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Yes | 2024-04-28 11:43 | active | 619 | 0 | 805080375013070 | Get 70% Off fromβοΈπ₯ πππ₯π₯π² ππ₯ππ«π€π¬π¨π§ ππππ’ππ’πππ₯ Website | π β¨<br /> The Happy Days Sale is in full swing, and we're giving you a chance to score some serious deals on an array of awesome items. Say goodbye to the anxiety over high prices with our sale! You can save up to 55% right nowβit's time for your wallet to smile again | LEARN_MORE | https://sevralort.shop/iangoi | 113974157730968 | Dr. Traci Rogers ND | https://facebook.com/100079980137308 | 62 | 2 | 462,426,309,537,355 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Dr. Traci Rogers ND | 120209606475170715 | sevralort.shop | NONE | video | https://sevralort.shop/iangoi | 2024-04-27 23:35 | https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439966655_290054384149952_1755659557808498048_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hU86HieZnMMAb4Hp6Aq&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBev4XwWseAGV9aJ5GIk6LQUY55j1qy-DBj27GPHXP1ww&oe=66343419 | person_profile | 0 | Dr. Traci Rogers ND | https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440420683_1848298112282681_6217384321822664835_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AfWyPJeoP7QAb7okBeF&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC-QYBslv1ihvt57GJCyF-Id16GYnaMUTtxW2xSVXUcOw&oe=66344B64 | 0 | 3 | Dr. Traci Rogers ND | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-04-28 15:18 | active | 630 | 0 | 1113522096646552 | π¨ Break Free from Credit Card Debt in 2024! <br /> <br /> Struggling with over $10,000 in credit card debt? π There's a way out, and no, it's not a loan or bankruptcy... π‘<br /> <br /> Hereβs what you need to do β‘οΈ Visit our website (link in this post). Click on your age, punch in your debt amount, and answer a few easy questions... π₯οΈπ<br /> <br /> Wondering if you qualify for our life-changing program? You can find out INSTANTLY! π I personally wiped out $29,849 of debt and can vouch for its effectiveness! π<br /> <br /> Hurry, spots are filling up! πββοΈπββοΈ They're still taking applicants. Check if you're eligible in just 60 seconds! β°<br /> <br /> Donβt miss this chance to wipe your slate clean...<br /> <br /> Tap the button now to see if you qualify! π²β¨ | LEARN_MORE | https://clks.trackthisclicks.com/65135ea2abf9ff000 | 102292265567339 | Lorraine Nelson | https://facebook.com/100077103722971 | 324 | 1 | 807,475,014,107,916 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Lorraine Nelson | 120209876113060081 | clks.trackthisclicks.com | NONE | video | https://clks.trackthisclicks.com/65135ea2abf9ff0001744cef?sub1={{ad.id}}&sub2={{adset.id}}&sub3={{campaign.id}}&sub4={{ad.name}}&sub5={{adset.name}}&sub6={{campaign.name}}&sub7={{placement}}&sub8={{site_source_name}} | 2024-04-27 20:24 | https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438825351_984018260005667_2049416543581951248_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kFBhGKei81oAb5V_Orr&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfBobdIGNW0G0dhCs7x7qk_cv4Snjsda-T2-w8HFqMuchQ&oe=66348475 | person_profile | 0 | Lorraine Nelson | https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440588085_370065286050268_7620866150530164270_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Kz-CKv6S790Ab40XqWR&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDUFugCXrgcXnnQSG7H-mBAFtD6Yum3X3__9ak3KmefHQ&oe=663489CB | 0 | 3 | Lorraine Nelson | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 15:19 | active | 629 | 0 | 745438291074278 |
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No | 2024-04-28 18:56 | active | 634 | 0 | 939148174656372 | Enjoy Romanceπ₯°Read More π | The husband's mistress returned, and he handed her a divorce agreement. Disheartened, she realized she was just a substitute, turned around, left, and returned with a dominating presence as the heiress of a business empire.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &2& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-E | 105235075579900 | Funread | https://facebook.com/100083845110483 | 11,063 | 1 | 2,722,266,744,747,398 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Funread | 120208090758050660 | fbweb.moboreader.net | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1910509592737470 | 2024-04-23 03:14 | https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438095392_439871855288391_8510883990238077053_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qOvNJNbH5ugQ7kNvgGaYyh1&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCTD95NUzut72h_hWPz_vQ79-KkbfCjz60hxRu83UrBAQ&oe=6634C3A9 | person_profile | 0 | moboreader | https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437557540_456972406902100_6056649093339345336_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dW2w68VsKn0Q7kNvgFh128J&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAX3DBoCJiSCf06CjfL14T573d-CC35hxxiZyrWqpAcyg&oe=6634AD1B | 0 | 3 | Funread | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-27 19:15 | active | 613 | 0 | 458678563397386 |
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Custom player name sign lights | π Personalized player name sign lights π<br /> buy now π <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jacacas.com%2FSK320&h=AT0yp8skbvBgvR-jGUhX7TAKMVwC088unFpKDtsld9Eb_zxx6ygOQxmHGqiF13HGzTg57Xjj3UQeICsF_47HprzdPPJI9iHEb7PFabKmVKayoyn_KJJT1qk3jOlKFEG6Uhu1ISZdkJphbG9MoHIuoOvy1L4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.jacacas.com/SK320</a><br /> <br /> ππ The perfect gift for your friends or family | SHOP_NOW | https://www.jacacas.com/SK320 | 105145992238003 | jacacas.com | https://facebook.com/jacacascom | 43 | 2 | 974,341,453,799,419 | 2024-01-02 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | jacacas.com | 120201470943190773 | jacacas.com | NONE | image | Personalized player name sign lights | https://www.jacacas.com/SK320 | 2023-12-09 02:07 | https://scontent.fbtr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/408072893_891571949158846_8468600038611073071_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RSZMLuirJbIQ7kNvgE-D428&_nc_ht=scontent.fbtr1-1.fna&oh=00_AfA6PevFWH5IaWyWoMv1GKPkcO3Dlba-ruYF_Ypl8MK-VA&oe=66335522 | person_profile | 0 | jacacas.com | https://scontent.fbtr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409594892_1482001042654835_4939346422254918081_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gj9SpfQtBJUQ7kNvgHEsWH8&_nc_ht=scontent.fbtr1-1.fna&oh=00_AfDGL3ruPCtVIstRN-T-X50SQeWz2cfoT-JJ1616AK4l0Q&oe=66337E37 | 0 | 3 | jacacas.com | 0 | 0 | 2023-12-27 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-04-28 15:18 | active | 630 | 0 | 1192342988772409 | Program Writes Off $10k+ In Credit Card Debt For Struggling Americans... | MASSIVE CONCERN: American Citizens now owe over $1 TRILLION in credit card debt to the big banks & credit card companies in 2024β¦ β οΈ<br /> <br /> β¦ and itβs estimated that more than $150 billion in credit card debt interest will be paid this year.<br /> <br /> Thankfully a NEW credit card debt relief program has been created to fight back against all the big banks & credit card companies.<br /> <br /> They are pledging to help everyday Americans:<br /> <br /> β Reduce Credit Card Debt Interest To $0<br /> β Fully Write Off Credit Card Debt By 50%<br /> β Put $1,000s Back In Your Pocket Every Month<br /> <br /> If you have over $10,000+ in credit card debt you qualify for the program & getting started is easy, all it takes is a 15-minute call: (855) 429-1235<br /> <br /> The funding for this relief program is limited, so weβre urging anyone who has $10,000+ in credit card debt to call immediately while you can! βοΈ<br /> <br /> P.S. Over 521,952+ people have already called to find out how many $1,000s they now qualify for! | LEARN_MORE | https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-1trilldc | 107307332001305 | The US Debt Bureau | https://facebook.com/theusdebtbureau | 444 | 2 | 8,209,228,055,772,275 | 2024-04-26 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | The US Debt Bureau | 120209183690070694 | www.thedebtbureau.org | NONE | video | https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-1trilldca-newscontv2-cclp-cc | 2024-04-23 04:27 | https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440085734_800915558127033_5608993756964376523_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NQiDXe3iQm8Ab4jevsI&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB3GOv91pTvrPer9d2QJCjJfGwKmtM87WGIxE4WZGKbFg&oe=6634831E | person_profile | 0 | The US Debt Bureau | https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439805108_1084378945973762_3700509063748159729_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U2y9qWSrVhMAb4GTdjQ&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJKYqyWuBmSEGaYoBFGDmBZqBg-2zUkG8rCqLWX1DDjA&oe=663495B3 | 0 | 3 | The US Debt Bureau | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-23 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-04-28 14:56 | active | 627 | 0 | 416085370765357 | Neutralizes 99% of Bacteria And Cleans Itself | The LARQ Bottle PureVisβ’ is the world's first self-cleaning water bottle and water purification system. It uses PureVis technology to eliminate up to 99%* of bio-contaminants such as E. coli from your water and bottle. π§ Removes 100+ contaminants from water π Over 5000+ 5-star reviews π¦ As seen on Shark Tank π¦ Neutralizes bio-contaminants π Award-winning design | SHOP_NOW | https://www.livelarq.com/purification/larq-bottle- | 682906438559761 | LARQ | https://facebook.com/livelarq | 21,056 | 0 | 344,698,398,197,302 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | LARQ | 120209517763120154 | www.livelarq.com | NONE | dco | A Smart Way To Sip | https://www.livelarq.com/purification/larq-bottle-purevis-insulated-monaco-blue?size=17oz | 2024-04-27 02:06 | https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438128813_421292897270506_3727567359650225471_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fu2uBlvfF_cQ7kNvgFwgBO5&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDO4-9m7J7J-oKzkLi2y9wCe6qZCFt3oiuuwF0awvSiOw&oe=66348A6A | person_profile | 0 | LARQ | https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437673290_287778197717396_6470153552427983898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MhiXexjOCdMQ7kNvgEKKk6R&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBwkovY6moDR2nVdmga87dlrx3RwicGqWjPtNDfeS-yjw&oe=6634624B | 0 | 3 | LARQ | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 15:18 | active | 630 | 0 | 757349553177877 | Program Writes Off $10k+ In Credit Card Debt For Struggling Americans... | BREAKING: The total credit card debt owed just surpassed $1 trillionβ¦ making it now the highest debt held by American Citizens in history! β οΈπ¨<br /> <br /> With the cost of living crisis, and an economic downturn already started, experts are predicting the total credit card debt could go even higherβ¦<br /> <br /> But donβt worry, THANKFULLY there is still hope! <br /> <br /> We recently found a little-known credit card debt relief program, thatβs Christian-ran, and pledging to help Americans become credit card debt free!