Confucius Ads Library: Ads

Id	Vlad	Saved	Scrape Time	Status	Scrape Result	Title	Body	Cta Type	Link Url	Page Name	Page Profile Uri	Page Like Count	Enddate	Cta Text	Caption	Display Format	Link Description	Link Url	Creation Time	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Current Page Name	Startdate	Actions
2,707,377	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707376}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜The Billionaire's Ex-Wife (Her Ex-Husband's Regret)📜	💖🔞💋Please, baby. Help me change Daddy's heart. I march towards my husband's office on the top floor of Steele Corp Building, carrying a present in my hand. It's our third anniversary and I thought I'd give my husband a surprise. I just came back from the OBGYN. I placed my ultrasound photos inside a small box and wrapped it with a ribbon. "Excuse me, Miss Carlisle. You need an appointment to see the CEO," Tara, my husband's secretary, blocks the entrance to my husband's office. "Or do you want me to call your supervisor?" She raises a haughty brow at me, acting like she's above me. Well, I suppose she is above me. She is the CEO's executive secretary, sitting in the office at the top floor, while I'm just a graphic designer with a cubicle on the third floor. I have been married to Steele Corp's CEO, Kayden Steele, for three years. But sadly, no one in the office knows about it. "Umm..." I force a smile on my face. "Mr. Steele called my extension and personally asked me to bring the present that arrived for him." I motion at the box in my hands. "A present? From whom?" "His wife, maybe," I reply nonchalantly. Tara smirks. "You know he's still single!" See? Not even his secretary has a clue. "Although, I wonder if it's from that woman he asked to be picked up at the airport." "What?" Now, it's my turn to be surprised. "What woman?" Tara raises a skeptical brow at me again. "That information is none of your business," she replies. Then she turns to open the door to Kayden's office. "The graphic artist is here to see you, Sir?" "Let her in," I hear Kayden say. As I walk past Tara, I can't help smiling at her smugly. If she only knew what I'm carrying in my hands right now. This gift, this wonderful news, is going to bring my husband closer to me. This baby will change everything! I close the door behind me, and with wobbly legs and a big smile of anticipation on my face, I walk towards Kayden. He looks up from the papers on his desk as he watches me intensely. I almost lost my nerve as I remembered how devilishly handsome he was, with his midnight black hair, and blue-gray eyes. We've been married for three years, but he still takes my breath away. "Kayden," I call, my voice almost squeaking. "I have... some news for you." "Before you say anything, I have something to say to you, too," he says in a voice laced with ice. When he speaks so coldly to me like that, I wonder if he's the same man who makes hot love to me at night. "Oh, okay. What do you want to tell me?" I ask. He stands up from his seat. I cannot read the expression on his face as he stares back at me in silence. "Kayden, what is it?" He sighs heavily before turning away from me, as if he can't bear to look at me when he says what he needs to say. "You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone," he mumbles. "But unfortunately, I couldn't because..." he trails off, heaving another sigh. "But now, she's back in town. And I don't think I can do this anymore, Cassie." Wait, what did he mean by that? He turns around. His eyes look distant, devoid of any emotion. "This is not working out for both of us. I want a divorce." Divorce? The word keeps ringing in my head like a deafening siren. Sure, this marriage was far from perfect. But in the years that I've been married to Kayden, I tried to be the perfect wife. I made sure I gave him no reason to regret ever marrying me. "But... why?" Tears begin to brim my eyes. “Come on, Cassie. Did you really think this marriage was going to last?” he asks. His voice was ice cold, and his face almost stoic. “You know it wasn’t my choice to get married. You drugged me and threatened to expose my indiscretion the same week that I was going to be announced as CEO of Steele Corp! What was I supposed to do? Of course, I had no choice but to marry you!" I shake my head. "No, Kayden! I told you before that I didn't drug you. That night, somebody drugged me, too! I-I was framed. I don't even remember how I got to your room that night! Somebody made it seem like... like I staged it all!" He sighs heavily. I doubt that he heard anything that I just said. Or maybe he did. He just doesn’t care. “It doesn’t matter anymore. I managed to gain control of my father’s company. Your family got whatever it is you wanted to gain out of this marriage. Maybe it’s better we walk away now, while we still can. Before we tear each other apart.” “I gave my life to this marriage, too, Kayden!” I tell him evenly. “I didn’t plan on marrying a stranger as soon as I graduated university! This was against my will, too. I also have dreams I gave up because of this marriage.” “How could I believe you? Your father was too eager to give you away. And his business suddenly boomed, didn’t it? I was desperate to gain control of my father’s company. And you just took advantage of my vulnerable situation.” I can’t believe I’m hearing this. In the three years that we’re married, I can hardly remember when Kayden showed me any affection. He’s always been reserved and indifferent. It wasn’t a perfect marriage, but I never thought he’d ask me for a divorce so soon. My hands tremble. The box I'm carrying drops to the floor. My wonderful news, my little ray of hope, completely forgotten. "Tricking you into marriage is the last thing I would do!” He scoffs. “But that’s exactly what you did, didn’t you? I dreamt of building a family for myself. On my own terms and at the right time. Marrying you felt like I wasn’t given a chance to choose what I wanted for myself.” I shake my head, unable to control the tears that's flowing from my eyes. I realize that no matter what I say or do, Kayden will never believe me. "Is that why no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife... even after the many nights we made love, you... you never learned to love me?" Kayden's face remains relentless as he stares back at me. "Love? When you trapped me in this marriage, were you thinking about love at all? Your father bagged his biggest clients at the mere mention of my name, remember? It’s all about money and power. Of course, I could never love you!” I inhale deeply. It's painfully obvious now what the man I had desperately loved for three years thought of me: a gold-digging, scheming bitch! Looking back at that night, I know that somebody had spiked my drink, and somehow, I ended up in Kayden's penthouse. And the morning after, somebody had tipped the paparazzi and made it look like I blackmailed Kayden into marrying me. I know that somebody had set me up. I just don't know who. Kayden inhales deeply. “How could I love anyone who robbed me of my will?” "You're wrong, Kayden," I sob. "It seems that after all these years, you never saw me for who I really am." Kayden shakes his head. "It doesn't matter now. My lawyers are already preparing the divorce papers as we speak. Let's do this as quietly as possible," he says. "Anyway, there are only a few people who knew you were my wife." I nod, feeling numb. "Yes. You did an excellent job keeping me a secret." That was his first request to me: keep quiet about the marriage. Thinking about it now, he must have been planning to divorce me since then. Why did he wait three years to do this? I wipe the tears on my cheeks as I struggle to compose myself. I know that when Kayden makes a decision, there's very little chance that he'll change his mind. "An—anything else you want to say?" "One last thing," he replies. I look up at him, pretty sure that there's nothing he can say that would make me feel any worse than I do at this moment. He takes a deep breath and announces, "I don’t want to see you around the office. You're fired!" .............................................................................. Hold on, baby! Mommy’s here. I will do everything to protect you. This was not how I imagined this day would end. Somehow, when I got the news that I was pregnant, I was so overjoyed that finally, something good came out of my marriage to Kayden Steele. For the first time in three years, I do not feel alone. But suddenly, my life takes a one-eighty. Not only did I lose my husband, but I also lost my job and my health insurance, all in the space of two hours. I can still remember the HR Manager's apologetic smile when I signed my termination papers. "Can... can I at least keep the insurance for another eight months?" I plead. She shakes her head slightly and gives me a sad smile. "It's company policy, sweetheart. Once you're terminated, all benefits, including insurance, will cease." "But... I was fired without a reason!" I argue. "That's why you're getting severance pay," she counters. "And two months’ worth of salary. Otherwise, you walk away with nothing." The severance pay and two months’ worth of salary won't be enough for my food, vitamins, prenatal checkups, and hospital bills when I deliver. I must find a job soon. When I get home, and by home I mean the mansion where Kayden and I live in, Kevin, the fifty-year-old family butler meets me at the main entrance. He, too, cannot hide the pity in his gray eyes. "This is as far as you can go. I've been told to pack all your belongings. They're all in the car now." Kevin whispers softly. "I'm just following instructions." I can almost hear the tears in his voice. "It's okay, Kevin." I raise my chin and paste a smile on my face. That smile that I always wear like a uniform. The armor that hides my real emotions. "You've been so good to me these past three years. I will never forget that." Kevin nods gracefully. Then he holds his arm out for me. "For the last time, Madam Steele. Let me escort you to your car." Holding back my tears, I take his arm and let him escort me to the car that will carry me and what little belongings I have for the next chapter of my life. As the car drives away, a wave of sadness washes over me. I gently place my hand on my abdomen, picturing the life growing inside of me. This baby is Kayden's own flesh and blood. It deserves to live and be raised in that grand mansion. But like me, this little one has been denied Kayden's love and all the privileges that came with it. "I'm so sorry, little angel!" I can no longer hold back my tears. "I'm so sorry!" I don't know what I'm going to do next, or how I'm going to do it. But I know that I will never let this baby suffer. I will make sure that it will live a happy, comfortable life. I will not deny it its birthright! Even though Kayden may not be ready to hear it now, I will make sure to tell him about our baby in the future. He may not have been able to love me. But I'm sure he will love his own baby. Kayden may be cold and ruthless, but I don't think he's a complete monster. There were times during our marriage that I actually felt that he was trying to make it work. Maybe I just wasn't good enough. Or maybe we were just not meant to be. Then suddenly, I remember what he said. ‘You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone…’ My heart feels like it's breaking into a million tiny pieces as if it wasn't already completely shattered. What Tara said about Kayden having someone picked up at the airport all makes sense now. I completely understand why after all these years, no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife, Kayden just couldn't love me. He's in love with someone else. And he felt that I robbed him of his future with her. He must have been secretly loathing me because he thought I masterminded this marriage. When in truth, I was as much a victim as he is. "Aargh!" Something in my abdomen throbs and I feel a little jolt of pain. Is my baby feeling my heartbreak, too? The driver stops in front of a house in a very familiar neighborhood. It is far from the posh neighborhood where the magnificent Steele Mansion sits, but somehow, this place, this house brings back so many memories of my childhood. Perhaps Kevin made a good decision to send me back here to my parents' home. There was a time when this house used to be a picture of bliss. It is made of wood carvings and sculptures that add to its unique charm. No one has lived here for years, but I come here occasionally. This reminds me so much of my mother. "I'll bring your things inside, Ma'am?" the driver asks. "No, it's alright. You can just leave them by the door." The driver leaves, and I take my keys to open the main door when I realize that it's unlocked. "Huh? Did someone break into this house?" I push the door slightly, careful not to make a sound. When I step inside the house, I find that the lights are turned on. "Shit! Someone's here!" Panic starts to grip me. I know I should call the cops, but somehow, something possesses me, and I grab the dusty golf club sitting behind the door instead. Then I walk towards the corridors, ready to swing at the potential burglar. But suddenly, I hear a familiar voice coming from the living room. "My lawyers told me that this house is still in her name, Kayden. I thought we agreed that this was going to be mine!" I know that voice perfectly well even though I haven't heard it in years. Wait, what? Did I hear it right? Was she talking to Kayden? As in my Kayden? I sneak towards the living room, deliberately trying to overhear her phone conversation. "You're the most powerful man in the country, Kayden Steele! Didn't you promise to make me happy? Well, this house was my parents'. It should also be mine. It will really make me happy!" Mine? How dare she? My father, who is an architect, remodeled this house for my mother before she died. This belonged to my mother even before she got married. So, it's only right that it gets passed on to me! Why is this bitch claiming the house as hers? "Alright, love. I trust you. I'll see you at dinner. Love you!" What the ? Realization hits me like an ice-cold bucket. This is the woman that Kayden asked to be picked up at the airport. She is the reason why Kayden is divorcing me. She's the reason why my baby will not have a complete family. I drop the golf club in my hand as I clutch my belly, feeling a flush of anger and betrayal. The woman must have heard the thud as she turned around to see me. She gives me a proud smirk, not even ashamed that I heard her conversation with my husband. "Well, well. Look who's here," she snickers. "Happy to see me again, my dear stepsister?" .............................................................................. 'Mommy! Cassie pushed me!' 'Mommy! I want Cassie's toy! Take it from her!' 'Daddy! Cassie won't let me borrow her dress!' 'Mommy! Cassie stole my boyfriend!' Unpleasant memories flood my brain. My stepsister's relentless whining while we were growing up still echoes in my ears, even after all these years. My father married Megan's mother when I was eight years old. I tried my best to make Megan feel at home with us, to form a sisterly bond with her, but she never really liked me. She constantly watched me, the things that I had, and the stuff that my father bought for me. I could feel that envy that simmered within her whenever I got a new toy, no matter how small or inexpensive it was. As we grew older, the rivalry only got more complex. We were no longer fighting over toys or material possessions. I felt that we were competing for the same affection and attention. She made sure to steal every guy that I ever dated, making me feel like I was insignificant and undatable. She even made my father dislike me. And now... "Were you... talking to Kayden just now?" I ask in a shaky voice. "Oh, you heard that, huh?" she asks, smirking. "Well, I guess there's no point keeping it a secret now. Yes, I was just talking to Kayden." She holds out her left hand in front of me, showing me a gold ring with a huge rock in the center. "Do you agree that this ring is perfect for the future Mrs. Kayden Steele?" As I stare at the sparkling ring on Megan's finger, my heart sinks. I know she expects me to salivate over how huge the rock is, or how expensive the ring must have been. But the only thought that runs through my mind is, 'She gets a ring?' Because Kayden just signed our marriage license. He didn't bother to get me an engagement ring, not even a wedding ring. "Oh, you poor thing,' Megan puts on a pout that is supposed to be apologetic, but clearly, she is just rubbing her affair with my husband in my face. "Your marriage with Kayden was never going to work out. I knew it." "How... how long have you known my husband?" "Too long. I have always thought we'd end up together. But then you stole him from me like the scheming, sneaky gold digger you are! But he would never love you. The two of us share a bond since we were kids. No amount of scheming or seduction from you could take him away from me.” My blood boils as I hear Megan's tirade. How could she flaunt her affair with my husband and have the audacity to accuse me of stealing Kayden from her? "That's not true!" I cry. "We were building a family! We were doing okay until you came back to the picture. If you didn't, I know he would stay with our little family." "Family?" she hisses. "What family are you talking about?" I don't reply. Instead, I raise a brow at her triumphantly. Her eyes widen in shock, and her glance goes to my tummy. "You're..." She shakes her head in disbelief. "No way that baby is Kayden’s.” This time, I feel a little victorious. It's good to see Megan fall from the high table for a change. "Believe it or not, Megan," I continue to taunt her. "When Kayden decided to marry me, I did believe he was willing to try. He wouldn't do that if he completely hates me, would he?" “So, you managed to seduce him to go to bed with you? He must have been wasted to even sleep with you.” It’s my turn to smirk at her. "What are you scared of Megan? The fact that Kayden isn’t completely immune to my charms? Or that this baby might change everything between us?” Megan takes a step closer, her eyes looking livid. “How will a bastard change anything?” What the did she just call my baby? My blood boils as Megan's words hang in the air. The audacity, the cruelty! I ball my hands into fists as I try my damnedest to stay calm and composed. "This baby is not a bastard! This baby could just well be the heir of Steele Corp. Remember, we're still married. And Kayden has yet to find out about this baby. He just might rethink his decision about divorcing me." Anger flares in Megan’s eyes when she hears my words. I can tell that she realizes just how vulnerable her position is. "You're just like your mother! A shameless, scheming slut!" She raises her hand and swings, but I anticipated that move, as she has always done this to me in the past. I catch her arm before her palm can land on my cheek. "I'm not going to tolerate you calling my baby a bastard, and my mother a slut, Megan! You are way out of line!" I push her arm away, giving her a small shove. Megan stumbles backward, but her eyes remain filled with anger. She groans in frustration and swings her arm to to knock off the gas lamp on the table. Then she grabs the nearest vase and throws it at me. "Bitch!" she screams. Acting on instinct, I dodge the vase but lose my balance. I fall to the floor. Just then, I feel a gush of blood flow from between my thighs. I look down and realize that I'm sitting in my own pool of blood, while my vile stepsister looms over me, smiling triumphantly. "No, no! My baby!" I cry out in agony and pain. Suddenly, everything feels hot. That's when I realize that the fire has quickly escalated. My mother's house is going down in flames. "Oh, God, please no!" I know that Megan will never help me. It will be better for her if I were to lose this baby. I know I must call for help, or I will lose everything—including my and my baby's life. I reach for my cellphone and press the first key on my speed dial. Kayden's phone rings several times but he never picks up. 'Kayden... please!' 'Pick up the phone. Our baby... our baby needs you!' But all I hear is the ringing tone from the other line. Oh, God! I know I haven't been lucky in this life. But please... spare the life of my baby! This baby is all I have now. Please save it! That's all I ask. That's all I need! Kayden, if you can't be there for me, at least be there for our child. But even after another try, there's nothing. Once again, Kayden has chosen to ignore me. Coming back to my senses, I dial 911 instead. "Help! Bleeding... pregnant..." The smell of smoke threatens to choke me. "Fire!" I fall to the floor, almost passing out. When I open my eyes again, I see a devilishly handsome face staring back at me. "Kayden..." I would recognize that face everywhere. Amidst the raging inferno, Kayden miraculously appears and finds me lying on the floor, bleeding. "Jesus Christ, Megan!" he curses. "What happened here?" Kayden approaches me, and for the first time in years, I see a glimmer of worry in his eyes. "Cassie..." He kneels in front of me. But then, we hear a shrill scream and then a thud. We both turn around and discover that Megan has collapsed onto the floor. Kayden's driver appears and he turns to him. "Take Cassie out of here!" Then he walks toward Megan and gathers her in his arms, while his driver lifts me from the floor. The taste of defeat lingers on my tongue as I watch Kayden carry Megan out of the blazing house. I doubt that she's seriously injured. I bet she fainted to get Kayden's attention! Megan seems unscathed, and I can't help but think that she just pretended to faint when she saw Kayden coming to my rescue. Even in spite of my pitiful state, Kayden chose to abandon me. It seems... the three years we spent together really meant nothing to him! Whatever concern I thought I saw in his eyes is all gone now. And in the end, it's all the same. Kayden has chosen Megan over me. .............................................................................. Wake up! You must get back on your feet and keep walking, and then you need to move on! I bolt up from the bed, my heart races as the urgency in the voice echoes inside my mind. I look around the unfamiliar surroundings, feeling confused and disoriented. Where am I? The room I'm in is all white. From the paint on the walls to the sheet that keeps me warm. "Easy, child. You might hurl if you force your movements," the nurse says to me. "How long have I been unconscious?" "Two days. But don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” Suddenly, I remember something. "My baby!" I ask frantically. "Tell me my baby is okay!" Tears brim my eyes, as panic grips my insides. The nurse reaches out for my hands to steady me. "Don't worry, dear," she smiles at me reassuringly. "The babe is safe." I sigh in relief. I touch my abdomen with my hands as if cradling my baby. I'm so sorry, my love. I should have been more careful. I swear I will never risk your life like that again! I guess I forgot how cruel and childish Megan can be. I should not have told her about the baby. But where is Megan? I remember she fainted and Kayden saved her. I sink back on the bed as I remember the way Kayden carried Megan in his arms, saving her from danger, while I, his wife, was bleeding on the floor. I can't help but feel a mix of anger and betrayal as I recall that moment. The realization hits me hard, shattering whatever illusion I may have that Kayden would learn to love me. "There was… there was a woman with me. What happened to her?" I dare ask. "The last time I saw her, she was unconscious." Or pretending to be unconscious! The nurse shakes her head. "She was just brought into the emergency room, and then she was discharged. She didn't sustain any injury." "Did anyone come here to check on me?" I ask, my voice both tearful and hopeful. I could not have mistaken the sliver of concern I saw in Kayden's face when he saw me in my pitiful state. But it quickly disappeared when Megan put on one of her best acting performances. "You mean your husband?” I nod. “I haven’t seen him around. But I bet he’s preoccupied with dealing with the media about this whole fiasco.” "Media?" I echo. The nurse smiles as she straightens the sheet on my bed. "Well, you and the baby need plenty of rest. It's best not to bother yourself with such trivial things," she replies. “Rest now. Just press the call button if you need me.” The nurse closes the door behind her, leaving me alone with my thoughts. The two of us share a special bond… How long have she and Kayden known each other? When did they start an affair when Kayden's drowning in work here, and Megan is busy working as a model in Paris? Damn it! I should not bother with such useless things. The entertainment news is on when I turn on the TV. "It seems that business tycoon, Kayden Steele, is officially off the market." The news anchor's voice echoes through the room, and my heart skips a beat. Images of Kayden flash across the screen. "Rumors have been circulating the past few days that the elusive CEO of Kayden Corp is secretly married. However, today, his PR team confirmed that there's no truth to this. Instead, they confirmed that he is dating model, Megan Brown. It is reported that the two have been good friends since they were kids, and their relationship has recently evolved into something more romantic." My heart breaks as I watch the videos of Kayden and Megan together. Sightings of Kayden holding Megan's hand and kissing her feel like a knife stabbing me multiple times in my chest. How could Kayden do this to me? How could he easily announce his relationship with Megan, when he's kept me a secret for three years? He discarded me the moment Megan came back to town. When he saw me bleeding, he still chose to rescue Megan, and left me for his driver to save! Tears roll down my cheeks, and the moment I realize it, I quickly wipe them away. you, Kayden Steele! You do not deserve these tears! I will not shed a tear for him. I'm pregnant with his child, but this baby will remain my own! Kayden will have no right to know about it. His child will never call him 'Daddy'! Perhaps, that will be the most suitable punishment for a monster like him! With shaking hands, I reach for my phone and send Kayden a message. 'You had a good thing going on, but you chose to give it away. You don't deserve me. Let's get a divorce! Goodbye, Kayden.’ I click send without even rereading my message, not trusting myself completely that I will have enough courage to send it. I gently caress my tummy. It's okay, baby. We're going to be just fine. *** Kayden. '...Goodbye, Kayden.' Those words ring in my head like a nightmare. I can't shake off the feeling of dread that has been eating me up inside since I saw her lying in a pool of blood. I still remember the way she looked at me—hopeful and pleading. She looked at me like I was some sort of guardian angel created to keep her safe. Damn it! I should have saved her. But Megan screamed and fainted. And like a force of habit, I went to her instead. Megan and I shared a past, and because of that, I’d always thought she’d be the one I would spend the rest of my life with. Until Cassie came and life threw me a curveball. I take my coat off and lay it on the bed. Then I realize that the bed covers are purple. I look around. I remember coming to this room whenever I was feeling too much pressure from work, or my family. I don't know why, but somehow, this room feels warm and peaceful. Funny how I only realize this now. This was Cassie's room. And now that she's gone, I didn't expect it to be as cold as all the other rooms in this house. Somehow, somebody got wind of our marriage. The gossip almost went out of hand. The PR Team told me how bad it would look if people found out that I've been married to one of my employees for three years, and I kept it from the public, leaving her to be treated like a lowly employee. That's why they suggested that I announce dating Megan immediately, to divert the issue and prevent damage to Steele Corps' reputation. It seems like the right thing to do. But... why doesn't it feel right? Why do I feel guilty for every little thing I did and said to Cassie? I stare at her number on my phone. I close my eyes and press the call button. I don't know what to say to her. I just know that suddenly, I want to hear her voice again. But she doesn't answer until finally, she turns off her phone. I groan in frustration, throwing my phone on the bed. I know this is for the better. Finally, she's gone... she's out of my life. But ! Why do I suddenly feel so empty? .............................................................................. Cassie. "Cassie, your grandfather’s lawyer, Attorney Magnus, has been calling you since morning,” Lyn, my assistant, says. “I’m still not interested.” A few days ago, I had the shock of my life when I discovered that my mother’s family is old rich. They own King's Court, a chain of luxury hotels. And my grandfather named me his successor to handle the business. “I doubt there’s room in my portfolio for managing a chain of hotels, don’t you agree?” Lyn raises a brow at me for a moment. “You’re one of the smartest women I know. You probably got your father’s talent for designing. But your knack for closing lucrative business deals? Maybe you got that from your late grandfather. I heard he was brilliant." Four years ago, I discovered my passion for interior design. With my relentless efforts to give my son a better life, I built Cassandra Designs, which is now one of the biggest interior design firms in the country. “I heard King’s Court is in trouble,” I remember one of the many articles I read the night I learned about my grandfather. “Your grandfather had been sick for a while. No one was good enough to continue his life’s work. But it's only right that you take over his company, and later, pass it on to your son." A smile tugs at my lips as I remember my three-year-old son. Jet black hair and piercing blue eyes. He’s a spitting image of… “By the way,” Lyn interrupts my thoughts. “Attorney Magnus seems to be aware of your son’s condition.” "What do you mean?" "He'll use whatever he can to convince you to do this." "Ha! What could they possibly have that I want?" Lyn looks at me meaningfully. "We're talking about your mother's family here. Blood-related family. Who knows? Maybe one of them just might be your son's perfect bone marrow match." "Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Lyn nods. "We're running out of options. Unless you want to go to your son's fa..." "No!" I cut her off. "There must be another way. Kai's father doesn't even know about him!" "Then I suggest you meet with your grandfather's attorney." As soon as I step into my office, the smell of flowers fills my senses. I find baskets of roses of different colors around the room. My eyes catch sight of the man standing near the glass walls and gazing at the city view. "Do you really have to be overly sentimental, Mr. Sullivan?" I ask. Ethan Sullivan used to be my next-door neighbor. He sought me out when he heard the news of my old house catching fire. I could hardly believe that from a scrawny little boy who wears thick glasses, he turned into this tall, charming man, who built one of the country's biggest financial institutions. He turns around, his gray eyes dancing. "Happy birthday, Cassandra." "You really shouldn't have gone berserk at the flower shop," I tease. "Well, Cassandra Carlisle deserves only the best, doesn't she?" "Please, have a seat." I lead him towards my desk. "Can I offer you anything?" "No, thank you," he replies. "I won't stay long. I'm running late for a board meeting." "Then why did you come? You should have just called. We can always meet later." "But I want to greet you in person. And for you, Cassandra, I'd make the whole world wait." I look away from him, a blush starts to creep over my cheeks. For the past year, Ethan has made it known that his feelings for me are more than friendly. But he's been very patient and understanding. "Ethan," I say. "You've been a wonderful friend and support system to me and Kai." He narrows his eyes, looking at me intently. "But you know I could be so much more than that, right?" "Ethan, you know I care about you, too. But I've been through a lot. And Kai's health is my priority." He reaches across the table to squeeze my hand. "I know that, Cassandra. And trust me, I would never ask you to put anything before your son." I squeeze his hand back. Ethan has always been there for me and Kai. I know he deserves more than just friendship from me. I smile at him. "Ethan, I..." Then suddenly, Lyn bursts into the room, with a look of urgency on her face. "Sorry, Cassandra. But..." she trails off. "Attorney Magnus is here to see you." I groan. "He's really persistent, isn't he?" "Want me to take care of it?" Ethan asks. I shake my head. "I'll manage. I guess, we can just talk later." Ethan looks disappointed. I guess he felt that I was going to finally give him the answer he'd been waiting for before we were interrupted. "Okay. I'll see you at dinner later," he said in a sober voice. 