Id | Vlad | Saved | Scrape Time | Status | Scrape Result | Original Ad | Adarchiveid | Creative Links | Title | Body | Cta Type | Link Url | Pageid | Page Name | Page Profile Uri | Page Like Count | Collationcount | Collationid | Currency | Enddate | Entitytype | Fevinfo | Gatedtype | Hasuserreported | Hiddensafetydata | Hidedatastatus | Impressionstext | Impressionsindex | Isaaaeligible | Isactive | Isprofilepage | Cta Text | Pageinfo | Pageisdeleted | Pagename | Reachestimate | Reportcount | Ad Creative | Byline | Caption | Dynamic Versions | Effective Authorization Category | Display Format | Link Description | Link Url | Page Welcome Message | Creation Time | Page Profile Picture Url | Page Entity Type | Page Is Profile Page | Instagram Actor Name | Instagram Profile Pic Url | Instagram Url | Instagram Handle | Is Reshared | Version | Branded Content | Current Page Name | Disclaimer Label | Page Is Deleted | Root Reshared Post | Additional Info | Ec Certificates | Country Iso Code | Instagram Branded Content | Spend | Startdate | Statemediarunlabel | Actions |
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2,595,950 |
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null |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Area Rug 9.5 x 13.5 | Area Rug 9.5 x 13.5 - $75.00 Beautiful neutral area rug. Geometrical pattern. Wool. Great condition. Size is 9.5 x 13.5 feet. Non smoking home, but we do have a dog. A few small stains (see pictures). Pick up only. Hilltop neighborhood of Denver. Alameda and Holly. 80224 Facebook Marketplace | CONTACT_US | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/569030755731 | Emily Margaret Brown | https://www.facebook.com/Emily-Margaret-Brown-100642592149185/ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Contact us | 0 | IMAGE | https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/569030755731662/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | REGULAR_PAGE | 1 | 1 | 0 | Emily Margaret Brown | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595688}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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đYear End Pricing | Pools starting at $44,500 | âď¸Donât wait until summer to make your pool dreams come true. Warm up your winter with hot deals on pools! Call TODAY to lock in year end pricing. | GET_QUOTE | http://fb.me/ | Premier Pools & Spas - Jacksonville | https://www.facebook.com/premierpoolsjacksonvillesouth/ | 412 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Get Quote | 0 | https://premierpoolsandspas.com/locations/jacksonv... | DCO | http://fb.me/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469358990_931678472222200_6219616624927996993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hJ_whL3nvOUQ7kNvgEnjLkV&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AMIV5Pv-gYsjASGSL3jzxi0&oh=00_AYDPD5f_vxxLM4R7xK5WzGAocX6oioKB6dOyiiunYuAtMw&oe=67581F8E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Premier Pools & Spas - Jacksonville | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595902}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE | http://instagram.com/herlyproducts | herlyproducts | https://www.instagram.com/_u/herlyproducts | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send Message | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/herlyproducts | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/468259185_1231640627951131_1956808406171550624_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=ISMXTS5rk1wQ7kNvgG5-SbE&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYB1D2t2ZTVbxxPoU76TkvuVpe26FA4AjAOnFINhcKJDYw&oe=67582960 | IG_ADS_IDENTITY | 1 | 0 | 0 | herlyproducts | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595753}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Used 10' Hay Discmower | $7,000 | LEARN_MORE | https://www.whartontractor.com/default.asp?utm_sou | Wharton Tractor Company | https://www.facebook.com/whartontractor/ | 181 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | https://www.whartontractor.com/default.asp?page=xf... | CAROUSEL | $7,000 | https://www.whartontractor.com/default.asp?utm_source=Face_Feed&utm_medium=Used313&utm_campaign=Year_End&page=xAllInventory&sq=313#page=xAllInventory&sq=313 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468886453_1181693546632199_5696718577384476005_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BtxKvv9iSBoQ7kNvgFbLSoM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AE55RKR_ENQdHuayXSowDpJ&oh=00_AYCOpaRuP1Ugw0TYU1Ojzxq49Uc0VgAtfMZSt_wUUoWJvA&oe=67582CE3 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Wharton Tractor Company | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595296}' |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Our 2025 schedule is here! | APPLY_NOW | https://sipshopeat.com/irl-vendor | Sip Shop Eat | https://www.facebook.com/sipshopeat/ | 9,514 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Apply Now | 0 | sipshopeat.com/irl-vendor | CAROUSEL | https://sipshopeat.com/irl-vendor | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468400362_3897279063859489_3541647841208031225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3PnU4NhIygEQ7kNvgFkgnko&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEcSCfBqu6YxFUsmbJ4XMb8&oh=00_AYAplHDV_qNOu8KdMMwvR0XkOyBORPUIlkMA1BdGIEzkRg&oe=67584507 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sip Shop Eat | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595911}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Lots of Christmas fun this Saturday, December 7th at Christmas on Deer Creek in #VisitLelandMS #bundleup #merryandbright #merrychristmas #livemusic #hotchocolateweather #foodvendors For more information visit Leland Chamber of Commerce #hohohoho | Greenville-Washington County Mississippi Convention & Visitors Bureau | https://www.facebook.com/visitgreenvillems/ | 3,975 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | IMAGE | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469014918_1119706645681526_3401193854378940253_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KGrUzFXn0UkQ7kNvgFOqz_V&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ag3PdZKD9bcjaZhu1ndhBPy&oh=00_AYDSCeX7Vh9Y1sriywlXRbLsrAtn-W0QKvkCTq31NYWGzA&oe=675825D6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Greenville-Washington County Mississippi Convention & Visitors Bureau | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595957}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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55+ Apts. With Wellness Amenities | Explore new hobbies, stay active, & discover your dream apartment home at our 55+ Caldwell Community in Spring, TX. Schedule a tour on our website. đ | BOOK_TRAVEL | https://www.cadencecreekgosling.com/?switch_cls[id | Cadence Creek At Gosling | https://www.facebook.com/CadenceCreekAtGosling/ | 218 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Book Now | 0 | cadencecreekgosling.com | DCO | Schedule a tour | https://www.cadencecreekgosling.com/?switch_cls[id]=97417&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid-social | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469487058_615827017562715_5229874283893738981_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7dK2XRVutgIQ7kNvgG5to5F&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AMbjqc9L8uCcxfxFGelvTbO&oh=00_AYANPtbGNNPL-5g3gnPBPIi6kvcwUaFfEcSS7CI0PcBOkQ&oe=6758383D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Cadence Creek At Gosling | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595688}' |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Community Driven | Team Work | LEARN_MORE | http://fb.me/ | Loop | https://www.facebook.com/LoopCS/ | 7,066 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | fb.me | CAROUSEL | Team Work | http://fb.me/ | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469563049_753670813647562_1359188687322706396_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6ftq_hOdhGIQ7kNvgEGzIx5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AqGvS8E-YwdmsJ3t9UFC90t&oh=00_AYDaSNdpFxTx1lszlhrbqU9pVWCnmqgm3XkpW5n4fKEZMA&oe=67584DD0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Loop | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595670}' |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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LEARN_MORE | https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/innkbean/pain | Innkbean | https://www.facebook.com/100064752368731/ | 45 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | kickstarter.com | CAROUSEL | https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/innkbean/paint-the-town-enamel-pin-collection?ref=btkkp2 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469353358_1584847652133579_1665457452495348829_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lxBMKv0gfyoQ7kNvgEJ14Uh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A8mixaVVLI-mzj6-YvUu8bH&oh=00_AYB9snL_ZTVTyYKOFTUbYCDBBr9-GJuwNSNzprPTQtR2Sg&oe=67582D6C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Innkbean | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2,595,750 |
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'{"alias":2595752}' |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | https://www.instagram.com/_u/bohoplymouth | Bohemian Home | https://www.facebook.com/bohoplymouth/ | 1,934 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | https://www.instagram.com/_u/bohoplymouth | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469411012_8718350694920939_4208896356434196798_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aNGDuR4SJ0sQ7kNvgFfZx2T&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AE55RKR_ENQdHuayXSowDpJ&oh=00_AYDpy-mO-DMoNuQKZDBtMuJYiyif4btPy6yhMmYY2Lq8pQ&oe=675818E1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Bohemian Home | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595911}' |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Let It Roll Bowl & Entertainment Center | SIGN_UP | Let It Roll Bowl & Entertainment Center | https://www.facebook.com/letitrollbowlaz/ | 5,769 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sign Up | 0 | CAROUSEL | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469339568_1982331245611073_5777193450177059597_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I5r-iDqxIZIQ7kNvgEv6JTr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AZnoYa9hb8CCl858mrF3-QR&oh=00_AYAzU8L8LE8ETbHWvFLZc7CYNs51is03O9ZVngzxvwf7yw&oe=67582211 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Let It Roll Bowl & Entertainment Center | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595637}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/noelashman | Noel Ashman | https://www.facebook.com/noelashmanfanpage/ | 4,897 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/noelashman | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469164048_1357239285439481_592037895015409658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_Pha8PS5gAkQ7kNvgE03bgm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AnV2BkLfPEmvmILSNm0iMfe&oh=00_AYDp2ckgDHlUTmnjfvUOvR0J8YzYdT0EJfA6Rbg-VGFODg&oe=67584238 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Noel Ashman | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595637}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/noelashman | Noel Ashman | https://www.facebook.com/noelashmanfanpage/ | 4,897 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/noelashman | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469164048_1357239285439481_592037895015409658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_Pha8PS5gAkQ7kNvgE03bgm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AnV2BkLfPEmvmILSNm0iMfe&oh=00_AYDp2ckgDHlUTmnjfvUOvR0J8YzYdT0EJfA6Rbg-VGFODg&oe=67584238 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Noel Ashman | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595637}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/noelashman | Noel Ashman | https://www.facebook.com/noelashmanfanpage/ | 4,897 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram Profile | 0 | instagram.com | CAROUSEL | http://instagram.com/noelashman | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469164048_1357239285439481_592037895015409658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_Pha8PS5gAkQ7kNvgE03bgm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AnV2BkLfPEmvmILSNm0iMfe&oh=00_AYDp2ckgDHlUTmnjfvUOvR0J8YzYdT0EJfA6Rbg-VGFODg&oe=67584238 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Noel Ashman | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2593757}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Effortless Manicures Anytime, Anywhere! | đ Achieve salon-quality manicures with ease using Clip & Clickâ˘! No more struggling with traditional nail clippers - let the powerful motor and innovative design do the work for you. đ Click Shop Now And Get Yours 40% Off Until Midnight! | SHOP_NOW | https://norvure.com/products/clip-click%E2%84%A2-t | HappyMe's | https://www.facebook.com/100094368992659/ | 4,173 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop now | 0 | norvure.com | IMAGE | 40% Off Until Midnight | https://norvure.com/products/clip-click%E2%84%A2-the-effortless-electric-nail-trimmer | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440943208_1131808218104590_2955018481176265273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z-iRMHFiYd4Q7kNvgEK4KQ7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ATuRACZ9Xp72JA0JjcWHD31&oh=00_AYAzo5cJvLES20o66qO4N9wOBUR5s926xAMQRis4JMUSNA&oe=67583099 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | HappyMe's | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2595296}' |
Yes | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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Our 2025 schedule is here! | APPLY_NOW | https://sipshopeat.com/irl-vendor | Sip Shop Eat | https://www.facebook.com/sipshopeat/ | 9,514 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Apply Now | 0 | sipshopeat.com/irl-vendor | CAROUSEL | https://sipshopeat.com/irl-vendor | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468400362_3897279063859489_3541647841208031225_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3PnU4NhIygEQ7kNvgFkgnko&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AEcSCfBqu6YxFUsmbJ4XMb8&oh=00_AYAplHDV_qNOu8KdMMwvR0XkOyBORPUIlkMA1BdGIEzkRg&oe=67584507 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Sip Shop Eat | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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'{"alias":2593861}' |
No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 |
