my frustration show through our link. ‘How many times do I have to tell you, she’s human! Not your Mommy!’ I let out a sigh outwardly. I look back at this human, her face hopeful and innocent-looking. If I were to hire her as an employee, she’d be entering into the werewolf world. Humans are not usually hired at my company, with only a few exceptions to that rule, and there's a good reason for it. Her life would be in constant danger, as no humans could ever learn of our existence. Not to mention, if she ever found out that Lucas was my son, I’d be the one signing her death warrant. She would most likely find out about Lucas the longer she takes care of him, as the date of his first shift out of his wolf form draws near. They’d have to keep up the charade that he’s just a wolf until he was much too old for it. But, I do need her. I remind myself. No one at the company can even get near Lucas, let alone seek his approval. My Beta Liam, my assistants, no one could cater to his needs effectively. And I cannot keep dragging him into business meetings or on international flights, it just wasn’t feasible. Especially once he shifts out of his wolf form, it would just be too inconvenient. He’s never liked anyone but me taking care of him. But for some reason, he likes this human, Aria. Even now, Lucas seems in a happier mood just upon seeing her. Having her help would be immensely beneficial for me and my company, not to mention my son’s well-being. I let out a mental grunt, trying to weigh out my options. ‘I can hear you thinking from where I am, halfway across the office,’ I hear the words of my Beta, Liam, in my mind through our link. ‘The human is playing hardball?’ ‘It seems so.’ I send the memory of my current conversation with Aria through the link, along with my thoughts on the matter. ‘In my opinion, Alpha, the pros outweigh the cons’ Liam sends. ‘Having her take care of him saves you time and leaves you free for business trips. The only complication would be forcing Lucas to stay in his wolf form around her.’ ‘That will be harder to maintain as he grows up’ I remind him. ‘We can cross that bridge when we get to it.’ He says, and I realize I can’t help but agree with his points. ‘Besides, if she ever does find out, we’d just have to silence her, like we have with every other mortal who found out about us. It wouldn’t be difficult.’ ‘That won't happen.’ For some reason, the idea of murdering this human sends a wave of displeasure through me. I quickly suppress the feeling so it doesn't transfer through my mind link with Liam. ‘Beta, ensure the employees are made aware of our… newest human applicant.’ ‘Right away, Alpha.’ He sends one last link before the connection is muted. I force my mind to the present, my focus directly on the shorter human woman in front of me. “Fine. I accept your terms.” I state, and the relief is evident on her face. “But, you start as an intern. If you do a good enough job here, we can start you full-time. And you will take care of Lucas when the need arises.” “O-Of course!” I see Aria’s face light up in joy, “That’s excellent. I won’t let you down!” I can’t help but feel satisfied with her ambition and determination to rise to the challenge. However, I also feel a small bit of worry enter my heart. I make a silent promise. You better not uncover our secret, human. | LEARN_MORE | https://befant.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18672&u | Galaxy in the Story | https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/ | 2,500 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | befant.com | IMAGE | https://befant.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=18672&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/t39.35426-6/480568717_949903886887337_6120743858917786678_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ODZlbX_7_3cQ7kNvgGmWmN2&_nc_oc=Adin7L5O6iiCictFYElWH69qlca_NOn_gR7ehej7boUKNxAvd9knZ-Z2a8jM0HXAjuTb6YipPQaU_pCVM0g0B7ax&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AV2iK2rY3wJt8tpQnihhlEe&oh=00_AYDIIfrgMIF2lvaN4_Vc_hByFfVi3eqjVLAFjKviqJoKXw&oe=67CC1BBF | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 19:09 | active | 2791 | 0 | 🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉 | Jasper is attacking my pack. Again. When is he going to realize that he can’t defeat me? This time, he must have gotten some friends to help him, but they aren’t the scrappy fighters that my warriors and I are. Other than me, my pack is made up solely of rogues, the misfits that the other packs kicked out. Okay, yeah, some of them are dangerous and I have to keep them in line, but they’re deadly, and Jasper needs to learn that no amount of money is worth your life. When I claimed my father’s pack at eighteen, I learned just how hard he’d worked to ensure my financial stability when I took over the pack. I know a lot of the wars that he fought were to obtain better-packed lands, and easier and cheaper access to water, electricity, and other necessities. He did it all for me. And now, I am by far, the richest Alpha I’ve ever met. I'm richer than Henry and richer than Warren. You’d never know it to look at me and my pack members. We don’t dress like we’re rich, we don’t strut around like we’re high and mighty like the rich do, but my pack wants for nothing. More than anyone, the rogues understand protecting what’s theirs. It’s another reason that I took them all in. They’re fantastic fighters to have lasted in the wild on their own, which is the primary reason that I allow them into my pack. Not only that, but they also understand the value of protecting what they have. And what they have is this pack, a home, and me as their Alpha. I don’t know how Jasper gets away again, but I know that I practically ripped his leg off this time. I’d chase after him and take him down, but I have a birthday party to attend today. Connor and Kennedy Hill turned eighteen today. Connor will take over the pack from his father, Alpha Warren, who I despise with every bone in my body. I’ve refused to create an alliance with him because the person killed my father. I watched him do it. That memory is burned into my brain and is one of the worst moments of my life. My father was a great person. Alpha Harold told me that he was greedy and that he was responsible for most of the pack wars that occurred back then. But I know that he did it all for me. My father loved me. I definitely know that. My father loved me more than his own life, giving his life for mine. My mother wasn’t that way. She protected me, but once she realized that I was safe and she lost her status in the pack, she let herself wither away and die. In the end, she loved her status more than she loved me. ‘Alpha, what should we do with the bodies?’ Kier, my Beta asks. I look around, pleased that my warriors killed so many of Jasper’s pack or the pack members of those he recruited to attack me. “Pile them up and dump them outside Jasper’s pack lands,” I growl. Kier smiles. “With pleasure, Alpha.” “I have to go get ready for this awful party. Are you good?” I ask. He snorts. “That should be fun.” “An Alpha’s duties never end,” I say. “Do yourself a favor, Alpha. Find yourself a sweet little pussy to bury yourself in.” I grunt in response and head up to my room. While I don’t shy away from a person who wants me, I’ve never fucked anyone in Alpha Warren’s pack. It’s not because I care what he thinks about me. I don’t care about what Warren thinks of me. It’s her. That little witch of a person who has always seen way too much. I climb into the shower, letting my guts wash off of me as I think about her. Kennedy. I’ve watched her grow into a person who far outshines her mother. Luna Yara is beautiful, no one can deny it. But Kennedy? That girl is something to behold. I guess today she’s technically a person. I smile as I think about her. She hates it that I still call her 'pup'. I’ve long since stopped thinking of her as a pup. That ended the first time I woke up, having a wet dream about that beautiful person. Maybe because of that, I became even more antagonistic about calling her pup when I saw her. And her scent, her sweet citrus and mint scent has only gotten stronger and more mouthwatering as she’s gotten older. What hasn’t changed is her watchfulness and her insightfulness. The person sees everything, far more than she should. And for some reason, her focus seems to be almost entirely on me. I should despise it, I should be mad or irritated that she’s constantly watching me, noticing me in ways that others don’t. But from her, I almost crave it. I fall for that such a beautiful girl, a beautiful person, watches me. I’ve seen the others falling all over themselves to get to her. Kennedy, being Connor’s twin sister and the oldest of the Alpha females in Warren's pack, is much sought after by other Alphas. I know that even Henry, who has yet to find his mate, wants her. But I’ve seen her ignore their advances just to watch me. I’m not sure that she knows how often I see her watching me, but every time I’m in the room with her, I keep an eye on her, watching her watch me. And every time I see her, that golden glow around her, that beautiful light of sweet and delicate inner beauty glows brighter and brighter. Part of me hopes that she finds her mate today. The other part of me wants to take anyone who comes close to taking her from me. That part comes from Raif, my wolf. He’s been enamored with Kennedy since she was a pup. He’s snubbed every other female we’ve ever seen, and goddess forbid that I talk about taking a chosen mate. He snarls and throws such a tantrum in my head that I can’t rest, and it makes my head throb until I relent. Not that any person is dumb enough to accept me as her mate. I’m not stupid. I’m an Alpha and people want the prestige of being a Luna. But being mated to me wouldn’t be easy. I’m too dark and eventually, I drag anyone who gets too close to me into the darkness that surrounds me. It’s another reason that I hope that Kennedy finds her mate today. She deserves better than the darkness that someone like me could give her. I told her years ago that she should be afraid of me, but for some reason, that little pup never heeded my words. A part of me, deep down in my heart, is glad that she didn’t. I’m distracted as I get out of the shower, so I don’t smell his scent until he barks at me. “What’s going on, Q? You were in a battle today? Why didn’t you call me?” Henry says, glaring at me from across my room. I frown. “I’m going to have to tell my patrols to start letting me know when you enter the pack lands.” “They know I’m your brother and don’t change the subject. Your pack smells like danger and desperation. Why didn’t you call?” “Because I didn’t need you. We were fine. Jasper was after my money again. And let’s be honest, you take a lot more time to get ready for these parties than I do,” I say to my best friend and brother. Okay, he’s my only friend. He rolls his eyes at me and throws himself on the loveseat in my room. “I don’t take a long time.” I look at him, realizing that he’s taken a bit longer today than he usually does. “Did you buy all the new clothes for today? What’s the matter, Henry? Are you hoping that Kennedy is your mate?” I ask joking. I turn to go into my closet to get dressed but when he doesn’t answer me, I turn back. “Are you kidding me?” Something dark inside of me threatens to push forward. I like Henry, more than anyone in the world I like this person who is like a brother to me, but at the moment, thinking of him with Kennedy, I’m ready to rip him to shreds. “Would that be so bad, Q? She’s gorgeous, she’s smart, she’s about the sweetest person I’ve ever met… she’d make a good Luna,” he says, shrugging and looking away from me. I can tell that he’s seriously hoping that she’s his mate. Honestly, he’d be the perfect mate to her. He’s exactly the kind of person that she should end up with. But the thought of her ending up with anyone has Raif thrashing around in my head. ‘Knock it off,’ I tell my wolf. ‘I’ll take him down if he touches her.’ ‘No, you won’t. He’s my best friend. She’s nothing but a pretty pup,’ I say, but I know I don’t mean it. She’s one of the few people who can put a warm glow into my dark and angry heart. ‘Mmhmm, keep telling yourself that,’ Raif says. I notice that Henry is watching me, so I do what I always do when I don’t want others paying attention to me. I get snarky. It usually works, except her. “Who knows, maybe Connor is your mate, and you can become his Luna,” I say, chuckling as I go into the closet. “You let me down, Q. I don’t know I even bothered to come over here to get you.” “Yeah, why did you?” I ask. He looks at me. “I wasn’t sure you’d come otherwise.” Normally, he’d be right. But I can’t miss that little pup’s birthday. I even got her a present. I got one for Connor too, but his gift is money. He’s the incoming Alpha, so if he’s smart, he’ll put it toward the pack. But for Kennedy, I wanted something special. Raif insisted that I get her jewelry, preferably something with a wolf’s head that looks like him. So, I had a wolf’s head made in pewter and onyx, and I had diamonds put into his eyes since April is her birth month. I’m nervous to give it to her, but I’m pretty sure, knowing her like I do, that even if she doesn’t like it, she’ll say she does and that she’ll wear it anytime she expects to see me. I finish getting ready, wearing like someone I’ve never been, just hating to be this formal. “You sure you want to do that?” Henry asks as I roll up my sleeves. “Yeah. Why wouldn’t I?” I ask him. “Luna Yara and Alpha Kennedy are going to see those marks on you. They’ll know you were fighting today.” I stop and look at my arms. He’s right, they will notice and neither person will let it go. Dammit! I roll my sleeves back down, feeling even more grumpy now than I did before. “Are you ready?” “I was waiting on you, brother,” he says, smiling and slapping me on the back as he stands. I glare at him, then we head down to his car and begin to make our way to the party. Chapter 2: Birthday Kennedy I watch as my mother prepares the person on the sofa in front of her. Sometimes I get to be in the room, helping by giving her the tools that she needs to complete her surgeries, or stitching up our pack members after she's done. But since today is my eighteenth birthday, she told me I could assist. I told her that it was the only thing that I wanted for my birthday. “When you do a Cesarean section, you have to be careful where and how you cut. You don’t want to cut too deep and risk injuring the pup and you don’t want to cut too high on the mother’s stomach because you could cut the pup,” she says, pointing to the area where she wants me to cut. Thankfully, it’s Anna who is having a baby today. It’s her fourth pup with her mate, Bennett, their oopsie baby thirteen years after the birth of their third pup. It’s why my mother suggested that she have the C-section rather than try to deliver naturally. It’s also why I’m allowed to assist. I’ve grown up around Anna and all of the nurses and doctors in the hospital. I’ve spent every possible minute of my life in this hospital. I can’t live without the medical world, feel amazing the idea of becoming a doctor just like my mother. While the others in my family were sparring and training to become strong warriors, I was here, learning everything I possibly could about medicine, anatomy, and being a surgeon. Thankfully, when my mother told Anna that assisting in surgery was the only thing I wanted for my birthday, she