<br /> <br /> If you have over $10,000+ in credit card debt you are eligible for the programs helpβ¦ theyβve been wiping out $1,000s of debt in just 15 minutes!<br /> <br /> Give them a call if you think youβre eligible, and see how many $1,000s you could be entitled to!<br /> <br /> Hereβs the FREE number to call: (877) 405-0948 | LEARN_MORE | https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-1trilldc | 107307332001305 | The US Debt Bureau | https://facebook.com/theusdebtbureau | 444 | 2 | 955,982,202,606,123 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | The US Debt Bureau | 120209183263090694 | www.thedebtbureau.org | NONE | video | https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-1trilldca-newscont-advlp-cc | 2024-04-23 04:17 | https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438938056_3744898412400138_7248320058319601271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3jWM3uAN_xwQ7kNvgGx_Eur&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfABjl0qPuq0jXSS8R-8hUxg-gA46vkF8djw7EwgEUZC1g&oe=66349053 | person_profile | 0 | The US Debt Bureau | https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439631811_444408708098068_748710218043119128_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3LJAO0T6gLkQ7kNvgG5me3c&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRgIRXSN5FDY5I-E778etOjQaoUwPnrLldmJ8B6mwexg&oe=66347566 | 0 | 3 | The US Debt Bureau | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-24 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 11:38 | active | 617 | 0 | 7896073693745164 | Week #4 of our GRAND OPENING GIVEAWAY!!!!<br /> A MICRODREMABRASION SESSION ON US!!!!<br /> Enter to win by doing the following:<br /> 1. Like and follow our page<br /> 2. Share this original post to your page (set to public)<br /> 3. Tag 3 friends that you haven't tagged before<br /> <br /> We will announce the winner in 2 weeks on May 10th! | MESSAGE_PAGE | 243866325466247 | Bellus Medical Aesthetics and Wellness PLLC | https://facebook.com/61555754200114 | 136 | 1 | 807,650,627,473,966 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Send message | 0 | Bellus Medical Aesthetics and Wellness PLLC | 6594697097724 | NONE | video | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Is anyone available to chat?","response":""},{"title":"I'm interested. Can you tell me more?","response":""},{"title":"Can I book an appointment?","response":""}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 2024-04-27 20:49 | https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438275021_980768286277063_529297031731538028_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Slt0saq2YUAb6NpKfC&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfBiDnHVgzlAFWn40cVMllvHK__kmnMnU4dy0K2cCj89ew&oe=66346026 | person_profile | 0 | Bellus Medical Aesthetics | https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440893911_7494670627291736_3989646909686789184_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j08-snw_Ur0Ab6YyLzs&_nc_oc=AdjpF2JXMXDUu5A79XT_u9J6HibP7PqOOZZUuoFkEEWM1c8bHoBNiFq_uCEle4LilLU7KNLnyMLcdVIMM_mVcS0O&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfD-i20jMdP80X0Q61AxR4Jvy9QwgiMTaMqAmJANArNDxg&oe=66345BA1 | 0 | 3 | Bellus Medical Aesthetics and Wellness PLLC | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 18:57 | active | 634 | 0 | 1594243584489463 |
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Read next chapter | After the divorce, she made a spectacular comeback as a top designer, elite race car driver, renowned healer, and genius hacker, stunning everyone and leaving her scoundrel ex-husband full of regret!<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &4& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-E | 111340554958658 | Romantic Novel Town | https://facebook.com/100083419995460 | 11,697 | 1 | 1,823,341,764,830,974 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Romantic Novel Town | 120209886813170315 | fbweb.moboreader.net | NONE | image | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=295122&accid=1234043307424055 | 2024-04-26 05:08 | https://scontent.fosu2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438837893_1095262344891903_9058938063911324439_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jyvUYy4hIqEAb5NA9ad&_nc_ht=scontent.fosu2-2.fna&oh=00_AfDGSfZipeOjO3yWnLbzMXS2N6LXHtFI7LbQj73rmkhI3A&oe=6634B5AC | person_profile | 0 | moboreader | https://scontent.fosu2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440566405_302699606260085_8607912119688070051_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G6665tehPMkAb7GqWJ5&_nc_ht=scontent.fosu2-2.fna&oh=00_AfDEdr32-5_5T4Djiwvl_JYL98123HJFMKVjv49syOa81g&oe=6634A602 | 0 | 3 | Romantic Novel Town | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-26 02:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 11:39 | active | 618 | 0 | 837024784923312 | π₯π₯ Click to Read ππ»ππ» | "That we're divorced."<br /> "Are you serious, Laurel?" He pushed back in his seat, running a hand through his hair.<br /> "I know I'm sorry I should have told them. It's just at first when we were having trouble I thought we'd work it out then when the divorce happened .... I didn't know how to explain it to them."<br /> Their divorce was anything but normal Laurel had been home alone one night and men had broken into their home. A rival gang had beaten and violated her leaving her for Ivan's cousin Ezra to find, after that their marriage was strained and after seven months they finally agreed to call it quits.<br /> "So, they don't know about the violate either?"<br /> "They don't know you're a motorcycle club leader, they don't know you smuggle cocaine for a living, they don't know I run an opposing club and bimbo house. How would I explain the violate?"<br /> He fell silent, deep down he still blamed himself for what happened. Part of their divorce had been because Laurel healed and Ivan had not.<br /> ββββββββ<br /> Laurel sighed as she climbed from her Cadillac in front of the strip club she owned and ran, she started across the parking lot just as her phone rang. She glanced at the caller ID seeing it was her mother she paused, debated not answering it.<br /> "Hello?"<br /> "Laurel, I've been trying to reach you!"<br /> "I'm sorry mother I've been busy."<br /> "Well, that's alright but tell me are you coming to the wedding?"<br /> "I....I don't know mom I'm pretty busy and it takes days to drive there..."<br /> "Oh please darling? You know Lydia would love to have you there and you haven't been home since Christmas."<br /> Laurel winced she wished she could go home more often and see her family but she couldn't she just had too many secrets from them.<br /> "I'll think about it," She said softly.<br /> "Very well then, I love you."<br /> "I love you too mom."<br /> She hung up and took a deep breath, somewhere along the way her lies had snowballed out of control and now here she was at the edge of the cliff she could either jump and end the fiasco or keep up with her tirades and hope it didn't push her off.<br /> She chose the latter, turning she crossed the parking lot and slipped back into her car. She drove across town the bar that her ex-husband Ivan owned. She sat in the parking lot for a few long minutes, hating herself for what she was about to do.<br /> Before she lost her nerve she climbed from her car and crossed the parking lot walking inside, she bypassed the bar section where the bartender was wiping things down and two bikers sat up chairs. Her husband was the president of the Trojans MC and once upon a time she was his vice president.<br /> She knocked on his private door, giving him a few minutes to answer and fidgeting.<br /> "Come in."<br /> She stepped into his office, closing the door behind her. The office looked the same, dark red carpet and dark mahogany walls with a large oak desk and a dangerous man behind it.<br /> "Laurel, what can I do for you?"<br /> "I...I need a favor." She said gently.<br /> "Okay, what can I do for you?"<br /> He wouldn't hesitate to help her, they had stayed friends after the divorce and he owed her so much. A few months ago he'd been in a war with a rival gang and Laurel had saved him in a raid, not long after that his cousin and best friend was murdered only Laurel had held him together. Ivan drank too heavily and had it not been for Laurel would have probably slipped into depression. Two weeks ago he had finally sobered up and returned to work.<br /> "Will...will you, come home with me?" She asked with a wince.<br /> "What back to your apartment?" He asked.<br /> "No back to...mayport..."<br /> Mayport falls, a rustic, hidden little town in the mountains. Population five hundred and nine and their hometown as children. Ivan hadn't stepped foot in that place since they're divorce his father lived nearby him in the city and he had no other family.<br /> "Mayport...why?"<br /> "Lydia is...getting married."<br /> Her cousin Lydia was the over achiever of the family, but Ivan was still confused. He and Laurel had been divorced for five years.<br /> "Okay, why do you need me?"<br /> "Remember when I said that my parents don't know I still gamble on the horses?" She asked.<br /> "Yes."<br /> It was right after Laurel had taken a magazine that was meant for him, she'd been in the hospital betting on horses and Ivan had chastised her for it.<br /> "Well....they also don't know about us."<br /> "Wait, don't know what?"<br /> "That we're divorced."<br /> "Are you serious, Laurel?" He pushed back in his seat, running a hand through his hair.<br /> "I know I'm sorry I should have told them. It's just at first when we were having trouble I thought we'd work it out then when the divorce happened....I didn't know how to explain it to them."<br /> Their divorce was anything but normal Laurel had been home alone one night and men had broken into their home. A rival gang had beaten and violated her leaving her for Ivan's cousin Ezra to find, after that their marriage was strained and after seven months they finally agreed to call it quits.<br /> "So, they don't know about the violate either?"<br /> "They don't know you're a motorcycle club leader, they don't know you smuggle cocaine for a living, they don't know I run an opposing club and bimbo house. How would I explain the violate?"<br /> He fell silent, deep down he still blamed himself for what happened. Part of their divorce had been because Laurel healed and Ivan had not.<br /> "How long?" He asked under his breath.<br /> "How long what?"<br /> "Will we be gone?"<br /> "Oh, I'd like to leave maybe tomorrow. I'm sure you remember it takes two days to get there and then that puts us there on Wednesday so....a little over a week maybe?" She said with a small wince.<br /> "Fine."<br /> "Really? You'll do it?" She asked daring to hope.<br /> "I'll do it because I owe you....a lot."<br /> "Thank you."<br /> "But you can't keep this charade going forever," He pointed out.<br /> "I know just help me get through this."<br /> "Of course I will."<br /> She offered him a beaming smile, relieved that he agreed to help her pull this off and already calculating how she could get out of this mess. She'd made it the passed five years by going to as few family events as possible and when she did go she always had an excuse for why Ivan wasn't there. Work, family duties, etc. Sometime she sent herself flowers from him apologizing for not being at her side, at first it was just to get by but then it became her way of life.