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | February in Sureton City was wet. It had been drizzling throughout the day, leaving the roads damp. The cold wind brought with it the rain, making Freya Somner shiver. She held an umbrella and curled up while crouching before the entrance to the city hall. It was already 5:00 pm. Would that person come? She was worried as she thought about her grandfather, Neil Somner, who lay sick in bed. Had he finished his IV drip? Would he need to use the restroom? Had Thomas Talbot already gone home? She looked up and scanned the empty streets. The city hall would close for the day at 5:30 pm. She would just grit her teeth and wait for another half an hour, then. If that person didn't show up, she could blame him and tell Neil and Thomas that he'd stood her up. It wasn't because she didn't want to marry him or anything. Neil was sick. As a traditional medicine practitioner, he knew his time was running out. Freya was his only concernâshe would be alone in the world once he passed. He'd contacted Thomas, whom he'd saved many years ago. Thomas had promised Neil that he would do everything in his power to help if Neil ever needed it. All Neil had to do was make the call. Years had passed since then, but the call had miraculously gone through. Thomas had shown up the very next day. Neil had explained the situation to him and asked Thomas to help care for Freya in the future. Thomas had generously said, "It's only natural for me to care for her. How about thisâI have many grandsons, so I'll have one of them marry Fae as a way of repaying you. That way, she won't be alone." Neil had agreed, leaving Freya with no room to object. She didn't want to marryâshe could take care of herself and was fine alone. She was currently staying at the dormitory her university had prepared for graduate students. She even had 2,300 a month as financial aid. Eating at the hospital's and university's cafeterias was cheapâshe only needed to spend 15 a day on food. However, Neil had insisted. He felt that it was hard to predict the future, and he would only be able to rest in peace once he saw that marriage certificate. That way, he'd be able to face Freya's parents in the afterlife with no regrets. Freya's parents had died after falling off a cliff. They'd been searching for a herbal catalyst to save Thomas back in the day. It had rained that day, just as it had on this day. Freya had seen her parents' corpses entwined with one another, their hands still clutching the herbal catalyst. After her parents passed away, she and Neil depended on each other for survival. It was on that day that she'd suddenly grown up. She'd studied hard and skipped grades, sitting for her SATs at 17 years old. Then, she'd gotten into Sureton University's medical faculty, joining the seven-year integrated bachelor's and master's program. She only had two years to go before she could graduate and officially start working. Things were starting to look good. Then, Neil had been diagnosed with stomach cancer. It was taking his life away. The screeching of brakes pulled Freya out of her reverie. She looked up at the offroad vehicle before her. It was painted a military green and covered in mud, and the tires were soiled. It was clear the car had ventured through the mountains. The door opened, blocking the man's face from her view. Still, she'd gotten a glimpse of his chiseled features. His bushy brows, tall nose, and deep-set eyes formed a handsome, honest face. With the door open, all Freya could see was the army pants enveloping his long legs and the leather boots he wore. It was a cold day, yet he only wore an olive green T-shirt. He stepped away from the car. Before Freya could take a closer look at his face, he approached her, stopping before her so his boots were level with her eyes. "Are you Freya Somner?" he asked, his voice deep and somewhat daunting. "Yeah." "Let's get married, then." He turned and headed into the city hall. Chapter 2 Freya wanted to stand up, but she'd been crouching for so long that her legs had gone numb. "What's wrong?" the man asked. "My legs have gone numb." She was lifted off her feet as soon as the words were out of her mouth. An unfamiliar scent enveloped her, and she felt her face burn. The man placed her on the seat before the counter. "Get your identification." She kept her head lowered as she obediently placed the things on the counter. "Daniel Talbot," the staff said. "That's me," the man said. "Freya Somner." "Here," Freya said. She looked up at the staff. The staff looked at the identification she held, then at Freya. The latter's eyes were spirited but also carried a hint of naivety. Freya was only 22, but Daniel was already 28. He'd even carried her in. That made the staff suspect whether Freya had been forced into this. She asked, "Are you here to get married at your own will?" "Yes, I am," Freya said. "Alright, then. Fill up these forms, please." At 5:30 pm, Freya and Daniel walked out of the city hall. Freya looked down at her marriage certificate. She'd gone from being single to married once the staff stamped the certificate. She'd married a man she'd met for the first time without even dating him. The whole thing had only taken a matter of minutes. Daniel stopped and looked at her. "Where are you headed now?" She had kept her head down and hadn't been paying attention to the distance between them. She walked right into his chest. Pain spread through her, starting from her nose. Tears welled in Freya's eyes. How could his chest be as hard as a wall? She clamped a hand over her nose and looked at him tearily. "I'm going back to the hospital." He was so tall that her eyes were only level with his chest. It was incredibly muscular and looked just like the diagrams she'd seen in her medical texts. "Get in the car," he said. Freya struggled to open the door. She tugged it with all her strength, but it didn't budge. Daniel saw her from the driver's seat. He waved at her, gesturing for her to back up. Then, he opened the door from inside. "Which hospital are you going to?" he asked. "The county tumor hospital, the one at Percat Street. Thanks." Freya obediently settled in her seat. "Your seatbelt," he said. She put it on, and he started the car. She noticed that his hands and arms were tanned, with protruding veins. He oozed strength and power. Suddenly, Freya's stomach rumbled. The sound was magnified in the silent car. She instinctively held her stomach, her face turning beet red. What was wrong with her? Why did she keep embarrassing herself? Was there something about her that made her incompatible with Daniel? Her stomach continued to rumble for a while. Finally, the car stopped. Freya thought they'd arrived at the hospital and moved to open the door. Then, she looked out and said, "We're not at the hospital." Daniel had already gotten out of the car, though. He headed to a fruit store without looking back at her. Soon, he returned with a bag full of fruits. "I don't know what your grandfather likes, so I bought a little of everything." "He can't eat anything. Doctor's orders." Daniel looked at her, perhaps because she sounded too calm. Only then did Freya notice how deep-set his eyes were. There was a hint of dominance in them. "You have them, then." He placed the bag on her lap. "Have some to tide the hunger. I'm in a rush." Freya wondered whether he was showing his concern for her. A wave of warmth surged in her as she peeled a banana. It was sweet. ⌠The nurse had just removed Neil's IV drip when Freya and Daniel arrived at the ward. Thomas took the marriage certificates from Daniel and Freya and held them before Neil. He said happily, "Look at this, Neil. They're official marriage certificates with the stamps and all. They're genuine!" Neil smiled and nodded weakly. "That's great. I won't have anything to worry about anymore." "Come closer so Neil can see you, Dan," Thomas said. Daniel stepped forward. "Hi, Grandpa." Neil's smile widened. "HiâŚ" He held Daniel's hand and said, "I'll leave Freya in your hands from now on. She's a softie but is stubborn on the inside. I hope you'll be more tolerant of her and take the time to explain your thoughts to her if you two ever get into an argument." Tears streamed down Freya's face when she heard this. Daniel said, "I will, Grandpa." "Don't worry, Neil. We won't mistreat Freya. Daniel has property and a carâI'll have him show Freya around his place right now. She can move in when she's free," Thomas said. Freya forgot about crying and stared at Thomas in shock when she heard that. Didn't she and Daniel only have to get married? Why did they even have to live together? "Go on, then. It's still light out, so you can see what the place is like," Neil said. Daniel and Freya headed to his place under Thomas' urging. Chapter 3 Daniel's apartment was in Sureton City's central commercial area. It was an expensive area with good infrastructureâthe medical and education systems were well-established. The residential area was right next to Sureton City's largest park. Freya looked at the minimalist, almost stark apartment. The marble coffee table was covered in a layer of dust. "This is your home?" "Yeah." Daniel also saw the dust. "I don't usually stay here." That didn't make sense at all. Why would anyone not live in their own home? Freya couldn't understand it. "There's a card here that you can use to pay for the utilities." He opened a drawer in the TV cabinet to show her. "If anything needs fixing, you can speak to the management office. "I'll have someone clean up the place later. There are two rooms, so you can pick whichever one you want. Feel free to use the study as wellâŚ" Freya observed the place. It was well renovated but showed no signs of being lived in. There weren't even any plates or utensils around. "What am I to you?" she suddenly asked. "My wife." "But I feel like your mistress," she said boldly. She didn't know whether Daniel had a girlfriend or anythingâperhaps he'd only married her due to Thomas' pressure. Otherwise, he wouldn't have made her wait a whole afternoon for him, only arriving right before the city hall closed for the day. "What are you getting at?" Daniel asked. "I'm fine with getting a divorce if you already have a partnerâour grandfathers have seen the marriage certificates, anyway. I don't want to inadvertently end up as a homewrecker." She respected the elderly but wouldn't do anything immoral just to comply with Neil's and Thomas' wishes. Daniel understood now. "I'm single. I usually stay at the military camp in the mountains." Freya recalled his offroad vehicle and the mud on it. That, coupled with his outfit, made her realize just who he was. "I'm sorry for misunderstanding you." "It's fine. I'll take you back to the hospital nowâyou can move in here whenever it's convenient for you." "What about you?" she blurted. Then, she disdained herself for asking. What did his matters have to do with her? "I need to head back after this. There's an urgent mission I need to handle." That was the last thing Daniel said to her. ⌠Shortly after Daniel left, Neil's condition took a turn for the worse, and a new semester started. Freya bustled back and forth between the university and the hospital daily. On days when Neil felt better, he could even hold Freya's hand and reminisce with her. Neither of them mentioned that rainy night, though. He kept telling her that life was long and that she had to live well independently. However, he also told her she couldn't expect to do everything herself. She had to give in occasionally. Daniel looked like a good man, and they had to communicate with each other. They had to understand each other⌠Neil said many things. Freya wanted to object to everything and tell him that none of that mattered. She wanted him to know that she only wanted to spend her life with him in a small town called Floriver Town. She wanted to read medical texts and pick herbs with him. However, as a doctor, she was rational enough to know there was no chance of them ever returning to that life. The reports and data she saw every day were enough to tell her that Neil's condition was deteriorating. She cried almost daily throughout that month but hid it well. Neil never noticed. One day, white clouds floated in the blue sky. Freya drew the curtains, allowing the sunlight to stream into the room. Neil was in good spirits. "The weather is so nice today, Fae. Maybe you should take me off my oxygen tube now." He sounded calm, but Freya faltered while clipping his nails. She acted like she hadn't heard him and moved on to the next finger. "I can't take it anymore, Fae. I'm on drug every day, but it still hurts so bad. I'm begging you, okay?" His plea made Freya's nose prickle. Tears rolled down her face and landed on the floor, fading within seconds. Neil was a proud and strong man who'd never begged anyone in his life. Now⌠It looked like she really had to let him go. She slowly shut her eyes, sounding choked up as she said, "Okay. I'll get a doctor after I'm done clipping your nails." "The weather is so nice today that I feel so much more relaxed," Neil said. He lifted a hand with difficulty to caress her head one last time. It reminded her of how he'd praised her whenever she could memorize the things she'd read in the medical texts. After Freya signed the necessary documents, the doctor removed Neil's oxygen tube. She stood by his bedside and held his hand until his body became devoid of warmth. Thomas helped her with Neil's funeral, after which he urged her to move into Daniel's apartment. Chapter 4 Two years passed in the blink of an eye. "There's no time to eat, Dr. Somner. We're being dispatched for a house call." Freya was in a hospital's emergency room. When she heard the nurse, Jade Winton, call her, she put a folder over her unfinished instant mac and cheese and left the doctor's lounge. "Where's Dr. Wood?" she asked while wearing a mask. She hurried to catch up with Jade. "He's accompanying Lena for a prenatal check. I've called him, and he's on his way." Jade grabbed a first-aid kit and an extra bag of gauze and bandages. She handed them to Freya. "What's the situation? Why do we need so many bandages and gauze?" "A luxury jewelry store was robbed. The store's staff called the police, but the robbers discovered them and took ten staff hostage. We're being dispatched to provide medical assistance," Jade said. She told Freya everything she knew, then added, "Don't be rash later. Leave everything to Dr. Wood." "Got it. Thanks, Jade." Freya's mentor, Jason Wood, arrived at the same time as Freya and Jade. He was a tall, skinny man whose hairline was receding. He'd come from a prenatal check with his wife, Lena Johnson, and had already changed into his uniform. It made him look particularly spirited. "What's the situation?" he asked as he got into the car. "A jewelry store's been robbed. The robbers are armed," Jade said. Silence descended upon the car. They didn't know what they were facing but had to go at it regardless. Medicine knew no borders, and all lives were equal in worth. They had to save lives as long as they were at risk. When Freya and the others arrived, the police had already secured the scene. A crowd consisting of spectators and staff from various media outlets gathered behind the police line, surrounding the place and making it hard for anyone to get through. Police cars and vehicles belonging to a SWAT team were parked outside the jewelry store. There were also three buses with the windows tinted black. Freya followed Jason out of the car. A man who looked like an administrator hurried over to them, looking anxious. "The robbers need a doctor in there to save their comrade. Which one of you two will go in?" Freya looked at the jewelry store. It had three floors and was a corner lot with an expansive view. A mall was behind it, which meant it probably had more than one exit. "I'll go," Jason said, dragging Freya out of her reverie. She gave him a disagreeable look. "No way. I'll go, Dr. Wood. You have parents and children to care for, and Lena's conceived with your second child. You can't go in there." "You can't, either. You're inexperienced." Jason's attitude was firm. "The situation is complicated. I'm the only one who can head in there." Freya didn't argue with him. She turned to the administrator and volunteered. "I'll go, sir. I've passed the medical board exam and can practice independently. I don't have any dependents or relatives to care for." He looked at her. She was young and so nervous that she clenched her fists, but her expression was calm. She was bold, but her courage needed some training. "You can go, then. We don't know the situation inside, so we can only act when the Falcon Strike Unit arrives. All you need to do when you get in there is to save whoever is injured. Drag things out for as long as possible while ensuring your safety and wait for help." "Understood, sir." Freya wore her medical cap and gave herself a mental pep talk. "FreyaâŚ" Jason started. "I have to gain experience since I don't have it, Dr. Wood. You have to give me a chance," she said. That was what medicine was like. One had to be bold and careful while constantly defeating one's old self. That way, one would only become a better version of oneself. Jason knew what Freya was like. She'd met various people when treating patients. When some of them criticized or insulted her, she wouldn't take it lying down. Her retorts left much to be desired, though. For instance, if a patient said she was incapable and that a doctor online had told them this and that, she would say, "I'll leave, then. You can ask your online doctor to treat you." Once, someone had shouted at her, saying she was useless. She'd clapped back, calling that person the useless one. "Do you guys have a bulletproof vest or something? Give one to her." Jason knew nothing he said would change Freya's mind. The administrator gave one of his subordinates a look. A member of the SWAT team brought a bulletproof vest over. Freya took her doctor's coat off and put the bulletproof vest on over her T-shirt. Then, she put her uniform on. Chapter 5 Jade handed Freya the first-aid kit before hanging the stethoscope from her neck. "You're just going to ignore everything I told you before we came here, aren't you? You're bound to get into trouble if you continue like this." "No one is more suitable than me, Jade," Freya said calmly. "It's not like the military region's general hospital lacks doctors. If you turn them down, they'll arrange for someone else to come." "But it's too far away. They'll take at least 30 minutes to arrive. That doesn't conform to the principles of pre-hospitalization emergency care." Jade was one of the emergency room's most experienced nurses, so she knew Freya was right. It was the only thing they could do under the circumstances. The administrator held a loudspeaker and shouted toward the store, "The doctor is coming. Open the door." A hoarse voice rang out as soon as the words were out of his mouth. "Put the first-aid kit on the ground and turn in a circle. Then, take everything out of the first-aid kit and lay them on the ground." Freya did as told. She'd just placed the final tool on the ground when the hoarse voice rang out again. "Put the things back in and come inside." Freya packed everything back. She was about to enter the store when she felt a cool breeze. Curious, she looked in the direction it had come. A helicopter was hovering in midair in one of the jewelry store's blind spots. A tall figure in camouflage slid down the rope and made a smooth landing. It happened in seconds. Freya stared at the man, finding his figure incredibly familiar. He wore a black mask, and his sharp eyes flitted past her. Then, he hid behind the wall. Another team member landed behind him. "Come in," the