offered to schedule her C-section today. I was a little surprised, but since I’ve stitched up her pups before, and I’ve worked so closely with Anna, she agreed. My mother had me practice cutting on a medical dummy that she and Beta Noelle use in the hospital teaching rooms. I sliced that poor mannequin nearly to pieces I’ve practiced so many times. I take a breath and look up at Anna. Her mate is holding her hand and murmuring to her. “Focus, Kennedy,” my mother says patiently. Anna’s eyes flash to me and she winks. “You’ve got this, Kennedy.” I nod and turn back to her stomach, putting the edge of the scalpel against her stomach where my mother is pointing, and, using the pressure that I’ve practiced so many times, I make the incision. “Very good, Kennedy. Just a little further. Perfect,” she says, and I pull the scalpel away, smiling hugely as I step back to let my mother do the rest. A few minutes later, she carefully pulled the baby from Anna’s uterus and laid her on Anna’s arms. “Congratulations, on your baby boy,” she says to them. I know that Bennett is thrilled to be having a boy. Their first three children were girls. I was ready to assist my mother with closing up Anna’s stomach when she turned to me. “Your father and brother are asking about you,” she says. I look up at the clock and realize that it’s mid-afternoon. I sigh. I really don’t care about the party. The only reason I’m even partially excited is because Alpha Quirin will be here. There are a lot of other Alphas that will be here too, including Alpha Henry, who I like. But the others are just hoping to have an Alpha female for a mate. My sisters would be better options for them. They are all excited about becoming Lunas of their own packs. Me? There’s only one person for me. He just happens to be an Alpha as well. I fell for Alpha Quirin when I was six years old. There was something about him at Alpha Henry’s eighteenth birthday party that drew me to him. I’d watched him all day and then followed him outside. I don’t know why I felt safe with him that day. But I have every other time I’ve been around him since then. I don’t see him often, not nearly as often as I’d like. But I’ve noticed that he’s not as curt or abrupt with me when I approach him as he is with other people. I got my wolf, Echo, on my tenth birthday. That day at my party, she had agreed that there was something about Alpha Quirin. Maybe because he’s an older Alpha and doesn’t play the stupid games that the others play, or maybe because he refuses to let the other Alphas tease me in any way, but I’ve always seen him as a protector. Others find his quiet, glowering nature offensive, but not me. Unlike Alpha Henry, who is easygoing and has lots of friends, you have to work to get on Alpha Quirin’s good side. I’ve only known a couple of people who have earned that privilege and remained there. I count myself as one of the few. Over the years, I’ve watched as daring people have approached him during these gatherings. I also watched while he assessed them and took some to the sofa with him. I’ve tried to determine what it was about those people that made him decide to be with them and not others. I haven’t figured it out yet and maybe he hasn’t either. I’ve never seen him take the same person to the sofa more than once at these parties. If they approach him again at another party, he turns them down. My mother says the people want him because he’s a challenge. My father says they want him for his wealth. I want him because I want to get past the hard, crusty exterior that he puts up in front of others. Over the years, I’ve had glimpses of the person underneath the armor, and I want him. I want that person, the person that very few, if any, ever get to experience. ‘Kennedy, are you coming? You still have to get ready, and Dad says we can’t start the party until the birthday twins arrive. Connor won’t join the party until you do, so hurry up!’ my sister Wendy says. She’s fifteen and thrilled at the idea of seeing all of the Alphas that will be here today. ‘I’m on my way,’ I say, knowing that I need to get ready. My twin brother, Connor, is officially old enough to take over as Alpha from my father. I know my father is excited to be able to pass the torch of the pack to my brother. I also know that Connor was disappointed when he didn’t smell his mate first thing this morning. She’s not in our pack, but that doesn’t mean that she’s not in another pack. Every eligible male and female Alpha will be at our birthday party today, which has my siblings in a tizzy of excitement. It’s an important day for Connor, which makes it an important day for me. My twin is my best friend, and I won’t ruin this party for him. “Congratulations,” I say to Anna and Bennett. “Thank you. I have a gift for you even though we won’t be able to join your party today. I’ll give it to your mother to give you.” “You didn’t have to do that,” I tell her. “Of course we did. You just helped to deliver our baby, didn’t you?” Bennett asks me. I smile. “Well, thank you. I know I’ll like it,” I say. I head back to the packhouse and spend the next couple of hours getting ready for my party. When I look in the mirror, I hardly recognize myself. I chose the dress specifically because I want Alpha Quirin to see me as a person, not as the pup that he always calls me. ‘Little Pup’. Ever since that first day that I spoke to him, he’s always called me Little Pup. I would despise the name if it didn’t make me feel somewhat special. No one else gets a pet name from Alpha Quirin. The floor-length gown is covered in sequins, adding brightness to the dress. The sleeves are straps that hang off the shoulder and there’s a small train in the back that adds a softness to the overall feel of the gown. ‘Kennedy, are you ready?’ I hear Connor’s voice in my head. ‘Yes, where are you?’ “Outside your door,’ he says, and I can hear the laughter in his voice. I open the door and see my very handsome brother standing there waiting for me. He’s wearing a suit that fits him perfectly, accenting his broad shoulders and narrow waist. He will have the people at the party drooling over him. They do anyway, but today, he looks every bit the Alpha heir that he is. “Why, Alpha Connor, how very nice of you to be my escort,” I say, smiling at my twin. His tie and cummerbund are a close match to the color of my dress. We’ll look very good walking into our party together. He snaps his feet together and gives me a formal bow before extending his arm to me. “How was the surgery? Mom said you were brilliant, as always,” he says. My brother has always been my biggest supporter with my mother a close second. “Oh, it was fantastic, Connor,” I say excitedly, making him chuckle. “Good. Now remember, no matter what happens today, you will always be my twin and my best friend. I hope that we both find our mates, but if not…” “Then we keep looking,” I say, knowing how important it is for him. “Then we keep looking. But, if we’re both lucky and you end up leaving for your new home soon, never forget that I’m here for you anytime you need me.” “Thanks, Connor.” “Now we’d better go before Wendy bursts something in her excitement.” I laugh as he begins leading me down the stairs. I turn, as I hear the gasps of the people in the room, watching as my brother and I make our way down the stairs. I look around the room, not seeing Alpha Quiring and feeling a stab of disappointment that he’s not here. He was the only one I was hoping to see. The room breaks out in “Happy Birthday!” as we get to the bottom step. From there, we’re separated by the massive number of people who want to say hello and wish us happy birthday. I’m about halfway through the room of people when Echo stands up in my head. ‘Echo?’ I ask just as I hear a nearly feral snarl behind me and the scent of sandalwood floods my nose. I turn and see that the partygoers have separated, leaving a space for me to see Alpha Quirin standing across the room from me, his nose in the air as he drinks in my scent. I gasp as he opens his eyes and focuses his intense gaze on me. “Mate,” his wolf, Raif, growls. The entire room has gone quiet and almost as one, all heads turn to stare at me. I swallow hard, excitement and desire flooding my system and overwhelming me. Thankfully, Echo has no problem managing these feelings. She’s thrilled. “Mate,” she purrs. Chapter 3: Warnings Quirin When Henry and I pulled up to the packhouse, I smelled her before I even opened the door. “Quirin, where are you going?” Henry asks as I quickly leap out of the car and make my way to the packhouse. I ignore him. I have to see her. It’s all I can do to keep Raif under control as he pulls me into the packhouse. Once inside, the place is packed and I can’t see her, can’t find her. Raif snarls angrily and the party guests part like the Red Sea. There, across the room from me, is Kennedy. My mate. Raif announces it before I can stop him. Part of me is thrilled. There’s always been something about Kennedy that has drawn me in, something that has made me feel protective and even possessive at times. And now, I know why, she’s my fated mate. The other part of me knows that the words that I spoke to her all those years ago were accurate. ‘People like me are no good for little pups like you.’ I hadn’t been lying. She deserves someone like Henry, or even someone like her brother. Instead, the Moon Goddess has decided to punish her with someone like me. I should reject her, I should set her free, but I know I can’t. I’m much too selfish for that. “Mate,” she says. I know it’s her wolf who replies to Raif, but watching her sweet mouth say the word that I’ve only dared to dream that she would say to me, makes the possessiveness that I’ve held on to tightly flare inside of me. It didn’t escape me that everyone, every single person in the room, turned to look at her when I called her my mate. I’m sure they all thought she’d reject me. And maybe she will. If she’s smart, she will. ‘I refuse to accept it,’ Raif says. ‘She’s ours. I want her. I want them both.’ Raif has wanted Echo from the moment he first saw her. Of course, back then she was much too young for me or him to do anything. I’d always felt the pull to this little pup, but once she had her wolf, the pull had become even stronger. I stare at her across the room, not moving as I watch her eyes go wide. I realize that her dress brings out the color of those eyes. ‘Stop making our mate think we don’t want her,’ Raif growls before literally pushing me forward. Rather than stopping and looking like a fool, I slowly walk up to Kennedy. Some might call it a prowl, the predator hunting his prey. But since the prey looks eager to be captured, I’m not sure it’s an accurate assessment. “Happy Birthday, Little Pup,” I say to her and instantly I get the response I expected. Her lips press together but before she can come back with some smart retort, I wrap my arm around her and pull her against me, pressing my lips to hers. When I finally pull back I look at her, my mate. “We’re leaving,” I growl. “What?” she asks, frowning while still looking dazed. I like that dazed look on her face. “Alpha Quirin, it’s Kennedy’s birthday. The party has just begun. Surely you don’t intend to take her away from her party already.” I don’t have to turn to know that it’s Alpha Connor who is speaking. The person looks exactly like his father and for that alone, I despise him. But he’s Kennedy’s twin and I know that she considers him her best friend. It’s the only reason I don’t take him down for trying to keep me from taking my mate. “There are too many unmated Alphas in this room for my liking,” I growl, never looking away from my mate. “No one is stupid enough to try and take your mate from you, Q. Everyone saw that the two of you are mates. Let her have her birthday party.” That comes from Henry. He’s come up behind me and is speaking softly. “Of course they won’t. I would take him down anyone who touches her,” I growl loudly, making sure every Alpha here knows that she’s mine. “Alpha Quirin.” This time it’s the sweet voice of Luna Yara. She, like Henry, is one of the few people in this world that I would never ignore. “We worked very hard to have a nice party for our twins. Would you please reconsider your need to take Kennedy from us so soon?” I realize that, through all of this, my mate hasn’t said a word. “What do you want, Kennedy?” I see the instant happiness that I used her name, rather than calling her Little Pup. “I want to be with you,” she says and it’s like she’s turned her beacon of light on me, pushing away all my darkness. Such is the power that this little wolf, barely an adult, has over me. “We should stay and celebrate you. But we’re leaving today,” I tell her. “Okay.” “Okay,” I say, finally pulling my eyes away from her. I turn to the room and see that everyone is staring at us. “Well, is this a party or what?” I growl. The music starts again and I move to stand behind my mate, glaring at any unmarked male who even looks this way. Others come up to wish my mate happy birthday, but they quickly move away. “Alpha Quirin, it is customary in this pack that the first dance on a birthday goes to the mother or father of the birthday boy or girl. I’m assuming, since you are well aware of this tradition, that you have no problem with me dancing with my daughter,” Alpha Warren says. His hand is already extended to Kennedy, and I see that Connor and Luna Yara are also about to step out onto the dance floor. They’re just waiting for me. Kennedy looks up at me as if it’s my decision. I guess everyone here knows that I have no problem fighting them if I don’t like what’s going on. “It’s tradition, right?” I ask her. “Right,” she says and turns to me, taking my hand. “Don’t disappear on me.” “I’m not going anywhere,” I say. It's meant as a threat but rather than the fear that it should cause in her, I get her mega-watt smile. That smile has always fascinated me. How can one person be so happy? I watch as her father leads her onto the dance floor and the two of them begin to move around the dance floor, easily and gracefully. I’m content to watch her gliding across the floor, but my best friend and brother have other plans. “Stop, Q.” “I have no idea what you’re talking about,” I say obstinately. “Of course you do. You’re not stupid. Stopping ruining this day for her.” “I’m not ruining anything for her. I asked what she wanted, and she said she wanted to be with me. I have no intention of letting any of these lecherous people get close to what’s mine.” “Do you count me as one of those lecherous people?” he growls, but I hear the hurt behind it. I turn and look at him. “I know you wanted her. But she’s mine. Maybe I don’t deserve her, but I can’t let her go. If you can respect that, then we’re good. If you can’t, then we have a problem.” He turns and looks at me. “That will very much depend on how you treat her, Quirin. If you mistreat her…” “Then what, Henry?” I ask. “Let’s not find out, okay? And for the record, I’m insulted that you would think that wouldn’t respect the mate bond. Anyone’s mate bond,” he says, walking out onto the dance floor and asking my mate to dance. I see Kennedy look over at me as if once again questioning if it’s okay for her to dance with someone else. Am I that overbearing? Probably. “What are you doing, Quirin?” “About what, Luna Farrah,” I say sighing. There are maybe five people in this world that I care about. Four of them have approached me today. Well, technically, I approached Kennedy, but the other three, Henry, Luna