<br /> "Thank you, for doing this." She said as she stood.<br /> "I'll pick you up tomorrow, nine work?"<br /> "Yes."<br /> He gave a small nod and she stood there awkwardly for a minute then with one last sigh of relief turned and hurried from the room. She needed to go home and pack, it was going to be a long couple of days.<br /> Ivan picked Laurel up the next morning in his large black suburban, she sighed heavily pushing back the anxiety that rose in her chest as he came to help with her luggage.<br /> "You never were a light packer," He said lifting one of the three heavy suitcases.<br /> "I can't help it, I nervous pack."<br /> "I remember," He teased.<br /> He tossed her bags a little roughly into the back of the vehicle before opening her door for her, she slid onto the leather seat as he walked to the driver side.<br /> If he was nervous about the upcoming week he didn't show it, just started the vehicle and pulled onto the street starting the long drive home. Their hometown, the one they met in, fell in love in, dated in, married in.<br /> "Will the club be okay with you gone?" She asked.<br /> Being a president of her own MC she knew how hard it was to leave them for long periods of time, anything could happen and they both needed to be sure that they're clubs were in good hands. Her Vice President was more than capable of handling anything that arose.<br /> "They'll be fine, Slater can handle it."<br /> "Slater....is...is he who...he replaced...."She fell silent.<br /> Ezra had been the vice president for years, knowing he was gone for good was hard to deal with. The three of them had been close growing up and closer as adults, Laurel missed Ezra. His easy friendship, his laugh, his soft eyes and kind nature, but Laurel had been so busy keeping Ivan together she didn't have time to be sad for herself.<br /> "Ezra......he replaced Ezra," Ivan said gently.<br /> "Right, Ezra."<br /> "I was thinking about going to France in the fall, seeing how Eve is doing."<br /> Eve was Ezra's girlfriend, a nun at a local Church where Ezra was assigned community hours, the two had fallen in love. Ezra had made sure that upon his death Eve was left with enough money to live comfortably for the rest of his life, this also provided enough money for her to adopt an orphaned baby that Ezra had cared deeply about a baby she then named Ezra.<br /> "She calls me once a week, she said little Ezra is growing like a weed." He added.<br /> "I bet he is."<br /> "If....if you wanted to come with me you could," he offered with a small shrug.<br /> "You wouldn't mind?"<br /> "No, I think Eve would like to see you."<br /> "It wouldn't be weird?"<br /> "What you mean more weird than spending a week pretending to be married?" He asked.<br /> She laughed a little, he was right the entire thing was bizarre. She should have been honest with her parents about their getting a divorce but she knew how much they adored Ivan and at the time she wasn't ready to talk about it.<br /> "I think I have a plan for this entire thing," She offered.<br /> "Let's hear it, I'm not doing this again."<br /> "Well what if towards the end of our stay we started to fight? We could start small and slowly escalate. A few days after we return home I'll call mom and tell her we're getting a divorce."<br /> "That could work I guess."<br /> "I'm sorry about all of this."<br /> "It's fine I owe you one....more than one actually."<br /> "You don't owe me anything and this is my mess."<br /> The pair fell silent with only the sound of the road rumbling to break the silence. The silence would have been more comfortable if it wasn't for the destination they were heading to and the reason they were together.<br /> Laurel let her head fall back against the head rest of the car, her eyelids heavy. She'd been up most of the night packing and planning, trying to think of anyway to get out of this situation. She slowly felt her muscles relax and slipped into a deep, dreamless sleep.<br /> Ivan glanced over at his ex-wife, or rather his wife for the week at least. How long had it even been since he'd referred to her as his wife. They'd been divorced so long he almost forgot what it was like being married to her, almost, but not completely and it was the almost part that kept him up at night thinking about her.<br /> Just a few weeks ago he'd been as drunk as a fiddler, cold barely stand on his own two feet. Laurel had innocently came over to try and help him and he'd made a blatant pass at her, practically begging her to go to bed with him. She'd refused, because she wasn't as drunk as a fiddler. Now, he felt like a heel, he'd been weak, drunk, and had only wanted her because she was comfortable.<br /> He knew Laurel, he'd been with Laurel, could remember every dip and valley on her body, her smell, her soft skin, the sounds she made, he remembered all of that and it made him comfortable asking for her help but being comfortable was dangerous, it would be too easy to slip back into that role that he once loved, her husband. He'd have to keep a tight leash on his feelings and emotions this week.<br /> He drove most of the day with her asleep in the passenger seat next to him, it was fine with him if she slept he didn't need conversation. Just having a presence in the seat beside him was enough to keep him content on the long drive.<br /> When he saw a small diner off the side of the road a few hours later he pulled over, he was starving and he knew that Laurel most likely hadn't ate breakfast. He turned off the car then reached over to lay a hand on her thigh giving her a gentle shake.<br /> "Laurel, wake up."<br /> She stirred slowly, she always was hard to wake up and a deep sleeper. Stretching she sat up better in the seat and looked around.<br /> "What time is it?" She asked with a yawn.<br /> "Four thirty, I need to stretch my legs and thought some food would be good."<br /> "I'm starving," She replied undoing her belt.<br /> She turned for the handle on the door but before she could a gentle hand on her shoulder stopped her.<br /> "Wait, Laurel....before we go inside."<br /> She turned to him obviously confused as he dug in his jacket pocket pulling out a red velvet box he handed it to her without looking at her.<br /> "If we're going to pull this off you're going to need that," He said.<br /> Taking the box she opened the lid to reveal her engagement ring and wedding band nestled inside, the same one they'd had when they were married. The same one she left on his kitchen table the night she left him for good.<br /> "You kept them."<br /> "Yeah, I did. I don't even know why but....I figured if we're going to do this then, you'll need them."<br /> She pulled them from the box and slid them into place only noticing now that his was already resting snugly on his hand. It looked odd seeing the thick, gold band on his left ring finger after years of it being uncovered but he didn't seem to notice it.<br /> "Thank you," She said softly.<br /> "Let's get some food."<br /> He was out of the vehicle before she could say anything else, she took just a minute to stare at her wedding rings in the light of the sunset. It felt odd having them back after so long but he was right they needed them to get away with this, rings never crossed her mind when she planned this trip but then that was Ivan.<br /> Always thinking of little things, always looking out for her, always making sure she had her bases covered even if she was getting them involved in ridiculous scheme.<br /> Laurel followed Ivan into the diner, he held the door for her like always and they picked a booth near the back of the diner. An older waitress with graying hair hurried to their table.<br /> "Hello dears, what can I get you for drinks?" She asked.<br /> "I'll have tea," Laurel said gently.<br /> "Water," Ivan said.<br /> The waitress hurried off and Laurel lifted her menu, scanning it for something to order. She glanced briefly at Ivan over the top of her menu, he was texting someone and she briefly wondered if it was a woman.<br /> "Who is watching your club while we are gone?" He asked.<br /> "Tanner," She replied, referring to her right hand man.<br /> "Oh, yeah, of course."<br /> She glanced at him, his tone was somewhat biting when he spoke.<br /> "What?" She asked.<br /> "What?" He asked, with a shrug.<br /> "That tone, what is it with you and Tanner? Why can't you just get along?"<br /> "I don't like him, I don't trust him and I...."He trailed off and shook his head.<br /> "You what? You can tell me."<br /> "Nothing, just forget it."<br /> Before she could say anything else the waitress returned setting their drinks in front of them she offered Laurel a warm smile.<br /> "Newlyweds?" She asked.<br /> "What?" Ivan asked, his head snapping up.<br /> "I asked if you were newlyweds, I'm pretty good at reading people and the way your beautiful bride keeps spinning her ring on her finger....must be a newlywed," She said with a smile.<br /> "Something like that," Laurel offered.<br /> "I thought so," The woman said happily.<br /> Laurel forced a smile back and Ivan turned to his menu, hoping the woman would take the hint, take their order and leave.<br /> "What can I get you?" She asked, pulling out a pad and pencil.<br /> "I'll have the grilled chicken special," Laurel said.<br /> "I'll have a steak and potatoes."<br /> The waitress hurried off, taking their menus with her and Laurel took a sip of her tea. Ivan waited until he was sure that the waitress was out of ear shot before he spoke.<br /> "Why did you tell her that?"<br /> "What?"<br /> "That we're newly weds?"<br /> "What did it hurt? We kind of are."<br /> "No, we're a far way from newlyweds," He replied.<br /> She shook her head and turned her attention to her now ringing phone, she answered it quickly and he took a deep breath. Something about the older woman's questions got under his skin, his and Laurels relationship wasn't something easy to explain and now it was even worse.<br /> "We'll be there as soon as we can mom." Laurel said.<br /> She hung up the phone and glanced at Ivan before setting it aside.<br /> "Mom's excited to see us," She said.<br /> "I'm sure she is."<br /> "I haven't been home since Christmas...it was too hard trying to make an excuse of wehre you were."<br /> "Why did you? Why not just tell them I was a prick and I ran out on you?"<br /> "I don't know, because.....it was too hard to tell them the truth about what happened and.....I didn't want to lie about you. You were a good husband."<br /> He fell silent, Laurel always made him sound like a saint but that was a lie. He tried to be good to her, he had loved her but he wasn't the best husband. He missed dinner, he came home late, he went away for days on rides, he forgot an anniversary or two but he had always loved her.<br /> "Okay, here we go."<br /> The waitress returned settling their plates in front of them with another happy smile, it was almost unnatural to be that happy in Ivan's opinion.<br /> "Thank you," Laurel smiled back at her, always the polite one.