hoarse voice urged loudly. He sounded impatient. Freya knew she had to enter the store since these people had yet to infiltrate it. Once she understood that, she didn't hesitate to head inside. As soon as she pushed open the door, she smelled the metallic scent of blood. Suddenly, someone grabbed her by the neck and roughly dragged her inside. Then, he flung her onto the floor and commanded, "Save him." She looked at the man on the floor. His mask, shaped like a pig's head, had been thrown aside. He looked ashen while struggling to breathe and had cyanosis of the nail bed. These were all signs of a lack of oxygen. Freya checked him and concluded that he was having an asthma attack. His throat had swelled up, leading to breathing difficulties. She searched his bag while muttering, "Where's the inhaler?" Asthma patients would bring their inhalers when they were out, but she didn't find one in his bag. "What are you looking for?" a man in a mask shaped like a dog's head asked. "His inhaler," she said. "He doesn't have one. Do a cricothyrotomy on him right now." Freya was taken aback. "How are you related to him? You know how to save him?" Suddenly, he pressed a gun to her forehead. "Shut up if you don't want to die. Just do as I say!" The iciness of the metal made Freya's heart clench. Her mind went blank for a second, and she couldn't think. "Hurry up!" He kicked her shoulder. The pain made her snap to her senses. She forced herself to calm down and took a deep breath before commencing anatomical positioning and sterilization. Then, she inserted a thick injection needle into the cricothyroid membrane. The process didn't take long, and the man gradually started looking better. Suddenly, a black thing landed not far from Freya. Before she realized what it was, a few more followed. The inside of the store was quickly filled with smoke, and people started yelling. The alarm went off. Freya wanted to take advantage of the chaos to hide, but a hand wrapped around her neck. A gun was pressed to her forehead, and someone snarled, "You're coming with me." Chapter 6 The man dragged Freya to a secluded corner to hide. The cold feeling against her temple made her compliant. Her palms grew sweaty as she stood there, and she could hear her heart racing. No matter how nervous or scared she was, she could only place her faith in the Falcon Strike Unit and tightly hold the needle in her hand. A few minutes later, red lights flashed at them. The man dragged Freya out of their hiding spot. Before she could even see what was happening, she heard a muffled groan behind her. Then, there was a thump, and the robber's hand fell before her. She was still lost when a team of three surrounded her. A familiar voice said, "Take her out, Rabbit." "Roger, Falcon." This voice belonged to a woman. Rabbit, or Loren Smith, turned to Freya. "Come with me." Freya turned to look at the familiar man while following Loren out. He glanced at her while walking up the stairs, and his sharp eyes matched the ones in her memory. She asked Loren, "Is the person you called Falcon Daniel Talbot?" Loren faltered. Then, she continued walking out while observing their surroundings. She didn't respond to Freya's question, but Freya knew she was right. After leaving the jewelry store, the situation outside left no room for Freya to be pensive. She threw herself into workâthe jewelry store's staff had more or less been injured. Jason was rescuing the most critically injured ones, so she had to handle those who were only bruised or scraped. The injured staff came and went as she stopped the bleeding, cleaned wounds, and bandaged them. "Freya." She looked up in the middle of stopping a patient's bleeding to see black leather boots before her. Then, she raised her head to find Daniel standing before her. She looked away and continued with her work. "Yes?" "Help me clean this up." He'd taken his mask off, his tanned face unreadable. It had been two years since they'd last seen each other. Now that they were reunited, Freya still couldn't help feeling a little scared of him. Based on what she remembered, he was a little domineering, and he spoke and acted brusquely. "I'm almost done here." She picked up the pace and recorded the time. Then, she called out to Jade, who was somewhere behind her, "I'm done with the last one, Jade. They can be sent to the hospital now." She turned back to Daniel. "Have a seat." She sterilized her hands and scanned him. There didn't seem to be any wounds on him, so she asked, "Where's your injury?" "The side of my abdomen." He lifted his shirt, revealing the bandage around his waist. Freya crouched before him, finding that the bandage had already been stained with blood. She removed it and looked at the stitches on the neat woundâit was a knife wound. He asked, "How have you been for the past two years?" "Not too bad." "I was on a mission abroad when your grandfather passed. I've only just returned." Freya faltered. Daniel was explaining why he had missed Neil's funeral. Her voice remained calm as she said, "I understand." They didn't speak anymore after that. Freya didn't ask about the wound, merely cleaning it and bandaging it again. She stood up and took off her gloves, throwing them into the medical waste bin. "You'll have to be careful with your wound for some time. It'll take longer for you to recover if you keep reopening it." "Thanks," he said. "You're welcome." Their conversation was polite and distant. "This is yours, right?" Daniel suddenly held out a sandalwood bracelet with an emerald pendant in the middle. Freya's face was carved on itâit didn't look much like her, though. It was a bracelet her father had made for her. "Yes, it is. Thanks." She reached out for it. Her fingers brushed against his palm as she took the bracelet from him, making her heart skip a beat. She immediately retracted her hand. "I'm leaving." Daniel stood up. He straightened his shirt and returned to his unit. Freya watched as the helicopter started up. The blades spun, lifting the aircraft into the air. Then, it flew away. "Let's go, Dr. Somner. We're taking a police car back," Jade called. Freya snapped to her senses. The helicopter was no longer in sight. All that was left was a vortex cloud left from its tail. She tightened her grip on the bracelet and packed everything up. Then, she ran to Jade with the first-aid kit and medical waste bag in hand. ⌠After the incident, Jason requested that she be placed under counseling and given a month off. Freya returned to work after only three days at home, though. "Go home and rest," he said. "I need to do something with my hands, Dr. Wood." Jason pressed a hand to his forehead and threw her a pair of gloves. "Go to the debridement room and change the dressing for the patients there. You're not allowed to go on house calls or dispatches in the future." "Why?" Freya didn't get it. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15224&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | beokn.com | DCO | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15224&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465177296_583272707382050_3697801936779761977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NJjgvTRcFsEQ7kNvgHxnHk_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A4m80nLOQRHyGuVBgTQELx7&oh=00_AYAZ8xddraZ_wX07DJIL-etY6ZBWKh1lISrWsYOcyJi0dw&oe=67581191 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-12-05 20:39 | active | 1964 | 0 | đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | As the daughter of Alpha, I was tortured since I was 6 years old, and more tragically, I was forced to marry the demon Alpha who killed his 9 ex-girlfriends... âWhere is she?!â Neah heard the Beta Kyle scream. She groaned and got to her feet, grabbing the cleaning basket and taking it with her. The moment he sees Neah, he strides towards her and his hand slices against her cheek. Neah doesn't make a sound as if she was used to the bully. âNeah, how useless your are! You still have not cleaned the office.â The beta snaps. Neah nods her head and her hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If she could just find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make her day. âWe are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Do you not understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!â Neah doesn't answer and she just keeps her eyes low to avert his face. Alpha Dane, she had ever heard rumours about him. From what she gathered, he was a ruthless man, and he was even claimed to have killed his 9 ex-girlfriends. âHe is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!â Beta Kyle continues. He places his hands on Neah's shoulders, digging his nails into her thinning skin, âUseless Wolf.â He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, Neah leans back against it, observing the already clean office. There was nothing out of place, it looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing her eyes, Neah slides down to the floor. She hated this house. She thought when she turned 18, she could finally escape, but four years later, here she still is, a slave in her own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for her brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While her ex mate, Beta Kyle was always reminding her of how worthless she is. The clearing of a throat makes her jump. She thought she was alone. Leaning forward, Neah sees a handsome man sitting in a chair. A foot propped up on his knee. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that donât quite look right. They suddenly shift to her and she throws herself back against the door. Shrinking down to the ground. âIs this the way you greet all Alphaâs?â His deep voice rumbles through the room, an edge of amusement to his tone. âIâm sorry.â Neah whispers, getting to her feet. âIâŚI thought I was alone.â She had no idea who he was but she could feel the power radiating off of him, even without her Wolf. âCome forward.â He orders. Neah does as she's told. Allowing him to see her properly and she is met with narrowed crimson eyes. She closes her own eyes, expecting the worst. âYou smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?â Neah's head moved up and down, though she couldnât tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they discovered the truth about her. âI would prefer it if you spoke to me.â He growls, âIâm not in the mood to play games.â âYes.â Neah whispers. âI amâŚI am a Wolf.â She couldnât help but think of all the punishments she was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? She wasnât sure how much more her body could take. âHow is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me.â âIâŚ..â Neah hated the question. âI havenât got all day!â He takes a swig from his drink. She knew why she couldnât scent him. She knew why she hadnât been aware of his presence, but telling people why was not something she ever liked to do. They never hear her side of the story. All they do is accept Alpha Trey's word as the truth. âYou should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?â His deep voice sends a shiver through her. Slowly, she opens her eyes and lowers them. There was no way she was making direct eye contact. âMy Wolf abilities were bound.â âWhy?â If this is the Alpha that her brother is supposed to be meeting with, she knew she could screw everything up for him by saying too much. âIt was a punishment.â âFor what?â His deep voice rumbles through her. âFor killing my parents.â Neah whispered. At this moment, the door swings open abruptly and her brother screeches at her âNeah, what are you doing in my office?!" He then turns to the crimson eyed man. âI am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it was him. Neah couldn't help but worry about the punishments she would face... | LEARN_MORE | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783& | New world publications | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 3,766 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | wwwedb.com | VIDEO | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466006044_1247243396516530_1252041975292502345_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7KqtMvoNFAcQ7kNvgGyAv5e&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ADR986hf2tX7Oe2WQqoSf97&oh=00_AYC7Lm3S7qg8gvo0Yh5Ka3R191jQga9xmmJghi55xeei-A&oe=675821EA | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New world publications | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | When Helena Lane arrived at the police station, dawn had yet to break. Tiny snowflakes swirled in the night wind, melting as soon as they touched the ground, leaving a muddy mess. Two hours earlier, Helena had received news that her newlywed husband, Kenneth Keller, had been arrested on suspicion of assault. Not wanting to alarm her family, she came alone as his lawyer and closest relative. Seated in the visitation room, Helena was focused on cleaning the grayish mud off her high heels when Kenneth entered, escorted by two officers. Seeing her, his eyes flickered with a hint of surprise before he casually slouched into the seat across from her, looking more relaxed than he ever did at home. There wasnât a hint of panic in his demeanor and certainly no trace of fear. As the heir to one of Greenwickâs most powerful family empires, Kenneth was notorious for his rebellious streak, acting with complete disregard for convention and authority. Fear? It was something others felt around him, not the other way around. Had it not been for the high-ranking officer overseeing the case, he wouldnât have been here at all, no matter what trouble he caused. Helena stared at him, expressionless, and got straight to the point. âMr. Keller, care to explain what happened last night?â Kenneth draped his arms over the back of the chair, lazily studying the woman seated opposite him, who looked all serious and professional. Her camel cashmere coat was pressed to perfection, her clear, unblemished face free of makeup, and her low ponytail perfectly in place. She showed none of the anger or panic one might expect from a wife whoâd just learned of her husbandâs charges. Her demeanor was all business. âAnd are you asking as the corporate attorney, orâŚâ he let his lips curl slightly, pausing deliberately, then lowered his voice to a murmur, âas my wife?â The low, suggestive tone seemed to linger in the air, but Helena remained unfazed, her gaze cool. âIs there a difference?â He raised an eyebrow. âIf youâre here as an attorney, I want a replacement.â He paused, then gave her a sidelong glance, a touch of mischief gleaming in his eyes. âIf youâre here as my wife, then you should start by calling me âhoney.ââ Helena glanced at him, completely unamused by the little game he was playing in a situation like this. This was all too typical of him. âIf the charges stick, youâll be looking at three to ten years behind bars.â Helenaâs cool voice was laced with sarcasm as she added, âTired of your fancy feasts, Mr. Keller? Thought youâd try bread and pickles for a change?â Kenneth met her mildly annoyed gaze. He was entirely unfazed and even held a roguish grin. âWhat, worried about me?â Seeing that Kenneth had no intention of cooperating, Helena, who had only come as a formality, decided not to waste any more time and rose to leave. âThis is the police station, Mr. Keller. Talking nonsense here is more troublesome than keeping silent,â she reminded him, urging him not to spout off. âAnd remember, we signed a prenuptial agreement.â Feelings of attachment had no place in their contractual, paper-thin marriage. Were it not for the fact that he was needed at the South City project bidding event that afternoonâor the concern that his grandmother would worry if she learned of his arrestâshe wouldnât have bothered with him at all. It wasnât until Helenaâs figure disappeared through the door that Kenneth slowly withdrew his gaze. She hadnât even glanced back, completely indifferent to whether or not heâd assaulted another woman. But then again, to her, their marriage was never real. Sheâd personally drafted the prenuptial agreement and had never considered him a life partner. In truth, she had never intended for him to play any lasting role in her life. The roguish smile on his handsome face faded gradually. His eyelids lowered, and his eyes held a barely perceptible hint of disappointment. Ten minutes later, Helena found herself outside the interview room, facing the lead officer, Eric Langston. After five years, Ericâs aura was more intimidating than ever, radiating a fierce, unapproachable presence that surpassed even what she remembered. Helena had anticipated seeing Eric at the police station, but when she finally faced him, she paused for a couple of seconds to collect herself. Five years ago, Helena could never have guessed that, Eric, her frugal, hardworking seniorâa man sheâd worked part-time jobs withâcame from a prominent family. That was until Ericâs mother warned her, âA beggar of unknown origin, a stray the Keller family took in, daring to latch onto my son? Take a good look at yourself! âMy son has a fiancĂŠeâsomeone whose family background, upbringing, and character make you unworthy to even shine her shoes. Oh, and in case you didnât know, theyâll be going abroad together soon. âYouâd better understand your place and stop shamelessly clinging to my son. Getting rid of someone as low as you is easier than squashing an ant.