Yara, and now Luna Farrah, have approached me on Kennedy’s behalf. I’m wondering when Alpha Harold will approach me. “This is her day, Quirin,” she says. I’m not surprised that the massive aura that I’m pushing out to keep people away isn’t keeping Luna Farrah away. It never did. “And I’m letting her have it,” I quip. “Letting her. What an interesting way to phrase it. How kind of you to LET her have her birthday party,” she growls softly. I sigh. “You know I hate these things.” “And I know that if you like someone, that it doesn’t matter what YOU want, Quirin. And if you can’t like that girl the way that she deserves, then reject her. It will make her feel bad now, but she’ll thank you later.” “She’s mine,” I growl, low enough that no one else will overhear. “Then make sure you treat her like that means something, Quirin. She’s a sweet girl, smart and loving. If you intend to stay mated to her, then don’t you dare take that away from her.” She walks off just as Alpha Harold walks up to Kennedy. He looks over at me and it’s obvious that he’s daring me to question his intentions with my mate. I don’t. He has his own mate and I lived with them long enough to know that he loves Luna Farrah with all of his heart. What no one else seems to realize is that I like Kennedy with all of my heart. I just don’t show it the way that others do. Chapter 4: Birthday Party Kennedy Every time someone asks me to dance, I take the opportunity to look over at Quirin. First, I was surprised by his possessiveness of me and I’m afraid to do something that will make him think that I don’t want him. I do want him. I always have. But second, I’m afraid he’ll run. It’s not that he’s a fearful person, well at least not usually. But I’ve been watching my mate for years and I know that when it comes to emotions, he’s not very good at handling them. “Luna Kennedy, how do you feel about being mated to my adopted son,” Alpha Harold asks as we dance. “I’m very happy about it, Alpha,” I tell him truthfully. “Hmmm, not many people would say that. My son isn’t an easy person to get close to.” “I’ve never found it that difficult.” “No, I guess you haven’t. Have you ever been to his pack, Luna?” I like that he keeps calling me Luna. Until Quirin called me mate, I was an Alpha, but now, being a Luna means that I’ve found the person I like. I can’t wait until his mark is on my neck and mine is on his so I can show everyone that he is mine. “No, I haven’t, Alpha. You have though, right?” “Yes. I’ll warn you, Kennedy, Quirin’s pack is different. His pack is made up of previous rogues, scrappy individuals who are used to fighting for what they have and what they want. You’re a strong person, Kennedy. It will take a strong person to make her way in a pack like that.” “I’ll do my very best, Alpha,” I tell him. “I’m sure you will,” he says just before his eyes shift to look over my head. A moment later I feel heat at my back and smell his sandalwood scent. “Are you going to let me dance with my mate, father?” “I was just warming her up for you, Quirin. Luna Kennedy, I do hope to see you soon.” “Thank you, Alpha,” I say to him and then turn to my mate. He looks at me for a moment, his eyebrow going up in the arrogant way that he has. Personally, I’ve always found it extremely incredible. “I didn’t know you danced, Alpha Quirin,” I say as he takes me in his arms. “I’ve never had anyone I was interested in dancing with before, Little Pup,” he says. I ignore the ‘pup’ part and revel in the thought that he wants to dance with me. He begins to expertly move me around the floor. “Where did you learn to dance like this, Alpha?” I ask him. He looks at me. “Quirin, Kennedy. If we’re going to be mated, we should be more familiar, don’t you think?” I smile at him and even though he doesn’t smile, I watch his eyes soften. “Where did you learn to dance, Quirin?” “My mother, mostly. My father said that Alphas needed to know how to dance so we could play the mating game, searching for our mate, finding her, wooing her, all of that.” “Since you’ve searched for and found me, is this a game to you?” I ask him. “Or are you wooing me?” “I was never good at playing games, Little Pup. I am who I am. I don’t have time for frivolous things like playing games,” he says and there’s something in his tone, something that makes me think he’s trying to warn me off of him. It won’t work. “So, you’re wooing me then?” I ask. He looks down at me and the intense look in his eyes takes my breath away. “I’m going to make you mine today, Kennedy. There will be no going back, no second chances. After today, you will be mine forever. You will belong to me. You should think about that before we leave here today. Because once my mark is on you, I will never allow you to leave me.” “Well, once my mark is on you, I’ll never allow you to leave me either. So perhaps you should be the one thinking about things before we leave today,” I say indignantly, my tone expressing my aggravation with his words. I’m rewarded with one of his rare smiles. “I’ve done nothing BUT think about it since Raif called you our mate.” “You’re questioning if you want me as a mate?” I ask quietly. His face becomes more serious. “Do you remember what I said to you that day in the garden on Henry’s eighteenth birthday?” “You said people like you are no good for little pups like me. But I disagree.” I can see the surprise on his face. I’m not sure if it’s because I remembered or because I disagree with him. “And do you remember what you said to me after that?” he asks. “I said I’m not afraid of you,” I remember that day as if it were yesterday. I’ve relived it a thousand times in my mind and in my dreams. “And you never have been, have you, Little Pup?” “No.” “Why is that? Others are terrified of me. Most people won’t even come close enough to speak to me. But not you. Never you. You always made a point of coming over to talk to me, didn’t you?” “You don’t scare me. You never did,” I tell him honestly. I’m not sure what he would have said, but at that moment, my father began tapping a glass. He calls Connor and me to the front of the room, wishing us a happy birthday and announcing my brother’s Alpha ceremony in one week. “Alpha Quirin, I do hope that you and Kennedy will be here to see her twin take his place as Alpha of the pack,” my father says. I know of the animosity between my father and my mate. It’s been there all of my life, and I know why the animosity is there. The only difference is the perspective of the person telling the story. I see Quirin ready to decline, but I refuse to miss such a momentous occasion for my brother. “Of course, we’ll be here, Father,” I say before Quirin can decline. “Excellent,” he says, not giving Quirin a chance to overrule people now, your mother and I have gifts for the two of you.” He turns and my mother joins him, handing him a box before coming to me and handing me a box. “Oh Mother, you didn’t have to,” I say. “You’re my daughter. And now, it feels even more important since you’re going to be leaving and starting your own life,” she says, with tears in her eyes. I hug her, long enough that I hear awkward laughs from the others gathered around. I’m sure it’s about my brother’s watch. I’ve seen it already and I know it cost a fortune. It’s a rare, very expensive watch that my father felt my brother should have. “Thank you, father. Thank you, Mother,” he says, putting the watch on. “Your turn, Kennedy,” my father says. I smile, looking over at Quirin. I see something like regret on his face, but I’m not sure why he’d be regretful of whatever my parents got me. I open the box and it’s a gorgeous diamond necklace. “Oh, it’s so beautiful!” I say. “Let me put it on you,” my mother says. “I knew it would go perfectly with your dress,” she says. When it’s clasped, I turn and hug her. “Thank you!” Then I go to my father and hug him as well. “Thank you!” “Of course. Let’s have some cake!” he says, tucking me against his side as he announces cake to the room. “Listen, Kennedy. Before you leave, I wanted to tell you … “ my father begins. “Kennedy, let’s go have some cake and then we need to think about leaving,” Quirin says, coming up behind me. I can feel the tension between the two people, and I can also tell that my father doesn’t want to let me go. He doesn’t trust Quirin to take care of me. I pull away from my father. There is no choice for me. Quirin has always been the person I’ve wanted. He is my mate. I’m an Alpha wolf and I like a challenge just like any Alpha. I know that things between me and Quirin won’t always be easy, but I know that there is no one else for me. “Yes, Quirin, let’s go get some cake.” I take his hand and lead him away from my parents. It’s only about an hour later when Quirin tells me that I need to go pack my things. “Since we’re apparently coming back in a week, just bring what you need for now. I’ll make plans to get a truck and we can bring everything else back next week when we’re here.” “Okay,” I say, starting to get nervous. “I won’t take too long.” I find my mother and ask her to help me, before heading upstairs to pack up my life. I’m ready to move and leave this pack and my family behind me, ready to start my new life with Quirin, wherever that may lead. | LEARN_MORE | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=18347&u | New world publications | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 3,810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | befant.com | VIDEO | https://befant.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=18347&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/t39.35426-6/477992524_2001200776957924_6726273556376212969_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U91Lj8fACv4Q7kNvgEwUI5R&_nc_oc=AdjMjsX1liIamZt2FdMH7yEB3-o7ogv6UmKFrTFVjcYXRX0RMe4tRtZ2o4m2YtBnKOdO2r5qpN0sqSnRYyly9k55&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A-vuDDKvfrUR1G3X0q-EqXy&oh=00_AYBKtqyiFyYwYLhqZGjFscLMJnL2_fGVYoW5H2OVR6jKyg&oe=67CC099D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New world publications | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-03-03 19:09 | active | 2791 | 0 | 😍Read the next chapters👉 | Two brothers were leisurely walking along the riverbank, enjoying the quiet night. Suddenly, they heard the sound of small footsteps approaching them. As cultivators of the martial path, they recognized the footsteps as those of a young child. Before long, Gyu and Gwei saw a tired five-year-old child. The exhausted child, taking irregular breaths, remained frozen in place upon spotting them. He then immediately prostrated himself before Gyu and Gwei. "Sir... Please help my mother!" The child said while repeatedly bowing to Gyu and Gwei. The two of them exchanged glances. Gwei stepped forward and approached the child. "What is your name, young one?" "My name is Tian, Sir," the child replied quickly. "What's wrong with your mother?" "My mother won't wake up. She's been in bed since yesterday, and her body is cold and stiff!" Tian explained with a worried expression. "Please help my mother. I promise to be your servant forever, as long as you check on my mother's condition!" he declared firmly. Moved by the determination of the young child, Gyu and Gwei agreed to his request. Gyu picked up the child and carried him. "Where is your home, child?" Tian pointed in a direction, and Gyu, carrying Tian, and Gwei leaped in the direction indicated by the young boy. Soon, they arrived at a ramshackle hut near a small river. They hurriedly entered the hut. Gwei, also a medic, immediately examined the woman lying motionless on a wooden pallet in the small room. In truth, even without Gwei's examination, they could tell that the woman had lost her vital signs. As cultivators, they could sense that the woman had passed away. However, to give the young child some time to realize and accept the cruel fact, Gwei followed the child's request to examine his mother. "Come here, child," Gwei called the young boy closer. "Can you check if there's breath coming from your mother’s nose?" Tian promptly directed his finger under his mother's nostrils. "There's none, sir!" he replied quickly. "Now, get close and put your ear to her chest." "Do you hear or feel her heartbeat?" Gwei asked. "No, sir," replied Tian, his head still resting on his mother's chest. "Sorry to say so, but your mother has passed away, child." Gwei explained calmly. Gwei didn't want to sugarcoat the situation for the child. He wanted him to accept the reality and be strong in this harsh world. Hearing Gwei's words, Tian fell silent and stared idly. After a few breaths, Tian nodded in understanding. Tian looked back at his mother, hugged her lifeless body, and then took two steps back. He performed three bows in front of his mother's body. Afterward, he turned to Gwei and Gyu, and prostrated himself before them. "Thank you both for checking on my mother!" he expressed his gratitude. "As promised, I will serve you as your servant," Tian added firmly. Gyu and Gwei were taken aback by the five-year-old's determination. They hadn't expected such a declaration from him. "We didn't help because we expected something in return. There's no need for you to become our servant. It's only natural for people to help each other," Gwei quickly replied. "Sir, my mother used to say that a man should never break his promises and oaths," Tian insisted. "I promised to be your servant, and I kindly ask that you accept me as your servant in return. I have nothing to offer, so please accept me as payment for your services," he said seriously. Gyu and Gwei exchanged glances, surprised by the determination and strong-willed nature of the young child. "Very well, if that's what you want. You will be our servant until we believe your debt is paid," Gyu exclaimed. "Thank you. I will not disappoint you," Tian said with gratitude. "May I request some time to take care of my mother's body? My mother once said that if she passed away, she wanted her body to be cremated, and her ashes to be scattered in this river." Tian requested straightforwardly. "Yes, take your time," Gwei replied, offering a small smile to Tian. Tian immediately left his home. "Why did you agree to make the child our servant, brother?" Gwei asked his older brother. "This child has strong principles and a strong will. The more we refuse, the more we'll challenge his principles. Besides, I already told him he would be our servant until we feel he's paid his debt," Gyu explained. "This child is not as simple as he appears. I just wanted to evaluate his character and determination. Do you understand, brother?" "I understands your point, brother," Gwei replied. "Good. Let's observe what the child is doing," Gyu said. Gyu and Gwei watched as Tian, without any light source, easily reached the edge of the forest. In the dark night, they could see him gathering dry sticks by the river's edge. His thin body carried the sticks by tying them to himself, and he dragged them towards his hut. "This child has a strong memory. His maturity doesn't match his age," Gyu noted. "True, as long as we guide him properly, he can become someone great," Gwei added. "Although he may not be a genius, individuals like him can surpass even geniuses," Gyu stated. "Like a rough stone, with proper polishing, even a worthless stone can become valuable. Don't forget, even diamonds start as ordinary rocks," Gyu explained with a broad smile. "You're right, brother. This child has the potential to grow," Gwei said with enthusiasm. "Yes, that's correct!" Gyu agreed confidently. Towards