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1,012,113	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1012117}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	975665157535816	Get rid of back pain now 👉	Relieve back pain and sciatica naturally with the Deraly Back Brace!<br /> <br /> ✅ Provides almost instant relief from back pain<br /> ✅ Reduces overall pain and stiffness<br /> ✅ Great for recovery after surgery or back injury<br /> <br /> Get yours now risk-free -> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fderaly.com%2Fproducts%2Fbrace&h=AT2Ljj0CA-dZuoX0-MH2eZV4JJGZZO1y31cYBCdIaBI8tBPBcNZi_55SmAeAWbLAhf0XOXEXcVCCNMXkSiyIXx6avch7ViR3XleJpmFJFuqpnRREOJbMpUmn_ENbL_QSpWO9LOawup2HhmeRS_9BljRmIrs" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://deraly.com/products/brace</a>	SHOP_NOW	https://deraly.com/products/brace	102368489228212	Deraly	https://facebook.com/100083754490987	1,189	0	777,574,607,805,682	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Shop now	Deraly	120207134693940111	deraly.com	NONE	video	60-Day Money Back Guarantee	https://deraly.com/products/brace	2024-03-28 18:25	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433101028_787727842801383_566831780280444360_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z_OcvELg9RIAb5dI8bj&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBcfL7Sc9_5fub194WGl047oLZFlWeYqUl-qxjrct9a2g&oe=6618E338	person_profile	Deraly	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/433238545_1849987298785212_4336470368136926480_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eYJQyh1xwlgAb5NwOxo&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDeivlM7rJgZqkdQwHGvbzrZ6lhZEoYRttzUJZJysvIAA&oe=6618F08E	3	Deraly	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,011,294	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	906208647919944	🔥😍Free reading with Title👉"Blind to Love"👉	For so many years, the birthmark remained unchanged. So, why did it suddenly shrink today?<br /> What did she do differently from last night till now?<br /> Xeyla furrowed her brows and pondered for a moment, then suddenly widened her eyes.<br /> Last night,She had sex with a man for the first time…🔥🔥🔥<br /> <br /> -------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /> Xeyla McLean never expect to stumble upon her fiancé's affair when she returned to the company to get something.<br /> <br /> Hearing the moan coming from an office, she initially suspected that one of her artistes was behaving indecently. Just as she was about to knock on the door, she heard a coquettish voice ask, "Cain, when can we be together openly?"<br /> <br /> Xeyla was stunned.<br /> <br /> The voice seemed to be Pheona Irving's.<br /> <br /> Pheona was the most popular artiste under her management, and "Cain" was Xeyla's fiancé, Cain Irving.<br /> <br /> But... how could that be possible?<br /> <br /> Xeyla thought that she must have misheard it.<br /> <br /> She couldn't help but shake her head in denial.<br /> <br /> "Honey, be a little more patient." The man's tone was lazy. Unmistakably, it was Cain. "The company has just gotten on track. We still need her for many things."<br /> <br /> "Alright then." After a snort, Pheona added smugly, "She would never have thought that I'm not your sister actually."<br /> <br /> What?<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Xeyla felt dizzy. Not only did her mind go blank, but her ears were buzzing too.<br /> <br /> By the time she had regained her composure, the conversation in the office had ended. However, she was constantly reminded of the reality as her temples throbbed.<br /> <br /> She didn't imagine it, nor was it a dream. It was all real.<br /> <br /> Three years ago, Xeyla and Cain founded Starlight Entertainment together. And immediately, Cain signed Pheona and introduced Pheona as his sister. Xeyla believed it wholeheartedly and put all her efforts into making Pheona the most popular actress in the entertainment industry.<br /> <br /> But now, it turned out that the two had been deceiving her all along!<br /> <br /> Xeyla trembled violently not only because of heartache and humiliation but also anger.<br /> <br /> Tears dripped down her face, and she had to cover her mouth desperately to prevent herself from sobbing out loud.<br /> <br /> She couldn't let the two find out that she was there. If she confronted them now, it would be too easy for them!<br /> <br /> Thinking of the emotions and efforts that she had invested in the past three years, Xeyla wiped away her tears resolutely and left the company quietly.<br /> <br /> When Xeyla got home, she immediately played the surveillance video of the office.<br /> <br /> Cain and Pheona probably never expected that she had just installed surveillance cameras in every office a few days ago. Ironically, Pheona was part of the reason why the cameras were installed. Nevertheless, Xeyla didn't expect the cameras to come in handy so soon.<br /> <br /> Perhaps it was destiny that she finally saw the truth now, as she had been deceived for so long. Xeyla thought to herself self-deprecatingly.<br /> <br /> In the video, Pheona's face soon came into sight. She had her eyes closed. Her face was flushed, and she was tightly embracing Cain.<br /> <br /> Perhaps because Xeyla's heart was already numb from the pain, she was surprisingly calm at the sight of it.<br /> <br /> Without further ado, she quickly cut out this part of the video and copied it to her external hard drive.<br /> <br /> After doing all this, she went to the bathroom and washed away the icy tears on her face.<br /> <br /> When she looked up into the mirror, a pale yet pretty face came into sight.<br /> <br /> However, anyone who saw her face would exclaim with pity.<br /> <br /> And that was because there was a red birthmark, about the size of a baby's palm, on her right cheek.<br /> <br /> It was precisely because of this birthmark that she believed in Cain's sweet words in the first place back then.<br /> <br /> And it was also because of this birthmark that, no matter how talented Xeyla was, she could only be relegated to the backstage.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, why would she pour all her heart and soul into Pheona by working tirelessly to help Pheona secure a role, staying up late countless times to select scripts, writing character insights, and even drinking until her stomach bled?<br /> <br /> But now, all her efforts for Cain and Pheona had become a joke.<br /> <br /> Only now did she understand why Pheona had always been hostile to her for no reason and why Pheona always hung around Cain close. Several times, she even saw the two embracing each other in intimacy.<br /> <br /> Yet, Xeyla always thought that it was normal for them to have such a close tie since they were siblings.<br /> <br /> Siblings, tsk.<br /> <br /> At the thought of that, Xeyla clenched her fists with unknown emotions burning in her eyes.<br /> <br /> At this moment, her phone, which was placed by the sink, rang.<br /> <br /> Seeing the caller ID "Cain" on the screen, Xeyla bit her lip.<br /> <br /> She calmed down her emotions before answering lightly, "Hello."<br /> <br /> "Where are you?" Cain asked with rudeness in his tone. "Haven't you been contacting Elias, the director of 'The Tales of Annika,' lately? How is it? Has he agreed to cast Pheona as the female lead?"<br /> <br /> The television series, "The Tales of Annika," was invested in by TS Group, a leading enterprise in the country. TS Group's businesses span multiple industries, such as finance, communications, real estate, e-commerce, etc. Evidently, the enterprise had abundant resources.<br /> <br /> Cain had always wanted to meet the heir of TS Group, Fletcher O'Neill, who was also the current executive president. Unfortunately, Fletcher had been low-key and mysterious. Even though Cain was the president of Starlight Entertainment, his business card was still far from enough to be passed to Fletcher.<br /> <br /> Hence, Cain needed to use the tv series to establish a relationship with TS Group. Needless to say, he attached great importance to the series as a result.<br /> <br /> Xeyla was well aware of his intentions. Therefore, lately, she had been meeting with the director of the series, Elias Van Dahl, frequently. Last night, Elias finally agreed to give Pheona another chance.<br /> <br /> Prior to discovering the office affair, Xeyla was confident that Pheona would get the role. But now...<br /> <br /> "Oh, Elias still hasn't changed his mind. He is still not satisfied with Pheona's performance in the audition," replied Xeyla faintly, trying not to let her tone show any unusualness.<br /> <br /> "Ugh, this man!" Cain hissed angrily. "In that case, we must make sure that the Newington Awards tonight is flawless. If Pheona wins the Best Actress for Television Series, Elias will change his mind for sure! Now, you should go find out what the organizers and judges think."<br /> <br /> It was only at this moment that Xeyla realized that whenever Cain called her, he always spoke in a high-handed and condescending tone.<br /> <br /> She clenched her fists and looked at herself in the mirror, slowly showing a smile. "Sure."<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> At 5 o'clock in the evening, the red carpet event began.<br /> <br /> The venue tonight was packed with celebrities. Since Pheona had high popularity lately, she was one of the last few to make an entrance.<br /> <br /> Next to the red carpet, among the audience, Xeyla was wearing a mask and not attracting any attention.<br /> <br /> Soon, Pheona, dressed up in her best outfit, entered the venue. She held Cain's arm, smiling as she walked up the red carpet.<br /> <br /> The cheers were deafening. It was no surprise since Pheona was the most eye-catching actress of the year.<br /> <br /> "Wow. That must be Pheona Irving and her brother, Cain Irving!" An audience next to Xeyla continued to shout excitedly, "Ah, she's so lucky! Her brother is the president of the company, and the company has been providing her with so many good opportunities! No wonder her popularity has skyrocketed in recent years!"<br /> <br /> Xeyla heard the words. Something flashed across her eyes.<br /> <br /> Indeed, Starlight Entertainment had given all the best resources to Pheona. Not to mention that as her agent, Xeyla also worked painstakingly hard for Pheona.<br /> <br /> Every one of Pheona's roles was carefully selected by Xeyla. In fact, in order to leave a good impression on the directors, Xeyla would always explain the script to Pheona beforehand and rehearse with the latter repeatedly, which ultimately helped Pheona establish a reputation as a skilled actor in the industry.<br /> <br /> Despite all of this, Pheona would occasionally throw tantrums. At those times, Xeyla treated Pheona like a younger sister and would patiently coax her.<br /> <br /> whenever there were dangerous scenes on set, Xeyla would always stand in as a stunt double for her. But during the show's promotion, Xeyla never took credit for it. Instead, she portrayed Pheona as a dedicated and hardworking actress, which earned Pheona countless fans.<br /> <br /> If it hadn't been for Xeyla's efforts, Pheona wouldn't have accumulated such a huge fan base in just three years.<br /> <br /> Reputation and good impression were hard to be built up, but they were easy to be destroyed. Sometimes, they could be ruined with just a single video.<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 The Sex Tape<br /> <br /> At 7 o'clock in the evening, the award ceremony officially began.<br /> <br /> Pheona was still immersed in the excitement of walking the red carpet. She whispered to the man beside her, "Cain, the cheers were the loudest when I came out."<br /> <br /> "Exactly, my superstar." Cain smiled indulgently. But subconsciously, he was scanning the surroundings. "Strange. Where's Xeyla? She hasn't been answering her phone."<br /> <br /> A trace of disgust flashed in Pheona's eyes. "Cain, can we not talk about her?"<br /> <br /> "She went to scout for information. We aren't sure whether the judges have picked you," explained Cain with his brows furrowed slightly.<br /> <br /> "Well, who else can they pick?" With a cold snort, Pheona continued, "Cain, I honestly don't think she's all that great. Even without her, I'll still become famous."<br /> <br /> Cain just smiled noncommittally and turned his gaze towards the stage.<br /> <br /> As time ticked by, it was finally time for the Best Actress for Television Series.<br /> <br /> The highlights of the nominees' performances from their respective shows were being played one by one on a big screen. When it was the turn of the last nominee, Pheona, the screen flickered strangely twice.<br /> <br /> Then, Pheona's flushed face suddenly was shown on the screen.<br /> <br /> At first, everyone was dumbfounded. The venue fell into an eerie silence. Some even wondered when Pheona, who had always taken innocent roles, had filmed a sex scene.<br /> <br /> Even Pheona herself was dumbfounded at first, only staring at her face on the screen with surprise. The video had no sound, but her entranced expression was enough to explain everything.<br /> <br /> Immediately right after that, a man appeared in the video. Due to the angle, only his side profile could be seen. However, Cain immediately recognized the man's identity.<br /> <br /> It was no one but himself!<br /> <br /> "Stop it!" He stood up abruptly and roared, "Stop the video now!"<br /> <br /> By now, Pheona had also realized what was happening. Her face turned ashen in an instant.<br /> <br /> All the celebrities, reporters, and audience in the venue finally responded to the situation. There was an uproar. Many took out their phones and cameras to film the video frantically.<br /> <br /> It was a sex tape!<br /> <br /> The woman in the tape was Pheona, a rising goddess and tonight's favorite for the Best Actress award.<br /> <br /> As for the man in the video, his identity was originally unknown to the public. But when Cain stood up and shouted frantically, everyone suddenly realized that the man was very likely to be Cain.<br /> <br /> What a shock!<br /> <br /> …<br /> <br /> Somehow, no one paused the video, and the tape was played for more than ten seconds. So, Cain rushed backstage like crazy.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, sitting in the audience, Xeyla silently laughed at the sight of his erratic behavior.<br /> <br /> Using the local area network to replace Pheona's performance video with the tape was an easy task for her.<br /> <br /> And this was just the beginning.<br /> <br /> Taking advantage of the chaos in the venue, Xeyla quietly left. She went to the riverside with a six-pack of beers.<br /> <br /> Although she had a good alcohol tolerance, for some reason, she became a bit drunk after drinking for a while tonight.<br /> <br /> She took out her phone and saw that social media was taken over by the shocking news.<br /> <br /> Mockingly, she curled her lips.<br /> <br /> Revenge may be satisfying, but she still felt aggrieved at the thought of the emotions and efforts that she had wrongly invested.<br /> <br /> She had thought that Cain could provide her with a home, but the reality proved her wrong. In the end, she was still alone.<br /> <br /> Because of the birthmark on her face, she would never be able to fulfill her dreams. What now? Did she have to work with another Cain and Pheona?<br /> <br /> Xeyla gave a bitter laugh and turned off her phone.<br /> <br /> Tonight, she didn't want anyone to reach her, let alone have Cain find her.<br /> <br /> Therefore, she couldn't go back to her apartment for the time being.<br /> <br /> With that in mind, Xeyla hailed a taxi and went to Majestic Hotel, where she booked a room.<br /> <br /> When she walked into the elevator with her room card, her steps were already unsteady.<br /> <br /> The effect of intoxication hit her fast.<br /> <br /> She swiped her room card in the elevator, pressed the floor button, then closed her eyes and massaged her sore temples.<br /> <br /> Soon, the elevator doors opened.<br /> <br /> Xeyla looked up and then stared blankly for a while.<br /> <br /> Somehow, the elevator took her directly to the living room of a suite, which had a low-key but luxurious decoration, a dazzling crystal chandelier, and warm yellow lights.<br /> <br /> Without a doubt, this was the hotel's presidential suite.<br /> <br /> But she clearly booked a regular room.<br /> <br /> Xeyla lowered her head and stared blankly at her room card, but she didn't find anything wrong.<br /> <br /> She just wanted to rest now.<br /> <br /> So, she stumbled a few steps inside and then, subconsciously, held her breath.<br /> <br /> There was a man sitting on the sofa not far away.<br /> <br /> It was a very handsome man.<br /> <br /> He had his eyes closed. His sharp eyebrows were slightly furrowed with a hint of coldness. Under his tall and straight nose, his crimson thin lips were tightly pursed, as if he was trying to hold something back.<br /> <br /> There was a cold and unwelcoming aura emanating from him.<br /> <br /> One of his hands was resting on the armrest, whereas the other was propping up his forehead. With his bathrobe collars opened, his exquisite clavicles and clear muscle lines were revealed.<br /> <br /> Perhaps he was uncomfortable. His Adam's apple moved up and down. His jaw to neckline was tense, and he was full of sexiness.<br /> <br /> Seeing that, Xeyla couldn't help but hold her breath.<br /> <br /> As an excellent agent, she had a sharp sense that if the man was willing to enter the entertainment industry, he would definitely be popular.<br /> <br /> No, this isn't the point. The point is that the room is clearly mine.<br /> <br /> Staggeringly, Xeyla approached the man and tried to be imposing. "Excuse me, this is—"<br /> <br /> Before she could finish, the man suddenly opened his eyes.<br /> <br /> Those were a pair of deep and cold eyes. His pitch-black pupils seemed bottomless as if they could draw one's soul into them.<br /> <br /> Xeyla's words were stuck in her throat.<br /> <br /> "Get out." The man calmly spat out the words. His deep voice was very hoarse.<br /> <br /> Xeyla blinked her eyes repeatedly.<br /> <br /> Under the continuous influence of alcohol, her reaction was slow.<br /> <br /> "Are… are you feeling unwell?" The influence of the alcohol was so strong that Xeyla found it difficult to straighten her tongue.<br /> <br /> "No." Fletcher's eyebrows were knitted together, and his handsome face was filled with gloom. "Get out."<br /> <br /> After being drugged by his grandfather, Steve O'Neill, with an aphrodisiac, Fletcher decided to stay at a hotel nearby. Despite having taken several cold showers, he could still feel the heat and desire in his body. So now, he could only wait for the drug effects to wear off.<br /> <br /> Earlier, he had dismissed his bodyguards and assistants. He didn't expect that a clueless woman would barge in.<br /> <br /> "No, you must be having a fever." With her arms extended, Xeyla wanted to help him. "Why don't I take you to the hospital to check it out—ah!"<br /> <br /> Her steps were unsteady, and with a loss of balance, she fell straight into his arms.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 One-Night Stand<br /> <br /> Xeyla's senses were immediately filled with the strong scent of male hormones, and under the catalysis of alcohol, she was dizzy and disoriented.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Fletcher couldn't help himself and grabbed her wrist.<br /> <br /> Initially, he had intended to push her away. But when her soft body landed in his embrace, he felt as if blood was boiling.<br /> <br /> Her body fragrance was mixed with a hint of alcohol. It was a fatal stimulation to every nerve in his body.<br /> <br /> He couldn't help but curse in his heart.<br /> <br /> "Sorry." Embarrassedly, Xeyla got up from him. But under the influence of alcohol, she stumbled again. Once again, she fell onto his lap.<br /> <br /> Fletcher's breathing became heavier.<br /> <br /> "If you don't want to lose your V card, get lost," he warned slowly. His voice was quite husky.<br /> <br /> Tilting her head, Xeyla thought for a while before realizing what he meant.<br /> <br /> In the past three years, she had never done any intimate stuff with Cain, which she had always thought was a tacit understanding between her and Cain.<br /> <br /> But now, she finally came to the realization that Cain didn't like her at all. Hence, he had been deceiving her like she was a fool.<br /> <br /> There was a sudden twinge of pain in her heart. She reached out to hug Fletcher's neck, staring straight at him with a misty look in her eyes. "Perhaps… I want to!"<br /> <br /> Fletcher's pupils slightly contracted.<br /> <br /> It was only at this moment that he saw her face clearly for the first time.<br /> <br /> She had obviously drunk a lot of alcohol, as her charming eyes were watery and full of drunkenness. Under her slightly upturned nose lay her alluring pink lips.<br /> <br /> Undeniably, she was attractive.<br /> <br /> Her face was delicate and pretty, whereas her skin was as white as snow.<br /> <br /> Therefore, the bright red birthmark on her right cheek stood out even more. However, although the birthmark was abrupt, it was not ugly. Instead, it had a peculiar charm.<br /> <br /> Gulping, Fletcher couldn't help but reach out to touch her cheek.<br /> <br /> Xeyla felt him caressing her face and couldn't help but giggle.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Fletcher came to his senses. Narrowing his gaze, he asked in a hoarse and dangerous tone, "Do you know what you're saying?"<br /> <br /> "I know. I want to have sex with you." She sounded proud.<br /> <br /> With his pupils contracted and the veins on the back of his hand bulging out, he grabbed her hand. His breathing became extremely heavy.<br /> <br /> "It's okay." She comforted him insincerely. Then, licking her lips, she cupped his face and stared straight at his thin lips.<br /> <br /> Right now, Fletcher's handsome face was already covered in sweat.<br /> <br /> When he realized her intentions, he decisively pinned her down on the sofa.<br /> <br /> She let out a painful cry and looked a little aggrieved.<br /> <br /> Gulping, Fletcher tried to slow down his disordered breathing. He looked down at the woman on the sofa and hesitated for a moment. Eventually, he took a blanket from the backrest of the sofa and covered her body. "Close your eyes and sleep."<br /> <br /> She had a room card in her hand. Apparently, there was a mistake on the hotel's part.<br /> <br /> Otherwise, he would have thrown her out.<br /> <br /> He turned around to leave, but her soft arms were wrapped around him right then.<br /> <br /> Xeyla pressed her burning cheek against his back. Her voice was low and soft. "Don't go."<br /> <br /> "Let go." Fletcher's tone was tinged with a bit of anger.<br /> <br /> "No." Still clung onto him tightly, she pleaded, "Stay, please."<br /> <br /> At this moment, with a chaotic mind, she had no time to ponder about his identity, nor did she care about where she was. She only knew that his breath made her feel very comfortable.<br /> <br /> Perhaps it was because she had been drinking. At this moment, she felt very lonely and couldn't help but want to keep the warmth, even if it was short-lived and unreal.<br /> <br /> Hearing her pitiful voice, Fletcher paused for a moment.<br /> <br /> He had always been aloof and quite impatient with women. Tonight, his grandfather not only drugged him but also specially prepared a woman for him. Just now, even when the drug effect was at its strongest, he could still push away the woman arranged by his grandfather for him. But now, his determination was somewhat weak against this other woman behind him.<br /> <br /> Exerting all his self-control, he grabbed her wrist and turned around. His handsome face was filled with an extraordinary level of restraint. "Lie down."<br /> <br /> Xeyla blinked. Soon, her eyes turned red from aggrievement. "Do you think I'm ugly too?"<br /> <br /> Because of the birthmark, growing up, she had been ridiculed. So when Cain said he didn't mind, she felt like she had found true love.<br /> <br /> But thinking about it now, in the past three years, Cain hardly showed her any affection and rarely looked her in the eye.<br /> <br /> In fact, he had always despised her. Sadly, she only realized it now.<br /> <br /> Therefore, just like Cain, the man in front of her must be despising her too. He rejected her when she asked for sex.<br /> <br /> She was really pathetic.<br /> <br /> Thinking of that, she lowered her head. She seemed lost and sad.<br /> <br /> At the sight of that, Fletcher felt that part of his heart was tugged badly.<br /> <br /> With his lips pursed, he answered in a tense voice. "No."<br /> <br /> When Xeyla heard his deep and hoarse voice, somehow, she couldn't stop feeling wronged. Her tears fell uncontrollably. "Don't leave then."<br /> <br /> Her figure and look were charming and delicate. But at this moment, she seemed like a homeless little animal, with cautious yearning and attachment.<br /> <br /> As if at this moment, his acceptance could save her.<br /> <br /> Fletcher felt a certain string in his mind suddenly break.<br /> <br /> Lowering himself, he grabbed her chin and said in a low-pitched voice, "Don't regret it."<br /> <br /> "Of course not!" Xeyla realized that he had changed his mind. She broke down in tears and buried herself in his arms. "You're a good man!"<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> When Xeyla woke up, her mouth was dry, and her head felt like splitting.<br /> <br /> Not to mention that her body was in pain everywhere.<br /> <br /> She struggled to sit up from the bed, rubbing her temples as memories flooded back into her mind.<br /> <br /> Last night, she successfully took revenge on Cain, but that wasn't the point. The point was... she seemed to have gone to the wrong hotel room and had sex with a stranger.<br /> <br /> Joylessly, she ran her hand through her hair.<br /> <br /> She felt very embarrassed.<br /> <br /> She didn't expect herself to reveal such a fragile side after getting drunk. And she even had casual sex with a random man.<br /> <br /> Vaguely, she remembered that the man only agreed to stay after her begging and tears.<br /> <br /> It was as if he was doing this for her out of pity.<br /> <br /> Thinking of that, Xeyla felt even more embarrassed.<br /> <br /> However, since she was the one who took the initiative, she stopped acting sentimental.<br /> <br /> With a sigh, she calmed down and dragged her body to the bathroom while enduring the soreness. When she looked down and saw the marks on her body, she couldn't help but blush.<br /> <br /> She didn't dare to look any longer and hurriedly finished washing up. Later, coming out of the bathroom, she found a set of new clothes on a cabinet.<br /> <br /> It seemed that the man was quite considerate. Xeyla believed that to avoid awkwardness, the man must have already left the hotel by now.<br /> <br /> As she thought so confidently, she walked out of the bedroom and into the living room.<br /> <br /> Only then did she realize that she was wrong.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4 The Shrinking Birthmark<br /> <br /> The living room was huge, and the floor-to-ceiling windows were wide open. When the breeze came, it brought a chill.<br /> <br /> Xeyla looked up and saw Fletcher sitting behind a long table.<br /> <br /> In the daylight, his angular and handsome face was even more impactful. Xeyla couldn't help but hold her breath subconsciously.<br /> <br /> Although his short hair was slightly disheveled, his tidy white shirt was buttoned all the way up. It gave him an extra air of nobility and restraint, as well as a chilly aura that kept people at bay.<br /> <br /> At this moment, he was holding a tablet in his right hand and tapping something on the screen with his left hand. His fingers were long, and his knuckles were clean and distinct. Against the backdrop of the high-tech tablet, they looked particularly pretty.<br /> <br /> Xeyla's heartbeat accelerated.<br /> <br /> Perhaps hearing some noise, Fletcher put down the tablet in his hand and looked up. His gaze fell directly on her.<br /> <br /> Those pitch-black, deep eyes were filled with lofty and cold arrogance. Yet, they had a calm and confident look. It was as if she was just prey and destined to never escape his grasp.<br /> <br /> Her heart tightened. Under such a gaze, she could hardly stand.<br /> <br /> "Um..." She coughed lightly, trying to calm herself down. "I apologize for last night. I'll take my leave now."<br /> <br /> At the same time, Fletcher gazed at her pretending composed look with a deep and meaningful expression, as if he saw through her hidden panic.<br /> <br /> "Come here." Although his voice was faint, it carried an irresistible dominance.<br /> <br /> Instinctively, Xeyla walked over and sat across from him.<br /> <br /> "Take a look. If you're good with it, sign it." He lightly tapped on the table.<br /> <br /> Now that he mentioned it, she noticed the document on the table. She glanced at it quickly, then gasped.<br /> <br /> "Fl-Fletcher O'Neill?" she asked, stuttering. "You're Fletcher O'Neill?!"<br /> <br /> She couldn't believe it.<br /> <br /> Did I have sex with the Fletcher O'Neill last night?!<br /> <br /> And this mysterious and legendary figure is actually so young, and… very good-looking!<br /> <br /> She was so shocked by what she had just learned that she couldn't recover her senses for a long time.<br /> <br /> With her eyes widened and her mouth slightly agape, she appeared a bit silly.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Fletcher was very pleased by her reaction. He picked up his coffee and took a sip. Something flashed in his gaze. "Keep reading."<br /> <br /> Xeyla turned the page and finally saw the content of the agreement.<br /> <br /> "Y-You w-wanna get married to me?!" she stammered.<br /> <br /> With a dull thud, Fletcher put down his cup on the table. Then, his cold and unquestionable voice sounded. "Yes."<br /> <br /> At that moment, Xeyla thought of many things.<br /> <br /> For one, Cain had mentioned Fletcher's name many times with enthusiasm. Cain had been hoping to get investment from TS Group. If Cain learned that the fiancée whom he had been looking down upon married Fletcher, the look on Cain's face would be very interesting.<br /> <br /> Besides, Fletcher had enormous wealth and power. It was hard for Xeyla to say no.<br /> <br /> Nonetheless, she soon regained her rationality.<br /> <br /> What do I have that this man would look at me differently? All we had is just a one-night stand. With his money and status, he can have any woman he wants.<br /> <br /> Besides, there's still this unsightly birthmark on my face. Because of this birthmark, many men would subconsciously look away when they see me for the first time.<br /> <br /> Fletcher might have agreed to fool around with me last night due to his goodwill. But, getting married?<br /> <br /> It must be a trick!<br /> <br /> Thinking of that, Xeyla closed the document and said seriously, "I'm sorry. I can't sign this."<br /> <br /> Fletcher's pupils dilated slightly. He did not expect her to turn him down.<br /> <br /> His grandfather had been desiring to see him get married and have children. So, if he didn't find a woman to marry soon, it seemed that his grandfather would continue to seek ways to do so. Drugging him like last night was just the beginning.<br /> <br /> Therefore, when Fletcher woke up this morning and saw Xeyla's peaceful sleeping look, he suddenly had this thought that if he absolutely had to marry someone casually, why not chose Xeyla?<br /> <br /> Most importantly, her scent had a certain appeal to him. If it was her, perhaps he wouldn't be repulsed.<br /> <br /> But now, she refused his marriage proposal.<br /> <br /> It was she who pleaded with him to stay last night with a pitiful look. How dare she refused his proposal after that!<br /> <br /> But when Fletcher saw Xeyla's determined look, his gaze darkened.<br /> <br /> His fingers lightly tapped on the table, and with each tap, Xeyla's heart raced a little faster.<br /> <br /> "I… don't think that's a good idea…" answered Xeyla in difficulty. Deep down, she was feeling guilty though.<br /> <br /> It seemed that Fletcher was upset.<br /> <br /> "Tsk."<br /> <br /> He snorted. His tone carried a hint of coldness and mockery.<br /> <br /> Both of Xeyla's hands were trembling slightly, and she couldn't bring herself to look at his expression. In fact, for a brief moment, she even wanted to give in and sign the agreement.<br /> <br /> Eventually, Fletcher said in a faint tone, "You can go now."<br /> <br /> Xeyla was surprised.<br /> <br /> "Anything else?" He looked up at her.<br /> <br /> "Nothing." With an awkward chuckle, she got up without hesitation. "I'll leave now."<br /> <br /> After leaving the hotel, Xeyla managed to hail a cab and said to the driver, "Rosewood Mansion."<br /> <br /> Then, she let out a sigh of relief, though her heart was still thumping fast.<br /> <br /> It wasn't her fault for being easily intimidated. The oppressive presence given off by Fletcher was just too strong. If she hadn't spent three years in the entertainment industry, where she had been exposed to grand spectacles, she might have surrendered long ago.<br /> <br /> As for that random and bizarre marriage proposal, it was right for her to reject it.<br /> <br /> After all, someone like Fletcher was way out of her league.<br /> <br /> Soon, the cab arrived at Rosewood Mansion.<br /> <br /> Returning to her own little apartment, Xeyla could finally relax.<br /> <br /> Then, she recalled that the sex tape of Pheona and Cain was played at yesterday's awards ceremony.<br /> <br /> She had turned off her phone for more than ten hours now and felt like she was completely cut off from the world, which was a wonderful feeling.<br /> <br /> She knew without a doubt that many must have called her since last night, but she had no intention of dealing with them.<br /> <br /> Upon entering the bathroom, she looked at herself in the mirror.<br /> <br /> The birthmark on her right cheek was still there, and it even appeared more vibrant than before.<br /> <br /> A hint of melancholy crossed Xeyla's eyes, but in the next moment, she froze.<br /> <br /> Something wasn't right.<br /> <br /> Since she looked at the mirror every day, she was intimately familiar with the shape and size of the birthmark. She was absolutely certain that today the birthmark appeared smaller by a whole round.