â Before she turned seven, Helena had been forced to beg on the streets, only to be rescued during a police raid on a human trafficking ring. Since her parents were never identified through the DNA database, she was sent to an orphanage. She grew up used to the scorn of others but never had she felt such raw humiliation. It was as though her dignity had been ripped away, thrown to the ground, and trampled upon. Any feelings she had for Eric vanished completely. If he hadnât hidden his identity, she wouldnât have suffered this shame. Out of pride and resentment, she never saw him again after that, even after he graduated. As time went by, Helena realized that Ericâs mother had been behind it all and that she might have directed some of her resentment toward him unfairly. With a polite yet distant smile, Helena broke the silence. âEric, itâs been a long time.â Eric assessed Helena with an impassive gaze. Seeing her composed demeanor, he raised his brows slightly and nodded. He then turned and entered the interview room first. Helena exhaled deeply, steeling herself as she followed him inside as a witness. Her marriage to Kenneth was a well-kept secret. Aside from close family, no one knew they were married. Kenneth refused to cooperate with the police, adamantly withholding any details about what happened the previous night. Left with no choice, Helena had to implement a backup plan: testifying as his wife. After all, rumor had it that in Wellington's criminal investigations division, Eric was known as the âJudge"âonce he set his sights on someone, even the smallest sins from birth would be unearthed. Kenneth, being the reckless type, was bound to have skeletons in his closet. With the South City project at a critical juncture and Kennethâs role as CEO on the line, this was the worst possible time for a scandal. Moreover, his grandmother's frail health couldn't withstand such a shock. Helena knew she had to protect him, both for professional and personal reasons. Once the deposition was complete, Eric regarded Helena with a complicated expression. âWhen did you and Mr. Keller get married?â Helena met his intense gaze, feeling a slight ripple in her heart before quickly composing herself. She replied calmly, âAlmost a month ago. Would you like to see the marriage certificate?â It had only been a month since Eric had applied for a transfer back to Greenwick. Had it not been for a minor delay in the paperwork... Ericâs gaze darkened, and after a moment, he spoke with difficulty, âAre you certain you were with him the entire night?â After a brief pause, he added, âAs a lawyer, you should be aware of the consequences of perjury.â Sensing his doubt, Helena took a deep breath and responded with professional confidence. âAccording to Article 305 of the Criminal Code, committing perjury is punishable by up to three years in prison or detention. In serious cases, it carries a sentence of three to seven years. "And if a lawyer commits a crime intentionally, their license will be revoked. Which is precisely why my testimony carries even more weight.â Kenneth had been accused of breaking into a hotel room at 12:37 a.m., assaulting a female celebrity, and not leaving until more than two hours had passed. Testifying as his wife, Helena claimed that Kenneth had been home until just before midnight, stepping out only at 11:57 p.m. By her calculations, even in the fastest sports car, it would take at least an hour to reach the hotel from their house. Moreover, she had obtained all surveillance footage from the route Kenneth took after leaving, each clip showing him driving past, proving he had no time to commit the crime. Chapter 0002 "The police retrieved hotel surveillance screenshots that show the perpetrator wearing a mask. Basing suspicion on nothing more than a similar build and hairstyle is clearly insufficient evidence.â Helenaâs voice was calm but precise, each word landing with conviction. Eric felt a slight ringing in his ears from her firm tone. Watching her, who was radiating professional confidence, he couldnât help but recall how she once dominated the debate stage back in college with the same spirit. The secondary officer, noticing Ericâs silence, couldnât hold back. âThe victim identified him personally, and we found DNA that matches Mr. Kellerâsâthatâs our strongest evidence!â Helenaâs sharp, clear gaze didnât waver; she remained as composed as ever, unshaken. âAfter more than two hours of alleged assault, not a single fingerprint or any other biological trace was recovered from the victim or the scene. I have every reason to believe Kenneth is being framed.â The secondary officer protested, âWhat if he knew how to cover his tracks, cleaning the scene thoroughly?â âWhat if?â Helenaâs lips curved slightly, and her eyes held a confident gleam. âWhat if he wasnât there at all? Itâs the policeâs duty to eliminate reasonable doubt; the law doesnât permit presumption of guilt.â The officer was left speechless, eventually turning to Eric for backup, only to see him staring at Helena in a daze. Unable to resist, he nudged Eric with his elbow. âYouâŚdo you really believe him?â Eric finally came to his senses, his voice hoarse as he asked. Helena paused, taken aback. Did she believe Kenneth? Ever since she was adopted by the Keller family at ten, supposedly due to a favorable fortune reading, she had witnessed Kennethâs defiance and disregard for rules and morals, his actions always based on his whims. But when she received the news of his arrest around three in the morning, even knowing the police had collected his DNA, her first move hadnât been to go to the station. Instead, sheâd instructed someone to look for evidence of his alibi. Subconsciously, when it came to this matter, she actually trusted Kenneth! No matter how he usually acted out, heâd never crossed that line. This realization brought an inexplicable unease to her heart. She averted her gaze from Eric and said softly but firmly, âI only trust the evidence.â Eric watched her, remaining silent for a long time. With the alibi evidence presented, Kennethâs suspicion was reduced. Given his influential status, the police had no choice but to grant Helenaâs request for bail. âSomeone actually managed to wrest a detainee from the captainâs handsâlooks like weâre in for a miracle,â murmured an officer. "Miss Lane works for the legal department at Keller Corporation, doesnât she? Sheâs not only beautiful but also impressively skilled with criminal casesâdefinitely worth a second look." "Sheâs actually two years his juniorâtheyâre both alumni. With all her achievements, how did they not know each other back then?" Eric stood by the window, the officers' murmurs buzzing in his ears, his sharp gaze fixed on the scene below. The tall, commanding figure of a man walked out of the police station, following a slender woman. From behind, they looked like a perfect match, though it stung to watch. Ericâs hands, hanging at his sides, clenched instinctively. Memories from five years ago surfaced vividly. At graduation, his family arranged for him to study abroad. Before leaving, he asked Helena to meet him, intending to confess his feelings. If she was willing, heâd take her with him; heâd even secured a spot for her at the same school. But from evening until dawn, he waited for five long hours. Helena never showed, and then she blocked his number. Unable to let go, he sought her out that night, only to witness Helena stepping out of Kennethâs car, her clothes disheveled. Sensing his presence, Kenneth shifted to block her view, shielding her as they headed toward the house. One of Kennethâs security guards quickly covered Ericâs mouth and dragged him to the side entrance. Eric struggled, desperate to confront Helena and find out what had happened but was met with Kennethâs unrestrained fist. "Sheâs mine. Try to get close to her again, and I donât care if your last nameâs LangstonâIâll end you life." After that night, every attempt Eric made to see Helena was thwarted by Kenneth. Finally, Kenneth âaccidentallyâ called him, letting him hear Helena say she didnât want to see him and never would. Eric had given himself five years to let go, yet he still couldnât. But now, he had come back only to find he was one step too late! Back then, Eric sensed that Helena had feelings for him. Taking a deep breath, he suppressed the surge of resentment and resisted the urge to rush down and pull Helena away. Kenneth, initially following leisurely behind Helena, suddenly quickened his pace as they approached the car, as though sensing something. He wrapped an arm around her, his touch overly intimate. Helenaâs body went rigid, and she instinctively tried to push him off with a frown. "Whatâs gotten into you now?" "Didnât sleep all nightâcanât walk straight," Kenneth replied, completely unbothered, practically leaning his full weight onto her shoulder. Helena muttered, âServes you right,â under her breath. Realizing they were almost at the car and that she couldnât budge him, she gave up and resigned herself to dragging him along like a dead weight. Fortunately, ever since Kenneth had pushed her into the fountain when she was twelve, sheâd kept up with self-defense training over the years, enough to prevent him from easily knocking her over. Finally reaching the car, Kenneth, in a rare moment of consideration, opened the door for her and even held a hand above the frame to protect her from bumping her head. Helena eyed him warily. âWhat are you up to now?â From the first day sheâd met Kenneth, sheâd learned that the prettier the smile, the more dangerous the person. "I'm Kenneth Keller; you can call me Ken!" Helena had never seen such a beautiful boy before. Standing in the sunlight, he looked like a porcelain doll that glowed. His bright smile eased some of her nervousness at being in her new home. She shyly placed her hand in his. But the next moment, his smile turned malicious and dangerous. She felt something slimy squirm in her palm, and when she looked down, a small green snake was flicking its tongue at her. Horrified, Helena fainted instantly. He was worse than the kids who bullied her back at the orphanage. As Kenneth grew older, his methods of teasing and tormenting Helena became endlessly inventive. Helena went from feeling nervous and afraid to a constant state of vigilance, learning to gauge the level of danger just by reading his expressions and movements. Just like now. Her entire body tensed, ready to respond at any moment. Kennethâs roguish grin spread across his finely sculpted face, softening with an unusual gentleness. âComing all the way here early in the morning to rescue me from 'Judge Langston'âthanks for the effort, honey.â Helena held his gaze for a few seconds, assessing the threat level. Confirming it was low, she mentally deactivated her alert. She rubbed her arms discreetly, trying to shake off the goosebumps, then leaned down and got into the car. Kenneth shut the door for her and made his way around to the passenger side. Before getting in, he shot a smug, defiant grin and lifted his brows at a particular window of the police station, oozing satisfaction. âWhere did you actually go last night?â Helena finally asked after theyâd driven a fair distance from the station. Though sheâd found enough evidence to prove Kenneth didnât have time to commit the crime, the police had still found his DNA at the scene, a fact that couldnât be overlooked. Without clearing up this detail, his suspicion wouldnât fully dissipate. Knowing his movements would allow Helena to defend him more effectively and prevent further police scrutiny. Kenneth reclined lazily in his seat, adopting his usual indifference. He shot back with her own words, âDid you forget about the prenuptial agreement you drafted yourself, Miss Lane?â No interference. No questions. It was the most crucial clause in their marriage agreement, second only to asset divisionâthe very foundation of their contractual union. âMr. Keller, I have no intention of prying into your private life,â Helena said, keeping her eyes on the road as she gripped the steering wheel, patiently explaining, âRight now, youâre only out on bail. The police havenât dropped their suspicions. Knowing your whereabouts last night is the only way to clear you.â Kenneth suddenly sat up, turning to study the sharp lines of her profile. His eyes flickered slightly, and his voice held a faint, almost undetectable trace of tension. âDo youâŚbelieve I didnât do it?â Chapter 0003 Helena ignored Kennethâs odd look and said coolly, "What kind of woman could you possibly not get, Mr. Keller? You donât need to stoop to something so low." In terms of looks, wealth, and power, Kenneth was a constant presence in the countryâs top three "Most Eligible Bachelors" lists. Women who fawned over him numbered in the thousands. A month ago, on that fateful night when heâd let his guard slipâan infatuated woman had drugged him, leading to an unexpected encounter with a drunken Helena. Kenneth scoffed and settled back into his seat, smirking. âSince you know me so well, Miss Lane, why donât you take a guess at where I was last night?â Helena frowned slightly. âMr. Keller, your lack of cooperation will only prolong the police investigation.â âAnd so what?â Kenneth scoffed, raising an eyebrow. âAre you worried the police will dig too deep, or are you more concerned that someone else might come up empty-handed?â Realizing heâd let slip more than he intended, Kenneth quickly shifted his focus, glancing at the upcoming intersection. âTake a left here and drop me off at the Starlight Club.â Ignoring his veiled jabs, Helena kept her tone professional. âThe afternoonâs bidding event is important. Youâll need to attend in top form.â Without a word, she continued driving in the opposite direction, away from the club. Kenneth was silent for a moment, then lifted his gaze with a wry smile. âMiss Lane, are you planning to breach the marriage agreement? Because if thatâs the case, then I could ask you to fulfill certain marital duties.â Screech! The car came to an abrupt halt. The white sedan quickly reversed direction and headed straight for Greenwickâs largest entertainment club. When Kenneth chose to be reckless, nothingânot even a contractâcould rein him in. The only reason he upheld their agreement was that Helena had followed it to the letter. If she broke it, what right did she have to expect him to do the same? Though Kenneth was unpredictable, he never shirked his responsibilities. After a night out and a morning spent at Starlight, he still showed up impeccably dressed and right on time for the afternoon bidding event. But as soon as it ended, he vanished once again. Helena was on her way back to the office when she received a call from Kennethâs grandmother, Rachel Wilson. âHelena, the bidding event is over, right? Donât forget to come home with Kenneth for dinner tonight!â That was when it hit Helenaâit was the end of the month. The Keller family rule required every family member in Greenwick to return home for dinner on the last day of the month, no matter how busy they were. Kenneth never took that family rule seriously; it was always up to Helena to remind him. This time, however, sheâd been too busy reviewing bid documents and dealing with Kennethâs issues at the police station that morning, so the reminder had slipped her mind. Not wanting to disappoint Rachel, Helena reluctantly called Kenneth three times. But he didnât answer his phone. Kenneth was too independent to tolerate bodyguards trailing him. His protection detail consisted of covert security, hidden and discreet. Helena hesitated, ultimately deciding not to ask them for his whereabouts. They only answered to Kenneth, and they might not tell her anyway. Besides, if he found out sheâd been trying to track him down, who knew what kind of reaction sheâd face? Left with no choice, Helena headed to the Starlight Club on the off chance heâd be there. It seemed her luck was in her favor. She had been to the club a few times before with her friend, Miranda Cook, so the manager recognized her. Upon learning she was looking for Kenneth, he graciously offered to pass along the message. After a few minutes, the manager returned, looking pale, and shook his head apologetically. "Miss Lane, Iâm sorry, but Mr. Keller said heâs unavailable." Helena lowered her gaze, keeping her expression unchanged. When the manager had opened the door to enter, sheâd caught a quick glimpse inside. In the room, a sultry woman in a skimpy outfit was moving suggestively to the music, clinging to a pole in a dance. She hadnât seen Kenneth directly, but with such a lively atmosphere, it was clear he wasnât short of female company. So, he was irritated that sheâd interrupted his fun. Helena offered the manager a polite smile, slipped him a few bills from her wallet as a tip, and left the club, heading back to her car. âFive minutes. If you donât come down by then, Iâm leaving. You can explain yourself to Grandma.â Helena pulled out her phone, found Kennethâs profile picture, and quickly sent him a message. The last text sheâd sent him was a month ago, forwarding the marriage agreement, to which heâd replied with a curt âWhatever.