morning, Tian stood in front of the wooden mound, which was ready to be lit to cremate his mother's body. It was the last time Tian would see her. He hugged his mother's body for the last time, then removed a necklace from her neck. The necklace had an octagon-shaped pendant with the inscription "Tian" on the back and a carving of a burning dragon on the front. Tian prayed, “Mother, rest in peace in heaven. I promise to fulfill all your wishes and aspirations. Please protect me from up there.” Then, Tian put on his mother's necklace and began lighting the fire to cremate her. Gyu and Gwei sat cultivating in Tian's hut after observing him all night. Gyu slowly opened his eyes. Gyu said, “Brother, please take out the books from your storage bag. I want to assess the boy's abilities and will.” Gwei responded, “Everything, brother? Okay.” Gwei then took out a pile of books from his storage bag. Dozens of books about medicine were scattered on the wooden table in front of them. Gyu then called Tian into the hut. “Boy, can you read and write?” Tian replied, “Yes, Sir.” Gyu said, “Good. In that case, copy this book.” He handed Tian two books, one blank and one Basic Cultivation book. “If you’re hungry, there’s dry bread in that basket. We will be meditating from now on, so don’t disturb us. You can continue your work now.” Tian nodded in understanding and began copying the book given him. Though curious about the food and books, Tian kept his questions to himself due to Gyu’s instructions. Within time, Tian finished copying the book. With great curiosity, he started reading the books before him. He read through the basics of treatment, different types of treatments, medicinal plants, acupuncture techniques, and many other subjects. Tian only needed to read each page once to remember everything. Over the course of three days and nights, young Tian devoured all the books, which took Gwei years to memorize. Tian was so engrossed that he only took brief breaks. He stopped reading when he felt hungry and sleepy, eventually falling asleep soundly in his chair. Gyu and Gwei, who had been observing Tian during their meditation, opened their eyes once he had fallen asleep. Gyu said, “This child is incredibly smart. He has an exceptional memory. Now I’m fully convinced of my assessment.” “Gwei, try testing Tian’s memory skills tomorrow morning,” Gyu added. Gwei replied, “Okay, brother. I’m also very curious about his abilities.” The next morning, Tian, who had just woken up, was shocked to find that the books he had tidied up had disappeared without a trace. He also realized that Gyu and Gwei had finished meditating. “Good morning, Sir.” “Sit down,” Gyu ordered. He then took out food from his storage bag. Seeing the food come out of the tiny piece of cloth, Tian gasped in amazement. “Sir, what is this?!” The size of the cloth and the size of the food that emerged from it didn’t match at all. It was as if seeing a dinner table been extracted from a mouse hole. “Just eat first,” Gyu said. Tian quickly finished his food, eager to get answers about what he had seen. Gyu and Gwei, seeing Tian’s behavior, burst out laughing. “Look at you, kid. You said you wanted to be a servant, but now your curiosity has made you forget all about that,” Gwei said. Gwei then explained to Tian about the storage bag, its function, and how to use it. He also explained that besides storage tools made from special leather, other storage tools could be bracelets, rings, or necklaces. The dimensions of the space inside varied. Gwei elaborated that only cultivators could use these storage devices because they required Qi to open them. Qi, or energy, was essential for improving physical health and utilizing one's potential. To truly experience this energy, one must train their breath and physical body, cultivate Qi, and reach optimal energy levels and spiritual life. Gwei explained that humans could store Qi within themselves, and those who did so were called cultivators. Qi was normally stored in one’s dantian, and its capacity increased with the cultivator's realm. Gyu said, “Tian, you’ve read and copied the basic cultivation book. Explain its contents to us.” Tian nodded and proceeded to explain the book’s contents, starting with the basics of cultivation and the division of realms from lowest to highest. “Each realm are divided into three levels: initial, intermediate, and final.” “The are 9 Realms in total, which are Black, Fighter, Earth, Earth King, Emperor, Sky, Tianzun, Saint, and Immortal.” “Bone levels consist of five stages, which are Bronze Bones, Iron Bones, Golden Bones, Diamond Bones, and Dragon Bones.” Gyu nodded with a smile. Tian then continued. “There are 5 levels of alchemists too. Level 1 is called Advanced Alchemist, Level 2 Silver Alchemist, Level 3 Gold Alchemist, Level 4 Master Alchemist, and Level 5 Grandmaster Alchemist.” “A Level 1 Advanced Alchemist can make special pills for the Black Realm. Level 2 Silver Alchemists can make pills for the Fighter and Earth Realms. Level 3 Gold Alchemists can make pills for the Earth King and Emperor Realms. A Level 4 Master Alchemist can make pills for the Sky and Tianzun Realms. And a Level 5 Grandmaster Alchemist can make pills for the Saint and Immortal Realms.” Gyu and Gwei smiled happily at the five-year-old boy's explanation. Gyu said, “Well done. You’re indeed a smart child.” “Your debt is paid. We now free you from our servant status,” Gyu added. Tian’s eyes sparkled. He bowed deeply to Gyu and Gwei and thanked them. Gwei said, “Finding you has been a stroke of luck for both of us. If you wish, we’re willing to teach you, even though both of our realms are only at the late Fighter stage.” Tian was overjoyed by their offer. Without hesitation, he kowtowed three times to them. Tian had intended to become a cultivator from the beginning, driven by a promise to his mother. He wanted to become strong to fulfill that promise and achieve his mother's unfulfilled wishes. Gyu said, “From now on you can call us Master Gyu and Master Gwei. We will teach you the skills and knowledge we have. Even though our knowledge is not advanced, it will at least serve as a foundation for you to survive.” Gwei added, “Moreover, the most important thing is to use the knowledge you gain from us in the path of virtue and truth. Always remember that every human being is equal—there is no difference. Be fair to everyone, uphold the truth, be firm according to the circumstances, and stand on your own feet. Be a useful person and don't let yourself be used or manipulated by evils. A great person is one who works hard and continually challenges themselves to progress and rise to the top, whether in the path of martial arts or medicine.” “Do you understand” Gwei asked. Tian bowed, “I understand your words, Master, and I promise, in the name of heaven and earth, to do my best.” A deafening sound of thunder followed. Gyu and Gwei exchanged glances before looking back at Tian. Gyu muttered to himself, “This child is blessed by heaven. His words have been heard by heaven.” Gyu then said, “Your promise is heard by heaven, son. Even heaven remembers your promise, so always keep it in mind and make it the principle of your life. Understand, son?” Tian replied, “Yes, Master.” Gyu continued, “Even though we are now your masters, we will not make things easy for you. We will only guide you, the rest depends on your own abilities. In the morning, you will train with me, and in the afternoon, you will train with Master Gwei. Prepare yourself well, we will start practicing tomorrow.” “Yes, Master,” Tian responded, nodding and saluting with cupped hands. Meanwhile, Gyu and Gwei introduced their backgrounds. Gyu and Gwei described their home continent, which was divided into five parts: the Eastern Continent, the Western Continent, the Northern Continent, the Southern Continent, and the Central Continent. “Among these, the Central Continent is the strongest, as the most powerful cultivators are found there. The Northern Continent is the second strongest and consists of two empires, with five kingdoms under these empires and four major sects within them. The Southern Continent has three empires and three large sects. The Western Continent also has two empires, four kingdoms, and four sects. The Eastern Continent is composed of three empires, four kingdoms, and four sects. The Central Continent, however, has only one empire, five kingdoms, and ten large sects.” It turned out that Gyu and Gwei were part of the core family of the Guan Nobles, who were nobles in the Han Kingdom. They were currently on a mission from the Han Kingdom to find some medicinal plants in the Sun Kingdom, where Tian currently lived, specifically in the City of Leaves. The Sun Kingdom and the Han Kingdom were allies, so they had no difficulty entering this area. Gyu said, “Tian, now you know where we come from. We won’t be here for long, so make the best use of the time we have. What we will teach you is only basic knowledge to lay the foundation for your cultivation. The development will be up to you. You must study hard and improve yourself, as life outside is very tough—the strong prey on the weak, and everyone looks out for their own benefit. So don’t be naive.” Gyu then took out a book from his storage bag for Tian to study. The book Tian received covered the knowledge of breathing and physical training for bone and muscle development. Breathing techniques were the foundation of cultivation, enabling one to absorb Qi from nature, which was then stored in the dantian. However, before progressing in that direction, Tian needed to undergo physical training as the initial preparation for opening his dantian. The next day, Gyu instructed Tian to begin his physical training. The first task was to run across a river that was knee-deep for an adult and 30 meters wide. Tian had to cross it 20 times. Next, he was required to carry a river stone weighing five times his body weight to the side of his hut. After that, he had to assume a horse stance facing the sun and continue with punching and kicking movements. The training pushed Tian’s body to its limits, promoting the development of his muscles and bones. In the afternoon, Tian trained with Master Gwei. Master Gwei taught him about medicine, acupuncture, reflex points, pulse examination, and surgery. Master Gwei also covered the basics of alchemy, explaining that medical knowledge was foundational for becoming an alchemist. Tian, having memorized the theoretical aspects of medicine, was then trained in practical applications, such as concocting medicine, cooking medicine, and combining medicinal herbs with poisons. Gwei advised, “Tian, you must remember to always look forward and not rely solely on the books you read. Books are based on the experiences and work of others and cannot always serve as a benchmark. Problems cannot always be solved with a single approach. Other methods may be necessary, too. Similarly, in treatment, we should not rely on just one drug but consider other possible drugs that may affect the duration or process of healing. Do you understand?” Tian nodded, “I understand.” He then asked, “Master Gwei, are you also an alchemist?” Gwei sighed, “Unfortunately, I have not yet become an alchemist. It is very difficult to achieve that status. I haven’t been able to refine pills well, and I always fail the alchemist exams. I hope you can become an alchemist because I see great potential in you. But ultimately, it’s up to you. Don’t follow others’ wishes, pursue your own goals and achieve them. For us masters, seeing you succeed and even surpass our abilities would bring great joy. Masters’ expectations are similar to parents’ expectations, so don’t let it become a burden. Strive to achieve what you want—that’s enough.” Tian absorbed all his master’s advice and said, “Your instructions will be remembered, and I will practice diligently.” During the first week of Tian's rigorous training, he endured it with unwavering determination, never once complaining. As the days passed, his body slowly began to adapt to the demanding regimen set before him. In the second week, Gyu intensified Tian's training, pushing him even harder. Just as Tian had grown accustomed to the previous level of exertion, he found himself facing even greater challenges. His muscles and bones were pushed to their limits, and he was tasked with running while carrying a stone three times his weight and scaling trees with a burden equal to three times his own. The third week brought yet another addition to Tian's training under Gyu's watchful eye. This time, he was required to endure prolonged periods in the water, testing his survival skills. In the fourth week, Gyu raised the bar once more. Tian was tasked with performing push-ups while carrying a load equivalent to ten times his body weight. Throughout this grueling month of training, Tian never once voiced a complaint or refused any of his masters' demands. His body grew accustomed to the challenges posed by Gyu and Gwei's training. Tian soon realized that Master Gyu focused on honing his physical strength, while Master Gwei concentrated on nurturing his mental prowess. In the following month, there were no additional training segments from Master Gyu. However, this time, Master Gyu imposed a stricter deadline, requiring Tian to complete his training by noon. Tian had to double his efforts, yet he complied without much objection. During the third month, Gyu introduced skill training to Tian. Each morning, Tian practiced physical conditioning and body strengthening. He quickly absorbed and replicated his master's lessons with precision. Meanwhile, Master Gwei intensified Tian's mental training, pushing his Panca Indra abilities to their limits. The focus of Master Gwei's training was on developing Tian's abilities to touch, sense, see, and hear, essential skills for a physician. Additionally, Master Gwei trained Tian in the art of using the flying needle acupuncture technique, a technique passed down through the Guan family. Three months of relentless training transformed Tian. The once slender and frail child had grown more robust, resembling a seven-year-old boy in physique. Mentally, Tian, with his high intelligence and Master Gwei's guidance, had advanced to a level akin to a twelve-year-old. "Come here, my child," beckoned Gyu and Gwei. Tian approached his masters with respect. "Tomorrow, we shall embark on a new phase of training. You will begin to cultivate your natural instinctive sensitivity, a skill that cannot be taught but only arises and flourishes in moments of desperation or near-death experiences. Are you prepared? And now, would you like to initiate the opening of your dantian, my son?" Tian replied, "Master, I trust your judgment, and while I feel my body is ready for the dantian opening, I sense that the timing may not be ideal. I believe my body has not yet reached its peak." Gyu and Gwei smiled with pride, grateful to have Tian as their disciple. They considered him a true genius. His dedication was remarkable, especially considering the challenging training meant for Black Realm cultivators, which often required two years to complete. Yet, Tian, at the tender age of six, had accomplished it in just three months. In their eyes, the countless self-proclaimed cultivation geniuses, whether young masters, noble descendants, or sect disciples, were mere pretenders. Most of these so-called geniuses owed their success to abundant resources, pills, and family support. Tian was the real deal, one in ten