<br /> <br /> At the realization of that, she rubbed her eyes and leaned in closer to the mirror to observe carefully for a while. Then, her heart began to race.<br /> <br /> Indeed, the birthmark had undeniably shrunk. It wasn't her imagination!<br /> <br /> The change would mean that one day the birthmark could completely vanish.<br /> <br /> She would be freed from all the limitations the birthmark had imposed on her and could finally step in front of the camera to make all her dreams come true!<br /> <br /> With the surge of thoughts in her mind, she felt her blood boil with excitement.<br /> <br /> But…<br /> <br /> For so many years, the birthmark remained unchanged. So, why did it suddenly shrink today?<br /> <br /> What did she do differently from last night till now?<br /> <br /> Xeyla furrowed her brows and pondered for a moment, then suddenly widened her eyes.<br /> <br /> Last night…<br /> <br /> She had sex with a man for the first time.<br /> <br /> Yes, this must be it! This must be the reason why the birthmark has become smaller! It can only be for this reason!<br /> <br /> Chapter 5 Holding a Press Conference<br /> <br /> Xeyla was caught up in a huge frenzy. For so many years, she had already given up hope. Who would have thought that the birthmark was somewhat similar to a mark which some women wore to indicate their virginity?<br /> <br /> And there was one more crucial point.<br /> <br /> To make the birthmark disappear, could she just have sex with any man? Or did it have to be Fletcher only?<br /> <br /> If having sex with any man would work, it would be fine. But if it had to be Fletcher only...<br /> <br /> At the thought of that, Xeyla regretted it so much that she wanted to go back in time.<br /> <br /> She should have signed the marriage contract just now. If she had signed it, she could have found a legitimate reason to sleep with him, and perhaps it wouldn't take long for the birthmark to disappear completely.<br /> <br /> But now...<br /> <br /> Thinking of Fletcher's distant and aloof demeanor, Xeyla almost had zero hope.<br /> <br /> With his status and the fact that he had already given her a chance, he probably wouldn't be willing to give her another chance.<br /> <br /> Even if he was willing, it was almost impossible for her to see him again, given their vastly different statuses.<br /> <br /> Her hope that had just risen was crushed. She couldn't just have sex with a random man to test out her hypothesis.<br /> <br /> Xeyla knocked her head against the mirror in frustration.<br /> <br /> But no matter what, she finally found a way to make the birthmark disappear.<br /> <br /> Xeyla's eyes lit up again with a sudden burst of excitement.<br /> <br /> Just a few minutes ago, she was still extremely uncertain about her future.<br /> <br /> Now, she had goals.<br /> <br /> One of them was to sleep with Fletcher.<br /> <br /> And the other one was to get back control of Starlight Entertainment.<br /> <br /> She wanted Cain and Pheona to repay everything they owed her. Considering her understanding of Cain, she knew very well that a sex tape wouldn't be sufficient to bring him down.<br /> <br /> Thinking of that, Xeyla went to the living room and took out her phone.<br /> <br /> As soon as she turned on the phone, the notifications of messages kept popping up.<br /> <br /> She took a look and saw that Cain had probably called her more than a hundred times since last night.<br /> <br /> In addition, many reporters whom she knew in the circle, as well as her colleagues and top executives of the company, had also called her.<br /> <br /> It seemed that last night's video had caused quite a stir.<br /> <br /> Just as she was about to check her social media, Cain's call came in.<br /> <br /> She answered it.<br /> <br /> "Xeyla!" Cain almost roared. "Where did you go? Have you heard what happened last night?"<br /> <br /> Hearing that, Xeyla was somewhat surprised. It seemed that Cain hadn't suspected her at all.<br /> <br /> "I wasn't feeling well after I arrived at the venue, so I came home early to rest. I had no idea that my phone ran out of battery. I just managed to turn it on. What happened?" she asked with a light tone.<br /> <br /> Cain seemed to have breathed a sigh of relief. "Xeyla, no matter what you see, don't believe it. Pheona and I have been framed."<br /> <br /> "What?" exclaimed Xeyla in surprise.<br /> <br /> To be fair, she got to applaud herself for her acting skills.<br /> <br /> "In any case, come to the company as soon as possible. We'll hold a press conference in an hour, and we need you to be our spokesperson. The sooner you come, the better!" he urged.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'll be there right away." Upon saying that, Xeyla hung up the phone for the first time.<br /> <br /> Just then, another call came in. It was her colleague, Leo Marsh.<br /> <br /> She answered the call.<br /> <br /> "Xeyla! Thank goodness you finally picked up the phone!" Quickly, Leo described the event last night before updating her on the current situation. "Cain released a statement in the name of the company this morning, saying that the two in the video are not him and Pheona, but just two random people who resemble them. But clearly, this explanation isn't convincing enough, so he's planning for you to step out to clarify for him and Pheona. Xeyla, don't go. Cain is using you!"<br /> <br /> Hearing that, Xeyla asked in surprise, "Leo, why do you say that?"<br /> <br /> "I always felt that something was off between him and Pheona since before. So when I saw that video, I knew for sure that those two had something going on!" Leo continued urgently, "Xeyla, I know you're hurt, but you must believe me. Cain—"<br /> <br /> "I believe you." Xeyla cut him off. "Leo, don't worry. I know everything."<br /> <br /> A warm feeling rose in her heart. There were still people in the company who truly cared about her.<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Leo seemed to take a breath. "So last night's event… Ah! I get it now! Well, I'm looking forward to the press conference later, ha-ha-ha."<br /> <br /> Xeyla smiled and hung up.<br /> <br /> She returned to the mirror and studied the birthmark on her face. Suddenly, she had an idea.<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> At Starlight Entertainment, there were ten minutes left before the press conference would start.<br /> <br /> "Why hasn't Xeyla come yet?" Cain repeatedly called Xeyla's phone, but there was no answer. In frustration, he threw his phone onto the sofa.<br /> <br /> Pheona sat by the side. Her face was pale and full of tears.<br /> <br /> The incident last night was like a public humiliation. Just the idea of the whole world had seen the sex tape of her and Cain filled her with intense anger.<br /> <br /> "Why does it have to be Xeyla? Maybe it was her who shared that video!" Pheona clenched her fists tightly.<br /> <br /> "Impossible," Cain denied firmly. "Even if she found out, she would never do such a thing."<br /> <br /> "Still, I don't want her to clarify for us."<br /> <br /> "She's my fiancée. Her stance is crucial!" insisted Cain.<br /> <br /> "Fiancée this, fiancée that!" After yelling that, Pheona wept again.<br /> <br /> Although she and Cain loved each other, because of Xeyla, they could only be together in secret.<br /> <br /> Even when everyone was now suspecting that they were in an incestuous relationship, Cain wouldn't allow her to reveal the truth still.<br /> <br /> Why?<br /> <br /> "Pheona, stop causing a scene," Cain said sternly as he looked at her. "Think about your future in the entertainment industry."<br /> <br /> Pheona choked. "But, I don't want her to be the spokesperson!"<br /> <br /> "This is the only way to clarify things now!" To be honest, Cain wasn't sure. He didn't know whether Xeyla would still unconditionally believe him like before if she saw the video.<br /> <br /> Just then, an assistant knocked on the door and came in. "Mr. Irving and Miss Irving, it's time. The reporters are waiting outside."<br /> <br /> "Pheona, let's go."<br /> <br /> "But Xeyla isn't here yet," muttered Pheona.<br /> <br /> Although she never admitted it, at this moment, Pheona realized that she lacked the courage to face the reporters alone.<br /> <br /> "Yeah, but if we're late, the reporters will have something to write about again!" Cain's tone was impatient. "And not to mention that this is a live broadcast!"<br /> <br /> Only a live broadcast could spread the press conference in real time and effectively suppress the rumors.<br /> <br /> Pheona finally had nothing to say, gritted her teeth, and gave in. "Fine."<br /> <br /> The assistant pushed open the door for them, and immediately, countless microphones and cameras were aimed at the two of them, making it almost impossible for them to see clearly.<br /> <br /> "Mr. Irving, where is your fiancée, Miss McLean?"<br /> <br /> "Didn't your company make a statement that she would clarify for you at the press conference today? Where is she? Has she also started to doubt your relationship with Miss Irving?"<br /> <br /> "Miss Irving, as the third person in the two's relationship, how do you feel?"<br /> <br /> Countless malicious questions came at them.<br /> <br /> Pheona's face turned pale, and she almost couldn't help but shout out that it was Xeyla who was the shameless third person.<br /> <br /> At the same time, Cain's expression didn't look good either. He raised his hand to signal everyone to be quiet. "Xeyla is on her way and will be here soon. Please wait a moment."<br /> <br /> "I doubt Miss McLean will show up."<br /> <br /> "Yeah, who could stand such a thing? And they even claimed that someone pretended to be them in the video. Tsk, only their diehard fans would buy that!"<br /> <br /> The voices of skepticism were growing stronger and louder. As the scandal had captured the attention of the public, the reporters were eager to uncover more sensational information.<br /> <br /> Cain pursed his lips and gradually grew uncertain.<br /> <br /> Did Xeyla grow suspicious as well? Is that why she hasn't shown up now?<br /> <br /> By abstaining from this press conference, she's practically taking a stance in agreeing with the accusations against me and Pheona. In that case, we'll never be able to clear our names!<br /> <br /> As time passed, the reporters witnessed the increasingly grim expressions on Pheona and Cain, and they took even more photos.<br /> <br /> The reporters were glad that they had more sensational pieces to write about.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, the viewers who tuned in to the live stream also affirmed the nature of the scandal. Pheona's most devoted fans were overcome with emotions and found themselves shedding uncontrollably.<br /> <br /> Just then, a slender figure made her way toward the press conference venue from a distance.<br /> <br /> Cain was the first to catch sight of her and shouted, "Xeyla!"<br /> <br /> Instantly, the reporters quieted down.<br /> <br /> Following Cain's gaze, they turned their heads to behold a slender and graceful figure.<br /> <br /> In the next second, a collective gasp of astonishment escaped from their lips.❤🔞😍<br /> <br /> -------------------------------------------------------- <br /> There are limited chapters to put here, click the button below to continue reading 😉🔥<Blind to Love>🔥 (It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app)	LEARN_MORE	https://page.tapon.com/h5-book-share-custom4.html?	104800005627300	A wonderful story	https://facebook.com/100083177024234	55,247	3	1,153,114,632,397,628	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	A wonderful story	120208147458050110	page.tapon.com	NONE	image		https://page.tapon.com/h5-book-share-custom4.html?lang=en&id=6125&brand=3&app=0&ppid=3065&pid=FBW2A&campaign=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&adset_id=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&ad_id=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&utm_source=FBW2A&utm_medium=%7B%7Bplacement%7D%7D&utm_campaign=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&utm_term=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D&ori_campaign_id=120208050350220110&ori_adset_id=120208050350500110&ori_ad_id=120208050354990110	2024-04-07 10:28	https://scontent.fosu2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435237212_980790363673068_3050083138580506865_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oTjaYPqplM8Ab5EKPnG&_nc_ht=scontent.fosu2-1.fna&oh=00_AfB8pxno0TTHJzMdJhHWFGZ42yGr9MSVLQitiaZSQVFp-g&oe=6618F290	person_profile	A wonderful story	https://scontent.fosu2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435391180_932580181681095_3928628923294416130_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SMDh4oMzJv0Ab6FHZ9W&_nc_ht=scontent.fosu2-2.fna&oh=00_AfDaOd_wEkOITvhBmQO8HpLZ9dqE2bnOoaF9Cr8LRwEa4g&oe=6618F584	3	A wonderful story	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,011,193	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011409}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	426028786784778	Read with Your Ears➤➤	"Justin, though you are my twin sister's mate. My dad is really mad at you and Raven being mates." Twin sister Reagan said to my mate.<br /> "I don't mind rejecting her, but I would have been embarrassed to face my mate" Justin said.<br /> "My father has decided to appoint me as his future Alpha not my sister Raven. So, I will be your luna." Reagan said to Justin.<br /> ******** <br /> I silently run through the woods letting my wolf Emerald out tonight. She has been anxious all day, well really the last few days, and I could tell that she needed to come out for a run. <br /> Alpha Cole Walker is the Alpha of the Blood Walker pack. He is said to be one of the most dangerous Alphas in the United States. It is said that he would hurt anyone who dared to enter his pack uninvited. Due to this fact, most of our pack members studiously avoid this area altogether.<br /> My twin sister, Reagan, is the golden child of the pack. They all love her unconditionally. She is cherished and appreciated, no matter what she does. They all seem to ignore the fact that she is a horrible and mean she-wolf. I was born first, and with that should come the respect that after I find my mate, I will officially be the Luna here, and he will take over as the Alpha of the pack. Yet they all treat her as the next Luna. <br /> My sister and I are the only children that our parents had. The Goddess never blessed them with another child, even though they tried for years. My father, Alpha Graham Sullivan, is very strict with me. I am not allowed to leave my room other than to eat my meals and then return back to my room again. I am also not allowed to leave our pack for any reason. I have never even crossed the border of the Sliver Blade pack in my life. <br /> I was the Alpha's daughter, but I was not a valued member of this pack. Telling on me has always resulted in a bonus for whoever told on me to my father. I have had to learn how to overcome this on my own. It has made me very independent over the years, as well as a very good climber. I use the tree outside my window at the pack house, to climb up and down to get in and out of my room.<br /> From my vantage point, I can see who is coming now and rolled my eyes so hard I almost saw my brain. It was Reagan, and she was pulling the arm of a pretty large guy, as she headed toward the grassy bank near my tree. I realized right this moment that I have picked a terrible place to hide. I should have doubled back and then climbed in my window to my room and I would have been safe and sound in my room. Reagan is clearly out with one of her many men, as she was allowed to stay out and do whatever she wanted to. I mean how else could she beat me to finding her mate if she didn't flirt with all the unmated men in our pack? I rolled my eyes again and then froze when I looked at them again and got a good look at his face.<br /> That smell coming off of him was starting to drive me wild, he smelled like freshly baked cinnamon buns, and I was now pissed off. She had come here with the guy that I had a crush on, someone with whom she had never shown any interest in before. It was our Beta's son and the guy that I have had a crush on for the last year and a half.<br /> "No, don't stop them, Raven, she has already been dating with him for the last few months. This is not the first time, it has been well before he returned to the pack earlier this week. They are together now, dating, and they have both vowed to reject their actual mates to stay together to take over and run this pack. Please, just try to bear it, I will help you get through it. I am glad that you are in a secure location, this may make you pass out" Emerald linked me, and I felt physically sick.<br /> "How do you know this? Did she know that he is my mate? Why can't I approach him? Maybe he wants me, Emerald. Please let me stop this. He might not know that I am his mate, he may still want me, want US! I don't want to lose him, Emerald. He may not be aware his true mate is here. Can't he already smell our scent up here, like I smelled his scent? Are you sure that this is the only way? Please Emerald" I linked her back, and I feel the tears that are already sliding down my face. I have questions, and I need answers.<br /> I am frustrated. I don't want to give up on my true mate. He doesn't even know that I am here, and I do want him. I don't want to give him up, especially not to my sister Reagan. I don't know if I can survive this level of betrayal.<br /> "I can't wait for mom and dad to announce to the pack that we will be the Alpha and Luna tomorrow. This is something that I have really wanted for the last 8 years. I am so glad you decided that we could be chosen mates. " My sister says to my mate.<br /> "Besides, I am also glad that you are willing to lead the Silver Blade pack with me. I have a feeling that my freak of a sister who keeps staring at you is going to be crushed when she finds out that we are together. You dodged by deciding to accept me as your chosen mate. I know that she has a crush on you, so she would probably try to ask you out or something when she sees that you are back from break." She adds.<br /> "I think we will be so happy together. Raven will be so angry when she finds out that we planned this months ago. I cannot wait for her to find out. I even told mom to have her sit on the front row for the pack meeting tomorrow, so I can see her face when dad makes the announcement. I am going to put her next to you so it will hurt her more when dad calls you up on stage. When she realizes that her crush is going to be my mate, she is going to be so jealous of me. I am so going to get a picture of her face when she finds out, as I will want to remember that moment for a long time" I heard Reagan say to him, and I was so choked up I couldn't hold in the sob of pain that managed to escape.<br /> It wasn't loud, but with werewolf hearing, it was loud enough. I just stayed completely still and prayed that they hadn't heard me, but Justin started talking when my sob escaped, and they had no reaction, so I think I am safe.<br /> "I have always thought that you were a she-wolf, Reagan. I am so glad that you came up to my training with your offer, and for us to get extra special time together. If Raven were allowed to move around the pack, I don't think that she would be missing the fact that she is my mate. I scented her today when I got back to the pack and confirmed she is my mate. Per our agreement, I don't mind rejecting her, as I am clearly getting the better sister out of this deal. I would have been embarrassed to have to call that freak of nature my mate" Justin said, and with it, my heart was completely crushed.<br /> These two evil people deserved each other, and I will not waste another tear on his betrayal. He "chose" her, so he can keep her. She will never be faithful to him, and he will not ever be able to trust that their children are his either. She was just doing this to ensure that they become the next Alpha and Luna. She is what he wanted, so she can have him. I am thoroughly disgusted by both of them, and I will not allow them to make me sad one more day. I had already decided to get out of this horrible pack, and I will not miss the Silver Blade pack for a second. <br /> "She is your mate? Are you serious? Oh, this is the best" Reagan said as she laughed out in joy at hearing this information. "Justin, why haven't you mentioned this to me before?" Reagan continued.<br /> "I just found out about it earlier today as I have been gone for my training for the last 4 months. I caught my mate's scent and followed it so I could go ahead and reject them. I realized it was coming from the Alpha level, and when I went up and it led me straight to her door, it was really faint, but I sensed it. She doesn't even know it yet. I am sure that this information is not going to go over well with your parents. They may be upset when they find out. Are they still going to want us to move forward with our plan? Or are they going to want me and Raven to be mates because we are true mates?" Justin asked Reagan. I have to admit, I was interested in her reply as well, but I already suspected what the answer was going to be.<br /> "Oh no Justin, you will definitely be staying with me. I know dad is really going to get a kick out of you and Raven being mates. Mom might feel a little bad for her, but I think that this is great. I could not be happier that her true mate, will become my chosen mate.<br /> We will rule the Silver Blade pack together, and it will hurt her every day to see us together. It is my pack any way, it was never going to be hers. Maybe if we are lucky since she doesn't have a wolf, she won't be able to scent you, and your rejection might even hurt her when you do it. That would be the best-case scenario for all of us" Reagan said, and I could tell that Justin was a little shocked at how hateful she was. Reagan could tell that Justin was not liking this side of her so she quickly changed her attitude and started cooing at Justin, "She doesn't deserve you, baby, I love you and I want you. Hopefully, you will come to love me too.<br /> I was just worried, I don't want you falling in love with my sister after we have already mated." Reagan said to Justin, looking up at him adoringly through her long lashes. I have to admit, she really knows how to work people to do what she wants them to. Her ability to look innocent and pure is without measure, she could have been an actress.<br /> "Dad hates Raven. He will be very happy about this. He has never loved her since the day that she was born. Mom might be a little upset, but she will get over it. She and dad are chosen mates, she gave up her true mate to become the Luna of the Silver Blade pack. She did it herself, and if it is good enough for her, then it is good enough for me to do it as well. We make the perfect couple. We will have strong pups, and our pack will flourish" Reagan said, and I am stunned. I knew my dad was mean, but to hate me, why? What reason could he possibly have for hating me? My parents have told the whole pack numerous times through the years that they were true mates. They are very affectionate with each other in front of the pack. I didn't even know that they weren't true mates. What else don't I know about them?<br /> "We will do the same thing. You will have to reject Raven first thing in the morning, or after the pack meeting. But you will have to do it where no one else will hear you. Dad is going to tell the pack that we are true mates, so they will fully support us. Dad thinks that it would be a mistake to not have the pack's full support behind us when we go to take it over from my parents" Reagan said, and I am amazed at all the plans that they have kept away from me. Just another thing that shows how much difference there is between Reagan and me. I hear them touching again and wonder when they plan on leaving the area, don't they need to get back to the pack house?<br /> I narrow my eyes at Reagan, as she is ecstatic about getting to truly rub all of my misfortune in right now. Justin is getting the opportunity to reject me, so the situation that we are now in is all positive for them.<br /> "Raven, why are you out of the house? Are you supposed to be out here? Are you OK? That fall looked like it hurt pretty bad" I hear my sister ask me with an innocent look on her face like she cared about me. She was fully aware of how I am kept a prisoner here at the Silver Blade pack. I really have to get out of here. I needed to check and see how badly I am hurt because I don't know if I even have time to go pack a bag now. I may be having to leave here with nothing, but I am OK with that. I just need to get the heck out of here. I will figure out what I need to do after I am safely free of Silver Blade.<br /> "Are you ignoring me, Raven? Are you sure you want to do that to me? Fine then, I will just make sure that you get punished for leaving your room. You are not supposed to be out here anyway. I will just let dad know that you are out here, and he will take care of you" Reagan said with a smirk, and then she started mind linking. <br /> I and my wolf were running away from this pack. But they caught us immediately.<br /> "If you come back here now Raven, I won't punish you for leaving your room without permission" I heard my father tell me. <br /> "Nothing in the world could possess me to do that father," I told him, and I see his eyes glazing over as he goes to link someone. I could care less what they have to say to me, and I turned to walk away. <br /> "You will get punishment in the Blood Walker pack. You know how dangerous they are Raven, you have heard this fact for your whole life. They cannot be trusted, and you are now a rogue. We have told you, and the whole pack, exactly what happens to those who trespass on their land. The moment they scent you they will move in, and you will die today. Is that what you want? Do you want to die? I will get you more freedom in the pack. I will allow you to go to the library every day instead of once a week. How does that sound?" my mother's voice is calming and comforting. She has never before sounded as nice as this, and I know that dad put her up to try to lure me back into the Siler Blade pack. They must be desperate to do it, so I want to see how far they intended to go with it.<br /> "Let me ask you this mother. Was the plan to get Justin to take Reagan as a chosen mate her idea, or dad's?" I asked her. Mom is not a very good liar. I can see her expression as we are only about 20 feet apart from each other right now. <br /> "I don't know what you are talking about Raven, they are mates," my mom said to me, and now I smirk at her. Clearly, mom was keeping me out of the loop and doesn't know that I know for a fact that they aren't.<br /> "Thanks for always lying to me mom. That makes it so much easier on me. I will not be coming back to the Silver Blade pack. This is the last time, Goddess willing, that you all will probably see me and actually I am welcoming the death that is coming to me. It will be better than the life I have lived since Reagan tried to hurt me, and my own dad called me a liar when I told him what actually happened. Justin is not her mate mom, and I know this because he is MY mate. It is disgusting what all you three have done to me and allowed to be done to me my whole life. I never deserved to be treated the way I was. I can only hope that I can find my way and get to live a life that allows me to find someone who loves me and realizes that I am a good person. I don't think that is too much to ask for, do you mom? It seems like you and dad are willing to do anything to get me to come back over the fence, but we both know that if I did come back, I would either immediately be thrown in the cells. So, I will take my chances over here, where at least I have a chance" I told them and turned again to leave. I only made it a few steps before I was stopped again by my father's hateful words.<br /> "You are ungrateful daughter, How do you have the nerve to say that to me? I have clothed and fed you, provided you a room, and let you go to school. I did take care of you, and it is disgusting to see how you repay me. Lying about Justin being your mate. Trying to take your sister's mate away from her. I know that I can speak for your mother as well as myself when I say that we hope the Blood Walker pack disposes of you quickly. I only wish I could punish you myself" my dad roared out, and the hate was coming off of him in waves.<br /> "You disgust me father," I told him and the tone I used to draw out the word father let him know just how little I thought of him being my father. "I have never done anything to cause a problem or disruption in the pack, or in the family. I did what I was told this whole time. Even as knowing that you let the whole pack know that I was fair game if they wanted to hurt me, and they did dad, over and over again. You know what, it was my family that really took the award for the most torment. Your unwarranted hate, mom never supporting me, and my sister allowed to try to hurt me, and incite others up against me made me realize that life will be much better on this side of the border than it was on that side. Even if I only live an hour more, it would be better than the years I spent over there."<br /> I wiped off my tears and walked past them, suddenly, I hear something coming to me…<br /> <br /> <br /> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><br /> Wanna continue this incredible story? Please download our App and search for novel ID: 98441!	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1,011,219	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011158}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	454343250276212	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"let's get this over. "I, Trevor Monroe, future alpha of Blue Moon pack, reject you as my mate and Luna."<br /> "Trevor, you don't deserve me, I Seleste True, Pure Born Gamma, Descendant of Fenroe accept your rejection."<br /> ******** <br /> As I'm lying here thinking about all of this, Tamaska starts jumping around in my mind. Like literally jumping around. She seems so excited all of a sudden. I look up and see Trevor standing over me, looking at me strangely. At first, he seems happy to see me, then his expression changes. I guess he remembers that we are no longer friends. Meanwhile, Tamaska is still going crazy in my head. Trevor and Tamaska say the one word I never wanted to hear in reference to Trevor. They both yell "mate". No, this can't be. I can't be his mate. This will never work. Now I'm panicking. I can see on his face that he is going to reject me. This is not the way my life is supposed to go. Oh, moon goddess, give me the strength to be strong and not break down.<br /> Trevor just stands there for a minute, then says, "let's get this over. "I, Trevor Monroe, future alpha of Blue Moon pack, reject you as my mate and Luna."<br /> As soon as he said those words, I felt a pain like I have never experienced before. It's like my heart has been ripped apart. Tamaska starts whimpering. Trevor made my wolf cry. Why would he do this?<br /> "Why?" I ask. As much as I hate him seeing me cry, tears are running down her eyes. "Why would you do this to us? Why would you take away our chance to be happy? Do you really hate me that much?"<br /> "It's not about me hating you, Seleste." He says, "The mate bond will not let me hate you. I just don't think you are the right person to be my Luna. You are a good Gamma. Fighting is what you do, but I need someone else lying beside me. Not someone who will undermine me or make me look bad in front of the pack warriors. I just can't have you as my mate. I don't want you as my mate."<br /> I can't believe my mate is saying this to me. It's like he really wants to hurt me. He is saying that he prefers someone else over me, his mate. Tamaska has not stopped whimpering. She is so hurt by what our mate is saying. Although I knew this was coming, the pain was unbearable.<br /> "Are you sure this is what you want, Trevor? Do you want to think about this before you make a final decision?" I ask in a whisper.<br /> "Don't beg Seleste, it's really not becoming. It should be no surprise that I rejected you. I made it known over this past year that I do not want you in my life. Yes, I am sure. I do not want you as my mate. My rejection stands!" <br /> Did he just say stop begging? The nerve of him. I would never beg anyone to be with me. He wishes I was begging him. How is he going to feel when he finds out that I get a second chance mate while he is stuck without a mate? I don't need to beg. <br /> "Begging, the last thing I'm doing is begging. I have never begged and trust me; you are the last person I would ever beg to be in my life. Out of respect to your father, I have kept my opinion to myself about you and the way you are acting, but truthfully, Trevor, you are a disappointment. I don't know what your parents or the pack will do when they find out what you have done, but since this is what you want and since frankly, you don't deserve me, I Seleste True, Pure Born Gamma, Descendant of Fenroe accept your rejection." I say and begin to walk away. I need to get away from him. It is taking everything in me to hold Tamaska back. She really wants to kick his butt right now.<br /> "Before you go, I order you not to tell anyone about us being mates," Trevor says in his alpha voice.<br /> Is he serious right now? Does he really not know that the alpha command does not work on our family? He really is not fit to lead our pack. He obviously did not pay attention in his alpha training, or he would know it is pointless to alpha command me. I will tell who I want to tell. I just look at him in disgust and walk away. As much as I want to break down and cry for hours, I refuse to let him see me cry more than he already has. I hold my head up high and walk away from him. The moon goddess granted me my request. I feel strong and I could keep myself together. At least until I get home. <br /> Once I make it to my house, I run to my mom and cry my eyes out. My mom keeps asking me what's wrong. My dad comes in and tries to talk to me, but I can't stop crying enough to talk to them. I can't say the words. At least not yet. My mom calls Mona to come to be with me and to help calm me down. After crying for about an hour, I'm finally ready to tell my family what happened. Wiping my eyes, I begin the story of my life right now.<br /> "I don't know where to start. I'll try to keep it simple. Tamaska was feeling restless, so I went to the clearing the grandmother used to take me to. As I was basking in the moon, Trevor walked into the clearing." I see my mom and dad stiffen when I mention Trevor's name. Mona just looks at me with concern. I think she knows what I'm about to tell them.