â After hitting send, she set a five-minute countdown on her phone, leaned back in her seat, and closed her eyes to rest. Kenneth had been raised by Rachel and held a deep respect for her. Helena had once overheard someone joking, âKenneth Keller fears nothing and no oneâexcept a call from his grandmother.â While an exaggeration, there was truth to it. Kenneth, like an untamed stallion, answered to no one⌠except Rachel. Sure enough, with five seconds left on the countdown, the passenger door flew open. As Kenneth slid into the car, a blast of icy wind rushed in, making Helena shiver as her eyes snapped open. âGrown some nerve, havenât you? Threatening me now?â Kennethâs eyes narrowed even further, his gaze sharp and dangerous. Before Helena could respond, her phoneâs alarm went off. It was the countdown reminder. She casually switched it off and started the car. âYou flatter me, Mr. Keller. I didnât mean to ruin your fun, but today is a special case. After all, Grandma is waiting for you.â Kennethâs frustration turned to a bitter smile as he replied with a mocking tone, âToo bad your last name isnât Keller. Otherwise, people might think youâre her real grandchild.â With a frustrated exhale, he slammed the passenger door shut, making the car jolt slightly as it pulled away from the curb. The biting chill that had entered quickly faded, replaced by the warmth of the carâs heaterâset to full, just the way Helena liked it in the cramped space since she hated the cold. Helena kept her hands steady on the wheel, stealing a quick sideways glance at Kenneth. The dim overhead light cast a warm, amber glow over his sculpted profile, softening the sharp lines of his face and adding an unreadable depth to his eyes. She lowered her gaze, instinctively avoiding any unnecessary confrontation. When Rachel chose Helena from the orphanage, sheâd been explicit about her intentions: adopting and supporting Helena was all for the benefit of her grandson, Kenneth. Helena was to be his subordinate, his friend, his partner, and possibly even his wife. But not even Rachel could have predicted that Kenneth would see Helena as a rival. From her first day in the Keller family, Kenneth had made it his mission to give Helena a hard time. Initially, Helena thought her presence was unwelcome and that perhaps he genuinely disliked her. Later, she realized it was jealousy driving him. He resented her for the affection Rachel showed her, feeling as if she had stolen his exclusive bond with Rachel. Once Helena understood that, she stopped trying to earn Kennethâs approval and kept her distance as much as possible. Her path was clear: to be Kennethâs loyal subordinate, protect him, and repay the Keller familyâs support and care. Everything unfolded as she planned. After graduating from college, she joined Keller Corporationâs legal department, shielding Kennethâs reckless behavior and ensuring he maintained his CEO position. But everything changed the night they, both drunk, slept togetherâand were caught by Rachel. To ease Rachelâs worries, Kenneth approached Helena with a proposal for a contractual marriage. In exchange, once the timing was right, they would divorce, and she would be free to live her life as she pleased. Freeing herself from the burden of the Keller familyâs debt was something Helena secretly yearned for; deep down, she had no desire to remain entangled with Kenneth. But then, just as they were settling into the marriage, Rachel fell ill, diagnosed with a terminal condition after being hospitalized from the initial shock. To ease Rachelâs mind, Helena agreed to Kennethâs proposal. Though she wasnât Rachelâs biological granddaughterâand Rachelâs decision to adopt her had been partly self-servingâover the years, Helena had felt genuine love and care from Rachel. In her heart, she had come to see Rachel as her only family in the world. Not wanting to leave any regrets behind for her, Helena resolved to make this contract marriage appear as genuine as possible. Until the end, she would maintain the pretense of playing the role of a devoted wife to give Rachel peace. Chapter 0004 At the entrance of the Keller Estate. After Helena parked the car, Kenneth silently stepped out. Seeing this, Helena quickly got out as well and hurried to follow. They had to put on a complete act in front of Rachel, pretending to be a deeply affectionate couple. Fortunately, Kenneth kept his composure. Just as they approached the main gate, he paused for a brief moment. Seizing the opportunity, Helena stepped forward, gently wrapping her hand around his arm. Kennethâs movements stiffened slightly. He slowly lowered his gaze, eyeing her slender hand resting on the crook of his arm. Helena took a deep breath, lifted her gaze, and smiled at him. âFor Grandmaâs sake, please bear with me, dear husband.â âLikewise.â Kennethâs thin lips curved slightly, his tone carrying a hint of mockery. âThank you for your hard work, dear wife.â After a brief pause, he lifted his other hand and firmly pressed down on the back of Helenaâs hand, giving her a meaningful smile before striding forward. Caught off guard, Helena stumbled slightly, managing to steady herself after a moment. Yet, his smile left her heart racing, filled with unease. She couldnât shake the feeling that Kenneth was quietly plotting something again! The Keller Estate was a traditional classical manor, elegant and refined, crafted with ingenuity. The architecture lay nestled by hills and waters, with layered courtyards and pavilions. Helena and Kenneth followed the servant for a while before arriving at the main dining hall. Inside the brightly lit dining hall, the large mahogany dining table, intricately carved, was already surrounded by family members. The Keller family of Greenwick had nearly a century of history, but by Kenneth's grandfather's generation, the line had dwindled to just two sons and a daughterânone of whom had lived up to expectations. Kennethâs grandfather, Walter Keller, had three children, each a disappointment in their own way. The eldest son was rebellious, storming out of the family home after Walter opposed his marriage to a mysterious dancer. Since that day, he vanished without a trace. The second son, Kennethâs father, Raymond Keller, made his escape with a mistress, choosing to leave on the rainy night of Kennethâs third birthday, only to meet his end in a car accident. Walterâs only daughter went abroad for school, fell for a delinquent, and chose to sever ties with her family rather than return. Hurt by his children, Walter grew indifferent toward Kenneth, instead investing his hopes in the extended familyâs descendants. Near the end of his life, he nearly handed over the Keller family assets to his nephew. But Rachel intervened decisively. Leading a team of lawyers, she reclaimed control over the Keller family, defying opposition to appoint Kenneth as CEO of Keller Corporation. However, in the years Walter had been lenient, the extended family had embedded themselves within the Keller Corporation, securing key positions in various critical departments. Now and then, they continued their schemes, still aiming to wrest control of Keller Corporation from Kenneth. Rachel was fully aware of everything, but her age left her with limited strength; all she could do was maintain the delicate balance between Kenneth and the extended Keller family. In the banquet hall, only the members of the extended family were seated alongside Rachel. The head seat remained vacant, and the tableware set, as always, was reserved for Walter. Rachel, who had been listlessly listening to their complaints, brightened as soon as she saw Kenneth and Helena enter. Her eyes sparkled as she beckoned them over with a smile. "Ken, Lena, you're back! Come, have a seat!" The relatives who had been talking with Rachel were visibly displeased at being ignored, despite their attempts to hide it. Kenneth, however, appeared oblivious, leading Helena with confidence to sit beside Rachel. Leaning in, he whispered something to Rachel that had her laughing with joy, her gaze shifting periodically to Helenaâs abdomen. Helenaâs unease only grew stronger. With Rachel present, she couldnât say anything directly, so when Kenneth turned to look at her, she shot him a warning look to stay quiet. He merely smirked with a laid-back, roguish grin, which made her grit her teeth and glare at him with even more frustration. To onlookers, however, this seemed like an affectionate exchange, with the young couple exchanging flirtatious glances. Not only had they kept everyone waiting, showing up late to the family dinner without so much as an apology, but they were now putting on a show of intimacy, clearly not taking the others seriously. Recalling Kenneth's usual audacious demeanor, the uncles were increasingly irritated. Kennethâs eldest relative, Jerome Keller, was the first to break the silence. âI thought the bidding meeting for the South City project ended this afternoon. Did you two go off to a celebration party afterward?â With Jerome setting the tone, other relatives quickly chimed in. "What celebration could possibly be more important than a family dinner? Ken, we may overlook certain things you do outside, but traditions passed down through generations deserve respect." âHelena, Grandma has spent years teaching and guiding you, yet instead of keeping Ken in check, you go along with his antics. Youâre letting her down!â Subtle verbal jabs came at her from all directions. Helena, long accustomed to this, kept her gaze lowered and ignored their insinuating remarks, turning a deaf ear to the sharp-edged words aimed her way. After all, with Kenneth here, he would be the one to handle these people when things got out of control. Sure enough, in the next instant, Kenneth's smile vanished. He suddenly hurled the expensive teacup in his hand, sending it crashing across the room. The sharp sound of shattering porcelain echoed through the banquet hall, creating an atmosphere of intense pressure that radiated from him, silencing everyone in an instant. Even the small child in someone's arms was too frightened to make a sound. âCelebration dinner, family dinnerâit doesnât matter. If thereâs food, just eat and be content, but know your limits. Otherwise, I have plenty of ways to make what you eat go right back out. âThe biggest rule in the Keller family is that there are no rules. Otherwise, none of you would be here making pointless remarks. âNeither I nor Grandma see any issues with Helena being the next matriarch, yet you all feel entitled to judge. If youâre so eager to critique, should I air some of your dirty laundry so we can all evaluate each other?â Kenneth crossed his arms and leaned back, one leg resting casually over the other, his gaze lingering on Jerome for a moment before sweeping lazily around the room. His expression was like that of a grim reaper in idle contemplation, deciding which one of them he might claim next. The unfiltered suggestion, the blatant sarcasmâeven an obvious challenge glimmered in his eyes. Hearing the implication behind his words, the extended members of the family felt both offended and afraid, their discomfort evident as they instinctively looked toward Jerome for direction. "Ken, weâre your elders, just offering reminders for your own good and for the familyâs sake," Jerome replied, holding Kennethâs sharp gaze for a moment before shifting to Helena. "Since we're on the topic of secrets, why donât we let Helena explain why she was at the police station this morning?" At that, Helenaâs heart skipped a beat. Sheâd received a call from the police that morning and had promptly informed the PR department to keep the news tightly contained. Yet somehow, Jerome knew she had gone to the police station that morning! Helena instinctively glanced at Kenneth, only to find him seated there, arms crossed, a faintly amused look in his eyes as he noticed her gaze. Years of understanding between them meant that with just one look, Helena grasped his intention. He was subtly hinting at Jeromeâs embezzlement, deliberately provoking him by implying he could make him spit it back out. Jerome, who had never taken Kenneth seriously, wasnât one to tolerate a threat and quickly struck back. But in doing so, he unwittingly exposed his weakness. Yet Kenneth had used her as bait without warning, setting her up as part of his ploy to corner Jerome! Helena clenched her fists discreetly, gritting her teeth in silence. Her instincts hadnât let her downâKenneth was definitely up to something, setting this trap with her squarely in the middle of it. She knew he was about to throw her under the bus, yet she had no choice but to play along, as if she were a willing partner in the scheme. It was maddening! If not for Rachelâs presence, Helena truly would have loved to walk out and let Kenneth handle this on his own. Sensing the tension, Rachel looked over anxiously and asked, âLena, is everything alright?â âGrandma.â Helena took a deep breath, calming herself before gently patting Rachelâs hand with a reassuring smile. âIf something was wrong, would I still be here sitting beside you?â Rachel still seemed unconvinced and glanced at Kenneth, who nodded lazily with a faint smile, which finally put her at ease. Taking advantage of the moment, Helena shot Kenneth a quick glare before turning back, her expression subtly mocking as she looked at Jerome. âUncle Jerome, I didnât expect you to be so concerned about me, knowing my whereabouts in such detail. To an outsider, it might look as if youâd had someone tailing me!â Helena indirectly called out Jeromeâs surveillance, tossing the ball back into his court with effortless poise. âAs your niece-in-law, I may not be the brightest, but I truly donât understand what youâre implying. Why donât you clarify what exactly it is that Iâve done thatâs so questionable?â Chapter 0005 Jerome knew heâd misspoken, yet he hardly cared that Helena had caught him slipping. âThis morning, you rushed off to the police stationâwasnât it to reconnect with that new captain of the station, Eric Langston?â Helenaâs heart skipped a beat. Not only was Jerome fully aware of her whereabouts, but he also knew she was acquainted with Eric. Sheâd underestimated Jerome. After all, when she met Eric seven years ago, he was reserved and unapproachable, always keeping his distance from others. Moreover, his mother had erased all traces of her connection with Eric to remove the stain she posed on their family, clearing all records and keeping everything well-hidden. Almost no one knew that she and Eric had been familiar with each other, let alone shared a faintly ambiguous past. If Jerome had the means to uncover her connection with Eric, he could just as easily find out why Kenneth had gone to the police station. Hinting at an old flame between her and Eric was clearly an attempt to drive a wedge. If she didnât deny it, Rachel would naturally start to doubt her relationship with Kenneth. And even if Kenneth knew the truth, Jeromeâs words would plant seeds of suspicion in his heart that would, over time, lead to cracks. On the other hand, denying it would inevitably drag up the accusations of assault against Kenneth. If Rachel found out, it would not only make her question their story of falling in love over time and choosing to marry but also leave her disappointed in Kenneth. Jerome would then seize the opportunity to make even more outrageous demands. "Uncle Jerome, you really give me too much credit." Helenaâs mind raced, though her expression remained unreadable. "If I actually had any history with Mr. Langston, Iâd certainly have asked him to treat you a bit more courteously before your visit." Jeromeâs pupils contracted, and his expression, like a fractured mask, began to crack silently. Ericâs position was indeed unique, and Jerome had specifically arranged a visit to him on the first day he arrived in Greenwick. There were countless people eager to meet him, and Jerome had struggled through numerous attempts just to secure an appointment. When they finally met, Ericâs demeanor was cold and cutting, his gaze sharp and distant, as though heâd seen right through Jeromeâs intentions from the start. In an attempt to bridge the gap, Jerome had mentioned Helena, who had once been Ericâs schoolmate. Unexpectedly, what was initially supposed to be a brief five-minute meeting turned into a half-hour conversation with Eric. And just last night, despite the gravity of the incident surrounding Kennethâwitnesses and evidence stacked against himâHelena had still managed to bail him out from the station. After all, Eric wasnât just any officer; he was known as the "Judge." Sensing an opportunity, Jerome had dropped hints in front of everyone, trying to gauge Helenaâs relationship with Eric, hoping it would strain her connection with Kenneth. Without Helenaâs support, he was certain Rachel would eventually see Kenneth as the reckless badboy he truly was. At that point, they could employ a few well-planned moves to seize everything from the Keller family. Yet Jerome hadnât anticipated that young Helena would maintain her composure so well, even managing to turn the tables on him. The Kellers had strict rules: family members could pursue either business or government, but never both. His secret meeting with Eric was already a breach of those family principles. Noticing the scrutinizing looks from the other relatives, particularly the sharp stares from Rachel and Kenneth, Jerome felt a pang of unease, uncertain how Helena had learned of his visit with Eric. His chest tightened as he gritted his teeth and pressed on, âSo if it wasnât to catch up with Mr. Langston, why did you rush to the station first thing this morning?