thousand who walked the path of martial dao with sincerity. "You've made a wise choice, Tian. Do what you believe is best for yourself, for only you truly understand your own capabilities," encouraged Gyu and Gwei. "Tian, we have summoned you here because we have decided to resume our mission soon. We have lingered here for too long," said Gyu with a hint of sadness. "Unfortunately, my child, due to the perilous nature of our mission, it is unlikely that we can take you with us," added Gwei. Tian didn't want to part ways with his beloved teachers, but he understood that this might be the destined path between him and the men he considered his father figures. KneeIing before his masters, Tian expressed his heartfelt gratitude. "Master Gyu, Master Gwei, I understand and appreciate all you have done. Thank you for imparting your knowledge and granting me a second chance at life." I promise to make you proud and fulfill your wishes. I vow to meet you in the Kingdom of Han in the future. Please accept my respect." Tian paid his respects by prostrating himself three times before Gyu and Gwei. "Come here, my son," Gwei said, embracing Tian. "Stay strong, follow your path, and keep your heart steadfast. Remember that every effort you put forth will yield results. This is a gift from us to you." Gwei handed Tian a storage bag and continued, "Take good care of it. Inside, you'll find some small gifts." He then presented a token to Tian, saying, "Keep this token as a reminder. When the day comes for you to visit the Kingdom of Han, return it to us. It will always connect you to us." "Thank you, Masters, for everything," Tian replied with gratitude. Gyu also handed Tian two books and a small sword. "This sword is now yours, and within this book lies the knowledge of a Black-level sword technique. Study it hard. The other book contains advanced techniques and punches. Given your intelligence, I believe you can develop these Bronze-level techniques to even greater heights." Tian accepted these gifts from his masters with gratitude. "Take care of yourself, my son. Always remember, you have a place to call home with us." And with heartfelt farewells, Gyu and Gwei left Tian. Tian began to enter the Red Forest to start his training. After Master Gyu and Master Gwei left, Tian has been training in this forest to hone his instincts. Apart from honing his instincts, Tian also honed the skills on how to survive. Tian had been told that before he successfully opened his dantian, he could only live on the edge of the Red Forest because the center was inhabited by spirit animals and fierce beasts. Beasts themselves were also divided into several levels or realms, and their realm of strength was almost the same as the realm of cultivators. Beast realms were also divided into nine stages, and also started from the lowest level of Black Realm to the highest leve of Immortal Realm. Upon arriving at the edge of the Red Forest, Tian heard a suspicious sound from the direction of the bushes. Tian's five senses suddenly became sensitive. Tian walked warily, and after only taking a few steps, a beast appeared from behind him. It ran quickly, trying to pounce on Tian. Tian reflexively avoided, jumped, and rolled to his right. Just as he was about to get up, he felt the danger coming at him from behind again. Tian rolled again and jumped forward. After there was some distance between Tian and the beast, Tian could clearly see the beasts in front of him. They were two young beasts, which seemed to be still learning how to hunt preys. Perhaps if they were adult beasts, Tian would have been killed by them already. Tian who didn't have any experience in dealing with this situation subconsciously moved back and ran. The two beasts chased after him, flanking him from behind both on the right and left. Tian dodged again quickly when he felt an attack from his right. Tian turned his head and saw the beast on his right jumping towards him, trying to tear his body with its claws. Tian was forced to jump to avoid being attacked by the beast. He managed to avoid it. Tian then felt an attack coming from his left. Tian ducked to avoid the claws that were trying to hit his head. Then as fast as lightning, Tian tried to run in the opposite direction. Scared and unexperienced, Tian was currently only following his instincts. The intelligent Tian disappeared, replaced by a Tian who was frightened and running for his life. His fear even made him forget what he had learned. With cold sweat dripping all over his body, Tian ran in no particular direction to avoid the two predators. By now, Tian still hadn’t realized that he had managed to avoid these two beasts again and again. His body moved naturally and avoided reflexively based on the sensitivity of his five senses. And without his realizing it, Tian had begun to develop sharp instincts. However, just as the attack and dodge game continued, one of the beasts finally succeeded in landing a cut on Tian's left shoulder and cornered him against a large tree. Blood dripped from Tian’s shoulder. The two beasts quickly blocked Tian's escape path, preparing to start their final attack. Feeling cornered and unable to escape, Tian subconsciously glared at his potential predator. Tian was panting with sweat the size of corn dripping from his face. The blood flow felt like it was flowing rapidly to his brain, and breaking through the cells and nerves in his brain. Suddenly, his body responded to impulse signals from the brain working in his subconscious mind which ordered his body to form a self-defense stance. Yes, his survival instinct grew and subconsciously took control. Meanwhile, the two impatient beasts jumped while opening their jaws ready to pounce on Tian's body. When Tian and the two predators were only half a step apart, Tian reflexively lowered his body slightly and his right hand automatically hit the jaw of the beast on the right. After that, Tian did a spinning kick towards the beast on the left. BOOM! Tian’s punches and kicks came in hard which made the attacks of the two beasts fail completely. The two beasts fell backwards and hit the tree. BOOM! BOOM! The sound of the two beasts hitting the big tree vibrated at the same time. And this brought Tian back to full consciousness. Tian grinned excitedly. Although feeling exhausted, Tian had now started to control his fear and was able to think clearly. Tian quickly climbed high up a towering tree, and took out the sword Master Gyu had given him. While sitting on a branch high above the ground, Tian made a big hole the size of himself. Yes, Tian apparently made a resting place for him in the tree. Meanwhile, the two beasts that had previously tried to climb the tree apparently failed to follow Tian's footsteps. The two beasts then attacked blindly towards the tree trunk, but unfortunately the tree trunk was quite hard, making it difficult for them, plus both of them were exhausted after chasing Tian all day. Finally, both of them left Tian. Then Tian entered the tree hole. Due to exhaustion, Tian finally fell asleep. "Just wait, I'll deal with you stvpid beasts later." Tian frowned and promised in his dreams, as the pain from the wounds continued to haunt him. Feeling a sharp pain in his shoulder, Tian jolted awoke. He sat up and retrieved his storage pouch. A smile formed on his face as he looked inside. It turned out that Master Gwei had provided him with a variety of herbs. It seemed that Master Gwei had anticipated what Tian would go through during his training. Tian took out a healing ointment and applied it to his shoulder wound. The pain quickly subsided, and the open wounds healed rapidly. Next, Tian grabbed a piece of dry bread and ate it hungrily. After satisfying his hunger, he examined the contents of his storage pouch once more. Inside, he found two sets of acupuncture needles, more healing ointment, a tool for concocting medicine, various medicinal plants, a basket of bread, some dried meat slices, and two leather pouches filled with water. Additionally, there were several books on medicine preparation and pill refinement techniques. Tian placed all these items back into his storage pouch. He assumed a seated position and began meditating, attempting to align his body and mind. Tian reflected on the events of the previous day, recalling his near-death experience and his own shortcomings. He recognized his own foolishness, fear, and lack of self-confidence. Now, Tian resumed his training with newfound confidence. He realized that his survival the previous day was not solely due to luck but a result of the training he had undergone. Tian could evade, flee, and even fight back, showcasing his physical strength. During that critical moment, he had relied solely on his instincts. Tian began his physical training once again, just as he always did. He trained in an open area, ready to anticipate attacks from the beast creatures. After a short while of training, Tian heard distant sounds. He looked and saw the two beasts that had attacked him the previous day. Tian grinned, saying, "My training partners have returned at last." Without wasting time, the two beasts charged toward Tian from different directions, prepared to pounce. However, this time, Tian was ready to face them head-on. As the two beasts closed in, Tian leaped and counterattacked both of them, landing several blows on each. Receiving this unexpected counterattack infuriated the two beasts, and they blindly pursued Tian, who intentionally fled to enhance his speed and agility. Tian ran toward the trees, employing zigzag movements to dodge their attacks repeatedly. His evasive maneuvers frustrated and further enraged the two beasts. In addition to running and evading, Tian occasionally launched counterattacks, successfully landing multiple punches and kicks. For half a day, Tian engaged in a fierce battle with the two beasts, culminating in their retreat due to numerous bruises and injuries. Tian remained uninjured, his breathing steady and regular. Tian chose not to finish off the two beasts, at least not yet. He lacked the confidence to do so. After the two beasts fled, Tian began to explore his living area, scouting within a 300-meter radius. He recalled a book he had read about battle strategy, emphasizing that in a battle, understanding one's opponent and the terrain would greatly increase the chances of victory. One month passed, and Tian had gained a good understanding of the terrain and the beasts within his territory. He made these beasts his daily training targets, and occasionally, he was counterattacked by groups of beasts. Tian had begun to use his experiences as valuable lessons. Thanks to this, his childish behavior gradually disappeared, and he matured quickly. Three full moons passed without notice. Tian's physical condition had improved significantly. Besides his physical training, the nutrients from the beast meat he consumed and the medicinal herbs he took for muscle and bone strengthening contributed to his growth. His body no longer resembled that of a typical child his age. Six months had elapsed, and Tian felt that his body was in optimal condition for opening his dantian. Through several life-or-death battles with the local beasts, he had sensed that the barrier covering his dantian had become thinner. He believed that soon enough, he would open it naturally, without force. Tian had no intention of following the usual methods described in books for dantian opening. He planned to take a different path and open his dantian as naturally as possible. To achieve this, he intended to use the fire-elemental beast core as the foundation. His goal was clear: to fulfill his dream of becoming a true alchemist. Alchemists used fire as their "weapon" in the pill refinement process. From his experiments, Tian hoped that his dantian would be more receptive to the fire element's Qi, leading to a transformation of his dantian into one imbued with the fire element. Tian found himself inside the cave of a Fire Tiger beast, which he had managed to defeat after a long and exhausting battle. Tian retrieved the Fire Tiger beast's core and, after a moment of composure, began absorbing the Qi from it. Gradually, red Qi flowed into his body, penetrating his dantian effortlessly. His dantian, which had been empty and the size of a marble, expanded to the size of a ping pong ball as it was filled with the fiery Qi. Slowly, it continued to expand until it reached its maximum size, glowing with a bright red hue. As the primary dantian absorbed the fire Qi, it, in turn, distributed energy to every major meridian in his body. "BOOM!" An explosion of energy emanated from Tian's body, signifying the successful opening of his dantian. "Hahaha... it worked! My experiment succeeds!" Tian exclaimed joyfully. While most cultivators had yellow, marble-sized dantians, Tian's was different. It was bright red, the size of a ping pong ball, and had dots of fire essence within it. Moreover, his meridians had expanded, providing larger storage and better circulation for his inner energy. "One experiment down!" Three years had passed since Tian had been living in the Red Forest. Currently, he resided in the deepest region of the forest, known for being inhabited by Mid and High-level Martial Realm beasts. The central area of the Red Forest was dominated by Earth-level and Earth King-level beasts. Living in the forest had heightened Tian's sensory perception and instincts. He had finished off dozens of Low and Mid-level Martial Realm beasts, gaining various benefits from their carcasses. Tian obtained body parts such as gallbladders, claws, bones, and hearts from these beasts, which he dried and turned into powders for medicinal use. The elemental cores of the beasts, comprised of various elements, were stored for refining pills. Their meat provided Tian with sustenance, as it was rich in Qi and nutrients, making it ideal for cultivators. Tian also improved his medical skills during this time. He practiced herbal medicine, acupuncture, and even surgical techniques. Surprisingly, he found that the meridians of animals and humans were fundamentally similar, differing only in their positions. Currently, Tian was in the Mid-level Martial Realm, but his bones had already reached the Gold level. He didn't rush to advance his cultivation realm further. Tian intended for his cultivation to progress naturally, aligned with the foundation of his body. Balanced cultivation offered significant advantages in terms of strength release. Tian could still hold his own against Higher-level beasts due to his balanced approach. He trained his physical body diligently with weights adjusted to his level, consuming both beast meat and medicinal herbs to elevate his bones to the Gold level. In terms of alchemy, Tian had limited knowledge and could only create basic pills. However, these pills, the product of his own experimentation, maintained their healing properties, albeit at varying levels of effectiveness. Tian's approach to medicine differed from the norm. He dried medicinal plants using his own Qi, preserving their potency. Only after this process did he shape them into pills. He gained the confidence to create more pills after repeated comparisons and experiments. Living in the forest for three years provided Tian with a wealth of experiences that he wouldn't have acquired in a conventional life. Although the Red Forest followed the law of the jungle, Tian adhered to his own principles. He didn't provoke or attack beasts unprovoked. However, if being attacked