<br /> The waitress hurried away and Laurel picked up her fork and began to cut her chicken into pieces. Ivan watched her for a minute or two before digging into his steak.<br /> They exited the diner together a few hours later, Ivan heading to the driver side of the vehicle.<br /> "Do you want me to drive for a bit?" Laurel offered.<br /> "No, I want to get there in one piece."<br /> "My driving isn't that bad."<br /> "Uhhu, tell it to someone who hasn't rode in a car with you since you were seventeen."<br /> He climbed into the driver seat and she joined him on her own side, clicking her seatbelt in place.<br /> "I thought we'd drive a few more hours then find a motel, maybe order room service?"<br /> "That sounds like a great idea."<br /> She wanted to ask him what the sleeping arrangements would be, naturally she knew they wouldn't be sleeping together but she didn't know if they were getting two rooms or one. Deciding to play it by ear like she did everything else she didn't ask.<br /> They drove for a few more hours, knocking off as many miles as possible before Ivan found a small motel near the highway. He parked the car and Laurel followed him into the office.<br /> "I need two rooms, please." Ivan said, reaching for his wallet.<br /> "We only have one room available but it has two beds," The skinny boy behind the desk said.<br /> He glanced over his shoulder at Laurel and she gave him a small nod, two beds and one room was fine with her. He pulled his wallet from his back pocket and paid for their room. The kids slid the key across the counter and Ivan pocketed it before turning and Laurel followed him out the door.<br /> The walked across the parking lot to room number seven and Ivan opened the door, motioning for Laurel to go inside first.<br /> "Pick whichever bed you want."<br /> She moved to the bed furthest from the door, he slid the small gold chain in place locking them both in for the night. He hung his coat up on a nearby hanger.<br /> "Are you hungry?"<br /> "No."<br /> "I'm exhausted, can we just hit the sack?" He asked, toeing off his shoes.<br /> "Yeah sure."<br /> Laurel knew it was stupid to be nervous she and Ivan had slept together for years and now they would be in separate beds but still as she pulled off her shoes and jacket her nerves were on high alert. Her stomach turned and her hands felt shaky.<br /> Ivan climbed onto his bed, collapsing in his jeans and t-shirt and she glanced over at him realizing then they didn't bring their suitcases from the vehicle.<br /> "Do you want me to get the suitcases?" She offered.<br /> "No, just leave them. Get some sleep."<br /> She glanced down at her own jeans and t-shirt, she didn't want to sleep in them but also didn't want to take them off.<br /> "I'll turn off the light and we can both get more comfortable, I promise I won't look." He offered.<br /> "It's nothing you haven't seen before," She said with a shrug.<br /> He shrugged too then, sitting up he stripped off his jeans and pulled his shirt over his head tossing it aside. She looked away, her cheeks flushing. The last time she'd seen him shirtless was a few weeks ago when she'd stopped by his apartment unannounced. He'd been drunk at the time and that made the situation a little less awkward than it was now.<br /> He climbed under his blankets, rolling so his back was to her and she felt a little better that he wasn't looking. She timidly undid her jeans and let them drop at her feet, stepping out of them she then pulled her shirt over her head, she slipped off her bra before pulling her t-shirt back on and slipping under her own covers.<br /> "Thank you," She said gently.<br /> "Not a problem."<br /> Ivan kept his back to her as he reached over to switch off the bedside lamp, what Laurel didn't know and didn't need to know was that his back may have been facing her but the television was facing him. In the small screens dark reflection he had been afforded a view that until now he hadn't realized he had missed.<br /> The ear piercing scream woke Ivan from a deep and dreamless sleep, he bolted up right in the bed confused at first as to where he was. He wasn't in his shabby apartment he was in a shabby hotel along the highway and Laurel was in the other bed, screaming bloody murder.<br /> He tumbled from his own bed, the blankets wrapping around his legs for a minute and tripping him. He hit the dirty, stinky floor and pushed up scrambling towards the other bed.<br /> "Laurel, Laurel, Wake up."<br /> Switching on the light he caught her by her shoulders, her body thrashing beneath the sheets as he gave her a firm but gentle shake.<br /> "Laurel!"<br /> She sat up nearly knocking him over, gasping for air and covered in sweat. She glanced around, seeming confused and pushing a shaking hand through her blonde hair.<br /> "Are you okay?" He asked.<br /> "Yeah, I think so."<br /> "Nightmares?" He guessed.<br /> "Yeah."<br /> "I thought they had gotten better."<br /> "So did I," She said with a shake of her head.<br /> "When did they start again?" He asked.<br /> "I don't know sometime around getting shot and then they got worse after.......after Ezra."<br /> "Why didn't you tell me?" He asked, the hurt evident in his voice.<br /> "Why would I? There's nothing you can do, I'll get through it."<br /> She looked away, a stubborn set to her jaw but he saw the tears that were building in her pale blue eyes. Reaching out he cupped her chin with one hand, forcing her to look at him.<br /> "It's okay to still be scared, Laurel."<br /> She shoved him hard enough he nearly fell off the bed, then she scrambled from the bed herself moving across the room to the mini fridge she pulled out a tiny bottle of whiskey, unscrewing the lid and downing the contents.<br /> "What's there to be scared of? You killed them all."<br /> "Yeah I did but.....I can't undo what they did to you. You never talked about it, maybe you need too."<br /> "It was six years ago, I talked to plenty. To the cops, the therapist, I talked to lots of people just not you."<br /> "You could have."<br /> "No I couldn't because you weren't there, you checked out."<br /> For once he couldn't argue with her, he had checked out and he'd closed off. He'd been away for the day when Ezra called him, the strain in his cousins voice alerting him there was a problem before Ezra even told him the worst. He'd found Laurel, undressed, unconscious on the kitchen floor, she'd been beaten and violated. Somewhere during Ezra rattling off where she was taken by ambulance Ivan shut down.<br /> The frantic drive to the hospital, the interviews with the police, taking her home, cleaning up the mess that was made of the kitchen and caring for her all passed in a blur. Ivan could barely remember most of it looking back, like a bad dream that his mind wanted to ignore but Laurel didn't have that luxury, she remembered everything.<br /> At first she tried to talk to him, tried to explain why she recoiled every time he so much as glanced at her, at first he tried to listen but hearing her admit to the things they did to her was too much. Eventually it was easier to not listen anymore, not feel.<br /> He abandoned her in the time that Laurel needed him the most and she had recovered all alone.<br /> "Laurel....." He started to speak.<br /> "Let's just get some sleep, I'll be fine now."<br /> "Will it help if I leave the light on?" He asked.<br /> "No, I'm fine, really."<br /> She tossed the empty bottle into the trash and climbed across the bed, it was at this point he remembered her stripping for bed. She was wearing nothing but a t-shirt and black panties that did everything for her long legs.<br /> Before she pulled the blankets over her body he caught a glimpse of just one of the many scars left behind by that night. It ran from her hip down her thigh to nearly her knee and he knew there were plenty more, he hadn't seen her this undressed in years and had almost forgotten the scars that lay there physically as well as mentally.<br /> She leaned over and switched off the light, plunging the room into darkness. However brief and vague their conversation had been it was over. He stood and walked back to his own bed, climbing under the blankets.<br /> "For what it's worth.....I don't blame you," She said in the darkness.<br /> "I do."<br /> "Ivan...."<br /> "I should have been there, I should have known they would come after you, I should have....." He trailed off, not ready to go where his train of thought wanted to lead him.<br /> "They would have killed you."<br /> She knew they would have killed Ivan had he been home, she knew because it was that threat that they whispered in her ear to keep her from fighting back. Ivan had been the only reason she'd even somewhat cooperated.<br /> "Do you really think we can pull this off with your parents?" He asked, needing to change the subject.<br /> "Yeah, why not? We were in love once, it can't be that hard to fake it just a few days."<br /> "Any ideas on what you'll tell them after this week?"<br /> "I'm still thinking that through. I think maybe if mid way through this week we start to argue and not get along, if we have one good fight then I can tell them it's not working out anymore. They won't be as shocked."<br /> "You really think that's going to work?"<br /> "It's worth a try."<br /> "Laurel......if...if you want to talk..."<br /> "I don't it was a long time ago, I'm talked out."<br /> "Okay, I'll let you get some sleep then."<br /> He stood from her bed and she took that as a sign to slide down deeper into the blankets with a heavy sigh.<br /> As he climbed into his own bed and switched off the light he briefly wondered how long Laurel had been struggling with the nightmares. When they got their divorce they had been getting better, if he'd known she was struggling he might have tried to hold onto his sobriety a little more and tried to help her. The woman in that bed next to his had taken a magazine for him and he didn't even know she was struggling. | LEARN_MORE | https://a.shepherdsapp.com/ad/Zmljd29ybGQvMTYxNDQ1 | 102673059542883 | Shep002 | https://facebook.com/100093452425291 | 60 | 1 | 1,164,368,901,364,617 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Shep002 | 120210486392130659 | a.shepherdsapp.com | NONE | video | https://a.shepherdsapp.com/ad/Zmljd29ybGQvMTYxNDQ1LzIwMjQwNDI1MTAyNzI3L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}} | 2024-04-24 21:33 | https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440341645_1192916458546049_6911047177908323747_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Hd0jsX0BBOUAb6GJkKQ&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDcTSXN8ZTnFsIAqAZkZ2FDoW4AyrxO5J8ILVcy7FywZw&oe=6634346E | person_profile | 0 | Shep002 | https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440368803_362120962926254_1516494755903362486_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5BG07FldAi0Ab6svs9w&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBMWeHCRNsRcm-_Wft0o-t8TfYsYvEX8PjvLGgHixIjbA&oe=6634319D | 0 | 3 | Shep002 | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Seguir leyendoππ | DespuΓ©s del divorcio, regresΓ³ como una diseΓ±adora superior, piloto de carreras de Γ©lite, curandera famosa y hacker genial, impresionando a todos y haciendo que su exmarido se arrepintiera amargamente.