<br /> "It turns out that I am Trevor's mate," I say with a sigh.<br /> "I don't understand," my dad says, "if you found your mate tonight, why are you crying? Did something happen to you or Trevor?"<br /> "Dad, Trevor rejected me." My family has the same shocked look I had.<br /> "Are you serious," my mom and Mona say at the same time.<br /> My dad is steaming mad right now. I'm afraid of what he will do. Trevor hurt his baby. This may not end well for Trevor. When my dad is angry, even the alpha stays out of his way. My mom and I are the only ones that can calm him down.<br /> "Yes, I'm serious. He said that I was not Luna material, and he did not want me as his mate or the right Luna for this pack." I explained to my family.<br /> "Trevor is an idiot," Mona says. "There is no one more suited to be our Luna. You have always put this pack first. You have always worked to make us better and stronger."<br /> "I know. Mona, it hurts so bad. My own mate does not want me. To make matters worse, he tried to alpha command me not to tell anyone that we are mates."<br /> "What!" my dad yells. "I need to go find this pup and teach him a lesson. No one hurts my baby and lives to talk about. Who does he think he is? He is obviously not fit to lead. He doesn't even know our pack's history. Every alpha knows that our family is not subject to any alpha. We serve out of choice, we submit out of respect, not out of compulsion. Our family has served this pack for generations, and I have never questioned that choice until now. This pack is not worth the pain it is causing my baby. First, I'm going to teach that brat a lesson, and then we are transferring to a different pack where they respect and appreciate us."<br /> "Baby calm down." My mom says to my dad. "Let's focus on our baby girl for now. What do you want to do, Seleste?"<br /> "I really don't know, momma. I don't want to run like a coward. He is not worth us turning our lives upside down. Besides, I will be traveling a lot after school anyway, so I will rarely see him. And dad, if you hurt Trevor, I may ruin your friendship with Alpha Connor. I'm sure he does not know what Trevor did. And No dad, I don't want you to tell him. I don't want anyone to know that Trevor was my mate. Grandmother told me that if one of us gets rejected by our mate, the moon goddess will bless us with a second chance mate. While I don't want another mate right now, there is still hope for me in the future. Right now, I just want to get through the end of the school year."<br /> "Ok baby girl, if this is what you want, your father and I will support your decision. But remember, you are my daughter. You will not sit around and mope about that pup. I will give you one full day to cry and be sad, then I want you to pick yourself up and start moving forward. It may still hurt, but it will not destroy you."<br /> "Thanks, mom," I say, hugging my parents. "You always know what to say.<br /> "You are my favorite daughter; I will always be there for you in this life and the next."<br /> "Mom, I'm your only daughter," I say with a smile.<br /> "And don't you forget it," my mom says.<br /> My family spent the rest of the night talking, listening, and wiping my tears. I am so glad I have them in my life. My mom is right. I will not wallow in sadness over Trevor. He has proven that he is not worthy of me. He made his choice and now I am free. I will be able to move on. He thought he would break me, but I won't break. I go to my room and grab my journal and begin to write. I just let all my hurt, anger, and disappointments release on paper. Writing poetry has always been my outlet. Speaking of poetry, I think I will ask the girls to go to Jazzy's tomorrow night.<br /> As I lie in bed, I start to feel this burning feeling in my stomach. I feel like someone is clawing my stomach from the inside. I have a high pain tolerance, but this is unbearable. I yell out in pain. My mom and dad run into my room when they hear me cry out. I tell my mom about the pain in my stomach. My dad gets mad all over again. They don't want to tell me what's going on. Mom says I'm better not knowing. Tamaska is howling in my head. She has been quiet since Trevor rejected us, but now she is balled up in a knot, howling and crying. I know this has to be about Trevor. He made my wolf cry twice. I will never forgive him for that. She does not deserve to be hurt like this.<br /> "T what's wrong? What's happening? Mom and dad will not tell me."<br /> "It's mate, he is being intimate with another she-wolf." Tamaska cries. "He really does not want us, and he is already with someone else. Seleste, I can't handle this right now. I'm going to take a break from this. I'll still be with you, but I'm going into a deep sleep, at least for now, don't worry, I'm not going away and I won't be down long. I just need a little time."<br /> "It's ok T. I love you and I will be here for you." I sent T a hug. I wish I could hold and pet her right now.<br /> "Mom, Dad, Trevor made my wolf cry twice. I will never forgive him for that. She did not deserve that. T told me what this pain is. There is no coming back from this. He has truly sealed our fates and our future. I am done with him. If I had it in me to hate anyone, I would definitely hate Trevor."<br /> "Like your mom said, baby girl, we will support you no matter what. You deserve better. I will stay out of it and let you handle it for now, but if he hurts you again, I will have to step in. There is no way I or my wolf can stand by and let someone hurt my pup. I don't care who it is."<br /> We all walked out of the house and headed to the venue for the party. <br /> "I would like to thank everyone for being here tonight to celebrate the 18th birthday of the circle of ten, our next generation of the leaders of the pack. I'm sure that together, the ten will continue to move our pack to greater things." The alpha says. He announces all the mate connections in our group of ten. The pack is so happy for the mates, the alpha can barely get a word in. Finally, the crowd calms down, and the alpha announces Trevor and his fake mate. I look at my dad and shake my head as the alpha speaks. I don't want my dad to lose it and tell the pack that Trevor rejected me. <br /> "And finally, I would like to announce that my son, your future alpha, has also found his mate, Shana. Show them all some love." <br /> The crowd goes wild again. Nobody knows that they are a fraud, so they are happy to have what they think is the next alpha and luna.<br /> The alpha goes on to tell the pack about the mating ceremony planned for all the mates that will happen next Saturday on a full moon. The alpha tells all the still unmated wolves to let Beta Vareen know if they find their mates before the ceremony, so they can be included.<br /> The alpha tells us he has one more announcement. Yep, He will be retiring, and Trevor will take over as alpha- There goes the pack. <br /> "As it is our tradition, I will turn it over to Trevor to officially announce the next Beta and Gamma of the pack; Trevor." Alpha Connor says and steps back to his spot next to the luna. <br /> "Hello everyone," Trevor says. From the time alpha announced that Trevor will take over, he has been smirking at me.<br /> "I hope you all had a good time tonight. I know I did. The Blue Moon pack knows how to throw a party. Let me start by introducing you all to my mate and your future Luna, Shana Stevens."<br /> Everyone cheers for their pretend Luna. Trevor is looking at me to see if I react, which I don't. <br /> "And your next Gamma, Mona True" <br /> I think everyone here is in complete shock. I froze in my spot. Alpha Connor tried to run interference and stop Trevor before he takes this too far, but of course, Trevor didn't listen. <br /> "Son, what are you doing?" Alpha Connor asked, "Seleste is the next Gamma."<br /> "No, Dad," Trevor answers him. "I don't think Seleste is the right one for the position. Seleste has done nothing but undermine my authority in the pack for the last year. As alpha, I can't have anyone under me who does not respect my position as head of the pack. I want Mona as my Gamma. I think that is best for the pack." <br /> "Dad, my mate, and I discussed this. Aside from the fact that Seleste does not respect me or my position, it is common knowledge that Seleste is in love with me. My mate does not feel that Seleste will have her best interest at heart. My mate does not feel safe with Seleste, being in charge of our safety and security. As her mate, I have to put her first and protect her peace of mind. Seleste being here affects her peace negatively and I can't have that."<br /> I notice my dad is about to lose control. I need to get to him before things go completely left. To defuse the situation and give Trevor what he wants and hopefully stop this drama, I agree that I don't need the Gamma title. <br /> "Fine," I tell Trevor. "Gamma is just a title. I don't need it. Not having the title does not change who I am. I will still train the warrior and fulfill my other obligations. As far as respecting you Trevor, respect is earned, and up until recently, I thought you deserved my respect. You have shown me over the last couple of days that I was mistaken about you. So, you can keep the Gamma position. I don't want it. As far as being in love with you. That is laughable. I don't even like you." <br /> He actually smirks at me. This fool thinks he has won. He is just sad.<br /> "Well, that is settled. Seleste will not be the next gamma. And since you mentioned training the pact, that's the other thing. I do not want you training my warriors anymore. Since you are mad that you are not the Luna of this pack, how do I know you won't influence the warriors against me or continue to undermine my authority?"<br /> So that is his game plan. He wants to withdraw me of all power. Does he really not realize who I am? Everything my family has done for this pack. Now I'm slightly pissed, but I need to try to stay in control so that my father doesn't kill this fool.<br /> "Are you serious right now, Trevor? I have done nothing but make this pack better. I have spent my life learning and training so that I can strengthen this pack, and you want to take that from me because of your pettiness." <br /> I let Trevor know that he really does not have the authority to take the training position from me. I train packs under the authority of the council. No Alpha's word is above that of the council. But since he wants to be petty, I can take my strength, skill, and protection to another pack.<br /> "Save it Seleste, I have made my decision. As of now, you are nothing to this pack. Why don't you find another pack to train, since you mentioned other packs? We don't want you here."<br /> "Gladly," I tell him. "And when I leave, you will take the full brunt of your decisions and the consequences of what you are doing tonight."<br /> I am so over these things now. This pack needs my family more than I need this. I can leave and be accepted into any pack in the kingdom, including the royal pack.<br /> Ben and the other warrior begin to speak up for me. That appears to make Trevor even more pissed. Right now, his own father and current alpha is looking at him like he has completely lost his mind and he is standing in front of the pack looking proud. I always thought Trevor was pretty intelligent. Now I think there is something wrong with him. He just will not stop digging himself into a hole. <br /> "See, that's why I need to restrict Seleste of her power," Trevor says in anger and frustration. <br /> "The warriors are more loyal to her than they are to me. You all need to respect me. I am the alpha. What I say goes. None of you have my permission to leave. If you choose to leave, you will be rogues. Will you throw everything away just for her?"<br /> I am so proud of my Elite 12 members. We always stand for what is right.<br /> "I don't know about the others," Tim said, "But I would rather go, rogue than stay in this pack with you as the alpha. As Gamma Seleste said, respect is earned, and I just lost all that of it I had for you. Sorry, Alpha Connor, I cannot serve your son. I will prepare to leave this pack in the next two hours." Tim said.	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1,011,227	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011422}'	No	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	484814540556025	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	At first I wonder if I'm seeing double; then it hits me. No wonder they seem familiar! Brock and Cody Easton are twins, first-year draft picks, and star players for the Leopards. In the NFL world, they're better known as the Beast Brothers.<br /> As I stand up, the man by the car — is he Cody or Brock? — looks me over. There's something other than concern in his gaze and he's not even trying to be subtle about it. His eyes travel down my body and up again, taking in my curves, and his expression changes from annoyance to speculation.<br /> My skin feels too tight all of a sudden, as if my nerve endings were trying to push through, leap across the space between us, and wrap themselves around him. What is wrong with me? It's only been a few hours since I packed my car and left my prick of an ex, I was just in a car accident, and here I am salivating over two men I haven't even properly met.<br /> —<br /> Megan<br /> The best thing Jason ever did was cheat on me.<br /> Not that I'm grateful to my skunk of an ex-fiancé at the moment. I'm crawling down the freeway in bumper-to-bumper traffic, heading into my hometown. There's a big game this weekend and the Leopards are the team to beat in the NFL, so everybody and his brother has come to see them take on the Stallions.<br /> Reaching my exit at last, I take the off-ramp to Central Avenue. It's as crowded as the freeway, crammed with cars trying to get home or to a hotel before the dark clouds overhead unleash their fury. I inch along, wishing the traffic would vanish so I could pistol the puny engine on my compact car and vent some of my emotions.<br /> Every time the scene from this morning intrudes on my mind, anger and pain flare up anew. I'm sick of driving, sick of grieving, of wasting my tears on a man who doesn't deserve them. If I hadn't come home early and found Jason balls-deep in another woman, I'd still be planning our wedding.<br /> I need a drink and a hot bath and some mindless entertainment. I need to be numb.<br /> My cell phone rings. I glance down and see that it's Jason. It's all I can do not to pick up the phone and hurl it straight through the windshield.<br /> It's only an instant that my eyes are off the road, but when I look up there's a truck stopped right in front of me. With no time to brake, I wrench the steering wheel, jerking my car sideways into the next lane — just as a bright blue sports car whips into the same spot from the other side.<br /> Its front bumper hits the passenger side of my car with a sickening crunch, bouncing my head off the window next to me, then snapping me back the other way. The impact spins my car around. I end up facing the wrong way, the oncoming traffic dividing frantically around me like water going past the prow of a ship.<br /> I'm too stunned to move; for long moments, I just sit there staring. I'm finally numb, but not the way I wanted.<br /> Maybe I messed up in another life, and today is some kind of karmic revenge. My lower lip trembles, and I bite down on it. Self-pity sucks, and no matter what, I will not start crying again.<br /> A tap on my side window makes me jump. I turn my head to see a man peering in at me. Dark hair, dark eyes, shoulders as broad as a house. Why does he seem so familiar?<br /> When I don't respond, he opens my door. "Are you all right?"<br /> "Yes. I'm sorry," I say, straightening in my seat. "Was that your car?" "Yeah, but don't worry about that." I hear a snort behind him, but I can't see who it is because the huge man in front of me is blocking my view.<br /> Undoing my seat belt, I turn to get out of the car. The man takes my hand to help me up. Electric heat surges up my arm and through my body, flooding me with sensation. A detached corner of my mind notices my entirely inappropriate response, and wonders if it's because I'm in shock.<br /> He backs away to give me room. Now I can see the other man, standing by the flashy blue car with his arms folded. Same hair, same eyes, same massive build.<br /> At first I wonder if I'm seeing double; then it hits me. No wonder they seem familiar! Brock and Cody Easton are twins, first-year draft picks, and star players for the Leopards. In the NFL world, they're better known as the Beast Brothers.<br /> As I stand up, the man by the car — is he Cody or Brock? — looks me over. There's something other than concern in his gaze and he's not even trying to be subtle about it. His eyes travel down my body and up again, taking in my curves, and his expression changes from annoyance to speculation.<br /> My skin feels too tight all of a sudden, as if my nerve endings were trying to push through, leap across the space between us, and wrap themselves around him. What is wrong with me? It's only been a few hours since I packed my car and left my prick of an ex, I was just in a car accident, and here I am salivating over two men I haven't even properly met.<br /> Granted, they are the hottest men I've ever laid eyes on. But still. "Don't worry about the car," the one nearest me says again. "I'm Cody, by the way." He'd let go of me when I stood up, and now he's holding out his hand again to shake.<br /> It's an enormous hand — it engulfs mine, and I am not a petite woman. But I only have an instant to process that, because at the contact with his rough, warm skin, heat flows through me once more. This time, my papilla go hard.<br /> I tell myself it's the stress. That's why I'm getting more turned on than I ever did from Jason's touch, right here in the middle of the street, with honking cars all around us. I want to believe it, but I know it's not true.<br /> The other thing I know is that I need to stop feeling this way. Now. I pull my hand free and look at his brother. "So you must be Brock. My dad's told me about you both."<br /> A slow smile quirks one side of his mouth. He's devastatingly handsome, just like his twin — and he knows it. "Your dad's a fan?"<br /> "You could say that," I tell him. "He's your coach."<br /> The guys exchange a quick glance, eyebrows raised. Traffic is still going by us, but very slowly because people keep stopping to take photos of the twins through their car windows, even though night has fallen.<br /> "You're Coach Turner's daughter?" Brock says. NFL teams have a lot of different coaches, so it's a valid question. But there's only one head coach, and that's my dad.<br /> "Yeah, I'm Megan. I'd say it's nice to meet you, but I'd really prefer we hadn't met this way."<br /> Cody grins at that, but Brock's frowning, his mind on something else. "Don't you live in Omaha?"<br /> "I did," I say. And I am so not having that conversation with either of these guys. "We should call the police and our insurance and all that."<br /> Their sports car has a crumpled fender but is mostly intact. When I go around to the passenger side of my car, though, I see that it took the brunt of things.<br /> "Yeah, it's totaled," Cody says from behind me. He sounds far too cheerful about it, and I suppress a twinge of irritation. Even as a rookie, he's earning a good salary, so buying a new car is no big deal to him.<br /> But I have no job at the moment, and I'm not asking my father for money. He's already letting me stay at his place until I can sort things out. Letting him pay for stuff on top of that is way more than I'm comfortable with. Maybe I can find some kind of telecommuting work until I can get another car.<br /> I go back around to the driver's side, taking out my phone and my insurance card. Brock's already on his phone. "Cops are on the way to take an accident report," he says when he hangs up, "and I've got tow trucks and a cab coming too."<br /> "Tow trucks, plural?" I say.<br /> He shrugs. "They both need it."<br /> "Well, thank you." But he only called one cab. Does that mean ...<br /> "Are you heading to your dad's house?" he says, as if hearing my unspoken question. At my nod, he continues, "We'll drop you off. It's on the way to our place anyway."<br /> "Thanks," I say again. "That's really very kind."<br /> "No big deal." He and Cody exchange another swift glance, and this time I sense the undercurrent flowing between them. Whatever they're thinking, it sends a ripple of awareness down my spine.<br /> The brothers are standing together now, and I can't help but admire the view. Chiseled jaws, skin in matching shades of sun-tanned bronze, strong noses, sensual mouths. They were impressive when I watched them play on TV, but in person their charisma is overwhelming.<br /> My gaze wanders down to the arms like tree trunks, then the tight, narrow waists. They're both wearing gym shorts and t-shirts, the fabric straining against their biceps and thighs. I bet their abs are amazing too. They could be world-class models instead of football players.<br /> Two sets of big, dark brown eyes pin me in place, and suddenly I can't breathe. The moment lengthens until I force myself to look away. My heart is beating way too fast.<br /> Maybe getting in a taxi with the twins is not such a good idea. But the wind is rising, the clouds darker and more threatening. We need to get indoors before the skies open up.<br /> By the time the police and the tow trucks have come and gone, the taxi has arrived, and the air has a bite that makes me shiver. I have my suitcase and purse, but have to cross my fingers that the rest of the stuff in my car will be safe at the repair shop until I can pick it up. Cody puts the suitcase in the cab's trunk, then opens the back door and slides in. Brock gestures for me to go next.<br /> I don't want to make a big deal out of riding up front with the driver after the guys have been so nice to me, so I get in and scoot over to make room. The brothers dwarf me, and when Brock slides in, I'm squeezed between them like I'm the filling in a twin sandwich.<br /> The driver pulls into the crush of traffic. Pressed between the brothers, I'm instantly warm. My whole body starts to tingle, and it's not just from the heat coming off them. I know this because the sensations are strongest right between my legs.<br /> I've never reacted to a man like this before, let alone two of them at once. Maybe all my emotions about Jason are being diverted into lust. Which means it's a really bad idea for me to let this continue.<br /> If they realize how turned on I am, they'll think I'm a freak or a groupie. I don't want to give them any ideas, since I'll doubtless be around them again — I won't miss a game. In my best nice/polite/helpful voice, I say, "I should sit in front."<br /> "Nah," Brock drawls, and the next thing I know he picks me up as if I weigh nothing at all and settles me sideways on his lap, my hip nestled in his crotch. I suck in a breath as electricity jolts through my body.<br /> Excuse me," I say, still struggling for politeness. "I can't sit in your lap." I try to ignore the sensations spiraling from my core out through my body and back again.<br /> "You are sitting in my lap," he points out, like it's no big deal. One of his hands, so big and strong and warm, is curled around my waist, burning through my clothing. The other goes to my head, pressing gently down to tuck me against his neck, then stays tangled in my hair.<br /> He smells like sunshine and clean male sweat. It's intoxicating. My voice comes out all soft and breathy when I say, "I mean it's not appropriate. Please let me go."<br /> "Relax, sugar," he says in that same lazy tone. "We're not gonna hurt you."<br /> The we is not exactly comforting.<br /> Brock's mouth brushes the skin on the side of my neck, making me jolt. Since I can't take them up on their offer, I don't need any more torment. I try to pull away again, but he just tucks me back against his side.<br /> "Easy, Megalicious," he says in that rumble of his. "You're too tense. We need to help you relax."<br /> "You did not just call me — that." I can't even make myself repeat his ridiculous nickname. Who does he think he is? Besides the guy who's making my brain melt, I mean, along with the rest of my body.<br /> Cody chuckles. "How about megagorgeous?" He shifts closer, running a finger up and down my arm. <br /> My system is overloading again, and I can't help squirming some more on Brock's lap. "Yeah, babe," he says. "Let Daddy Brock make you feel better."<br /> "Daddy Brock?" I sputter and then snort with laughter. "You guys are no older than I am. I might even be older than you."<br /> "It's not the years, baby," he says, his lips grazing the sensitive shell of my outer ear. "It's the mileage."<br /> Even as I roll my eyes at him quoting movie lines at me, he turns me so I'm facing forward in the taxi. One arm wraps around my midriff, and his free hand teases the skin just above the waistband of my shorts.<br /> His touch sends sparks shooting right down to my private part. I must have hit my head during the collision harder than I thought. Anger, grief, stress, hormones — can't forget the raging hormones — have apparently shredded every bit of common sense I possess. Because I don't say anything.<br /> All I have to do is open my mouth and tell them, "No." Or "Stop that." And they'd back off, both of them. I know it in my bones. Impossible as it sounds, I feel safe with these two men who are taking such liberties with my body.<br /> I'm letting it happen because I want it to. Because I want them. Because right now, with the rain wrapping the taxi in sheets of water, hiding us in our own little world, all I care about is how they're making me feel.<br /> And how they're making me feel is like a beautiful and desirable woman. Someone worth wanting. Someone Jason was a fool to let go.<br /> Who are you kidding? whispers the self-doubt that's been tormenting me all day, ever since I walked in on Jason and his mistress. You're nothing to them.<br /> I almost listen, almost give in to the crushing weight of my insecurity. But then my phone rings. Cody pulls it out of my purse. "Jason," he says, reading the screen. "Who's that?"<br /> My anger blazes again. "No one," I snap. I grab the phone, hit the Reject Call button, and toss it back in my purse. Jason, and not in a good way. He got his and now I'm getting mine.<br /> I relax against Brock, consciously letting go of my resistance. "That's my girl," he whispers. His hand slips inside my shorts, then under the elastic of my panties, his fingertips teasing the curls above my cherry.<br /> Now that I've decided not to fight it, I'm impatient for more. "Touch me," I whisper back. "Do it."<br /> <br /> There's a car I don't recognize parked in my dad's driveway, a white SUV next to his black one. The guys exchange a glance, but don't say anything. We all get out, and Cody retrieves my suitcase while Brock says to the driver, "Wait here — we'll be back in a few minutes."<br /> "That's okay," I say. "You don't have to come in with me." My dad may not have x-ray vision, but I can't shake the feeling that as soon as he sees us together, he'll somehow know what just happened.<br /> "Just need to ask him a question," Brock says, but there's a twinkle in his eye that fills me with trepidation. He and Cody follow me up the sidewalk, close behind me as if they're afraid I'll slip inside and lock the door on them. They might be right.<br /> My body hasn't stopped humming from those amazing orgasms, and I mentally cross my fingers that my face is blank enough to protect me. Since Dad's expecting me, I open the front door without knocking, the twins still right behind me.<br /> The entryway opens into the living room, with a hallway branching off to the left that goes to the bedrooms, and a doorway on the right that leads to the kitchen. Since the living room is empty, I turn into the kitchen — and stop so fast the brothers bump into me.<br /> My dad's there, and so is a woman I've never seen before. Their arms are around each other; his hands are on her hip. And they're pecking like there's no tomorrow.<br /> I haven't been this shocked since the day I was ten and came home to find my father crying in the living room. Even catching Jason this morning was less of a stunner. My voice is stuck in my throat. I don't know what I'd say anyway.<br /> Brock comes to my rescue by clearing his throat loudly, breaking up the makeout session. My dad's head whips around. "Megan!" he says. He looks confused — understandable, with the Beast Brothers at my back — but also a bit guilty.<br /> "Hi, Dad." I find I can speak now that the silence has been broken. "I did tell you I was almost here." His guilty look increases, and a small part of me is glad because it helps me conceal my own feelings of self-reproach. He comes over to give me a hug, wrapping his arms around me and holding me close. When I called this morning to say I was on my way, he didn't ask any questions; something in my voice must have warned him it wasn't the time. All he said was, "I'll be here."<br /> His unwavering support steadies me, even as the contrast to Jason's betrayal is like a shard of glass in my heart. I squeeze him tighter, overflowing with love and gratitude, but his next words shatter the mood.<br /> "Vivian stopped by after we spoke," he says. "Vivian, I'd like you to meet my daughter Megan."<br /> The woman comes forward, hands outstretched. "It's wonderful to meet you, dear. Your father's told me so much about you."<br /> My first thought is that she looks nothing like my mother. I still have memories of my mom, and lots of old photographs. Not to mention mirrors. I have my mother's auburn curls and curvy build, whereas Vivian is blonde and slender. I'm relieved that there's no resemblance; I'm not sure what I would do if my dad started dating a lookalike.<br /> Her expression, though, puts my back up. Maybe it's my imagination working overtime, but the little smile playing around her lips reminds me of Jason's mistress. He threw her out this morning when I caught them together, but she smirked at me while she strutted out of the house, as if she'd won some kind of victory.<br /> I want to smack Vivian's smile right off her face — which is crazy and wrong. My dad isn't cheating; he's entitled to be happy.<br /> I should be happy that he's met someone after so many years alone. But I'm not. Shoving aside thoughts of what that says about me, I force a smile and say, "It's nice to meet you."<br /> And that's when everything goes from awkward to totally insane.<br /> Because Vivian looks at the twins and says, "Hello, boys. What are you doing here?"<br /> And Cody and Brock say, "Hey, Mom."	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1,011,245	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011210}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	736173165282955	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“Let's get divorced, Tim. You're sleeping with my bestie Jade?! The both of you make me sick!” Lily shouts. She could no longer keep her cool.<br /> "Listen to me, Lily." Tim begs.<br /> Lily ignores him.<br /> After leaving the villa, Lily goes to a bar.<br /> "Well, I only want the most expensive and most handsome man to accompany me." Lily said to the manager.<br /> ****** <br /> It is 9 p.m. on rainy day. On such a cool autumn night, Lily stands in front of the villa without an umbrella, the clothes on shoulder getting soaked by the rain. She doesn’t pay it any mind though and keeps the present under her arm carefully wrapped with her coat.<br /> Today is Lily and Tim’s first anniversary. Lily is supposed to be at her mother's house, but she secretly bought a gift to surprise Tim.<br /> As she walks to the door, her clothes get completely soaked. She takes the key from her pocket out and opens the door carefully. Without turning on the light, she stands at the porch and changes her shoes. As she takes off her shoes, she sees a pair of red high-heeled shoes on the floor.<br /> Lily is shocked, because she knows that those are clearly not her shoes; she can tell be the size.<br /> The heart feels like it is being grabbed by a pair of invisible hands. Lily puts the gift in her arms on the ground and walks slowly towards the bedroom on the second floor.<br /> The closer she gets, the clearer the conversation becomes—<br /> “Oh, Tim...”<br /> A familiar female voice penetrates her eardrum; she is enjoying herself quite a bit.<br /> “I know that is how like it,” the man replies. That is without question Tim’s voice.<br /> In the corridor outside the door, Lily feels like she is walking on the edge of a knife with every step. Even if she can't see what's going on inside, the intensity of the voices paint a vivid picture in her mind of what is happening.<br /> “Who do you like better, Lily or me,” the woman suddenly asks. This makes Lily's heart drop into her stomach.<br /> “Are you getting jealous? I am only focused on you baby. How can I even think of her when I have you?” Lily’s heart breaks into a million pieces.<br /> Lily thinks to herself, nobody believed that her husband had never touched from when they started dating into now. Tim had said that he couldn’t do it. But now, here he is making love with her best friend.<br /> Lily feels that she is a heroine in a Tennessee Williams’ play. Now that she is facing her greatest fear, she can’t bear to open the door until they finish. Lilly enters the room and see the two of them lying in the bed.<br /> What makes it all the worse is that the person Tim is with is her best friend Jade.<br /> Jade has been her best friend since high school. Lily thought to herself, how could Jade do this to me?<br /> Lily suddenly recalls that every time she goes back to her mother's house, Jade always asks about how long she will be gone, but never accompanies her. The reason is much clearer to Lily now. She feels humiliated.<br /> Obviously, the two in bed don't expect Lily, who should be at her mother's house, to be here. For a moment, Tim tries to keep calm shouts at Jade, “Get out.”<br /> Lily has never been a short-tempered person. But, this time, she can't hide the anger in her chest. She glances at the hot kettle on the table, picks it up and throws it at the strange man and woman on the bed. “The both of you make me sick!” Lily shouts.<br /> Jade brazenly responds, “Lily, you should think about it from Tim’s point of view. The two of you haven’t been intimate in over a year.” Lily realizes that Jade doesn’t feel any guilt at all.