â Before Helena could respond, she sensed something amiss and instinctively stood to shield Rachel. A loud bang erupted in the next instant. Kenneth, without warning, flipped the entire dining table in Jeromeâs direction. Jerome had no time to dodge as dishes, utensils, and food crashed down onto him. A plate of green vegetables landed squarely on his head, resembling a makeshift hat perched on his hair. Ignoring Jeromeâs disheveled appearance and the twisted fury on his face, Kenneth leaned back in his seat, casually wiping his fingers. His movements were graceful, his expression relaxed as if he were seated in a tranquil riverside pavilion, leisurely listening to a distant melody. âIt seems the Keller family meal doesnât suit everyoneâs taste,â Kenneth said, his voice calm. âIn that case, no one needs to eat.â He paused briefly before adding, âAnd as for the end-of-month family dinner tradition, itâs time we canceled that as well.â With a casual wave, his private guards and bodyguards emerged, promptly escorting all extended relatives out of the estate. Rachel looked on, momentarily stunned, before giving Kenneth a disapproving glance. âKen, youâve managed to offend all your relatives.â Kenneth raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. âThey openly disrespected me. Did they really think they wouldnât offend me?â Beside him, Helena felt her eye twitch. Would it ever end? Heâd clearly wanted to cancel the end-of-month dinner for a while and had finally found his excuse, all under the pretense of âprotectingâ her. Rachelâs gaze shifted between Helena and Kenneth, her expression softening as she smiled knowingly. âSeeing how well you two get along really puts my mind at ease!â âWell, since youâre at ease, how about cooperating with the doctor and focusing on getting better?â Kenneth stepped forward, gently holding Rachelâs arm, while his other hand reached around to brush Helenaâs cheek, his eyes on her. âWhat do you say, darling?â Though filled with frustration, Helena had no choice but to offer a sweet smile and nod. With an exaggerated sigh, Rachel looked longingly at Helena. âAh, if I could just hold a great-grandchild in my arms, Iâd be content even in death!â Helenaâs mind immediately flashed back to Kennethâs earlier whispered words to Rachel, which had made her repeatedly glance at Helenaâs abdomen. He must have said something he shouldnât have! After hesitating for a few seconds, she couldnât bear to let Rachel down and spoke gently, âGrandma, as long as you take care of yourself, Iâm sure that day will come.â Rachel beamed with joy at Helena's response. Since the family dinner had been cut short, Rachel instructed the staff to bring out fresh dishes. With Helena and Kenneth accompanying her, she enjoyed an extra small plate of pasta, a rare treat, and asked them both to stay overnight at the estate so they could join her for breakfast in the morning. Kenneth, evidently too tired to return to the Starlight Club for his usual late-night revelry, surprisingly agreed. Helena, with no other choice, stayed as well. They returned to the room Rachel had prepared for them. The spacious room was decorated with romantic touches, and in the soft glow of flickering candles, the atmosphere felt thick with unspoken tension. The bed, draped in pure white sheets, was scattered with red roses arranged in a large heart shape, their rich fragrance filling the air. Helena and Kenneth exchanged glances, both speechless. She quickly found the light switch and turned on the overhead lights. The bright light dispelled much of the room's suggestive atmosphere. Helena turned to Kenneth, choosing a decidedly unromantic topic. "Do you think Jerome had anything to do with the false accusations against you?" Though phrased as a question, there was a tone of certainty in her voice. Kenneth didnât respond. Instead, he looked down at her with a cold, assessing gaze. âMr. Langstonâheâs still lingering around you, isnât he?â Seeing she didnât immediately respond, he pressed on bluntly, as if worried she might misunderstand his meaning. âIf youâre truly interested in rekindling things with him, just say so. Thereâs no need to sneak around behind my back.â Kenneth was one of the few who knew about her past with Eric. His use of the word "rekindling" was laced with sarcasm. Helena couldnât stand it anymore and snapped, âKenneth, whatâs gotten into you? Havenât I played along enough with all your schemes?â Kenneth met her gaze, which was now blazing with anger, and seemed momentarily at a loss. After a couple of seconds, he responded in a low voice, âI just donât want to be blindsided with a betrayal like tonight.â Thinking of Jeromeâs earlier provocations, Helena took a deep breath, about to reassure Kenneth. But an inexplicable sensation began to rise within herâa warmth that felt like a spark, ready to spread like wildfire through her body. Sensing something was off, she looked up at Kenneth, only to find his face slightly flushed, his intense gaze fixed on her. In the depths of his eyes, there was a fierce, flickering heat as if a flame had been ignited and was burning wildly. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15543&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | beokn.com | DCO | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15543&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466919986_534033072870870_7540673277837274692_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wkg_WhutLOUQ7kNvgHC0fQy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ADR986hf2tX7Oe2WQqoSf97&oh=00_AYC0MlnGq0PAUX04VBvGPmTf2A7r-7lbdQshWzMVMmPysQ&oe=67582A52 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | When Helena Lane arrived at the police station, dawn had yet to break. Tiny snowflakes swirled in the night wind, melting as soon as they touched the ground, leaving a muddy mess. Two hours earlier, Helena had received news that her newlywed husband, Kenneth Keller, had been arrested on suspicion of assault. Not wanting to alarm her family, she came alone as his lawyer and closest relative. Seated in the visitation room, Helena was focused on cleaning the grayish mud off her high heels when Kenneth entered, escorted by two officers. Seeing her, his eyes flickered with a hint of surprise before he casually slouched into the seat across from her, looking more relaxed than he ever did at home. There wasnât a hint of panic in his demeanor and certainly no trace of fear. As the heir to one of Greenwickâs most powerful family empires, Kenneth was notorious for his rebellious streak, acting with complete disregard for convention and authority. Fear? It was something others felt around him, not the other way around. Had it not been for the high-ranking officer overseeing the case, he wouldnât have been here at all, no matter what trouble he caused. Helena stared at him, expressionless, and got straight to the point. âMr. Keller, care to explain what happened last night?â Kenneth draped his arms over the back of the chair, lazily studying the woman seated opposite him, who looked all serious and professional. Her camel cashmere coat was pressed to perfection, her clear, unblemished face free of makeup, and her low ponytail perfectly in place. She showed none of the anger or panic one might expect from a wife whoâd just learned of her husbandâs charges. Her demeanor was all business. âAnd are you asking as the corporate attorney, orâŚâ he let his lips curl slightly, pausing deliberately, then lowered his voice to a murmur, âas my wife?â The low, suggestive tone seemed to linger in the air, but Helena remained unfazed, her gaze cool. âIs there a difference?â He raised an eyebrow. âIf youâre here as an attorney, I want a replacement.â He paused, then gave her a sidelong glance, a touch of mischief gleaming in his eyes. âIf youâre here as my wife, then you should start by calling me âhoney.ââ Helena glanced at him, completely unamused by the little game he was playing in a situation like this. This was all too typical of him. âIf the charges stick, youâll be looking at three to ten years behind bars.â Helenaâs cool voice was laced with sarcasm as she added, âTired of your fancy feasts, Mr. Keller? Thought youâd try bread and pickles for a change?â Kenneth met her mildly annoyed gaze. He was entirely unfazed and even held a roguish grin. âWhat, worried about me?â Seeing that Kenneth had no intention of cooperating, Helena, who had only come as a formality, decided not to waste any more time and rose to leave. âThis is the police station, Mr. Keller. Talking nonsense here is more troublesome than keeping silent,â she reminded him, urging him not to spout off. âAnd remember, we signed a prenuptial agreement.â Feelings of attachment had no place in their contractual, paper-thin marriage. Were it not for the fact that he was needed at the South City project bidding event that afternoonâor the concern that his grandmother would worry if she learned of his arrestâshe wouldnât have bothered with him at all. It wasnât until Helenaâs figure disappeared through the door that Kenneth slowly withdrew his gaze. She hadnât even glanced back, completely indifferent to whether or not heâd assaulted another woman. But then again, to her, their marriage was never real. Sheâd personally drafted the prenuptial agreement and had never considered him a life partner. In truth, she had never intended for him to play any lasting role in her life. The roguish smile on his handsome face faded gradually. His eyelids lowered, and his eyes held a barely perceptible hint of disappointment. Ten minutes later, Helena found herself outside the interview room, facing the lead officer, Eric Langston. After five years, Ericâs aura was more intimidating than ever, radiating a fierce, unapproachable presence that surpassed even what she remembered. Helena had anticipated seeing Eric at the police station, but when she finally faced him, she paused for a couple of seconds to collect herself. Five years ago, Helena could never have guessed that, Eric, her frugal, hardworking seniorâa man sheâd worked part-time jobs withâcame from a prominent family. That was until Ericâs mother warned her, âA beggar of unknown origin, a stray the Keller family took in, daring to latch onto my son? Take a good look at yourself! âMy son has a fiancĂŠeâsomeone whose family background, upbringing, and character make you unworthy to even shine her shoes. Oh, and in case you didnât know, theyâll be going abroad together soon. âYouâd better understand your place and stop shamelessly clinging to my son. Getting rid of someone as low as you is easier than squashing an ant.â Before she turned seven, Helena had been forced to beg on the streets, only to be rescued during a police raid on a human trafficking ring. Since her parents were never identified through the DNA database, she was sent to an orphanage. She grew up used to the scorn of others but never had she felt such raw humiliation. It was as though her dignity had been ripped away, thrown to the ground, and trampled upon. Any feelings she had for Eric vanished completely. If he hadnât hidden his identity, she wouldnât have suffered this shame. Out of pride and resentment, she never saw him again after that, even after he graduated. As time went by, Helena realized that Ericâs mother had been behind it all and that she might have directed some of her resentment toward him unfairly. With a polite yet distant smile, Helena broke the silence. âEric, itâs been a long time.â Eric assessed Helena with an impassive gaze. Seeing her composed demeanor, he raised his brows slightly and nodded. He then turned and entered the interview room first. Helena exhaled deeply, steeling herself as she followed him inside as a witness. Her marriage to Kenneth was a well-kept secret. Aside from close family, no one knew they were married. Kenneth refused to cooperate with the police, adamantly withholding any details about what happened the previous night. Left with no choice, Helena had to implement a backup plan: testifying as his wife. After all, rumor had it that in Wellington's criminal investigations division, Eric was known as the âJudge"âonce he set his sights on someone, even the smallest sins from birth would be unearthed. Kenneth, being the reckless type, was bound to have skeletons in his closet. With the South City project at a critical juncture and Kennethâs role as CEO on the line, this was the worst possible time for a scandal. Moreover, his grandmother's frail health couldn't withstand such a shock. Helena knew she had to protect him, both for professional and personal reasons. Once the deposition was complete, Eric regarded Helena with a complicated expression. âWhen did you and Mr. Keller get married?â Helena met his intense gaze, feeling a slight ripple in her heart before quickly composing herself. She replied calmly, âAlmost a month ago. Would you like to see the marriage certificate?â It had only been a month since Eric had applied for a transfer back to Greenwick. Had it not been for a minor delay in the paperwork... Ericâs gaze darkened, and after a moment, he spoke with difficulty, âAre you certain you were with him the entire night?â After a brief pause, he added, âAs a lawyer, you should be aware of the consequences of perjury.â Sensing his doubt, Helena took a deep breath and responded with professional confidence. âAccording to Article 305 of the Criminal Code, committing perjury is punishable by up to three years in prison or detention. In serious cases, it carries a sentence of three to seven years. "And if a lawyer commits a crime intentionally, their license will be revoked. Which is precisely why my testimony carries even more weight.â Kenneth had been accused of breaking into a hotel room at 12:37 a.m., assaulting a female celebrity, and not leaving until more than two hours had passed. Testifying as his wife, Helena claimed that Kenneth had been home until just before midnight, stepping out only at 11:57 p.m. By her calculations, even in the fastest sports car, it would take at least an hour to reach the hotel from their house. Moreover, she had obtained all surveillance footage from the route Kenneth took after leaving, each clip showing him driving past, proving he had no time to commit the crime. Chapter 0002 "The police retrieved hotel surveillance screenshots that show the perpetrator wearing a mask. Basing suspicion on nothing more than a similar build and hairstyle is clearly insufficient evidence.â Helenaâs voice was calm but precise, each word landing with conviction. Eric felt a slight ringing in his ears from her firm tone. Watching her, who was radiating professional confidence, he couldnât help but recall how she once dominated the debate stage back in college with the same spirit. The secondary officer, noticing Ericâs silence, couldnât hold back. âThe victim identified him personally, and we found DNA that matches Mr. Kellerâsâthatâs our strongest evidence!â Helenaâs sharp, clear gaze didnât waver; she remained as composed as ever, unshaken. âAfter more than two hours of alleged assault, not a single fingerprint or any other biological trace was recovered from the victim or the scene. I have every reason to believe Kenneth is being framed.â The secondary officer protested, âWhat if he knew how to cover his tracks, cleaning the scene thoroughly?â âWhat if?â Helenaâs lips curved slightly, and her eyes held a confident gleam. âWhat if he wasnât there at all? Itâs the policeâs duty to eliminate reasonable doubt; the law doesnât permit presumption of guilt.â The officer was left speechless, eventually turning to Eric for backup, only to see him staring at Helena in a daze. Unable to resist, he nudged Eric with his elbow. âYouâŚdo you really believe him?â Eric finally came to his senses, his voice hoarse as he asked. Helena paused, taken aback. Did she believe Kenneth? Ever since she was adopted by the Keller family at ten, supposedly due to a favorable fortune reading, she had witnessed Kennethâs defiance and disregard for rules and morals, his actions always based on his whims. But when she received the news of his arrest around three in the morning, even knowing the police had collected his DNA, her first move hadnât been to go to the station. Instead, sheâd instructed someone to look for evidence of his alibi. Subconsciously, when it came to this matter, she actually trusted Kenneth! No matter how he usually acted out, heâd never crossed that line. This realization brought an inexplicable unease to her heart. She averted her gaze from Eric and said softly but firmly, âI only trust the evidence.