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> CapΓtulo1 Divorcio<br /> "ImagΓnate si Norah nos sorprendiera aquΓ, en su cama. ΒΏCrees que se enojarΓa tanto que llorarΓa?", preguntΓ³ la mujer con un tono coqueto.<br /> <br /> "Esta no es su cama. DespuΓ©s de todos estos aΓ±os, ni siquiera la he tocado. Siempre duerme en la habitaciΓ³n de invitados de al lado", resoplΓ³ el hombre.<br /> <br /> "Derek, eres tan bueno conmigo...".<br /> <br /> Sus suaves murmullos se mezclaron con sus respiraciones agitadas.<br /> <br /> En la habitaciΓ³n tenuemente iluminada, un hombre y una mujer compartΓan momentos afectuosos en una espaciosa cama.<br /> <br /> Encima de ellos, adornando la prΓstina pared, habΓa una foto de una novia con una expresiΓ³n alegre.<br /> <br /> En la puerta, una joven se tapΓ³ la boca con las manos mientras las lΓ‘grimas corrΓan por su rostro.<br /> <br /> DespuΓ©s de un rato, su momento Γntimo terminΓ³.<br /> <br /> Derek Carter se puso sus pantalones cortos para ir a servirse un vaso de agua. Un destello de sorpresa se apoderΓ³ de su rostro cuando encontrΓ³ a Norah Wilson sentada en la sala de estar.<br /> <br /> Se preguntaba cuΓ‘ndo habΓa regresado y quΓ© habrΓa escuchado.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏLo oΓste todo?", preguntΓ³ casualmente despuΓ©s de recostarse en el sofΓ‘ con un vaso de agua.<br /> <br /> HabΓa chupetones en su delgada figura, pero no le importaba si Norah los veΓa o cΓ³mo se sentirΓa. Simplemente bebiΓ³ un sorbo de agua.<br /> <br /> "Firma esto". Derek sacΓ³ una carpeta de un cajΓ³n y la arrojΓ³ sobre la mesa. "Como es posible que lo hayas oΓdo todo, no tiene sentido que prolonguemos este asunto".<br /> <br /> Norah agarrΓ³ tΓmidamente el documento y leyΓ³ las palabras "Acuerdo de divorcio" en la pΓ‘gina inicial. Cuando fue hasta el final, vio la firma con estilo de Derek Carter.<br /> <br /> "Puedes revisarlo. Si quieres agregar un tΓ©rmino, avΓsame. De lo contrario, fΓrmalo", ordenΓ³ Derek.<br /> <br /> Luego, se reclinΓ³ y encendiΓ³ un cigarrillo. El humo nublΓ³ su indiferente expresiΓ³n.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏNo puedes darnos otra oportunidad?". Norah tenΓa la cabeza gacha y la voz Γ‘spera por las lΓ‘grimas. Su elegante flequillo caΓa sobre los bordes oscuros de sus gafas, resaltando su triste mirada.<br /> <br /> Desde que formΓ³ parte de la familia Carter, se habΓa dedicado a Derek para tener un futuro lleno de felicidad.<br /> <br /> Sus manos se apretaron cuando recordΓ³ al chico que la habΓa protegido de una tormenta de nieve, deseando tener incluso la mΓ‘s mΓnima esperanza de permanecer a su lado.<br /> <br /> "No seas tan patΓ©tica, Norah. TΓΊ sabes lo que pasa entre Madeline y yo. ΒΏPor quΓ© te aferras a seguir siendo mi esposa? Ten un poco de dignidad". Derek dejΓ³ caer la ceniza en la bandeja impacientemente. "Nuestro matrimonio nunca fue mΓ‘s que un acuerdo por conveniencia".<br /> <br /> Norah sintiΓ³ que su corazΓ³n daba un vuelco. Era Madeline Powell a quien Derek realmente amaba. Finalmente lo entendΓa.<br /> <br /> Norah se encorvΓ³ y jugueteΓ³ con el dobladillo de su ropa. Ahora se dio cuenta de que, cuando Madeline aparecΓa, la atenciΓ³n de Derek cambiaba por completo hacia ella.<br /> <br /> HacΓa aΓ±os, Madeline se fue al extranjero y Derek la persiguiΓ³, pero terminΓ³ en un trΓ‘gico accidente automovilΓstico que lo dejΓ³ inconsciente.<br /> <br /> Se suponΓa que se casarΓa con Luna Wilson. Pero ella se involucrΓ³ con otro hombre y tuvo un hijo, asΓ que los Wilson ofrecieron a Norah como novia sustituta. Norah ocupΓ³ el lugar de Luna y se convirtiΓ³ en la esposa de Derek.<br /> <br /> Durante su matrimonio, se dedicΓ³ a cuidarlo y cortΓ³ casi todos los lazos con su vida anterior por Γ©l. Incluso abandonΓ³ sus pasiones, como el diseΓ±o, las carreras de autos, la cirugΓa mΓ©dica y la codificaciΓ³n, para concentrarse ΓΊnicamente en su esposo.<br /> <br /> Cuando Derek despertΓ³ de su coma un aΓ±o atrΓ‘s, Norah siguiΓ³ cuidΓ‘ndolo incansablemente y permaneciΓ³ a su lado sin falta. Pero Γ©l pareciΓ³ cegado por su ternura cuando Madeline regresΓ³ del extranjero.<br /> <br /> A pesar de dos aΓ±os de matrimonio y cuidados, Norah tenΓa que admitir que no habΓa logrado conquistar el corazΓ³n de Derek.<br /> <br /> Al no recibir respuesta, Derek no pudo evitar fruncir el ceΓ±o y estudiar a la mujer sentada frente a Γ©l.<br /> <br /> Norah era innegablemente atractiva, incluso con su espeso flequillo y sus grandes gafas, pero a menudo descuidaba su apariencia y se veΓa desaliΓ±ada. AdemΓ‘s, tenΓa una personalidad demasiado reservada.<br /> <br /> Cuando Derek despertΓ³ del coma, Norah estuvo a su lado las veinticuatro horas del dΓa, pero aun asΓ Γ©l no sentΓa ninguna conexiΓ³n emocional con ella, solo la encontraba increΓblemente aburrida.<br /> <br /> Sus constantes cuidados y atenciones, asΓ como su aspecto mundano y su rutina, eran tan monΓ³tonos como el agua. A Derek todo le parecΓa bastante aburrido.<br /> <br /> ReconocΓa el papel de Norah como cuidadora experimentada de la familia Carter durante esos dos aΓ±os, pero nunca sintiΓ³ que fuera adecuada para ser su compaΓ±era.<br /> <br /> Mientras apagaba otro cigarrillo, agregΓ³ casualmente:<br /> <br /> "Esta es la residencia de los Carter...".<br /> <br /> Al interrumpirse, notΓ³ que Norah seguΓa con la cabeza gacha. La tristeza en su postura lo irritΓ³.<br /> <br /> "Soy consciente de tu miseria con los Wilson, asΓ que te darΓ© tres villas y treinta millones despuΓ©s del divorcio. Puedes elegir cualquier auto del garaje. Eso deberΓa garantizarte una vida cΓ³moda", ofreciΓ³ Derek.<br /> <br /> No olvidaba el diligente cuidado de Norah mientras estaba postrado en cama y su compaΓ±Γa durante sus posteriores ejercicios de recuperaciΓ³n.<br /> <br /> Aunque no sentΓa ningΓΊn afecto por ella, estaba dispuesto a ofrecerle un acuerdo generoso por sus aΓ±os de dedicaciΓ³n. Le habΓa dedicado los dos mejores aΓ±os de su vida.<br /> <br /> Derek se cruzΓ³ de brazos, y entonces Norah vio un pequeΓ±o tatuaje en su clavΓcula, empeorando su angustia. Era las iniciales MP. Madeline Powell.<br /> <br /> Derek ya no tenΓa paciencia.<br /> <br /> "Dadas las circunstancias, te darΓ© un dΓa para que lo pienses. Si no estΓ‘s de acuerdo con los tΓ©rminos, puedes sugerir ajustes, pero no vayas demasiado lejos. No soy conocido por ser paciente...".<br /> <br /> "No es necesario que lo piense". Norah agarrΓ³ el bolΓgrafo de la mesa y escribiΓ³ su nombre en los papeles de divorcio. "EmpacarΓ© mis cosas y me irΓ©. Ya no me interpondrΓ© en tu camino".<br /> <br /> Derek le dio un asentimiento.<br /> <br /> "Me alegra escuchar eso".<br /> <br /> Derek apreciaba que Norah siempre cediera, como una sirviente que nunca cuestionaba sus decisiones. Un ejemplo era ese mismo dΓa, pues podrΓa haber causado un escΓ‘ndalo, pero mantuvo la paz.<br /> <br /> En su opiniΓ³n, su comportamiento era demasiado aburrido. TenΓa miedo de que estar cerca de alguien tan corriente pudiera contagiarlo eventualmente. El amor, despuΓ©s de todo, no era algo que pudiera forzarse.<br /> <br /> Justo cuando estaba a punto de decir algo sobre el contrato, Madeline saliΓ³ elegantemente, vestida con una camisa blanca.<br /> <br /> Apenas le cubrΓa sus muslos y solo habΓa un par de botones abrochados, exponiendo mucha piel.<br /> <br /> Su cabello estaba hΓΊmedo, por lo que la camisa se pegaba ligeramente a su piel, haciendo de su apariencia mucho mΓ‘s atractiva.<br /> <br /> Al escuchar unos pasos, Norah se dio la vuelta y vio a Madeline usando lo que inmediatamente reconociΓ³ como la camisa de Derek, una que ella habΓa elegido para Γ©l.<br /> <br /> Sus miradas se encontraron. Madeline le dedicΓ³ una sonrisa engreΓda y burlona.<br /> <br /> Pero cuando Derek siguiΓ³ su mirada, ella se apresurΓ³ a ocultar su sonrisa.<br /> <br /> "Norah, por fin nos conocemos. Soy Madeline Powell". Madeline se acercΓ³ a Derek y se sentΓ³ a su lado. "Derek te menciona a menudo", dijo apoyΓ‘ndose sobre su hombro. "Es un placer conocerte".<br /> <br /> Norah bajΓ³ la mirada y no respondiΓ³.<br /> <br /> Madeline le dio un codazo a Derek en broma.<br /> <br /> "EscuchΓ© que le darΓ‘s tres villas a Norah. ΒΏNo sabΓas que yo querΓa la villa cerca del lago? ΒΏPor quΓ© se la prometiste? ΒΏYa no me amas?".<br /> <br /> Siendo indulgente con los deseos de Madeline, Derek se volviΓ³ hacia Norah.<br /> <br /> "Te darΓ© otra villa".<br /> <br /> Norah lo mirΓ³ a travΓ©s de sus gafas.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏPero no dijiste que esa era para mΓ?".<br /> <br /> Madeline hizo un puchero.<br /> <br /> "Derek...".<br /> <br /> El rostro del hombre mostrΓ³ un destello de molestia.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ΒΏno entiendes lo que acabo de decir? TΓ³malo como un favor. Si no quieres realizar cambios, por favor, abstente de hacer solicitudes".<br /> <br /> CapΓtulo2 Dale una lecciΓ³n<br /> "Norah, deseo con todo mi corazΓ³n esa villa junto al lago. Elige otra para ti. Siempre he soΓ±ado que ese serΓa mi nuevo hogar con Derek", confesΓ³ Madeline mientras se acurrucaba mΓ‘s en sus brazos. "Ha sido mi deseo desde hace mucho".<br /> <br /> Derek sintiΓ³ nostalgia ante sus palabras.<br /> <br /> Norah lanzΓ³ una suave risa.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏQuΓ© te rΓes?", preguntΓ³ Γ©l.<br /> <br /> Madeline se acurrucΓ³ junto a Derek. El escote abierto de su camisa revelaba mucho de su suave piel. Mientras giraba distraΓdamente un mechΓ³n de su cabello, quiso llamar la atenciΓ³n del hombre, quien apoyΓ³ una mano sobre su hombro.<br /> <br /> "Me estoy riendo de lo tonta que fui", contestΓ³ Norah gΓ©lidamente.<br /> <br /> Sin dudarlo, agarrΓ³ el vaso de agua de Derek de la mesa y los empapΓ³ a los dos. La repentina cascada los dejΓ³ perplejos.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ΒΏhas perdido la cabeza?", espetΓ³ Derek.<br /> <br /> Norah se puso de pie.<br /> <br /> "SeΓ±or Carter, pensΓ© que eras un hombre de palabra. Ya que me hiciste una promesa, cΓΊmplela. De lo contrario, admite que eres un pΓ©simo hombre que rompe su palabra".<br /> <br /> Madeline estaba acostumbrada a la indulgencia de Derek, por lo que tenΓa un temperamento feroz. Simplemente fingΓa vulnerabilidad y sumisiΓ³n para ganarse el afecto de los hombres.<br /> <br /> Pero ahora estaba tan molesta que se levantΓ³ y empujΓ³ fuertemente a Norah.<br /> <br /> "Ya se te ha mostrado suficiente indulgencia. ΒΏCrees que puedes hablarnos asΓ? ΒΏQuiΓ©n te crees que eres? ΒΏCΓ³mo te atreves a tratarnos a Derek y a mΓ con tan poco respeto?".<br /> <br /> Luego, volviΓ³ a buscar refugio en los brazos del hombre.<br /> <br /> "Derek, Norah ha cruzado el lΓmite. Β‘Dale una lecciΓ³n!". MirΓ‘ndolo lastimosamente, implorΓ³: "Mira, mi cabello y mi ropa estΓ‘n empapados".<br /> <br /> Su camisa blanca se pegaba a ella, resaltando su elegante figura.<br /> <br /> Norah los observΓ³ con calma, como si presenciara un espectΓ‘culo circense.<br /> <br /> "Yo no pedΓ esas villas y propiedades. La familia Carter es bastante adinerada, pero todavΓa duda ante asuntos tan pequeΓ±os. Lo entiendo, piensas que no lo merezco", declarΓ³ con un tono burlΓ³n pero carente de amargura.