<br /> “Oh, god,” Lily sneers, “I guess I should thank you Jade for taking care of my husband then.” Lily, getting angrier and angrier, continues, “I always treated you as more than a friend and this is how you treat me in return! You couldn’t get own husband, so I guess you had to take mine!”<br /> Lily has never been so pointblank with anyone before. Tim looks at her and says, “You need to get out of here.”<br /> “Don't worry, I won’t stay here anymore than I have to,” Lily responds. Lily can’t even bear to look at them and says, “Tim, you can explain this to my parents and your parents. I am tired of always having to explain your actions.”<br /> They have been married for over a year. On their wedding night, Tim had told her that he couldn’t have a intercourse. She had thought maybe he was scared and that once they got more comfortable with each other he wouldn’t have any issues. Her mother-in-law had been asking her why they didn't have children. Lily hadn’t said anything. Her mother-in-law asked if she had any physical problems. Lily had lied to cover for Tim, but this just caused friction between her and her mother-in-law. Lily now feels that she was so stupid for doing that now.<br /> But, even as Lily threatens him, Tim doesn't show any emotion, not even a frown. In all their years together, Lily had been the one that pursued the relationship. Lily had always been very forgiving of him and she would always come back to him no matter what he did.<br /> However, enough was enough. Lily could no longer keep her cool and said,<br /> “Let's get divorced.”<br /> After leaving the villa, Lily goes out to find a taxi. She wanders around the street aimlessly until a taxi finally stops for her. She sadly realizes that she has no place to go except her home.<br /> “Miss, where do you want to go?” The driver looks at the woman in the mirror curiously.<br /> “Just drive,” Lily says to the driver.<br /> The car passes a senior business club. Lily looks at the luxury cars at the door. She, without thinking, tells the driver to stop.<br /> After paying, she goes directly into the club. She quickly finds the bar in the hall. After a cursory glance at the expensive prices on the list and she orders several bottles.<br /> The hard liquid goes down her throat and into her belly, and her eyes quickly tear up. After a few more sips, she quickly reflects on the past year, the memories making her feel what a joke it all was.<br /> Her best friend is fooling around with her husband. Lily sadly smiles, her heart is broken.<br /> She downs her glass. Then another. Then another. Soon, she doesn't know how much she has had. But, she does know that she has to pee and walks into the bathroom. After taking care of her business, she goes out and sees a row of tall men in black suits. The men look powerful and important. Now that she has some liquid courage, she casually walks up to one of the men, hooks arms with him and starts chatting with him.<br /> The manager of the restaurant comes up, pulls her away and gives her a look. Seeing that Lily is not bad looking and wearing famous brands, the manager relaxes his face.<br /> “Excuse me, miss, these are doormen. If you want to meet some big players, I can help you out.”<br /> Lily is drunk and sees a chance to get some revenge on Tim. She has already lost everything to this marriage. Why should she always have to be the bigger person if Tim and Jade were just going to betray her?<br /> “Well, I only want the most expensive and most handsome man to accompany me?<br /> As soon as the manager hears that the most expensive, his eyes shine shrewdly. Then he takes her directly to the VIP area. “Just a moment, I'll call someone right away to come here,” the manager tells Lily.<br /> The manager goes into the room first and leaves Lily alone on sofa. She is very drunk and dizzy. In a drunken haze, Lily see the door of the opposite room open and a tall man comes out from it. He looks handsome and strong with long legs, a narrow waist and wide shoulders. Even the face seems like it is craved out of stone. Everything about this man is immaculate. Especially those dark and deep eyes, which hypnotize Lily.<br /> Lily smiles, gets up and walks unsteadily. She grabs the man's arm and says, “Nice, I'm very satisfied.”<br /> The man looks at Lily, raising his eyebrows.<br /> “Let’s go,” he calmly says.<br /> “This is your attitude. Didn't your manager tell you that I'm going to pay you for one night. I don’t care about money. As long as you make me happy, I'll double it for you!” Lily keeps on talking a big game, giving a goofy smile and showing a row of neat, white teeth. The man is tall, and she has to stand on tiptoe to get close to him. “To tell you the truth, this is my first time. Aren’t you lucky.”<br /> <br /> Rex suddenly stops walking, and he finally looks at Lily. Her beautiful face is as small as his palm and she has a pair of clear eyes. The woman's skin is very fair, and she even has no pores. Unlike the other enchanting woman of the night, she doesn't wear make-up, and she is so pure like a daisy shaking in the wind. Now that she is getting closer to him, Rex can smell a mixture liquor and perfume. Rex has had no feelings for any woman over the years, but looking at her, he is very excited.<br /> She is very much to his liking.<br /> Rex raises her chin and says confidently, “First time, huh. Haven’t made love before Lily.”<br /> Lily looks at him directly in the eyes and coolly says, “Is it hard to believe?”<br /> Such flirting made Lily even more irresistible.<br /> Rex looks at the woman's cunning smile and looks down her dress. Rex cannot believe how great this woman looks.<br /> The two of them touch fingertip, and a devious smile crosses both of their faces. Rex says, “No matter what happens, even if you start crying, I won’t let you go.”<br /> Lily raises her head and takes a big gulp for some courage. She says loudly, “We will see who is crying at the end.”<br /> Rex's long arm closes around Lily, and he pulls her closer. He presses the elevator button with his other arm. Before they get in the elevator, the manager comes over with a line of men. Seeing Rex, he immediately shouts respectfully, “Mr. Rex, this lady...”<br /> Rex stares at the men with a warning in his eyes and walks away.<br /> The manager dares not say anything. He listens to Rex’s words and goes back to his job.<br /> The elevator goes directly to the seventh floor of the club. The whole floor is full of VIP presidential suites. Rex has a set of his own private room. He opens the door and pushes the drunk woman in his arms onto the bed. He quickly turns the lights off in the corridor by using a door panel.<br /> The lights turned off, Rex presses Lily against the door, and he reaches for her clothes.<br /> Lily feels that her body is helpless as he effortless keeps her in place. Suddenly, a chill comes over her. She looks down and finds that her clothes are gone, and that she is only wearing her underwear..<br /> Rex pecks her neck passionately and leaves red marks up and down her neck.<br /> Lily’s skin is softer than Rex imagined, which surprised Rex.<br /> Rex quickly sees that Lily is too inexperienced to know what to do. He finds that he doesn't mind that, and he has enough time and patience to guide her.<br /> After many years and quite a few women, it has been a long time since Rex felt this kind of passion for a woman. Rex cannot wait anymore. But as he is about to go further, his hand is gripped by a small hand.<br /> Rex is a little stunned, and he looks into her eyes to see the small face resting on his chest.<br /> Lily has finally come to her senses. She realizes what is going on. She wants to get revenge on Tim, but this is not right. She is scared by what is going on, and she feels the need to back off.<br /> “Don't... I, I'm not ready”<br /> Rex looks into her panic eyes, now accustomed to the darkness, and feels for this tiny woman. His body is ready to go though, telling him to do it now.<br /> Rex's voice is mute. It's too late.<br /> “Ah!”<br /> Sudden Lily lets out a cry of pain, and her body feels like it is being torn apart.<br /> Feeling that the awkwardness has passed, and feeling great satisfaction both emotionally and physically, Rex continues to drill her. It is beyond description.<br /> Lily cries, and gradually the pain is replaced by a strange, new feeling.<br /> “Don't , please let me go...”<br /> At this point it is impossible for to stop Rex.<br /> After a long time, the man finally reaches his climax. Lily’s eyes can't open, and Rex lays her on top of the bed.<br /> Just when she thinks it is over, the man turns her body over. Lily opens her eyes out of fear but cannot stop it.<br /> She struggles to escape, but her waist is held by Rex.<br /> “Please! I'll pay you twice as much. Let me go,” Lily begs with a moan.<br /> But Rex lovingly touches her hair and reassuringly says, “Just bear it for a while, and it will be over soon.”<br /> **<br /> The next morning, Lily wakes up in a pain.<br /> Her body seems to have been run over by a heavy locomotive, and every joint is painful and swollen. She tries to move. Her body feels like it is burning inside. Last night's charming scene flashes in front of her eyes. Lily's face is pale suddenly. That man. How could he do that to me, even when I was fighting him.<br /> The suite is still filled with an indescribable smell. She gets out of bed wrapped in a quilt. The bathroom door suddenly opens. The man comes out with only a bath towel hanging on his waist. He is nearly 1.9 meters tall, with wide shoulders, narrow waist, an 8-pack, and healthy tanned skin.<br /> Lily screams and quickly looks away, “Why don't you wear clothes!”<br /> Rex listens to the woman's stammering voice, and then looks as she wraps herself up like a burrito. He smiles to himself and calmly says, “We've done everything. What are you shy about?”<br /> Lily's face is red and she angrily says, “Can you stop talking about this in the daytime.”<br /> Then she says in a cold voice, “I'll pay you the money. You can go now.”<br /> Rex raises his eyebrows and walks towards the bed. Before he can say anything, Lily rolls over to the other side of the bed, and still wrapped in a quilt says, “Don’t you dare look at me like that. What did you think? I'm married and have a husband. Take the money and leave. Don't tell anyone about last night!”<br /> The man's eyes narrow again. Married but still hasn’t had intercourse yet. That is strange.<br /> “It's not a good relationship, but I'm really married.”<br /> Rex is taken aback by her words.<br /> Looking at the woman with those gloomy eyes, Rex knows that she is telling the truth.<br /> She is married.<br /> No matter how much Rex wants her, he will never be the type of man who breaks up other people's families. To be honest, if he had known that she was married last night, he wouldn’t have done anything..<br /> Rex suddenly feels sick. He quickly puts on his clothes, throws his bath towel on the ground, and looks at her in complete bafflement before he leaves. As he is walking out, he says, “You have taste good, but that maybe wasn’t the best decision.”<br /> He walks out of the room without hesitation<br /> Lily is stunned, and then she grits her teeth angrily. Her eyes turn red slowly. How could she be so stupid. She was just humiliated by a gigolo. Is it her fault that Tim cheated on her? It is because of her lack experience and knowledge about intercourse that Tim looked to another woman?<br /> Lily jumps in the bath and soaks in the tub for a while. After finishing, she goes to the front desk to check out, but the staff stares at her in surprise—<br /> “Miss, did you have any special service last night.”<br /> “No”<br /> Despite her being able to say it, her body definitely could back up it. Lily’s body ached all over.<br /> “I stayed in room 709.”<br /> When the man at the front desk hears 709, a confused look comes across his face. He says, “709 is one of our most valued customer's exclusive room, not open to outsiders. Are you sure you stayed there?”<br /> After finally checking out of the club, Lily could only think about how big of a mistake she had made.<br /> One good thing was she hadn’t spent any money. But she hadn’t slept with a one of the club boys, but with one of clients. But, she thought, who cares who he is, right?<br /> Lily couldn’t stop thinking about this strange new feeling she felt. She realized that she hadn’t even felt this way when Tim first cheated on her<br /> As she is thinking about it, the mobile phone in the bag suddenly rings. Sure enough, it is Tim.<br /> Lily closes her eyes gently, then quickly picks up.<br /> “You have some nerve calling me.”<br /> “Lily how dare you not come home. Where did you go last night?” Tim's grumpy voice rings in her ear.<br /> Lily smiles bitterly, “Why, are you and Jade finished now? Is it my turn?”<br /> “You will regret it. You will pay for what you did.” She adds.	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1,011,252	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011409}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	760190196261061	Read with Your Ears➤➤	"I, Silas Morgan, future alpha of the South Texas Pack reject Lilith Conner as my mate!" <br /> "I, Lilith Conner, leave the South Texas Pack in body and mind!" There was shock all around the dining room as what I said sunk in, and I felt the pack bond break.<br /> ********<br /> As the alarm went off I rolled over to hit the snooze button then realized it was 3 AM. I jumped out of bed and headed to the restroom in my hut. After being kicked out of the pack house I was shunned to this small hut in pack lands. The hut was my home even though everyone basically saw it as me sleeping in a cardboard box. It had a open room and a tiny restroom with a shower. It was built for me because no one wanted me around or to use the pack house facilities. I am the disgrace of the South Texas Pack. I have my duties to hold my place in this pack, I cook all the meals for the 300 pack members. I have to stay out of everybody's way considering that is my only way I can stay and have a home if it was even considered that. When I was five the pack found me curled in a ball in the corner of my families old house. My parents layed on the floor in their own blood. The alpha was outraged that his beta was dead. Even though I was a child the pack has blamed me, not once trying to find out the truth behind my parents death. All I remember from that night was waking up to a loud sound, running down the stairs to find my parents already gone. That night still haunts me. Being seventeen and having to raise myself has not been easy. With being punished every chance the pack got I was already ready to give up. There was always a little voice in the back of my mind pushing me not to, and for some reason I have listened to it for the past twelve years. "Lilith" I turned to see one of the pack warriors coming down the stairs getting ready for shift change guarding the land. I recognized him right away, "I'm sorry, Adam, I will go cook breakfast now". I didn't realize I was standing in front of the mirror for so long. As I walked past him I didn't dare look up as I knew by the way he said my name how he would look, disgusted. When I was done with breakfast I made my way to grab a piece of bread since that was what I was allowed. I was expected to survive off of three pieces a day. The reason for my poor nutrition, and nobody cared. I have a feeling that this is what they wanted a slow death. As I was walking out the door before anyone noticed me I ran into somebody. I glanced up only to see who it was and automatically dropped my gaze and head. At six foot tall and built the way every woman dreamed about. Silas, the alpha's son, stood there and said, "How about you get a move on and next time don't ruin my clothes with your disgrace". He shoved me hard so that I fell to the floor and had to scramble up clumsily. Noticing he moved out from the door I ran as fast as I could to my home. I graduated the previous year. Yes, I know i'm a little young to already have graduated high school, but I wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. I didn't have the money to go to the community college like a lot of the pack, so I stayed and worked here for the little they gave me which isn't much at all. I flopped down on my bed and realized tomorrow is my eighteenth birthday. I didn't realize how much time has passed. With not being able to shift into my wolf and turning eighteen means finding your mate, but I don't think it's possible for me. I fear if I was to find him he wouldn't want me and would reject me. Before I noticed I was waking up again to banging on my door. I walked over and pulled the door open revealing my alpha.<br /> "Lilith, tomorrow is your birthday and I have come up with two options for you", he said with distaste. "Yes, alpha", I replied with my head bowed showing respect.<br /> "Option one, You leave the pack and move on with your life, which is the kindest thing I can offer you at the moment", he paused, "Option two, You continue to do what you do for the pack and when the time comes you will break and nobody will mourn you", he announced.<br /> "I will let you know tomorrow of what I choose, but I have no where to go, and at that y'all are who I know", I paused before finishing, "I will announce my decision in front of the whole Pack before breakfast".<br /> I could feel his eyes on me as he thought about what to say, and I was afraid he would slap me for wanting to wait until the morning. All he said was, "Fine", and walked out slamming my door in my face. And than that's when I realized I had the most important decision in my life to make tonight. As I lay awake from thinking about my options and trying to decide what I should do there was a weird feeling in the pit of my stomach. I couldn't decide and it was already 2 AM with no sleep I forced myself to sit up and really think about my future. Where would I go if I left, and would I even be able to survive long. If I was to stay I would either be beat or starved to death. What if I was to find my soulmate here tomorrow and I left before I knew who it was, would he even want me? After I showered and started walking out of my hut I fell to my knees from a sharp pain in my stomach. Thinking it's from not eating anything but a piece of bread yesterday I got up and glanced back at the small room I've lived in for twelve years making my decision. The weird sensation never left even after the pain I felt as I arrived at the pack house. I opened the doors to the kitchen and started pulling out all the ingredients I needed to start cooking. I was going to make the pack the best breakfast they ever had because even though I don't get to celebrate my birthday they will. As I prepared everything possible there was a bang on the kitchen door followed by someone coming in. I turned around to find Silas staring at me with anger, his crystal blue eyes seemed to have fire in them and his slightly curled black hair was messy. I lowered my gaze to the floor instantly.<br /> "Why is it you!?" he yelled. "What do you mean I always prepare the breakfast," I mumbled not looking up from the floor. "You don't feel anything, how could you not I'm standing so close to you but I felt it when you walked into the house" he said calmer but still angry. "All I feel is hunger pains", but as I said it I did feel a pull towards him I didn't want. What he said next I expected but I was not prepared. "I, Silas Morgan, future alpha of the South Texas Pack reject Lilith Conner as my mate!" he announced it with such anger as he turned and left, I felt every ounce as the mate bond broke. At that moment I was in such pain I thanked the goddess herself for letting me finish the food before this happened. I ran as far as I could and when I reached where I felt was safe I fell to my knees and my whole body shook from the tears and pain that I was experiencing. I didn't want the mate bond to be with him, and I also knew if it was someone from this pack they would reject me immediately. It hurt a lot but I managed to stop the tears and gather myself to look slightly normal as I made my way to the pack house to let them know my decision. I walked in and made my way to the dining hall everyone stopped what they where doing as soon as I stepped in. Walking rather quickly to stand in front of the alpha and his family's table I said, " I, Lilith Conner, leave the South Texas Pack in body and mind!" There was shock all around the dining room as what I said sunk in, and I felt the pack bond break. After what felt like a long while the alpha finally spoke, "Lilith Conner, you are officially released from all pack responsibility and bond. You are to leave pack lands immediately!" I finally had the nerve to look at everyone as I walked out and realized the shock was still there mixed with disgust. I never felt love from them after my parents died and I didn't think I ever would, and I didn't want them to have the pleasure of my death so that is why I made the decision I did. I honestly felt a little relieved as I walked out with my head held high. I've never imagined myself packing my life away and heading into the unknown but here I am, as I look around one last time I remind myself that everything happens for a reason. Shutting the door to the hut and throwing my bag over my shoulder I began to walk off pack lands and into the city. As I got to a bench I sat down and counted the little bit of money I have. It turns out I had just enough to find somewhere to stay for a little while. The money I have is what is left from my parents after the pack took the rest to support me as they said. They didn't know I still had this little bit I hid it well in the floor of the hut. I walked to a Motel 6 and got a room and decided to take a long hot shower. Laying on the motel bed I started thinking about getting a job and staying under the radar so no other pack can find me. It is a law not to be a rogue wolf in a packs territory they will have the right to decide your punishment, and most decide to kill you instead of torture. Finally feeling the loneliness of not being in a pack and missing the connection, I have to snap myself out of this, so I decide to put on my hoodie and go to try to find some food close by. Walking into a small gas station that was a block away from the motel I find some cheap food I can use the microwave in the motel room to cook. I pay for everything and start walking back to the motel when I bump into someone, cursing myself I glance up and get a quick glance at a woman around my age. All I find myself saying is, "I'm so sorry, please forgive me". She smiled and said, "It's okay", and then inhaled deeply. Realizing my mistake I took off as fast as I can not looking back to see if she was following. Reaching my motel room and bolting all the locks as soon as I get in I mentally yell at myself for not watching my surroundings, because other wolves can smell a rouge wolf instantly. I only pray she didn't follow me and report back to whoever is alpha of her pack. The weird feeling I was having in my stomach was growing stronger even though I ate. I couldn't blame it on not eating enough because I ate more than I should have. I needed to find a healer and soon, they would hopefully know what is wrong with me. I know they have to have rogue healers somewhere close. I had a feeling I was being followed as I entered a forest on the other side of the city. I didn't want to slow down in fear of being captured which I think is what was going to happen soon. I was running past a huge rock when I was tackled to the ground. I looked up to see who or what was pinning me to the ground, and I was staring into bright green eyes. It was a woman that was holding me down, she had curly red hair that framed her pale, freckled face like a mane. "Who are you?", she said in a calm-stern voice. "I'm sorry to trespass on your lands, my name is Lilith Conner, and I'm trying to find a healer", I replied quickly trying to remain calm. She was still pinning me down and I finally noticed how strong she was. I can tell she was a wolf but I wasn't strong enough to sense whether she was a rogue or in a pack, so I was going to take my chances since I couldn't get away. "Okay Lilith, but tell me why you are out here by yourself I can sense that you are not in a pack, so why should I trust you?" She was looking at me with such curiosity and distrust that I knew I needed to tell her my story if I wanted to make it to a healer in time since the feeling I was having was not disappearing. "I left my pack since I was given the option. They mistreated me ever since my parents died, and blamed me for it. I was also rejected by my mate who was the alpha's son." I went into more detail with her about the hut I was living in, the punishments and how I was basically starving to death.<br /> "So how was I supposed to stay and give them the pleasure of my death, that is why I had to leave", I said with not looking away from her eyes, so she could see I was telling the truth. She was just staring at me and I didn't know what to say or how to act so she wouldn't see me as a threat, even though with her strength I doubt I would be a threat with my overly skinny, malnutritioned self. All of a sudden there was the sharp pain again and I couldn't stop myself from crying out, and I could feel the tears flowing down my face. "Are you okay!?", she was panicking and jumped off of me, pulling me to my feet. "I need to see a healer, and soon, I don't know what is wrong with me", I replied through shallow breaths. I stood as she held on to my wrist, but I felt as if I was going to crumble to my knees at any moment. I didn't have the energy to ask her where we were going. There was a small voice in the back of my mind through all the pain I was feeling that said we could trust her, I hope that was true. I don't know how long we were walking for but we ended up coming to a small village. There was at least ten or more log cabins scattered around the wide openening we were standing in. The cabins had a homey look to them with different colored rose bushes in the front, and there was a large fire pit in the center of it all with wood benches around it. I took this moment to look at her and ask where we were going. She didn't reply and just kept walking until we ended up in front of a cabin with white roses out front. Without looking at me she raised her free hand and knocked four times before I heard shuffling from the inside. The door opened to reveal a elderly looking woman with soft brown eyes and braided silver hair. She looked startled to see me but once she saw that I was clenching my stomach with my free hand she opened the door wider and told us to hurry in. As we were led to a room that had a bed and medical supplies throughout it I realized this was their healer. The woman supporting me helped me lay on the bed and explained to the woman how she found me and what happened. "Now dear, can you tell me what is going on", the healer asked me. "Yes ma'am, it started with a weird sensation in the pit of my stomach a few days ago. Then I get these sharp pains randomly that have me falling to my knees."<br /> She looked at me for a long moment before asking me, "Have you shifted yet, and if you don't mind me asking how old are you?"<br /> "No ma'am I haven't shifted yet, and I turned eighteen a few nights ago." She looked at me with sadness in her eyes. She started gathering multiple things I tried to see what they were but couldn't catch a glimpse as she was moving too fast. She shuffled her way towards me with everything she gathered and set it on a table that was by the bed. I was starting to feel extremely nervous as she lifted the bottom of my shirt halfway up stopping when it reached my ribs. She started pressing on my stomach moving in a circle. She stopped and looked at me suddenly asking,"Can you tell me a little bit about who your parents were?" "I don't know much I was only five when everything happened, I remember that my father was the beta of my old pack and my mother was always with me." She seemed to be in a daze then snapped out of it asking what my parents names were. I replied, "Jay and Emily Conner, I'm afraid I don't know my mother's maiden name." "Well dear, I'm just going to say that there is magic holding your wolf in and I won't be able to help you with that, i'm sorry, but I can tell you that your wolf is fighting against the magic and that is why you are having pain. I can give you some herbs to help with the pain but you will need to find a witch to help you with the magic", she said with pity in her eyes.<br /> She walked to a cabinet on the wall across from the bed and grabbed a jar and needle. Coming back to the bed she said, " I am going to give you some pain medicine through a injection to help for now." The lady with the red hair was still here sitting at the end of the bed, her head shot up to the healer and the needle pierced my arm and before I could say anything I slipped into blackness.<br /> <br /> <br /> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><br /> Wanna continue this incredible story? Please download our App and search for novel ID: 91595!	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1,011,301	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011251}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	931300398666896	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	Just had a sexual fantasy with my boss. I stand on legs that are just as shaky as he said they’d be. My throat hurts from moaning and I’m sore as all get-out. As I stand, my phone clatters to the floor.<br /> I reach down to pick it up—<br /> And freeze in horror.<br /> Ruslan’s name is lighting up my screen.<br /> And the call is active.<br /> For seven minutes and thirty-two seconds, I’ve been masturbating to the absolute filthiest fantasy I’ve ever had, starring Ruslan Oryolov.<br /> _________________<br /> EMMA<br /> "Do I have your full attention, Ms. Carson?"<br /> I gulp and refocus on my boss. Ruslan Oryolov is glowering—not because I've done anything wrong, but just because that's how he always looks at me.<br /> Actually, that's how he always looks at everyone. I'm pretty sure he's that unfortunate case you always hear moms telling their kids about: he made a sour face once upon a time and it just got stuck like that.<br /> To be fair, this time, he has good reason. He's actually caught me in the middle of a somewhat shockingly violent fantasy about stapling his beautiful lips together with the stapler on his desk and then yeeting him out of his gorgeous thirtieth-story office window.<br /> He'd deserve it. And he only has himself to blame.<br /> Because I am all-caps EXHAUSTED from tending to his every whim today.<br /> I arrived at the office at the buttcrack of dawn this morning. I haven't had more than ten consecutive seconds to myself all day long. And only now, with the clock nearing 9:00 P.M., am I getting anywhere close to the end of this workday from inferno.<br /> Without an IV drip of quad espressos, I would be dust in the wind.<br /> But even with my caffeine addiction, I feel frazzled inside and out. In my head, I'm cursing my past self for being dumb enough to buy these heels half a size too small just because they were on sale. The arches of my feet are ready to commit war crimes in order to be freed.<br /> Ruslan, on the other hand, looks as polished as ever. It's actually offensive how good he looks, despite working like a machine for every bit as long as I have today. His suit is impeccable, as is his dark five o'clock shadow, and the intensity in his scorching amber eyes hasn't dimmed one solitary notch.<br /> "Ms. Carson. I asked you a question."<br /> "Uh, yes," I stammer. "Yes, you have my attention." I glance down at my notepad. "Litigation release needs to go to Mark Vanderberg in Legal first thing in the morning. New chairs have been requested for the boardroom on Floor Seventeen and I will check on delivery dates. I'm moving your 2:00 P.M. to your 11:30, moving your 11:30 to your 7:15, moving your 7:15 to next Thursday, and I'm telling next Thursday's meeting to—and I quote—'go to die.' Did I miss anything?"<br /> Ruslan arches one unfairly gorgeous brow. Seriously—if I could transplant those bad boys onto my own face, I really might. They're dark and expressive and communicate half of his threats without a single word. "I detect a tone."<br /> I keep my own face perfectly neutral. "No, sir. No tone. You specifically requested 'no snark' after the lunch salad debacle last month. I wouldn't forget."<br /> "Hm."<br /> Like his eyebrow, one solitary, not-even-a-word syllable from the infamous Mr. Oryolov, CEO of Bane Corporation, is enough to make grown men dissolve into tears.<br /> I've seen it with my own two eyes. Literally. When I first started here, one of the microchip suppliers that Bane uses for our flagship home security product came in for a meeting and tried to negotiate higher prices. At the end of the idiot's hardball pitch, Ruslan simply lofted an eyebrow and said, "Hm." The man started shaking so badly they had to take him out of the conference room in a wheely chair like it was an ambulance gurney.<br /> He's not the only one. Lord knows Ruslan has brought me to the verge of tears and beyond plenty of times in the eighteen months I've been working for him.<br /> Everyone warned me before I took the job that it wouldn't be easy. His last three personal assistants lasted six, four, and zero-point-five months, respectively, before running screaming for the hills. There's a rumor that one of them is still checked into in-patient therapy somewhere up in Vermont.<br /> Suffice it to say, everyone was right. Life under Ruslan Oryolov's scrutiny is not easy. It starts early and ends late. It's harsh. Fast-paced. He doesn't say "please" and he doesn't know the meaning of "thank you."<br /> But I've stuck around for one reason and one reason only: I have to.<br /> That's not quite the whole truth, actually. I stuck around for three reasons. And their names are Josh, Caroline, and Reagan.<br /> I glance down and look at the lock screen of my phone where it rests in my lap. Three smiling faces stare back at me. Five-year-old Reagan just lost her front tooth and the little goober has her tongue sticking out through the gap. Caroline is only six, but she's already practicing her "smizing" and chin-tucked selfie poses. She's going to break so many boys' hearts as soon as I let her get an Instagram account. Josh, at eight, is the oldest—but you'd think by looking at him that he's a decade older than that, even. It's something in his eyes. A hauntedness. A chill. A stony sense of responsibility that doesn't belong on a boy who's too young to grow armpit hair.<br /> Losing your mom will do that to you.<br /> I would know—sort of—because losing my sister has certainly done it to me.