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1,210,209	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1211142}'	Yes	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	443308134823541	Continue watching more series 👉👉👉	🚤💔 Waves of Fate: Isabella's Voyage from Seaside Tragedy to Luxurious Love with Tycoon Theodore	WATCH_MORE	https://d.eavideo.net/w2a?p0=1b562gev&p1={{campaig	190396754167998	Eashort IOS	https://facebook.com/61556887250165	48	2	1,142,333,350,543,353	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Watch more	Eashort IOS	120207990180010403	d.eavideo.net	NONE	video		https://d.eavideo.net/w2a?p0=1b562gev&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}}&p7=1716054102176369&deeplink=esvideo%3A%2F%2Fbook.easou.com%2Fta%2Fesvideo.m%3Fgid%3D300000318%26nid%3D300000318%26sort%3D0%26ch%3D182%26paytype%3Dwwppy7%26pi%3D3%26pa%3D99999	2024-04-13 23:33	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435122698_1564347351022666_42528907515721739_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TLcGLJOapbIAb7ZQ731&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfBTTqvoakeSt2w-h9PCJIBXarBXM39rI_ahSmlAHQh-Sw&oe=6621FD79	person_profile	0	Eashort IOS	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438241440_2732361026915628_5328952942239771637_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SEzOWYdfh8MAb5HJsro&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfAHKwBxGJ4JkdIEwliOsuUBTUsmarRj8h0e8FQbPDIQpQ&oe=662206BD	3	Eashort IOS	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,210,181	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210200}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	366328996383446	It’s Like Jiffy Lube For Aching Joints...	Unlock your full mobility! <br /> <br /> With Dr. Gina Sam’s “Molecular Switch” <br /> <br /> ✔️ Enhances Joint Health <br /> ✔️ Boosts Flexibility <br /> ✔️ Supports An Active Lifestyle. <br /> <br /> Feel the difference today!	WATCH_MORE	https://thepainreport.com/pages/syn-vslfb/	140677332467860	Synocell	https://facebook.com/synocell	1,441	1	1,397,521,744,982,980	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Watch more	Synocell	120207618738090774	thepainreport.com	NONE	video		https://thepainreport.com/pages/syn-vslfb/	2024-04-12 11:39	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436421188_961540102194348_3764880423874449054_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PMOddbEgsZwAb6y1YMa&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBK-7hA-lck7Bci4dKiHBuD2EwlDz8KRCoJEPV1MYt5Pg&oe=66220968	person_profile	0			3	Synocell	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,210,992	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1211542}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	1135472231211052	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	【He won't be coming home tonight, he's too busy sleeping with me. A full year of passion, something you and him will never have.】<br /> A picture of some random bimbo with blonde hair and a stupid smirk was cuddling up next to my boyfriend who was half undressed and sleeping.<br /> Long forgetting his girlfriend who was at home like a fool, waiting for her boyfriend to show up so they could celebrate their four years together. <br /> And that was the day I found out my boyfriend of four years was cheating on me for the last year of our relationship.<br /> ————————<br /> With every picture I burned, memories of him were vanishing along with my love for him. Everything was finally coming to pieces. All the trips he took, all those long nights at work, all those rejections were part of his lies. Just a cover up for where he truly was, sleeping around with some cheap woman. All while I was at home waiting for him and giving him my love. As the pictures burned my hatred for him grew.<br /> "Babe I'm home."<br /> My head snaps up at the sound of his voice. A voice that once gave me comfort, but now disgusted me.<br /> "In the living room."<br /> I quickly hide the pictures under the couch, and put on a fake smile.<br /> He comes in with his black suit all wrinkled, his shirt un tucked, his tie loose around his neck. His blue eyes held a hint of guilt. A look I knew was fake just like the excuse he was about to give me. He was holding a bear that held a little black box, and a bouquet of red roses. Usually I would accept the gifts and forgive him, but that was before I knew his little cheating adventures. I hold my fake smile as I looked over the gifts in his hands.<br /> "So am I forgiven?"<br /> He says breaking the silence, and all I do is smile.<br /> "Oh babe it's fine, let me guess work was piling up today?"<br /> Let's see what you say you lying scumbag.<br /> I notice his eyes flicker with relief and he lets out a breath.<br /> "You know me so well babe, happy four years Nikky."<br /> He sets the bear, roses and small box on the couch. He comes closer and wraps his arms around me. All I wanted to do at that moment was push him off of me. But trying my best I hug him back. Huh he smells of cheap perfume.<br /> "I'll be back, I'm going to change and then we could have dinner."<br /> I just nod and watch him walk off to my room. I wait until he realizes that his clothes are nowhere to be found. Well at least he hasn't checked the garbage.<br /> "Nikky?"<br /> "Yea?"<br /> I respond looking at his confused face.<br /> "Why aren't any of my clothes in there?"<br /> Tell him now.<br /> "They're in the garbage."<br /> I respond.<br /> "Why?"<br /> "Well I thought since you probably have clothes at her house I could just throw away all the clothes you have here. And plus I need more space for the shoes and more clothes I want to buy."<br /> "What are you talking about?"<br /> He says confused.<br /> "Well I'm talking about the girl's house where you stay I'm pretty sure every night for a little sleepover."<br /> "So you assume I cheated on you?"<br /> "Oh no I'm not assuming anything, I have proof that you cheated on me."<br /> I push past him and grab my phone, opening the message and making him look at the picture. As he does his eyes go wide. He opens his mouth to say something but I cut him off.<br /> "Don't you dare say that this isn't you."<br /> I snap and he looks up at me with guilt in his blue eyes.<br /> "Don't do this."<br /> He pleads.<br /> "Leave."<br /> "Nikky come on please let me explain."<br /> "Explain what Luke?! How you cheated on me for who knows how long and yet you have the nerve to come home knowing well what you have done!"<br /> "Nikky it was a mistake!"<br /> "A mistake! No what you did was not a mistake but a choice."<br /> He doesn't say anything.<br /> "Leave! And take this because I don't want anything to do with you!"<br /> I throw the roses and bear at him, along with the little box. And the necklace I was currently wearing.<br /> "Ple-<br /> "Leave now before I call the police."<br /> He stands there looking at me.<br /> "Leave!"<br /> I bang on his chest and push him out the door. Once he is out the door I slam it shut and that's when I feel it. My heart clenches and a sob escapes my throat, tears following right after. And that's when I break, I fall to the ground and let out sobs as I realize that the guy I had loved had broken my heart and didn't think twice when he cheated on me. The guy I was having a baby with had broken me. Grabbing my stomach I let out another sob.<br /> I'm so sorry baby.<br /> The seconds turned to hours which turned to days. I had moved out from the apartment into a smaller one closer to the city. My once flat belly was now a small round bump, being 1 month pregnant and alone brought a lot of complications for me, emotionally wise. I had yet to tell my parents, for all they knew Luke and I were still a thing. I had told no one about the break up except for my best friend Charlie, who I called up the next day to help me find a new place. A place were I could start fresh, with new memories. Just my baby and I.<br /> I was meeting my mom and dad for brunch today so to make sure my bump wasn't noticeable I decided to wear a large black shirt and black leggings and a pair of vans. My hair which was once long was now above my shoulders.<br /> Mom: Sweetie why don't you invite Luke over to eat with us? Your father and I haven't seen or heard from him in a while<br /> I sigh as I look at the text.<br /> Well of course you haven't heard from the scumbag, we broke up because he cheated. And now I'm having his baby.<br /> That's what I wanted to text her, but of course I didn't. But instead replied with the same excuse. Luke was at work and couldn't make it.<br /> "Come on little bean, we have to go meet grandma and grandpa."<br /> I rub my belly and smile. Yea I was already talking to the baby, who was probably the size of a bean if not a bit larger.<br /> Walking out of the apartment I head over to my car and drive off to the cafe that was twenty minutes away.<br /> Driving was always something that I dreaded, because my mind tends to wander to questions I would rather most likely avoid. And the biggest one of course was, When are you going to tell Luke that you're pregnant? Or are you not going to? Personally I would rather keep my baby away from him and not let him know, but he is the father and legally has the right to know.<br /> Before I could get anymore into the subject, I turn the radio on, raising the volume up to drown my thoughts.<br /> By the time I get there parking was already full, so I'm forced to park a block away.<br /> "Great, that means more walking little bean. Which isn't a bad thing. But mommy gets tired."<br /> Dad: Kiddo are you almost here?<br /> I look at the text and chuckle, my dad was always impatient when it came to food.<br /> Me: Yes dad, had to park a block away but I should be there in three minutes.<br /> I turn the engine off and walk out to the crisp air. It was mid-September and the weather in Chicago was getting a bit cooler as fall approached.<br /> I start walking and as I do I start to feel nervous, the fact that my parents will finally know that Luke and I broke up and that I was pregnant and was going to be a single mom was quite the thing to get me all nervous.<br /> It'll be fine, no need to get all worked up about it. You are an adult and they can't tell you what to do anymore.<br /> I kept telling myself as I opened the door and was welcomed with the scent of coffee and warmth. I search the whole place and spot my parents all the way in the back, my dad waving his hands and my mom laughing as she brought the mug to her lips.<br /> Smiling at them I walk towards their table causing them both to get up and greet me with a hug.<br /> "Kiddo Long time no see! How's Luke?"<br /> Just the mention of that name made my stomach churn.<br /> "Yea dad it has been a long time."<br /> I reply ignoring the last part.<br /> "Mom."<br /> I say giving her a hug.<br /> "Darling, how I've missed you. Woah looks like someone is gaining a bit of weight."<br /> Come on Nikky it's now or never. You have to tell them.<br /> "Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you guys about."<br /> I explain, biting on the inside of my cheek.<br /> "Of you gaining weight?"<br /> My dad asks as he sits back down.<br /> And before I can answer a waitress comes by.<br /> "Can I get you anything to drink?"<br /> "Yea she'll have an espresso."<br /> My mom answers.<br /> I shake my head.<br /> "Actually I'll just have a hot chocolate with whipped cream on top and a chocolate chip muffin please."<br /> "Alrighty, then I'll be right out with that."<br /> "Hot chocolate?"<br /> "Yea I just wanted to try something different."<br /> I say playing around with the hem of my shirt.<br /> "So what did you want to talk about Nikky?"<br /> My mom says sitting back down and I follow sitting across from her and my dad.<br /> "Well, um okay, how do I tell you guys."<br /> Quit stalling and just tell them Nikky!<br /> "Nikky just spit it out. You know you can tell us anything."<br /> I nod, reassuring my mom that I knew that.<br /> "Okay, well I'm uh pregnant."<br /> There I said it.<br /> I looked at both my parents who had a blank stare. That is until my mother broke into a smile and stood up, making me stand up as well.<br /> "Sweetie congratulations! Why didn't you tell me sooner?"<br /> She wraps her arms around me and sways us side to side.<br /> "Come on let me get a hug."<br /> My dad says and my mom lets go letting my dad congratulate me by giving me one of his famous bear hugs.<br /> "Can't believe we're going to be grandparents."<br /> I look over at my mom who was on the verge of crying.<br /> "Mom please don't cry."<br /> I plead knowing that I had yet to tell them the other part of the news and not know how they would react with the second part once I had told them.<br /> "So how did Luke react?"<br /> They both look at me with the biggest smiles on their faces.<br /> "He doesn't know."<br /> I say and my mom blinks and my dad just smiles.<br /> "Of course! you want to make it a surprise!"<br /> I shake my head no.<br /> "We broke up, have been for a while now. I left the apartment and got a smaller one closer to the city. Charlie helped me pick it out."<br /> "You're not going to keep it am I right?"<br /> My mother asks looking rather angry.<br /> I was taken aback from her remark, does she mean an abortion?<br /> "No, I plan on keeping my baby."<br /> "Nikky do you know what our friends will say when they find out about this?"<br /> I don't answer her but just continue staring at both my parents, letting her comment process.