<br /> <br /> No obstante, Derek sintiΓ³ un cambio profundo en la actitud de Norah.<br /> <br /> Con la mandΓbula apretada, se secΓ³ el agua del rostro antes de volverse hacia Madeline.<br /> <br /> "Tengo muchas villas a mi nombre. Elige otra que te guste y serΓ‘ tuya".<br /> <br /> Pero la furia de Madeline hacia Norah latΓa a fuego lento. AdemΓ‘s de Derek, nadie se habΓa atrevido a faltarle el respeto de esa manera. La idea de que la exesposa no deseada de Derek actuara de esa manera era insoportable.<br /> <br /> AsΓ que la fulminΓ³ con la mirada.<br /> <br /> "Entonces, ΒΏentregarΓ‘s esa villa o no?".<br /> <br /> "No", respondiΓ³ Norah firmemente.<br /> <br /> Un estruendo resonΓ³ cuando Madeline le dio una fuerte bofetada.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏCΓ³mo te atreves? Sin Derek, no eres nadie en la familia Wilson. Β‘Solo eres una bastarda!", bramΓ³ Madeline.<br /> <br /> El rostro de Derek se ensombreciΓ³, pero no tardΓ³ en recuperar la calma.<br /> <br /> "Madeline, no te enfades por ella".<br /> <br /> Norah se tocΓ³ la mejilla e hizo una mueca por el ardor de la bofetada. Probando la sangre, le dio una mirada fulminante a la otra mujer y susurrΓ³:<br /> <br /> "Te faltan modales...".<br /> <br /> Madeline buscΓ³ refugio en los brazos de Derek.<br /> <br /> "Tengo a Derek a mi lado", se jactΓ³. "ΒΏQuΓ© tienes tΓΊ? No eres mΓ‘s que un perro callejero que ya no quisieron mΓ‘s. Β‘Ah! Β‘Norah!".<br /> <br /> Norah le arrojΓ³ un jarrΓ³n. Este se estrellΓ³ contra el suelo cerca del sofΓ‘, rompiΓ©ndose en pedazos.<br /> <br /> "Si tienes ganas de ladrar, puedes hacerlo", agregΓ³ mientras se acercaba. Luego, agarrΓ³ a Madeline por el cabello para obligarla a mirarla y la abofeteΓ³ ferozmente.<br /> <br /> Madeline se puso a gritar.<br /> <br /> "Β‘Derek!".<br /> <br /> Derek, sintiendo que Norah se habΓa excedido, se enojΓ³ pero se contuvo.<br /> <br /> DespuΓ©s de liberar a Madeline, Norah retrocediΓ³ un paso.<br /> <br /> "Los dejarΓ© en paz. Espero que encuentren alegrΓa, tengan muchos hijos y estΓ©n juntos para toda la vida".<br /> <br /> Norah saliΓ³ de la residencia de Derek mientras escuchaba a lo lejos los sollozos de Madeline.<br /> <br /> Cuando la puerta se cerrΓ³ de golpe, esta empezΓ³ a gritar indignada.<br /> <br /> "Derek, ΒΏpuedes creer lo que Norah acaba de hacer?", se quejΓ³. "Nos mojΓ³ y me abofeteΓ³. Tienes que darle una lecciΓ³n...".<br /> <br /> "Β‘Suficiente!", la interrumpiΓ³ Γ©l. MasajeΓ‘ndose las sienes, suavizΓ³ su voz. "Norah y yo estamos divorciados. No quiero seguir enredΓ‘ndome con ella. CumplirΓ© tus deseos, Madeline. Pero cΓ‘lmate, por favor".<br /> <br /> Con un puchero, ella se acurrucΓ³ en el abrazo de Derek.<br /> <br /> "El comportamiento de Norah hacia ti me irrita", murmurΓ³ con frustraciΓ³n. "Siempre has mencionado lo dΓ³cil que es, pero hoy fue todo lo contrario. Estaba muy agresiva".<br /> <br /> Derek recordΓ³ a Norah agarrando la taza para echarle agua, asΓ como la mirada frΓa que le dirigiΓ³ a Madeline cuando la abofeteΓ³. Era un lado suyo que nunca habΓa presenciado antes. Fue entonces cuando se dio cuenta de que no la conocΓa bien. Su impresiΓ³n de ella solo se basaba en su obediencia.<br /> <br /> Al salir, Norah vio un sedΓ‘n negro esperΓ‘ndola en la puerta. El conductor la saludΓ³ con respeto.<br /> <br /> "SeΓ±ora Norah Carter, la seΓ±ora Juliana Carter solicita su presencia".<br /> <br /> Ella estaba sorprendida y no sabΓa quΓ© hacer, pero aun asΓ entrΓ³ al vehΓculo sin pensarlo dos veces.<br /> <br /> Pronto el auto se detuvo frente a una enorme villa. Era la mansiΓ³n de los Carter, la residencia de los abuelos de Derek.<br /> <br /> "SeΓ±ora Norah Carter...", saludΓ³ el mayordomo y llevΓ³ a la aparentemente preocupada Norah al interior.<br /> <br /> ParecΓa querer seguir conversando, pero finalmente decidiΓ³ permanecer callado.<br /> <br /> "La seΓ±ora Juliana dice que no la ve desde hace mucho. La cena aΓΊn no estΓ‘ servida, asΓ que podrΓa pasar tiempo con ella antes de cenar".<br /> <br /> Norah bajΓ³ los ojos y no dijo nada. TenΓa la sensaciΓ³n de que Juliana querΓa convencerla de que reconsiderara el divorcio.<br /> <br /> La mansiΓ³n solΓa ser muy tranquila, ya que solo era habitada por los abuelos de Derek. Pero esta cobrΓ³ vida cuando Juliana, la abuela de Derek, notΓ³ la llegada de Norah y la invitΓ³ calurosamente a acercarse.<br /> <br /> "Norah, siΓ©ntate aquΓ".<br /> <br /> Norah se instalΓ³ y la saludΓ³ con una sonrisa a pesar de su confusiΓ³n.<br /> <br /> Juliana agarrΓ³ su mano.<br /> <br /> "No me has visitado en mucho tiempo", dijo ansiosamente.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏCΓ³mo va todo con Derek?".<br /> <br /> Norah supuso que la anciana la estaba poniendo a prueba. Dudaba que no supiera sobre el regreso de Madeline.<br /> <br /> Con aplomo, declarΓ³:<br /> <br /> "Derek piensa que deberΓamos divorciarnos. Acabo de firmar el acuerdo de divorcio para dejarle el paso libre a Madeline".<br /> <br /> "ΒΏMadeline?", repitiΓ³ Juliana tajantemente. "Sus acciones hicieron que Derek sufriera ese accidente. ΒΏCΓ³mo se atreve a regresar a su vida? No te preocupes, yo te prefiero a ti sobre esa mujer. ΒΏExiste alguna posibilidad de que reconsideres el divorcio?".<br /> <br /> "ΒΏDivorcio? Β‘QuizΓ‘s sea lo mejor!". Sharon Carter, la madre de Derek, se acercΓ³ con una sonrisa. Su presencia irradiaba sofisticaciΓ³n y encanto mientras se movΓa con seducciΓ³n.<br /> <br /> Juliana se puso furiosa.<br /> <br /> "Β‘Camina bien! ΒΏPor quΓ© te comportas asΓ? No tienes modales".<br /> <br /> Sharon se sorprendiΓ³ ante su reprimenda y su expresiΓ³n se volviΓ³ incΓ³moda. Mirando a Norah, agregΓ³ con tono gΓ©lido:<br /> <br /> "Menos mal estΓ‘n divorciados. Derek se iba a casar con Luna Wilson, la hija mayor de los Wilson. ΒΏPero quΓ© pasΓ³? Luna fue tan desvergonzada como para involucrarse con otro hombre y terminΓ³ embarazada.<br /> <br /> En todos estos aΓ±os viviendo en Glophia, nunca escuchΓ© que la familia Wilson tuviera otra hija. Me pregunto de dΓ³nde saliΓ³ esta mujer. ΒΏNo ha disfrutado de suficiente riqueza y prosperidad siendo la esposa de Derek durante dos aΓ±os?".<br /> <br /> CapΓtulo3 Cambio de imagen<br /> Norah agarrΓ³ la mano de Juliana. Su expresiΓ³n se iluminΓ³ con una sonrisa, como si ignorara los duros comentarios de Sharon.<br /> <br /> "Parece que tienes un poco de tos. Estoy segura de que una sopa te ayudarΓ‘ a recuperarte. Le darΓ© la receta al mayordomo mΓ‘s tarde".<br /> <br /> Juliana siempre habΓa apreciado su docilidad y sensatez, asΓ que respondiΓ³ calurosamente:<br /> <br /> "Eres un Γ‘ngel, Norah. No me estoy haciendo mΓ‘s joven y mi salud ha ido empeorando con la edad. Querida, tΓΊ eres la ΓΊnica que muestra tanta preocupaciΓ³n por mi bienestar".<br /> <br /> Al verse ignorada, Sharon palideciΓ³.<br /> <br /> "Oh, vamos", resoplΓ³. "Β‘Deja de fingir! Ahora que ya firmaste el acuerdo de divorcio, no es necesario que sigas actuando. ΒΏDe verdad crees que permanecer cerca de Juliana te otorgarΓ‘ el derecho de seguir beneficiΓ‘ndote de nuestra familia?".<br /> <br /> Antes de que Norah pudiera responder, la anciana intervino:<br /> <br /> "Ella ha sido amable con todos nosotros desde que formΓ³ parte de esta familia. Estuvo al lado de Derek durante su coma y lo cuidΓ³ diligentemente. Sin mencionar que siempre nos ha tratado a ti y a mΓ con respeto. ΒΏPor quΓ© ahora eres tan desagradecida, despuΓ©s de todo lo que ha hecho por nuestra familia en estos aΓ±os?".<br /> <br /> "Β‘Juliana! Norah no es mΓ‘s que una bastarda de los Wilson. ΒΏPor quΓ© la defiendes?". Sharon dio un pisotΓ³n.<br /> <br /> Luego, se volviΓ³ hacia Norah.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏDije algo malo? ΒΏCΓ³mo merece esta bastarda ser la esposa de Derek? Si tΓΊ y tu esposo no hubieran insistido en que ella se casara con Derek, jamΓ‘s la habrΓa aprobado. AdemΓ‘s, ha vivido de la fortuna de la familia Carter todo este tiempo. Es comprensible que nos trate con respeto. ΒΏPor quΓ© haces que parezca como si hubiera hecho algo grandioso? Tampoco ha concebido en todos estos aΓ±os. Quieres bisnietos, ΒΏno? Apuesto a que Derek se divorciΓ³ de ella por ese motivo".<br /> <br /> El rostro de Juliana se volviΓ³ severo.<br /> <br /> "Sharon, cuida tus palabras. ΒΏCΓ³mo puedes decir semejantes estupideces?".<br /> <br /> Aunque estaba sorprendida por su severidad, Sharon replicΓ³:<br /> <br /> "Solo estoy exponiendo los hechos. Es una suerte que no haya concebido, ya que eso podrΓa haber complicado el divorcio. Cualquier hijo suyo serΓa tan desagradable como ella".<br /> <br /> Juliana estaba perturbada por las palabras de su nuera, pero se limitΓ³ a agarrar la mano de Norah para tranquilizarla.<br /> <br /> "IgnΓ³rala, Norah. Es una mujer grosera y malhablada. Por favor, no te precipites con el asunto del divorcio. Mientras respire, solo te reconocerΓ© a ti como la esposa de Derek. Mi esposo y yo te apreciamos muchΓsimo. No te preocupes por la reacciΓ³n de mi nieto. ConcΓ©ntrate en llevarte bien con Γ©l y sigan viviendo plenamente juntos".<br /> <br /> Sharon se veΓa bastante frustrada.<br /> <br /> "Juliana, ΒΏquΓ© te pasa? ΒΏPor quΓ© tΓΊ y tu esposo siempre defienden a Norah? Β‘Maldita sea! Norah, lo mejor es que aceptes que tΓΊ y Derek terminaron".<br /> <br /> Norah alzΓ³ los ojos llorosos hacia Juliana.<br /> <br /> "Basta de tonterΓas, Sharon", espetΓ³ la anciana, manteniendo la compostura. "No tienes voz ni voto en el matrimonio de Derek. No opines sobre ese asunto, y dΓ©jame resaltar una vez mΓ‘s que prefiero a Norah. Si no puedes hablar debidamente, sal de mi vista. Β‘Ahora!".<br /> <br /> El rostro de Sharon se enrojeciΓ³ de furia y vergΓΌenza. Tuvo que apretar los labios con fuerza para reprimir cualquier otra objeciΓ³n.<br /> <br /> Juliana volviΓ³ a centrar su atenciΓ³n en Norah:<br /> <br /> "ΒΏQuΓ© piensas?".<br /> <br /> Norah se encontrΓ³ con su mirada. Las lΓ‘grimas rodaban por sus mejillas mientras luchaba por hablar.<br /> <br /> "Yo... Te agradezco mucho, Juliana. Pero hoy encontrΓ© a Madeline y Derek teniendo sexo en lo que solΓa ser nuestra cama. AdemΓ‘s, la indiferencia de Derek me ha dado a entender que no tiene sentido continuar con este matrimonio".<br /> <br /> El rostro de Juliana se volviΓ³ de un blanco fantasmal y sus rasgos se arrugaron por la preocupaciΓ³n.<br /> <br /> "La culpa es de Derek". Luego, agarrΓ³ firmemente sus manos para consolarla. "Has soportado mucho durante todo este tiempo".<br /> <br /> Norah permaneciΓ³ callada. Un breve silencio se apoderΓ³ de la sala de estar.<br /> <br /> De repente, se escuchΓ³ la fuerte voz de Sharon.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏLa puta de Madeline ha vuelto? Β‘MaldiciΓ³n! Voy a salir, Juliana. Β‘Tengo que hacer que esa puta pague!".<br /> <br /> Sharon agarrΓ³ rΓ‘pidamente su bolso y saliΓ³ corriendo.<br /> <br /> Norah se secΓ³ las lΓ‘grimas y esbozΓ³ una sonrisa de alivio.<br /> <br /> "Estoy bien, en serio".<br /> <br /> Juliana tenΓa el corazΓ³n apesadumbrado.<br /> <br /> "Bueno, no te presionarΓ© mΓ‘s. Pero visΓtame cuando tengas tiempo. Solo tu compaΓ±Γa me basta".<br /> <br /> Las lΓ‘grimas se acumularon en sus ojos. Realmente se habΓa encariΓ±ado con Norah y reconocΓa su importancia en la recuperaciΓ³n de su nieto.