<br /> I do the math in my head quickly. It's March 9th right now and Sienna died in September three years ago. So that's three years, six months, and four days since I last hugged her or heard her laugh.<br /> Three years, six months, and four days since I went from Auntie to Momma in the blink of an eye.<br /> Three years, six months, and four days since my life changed forever.<br /> Ruslan stands and shoots his cuffs. It's effortless, just like everything else he does. You'd be forgiven for thinking he's a model for GQ. He cracks his knuckles, then his neck, watching me the whole time.<br /> I sit in my chair and focus on my breathing.<br /> Eighteen months is long enough that I thought my infatuation would have worn off by now. I'd have thought wrong, though. If anything, he's even more beautiful than he was the day I first walked in.<br /> I still remember how that went. I rounded the corner and stopped, dumbstruck and drooling like a lunatic. This man ran the biggest home security enterprise in the world? Were we sure he wasn't a Hollywood body double?<br /> For his part, Ruslan took one look in my direction before asking, "Are you going to make my life easier or harder, Ms. Carson? If it's the latter, don't even bother setting your stuff down; just turn back while you still can."<br /> That pretty much set the tone for our working relationship.<br /> "I'm leaving," Ruslan announces back in the present moment. "Make sure the folders are set out for the department head meeting in the morning." He rounds the desk and strides toward me. My heart quickens when he gets close enough for me to smell his cologne. Today's is woodsy. Smoky. Crisp.<br /> "Yes, sir," I croak quietly.<br /> "Oh," he adds, "I also need my tuxedo brought to the penthouse on 48th. Tonight."<br /> "Tonight?" I balk. "But I have to—"<br /> He's already gone. Swishing out the door without bothering to look back. The only thing left behind is the trailing tendrils of his cologne.<br /> * * <br /> An hour later, I am the walking dead. Every nerve ending in my feet is on fire. I trekked my booty across town to Ruslan's tailor, picked up his tuxedo, and trekked back to Midtown to his penthouse.<br /> When the elevators let me out directly into his foyer, I release a sigh. One final task on this Tuesday custom-designed by Satan.<br /> Not that tomorrow will be any different.<br /> My shoes clack as I walk down the marble flooring and emerge into the living room. It's floor-to-ceiling glass windows on three sides, so I can see the entire city wrapped around me, bejeweled and glistening in the night. The furniture and finishes are every bit as gorgeous as the man who owns this place—and every bit as brutal. It's all black matte and sharp edges. Grotesque modern contorted sculptures in the corners. Grotesque modern contorted paintings on the walls.<br /> I once looked up the price he paid for this place and almost threw up in my mouth. It had a few too many zeroes for my comfort level. The most sickening part of all is that he comes here once a month at most, usually with one of his many actress/influencer/model dates on his arm. It's pretty much just the world's most expensive f.uckpad.<br /> I drape the suit over the back of his black suede couch. It's weird being here, in Ruslan's personal space. It smells mostly like cleaning product, but I swear, every time I turn around, I catch just a whiff of that cologne again.<br /> It's making my head swim.<br /> I want so badly to curl up on the suede couch and sleep for the rest of my life. But I have to keep moving. People are counting on me. Three little ones in particular.<br /> So sleep is off the list. My next thought is how nice it would be to get some kind of petty vengeance against the bosshole from inferno for the wringer he's put me through today.<br /> My sister wouldn't have hesitated for a second.<br /> * <br /> "Sienna, don't you dare pee on his car!"<br /> But my sister was already clambering up on the hood in her way-too-short, way-too-pink nightclub dress, cackling like a madwoman. I was mortified. Her laugh was infamous across campus, so I had no doubt that someone was going to recognize it, open their dorm window, and look out in the East Campus parking lot to see the Carson sisters up to no good, as per usual.<br /> Correction: Sienna was the one who was always up to no good. I was the one who was always trying to rein her in. Not that it helped; Sienna did what she wanted.<br /> Always had. Always would.<br /> And when she saw my dirty, rotten, cheating ex's car gleaming in the primo parking spot, it sparked an idea that she absolutely refused to ignore.<br /> Which is how I ended up holding her hand for balance as she squatted on Tommy's Range Rover and let loose.<br /> I can't say he didn't deserve it; this just wouldn't have been my preferred method of vengeance. "Screw that," Sienna said when I told her that living well was the best form of revenge. "Don't get even; get ahead. That's my motto."<br /> When she had relieved herself of a long night's worth of cranberry vodkas, I helped her back down to the asphalt. "You're insane," I informed her. "Absolutely clinical."<br /> "And yet you love me. What does that say about you?"<br /> "Nothing good," I muttered.<br /> "Shut up. Say it. Say you love me." She made kissy faces at me and, when I refused, she tickled me in the spot under my ribs that I'd hated since we were little.<br /> "Fine! Fine! I love you!" I shrieked.<br /> Only then did she relent.<br /> "Good. I love you, too, Em. You're the stars to my moon. Never forget that."<br /> Then, just for good measure, she mooned me. We laughed—her laugh and mine, two sides of the same coin, filtering up and out into the night beyond.<br /> I never imagined a life without her. I never thought I'd have to.<br /> * *<br /> I'm not Sienna; I'm not going to pee on Ruslan's fifty-thousand dollar couch. And, as of three years, six months, and four days ago, she's not here to do it for me.<br /> With a sigh, I turn and slump out.<br /> It's a long subway ride from gleaming Midtown to my dirty, cramped apartment building in H.ell's Kitchen. When I get there, it's a long walk up the four flights of stairs because, of course, the elevator is broken yet again. I'm almost literally sexually aroused at the prospect of a REM cycle—but when I open the door, I realize with a molar-grinding horror that sleep is a long way away.<br /> My apartment is an absolute disaster.<br /> spirits bottles are scattered everywhere. The kids' clothes are mildewing in the wash. The kitchen sink is stacked high with dirty plates.<br /> I don't have to look far to find the culprit. Ben, my sister's widower, is passed out in the corner armchair. A half-finished smoking dangles from between his fingertips and the other hand is clutching the dregs of a lukewarm Bud Light. I march over and pluck both from him, stubbing the smoking out in the ashtray and hurling the spirits into the recycling bin. He startles for a second before sinking right back into an open-mouthed snore.<br /> Ben. The bane of my existence, no pun intended. There's a reason he's not on the lock screen of my phone. A reason I try not to think about him whenever I can help it.<br /> He took Sienna's death hard. That's no surprise; we all did. When someone is that bright of a personality, it's hard not to feel like you're living in the shadows once they're gone.<br /> But the kids and I have soldiered on, no matter how much it hurts.<br /> Ben, on the other hand, is wallowing in the mud. He was fired from his job, so now, all he does is drink and smoke and mutter to himself around the clock—which he does here, since he couldn't afford the mortgage on their house with no income. When he deigns to parent his own children, he does it like a fairytale ogre, all spit-flecked bellowing and flying off the handle at the least little thing. He made Reagan cry the other day because her scrunchie snapped while he was trying to do a ponytail for her. As if that was her fault.<br /> I keep telling myself to have grace. He's going through a dark time. He'll come out of it.<br /> At least, I hope he will. Truth is, I was never a huge fan of his in the first place. I found ways to tolerate him for Sienna's sake, because there's nothing I wouldn't have done for my sister.<br /> Without her, though... it's harder.<br /> I shake my head. It's not good to let myself dwell on these ruts. Nothing good will come of wondering why this is the hand I've been dealt. I just have to do the work. Silently and unthanked, sure. But the world isn't built to be kind to people like me.<br /> So I drop my purse, roll up my sleeves, and do what I can to make it kind to people like Josh, Caroline, and Reagan.<br /> spirits bottles go in the trash. Clothes go in the dryer. Dishes get scrubbed and toweled and put back in the cabinets, and little by little, the mess dwindles. In the corner, the clock hand ticks past 1:00 AM. I need to be back at Bane by quarter to six. With crosstown traffic, that means I'm looking at three hours of sleep max before I have to be up and running again.<br /> By the time I finish, 1:00 AM has become 2:30. I zombie-walk my way down the hall. My room beckons, but before I can succumb to sleep, I have to check on the littles.<br /> The girls' room is the first one on the right. I open the door and peek in.<br /> Caroline is asleep on the top bunk. Her hand is dangling down, so I tiptoe across the thrifted pink shag rug and tuck it back up on the mattress so the monsters won't get it. I pause and listen, but her breathing is practically imperceptible when she's K.O.'d. The first night I had her under my roof, I was terrified that she'd died in my care.<br /> When I'm satisfied she's comfortable, I crouch down to peer at Reagan. Her hair has fallen over her eyes. I smooth it away. Unlike Caroline, she's a snorer. She's got a real honk-shoo-honk-shoo-mimimi pattern to her sleep breathing, like one of Snow White's dwarves. My little angel. Those cherry apple cheeks are so pinchable. Just like Sienna's.<br /> I wonder if Rae even remembers her mom. She was so young when we lost her.<br /> I retreat back out into the hall and pull the door shut silently behind me. Then I step down and slowly push open Josh's.<br /> I frown. His bed is empty, the sheets smoothed over and tucked in neatly at the edges. He does that himself every morning without fail, though no one has ever actually asked him to, as far as I'm aware. But if he's not in bed, where is...?<br /> Ah. I glance over to see him with his face pressed against the desk. He's out cold, his hands still fiddling with something in his lap. I'm confused about what it is until I walk over and pull the bundle out from under him.<br /> When I do, my heart breaks.<br /> It's his basketball shoes. They were in rough shape when we got them from the thrift store, but now, they're straight-up ruined. There are gaping holes on either sole, with wads of paper towels and duct tape fashioned into some kind of stopgap. He must've been trying to fix the damage when he fell asleep.<br /> A tear leaks down my cheek. Since he came to me, he's never done one single, solitary thing for himself. Everything he does is for his sisters. He makes Reagan eat her vegetables and he helps Caroline paint her nails. He does his chores and theirs. He checks their homework. He's eight years old and he's the last thing holding this broken family together.<br /> So when he shyly admitted to me that he wanted to play basketball this year, I wanted so badly to make that happen for him.<br /> But the money just couldn't work.<br /> Ruslan pays me well, but New York City is expensive and New York City with three growing children (plus one adult-sized baby drinking all the spirits) is even more expensive than that. Money just seems to disappear, leaking out through a million different holes. Clothes for school, utilities, rent, and this and that and the other.<br /> Here one second. Gone the next.<br /> Josh knows that. I don't even have to ask to guess that's why he was trying to fix his shoes himself instead of asking me to buy him a new pair.<br /> I sink to the floor with my back against the wall and burst into tears. I do it silently because I don't want to wake him, but the sobs come from somewhere deep, deep down.<br /> I hate how ashamed I am of these tears. Why should I be? If anyone has a reason to cry, it's me. My boss is an arrogant prick and my sister is dead and her husband is more of a burden than a help and I have three innocent kids I'm doing my best to raise right but I can't seem to catch a break and I need sleep and food and more coffee and a vacation and a fresh start and—the list just goes on. One reason for each of my thousand tears.<br /> It's only when they start to dry up that I force myself to think optimistically. What would Sienna say? I wonder.She can't answer, of course, but I have some guesses.<br /> Things will get better. They have to.<br /> They sure ccan't get any worse.<br /> EMMA<br /> "Auntie Em! Auntie Em, wake up."<br /> I come to with a start. The sun is slanting in through the blinds and I have absolutely no freaking idea what planet I'm on. I feel a sharp line of pain on my cheek. It takes me a long moment to realize that it's because I have a shoelace plastered to my skin. I peel it off with a wince and look up to see Josh standing over me.<br /> "Auntie Em, it's 7:45. We're late for school."<br /> I leap to my feet—and promptly fall right back, because my legs are completely numb from sleeping in such a weird fetal position, curled up at the foot of Josh's desk like a dead cockroach.<br /> The next fifteen minutes are a blur. I get the girls up and dressed in the least coordinated outfits in the history of parenting. I hurl random food into their lunchboxes with no regard for nutritional value. And then we're all sprinting out the door.<br /> Ben, needless to say, doesn't so much as lift a finger to help.<br /> I get the evil eye from the receptionist at the kids' school when I drop them off well into first period, but she can shove her judgment up her hip. I just pop a peck on each of their foreheads and then turn to haul to Bane.<br /> I get another evil eye from the lobby receptionist there, too, but I don't quite realize why until I'm in the elevator up to the thirtieth floor and I catch sight of my reflection in the polished bronze.<br /> I look like an absolute bad show. My hair is a rat's nest on my head and my blouse is on backwards. The fashionable one-shoulder cutout is framing my frayed bra strap instead of a tasteful slice of arm.<br /> Wet street dogs are more put-together than I am.<br /> It's way too late to go back now, though. I can already imagine Ruslan's eyebrow. It's probably halfway up his scalp by now. His voice is going to be absolutely frigid when he hears me come stumbling in. Something like:<br /> "You have got to be kidding me."<br /> Wait. That wasn't my imagination. That was actually his voice.<br /> I open my eyes and turn around to realize that the elevator doors have opened—and who should be standing there but my beloved, benevolent boss?<br /> Sure enough, his eyebrow is locked and loaded and that cruelly sharp jaw of his clenched so tight that I wonder idly if he has a good dentist on speed dial.<br /> I open my mouth to defend myself, but what is there even to say? "I'm sorry," I blurt. "I fell asleep after—It was a long night and—I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry."<br /> He doesn't so much as blink. "I expect you to dress appropriately for your job, Ms. Carson," he growls. "Not do the walk of shame through my building."<br /> I frown. "The walk of—? Hold on. No, that's not what this is. I didn't—"<br /> "You're wearing yesterday's skirt and flaunting your undergarments like you think you can seduce your way out of being—" He checks his watch. "—two and a half hours late. I'm not sure if you think I'm stupid or easy. I'm also not sure which of those two would offend me more."<br /> One word snags my attention. "Seduce?" I parrot stupidly.<br /> Out of nowhere, thoughts of what it would look like to seduce Ruslan Oryolov come prancing through my head.<br /> Wrapping his tie around my fist and bringing that smirking snarl down to my lips for a taste.<br /> Lying back on his desk, pencil skirt hiked above my hips, while he shoves my panties to the side and devours me like his last meal.<br /> On my knees on his office carpet as he stands over me and—<br /> "Ms. Carson, I'm not interested in your explanations. Go do your job. Before I find someone else to do it for you."<br /> With that, he brushes past me and gets on the elevator. I turn and look dumbly at him as the doors close on his face. The last thing I see is the arrogant slant of his mouth.<br /> Then that, too, disappears.<br /> My cheeks are burning red for the rest of the day. Luckily, I have an extra cardigan at my desk, so I'm able to cover up the worst of my wardrobe malfunction.<br /> But my phone keeps pinging all day long with messages from Ruslan. Do this. Send that. Fax this. Email that. He's as unbearable as ever. Everything from the expiration date on his coffee creamer to the status of the conference room chairs he's so anal about merits yet another scathing comment from him. And after yesterday's nightmare, I'm running on fumes.<br /> My only saving grace is that he has a gala tonight, so he's scheduled to leave the office at 5:00 P.M. sharp. I'm counting down the last ten seconds until the clock strikes five like I'm a Times Square partier on New Year's Eve.<br /> "Seven... Six... Five... Four... Three... Two... One..."<br /> Ping. Another text. I moan and look down to see the devil's name pop up on my phone.<br /> RUSLAN: My office. Now.<br /> Goddammit. I was so close.<br /> Sighing, I get up and slink inside.<br /> "Shut the door," he orders. It's dark in here. The curtains are sealed tight and the temperature is Arctic. He's a mass of shadows behind his desk, huge and fragrant. The only thing I can see is the sharp light of his amber eyes.<br /> "Sit." A shadowy hand points at the chair across from his desk.<br /> I perch at the edge of the seat in question. My nerves are buzzing and frayed. I'm so, so tired. But I can't show him that. Matter of fact, I refuse to show him that.<br /> I won't give the smug prick the satisfaction of thinking he's outlasted me.<br /> "I asked you yesterday if I had your full attention," he begins. "I'm not so sure I do. So let me say this: if your priorities lie anywhere other than this company, then I will find a new assistant. I'm not a nice man, Ms. Carson. So believe me when I tell you that this is not the kind of place where you get three strikes before something bad happens. You mess up once—you're gone. Am I making myself clear?"<br /> I swallow. "Yes, sir."<br /> He nods. "Good. Be here on time tomorrow. Dress like you intend to keep your job. Now, if you'll excuse me... there's the door."<br /> He looks down at his phone and poof, it's like I don't exist anymore.<br /> But I. Am. Pissed.<br /> He doesn't know what I'm going through. He doesn't know Ben is snoring and farting in my living room, or that three little kids are waiting on me to pick them up from after-school care. He doesn't know that I buried my sister or that I'm barely keeping my head above water. He doesn't know anything.<br /> "No." I blurt it before I can think better of it. "No. No. I'm not some little worm under your shoe, Mr. Oryolov. I'm a—I mean. I'm a person! I have a life and hobbies and people who depend on me. I'm real! So I'd appreciate it very much if you'd pull your smug head out of your smug prick and treat me with some respect for once."<br /> Ruslan blinks.<br /> Blinks.<br /> Blinks.<br /> "Is there something else, Ms. Carson?"<br /> That's when I realize that my whole little tirade took place entirely in my head. It wasn't real. All imagined. Just a pleasant little detour to a fantasy land where I give him my two cents and then some.<br /> I swallow past the nasty taste in my throat and stand. "No, sir," I say quietly. "Nothing at all."	LEARN_MORE	https://a.menovels.com/ad/ZmljZnVuLzE0NDIxOS8yMDI0	194306507097556	MeNo003	https://facebook.com/61554215147080	29	1	465,118,792,517,237	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	MeNo003	120207132138890307	a.menovels.com	NONE	video		https://a.menovels.com/ad/ZmljZnVuLzE0NDIxOS8yMDI0MDQwNzIxNDU1NC9wYWdl?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-07 08:50	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434555905_361132902929104_2406001878972909271_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gu7KvMsISj8Ab4y6Ir6&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAVCE2W-vq_hXAPvT1dB3ZjCXckH257VxdfPabcS9kLfA&oe=6618D2AF	person_profile	MeNo003	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434608978_443935001632962_5405711104144536298_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CLhR5KT30tkAb7pzv83&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAUqtWzYb2w0IgKEgKM4S1qUmyAjJweKA-lUUQSiepg-g&oe=6618F7D5	3	MeNo003	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,011,292	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011422}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	878617817610142	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	At first I wonder if I'm seeing double; then it hits me. No wonder they seem familiar! Brock and Cody Easton are twins, first-year draft picks, and star players for the Leopards. In the NFL world, they're better known as the Beast Brothers.<br /> As I stand up, the man by the car — is he Cody or Brock? — looks me over. There's something other than concern in his gaze and he's not even trying to be subtle about it. His eyes travel down my body and up again, taking in my curves, and his expression changes from annoyance to speculation.<br /> My skin feels too tight all of a sudden, as if my nerve endings were trying to push through, leap across the space between us, and wrap themselves around him. What is wrong with me? It's only been a few hours since I packed my car and left my prick of an ex, I was just in a car accident, and here I am salivating over two men I haven't even properly met.<br /> —<br /> Megan<br /> The best thing Jason ever did was cheat on me.<br /> Not that I'm grateful to my skunk of an ex-fiancé at the moment. I'm crawling down the freeway in bumper-to-bumper traffic, heading into my hometown. There's a big game this weekend and the Leopards are the team to beat in the NFL, so everybody and his brother has come to see them take on the Stallions.<br /> Reaching my exit at last, I take the off-ramp to Central Avenue. It's as crowded as the freeway, crammed with cars trying to get home or to a hotel before the dark clouds overhead unleash their fury. I inch along, wishing the traffic would vanish so I could pistol the puny engine on my compact car and vent some of my emotions.<br /> Every time the scene from this morning intrudes on my mind, anger and pain flare up anew. I'm sick of driving, sick of grieving, of wasting my tears on a man who doesn't deserve them. If I hadn't come home early and found Jason balls-deep in another woman, I'd still be planning our wedding.<br /> I need a drink and a hot bath and some mindless entertainment. I need to be numb.<br /> My cell phone rings. I glance down and see that it's Jason. It's all I can do not to pick up the phone and hurl it straight through the windshield.<br /> It's only an instant that my eyes are off the road, but when I look up there's a truck stopped right in front of me. With no time to brake, I wrench the steering wheel, jerking my car sideways into the next lane — just as a bright blue sports car whips into the same spot from the other side.<br /> Its front bumper hits the passenger side of my car with a sickening crunch, bouncing my head off the window next to me, then snapping me back the other way. The impact spins my car around. I end up facing the wrong way, the oncoming traffic dividing frantically around me like water going past the prow of a ship.<br /> I'm too stunned to move; for long moments, I just sit there staring. I'm finally numb, but not the way I wanted.<br /> Maybe I messed up in another life, and today is some kind of karmic revenge. My lower lip trembles, and I bite down on it. Self-pity sucks, and no matter what, I will not start crying again.<br /> A tap on my side window makes me jump. I turn my head to see a man peering in at me. Dark hair, dark eyes, shoulders as broad as a house. Why does he seem so familiar?<br /> When I don't respond, he opens my door. "Are you all right?"<br /> "Yes. I'm sorry," I say, straightening in my seat. "Was that your car?" "Yeah, but don't worry about that." I hear a snort behind him, but I can't see who it is because the huge man in front of me is blocking my view.<br /> Undoing my seat belt, I turn to get out of the car. The man takes my hand to help me up. Electric heat surges up my arm and through my body, flooding me with sensation. A detached corner of my mind notices my entirely inappropriate response, and wonders if it's because I'm in shock.<br /> He backs away to give me room. Now I can see the other man, standing by the flashy blue car with his arms folded. Same hair, same eyes, same massive build.<br /> At first I wonder if I'm seeing double; then it hits me. No wonder they seem familiar! Brock and Cody Easton are twins, first-year draft picks, and star players for the Leopards. In the NFL world, they're better known as the Beast Brothers.<br /> As I stand up, the man by the car — is he Cody or Brock? — looks me over. There's something other than concern in his gaze and he's not even trying to be subtle about it. His eyes travel down my body and up again, taking in my curves, and his expression changes from annoyance to speculation.<br /> My skin feels too tight all of a sudden, as if my nerve endings were trying to push through, leap across the space between us, and wrap themselves around him. What is wrong with me? It's only been a few hours since I packed my car and left my prick of an ex, I was just in a car accident, and here I am salivating over two men I haven't even properly met.<br /> Granted, they are the hottest men I've ever laid eyes on. But still. "Don't worry about the car," the one nearest me says again. "I'm Cody, by the way." He'd let go of me when I stood up, and now he's holding out his hand again to shake.<br /> It's an enormous hand — it engulfs mine, and I am not a petite woman. But I only have an instant to process that, because at the contact with his rough, warm skin, heat flows through me once more. This time, my papilla go hard.<br /> I tell myself it's the stress. That's why I'm getting more turned on than I ever did from Jason's touch, right here in the middle of the street, with honking cars all around us. I want to believe it, but I know it's not true.<br /> The other thing I know is that I need to stop feeling this way. Now. I pull my hand free and look at his brother. "So you must be Brock. My dad's told me about you both."<br /> A slow smile quirks one side of his mouth. He's devastatingly handsome, just like his twin — and he knows it. "Your dad's a fan?"<br /> "You could say that," I tell him. "He's your coach."<br /> The guys exchange a quick glance, eyebrows raised. Traffic is still going by us, but very slowly because people keep stopping to take photos of the twins through their car windows, even though night has fallen.<br /> "You're Coach Turner's daughter?" Brock says. NFL teams have a lot of different coaches, so it's a valid question. But there's only one head coach, and that's my dad.<br /> "Yeah, I'm Megan. I'd say it's nice to meet you, but I'd really prefer we hadn't met this way."<br /> Cody grins at that, but Brock's frowning, his mind on something else. "Don't you live in Omaha?"<br /> "I did," I say. And I am so not having that conversation with either of these guys. "We should call the police and our insurance and all that."<br /> Their sports car has a crumpled fender but is mostly intact. When I go around to the passenger side of my car, though, I see that it took the brunt of things.<br /> "Yeah, it's totaled," Cody says from behind me. He sounds far too cheerful about it, and I suppress a twinge of irritation. Even as a rookie, he's earning a good salary, so buying a new car is no big deal to him.<br /> But I have no job at the moment, and I'm not asking my father for money. He's already letting me stay at his place until I can sort things out. Letting him pay for stuff on top of that is way more than I'm comfortable with. Maybe I can find some kind of telecommuting work until I can get another car.<br /> I go back around to the driver's side, taking out my phone and my insurance card. Brock's already on his phone. "Cops are on the way to take an accident report," he says when he hangs up, "and I've got tow trucks and a cab coming too."<br /> "Tow trucks, plural?" I say.<br /> He shrugs. "They both need it."<br /> "Well, thank you." But he only called one cab. Does that mean ...<br /> "Are you heading to your dad's house?" he says, as if hearing my unspoken question. At my nod, he continues, "We'll drop you off. It's on the way to our place anyway."<br /> "Thanks," I say again. "That's really very kind."<br /> "No big deal." He and Cody exchange another swift glance, and this time I sense the undercurrent flowing between them. Whatever they're thinking, it sends a ripple of awareness down my spine.<br /> The brothers are standing together now, and I can't help but admire the view. Chiseled jaws, skin in matching shades of sun-tanned bronze, strong noses, sensual mouths. They were impressive when I watched them play on TV, but in person their charisma is overwhelming.<br /> My gaze wanders down to the arms like tree trunks, then the tight, narrow waists. They're both wearing gym shorts and t-shirts, the fabric straining against their biceps and thighs. I bet their abs are amazing too. They could be world-class models instead of football players.<br /> Two sets of big, dark brown eyes pin me in place, and suddenly I can't breathe. The moment lengthens until I force myself to look away. My heart is beating way too fast.<br /> Maybe getting in a taxi with the twins is not such a good idea. But the wind is rising, the clouds darker and more threatening. We need to get indoors before the skies open up.<br /> By the time the police and the tow trucks have come and gone, the taxi has arrived, and the air has a bite that makes me shiver. I have my suitcase and purse, but have to cross my fingers that the rest of the stuff in my car will be safe at the repair shop until I can pick it up. Cody puts the suitcase in the cab's trunk, then opens the back door and slides in. Brock gestures for me to go next.<br /> I don't want to make a big deal out of riding up front with the driver after the guys have been so nice to me, so I get in and scoot over to make room. The brothers dwarf me, and when Brock slides in, I'm squeezed between them like I'm the filling in a twin sandwich.<br /> The driver pulls into the crush of traffic. Pressed between the brothers, I'm instantly warm. My whole body starts to tingle, and it's not just from the heat coming off them. I know this because the sensations are strongest right between my legs.<br /> I've never reacted to a man like this before, let alone two of them at once. Maybe all my emotions about Jason are being diverted into lust. Which means it's a really bad idea for me to let this continue.<br /> If they realize how turned on I am, they'll think I'm a freak or a groupie. I don't want to give them any ideas, since I'll doubtless be around them again — I won't miss a game. In my best nice/polite/helpful voice, I say, "I should sit in front."<br /> "Nah," Brock drawls, and the next thing I know he picks me up as if I weigh nothing at all and settles me sideways on his lap, my hip nestled in his crotch. I suck in a breath as electricity jolts through my body.<br /> Excuse me," I say, still struggling for politeness. "I can't sit in your lap." I try to ignore the sensations spiraling from my core out through my body and back again.<br /> "You are sitting in my lap," he points out, like it's no big deal. One of his hands, so big and strong and warm, is curled around my waist, burning through my clothing. The other goes to my head, pressing gently down to tuck me against his neck, then stays tangled in my hair.<br /> He smells like sunshine and clean male sweat. It's intoxicating. My voice comes out all soft and breathy when I say, "I mean it's not appropriate. Please let me go."<br /> "Relax, sugar," he says in that same lazy tone. "We're not gonna hurt you."<br /> The we is not exactly comforting.<br /> Brock's mouth brushes the skin on the side of my neck, making me jolt. Since I can't take them up on their offer, I don't need any more torment. I try to pull away again, but he just tucks me back against his side.<br /> "Easy, Megalicious," he says in that rumble of his. "You're too tense. We need to help you relax."<br /> "You did not just call me — that." I can't even make myself repeat his ridiculous nickname. Who does he think he is? Besides the guy who's making my brain melt, I mean, along with the rest of my body.<br /> Cody chuckles. "How about megagorgeous?" He shifts closer, running a finger up and down my arm. <br /> My system is overloading again, and I can't help squirming some more on Brock's lap. "Yeah, babe," he says. "Let Daddy Brock make you feel better."<br /> "Daddy Brock?" I sputter and then snort with laughter. "You guys are no older than I am. I might even be older than you."<br /> "It's not the years, baby," he says, his lips grazing the sensitive shell of my outer ear. "It's the mileage."<br /> Even as I roll my eyes at him quoting movie lines at me, he turns me so I'm facing forward in the taxi. One arm wraps around my midriff, and his free hand teases the skin just above the waistband of my shorts.<br /> His touch sends sparks shooting right down to my private part. I must have hit my head during the collision harder than I thought. Anger, grief, stress, hormones — can't forget the raging hormones — have apparently shredded every bit of common sense I possess. Because I don't say anything.<br /> All I have to do is open my mouth and tell them, "No." Or "Stop that." And they'd back off, both of them. I know it in my bones. Impossible as it sounds, I feel safe with these two men who are taking such liberties with my body.<br /> I'm letting it happen because I want it to. Because I want them. Because right now, with the rain wrapping the taxi in sheets of water, hiding us in our own little world, all I care about is how they're making me feel.<br /> And how they're making me feel is like a beautiful and desirable woman. Someone worth wanting. Someone Jason was a fool to let go.