<br /> Why would I want to have an abortion? This baby was a blessing for me and there was no way that I was going to end my little bean's life. Sure being a single mom would be a bit more challenging but I had my friends, and I thought I had my family but apparently they don't approve.<br /> "Or if you don't want an abortion, we can have it be adopted."<br /> I look at my mother with a look of disgust.<br /> "It's a baby, not it. And I will not have an abortion nor will I have the baby be adopted."<br /> I speak low as to not cause a scene, not that it mattered.<br /> "Nikky listen to your mother, this won't be good for your reputation. Think about it, you'll be a single mom living on your own and not even married with a baby on the way."<br /> I scoff.<br /> "Are you listening to yourself, dad?! Not married and with a baby? This is the twenty-first century, things change and not being married and with a kid is one of them."<br /> Before my mom could reply the waitress comes with our stuff.<br /> "Actually I'll like to have my things to go please."<br /> I say giving her a small smile.<br /> She looks between my mom and I and nods, maybe she could sense the tension going on.<br /> "Of course."<br /> "Thank you."<br /> I turn back to my parents.<br /> "Don't worry, we won't be causing you or your reputation any more trouble."<br /> With that said I walk to the cash register grabbing my hot chocolate and muffin and leaving the coffee shop.<br /> I was preoccupied with my thoughts but the chime of my phone quickly pulled me back to reality.<br /> "So let me get this straight your mother wants you to have an abortion or have the baby be adopted?"<br /> Charlie looks over at me as he flips over the omelet, he looked a bit shocked that my mother would think such thing.<br /> "Yup, my dad even said that it was bad for my reputation being a single mother and all. That it was immoral for me to have the baby and not have the father here with me."<br /> I move around to the cupboard to get the plates along with the cups.<br /> "Well, why would you want a douchebag to me near your baby, especially a cheating one."<br /> "Well he is the father, I have to tell him. But no way will I get back with him."<br /> "So are you for sure ready to tell him? The real question I'm asking is if you're ready to face him again."<br /> He places the omelet on the plate and sets the pan down before looking at me.<br /> "I have no clue, whenever I think about him I feel like throwing up, and I just get nervous. But he has to know, doesn't he?"<br /> I ask looking as Charlie starts preparing his omelet. He shrugs his shoulders before cracking an egg followed by another.<br /> "That's up to you. Do you want him to be part of the baby's life?"<br /> I let out a sigh and run my hands through my face, feeling exhausted from the whole situation.<br /> "I don't know what I want anymore, I just want to live a happy life with my baby."<br /> "Here eat already."<br /> He nudges the plate towards me and I grab it sitting down, waiting for Charlie to finish making his.<br /> "I don't have his number anymore so that means I'm going to have to talk with his parents and get his number from them."<br /> I take my fork and cut a piece of the omelet bringing it to my mouth.<br /> "This is so good."<br /> I exclaim with a full mouth. Charlie chuckles and turns his head to look at me.<br /> "Glad you two like it."<br /> "Like it? We love it."<br /> I take another bite letting my mouth savor the flavors that the sausage, bacon, and ham brought to my taste buds. Charlie joins me finally with his omelet my hot chocolate and his coffee mug, taking a seat across from me.<br /> "Veggie omelet?"<br /> I ask looking at his omelet which contained mushrooms, avocado, spinach, and tomatoes.<br /> "Yea it's good."<br /> He says taking a bite and looking at me with his blue eyes.<br /> I shake my head.<br /> "Maybe, but little bean and I prefer the meat omelet."<br /> The rest of our breakfast time we spent time talking about random stuff, school, and a new project he had. We talked about almost everything except my parents, luke, and the problems I soon had to face.<br /> "Okay so let me get this, you have a date tomorrow and you're barely telling me today?! Why didn't you tell me sooner jerk?"<br /> I smack his arm playfully.<br /> "Becuase I'm not for sure if it will turn out into more dates."<br /> "I don't care, you should have told me. It's about time you got a date."<br /> He rolls his eyes, he opens his mouth to say something smart but he was cut off by a sudden knock at the door.<br /> "Are you expecting someone?"<br /> "Not that I'm aware of."<br /> I get up from my seat and make my way towards the door, before opening it I look through the peephole and feel my heart start beating faster, and not in a good way.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.mobobooks.com/ad/TW9ib29rcy8xNDkyMDAvMjA	159425727259379	Mob002	https://facebook.com/61553462169358	48	1	2,736,140,929,881,996	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Mob002	120208762707670676	a.mobobooks.com	NONE	video		https://a.mobobooks.com/ad/TW9ib29rcy8xNDkyMDAvMjAyNDA0MTEyMTQ4MDQvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-11 08:53	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435288410_2133330160359254_980202298718546525_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1jW1-s6oAacAb7eCmJQ&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfCX9jILC_ljdzhdFTeUaIKfXgMeOMWwj8yNijTO4NmWEw&oe=6621F987	person_profile	0	Mob002	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437784275_475015961516869_7577420037549131639_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Nj7PgmA7p1kAb7Mezp7&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfAHGl0keCmMhW7GYi8USqb-pHxoISN-WZfPG475xZO9AQ&oe=6621E2BB	3	Mob002	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,210,804	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1211090}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	1119617459223151	Click to watch more episodes👉👉👉	🔥My self-righteous consideration and dedication were nothing but a scornful joke in his eyes. A woman who only cares about food and clothing is just a tool for you to have sex. Even I feel contemptuous. I will never be a bitch again, you are such a disgusting man. ! ! !<br /> 👇Download EaShort TV to watch more series	WATCH_MORE	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.e	258566017343934	Eashort Fantasity	https://facebook.com/61557908425537	12	0	955,604,049,074,821	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Watch more	Eashort Fantasity	120208703776440382	play.google.com	NONE	video		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.esbook.dk	2024-04-11 15:41	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434466019_777522544322720_1958267368314703160_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MUjNDpkxv3sAb6NyucW&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfDxp2cs9VE4hhCcTcOjCFtcw3Nqa4dBtSwGOK73shEhSQ&oe=6621E720	person_profile	0	Eashort Fantasity	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/434420758_322016723916742_4004313956669175859_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tLz-W3GzBeMAb61aPmB&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfBOKTVktO0YkWF8nx43OnbeIUKxu4hTYNKz6Ojmsa7QMw&oe=6621F245	3	Eashort Fantasity	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,211,325	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1211324}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	443529254735448	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study - Lee's Summit	Doctors in Lee's Summit are studying an FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for diabetic nerve pain. See if you may be eligible.	LEARN_MORE	https://pdnclinicalstudy.com/	168311646354698	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	https://facebook.com/61552636980353	52	1	6,753,832,614,671,607	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	120208839813850416	pdnclinicalstudy.com	NONE	image	Doctors in Lee's Summit are studying an FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for diabetic nerve pain. See if you may be eligible.	https://pdnclinicalstudy.com/	2024-04-11 15:53	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436481285_412701591505090_4552455323545972079_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JPTFez5fu_UAb6AbV3A&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC784nrkoYJqlWWaJ5bgxue87HqJloGXmOlKQBguNPybA&oe=6621F789	person_profile	0	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436209371_920576266485140_2582013230391544831_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Z9fpOe137IYAb6J88sa&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAhWQ_1nsENInCeyq5BC5YUgCgPIjFu6G8F-eQyJnzphA&oe=6621E222	3	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,210,432	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210403}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	1096894124915710	🔥🔥🔥Download and search book ID: 9792	My sister's boyfriend turned out to be my mate! As he rejected me, I retaliated by cutting off all contact with the pack…<br /> Chapter 1: Ayla <br /> “Ayla, is dinner ready? No more delay. Kylee and Theo will be soon here!”<br /> “Yes, mom.” I sighed hearing my mother's impatient urging.<br /> Kylee is my little sister, and Theo is her mate as well as our future Alpha. It is said that they had been together for over a year, and today is the first Kylee has brought her mate home. I was so happy for her.<br /> Our current Alpha, Alpha Torin, was a good leader, a fair leader, and a good man. I knew he had a son, but I had never met him before.<br /> But I had heard that his son, Theo, was promising to be just as good an Alpha as his father. So I really couldn’t have been more relieved that he was my sister’s mate. She would be properly looked after and taken care of, and she would be happy.<br /> I was pulling the chicken out of the oven when I saw my mother rushing past me, excitedly shouting towards the door, “They're here.”<br /> After my father passed away, my mother had become an alcoholic. But she always managed to look presentable in front of Kylee. For example, today, she was not only dressed neatly, but even used mouthwash.<br /> <br /> I was still transferring the food when I heard the front door open and the squeals of my mother and sister as they embraced. I finished my task and moved the dishes to the dining room table that was already set neatly. I smiled at my presentation and excitedly hurried to the living room. <br /> <br /> I froze at the threshold. A scent overwhelmed my senses, causing my stomach to knot and my heart to race. <br /> <br /> The tall, broad man standing next to my sister turned toward me and we locked eyes. <br /> <br /> Mate.<br /> <br /> I practically gagged trying to stifle the word from slipping from my mouth. <br /> <br /> What was happening?<br /> <br /> This was my sister’s mate. <br /> <br /> Not mine. <br /> <br /> This man was fated to Kylee. <br /> <br /> So why was I having this reaction?<br /> <br /> Better question…<br /> <br /> Why did HE seem to be having the same reaction?<br /> <br /> His eyes were wide, pupils dilated, and they held my gaze with a vice-like grip as he, too, seemed frozen to where he stood. <br /> <br /> Dasha, my wolf, bounced excitedly in my head, recognizing him and his wolf just as I was. It took a minute for her to understand the situation, but once she did, she started whimpering in the back of my mind.<br /> <br /> This couldn’t be happening. <br /> <br /> What was happening?<br /> <br /> I forced myself to address the situation as a whole. Fine, this was happening. Now, what is the best way to handle the situation? I wasn’t going to break my sister’s heart. Absolutely not. I wouldn’t let him either. Not right now. We’ll just get through dinner, and I’ll find a way to speak with him in private later. <br /> <br /> I cleared my throat and plastered a smile on my face.<br /> <br /> “Kylee, I’m so excited you’re home,” I said, opening my arms so she could jump into them like she had since she was little.<br /> <br /> “I’ve missed you, sis,” she said. <br /> <br /> “I’ve missed you, too,” I said quietly. <br /> <br /> We separated, and she turned to the male behind her. “Theo, this is my sister, Ayla. Ayla, this is my mate, Theo.”<br /> <br /> Theo’s hands were clenched into fists, and he forced a tight-jawed smile toward me. At least I was better at faking it them him. Geesh. <br /> <br /> I nodded to him with a broad smile. I knew it didn’t reach my eyes, but at least Ma and Kylee wouldn’t notice. <br /> <br /> “It’s lovely to meet you, Theo,” I said. “Dinner is ready in the dining room. Why don’t you guys go take a seat, and I’ll be right there. I need to tend to dessert first.”<br /> <br /> “Don’t take too long,” Kylee said brightly. “We have some big news, and I don’t think I can wait much longer.”<br /> <br /> “I promise I’ll be right there,” I assured her as I rubbed her shoulder. <br /> <br /> Kylee grabbed Ma by the arm and led her to the dining room. Theo followed a few steps behind. He had to pass me to get through. Right as he approached, I turned my body to ensure we didn’t touch. He paused in front of me for a moment. I looked up to meet his eyes.<br /> <br /> There was anger, confusion, desire, and possibly even hurt reflecting in his eyes that I couldn’t help but notice were the color of honey. He had questions. I subtly shook my head at him. Hoping and silently begging that he knew we couldn’t do this here. <br /> <br /> The sound of Kylee’s laugh from the other room made me jump and then quickly retreat to the kitchen. I grabbed the homemade cheesecake from the fridge and set it on the counter for later. <br /> <br /> I listened to the others conversing in the next room and took several deep breaths. I felt a lump start to form in my throat and quickly pushed it down. This wasn’t the time to cry. <br /> <br /> I was almost to the dining room when I heard the last part of what Kylee was saying, and again, I was left frozen at the threshold.