<br /> <br /> Norah secΓ³ tiernamente las lΓ‘grimas de la anciana, apreciando la genuina bondad que le habΓa mostrado.<br /> <br /> "Lo harΓ©. Bueno, tengo que irme. Por favor, deberΓas pedir a la criada que le prepare la sopa".<br /> <br /> Norah se marchΓ³ sin mirar atrΓ‘s, sin darse cuenta de la resoluciΓ³n en los ojos de Juliana.<br /> <br /> Esta se secΓ³ los ojos y le indicΓ³ al mayordomo:<br /> <br /> "Haz que Derek y los demΓ‘s vengan aquΓ maΓ±ana al mediodΓa".<br /> <br /> "Entendido", contestΓ³ Γ©l.<br /> <br /> Cuando Norah saliΓ³ de la mansiΓ³n de los Carter, el chΓ³fer de la familia se acercΓ³ a ella.<br /> <br /> "SeΓ±ora, ΒΏadΓ³nde le gustarΓa ir?".<br /> <br /> Sus modales seguΓan siendo educados, ya que todavΓa la consideraba la esposa de Derek.<br /> <br /> Pero una vez que firmΓ³ el documento de divorcio, Norah comprendiΓ³ que habΓa roto sus lazos con la familia Carter.<br /> <br /> Al mirar su telΓ©fono, descubriΓ³ que habΓa un mensaje nuevo.<br /> <br /> Era de Joanna Andrews, su amiga.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ΒΏestΓ‘s disponible esta noche para acompaΓ±arme al club Glamour? Madeline ha regresado, asΓ que Derek le organizarΓ‘ una fiesta de bienvenida. Β‘Va a ser todo un espectΓ‘culo! Tenemos que hacer sentir nuestra presencia".<br /> <br /> Norah le dio una respuesta breve.<br /> <br /> "Cuenta conmigo".<br /> <br /> Joanna enviΓ³ varios signos de interrogaciΓ³n. La rΓ‘pida aceptaciΓ³n de su amiga la tomΓ³ con la guardia baja.<br /> <br /> "Estoy oficialmente divorciada", explicΓ³ Norah. "De ahora en adelante, estarΓ© sola".<br /> <br /> Joanna no respondiΓ³ nada por un momento, pero luego enviΓ³ un mensaje emocionado con una rΓ‘faga de signos de exclamaciΓ³n.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ‘¿dΓ³nde estΓ‘s ahora?! ‘‘‘IrΓ© por ti inmediatamente!!! ‘‘‘Solo dame diez segundos para llegar!!!".<br /> <br /> Divertida ante el entusiasmo de su amiga, Norah le enviΓ³ una ubicaciΓ³n y le indicΓ³ al conductor:<br /> <br /> "Por favor, llΓ©veme al Edificio Splendor".<br /> <br /> Era un lugar conocido en Glophia por ser un lujoso centro comercial, con marcas de primer nivel de todo el mundo.<br /> <br /> Al llegar, Norah fue recibida calurosamente.<br /> <br /> "Noelle, me alegro mucho de verte. ΒΏViniste para entregar los bocetos de diseΓ±o?".<br /> <br /> El lujoso vestidor estaba repleto de impresionantes vestidos de alta costura, cada uno adornado con brillantes diamantes que reflejaban la luz.<br /> <br /> Aaron Harvey, el diseΓ±ador de alta costura de Asodence, se acercΓ³ teatralmente a ella y la tomΓ³ del brazo.<br /> <br /> "Me duele cada vez que te veo asΓ. ΒΏPor quΓ© escondes tu hermoso rostro? Eres la flor mΓ‘s exquisita, asΓ que deberΓas florecer con valentΓa".<br /> <br /> Norah parpadeΓ³.<br /> <br /> "Estoy de acuerdo, Aaron. ΒΏPuedes ayudarme con un cambio de imagen?".<br /> <br /> Aaron esperΓ³ que Norah le diera excusas, asΓ que estaba a punto de continuar con la persuasiΓ³n, pero entonces se quedΓ³ paralizado.<br /> <br /> "Β‘Espera! TΓΊ... Noelle, ΒΏde verdad quieres tener una transformaciΓ³n? Β‘Oh, por Dios! Acudir a mΓ fue la mejor decisiΓ³n de tu vida".<br /> <br /> Dejando de lado el tema de los borradores de diseΓ±o, Aaron la llevΓ³ a la silla de maquillaje.<br /> <br /> "QuΓ©date quieta. Te aseguro que serΓ‘s una mujer deslumbrante cuando deje que tu belleza natural y tu irresistible encanto hagan su magia".<br /> <br /> Aaron observΓ³ el sencillo atuendo y el cabello despeinado de Norah. Luego, comenzΓ³ entusiasmadamente su transformaciΓ³n con una brocha de maquillaje en la mano.<br /> <br /> Cuando Joanna llegΓ³ al lugar, todavΓa seguΓan maquillando a Norah.<br /> <br /> Como conocΓa a Aaron, fue a saludarlo y se sentΓ³ en una cercana silla de maquillaje.<br /> <br /> "Norah, te felicito por tu regreso oficial a una vida despreocupada".<br /> <br /> CapΓtulo4 Club Glamour<br /> Norah le dio una sonrisa.<br /> <br /> "Eres muy hΓ‘bil con las palabras, Joanna".<br /> <br /> "Oye, ΒΏno estabas enamorada de Derek?", preguntΓ³ ella con curiosidad. "ΒΏQuΓ© te hizo recuperarte y olvidar tu amor?".<br /> <br /> "Acabo de encontrarlo con Madeline en la cama", explicΓ³ Norah con voz gΓ©lida.<br /> <br /> Joanna se echΓ³ a reΓr.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏTan desesperada estΓ‘ Madeline por estar con un hombre? Apenas ha regresado y ya se metiΓ³ con el esposo de otra persona. Me pregunto cΓ³mo era su vida en el extranjero. Bueno, debo reconocer que tΓΊ y Derek ambos son demasiado dedicados al amor. Γl estaba obsesionado con su primer amor y tΓΊ le eras completamente devota, a pesar de que nunca te correspondiΓ³. ΒΏAcaso el amor ciega tanto a la gente?".<br /> <br /> La mente de Norah empezΓ³ a vagar. Hoy habΓa sido la primera vez que vio a Madeline.<br /> <br /> Solo habΓa escuchado hablar de ella a travΓ©s de Derek y el personal de la casa. Todos la describΓan como amable, empΓ‘tica, educada y tranquila, alguien que podΓa atraerlo.<br /> <br /> Norah siempre habΓa hecho de todo para cuidarlo, adoptando las supuestas caracterΓsticas de Madeline, incluso tratando de parecerse a ella para llamar su atenciΓ³n.<br /> <br /> Pero ser un reemplazo nunca era suficiente. AdemΓ‘s, Madeline no era en absoluto la persona que ella habΓa imaginado.<br /> <br /> "Lo entenderΓas si alguna vez sintieras el amor", respondiΓ³ sin mucho entusiasmo.<br /> <br /> Joanna frunciΓ³ el ceΓ±o.<br /> <br /> "No quiero perderme en el amor, Norah. Prefiero estar alerta y a tu lado. Apenas nos vemos desde que te uniste a la familia Carter".<br /> <br /> Tras su matrimonio, Norah se dedicΓ³ a Derek y a la familia Carter, dejando atrΓ‘s su vida pasada y sus amistades.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ahora que estΓ‘s divorciada, ΒΏparticiparΓ‘s en la carrera de la montaΓ±a Krusa en cinco dΓas?".<br /> <br /> "No", contestΓ³ ella rotundamente. "Hace dos aΓ±os que no participo en carreras, asΓ que estoy fuera de prΓ‘ctica".<br /> <br /> Pero Joanna no parecΓa convencida.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏFuera de prΓ‘ctica? Dame una excusa mejor la prΓ³xima vez. Dime, Norah, ΒΏtodavΓa tienes esperanzas de regresar con el bastardo de Derek?".<br /> <br /> Joanna quiso hablar mal de ese hombre, pero tuvo una idea.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏRecuerdas la carrera de hace tres aΓ±os? Nocturne fue el ΓΊnico que pudo alcanzarte. Desde que te retiraste, ha conseguido el primer puesto en la carrera de Krusa durante los ΓΊltimos dos aΓ±os. Todos esperan que vuelva a competir este aΓ±o. ΒΏNo quieres verlo?".<br /> <br /> La carrera de la montaΓ±a Krusa era un emocionante evento clandestino, una reuniΓ³n de la Γ©lite joven y adinerada de Glophia que eran entusiastas de las carreras de autos. Ese evento era conocido por sus emocionantes carreras y atraΓa a una multitud fanΓ‘tica de los deportes extremos.<br /> <br /> Para proteger la privacidad de los concursantes, cada uno recibΓa una mΓ‘scara de los organizadores y usaba apodos durante la carrera.<br /> <br /> Una peculiaridad era que el ganador podΓa pedirles a los perdedores que se quitaran la mΓ‘scara.<br /> <br /> Norah recordΓ³ la emocionante carrera de hacΓa tres aΓ±os, en la que Nocturne se quedΓ³ por poco con el primer puesto por unos escasos tres segundos.<br /> <br /> "Bueno, supongo que no hay nada de malo en echarle un vistazo", comentΓ³ con un brillo en los ojos.<br /> <br /> Aaron se mostrΓ³ interesado cuando escuchΓ³ sobre el divorcio.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏEstΓ‘s divorciada, Noelle? Ese hombre no sabe lo que se perdiΓ³. Apuesto a que se arrepentirΓ‘ de haber dejado a alguien tan valioso como tΓΊ. De todos modos, sobre esos borradores de diseΓ±o...".<br /> <br /> Joanna se volviΓ³ hacia Aaron.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ΒΏaΓΊn trabajas en diseΓ±os para BelleVogue? No me extraΓ±a que algunas de sus lΓneas de lujo se parezcan a tus creaciones".<br /> <br /> Aaron sonriΓ³ orgullosamente.<br /> <br /> "Noelle es una diseΓ±adora de moda de primer nivel reconocida por la AsociaciΓ³n de Alta Costura. Es famosa en todo el mundo por sus diseΓ±os, los cuales estΓ‘n valorizados en precios altΓsimos. Afortunadamente, siendo cercano a Noelle, he sido el ΓΊnico que ha recibido sus creaciones en estos dos aΓ±os".<br /> <br /> Joanna puso los ojos en blanco.<br /> <br /> "Todo esto es por el talento de Norah. ΒΏQuΓ© tiene que ver contigo? Vamos, apΓΊrate. Tengo que verme espectacular esta noche, al igual que Norah".<br /> <br /> "Bueno, bueno. RelΓ‘jate y me asegurarΓ© de que ambas se vean fabulosas".<br /> <br /> Una hora despuΓ©s, las dos amigas entraron al club Glamour.<br /> <br /> En la pista de baile, unas luces vibrantes giraban e iluminaban todo el lugar. La mΓΊsica sonaba con emociΓ³n mientras la gente bailaba. Sus rostros brillaban de alegrΓa entre el olor a alcohol y el humo.<br /> <br /> El segundo piso ofrecΓa un ambiente mΓ‘s tranquilo. AhΓ Norah se sentΓ³ en un sofΓ‘ para beber su bebida, atrayendo miradas curiosas. TenΓa puesto un pequeΓ±o vestido sin tirantes de color blanco plateado. Su cabello castaΓ±o estaba ligeramente rizado y caΓa sobre su espalda. La elegante curva de su cuello brillaba suavemente mientras inclinaba la cabeza para tomar un sorbo de su bebida.<br /> <br /> "Β‘AhΓ estΓ‘ mi Norah!", exclamΓ³ Joanna y se sentΓ³ frente a ella. "No te has reunido conmigo en todo este tiempo. Β‘Y siempre te ponΓas esos vestidos formales en la residencia de ese idiota! ΒΏNo te sentΓas asfixiada? Es tan bueno verte una vez mΓ‘s en tu elemento. Β‘Me hace tan feliz!".<br /> <br /> Norah siguiΓ³ tomando su bebida en silencio.<br /> <br /> A medida que el ardiente lΓquido se deslizaba por su garganta hasta su vientre, su cuerpo empezΓ³ a entrar en calor.<br /> <br /> A pesar de que se habΓa casado con un miembro de la familia Carter y lo atendΓa a diario, disfrutaba vestirse elegantemente y ponerse un maquillaje encantador. Pero Sharon y Kathy, la hermana de Derek, a menudo la criticaban por ser demasiado llamativa. Afirmaban que, como su esposo estaba postrado en cama, ella no tenΓa por quΓ© vestirse tan extravagantemente.<br /> <br /> Por el bien de Derek, Norah se dedicΓ³ por completo a cuidarlo, convirtiΓ©ndose en su constante enfermera.<br /> <br /> Pero esos dΓas habΓan quedado en el pasado. Ahora que se habΓa liberado de la familia Carter, podΓa vestirse como quisiera, sin preocuparse por sus crΓticas.<br /> <br /> Joanna mirΓ³ su telΓ©fono y alzΓ³ la mirada.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ΒΏtienes algΓΊn plan para crear una escena en la estΓΊpida fiesta de bienvenida de Derek para esa perra? ΒΏTe gustarΓa que traiga a algunas personas para hacer un escΓ‘ndalo?".<br /> <br /> Norah mirΓ³ fijamente el lΓquido dorado que se arremolinaba en su vaso mientras lo movΓa de a pocos.<br /> <br /> "Vinimos aquΓ no solo por ellos, ΒΏverdad? Dime, ΒΏquiΓ©n es la persona con la que me has citado?".<br /> <br /> Joanna pareciΓ³ sorprenderse y esbozΓ³ una sonrisa astuta.<br /> <br /> "ΒΏA quΓ© te refieres, Norah? Β‘Solo vinimos para agitar las cosas!".