'Was I really going to say yes to Ethan just now?' I ask myself as I watch Ethan leave. 'Am I over the past? And am I ready for this?' Lyn comes back into my office followed by an older man. "Miss Carlisle," Attorney Magnus says. "I am sorry to barge in on you like this. But desperate times call for desperate measures." "I thought I made myself clear, Attorney Magnus. I'm not interested in my grandfather's business." Attorney Magnus takes out an envelope from his suitcase and puts it in front of me. I open it and see photos of people I do not know. Most of them are old, some are even handicapped. "Who are these people?" "These are the people who worked with your grandfather in building his hotel empire," Attorney Magnus replies. "So?" "Right now, they stand to lose their jobs, their benefits, their means of living. All because you refuse to take what your grandfather has given to you." "What?" "No one is leading the company right now, and the other shareholders are selling their shares to another company for a takeover." "But isn't a takeover a good thing? You gain what you can and cut your losses?" "King's Court is still a lucrative venture. The company that will take over knows this. But it will be a complete takeover, meaning the very people who helped your grandfather build it will be let go for a small amount of compensation. That includes all the other members of your family... including your grandmother." "My grandmother?" I echo. I have no idea I have another living grandparent. Attorney Magnus puts a photo of an old woman who looks like my mother in front of me. "Your grandfather's dying wish is for King Court to remain in your family. He regretted his decision to send your mother away, and it drove a wedge between him and your grandmother. Your grandmother has depression. She never took it well that your mother had been sent away." Listening to his story, I feel my eyes start to get wet. "If the CEO of the company that wants to buy the hotel manages to convince the major shareholders to sell their shares, then your family will lose King's Court. Your grandmother will lose everything. These people," he motions at the photos in front of you. "It's like you just handed them a death sentence." "Are you trying to make me feel guilty?" "I know about your child's condition," Attorney Magnus says gently. "You have cousins, nieces, and nephews from your mother's side of the family. None of them is interested or capable of running the business. But... perhaps one of them could be your son's match." Damn it! "Do you really think I'm capable of saving my grandfather's legacy?" "Your grandfather watched your success over the years. He believes in you. And so do I." I feel like I don’t have a choice. Besides, what have I got to lose? "Okay, I will give it a shot." Attorney Magnus gives me a triumphant smile. "I'll guide you through this, don't worry." "What do I need to do first?" "Attend the investor's meeting on Friday," he replies. "Announce that you have accepted the position. The CEO of the company that's buying us out will be there, too. Tell him that if he wants to invest, he's welcome to do so. But they can't take over your grandfather's business." "Where is this meeting?" "In South Carolina." I suddenly stop short. South Carolina was my old hometown. "And... what's the name of the company that wants to take over King's Court?" I ask nervously. "Steele Corp," Attorney Magnus replies. "You need to meet with its CEO, Kayden Steele." .............................................................................. "You're not backing out, are you?" I can hear the weary in Lyn's voice when I told her what Attorney Magnus had asked me to do. "Attorney Magnus drives a hard bargain. He did assure me that my family is willing to help my son, should one of them be a match. But... South Carolina is the one place I tried hard to stay away from!" "But, Cassie, we have been searching for years," Lyn heaves a frustrated breath. "I suggested going to your relatives because I know you don't want to see or talk to your ass of an ex-husband. But it turns out, you'll have to go to him anyway!" "I know. Life's a bitch, right?" I have gone a long way from the last time I've seen Kayden Steele. I've built a pretty good life for myself and my son. Back then, I vowed never to see or think of him ever again. And I certainly didn't plan to do business with him! "You..." Lyn trails off. My eyebrow shot up at her. She squirms as if the question she's about to ask is physically hurting her. "You don't still have feelings... for... him, right?" "Ha!" is all I can utter for a moment. My mind wanders to that devilishly handsome man, with midnight black hair and dazzling blue eyes, who is a replica of my son. I don't love him anymore! I close my eyes for a moment and call in my last memory of him: him carrying my bitchy stepsister out of the blazing house that she burned. And with that memory in mind, I raise my chin to Lyn and say, "When I was Mrs. Kayden Steele, I was a sweet, innocent, gentle pushover. I had nothing to my name, and I would do anything to please my father." I slightly slam my fist on my desk. "I am no longer that woman! And the only feelings I have for Kayden Steele right now, are feelings of loathing!" "If you don't want to ask Kayden for help with Kai, you have other relatives who probably are a match, too. This just gives us plenty of alternatives." "I didn't say yes to Attorney Magnus yet." "There's an inaugural event that you should go to two days from now. It would be a good opportunity for you to meet important people in the city. You should go to that. Give Kayden Steele the shock of his life." Lyn's suggestion is quite tempting. But in all honesty, I don't even need my grandfather's company. I am happy with my peace now. Why do I need shake up my life and see the person who broke my heart years ago? Just then, Lyn's phone rings. "Yes... what?!" The tone of her voice sends me on high alert. "We'll be right there!" I stare back at Lyn in panic. That tone, and that look on her face can only mean thing... Kai is having another episode. "Let's go to the ER!" "Is he okay?" I ask, my voice shaking. "I'm sure he will be. He had a nosebleed and then he fainted." I quickly grab my bag and half run towards the door in legs that can barely support my weight. This is not the first time this has happened. And I know that after a blood transfusion, Kai will be okay. But that's the other problem. His blood type is one of the rarest. We're running out of places to get it. As my driver speeds to the hospital, I try to calm my raging nerves. Please, god! Let him be okay! I won't ask for anything else, just save my son! Lyn and I rush into the emergency room, panic visible in both our faces. My heart pounds inside my ribcage as I desperately search for my son's doctor. Finally, I spot Doctor Willis, Kai's hematologist, standing near the nurse's station. "Doctor! What happened to my son?" "Miss Carlisle, Kai has another episode of severe anemia," she responds. "I'm ordering blood transfusion right away. We're just waiting for the blood supply." "Is he going to be alright?" I ask, my voice shaky. "As long as he receives the blood he needs, he'll be fine." But that's always the problem. Kai's blood type is extremely rare. I feel a surge of panic as the reality sinks in. If we can't find a suitable blood donor soon, my son's life will hang by a thread. I glance over at Lyn, her eyes filled with worry. "Doctor Willis," I say, trying to keep my voice steady. "Is there anything we can do? Any alternative options?" She sighs. I can hear the frustration in it. "We've exhausted all our resources in the area. The blood bank is running low on Kai's blood type, and it takes time to locate a suitable match." Time. That's a luxury I don't have. If Kai doesn't receive the transfusion soon, I might lose him. Then everything that I worked hard for in the last four years would have been for nothing. "Perhaps we can help," a familiar voice says behind me. I spin around and I see Attorney Magnus standing here beside a guy, who looks like he just got out of college. "How?" "This is Alberte King," Attorney Magnus replies, referring to the guy beside him. "He's your nephew." "Nephew?" "Yep," the guy replies. "And like your son, I'm an AB negative, too." Relief washes over me like a cold bucket. I forget about my own ego, my own doubts and apprehensions. Right now, I'll accept any help, even if it's tagged with the almost impossible favor that Attorney Magnus is asking from me. "Good," Doctor Willis says. "Come with me, young man." As we wait for Alberte, I sit beside Attorney Magnus in the waiting area. "I know why you brought him here," I tell him. He looks at me nonchalantly. "No, you don't know. Because we just genuinely want to help you. Whether you fly to South Carolina to meet with your son's father is entirely your decision to make." Right! "And I'm done!" Alberte announces as he reappears in the waiting area. "We're initiating your son's blood transfusion right away, Miss Carlisle. He'll be out of danger soon." "Thank you, Doctor." Alberte extends his hand to me. "It's nice to meet you, Aunt Cassie." Despite having donated a huge amount of blood, Alberte's attitude is still positively jolly. "Just call me Cassie, you brat!" I say, breathing in a sigh of relief. Instead of taking his hand, I reach forward to give him a hug. I am happy to meet a new relative, and one that has the same blood type as my son no less! "Nice to meet you, too, Alberte! And thank you!" An hour later, I set beside my son's bed, watching him sleep peacefully. I study his face and cannot help but remember his father. I enclose his tiny hand between my palms and bring it to my lips for a kiss. "Mommy..." My eyes fly open when I hear his voice. "Kai, my baby..." He smiles at me weakly. "Where's my Daddy?" What did he just ask me? I blink back at him in utter surprise. "Do... do I even have a Daddy?" He's only three! Who taught him to ask these kinds of questions? I clear my throat and giggle nervously. "Well... you know how truly special you are?" "Uh-huh?" "Well... you're very special because God created you to be only for me!" Then I tickle him, and I am rewarded by his high-pitched laugh. Damn it! Pretty soon, I will no longer get away with these answers! I reached forward and give my son a tight embrace. my ego. my fears. I will do anything to save my son. And I realize now what I really have to do. It's time to see my ex-husband once again.	LEARN_MORE	https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/vbb2055wg	OasisFun	https://www.facebook.com/100091233910499/	528	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	www.novel-oasis.com	VIDEO		https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/vbb2055wgvd1wbyhqadl53nf?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120219105343300400&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481355974_861845189356421_4313262505566827928_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nNXYqRZI1cUQ7kNvgGsSGZs&_nc_oc=Adi1X6us9-o8vKb9AhfD3KhzruCTGLkaf6-eRwhRvg0AENMfhweB_sugLi3n0ZzirU04wShOmBvximsW7pl5TsHR&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A2UC_PL8ThUgA0FArcXJ6I5&oh=00_AYDIZT5Pg-84qdD9WqnPOL8-8cGMUZRM7kTdDxw1RO5Rqg&oe=67C7336E	PERSON_PROFILE	OasisFun	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,721	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651		Many of you wanted to know what supplements I take post-double-lung transplant, so here is the bulk of them 😊 Occasionally, I will add in or subtract a few. I decided to bring out a few alter egos and have a little extra fun making this one 🤩 Sidenote… These are supplements I take, but please don’t forget to check with your team to ensure that they are safe for you, should you choose to add any into your life🙂#lungtransplant #doublelungtransplant #pulmonaryhypertension #supplements #supplementsthatwork	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/chloetemtchine	Chloe Temtchine	https://www.facebook.com/chloetemtchine/	35,093	1969-12-31 18:00	Visit Instagram profile	instagram.com	VIDEO		http://instagram.com/chloetemtchine	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481203461_2854361858079964_7985986683393236363_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GuEZE0JDEp0Q7kNvgF29-pv&_nc_oc=AdglSkQyzd0aYeOFUpxCQ4XpMoJ03DRD_xXQaNCD8Iy-HU12JP-JnfC-IokzDwS3Cf5Ac_x3QXqwER_xAGRIOe8D&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A3025hpPYtTRqj--B9j8Xfn&oh=00_AYDq7-_e0tHOthoQzGDxSZCijuzM2ktkPEOuWGZ-ykTJ_g&oe=67C73F10	PERSON_PROFILE	Chloe Temtchine	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,209	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707205}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔥Click to read all Chapters and all Books!🔥	My twin brother forbade me to date any boy, but I fell for his best friend. "Touch me," Easton demanded. I jumped as Easton turned off the lights and pulled his hand over my lap. "Shh, Don't let your brother know." Our bodies were pressed together and my mouth was inches from his. “My brother won't allow...” Easton covered my lips and bit my bottom lip, "I approved." I couldn't help kissing him but the lights were turned on as he pinned me in the bed. We raised our heads at that moment and God! My brother just stood at the door. ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 We're hosting a party. Our parents are out of town for the weekend and my twin brother Ryan thought it would be the perfect opportunity to throw a drink—soaked bash. He pretty much invited everyone from school to attend. "Ready to go?" My best friend Sadie chirps, pulling me out of my head. "Nope. No way. Uh uh. This shows waaaay too much skin." I stare at my reflection in the mirror, glaring at the offending scraps of material I'm currently wearing. "You look hot," my best friend Sadie says, her dark eyes sparkling as she clutches her hands together in glee. "Let's go to the pool!" "I can't." I'm already whining, and this isn't good, especially when I promised Sadie I would actually be social tonight. "You can and you will," Sadie says firmly as she grabs hold of my arm and steers me toward my closed bedroom door. I try to resist, but she's stronger than she looks. "It'll be fun. I promise. All the boys will be looking at you." She practically croons that last statement, as if it's supposed to entice me. Guess what? It doesn't. Having the boys look at me is a problem. Their attention makes me uneasy. Uncomfortable. Ryan may be my twin, but we are the complete opposites in almost every single way. He's popular at our private school while I'm not. He attracts all the girls, while guys barely look in my direction. He's really attractive. I'm really… Average. Okay, I have nice hair. It's a thick, glossy brown with natural gold highlights that become brighter in the sun. It's my best asset. If you're in to big ones, then I can deliver. Ugh, my thoughts are so dumb sometimes. "Ready to go?" Sadie chirps, pulling me out of my head. I blink at her, surprised to see we're standing directly in front of my bedroom door, her hand curved around the handle. "I'm not ready yet." Her shoulders slump a little, but she's not defeated yet. "I hear Easton is already out there." Okay, that perks me right up. "Did he bring a girl?" "I don't think so." Sadie smiles brightly and opens my bedroom door. "Come on, let's go!" I let her drag me down the hall. Down the stairs. Into the kitchen, which is packed with all sorts of people I vaguely recognize from school. Not a one of them says anything to me, and it's my house. Frustrating. We go outside, where there are even more people. Music is playing loudly over the portable speaker Ryan got for Christmas last year. It's small but powerful, and the heavy base seems to throb in time with my heartbeat. There are so many people in our small pool, I'm not sure how they all fit. Others are crowded around the sides, dipping their feet in the water or sitting in one of the chairs that surrounds the small glass topped table with a giant crack in it. Easton is sitting at the head of the table like a king surveying his court. He's the most popular boy in our class—in the entire school. He's gorgeous and rich and built like a god. Tall and broad with a powerful chest and six pack abs. Long legs and powerful thighs. He's currently got all of it on display as he sits there in a pair of dark blue swim trunks and nothing else, clutching a beer bottle in his hand as he glowers at everyone. "There's your boy," Sadie whispers as we both watch him. It's difficult not to stare at him. That chiseled face with the strong nose and sharp cheekbones, it's all lines with those cold, glacier blue eyes, offset only by his soft, lush mouth. An utterly kissable mouth. A sigh leaves me as I stare at it. His lower lip is much thicker than his upper lip, which is shaped in the perfect cupid's bow. Those lips are pink and full and he's currently licking them. I move my gaze away from the perfection that is his mouth and glare at my best friend. "He's not my boy," I remind her. "He's no one's," Sadie readily agrees. "But I'm sure once he sees you in that top, he'll be dying to get his hands on you." A shiver rolls through me at the thought of Easton putting those big, rough hands on my body and I try to ignore it. "He doesn't know I exist." Sadie snorts. "Liar. You're his best friend's sister." "He never talks to me." In his world, I'm no one. He's only interested in blondes, while I have dark hair. Popular girls who demand attention while I'm just…boring. The smart girl. The one who likes to read. The one who cringes when she's called on in class, even though she always knows the answer. The nerd. The one with only a couple of friends. The one who's… Madly in love with Easton. Sometimes I wish I could punch myself in the face. "He'd talk to your body." At my incredulous look, Sadie bursts into laughter. "What? It's true! Look at you!" I glance down at myself, wishing I'd worn a coverup. At the very least, a T—shirt. Everything is on display and while no one is paying us any attention, if Sadie keeps laughing like that, someone's going to notice. "Sadie! Gimme a beer!" This comes from my brother Ryan, who knows my friend has a tiny crush on him and will do whatever he says without protest. Pig. True to form, she perks right up, her body practically vibrating with excitement. "Coming right up!" She dashes off before I can say a word, leaving me alone. Just standing there. Feeling awkward. What else is new? Ryan's gaze goes to mine, a frown forming on his face. "What are you wearing, Harp?" I shoot daggers at him with my eyes, but it's like he doesn't even notice. All of his friends laugh, barely looking at me. Save for one. Easton. His eyes rake over me, making gooseflesh rise. He's checking me out. Oh my God, Easton actually notices me. Chapter 2 Easton's POV What is my best friend's twin wearing? The bikini is a deep, dark green, which stands out against her smooth, olive skin. The girl has a lot of it. Acres and acres of it. The triangle top barely covers her body. They're huge. Her brown eyes are wide and unblinking. She reminds me of an animal in the forest. The look on their face when they're caught. Right before you shoot it. Unable to help myself, I raise a brow, never looking away from her. She's so good. Like, I'd done her a lot. "Get some clothes on!" Ryan yells viciously at his sister, making her startle. Like a scared little deer, she darts off, running back into the house. My gaze drops to her just as she opens the back door. Her curves are round. A perfect handful. I could scoop her up and pull her to me, no problem. "What on earth is she thinking, wearing something like that?" Ryan mutters under his breath. He's very protective of his twin, though I always figured that was because she's so skittish all the time. As if she's afraid of her own shadow. Maybe it's because deep down he knows his sister is beautiful and he hangs out with a bunch of disgusting guys who'd love to get her alone. "Your sister is looking good," says Blake with a leer, the most disgusting one of our group. He's currently proving my point. "Don't you even think about her," Ryan says, his voice dark, his expression thunderous. "She's too good for you. For all of you." He says this to the entire table, including me. "Not my type," I say, leaning back in the chair and spreading my legs wider as I gaze out at the pool. I can feel Ryan watching me for a beat too long, but I refuse to look at him. Or say anything. If he's worried about me trying to get with his sister, he needs to chill. She doesn't interest me. You see one body, you've seen them all. She's nothing. A nobody. The tension leaves Ryan pretty rapidly once his sister disappears and soon, we're all talking and doing round after round of shots. We've moved on from the beer to cheap teqila because Ryan's family doesn't have a ton of money, so I toss it back without complaint. I'll end up with a killer hangover tomorrow, but it'll be worth it. Anything to help me forget. At least for a few hours. The drink doesn't help lighten my mood. Lately nothing does. The pressure at home is mounting, and I can't escape it. My father's words are always in my head, lingering long after he leaves for yet another business trip. He wants me to come work with him. Immediately after I graduate high school. That is the last thing I want to do. To forget about dear old dad and his demands, I consume more. I grab the bottle and drink straight from it while my friends cheer me on. Girls approach our table, their gazes finding mine, the sultry expressions telling me everything they're feeling without saying a word. They want me. They'd willingly go anywhere with me. They know how I operate and they're hoping they're next. The chosen one for the night. Despite them all being gorgeous, with bodies on full display, not one of them interests me. The only thing I plan on holding tonight is a bottle. "Hey, you drank it all," Blake gripes when he snatches the tequila out of my hands. "Sure hope you've got more where that came from, Ryan." "I do," Ryan says, leaping to his feet, wobbling a little to the side. That one girl who's always doing what she wants, Sadie what's her name, comes rushing over, like she's going to rescue him. Pathetic. "In the house." "I'll go get it," Sadie offers. "No." I rise to my feet, feeling the need to get away for a little bit. "I'll grab it. Where do you keep the drink in your house, Ry?" "Top shelf in the back corner of our pantry. You can't miss it!" Ryan shouts. I head for the house, my gaze taking it in. They live in an older neighborhood, one that's seen better days. The exterior of their two—story house could use a fresh new coat of paint. The roof looks in bad shape too. It's not bad, it's just old. But the twins don't come from money. We all know this. They attend Washington High on a district transfer, their parents wanting them to have a better education, I guess. The rest of us come from mega rich families who don't have to worry about anything. At least, that's what we look like. But even rich people have problems. Big ones. A girl stops me just as I approach the back door, talking to me nonstop as she shifts closer and closer to me. She smells like heavy, expensive perfume. She's wearing a string top that barely covers her crotch and I'm afraid if she makes one wrong move, I'll see all the goods. And where's the fun in that? I like a little mystery with my encounters. Girls who act coy. Like they have no idea what I'm about, though of course, they know everything about me. They played and they protest and then, always, they give in. Making me feel like the man. Frowning, I concentrate on her moving lips, but I don't hear a word she says. I'm kind of over that scene. The fluttering damsel in distress type who's helpless unless a big, strong man—me—comes along. It's all an act, one I'm bored with. Maybe I need a challenge. Maybe I need to change things up. I glance toward the small window that's closest to where we're standing, frowning. The window is cracked open, barely a sliver, and I swear to God, it feels like someone is watching me. I squint into the near darkness, trying to make out a face, but I see nothing. Must be a figment of my imagination. "Want to take off?" the girl asks, knocking me from my thoughts. I blink her back into focus, taking her in. Dark blonde hair that hangs to about her shoulders. Pretty, bland face. The requisite blue eyes, thick eyelashes and pouty lips. Her golden skin has a slick sheen that I'm afraid might be oily to the touch. "Yeah, I don't think so. I'm staying around here tonight," I tell her. Her expression shifts and changes. No more easygoing, let's get out of here for me. Now she's scowling with thin lips and flared nostrils. "Your loss," she says, flipping her hair over her shoulder before she flounces off. I watch her go, irritation settling in my veins. Irritated more with myself than her. Why couldn't I just take off with her? What's my problem? I need a drink. That'll solve all my issues. I head into the house, taking in the kitchen full of people, most of them I recognize. They say hi as I walk past and I mumble a greeting in return, searching the small pantry until I find my prize. A giant bottle. I head for the bathroom, knocking on the closed door in warning before I try the handle. It opens with ease. Just before the lights go out. Chapter 3 Harper's POV I'm staring out the small bathroom window like a complete peeper, watching Easton. Always with my eyes on Easton. He's drinking a lot tonight, and he doesn't seem happy. There's pain etched in his features, shading his eyes. There's no smile on that perfect mouth, and he's greedy with the bottle, not willing to share it. I watch as he tips it back, his throat moving as he swallows, and I'm fascinated. Who knew drinking could be so gorgeous? Ryan talks to Sadie. I'm sure he's asking her to do something for him. He's so awful to her. I tell her over and over again she's wasting her time, but she won't listen to me. Guess that'll be a lesson she has to learn for herself. It's not Sadie who runs the errand for my brother though. It's Easton who rises from his chair, his tall, powerful frame moving with ease as he makes his way toward our crappy little house. Wincing, I consider making a run for it so I can hide out in my bedroom, but it's like I can't move. My gaze is fixed on him. He pauses right in front of the window I'm standing in front of, and I've never been more grateful for the opaque glass that makes it so no one can see through it from the outside. He won't be able to see me, thank goodness. But I can see him. Up close, he's even more gorgeous. Tanned skin stretches over bulging muscles. His chest is