<br /> <br /> “… our mating ceremony is in three months.” Kylee looked up at me. “Oh, Ayla, I’m sorry. I just couldn’t hold back any longer. Aren’t you happy for us?”<br /> <br /> I put the same fake smile back on. “Of course I’m happy for you,” I said. “You deserve the best.”<br /> <br /> I took my seat at the table, ignoring the fact that I was left sitting directly across from Theo. His eyes were boring into me, and my face felt like it was on fire. I started dishing out food and passing plates. I didn’t say much over dinner. Instead, I just listened to Kylee and Ma talk about all the ideas they had for the mating ceremony. Theo didn’t say much either but slowly started to do a better job hiding his discomfort with the situation. <br /> <br /> It took everything to ignore the touches they shared, pushing down the jealousy that kept surging through me. <br /> After dinner, while they were still talking, I made an excuse to slip out through the back door.<br /> <br /> I stood on the porch and took several deep breaths. I released a string of curses.<br /> “What is happening? Why is this happening? This ISN’T happening,” I whispered with the force of a yell. <br /> <br /> ‘Our mate.’ Dasha insisted.<br /> <br /> “No, he’s not,” I said back to her. “He’s Kylee’s. There must be some kind of mistake.”<br /> <br /> All of a sudden, I stiffened as a mouthwatering scent hit my nose. I knew who was standing behind me. <br /> <br /> Chapter 2: Theo<br /> I fought against the urges her scent was influencing as I stalked up to her. But more importantly, the urge to grab her and take her against the nearest tree. My wolf was going crazy about the idea, but he would learn fast that that was never going to happen. <br /> <br /> I wouldn’t accept her. <br /> <br /> Knowing what I knew about her, that would never happen. <br /> <br /> She turned to face me. <br /> <br /> “This won’t happen,” I spat out before she had a chance to speak. <br /> Her jaw clenched, and her silvery-gray eyes stared into mine for a few short moments. But I couldn’t read a thing behind them. <br /> <br /> “I absolutely agree,” she stated evenly. <br /> <br /> My wolf growled and snarled inside me, demanding to know what I was doing. I pushed down the hurt that hit me when she didn’t fight me. Her reaction just proved why this needed to be done. I could never be with someone so cold and self-absorbed as her. There was no way someone like her could ever be my Luna. <br /> <br /> ‘Don’t know her.’ Kieran yelled in my head. <br /> <br /> I knew enough. <br /> <br /> “Kylee is my mate. Not you. I, Theo Arden, future Alpha of the Greytooth Pack, reject you, Ayla Garner, as my mate and Luna.” Kieran was snapping his teeth, pushing to take control to stop this.<br /> <br /> “I, Ayla Garner, accept your rejection and relinquish my claim as your mate and Luna.”<br /> <br /> My wolf howled in pain. A pain that was mirrored within me as it felt like my heart was being ripped apart. It was the bond breaking. Releasing me from the tie that bound us together.<br /> She stood there like nothing happened. <br /> <br /> How could she stand there like nothing had happened?<br /> <br /> She really didn’t feel anything, did she? It was so easy for her to let us go.<br /> <br /> ‘Mate wants me.’<br /> <br /> I grimaced. He meant her wolf. Her wolf wanted mine. He could sense her. She was even denying her wolf. I couldn’t stand it anymore. I needed to get away from her. <br /> <br /> I stormed back into the house, returning to the woman the goddess should have made my mate. I returned to the dining room to find her mother and her still deep in conversation. I was grateful she hadn’t seemed to notice my absence or the change in my mood. It wasn’t surprising. She was excited about seeing her family and sharing the news with them. <br /> <br /> I had been, too, until her sister walked into the room. The scent had engulfed me, driving me to seek out the source like a lifeline. When I saw her, her beauty took my breath away. She was petit but strong, with long legs and perfect curves. She had a mass of caramel-blonde hair that cascaded over her shoulders, framing a face with plump lips and intense gray eyes that shined green in the light. I couldn’t help but want her. I recognized who she was to me immediately. <br /> <br /> But then I noticed her narrow nose and soft jawline were familiar. Her fair skin had a sun-kissed glow that I had always found attractive. Once I realized she had similar features to Kylee, I knew this was her sister, Ayla. <br /> <br /> Kylee had told me on many occasions how her sister had changed after the death of their father. She was there for Kylee at first, but in less than a year, she started spending all her time away from home. She ended up dropping out of the private school her parents had worked so hard to send her to. Eventually, Kylee lost track of what she was doing with her life. <br /> <br /> Kylee was there for her when she was around, trying to be supportive. But she wasn’t the sister she used to love. What bothered her most was Ayla’s treatment of their mother. Ayla still lived in the house with her, but Kylee always got the impression that helping their mother was just a burden. She worried their mother would be left with no one to take care of her, and she wasn’t in the best of health anymore. <br /> <br /> “I have an idea,” I interrupted. They both looked up at me expectantly. “Why doesn’t your mother come to stay with us for a while? At least until the ceremony? We have the room in the packhouse, and I’m sure you and my mother would appreciate the extra input.”<br /> <br /> Both their faces lit up.<br /> <br /> “Really? We can do that?” Kylee said happily. <br /> <br /> “Of course,” I said with a smile. <br /> <br /> “Thank you.”<br /> <br /> Kylee jumped up from the table and threw her arms around me, kissing me sweetly. I ignored the growls coming from Kieran. Seeing their reaction told me I had made the exact right decision. Despite what the burning in my chest told me. <br /> <br /> This was who I was supposed to be with. Not Ayla.<br /> <br /> ‘Keep saying. Maybe believe.’<br /> <br /> I told him to shut up, and he retreated into the back of my mind, cutting himself off from me. <br /> <br /> He would get over it. Once the bond was completely severed, he would understand this was the right thing for us and the pack.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3: Ayla<br /> I had managed to get myself together enough to rejoin my family. The pain that seared through me from Theo’s rejection and my subsequent acceptance almost brought me to my knees. It took all of my strength to keep my body from shaking, praying he didn’t notice the blood coming from my palms. I had clenched my fists so hard trying to stay on my feet that I broke the skin.<br /> <br /> When he finally left, I released the sob that was the only thing capable of coming out of my mouth. But I didn’t let the tears fall. Not yet. They couldn’t know. <br /> <br /> So, I steadied my breathing and went back into my house. I was surprised to find that Kylee and Ma weren’t in the dining room anymore. They weren’t in the living room either. But Theo was. <br /> <br /> “They’re in your mother’s room packing,” he said coldly.<br /> <br /> “Packing?” What was he talking about?<br /> <br /> He stepped closer to me, lowering his voice. “I think it’s best that you keep your distance from Kylee for a while. We don’t want her finding out about this. But I know she’ll want her mother to be a part of the ceremony planning. So she’s coming back with us.”<br /> <br /> I felt like he just slapped me in the face. As if I would ever tell her. That’s why I was doing this. So that I wouldn’t break my baby sister’s heart. I gave him what he wanted, and now he was going to keep me from my family?<br /> <br /> Dasha was confused and in pain, whimpering in my head because she didn’t understand how he could be so cruel to us. <br /> <br /> “If that’s what you think is best,” I said to Theo through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> “Kylee,” he called out, not breaking eye contact. “Let’s get going.”<br /> <br /> My sister came prancing into the room. “Already?”<br /> <br /> “It’s getting late. Let’s head to the hotel for the night. We’ll swing by in the morning to pick up your mother.”<br /> <br /> “Okay,” she said brightly before turning to me. “What about you, Ayla? You’re coming with, too, right?”<br /> <br /> I opened my mouth to speak, but Theo decided to answer for me. <br /> <br /> “We were just talking about that. Ayla has some things going on with work and can’t get away.”<br /> <br /> I gave her a tight smile. “Yes, I’m sorry. But I will try to come out there as soon as I can.”<br /> <br /> “Oh, okay, I understand. But I’ll make sure we have a room ready for you whenever you can come.”<br /> <br /> “Of course. I can’t wait,” I said, my heart breaking again, knowing Theo wouldn’t allow me to be there with her. <br /> <br /> We all said our goodbyes, and they left. Ma was still standing at the window watching them drive off when I went to clean up the dishes in the kitchen. She finally came in behind me and started opening another bottle of wine. We had gone through four during dinner already. And I barely touched my glass. <br /> <br /> “Ma, you’ve had enough for the night,” I said calmly.<br /> <br /> “Oh, come on. It’s a celebration,” Ma said. “It’s not every day you find out your baby is going to be a Luna.”<br /> <br /> “Ma, you can celebrate more tomorrow. You need to finish packing,” I said, gently taking the bottle from her hand. “I’m sure Kylee and Theo will be here first thing in the morning.”<br /> <br /> “We can celebrate together while you help me pack,” she said, grabbing the bottle back from me. “Then I’ll help you pack.”<br /> <br /> I winced. This wasn’t going to end well. “I’m not coming, Ma.”<br /> <br /> She stopped with the glass halfway to her lips. “What do you mean you’re not coming?” she asked with a pout. “You have to be there. Kylee is going to be mated. I told her we would help pay for the ceremony.”<br /> <br /> I winced again. She meant me. I would be helping pay for the ceremony. Ma didn’t have a penny to her name.<br /> <br /> “This is a big deal. Don’t be so selfish, Ayla.”<br /> <br /> Her words stung, but they weren’t unexpected. This was kind of the norm when she got like this. I know she didn’t really mean it. At least, she wouldn’t mean it when she was sober. I got her into her bedroom and set her on the bed. I changed her into her nightgown and tucked her in. <br /> <br /> She was asleep in seconds. I hurried through the rest of her packing. Stuffing two large suitcases as full as I could before carrying them out to the living room. Then I locked the front door, finished the last of the dishes, and slipped out into the backyard.<br /> <br /> I stripped off my clothes as I headed for the forest, desperate to get under its protective shadows. As soon as I passed the treeline, I shifted, taking off at full speed. I let Dasha feel all the pain. I didn’t try to hold her back anymore. <br /> <br /> We would mourn the loss of our fated mate. The loss of the one person who was supposed to see us for who we were. The one person who was supposed to always put us first, without demands or expectations. We would mourn the loss of never getting to experience that.<br /> But we wouldn’t mourn him.<br /> <br /> We ran until we could barely breathe. Until Dasha stopped at the edge of our pond — our place of solace — and let out a heartwrenching howl into the night air. Shifting at the end as she retreated back into my mind, out of reach to heal her broken heart, while I let the torrent of tears finally fall.<br /> <br /> I walked into the water, curling into myself as the sobs wracked my body, intensifying the burn that was still there from our bond being ripped from my heart.<br /> <br /> I submerged myself completely, washing my body clean of Theo, the mate bond, and every dream of finding my soulmate. <br /> <br /> In the midst of this pain I drifted off to sleep.<br /> The next morning.<br /> When I made it back to the house, there was no one there. My mother had been taken away by them.<br /> I was standing in an empty room in an empty house. The silence was deafening. And it all came crashing down. I sank to my knees, begging the goddess to just let it all go away, just for a little while. I just wanted to feel numb.<br /> <br /> I lost track of how long I sat in that spot, staring without seeing. I didn’t even know Zeff was there until I felt him grip my arms.<br /> <br /> “Ayls, what happened? What’s wrong?” he asked, brushing hair out of my face, forcing me to look at him. “Ayla, what is going on?”<br /> <br /> “I found my mate,” I said, the corner of my mouth tipping up mockingly. “He’s scheduled to be mated to my sister.”<br /> <br /> “What?” Zeff exclaimed, anger and concern twisting his handsome features. <br /> <br /> Zeff was a good man. He had been there for me when no one else was. He was the only person who knew everything I went through. And here he was, listening to me tell him about meeting Theo, the mating ceremony, and my rejection. Why couldn’t he have been my mate? He should have been. <br /> <br /> “Come on,” he said, lifting me up. “You’re coming to stay with me.”