first, he didn't hesitate to engage in a life-and-death battle. Over time, the forest's inhabitants indirectly accepted his presence. While Martial Realm beasts lacked high intelligence, they possessed strong instincts. Tian's frequent battles and assistance to injured beasts in the forest had established his reputation. Even though the beasts lacked high intelligence, they remembered his acts of kindness. The wounded beasts he helped would sometimes visit his cave to leave freshly hunted prey as a form of gratitude. As a result, Tian wasn't surprised when he occasionally found fresh animal carcasses outside his cave after waking up from meditation. While Tian was conducting physical training in his cave, he sensed a gathering of beasts not far from the cave's entrance. Their auras indicated that they were Martial Realm beasts, but Tian's instincts detected no hostile intent. "What do they want?" Tian wondered. He focused his kilIing intent on the beasts, but they remained still, showing no signs of aggression. Curiosity piqued, Tian emerged from his cave. There were twelve silver wolves standing about twenty meters from the cave's entrance. Tian recognized this pack of silver wolves. They controlled the southern territory near his dwelling. Some time ago, Tian had saved a young injured silver wolf from another beast's attack. Tian simply stood there, observing the pack. He didn't know how to communicate with them. Soon, two Martial Realm silver wolves cautiously approached Tian, but they showed no intent to attack. Tian felt slightly uneasy as he wasn't confident in facing two Martial Realm beasts simultaneously. However, the wolves didn't display any aggression, and their Martial Realm auras remained concealed. Tian decided to observe further. The two wolves nodded their heads, and Tian returned the gesture. One of them slowly approached Tian and then lay down about a meter in front of him. The pack's leader, who was behind the two wolves, followed suit, lying down as well. The other ten wolves did the same. Tian understood that they were requesting his assistance. He carefully approached the injured wolf and examined its hind leg, discovering a wound from a venomous fire cobra's bite. "It's a bite from a fire cobra," Tian muttered. Using his acupuncture needles, Tian applied several needles around the wound, and then he drew his sword. Before proceeding, Tian glanced at the wolf, saying, "You may not understand what I'm saying, but at least I'm telling you that I'm going to cut your wound with this sword." "Hopefully, the beast understands," Tian thought. The wolf nodded. Tian proceeded to make an incision on the wound. Initially, black blood flowed out, but after a while, it turned red. Tian quickly applied medicinal herbs to stop the bleeding and let the wound heal. He also removed the acupuncture needles, which had served to numb the area. Tian took out three pills from his storage pouch and placed them on a leaf. "Eat these," Tian said. The wolf saw the three pill-sized objects and consumed them without hesitation. Soon, its aura, which had been Martial Realm-level, changed. Initially red, it slowly merged with the silver aura, ultimately settling down and stabilizing. The pills Tian had given were dantian-cleansing pills that he had created. Their purpose was to cleanse the dantian. Besides poisoning their victims, fire cobras, like the fire elementals, released Qi that disrupted their victims' dantian flow, leading to a decrease in cultivation level or even the destruction of the dantian. The wolf stood up abruptly and distanced itself from Tian and the rest of the pack. Suddenly, its Martial Realm aura flared, and it let out a long howl. A silver bolt of lightning struck the silver wolf. Tian and the other wolves were sent flying backward from the shockwave as the wolf's aura transformed. "Earth-level!" The silver wolf beast had just ascended to a higer Realm! | LEARN_MORE | https://herfv.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=18712&u | Fantasy Hero Country | https://www.facebook.com/61561117201220/ | 2,314 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | herfv.com | VIDEO | https://herfv.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=18712&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/t39.35426-6/481255492_618549764104055_3975758122070824789_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bkBCSr7gvJ8Q7kNvgHE-pzT&_nc_oc=AdgiqA0l_oh-pvZg7vytwwSfxCcmbwDT0lQKlfFC1g7Tv-bQgFMOuiADTHqkQsMAXRZAt7VUCSLmrz0NOTHScw54&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A-vuDDKvfrUR1G3X0q-EqXy&oh=00_AYAIfOe5dlaAwxdvCFBLJnjrUUYlZC5JuLQSg6l5wmQamg&oe=67CC3BD4 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fantasy Hero Country | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 18:27 | active | 2789 | 0 | Were you born in March? 🥑🍅 | Were you born in March? A surprise might be waiting for you! 🥑🍅 | APPLY_NOW | https://rewardstester.com/pubo/?ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad | Amazing Deals | https://www.facebook.com/100090843744513/ | 515 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Apply now | 0 | rewardstester.com | VIDEO | https://rewardstester.com/pubo/?ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&source={{site_source_name}}&placement={{placement}}&cpid=5397eb14-590c-4b2f-a38b-8cbf96ab6d78&lpid=7047faff-788d-4e1a-b837-20163b9e9eba | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481327666_1188160862669652_8441072666658502712_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qTC5MAzzAkEQ7kNvgHFf0-Z&_nc_oc=Adh30eVKl_hwFyzUHzO0gDNxl2HlTsyr-Htigw6D8omatka504_CeO3JbhimDzsUwRsMzbuazQlkxK71HipqW63M&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWvPnoDk3R8G5Vmi4KqMx0q&oh=00_AYCvJ7nGZdStA24C1RIsD7oSbEFS_NoC1C9ot--ennZGCQ&oe=67CC1CDE | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Amazing Deals | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 18:54 | active | 2790 | 0 |
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Call for Entry Open - National Photography Show | The Louisville (Colorado) Art Association announces the 2025 National Photography Show: Enter by midnight March 31. Over $6000 in cash and prizes in 8 categories. Click Learn More button for further details and prospectus. | LEARN_MORE | https://louisvilleartassociation.org/2025-nps-show | Louisville Art Association | https://www.facebook.com/LouisvilleArtAssociation/ | 1,188 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | tinyurl.com/LAA2025NPS | DCO | {{product.description}} | https://louisvilleartassociation.org/2025-nps-show/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481242957_2346421912410185_519640836178532774_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jyya_W8uNeoQ7kNvgGPI_TE&_nc_oc=Adj8qLYKkJi2gXeNthpwMmXjSGpDbAMfhwkax65POMybukbfcT81AEdv2kGEJlNd4ZMEm02MZDinze47GJU6x1Wm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AwdGlft5VNuhwNv6Oc3N4uM&oh=00_AYAJygmU4jW3ijpfVNa-tKVytZbtzESaZfYGbjzYyBHccg&oe=67CC0799 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Louisville Art Association | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 18:27 | active | 2789 | 0 |
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SHITI Coolers X Rock The Country | 🚨SIGN UP for a chance to WIN 2X VIP Tickets & $1,500 for travel expenses to Rock the Country Music Festival in Anderson, South Carolina on July 25th - 26th 2025! Plus, receive 2X SHITI Coolers of choice!🧊 The weekend of the summer could start right now…so do ya feel lucky?😏 Click here to Enter: https://shiticoolers.com/pages/ticket-giveaway *Winner Announced June 2025! Cheers & Good Luck!🍻 | LEARN_MORE | https://shiticoolers.com/pages/ticket-giveaway | SHITI Coolers | https://www.facebook.com/shiticoolers/ | 346,550 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | shiticoolers.com | IMAGE | https://shiticoolers.com/pages/ticket-giveaway | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481210250_497083423261349_2654694720953307886_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4nHkX23sevwQ7kNvgGtZNy-&_nc_oc=AdhQnh3OmvdDWAaq15lTUTVjL2PR144AwSufGvEwxE6w2e0usxm5419GlhsEb9p9Sglu-loNjFRwM71LuMtMA9qF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AFWClLJc6yM80p6A5UAM5Ed&oh=00_AYDR4WJjUhEdQP_o6L-Q4u9O7xQiwJuwRy3G-tx3woE7OA&oe=67CC1C6D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | SHITI Coolers | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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ここをクリックして無料でお読みください！ | 高橋優子が末期癌と診断されたその日、夫の佐藤峻介は、初恋の相手の子供の世話をしていた。 ... 病院で、中村悠斗が渋い顔で言った。「優子さん、手術が成功すれば、生存率は15%から30%になる。」 優子はかばんのひもを細い指でぎゅっと握りしめ、青ざめた小さな顔に深い陰りを浮かべていた。 「先輩、もし手術を受けなければ、どのくらい生きられるの？」 「半年から1年ぐらい。」 優子は唇をぎゅっと噛みしめ、やっと言葉を吐き出した。「先輩、このことは秘密にしてちょうだい。家族を心配させたくないの。」 高橋家はすでに破産しており、優子は父親の医療費を工面するだけでも精一杯だった。 悠斗は諦めたように言った。「口外しないよ。でも、結婚していると聞いた。旦那さん――」 「お父さんのことはお願いね。もう行かないと。」優子は夫の話題を避けるように、早々にその場を立ち去った。 父親の治療が始まってからの2年間、夫である佐藤峻介は一度も姿を見せたことがなかった。彼女が倒れて通行人に病院へ運ばれた時でさえもだ。 かつては彼も優子を大切にしていた。だが、初恋の相手である松本里美が妊娠した状態で帰国してから、すべてが変わった。 優子もかつて妊娠していたことがあった。ある日、湖で松本里美とともに落水した時、必死にもがきながら、彼が里美に向かって泳いでいく姿を見た。 後、里美は無事に子どもを産んだ。でも優子は母親になる機会を奪われた。 7日後、峻介は離婚を求めたが、彼女は拒否した。 だが、病気のことを知った今、彼女は震える手で彼の電話をかけた。 3回目のコールでつながると、彼の冷たい声が聞こえてきた。「離婚以外の用件なら、お前に会う気はない。」 優子は涙をこらえ、癌の話を切り出すことができなかった。すると電話の向こうから里美の声が聞こえてきた。「峻介君、そろそろ赤ちゃんの定期検査よ。」 その瞬間、こらえていた涙が一気に溢れ出した。すべてを終わらせる時が来たのだ。 優子はこ震える声で、絞り出すようにぽつりと呟いた。「峻介……もう、離婚しよう。」 峻介は一瞬、驚いたようだったが、冷笑して言った。「優子、今度はどんな手を使うつもりだ？」 「家で待ってるから。」 峻介は、電話が突然切られた後、呆然とスマホを見つめていた。 一年間拒否し続けてきた優子が、なぜ今急に同意したのだろう？ 彼女に会いに行くことを決めた。 「峻介、どこに行くのよ？」里美が子どもを抱えながら追いかけてきた。 しかし、彼は何も言わず立ち去った。その瞬間、里美の優しい表情はみるみるうちに恐ろしいほど暗くなった。 あの女……また何か仕掛けてきたわね！ 玄関のドアが開いたとき、優子はテーブルのそばに立っているスーツを着た背が高い男性を見た。整った顔立ちは氷のように冷たく、その暗い瞳には優子への軽蔑が浮かんでいた。 「どこに行ってたんだ？」峻介が冷たく尋ねた。 「そんなことはいつから気にするの？」 「離婚届にサインしてもらう必要がある。」 その言葉は鋭い針のように彼女の心を刺した。濡れた体を引きずりながら、彼女はカバンから書類を静かに取り出した。 「心配する必要がない。もうサイン済みだ。」 彼女が書類をテーブルの上に置いたとき、峻介は「離婚」という二文字がこれほどまでに不愉快に思えたことはなかった。優子が唯一要求したのは、2億円の慰謝料だった。 「どうして急に同意したのかと思ったら、結局金のためか。」彼の顔が嘲笑を浮かべた。 かつてなら、自分を弁護するかもしれない。でも、今彼女はただ静かに言った。「本来なら、佐藤さんの資産の半分を請求する権利があるわ。でも、私は2億円しか要求しなかった。これでも、まだ情けをかけてるつもりよ。」 峻介は一歩前に進み、長い影が優子を覆った。彼は彼女の顎を細長い指で掴み、冷たい声で言った。「今、何て呼んだ？」 「佐藤さん、もしこの呼び方が嫌なら、元夫と呼び直してもいいわよ。さあ、書類にサインして帰ってもらっていい？」 彼は不愉快そうな顔をした。「ここは俺の家だ。出て行けと言う権利はお前にはあるかい。」 優子は皮肉げに微笑み、言った。「確かに、その権利はないわ。でも、安心して、佐藤さん。離婚証明書を受け取ったら、すぐに出て行く。」 また、彼の手を振り払い、冷たい目で彼を見つめた。「明日の朝9時、市役所で書類を持ってきてください。」 翌朝、日の出前には優子は出発しようとした時、病院から電話がかかってきた。「高橋さん、お父さんが心臓発作を起こしました。」 「えっ？すぐ向かいます！」 病院に到着すると、手術はまだ続いていた。 今、唯一の希望は父が健康で生き続けることだけだった。 看護師が手術費用の請求書を手渡してきた。総額は300万円以上。 でも、以前支払った入院費で残金はたったの10万円。どうしても足りなかった。 仕方なく、峻介に電話をかけた。 冷たい声が聞こえる。「どこだ？もう30分待っている。」 「急なことがあって――」 「優子、これでおもしろい？」峻介が鼻で笑う。「どうせまた嘘をついているんだろう？」 そんな！ 「嘘じゃない！父が心臓発作を起こして手術が必要なの！――」 「それで、死んだのか？」峻介が遮った。 その言葉に、優子は耳を疑った。そんな言い方する人がいるのか？ 「いいえ！峻介、手術費が300万円以上かかるの。だから慰謝料を先に振り込んでくれない？必ず離婚するから！」 「優子、俺が誰よりも君の父親の死を望んでいることを理解しているよな。金を渡すのはいいだろう、でも手続きが終わった後にだ。」 それだけ言うと、電話は切られた。 優子の顔には困惑が浮かんでいた。かつて彼は父に対して敬意を払っていたはずだった。しかし、今の彼の声には本気の憎しみが滲んでいた。 なぜだ？ 2年前の高橋家の破産と結びつけて考えると、偶然の出来事とは思えなくなってきた。 もうしかして、峻介が裏で何かを仕掛けたのだ。しかし、実家は一体どうやって彼を怒らせてしまったのだろう？ 今、考え込む余裕もなく、父の治療費を何とかするのが最優先だった。 手術室の扉が開いた。「先生？」 「髙橋さん、お父様はなんとか持ちこたえました。」 優子はようやく胸を撫で下ろした。 介護人に父を任せ、市役所に急いだが、峻介はどこにもなかった。 焦て電話をかける。「市役所に着いたわ。どこにいるの？」 「事務室だ。」 「今すぐ離婚手続きを済ませに来てくれない？」 峻介は薄く笑って言った。「数億円の契約とお前、どっちが大事だと思う？」 「終わるまで待つから……峻介、お願い、今父はお金が必要なの。」 「もし死んだら、葬式代を出してやるよ。」それだけ言うと、彼は電話を切った。 再び電話をかけたが、すでに電源が切られた。 優子は息が詰まるような感覚に襲われた。 彼女はあっという間に全てを失ってしまった。 今、優子が持っている唯一の価値あるものは、結婚指輪だけだった。 彼女は指輪を外し、高級宝飾店に足を踏み入れた。 「お客様、購入時の領収書と証明書はお持ちですか？」 「はい。」優子は急いで書類を差し出した。 「ありがとうございます。指輪は検査に出す必要があるので、明日またご連絡させていただけますか。」 優子は切迫した声で言った。「急いでいるんです。今日中にお願いします。」 「はい。」店員が指輪を持ち去ろうとしたその時、ある白くて繊細な手が指輪ケースを押さえた。 「この指輪、とても素敵ね。私が買うわ。」 顔を上げた優子の目に飛び込んできたのは、彼女がこの世で最も憎んでいる人物――松本里美だった | LEARN_MORE | https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&ut | 女の子が読みたい小説を大特集 | https://www.facebook.com/61559954921868/ | 147 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | heplk.com | IMAGE | https://heplk.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13074&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/t39.35426-6/477825894_1733973270505282_3900042300874171182_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MSuSdpfhDvAQ7kNvgGvqFjJ&_nc_oc=AdjuSQIBd6caJKZ55K_JTl5CKKNGKziBIsDIRhsbZHqqFvDtpzCiAN1O8rnxaf5T24cYmmrcQFHsoTitZWAp6x6S&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AIJPo18Wsd3-Xx70P7XyDnW&oh=00_AYAmXRO8qh_Q8fUjaL-qdiZA5Lp8M1trs6GlDuogwkXcRQ&oe=67CC241F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | 女の子が読みたい小説を大特集 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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NO_BUTTON | TNT -The Nashville Tournament Baseball | https://www.facebook.com/61562323016943/ | 11 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | No button | 0 | IMAGE | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481572575_1361253378379229_616487347757426550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9WuwskOvpQYQ7kNvgGY-PIZ&_nc_oc=AdjrQqQ9U51xmSWpYYB9EnhI7uCPLk_aQZtjYcR6lf1_yobjMLpoyRRfJigOEZq4C0jKrnqUc0d4olidD_-1dG7e&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AC7AusyXIUo6eqfE-zcL5P9&oh=00_AYD2JTUQUnxfTd6-qL4U4gZcjTiMkvdHyIqYgp4oQC2zsQ&oe=67CC2D8E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | TNT -The Nashville Tournament Baseball | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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LEARN_MORE | http://www.rainierorealty.com/ | Rainiero Realty + Design | https://www.facebook.com/61573505043422/ | 3 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | rainierorealty.com | CAROUSEL | http://www.rainierorealty.com/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481925646_9645827005476666_8720883592648971372_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6SqRbO8e0V8Q7kNvgEfbFPr&_nc_oc=AdiUmJ60nqck5wXmmFXf6Z_ep-YmDG4iudNTBayAm5wojgotfnhqTBBw9q9AmxNp1vNoNvS1VGLvYXTyo6mRqh7-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ACG5Mx_e6n87BO6TYPLBBVs&oh=00_AYB2cyp3-Dwi_SQjXifyfxmOFV9N2MSdi3CMCa915dIVGw&oe=67CC1108 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Rainiero Realty + Design | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2025-03-03 19:09 | active | 2791 | 0 | 🔥🔥Click to read the next chapter for free👉 | "Can you share Nash’s contact info with me?" The girl who was well-known around campus lightly poked my arm. Near the classroom window, a figure came into view. It was 17-year-old Nash Xander. I suddenly snapped back to my senses, clutching my chest and gasping for breath. "What's the matter with you?" The person who poked me was my desk mate, Yvonne Quinn, who had just transferred here a week ago and was crowned as the most beautiful girl on campus. In my previous life, she had been just as carefree and self-assured, declaring, "Give me his contact info, and I'll have him in a week." Back then, I had dismissed it as mere boasting. But that very evening, I witnessed her seated on the table, sharing a kiss with Nash. The plaster statue that should have been on the table tumbled to the ground, breaking into pieces. I was reborn! I found myself transported back to a time when tragedies hadn’t unfolded yet. I clenched my hands, battling to suppress the quiver in my voice. "Sure, I'll send you on WhatsApp." In my previous life, I hadn't given her Nash’s contact info, and she had held a grudge against me for quite a while. After a straightforward operation on my phone, I set it aside. "Alright, if there’s nothing else, I should get back to my studies." Yvonne added Nash on WhatsApp while inquiring, "Studying again? Aren't you curious why I said I wanted to win him