smooth, his pecs developed and those six pack abs are utterly lickable. The thought alone makes me blush, because I can't imagine putting my tongue anywhere on Easton's body— Wait a minute. That's strange. I can imagine putting my tongue everywhere on Easton's body, and I bet he'd enjoy every second of it. I know I would. Withholding the sigh that wants to escape, I watch as he chats with a pretty girl who's a year younger than us. She's barely dressed in that black string bkn she's got on, and she's thrusting her chest out toward Easton as if silently demanding he look at it. There's not even a flicker of interest on his face and I can tell she's disappointed. To the point that she leaves in a huff, and he enters the house. Oh God. He's coming in my house. My brother may be Easton's best friend, but he never comes over here. More like Ryan is always over at Easton's house. One of our parents is usually always here, and considering we're not one of the rich kids like everyone else, we don't like having a lot of people over. Though my friends do come over on occasion. Never Ryan's though. It's as if he's completely ashamed of the place. I guess I can't blame him. I contemplate leaving the bathroom so I can dart upstairs, but what if Easton catches sight of me? I'd rather wait it out here first. No way is he coming into the bathroom. No one has tried coming in for the last five minutes. People might not even know this bathroom exists— There's a knock on the door and a gasp escapes me. I keep my gaze fixed on the yard outside, gripping the edge of the windowsill before I dare to turn around. The door opens at the exact same moment as I turn, and I wait in breathless anticipation to see who it is just before the lights go out. I blink into the darkness. What? Why would they flick off the lights? The door shuts, but I know I'm not alone. I can sense someone is in the room with me. There's a quiet snicking sound. The turn of a lock. Something heavy is set on the bathroom counter. Suddenly, I can smell him. Men's cologne. Warm, masculine skin. A boy is in the bathroom. But who? There's screaming outside and I'm about to turn back toward the window so I can see what's going on when he speaks. "Did the power go out?" A chill runs down my spine. I know that voice. God! It's Easton. Clearing my throat, I say, "It must've." He says nothing. Neither do I. Nerves making me shaky, I turn back toward the window and push it open further, staring outside. The backyard is in complete darkness, even the pool lights are off, confirming that yes, we're having a power outage. I'm about to share that fact when I feel Easton looming behind me, his warm body drawing closer. Until it's pressed directly against mine, his front to my back. "Are you the little spy who was watching me in the window?" he asks, his head terribly close to mine. So close, I can feel the huff of his breath against my cheek when he speaks. "I don't know what you're talking about," I say primly. "Mmm hmm." He presses his body into mine and I reach for the windowsill, holding on tight. I can feel every inch of him mold against me, and I wonder if he knows who I am. Or if he just does this sort of thing to random girls in the dark. I don't care. It feels too good to tell him to stop. Like all of my dreams coming true. And when he reaches around me, his strong arms boxing me in, his hands settling on the windowsill beside mine, I feel as if I've died and gone to heaven. "I wasn't spying on you," I tell him, hating how my voice trembles. "But you were watching me," he says. "You have the unfair advantage, you know." I close my eyes when I feel his face nuzzle my neck. What in the world? "How's that?" I don't even know how I was able to ask that question just now, and sound so normal. "You know who I am." His mouth moves against my neck and I grip the windowsill even tighter. "And I don't know who you are." "You know me," I tell him, smiling. What I had never done before. "Hmm." He shifts closer, his hands leaving the window to settle on my body. Whoa. "I know you're not wearing much." "It's a pool party," I protest. He runs his hands up my sides, achingly slow. "I know you've got smooth skin." I say nothing in response. I'm too attuned to the way he's touching me, how he moves behind me. The heat from his chest, the chill of his still damp swim trunks. With the lights out, I can focus on him and nothing else. He's making my head spin. "You going to tell me your name?" he whispers, his fingers back at my body, toying with the ties on my bkini bottoms. One quick flick and he'd have them undone. I slowly shake my head, afraid to ruin it when he finds out who I am. "Guess I'll have to figure out who you are in other ways." His hands tighten on my hps, slowly forcing me to turn. And face him. Chapter 4 Easton I'll kiss this girl and figure out who she is. I've kissed pretty much every girl worth kissing in our class, yet I don't recognize her voice. She could be disguising it though. Trying to trick me. Plus, I'm a little drunk. I know this girl. I have to. Her skin is like silk. Soft to the touch. Her fragrance is intoxicating. I keep breathing it in deep, letting the delicate floral scent fill my senses. Not too sweet. A hint of sexy. She's all curves. Her tiny waist is the perfect ratio. But I'm not going to date this girl in a dark bathroom. I don't even know who she is. I'll kiss her though. I'm not above that. "Wait a minute." She braces her hands on my chest the moment she's facing me, and her touch is like a brand. Hot fingertips press into my pecs, making me shiver, and no girl makes me shiver. "What are you doing?" "Shh." My fingers brush against her chest by accident as I reach for her neck. I need to ease her into this. "Tell me your name." A shuddery breath leaves her, but otherwise, she says nothing. Okay, mystery girl. I curve my fingers around the side of her neck and tip her head back. Leaning in, I hover my face above hers, my eyes slowly adjusting to the darkness, barely able to make out her features. Big, dark eyes watch me in return. Pert nose. Plump lips part. Dipping my head, I brush my mouth against hers. It's as if my entire body comes to life at first contact of our lips. A jolt passes from her into me, electrifying my blood, my skin. The tiny hairs on my arms stand on end as I pull her into me, that curvy body nestling against mine as I deepen the kiss. She parts her lips eagerly. It's a shy swipe. Tentative. Unsure. I'm her first. I still don't who this girl is, but she tastes like heaven. She's sweet. So sweet. I chase after it, wanting more. More, more, more. We cling to each other, our accelerated breaths the only sound in the room. She whimpers when I sink my teeth into her lower lip. "Oh God," she whispers when I break the kiss to run my lips down her neck. "Who are you?" I ask as I nip and lick at her sensitive skin, making her tremble. I return my mouth to hers, consuming her once more. Not yet, I tell myself. I can't push too fast. This girl isn't like that. She's eager, but a novice. I'll teach her everything I know. My hand slides down her back, resting at the base of her spin. I slip my fingers beneath the fabric, touching soft, soft skin. I dare to go further. Will she let me? She breaks the kiss, her breathing ragged, her face still turned toward mine."You're bad for me," I tell her. "Why?" I can hear the confusion in that one single word. "Once I start with you, I won't be able to stop." I kiss her, our lips clinging. "Ever." Another kiss. "You're addicting." I nibble at her bottom lip. "Tell me your name." "Isn't it more fun when you don't know who I am?" she asks, sounding amused. "No," I growl before I deliver a brutal kiss. One that shows her how much I want her. How much I could unleash on her, though I won't. She trembles in my arms yet returns the kiss with equal hunger, as if she can't get enough of me. As if she's my perfect match. There's a pounding on the bathroom door and I lift my head, glaring in its direction. I'd had the forethought to lock the door when I slipped inside, right as the lights shut off, and the handle rattles, as if they're trying to get in. "Someone in there?" Oh. It's Ryan. Clearing my throat, I yell, "Occupied!" Ryan's quiet for a moment, just before he starts to laugh. "My bad, buddy. Hope you're having fun in there." He's gone before I can say another word. The hot little bundle in my arms is suddenly squirming, as if she's desperate to get away from me. I let her go, my arms dropping to my sides and she's gone, pressing her body against the door, though the room is so small she's still within arm's reach. "You should go," she demands, her voice firm, yet still shaky. A laugh escapes me. "Really? You're kicking me out now? I can't see where I'm going." "You can see enough." "Maybe I don't want to leave." I reach for her, but she dodges away from my seeking hands. "Come on. Two seconds ago you were grinding your hot little body all over me." "You think my body is hot?" She sounds shocked. "You're on fire." I reach for her again, and I pull her in close, thrusting my torso against hers. "See what you do to me?" Chapter 5 Harper I can definitely see what I have done to him. Oh my God, he is huge. Massive. I'll never be able to handle it. If I ever even get the chance to have it. The way the boy kisses…it's as if I've died and I'm floating on a white, fluffy cloud, only brought to life by his persuasive lips and delicious tongue. I'm practically a pile of sweaty goo on our bathroom floor. What I just experienced was freaking amazing, and it was merely a simple kissing session. But I don't care that he doesn't want to leave, he needs to. Someone else could come knocking on the door or the lights could turn on at any second. What would happen then? Would Easton still feel the same way if he saw who I was? Would he freak out that he's been making out with his best friend's sister? I don't know. I also don't want to take the chance of finding out. I want to remember this night just like this, with my skin on fire and lips stinging and swollen and the memory of him telling me how hot my body is. "Easton …" I start, finding his waist, touching his chiseled muscles. No, Harper. This has to end. Now. "Easton," I attempt again, "you really have to go," I reinforce, leading him in the dark toward the door. His fingers graze my chin. "You're going to miss my mouth." He's right about that. I suck in some air, giving myself the courage to jumble with the lock, twisting it vertically, the handle releasing as I pull it open. "Not even a good—bye kiss?" he asks from the doorway. One more and I won't have the strength to push him away. I'll tug him right back inside and let him untie every string of my suit. "You already know what my lips taste like," I say softly, touching them with my free hand. "Now, you can dream about them." I gently guide him through the threshold and lock the door, sagging my body against it. I take a big, fortifying breath, the quivers leaping in my chest, the tingles exploding in my stomach. Did that really just happen? I'm running my fingers over my lips, reminiscing about the way Easton's had felt when the lights turn on, the brightness so jarring, I cover my eyes. I can't believe my luck. If this had happened seconds before, everything would be different. He would know it's me. But I'm all alone in here and our kiss is my secret. I smile, staring at my reflection in the mirror. I'm a mess. My cheeks and chest are flushed a deep pink. My eyes are sparkling. My hair is in chaos from his hands. My skin grows warmer at the words lingering in my brain. His words. His hands. All over me. There's a knock on the door and I'm nervous that Easton's returned. "Who is it?" I ask. "It's Sadie, silly, let me in." There's a frown on her pretty face the moment the door is open. "What happened to you?" "What do you mean?" I ask, wondering if she can tell what Easton and I just did. "The lights go out and you disappeared! I had no idea where you were," she chastises, scooting her way inside and shutting the door. "Are you all right?" "I'm fine." I smile, trying to hide my jittery nerves. "You look all flushed." She waves a hand toward my chest. "Your skin is splotchy." Her gaze catches on the vodka bottle Easton must've left behind. "Ooh, check it out! Jackpot!" "Come on." I open the door once again and we exit together, Sadie clutching the vodka bottle. "Why did the power turn off? Do you know?" "I guess the entire block went out. I was outside when it happened, and all the houses around us had no lights either. So weird." "I hid out in the bathroom the whole time," I tell her, not about to reveal the kiss with Easton. Not yet. I want to savor it—try to recall everything he did and said. Relive it, moment by moment. Then I'll tell her. Maybe. "Lame," she teases, nudging me with her elbow. "Too bad you weren't locked in the dark with a hot boy!" She's so close to the truth, it's scary. "Ha ha, I wish." We pass through the crowded kitchen to head back outside, Sadie chatting a mile a minute while I don't say a thing. My mind is still in a daze thanks to Easton and his magical lips. "Boys are staring at you," Sadie whispers. I shrug. "So? It's just a bikini." Sadie watches me in wonder. "Wow, the lights go out for a few minutes, and you're completely transformed. I love your new attitude!" "I shouldn't be ashamed of my body," I say, glancing down at myself, seeing it in a whole new light. This body just had Easton's hands all over it. He even touched me in forbidden places. And I let him. I wanted it. I wanted him. My gaze wanders around the back yard, searching for him, but he's nowhere to be found. Did he leave? Where did he go? "No, you absolutely should not be ashamed," Sadie reaffirms. "Show them how gorgeous you are, Harper!" I love how encouraging my friend is. She's the best. Sadie grabs my hand, dragging me toward the table where my brother and his friends are still sitting, save for Easton. Disappointment crashes over me and I put on a smile, trying to fake it as the boys start talking to us. Mostly me. And when Ryan realizes his friends are giving me attention, his gaze lands on me, his lip curling in disgust. "You need to cover up," he says like the protective, older than me by two minutes big brother that he is. I waive a hand around the pool. "No one else is covered up." "You still should." "I don't want to." "I say you should." "Ryan," Sadie interjects. "Leave her alone." He glowers at Sadie, but otherwise doesn't say another word. Hmm. I should ask for her support more often. I can feel someone behind me, like an alarm going off, but the buzzing is only inside my body. Each nerve flickering like Easton's hands are caressing it. I become still, carefully glancing over my shoulder. Before I even see his gorgeous face, I know. It's Easton. Staring at me with a look of such disgust, I can feel my heart shrivel up in fear.	LEARN_MORE	https://m.novelworldoversea.com/5m1jeqr1u00.html	Storyverse	https://www.facebook.com/61567115634026/	99	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	m.novelworldoversea.com	VIDEO		https://m.novelworldoversea.com/5m1jeqr1u00.html	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481188911_1382617182767898_7544116565537915726_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EubG9bTU49IQ7kNvgFLqJxd&_nc_oc=AdjJJogCW_QtBAwnuMhV6T5yuEi_9F9fXfLmmBhW4B6r5caWq1fQ0W3nKWLOvI_DHP7iBBURaTINT7tM5sKfSj1M&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AvqSyRvYI4cJJrZKj17H1yp&oh=00_AYAQKzbCcyJ8WqaALv1Xr6E5Ir7v_LMM4TjeczyE24exzA&oe=67C72AD7	PERSON_PROFILE	Storyverse	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,730	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706727}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	The #1 Cream for Nerve Pain 🏆	💯% Natural Ingredients to Fight Nerve Pain! 🥦Packed with 14+ Superfoods 😃Tens of THOUSANDS of happy customers 💳PLUS a money back guarantee if you're not satisfied. ✓ Soothe pain, prickling, and burning ✓ Calm inflammation & stiffness ✓ Fortify the nerve's protective coating ✓ Improve circulation & healing ✓ Provide long-term results We want YOU to be the next person who is able to experience life without nerve discomfort. No one should suffer from this kind of tingling & burning pain on a daily basis. You deserve relief, & you can get it with Nerve Balm.	SHOP_NOW	https://www.luneusa.com/products/nerve-balm	Lune	https://www.facebook.com/100085237752848/	839	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	luneusa.com	DCO	★★★★★ 4.7	https://www.luneusa.com/products/nerve-balm	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482005525_1011504787552535_2598365524816038817_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vgD6z1FT_a0Q7kNvgHwalCe&_nc_oc=AdgOp2wUHTIwnmjK4go1IEqXHwyTMRCBYte3TKUUR6HIXWGFCJh1eJIzskxeXvBYN7Vr1Y0D8V8FgYaooCuvLr5J&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AYCvgeMvlDm3IcgG6G4XXiE&oh=00_AYAjha1LXHmDroW0cT8kPt-rupk4xXc_E5IQvLkyL9ubnA&oe=67C71BC8	PERSON_PROFILE	Lune	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,379	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707376}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜The Billionaire's Ex-Wife (Her Ex-Husband's Regret)📜	💖🔞💋Please, baby. Help me change Daddy's heart. I march towards my husband's office on the top floor of Steele Corp Building, carrying a present in my hand. It's our third anniversary and I thought I'd give my husband a surprise. I just came back from the OBGYN. I placed my ultrasound photos inside a small box and wrapped it with a ribbon. "Excuse me, Miss Carlisle. You need an appointment to see the CEO," Tara, my husband's secretary, blocks the entrance to my husband's office. "Or do you want me to call your supervisor?" She raises a haughty brow at me, acting like she's above me. Well, I suppose she is above me. She is the CEO's executive secretary, sitting in the office at the top floor, while I'm just a graphic designer with a cubicle on the third floor. I have been married to Steele Corp's CEO, Kayden Steele, for three years. But sadly, no one in the office knows about it. "Umm..." I force a smile on my face. "Mr. Steele called my extension and personally asked me to bring the present that arrived for him." I motion at the box in my hands. "A present? From whom?" "His wife, maybe," I reply nonchalantly. Tara smirks. "You know he's still single!" See? Not even his secretary has a clue. "Although, I wonder if it's from that woman he asked to be picked up at the airport." "What?" Now, it's my turn to be surprised. "What woman?" Tara raises a skeptical brow at me again. "That information is none of your business," she replies. Then she turns to open the door to Kayden's office. "The graphic artist is here to see you, Sir?" "Let her in," I hear Kayden say. As I walk past Tara, I can't help smiling at her smugly. If she only knew what I'm carrying in my hands right now. This gift, this wonderful news, is going to bring my husband closer to me. This baby will change everything! I close the door behind me, and with wobbly legs and a big smile of anticipation on my face, I walk towards Kayden. He looks up from the papers on his desk as he watches me intensely. I almost lost my nerve as I remembered how devilishly handsome he was, with his midnight black hair, and blue-gray eyes. We've been married for three years, but he still takes my breath away. "Kayden," I call, my voice almost squeaking. "I have... some news for you." "Before you say anything, I have something to say to you, too," he says in a voice laced with ice. When he speaks so coldly to me like that, I wonder if he's the same man who makes hot love to me at night. "Oh, okay. What do you want to tell me?" I ask. He stands up from his seat. I cannot read the expression on his face as he stares back at me in silence. "Kayden, what is it?" He sighs heavily before turning away from me, as if he can't bear to look at me when he says what he needs to say. "You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone," he mumbles. "But unfortunately, I couldn't because..." he trails off, heaving another sigh. "But now, she's back in town. And I don't think I can do this anymore, Cassie." Wait, what did he mean by that? He turns around. His eyes look distant, devoid of any emotion. "This is not working out for both of us. I want a divorce." Divorce? The word keeps ringing in my head like a deafening siren. Sure, this marriage was far from perfect. But in the years that I've been married to Kayden, I tried to be the perfect wife. I made sure I gave him no reason to regret ever marrying me. "But... why?" Tears begin to brim my eyes. “Come on, Cassie. Did you really think this marriage was going to last?” he asks. His voice was ice cold, and his face almost stoic. “You know it wasn’t my choice to get married. You drugged me and threatened to expose my indiscretion the same week that I was going to be announced as CEO of Steele Corp! What was I supposed to do? Of course, I had no choice but to marry you!" I shake my head. "No, Kayden! I told you before that I didn't drug you. That night, somebody drugged me, too! I-I was framed. I don't even remember how I got to your room that night! Somebody made it seem like... like I staged it all!" He sighs heavily. I doubt that he heard anything that I just said. Or maybe he did. He just doesn’t care. “It doesn’t matter anymore. I managed to gain control of my father’s company. Your family got whatever it is you wanted to gain out of this marriage. Maybe it’s better we walk away now, while we still can. Before we tear each other apart.” “I gave my life to this marriage, too, Kayden!” I tell him evenly. “I didn’t plan on marrying a stranger as soon as I graduated university! This was against my will, too. I also have dreams I gave up because of this marriage.” “How could I believe you? Your father was too eager to give you away. And his business suddenly boomed, didn’t it? I was desperate to gain control of my father’s company. And you just took advantage of my vulnerable situation.” I can’t believe I’m hearing this. In the three years that we’re married, I can hardly remember when Kayden showed me any affection. He’s always been reserved and indifferent. It wasn’t a perfect marriage, but I never thought he’d ask me for a divorce so soon. My hands tremble. The box I'm carrying drops to the floor. My wonderful news, my little ray of hope, completely forgotten. "Tricking you into marriage is the last thing I would do!” He scoffs. “But that’s exactly what you did, didn’t you? I dreamt of building a family for myself. On my own terms and at the right time. Marrying you felt like I wasn’t given a chance to choose what I wanted for myself.” I shake my head, unable to control the tears that's flowing from my eyes. I realize that no matter what I say or do, Kayden will never believe me. "Is that why no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife... even after the many nights we made love, you... you never learned to love me?" Kayden's face remains relentless as he stares back at me. "Love? When you trapped me in this marriage, were you thinking about love at all? Your father bagged his biggest clients at the mere mention of my name, remember? It’s all about money and power. Of course, I could never love you!” I inhale deeply. It's painfully obvious now what the man I had desperately loved for three years thought of me: a gold-digging, scheming bitch! Looking back at that night, I know that somebody had spiked my drink, and somehow, I ended up in Kayden's penthouse. And the morning after, somebody had tipped the paparazzi and made it look like I blackmailed Kayden into marrying me. I know that somebody had set me up. I just don't know who. Kayden inhales deeply. “How could I love anyone who robbed me of my will?” "You're wrong, Kayden," I sob. "It seems that after all these years, you never saw me for who I really am." Kayden shakes his head. "It doesn't matter now. My lawyers are already preparing the divorce papers as we speak. Let's do this as quietly as possible," he says. "Anyway, there are only a few people who knew you were my wife." I nod, feeling numb. "Yes. You did an excellent job keeping me a secret." That was his first request to me: keep quiet about the marriage. Thinking about it now, he must have been planning to divorce me since then. Why did he wait three years to do this? I wipe the tears on my cheeks as I struggle to compose myself. I know that when Kayden makes a decision, there's very little chance that he'll change his mind. "An—anything else you want to say?" "One last thing," he replies. I look up at him, pretty sure that there's nothing he can say that would make me feel any worse than I do at this moment. He takes a deep breath and announces, "I don’t want to see you around the office. You're fired!" .............................................................................. Hold on, baby! Mommy’s here. I will do everything to protect you. This was not how I imagined this day would end. Somehow, when I got the news that I was pregnant, I was so overjoyed that finally, something good came out of my marriage to Kayden Steele. For the first time in three years, I do not feel alone. But suddenly, my life takes a one-eighty. Not only did I lose my husband, but I also lost my job and my health insurance, all in the space of two hours. I can still remember the HR Manager's apologetic smile when I signed my termination papers. "Can... can I at least keep the insurance for another eight months?" I plead. She shakes her head slightly and gives me a sad smile. "It's company policy, sweetheart. Once you're terminated, all benefits, including insurance, will cease." "But... I was fired without a reason!" I argue. "That's why you're getting severance pay," she counters. "And two months’ worth of salary. Otherwise, you walk away with nothing." The severance pay and two months’ worth of salary won't be enough for my food, vitamins, prenatal checkups, and hospital bills when I deliver. I must find a job soon. When I get home, and by home I mean the mansion where Kayden and I live in, Kevin, the fifty-year-old family butler meets me at the main entrance. He, too, cannot hide the pity in his gray eyes. "This is as far as you can go. I've been told to pack all your belongings. They're all in the car now." Kevin whispers softly. "I'm just following instructions." I can almost hear the tears in his voice. "It's okay, Kevin." I raise my chin and paste a smile on my face. That smile that I always wear like a uniform. The armor that hides my real emotions. "You've been so good to me these past three years. I will never forget that." Kevin nods gracefully. Then he holds his arm out for me. "For the last time, Madam Steele. Let me escort you to your car." Holding back my tears, I take his arm and let him escort me to the car that will carry me and what little belongings I have for the next chapter of my life. As the car drives away, a wave of sadness washes over me. I gently place my hand on my abdomen, picturing the life growing inside of me. This baby is Kayden's own flesh and blood. It deserves to live and be raised in that grand mansion. But like me, this little one has been denied Kayden's love and all the privileges that came with it. "I'm so sorry, little angel!" I can no longer hold back my tears. "I'm so sorry!" I don't know what I'm going to do next, or how I'm going to do it. But I know that I will never let this baby suffer. I will make sure that it will live a happy, comfortable life. I will not deny it its birthright! Even though Kayden may not be ready to hear it now, I will make sure to tell him about our baby in the future. He may not have been able to love me. But I'm sure he will love his own baby. Kayden may be cold and ruthless, but I don't think he's a complete monster. There were times during our marriage that I actually felt that he was trying to make it work. Maybe I just wasn't good enough. Or maybe we were just not meant to be. Then suddenly, I remember what he said. ‘You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone…’ My heart feels like it's breaking into a million tiny pieces as if it wasn't already completely shattered. What Tara said about Kayden having someone picked up at the airport all makes sense now. I completely understand why after all these years, no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife, Kayden just couldn't love me. He's in love with someone else. And he felt that I robbed him of his future with her. He must have been secretly loathing me because he thought I masterminded this marriage. When in truth, I was as much a victim as he is. "Aargh!" Something in my abdomen throbs and I feel a little jolt of pain. Is my baby feeling my heartbreak, too? The driver stops in front of a house in a very familiar neighborhood. It is far from the posh neighborhood where the magnificent Steele Mansion sits, but somehow, this place, this house brings back so many memories of my childhood. Perhaps Kevin made a good decision to send me back here to my parents' home. There was a time when this house used to be a picture of bliss. It is made of wood carvings and sculptures that add to its unique charm. No one has lived here for years, but I come here occasionally. This reminds me so much of my mother. "I'll bring your things inside, Ma'am?" the driver asks. "No, it's alright. You can just leave them by the door." The driver leaves, and I take my keys to open the main door when I realize that it's unlocked. "Huh? Did someone break into this house?" I push the door slightly, careful not to make a sound. When I step inside the house, I find that the lights are turned on. "Shit! Someone's here!" Panic starts to grip me. I know I should call the cops, but somehow, something possesses me, and I grab the dusty golf club sitting behind the door instead. Then I walk towards the corridors, ready to swing at the potential burglar. But suddenly, I hear a familiar voice coming from the living room. "My lawyers told me that this house is still in her name, Kayden. I thought we agreed that this was going to be mine!" I know that voice perfectly well even though I haven't heard it in years. Wait, what? Did I hear it right? Was she talking to Kayden? As in my Kayden? I sneak towards the living room, deliberately trying to overhear her phone conversation. "You're the most powerful man in the country, Kayden Steele! Didn't you promise to make me happy? Well, this house was my parents'. It should also be mine. It will really make me happy!" Mine? How dare she? My father, who is an architect, remodeled this house for my mother before she died. This belonged to my mother even before she got married. So, it's only right that it gets passed on to me! Why is this bitch claiming the house as hers? "Alright, love. I trust you. I'll see you at dinner. Love you!" What the ? Realization hits me like an ice-cold bucket. This is the woman that Kayden asked to be picked up at the airport. She is the reason why Kayden is divorcing me. She's the reason why my baby will not have a complete family. I drop the golf club in my hand as I clutch my belly, feeling a flush of anger and betrayal. The woman must have heard the thud as she turned around to see me. She gives me a proud smirk, not even ashamed that I heard her conversation with my husband. "Well, well. Look who's here," she snickers. "Happy to see me again, my dear stepsister?" .............................................................................. 