<br /> <br /> I didn’t protest. The goddess had given me this one little blessing. I was numb. Zeff held me up by my waist and led me out to his car. He tucked me into the passenger seat and disappeared into the house again, only to emerge a few minutes later with a duffel bag in hand. <br /> <br /> He pulled out and drove us the twenty minutes to his house. Just like before, he helped me inside, this time sitting me on the big, comfy leather couch in his living room.<br /> <br /> He came and sat next to me, putting an arm over my shoulder and pulling me into him. I let myself relax some. This was the first thing since Theo walked into my life that felt normal, felt comfortable. He leaned his head on mine, rubbing his fingers along my arm. <br /> <br /> “Ayla. You’re going to deal with this — we’re going to deal with this together. Screw him, okay. He’s a dirtbag. You deserve so much better than some fool who doesn’t see how incredible you are.”<br /> <br /> I wanted to roll my eyes, but it wasn’t just about him. <br /> <br /> “He took my family, Zeff. I would have gotten over him just rejecting me because of Kylee. At least she would be safe and happy.”<br /> <br /> “No. They either treat you like a servant or a bank. They don’t care what their actions do to you as long as they keep getting what they want."<br /> <br /> “Zeff...But they were my family” I wanted to contradict him, but I knew he was right.<br /> <br /> “Get over him.” He took a step toward me, reaching up to hold my chin. “He’s not the only one who can take care of you, Ayla. He may be foolish enough not to want you, but I’m not.”<br /> <br /> My breath caught in my throat. He had told me about his feelings before, but we both avoided going down that road with each other. We knew we could find our fated mates at any time, and we didn’t want to deny each other that. <br /> <br /> “Move in here with me, Ayls,” Zeff said. “There’s nothing stopping us now.”<br /> <br /> “Zeff, you still have a mate out there somewhere.”<br /> <br /> “Ayla, stop. I’m thirty-four and well-traveled. If I was going to find her, I would have long before now. We both know that.” <br /> <br /> Suddenly his lips were on mine. I was shocked, but mostly because it felt good. I felt wanted. I kissed him back, not wanting to give that feeling up. I leaned into him — until Dasha came charging to the forefront, growling and snarling that someone who wasn’t our mate was touching us. <br /> <br /> I ripped myself from Zeff’s embrace. Breathing heavily, the pain of the severed bond renewed. I clutched my chest. <br /> <br /> “Ayla.” <br /> <br /> “I can’t. The bond. It’s still there. It hasn’t faded yet.”<br /> <br /> Zeff pulled me into his arms. “Okay. It’s okay. We can wait. We’ll take it slow.”<br /> <br /> I rested my head on his chest. “Okay.”<br /> <br /> He squeezed me tighter. I still didn’t know if we could make this work, but I wanted to try. <br /> <br /> I stayed with the Zeff, and it was quiet. Until a week later, when Theo burst in.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4: Theo<br /> It had been a week since I had gone home with Kylee. Seven days and a hundred miles away, and the bond was still there. The burning in my chest wouldn’t go away. I didn’t understand and it was annoying. <br /> <br /> More important is Kieran. He had spent the whole week giving me the silent treatment, except when Kylee was around. Then all he did was growl and snarl. It was getting exhausting. <br /> <br /> I had taken to holing up in my office most of the time. I didn’t want to snap at Kylee, or her mother, which had become hard to avoid by the third day. I was glad I had a good reason for me being so busy all of a sudden. <br /> <br /> Alpha was sick. He was diagnosed with a progressive disease almost a year ago. So, he decided it was time to hand the title down to me. It wasn’t official yet. We were planning on making the change at the same time as Kylee’s and my mating ceremony. Actually, that’s why I decided to make Kylee my official mate. Alpha’s were always stronger with a strong Luna by their side. With the circumstances of my father’s abdication, our pack needed to be as strong as possible. <br /> <br /> But there was still a lot to take care of and a lot I had to learn about being an Alpha before that time. So it wasn’t hard to convince her that it was the stress that was causing me to be distant. <br /> <br /> But this morning, I'm driving myself to Kylee's house. I promised to help her retrieve her mother's necklace, which she wanted to wear during our mating ceremony.<br /> <br /> In addition, if I couldn’t completely sever the bond between me and Ayla, Kieran could end up taking control and stop me from marking Kylee.<br /> So, once I got the necklace, I’d reject Ayla again, making sure it stuck this time, and I’d go back home.<br /> <br /> When I pulled up to the house, something twisted in my gut. When I step into the house, her invigorating scent of oranges and cloves invaded my nostrils, but it wasn’t nearly as strong as it should have been.<br /> I realize Ayla wasn't home.<br /> Instead, there was another smell in Ayla's room.<br /> The scent was male. It was faint, he wasn’t here long, but mixed in with the distinctive scent of my mate, I could pick it out anywhere. From the trail, it seemed as if he was the one who packed up her things.<br /> <br /> I stormed out of the house. Tossing the jewelry box in the passenger seat, I took my phone out and searched for the number for the publishing house Kylee said Ayla worked for.<br /> I got another address that Ayla had added to her personal profile from the receptionist.<br /> <br /> I followed the GPS to the address, pulling into the drive of a large, two-story house in a nice neighborhood. Parking half on the lawn, I didn’t even close the car door before taking the front steps two at a time. <br /> <br /> I banged on the door until I heard movement inside. A man opened it. It was the male I smelled in Ayla’s room. Before he could say anything, I lunged at him, my hands grabbing the front of his shirt and practically lifting him off the ground.<br /> <br /> “What have you done with her? I smell her all over you. Where is she?”<br /> <br /> He pushed me off him, his eyes glaring at me with recognition and disdain.<br /> <br /> “You must be Theo.”<br /> <br /> “What is going on?” Ayla’s voice floated down to me as she ran down the stairs. She froze halfway down the moment she laid eyes on me. “What are you doing here?”<br /> <br /> A silk robe hung open, revealing the shorts and cut-off tank top she wore underneath, her caramel-colored hair flowing loosely around her shoulders. She was gorgeous. And clearly not in distress. I took a step toward her as my rage grew.<br /> <br /> “What are you doing here?” I spat back. <br /> <br /> “That’s none of your concern,” the male interjected.<br /> <br /> I turned on him again, a rumbling growl emanating from my chest, my claws extending. I was ready to rip his throat out. <br /> <br /> “Stop,” Ayla yelled, coming the rest of the way down the stairs and stepping between the two of us. “Zeff, go to work.”<br /> <br /> “Absolutely not. I’m not leaving you here with him. Not in the state he’s in.”<br /> <br /> “I would never hurt her.” Kieran was ready to burst from my skin. How dare this dirtbag think we would ever lay a hand on her.<br /> <br /> “We both know that’s crap.”<br /> <br /> “Zeff, I said go.” Her expression softened a little. “I’ll call you later.”<br /> <br /> She would. <br /> <br /> The Zeff guy shot me another hate-filled look before exiting out the open front door. We stood in silence until the sound of his engine faded. <br /> <br /> “Are you dating him?” <br /> <br /> Her eyes went wide, then narrowed as she took a step forward. “What I do with a male — or anyone for that matter — is none of your business.”<br /> <br /> “It isn’t.” Electricity passed through the air between us. “He has no right to put his hands on you.”<br /> <br /> “He does if I want him to,” she yelled, not only holding her ground against the alpha energy I was exuding but taking another step toward me. “I don’t belong to anyone, remember? I have no mate.”<br /> <br /> I lost it. My hand was around her neck and my mouth was on hers before I even knew what I had done. But I didn’t stop. I couldn’t stop. Sparks of intense electricity shot through me, invigorating all my senses. I pushed her to open for me, my tongue seeking hers. Goddess, she tasted so good. She returned the kiss, her arousal mingling in the air. <br /> <br /> “MINE.” <br /> <br /> She pushed me off her with force.<br /> <br /> I took a step toward her again but she backed away. <br /> <br /> “Don’t you hurt Kylee like this.”<br /> <br /> “Like you care about your sister getting hurt,” I spat, but for some reason, I instantly regretted it. But I couldn’t take it back. I wouldn’t take it back.<br /> <br /> “Excuse me?” Pure rage radiated off of her, her eyes turning an icy blue. <br /> <br /> “You abandoned Kylee a long time ago. You disappeared all the time, leaving her alone with a mother who was struggling to keep everything together.”<br /> <br /> Ayla’s face paled. Every ounce of anger seemed to drain from her instantly, that blue fire fading from her eyes. <br /> <br /> She almost went completely limp in front of me, stumbling until her back hit the wall. Her façade cracked. <br /> <br /> “That’s what she told you? She said that?” her voice was almost a whisper. <br /> <br /> Kieran was going insane in my head, telling me to shut up, to just stop talking. Urging me to stop hurting her. Because I was hurting her. I had struck a nerve, a very deep one, and I wouldn’t stop. She had to break the bond. Once and for all. If it meant I had to break her to do it, I would.<br /> <br /> “She told me everything. She told me how you would keep things from her and your mother. That you would be out at all hours of the night when you were a teenager. How you dropped out of high school, waisting the tuition your parents worked so hard for.”<br /> <br /> “What?” <br /> <br /> “I could never be with someone as cold and heartless as you.”<br /> <br /> Ayla’s head snapped up. Her eyes a steely gray as she resolved herself to something I couldn’t figure out but would soon find out. <br /> <br /> “I, Ayla Garner, reject you, Theo Arden, as my mate. I relinquish my claim as your mate and Luna.”<br /> <br /> I gritted my teeth as Kieran howled in my head, screaming for me not to accept it. <br /> <br /> “I, Theo Arden, accept your rejection.” The pain in my chest amplified, but I could still feel the bond. “We’ve done this before. It’s not working.”<br /> <br /> “Tell your wolf to accept it,” Ayla said with a crack in her voice. <br /> <br /> The muscles in my jaw tightened to a point I thought my teeth would shatter. The noise in my head from Kieran becoming almost unbearable.<br /> <br /> “He won’t.”<br /> <br /> “Make him,” she forced out.<br /> <br /> “I can’t.”<br /> <br /> “He doesn’t have a choice. I’ll never be with him, and neither will she,” Ayla said, tears threatening to fall from her eyes. <br /> <br /> I could feel the pain he felt. It was excruciating. I told him it would end if he just accepted, but he wouldn’t give in. He was an Alpha. He was as strong as me. I’d never overpower him on this. Ayla must have sensed my stalemate. Or her wolf did and told her because she pulled herself from against the wall, standing up straight again.<br /> <br /> “I, Ayla Garner, cut my ties to Alpha Torin…”<br /> <br /> “What are you doing?” There was desperation in my voice. She couldn’t do this. I moved to stop her. <br /> <br /> “And the Greytooth Pack.”<br /> <br /> “No.” I fell to a knee, feeling the invisible tether that united pack members with their Alpha splinter. Kieran was pounding against the barriers of my control, putting all his might into taking over the shift. I knew I was on the verge.<br /> <br /> “From this day forth, I am a rogue.” She took an unsteady step toward me, silent tears rolling freely down her face. “Now get out.”<br /> <br /> She had used my father’s name. Either of our names would have worked in the limbo state we were currently in. But she used my father’s. There was nothing I could do to stop her. Nothing I could do to fight the separation. She knew exactly what she was doing. <br /> <br /> If my wolf wouldn’t sever the mate bond, she would remove herself from any control I had over her. <br /> <br /> With one final, agonizing look, she walked away, disappearing upstairs. <br /> <br /> I took in a ragged breath of air. Ayla now had until midnight to be out of our territory. If I caught her on our land after that, I would have to murder her. Mate bond or not. She was a rogue now. It was our laws. <br /> <br /> Kieran had finally gone still in my mind. <br /> <br /> ‘Mate’s gone.’<br /> <br /> Did he mean Ayla or her wolf?<br /> <br /> ‘Dasha. Mate’s name is Dasha. Dasha’s gone.’<br /> <br /> Realization hit me and panic set in. Her wolf was gone. The pain was too much. She had retreated deep into the recesses of Ayla’s subconscious. Ayla wouldn’t be able to call on her. She wouldn’t be able to shift. She wouldn’t be able to heal.<br /> <br /> She was a rogue without a wolf. She couldn’t protect herself. <br /> <br /> I had to get as far away from her as possible. <br /> <br /> I dragged myself back to my feet, forcing them to walk out the door. <br /> <br /> Chapter 5: Ayla<br /> The moment the door was closed, I sank to the floor. It was no longer sobs that escaped my body but soul-shattering screams. <br /> <br /> She said I abandoned her. <br /> <br /> Theo made it sound like I spent my teen years partying and getting into trouble. She said I dropped out of high school. <br /> <br /> She said I wasn’t a sister to her. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was soul-crushing. <br /> <br /> I had given up everything for them. <br /> <br /> I screamed and let the tears flow freely until my body ached. As soon as it felt like I could breathe without being stabbed by a red-hot dagger, I pulled myself up and started moving. I only had a few hours to get my things and get out of Greytooth territory. <br /> <br /> I had made myself a rogue. I didn’t have a pack anymore. And I had no idea where I was going to go. All the borders on this side of the territory sat right against other pack lands. To get out of one, I’d have to enter another. But it was my only option. Trying to get to unclaimed territory was too risky. I would have better luck on foreign pack land than on the land I just severed ties to. <br /> <br /> After leaving a note for Zeff, I packed up and drove away.<br /> <br /> The Greytooth Pack may not be the largest in population, but they had one of the biggest territories. The closest border crossing was nearly two hours away. And I needed to be far away before Zeff got home. I couldn’t have him tracking me down.<br /> <br /> Especially since I didn’t give him much of an explanation. <br /> <br /> But it was better this way. I wasn’t going to risk him cutting ties and going rogue as well. Because he would. He would hold Theo responsible, and he would never stay in a pack with an alpha he didn’t respect, let alone hate. This way, the note I left would have just made it seem like I got cold feet about us being together. <br /> <br /> I drove to the outskirts of town and got on the highway. From there, it was practically a straight shot to the border. I was grateful at first, but after about an hour, I realized the monotonous ride only left my mind wondering and worrying and thinking about things I didn’t need to think about. <br /> <br /> When Theo found me in the yard that first day, I had no idea what he would say. His initial reaction to our meeting had me thinking he would pursue the pairing. But then his increasingly icy demeanor throughout the evening made it seem like he was thinking along the same lines I was. He wasn’t going to hurt Kylee for someone he didn’t know. <br /> <br /> He loved her. She loved him. I had no idea who he was, nor he I. We could reject each other and just go on our way. Neither one of us would have to break Kylee’s heart. I thought he was keeping me from my family to be cruel. Or maybe to make things easier for both of us. <br /> <br /> But today, his words revealed a different motive. He didn’t reject me for Kylee. He rejected me because of her. Because he believed what she said and painted me as some coldhearted delinquent. But why? I just couldn’t figure that out. <br /> <br /> Dad died in a gas explosion along with my aunt and uncle ten years ago. I was fourteen, and Kylee was nine. Our thirteen-year-old cousin, Mina, came to live with us for a while after their deaths. Ma was hit pretty hard by the loss, so the three of us quickly started taking care of each other. We spent every spare minute with each other. Then our financial situation changed. Kylee was entirely too young, and Mina had been through enough losing both her parents for me to put that on her. So, it was up to me to keep food on the table and a roof over our heads. <br /> <br /> But I was still fourteen. Finding jobs that paid enough to support a family of four at the age of fourteen was non-existent. I would need to work multiple jobs, and there just wasn’t enough time in the day. So, I approached the headmaster at my private high school and confided my situation with him. I was desperate not to drop out or risk my grades dropping and losing my scholarship. My parents didn’t pay a dime of my tuition. <br /> <br /> Headmaster Fordham was a miracle worker. He helped me test out of over eighty percent of my academic requirements by the end of my freshman year. I only had to take four summer classes to graduate a week after my fifteenth birthday. I was even able to broker a deal with him that would set the remaining three years of my scholarship fund aside for Kylee when it came time for her to attend high school. <br /> <br /> I still ended up working multiple jobs for several years. But no matter what, I always tried to be there for Kylee as much as possible. <br /> <br /> Everything I did was for her. <br /> <br /> I completely lost touch with all of my school friends. I never partied. I barely socialized. The jobs I held were really the only place that happened. But I was home to take her to school every morning, and I ensured I had at least an hour to help her with her homework almost every day. <br /> <br /> I didn’t discuss the lengths I went to with Kylee. I didn’t want her to feel bad or that it was her fault. And I didn’t want her to see what Ma was going through. She was struggling to keep any job. She was drinking daily. There were even a couple of times she racked up gambling debts that put us in some scary situations. <br /> <br /> But I never let Kylee see any of that. It was my job to protect them. <br /> <br /> There was so much more that didn’t add up with what Theo had said. But I didn’t get to think about it further. <br /> <br /> A searing pain shot through my chest, making my vision go white at the edges, blinding me to a point I almost missed the figure standing in the road before me. <br /> <br /> My heart jumped into my chest. I turned the wheel as sharp as I could, slamming on the brakes to avoid hitting them head-on. The moment I did it, I felt foolish. Within seconds, I was spinning through the air and sliding down an embankment.<br /> <br /> When the vehicle came to a stop, I was upside down. I registered the smell of blood, but everything was blurry. I didn’t feel significant pain, so I didn’t think the blood was coming from me. <br /> <br /> The person on the road!<br /> <br /> I scrambled out of the car and up the incline. Without Dasha, I couldn’t see well in the dark, but I could see a blurry figure moving toward me.<br /> <br /> “Are you okay?” I called. <br /> <br /> I didn’t catch what they were saying because I suddenly felt the world falling out from beneath my feet, and everything went dark. <br /> <br /> Chapter 6: Theo<br /> I said I would break her if that was what it took.<br /> <br /> And I certainly followed through with that.<br /> <br /> Ayla’s hard exterior had cracked and shattered before me. <br /> <br /> I had driven over an hour, and my stomach was still in knots. So much so that I had to stop to throw up at one point. Guilt tore at me. <br /> <br /> I really had been cruel to her. <br /> <br /> Especially since it turned out it wasn’t even her fault the bond hadn’t broken. She and Dasha had accepted my rejection. They had done what I needed them to do. Ayla had stayed away from Kylee and me. She hadn’t tried to be around them. From what I could tell, she hadn’t even called Kylee like she used to. And how did I repay her? By ripping her apart with every intention of doing as much damage as possible. <br /> <br /> It was my wolf that was still hanging on. It was Kieran who kept us in a constant state of heartache. Kept Ayla in a constant state of pain. <br /> <br /> And then she had to go and do something foolish and cut herself out of the pack. She was completely lost to us now. The only thing I could do was tell myself it was what I wanted. It was the only way to get rid of the temptation and put enough distance between us until Kylee and I were marked and mated and leading our pack. <br /> <br /> Every time I said it, Kieran was there to argue. <br /> <br /> By the time I pulled up to the packhouse, I was so pissed that anyone around instantly took a wide birth. My aura was probably so intense that I was making everyone physically uncomfortable, but I really didn’t care.<br /> <br /> I was going to head to my office but decided against it. Too many people had access to me there, and I really didn’t need anyone coming around. <br /> <br /> What I needed was to work off some of this rage and pent-up energy. <br /> <br /> I made a beeline for the private training room in the wing of the packhouse reserved for ranking members of the pack. I was relieved to find it empty, tugging my shirt over my head and immediately heading to the punching bag in the corner. <br /> <br /> I had worked up a sweat when Briggs entered the room. Walking over to me with his usual swagger, his arms crossed over his chest as he leaned against the wall close by. He knew something was up. He had been hounding me about it since we got back from Kylee’s house. So had my mother, but I sure wasn’t going down that road.<br /> <br /> Briggs was my Beta. We had been friends since we were eight and had been through everything together since then. I didn’t think there was anything we could hide from each other. But I surely wanted to hide this from him. So I just ignored his presence.<br /> <br /> “You ready to tell me what is going on with you? Or at least, where you were today?” he said loud enough to be heard over the sound of my fists hitting the bag. <br /> <br /> “No.”<br /> <br /> “If you don’t, we’ll sedate you. Your aura is out of control right now, bro. This isn’t about you just being in a pissy mood anymore,” Briggs said with an edge to his voice that meant he was serious.<br /> I yelled as I hit the bag hard one more time. I winced as I forced my fingers through my hair. I hadn’t realized I had been breaking the skin on my knuckles. I fell back against the wall, sliding down to the floor. <br /> <br /> “You know I’m here for you, bro,” my Beta said calmly. “Whatever it is, you can talk to me.”<br /> I nodded. <br /> <br /> ‘Tell him.’<br /> <br /> I winced at Keiran’s demand. But I couldn’t really disagree anymore. <br /> <br /> “I found my mate,” I admitted. I could feel Briggs’ eyes go wide in his head. <br /> <br /> “What do you mean you found your mate?” he took a step closer. “Please tell me you’re talking about Kylee.”<br /> <br /> I shook my head. “No. I found my fated mate.”<br /> <br /> “What. The. Fu-” He had warned me about this when I first got involved with Kylee and again when we announced our mating ceremony. “Where is she? Who is she?”<br /> <br /> “I rejected her. She’s gone.”<br /> <br /> “Theo, man, you’re really scaring me now. Why would you do that? What were you thinking?” Briggs demanded.<br /> <br /> “She’s Kylee’s sister,” I snapped. Briggs tensed up.<br /> <br /> “Ayla? As in the sister that allegedly abandoned Kylee?” <br /> <br /> His use of the word “allegedly” pissed me off and confused me a little. He really liked Kylee. They’ve always gotten along. Even when he was cautioning me about finding my mate, he told me he was happy for me. <br /> <br /> “Are you trying to say Kylee is lying?” I snapped.<br /> <br /> He made a face. “No, but I do think it’s foolish to reject your mate without all the information.”<br /> <br /> “I have all the information I need.”<br /> <br /> “No, you have Kylee’s side of the story,” Briggs said with a worried look.<br /> <br /> “And their mother’s,” I added.<br /> <br /> Briggs scoffed. “Look, Marie Garner is a nice enough lady, but I wouldn’t exactly trust her judgment.”<br /> <br /> “What are you talking about?” I asked, my own concern growing.<br /> <br /> “Bro, she’s a lush,” Briggs said with a shrug. “Not that you’ve been around enough to notice since she’s been here. I can’t tell how bad, and she seems pretty harmless. But these things often have a dark side that no one sees.”<br /> <br /> I couldn’t believe we were having this conversation. The last thing I needed was any kind of doubt in my decision. <br /> <br /> “Whatever. It doesn’t matter. What’s done is done. And Ayla’s reactions to all of this told me all I needed to know from her.” I pushed myself to my feet. <br /> <br /> “What were her reactions?” Briggs asked cautiously, and I realized my choice of words may have given away more than I intended. I knew he wouldn’t let it go unless he was sure I told him everything. <br /> <br /> “Which time?” I said quietly.<br /> <br /> “Excuse me?” He heard exactly what I said. “What happened, Theo?”<br /> <br /> “She never argued or fought the rejection. She agreed and accepted it the first day we met like it was nothing. She had no response, no rebuttal, no explanation,” I told him. “You have to be coldhearted to feel nothing after breaking a mate bond.”<br /> <br /> “Or extremely strong,” Briggs stated. “You said she didn’t argue or fight. Did you even give her a chance to speak or even get to know anything about her before you threw her to the curb? Or did you just walk up to her and say tough words?”<br /> <br /> I grimaced. That’s exactly what happened. “There wasn’t exactly an opportunity for that. Neither one of us wanted Kylee to find out.”<br /> <br /> The muscles in his neck flexed as he tensed. “You said ‘which time.’ When did you see her again?”<br /> <br /> “This morning.” <br /> <br /> “Why?” <br /> <br /> I could tell he was choosing his words carefully. <br /> <br /> “Kylee wanted a necklace of her mother’s that was left at their house for some appointment this week. I went back to get it.”<br /> <br /> “Okay, someone else could have done that. Why did you go?” Briggs pushed, but the words stuck in my throat. “Theo, you’re hurting. There’s no way this is as cut and dry as you’re trying to say it is.”<br /> <br /> “The bond didn’t break. Not completely.”<br /> <br /> “Goddess, Theo. So you both have been walking around with your hearts ripped open for the past week?” Briggs said. “So, what happened today? Why are you still on the edge of ripping half the pack’s throats out?”