over? Aren't you secretly infatuated with him?" My heart constricted. At the age of seventeen, I had made two grave mistakes. First, I harbored a secret affection for Nash but lacked the courage to confess it. Second, I reported his relationship with Yvonne, which resulted in him being sent abroad. Thus, he held a deep-seated grudge against me, a hatred that endured for eight long years. He was even willing to destroy me, all to exact revenge for what had transpired back then. Recalling that humiliating night, a wave of nausea washed over me. "No, you've got it all wrong. I've never secretly crushed on him," I asserted, raising my head and locking eyes with Yvonne, my expression deadly serious. My earnest response caught Yvonne off guard, and she slyly curled her lips. "Well, now that you've said that, I can breathe easy. I wasn't sure how to tell you about me and Nash, afraid it might upset you." In my previous life, Yvonne had displayed the same audacious confidence. Yvonne was stunning, possessing a well-proportioned, tall frame, flawless fair skin, and striking facial features that radiated even without makeup. Among our rather ordinary-looking group of students, she was the most dazzling rose. Yvonne had earned the moniker of a "campus heartbreaker" – she had dated practically every good-looking guy in the school. Her personality matched her appearance, passionate and outgoing. While others anxiously studied for exams, she was drinking, partying, and skipping classes. She didn't fit the mold of a conventional "good girl." However, for those who didn’t dare to defy conventions, she exuded a deadly allure. Nash was one of those who couldn't resist her charm. I recalled the moments just before my death in my previous life. I gripped the cuff of Nash’s white shirt, telling him, "Nash, you shouldn't treat me like this, even if you despise me. Seeking revenge in this manner isn't right." As his cuff slipped from my grasp, my arm bore permanent scars from smoke burns and a curling iron. Nash peered down at me with a patronizing smirk. "So, what's your suggestion then? If it weren't for you, Yvonne wouldn't have married someone else, and she wouldn't have met her end in that underground clinic." "You played a part in her demise, and yet, you have the nerve to ask for my forgiveness?" "Wendy Carter, you're incredibly naive." Yes, in my previous life, I had confided in Mr. and Mrs. Xander about Nashi's relationship with Yvonne. It led to Nash being forced to go abroad, while Yvonne, entangled in a love affair, failed SAT. She graduated shortly after and became involved with a punk. She became conceived out of wedlock, and her boyfriend abandoned her, with her parents also neglecting her. In desperation, Yvonne sought a surgery at an underground clinic but didn't survive the procedure. Nash firmly believed that if I hadn't disclosed their relationship to his parents, he wouldn't have left the country, and Yvonne wouldn't have met her tragic end. I was the root cause of it all. I smiled warmly and offered my best wishes, saying, "That's wonderful! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and love." Yvonne glanced at me with a hint of puzzlement but remained silent. As time passed, Nash and Yvonne carried on their secret romance. They were just like any other couple, skipping classes to catch movies, adorning their ears with flashy jewelry, sharing kisses on the Ferris wheel, and racing through the streets on motorcycles. Yvonne was introducing Nash to all the experiences he had missed in his previous life. Their carefree existence didn't quite fit the mold of typical students. Perhaps they had forgotten that they were still in school. I observed it all from a distance, choosing not to be silly enough to report them to Mr. and Mrs. Xander. I had a busy schedule preparing for SAT. In my previous life, under Nash’s influence, I had enrolled in the same high school as him and pursued an art major. I had even resolved to specialize in the same field as Nash, willingly becoming his shadow. However, things were different now. I had decided to switch from being an art student to a regular one. I was preparing to take SAT and carve out my own path. Chapter 0002 This path was undeniably challenging, but regardless of how tough it might get, I was determined to give it a shot. I had faith in myself! I overheard Yvonne boasting to someone, "Oh, come on, Nash is just a guy others hype up. In reality, he doesn't know anything; he's just a bit of an art geek. "On that note, if it weren't for the fact that he's participated in so many competitions, his reputation, and the fact that he's reasonably good-looking, who would be willing to be with him?" A fellow classmate chimed in, "Cut it out, Yvonne. If you're going to brag, at least be realistic. He's a top student. Do you really think he'd be interested in you? You're probably just a fun distraction for him because you have the reputation of being a campus hottie." Yvonne snorted, "You guys are just jealous. Who cares if he's a top student? I can win him over anytime. "To prove whether he's genuinely interested in me or not, that's simple. Just wait and see." The classmate added, "I heard he's about to participate in an international art competition. If you're as talented as you claim, why don't you try to stop him from going?" I sat right beside her, fully aware of how crucial this competition was for Nash and how much effort he had invested in it. As expected, even without my interference, the pivotal moments from my previous life were unfolding once again. In my previous life, I knew that Yvonne was dating Nash casually. I tried dropping hints to Nash a few times, but he always believed I was trying to stir trouble and ruin their relationship. So, after much hesitation, I chose to inform his parents. Due to their intervention, things escalated significantly. Nash and Yvonne were compelled to break up. Nash's mother kept a watchful eye on him during the competition, but due to his less-than-optimal condition, he missed out on the first-place prize. Not long after, his parents sent him overseas. He harbored a grudge against me for many years, a grudge so deep that he was willing to destroy me in that manner. As I regained my composure, Yvonne was already standing directly in front of me. She casually rested her arm on my shoulder and asked, "Wendy, you're not going to rat us out, are you?" I lowered my head, opened my book, and made a solemn promise, "Don't worry, I didn't catch a word of it." In my previous life, Nash himself imparted a lesson to me: to let go of playing the hero and to respect the destinies of others. The first time I encountered Nash after my rebirth was right at my doorstep. It marked our initial meeting since my reincarnation. Reflecting on his actions towards me in my prior life, my palms couldn't help but break out in a cold sweat. I suppressed my revulsion and glanced down. Empty cans were scattered on the ground, and he still held an unfinished beer can in his hand. When he noticed me, he swiftly rose from the ground, his eyes bloodshot, and he clutched my shoulder. "Wendy, aren't you in the same class as Yvonne? Could you do me a favor and get in touch with her? She wants to break up with me. "I can't bear to let her go. She doesn't like me drawing, and I can give up drawing. Please convey to her that I'll stop drawing. Can you do that for me? "I'm really out of options. I love her, and I can't bear to lose her. I'm willing to sacrifice anything for her." I silently gazed at the disheveled young man before me, reeking of wine. He had lost the radiance he once had. He appeared different from the Nash I remembered. His hands had always been well-proportioned and well-kept; he cherished them dearly. He once said he was grateful to the heavens for blessing him with hands capable of crafting captivating works of art. He took great pleasure in the process of turning landscapes and people into art with his adept touch. However, now his hands, once meticulously maintained, were smeared with dirt, and yet, he remained oblivious to it all. In his eyes, no one could hold a candle to Yvonne anymore. I couldn't help but shake my head. Indeed, the unattainable Nash that I used to admire could only exist in memories; even if the actual Nash himself were to appear now, it wouldn’t work. Chapter 0003 "Wendy, why aren't you speaking? Are you willing to help me or not?" Seeing Nash's hopeful expression, I pulled out my phone and dialed Yvonne's number. Willing? Of course, why wouldn't I be? How else would I get to witness this drama unfold? "Yvonne, Nash has passed out drunk at my doorstep, shouting your name. Can you come over for a moment?" Nash stared anxiously at the phone, barely taking a breath. Yvonne chuckled and asked me, "What does it have to do with me if he's passed out at your doorstep? You must have called the wrong person." Nash's face grew even paler by the moment. These two couldn't break up, so I immediately stepped in. "Yvonne, did you two have an argument? Couples don't break up after just one fight. Why not hear Nash out or let him apologize to you? Yvonne scoffed, "Apologize? There's no need for an apology. If you want me to stay with him, ask him if he's truly willing to do anything for me." I switched on the speakerphone, and as soon as Nash heard Yvonne say that, he immediately nodded in a panic. "Yes, Yvonne, I'm willing to do anything for you. I'm sorry, it's my fault for making you upset." Yvonne appeared satisfied, "Good then. In that case, don't go to the competition." After that, she abruptly hung up the phone. Nash stared at my phone in bewilderment. I observed Nash, curious to see how he would choose in this life without my intervention. Nash stood there, rigid and with his head bowed. I understood that matters of love and dreams could be quite complex. After a while, he lifted his head with a bitter smile and asked, "Wendy, does giving up the competition prove how important she is to me?" He posed the question to me, but I sensed he already knew the answer in his heart. I didn't have much to add, considering my previous life's experiences. I watched as his despondent figure slowly receded from view, step by step. Indeed, Nash didn't participate in the competition due to an injury on his hand. Something must have happened after leaving my place, as a substantial abrasion had appeared on the back of his hand. Even the slightest movement caused it to bleed. I couldn't help but admire the power of love, driving him to self-sacrifice to honor his promise to his girlfriend. Their reconciliation was nothing short of a miracle. They walked home hand in hand, enjoying sweet and happy moments every day. Nash no longer displayed the despair of that night; instead, his eyes radiated tenderness and affection for the girl at his side. As they strolled past the alley they used to take on their way home, Yvonne exhaled the smoke slowly into Nash's face. He lovingly caressed her hair, then leaned in to kiss her deeply. He placed his arm around her waist and walked into a nearby internet cafe. Once inside, a group of local young people greeted him, and he engaged in a lively conversation. I shook my head, turned away, and became a complete bystander. It wasn't until Nash's mother found us in our classroom that everything changed. Mrs. Xander was a well-known fashion designer, and she had always been kind and gentle. In my memory, she never had any conflicts with anyone, giving the impression of a very contented life. Mr. Xander’s company had also been quite successful, which was why in my previous life, when Nash took over the company, he had the power to place me in the bed of a business partner. Nash excelled in his academic subjects, and he had remarkable talent in art as well. He was what parents often referred to as the "golden child" who excelled in everything. His parents never pressured him to focus solely on academics; they fully supported his pursuit of interests and hobbies. Nash certainly lived up to their expectations, winning numerous awards over the years. Upon high school graduation, he received acceptance letters from prestigious foreign universities. This competition was his gateway to a prestigious art school. Nash could have enjoyed a splendid life, basking in the limelight and receiving applause and flowers from everyone. However, he willingly chose to forgo all that glory and opted to rot in the gutter with Yvonne. Chapter 0004 Mrs. Xander walked in followed by our homeroom teacher, her face stern and icy. "Who is Yvonne?" she demanded, her sharp gaze scanning the room. None of the students dared to make a sound. Yvonne, seated next to me, furrowed her brow and swiftly tapped a few times on her phone, then stood up calmly. "That would be me. How may I help you?" Mrs. Xander scrutinized Yvonne from head to toe with her slender brows furrowed. Yvonne's face gradually turned red, and she appeared somewhat flustered. "It's you, the one who's dating my son every day, leading him into mischief?" Yvonne instinctively denied it, but before she could say more, Mrs. Xander slapped her across the face. "Your tricks won't work with me. Do you think I don't know what you're up to? You're so young, yet so cunning!" Yvonne, with a red mark from Mrs. Xander's five fingers on her beautiful face, stared in disbelief at Mrs. Xander and shouted loudly, "You old witch, who gave you the right to hit me?" Mrs. Xander coldly chuckled, "I have every right, especially when you, at such a young age, deliberately seduced my son. He used to be such a well-behaved child, but now, because of you, he's drinking, getting into fights, and defying his parents. If you want to ruin yourself, go ahead, but why drag my son down with you?" Yvonne was a popular figure at school, and she couldn't tolerate being accused of seducing someone. "Well-behaved? Ha, old witch, Nash is a human being, an independent thinker. How dare you use 'well-behaved' to describe him as if he were a dog." Yvonne argued vehemently. Mrs. Xander was so furious that her chest heaved up and down. She grabbed Yvonne's hair and began pulling. "My son, my rules. It's my choice how I want to raise him. It's none of your business." Nash finally arrived, pushing Mrs. Xander aside and protecting Yvonne. Our homeroom teacher managed to restrain Mrs. Xander, who was now panting heavily. "Mom, what are you doing? It's my choice to be with Yvonne so hit me instead. "Withdrawing from the competition was my own decision; it has nothing to do with Yvonne." Mrs. Xander never expected her obedient and sensible son to openly defy her for a girl who clearly had ulterior motives. She trembled with anger, swayed a bit, and our homeroom teacher hurriedly supported her. "Mom..." Nash hadn't expected his mother to be so upset. Seeing Mrs. Xander's unsteady steps, he worriedly called out to her. "Don't call me 'Mom.' I don't have such a disobedient and unfilial son like you." Mrs. Xander raised her hand and slapped Nash. She pointed at me, standing among the crowd. "You want to date? Your dad and I never stopped you, but at least find a decent girl like Wendy. Wake up and see what kind of person she is. Are you trying to drive me and your dad to an early grave?" I stood there, feeling unexpectedly singled out. This hadn't happened in my previous life. Mrs. Xander had never come to the school, and even when she later found out about Nash and Yvonne's early romance, they had chosen to send Nash abroad discreetly, cutting off their contact. Something