'Mommy! Cassie pushed me!' 'Mommy! I want Cassie's toy! Take it from her!' 'Daddy! Cassie won't let me borrow her dress!' 'Mommy! Cassie stole my boyfriend!' Unpleasant memories flood my brain. My stepsister's relentless whining while we were growing up still echoes in my ears, even after all these years. My father married Megan's mother when I was eight years old. I tried my best to make Megan feel at home with us, to form a sisterly bond with her, but she never really liked me. She constantly watched me, the things that I had, and the stuff that my father bought for me. I could feel that envy that simmered within her whenever I got a new toy, no matter how small or inexpensive it was. As we grew older, the rivalry only got more complex. We were no longer fighting over toys or material possessions. I felt that we were competing for the same affection and attention. She made sure to steal every guy that I ever dated, making me feel like I was insignificant and undatable. She even made my father dislike me. And now... "Were you... talking to Kayden just now?" I ask in a shaky voice. "Oh, you heard that, huh?" she asks, smirking. "Well, I guess there's no point keeping it a secret now. Yes, I was just talking to Kayden." She holds out her left hand in front of me, showing me a gold ring with a huge rock in the center. "Do you agree that this ring is perfect for the future Mrs. Kayden Steele?" As I stare at the sparkling ring on Megan's finger, my heart sinks. I know she expects me to salivate over how huge the rock is, or how expensive the ring must have been. But the only thought that runs through my mind is, 'She gets a ring?' Because Kayden just signed our marriage license. He didn't bother to get me an engagement ring, not even a wedding ring. "Oh, you poor thing,' Megan puts on a pout that is supposed to be apologetic, but clearly, she is just rubbing her affair with my husband in my face. "Your marriage with Kayden was never going to work out. I knew it." "How... how long have you known my husband?" "Too long. I have always thought we'd end up together. But then you stole him from me like the scheming, sneaky gold digger you are! But he would never love you. The two of us share a bond since we were kids. No amount of scheming or seduction from you could take him away from me.” My blood boils as I hear Megan's tirade. How could she flaunt her affair with my husband and have the audacity to accuse me of stealing Kayden from her? "That's not true!" I cry. "We were building a family! We were doing okay until you came back to the picture. If you didn't, I know he would stay with our little family." "Family?" she hisses. "What family are you talking about?" I don't reply. Instead, I raise a brow at her triumphantly. Her eyes widen in shock, and her glance goes to my tummy. "You're..." She shakes her head in disbelief. "No way that baby is Kayden’s.” This time, I feel a little victorious. It's good to see Megan fall from the high table for a change. "Believe it or not, Megan," I continue to taunt her. "When Kayden decided to marry me, I did believe he was willing to try. He wouldn't do that if he completely hates me, would he?" “So, you managed to seduce him to go to bed with you? He must have been wasted to even sleep with you.” It’s my turn to smirk at her. "What are you scared of Megan? The fact that Kayden isn’t completely immune to my charms? Or that this baby might change everything between us?” Megan takes a step closer, her eyes looking livid. “How will a bastard change anything?” What the did she just call my baby? My blood boils as Megan's words hang in the air. The audacity, the cruelty! I ball my hands into fists as I try my damnedest to stay calm and composed. "This baby is not a bastard! This baby could just well be the heir of Steele Corp. Remember, we're still married. And Kayden has yet to find out about this baby. He just might rethink his decision about divorcing me." Anger flares in Megan’s eyes when she hears my words. I can tell that she realizes just how vulnerable her position is. "You're just like your mother! A shameless, scheming slut!" She raises her hand and swings, but I anticipated that move, as she has always done this to me in the past. I catch her arm before her palm can land on my cheek. "I'm not going to tolerate you calling my baby a bastard, and my mother a slut, Megan! You are way out of line!" I push her arm away, giving her a small shove. Megan stumbles backward, but her eyes remain filled with anger. She groans in frustration and swings her arm to to knock off the gas lamp on the table. Then she grabs the nearest vase and throws it at me. "Bitch!" she screams. Acting on instinct, I dodge the vase but lose my balance. I fall to the floor. Just then, I feel a gush of blood flow from between my thighs. I look down and realize that I'm sitting in my own pool of blood, while my vile stepsister looms over me, smiling triumphantly. "No, no! My baby!" I cry out in agony and pain. Suddenly, everything feels hot. That's when I realize that the fire has quickly escalated. My mother's house is going down in flames. "Oh, God, please no!" I know that Megan will never help me. It will be better for her if I were to lose this baby. I know I must call for help, or I will lose everything—including my and my baby's life. I reach for my cellphone and press the first key on my speed dial. Kayden's phone rings several times but he never picks up. 'Kayden... please!' 'Pick up the phone. Our baby... our baby needs you!' But all I hear is the ringing tone from the other line. Oh, God! I know I haven't been lucky in this life. But please... spare the life of my baby! This baby is all I have now. Please save it! That's all I ask. That's all I need! Kayden, if you can't be there for me, at least be there for our child. But even after another try, there's nothing. Once again, Kayden has chosen to ignore me. Coming back to my senses, I dial 911 instead. "Help! Bleeding... pregnant..." The smell of smoke threatens to choke me. "Fire!" I fall to the floor, almost passing out. When I open my eyes again, I see a devilishly handsome face staring back at me. "Kayden..." I would recognize that face everywhere. Amidst the raging inferno, Kayden miraculously appears and finds me lying on the floor, bleeding. "Jesus Christ, Megan!" he curses. "What happened here?" Kayden approaches me, and for the first time in years, I see a glimmer of worry in his eyes. "Cassie..." He kneels in front of me. But then, we hear a shrill scream and then a thud. We both turn around and discover that Megan has collapsed onto the floor. Kayden's driver appears and he turns to him. "Take Cassie out of here!" Then he walks toward Megan and gathers her in his arms, while his driver lifts me from the floor. The taste of defeat lingers on my tongue as I watch Kayden carry Megan out of the blazing house. I doubt that she's seriously injured. I bet she fainted to get Kayden's attention! Megan seems unscathed, and I can't help but think that she just pretended to faint when she saw Kayden coming to my rescue. Even in spite of my pitiful state, Kayden chose to abandon me. It seems... the three years we spent together really meant nothing to him! Whatever concern I thought I saw in his eyes is all gone now. And in the end, it's all the same. Kayden has chosen Megan over me. .............................................................................. Wake up! You must get back on your feet and keep walking, and then you need to move on! I bolt up from the bed, my heart races as the urgency in the voice echoes inside my mind. I look around the unfamiliar surroundings, feeling confused and disoriented. Where am I? The room I'm in is all white. From the paint on the walls to the sheet that keeps me warm. "Easy, child. You might hurl if you force your movements," the nurse says to me. "How long have I been unconscious?" "Two days. But don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” Suddenly, I remember something. "My baby!" I ask frantically. "Tell me my baby is okay!" Tears brim my eyes, as panic grips my insides. The nurse reaches out for my hands to steady me. "Don't worry, dear," she smiles at me reassuringly. "The babe is safe." I sigh in relief. I touch my abdomen with my hands as if cradling my baby. I'm so sorry, my love. I should have been more careful. I swear I will never risk your life like that again! I guess I forgot how cruel and childish Megan can be. I should not have told her about the baby. But where is Megan? I remember she fainted and Kayden saved her. I sink back on the bed as I remember the way Kayden carried Megan in his arms, saving her from danger, while I, his wife, was bleeding on the floor. I can't help but feel a mix of anger and betrayal as I recall that moment. The realization hits me hard, shattering whatever illusion I may have that Kayden would learn to love me. "There was… there was a woman with me. What happened to her?" I dare ask. "The last time I saw her, she was unconscious." Or pretending to be unconscious! The nurse shakes her head. "She was just brought into the emergency room, and then she was discharged. She didn't sustain any injury." "Did anyone come here to check on me?" I ask, my voice both tearful and hopeful. I could not have mistaken the sliver of concern I saw in Kayden's face when he saw me in my pitiful state. But it quickly disappeared when Megan put on one of her best acting performances. "You mean your husband?” I nod. “I haven’t seen him around. But I bet he’s preoccupied with dealing with the media about this whole fiasco.” "Media?" I echo. The nurse smiles as she straightens the sheet on my bed. "Well, you and the baby need plenty of rest. It's best not to bother yourself with such trivial things," she replies. “Rest now. Just press the call button if you need me.” The nurse closes the door behind her, leaving me alone with my thoughts. The two of us share a special bond… How long have she and Kayden known each other? When did they start an affair when Kayden's drowning in work here, and Megan is busy working as a model in Paris? Damn it! I should not bother with such useless things. The entertainment news is on when I turn on the TV. "It seems that business tycoon, Kayden Steele, is officially off the market." The news anchor's voice echoes through the room, and my heart skips a beat. Images of Kayden flash across the screen. "Rumors have been circulating the past few days that the elusive CEO of Kayden Corp is secretly married. However, today, his PR team confirmed that there's no truth to this. Instead, they confirmed that he is dating model, Megan Brown. It is reported that the two have been good friends since they were kids, and their relationship has recently evolved into something more romantic." My heart breaks as I watch the videos of Kayden and Megan together. Sightings of Kayden holding Megan's hand and kissing her feel like a knife stabbing me multiple times in my chest. How could Kayden do this to me? How could he easily announce his relationship with Megan, when he's kept me a secret for three years? He discarded me the moment Megan came back to town. When he saw me bleeding, he still chose to rescue Megan, and left me for his driver to save! Tears roll down my cheeks, and the moment I realize it, I quickly wipe them away. you, Kayden Steele! You do not deserve these tears! I will not shed a tear for him. I'm pregnant with his child, but this baby will remain my own! Kayden will have no right to know about it. His child will never call him 'Daddy'! Perhaps, that will be the most suitable punishment for a monster like him! With shaking hands, I reach for my phone and send Kayden a message. 'You had a good thing going on, but you chose to give it away. You don't deserve me. Let's get a divorce! Goodbye, Kayden.’ I click send without even rereading my message, not trusting myself completely that I will have enough courage to send it. I gently caress my tummy. It's okay, baby. We're going to be just fine. *** Kayden. '...Goodbye, Kayden.' Those words ring in my head like a nightmare. I can't shake off the feeling of dread that has been eating me up inside since I saw her lying in a pool of blood. I still remember the way she looked at me—hopeful and pleading. She looked at me like I was some sort of guardian angel created to keep her safe. Damn it! I should have saved her. But Megan screamed and fainted. And like a force of habit, I went to her instead. Megan and I shared a past, and because of that, I’d always thought she’d be the one I would spend the rest of my life with. Until Cassie came and life threw me a curveball. I take my coat off and lay it on the bed. Then I realize that the bed covers are purple. I look around. I remember coming to this room whenever I was feeling too much pressure from work, or my family. I don't know why, but somehow, this room feels warm and peaceful. Funny how I only realize this now. This was Cassie's room. And now that she's gone, I didn't expect it to be as cold as all the other rooms in this house. Somehow, somebody got wind of our marriage. The gossip almost went out of hand. The PR Team told me how bad it would look if people found out that I've been married to one of my employees for three years, and I kept it from the public, leaving her to be treated like a lowly employee. That's why they suggested that I announce dating Megan immediately, to divert the issue and prevent damage to Steele Corps' reputation. It seems like the right thing to do. But... why doesn't it feel right? Why do I feel guilty for every little thing I did and said to Cassie? I stare at her number on my phone. I close my eyes and press the call button. I don't know what to say to her. I just know that suddenly, I want to hear her voice again. But she doesn't answer until finally, she turns off her phone. I groan in frustration, throwing my phone on the bed. I know this is for the better. Finally, she's gone... she's out of my life. But ! Why do I suddenly feel so empty? .............................................................................. Cassie. "Cassie, your grandfather’s lawyer, Attorney Magnus, has been calling you since morning,” Lyn, my assistant, says. “I’m still not interested.” A few days ago, I had the shock of my life when I discovered that my mother’s family is old rich. They own King's Court, a chain of luxury hotels. And my grandfather named me his successor to handle the business. “I doubt there’s room in my portfolio for managing a chain of hotels, don’t you agree?” Lyn raises a brow at me for a moment. “You’re one of the smartest women I know. You probably got your father’s talent for designing. But your knack for closing lucrative business deals? Maybe you got that from your late grandfather. I heard he was brilliant." Four years ago, I discovered my passion for interior design. With my relentless efforts to give my son a better life, I built Cassandra Designs, which is now one of the biggest interior design firms in the country. “I heard King’s Court is in trouble,” I remember one of the many articles I read the night I learned about my grandfather. “Your grandfather had been sick for a while. No one was good enough to continue his life’s work. But it's only right that you take over his company, and later, pass it on to your son." A smile tugs at my lips as I remember my three-year-old son. Jet black hair and piercing blue eyes. He’s a spitting image of… “By the way,” Lyn interrupts my thoughts. “Attorney Magnus seems to be aware of your son’s condition.” "What do you mean?" "He'll use whatever he can to convince you to do this." "Ha! What could they possibly have that I want?" Lyn looks at me meaningfully. "We're talking about your mother's family here. Blood-related family. Who knows? Maybe one of them just might be your son's perfect bone marrow match." "Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Lyn nods. "We're running out of options. Unless you want to go to your son's fa..." "No!" I cut her off. "There must be another way. Kai's father doesn't even know about him!" "Then I suggest you meet with your grandfather's attorney." As soon as I step into my office, the smell of flowers fills my senses. I find baskets of roses of different colors around the room. My eyes catch sight of the man standing near the glass walls and gazing at the city view. "Do you really have to be overly sentimental, Mr. Sullivan?" I ask. Ethan Sullivan used to be my next-door neighbor. He sought me out when he heard the news of my old house catching fire. I could hardly believe that from a scrawny little boy who wears thick glasses, he turned into this tall, charming man, who built one of the country's biggest financial institutions. He turns around, his gray eyes dancing. "Happy birthday, Cassandra." "You really shouldn't have gone berserk at the flower shop," I tease. "Well, Cassandra Carlisle deserves only the best, doesn't she?" "Please, have a seat." I lead him towards my desk. "Can I offer you anything?" "No, thank you," he replies. "I won't stay long. I'm running late for a board meeting." "Then why did you come? You should have just called. We can always meet later." "But I want to greet you in person. And for you, Cassandra, I'd make the whole world wait." I look away from him, a blush starts to creep over my cheeks. For the past year, Ethan has made it known that his feelings for me are more than friendly. But he's been very patient and understanding. "Ethan," I say. "You've been a wonderful friend and support system to me and Kai." He narrows his eyes, looking at me intently. "But you know I could be so much more than that, right?" "Ethan, you know I care about you, too. But I've been through a lot. And Kai's health is my priority." He reaches across the table to squeeze my hand. "I know that, Cassandra. And trust me, I would never ask you to put anything before your son." I squeeze his hand back. Ethan has always been there for me and Kai. I know he deserves more than just friendship from me. I smile at him. "Ethan, I..." Then suddenly, Lyn bursts into the room, with a look of urgency on her face. "Sorry, Cassandra. But..." she trails off. "Attorney Magnus is here to see you." I groan. "He's really persistent, isn't he?" "Want me to take care of it?" Ethan asks. I shake my head. "I'll manage. I guess, we can just talk later." Ethan looks disappointed. I guess he felt that I was going to finally give him the answer he'd been waiting for before we were interrupted. "Okay. I'll see you at dinner later," he said in a sober voice. 'Was I really going to say yes to Ethan just now?' I ask myself as I watch Ethan leave. 'Am I over the past? And am I ready for this?' Lyn comes back into my office followed by an older man. "Miss Carlisle," Attorney Magnus says. "I am sorry to barge in on you like this. But desperate times call for desperate measures." "I thought I made myself clear, Attorney Magnus. I'm not interested in my grandfather's business." Attorney Magnus takes out an envelope from his suitcase and puts it in front of me. I open it and see photos of people I do not know. Most of them are old, some are even handicapped. "Who are these people?" "These are the people who worked with your grandfather in building his hotel empire," Attorney Magnus replies. "So?" "Right now, they stand to lose their jobs, their benefits, their means of living. All because you refuse to take what your grandfather has given to you." "What?" "No one is leading the company right now, and the other shareholders are selling their shares to another company for a takeover." "But isn't a takeover a good thing? You gain what you can and cut your losses?" "King's Court is still a lucrative venture. The company that will take over knows this. But it will be a complete takeover, meaning the very people who helped your grandfather build it will be let go for a small amount of compensation. That includes all the other members of your family... including your grandmother." "My grandmother?" I echo. I have no idea I have another living grandparent. Attorney Magnus puts a photo of an old woman who looks like my mother in front of me. "Your grandfather's dying wish is for King Court to remain in your family. He regretted his decision to send your mother away, and it drove a wedge between him and your grandmother. Your grandmother has depression. She never took it well that your mother had been sent away." Listening to his story, I feel my eyes start to get wet. "If the CEO of the company that wants to buy the hotel manages to convince the major shareholders to sell their shares, then your family will lose King's Court. Your grandmother will lose everything. These people," he motions at the photos in front of you. "It's like you just handed them a death sentence." "Are you trying to make me feel guilty?" "I know about your child's condition," Attorney Magnus says gently. "You have cousins, nieces, and nephews from your mother's side of the family. None of them is interested or capable of running the business. But... perhaps one of them could be your son's match." Damn it! "Do you really think I'm capable of saving my grandfather's legacy?" "Your grandfather watched your success over the years. He believes in you. And so do I." I feel like I don’t have a choice. Besides, what have I got to lose? "Okay, I will give it a shot." Attorney Magnus gives me a triumphant smile. "I'll guide you through this, don't worry." "What do I need to do first?" "Attend the investor's meeting on Friday," he replies. "Announce that you have accepted the position. The CEO of the company that's buying us out will be there, too. Tell him that if he wants to invest, he's welcome to do so. But they can't take over your grandfather's business." "Where is this meeting?" "In South Carolina." I suddenly stop short. South Carolina was my old hometown. "And... what's the name of the company that wants to take over King's Court?" I ask nervously. "Steele Corp," Attorney Magnus replies. "You need to meet with its CEO, Kayden Steele." .............................................................................. "You're not backing out, are you?" I can hear the weary in Lyn's voice when I told her what Attorney Magnus had asked me to do. "Attorney Magnus drives a hard bargain. He did assure me that my family is willing to help my son, should one of them be a match. But... South Carolina is the one place I tried hard to stay away from!" "But, Cassie, we have been searching for years," Lyn heaves a frustrated breath. "I suggested going to your relatives because I know you don't want to see or talk to your ass of an ex-husband. But it turns out, you'll have to go to him anyway!" "I know. Life's a bitch, right?" I have gone a long way from the last time I've seen Kayden Steele. I've built a pretty good life for myself and my son. Back then, I vowed never to see or think of him ever again. And I certainly didn't plan to do business with him! "You..." Lyn trails off. My eyebrow shot up at her. She squirms as if the question she's about to ask is physically hurting her. "You don't still have feelings... for... him, right?" "Ha!" is all I can utter for a moment. My mind wanders to that devilishly handsome man, with midnight black hair and dazzling blue eyes, who is a replica of my son. I don't love him anymore! I close my eyes for a moment and call in my last memory of him: him carrying my bitchy stepsister out of the blazing house that she burned. And with that memory in mind, I raise my chin to Lyn and say, "When I was Mrs. Kayden Steele, I was a sweet, innocent, gentle pushover. I had nothing to my name, and I would do anything to please my father." I slightly slam my fist on my desk. "I am no longer that woman! And the only feelings I have for Kayden Steele right now, are feelings of loathing!" "If you don't want to ask Kayden for help with Kai, you have other relatives who probably are a match, too. This just gives us plenty of alternatives." "I didn't say yes to Attorney Magnus yet." "There's an inaugural event that you should go to two days from now. It would be a good opportunity for you to meet important people in the city. You should go to that. Give Kayden Steele the shock of his life." Lyn's suggestion is quite tempting. But in all honesty, I don't even need my grandfather's company. I am happy with my peace now. Why do I need shake up my life and see the person who broke my heart years ago? Just then, Lyn's phone rings. "Yes... what?!" The tone of her voice sends me on high alert. "We'll be right there!" I stare back at Lyn in panic. That tone, and that look on her face can only mean thing... Kai is having another episode. "Let's go to the ER!" "Is he okay?" I ask, my voice shaking. "I'm sure he will be. He had a nosebleed and then he fainted." I quickly grab my bag and half run towards the door in legs that can barely support my weight. This is not the first time this has happened. And I know that after a blood transfusion, Kai will be okay. But that's the other problem. His blood type is one of the rarest. We're running out of places to get it. As my driver speeds to the hospital, I try to calm my raging nerves. Please, god! Let him be okay! I won't ask for anything else, just save my son! Lyn and I rush into the emergency room, panic visible in both our faces. My heart pounds inside my ribcage as I desperately search for my son's doctor. Finally, I spot Doctor Willis, Kai's hematologist, standing near the nurse's station. "Doctor! What happened to my son?" "Miss Carlisle, Kai has another episode of severe anemia," she responds. "I'm ordering blood transfusion right away. We're just waiting for the blood supply." "Is he going to be alright?" I ask, my voice shaky. "As long as he receives the blood he needs, he'll be fine." But that's always the problem. Kai's blood type is extremely rare. I feel a surge of panic as the reality sinks in. If we can't find a suitable blood donor soon, my son's life will hang by a thread. I glance over at Lyn, her eyes filled with worry. "Doctor Willis," I say, trying to keep my voice steady. "Is there anything we can do? Any alternative options?" She sighs. I can hear the frustration in it. "We've exhausted all our resources in the area. The blood bank is running low on Kai's blood type, and it takes time to locate a suitable match." Time. That's a luxury I don't have. If Kai doesn't receive the transfusion soon, I might lose him. Then everything that I worked hard for in the last four years would have been for nothing. "Perhaps we can help," a familiar voice says behind me. I spin around and I see Attorney Magnus standing here beside a guy, who looks like he just got out of college. "How?" "This is Alberte King," Attorney Magnus replies, referring to the guy beside him. "He's your nephew." "Nephew?" "Yep," the guy replies. "And like your son, I'm an AB negative, too." Relief washes over me like a cold bucket. I forget about my own ego, my own doubts and apprehensions. Right now, I'll accept any help, even if it's tagged with the almost impossible favor that Attorney Magnus is asking from me. "Good," Doctor Willis says. "Come with me, young man." As we wait for Alberte, I sit beside Attorney Magnus in the waiting area. "I know why you brought him here," I tell him. He looks at me nonchalantly. "No, you don't know. Because we just genuinely want to help you. Whether you fly to South Carolina to meet with your son's father is entirely your decision to make." Right! "And I'm done!" Alberte announces as he reappears in the waiting area. "We're initiating your son's blood transfusion right away, Miss Carlisle. He'll be out of danger soon." "Thank you, Doctor." Alberte extends his hand to me. "It's nice to meet you, Aunt Cassie." Despite having donated a huge amount of blood, Alberte's attitude is still positively jolly. "Just call me Cassie, you brat!" I say, breathing in a sigh of relief. Instead of taking his hand, I reach forward to give him a hug. I am happy to meet a new relative, and one that has the same blood type as my son no less! "Nice to meet you, too, Alberte! And thank you!" An hour later, I set beside my son's bed, watching him sleep peacefully. I study his face and cannot help but remember his father. I enclose his tiny hand between my palms and bring it to my lips for a kiss. "Mommy..." My eyes fly open when I hear his voice. "Kai, my baby..." He smiles at me weakly. "Where's my Daddy?" What did he just ask me? I blink back at him in utter surprise. "Do... do I even have a Daddy?" He's only three! Who taught him to ask these kinds of questions? I clear my throat and giggle nervously. "Well... you know how truly special you are?" "Uh-huh?" "Well... you're very special because God created you to be only for me!" Then I tickle him, and I am rewarded by his high-pitched laugh. Damn it! Pretty soon, I will no longer get away with these answers! I reached forward and give my son a tight embrace. my ego. my fears. I will do anything to save my son. And I realize now what I really have to do. It's time to see my ex-husband once again.	