<br /> <br /> Images of that morning flashed through my head. The fear that something had happened to her when she hadn’t been home. The jealousy and rage at finding her at another male’s house. The way it felt when I kissed her. And sheer pain and anguish of everything that followed. <br /> <br /> “Theo?” Briggs pressed.<br /> <br /> “She cut her ties to the pack,” I said solemnly. “She turned herself rogue.”<br /> <br /> “Theo,” Briggs bellowed, “how could you let that happen? Why didn’t you stop her?”<br /> <br /> “She cut herself from Dad. She used his name. There was nothing I could do. I had no way of fighting it.” I was done with this conversation. “So none of this matters. It’s done. She’s gone. She’s never coming back. Doing so would be a death sentence, and she knew that.”<br /> <br /> “What have you done, Theo?”<br /> <br /> “It doesn’t matter,” I yelled. “Whatever I did or didn’t do, she never wanted me anyway. She’s not my problem anymore. So right now, I’m going to worry about cleaning up the mess she made and figure out how to tell Kylee and Marie that they’ll never see her again. And don’t you dare breathe a word about any of this to them, do you understand me?”<br /> <br /> “Okay. Okay,” Briggs said, raising his hands in the air, trying to calm me down. “You’re right. There’s nothing we can do about her now. If it’s done and over with, then it’s done and over with. We’ll move on.”<br /> <br /> I wasn’t sure he believed it, but I didn’t care. Like I said, she wasn’t my problem anymore. <br /> <br /> I went back to my room. There was a knock on my room door, and Kylee poked her head in before I had a chance to answer.<br /> “There you are, mate,” she cooed, sitting in my lap.<br /> She ran a hand up my chest, leaning in to kiss me. Kieran’s growl started immediately.<br /> I still needed to let off some steam. Anything to get some relief.<br /> I was about to respond to her when blinding pain erupted through my body.	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1,210,282	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210784}'	Yes	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	1647071636121961	40+ Incredible Facts About The Human Body That Need To Be Shared	These facts about the human body are definitely worth knowing.	LEARN_MORE	https://medicaregranny.com/koen/50-mind-boggling-f	109305681853697	Investment Guru	https://facebook.com/100083930192295	308	0	422,153,163,796,011	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Investment Guru	120209164152420161	medicaregranny.com	NONE	image	How much do you really grasp about the fascinating machine that is the human body? It's about time to reconsider! While someone might think they know the basics, it's prudent they strap in because we're about to dive into a world of oddities and bizarre truths that could make even a seasoned anatomi...	https://medicaregranny.com/koen/50-mind-boggling-facts-about-the-human-body-you-probably-didnt-know	2024-04-13 08:41	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437158917_974677266884000_8560922430190374493_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-s27Sey-xJ4Ab7ju9nv&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfD-2ZswVNEQpR976mw7XFOZaQxJuIQnYR4SSLdzgM7hNg&oe=6621FDBD	person_profile	0	Investment Guru	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437752013_1480157352570745_8349185902628686263_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fdsYUOTrljsAb6t-0KJ&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfDz2uEvT10vPV5m-FN_8qPQjwRUMsCGrDK23FamLUnwDg&oe=66220DEF	3	Investment Guru	2024-04-14 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,211,352	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1211324}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	2084357195266131	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study - Winston-Salem	Doctors at Wake Forest Health are studying an FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for diabetic nerve pain. See if you may be eligible.	LEARN_MORE	https://pdnclinicalstudy.com/	168311646354698	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	https://facebook.com/61552636980353	52	1	275,603,475,006,360	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	120208839789680416	pdnclinicalstudy.com	NONE	image	Doctors at Wake Forest Health are studying an FDA-approved, non-drug treatment for diabetic nerve pain. See if you may be eligible.	https://pdnclinicalstudy.com/	2024-04-11 15:51	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437673628_337835922634207_2905500114438724985_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ifd27zv7k4wAb524RtF&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDOTIF7OSpAjZiE4xqLVD7nTZBJlsNwNrfj-HF8mZ7QfQ&oe=6621FEF6	person_profile	0	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435538339_434186682441965_9175087594072318991_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y-La3Fhk4D4Ab6n_6AG&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCE9vrjmuXShuLeWRj3HZoGlqKaZeNiQO0VGHt7_nltBg&oe=6621E0DA	3	Diabetic Nerve Pain Study	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,211,413	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1211448}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	345516511358322	No More Neuropathic Foot Pain!	Struggling with neuropathic foot pain, and stiff and sore joints?<br /> <br /> No matter whether your neuropathy is diabetic, chemo-induced, autoimmune, or idiopathic… tingling neuropathy can wreak havoc on your life. <br /> <br /> It’s important to do something now before it’s too late…<br /> <br /> The Nooro NMES Foot Massager uses breakthrough technology that offers relief from neuropathic foot pain, stiffness, and swelling almost instantly by promoting blood circulation and healing the damaged tissue in your foot.<br /> <br /> All it takes is 15 minutes a day and can be used from the comfort of your home. <br /> <br /> Within just 14 days of use, you’ll feel significantly more energetic and you’ll be able to enjoy life to the fullest once again.<br /> <br /> The Nooro NMES Foot Massager also comes with FREE Shipping & 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee. You will either get results or your money back guaranteed.<br /> <br /> ✅ Stimulates blood flow <br /> ✅ Naturally promotes nerve regeneration process (no harsh medication) <br /> ✅ Designed & recommended by Dr. Campbell, a top renowned Chicago doctor with over 10 years of experience<br /> <br /> Get yours now risk-free -> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftry.nooro-us.com%2Freview-3&h=AT3-KDehYNg8OX-ChfWKH2JnDpaajVwf38TV3BL5QCFYShH4IOpnyRbrdKPJxz-cL1HGk-WlG1jbHTZwIyfMTBtZfQICKM10yRuLKnbqK_sGtKDjleb6zimT7ZIVklJYb2a5RF6XXLflHBzLyXXPh3tIcCLceP3Fhz1XdQ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://try.nooro-us.com/review-3</a>	SHOP_NOW	https://try.nooro-us.com/review-3	223565084175589	Ashley Moore	https://facebook.com/61556520745188	4	1	7,587,566,934,637,457	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop now	Ashley Moore	120207658184550671	try.nooro-us.com	NONE	video	FREE Shipping & 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee!	https://try.nooro-us.com/review-3	2024-04-12 21:41	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435901798_975074757292394_8621169322464393614_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wbYVJDWVFlcAb7bZYca&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCAQt8ABPpVKzCmR4QlVhoRgJRqFLGPJ5OXel7VLPtsVQ&oe=66220798	person_profile	0	Ashley Moore	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436907140_1119192955945614_494439258292281068_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WebEEbCBzNIAb7mu72U&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBRx876jW8LlfW5kfonLU49NfhSQaWtIu4oFuzLwHEk6g&oe=6621FA1B	3	Ashley Moore	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,211,315	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210538}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	449923590736018		Starting your first job can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. What advice would you give to someone about to embark on this journey?			107259898254002	Ben Spencer-State Farm Agent	https://facebook.com/benspencer.biz	240	1	697,983,035,645,442	2024-04-14 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1		Ben Spencer-State Farm Agent	120210901891680779		NONE	image			2024-04-13 08:03	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/435700478_357550203374285_4999558012243438313_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eKfvxWD55z0Ab7eynqN&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAV-bHJ2Ktf3fP-B5QjZz8jgfxudJJoecj8iQMlJPjubA&oe=6622065A	person_profile	0	Ben Spencer-State Farm Agent	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437369837_1825955741206070_6198892432160449496_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LIwCZwkKbe4Ab5n4N9f&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCppNe0mVmHMTCPotR83vadIyUlz0aefZ90_ROYTb6LFQ&oe=6621ECC1	3	Ben Spencer-State Farm Agent	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,210,773	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210209}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	883092420236467	Continue watching more series 👉👉👉	🚗💔 Collision of Destiny: Estella's Journey from Tragic Accident to Twisted Marriage with Billionaire Bryce	WATCH_MORE	https://d.eavideo.net/w2a?p0=1b562gev&p1={{campaig	190396754167998	Eashort IOS	https://facebook.com/61556887250165	48	12	2,251,943,305,148,731	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Watch more	Eashort IOS	120207975963460403	d.eavideo.net	NONE	video		https://d.eavideo.net/w2a?p0=1b562gev&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}}&p7=1716054102176369&deeplink=esvideo%3A%2F%2Fbook.easou.com%2Fta%2Fesvideo.m%3Fgid%3D300000318%26nid%3D300000318%26sort%3D0%26ch%3D182%26paytype%3Dwwppy7%26pi%3D3%26pa%3D99999	2024-04-14 09:36	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437463582_729703622642854_734370741581166383_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X3yrZNe9ES0Ab44WROC&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfC-BZueJikdACQUN5S39tqaKKnAUAFjewb3cJn4HQQSNg&oe=6621F54B	person_profile	0	Eashort IOS	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436197647_1485911528973908_4576494149708025743_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mi_baokE6k4Ab6KnS1m&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfBcPvdK7AgtPHQBBdxq9rFVYKwQi8AQ0usZhWATfdI5hQ&oe=6621EDCF	3	Eashort IOS	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,211,086	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210815}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	2155072064855398	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"She is a client's assistant. We met a little over two months and it was an accidental hook-up. I swear I didn't plan or thought of it at first. It just happened." He looked away.<br /> "Two months? You've been making a fool out of me for two months, David?!" Her chest rose and fell with rapid breaths.<br /> "Please forgive me, please Babe."<br /> "I want you to tell her that everything is over between you two... in front of me."<br /> ————————<br /> "The moment I saw you, I knew in my heart that I love everything about you. As I spent more time with you, I realized that I have deeply fallen for you. I promised God and myself that I will never hurt you. Every day of my life I will only spend with you. Your happiness will always be my priority. Loving you forever is my greatest promise. My life will be incomplete without you. Avery Jackson, will you marry me?"<br /> "YES! Yes, David, I will marry you!"<br /> For some, whatever they have may seem too good to be true, but for both of them, finding each other is a dream come true. Everything seemed perfect until the unexpected happened.<br /> Avery couldn't find the word to describe the mixed emotions she felt when she read the message that popped on David's phone. She didn't know if her eyes were fast enough to have read it before the notification faded away or it was the heavens that wanted her to read it. Her body froze, her heart stopped, heavy and painful pounding on her chest dominated. She gasped for air. Her whole body stiffened. It was like any second her head will explode. Every inch of her body trembled. Nauseated, her stomach flipped. She begged her mouth not to vomit. When she heard the bathroom door unlocked, she immediately put back the phone where David originally left before he took a shower.<br /> "Are you okay Babe? What's wrong? You are trembling," David asked, his eyes widened.<br /> "Ah... Um... I need to go to the bathroom. I think I'm having diarrhea." Her steps bolted for the bathroom.<br /> She locked the bathroom door and sat on the tiled floor as her trembling body touched the wall. Her eyes welled with tears.<br /> What should I do? Should I confront him? Since when? Who is she? How? Where? Why?<br /> Strong, piercing and poking burned on her head. Her brain asked all the different questions but failed to find answers to any of them. She pressed her chest slowly and hard, hoping her hand can lessen the pain when she heard David from the outside of the door.<br /> "Babe, are you okay? Do you need medicine? How are you feeling?"<br /> "I'm okay," she answered in a soft voice, hiding her silent cries.<br /> "Do you want me to buy you an energy drink or something?"<br /> "Please... Thank you," her voice crackled.<br /> She burst into tears with her hands placed in between her knees and face when she heard the main door shut. Her whole body convulsed like no end. Is this for real? She denied David is cheating on her. My David will never do that. Maybe the message was wrongly sent? The message wasn't for him?