â Eric watched her, remaining silent for a long time. With the alibi evidence presented, Kennethâs suspicion was reduced. Given his influential status, the police had no choice but to grant Helenaâs request for bail. âSomeone actually managed to wrest a detainee from the captainâs handsâlooks like weâre in for a miracle,â murmured an officer. "Miss Lane works for the legal department at Keller Corporation, doesnât she? Sheâs not only beautiful but also impressively skilled with criminal casesâdefinitely worth a second look." "Sheâs actually two years his juniorâtheyâre both alumni. With all her achievements, how did they not know each other back then?" Eric stood by the window, the officers' murmurs buzzing in his ears, his sharp gaze fixed on the scene below. The tall, commanding figure of a man walked out of the police station, following a slender woman. From behind, they looked like a perfect match, though it stung to watch. Ericâs hands, hanging at his sides, clenched instinctively. Memories from five years ago surfaced vividly. At graduation, his family arranged for him to study abroad. Before leaving, he asked Helena to meet him, intending to confess his feelings. If she was willing, heâd take her with him; heâd even secured a spot for her at the same school. But from evening until dawn, he waited for five long hours. Helena never showed, and then she blocked his number. Unable to let go, he sought her out that night, only to witness Helena stepping out of Kennethâs car, her clothes disheveled. Sensing his presence, Kenneth shifted to block her view, shielding her as they headed toward the house. One of Kennethâs security guards quickly covered Ericâs mouth and dragged him to the side entrance. Eric struggled, desperate to confront Helena and find out what had happened but was met with Kennethâs unrestrained fist. "Sheâs mine. Try to get close to her again, and I donât care if your last nameâs LangstonâIâll end you life." After that night, every attempt Eric made to see Helena was thwarted by Kenneth. Finally, Kenneth âaccidentallyâ called him, letting him hear Helena say she didnât want to see him and never would. Eric had given himself five years to let go, yet he still couldnât. But now, he had come back only to find he was one step too late! Back then, Eric sensed that Helena had feelings for him. Taking a deep breath, he suppressed the surge of resentment and resisted the urge to rush down and pull Helena away. Kenneth, initially following leisurely behind Helena, suddenly quickened his pace as they approached the car, as though sensing something. He wrapped an arm around her, his touch overly intimate. Helenaâs body went rigid, and she instinctively tried to push him off with a frown. "Whatâs gotten into you now?" "Didnât sleep all nightâcanât walk straight," Kenneth replied, completely unbothered, practically leaning his full weight onto her shoulder. Helena muttered, âServes you right,â under her breath. Realizing they were almost at the car and that she couldnât budge him, she gave up and resigned herself to dragging him along like a dead weight. Fortunately, ever since Kenneth had pushed her into the fountain when she was twelve, sheâd kept up with self-defense training over the years, enough to prevent him from easily knocking her over. Finally reaching the car, Kenneth, in a rare moment of consideration, opened the door for her and even held a hand above the frame to protect her from bumping her head. Helena eyed him warily. âWhat are you up to now?â From the first day sheâd met Kenneth, sheâd learned that the prettier the smile, the more dangerous the person. "I'm Kenneth Keller; you can call me Ken!" Helena had never seen such a beautiful boy before. Standing in the sunlight, he looked like a porcelain doll that glowed. His bright smile eased some of her nervousness at being in her new home. She shyly placed her hand in his. But the next moment, his smile turned malicious and dangerous. She felt something slimy squirm in her palm, and when she looked down, a small green snake was flicking its tongue at her. Horrified, Helena fainted instantly. He was worse than the kids who bullied her back at the orphanage. As Kenneth grew older, his methods of teasing and tormenting Helena became endlessly inventive. Helena went from feeling nervous and afraid to a constant state of vigilance, learning to gauge the level of danger just by reading his expressions and movements. Just like now. Her entire body tensed, ready to respond at any moment. Kennethâs roguish grin spread across his finely sculpted face, softening with an unusual gentleness. âComing all the way here early in the morning to rescue me from 'Judge Langston'âthanks for the effort, honey.â Helena held his gaze for a few seconds, assessing the threat level. Confirming it was low, she mentally deactivated her alert. She rubbed her arms discreetly, trying to shake off the goosebumps, then leaned down and got into the car. Kenneth shut the door for her and made his way around to the passenger side. Before getting in, he shot a smug, defiant grin and lifted his brows at a particular window of the police station, oozing satisfaction. âWhere did you actually go last night?â Helena finally asked after theyâd driven a fair distance from the station. Though sheâd found enough evidence to prove Kenneth didnât have time to commit the crime, the police had still found his DNA at the scene, a fact that couldnât be overlooked. Without clearing up this detail, his suspicion wouldnât fully dissipate. Knowing his movements would allow Helena to defend him more effectively and prevent further police scrutiny. Kenneth reclined lazily in his seat, adopting his usual indifference. He shot back with her own words, âDid you forget about the prenuptial agreement you drafted yourself, Miss Lane?â No interference. No questions. It was the most crucial clause in their marriage agreement, second only to asset divisionâthe very foundation of their contractual union. âMr. Keller, I have no intention of prying into your private life,â Helena said, keeping her eyes on the road as she gripped the steering wheel, patiently explaining, âRight now, youâre only out on bail. The police havenât dropped their suspicions. Knowing your whereabouts last night is the only way to clear you.â Kenneth suddenly sat up, turning to study the sharp lines of her profile. His eyes flickered slightly, and his voice held a faint, almost undetectable trace of tension. âDo youâŚbelieve I didnât do it?â Chapter 0003 Helena ignored Kennethâs odd look and said coolly, "What kind of woman could you possibly not get, Mr. Keller? You donât need to stoop to something so low." In terms of looks, wealth, and power, Kenneth was a constant presence in the countryâs top three "Most Eligible Bachelors" lists. Women who fawned over him numbered in the thousands. A month ago, on that fateful night when heâd let his guard slipâan infatuated woman had drugged him, leading to an unexpected encounter with a drunken Helena. Kenneth scoffed and settled back into his seat, smirking. âSince you know me so well, Miss Lane, why donât you take a guess at where I was last night?â Helena frowned slightly. âMr. Keller, your lack of cooperation will only prolong the police investigation.â âAnd so what?â Kenneth scoffed, raising an eyebrow. âAre you worried the police will dig too deep, or are you more concerned that someone else might come up empty-handed?â Realizing heâd let slip more than he intended, Kenneth quickly shifted his focus, glancing at the upcoming intersection. âTake a left here and drop me off at the Starlight Club.â Ignoring his veiled jabs, Helena kept her tone professional. âThe afternoonâs bidding event is important. Youâll need to attend in top form.â Without a word, she continued driving in the opposite direction, away from the club. Kenneth was silent for a moment, then lifted his gaze with a wry smile. âMiss Lane, are you planning to breach the marriage agreement? Because if thatâs the case, then I could ask you to fulfill certain marital duties.â Screech! The car came to an abrupt halt. The white sedan quickly reversed direction and headed straight for Greenwickâs largest entertainment club. When Kenneth chose to be reckless, nothingânot even a contractâcould rein him in. The only reason he upheld their agreement was that Helena had followed it to the letter. If she broke it, what right did she have to expect him to do the same? Though Kenneth was unpredictable, he never shirked his responsibilities. After a night out and a morning spent at Starlight, he still showed up impeccably dressed and right on time for the afternoon bidding event. But as soon as it ended, he vanished once again. Helena was on her way back to the office when she received a call from Kennethâs grandmother, Rachel Wilson. âHelena, the bidding event is over, right? Donât forget to come home with Kenneth for dinner tonight!â That was when it hit Helenaâit was the end of the month. The Keller family rule required every family member in Greenwick to return home for dinner on the last day of the month, no matter how busy they were. Kenneth never took that family rule seriously; it was always up to Helena to remind him. This time, however, sheâd been too busy reviewing bid documents and dealing with Kennethâs issues at the police station that morning, so the reminder had slipped her mind. Not wanting to disappoint Rachel, Helena reluctantly called Kenneth three times. But he didnât answer his phone. Kenneth was too independent to tolerate bodyguards trailing him. His protection detail consisted of covert security, hidden and discreet. Helena hesitated, ultimately deciding not to ask them for his whereabouts. They only answered to Kenneth, and they might not tell her anyway. Besides, if he found out sheâd been trying to track him down, who knew what kind of reaction sheâd face? Left with no choice, Helena headed to the Starlight Club on the off chance heâd be there. It seemed her luck was in her favor. She had been to the club a few times before with her friend, Miranda Cook, so the manager recognized her. Upon learning she was looking for Kenneth, he graciously offered to pass along the message. After a few minutes, the manager returned, looking pale, and shook his head apologetically. "Miss Lane, Iâm sorry, but Mr. Keller said heâs unavailable." Helena lowered her gaze, keeping her expression unchanged. When the manager had opened the door to enter, sheâd caught a quick glimpse inside. In the room, a sultry woman in a skimpy outfit was moving suggestively to the music, clinging to a pole in a dance. She hadnât seen Kenneth directly, but with such a lively atmosphere, it was clear he wasnât short of female company. So, he was irritated that sheâd interrupted his fun. Helena offered the manager a polite smile, slipped him a few bills from her wallet as a tip, and left the club, heading back to her car. âFive minutes. If you donât come down by then, Iâm leaving. You can explain yourself to Grandma.â Helena pulled out her phone, found Kennethâs profile picture, and quickly sent him a message. The last text sheâd sent him was a month ago, forwarding the marriage agreement, to which heâd replied with a curt âWhatever.â After hitting send, she set a five-minute countdown on her phone, leaned back in her seat, and closed her eyes to rest. Kenneth had been raised by Rachel and held a deep respect for her. Helena had once overheard someone joking, âKenneth Keller fears nothing and no oneâexcept a call from his grandmother.â While an exaggeration, there was truth to it. Kenneth, like an untamed stallion, answered to no one⌠except Rachel. Sure enough, with five seconds left on the countdown, the passenger door flew open. As Kenneth slid into the car, a blast of icy wind rushed in, making Helena shiver as her eyes snapped open. âGrown some nerve, havenât you? Threatening me now?â Kennethâs eyes narrowed even further, his gaze sharp and dangerous. Before Helena could respond, her phoneâs alarm went off. It was the countdown reminder. She casually switched it off and started the car. âYou flatter me, Mr. Keller. I didnât mean to ruin your fun, but today is a special case. After all, Grandma is waiting for you.â Kennethâs frustration turned to a bitter smile as he replied with a mocking tone, âToo bad your last name isnât Keller. Otherwise, people might think youâre her real grandchild.â With a frustrated exhale, he slammed the passenger door shut, making the car jolt slightly as it pulled away from the curb. The biting chill that had entered quickly faded, replaced by the warmth of the carâs heaterâset to full, just the way Helena liked it in the cramped space since she hated the cold. Helena kept her hands steady on the wheel, stealing a quick sideways glance at Kenneth. The dim overhead light cast a warm, amber glow over his sculpted profile, softening the sharp lines of his face and adding an unreadable depth to his eyes. She lowered her gaze, instinctively avoiding any unnecessary confrontation. When Rachel chose Helena from the orphanage, sheâd been explicit about her intentions: adopting and supporting Helena was all for the benefit of her grandson, Kenneth. Helena was to be his subordinate, his friend, his partner, and possibly even his wife. But not even Rachel could have predicted that Kenneth would see Helena as a rival. From her first day in the Keller family, Kenneth had made it his mission to give Helena a hard time. Initially, Helena thought her presence was unwelcome and that perhaps he genuinely disliked her. Later, she realized it was jealousy driving him. He resented her for the affection Rachel showed her, feeling as if she had stolen his exclusive bond with Rachel. Once Helena understood that, she stopped trying to earn Kennethâs approval and kept her distance as much as possible. Her path was clear: to be Kennethâs loyal subordinate, protect him, and repay the Keller familyâs support and care. Everything unfolded as she planned. After graduating from college, she joined Keller Corporationâs legal department, shielding Kennethâs reckless behavior and ensuring he maintained his CEO position. But everything changed the night they, both drunk, slept togetherâand were caught by Rachel. To ease Rachelâs worries, Kenneth approached Helena with a proposal for a contractual marriage. In exchange, once the timing was right, they would divorce, and she would be free to live her life as she pleased. Freeing herself from the burden of the Keller familyâs debt was something Helena secretly yearned for; deep down, she had no desire to remain entangled with Kenneth. But then, just as they were settling into the marriage, Rachel fell ill, diagnosed with a terminal condition after being hospitalized from the initial shock. To ease Rachelâs mind, Helena agreed to Kennethâs proposal. Though she wasnât Rachelâs biological granddaughterâand Rachelâs decision to adopt her had been partly self-servingâover the years, Helena had felt genuine love and care from Rachel. In her heart, she had come to see Rachel as her only family in the world. Not wanting to leave any regrets behind for her, Helena resolved to make this contract marriage appear as genuine as possible. Until the end, she would maintain the pretense of playing the role of a devoted wife to give Rachel peace. Chapter 0004 At the entrance of the Keller Estate. After Helena parked the car, Kenneth silently stepped out. Seeing this, Helena quickly got out as well and hurried to follow. They had to put on a complete act in front of Rachel, pretending to be a deeply affectionate couple. Fortunately, Kenneth kept his composure. Just as they approached the main gate, he paused for a brief moment. Seizing the opportunity, Helena stepped forward, gently wrapping her hand around his arm. Kennethâs movements stiffened slightly. He slowly lowered his gaze, eyeing her slender hand resting on the crook of his arm. Helena took a deep breath, lifted her gaze, and smiled at him. âFor Grandmaâs sake, please bear with me, dear husband.â âLikewise.â Kennethâs thin lips curved slightly, his tone carrying a hint of mockery. âThank you for your hard work, dear wife.