LEARN_MORE	https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/vbb2055wg	OasisFun	https://www.facebook.com/100091233910499/	528	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	www.novel-oasis.com	VIDEO		https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/vbb2055wgvd1wbyhqadl53nf?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120219105343300400&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481123838_1361766645277532_4646153098103063888_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vbP2FAEtBAIQ7kNvgEUaVv5&_nc_oc=AdgcA6Jik4Zd_mSwyGIdUyZ93S1AJkGcVu58dzeV3j5siKQCwEW1DLaBprcKJltDQohB733A61_-BWGLe9IG6oP8&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A2UC_PL8ThUgA0FArcXJ6I5&oh=00_AYBqflmfZ6zZFgFWki9jDRB2qY_u2sCGv4PA0r9l6fW08A&oe=67C71115	PERSON_PROFILE	OasisFun	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,861	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706778}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔥 Download Goodnovel to read the full novel 😍👉👉👉👉 "Seducing My Ex's Father In Law"	Today was supposed to be the day my fated mate and I got engaged. But now I’m watching him kiss another woman. Marrying her could make him the future Alpha because she’s the daughter of Gavin Landry, the most powerful Lycan chairman in the world. A couple of months ago, our Alpha died during a battle, and now all the candidates are competing for that position, including my mate, Ethan. Everyone knows the Lycans control the werewolf population. And Gavin? He could singlehandedly appoint everyone the new Alpha. So, Ethan made his choice. Her, not me. “Get me a whiskey and a martini for the lady,” A deep voice sounded from nearby. “Is it the future bride, or the future groom that’s got you in a mood?” “I’m just not into parties,” I decided to say. “Nor am I,” he murmured. “I’m here out of obligation.” The bartender placed my drink in front of me and I immediately took a sip, sighing in contentment. I waited for it to do its job and finish numbing the pain. Every time Ethan kissed her it destroyed me a little more. How had my life taken such a devastating turn? How could my fated mate do this to me? Did our 2 years together truly mean nothing? Did the mark on my neck mean that little to him? “Thank you for the drink,” I told the man. I took one last sip of my martini and started to get down from the stool, except my blouse snagged on the corner of the counter and just as I heard a tearing sound, I began to fall to the ground. I closed my eyes, bracing myself for the impact, but it never came. Instead, I felt strong arms wrapping around my body, lifting me into the air. I opened my eyes and peeked up at the man who caught me, and my breath hitched. He was so handsome. He held me with ease as if I weighed nothing and I could tell from the feeling of his arms around me that he was muscular. He smiled down at me and a dimple appeared on his right cheek. I wanted to lick that dimple. “Madam, are you falling for me?” He asked teasingly. I stared at him for a heartbeat longer before I squinted my eyes at him, seeing what he did there. “You’re a funny one, aren’t you?” He grinned. Then he looked at my shirt and immediately frowned. “Let me take you to my suite upstairs,” he said, making my heart skip a beat. “What?” I said in barely a whisper. His eyes met mine and I got lost in their beauty for a moment. Goddess, his good looks were sinful. “Your shirt is ripped. I have one you can wear upstairs in my VIP suite,” he explained. I blinked a couple of times and gave a nervous chuckle. “Oh, alright. Thank you,” I managed to sputter. He turned to the bartender. “Charge our drinks to my suite,” he ordered. “Yes, sir.” I allowed the man to carry me out of the room. His arms were so warm that I found myself resting my head against his broad chest, breathing in his minty scent. My wolf was practically purring in my mind. She’d been quiet for most of the evening while she licked the wounds the broken mate bond had caused. But right now, it was as if she had forgotten she was heartbroken. “Take off your shirt,” he instructed once we were in the suite. He had released me and was walking to the closet. “Excuse me?” I squeaked. “So, you can put on a new shirt,” he explained. “Right,” I breathed. I lifted my ripped shirt over my head and threw it onto the bed, leaving me in only my innerwear from the waist up. Once he found a shirt, he turned around to face me, and his entire body froze as his eyes trailed down my body. I was too busy checking him out to notice him staring at me but the longer I stared at him, the more I started to recognize him. Then, realization struck me, and I gasped. “It’s you…” I breathed, taking a step back. His eyes shifted upward and met mine; his brow arched. “You know me?” He asked. “I know of you,” I clarified. The corner of his lips tipped upward as he walked towards me, slowly, as if he were stalking his prey. I could practically hear the sounds of my heartbeat. “And what do you know of me?” “Only what I’ve heard…” I admitted. “And what have you heard?” “You’re Gavin Landry, Lycan Chairman. You’re a heartbreaker. You have a new woman each week and you never sleep with the same woman twice.” He raised his brows. “Is that so?” He asked. “Tell me more about myself.” Heck, he's the father of the bride and Ethan's future father-in-law? I'm confused, I don't know what I should do. But I'm not surprised I didn't recognize him at first. The Lycan family isn't high profile, they're more used to staying behind the scenes than becoming politicians and celebrities like werewolf Alpha. Should I tell him who I am? But that would be foolish at this moment. He continued to walk towards me, and I continued to walk backward until my back hit the wall. “What more do you want to know?” I asked, my voice coming out breathy. “Everything.” I’m not sure if it was the martini speaking or me, but I decided to be bold. If Ethan can indulge himself in someone new, then so could I. I lifted my gaze to meet his as he neared closer. “Your eyes…” I started to say. “I’ve heard that they were mesmerizing, and I must agree.” “What else?” I swallowed the lump in my throat. “When you smile, you have this adorable dimple on your cheek…” I whispered. He was only inches from me now, staring so intently at me that I thought I would burn up under his scrutiny. He licked his lips, drawing my attention to his mouth. “And your lips…” Before I could finish that sentence, his mouth crashed into mine. His kiss was anything but soft and sweet but filled with hunger and possession. I kissed him with just as much eagerness. His tongue made its way to mine, tasting every inch of me. He lifted me into the air, my body pinned between the wall and him. Instinctively I wrapped my legs around his waist and allowed him to deepen the kiss. His tongue trailed down the nape of my neck and warmth spread across my body as I felt him nibbling my soft flesh. All self-control and common sense left my mind the moment we kissed. All I could think about was Gavin; he consumed my mind, body, and soul entirely. I pulled at his tie, wanting to take it and his shirt off. He helped me undo his tie and then lifted his shirt over his head, tossing it to the ground. I let my fingers explore his body; they roamed over his torso and up his broad shoulders. I moaned into his mouth as his tongue found mine again. “Are you sure you want this?” He asked between kisses. “Yes,” I rasped out. “We are both willing adults, so why not?” We kissed again and just as he was about to take off my innerwear, I received a tearful mindlink from my adoptive mother. “Judy! Please, come home!” She sounded panicked; my mother never panicked. Hearing her voice was like cold water being dumped on my head and I gasped. I let my legs fall from around him and I pressed against his chest. “Stop,” I said breathlessly. “I have to go.” He frowned. “I don’t have much patience; stop joking,” he says, a hint of anger in his tone. “I’m so sorry. But I’m sure you have plenty of other options,” I said and started to run towards the door, but he grabbed my arm, stopping me. I whirl around to face him, my own anger rushing to the surface but before I can say anything, he points to the bed. “Your shirt is ripped, remember?” I looked down at my innerwear with a frown. “Oh…” He sighed, grabbing his shirt and putting it over my head. I inhaled deeply and warmth spread throughout my body; it smelled like him. …… The moment I stepped into the house; I could hear my mother sobbing. “Judy?” My mother sobbed; I could hear that she was in the kitchen and my heart stuttered at the sound of her broken voice. “Your father was taken away by the Gammas tonight.” Chapter 2 Judy’s POV My heart fell into my stomach. “What?!” I gasped. We lived in a decent-sized house; my adoptive father, being a successful businessman and a Delta of the Redmoon pack, had a lot of money. “He was arrested,” she explained. “He made a bad investment for the company, and he ended up losing all the money. He went completely bankrupt and now he owes the pack so much money. Until he pays it, they put him in jail.” “They can’t just come and take him away like this,” I said, standing to my feet, hardly able to contain my emotions. “Without any warning? That’s not fair!” “They can do whatever they want. The Beta is under the jurisdiction of the Lycans, and it was his decision. Loan sharks are ruthless, and nobody wishes to deal with them. It’s easier to just get rid of the problem and right now… your father is the problem.” Before I could say anything more, my phone started to ring. I reached into my bag and pulled it out. I frowned when I saw the name flash across the screen. “I heard about your father,” Ethan’s voice was soft as he spoke, and my traitorous heart skipped a beat. I hated how my body responded to him still; it was because of this foolish mate bond. Even though he rejected me, and I accepted it, that didn’t mean it severed our bond. It won’t be severed until he marks someone else.“I might have a suggestion though. But I’d like to tell you in person. Come outside.” I quickly left the kitchen and walked out of the house. Ethan was leaning against his car with his arms folded across his chest. Goddess, I hated how good he looked. I had been in love with him for longer than 2 years. He was my friend, my confidant, my fated mate. When he rejected me, it destroyed everything I had dreamt of. I wrapped my arms around my body, desperately trying to hold myself together. “Why are you here?” I asked him after a long and awkward silence. “I wanted to talk to you,” he replied. “Why?” The corner of his lips tipped upwards as he stared at me; I nearly melted under his scrutiny, and I had to shift my gaze to look at the ground. “Because I can help you,” he answered. “Your father’s funding chain is broken, and he now owes a lot of money. I know for a fact that he doesn’t have that kind of money, especially now that his business has gone under. But I do.” I lifted my gaze to meet him; he was serious. “Are you saying you’d pay my father’s debt?” I asked him. He nodded. “Yes,” he answered. “And what would we have to do in return?” I asked, almost afraid to ask. He smirked, which gave me an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach. “There is a condition,” he confessed. I waited silently for him to continue, my eyes never leaving his. “After I get married, I want you to drop out of school and become my mistress.” I couldn’t have heard him correctly; I stared at him with my jaw practically on the ground. “Excuse me?” I managed to sputter. “You want me to what??” “Drop out of school and become my mistress. I already have a luxurious home for you to live in. You would never have to want for anything. I’ll pay off your father’s debt and give you more money than you could dream of.” “How… how could you ask me to do such a thing?” I asked in a choked whisper; tears threatened to spill from my eyes, but I kept them away, not wanting him to see my break. He stepped closer to me, and I felt rooted to the ground, unable to move away. My wolf was whimpering about his request; she couldn’t believe our mate could ask such a thing from us. She was gutted and I hated that she was put in this position. “Because we’ve always been so good together, Judy,” he said, reaching out and touching my arm gently. “We will always have this strong connection, even if I mark someone else. You and your family would be set for life… all you have to do is say yes…” He was rubbing his fingers up and down my arms and I felt sick to my stomach. I finally found the strength to step away from him, my body trembling. “No,” I said, meeting his eyes. “I would never become your mistress.” His eyes darkened. “I’m about to become the Alpha, Judy. You must get with the times. Becoming my mistress would only benefit you and plus, don’t you want your father out of jail?” “I will find another way,” I said through my teeth. “If that’s all you came here to say, then I’ve heard enough. You can leave.” He raised his brows as he stared at me. He studied me for a moment longer like he expected me to change his mind at any moment. “You’ll change your mind,” he told me as he stepped away from me and towards his car. “And when you do, I’ll be here. But until then, your father will remain in prison.” “I’ll figure it out,” I said to his retreating back. “We don’t need you, Ethan!” He chuckled as he opened his car door and then he turned back to gaze into my eyes. “In order to get him out of prison, you’ll need at least 5 million dollars. When you realize that there’s no other option, you’ll come to your senses. I’m sure of it.” Without another word, he got into his car. I watched as he drove away, disappearing into the night. It was only when he disappeared that I allowed myself to fall to the ground. Tears streamed down my cheeks before I could stop them. 5 million dollars? How was I going to come up with that kind of money? —————— I had two classes this morning and one later in the afternoon. My first class was warrior training, and my second class was shifting, both of which I excelled at. I was going to college for Gamma training so that once I graduated, I could prove myself to the Gamma force and become a warrior. Then I would easily be able to pay off my father’s debt and save my family. “You look terrible,” my best friend, Nan, pointed out as I sat beside her against the large Oaktree; the very tree we always met up at. “It was a rough night,” I admitted as I took out my textbook to study. “Where did you go last night? When I returned, you were gone. Did you leave early because of the engagement party?” I bit my lower lip as I thought about what to say to her. If I lied, she’d be able to see right through me. I was a terrible liar initially, but Nan could read me like a book. “I ripped my shirt, and someone brought me into his room to change,” I said, feeling my cheeks growing warm at the memory. She raised her brows, and I could barely look at her. “You went to someone’s room?” She asked. “Whose?” I was quiet for a moment, and she grabbed my arm, getting my attention. “Judy, who did you leave with?” She asked, now her voice was filled with alarm. I knew there was no getting out of this conversation. I bit my lip and peeked up at her through my lashes. “Gavin Landry,” I squeaked. Chapter 3 Judy’s POV “Shut up!” She gasped. “Are you serious?? You went to Gavin Landry’s VIP suite? As in THE Gavin Landry?!” I nearly tackled her; she was being so loud! “Keep your voice down!” I scolded, attempting to cover her mouth with my hands but she was too quick and dodged me. “How can I possibly keep it down when my best friend went to Gavin Landry’s hotel room last night and waited until now to tell me!” She exclaimed. Nan was a waitress at the hotel restaurant the engagement party was at last night. The hotel, called Carter Resorts, was in the human territory, and it was owned by Patrick Carter, the Delta of the Silver Crescent pack. Which happened to be Gavin Landry’s pack. I wasn’t surprised to see Gavin there last night, especially considering his daughter was the bride-to-be. I was less surprised to see that he had a VIP suite at the hotel. I sighed. “It all happened so fast, and I had a bit too much to drink,” I admitted. “I forgot when I got home because other stuff happened.” I wrapped my arms around my body and looked up at her concerned eyes. “What else happened?” She asked, her voice dropping to a whisper. I took a deep breath, and I told Nan everything that happened, right up until Ethan came over and asked me to be his mistress in exchange for him paying off my father’s debt. By the time I finished talking, Nan’s jaw had dropped. “The nerve of that scum!” She hissed. “How dare he! He rejected you and now he wants you to be his bit on the side?! He has zero shame.” “I’m not sure what I’m going to do, Nan,” I whispered. “There’s no way I could come up with 5 million dollars to pay off my father’s debt.” We both fell silent as our thoughts consumed us and then her face lit up. I knew that look well and it grew nervous as a smile spread across her face. I knew right away that she had an idea, and I also knew that I wasn’t going to like it. “You said that he gave you his shirt to wear?” She asked. I nodded. She gasped and grabbed my arm. “Isn’t it obvious, Judy? Gavin is into you. That’s the only reason he’d give you his shirt. He wanted his scent on you! He's very picky. In all my time as a waitress, you're the first woman he's ever offered.” I gawked at her. She had officially lost her mind. “Gavin’s not into me,” I said, shaking my head. “He gave me his shirt because mine ripped. There was nothing to it.” “Why would he even care?” Nan asked, folding her arms across her chest. “He’s Gavin Landry and doesn’t need to care about any of this. Besides, you mentioned that he kissed you heatedly. You were ready to go all the way with him, which is huge because you were planning on waiting until after you were married. There had to be some kind of connection last night.” I glanced at my hands. “Or maybe I was just hurting and wanted to get back at Ethan,” I murmured. “Plus, I had a little too much to drink.” “Drunk actions are sober thoughts or something like that,” she said, waving away my words. Then, she smirked. “You could use this to your advantage. Do you still have that lingerie you bought for your wedding night? You should pay Gavin a little visit and make him an offer he can’t refuse.” ___ I knew it was a bad idea the moment she spoke the words, but her words continued to replay in my mind for the remainder of the day and night. When I woke up the next morning, my mind was made up. I went to my closet and grabbed my red lingerie. I had only tried it on once and I felt a little self-conscious wearing it, but I knew the night of my wedding when I finally gave myself over to Ethan fully, it wouldn’t matter what I was wearing. My heart ached at the thought, and I quickly brushed it out of my head before I started to cry again. I dressed in the lingerie, and I grabbed a long trench coat, wrapping it around my body. I left my hair down and I put on a little makeup to make my features pop. For the last day or so, my mother had either been speaking on the phone to lawyers, visiting my father in prison, or in her room. I had barely seen or spoken to her since I told her Ethan wasn’t going to help us. I hated knowing I disappointed her, but hopefully, this would fix all our problems. It was no secret where Gavin’s office was; everybody knew the famous Gavin Landry Corporation. When I walked through the front door, the receptionist was typing on her computer. She barely spared me a look as I approached the desk. “Good morning, I’m here to see Gavin Landry,” I said as politely as I could. The receptionist looked upward at me and blinked a couple of times, looking less than amused. “Do you have an appointment?” “Uh, no, but—” “Look, I don’t have time for this. Countless women come in here and request to speak with Gavin and I’m going to tell you what I tell them. Mr. Landry is incredibly busy, and he doesn’t have time or patience to be dealing with another fan girl,” she said bitterly. “And what gives you the right to turn away those who come to see me?” A deep voice boomed. Chapter 4 Judy’s POV “Mr. Landry,” the receptionist said, quickly standing to her feet. She suddenly seemed disheveled, and I wanted to smirk with satisfaction, but I kept it held in. “I asked you a question, Laura,” he said, narrowing his eyes at her. “What gives you the right to send away guests? You know the protocol. You are to call my office, and I am the one who decides whether or not I will see them or not. Not you.” She swallowed and glanced at the ground as if staring directly at him physically hurt her. “Come with me.” It took me a second to realize he was speaking to me, but when I saw the receptionist glaring at me and Gavin’s retreating back, I nearly stumbled over my feet to catch up to him. He walked through a luxurious waiting room until we reached a glass elevator. It was very high-tech with a touch screen attached to it. He brought up a keypad and typed in some sequence before pressing the floor number. He stood so close to me that the elevator felt almost cramped, despite it being a wide space. I could smell his incredible minty scent, mixed in with his aftershave and my heart skipped a beat. He didn’t bother looking at me though and I was starting to doubt this plan would work. Maybe he didn’t like me as much as I thought he did. I felt awkward knowing that under this coat was nothing but lingerie. The elevator came to a halt and the doors opened. It was an extremely large space with marble flooring and granite walls. “Where exactly is your office?” I asked, staring around the gorgeous area. He glanced at me; his face kept indifferent. “This is my office.” My eyes grew large at his words. He continued walking until he rounded the corner and sure enough, there was his desk right in front of large windows that overlooked the human city. It was gorgeous and my stomach twisted with nerves. He didn’t bother sitting on his desk chair. Instead, he turned to face me, leaning against his desk and folding his arms across his chest. I swallowed the lump in my throat as I took him in. He wore a white dress shirt with sleeves rolled up halfway, showing off his incredible muscles and his dark dress pants hugged his waist perfectly, showcasing his incredible form. My wolf purred with satisfaction, and I found myself staring at him for way longer than I intended to. He cleared his throat, making me nearly jump out of my skin as my gaze shot upward and met his. He was smirking at me, as if to say, “Caught you.” My cheeks burned from the embarrassment I felt. “So, what did you come here for?” He asked, breaking the tension between us. Oh. Right. The reason I’m here. “I have a problem, and I need your help,” I said in a rush. He raised his right brow. “What kind of problem?” I cleared my throat before continuing. “My father was arrested the other night,” I blurted. “His business went bankrupt, and he owes a lot of money. Roughly 5 million dollars.” He was silent as he stared at me; I realized he was waiting for me to continue. Probably wanted to know how I needed his help. “I was hoping you’d be able to help him and maybe pay the debt for my father so he could get out of prison?” I asked, biting my lip. He was quiet for another moment, processing my request before he ran his hands over his face. “And what would I get in return for helping your family?” He asked. I swallowed the lump in my throat. Confidence: I needed confidence. I held my head up high and looked him right in the eyes. It was known as a challenge to look an Alpha directly in the eyes, even worse so looking a Lycan directly in the eyes. But Gavin wasn’t as angry as I thought he would be, instead, he looked intrigued. “Well,” I began, I dropped my voice low as I stepped closer to him. “At the party the other day, we obviously had a connection…” I felt my cheeks growing hot as I spoke those words. “And I thought maybe…” I took a deep breath and undid my coat, revealing a portion of my lingerie, but not all of it. Not yet at least. His eyes darkened as he gazed over my body, and I nearly melted under his scrutiny. I suddenly had a surge of confidence, and I reached my hand out to touch his arm. “I thought maybe I could do some favors for you in return,” I said in a sultry voice. “I’m a college student and very clean. I haven’t done it before, but I’m on birth control, so you don’t need to worry about anything.” His breathing grew heavy as he straightened his posture, closing the small gap between us. His nearness was intoxicating, and my heart started to race against my chest. His scent enveloped me, and I couldn’t remember the last time I felt this delirious. He reached his hand up and I felt his fingers glide down my cheek, sending a wave of warmth throughout my whole body. We were so close together that I thought I was going to pass out from the heat that consumed me. His eyes were dark like they were the night in the VIP suite. He swallowed hard and I watched his Adam’s apple move slightly. I closed my eyes, preparing for him to kiss me. I could feel his breath on my lips and just as I leaned in close to him, getting ready for his embrace, it never came. Instead, I felt him adjusting my coat, covering my body. My eyes flew open, and I looked at his stern expression. “Do you really think I need to pay a woman for her body?” He asked, breaking the silence. “You said it yourself that I have many options.” My cheeks flushed immediately. “I just thought—” “You thought you could use your body to pay for my help,” he said, interrupting me. “You are still young, Miss Montague. You will regret taking such shortcuts in the future.” How did he know my name? I hadn’t told him. Had he looked into me? My heart skipped a beat at the thought, but his words were slowly crushing me. He didn’t want me. I lowered my gaze, hating how hot my face was getting. I knew he could see just how embarrassed I was. When he spoke next, he softened his voice and spoke with compassion. “Look, I have a daughter,” he told me. “I would never teach her to use her body as a transaction. I want more for her and her future, and I expect better from her.” He reached his hand and caressed the nape of my neck with his fingertips; my breath hitched as I gazed into his eyes. “I expected better from you,” he added; my heart fell into my stomach and disappointment consumed me. He was right. I was better than this. I nodded my head and opened my mouth to speak, but I heard footsteps behind me. I turned to see a couple of security guards standing nearby and I whipped around to look at Gavin with wide eyes. “I’m afraid my time is up, and my patience has run out,” Gavin said, looking at me briefly before glancing at the security guards. “Accompany Miss Montague out of the building, please.” “Yes sir,” they both said. They stood on each side of me, and I stared at Gavin with shock. I didn’t fight or argue with the security guards as they told me to come with them. “Thank you for your time,” I managed to say before I turned and left the office. I wanted to cry because of the shame, but I knew more importantly I needed a new job. …. “I’m so excited we get to work together,” Nan said with a wide smile. “And you look great in that uniform.” I looked down at my uniform. I felt ridiculous in this thing; it was a short skirt and a crop top that showed way too much bosom. I felt like I was on display. Especially at night when this place pretty much turned into a club. These men are wealthy and would tip generously. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up when I was struggling for money. “That’s what friends are for,” she said, nudging my arm with hers. She looked behind me and sighed. “Looks like we are getting a group of guys. Good luck,” she said. I sighed and turned to greet the customers but then I froze when I saw who was amongst them. Ethan. Chapter 5 Judy’s POV “You were right,” I heard one of his friends saying. “She does work here. This is going to be so good.” “Hey, call girl, can we get a table, or are you just going to stare at us?” Call girl? I placed the menus on the table for them and waited for each of them to take a seat. “I’m not a call girl. Please, take your seat.” As I leaned over the table to put the beer in front of each of them, one of them grabbed my rear end. I felt my entire body freeze. “I like this little uniform on you. How about you take it off and see what’s underneath.” My entire body went hot as I stepped back from the table, forcing his hand to drop. “Do not touch me,” I said loudly to each of them. “Oh, come on, Judy. Aren’t you here to satisfy men?” Another of his friends asked. “So come here and satisfy us. Sit on my lap.” I pressed my lips together. “I’m not a call girl,” I told them for the final time. “I’m a waitress.” “You got this job because you’re hot,” one of them chuckled. “The manager didn’t care about your skills. He cared about whether or not you could flirt with the customers and make him a lot of money. I’m willing to give you a good tip if you let me see what’s underneath your uniform and sit on my lap.” I felt my blood going cold from his words. “Come here baby girl,” he said, patting his lap and winking at me. I just stared at him, disbelieving. I looked at Ethan who was watching me, waiting to see what I would do. How could he just let his friends speak to me like this? At one point, he would have never allowed this. He would have punched anyone who looked at me with desire in their eyes. Now, he was acting as if he didn’t care. “I’ll give you 10 thousand dollars if you drink this entire beer,” one of his friends asked. My mouth nearly fell open. “What?” I asked. “You heard me,” he answered. “Drink this whole beer and you’ll get 10 thousand dollars.” “We’ll all give you 10 thousand dollars each if you drink all of our beers,” another one said. I stared at the beer and then at the men. My eyes landed on Ethan once more; he raised his brows, waiting for my answer. Swallowing my pride, I stepped towards the table and grabbed one of the glasses. I really didn’t like beer, but money was money, and I knew Ethan’s friends were rich and could pay that kind of money easily. I needed the cash to get my father out of prison and pay off his debt. I brought the cup to my lips and let the liquid run down my throat. I winced at the bitter taste, but I kept pushing myself until the cup was empty. His friends were cheering and chanting as I drank the contents of the cup. I slammed the cup on the counter and looked at the next guy who slid his beer at me, winking as he did so. I chugged his beer as well. I only got halfway through the third glass when I felt a firm grip around my wrist and I was yanked away. I heard Ethan’s friends booing and telling him he was a party pooper. I had no idea where Ethan was taking me; he was quiet until we reached outside and then he whipped around to glare at me. “Accept my offer and stop this foolishness,” he ordered. “I won’t be your mistress, Ethan,” I told him, narrowing my eyes, my head fuzzy from the beer. “You can forget about that.” “You’d rather act like a little call girl instead?” He asked through his teeth. “You looked ridiculous in there!” “Why do you care? You have your fiancé. This is my private business, and my private business no longer includes you.” “You are still mine, Judy. You will always be mine,” he growled. I wanted to laugh at his ridiculousness, but I also wanted to cry. He was so sweet at one point; I spent more than 2 years loving this man. Now as he stood before me, I realized he was a stranger. “I am not yours,” I told him, glad that my voice came out stronger than I felt. He let out a bitter laugh. “Fine, be a call girl for all I care,” he growled. “Spread your legs for money because that’s all you’re good for—” Before I could stop myself, my hand swung and made contact with his cheek, causing a loud slap. He didn’t flinch but he did grow angrier as he went to grab my throat. He froze though when he looked at my neck and I watched the color draining from his face. “What the heck,” he hissed. He grabbed my chin and yanked my head to the side. “Is that a lovebite?” I realized when getting dressed this morning that the lovebite Gavin left on me the other night was still there. It was fading, but visible. “So, what if it is?” I asked. He released my chin and glared at me, his gaze icy. “Who the heck have you been with?” “That’s not your concern,” I retorted. I turned to walk away, but he gripped my arm, making me whimper in pain as he whipped me around to face him again. “Answer my freaking question, Judy! Who have you been with?!” Through gritted teeth, I answered, “Gavin. Your future father-in-law. Happy now?” He released me and let out a bark of laughter. “Are you kidding me? You don’t have to make up such a ridiculous story,” Ethan said through a fit of laughter. I heard more laughter from nearby and I realized Ethan’s friends were crowding around. “Is she talking about Gavin Landry? He has standards. He would never go for a girl like, Judy.” “Yeah, Judy is a call girl and Gavin is a Lycan chairman. There’s no way,” another friend laughed. “I’m being serious,” I told them, folding my arms across my chest. This time Ethan did grab my throat, and his gaze turned almost deadly. “Stop playing me for a fool and tell me the truth,” he growled. “Gavin would never want someone like you. You are nobody. You don’t fit into his world. ” I couldn’t breathe as his hands tightened around my throat, so I couldn’t respond. “Now, how about you do as I say and move into the house I bought? Once I get married, I’ll see you frequently at night and you can spread your pretty little legs for me only—” There was a loud honk from nearby, making Ethan drop his hold around my neck. I coughed and rubbed my sore neck as he glared at the person interrupting us. I glanced at the black limo and frowned when the door opened. I gasped when I saw Gavin seated in the back, his eyes on me. “Get in,” he ordered. I stared at him, disbelieving. “I won’t ask you again, Judy,” he said through his teeth. I felt Ethan’s shocked eyes on me as I quickly hurried towards the car and got in, closing the door behind me. “Drive,” he instructed the driver. “Yes, sir.” The car started to move; Ethan stood on the curb; his mouth nearly dropped. His friends were equally shocked. Gavin glanced at me, and I felt my cheeks redden. “Using me to make your ex-fiancé jealous, are you?”	LEARN_MORE	https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16927&u	Enjoying reading	https://www.facebook.com/61559698863477/	310	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	getokn.com	VIDEO		https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16927&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482019503_648440177586297_7101276304416207887_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1dVyAG19PHkQ7kNvgFj9DPA&_nc_oc=AdhJKs1gtxK_dYXTBJhRSRwxTb3ngVN5YxKOl4xuekkmiQcZouuITv2ttgoCirjZwkNnrQE0U0MyAWtoIDkl6XCk&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AoIhAlbnaLo-abNKHye8pD-&oh=00_AYDG8_1Dc-bMx4NPTuQ4OR3vYRrHaC4S0zkSerSwussIGg&oe=67C73CC0	PERSON_PROFILE	Enjoying reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,429	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707409}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	Stop paying for reading 👉	📣📣Everyone is the circle gasped as they looked at me expectantly. I noticed people at the back of the room stopped what they're doing and looked our way with curious expressions. It felt like everyone was holding their breath for my response. I don't know what response they were expecting, but I'm sure they didn't expect what I said next. "Who?" That's when everyone burst into chaos. Everyone started talking over each other, standing up and displaying exaggerated reactions. What I heard among the chaos was, "How do you not know who Irene is?", "Do you live under rock?", "My girl said 'who?'!", "That's the spirit!" I glanced at Jay in confusion, who also wore a confused expression. He then shrugged and carried on sipping his drink. Good idea, let's just sip on our coke until everyone calms down. To my surprise, it took less time then I estimated for everyone to settle down. Daniel was the first to speak again. "So do you really not know who Irene is or were you just saying it to show you don't consider her a rival?" Everyone quiets down as they waited for my reply. I shrugged and took a sip of my drink, unintentionally increasing everyone's anticipation. Realising that they needed a verbal answer, I replied with, "I don't know who Irene is." I heard a few gasps and people letting out a sharp breaths. Who is Irene to have so many people displaying big reactions about her? My curiosity peaked after evaluating people's expressions; it's seems to me that I am out of the loop of something big. Which I'm not too surprised about; I'm usually oblivious to gossip and what's being talked about recently. I'm always the last to know about things. "Da mn, you must live under a rock." The nice girl said, climbing off her mate and situated herself in front of me. "Okay, so is anyone going to explain who Irene is or what?" I asked, hanging the question in the air. "I gladly will." The nice girl responded with a wink. "My name is Hana, if you were wondering." She carried on before I could say anything. "Since you became the first female warrior in the US, there has been many other female wolves who have been following your footsteps. Just recently, I would say about couple months ago, a female wolf called Irene has been winning every match she has been in." Isn't that a good thing? Another female wolf who's dominating her matches, that's amazing! I not only travel to other packs for matches, but to also empower the females there and show their worth in fighting. "What pack is she from?" I asked. Silence. "Well?" I prodded, wondering why no one was answering. "The BlackShadowed Pack." Daniel whispered, looking at me expectantly. Oh. So she's from that pack? I've never set foot on their territory, nor do I plan on doing so. I've heard bad and dark rumours surrounding that pack. The former Alpha was nicknamed the 'Mad Alpha' because of his crazy, shady and dirty ways of doing pack business. I guess it worked for him since they are the most powerful pack in the United States. It's been two years since the 'Mad Alpha' died, yet the pack seems to operate the same way. I heard that the current Alpha, although quite young, is just as bad as his father. "Moving on, so Irene has been challenging the best fighters in every pack. Including you." Hana carried on, plopping her head on her hand. "She's won all the matches so far." So Irene wants to go against me? It sounds like she'll actually be some competition which, I can't lie, sounds exciting. Although, that doesn't mean I can accept the challenge; I have to think of this pack's reputation. We cant afford to associate with that pack, not when we're known to have a clean record. The Imperial Pride Pack is second to The BlackShadowed Pack when it comes to power, territorial land and influence. The biggest difference between us is how we manage the pack and the money. "That's not all, Elisia." Hana said, catching my attention again. "She's been running her mouth for months now, saying that she is 'better than you' in every way. Since you have not replied to her request to fight, she's been calling you a 'coward' and 'poser'. She's known for brutally finishing her opponent at the end of a fight, leaving them almost dead and calls herself 'The White devil.' It's been causing so much drama and gossip in all the packs lately, that's why we assumed you knew." Oh. Well, da mn. How do I respond to that? "Wow." I said in a monotone voice. However, inside I was boiling. This Irene girl doesn't even know me, and has the nerve to judge me like that. I had no idea who she was and that she has requested to fight me, until now. Usually Magnus organises these events for me as well as notifies me on who requested to fight me. Why didn't he tell me about her? Is it because of the pack she belongs to? Not to mention, she apparently leaves them 'almost dead' at the end of a match? Honestly any strong fighter can do that, but where is the respect in that? A sparring match is about testing your physical and mental ability to fight, not about trying to kill each other. That is only reserved for the battlefield. "So? Do you consider her a rival?" Daniel asked. "She's causing quite a stir in the community. The last female who caused this much stir was you." "Will you accept the challenge and fight?" Someone else in the circle shouted. I stayed silent, not wanting to say the wrong thing. If I showed any signs of accepting the match request, then they all may share that 'I accepted the challenge' on social media. Magnus must've not told me for a reason, so I'll need to find out why before I make a decision. "We will review the conditions of the request before making any decisions, so please refrain yourselves from asking if she'll accept." Jayden spoke up, walking over to us. I sent him a grateful smile, he always knows when to come in. I stood up, stretching my numb legs from sitting in the same position for too long. Did they really think Irene could beat me in a fighting match? They way they were describing her made it seem like they think she can rival me. Can she? There is no way of knowing until I see her fight, I wonder if there is a video about. Couple hours later ~ Almost everyone was gone, just a few people stayed behind to help us clean up the mess. It was just me, Jay, Hana and her mate, who I now know is called Michael. Thankfully, all we had to clean the first floor of the house since the upstairs was off limits during the party. A downstairs toilet is useful for occasions like this or people would have the opportunity to snoop in our rooms and personal stuff. Kaitlyn and Magnus walked down the stairs, making an appearance. There were times where I'd look at them and realise how different they look from me. Obviously we weren't related in any way, but when I was younger it actually bothered me. I looked so out of place, making it more obvious that I didn't really belong with them. Jay inherited their curly golden blond hair. He got his green eyes from his mother whereas Magnus had brown eyes. You could say I look the complete opposite from them. I have waist length chestnut brown wavy hair. I was born with stormy grey eyes, which are framed by my thick dark curly eyelashes. I have this natural flush on my cheeks which gives people the impression I'm cute...before they find out who I am. I have this tendency of biting my lips when I'm concentrating thus making them look almost red, a habit that Kaitlyn has tried to uninstall for years.	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.h	Reading Stories	https://www.facebook.com/refkkaaaiww24/	775	1969-12-31 18:00	Install now	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.happy.topnovels	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481447298_1600266163940304_7318817560627858638_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XD5BK2oPxc4Q7kNvgGryJzD&_nc_oc=AdhIoh_ln0te4Kj4gno4y4HgnDzhFsE5fGDzBEVxLf7INWOAHyswE7A4XKsHOTTG3dQXOcyGK_JuyQAfJcO0_3Y3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxAVeQEtsFbS2NMQYUh34t3&oh=00_AYDmtFUqvWdTG3y4R6fRoXV462f9IdC_8b0tsOws946AsQ&oe=67C73B2C	PERSON_PROFILE	Reading Stories	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,054	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706950}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Get To The Root Cause Of Back Pain	📍 Hey Bergen County! Struggling with Back Pain or Sciatica? We Have Solutions! We are a comprehensive medical center specializing in low back treatments to help patients find lasting relief from sciatica, bulging discs, herniated discs, and chronic pain. Our medically supervised, non-surgical treatments offer real results so you can get back to living pain-free! Your Consultation Includes: ✔ Comprehensive Exam & Nerve Assessment ✔ MRI & X-Ray Review ✔ Personalized Treatment Plan 💬 What Our Patients Say: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The doctors truly care about their patients. I finally found relief after years of back pain!” 👉 Click Below to Schedule Your Consultation & Get a Free Health Benefits Check Available! M.T. Shahab, M.D. 33 Central Avenue Midland Park, New Jersey 07432	LEARN_MORE	https://go.medwellnj.com/backpain	Medwell Doctors NJ	https://www.facebook.com/askdrmaz/	140	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	go.medwellnj.com	IMAGE	MedWell - Find Relief from Knee Pain—No Surgery Required	https://go.medwellnj.com/backpain	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481046200_1573698407354902_2462998029341389462_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tr4IceIRWsMQ7kNvgEH5VPk&_nc_oc=Adjfdgx-YQv04dcJe9UC2I3TGPEqSP43KyLWGmDfGcBSlepv2rttV3HSTOeg0G2nUECtwe-HuGGiUzKg1Lzh5Q_-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AHK_PnpbPVEy01dC3uFuyqI&oh=00_AYBmIP4lL2W6jcjEeY-vThOAlM95uN08yoOV8BTAtI3fdA&oe=67C727C2	PERSON_PROFILE	Medwell Doctors NJ	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,881	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706878}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	$49 Spinal Decompression Treatment!	Hey Chicago! Have you been told you need surgery? Do you have a Bulging Disc or experience Sciatica or Degenerative Disc Disease? For the Next Week, we are giving away 50 Vouchers for a Spinal Decompression Treatment, including a Detailed Spine and Nerve System Examination, a Postural Assessment, a Health History Consultation, along with a Report of Findings, all for just $49 Dollars! (Normally a $424 dollar value!)⁣ Ready to take control and alleviate pain? Click Below to claim your VOUCHER!	LEARN_MORE	https://www.rennwellness.net/optin	Ravenswood Chiropractic & Wellness Center	https://www.facebook.com/rennwellness/	327	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	rennwellness.net	IMAGE	Start Feeling Better Today 👉	https://www.rennwellness.net/optin	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480747230_507019458726511_2688272493058787137_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RnksUoy5O8cQ7kNvgHMJJWq&_nc_oc=Adjj6vrmwsoajWH4EAxW1LIee4FhlTQWU70du8N_4gN14j0cwpiU5Qci1mURsugOfM1yPcyasGhoSD5DfeWKFyIn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ApCilCjXhPBKipbIcmxpMvC&oh=00_AYCkkR-5P0msvxgY9FHH8ZAC_j1syldGmF_z-Y3mVYMFuQ&oe=67C7404A	PERSON_PROFILE	Ravenswood Chiropractic & Wellness Center	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,122	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707121}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Buy 2 Get 2 Free Sale Live Now!	Flow State is not a accident anymore, with Flowpouches each pouch clears your mind and boosts your energy allowing you to feel amazing and locked in all day long! 🧠⚡	SHOP_NOW	https://flowpouch.com/pages/5-secrets-reasons-they	Flow Pouches	https://www.facebook.com/61566841475734/	1,344	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	flowpouch.com	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://flowpouch.com/pages/5-secrets-reasons-they-keep-lions-mane-and-cordyceps-hidden-from-you	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481899062_664960126080755_6211419781923439544_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=m4XbYmOk5-oQ7kNvgGrop40&_nc_oc=Adg6ajem30bUcwjncDXcUJmLFB9YA3lY-dxHK4q-dnz_0WcX2sfDxuOvubtvTzYK2zsyxuhXS1G1MZ9QYRUvCEc4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOcrWshGw1lhL58rtsxAdfa&oh=00_AYAd4Q9piDQGOo5DEZ9jLGs6VznvdWj0jg9DUOKnzwWwKA&oe=67C7121E	PERSON_PROFILE	Flow Pouches	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,309	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707095}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！👉	For seven years, I've been Castro Harrison's secret lover. Our love was hidden in the shadows, but his kisses and promises kept me willing to stay. I thought he would finally acknowledge me—until that day when I overheard him talking with his friends. It turned out I was nothing more than a substitute. That night, I finally stepped into the room he had forbidden me from entering. On the desk, there was a picture frame—inside, a photo of him and another woman locked in a tight embrace, the Eiffel Tower in Paris in the background. At that moment, my heart turned completely cold. I erased every trace of myself in a single night and left without looking back. One minute before my flight took off, I sent my brother a message. "This afternoon, have the man you chose come and register the marriage." For seven years, I've been in a secret relationship with Castro Harrison, my brother's best friend. Just as I was hoping he'd propose, I tracked his location to a private lounge at an upscale restaurant, where I found they were joking about me. "Castro, now that Oriana's back from London, what are you going to do about that replacement?" Castro remained silent, his lack of response speaking volumes. The tension in the air was broken by another friend's sardonic laugh. "You've got to hand it to Castro–having the nerve to pursue William Blackwood's sister while Oriana was away. Now that you've had your fun, and Oriana's back..." "Well, Oriana deserved it after how coldly she left. A replacement was just what she needed to teach her a lesson!" ...... The next day, Castro took me to Oriana's welcome-home party at the Blackwood Estate, lavishing attention on me with an almost theatrical display of affection. But when Oriana ran out in tears, her Chanel dress stained with wine, Castro pushed me aside without a second thought and rush out. I returned home alone, my cream silk blouse ruined by scalding soup and my skin was still stinging. With trembling hands, I finally opened the door to his study---the one room he'd always declared off-limits. There, prominently displayed on his mahogany desk, was a photograph of him and Oriana in Paris, the Eiffel Tower gleaming behind their embracing figures. My heart turned to ice as I dialed my brother's number in Switzerland. "William... about that arranged marriage–I'll do it." "Aveline?" My brother's voice softened with concern, catching the unfamiliar strain in my tone. "What's wrong? This doesn't sound like you at all." A lump formed in my throat, but I forced a light laugh. "Nothing's wrong. I just realized - marriage is inevitable, isn't it? Does it really matter who it is?" "Besides," I continued, trying to keep my voice steady. "I trust your and father's judgment. Even for a business merger marriage, I know you would have vetted the candidate thoroughly." William's relief was audible through the phone. "I'm glad you're being sensible about this. When are you coming back? Would you like to meet him first before making your final decision?" "No need. The sooner we proceed, the sooner we can resolve the company's crisis. Go ahead and start planning the wedding. Let's set it for... a month from now." "Perfect! By the way, have you heard from Castro?" he coninued, "His first love is finally back in town. You should invite him to the wedding - let him share in your happiness." So William knew about Oriana too. No wonder Castro never let me tell my brother about us. I lowered my eyes, concealing the pain that threatened to spill over. "Don't bother him, Will. We're... not that close." Hearing the door unlock, I quickly said goodbye and ended the call. I looked up to find Castro leaning against the doorframe, his signature smirk playing across his lips. "Not close to whom?" "You." My honest answer only made his smirk widen as he pulled me into his arms. "Oh really?" His voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Should we discuss just how 'not close' we are? All those nights together weren't close enough?" His breath was hot against my ear, and for the first time, his intimate gesture made my skin crawl instead of flutter. As I struggled, I caught sight of the lipstick stain on his collar - a shade I'd never worn. The movement aggravated my scalds, sending sharp stabs of pain through my body until tears sprang to my eyes. "What's wrong, sweetheart? Are you hurt?" My tears seemed to spark genuine panic in Castro. When he pushed up my sleeve and saw the angry red scalds on my wrist, his voice trembled with concern. “God, when did this happen? Why didn't you tell me you were scalded?” He seemed to have completely forgotten about the incident at the party. I remained silent, unsure whether to remind him and shatter his façade of devotion. "Stop crying, darling. Let me get some medicine for that." He stroked my hair soothingly before standing to retrieve the first aid kit, muttering as he walked. "You're still such a child sometimes, aren't you? So sensitive to pain, so quick to tears. What would you do without me?" I stared numbly at the scalds on my wrist. Yes, what would I do without him after seven years of his "protection"? But Castro... I don't want you anymore. I don't want this false love anymore! I spent a restless night, tossing and turning, my skin clammy with fever sweat on the sheets. At dawn, Castro tried to coax me out of bed. When I mumbled protests and pushed him away, he leaned in with an amused smile to kiss me. For the first time in seven years, his kiss made me flinch. My hand instinctively rose to slap him but I caught myself. Thankfully, it was just a brief peck. "Awake yet, sleeping beauty?" he teased. I turned away, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand. "It's Saturday. Why can't you let me sleep?" His expression softened with concern. "You were running a fever last night. Come on, we need to get you to the hospital." Though I felt better, his insistence won out and I reluctantly got dressed. In the hospital corridor, we ran into Oriana. She was hobbling along alone, clearly having injured her ankle. Castro's gentle demeanor vanished instantly. His brow furrowed with worry as he rushed to her side, steadying her with his hands. "What happened to you?" Oriana gave him a warm smile, then glanced meaningfully at me. "Just twisted my ankle. What a coincidence seeing you both here." Castro tensed, throwing me a quick, guilty look. "Ah yes, my friend's sister wasn't feeling well. Brought her in to check her fever." I was long used to this charade. From the moment Castro decided to keep our relationship secret, he'd introduced me to all his friends as his best friend's sister who he'd promised to look after. Only his innermost circle knew the truth about us. "You're such a good guardian to the poor girl." Oriana nodded sympathetically. Well, don't let me keep you - my appointment's down that way." She gestured toward a clinic door further down the hall. When she started to hop again, Castro didn't hesitate. He swept her up into his arms bridal-style. "Let me take you there." he said eagerly, "Aveline, wait here for me, alright?" Watching them, something inside me crumbled. My fever seemed to return full force, leaving me weak and dizzy. I leaned against the cold hospital wall, not bothering to respond. The stark white corridor suddenly felt endless and empty, much like my future without him. Castro didn't wait for my response - he was already carrying Oriana toward the clinic, her arms wrapped around his neck. How telling. No matter how well he played his part, his true feelings always surfaced around Oriana, betraying everything he tried to hide. Yet he seemed completely oblivious to his own transparency. I let out a bitter laugh and headed to my own appointment. My suspicions were confirmed - my temperature was 106°F. The doctor explained that my untreated scalds, combined with emotional stress, had led to an infection. I needed immediate IV antibiotics. My finger hovered over Castro's number out of habit before I caught myself. Habits really are terrifying things, aren't they? With a self-deprecating smile, I handled everything alone - getting the prescription and finding the IV treatment room. After the treatment, I felt even worse, nearly collapsing as I tried to walk. However, Castro hadn't returned - not even a text or call. Reluctantly, I called him. "You're still at the hospital?" He sounded surprised. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I was going to drop Oriana home quickly and come back, but her stomach condition flared up and..." But his explanation was cut short by a waitress's voice in the background: "Sir, your meals are served. Buon apetite!" Despite his rushed attempt to muffle the phone, I heard every word. "It's fine. I can handle on my own!" I said, as much to convince myself as him. Before I could hang up, he called out, "Aveline, go home first. I'll explain everything later." What was there to explain? Just another lie to add to his collection. I ended the call and ordered an Uber home. Castro didn't return that night. Unable to sleep through the New Year's fireworks outside, I worked on some jewelry designs for my clients on my iPad. Accidentally touching the messaging app icon, I saw Oriana's social media post from an hour ago - a stunning photo of fireworks lighting up the night sky, captioned: "After years of wandering, I've come home to you. The fireworks welcome me back, just as brilliant as your love. Worth every moment of waiting." I stared at the screen for a long moment before realizing I was logged into Castro's account on my iPad. I had no interest in reading their intimate messages. I logged out immediately, trying to ignore the hollow feeling in my heart. The next morning, feeling somewhat better, I arrived at the design firm right on time. Sarah, my creative director, held my resignation letter with mixed emotions when I told her about returning home for marriage. "First my best jewelry designer leaves for marriage," she sighed, shaking her head. "The studio won't be the same without you." Words failed me, so I hugged her instead, grateful for her mentorship over the years. News of my departure spread quickly through the office. My colleagues insisted on throwing me a farewell dinner. I suggested the Italian restaurant Castro and I frequented - partly because I didn't know many others, but mostly because their seafood risotto was exceptional. During dinner, I excused myself to the wash my hand, only to find Oriana touching up her makeup at the marble vanity. "What a coincidence!" She smiled warmly at my reflection. "You know, Castro first brought me here during our college days. We've had so many special moments in this place since then." I returned a polite smile and turned to leave, seeing no reason for small talk between us. But Oriana wasn't finished. She called after me, "I noticed something the other night - Castro always rinses the spicy sauce off your shrimp. Are you sensitive to spice too?" That single word - "too" - made me freeze. The truth was, I loved spicy food. But Castro always insisted on rinsing my shrimp, claiming spicy food wasn't ladylike. I'd believed he was being protective. Now I realized he was simply acting on habit. It’s Oriana, who couldn't handle spice. Seeing my silence, she tilted her head, studying my face with unsettling intensity. "You know, I've been meaning to say this since I first saw you... Don't you think we look remarkably similar?" I'd never felt more humiliated. Under her triumphant gaze, I fled the bathroom, the pieces finally falling into place - I hadn't been his love, I'd been her replacement. Back in the private dining room, my colleagues' warmth slowly thawed my frozen state. Just as I was beginning to push aside the unpleasant encounter, the door swung open. Castro stood in the doorway, his Armani suit slightly disheveled, his eyes scanning the crowded room before landing on me with laser focus. In that moment of eye contact, I saw barely contained rage in his expression, though I couldn't fathom why. "Aveline." His voice cut through the chatter like ice. "A word?" Following him into the marble-lined hallway, I was utterly unprepared for what happened next. His hand connected with my cheek in a sharp crack that echoed off the pristine walls. In seven years, he had never raised a hand to me. "How dare you push Oriana?" Meeting my shocked gaze, he showed no remorse - only fury. "You knew her ankle was injured. I told you I'd explain everything later - is this your way of getting revenge?" My cheek stung where he'd struck me. Oriana limped toward us from down the hallway. Her designer blouse was rumpled and stained with water. Before I could defend myself, she collapsed dramatically to the floor. Castro shoved past me, rushing to gather her in his arms. "Why did you follow us? I told you I'd bring her to apologize," he said to Oriana, his harsh words belied by his tender tone. Oriana shook her head, tears glistening. "It's nothing serious. She probably didn't mean it. Don't be so hard on her." "If William finds out you struck his sister..." she added softly. At the mention of my brother, something flickered in Castro's eyes. But looking at Oriana, his resolve hardened. "William trusted me with her care," he said firmly. "If she needs correction, that's my responsibility." I let out a bitter laugh. "What exactly did I do? Even criminals get due process. You're denouncing and striking me without any evidence - doesn't that seem unjust to you?" Castro's fists clenched as he glared at me. "You knew there were no cameras in the restroom. That's why you chose to attack her there." The absurdity of it all made me want to laugh and cry simultaneously. "If there were no cameras, how can you be so sure it was me?" "Because Oriana wouldn't lie!" He took a step toward me, his cologne - the one she'd given him years ago, I now realized - overwhelming. "What possible reason would she have? I've known her for years. She's not capable of that kind of deception." I met his gaze, unflinching. "So I must be the liar then?" Seven years together. I'd thought that would mean something - that Castro would at least trust my character. But in Oriana's presence, those seven years might as well have been seven minutes. “Her word alone was enough to convict me. One accusation, and I was guilty beyond redemption.” The favoritism was unmistakable, his blind devotion to her undeniable. And me? I was just the understudy who'd forgotten her place. There was no point in arguing further. Ignoring Castro's angry calls, I walked away, my cheek still stinging from his slap. Not wanting to cast a shadow over my colleagues' celebration, I quietly settled the bill and texted them: "Something came up. Please enjoy the rest of the evening - dinner's on me." Back home, I found myself really seeing our apartment for the first time in seven years. Every corner held memories: the window seat where we'd shared Sunday morning coffee, the kitchen island where he'd taught me to make his grandmother's tiramisu. What once felt magical now felt poisonous, each memory a thorn in my heart. I found a moving box and spent the night methodically erasing our relationship: the matching "Beauty and Beast" slippers, the "his and hers" coffee mugs that fit together, and a whole collection of professional couple photographs - holiday cards, vacation shots, carefully staged moments of perfect happiness. These had been my security blanket, my proof that what we had was real. Now they were just artifacts of an elaborate performance. Castro didn't come home for two weeks. Between finishing my last jewelry designs,, I systematically emptied the apartment. I sold or donated every piece of furniture I'd chosen, every decorative touch I'd added. The space returned to its original state: stark minimalist, black and white, emptiness echoing off the walls. The night before my departure, I tried calling him one last time. Each attempt met with immediate rejection. Finally, a text appeared: "Unless you're ready to admit your guilt and properly apologize to Oriana, we have nothing to discuss." I laughed bitterly at my phone's screen. So be it. Some conversations were better left unsaid. My early morning flight beckoned. As I wheeled my suitcase out, this space that had once felt so precious now felt like a prison I was finally escaping. Just before boarding, my phone lit up with birthday wishes. Friends and colleagues sending hopes for my future, wishes for happiness, prayers for true love. I responded to each one before switching off my phone. As the plane lifted off, I made a silent promise to myself: I would be happy. With so many people wishing me well, how could I not be? 【5909】	LEARN_MORE	https://image.noveltells.net/landing-page/h5-1290.	FavoRead	https://www.facebook.com/100083109648305/	1,138	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	image.noveltells.net	IMAGE	For seven years, I've been in a secret relationship with Castro Harrison, my brother's best friend. Just as I was hoping he'd propose, I tracked his location to a private lounge at an upscale restaurant, where I found they were joking about me.	https://image.noveltells.net/landing-page/h5-1290.html?id=1290&yy_appname=Favoread&badid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481022585_1374193553756432_3718376953585384280_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=15lXhDO6kM8Q7kNvgFCIea5&_nc_oc=Adj9TjmsDhfiHrYjz14xA5VZXnzGqVR_-Cb12hX68qzwwviBZqe4eXEe2vc5sFC02H4iCbpSlpawgWLzJZA9ZIAP&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxN8BIPl7PJcj6alJ1dPeZW&oh=00_AYAGnT_pkqZBtXcEV5riAlk_efnu_u1cU7qdg7Yze8tHgA&oe=67C70EBF	PERSON_PROFILE	FavoRead	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,898	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706897}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Regreso de Luna y su hijo	📣🔥Es una guerrera experta y de estatus noble. Abandonó su carrera para ayudar a su marido a administrar el gobierno. Inesperadamente, sumarido regresa de la batalla y quiere casarse con otra mujer..	LEARN_MORE	https://sites.sdrh2o.com/fb02.html?shorttv_adid=51	BGJS F	https://www.facebook.com/100090614746031/	18,587	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	sites.sdrh2o.com	VIDEO		https://sites.sdrh2o.com/fb02.html?shorttv_adid=51777&language=es&timestamp=1740479180523&utm_source=facebook&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481482887_1175500627272267_571914023133311453_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nhC3Ke4ORQsQ7kNvgFk6sdY&_nc_oc=AdhKvKFsSg2eIPWi9UVQ6RCq4FevH4CmVc5hjx6-LtgUUPEg4RUDUMPlT0FIf2D-6qzhUqtBmTfefpmXYwM_6f8d&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ApyDOSlKtgF_A76_rke-Uyl&oh=00_AYA8ZXsC7ii-yxWMi85GCOTxpklM3huzPyipyMC8UYbCLw&oe=67C73AF5	PERSON_PROFILE	BGJS F	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,991	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706727}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	The #1 Cream for Nerve Pain 🏆	How do we know that Nerve Balm is one of the most powerful remedies for nerve pain? Because we can't stop selling out! We are busy here at Lune fulfilling orders, but the orders keep rolling in! What's behind the frenzy? Our customers swear by its power to conquer nerve pain. 💯% Natural Ingredients 🥦Packed with 14+ Superfoods 😃Tens of THOUSANDS of happy customers 💳PLUS a money back guarantee if you're not satisfied. ✓ Soothe pain, prickling, and burning ✓ Calm inflammation & stiffness ✓ Fortify the nerve's protective coating ✓ Improve circulation & healing ✓ Provide long-term results Rest assured; we are increasing our production & are committed to fulfilling every order. Put your order in today & secure your jar of the most impactful nerve pain relief balm that you can find!	SHOP_NOW	https://www.luneusa.com/products/nerve-balm	Lune	https://www.facebook.com/100085237752848/	839	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	luneusa.com	DCO	★★★★★ 4.7	https://www.luneusa.com/products/nerve-balm	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481105057_1171928814287928_1741442354815947643_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=God09gBs40EQ7kNvgEJfsRu&_nc_oc=Adij0AG1earRS1uf-twsB3g_B5NZKqYmPhlhbUJL5QXdo-knjCIwgfT5BSSP2XzLMrA_mh28d7R72zIhPsd7e_oN&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=APo6jsbWvg77h6sUSXISibs&oh=00_AYBUzWu3Om2SMJXou1cGk_ChNC1LBvXhfT_s5SMvQfXxIg&oe=67C72825	PERSON_PROFILE	Lune	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,345	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707343}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜<The Billionaire's Ex-Wife (Her Ex-Husband's Regret)>📜	💥💞Please, baby. Help me change Daddy's heart. I march towards my husband's office on the top floor of Steele Corp Building, carrying a present in my hand. It's our third anniversary and I thought I'd give my husband a surprise. I just came back from the OBGYN. I placed my ultrasound photos inside a small box and wrapped it with a ribbon. "Excuse me, Miss Carlisle. You need an appointment to see the CEO," Tara, my husband's secretary, blocks the entrance to my husband's office. "Or do you want me to call your supervisor?" She raises a haughty brow at me, acting like she's above me. Well, I suppose she is above me. She is the CEO's executive secretary, sitting in the office at the top floor, while I'm just a graphic designer with a cubicle on the third floor. I have been married to Steele Corp's CEO, Kayden Steele, for three years. But sadly, no one in the office knows about it. "Umm..." I force a smile on my face. "Mr. Steele called my extension and personally asked me to bring the present that arrived for him." I motion at the box in my hands. "A present? From whom?" "His wife, maybe," I reply nonchalantly. Tara smirks. "You know he's still single!" See? Not even his secretary has a clue. "Although, I wonder if it's from that woman he asked to be picked up at the airport." "What?" Now, it's my turn to be surprised. "What woman?" Tara raises a skeptical brow at me again. "That information is none of your business," she replies. Then she turns to open the door to Kayden's office. "The graphic artist is here to see you, Sir?" "Let her in," I hear Kayden say. As I walk past Tara, I can't help smiling at her smugly. If she only knew what I'm carrying in my hands right now. This gift, this wonderful news, is going to bring my husband closer to me. This baby will change everything! I close the door behind me, and with wobbly legs and a big smile of anticipation on my face, I walk towards Kayden. He looks up from the papers on his desk as he watches me intensely. I almost lost my nerve as I remembered how devilishly handsome he was, with his midnight black hair, and blue-gray eyes. We've been married for three years, but he still takes my breath away. "Kayden," I call, my voice almost squeaking. "I have... some news for you." "Before you say anything, I have something to say to you, too," he says in a voice laced with ice. When he speaks so coldly to me like that, I wonder if he's the same man who makes hot love to me at night. "Oh, okay. What do you want to tell me?" I ask. He stands up from his seat. I cannot read the expression on his face as he stares back at me in silence. "Kayden, what is it?" He sighs heavily before turning away from me, as if he can't bear to look at me when he says what he needs to say. "You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone," he mumbles. "But unfortunately, I couldn't because..." he trails off, heaving another sigh. "But now, she's back in town. And I don't think I can do this anymore, Cassie." Wait, what did he mean by that? He turns around. His eyes look distant, devoid of any emotion. "This is not working out for both of us. I want a divorce." Divorce? The word keeps ringing in my head like a deafening siren. Sure, this marriage was far from perfect. But in the years that I've been married to Kayden, I tried to be the perfect wife. I made sure I gave him no reason to regret ever marrying me. "But... why?" Tears begin to brim my eyes. “Come on, Cassie. Did you really think this marriage was going to last?” he asks. His voice was ice cold, and his face almost stoic. “You know it wasn’t my choice to get married. You drugged me and threatened to expose my indiscretion the same week that I was going to be announced as CEO of Steele Corp! What was I supposed to do? Of course, I had no choice but to marry you!" I shake my head. "No, Kayden! I told you before that I didn't drug you. That night, somebody drugged me, too! I-I was framed. I don't even remember how I got to your room that night! Somebody made it seem like... like I staged it all!" He sighs heavily. I doubt that he heard anything that I just said. Or maybe he did. He just doesn’t care. “It doesn’t matter anymore. I managed to gain control of my father’s company. Your family got whatever it is you wanted to gain out of this marriage. Maybe it’s better we walk away now, while we still can. Before we tear each other apart.” “I gave my life to this marriage, too, Kayden!” I tell him evenly. “I didn’t plan on marrying a stranger as soon as I graduated university! This was against my will, too. I also have dreams I gave up because of this marriage.” “How could I believe you? Your father was too eager to give you away. And his business suddenly boomed, didn’t it? I was desperate to gain control of my father’s company. And you just took advantage of my vulnerable situation.” I can’t believe I’m hearing this. In the three years that we’re married, I can hardly remember when Kayden showed me any affection. He’s always been reserved and indifferent. It wasn’t a perfect marriage, but I never thought he’d ask me for a divorce so soon. My hands tremble. The box I'm carrying drops to the floor. My wonderful news, my little ray of hope, completely forgotten. "Tricking you into marriage is the last thing I would do!” He scoffs. “But that’s exactly what you did, didn’t you? I dreamt of building a family for myself. On my own terms and at the right time. Marrying you felt like I wasn’t given a chance to choose what I wanted for myself.” I shake my head, unable to control the tears that's flowing from my eyes. I realize that no matter what I say or do, Kayden will never believe me. "Is that why no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife... even after the many nights we made love, you... you never learned to love me?" Kayden's face remains relentless as he stares back at me. "Love? When you trapped me in this marriage, were you thinking about love at all? Your father bagged his biggest clients at the mere mention of my name, remember? It’s all about money and power. Of course, I could never love you!” I inhale deeply. It's painfully obvious now what the man I had desperately loved for three years thought of me: a gold-digging, scheming bitch! Looking back at that night, I know that somebody had spiked my drink, and somehow, I ended up in Kayden's penthouse. And the morning after, somebody had tipped the paparazzi and made it look like I blackmailed Kayden into marrying me. I know that somebody had set me up. I just don't know who. Kayden inhales deeply. “How could I love anyone who robbed me of my will?” "You're wrong, Kayden," I sob. "It seems that after all these years, you never saw me for who I really am." Kayden shakes his head. "It doesn't matter now. My lawyers are already preparing the divorce papers as we speak. Let's do this as quietly as possible," he says. "Anyway, there are only a few people who knew you were my wife." I nod, feeling numb. "Yes. You did an excellent job keeping me a secret." That was his first request to me: keep quiet about the marriage. Thinking about it now, he must have been planning to divorce me since then. Why did he wait three years to do this? I wipe the tears on my cheeks as I struggle to compose myself. I know that when Kayden makes a decision, there's very little chance that he'll change his mind. "An—anything else you want to say?" "One last thing," he replies. I look up at him, pretty sure that there's nothing he can say that would make me feel any worse than I do at this moment. He takes a deep breath and announces, "I don’t want to see you around the office. You're fired!"	LEARN_MORE	https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/gawbuzqsl	Lereader-Excellent Novel	https://www.facebook.com/61550357834620/	675	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	www.novel-oasis.com	VIDEO		https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/gawbuzqslewpmb4l5gkdmnht?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120219993614970651&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482205993_1306325934005692_2734365511043124613_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cz-yj6Ec3q8Q7kNvgFu0Q3N&_nc_oc=AdgYKLbTLSCepTRyufHYoN2AYOlVVgSn_esBEmmKgtK5mqeyonr_OwoBt5gLyXWFEkq8uigjzsiWO7WaKb78ONPC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AhkCwi8TWwgzxp1PVcokhEr&oh=00_AYAIMwAYRFH-ub__Y7GthR9U2cSws_H8sV_8RNrZ-NHrKA&oe=67C72D41	PERSON_PROFILE	Lereader-Excellent Novel	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,827	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706778}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔥 Download Goodnovel to read the full novel 😍👉👉👉👉 "Seducing My Ex's Father In Law"	Today was supposed to be the day my fated mate and I got engaged. But now I’m watching him kiss another woman. Marrying her could make him the future Alpha because she’s the daughter of Gavin Landry, the most powerful Lycan chairman in the world. A couple of months ago, our Alpha died during a battle, and now all the candidates are competing for that position, including my mate, Ethan. Everyone knows the Lycans control the werewolf population. And Gavin? He could singlehandedly appoint everyone the new Alpha. So, Ethan made his choice. Her, not me. “Get me a whiskey and a martini for the lady,” A deep voice sounded from nearby. “Is it the future bride, or the future groom that’s got you in a mood?” “I’m just not into parties,” I decided to say. “Nor am I,” he murmured. “I’m here out of obligation.” The bartender placed my drink in front of me and I immediately took a sip, sighing in contentment. I waited for it to do its job and finish numbing the pain. Every time Ethan kissed her it destroyed me a little more. How had my life taken such a devastating turn? How could my fated mate do this to me? Did our 2 years together truly mean nothing? Did the mark on my neck mean that little to him? “Thank you for the drink,” I told the man. I took one last sip of my martini and started to get down from the stool, except my blouse snagged on the corner of the counter and just as I heard a tearing sound, I began to fall to the ground. I closed my eyes, bracing myself for the impact, but it never came. Instead, I felt strong arms wrapping around my body, lifting me into the air. I opened my eyes and peeked up at the man who caught me, and my breath hitched. He was so handsome. He held me with ease as if I weighed nothing and I could tell from the feeling of his arms around me that he was muscular. He smiled down at me and a dimple appeared on his right cheek. I wanted to lick that dimple. “Madam, are you falling for me?” He asked teasingly. I stared at him for a heartbeat longer before I squinted my eyes at him, seeing what he did there. “You’re a funny one, aren’t you?” He grinned. Then he looked at my shirt and immediately frowned. “Let me take you to my suite upstairs,” he said, making my heart skip a beat. “What?” I said in barely a whisper. His eyes met mine and I got lost in their beauty for a moment. Goddess, his good looks were sinful. “Your shirt is ripped. I have one you can wear upstairs in my VIP suite,” he explained. I blinked a couple of times and gave a nervous chuckle. “Oh, alright. Thank you,” I managed to sputter. He turned to the bartender. “Charge our drinks to my suite,” he ordered. “Yes, sir.” I allowed the man to carry me out of the room. His arms were so warm that I found myself resting my head against his broad chest, breathing in his minty scent. My wolf was practically purring in my mind. She’d been quiet for most of the evening while she licked the wounds the broken mate bond had caused. But right now, it was as if she had forgotten she was heartbroken. “Take off your shirt,” he instructed once we were in the suite. He had released me and was walking to the closet. “Excuse me?” I squeaked. “So, you can put on a new shirt,” he explained. “Right,” I breathed. I lifted my ripped shirt over my head and threw it onto the bed, leaving me in only my innerwear from the waist up. Once he found a shirt, he turned around to face me, and his entire body froze as his eyes trailed down my body. I was too busy checking him out to notice him staring at me but the longer I stared at him, the more I started to recognize him. Then, realization struck me, and I gasped. “It’s you…” I breathed, taking a step back. His eyes shifted upward and met mine; his brow arched. “You know me?” He asked. “I know of you,” I clarified. The corner of his lips tipped upward as he walked towards me, slowly, as if he were stalking his prey. I could practically hear the sounds of my heartbeat. “And what do you know of me?” “Only what I’ve heard…” I admitted. “And what have you heard?” “You’re Gavin Landry, Lycan Chairman. You’re a heartbreaker. You have a new woman each week and you never sleep with the same woman twice.” He raised his brows. “Is that so?” He asked. “Tell me more about myself.” Heck, he's the father of the bride and Ethan's future father-in-law? I'm confused, I don't know what I should do. But I'm not surprised I didn't recognize him at first. The Lycan family isn't high profile, they're more used to staying behind the scenes than becoming politicians and celebrities like werewolf Alpha. Should I tell him who I am? But that would be foolish at this moment. He continued to walk towards me, and I continued to walk backward until my back hit the wall. “What more do you want to know?” I asked, my voice coming out breathy. “Everything.” I’m not sure if it was the martini speaking or me, but I decided to be bold. If Ethan can indulge himself in someone new, then so could I. I lifted my gaze to meet his as he neared closer. “Your eyes…” I started to say. “I’ve heard that they were mesmerizing, and I must agree.” “What else?” I swallowed the lump in my throat. “When you smile, you have this adorable dimple on your cheek…” I whispered. He was only inches from me now, staring so intently at me that I thought I would burn up under his scrutiny. He licked his lips, drawing my attention to his mouth. “And your lips…” Before I could finish that sentence, his mouth crashed into mine. His kiss was anything but soft and sweet but filled with hunger and possession. I kissed him with just as much eagerness. His tongue made its way to mine, tasting every inch of me. He lifted me into the air, my body pinned between the wall and him. Instinctively I wrapped my legs around his waist and allowed him to deepen the kiss. His tongue trailed down the nape of my neck and warmth spread across my body as I felt him nibbling my soft flesh. All self-control and common sense left my mind the moment we kissed. All I could think about was Gavin; he consumed my mind, body, and soul entirely. I pulled at his tie, wanting to take it and his shirt off. He helped me undo his tie and then lifted his shirt over his head, tossing it to the ground. I let my fingers explore his body; they roamed over his torso and up his broad shoulders. I moaned into his mouth as his tongue found mine again. “Are you sure you want this?” He asked between kisses. “Yes,” I rasped out. “We are both willing adults, so why not?” We kissed again and just as he was about to take off my innerwear, I received a tearful mindlink from my adoptive mother. “Judy! Please, come home!” She sounded panicked; my mother never panicked. Hearing her voice was like cold water being dumped on my head and I gasped. I let my legs fall from around him and I pressed against his chest. “Stop,” I said breathlessly. “I have to go.” He frowned. “I don’t have much patience; stop joking,” he says, a hint of anger in his tone. “I’m so sorry. But I’m sure you have plenty of other options,” I said and started to run towards the door, but he grabbed my arm, stopping me. I whirl around to face him, my own anger rushing to the surface but before I can say anything, he points to the bed. “Your shirt is ripped, remember?” I looked down at my innerwear with a frown. “Oh…” He sighed, grabbing his shirt and putting it over my head. I inhaled deeply and warmth spread throughout my body; it smelled like him. …… The moment I stepped into the house; I could hear my mother sobbing. “Judy?” My mother sobbed; I could hear that she was in the kitchen and my heart stuttered at the sound of her broken voice. “Your father was taken away by the Gammas tonight.” Chapter 2 Judy’s POV My heart fell into my stomach. “What?!” I gasped. We lived in a decent-sized house; my adoptive father, being a successful businessman and a Delta of the Redmoon pack, had a lot of money. “He was arrested,” she explained. “He made a bad investment for the company, and he ended up losing all the money. He went completely bankrupt and now he owes the pack so much money. Until he pays it, they put him in jail.” “They can’t just come and take him away like this,” I said, standing to my feet, hardly able to contain my emotions. “Without any warning? That’s not fair!” “They can do whatever they want. The Beta is under the jurisdiction of the Lycans, and it was his decision. Loan sharks are ruthless, and nobody wishes to deal with them. It’s easier to just get rid of the problem and right now… your father is the problem.” Before I could say anything more, my phone started to ring. I reached into my bag and pulled it out. I frowned when I saw the name flash across the screen. “I heard about your father,” Ethan’s voice was soft as he spoke, and my traitorous heart skipped a beat. I hated how my body responded to him still; it was because of this foolish mate bond. Even though he rejected me, and I accepted it, that didn’t mean it severed our bond. It won’t be severed until he marks someone else.