<br /> Who are you kidding? whispers the self-doubt that's been tormenting me all day, ever since I walked in on Jason and his mistress. You're nothing to them.<br /> I almost listen, almost give in to the crushing weight of my insecurity. But then my phone rings. Cody pulls it out of my purse. "Jason," he says, reading the screen. "Who's that?"<br /> My anger blazes again. "No one," I snap. I grab the phone, hit the Reject Call button, and toss it back in my purse. Jason, and not in a good way. He got his and now I'm getting mine.<br /> I relax against Brock, consciously letting go of my resistance. "That's my girl," he whispers. His hand slips inside my shorts, then under the elastic of my panties, his fingertips teasing the curls above my cherry.<br /> Now that I've decided not to fight it, I'm impatient for more. "Touch me," I whisper back. "Do it."<br /> <br /> There's a car I don't recognize parked in my dad's driveway, a white SUV next to his black one. The guys exchange a glance, but don't say anything. We all get out, and Cody retrieves my suitcase while Brock says to the driver, "Wait here — we'll be back in a few minutes."<br /> "That's okay," I say. "You don't have to come in with me." My dad may not have x-ray vision, but I can't shake the feeling that as soon as he sees us together, he'll somehow know what just happened.<br /> "Just need to ask him a question," Brock says, but there's a twinkle in his eye that fills me with trepidation. He and Cody follow me up the sidewalk, close behind me as if they're afraid I'll slip inside and lock the door on them. They might be right.<br /> My body hasn't stopped humming from those amazing orgasms, and I mentally cross my fingers that my face is blank enough to protect me. Since Dad's expecting me, I open the front door without knocking, the twins still right behind me.<br /> The entryway opens into the living room, with a hallway branching off to the left that goes to the bedrooms, and a doorway on the right that leads to the kitchen. Since the living room is empty, I turn into the kitchen — and stop so fast the brothers bump into me.<br /> My dad's there, and so is a woman I've never seen before. Their arms are around each other; his hands are on her hip. And they're pecking like there's no tomorrow.<br /> I haven't been this shocked since the day I was ten and came home to find my father crying in the living room. Even catching Jason this morning was less of a stunner. My voice is stuck in my throat. I don't know what I'd say anyway.<br /> Brock comes to my rescue by clearing his throat loudly, breaking up the makeout session. My dad's head whips around. "Megan!" he says. He looks confused — understandable, with the Beast Brothers at my back — but also a bit guilty.<br /> "Hi, Dad." I find I can speak now that the silence has been broken. "I did tell you I was almost here." His guilty look increases, and a small part of me is glad because it helps me conceal my own feelings of self-reproach. He comes over to give me a hug, wrapping his arms around me and holding me close. When I called this morning to say I was on my way, he didn't ask any questions; something in my voice must have warned him it wasn't the time. All he said was, "I'll be here."<br /> His unwavering support steadies me, even as the contrast to Jason's betrayal is like a shard of glass in my heart. I squeeze him tighter, overflowing with love and gratitude, but his next words shatter the mood.<br /> "Vivian stopped by after we spoke," he says. "Vivian, I'd like you to meet my daughter Megan."<br /> The woman comes forward, hands outstretched. "It's wonderful to meet you, dear. Your father's told me so much about you."<br /> My first thought is that she looks nothing like my mother. I still have memories of my mom, and lots of old photographs. Not to mention mirrors. I have my mother's auburn curls and curvy build, whereas Vivian is blonde and slender. I'm relieved that there's no resemblance; I'm not sure what I would do if my dad started dating a lookalike.<br /> Her expression, though, puts my back up. Maybe it's my imagination working overtime, but the little smile playing around her lips reminds me of Jason's mistress. He threw her out this morning when I caught them together, but she smirked at me while she strutted out of the house, as if she'd won some kind of victory.<br /> I want to smack Vivian's smile right off her face — which is crazy and wrong. My dad isn't cheating; he's entitled to be happy.<br /> I should be happy that he's met someone after so many years alone. But I'm not. Shoving aside thoughts of what that says about me, I force a smile and say, "It's nice to meet you."<br /> And that's when everything goes from awkward to totally insane.<br /> Because Vivian looks at the twins and says, "Hello, boys. What are you doing here?"<br /> And Cody and Brock say, "Hey, Mom."	LEARN_MORE	https://a.weloveread.com/ad/bG92ZXJlYWQvMTQzODQ3Lz	111924688562390	Lov002	https://facebook.com/100092720766465	47	1	7,710,810,015,617,014	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Lov002	120206838420770225	a.weloveread.com	NONE	video		https://a.weloveread.com/ad/bG92ZXJlYWQvMTQzODQ3LzIwMjQwNDA3MTY1NzU3L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-07 04:01	https://scontent.fosu2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434052480_805119421461728_9175528392477000926_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WbQ0cQ8M9OYAb7H8ZZt&_nc_ht=scontent.fosu2-2.fna&oh=00_AfBdSbSqhye31VgWUlfZpkr7iThvX4J04Zav1Mee0-eImw&oe=6618E89C	person_profile	Lov002	https://scontent.fosu2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434408201_727049339635669_7843584689637943219_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1Vbu0-0a8xAAb48ELyn&_nc_ht=scontent.fosu2-1.fna&oh=00_AfBWSbBvSD_oGOzaAnjaDaldspha8bkGXd4MEhQiX79i2Q&oe=6618D08E	3	Lov002	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,011,395	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011158}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	1379845072727358	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"let's get this over. "I, Trevor Monroe, future alpha of Blue Moon pack, reject you as my mate and Luna."<br /> "Trevor, you don't deserve me, I Seleste True, Pure Born Gamma, Descendant of Fenroe accept your rejection."<br /> ******** <br /> As I'm lying here thinking about all of this, Tamaska starts jumping around in my mind. Like literally jumping around. She seems so excited all of a sudden. I look up and see Trevor standing over me, looking at me strangely. At first, he seems happy to see me, then his expression changes. I guess he remembers that we are no longer friends. Meanwhile, Tamaska is still going crazy in my head. Trevor and Tamaska say the one word I never wanted to hear in reference to Trevor. They both yell "mate". No, this can't be. I can't be his mate. This will never work. Now I'm panicking. I can see on his face that he is going to reject me. This is not the way my life is supposed to go. Oh, moon goddess, give me the strength to be strong and not break down.<br /> Trevor just stands there for a minute, then says, "let's get this over. "I, Trevor Monroe, future alpha of Blue Moon pack, reject you as my mate and Luna."<br /> As soon as he said those words, I felt a pain like I have never experienced before. It's like my heart has been ripped apart. Tamaska starts whimpering. Trevor made my wolf cry. Why would he do this?<br /> "Why?" I ask. As much as I hate him seeing me cry, tears are running down her eyes. "Why would you do this to us? Why would you take away our chance to be happy? Do you really hate me that much?"<br /> "It's not about me hating you, Seleste." He says, "The mate bond will not let me hate you. I just don't think you are the right person to be my Luna. You are a good Gamma. Fighting is what you do, but I need someone else lying beside me. Not someone who will undermine me or make me look bad in front of the pack warriors. I just can't have you as my mate. I don't want you as my mate."<br /> I can't believe my mate is saying this to me. It's like he really wants to hurt me. He is saying that he prefers someone else over me, his mate. Tamaska has not stopped whimpering. She is so hurt by what our mate is saying. Although I knew this was coming, the pain was unbearable.<br /> "Are you sure this is what you want, Trevor? Do you want to think about this before you make a final decision?" I ask in a whisper.<br /> "Don't beg Seleste, it's really not becoming. It should be no surprise that I rejected you. I made it known over this past year that I do not want you in my life. Yes, I am sure. I do not want you as my mate. My rejection stands!" <br /> Did he just say stop begging? The nerve of him. I would never beg anyone to be with me. He wishes I was begging him. How is he going to feel when he finds out that I get a second chance mate while he is stuck without a mate? I don't need to beg. <br /> "Begging, the last thing I'm doing is begging. I have never begged and trust me; you are the last person I would ever beg to be in my life. Out of respect to your father, I have kept my opinion to myself about you and the way you are acting, but truthfully, Trevor, you are a disappointment. I don't know what your parents or the pack will do when they find out what you have done, but since this is what you want and since frankly, you don't deserve me, I Seleste True, Pure Born Gamma, Descendant of Fenroe accept your rejection." I say and begin to walk away. I need to get away from him. It is taking everything in me to hold Tamaska back. She really wants to kick his butt right now.<br /> "Before you go, I order you not to tell anyone about us being mates," Trevor says in his alpha voice.<br /> Is he serious right now? Does he really not know that the alpha command does not work on our family? He really is not fit to lead our pack. He obviously did not pay attention in his alpha training, or he would know it is pointless to alpha command me. I will tell who I want to tell. I just look at him in disgust and walk away. As much as I want to break down and cry for hours, I refuse to let him see me cry more than he already has. I hold my head up high and walk away from him. The moon goddess granted me my request. I feel strong and I could keep myself together. At least until I get home. <br /> Once I make it to my house, I run to my mom and cry my eyes out. My mom keeps asking me what's wrong. My dad comes in and tries to talk to me, but I can't stop crying enough to talk to them. I can't say the words. At least not yet. My mom calls Mona to come to be with me and to help calm me down. After crying for about an hour, I'm finally ready to tell my family what happened. Wiping my eyes, I begin the story of my life right now.<br /> "I don't know where to start. I'll try to keep it simple. Tamaska was feeling restless, so I went to the clearing the grandmother used to take me to. As I was basking in the moon, Trevor walked into the clearing." I see my mom and dad stiffen when I mention Trevor's name. Mona just looks at me with concern. I think she knows what I'm about to tell them.<br /> "It turns out that I am Trevor's mate," I say with a sigh.<br /> "I don't understand," my dad says, "if you found your mate tonight, why are you crying? Did something happen to you or Trevor?"<br /> "Dad, Trevor rejected me." My family has the same shocked look I had.<br /> "Are you serious," my mom and Mona say at the same time.<br /> My dad is steaming mad right now. I'm afraid of what he will do. Trevor hurt his baby. This may not end well for Trevor. When my dad is angry, even the alpha stays out of his way. My mom and I are the only ones that can calm him down.<br /> "Yes, I'm serious. He said that I was not Luna material, and he did not want me as his mate or the right Luna for this pack." I explained to my family.<br /> "Trevor is an idiot," Mona says. "There is no one more suited to be our Luna. You have always put this pack first. You have always worked to make us better and stronger."<br /> "I know. Mona, it hurts so bad. My own mate does not want me. To make matters worse, he tried to alpha command me not to tell anyone that we are mates."<br /> "What!" my dad yells. "I need to go find this pup and teach him a lesson. No one hurts my baby and lives to talk about. Who does he think he is? He is obviously not fit to lead. He doesn't even know our pack's history. Every alpha knows that our family is not subject to any alpha. We serve out of choice, we submit out of respect, not out of compulsion. Our family has served this pack for generations, and I have never questioned that choice until now. This pack is not worth the pain it is causing my baby. First, I'm going to teach that brat a lesson, and then we are transferring to a different pack where they respect and appreciate us."<br /> "Baby calm down." My mom says to my dad. "Let's focus on our baby girl for now. What do you want to do, Seleste?"<br /> "I really don't know, momma. I don't want to run like a coward. He is not worth us turning our lives upside down. Besides, I will be traveling a lot after school anyway, so I will rarely see him. And dad, if you hurt Trevor, I may ruin your friendship with Alpha Connor. I'm sure he does not know what Trevor did. And No dad, I don't want you to tell him. I don't want anyone to know that Trevor was my mate. Grandmother told me that if one of us gets rejected by our mate, the moon goddess will bless us with a second chance mate. While I don't want another mate right now, there is still hope for me in the future. Right now, I just want to get through the end of the school year."<br /> "Ok baby girl, if this is what you want, your father and I will support your decision. But remember, you are my daughter. You will not sit around and mope about that pup. I will give you one full day to cry and be sad, then I want you to pick yourself up and start moving forward. It may still hurt, but it will not destroy you."<br /> "Thanks, mom," I say, hugging my parents. "You always know what to say.<br /> "You are my favorite daughter; I will always be there for you in this life and the next."<br /> "Mom, I'm your only daughter," I say with a smile.<br /> "And don't you forget it," my mom says.<br /> My family spent the rest of the night talking, listening, and wiping my tears. I am so glad I have them in my life. My mom is right. I will not wallow in sadness over Trevor. He has proven that he is not worthy of me. He made his choice and now I am free. I will be able to move on. He thought he would break me, but I won't break. I go to my room and grab my journal and begin to write. I just let all my hurt, anger, and disappointments release on paper. Writing poetry has always been my outlet. Speaking of poetry, I think I will ask the girls to go to Jazzy's tomorrow night.<br /> As I lie in bed, I start to feel this burning feeling in my stomach. I feel like someone is clawing my stomach from the inside. I have a high pain tolerance, but this is unbearable. I yell out in pain. My mom and dad run into my room when they hear me cry out. I tell my mom about the pain in my stomach. My dad gets mad all over again. They don't want to tell me what's going on. Mom says I'm better not knowing. Tamaska is howling in my head. She has been quiet since Trevor rejected us, but now she is balled up in a knot, howling and crying. I know this has to be about Trevor. He made my wolf cry twice. I will never forgive him for that. She does not deserve to be hurt like this.<br /> "T what's wrong? What's happening? Mom and dad will not tell me."<br /> "It's mate, he is being intimate with another she-wolf." Tamaska cries. "He really does not want us, and he is already with someone else. Seleste, I can't handle this right now. I'm going to take a break from this. I'll still be with you, but I'm going into a deep sleep, at least for now, don't worry, I'm not going away and I won't be down long. I just need a little time."<br /> "It's ok T. I love you and I will be here for you." I sent T a hug. I wish I could hold and pet her right now.<br /> "Mom, Dad, Trevor made my wolf cry twice. I will never forgive him for that. She did not deserve that. T told me what this pain is. There is no coming back from this. He has truly sealed our fates and our future. I am done with him. If I had it in me to hate anyone, I would definitely hate Trevor."<br /> "Like your mom said, baby girl, we will support you no matter what. You deserve better. I will stay out of it and let you handle it for now, but if he hurts you again, I will have to step in. There is no way I or my wolf can stand by and let someone hurt my pup. I don't care who it is."<br /> We all walked out of the house and headed to the venue for the party. <br /> "I would like to thank everyone for being here tonight to celebrate the 18th birthday of the circle of ten, our next generation of the leaders of the pack. I'm sure that together, the ten will continue to move our pack to greater things." The alpha says. He announces all the mate connections in our group of ten. The pack is so happy for the mates, the alpha can barely get a word in. Finally, the crowd calms down, and the alpha announces Trevor and his fake mate. I look at my dad and shake my head as the alpha speaks. I don't want my dad to lose it and tell the pack that Trevor rejected me. <br /> "And finally, I would like to announce that my son, your future alpha, has also found his mate, Shana. Show them all some love." <br /> The crowd goes wild again. Nobody knows that they are a fraud, so they are happy to have what they think is the next alpha and luna.<br /> The alpha goes on to tell the pack about the mating ceremony planned for all the mates that will happen next Saturday on a full moon. The alpha tells all the still unmated wolves to let Beta Vareen know if they find their mates before the ceremony, so they can be included.<br /> The alpha tells us he has one more announcement. Yep, He will be retiring, and Trevor will take over as alpha- There goes the pack. <br /> "As it is our tradition, I will turn it over to Trevor to officially announce the next Beta and Gamma of the pack; Trevor." Alpha Connor says and steps back to his spot next to the luna. <br /> "Hello everyone," Trevor says. From the time alpha announced that Trevor will take over, he has been smirking at me.<br /> "I hope you all had a good time tonight. I know I did. The Blue Moon pack knows how to throw a party. Let me start by introducing you all to my mate and your future Luna, Shana Stevens."<br /> Everyone cheers for their pretend Luna. Trevor is looking at me to see if I react, which I don't. <br /> "And your next Gamma, Mona True" <br /> I think everyone here is in complete shock. I froze in my spot. Alpha Connor tried to run interference and stop Trevor before he takes this too far, but of course, Trevor didn't listen. <br /> "Son, what are you doing?" Alpha Connor asked, "Seleste is the next Gamma."<br /> "No, Dad," Trevor answers him. "I don't think Seleste is the right one for the position. Seleste has done nothing but undermine my authority in the pack for the last year. As alpha, I can't have anyone under me who does not respect my position as head of the pack. I want Mona as my Gamma. I think that is best for the pack." <br /> "Dad, my mate, and I discussed this. Aside from the fact that Seleste does not respect me or my position, it is common knowledge that Seleste is in love with me. My mate does not feel that Seleste will have her best interest at heart. My mate does not feel safe with Seleste, being in charge of our safety and security. As her mate, I have to put her first and protect her peace of mind. Seleste being here affects her peace negatively and I can't have that."<br /> I notice my dad is about to lose control. I need to get to him before things go completely left. To defuse the situation and give Trevor what he wants and hopefully stop this drama, I agree that I don't need the Gamma title. <br /> "Fine," I tell Trevor. "Gamma is just a title. I don't need it. Not having the title does not change who I am. I will still train the warrior and fulfill my other obligations. As far as respecting you Trevor, respect is earned, and up until recently, I thought you deserved my respect. You have shown me over the last couple of days that I was mistaken about you. So, you can keep the Gamma position. I don't want it. As far as being in love with you. That is laughable. I don't even like you." <br /> He actually smirks at me. This fool thinks he has won. He is just sad.<br /> "Well, that is settled. Seleste will not be the next gamma. And since you mentioned training the pact, that's the other thing. I do not want you training my warriors anymore. Since you are mad that you are not the Luna of this pack, how do I know you won't influence the warriors against me or continue to undermine my authority?"<br /> So that is his game plan. He wants to withdraw me of all power. Does he really not realize who I am? Everything my family has done for this pack. Now I'm slightly pissed, but I need to try to stay in control so that my father doesn't kill this fool.<br /> "Are you serious right now, Trevor? I have done nothing but make this pack better. I have spent my life learning and training so that I can strengthen this pack, and you want to take that from me because of your pettiness." <br /> I let Trevor know that he really does not have the authority to take the training position from me. I train packs under the authority of the council. No Alpha's word is above that of the council. But since he wants to be petty, I can take my strength, skill, and protection to another pack.<br /> "Save it Seleste, I have made my decision. As of now, you are nothing to this pack. Why don't you find another pack to train, since you mentioned other packs? We don't want you here."<br /> "Gladly," I tell him. "And when I leave, you will take the full brunt of your decisions and the consequences of what you are doing tonight."<br /> I am so over these things now. This pack needs my family more than I need this. I can leave and be accepted into any pack in the kingdom, including the royal pack.<br /> Ben and the other warrior begin to speak up for me. That appears to make Trevor even more pissed. Right now, his own father and current alpha is looking at him like he has completely lost his mind and he is standing in front of the pack looking proud. I always thought Trevor was pretty intelligent. Now I think there is something wrong with him. He just will not stop digging himself into a hole. <br /> "See, that's why I need to restrict Seleste of her power," Trevor says in anger and frustration. <br /> "The warriors are more loyal to her than they are to me. You all need to respect me. I am the alpha. What I say goes. None of you have my permission to leave. If you choose to leave, you will be rogues. Will you throw everything away just for her?"<br /> I am so proud of my Elite 12 members. We always stand for what is right.<br /> "I don't know about the others," Tim said, "But I would rather go, rogue than stay in this pack with you as the alpha. As Gamma Seleste said, respect is earned, and I just lost all that of it I had for you. Sorry, Alpha Connor, I cannot serve your son. I will prepare to leave this pack in the next two hours." Tim said.	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1,011,428	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011253}'	No	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	1575707596558050	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	Everyone stays quiet but my dad nods his head. I take a deep breath and comb my other hand through my hair. Hudson gives my hand another squeeze. Looking up at him with a sad smile.<br /> "On my birthday I found my mate. When I first figured it out who he was I ran back home. He came to the party. Sort of. We went somewhere to talk alone. One thing led to another and we mated," I glanced over to Elliott, his hand is tightly gripping his glass. "After that we got into an argument. He rejected me because he wants to stay with the mate he chose. I've been trying to be OK with this but it got complicated today. I'm pregnant. I was having a heated conversation with Conor about what I wanted to do. Hudson was trying to calm me down, I didn't even know he was home. I gave him the black eye. I'm so incredibly sorry."<br /> Tears streaming down my face and my breathing is erratic. Elliott pushes back from the table and throws his glass at the wall making us all jump.<br /> －－－－－－<br /> I walk into the kitchen where my mom already has a towel for me.<br /> "Thanks Mom, "<br /> "Happy birthday my sweet girl"<br /> She wraps the towel around my shoulders and gives me a big hug. I hear her sniffling and I let go.<br /> "What's wrong, Mom?"<br /> "You're finally 18 and that means you'll be able to find your mate today."<br /> "I'm really not trying to think about it Mom. What is he doesn't want me?" Finding my feet more interesting to look at.<br /> My dad stands up from the stool and walks over to me. He hooks finger underneath my chin, making me look up at him.<br /> "He is going to love you. We raised you to be sweet, kind, caring but fierce when you need to be. Don't let any man tell you otherwise. And happy birthday."<br /> He bent down and pecked my forehead. Walking back in the kitchen to clean up dishes from breakfast.<br /> "I think I'm going to go for a run," I say while drying off my hair.<br /> Walking back up the stairs to my room, I can hear Elliott and Hudson laughing. Grabbing a pair of black sweatpants, a T-shirt and new panties, I quickly get changed in the bathroom. Looking in the mirror to see how bad my hair is. Cringing at the mess, I go to brush my hair out.<br /> Once I'm done I head to the kitchen to quickly grab a bowl of cereal. My mom already has the stuff I like out on the counter for me. I walk over to her and give her a peck on the cheek.<br /> "Where did Dad, Hudson and Elliot runoff to?" I said before taking a huge mouth full of cereal.<br /> "They're just getting something from town. They should be back when you come back from your run."<br /> Nodding my head, I finish eating my breakfast. My mom takes my bowl and put it in the dishwasher.<br /> "Thanks Mom. Shouldn't be too long today. Maisie is restless today. She's making me go crazy in here."<br /> Going out the back door I run to the tree lines. I found the tree that we all hide our clothes when we go for runs. Thankfully it got warmer so this isn't terrible. I quickly strip out of my clothes and start to shift.<br /> It doesn't hurt that much anymore, I've been doing it since I was 16. Everyone in the pack begins to shift then but only when you turn 18 is when you can find your mate.<br /> Shaking my silver fur out, I run deeper into the forest.<br /> "Maisie, why are you so restless?"<br /> "I just have a feeling we are going to meet our mate today"<br /> "I don't wanna get your hopes up if it doesn't happen. Trust me I'm just as nervous and excited but it took Hudson six months to find his and she wasn't even from this pack."<br /> "Let's just try to enjoy the run before the party tonight."<br /> About halfway through my run I stop suddenly. The most intoxicating smell is driving me crazy. It smells like pine trees with sandalwood and a little bit of chocolate.<br /> "That is our mate!"<br /> I follow the smell, running as fast as i can. Once I get to the top of the hill, I can see him. Well I can only see the back of him, but even still he is the most handsome man I have seen. He's not wearing a shirt, his back muscles contract as he does push-ups. His hair shaved on the sides and longer on the top. It's the darkest black I've seen.<br /> At that moment he must smell me because he gets up slowly. All of his muscles are tense as he turns around. Once I can see who he is the excitement drains from my body. No way!<br /> He takes one step toward us. I turn around and run towards home.<br /> "Turn back around! That's our mate!" Maisie whines.<br /> "I know! But we can't be with him and I know you know why."<br /> Maisie whimpers because she understands. Our soul is broken in that moment.<br /> I reached the tree and quickly get changed. I run back into the house trying to keep my tears from falling until I get to my room. My family is in the living room as a sprint past them.<br /> "How was your run?" My dad asks.<br /> Ignoring all of them, I run up the stairs to my bedroom. Slam the door closed and jump in to my bed. Soon as my head hits my pillow, I can't stop the tears now.<br /> Why did it have to be him? He knew for two years and never once said anything to me about it. Of course my mate is Royal.<br /> ...<br /> The party is a blast. Basically half of the pack it's here in the house. Chloe and Emily are doing a great job at keeping my brothers distracted.<br /> Jade and I are dancing in the living room with Conor and Eli. The four of us have been best friends since preschool. Since we graduated high school, we have been inseparable all summer.<br /> While I'm dancing with Conor, I get the feeling that someone is watching me. I try looking around to see who it is but both of my brothers are nowhere to be seen.<br /> "I'm going to go outside for a couple minutes. I need to cool down," I yell at my friends.<br /> Walking through the giant crowd in the living room, I go into the kitchen to grab some water and make my way to the backyard.<br /> There are a couple people outside mingling. They all wish me happy birthday. I walk across the patio and take a seat on the floating chair.<br /> I still feel like someone's watching me. But as I go to stand up, the hairs on the back of my neck stand straight up. I freeze breathing in deeply. That intoxicating smell makes a small shiver run through my body. I slowly turn my head towards the tree line.<br /> Royal is standing against a tree. I can't look away from him. It's like everything else in the world just doesn't exist. He motions for me to follow him as he turns around.<br /> Maisie is hollering at me to follow him. I really want to. Honestly, I did not expect him to show up. That gives me some hope. Maybe Maisie is right, maybe he wants to explain. My heart quickly over powers my mind and I followed him into the woods.<br /> ...<br /> Once I'm all dressed, I turn around to see him facing the opposite direction. All of his muscles are tense and he is shaking. I slowly walk up to him and touch his arm. He shakes off my arm and growls at me. I take a couple steps back.<br /> "We should have never done that," he says clearly angry.<br /> My whole body stiffens. He turns around to look at me.<br /> "You're the one who knew that I was your mate for two years! You never said anything to me! And yet you still stayed with Cassie! You chose her over me!" I snapped back at him.<br /> "You're right I did choose Cassie, because I love her and I have loved her since we were 10 years old! And I will continue to choose Cassie!"<br /> I can't hold back the tears anymore. Keeping my arms at my sides, I dig my finger nails into my palms.<br /> "So you're going to choose her knowing that you have a mate, the other half of your soul, because you've been together for 10 years."<br /> "Yes."<br /> "You are so unbelievably selfish. Denying with the moon goddess wanted, what our wolves need!" I yell at him."So why did you just mate me!?"<br /> "Because my wolf was going insane without you. He wanted me to mark you but I can't do that. I won't do it!" He growls at me, taking a step closer to me.<br /> Tears running down my cheeks as I bend my head down and let out a sob. I can see Royals feet standing in front of me.<br /> "Look at me," He says roughly.<br /> I shake my head no. My whole body trembling for what I know is coming.<br /> He hooks finger underneath my chin and pushes my head up so I'm looking into his eyes. I take a step back so I don't feel the tingling.<br /> "Please. Don't do this," I beg him.<br /> "I, Royal Anderson, reject you Victoria West," he says and walks away.<br /> I fall to my knees, my hand over my heart has I gasp in air. Maisie is whining. Our soul crushed. I let out a mix between a scream and a sob into the forest.<br /> I wait about 15 minutes trying to collect myself. I start to walk back home.<br /> "Why would he do this to us?" Maisie whimpers.<br /> "Because he's an prick. He loves Cassie. He doesn't want us Maisie! We are going to be better off without him," I snapped back at her.<br /> "But you know that we need him."<br /> "We don't need any man, especially one like Royal. We are going to have to be strong together. We will be strong."<br /> Stepping back onto the patio, Jade comes out.<br /> "I have been looking everywhere for yo-" she stops as soon as she sees my face.<br /> Tears start running down my face again. I hug her as tight as I can.<br /> "He rejected me," I cry into her shoulder.<br /> "Let's go upstairs and you can tell me everything while I fix your make up," she says well wiping some of the tears off my face.<br /> We both run upstairs and I tell her everything except who he is. I can't have any of us acting differently around him. Is my family finds out at him, it's going to cause all kinds of problems. He's Alpha and my dad is still one of the head warriors.<br /> Finishing my make up, we had back downstairs. The party just blurs together. My heart is breaking. I know we can get through this. We have to.<br /> ...<br /> 6 weeks later<br /> The first week after Royal rejected me I stayed in bed. My parents were worried, both of my brothers tried to get me to talk about what was wrong and Jade was with me every single day.<br /> After that the weeks have gone by quickly. Jade and I have been out every day. Either at the pool, driving around in the Jeep with Conor and Eli and enjoying the summer.<br /> Every morning we decided to go on runs together. That has been super helpful. Conor and Eli don't know I was rejected. Only Jade knows. I think my dad suspects something happened with my mate but he hasn't asked yet.<br /> The four of us are on our way to the store to pick up some things for the pool. We each pick out a new raft. The boys are going to grab snacks while Jade and I go to find more tanning oil and sunscreen.<br /> We both grab a couple of each and start walking toward the registers.<br /> "Oh wait! While we're here I need to grab more tampons before next week," Jade says that she grabs my arm and pulls me down the aisle.<br /> As she is looking for hers, I'm lost in my own thoughts. I normally get my period before hers. Counting back to the days quickly, trying to figure out how late I am. She finds what she's looking for and tosses it into the cart.<br /> "Are you OK?" She asks.<br /> I look at her, my eyes are wide and I shake my head no. I can't even get the words out. I swallow hard trying to find the nerve to speak. Thank the moon goddess I don't have to, she looks up at me and gasps.