must have happened this time to make Mrs. Xander react so irrationally and embarrass both of them publicly. Since Mrs. Xander mentioned my name, everyone's eyes turned to me. Yvonne, seemingly realizing something, stared at me with sudden anger. "Wendy, it's you! You're the one who told on us!" "You promised me you wouldn't snitch on us. Why would you do this? What do you gain from it?" Nash, too, looked at me with a mixture of caution and annoyance. I shrugged. "This has nothing to do with me. I told you I wouldn't get involved in your affairs, and I've kept my word. If you want to argue, can you at least do it outside? It's affecting everyone's studying here. Also, Mrs. Xander, please clarify that I didn't inform on you." However, Yvonne was convinced that I was the informer. "Enough of this arguing. I'm the one who told Mrs. Xander. Calm down, and if you have any issues, discuss them in my office. Don't disrupt the other students here," our homeroom teacher said, rubbing her temples. We followed our homeroom teacher to her office. It was class time, so there was no one else inside. Mrs. Xander, still furious, was seated by our homeroom teacher. "If our homeroom teacher hadn't told me, how long were you planning to hide this from me? All the things you've done behind my back, how do you plan to explain them to me and your dad?" Mrs. Xander glared at Nash. Chapter 0005 "Alright, talk to your child calmly," our homeroom teacher said, pouring a cup of tea for Mrs. Xander and patting her hand. Our homeroom teacher and Mrs. Xander were old classmates and had a very close relationship. With her soothing words, Mrs. Xander managed to restrain her anger. Both Mrs. Xander and our homeroom teacher confirmed that the information didn't come from me, and I finally cleared my name. "Now that it's not my problem, I'll head back to the classroom. There are so many practice papers I haven't finished." The college entrance exam was approaching, and I had to make the most of my time. However, I had underestimated the gossip mills in our school. This incident became widely known. While teenage romances were not uncommon, and some even involved parents and the school, this one attracted unparalleled attention. I heard that Mrs. Xander gave them two choices that day. Either Nash would go abroad, or Yvonne would transfer to another school. Yvonne thought she could easily get into an art school with her looks and figure, which was why she dared to be so reckless in her relationship with Nash. She certainly wouldn't transfer schools for Nash; she hadn't fallen in love with him that deeply yet. Tears welled up in Yvonne's eyes as she hid behind Nash, feeling wronged. "Don't worry, Yvonne, I'll protect you." Nash probably felt responsible for Yvonne's humiliation by his mother. When Nash was taken home by Mrs. Xander, another intense argument erupted. To express his determination to be with Yvonne, Nash even smashed his beloved easel and went on a hunger strike in protest. I saw Nash a week later. It was the first sunny day in two months. I happened to catch a glimpse of him sitting by the window, painting. Since being with Yvonne, he had rarely touched a paintbrush. He would discard a painting even before it took shape. In the middle of the night, the piercing sound of an ambulance tore through the silence. My parents heard it and rushed next door to help. I saw Mr. Xander carrying Nash on his back, and Mrs. Xander was sobbing behind them. Nash's right hand hung in front of Mr. Xander, and blood was dripping down one drop at a time. "Quick, get him into the ambulance, Mr. Xander, I'll give you a hand." My dad rushed up, supporting the unconscious Nash on Mr. Xander's back, and they hurried towards the ambulance. Nash, pale as a ghost, lay on his father's shoulder, a victorious smile in his eyes. As he passed by me, he chuckled and said something. "In this lifetime, I'll live for Yvonne. Wendy, don't obstruct me, or you know what'll happen." In that moment, it felt like a bucket of icy water had been poured over me, and I stood frozen in place, feeling a chilling dread. Nash's tendons in his hand were severed, and while the discovery was made quickly and his life was not in danger, his hand was rendered useless. Mr. and Mrs. Xander had no choice but to agree to let the two of them be together. Nash could never pick up a paintbrush again, but he didn't mind it one bit. When someone asked, he would proudly display the long scar on his wrist, boasting, "This is proof of my love for Yvonne, this is my youth!" But only I knew that those hands of his could have painted unique works of art. He could have been in the halls filled with an artistic atmosphere, enjoying the admiring glances of everyone. After Mrs. Xander's visit to the school, Yvonne moved to the seat farthest away from me. The two of them were now openly together. I heard there were a few breakups in between, but each time, Nash went and coaxed her back. As for Yvonne, she simply assumed herself to be part of the Xander family. After witnessing Mrs. Xander's wealth and extravagance, and dissatisfied with her own modest circumstances, Yvonne often asked Nash for expensive gifts that students couldn't afford. However, Nash was determined to be with her. Disappointed, Mr. and Mrs. Xander cut off Nash's allowance. Nash had already moved out of his home, and he rented a house with Yvonne off-campus. Thanks to Nash participating in various competitions over the years, he had won numerous prizes and managed to save a substantial amount from his previous allowances. For a while, they were living quite comfortably. Chapter 0006 I paid no attention to all of this and dedicated all my time to my studies. Whenever I encountered something I didn't understand, I would seek guidance from my teachers. My parents even hired a private tutor for me. After school each day, I focused on strengthening my weaker subjects. Following the second mock exam, my grades improved significantly, and I secured a place in the top ten students in the entire grade. My homeroom teacher called me into her office, his face filled with pride but tinged with a hint of regret as he patted my shoulder. "Your friendship with Nash has always been excellent. It's a shame." Another teacher chimed in, "He's such a talented student! Yet, that Yvonne doesn't seem to study at all, and she's influencing good students." I quietly left the office, passing by the hallway where I spotted Nash and Yvonne kissing. Nash, seemingly accustomed to Yvonne's playful nature. He wasn't wearing his usual white shirt but had donned a T-shirt with bold patterns, much like Yvonne's. When Yvonne noticed me, she nudged Nash and playfully raised her chin toward me. "Hey, it's your little crush. No greeting? She's in the top ten now, you know." Nash glanced at me, his gaze strangely distant, as if we had never met before. His thin lips formed two words. "Not interested." Yvonne burst into laughter. Ever since Mr. and Mrs. Xander stopped caring about Nash, he had become unrestrained. Just a few days ago, he even got into a fight with a troublemaker from our school. Coincidentally, the troublemaker happened to be Yvonne's ex-boyfriend, and he couldn't resist provoking them when he saw them together. Yvonne couldn't stand it and egged Nash on to fight the guy. Nash didn't hesitate, delivering a single punch that broke the guy's nose. Mrs. Xander came to our school for the second time. The wealthy lady, accustomed to a life of luxury, was now humbly apologizing to the teachers and parents. Nash stood silently by her side, tightly holding Yvonne's hand without uttering a word. Mrs. Xander was seething with anger, rendering her speechless. Our homeroom teacher, unable to bear it any longer, stood up and scolded Nash. "Nash, look at yourself now. You used to be such an outstanding student, how did you become so unreasonable? While your family is well-off, your parents can't protect you forever. Even if you want to date, can't you find a sensible girl? You've known Wendy since childhood, why don't you choose her instead of someone like..." The rest of her words were unkind, and as she glanced at Yvonne, who was nonchalantly chewing gum next to Nash, she frowned and swallowed the remaining words. She couldn't help but add, "Nash, this shows a lack of responsibility towards yourself!" Nash lifted his head, sarcastically remarking, "How could Wendy ever compare to Yvonne?" Our homeroom teacher slammed her hand onto the desk, exclaiming, "Wendy is currently ranked third in the class and is among the top ten students in the grade. How can you claim that she can't be compared to Yvonne?" Nash, with a blank expression, retorted, "She's just a bookworm who only knows how to study. Boring." "Yeah, teacher!" Yvonne chimed in with a laugh, hooking her arm around Nash's. "If we don't go a little crazy in our youth, what's the point?" Nash frowned irritably. "And please, can you all stop comparing me to Wendy? We don't have anything to do with each other..." He stopped mid-sentence, noticing me entering with my homework. In fact, I had been there for a while and overheard their conversation. I entered just because it was time for the next class. Silently, I placed my homework on the teacher's desk and said, "Teacher, I'm going back to class." | LEARN_MORE | https://www.qknymufd.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 | Happyday | https://www.facebook.com/61558228850235/ | 1,665 | 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=17985&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/t39.35426-6/475917676_1598037970838451_5798237218641715533_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wZn-a-Q3fDkQ7kNvgErHlf5&_nc_oc=AdiZtBcplRqiWMwPpxPHx0g55MXiNKVPL68aoG1KahxuVnOZcAoMdWWfA6ThlKw4K-3yC0aOse8hOgcg_B-j95p9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AyemybAZbIckd-Tb6XW-Nvl&oh=00_AYD2l-ncKZJ_surpO-m-jX0C3Twp9BwxgqYRRWOAwiXnDQ&oe=67CC08A8 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Happyday | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE | http://instagram.com/kelly_dachshund_kingdom | kelly_dachshund_kingdom | https://www.instagram.com/_u/kelly_dachshund_kingdom | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send Message | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/kelly_dachshund_kingdom | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/480029238_1153388036243435_1263256354258866785_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=uM2HoQ95suUQ7kNvgGIKYz6&_nc_oc=AdhMW6_UZNELciT-tF2jcsHDxcRf865PVQ25sqXO8PEzLrVGWaNV5al-2AVYQjPhaxTAiLohpAiUbFKMcYbWhlhj&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCED5gNVHMxAUL_cvVVA84_J0_dBrGulGmxIgYo6fEjYA&oe=67CC086A | IG_ADS_IDENTITY | 1 | 0 | 0 | kelly_dachshund_kingdom | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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GET PICKS -> | JOIN THE COOK BOOK 🔥 FREE PLAYS SENT EVERY DAY 🙌 DM TO JOIN ✅ COOK THE BOOKIES 😈 | MESSAGE_PAGE | The Cook Book - Daily Picks | https://www.facebook.com/thedfscookbook/ | 42,717 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send Message | 0 | DCO | {{product.description}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480966781_1537905173562613_2189561369871312760_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=woLJPNLrt_YQ7kNvgH3ioet&_nc_oc=Adj9yXYWj-On6R5dwVSddT3MHkk_3kAM-jepj9WkQo41x0XPRm0OgVT4KBaBKgejw9URIgY49BWyjQvyaOsw-6pK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AZeRf4fSXvQ8GiXPxC-aGqB&oh=00_AYAC7YtayT1FUD6VNtdcA5kOBwu4etV4chMfI340uqcjLg&oe=67CC370C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | The Cook Book - Daily Picks | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/persiankellybundy | Persian Kelly Bundy | https://www.facebook.com/61561804795840/ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/persiankellybundy | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481119540_986664259563371_788822745773524292_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JvzVYKwACwYQ7kNvgF288HF&_nc_oc=Adis5frQtG20zbkFncaWsug3-gJoDOKUhhhGKBCO-PtzOh6S3yS3IxvKnGZirV2PVmLTWWI-ECaeZmDQkqKYiory&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxjCjxGpoWC0ADrewSYEwOa&oh=00_AYDi38PsMTx_zMNYl7VQULVJkYSkIjYn6Jzesb2Z-Ja2Og&oe=67CC182B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Persian Kelly Bundy | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/duartetravels | Duarte TraveIs | https://www.facebook.com/duartetraveIs/ | 310 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/duartetravels | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480799143_944673997727908_5329508396876389923_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WZm11YLvGHcQ7kNvgG5ul0R&_nc_oc=AdgJqIhQfvo5ah_cGXPF_8oJFiqaZ5JiUB-mG4mXCdTd6K22kuCvdEwSc_VAXC4C-kn-LNNwMk8WgA5DGX_Rk2SC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A7yANMIMjbMSpge4Nl0uyj1&oh=00_AYBc3f4Z37nRvFMRhxWGTWQZbOBaxK-fDgdZ9kk_ygMeAg&oe=67CC1B0C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Duarte TraveIs | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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YMCA FIT START PROGRAM | SIGN_UP | https://ivymca.org/fit-start-program/ | Illinois Valley YMCA | https://www.facebook.com/IllinoisValleyYMCA/ | 5,343 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign Up | 0 | ivymca.org | CAROUSEL | https://ivymca.org/fit-start-program/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481274200_1599312987437339_6422546703814527476_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ivyoI3YDHw8Q7kNvgFLK9Qq&_nc_oc=Adho5MPLhB36E0BUKjLxks26eCCLRgygkF81kkmXwewrTrxf_DzV1ETubq8CQbaD9fLstvHV47SWcpjKe-NPNRq4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AwFI_ZUAK3k87Ny63lUQMAL&oh=00_AYBbGhPFPw65wEunkje_DVd8a1TjkQ_3JLqpE4ryeRqCng&oe=67CC2317 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Illinois Valley YMCA | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2025-03-03 18:51 | active | 2790 | 0 | Chat với chúng tôi | "We don’t just create tattoos, we create value – and today, you can save 30% on your next piece of art!" | MESSAGE_PAGE | Kelly Art | https://www.facebook.com/61568429116379/ | 10 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | DCO | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482219943_882409197247225_1429901502641484942_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i2A_yc78zC8Q7kNvgHEoof4&_nc_oc=AdgbDyMBCXwjgH6g3u7Vsn3z-iNpkz3pkJ7meu9giQo7j-mrAw7Y00XqWFLLTfBOzDdUuVoBao4E75qzrq5NQUcm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ARuL_G0mbEKBjCJlox6Q5LE&oh=00_AYC4pGZXvummjpS21CcqI4B6LQUtUbfm3t6EKdTge_8G0w&oe=67CC15C5 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Kelly Art | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/sovereignty.holistic | sovereignty.holistic | https://www.instagram.com/_u/sovereignty.holistic | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/sovereignty.holistic | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/398448420_3138988569565686_31099146090599266_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=1&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=C6UZKQLoXfkQ7kNvgHGd9Xn&_nc_oc=AdibO3GARabLLa5-ELsbM5una0MO0yQxIiAMW_pk75gveFLPWu8nPKtZYb-G7WVXeKWxpJVSwhNwcYgD1wYqq4NH&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDUl7v79caUTyYie2a3kpYavaDi3pMvOTx6ahABDKPWqA&oe=67CC09BF | IG_ADS_IDENTITY | 1 | 0 | 0 | sovereignty.holistic | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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