“I might have a suggestion though. But I’d like to tell you in person. Come outside.” I quickly left the kitchen and walked out of the house. Ethan was leaning against his car with his arms folded across his chest. Goddess, I hated how good he looked. I had been in love with him for longer than 2 years. He was my friend, my confidant, my fated mate. When he rejected me, it destroyed everything I had dreamt of. I wrapped my arms around my body, desperately trying to hold myself together. “Why are you here?” I asked him after a long and awkward silence. “I wanted to talk to you,” he replied. “Why?” The corner of his lips tipped upwards as he stared at me; I nearly melted under his scrutiny, and I had to shift my gaze to look at the ground. “Because I can help you,” he answered. “Your father’s funding chain is broken, and he now owes a lot of money. I know for a fact that he doesn’t have that kind of money, especially now that his business has gone under. But I do.” I lifted my gaze to meet him; he was serious. “Are you saying you’d pay my father’s debt?” I asked him. He nodded. “Yes,” he answered. “And what would we have to do in return?” I asked, almost afraid to ask. He smirked, which gave me an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach. “There is a condition,” he confessed. I waited silently for him to continue, my eyes never leaving his. “After I get married, I want you to drop out of school and become my mistress.” I couldn’t have heard him correctly; I stared at him with my jaw practically on the ground. “Excuse me?” I managed to sputter. “You want me to what??” “Drop out of school and become my mistress. I already have a luxurious home for you to live in. You would never have to want for anything. I’ll pay off your father’s debt and give you more money than you could dream of.” “How… how could you ask me to do such a thing?” I asked in a choked whisper; tears threatened to spill from my eyes, but I kept them away, not wanting him to see my break. He stepped closer to me, and I felt rooted to the ground, unable to move away. My wolf was whimpering about his request; she couldn’t believe our mate could ask such a thing from us. She was gutted and I hated that she was put in this position. “Because we’ve always been so good together, Judy,” he said, reaching out and touching my arm gently. “We will always have this strong connection, even if I mark someone else. You and your family would be set for life… all you have to do is say yes…” He was rubbing his fingers up and down my arms and I felt sick to my stomach. I finally found the strength to step away from him, my body trembling. “No,” I said, meeting his eyes. “I would never become your mistress.” His eyes darkened. “I’m about to become the Alpha, Judy. You must get with the times. Becoming my mistress would only benefit you and plus, don’t you want your father out of jail?” “I will find another way,” I said through my teeth. “If that’s all you came here to say, then I’ve heard enough. You can leave.” He raised his brows as he stared at me. He studied me for a moment longer like he expected me to change his mind at any moment. “You’ll change your mind,” he told me as he stepped away from me and towards his car. “And when you do, I’ll be here. But until then, your father will remain in prison.” “I’ll figure it out,” I said to his retreating back. “We don’t need you, Ethan!” He chuckled as he opened his car door and then he turned back to gaze into my eyes. “In order to get him out of prison, you’ll need at least 5 million dollars. When you realize that there’s no other option, you’ll come to your senses. I’m sure of it.” Without another word, he got into his car. I watched as he drove away, disappearing into the night. It was only when he disappeared that I allowed myself to fall to the ground. Tears streamed down my cheeks before I could stop them. 5 million dollars? How was I going to come up with that kind of money? —————— I had two classes this morning and one later in the afternoon. My first class was warrior training, and my second class was shifting, both of which I excelled at. I was going to college for Gamma training so that once I graduated, I could prove myself to the Gamma force and become a warrior. Then I would easily be able to pay off my father’s debt and save my family. “You look terrible,” my best friend, Nan, pointed out as I sat beside her against the large Oaktree; the very tree we always met up at. “It was a rough night,” I admitted as I took out my textbook to study. “Where did you go last night? When I returned, you were gone. Did you leave early because of the engagement party?” I bit my lower lip as I thought about what to say to her. If I lied, she’d be able to see right through me. I was a terrible liar initially, but Nan could read me like a book. “I ripped my shirt, and someone brought me into his room to change,” I said, feeling my cheeks growing warm at the memory. She raised her brows, and I could barely look at her. “You went to someone’s room?” She asked. “Whose?” I was quiet for a moment, and she grabbed my arm, getting my attention. “Judy, who did you leave with?” She asked, now her voice was filled with alarm. I knew there was no getting out of this conversation. I bit my lip and peeked up at her through my lashes. “Gavin Landry,” I squeaked. Chapter 3 Judy’s POV “Shut up!” She gasped. “Are you serious?? You went to Gavin Landry’s VIP suite? As in THE Gavin Landry?!” I nearly tackled her; she was being so loud! “Keep your voice down!” I scolded, attempting to cover her mouth with my hands but she was too quick and dodged me. “How can I possibly keep it down when my best friend went to Gavin Landry’s hotel room last night and waited until now to tell me!” She exclaimed. Nan was a waitress at the hotel restaurant the engagement party was at last night. The hotel, called Carter Resorts, was in the human territory, and it was owned by Patrick Carter, the Delta of the Silver Crescent pack. Which happened to be Gavin Landry’s pack. I wasn’t surprised to see Gavin there last night, especially considering his daughter was the bride-to-be. I was less surprised to see that he had a VIP suite at the hotel. I sighed. “It all happened so fast, and I had a bit too much to drink,” I admitted. “I forgot when I got home because other stuff happened.” I wrapped my arms around my body and looked up at her concerned eyes. “What else happened?” She asked, her voice dropping to a whisper. I took a deep breath, and I told Nan everything that happened, right up until Ethan came over and asked me to be his mistress in exchange for him paying off my father’s debt. By the time I finished talking, Nan’s jaw had dropped. “The nerve of that scum!” She hissed. “How dare he! He rejected you and now he wants you to be his bit on the side?! He has zero shame.” “I’m not sure what I’m going to do, Nan,” I whispered. “There’s no way I could come up with 5 million dollars to pay off my father’s debt.” We both fell silent as our thoughts consumed us and then her face lit up. I knew that look well and it grew nervous as a smile spread across her face. I knew right away that she had an idea, and I also knew that I wasn’t going to like it. “You said that he gave you his shirt to wear?” She asked. I nodded. She gasped and grabbed my arm. “Isn’t it obvious, Judy? Gavin is into you. That’s the only reason he’d give you his shirt. He wanted his scent on you! He's very picky. In all my time as a waitress, you're the first woman he's ever offered.” I gawked at her. She had officially lost her mind. “Gavin’s not into me,” I said, shaking my head. “He gave me his shirt because mine ripped. There was nothing to it.” “Why would he even care?” Nan asked, folding her arms across her chest. “He’s Gavin Landry and doesn’t need to care about any of this. Besides, you mentioned that he kissed you heatedly. You were ready to go all the way with him, which is huge because you were planning on waiting until after you were married. There had to be some kind of connection last night.” I glanced at my hands. “Or maybe I was just hurting and wanted to get back at Ethan,” I murmured. “Plus, I had a little too much to drink.” “Drunk actions are sober thoughts or something like that,” she said, waving away my words. Then, she smirked. “You could use this to your advantage. Do you still have that lingerie you bought for your wedding night? You should pay Gavin a little visit and make him an offer he can’t refuse.” ___ I knew it was a bad idea the moment she spoke the words, but her words continued to replay in my mind for the remainder of the day and night. When I woke up the next morning, my mind was made up. I went to my closet and grabbed my red lingerie. I had only tried it on once and I felt a little self-conscious wearing it, but I knew the night of my wedding when I finally gave myself over to Ethan fully, it wouldn’t matter what I was wearing. My heart ached at the thought, and I quickly brushed it out of my head before I started to cry again. I dressed in the lingerie, and I grabbed a long trench coat, wrapping it around my body. I left my hair down and I put on a little makeup to make my features pop. For the last day or so, my mother had either been speaking on the phone to lawyers, visiting my father in prison, or in her room. I had barely seen or spoken to her since I told her Ethan wasn’t going to help us. I hated knowing I disappointed her, but hopefully, this would fix all our problems. It was no secret where Gavin’s office was; everybody knew the famous Gavin Landry Corporation. When I walked through the front door, the receptionist was typing on her computer. She barely spared me a look as I approached the desk. “Good morning, I’m here to see Gavin Landry,” I said as politely as I could. The receptionist looked upward at me and blinked a couple of times, looking less than amused. “Do you have an appointment?” “Uh, no, but—” “Look, I don’t have time for this. Countless women come in here and request to speak with Gavin and I’m going to tell you what I tell them. Mr. Landry is incredibly busy, and he doesn’t have time or patience to be dealing with another fan girl,” she said bitterly. “And what gives you the right to turn away those who come to see me?” A deep voice boomed. Chapter 4 Judy’s POV “Mr. Landry,” the receptionist said, quickly standing to her feet. She suddenly seemed disheveled, and I wanted to smirk with satisfaction, but I kept it held in. “I asked you a question, Laura,” he said, narrowing his eyes at her. “What gives you the right to send away guests? You know the protocol. You are to call my office, and I am the one who decides whether or not I will see them or not. Not you.” She swallowed and glanced at the ground as if staring directly at him physically hurt her. “Come with me.” It took me a second to realize he was speaking to me, but when I saw the receptionist glaring at me and Gavin’s retreating back, I nearly stumbled over my feet to catch up to him. He walked through a luxurious waiting room until we reached a glass elevator. It was very high-tech with a touch screen attached to it. He brought up a keypad and typed in some sequence before pressing the floor number. He stood so close to me that the elevator felt almost cramped, despite it being a wide space. I could smell his incredible minty scent, mixed in with his aftershave and my heart skipped a beat. He didn’t bother looking at me though and I was starting to doubt this plan would work. Maybe he didn’t like me as much as I thought he did. I felt awkward knowing that under this coat was nothing but lingerie. The elevator came to a halt and the doors opened. It was an extremely large space with marble flooring and granite walls. “Where exactly is your office?” I asked, staring around the gorgeous area. He glanced at me; his face kept indifferent. “This is my office.” My eyes grew large at his words. He continued walking until he rounded the corner and sure enough, there was his desk right in front of large windows that overlooked the human city. It was gorgeous and my stomach twisted with nerves. He didn’t bother sitting on his desk chair. Instead, he turned to face me, leaning against his desk and folding his arms across his chest. I swallowed the lump in my throat as I took him in. He wore a white dress shirt with sleeves rolled up halfway, showing off his incredible muscles and his dark dress pants hugged his waist perfectly, showcasing his incredible form. My wolf purred with satisfaction, and I found myself staring at him for way longer than I intended to. He cleared his throat, making me nearly jump out of my skin as my gaze shot upward and met his. He was smirking at me, as if to say, “Caught you.” My cheeks burned from the embarrassment I felt. “So, what did you come here for?” He asked, breaking the tension between us. Oh. Right. The reason I’m here. “I have a problem, and I need your help,” I said in a rush. He raised his right brow. “What kind of problem?” I cleared my throat before continuing. “My father was arrested the other night,” I blurted. “His business went bankrupt, and he owes a lot of money. Roughly 5 million dollars.” He was silent as he stared at me; I realized he was waiting for me to continue. Probably wanted to know how I needed his help. “I was hoping you’d be able to help him and maybe pay the debt for my father so he could get out of prison?” I asked, biting my lip. He was quiet for another moment, processing my request before he ran his hands over his face. “And what would I get in return for helping your family?” He asked. I swallowed the lump in my throat. Confidence: I needed confidence. I held my head up high and looked him right in the eyes. It was known as a challenge to look an Alpha directly in the eyes, even worse so looking a Lycan directly in the eyes. But Gavin wasn’t as angry as I thought he would be, instead, he looked intrigued. “Well,” I began, I dropped my voice low as I stepped closer to him. “At the party the other day, we obviously had a connection…” I felt my cheeks growing hot as I spoke those words. “And I thought maybe…” I took a deep breath and undid my coat, revealing a portion of my lingerie, but not all of it. Not yet at least. His eyes darkened as he gazed over my body, and I nearly melted under his scrutiny. I suddenly had a surge of confidence, and I reached my hand out to touch his arm. “I thought maybe I could do some favors for you in return,” I said in a sultry voice. “I’m a college student and very clean. I haven’t done it before, but I’m on birth control, so you don’t need to worry about anything.” His breathing grew heavy as he straightened his posture, closing the small gap between us. His nearness was intoxicating, and my heart started to race against my chest. His scent enveloped me, and I couldn’t remember the last time I felt this delirious. He reached his hand up and I felt his fingers glide down my cheek, sending a wave of warmth throughout my whole body. We were so close together that I thought I was going to pass out from the heat that consumed me. His eyes were dark like they were the night in the VIP suite. He swallowed hard and I watched his Adam’s apple move slightly. I closed my eyes, preparing for him to kiss me. I could feel his breath on my lips and just as I leaned in close to him, getting ready for his embrace, it never came. Instead, I felt him adjusting my coat, covering my body. My eyes flew open, and I looked at his stern expression. “Do you really think I need to pay a woman for her body?” He asked, breaking the silence. “You said it yourself that I have many options.” My cheeks flushed immediately. “I just thought—” “You thought you could use your body to pay for my help,” he said, interrupting me. “You are still young, Miss Montague. You will regret taking such shortcuts in the future.” How did he know my name? I hadn’t told him. Had he looked into me? My heart skipped a beat at the thought, but his words were slowly crushing me. He didn’t want me. I lowered my gaze, hating how hot my face was getting. I knew he could see just how embarrassed I was. When he spoke next, he softened his voice and spoke with compassion. “Look, I have a daughter,” he told me. “I would never teach her to use her body as a transaction. I want more for her and her future, and I expect better from her.” He reached his hand and caressed the nape of my neck with his fingertips; my breath hitched as I gazed into his eyes. “I expected better from you,” he added; my heart fell into my stomach and disappointment consumed me. He was right. I was better than this. I nodded my head and opened my mouth to speak, but I heard footsteps behind me. I turned to see a couple of security guards standing nearby and I whipped around to look at Gavin with wide eyes. “I’m afraid my time is up, and my patience has run out,” Gavin said, looking at me briefly before glancing at the security guards. “Accompany Miss Montague out of the building, please.” “Yes sir,” they both said. They stood on each side of me, and I stared at Gavin with shock. I didn’t fight or argue with the security guards as they told me to come with them. “Thank you for your time,” I managed to say before I turned and left the office. I wanted to cry because of the shame, but I knew more importantly I needed a new job. …. “I’m so excited we get to work together,” Nan said with a wide smile. “And you look great in that uniform.” I looked down at my uniform. I felt ridiculous in this thing; it was a short skirt and a crop top that showed way too much bosom. I felt like I was on display. Especially at night when this place pretty much turned into a club. These men are wealthy and would tip generously. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up when I was struggling for money. “That’s what friends are for,” she said, nudging my arm with hers. She looked behind me and sighed. “Looks like we are getting a group of guys. Good luck,” she said. I sighed and turned to greet the customers but then I froze when I saw who was amongst them. Ethan. Chapter 5 Judy’s POV “You were right,” I heard one of his friends saying. “She does work here. This is going to be so good.” “Hey, call girl, can we get a table, or are you just going to stare at us?” Call girl? I placed the menus on the table for them and waited for each of them to take a seat. “I’m not a call girl. Please, take your seat.” As I leaned over the table to put the beer in front of each of them, one of them grabbed my rear end. I felt my entire body freeze. “I like this little uniform on you. How about you take it off and see what’s underneath.” My entire body went hot as I stepped back from the table, forcing his hand to drop. “Do not touch me,” I said loudly to each of them. “Oh, come on, Judy. Aren’t you here to satisfy men?” Another of his friends asked. “So come here and satisfy us. Sit on my lap.” I pressed my lips together. “I’m not a call girl,” I told them for the final time. “I’m a waitress.” “You got this job because you’re hot,” one of them chuckled. “The manager didn’t care about your skills. He cared about whether or not you could flirt with the customers and make him a lot of money. I’m willing to give you a good tip if you let me see what’s underneath your uniform and sit on my lap.” I felt my blood going cold from his words. “Come here baby girl,” he said, patting his lap and winking at me. I just stared at him, disbelieving. I looked at Ethan who was watching me, waiting to see what I would do. How could he just let his friends speak to me like this? At one point, he would have never allowed this. He would have punched anyone who looked at me with desire in their eyes. Now, he was acting as if he didn’t care. “I’ll give you 10 thousand dollars if you drink this entire beer,” one of his friends asked. My mouth nearly fell open. “What?” I asked. “You heard me,” he answered. “Drink this whole beer and you’ll get 10 thousand dollars.” “We’ll all give you 10 thousand dollars each if you drink all of our beers,” another one said. I stared at the beer and then at the men. My eyes landed on Ethan once more; he raised his brows, waiting for my answer. Swallowing my pride, I stepped towards the table and grabbed one of the glasses. I really didn’t like beer, but money was money, and I knew Ethan’s friends were rich and could pay that kind of money easily. I needed the cash to get my father out of prison and pay off his debt. I brought the cup to my lips and let the liquid run down my throat. I winced at the bitter taste, but I kept pushing myself until the cup was empty. His friends were cheering and chanting as I drank the contents of the cup. I slammed the cup on the counter and looked at the next guy who slid his beer at me, winking as he did so. I chugged his beer as well. I only got halfway through the third glass when I felt a firm grip around my wrist and I was yanked away. I heard Ethan’s friends booing and telling him he was a party pooper. I had no idea where Ethan was taking me; he was quiet until we reached outside and then he whipped around to glare at me. “Accept my offer and stop this foolishness,” he ordered. “I won’t be your mistress, Ethan,” I told him, narrowing my eyes, my head fuzzy from the beer. “You can forget about that.” “You’d rather act like a little call girl instead?” He asked through his teeth. “You looked ridiculous in there!” “Why do you care? You have your fiancé. This is my private business, and my private business no longer includes you.” “You are still mine, Judy. You will always be mine,” he growled. I wanted to laugh at his ridiculousness, but I also wanted to cry. He was so sweet at one point; I spent more than 2 years loving this man. Now as he stood before me, I realized he was a stranger. “I am not yours,” I told him, glad that my voice came out stronger than I felt. He let out a bitter laugh. “Fine, be a call girl for all I care,” he growled. “Spread your legs for money because that’s all you’re good for—” Before I could stop myself, my hand swung and made contact with his cheek, causing a loud slap. He didn’t flinch but he did grow angrier as he went to grab my throat. He froze though when he looked at my neck and I watched the color draining from his face. “What the heck,” he hissed. He grabbed my chin and yanked my head to the side. “Is that a lovebite?” I realized when getting dressed this morning that the lovebite Gavin left on me the other night was still there. It was fading, but visible. “So, what if it is?” I asked. He released my chin and glared at me, his gaze icy. “Who the heck have you been with?” “That’s not your concern,” I retorted. I turned to walk away, but he gripped my arm, making me whimper in pain as he whipped me around to face him again. “Answer my freaking question, Judy! Who have you been with?!” Through gritted teeth, I answered, “Gavin. Your future father-in-law. Happy now?” He released me and let out a bark of laughter. “Are you kidding me? You don’t have to make up such a ridiculous story,” Ethan said through a fit of laughter. I heard more laughter from nearby and I realized Ethan’s friends were crowding around. “Is she talking about Gavin Landry? He has standards. He would never go for a girl like, Judy.” “Yeah, Judy is a call girl and Gavin is a Lycan chairman. There’s no way,” another friend laughed. “I’m being serious,” I told them, folding my arms across my chest. This time Ethan did grab my throat, and his gaze turned almost deadly. “Stop playing me for a fool and tell me the truth,” he growled. “Gavin would never want someone like you. You are nobody. You don’t fit into his world. ” I couldn’t breathe as his hands tightened around my throat, so I couldn’t respond. “Now, how about you do as I say and move into the house I bought? Once I get married, I’ll see you frequently at night and you can spread your pretty little legs for me only—” There was a loud honk from nearby, making Ethan drop his hold around my neck. I coughed and rubbed my sore neck as he glared at the person interrupting us. I glanced at the black limo and frowned when the door opened. I gasped when I saw Gavin seated in the back, his eyes on me. “Get in,” he ordered. I stared at him, disbelieving. “I won’t ask you again, Judy,” he said through his teeth. I felt Ethan’s shocked eyes on me as I quickly hurried towards the car and got in, closing the door behind me. “Drive,” he instructed the driver. “Yes, sir.” The car started to move; Ethan stood on the curb; his mouth nearly dropped. His friends were equally shocked. Gavin glanced at me, and I felt my cheeks redden. “Using me to make your ex-fiancé jealous, are you?”	LEARN_MORE	https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16927&u	Enjoying reading	https://www.facebook.com/61559698863477/	310	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	getokn.com	VIDEO		https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16927&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481179641_2292279894475296_8843874880925077158_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rws7iGadgGMQ7kNvgEAta3n&_nc_oc=AdhIcmNgHwXo8GrOWbQb1kM9knA8B4Oqmoocbb5wmwtyizkzcL2F5qm0AwI80Hdb_JzthLj1S3Y-yNhRopkVYWRr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AY2iNOEeoBFCVckcfBVMoQW&oh=00_AYB8ND9t-aLldtAGAl0gBvO7oagStYAAIN0uYPhPuUuL4g&oe=67C71A1A	PERSON_PROFILE	Enjoying reading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,286	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706811}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Continue watching more series 👉👉👉	🔥Jessica, the Wolf Queen, grew tired of war and bloodshed, so she disguised herself as a plain healer in the woods. To ensure a normal, happy life for her daughter, she sent her to the Russo pack. Little did she know, she had sent her daughter into a living nightmare. Her daughter was treated like a slave—humiliated, abused, beaten, and nearly raped, simply because she had no fame or power. Realizing her mistake, Jessica resolved to save her daughter and make those who mistreated her pay. Meanwhile, she discovered that the Russo pack had betrayed their country and collaborated with Lord Kilian Darkmoom. Finally, Jessica defeated them and restored peace to the wolf world once more. 👇Download ReelShort TV to watch more series🥰	WATCH_MORE	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.n	Reelshort-Video stories	https://www.facebook.com/100090841033078/	608,961	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.newleaf.app.android.victor	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481268088_2118217648621858_4582392276519141337_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3RG2PgWiDOoQ7kNvgGPu-AF&_nc_oc=AdiGQv-s86Na_isGK_wju0qyderln_TZIcxaLpFM-MRskrrTRy1h0mc891Y74OfWI__rG2ndHaoIc3EDd4YVF7vn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AnBDYmReg_8rhxZYQa2-VQa&oh=00_AYDWIudWgzqieMA600DyZ_LRTLPLLF1aP56u-VZ3Ld6qkg&oe=67C73ACD	PERSON_PROFILE	Reelshort-Video stories	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,693	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	A1C Support Starter Pack	BLOCK CARBS & SUPPORT HEALTHY BLOOD SUGARS with Dr. Stephanie's: The GOLD STANDARD for supplements. ❤️ Boost your health naturally with powerful ingredients at doses that work. ✅Available at Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, & more. ✅Formulated by a doctor. ✅Clinically Studied Ingredients ✅ Tested for safety & purity.	SHOP_NOW	https://drstephanies.com/collections/blood-sugar-s	Dr. Stephanies	https://www.facebook.com/DrStephanies/	32,859	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	drstephanies.com	DCO	Dr. Stephanie's	https://drstephanies.com/collections/blood-sugar-support	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481043577_2395870630750333_319696910446558972_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QKuHdiYPdDYQ7kNvgFFMKb_&_nc_oc=AdhDKEGoyHj7F9S5yKalN_Py0hmPpqWNKxatGOACa_GNgfIm4UZNBsCLaNNiWrVkt3EzKurWiG3di1oxOarRujcR&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AHKJlok4DNU1pDju8UVj2w_&oh=00_AYD_R0NBZjQcyTjIdSqYDOTy5RCk1LvoFQlyXM8RJxQsDg&oe=67C71678	PERSON_PROFILE	Dr. Stephanies	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,656	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706655}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Free Neuropathy Educational Class	Sign Up for Our Free Neuropathy & Nerve Pain Class. March 15th, 10 AM at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Waukesha, WI. For many, neuropathy isn’t just discomfort—it’s life-changing. The burning, tingling, numbness, and sharp pain in the feet can make even the simplest tasks unbearable. Walking feels unstable, standing for long periods is painful, and restful sleep becomes a thing of the past. Many have been told that nothing can be done. But that’s simply not true anymore. Join a free workshop on March 15th at FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers - Waukesha, to learn about new treatments that is revolutionizing people's approach to Neuropathy & Nerve Pain. In this one-time event, attendees will discover: 🔹 The real cause of burning, tingling, and pain in the feet—and why it gets worse over time 🔹 The latest breakthrough treatments that are helping people regain feeling and function 🔹 What can be done now to start improving symptoms before they get worse This isn’t just another discussion about covering up symptoms. It’s about real solutions that are helping people experience relief and take back their mobility. Seating is limited—reserve a free spot now! 📍 W229N1416 Westwood Drive, Suite 4, Waukesha, WI, 53186 📅 March 15th, 10 AM	LEARN_MORE	https://info.fyzicalwaukesha.com/march-neuropathy-	Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers- Waukesha	https://www.facebook.com/FyzicalWaukesha/	499	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn More	https://info.fyzicalwaukesha.com/march-neuropathy-...	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://info.fyzicalwaukesha.com/march-neuropathy-workshop	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480539699_1673790793561010_3181188659387636907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qU39U6LdGGUQ7kNvgFTx2h9&_nc_oc=Adg8bleenWhx6hyUfzkXevEq1OTMCqX-ydAhSmsOhXY9RcLT0H3qPMnre37jIJyPZybxKczb7R_ZbxB366uD2xwC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A9F0tfwLKu62ZBgX_v21iLR&oh=00_AYD55HE8EdnIA0MSihbURbZECAV0vibk2JnvsFkjcKZ1KA&oe=67C73637	PERSON_PROFILE	Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers- Waukesha	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,511	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706555}'	No	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	Take back your life and start living pain-free.	Struggling with nerve pain, and sleepless nights? Whether your discomfort is due to diabetes, age, or underlying health conditions... nerve pain can disrupt your life and sleep. It's essential to find a solution before another night of pain and discomfort takes its toll... Mama Bear Nerve Relief Lotion harnesses the power of magnesium to offer relief from nerve pain and sleep disturbances almost instantly. This special blend seeps deep into the skin, targeting the root cause of your neuropathic discomfort. Just a dab before bedtime is all it takes, and you can drift into a peaceful, deep sleep, free from nerve pain. Mama Bear Nerve Relief Lotion also comes with FREE Shipping & a 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee. Experience pain relief and restful nights or get your money back, guaranteed. ✅ Alleviates nerve pain ✅ Natural magnesium blend for effective pain relief (no harsh chemicals) ✅ Endorsed & loved by those suffering from neuropathy across the country for its effectiveness	SHOP_NOW	https://mamabearoasis.com/blogs/news/neuropathy?ut	Mama Bear Oasis	https://www.facebook.com/100088425910904/	4,507	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	mamabearoasis.com	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://mamabearoasis.com/blogs/news/neuropathy?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/469798112_1722009608365653_6698305205902355028_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gcJVJjbpE5AQ7kNvgGhN6sf&_nc_oc=AdhUywTyH8BMoMmUq45nNZ1HKMZuMHsuP3tqxwnZjx1OIzM_GZLdiqipWCpzpo_QHBmo1cJIIO8Tb1M6Y-sgk_us&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AduyuvuBqIgF_eqYRwt8uE9&oh=00_AYC56FV4DVBfiaXwFxqzkN_hC57RE7bEiOPmBQnQmV5Fag&oe=67C73AD3	PERSON_PROFILE	Mama Bear Oasis	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,894	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706885}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Watch more episodes on ShortMax🎬	😹This series is so incredible! I can't stop watching! Next episode is amazing!	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=live.	Short TV	https://www.facebook.com/61567660656967/	1,422	1969-12-31 18:00	Install now	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=live.shorttv.apps	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/476906734_9104782002939323_6721571862025146689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=izK1CYG4pLcQ7kNvgGXar0A&_nc_oc=Adi50ISr0abneX3ji1hXjJ5ovcHkKwwwGt6sxX8XI3kKX2YrWBFKg7uB0I0WomPPgFu01w5Gkdk4oAPa7Z3MEVrX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ApCilCjXhPBKipbIcmxpMvC&oh=00_AYAXoTl7I_XUDKayOCxp0tpStPMJ4bzqirYVCIESaUvujw&oe=67C70FC5	PERSON_PROFILE	Short TV	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete

Page 16 of 63, showing 20 record(s) out of 1,241 total

Download CSV New Ads

Search

Ads