<br /> "Oh, you're late," she says with a hand over her mouth.<br /> Conor and Eli find us as we both just stare at each other.<br /> "We got everything we need," Eli says. Dumping everything into the cart.<br /> "Why don't you guys go check out, we both want to go and look at something real quick," Jade quickly says shoving the cart at Conor and shooing them away.<br /> With them quickly gone we both quickly run to get tests. I grab the box with three of them. We check out quickly at the pharmacy and I hide the test in my purse.<br /> We quickly meet up with the boys in the parking lot loading up the Jeep. I get in the driver side and start of the Jeep. Once we are all loaded up, we had back home.<br /> Pulling into the driveway, we all grab bags and head inside. We leave all the snacks out on the kitchen island.<br /> "We're going to go outside and start blowing up the rafts. Go get changed so we can go swimming," Connor says.<br /> We both run upstairs and slam my bedroom door. I grab the test box out of my purse and open it up.<br /> "I feel like sick to my stomach," I tell Jade.<br /> "Well good thing you're already going to be in the bathroom," she deadpans. "Grab your swimsuit, go pee on those and by the time we're both done getting ready they should be ready," Jade says calmly.<br /> I grab my bikini and the three tests, closing the bathroom door. I quickly take all three and to turn them over. Getting changed into my bikini. I can't stop my hands from shaking. Trying to take deep breaths as I pace back-and-forth.<br /> Going up to the counter I turn all three over and look down. I pick one up and read the word, pregnant.<br /> I yell checking the other two.<br /> I open the bathroom door, Jade looks up at me. Couple tears fall down my cheeks and she's instantly hugging me.<br /> "I'm going to be a mom," I say softly as my whole body shakes.<br /> "You are going to be the best mom. You don't need him. He doesn't deserve anything," she replies.<br /> Conor and Eli come in. Stopping dead in their the tracks to try to piece and what's going on. Conor spots the test in my hand and looks up at me. I let go of Jade to stand in front of them.<br /> Eli looks over at Conor but Conor won't take his eyes off of me.<br /> "Are you really?" Conor whispers.<br /> Nodding my head, he instantly grabs me up in a hug. Resting his chin on my head. He pecks the top of my head. He puts both of his hands on the side of my face and makes me look at him, using his thumbs to wipe away my tears.<br /> "Who?" He asks gently.<br /> "My mate. My birthday, I found him. We mated and he did not mark me. He rejected me right after." I say sobbing.<br /> Eli and Conor both growl wildly. I look over at Eli and his eyes are almost black. He runs out of my room as I yelled for him to come back. He slams the front door and shifts. Running to the woods.<br /> The three of us go downstairs silently and start making lunch. I can't stop my hands from shaking. I grabbed everything we need for outside and set it outside on the table.<br /> I sit down in the chair staring off at the tree line waiting for Eli to come back. Jade squeezes my hand.<br /> "He'll be back soon. He just needs to wolf out. He's not mad at you," Jade says.<br /> "No I'm not mad at you. I am mad at that jack hip," Eli says coming over to give me a hug.<br /> He hugs me tightly picking me up. Setting me down gently,pecking my forehead and taking a seat next to Conor. We all eat our lunch.<br /> Grabbing my new floaty, I place it on the edge so I can climb in and rest on it. They join me a couple minutes later.<br /> "I have to tell my family today," I say randomly.<br /> "We can be there when you do, if you want," Jade says and both guys agree.<br /> "No. I have to do this alone. And I have to come up with a plan on what I'm going to do. I can't stay here."<br /> "What do you mean you can't stay here?! Your family is here and we are here!" Conor yells.<br /> "And so is my mate who rejected me for someone else!" I snap back.<br /> I jump off my float and into the water. Swimming over to the steps to get out. I grab my towel and dry off my face.<br /> "You think I want to leave?! Do you think it's going to be easy to say goodbye to you three and my family?! I have to do this alone! The one person who is supposed to be there, who was made to be my other half, mated me, rejected me to be with someone else and now I'm pregnant with his pup! He doesn't get to know, he doesn't deserve to get a say in this kids life anymore!" I holler while sobbing.<br /> All three of them look at me. Not saying a thing. Because they know I'm right. An arm wraps around my shoulders and I growl spinning around and punch whoever just grabbed me in the eye.<br /> All three of them rush out of the pool. Eli scoops me up and carries me over to the recliner. Jade rushed over to who I punched and Conor runs inside for a ice pack.<br /> I'm shaking and I don't know if it's because of the anger or being scared. Conor gives Jade one ice pack then slowly walks over towards me.<br /> "I won't punch you. I don't know what came over me. I'm sorry."<br /> "You just went into protective mama mode on Hudson's hip," Conor says chuckling.<br /> I let Conor wrap my hand in the ice pack. I rest my head on his shoulder.<br /> "Did he hear me yelling?" I whisper.<br /> "Unfortunately, I heard every word," Hudson says.	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1,011,435	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	1609887046513531	Free reading with Title "Love at the Wrong Table"	A male gynecologist went to the wrong table on a blind date, but he didn't expect that a female CEO with a net worth of tens of billions would be interested in him.<br /> ............................................................................................................................................................<br /> “I know, Mom. I'm in front of the café. Call you later!” Emmanuel Lowe hung up on his mother impatiently.<br /> The twenty-eight-year-old man had never been in a relationship.<br /> <br /> After spending seven years in the army, he retired from the military and worked at a hospital in Yeringham for three years.<br /> <br /> He was a gynecologist at the hospital and made eighty thousand a year.<br /> <br /> Worried he would end up old and alone, Emmanuel's mother urged him to settle down. Since he had no idea where to begin when it came to dating, his mother took matters into her own hands and set him up on multiple blind dates.<br /> <br /> Thanks to her efforts, he had gone on seventeen blind dates so far.<br /> <br /> Alas, wedding bells were clearly not on the horizon for Emmanuel. It was frustrating. He knew he was just going through the motions at that point.<br /> <br /> “Help! Someone help me!”<br /> <br /> Right before Emmanuel entered the café, he heard someone calling out weakly for help.<br /> <br /> The cries came from an old man who had fallen on the roadside. Many pedestrians walked past him, but no one dared to stop and help him to his feet.<br /> <br /> After all, helping the old man could be more trouble than it was worth if one ended up with an expensive lawsuit for injuring him further. No one would do something that risky and foolish.<br /> <br /> It did not deter Emmanuel from stepping forward and helping the man to his feet. He asked, “Are you all right, sir?”<br /> <br /> “I'm fine! Thank you so much, young man! It's so hard to find people as kind as you these days. I must repay you for your kindness!” replied the old man with a smile.<br /> <br /> Emmanuel realized then that the old man's attire was at odds with his airs. Despite his tattered clothes, the old man's clean hands looked like those of a man accustomed to wealth.<br /> <br /> Still, he had no time to satisfy his curiosity. After confirming that the old man was unharmed, Emmanuel rushed into the café for his blind date. He never once considered being repaid for his kind act earlier.<br /> <br /> The café was massive and practically structured like a maze.<br /> <br /> Emmanuel's mother mentioned that his blind date was seated at table number eight. He wandered through the confusing café, but before he could locate the correct table, he stumbled into a special area.<br /> <br /> The lighting was softer there, and the floor was scattered with fresh petals.<br /> <br /> The sweet scent of flowers wafted through the air. He wondered if he had set foot in heaven.<br /> <br /> Emmanuel raised his eyes and immediately froze.<br /> <br /> A beautiful, elegant woman sat before a table in the room.<br /> <br /> It was no exaggeration to say she embodied perfection itself.<br /> <br /> The heavens clearly decided to shower all their favors on her.<br /> <br /> The woman quietly sipped her coffee with her legs crossed neatly to the side. On the table was a non-translated copy of The Power Broker.<br /> <br /> When she noticed Emmanuel barging into the room, she looked up at him in confusion and displeasure.<br /> <br /> Thump! Thump! Thump!<br /> <br /> When Emmanuel recovered from the shock of stumbling upon the beautiful stranger, he realized his heart was about to beat its way out of his chest.<br /> <br /> Never once had he ever felt so attracted to a woman in his twenty-eight years of life.<br /> <br /> The countless female bodies he had seen in his work as a gynecologist hardly appealed to him. At some point, he even wondered if he was attracted to women at all.<br /> <br /> Against all odds, it seemed, the young woman before him made his heart race like a runaway horse.<br /> <br /> Am I simply nervous, or am I already attracted to her?<br /> <br /> More surprisingly, Emmanuel noticed a large number eight sign on the woman's table.<br /> <br /> She's my blind date?<br /> <br /> He took a deep breath to calm himself before approaching her table and taking a seat opposite her.<br /> <br /> The young woman's expression grew increasingly flabbergasted. There was even a hint of hostility in her pretty eyes.<br /> <br /> The audacity of this man! Barging into my private room is bad enough, but he's going to sit opposite me like it's nobody's business?<br /> <br /> Emmanuel ignored her expression. It was not the first time a woman had scoffed at him.<br /> <br /> They were free to go their separate ways after getting the blind date done and over with.<br /> <br /> He introduced himself, declaring, “Hi! My name is Emmanuel Lowe. I'm twenty-eight years old, and I work as a gynecologist. I make eighty thousand a year and don't own a car or a house.”<br /> <br /> Any man would need an incredible amount of courage to say such things to a woman, but Emmanuel appeared unusually calm and unfazed.<br /> <br /> The young woman stared at him in shock. A moment later, her lips curved into a smirk, and she replied with an introduction of her own.<br /> <br /> “Nice to meet you. I'm Mackenzie Quillen. I'm twenty-seven years old with dual doctorates in finance and business administration from Harvard University. I made three billion last year, and I have a car and a house.”<br /> <br /> Emmanuel was stunned.<br /> <br /> What is happening?<br /> <br /> He always thought women on blind dates came with red flags.<br /> <br /> Mackenzie, however, was arguably flawless.<br /> <br /> Where's the catch?<br /> <br /> All sorts of fantastical theories filled Emmanuel's mind.<br /> <br /> Mackenzie smirked at his perplexed expression. The pride in her cool gaze was evident.<br /> <br /> She deliberately introduced herself to put the stranger in a difficult spot and intimidate him into retreating.<br /> <br /> As expected, awkward silence lingered in the air after her words.<br /> <br /> Urgh, forget it!<br /> <br /> Whether Mackenzie was telling the truth was beside the point. Emmanuel decided to go through all the motions so he could at least mollify his mother, even if the date did not result in a trip to the altar.<br /> <br /> He declared, “I don't make much, but if you decide to date me, I promise I'll always protect and cherish you. I'll take over all the household chores so you can be a queen at home. Of course, I hope you'll allow me to preserve my masculine pride in front of my family. If we do get married, I can give you about five to six thousand every month.”<br /> <br /> It was a well-worn script that Emmanuel recited in a single breath.<br /> <br /> Mackenzie was dumbfounded at his earnest expression and apparent lack of shame at his much lower salary.<br /> <br /> A long while later, she burst into a chuckle.<br /> <br /> She had never met a man who could humor her so.<br /> <br /> “What are you laughing about?” Unimpressed by her reaction, Emmanuel continued, “I know I don't check all the boxes, but I promise I'll be a good and responsible husband if we're married!”<br /> <br /> Pfft!<br /> <br /> Mackenzie failed to keep in her snigger.<br /> <br /> An annoyed Emmanuel demanded, “Why are you laughing, Ms. Quillen? Don't you think you're being rather rude?”<br /> <br /> “Sir, you're a very good man!” Mackenzie stopped smiling and retorted coldly, “But I think you're the confused one here. I'm not here for a blind date!”<br /> <br /> Huh? What is going on?<br /> <br /> Emmanuel's eyes widened in horror as he sputtered, “Isn't this table number eight?”<br /> <br /> “Yes, but this is the VIP area. You must be looking for table number eight in the common dining area. Please go out and turn right!” She pointed a slender finger at the exit.<br /> <br /> “Oh... Sorry! I'm so sorry! I mixed things up!”<br /> <br /> Emmanuel wished he could sink into the floor in embarrassment. He jumped to his feet, ready to make a hasty escape.<br /> <br /> That was so embarrassing! How could I sit at the wrong table for a blind date? No wonder she was laughing so much. She must have thought I was shooting above my weight!<br /> <br /> Shortly after Emmanuel's departure, an old man entered Mackenzie's private room, escorted by four black-clad bodyguards.<br /> <br /> Emmanuel would have been astonished if he was still around. The old man was none other than the stranger he had helped earlier in front of the café!<br /> <br /> He implored, “Perhaps this is fate, Mackenzie. You're twenty-seven, but you've never been in a relationship because of your misandry. No man would dare come near you! But that young man succeeded! He's also a kind and just person. A while ago, he helped me outside the café and didn't expect a reward for his actions!”<br /> <br /> The old man's true identity was Terence Quillen, chairman of Yeringham's premier financial corporation.<br /> <br /> While his wealth could trump that of entire nations, he had a major regret in life.<br /> <br /> Terence had had three sons who tragically passed away before him. They either had no children of their own or only left daughters behind.<br /> <br /> Mackenzie was Terence's favorite granddaughter and next-in-line to helm Terence Group.<br /> <br /> Her intelligence and charisma did not change the fact that she was a woman.<br /> <br /> Before Terence met his maker, he wished his favorite granddaughter could give him a great-grandchild.<br /> <br /> That spurred him to fake his fall in front of the café and scout a decent man for his granddaughter. To his surprise, the young man who helped him earlier made a blunder of his own blind date and ended up meeting Mackenzie instead.<br /> <br /> Isn't that fate?<br /> <br /> Mackenzie remained stoically unmoved by her grandfather's words. “Grandpa, he may have passed your test, but he hasn't passed mine. I'll marry him if he aces my test.”<br /> <br /> She wanted to fulfill her grandfather's wish, but she naturally wished to promise herself to a good man.<br /> <br /> Marrying a man after one blind date was simply too hasty and careless.<br /> <br /> Terence's gaze lit up expectantly, and he replied, “All right! I'm sure he will pass your test!”<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Failure<br /> <br /> After turning right at the door, Emmanuel finally found table number eight in the common dining area.<br /> <br /> Sure enough, a woman was seated at the table, looking like she was running out of patience.<br /> <br /> Dressed in professional attire that accentuated her beautiful curves, she was, by all means, a sight to behold.<br /> <br /> Even though she didn't exude the same air of elegance that Mackenzie had, there was no denying she had the power to make men fall at her feet.<br /> <br /> Thankfully, Emmanuel wasn't disappointed in the slightest. After all, he was well aware of his own qualities.<br /> <br /> Without further ado, he straightened himself up and approached the woman with a smile.<br /> <br /> “Sorry I'm late! My name's Emmanuel Lowe. I'm twenty-eight years old, and I work as a gynecologist with an annual salary of eighty thousand—”<br /> <br /> “Stop!” the woman coldly interrupted before he could finish his introduction. “What's the meaning of this? With what little you have to offer; do you seriously think women would want to marry you? I can't believe you even had the nerve to be late! What right do you have to keep a woman waiting? This has been an utter waste of my time. Hmph!”<br /> <br /> After firing off a barrage of questions, the red-faced woman angrily splashed a glass of water on Emmanuel's face.<br /> <br /> The latter, who was caught off guard, instantly became soaking wet.<br /> <br /> Nevertheless, Emmanuel didn't lose his temper. After all, he was indeed late because he went to the wrong place, so he could understand why the woman was upset.<br /> <br /> “Hmph. You're twenty-eight and still only earning eighty-thousand a year. No wonder you're doing so poorly! Not only do you lack punctuality, but you also don't seem to take life seriously. You're doomed to be at the bottom of the social hierarchy your entire life! I'm shocked you even have the guts to go on a blind date with me... Stop being delusional!” the woman scolded as she shot Emmanuel a look of contempt.<br /> <br /> The next second, she grabbed her bag and stormed off, not once bothering to leave her name.<br /> <br /> To add insult to injury, she even waved a wad of cash in front of Emmanuel's face, then slapped it hard on the table as payment for the bill.<br /> <br /> The latter's gaze darkened instantly as rage began pulsing through his veins.<br /> <br /> This woman is humiliating me! I may not have high expectations for marriage, but that doesn't mean I don't have a temper! Argh! As much as I want to make her regret her actions, I know I don't have that capability...<br /> <br /> Since the woman was gone, Emmanuel, too, left the café glumly.<br /> <br /> To his surprise, he had only just stepped out the door when he saw a long-haired man deliberately colliding into a BMW and screaming in pain.<br /> <br /> Emmanuel couldn't help but furrow his brows. Oh, gosh. That man is clearly staging a car accident. Why is there so much trouble in this café today?<br /> <br /> “Ah! Someone's been hit!”<br /> <br /> “Argh! My leg's broken! Murderer!”<br /> <br /> Four men immediately rushed out to join the commotion when the long-haired man fell on the ground.<br /> <br /> Thankfully, Emmanuel saw right through their ploy. Ha! Those guys must be the co-conspirators!<br /> <br /> Just then, a young lady hastily exited the BMW, clad in a maroon sleeveless dress that revealed a large expanse of tender, fair skin.<br /> <br /> “What's the matter? How could I have injured your leg when I was driving so slowly?” she asked anxiously.<br /> <br /> Seconds later, the long-haired man's buddies surrounded the woman, demanding compensation. “Cut the crap! Pay up! Pay up now!”<br /> <br /> Several people in the café had witnessed the staged accident, but unfortunately, they were so afraid of the big, burly men that no one dared to confront them.<br /> <br /> “How much do you guys want?” the woman muttered helplessly, having resigned herself to the fact that she'd have to settle the matter with money.<br /> <br /> The group of thugs, however, began leering at and drooling over her.<br /> <br /> “Haha. Hey, why don't you have some fun with us?” one of the men suggested.<br /> <br /> Just like that, what had started as a staged accident quickly turned into public harassment.<br /> <br /> The pretty woman was so scared out of her wits that she staggered backward until she bumped into Emmanuel.<br /> <br /> Instead of taking advantage of her like the other thugs, Emmanuel stepped in front of her and glared at the long-haired man.<br /> <br /> “Your leg's broken, and you're asking for compensation, huh?”<br /> <br /> Upon seeing Emmanuel's menacing expression, the thugs felt chills down their spines.<br /> <br /> At the same time, Mackenzie was sitting in the café and watching the entire scene unfold.<br /> <br /> Well, well, well. Who knew that man would be so brave? I'm sure no one else would have the guts to go up against five thugs.<br /> <br /> The next second, Emmanuel stunned everyone by viciously kicking the long-haired man's leg.<br /> <br /> “Argh!” the latter shouted in pain as he began hopping on the leg that was supposedly broken.<br /> <br /> The onlookers instantly let out a collective gasp.<br /> <br /> Goodness gracious! That man is daring!<br /> <br /> Mackenzie, too, had curled her lips into a smile.<br /> <br /> The café was one of her properties, so naturally, she had also seen how Emmanuel's blind date went.<br /> <br /> I thought he was a timid man when he didn't flare up despite being splashed with water. Who knew he was just a gentleman who doesn't lose his temper with women? I must admit, he looks rather charming when he shows his tough side!<br /> <br /> “What's this? Didn't you say your leg's broken? I'm impressed you can still jump on it!” Emmanuel mocked.<br /> <br /> When the onlookers realized that the long-haired man had lied about his injury, they wasted no time scolding and criticizing him.<br /> <br /> By then, the other thugs had also lost their bravado and fell silent. After all, they knew the tables had turned on them.<br /> <br /> “Hmph. I'll let you off this time. You'd better watch your back!” the long-haired man warned before running away with his tail between his legs.<br /> <br /> With that, the pretty woman gave Emmanuel a warm smile and coyly gestured for him to get into her car. “Hey, handsome, thank you so much for your help. Would you like to go to my house for a drink?”<br /> <br /> Emmanuel, however, brushed her off without a second thought. “No, thank you. I have other things to do!”<br /> <br /> Seeing how unmoved he was by her advances, the woman couldn't help but stomp her feet in frustration.<br /> <br /> Back in the café, Mackenzie heard her grandfather burst into loud guffaws.<br /> <br /> “Haha! I told you so, Mackenzie! Didn't I say that man has an excellent character? Your assistant, Lexi, is such a beautiful woman, yet he refuses to give her the time of day! Once you guys are married, you won't have to worry about him betraying you!”<br /> <br /> The more Mackenzie ruminated about Terence's words, the more her impression of Emmanuel improved.<br /> <br /> “Don't be too happy yet, Grandpa! Men are either after looks or money,” Mackenzie uttered coldly before getting up.<br /> <br /> Ha! I doubt Emmanuel can pass my second secret test of character!<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Emmanuel had gotten home after his matchmaking session failed spectacularly.<br /> <br /> Needless to say, his sister, Roselynn Lowe, was frustrated beyond belief. “What? Another unsuccessful blind date?”<br /> <br /> This is the eighteenth time, for goodness' sake! My brother's a six-foot tall, fit, and upstanding young man. Why won't any woman take a fancy to him? He may be thick-skulled at times, but surely, someone will still appreciate him for his good looks, won't they?<br /> <br /> Emmanuel's mother, Alessandra Cadigan, seemed even more anxious as she hurriedly dragged him out of the house.<br /> <br /> “Mom, what are you doing?” Emmanuel asked, startled by how panic-stricken Alessandra was.<br /> <br /> “What am I doing? I'm worried sick about you!” the woman scolded without breaking her stride. “I don't understand it, either. Our neighbor's an unkempt twenty-eight-year-old novelist who's always cooped up at home, yet he's already planning for his second child! Why can't my son get a girlfriend? That woman didn't even stay for the blind date, did she? I paid good money to set this up for you! Let's go see her at her house right now!”<br /> <br /> “What?” Emmanuel choked out.<br /> <br /> Did I hear that right? I can't believe Mom has gotten this desperate! The matchmaking session was an utter failure, so why must she still insist on dragging me to the woman's place? Wouldn't I just be embarrassing myself again?<br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Rags to Riches<br /> <br /> In any relationship, the party taking the initiative was often seen as lowlier and more desperate.<br /> <br /> Therefore, upon seeing Emmanuel and his family at her house, Milani Zimmerman wore an even haughtier expression than when she was at the café.<br /> <br /> Ha! I knew he wouldn't be able to get over my looks, so he's come to badger me again!<br /> <br /> Milani's mother, Melody Claus, was just as smug when she learned of the Lowe family's intention.<br /> <br /> “If your son wishes to marry my daughter, you'll have to give us a betrothal gift of five hundred thousand,” she said as she raised her palm. “We won't accept anything less!”<br /> <br /> Emmanuel's heart instantly sank.<br /> <br /> Oh, my goodness! Five hundred thousand? Is she trying to sell her daughter?<br /> <br /> Alessandra, however, gritted her teeth and nodded. “T-That's fine!”<br /> <br /> As long as my son can get married, I'll do anything to make up for the betrothal gift, even if it means selling the house!<br /> <br /> “Your family must also provide a car and matrimonial home!” Milani's father chimed in. “More importantly, you're not going to let my daughter pay for any installments or maintenance fees!”<br /> <br /> By then, Emmanuel was on the verge of losing his patience.<br /> <br /> Shouldn't marriages be consensual? I don't expect both parties to be forking out the wedding expenses equally, but why does it feel like my family's here to surrender and be fleeced?<br /> <br /> Alessandra, too, found herself in a tight spot.<br /> <br /> She could sell the house to afford the betrothal gift, but how would she pay for the couple's car and home?<br /> <br /> “Sure. That's no problem!” Roselynn piped up, even going so far as to pull her brother back when she realized he wanted to object.<br /> <br /> She was just as eager for Emmanuel to start a family, and at thirty years old, she had worked and saved up enough to make the necessary down payments for him.<br /> <br /> Since Mom is settling the betrothal gift, I shall help Emmanuel with the car and home!<br /> <br /> “Lastly, he will bear all household expenses after the wedding!” Milani suddenly said.<br /> <br /> That, however, was the last straw for Emmanuel. “I don't mind paying this much if she's coming to work for us as a housekeeper, but if she expects to be treated like a princess or queen, you can forget it! I don't need that!”<br /> <br /> “Look at your son! What's with that attitude?” Milani yelled. “We aren't even married yet, and he's already so domineering. Wouldn't it be worse down the road?”<br /> <br /> “No, no, no... The marriage will work out. It'd work out just fine!” Alessandra pleaded, desperate to finalize the wedding.<br /> <br /> I can't wait any longer... I must fulfill my husband's last wish by the end of the year!<br /> <br /> Having seen how things were going, even Roselynn knew she had to step in to persuade her mother. “Mom! Stop forcing it!”<br /> <br /> Manny's right. There's nothing wrong with giving a betrothal gift, car, and house. However, asking him to be the sole supporter of his family after the wedding is too much! What about his wife, then? Why can't she chip in? Will she be sending her own money back to her parents?<br /> <br /> Just then, Milani's younger brother, Jacob Zimmerman, suddenly appeared with a cocky grin plastered on his face. “Haha! Don't forget about me, Milani! When it's my turn to get married, I'd be counting on you guys to buy me my car and house too!”<br /> <br /> Upon hearing that, Emmanuel instantly exploded with rage.<br /> <br /> “What? Am I marrying your sister or your entire family? I may as well support all of you!”<br /> <br /> Even though Emmanuel had only meant that as an angry remark, Milani decided to hold him to his word. “Hah! You'd better remember what you just said! In that case, I'll leave you to plan and pay for the wedding banquet and honeymoon. Don't tell me you can't afford that...”<br /> <br /> “Get lost! I'd rather marry anybody than you!” Emmanuel retorted as the rage and ferocity he used to experience on the battlefield came flooding back.<br /> <br /> He didn't know what the Zimmermans were playing at, but there was no doubt they were monsters.<br /> <br /> “Look at yourself! How dare you ask me for my hand in marriage! I'd rather marry anybody than you too!” Milani snapped back.<br /> <br /> Given my qualities, I have no problem marrying a rich man, so why should I settle for a man like Emmanuel? I'm only too happy that he wants to fall out with me!<br /> <br /> After giving an exasperated laugh, Emmanuel stood up and stormed off, leaving Alessandra and Roselynn with no choice but to follow suit.<br /> <br /> To their surprise, they had only just stepped out of the Zimmerman residence when three luxury cars pulled up in front of them.<br /> <br /> The Zimmermans quickly popped out to see the commotion and almost dropped their jaws when they saw the car lineup.<br /> <br /> Oh! Those cars are worth tens of millions! What's going on? Since when were the Lowes that fancy?<br /> <br /> Emmanuel, on the other contrary, seemed to recognize one of the cars. Hmm... Didn't I see that car outside the café?<br /> <br /> The next second, Terence stepped out of the car, surrounded by his convoy of suited bodyguards.<br /> <br /> He smiled as he approached Emmanuel and said politely, “I'm here to return the favor, Mr. Lowe, after you helped me outside the café!”<br /> <br /> Needless to say, everyone was stunned.<br /> <br /> Roselynn couldn't hide her excitement and gripped her brother's arm tightly.<br /> <br /> Ah! Isn't this like those rags-to-riches stories?<br /> <br /> The more Emmanuel thought about it, the more he frowned. Wow... Who knew this old man was a millionaire? Could he have intentionally fallen at the café?<br /> <br /> Terence waved his hand, and within seconds, his subordinates had unloaded several boxes of gifts.<br /> <br /> Not only were there precious stones and jewelry, but there were also famous paintings, antiques, and even a Porsche key.<br /> <br /> The total value of the items had to be at least ten million.<br /> <br /> For someone who earned a mere eighty thousand a year, ten million was an eye-watering amount of money that Emmanuel could only dream of!<br /> <br /> Upon witnessing the scene, the Zimmerman family almost collapsed in shock.<br /> <br /> Milani might be a well-dressed woman, but the truth was, her family was just like any other average family. To them, ten million was undoubtedly an astronomical sum!<br /> <br /> If I had known Emmanuel would become a multi-millionaire, I'd have married him straightaway!<br /> <br /> After snapping out of her daze, she smiled and hastily clutched Emmanuel's arm.<br /> <br /> “What's the matter, darling? Oh, wow... You're so kind to help the elderly! I love that about you!”<br /> <br /> “Who's your darling?” Emmanuel asked, embarrassing Milani so much that she wanted to crawl into a hole.<br /> <br /> As though that wasn't enough, he brusquely pushed her away and added, “Didn't you just reject me? Why are you still calling me that?”<br /> <br /> “Uh... I—” Milani muttered, clearly at a loss for words.<br /> <br /> Her family, too, was incredibly frustrated.<br /> <br /> After all, they had just missed out on getting a wealthy son-in-law!<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Alessandra was about to say something when Roselynn tugged at her.<br /> <br /> As much as I want Manny to start a family, I can't let him settle for the horrible Zimmermans! Besides, he's rich now! I'm sure he can find a better woman!<br /> <br /> “Mom, Roselynn, let's go!” Emmanuel said before ushering both women into the car.<br /> <br /> He didn't want to accept the gifts, especially since he knew he hadn't done anything to deserve them. However, it wasn't the time and place to discuss the matter, so he decided to leave instead.<br /> <br /> Once the Lowe family had left, a gust of cold wind swept over the Zimmermans as they seethed silently.<br /> <br /> “How could you have made such remarks earlier, Milani? Do you think it's easy to find a millionaire these days?” Melody berated.<br /> <br /> “W-What should I do now, then?”<br /> <br /> In all honesty, Milani was at a complete loss. She had gone on several blind dates to find a rich husband who could give her a life of luxury.<br /> <br /> Alas, who knew she'd let a multi-millionaire slip right through her fingers?<br /> <br /> “What else can we do? They've already come to our place to ask for your hand in marriage. Can't we do the same?” Melody suggested.<br /> <br /> Jacob, who was just as anxious, instantly exclaimed, “I don't care, Milani! You have to marry that multi-millionaire! When my girlfriend and I get married, you must give us a house and a luxury car! Otherwise, I'll disown you!”<br /> <br /> “Okay, okay. I got it!” Milani replied with a long sigh.<br /> <br /> Argh! Emmanuel and I left on such bad terms... Would he still care about me?<br /> <br /> 👉To continue reading the story for free, download the app and search📚"Love at the Wrong Table". Enjoy Romance Now🥰	LEARN_MORE	https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share-custom4	102114825976458	The novels	https://facebook.com/100085012467697	31,030	1	1,401,510,744,067,382	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	The novels	120207700486960429	page.joyreadings.com	NONE	image		https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share-custom4.html?lang=en&id=4685&brand=2&app=0&ppid=1635&pid=FBW2A&campaign={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&utm_source=FBW2A&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_term={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}}&ori_campaign_id=120207700483120429&ori_adset_id=120207700484180429&ori_ad_id=120207700485930429	2024-04-07 04:01	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434457473_1490031818214583_4730553839567812549_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7rtpHiP2M08Ab5ab0eS&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDA9nSe7Xtdco1WNyeGSfw3lC1TgnvOyWSoD5imHeCUlg&oe=6618E592	person_profile	The novels	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434472813_1485204932399209_4401766635188624897_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gDn0np2Zwo8Ab5WqjyH&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfCS15MSLjOBCjHG6PgttrQ9Im5bOa-ZVUMKCjhYQ6jxcw&oe=6618C84A	3	The novels	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,011,466	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011472}'	No	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	2743789889131180	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	At first I wonder if I'm seeing double; then it hits me. No wonder they seem familiar! Brock and Cody Easton are twins, first-year draft picks, and star players for the Leopards. In the NFL world, they're better known as the Beast Brothers.