â After a brief pause, he lifted his other hand and firmly pressed down on the back of Helenaâs hand, giving her a meaningful smile before striding forward. Caught off guard, Helena stumbled slightly, managing to steady herself after a moment. Yet, his smile left her heart racing, filled with unease. She couldnât shake the feeling that Kenneth was quietly plotting something again! The Keller Estate was a traditional classical manor, elegant and refined, crafted with ingenuity. The architecture lay nestled by hills and waters, with layered courtyards and pavilions. Helena and Kenneth followed the servant for a while before arriving at the main dining hall. Inside the brightly lit dining hall, the large mahogany dining table, intricately carved, was already surrounded by family members. The Keller family of Greenwick had nearly a century of history, but by Kenneth's grandfather's generation, the line had dwindled to just two sons and a daughterânone of whom had lived up to expectations. Kennethâs grandfather, Walter Keller, had three children, each a disappointment in their own way. The eldest son was rebellious, storming out of the family home after Walter opposed his marriage to a mysterious dancer. Since that day, he vanished without a trace. The second son, Kennethâs father, Raymond Keller, made his escape with a mistress, choosing to leave on the rainy night of Kennethâs third birthday, only to meet his end in a car accident. Walterâs only daughter went abroad for school, fell for a delinquent, and chose to sever ties with her family rather than return. Hurt by his children, Walter grew indifferent toward Kenneth, instead investing his hopes in the extended familyâs descendants. Near the end of his life, he nearly handed over the Keller family assets to his nephew. But Rachel intervened decisively. Leading a team of lawyers, she reclaimed control over the Keller family, defying opposition to appoint Kenneth as CEO of Keller Corporation. However, in the years Walter had been lenient, the extended family had embedded themselves within the Keller Corporation, securing key positions in various critical departments. Now and then, they continued their schemes, still aiming to wrest control of Keller Corporation from Kenneth. Rachel was fully aware of everything, but her age left her with limited strength; all she could do was maintain the delicate balance between Kenneth and the extended Keller family. In the banquet hall, only the members of the extended family were seated alongside Rachel. The head seat remained vacant, and the tableware set, as always, was reserved for Walter. Rachel, who had been listlessly listening to their complaints, brightened as soon as she saw Kenneth and Helena enter. Her eyes sparkled as she beckoned them over with a smile. "Ken, Lena, you're back! Come, have a seat!" The relatives who had been talking with Rachel were visibly displeased at being ignored, despite their attempts to hide it. Kenneth, however, appeared oblivious, leading Helena with confidence to sit beside Rachel. Leaning in, he whispered something to Rachel that had her laughing with joy, her gaze shifting periodically to Helenaâs abdomen. Helenaâs unease only grew stronger. With Rachel present, she couldnât say anything directly, so when Kenneth turned to look at her, she shot him a warning look to stay quiet. He merely smirked with a laid-back, roguish grin, which made her grit her teeth and glare at him with even more frustration. To onlookers, however, this seemed like an affectionate exchange, with the young couple exchanging flirtatious glances. Not only had they kept everyone waiting, showing up late to the family dinner without so much as an apology, but they were now putting on a show of intimacy, clearly not taking the others seriously. Recalling Kenneth's usual audacious demeanor, the uncles were increasingly irritated. Kennethâs eldest relative, Jerome Keller, was the first to break the silence. âI thought the bidding meeting for the South City project ended this afternoon. Did you two go off to a celebration party afterward?â With Jerome setting the tone, other relatives quickly chimed in. "What celebration could possibly be more important than a family dinner? Ken, we may overlook certain things you do outside, but traditions passed down through generations deserve respect." âHelena, Grandma has spent years teaching and guiding you, yet instead of keeping Ken in check, you go along with his antics. Youâre letting her down!â Subtle verbal jabs came at her from all directions. Helena, long accustomed to this, kept her gaze lowered and ignored their insinuating remarks, turning a deaf ear to the sharp-edged words aimed her way. After all, with Kenneth here, he would be the one to handle these people when things got out of control. Sure enough, in the next instant, Kenneth's smile vanished. He suddenly hurled the expensive teacup in his hand, sending it crashing across the room. The sharp sound of shattering porcelain echoed through the banquet hall, creating an atmosphere of intense pressure that radiated from him, silencing everyone in an instant. Even the small child in someone's arms was too frightened to make a sound. âCelebration dinner, family dinnerâit doesnât matter. If thereâs food, just eat and be content, but know your limits. Otherwise, I have plenty of ways to make what you eat go right back out. âThe biggest rule in the Keller family is that there are no rules. Otherwise, none of you would be here making pointless remarks. âNeither I nor Grandma see any issues with Helena being the next matriarch, yet you all feel entitled to judge. If youâre so eager to critique, should I air some of your dirty laundry so we can all evaluate each other?â Kenneth crossed his arms and leaned back, one leg resting casually over the other, his gaze lingering on Jerome for a moment before sweeping lazily around the room. His expression was like that of a grim reaper in idle contemplation, deciding which one of them he might claim next. The unfiltered suggestion, the blatant sarcasmâeven an obvious challenge glimmered in his eyes. Hearing the implication behind his words, the extended members of the family felt both offended and afraid, their discomfort evident as they instinctively looked toward Jerome for direction. "Ken, weâre your elders, just offering reminders for your own good and for the familyâs sake," Jerome replied, holding Kennethâs sharp gaze for a moment before shifting to Helena. "Since we're on the topic of secrets, why donât we let Helena explain why she was at the police station this morning?" At that, Helenaâs heart skipped a beat. Sheâd received a call from the police that morning and had promptly informed the PR department to keep the news tightly contained. Yet somehow, Jerome knew she had gone to the police station that morning! Helena instinctively glanced at Kenneth, only to find him seated there, arms crossed, a faintly amused look in his eyes as he noticed her gaze. Years of understanding between them meant that with just one look, Helena grasped his intention. He was subtly hinting at Jeromeâs embezzlement, deliberately provoking him by implying he could make him spit it back out. Jerome, who had never taken Kenneth seriously, wasnât one to tolerate a threat and quickly struck back. But in doing so, he unwittingly exposed his weakness. Yet Kenneth had used her as bait without warning, setting her up as part of his ploy to corner Jerome! Helena clenched her fists discreetly, gritting her teeth in silence. Her instincts hadnât let her downâKenneth was definitely up to something, setting this trap with her squarely in the middle of it. She knew he was about to throw her under the bus, yet she had no choice but to play along, as if she were a willing partner in the scheme. It was maddening! If not for Rachelâs presence, Helena truly would have loved to walk out and let Kenneth handle this on his own. Sensing the tension, Rachel looked over anxiously and asked, âLena, is everything alright?â âGrandma.â Helena took a deep breath, calming herself before gently patting Rachelâs hand with a reassuring smile. âIf something was wrong, would I still be here sitting beside you?â Rachel still seemed unconvinced and glanced at Kenneth, who nodded lazily with a faint smile, which finally put her at ease. Taking advantage of the moment, Helena shot Kenneth a quick glare before turning back, her expression subtly mocking as she looked at Jerome. âUncle Jerome, I didnât expect you to be so concerned about me, knowing my whereabouts in such detail. To an outsider, it might look as if youâd had someone tailing me!â Helena indirectly called out Jeromeâs surveillance, tossing the ball back into his court with effortless poise. âAs your niece-in-law, I may not be the brightest, but I truly donât understand what youâre implying. Why donât you clarify what exactly it is that Iâve done thatâs so questionable?â Chapter 0005 Jerome knew heâd misspoken, yet he hardly cared that Helena had caught him slipping. âThis morning, you rushed off to the police stationâwasnât it to reconnect with that new captain of the station, Eric Langston?â Helenaâs heart skipped a beat. Not only was Jerome fully aware of her whereabouts, but he also knew she was acquainted with Eric. Sheâd underestimated Jerome. After all, when she met Eric seven years ago, he was reserved and unapproachable, always keeping his distance from others. Moreover, his mother had erased all traces of her connection with Eric to remove the stain she posed on their family, clearing all records and keeping everything well-hidden. Almost no one knew that she and Eric had been familiar with each other, let alone shared a faintly ambiguous past. If Jerome had the means to uncover her connection with Eric, he could just as easily find out why Kenneth had gone to the police station. Hinting at an old flame between her and Eric was clearly an attempt to drive a wedge. If she didnât deny it, Rachel would naturally start to doubt her relationship with Kenneth. And even if Kenneth knew the truth, Jeromeâs words would plant seeds of suspicion in his heart that would, over time, lead to cracks. On the other hand, denying it would inevitably drag up the accusations of assault against Kenneth. If Rachel found out, it would not only make her question their story of falling in love over time and choosing to marry but also leave her disappointed in Kenneth. Jerome would then seize the opportunity to make even more outrageous demands. "Uncle Jerome, you really give me too much credit." Helenaâs mind raced, though her expression remained unreadable. "If I actually had any history with Mr. Langston, Iâd certainly have asked him to treat you a bit more courteously before your visit." Jeromeâs pupils contracted, and his expression, like a fractured mask, began to crack silently. Ericâs position was indeed unique, and Jerome had specifically arranged a visit to him on the first day he arrived in Greenwick. There were countless people eager to meet him, and Jerome had struggled through numerous attempts just to secure an appointment. When they finally met, Ericâs demeanor was cold and cutting, his gaze sharp and distant, as though heâd seen right through Jeromeâs intentions from the start. In an attempt to bridge the gap, Jerome had mentioned Helena, who had once been Ericâs schoolmate. Unexpectedly, what was initially supposed to be a brief five-minute meeting turned into a half-hour conversation with Eric. And just last night, despite the gravity of the incident surrounding Kennethâwitnesses and evidence stacked against himâHelena had still managed to bail him out from the station. After all, Eric wasnât just any officer; he was known as the "Judge." Sensing an opportunity, Jerome had dropped hints in front of everyone, trying to gauge Helenaâs relationship with Eric, hoping it would strain her connection with Kenneth. Without Helenaâs support, he was certain Rachel would eventually see Kenneth as the reckless badboy he truly was. At that point, they could employ a few well-planned moves to seize everything from the Keller family. Yet Jerome hadnât anticipated that young Helena would maintain her composure so well, even managing to turn the tables on him. The Kellers had strict rules: family members could pursue either business or government, but never both. His secret meeting with Eric was already a breach of those family principles. Noticing the scrutinizing looks from the other relatives, particularly the sharp stares from Rachel and Kenneth, Jerome felt a pang of unease, uncertain how Helena had learned of his visit with Eric. His chest tightened as he gritted his teeth and pressed on, âSo if it wasnât to catch up with Mr. Langston, why did you rush to the station first thing this morning?â Before Helena could respond, she sensed something amiss and instinctively stood to shield Rachel. A loud bang erupted in the next instant. Kenneth, without warning, flipped the entire dining table in Jeromeâs direction. Jerome had no time to dodge as dishes, utensils, and food crashed down onto him. A plate of green vegetables landed squarely on his head, resembling a makeshift hat perched on his hair. Ignoring Jeromeâs disheveled appearance and the twisted fury on his face, Kenneth leaned back in his seat, casually wiping his fingers. His movements were graceful, his expression relaxed as if he were seated in a tranquil riverside pavilion, leisurely listening to a distant melody. âIt seems the Keller family meal doesnât suit everyoneâs taste,â Kenneth said, his voice calm. âIn that case, no one needs to eat.â He paused briefly before adding, âAnd as for the end-of-month family dinner tradition, itâs time we canceled that as well.â With a casual wave, his private guards and bodyguards emerged, promptly escorting all extended relatives out of the estate. Rachel looked on, momentarily stunned, before giving Kenneth a disapproving glance. âKen, youâve managed to offend all your relatives.â Kenneth raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at his lips. âThey openly disrespected me. Did they really think they wouldnât offend me?â Beside him, Helena felt her eye twitch. Would it ever end? Heâd clearly wanted to cancel the end-of-month dinner for a while and had finally found his excuse, all under the pretense of âprotectingâ her. Rachelâs gaze shifted between Helena and Kenneth, her expression softening as she smiled knowingly. âSeeing how well you two get along really puts my mind at ease!â âWell, since youâre at ease, how about cooperating with the doctor and focusing on getting better?â Kenneth stepped forward, gently holding Rachelâs arm, while his other hand reached around to brush Helenaâs cheek, his eyes on her. âWhat do you say, darling?â Though filled with frustration, Helena had no choice but to offer a sweet smile and nod. With an exaggerated sigh, Rachel looked longingly at Helena. âAh, if I could just hold a great-grandchild in my arms, Iâd be content even in death!â Helenaâs mind immediately flashed back to Kennethâs earlier whispered words to Rachel, which had made her repeatedly glance at Helenaâs abdomen. He must have said something he shouldnât have! After hesitating for a few seconds, she couldnât bear to let Rachel down and spoke gently, âGrandma, as long as you take care of yourself, Iâm sure that day will come.â Rachel beamed with joy at Helena's response. Since the family dinner had been cut short, Rachel instructed the staff to bring out fresh dishes. With Helena and Kenneth accompanying her, she enjoyed an extra small plate of pasta, a rare treat, and asked them both to stay overnight at the estate so they could join her for breakfast in the morning. Kenneth, evidently too tired to return to the Starlight Club for his usual late-night revelry, surprisingly agreed. Helena, with no other choice, stayed as well. They returned to the room Rachel had prepared for them. The spacious room was decorated with romantic touches, and in the soft glow of flickering candles, the atmosphere felt thick with unspoken tension. The bed, draped in pure white sheets, was scattered with red roses arranged in a large heart shape, their rich fragrance filling the air. Helena and Kenneth exchanged glances, both speechless. She quickly found the light switch and turned on the overhead lights. The bright light dispelled much of the room's suggestive atmosphere. Helena turned to Kenneth, choosing a decidedly unromantic topic. "Do you think Jerome had anything to do with the false accusations against you?" Though phrased as a question, there was a tone of certainty in her voice. Kenneth didnât respond. Instead, he looked down at her with a cold, assessing gaze. âMr. Langstonâheâs still lingering around you, isnât he?â Seeing she didnât immediately respond, he pressed on bluntly, as if worried she might misunderstand his meaning. âIf youâre truly interested in rekindling things with him, just say so. Thereâs no need to sneak around behind my back.â Kenneth was one of the few who knew about her past with Eric. His use of the word "rekindling" was laced with sarcasm. Helena couldnât stand it anymore and snapped, âKenneth, whatâs gotten into you? Havenât I played along enough with all your schemes?â Kenneth met her gaze, which was now blazing with anger, and seemed momentarily at a loss. After a couple of seconds, he responded in a low voice, âI just donât want to be blindsided with a betrayal like tonight.â Thinking of Jeromeâs earlier provocations, Helena took a deep breath, about to reassure Kenneth. But an inexplicable sensation began to rise within herâa warmth that felt like a spark, ready to spread like wildfire through her body. Sensing something was off, she looked up at Kenneth, only to find his face slightly flushed, his intense gaze fixed on her. In the depths of his eyes, there was a fierce, flickering heat as if a flame had been ignited and was burning wildly. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15543&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 323 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | beokn.com | DCO | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15543&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/466919986_534033072870870_7540673277837274692_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wkg_WhutLOUQ7kNvgHC0fQy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ADR986hf2tX7Oe2WQqoSf97&oh=00_AYC0MlnGq0PAUX04VBvGPmTf2A7r-7lbdQshWzMVMmPysQ&oe=67582A52 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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