<br /> She went out of the bathroom in a swift motion. It crushed her hope not finding David's phone where she placed it back a while ago. Stupid Ave! No cheating prick will leave his phone behind. She had to think of something. Confronting him can be good or bad. How will I do it? Reality hit her. Her woman's instinct activated. Were there signs? Either she had been so dumb, so trusting, or so in love?<br /> How would I have known the signs?<br /> It's not like there's a manual or a guide for her to know if he is cheating on her.<br /> Maybe David was so good at hiding. She started going back to the past days, weeks, and months. Tears fell again, like on cue the same heaviness and poking in her chest got stronger. But she has to brave all the pains to find the answers. Someone other than David might know. Who else knows?<br /> Self-pity struck her. Do people in the firm know? Am I the last one to know? These are just a few of the questions that popped into her mind. This pain sucks! She wanted very much to confront him, but she's also afraid that she might be wrong. She got the urge to ask people, especially those around him, but she doubted if they will tell her. If people who knew about it want her to know, at least someone should have mentioned it to her already.<br /> "Oh, God! I'm so naïve and stupid! David is their boss. Their loyalty is with him of course."<br /> She felt so alone and pitiful. She knew she can get comfort from her family in times like this, but she can't because she still wanted to protect David. What a stupid idea that despite the hurts and pains she still wants him to get on her family's good side.<br /> Am I acting normal right now? She suddenly remembered Shelly, her best friend, when they caught her fiance doing a "mouth-to-mouth" resuscitation with his secretary inside his office. Back then she wanted badly to smack Shelly when instead of telling her parents the truth, she covered the truth to keep the guy's respectable image. Am I being Shelly right now?<br /> What to do, Avery? What to do?<br /> "Babe, are you okay now?" David asked.<br /> "Better I guess."<br /> She didn't realize that he already came back. She watched him as he opened the bottle of energy drink. Her eyes focused on the cellphone that he placed on top of the bedside table. Even without her going near it, she can see that it was on silent mode judging by the number of times the notifications have been lighting on the screen.<br /> "Here Babe drink it. Make sure you don't get dehydrated. Do you need anything else?"<br /> I need you to be honest with me. "Nothing, thanks."<br /> She gulped the drink without taking her sight off David. He looked excited as he grabbed his cellphone from the side table. She watched him as he sat in bed. He was so engrossed in what he was reading; he didn't realize that she glued her eyes to him all along. She felt a lump in her stomach. How his face changed to the same face he had the morning he asked her to be his girlfriend. She saw the same excitement and sweet smile he had for her then. Except that this time she is sure it wasn't for her. Her body trembled again. She placed her hand over her heart. She can't seem to breathe.<br /> NO.<br /> I think my breathing is becoming loud.<br /> Too loud that she unconsciously covered her ears with her hands.<br /> Now I can't seem to hear my heartbeat.<br /> She feels like her heart stopped. She started pressing into her chest. Everything around her blurs. Then there was total darkness and silence.<br /> "Babe! Avery! Wake up!"<br /> David's voice awakened her. Her restless body was in David's arms when she opened her eyes. He was staring at her, worried. She can't find the strength to say anything. She looked into his eyes and silently asked the questions to herself. The questions she can't dare to ask him.<br /> Why David? Why?<br /> "What happened to you? Do you want me to bring you to the hospital?"<br /> I'm fine. I need to be.<br /> "I'll get you water. Stay in bed for now."<br /> Saying nothing, she stood up and trudged to the bed. She saw his cellphone on top of his pillow. It is in silent mode. She sees the call notifications as the phone screen keeps on lighting. The same contact who sent him the message is the same contact calling him right now. She grabbed the phone. 15 missed calls. All from the same contact. She heard footsteps coming near the bedroom door. It's too late. David already saw her holding his phone. He looked at her. She looked at him. They stared at each other.<br /> "Your phone. Someone has been calling you 15 times now."<br /> She looked into his eyes. His eyes avoided hers. He immediately took the phone from her hand. He seemed anxious but didn't look at her.<br /> "It's Jonathan. He's been calling me regarding the recent case. Take a rest, for now, babe. I'll just call Jonathan. Stay here. I'll be back."<br /> She just nodded and watched him as he rushed to get out of their room. The adrenalin and jealousy gave her body the strength to move and run for the door. Quietly, she watched him from the small opening.<br /> His gestures are familiar, bright smile, sparkling eyes.<br /> But one thing is for sure... those sweet gestures, his bright smile, and the sparks in his eyes... this time they're not hers.<br /> Avery was always confident. On top of her class, from elementary to her master's class days. Always gets praised for being young and smart. She knew how to hold an audience of professionals. She was a quick thinker. But this time, this exact moment, she felt like nothing. Worthless. Hopeless. Dumb. Numb.<br /> Her mind overflowed with silent questions. What did I do wrong? Did I lack on something? So many whats and whys. All thoughts that made her doubt herself, her worth.<br /> Sound of footsteps coming awakened her from her thoughts. She immediately went to bed and rested her back on the headboard.<br /> "Babe, will you be alright if I meet up with Jonathan for an hour or two? We badly need to discuss our plan for tomorrow's court hearing."<br /> She looked him in the eye as she wanted very much to ask him.<br /> Why do you have to lie, David?" Do you really have to meet Jonathan at this hour? Where are you really going? Can't you guys just meet early tomorrow instead?"<br /> "You know how is Jonathan, babe. He wouldn't stop calling and texting me unless I meet up with him. That idiot is quite a workaholic and a nerve-wreck!"<br /> Who are you meeting? "Okay," was the only word that came out of her.<br /> She still can't believe that this is happening. That the David who is lying to her face right now is the same David who promised to love her forever. The David for an angel she thought of has turned into a lying monster in front of her. But she can't understand why she's so weak and afraid. Weak to confront him and afraid to get an answer she might not want to hear.<br /> "I have to go, Babe! I'll try to be back as soon as I can."<br /> Like in a dream, everything was floating and blurred. She just realized he already left after hearing his car revving out loud and fast from the garage.<br /> I am not expecting this. It's just six months after we got engaged. We just confirmed a schedule to meet with the wedding planner yesterday.<br /> She stood fast and looked for her phone, and dialed. "Hello! Jonathan speaking."<br /> "Hey, Jonathan! This is Avery. I just wanted to know what you and David have scheduled for tomorrow? I wanted to surprise him for his birthday and secretly work on his schedule with his assistant tomorrow."<br /> "Avery, hey! Oh, we don't have any case right now. The last time we worked together was before your engagement. I wished we have a case together. It's so easy to work on a case with your man Ave!"<br /> "Uh... Oh... I know... How's Izzy? the kids?"<br /> "Well, Izzy is in the province with her mom right now. I'm on leave for three days because I'm stuck here at home babysitting the kids! Daddy duties!"<br /> "So sorry to have bothered you, Jonathan! peck the kids for me and tell Izzy I said hi."<br /> "I will Ave! Send my regards to your man! Goodnight!"<br /> "Goodnight Jonathan!"<br /> In silence, her tears started flowing like waterfalls. Everything in her body ached. Her heart pierced and broke into million pieces. Her imaginations worked. David driving fast, excited to meet his "Jonathan." She suddenly saw their engagement picture. As she holds the heart-shaped frame, she can't help but remember that day. Her heart was full of happiness and love. She and David looked so in love. Their eyes were sparkling, and he was holding her hand, showing the engagement ring, which was an heirloom passed down from his grandmother to his mom and now to David for her.<br /> When Avery felt him slowly getting on his side of the bed, she prayed for him not to notice that she was awake. He went to bed under the impression that she was in a deep sleep. He was unaware that she was just observing him all along. In a matter of fifteen minutes, he cleaned the broken glass, sneaked in a shower, and placed his clothes in the washer.<br /> Avery wanted very much not to cry, knowing that David is just in the other room, but her eyes have a mind of their own. She looked around and saw their engagement picture in a replaced frame the sobbing was a powerful force she can't fight anymore. She wished that one can easily replace broken relationships, like when broken frames were replaced with new ones.<br /> "What is wrong, babe? Why are you crying?"<br /> Avery froze knowing that David is now standing behind her. If he sees her face and she sees his, her tears will betray her. She hoped David will leave her and not insist to get an answer. But maybe, just maybe, or she was hoping against hope that everything is just a misunderstanding and that David is still the same David. The same who promised to love her forever and the same who she still loves despite.<br /> The crying she was trying so hard to keep to herself turned into loud and continuous sobbing. Avery can't control her emotions anymore. When David put his arms around her and then made her slowly face him, she lost it all.<br /> "What is happening Ave? Why are you crying? Did something happen?"<br /> Seeing David's concerned expression made her forget he is looking at the person who has been hurting him for weeks now. She placed her arms around him and cried harder. "I'm so in pain right now David."<br /> "Tell me, Babe, what's going on? Which is hurting? Why?"<br /> "My heart is hurting... in so much pain for weeks now." She told in between sobs and tears.<br /> As he wipes her tears with his fingers, he kept asking her questions, unaware of what she is about to say. "Is there something wrong with your heart? Did the doctor find something?"<br /> "No. But I discovered something. It has been causing me pain, it's been killing me every day."<br /> "You're making me worried now, babe. Tell me, please." He motioned her towards the bedroom bench. As they sat together, he clasped his hand with hers.<br /> Avery, feeling hopeful, felt that this might be her chance to confront him. She decided it's now or never. "We need to talk."<br /> "Okay Babe, talk to me. Tell me everything."<br /> "Who is she?"<br /> "Who? What do you mean she?"<br /> "Please be honest with me, David. At least as a friend. Who is the woman you are cheating on me with?"<br /> David's face fell. His breathing turned heavier and louder. The warmth that his hand was giving hers turned ice cold. And as he removed his hand from hers, he immediately brushed both of his hands through his hair and looked down. Dead silence enveloped the room. Avery knows this is their chance to lay everything down. As painful as it may be, the only way to know the truth is to get answers from him.<br /> "I knew it from the night I blacked out. She didn't ask him a question this time. I unintentionally read the message she sent you. I knew you didn't meet with Jonathan. You didn't have any reason to meet him at all."<br /> "Ave you know I can't lie to you."He looked her in the eye, guilt reflected.<br /> "But you did." If there is one thing that Avery learned as a paralegal that is interrogating without asking. "I called Jonathan right after you left that night. He doesn't have any clue. Izzy was in her province that night, no way for her to tell you to say hi to me."<br /> "Babe, I'm sorry." He cupped her face, looked directly into her eyes. She didn't stop him. The tears and the sobbing stopped. She felt braver, empowered seeing his sorry and admitting face.<br /> "Who is she? Tell me, what did I do wrong? What did I not do?" She removed his hands from her face.<br /> "There is nothing wrong with you, babe. It wasn't you, it was me. I was stupid! I'm sorry Ave."<br /> David lowered his head."I'm sorry Ave." He said the three words she regretted hearing. For the past weeks, she had been agonizing over herself to know the truth. She didn't realize that hearing the truth from him will be a thousand times more painful than how she has been feeling all along.<br /> Truth sucks. Truth hurts. Truth is real. These were the only things that echoed on Avery's mind. She values honesty all her life, but she wished that David should have just lied to her face again. The confirmation she had been longing to get from him didn't just hurt her wounded heart more. It pained, it cut, and it stabbed her already bleeding heart.<br /> "Ave, I'm really sorry. I know there is no excuse for what I did."<br /> She took in a deep breath. "Who is she? Since when?"