<br /> As I stand up, the man by the car — is he Cody or Brock? — looks me over. There's something other than concern in his gaze and he's not even trying to be subtle about it. His eyes travel down my body and up again, taking in my curves, and his expression changes from annoyance to speculation.<br /> My skin feels too tight all of a sudden, as if my nerve endings were trying to push through, leap across the space between us, and wrap themselves around him. What is wrong with me? It's only been a few hours since I packed my car and left my prick of an ex, I was just in a car accident, and here I am salivating over two men I haven't even properly met.<br /> —<br /> Megan<br /> The best thing Jason ever did was cheat on me.<br /> Not that I'm grateful to my skunk of an ex-fiancé at the moment. I'm crawling down the freeway in bumper-to-bumper traffic, heading into my hometown. There's a big game this weekend and the Leopards are the team to beat in the NFL, so everybody and his brother has come to see them take on the Stallions.<br /> Reaching my exit at last, I take the off-ramp to Central Avenue. It's as crowded as the freeway, crammed with cars trying to get home or to a hotel before the dark clouds overhead unleash their fury. I inch along, wishing the traffic would vanish so I could pistol the puny engine on my compact car and vent some of my emotions.<br /> Every time the scene from this morning intrudes on my mind, anger and pain flare up anew. I'm sick of driving, sick of grieving, of wasting my tears on a man who doesn't deserve them. If I hadn't come home early and found Jason balls-deep in another woman, I'd still be planning our wedding.<br /> I need a drink and a hot bath and some mindless entertainment. I need to be numb.<br /> My cell phone rings. I glance down and see that it's Jason. It's all I can do not to pick up the phone and hurl it straight through the windshield.<br /> It's only an instant that my eyes are off the road, but when I look up there's a truck stopped right in front of me. With no time to brake, I wrench the steering wheel, jerking my car sideways into the next lane — just as a bright blue sports car whips into the same spot from the other side.<br /> Its front bumper hits the passenger side of my car with a sickening crunch, bouncing my head off the window next to me, then snapping me back the other way. The impact spins my car around. I end up facing the wrong way, the oncoming traffic dividing frantically around me like water going past the prow of a ship.<br /> I'm too stunned to move; for long moments, I just sit there staring. I'm finally numb, but not the way I wanted.<br /> Maybe I messed up in another life, and today is some kind of karmic revenge. My lower lip trembles, and I bite down on it. Self-pity sucks, and no matter what, I will not start crying again.<br /> A tap on my side window makes me jump. I turn my head to see a man peering in at me. Dark hair, dark eyes, shoulders as broad as a house. Why does he seem so familiar?<br /> When I don't respond, he opens my door. "Are you all right?"<br /> "Yes. I'm sorry," I say, straightening in my seat. "Was that your car?" "Yeah, but don't worry about that." I hear a snort behind him, but I can't see who it is because the huge man in front of me is blocking my view.<br /> Undoing my seat belt, I turn to get out of the car. The man takes my hand to help me up. Electric heat surges up my arm and through my body, flooding me with sensation. A detached corner of my mind notices my entirely inappropriate response, and wonders if it's because I'm in shock.<br /> He backs away to give me room. Now I can see the other man, standing by the flashy blue car with his arms folded. Same hair, same eyes, same massive build.<br /> At first I wonder if I'm seeing double; then it hits me. No wonder they seem familiar! Brock and Cody Easton are twins, first-year draft picks, and star players for the Leopards. In the NFL world, they're better known as the Beast Brothers.<br /> As I stand up, the man by the car — is he Cody or Brock? — looks me over. There's something other than concern in his gaze and he's not even trying to be subtle about it. His eyes travel down my body and up again, taking in my curves, and his expression changes from annoyance to speculation.<br /> My skin feels too tight all of a sudden, as if my nerve endings were trying to push through, leap across the space between us, and wrap themselves around him. What is wrong with me? It's only been a few hours since I packed my car and left my prick of an ex, I was just in a car accident, and here I am salivating over two men I haven't even properly met.<br /> Granted, they are the hottest men I've ever laid eyes on. But still. "Don't worry about the car," the one nearest me says again. "I'm Cody, by the way." He'd let go of me when I stood up, and now he's holding out his hand again to shake.<br /> It's an enormous hand — it engulfs mine, and I am not a petite woman. But I only have an instant to process that, because at the contact with his rough, warm skin, heat flows through me once more. This time, my papilla go hard.<br /> I tell myself it's the stress. That's why I'm getting more turned on than I ever did from Jason's touch, right here in the middle of the street, with honking cars all around us. I want to believe it, but I know it's not true.<br /> The other thing I know is that I need to stop feeling this way. Now. I pull my hand free and look at his brother. "So you must be Brock. My dad's told me about you both."<br /> A slow smile quirks one side of his mouth. He's devastatingly handsome, just like his twin — and he knows it. "Your dad's a fan?"<br /> "You could say that," I tell him. "He's your coach."<br /> The guys exchange a quick glance, eyebrows raised. Traffic is still going by us, but very slowly because people keep stopping to take photos of the twins through their car windows, even though night has fallen.<br /> "You're Coach Turner's daughter?" Brock says. NFL teams have a lot of different coaches, so it's a valid question. But there's only one head coach, and that's my dad.<br /> "Yeah, I'm Megan. I'd say it's nice to meet you, but I'd really prefer we hadn't met this way."<br /> Cody grins at that, but Brock's frowning, his mind on something else. "Don't you live in Omaha?"<br /> "I did," I say. And I am so not having that conversation with either of these guys. "We should call the police and our insurance and all that."<br /> Their sports car has a crumpled fender but is mostly intact. When I go around to the passenger side of my car, though, I see that it took the brunt of things.<br /> "Yeah, it's totaled," Cody says from behind me. He sounds far too cheerful about it, and I suppress a twinge of irritation. Even as a rookie, he's earning a good salary, so buying a new car is no big deal to him.<br /> But I have no job at the moment, and I'm not asking my father for money. He's already letting me stay at his place until I can sort things out. Letting him pay for stuff on top of that is way more than I'm comfortable with. Maybe I can find some kind of telecommuting work until I can get another car.<br /> I go back around to the driver's side, taking out my phone and my insurance card. Brock's already on his phone. "Cops are on the way to take an accident report," he says when he hangs up, "and I've got tow trucks and a cab coming too."<br /> "Tow trucks, plural?" I say.<br /> He shrugs. "They both need it."<br /> "Well, thank you." But he only called one cab. Does that mean ...<br /> "Are you heading to your dad's house?" he says, as if hearing my unspoken question. At my nod, he continues, "We'll drop you off. It's on the way to our place anyway."<br /> "Thanks," I say again. "That's really very kind."<br /> "No big deal." He and Cody exchange another swift glance, and this time I sense the undercurrent flowing between them. Whatever they're thinking, it sends a ripple of awareness down my spine.<br /> The brothers are standing together now, and I can't help but admire the view. Chiseled jaws, skin in matching shades of sun-tanned bronze, strong noses, sensual mouths. They were impressive when I watched them play on TV, but in person their charisma is overwhelming.<br /> My gaze wanders down to the arms like tree trunks, then the tight, narrow waists. They're both wearing gym shorts and t-shirts, the fabric straining against their biceps and thighs. I bet their abs are amazing too. They could be world-class models instead of football players.<br /> Two sets of big, dark brown eyes pin me in place, and suddenly I can't breathe. The moment lengthens until I force myself to look away. My heart is beating way too fast.<br /> Maybe getting in a taxi with the twins is not such a good idea. But the wind is rising, the clouds darker and more threatening. We need to get indoors before the skies open up.<br /> By the time the police and the tow trucks have come and gone, the taxi has arrived, and the air has a bite that makes me shiver. I have my suitcase and purse, but have to cross my fingers that the rest of the stuff in my car will be safe at the repair shop until I can pick it up. Cody puts the suitcase in the cab's trunk, then opens the back door and slides in. Brock gestures for me to go next.<br /> I don't want to make a big deal out of riding up front with the driver after the guys have been so nice to me, so I get in and scoot over to make room. The brothers dwarf me, and when Brock slides in, I'm squeezed between them like I'm the filling in a twin sandwich.<br /> The driver pulls into the crush of traffic. Pressed between the brothers, I'm instantly warm. My whole body starts to tingle, and it's not just from the heat coming off them. I know this because the sensations are strongest right between my legs.<br /> I've never reacted to a man like this before, let alone two of them at once. Maybe all my emotions about Jason are being diverted into lust. Which means it's a really bad idea for me to let this continue.<br /> If they realize how turned on I am, they'll think I'm a freak or a groupie. I don't want to give them any ideas, since I'll doubtless be around them again — I won't miss a game. In my best nice/polite/helpful voice, I say, "I should sit in front."<br /> "Nah," Brock drawls, and the next thing I know he picks me up as if I weigh nothing at all and settles me sideways on his lap, my hip nestled in his crotch. I suck in a breath as electricity jolts through my body.<br /> Excuse me," I say, still struggling for politeness. "I can't sit in your lap." I try to ignore the sensations spiraling from my core out through my body and back again.<br /> "You are sitting in my lap," he points out, like it's no big deal. One of his hands, so big and strong and warm, is curled around my waist, burning through my clothing. The other goes to my head, pressing gently down to tuck me against his neck, then stays tangled in my hair.<br /> He smells like sunshine and clean male sweat. It's intoxicating. My voice comes out all soft and breathy when I say, "I mean it's not appropriate. Please let me go."<br /> "Relax, sugar," he says in that same lazy tone. "We're not gonna hurt you."<br /> The we is not exactly comforting.<br /> Brock's mouth brushes the skin on the side of my neck, making me jolt. Since I can't take them up on their offer, I don't need any more torment. I try to pull away again, but he just tucks me back against his side.<br /> "Easy, Megalicious," he says in that rumble of his. "You're too tense. We need to help you relax."<br /> "You did not just call me — that." I can't even make myself repeat his ridiculous nickname. Who does he think he is? Besides the guy who's making my brain melt, I mean, along with the rest of my body.<br /> Cody chuckles. "How about megagorgeous?" He shifts closer, running a finger up and down my arm. <br /> My system is overloading again, and I can't help squirming some more on Brock's lap. "Yeah, babe," he says. "Let Daddy Brock make you feel better."<br /> "Daddy Brock?" I sputter and then snort with laughter. "You guys are no older than I am. I might even be older than you."<br /> "It's not the years, baby," he says, his lips grazing the sensitive shell of my outer ear. "It's the mileage."<br /> Even as I roll my eyes at him quoting movie lines at me, he turns me so I'm facing forward in the taxi. One arm wraps around my midriff, and his free hand teases the skin just above the waistband of my shorts.<br /> His touch sends sparks shooting right down to my private part. I must have hit my head during the collision harder than I thought. Anger, grief, stress, hormones — can't forget the raging hormones — have apparently shredded every bit of common sense I possess. Because I don't say anything.<br /> All I have to do is open my mouth and tell them, "No." Or "Stop that." And they'd back off, both of them. I know it in my bones. Impossible as it sounds, I feel safe with these two men who are taking such liberties with my body.<br /> I'm letting it happen because I want it to. Because I want them. Because right now, with the rain wrapping the taxi in sheets of water, hiding us in our own little world, all I care about is how they're making me feel.<br /> And how they're making me feel is like a beautiful and desirable woman. Someone worth wanting. Someone Jason was a fool to let go.<br /> Who are you kidding? whispers the self-doubt that's been tormenting me all day, ever since I walked in on Jason and his mistress. You're nothing to them.<br /> I almost listen, almost give in to the crushing weight of my insecurity. But then my phone rings. Cody pulls it out of my purse. "Jason," he says, reading the screen. "Who's that?"<br /> My anger blazes again. "No one," I snap. I grab the phone, hit the Reject Call button, and toss it back in my purse. Jason, and not in a good way. He got his and now I'm getting mine.<br /> I relax against Brock, consciously letting go of my resistance. "That's my girl," he whispers. His hand slips inside my shorts, then under the elastic of my panties, his fingertips teasing the curls above my cherry.<br /> Now that I've decided not to fight it, I'm impatient for more. "Touch me," I whisper back. "Do it."<br /> <br /> There's a car I don't recognize parked in my dad's driveway, a white SUV next to his black one. The guys exchange a glance, but don't say anything. We all get out, and Cody retrieves my suitcase while Brock says to the driver, "Wait here — we'll be back in a few minutes."<br /> "That's okay," I say. "You don't have to come in with me." My dad may not have x-ray vision, but I can't shake the feeling that as soon as he sees us together, he'll somehow know what just happened.<br /> "Just need to ask him a question," Brock says, but there's a twinkle in his eye that fills me with trepidation. He and Cody follow me up the sidewalk, close behind me as if they're afraid I'll slip inside and lock the door on them. They might be right.<br /> My body hasn't stopped humming from those amazing orgasms, and I mentally cross my fingers that my face is blank enough to protect me. Since Dad's expecting me, I open the front door without knocking, the twins still right behind me.<br /> The entryway opens into the living room, with a hallway branching off to the left that goes to the bedrooms, and a doorway on the right that leads to the kitchen. Since the living room is empty, I turn into the kitchen — and stop so fast the brothers bump into me.<br /> My dad's there, and so is a woman I've never seen before. Their arms are around each other; his hands are on her hip. And they're pecking like there's no tomorrow.<br /> I haven't been this shocked since the day I was ten and came home to find my father crying in the living room. Even catching Jason this morning was less of a stunner. My voice is stuck in my throat. I don't know what I'd say anyway.<br /> Brock comes to my rescue by clearing his throat loudly, breaking up the makeout session. My dad's head whips around. "Megan!" he says. He looks confused — understandable, with the Beast Brothers at my back — but also a bit guilty.<br /> "Hi, Dad." I find I can speak now that the silence has been broken. "I did tell you I was almost here." His guilty look increases, and a small part of me is glad because it helps me conceal my own feelings of self-reproach. He comes over to give me a hug, wrapping his arms around me and holding me close. When I called this morning to say I was on my way, he didn't ask any questions; something in my voice must have warned him it wasn't the time. All he said was, "I'll be here."<br /> His unwavering support steadies me, even as the contrast to Jason's betrayal is like a shard of glass in my heart. I squeeze him tighter, overflowing with love and gratitude, but his next words shatter the mood.<br /> "Vivian stopped by after we spoke," he says. "Vivian, I'd like you to meet my daughter Megan."<br /> The woman comes forward, hands outstretched. "It's wonderful to meet you, dear. Your father's told me so much about you."<br /> My first thought is that she looks nothing like my mother. I still have memories of my mom, and lots of old photographs. Not to mention mirrors. I have my mother's auburn curls and curvy build, whereas Vivian is blonde and slender. I'm relieved that there's no resemblance; I'm not sure what I would do if my dad started dating a lookalike.<br /> Her expression, though, puts my back up. Maybe it's my imagination working overtime, but the little smile playing around her lips reminds me of Jason's mistress. He threw her out this morning when I caught them together, but she smirked at me while she strutted out of the house, as if she'd won some kind of victory.<br /> I want to smack Vivian's smile right off her face — which is crazy and wrong. My dad isn't cheating; he's entitled to be happy.<br /> I should be happy that he's met someone after so many years alone. But I'm not. Shoving aside thoughts of what that says about me, I force a smile and say, "It's nice to meet you."<br /> And that's when everything goes from awkward to totally insane.<br /> Because Vivian looks at the twins and says, "Hello, boys. What are you doing here?"<br /> And Cody and Brock say, "Hey, Mom."	LEARN_MORE	https://b.chaptersapps.com/ad/Q2hhcHRlcnMvMTQzODk2	195308346990040	Cha114	https://facebook.com/61553929473251	9	1	446,508,838,045,636	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Cha114	120206949074790258	b.chaptersapps.com	NONE	video		https://b.chaptersapps.com/ad/Q2hhcHRlcnMvMTQzODk2LzIwMjQwNDA3MTY1OTQ5L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-07 04:04	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435397309_1824067641350952_8788638634055885703_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bxWkL4kBWKwAb7vsZ5S&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBVhcPROVQQ79GcwzGNKEXPQs7yM4fy2HV2jkecDWFm0w&oe=6618CB43	person_profile	Cha114	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435424503_1413569842605707_5927876964680082395_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Cdl-jfsLT9sAb4MyJjb&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBHjeg5y-J91lxlWAj5u6dj20LaSa5lA_7ZGvZ_OoAaGQ&oe=6618F61B	3	Cha114	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,011,484	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	7626740037388287	Her Dominant Comeback	The rain poured heavily at night, and dark clouds shrouded the city. Olivia stood in the rain before Carter Manor, looking at the tall, lanky man before her. He stood under the porch, his deep, dark eyes as cloudy as the night sky. His eyes gleamed with indescribable emotions as he looked at the disheveled Olivia.<br /> After a moment, he took out a bank card and a plane ticket from his pocket and threw them at her. He said coldly and ruthlessly, "Leave and don't come back!" With that, he turned and went into the house.<br /> Olivia watched him while shivering. She had always known that Nathan hated her! Her heart felt empty and chills ran down her spine as the rain poured down heavily. After some time, she sadly picked up her few belongings and walked away.<br /> There was a crack in the bedroom curtains on the second floor. Nathan watched the thin figure gradually disappear in the heavy rain. His fists clenched tightly at his sides, and he punched the window...<br /> Emma stood at the door with a glass of water. She wanted to come in, but she unexpectedly witnessed this scene instead. A cold, bitter expression flashed in her eyes! She resented that Nathan had given Olivia money to send her abroad. Why is he still secretly watching her from a distance in the study? Olivia is such a lowly w*nch. What's so good about her? A slightly cruel expression surfaced in Emma's eyes...<br /> Half an hour later, Olivia walked ahead in a daze on a dark, empty street while dragging her luggage. Suddenly, a motorcycle appeared in the distance and quickly approached, snatching away what little belongings Olivia had left. She fell to the ground and was dragged and rolled a few times. As a sharp pain shot through her body, her vision faded to black. Darkness completely enveloped her, and she entirely lost consciousness!<br /> Five years later, a graceful figure sat in the general manager's office at Horizon Ventures' headquarters in Germany. She had delicate features, and she carefully swept her eyes over the documents in her hand as she sat at a top-notch, African redwood desk. She worked efficiently as she scanned through multiple lines of words effortlessly.<br /> A faint sandalwood fragrance lingered in the air, and a cup of coffee was beside her. She was in a limited edition haute couture suit that outlined her slender figure. It had just debuted at Paris Fashion Week.<br /> With her hair pulled into a high bun, she looked somewhat relaxed yet experienced. She had makeup on, and she looked very charming. Although beautiful, elegant, and dignified, she was also aloof and unapproachable. She wasn't one to be messed with!<br /> At this moment, there was a sudden knock on the door. Olivia's assistant, Benjamin Hayes, hurriedly entered and said anxiously, "Something's wrong, Ms. Olivia. Your son has run away from home again!" Olivia frowned at him, sounding slightly displeased. "Why are you panicking? It's not his first time running away. He'll be back soon!"<br /> "It's not..." Benjamin stomped his foot in frustration. "It's different this time. He went abroad and even took Mr. Valtor with him!"<br /> "What did you say?" Olivia's face turned cold as she put down the documents in her hand. "Where did they go?"<br /> "They went to Emberfall in Wirthon," Benjamin quickly replied and handed his phone to Olivia. Two dots blinked on the screen, marking Liam's current coordinates! "Does he think he's invincible?" Olivia had an unpleasant expression. She immediately took out her phone to call her son, William, who's usually nicknamed Liam.<br /> An automated voice quickly rang on the phone. "Sorry, the number you have dialed is currently unavailable..." Olivia was dumbstruck. Her eyes darkened, and she had a cloudy expression. Why did they go to Emberfall? What is that kid up to?<br /> <br /> Chapter 2 The Child's Blackmail<br /> Her mind whirled for a moment before she said calmly, "Book a plane ticket and bring him back immediately."<br /> "Understood," Benjamin answered and left.<br /> At that moment, the young Liam sat in a café across the towering, imposing Carter Group in the city of Emberfall in Wirthon. The child sat by the window, swinging his legs leisurely. A laptop was in front of him, displaying a dazzling array of code on screen. Mr. Valtor sat beside the boy and looked at him in admiration.<br /> It was rumored that Carter Group had the safest security system in the world. Ordinary hackers couldn't breach their defenses at all. But now, Liam was treating it like child's play as he silently breached each layer of defense. The boy was only a little over four years old but extraordinarily smart!<br /> 'Ding.' At this moment, the web page showed that he had successfully breached the system. "Yay, done!" Liam cheered happily and clapped. Mr. Valtor leaned over. "You're so fast!"<br /> "Of course! Mommy taught me this system. It can even breach Xenava's defenses. Although Carter Group has powerful defenses, it can't stop me!" the boy said proudly. He slid off the chair, picked up his small backpack at the side, and walked away after saying, "Mr. Valtor, wait for my good news. I'm going to find my dad!"<br /> "Go for it! All the best!" Mr. Valtor trusted the boy's ability and wasn't worried about him.<br /> Liam then crossed the street and entered Carter Group. Once inside, he headed to the president's private elevator, which required a fingerprint and passcode. He felt a faint anticipation as he went forward to crack the software.<br /> I'll meet Daddy soon! I wonder if Daddy will be surprised or happy to see me! Lost in thought, he successfully cracked the password. He eagerly stepped into the elevator, ascending to the top floor.<br /> Nathan had just finished three conference calls in the meeting room on the top floor and was massaging the bridge of his nose wearily. His refined brows were slightly furrowed, and he had an unpleasant expression. His devilishly handsome face looked even colder than usual.<br /> His assistant, Ethan Thompson, handed him materials for the next meeting and asked concernedly, "Mr. Carter, don't you want to take a break?" The company had been busy lately, and Nathan was a workaholic. When he was swamped, he worked tirelessly like a machine. As Nathan's right-hand man, Ethan was also working round the clock. He felt like he didn't even have time to catch his breath!<br /> Nathan took the documents, waved his hand, and said coldly, "No need!" He had meetings all day today, including two global conferences in the evening. He didn't have time to rest. Ethan was dumbstruck and could only continue working helplessly.<br /> At that moment, the conference room door opened. Nathan's secretary, Fiona Agers, came in, flustered. She reported, "Mr.… Mr. Carter, there's a child outside who wants to see you. He said... he's your son." Nathan hated to be disturbed while working. He was highly displeased by how his secretary had burst in anxiously. Moreover, what she said was so absurd. Nathan's face darkened almost instantly.<br /> Ethan was also briefly stunned. He berated Fiona. "Ms. Agers, what nonsense are you talking about?" Mr. Carter isn't even married. How can he have a son?<br /> "I... I..." Fiona trembled with fear and dared not speak.<br /> However, a small figure emerged behind her, his shiny eyes looking at the people in the room.<br /> His gaze quickly locked onto Nathan, and he ran over excitedly. "I found you! This is great! Daddy... we finally met!" The little boy pounced on Nathan and tightly wrapped his arms around the man's legs, beaming.<br /> Nathan was dumbstruck. He gazed at the child dangling from his leg and was stunned. He didn't know how to react. Ethan's eyelids twitched, and he instinctively wanted to pull the child away. His boss wasn't fond of strangers touching him. However, his hand froze mid-air when he saw the child's face.<br /> The young child had delicate, refined features. His cheeks were soft and supple, and his dark eyes were as bright as the stars in the night sky. His dazzling, animated gaze made him look lively yet wise beyond his years. His appearance surprisingly resembled Nathan!<br /> Ethan was somewhat perplexed and astonished. "Mr. Carter, this..."<br /> Nathan finally snapped back to reality when he heard it. His brows furrowed, and he was utterly displeased. "Why are you just standing there? Get rid of him! Make his parents come to collect him. Who brought him here? Throw him out at once!"<br /> "Ah... Alright!" Ethan was surprised, but he came to his senses and felt like his rational self again. Mr. Carter has no interest in women. How could he have a child? I must've been out of my mind to think this is Mr. Carter's son!<br /> Ethan moved forward quickly to pick the boy up. "Boy, where's your family? You can't play here! Come on, I'll take you out of here..."<br /> The child unexpectedly held on tighter to Nathan's pant leg. He shook his head and said, "I'm not leaving. Nathan Carter is my Daddy! It hasn't been easy to find Daddy..."<br /> The boy seemed slightly aggrieved. He looked at Nathan's cold expression and spoke in a babyish voice. "Daddy, my name is William Monroe. You can call me Liam. I'm four years and three months old! I'm your son! I did a DNA test. Take a look if you don't believe me." As he spoke, he let go and swiftly retrieved a piece of paper from his backpack before handing it over.<br /> Nathan didn't reach out to take it. He found it absurd that a child had inexplicably appeared out of nowhere and claimed to be his son!<br /> Ethan felt a shiver run down his spine. He couldn't help but think to himself. What an elaborate scam. This boy is so good at blackmail. He even provided DNA evidence. It must be fake, right? Ethan quickly glanced at the document out of suspicion. To his surprise, Nathan's information was accurate, including his blood type and age. The probability of paternity was 99.9 percent!	LEARN_MORE	https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share-custom4	106077262240533	The novel	https://facebook.com/100085523883301	18,995	1	1,005,157,377,703,639	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	The novel	120208751362590310	page.joyreadings.com	NONE	image		https://page.joyreadings.com/h5-book-share-custom4.html?lang=en&id=7103&brand=2&app=0&ppid=2979&pid=FBW2A&campaign={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&utm_source=FBW2A&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_term={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}}&ori_campaign_id=120208751356140310&ori_adset_id=120208751357640310&ori_ad_id=120208751360810310	2024-04-07 04:43	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422565361_978578003787369_5012122689910956436_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v_C-qFpUTwoAb6ntSl7&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBKGlv3LVsNUo_6AFQqh7K28Yc3uF-MRmd23QKH5C3ruw&oe=6618FA44	person_profile	The novel	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/432232545_452043067274462_6274242123147007257_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bei6m4wrh8MAb4h99Vt&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfAn6JjrpmDOmY6UA40aVxlRJYHu-2KT2R9s53BCkUrmjg&oe=6618EA86	3	The novel	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,011,517	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011510}'	No	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	436377768777474	#1 (sciatic nerve pain) vitamin all adults must eat?	"𝐈𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 “𝐕𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐧” 𝐃𝐨𝐞𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐄𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐍𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝟒 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐬...𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐆𝐞𝐭 𝟏𝟎𝟎% 𝐨𝐟 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤" 🤯🤯	WATCH_MORE	https://sciatiease.com/fb/emnojairdwhy/?&ad_id={{a	100422331945056	Health Report News	https://facebook.com/100076274320152	14,366	0	925,417,908,981,263	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Watch more	Health Report News	120209428381050608	sciatiease.com	NONE	video	What is Causing my Sciatic Nerve to Hurt?	https://sciatiease.com/fb/emnojairdwhy/?&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&source={{site_source_name}}&placement={{placement}}&cpid=f88c7dd6-9344-43d6-81b1-c3bbbbb1cd9e&lpid=2ef8ebbe-4c68-4bbf-94a5-67321411d0dc	2024-04-07 08:10	https://scontent.ftpa1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434080299_217430528121510_6013565928717772086_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qMambuhpgEEAb4R6RJL&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-1.fna&oh=00_AfC1RCJdzac59IkGTx3LhEnh9bgHdgaK1nlJjVKc4S7xCg&oe=6618F64C	person_profile			3	Health Report News	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,011,561	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1011524}'	Yes	2024-04-07 16:42	active	455	885561046589987	best vitamin to alleviate sciatic nerve pain? (take 2 & watch)	"𝐈'𝐦 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐧𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐰𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐤'𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐄, 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐞! 😍😍"	WATCH_MORE	https://sciatiease.com/fb/sdbem2/?ad_id={{ad.id}}&	291911407327932	Best Vitamin for Sciatic Nerve Pain	https://facebook.com/61557630597097	22,000	12	1,908,159,089,602,523	2024-04-07 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Watch more	Best Vitamin for Sciatic Nerve Pain	120209428287850608	sciatiease.com	NONE	video	best vitamin to alleviate sciatic nerve pain? (take 2 & watch)	https://sciatiease.com/fb/sdbem2/?ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&source={{site_source_name}}&placement={{placement}}&cpid=fee2f2c2-08d7-4d00-976d-5a8fe0d30de6&lpid=ccc0baa8-4a21-411d-8773-b5ae737d5d4c	2024-04-07 08:08	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435480834_937387184785771_432635182732894067_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p5wlKK_8ALoAb4CVAUG&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAiGZaxRaC5Qo838wyBWUmdqcLTMRXYL8m_Y3ky-fvKoQ&oe=6618F97C	person_profile	Best Vitamin for Sciatic Nerve	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435405012_928223815456942_8556988504942413716_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BzdE4X_kbk8Ab7EK5xD&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCG8NXGmiJgxIN9KrU6lFlXMaJATqX7SuWvbsnpecBLqg&oe=6618F215	3	Best Vitamin for Sciatic Nerve Pain	2024-04-07 02:00	View Edit Delete

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