<br /> <br /> "Este club le pertenece a la familia Morris, asΓ que preferirΓa no hacerlos enojar", explicΓ³ ella. "Soy consciente de que la estΓΊpida fiesta de Derek solo es una excusa. Entonces, contΓ©stame honestamente. ΒΏQuiΓ©n te buscΓ³ para llegar a mΓ?".<br /> <br /> Su conversaciΓ³n fue interrumpida por el timbre de un telΓ©fono. Joanna lo agarrΓ³ a toda prisa y su rostro cambiΓ³.<br /> <br /> "Tengo que responder", murmurΓ³ alejΓ‘ndose. "Vuelvo enseguida".<br /> <br /> Norah notΓ³ la preocupaciΓ³n de su amiga y comprendiΓ³ que tenΓa que atender algo urgente. Por lo tanto, asintiΓ³ y dejΓ³ su bebida. El vaso tintineΓ³ ligeramente sobre la mesa.<br /> <br /> Independientemente de los planes que se estuvieran haciendo a travΓ©s de Joanna, Norah confiaba en que su amiga no se volverΓa contra ella.<br /> <br /> "Hola, hermosa. ΒΏEstΓ‘s sola? ΒΏTe importa si tomo una copa contigo?".<br /> <br /> ...<br /> &4& | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com. | 104384282357850 | Romantic Novel City | https://facebook.com/100083790041265 | 3,553 | 1 | 811,318,874,247,323 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | Install now | 0 | Romantic Novel City | 120206457906930685 | play.google.com | NONE | image | Read popular romance books and web novels on the fantastic ebook reader | https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.changdu.ereader | 2024-04-24 22:38 | https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438706151_956564979302132_4428809642085114892_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xeSTrI-se-oQ7kNvgEu5eWe&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA1xYe0bLtwBKkcouyDUB-riK65B4UnGzN5FzNyP_NMLg&oe=6634A35C | person_profile | 0 | moboreader | https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438331084_951592906662898_2264417933885625498_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EQ9jMpjEosEQ7kNvgF-lUHD&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEECPjdBB9JBpKGTpZWXgbrTVOki19fNFielRtVdbjHQ&oe=66349942 | 0 | 3 | Romantic Novel City | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-26 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 11:39 | active | 618 | 0 | 491162609902003 |
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95% Of People Don't Know This Is Possible | My Nerve Pain started with pins & needles, then the burning & tingling kept me up at nightβ¦ but it was when I lost all feeling in my feet that it tore through my lifeβ¦<br /> <br /> I turned to the only help I knew, the docβ¦ just to be told βLearn to live with itβ.<br /> <br /> No more driving, no more long walks with our dog, no longer being trusted to care for the grandkids.<br /> <br /> I felt like a prisoner in my own body!<br /> <br /> I turned to creams & cold compresses but the burning sensation just kept coming back worse.<br /> <br /> I was exhausted by the doctors telling me there was little hope, but they always had another expensive med for me to try.<br /> <br /> And when I started refusingβ¦ they scared me with amputation.<br /> <br /> Then at home the talks about me going into care were getting more serious!<br /> <br /> Just as I lost all hope, I thank god for an old friend reaching out.<br /> <br /> They sent me the video below and the simple ritual that changed my life as I know it.<br /> <br /> It pointed to the surprising root cause of my burning sensation, a little known link that even my doctor wasnβt aware of.<br /> <br /> βDoctors treat symptoms, not the root causeβ makes total sense to me now.<br /> <br /> The video showed me the simple fix that takes me less than a minute a day in the comfort of my own homeβ¦ that has drastically turned my numbness, burning and tingling around.<br /> <br /> The best partβ¦ I feel normal again!<br /> <br /> My daily limitations disappeared, I could feel the carpet under my feet and I didnβt have to depend on others anymore!<br /> <br /> No more talks of care homes, now we talk about how I can care for the grandkids again!<br /> <br /> Please take nerve pain seriously while you still have the chance.<br /> <br /> Tap βLearn moreβ now | LEARN_MORE | https://blog.healthybloghub.com/6622fd65d920320001 | 184653904723523 | Kathleen Johnson | https://facebook.com/61553793537784 | 625 | 1 | 2,156,657,858,006,720 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Kathleen Johnson | 120209688542030748 | blog.healthybloghub.com | NONE | image | https://blog.healthybloghub.com/6622fd65d9203200018e6085?sub1=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&sub2=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&sub3=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&sub4=%7B%7Bad.name%7D%7D&sub5=%7B%7Badset.name%7D%7D&sub6=%7B%7Bcampaign.name%7D%7D&sub7=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&sub8=%7B%7Bsite_source_name%7D%7D&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid | 2024-04-27 17:54 | https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439866567_810852637567249_230229825341929965_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WK1UY29yerIQ7kNvgFkjmEV&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAIp5rLDhZ-2OF2xC5cwmvVVoTyF5jV21UuIsevItIwag&oe=66346003 | person_profile | 0 | Kathleen Johnson | https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439721607_470520592073141_6442516901947556762_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cEyRm2DZuesQ7kNvgH3-ytU&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCRqIOi-9X8kLv-95Kh8Bc69ujQTVsIj4yOPKqRRzSazA&oe=663462F6 | 0 | 3 | Kathleen Johnson | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 15:19 | active | 629 | 0 | 467290622392529 |
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Brasz Home Services | Pool and Paver Repairs<br /> Free Estimate βSchedule Now at (904)480-8558 | MESSAGE_PAGE | 122102221862002596 | Brasz Home Services | https://facebook.com/braszhome | 0 | 1 | 402,942,402,585,579 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | Send message | 0 | Brasz Home Services | 120208662484740690 | NONE | image | {"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Tenho interesse. Por favor, voc\u00ea poderia me passar mais informa\u00e7\u00f5es?","response":""},{"title":"Qual \u00e9 seu hor\u00e1rio de funcionamento?","response":""},{"title":"Pode me passar seu endere\u00e7o?","response":""}],"text":"Ol\u00e1, {{user_first_name}}! Diga como podemos ajudar voc\u00ea."}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"} | 2024-04-28 11:38 | https://scontent-den2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439140361_314871124800908_5433083459209792771_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6EYdegfGr1UQ7kNvgEwMFek&_nc_ht=scontent-den2-1.xx&oh=00_AfD84UxtnTxpeWXSUdcwpLQRJBvfETGuAlQ43xolmYV-PA&oe=66346C0E | person_profile | 0 | Brasz Home | https://scontent-den2-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439204988_750276530565329_5351956413960263422_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lNIbnZlKt_gQ7kNvgHnqTMk&_nc_ht=scontent-den2-1.xx&oh=00_AfDWSfSNXv4f7yvIsVRkDP9dQ7mWu842z7ZPX_wN3I-TPQ&oe=663467C3 | 0 | 3 | Brasz Home Services | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-04-27 19:37 | active | 615 | 0 | 1174577177243727 | Read next chapter | #Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and wasβ"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h | 102729319508493 | Auroch novel | https://facebook.com/100092728788928 | 15,160 | 2 | 1,227,464,525,074,825 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | person_profile | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | Auroch novel | 120207926112280389 | fbweb.moboreader.net | NONE | video | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=1319337982076651 | 2024-04-26 23:42 | https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438081541_475843535107604_3934850093718995042_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NMrEoTgnU6AAb5Vxwjo&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD335gsb13CjIpxTokXY6Czafg753xiqcXuzEzL6rDq_Q&oe=663362E7 | person_profile | 0 | Auroch novel | https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438108528_1160044478348518_2958374460249266256_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X0_VP-SArB0Ab6mjK6Y&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAnw55-BOBOYpQiV3x4GRdtNGxcgpHyz_XU6HJjd2Ia9g&oe=6633748B | 0 | 3 | Auroch novel | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-27 02:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-04-28 11:39 | active | 618 | 0 | 1366421957398502 | π― End Nerve Tingling and Burning Sensations | π₯ Many have been told Neuropathy is irreversible nerve damage, that's not true... ‡οΈ<br /> <br /> The root cause is not even in the nerves themselves... <br /> <br /> But in decay of the branches that connect them. <br /> <br /> Meet Benjamin Marsh, a retired sergeant who uncovered the unbelievable truth that's been hidden from you. <br /> <br /> Who had to find for himself that the relentless burning, tingling, and numbness in his hands and feet...<br /> <br /> Was his nerves screaming for help, telling him to do something or give up the limb! <br /> <br /> After the pain relievers made his problem worse, he tried all conventional remedies without success...<br /> <br /> Until, in his desperate search, Benjamin stumbled on an ancient East-Asian secret that changed his life forever.<br /> <br /> Now shown in clinical trials to turn back Neuropathy...<br /> <br /> β¦and extinguish all nerve discomfort in just a few days by scientists from John Hopkins and California University...<br /> <br /> Some institutes are even calling it the "heal-all fungus".<br /> <br /> This message is reaching you NOW for a reason. <br /> <br /> We're unveiling this secret only to a select few, and today, you're one of them. <br /> <br /> Learn l the full story behind <br /> Benjaminβs discovery and seize the chance to transform your life. <br /> <br /> This isnβt just hope; it's a solution at your fingertips β but only if you act now! β±οΈ | LEARN_MORE | https://instituteofneuropathy.com/nerve-solution | 100291402430512 | Neurology Daily | https://facebook.com/neurologydaily | 406 | 0 | 2,356,279,538,096,177 | 2024-04-28 02:00 | regular_page | eligible | 0 | 0 | NONE | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | Learn more | 0 | Neurology Daily | 120208752148350373 | instituteofneuropathy.com | NONE | video | https://instituteofneuropathy.com/nerve-solution | 2024-04-26 11:13 | https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439606111_743086061321278_8097947746073667951_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m63hT0VbsT4Ab4iEqDf&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAZplkR96AQrFQ0HivKO526_8e175SViIyTVXiOTEMDzw&oe=66345861 | person_profile | 0 | Neurology Daily | https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439664931_1924473104634740_8590817178071337354_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_-fUSMgmmKcAb4Q4gjY&_nc_oc=AdjS-LRNkprwYP3D2MJn9a8jTVLRCq7HEt0AJMLqZTJtbg5Jtfl06s_hgGwC_79jHzdXt1ug-y15FnTWq3bUPHBz&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA7VjvVME5IMtUNspSorBEkRJQVYXDxOQd28s4yDP55Pg&oe=6634650A | 0 | 3 | Neurology Daily | 0 | 0 | 2024-04-26 02:00 | View Edit Delete |
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