<br /> "You don't know her. She is a client's assistant. We met a little over two months and it was an accidental hook-up. I swear I didn't plan or thought of it at first. It just happened." He looked away.<br /> "Two months? You've been making a fool out of me for two months, David?!" Her chest rose and fell with rapid breaths.<br /> "No Babe! Believe me. The night I told you I was to meet Jonathan, I went to meet her. I ended everything with her. Please believe me Ave!"<br /> The memory of that night flashed back to Avery. David's sweet gestures, his bright smile, and the sparks in his eyes... she wouldn't forget that picture of him reading messages on his phone. David may lie to her, but not to her heart. His face then didn't show an inch of a man about to end everything with the woman whose message he was reading.<br /> Her mind told her not to believe and not to forgive David is the most reasonable decision. But her heart reminded her he's asking for forgiveness should put her at ease, that he is deserving him a second chance. "After you confirmed David is really cheating, what do you plan to do?" She heard Shelly's voice as if she was just beside her.<br /> "Ave please say something. Please forgive me, please Babe."<br /> What should I do with you, David? Avery felt weak to even say a word. She just stared at David. If only her eyes have sharp arrows flying out of them, she would have surely hit his body bulls-eye slowly but fiercely. And she remembered what she told herself. She wouldn't be in his game without a fight.<br /> "Ave, tell me what I need to do for you to forgive me, please."<br /> "I want you to tell her that everything is over between you two... in front of me."	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1,209,769	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210255}'	Yes	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	1185929492569432	🔥🌶️Dig the Explosive Story: 📜<The Alpha's Exclusive Stripper>📜	“You are the first human to ever step foot in this place, Priscilla.” Beta Mariz cleared her throat. “Actually, you are the first woman Alpha prince Trevor has brought here. And we were told that you would also be the last.”<br /> “But... You are not a human, are you? You don’t have the scent of a human. Who are you, Priscilla?”<br /> I stiffened.⚡❤<br /> -------------------------------------------------------------<br /> Chapter 1<br /> (Priscilla's POV)<br /> “RULE number one: no matter who or what you see, once you are on stage, you cannot run unless your performance is over. Do your job. Even if this whole club collapses right in front of your eyes, stay on the stage and just dance.”<br /> After two years and a half, I’d come to understand why that became Spencer’s ultimate rule for the dancers inside Oblivion, the club he managed and owned. I’d heard gunshots from outside followed by screams and curses.<br /> This was not the first time it happened although it was the first time the commotion had lasted this long. Normally, the strict security personnel could handle the problem in less than five minutes. It has been over ten minutes now.<br /> But the instant I heard roars and howls, I understood why the security was having a difficult time.<br /> All of a sudden, there were big, brown wolves who rushed inside as if they were being chased by demons. The glass doors were shattered.<br /> While I was waiting for my turn to perform, two of the dancers, the newcomers, who were on stage had instantly forgotten rule number one when the wolves growled. I witnessed how color got drained from their faces.<br /> <br /> They stopped and after they’d recovered from the initial shock, they jumped down, screaming as the wild music went on. They showed the rest of us why it was dangerous to run away and why the stage was said to be safer than any part of this club at times like this.<br /> The wolves followed the women and lunged at them. I steeled myself when I saw how blood splattered on the floor, how their screams were swallowed by the huge beasts whose paws dug in their small frames.<br /> The human patrons were quietly and swiftly escorted to a safe room while the rest of the clients didn’t even blink as the chaos unfolded in front of them. They remained seated as they drank nonchalantly.<br /> After all, Oblivion caters to the needs of a wide variety of male patrons. From humans to vampires, mages, and werewolves. Name it, Oblivion has it. Although not all humans or supernatural beings could simply enter the club. Only the most influential beings were given access.<br /> Money, influence, and connection were all that mattered to Spencer. If they didn’t possess fat bank accounts and didn’t have high social rankings, they wouldn’t be allowed entry. Recently, most of the customers were the wolves who were yet to meet their mate.<br /> And tonight, these customers knew better than to mess with the others they called ‘rogues’ who had been marked judging by the ‘X’ on their left leg, a proof that there was already a pack who was targeting them. The X was engraved using a dagger.<br /> I’d been told that it was a rule never to interfere with the others’ targets.<br /> Not to mention that there was only one alpha in the whole world who marked his enemies that way: <br /> The Alpha crown prince Trevor Rodrigo. <br /> And nobody, not even the other supernatural beings, messes with the Rodrigos, especially with the cold-blooded crown prince. <br /> It was said that the alpha prince had been looking for his mate for a decade and would throw one final search before he chose someone else.<br /> The clients just threw a glance at the women with their ruthless eyes.<br /> One of them whispered, “You’ve been warned. That’s what you get from not listening.”<br /> Even the other dancers stood still behind me, unable to do anything.<br /> “How come you are so unfazed by all of this, Audrey?” Chloe, one of the dancers, asked me, while crying her heart out. “Those women are like our sisters!”<br /> Unfazed? Me? If she only knew. That was the last word I’d use to describe myself.<br /> “They won’t die, Chloe,” I said instead.<br /> She hiccupped. “What?”<br /> “That’s Spencer’s rule number two. No killing inside Oblivion.” There was no use telling her how fear had spiraled throughout my body as soon as I saw the rogues. “The clients knew that.”<br /> “The rogues didn’t!”<br /> “It doesn’t matter. The crown princes’ pack members are aware of the rule. They are patrons here.” I brushed her tears away and in a calm voice, I added, “You will be performing after me. Stop crying. The clients don’t find waterworks entertaining, Chloe. Do something about that or they will lose interest in you. Is that what you want?”<br /> Chloe shook her head. She was a monster up on the stage but right now, she was like a helpless little girl despite her heavy make-up, fish-net costume, and boots.<br /> “Then fix yourself. You still have time. Come on, do it.”<br /> She grabbed her make-up kit and ran to the restroom.<br /> If I could run, I would have done that, too, not to the restroom, but to the farthest place from Oblivion. Unlike Chloe and the rest of the dancers, I was not here by choice.<br /> The music changed at exactly twelve midnight which meant that it was now my turn to present myself in front of the predators out there. I could hear them grumbling, some were impatiently tapping their fingers on the table.<br /> The dancers flinched but they still made sure to give their sweetest smiles to the audience. They bowed and climbed down to entertain the human clients on the second floor while I took a deep breath and switched over into Audrey, my evening persona. I tossed my jacket on the steel chair and stepped out of the backstage in a little red dress and red stilettos.<br /> This was my third and last show for tonight.<br /> Once again, I found myself face to face with the strangers who looked at me like I was their meal. Lust flickered in their eyes as they ran their heated gaze up and down my body.<br /> I saw a satisfied gleam flashed in their eyes when they uttered, “Audrey.”<br /> I put on a smile and began to sway my hips to the sensual beat. Inside my head, the countdown started. If the rogues wouldn’t be stopped within three minutes, Spencer’s second rule would be broken. I couldn’t see him but I knew he was around. He was watching from wherever he was. I could feel his simmering anger.<br /> And if the wolves wouldn’t get their act together, there would be a disaster.<br /> I was only ten seconds away from the three-minute countdown when Maverick Spencer showed himself in one corner of the club. He was smiling but I knew what that smile meant and I was aware of the danger lying underneath it.<br /> Five seconds left. Four, three… this was going to be nasty. Two…<br /> But just when the countdown was about to be over, the noisy crowd had become quiet when a man wearing a dark, tailored suit entered the club. The wolves all stood to greet him while I pretended as if I didn’t know who he was.<br /> Trevor Rodrigo.<br /> Trevor Rodrigo was a definition of sin and temptation which made him very dangerous. He was oozing with raw masculinity as he walked inside the club as if he was the one who owned it. His pack walked behind him.<br /> I’d only seen him once from afar many years ago but I would never forget that square jaw and those piercing blue eyes.<br /> Trevor’s warriors dragged the rogues outside. Not long after and I caught a whiff of blood in the air, more blood, which only meant one thing. The rogues were dead. The medics rushed to the dancers and brought them to a separate room. They were injured but they were still breathing. That was still a good thing.<br /> All of those took place as Trevor casually sat on the table near the entrance while the rest of the wolves were beginning to show discomfort. He hadn’t acknowledged their greetings yet that’s why they couldn’t go back to their seats to watch the show. Fortunately, I didn’t have to see the arousal in their faces since they couldn’t look in my direction yet.<br /> Trevor didn’t throw a single glance to his subordinates. His hot gaze remained on me while I ran my hands over my breasts. My chest pounded. There was a wide distance between us but the second his eyes bore into mine; he made me feel like we were only centimeters apart.<br /> It was as if the alpha was so close that I could almost feel his intense gaze on my face. When his eyes dropped on my body, my stomach twisted.<br /> Trevor Rodrigo looked powerful and magnetic but that was not the only reason why I felt a shiver roll down my spine. It was the hunger I saw in his eyes as he looked at me as if he wanted to swallow me whole. I’d seen that look countless times before and I’d never been affected by it.<br /> Until tonight.<br /> His gaze made me arch my back and to my surprise, the tips of my breasts tightened painfully. After a while, I heard my name come out from the alpha’s lips.<br /> “Audrey.”<br /> I shuddered.<br /> Trevor’s rich and velvety voice resonated deep in my bones. I almost stopped moving when I felt like there was this sudden force that threatened to consume me. I’d almost broken rule number one and the dangerous sparkle in the alpha’s eyes showed me that he was aware of the effect he had on me, especially on my body.<br /> The instant Trevor uttered my name, even if it was nothing but a stage name, I could swear I heard warning bells ring in my head. <br /> It was his first time here. How did he know me already?<br /> My omega instinct screamed at me at full blast, saying, ‘Run, now, Priscilla. Run!’<br /> <br /> Chapter 2<br /> SPENCER must have sensed my plan. He pinned me with a hard stare, daring me to run. But I didn’t. This little freedom I had was all thanks to him. Running would only be a waste of time and effort and I was aware of that. I can’t afford turning my boss into my enemy.<br /> I know Spencer would never chase after me. But he would do worse than that.<br /> Even if my chest was heaving with emotions, I went on. I arched my back and rolled my hips for the only customer who was eyeing me intently.<br /> There were hundreds of men in Oblivion but he made me feel like he was the only one in the club.<br /> It was a miracle how I got through the rest of the show although that was the most nerve-wracking ten minutes I’d ever spent on the stage. When my performance was over, that was the only time when Trevor finally flicked a glance in the direction of the irritated werewolves. He nodded at them and they returned to their seats.<br /> I felt them gaze at me with sheer disappointment but unlike before, none of them could voice out their shameless thoughts tonight.<br /> Before I left the stage, I caught Spencer and Trevor discussing something. For the first time, Spencer looked pissed like he was losing the argument. His eyes narrowed while the alpha just comfortably sat there. He crossed his arms and stared at the club owner as if he was challenging him with his eyes.<br /> But that was not my business anymore. What mattered was that I was done here. Finally. I went backstage and grabbed my leather jacket. My hands were shaking when I clutched onto my necklace, my lifeline.<br /> I was about to head straight to my dressing room when I heard Spencer’s voice in my head.<br /> “Come out here for a minute, Audrey. Hurry.”<br /> I stiffened. Spencer was still with Trevor. And judging by how his jaw clenched, it looked like he had lost whatever mind games he played with the alpha. This was Spencer caving in. He didn’t usually allow me to linger after my performance.<br /> But here I was now, walking towards the very man I was supposed to run away from. Tension wormed its way into my chest.<br /> ‘Breathe, Priscilla,’ I reminded myself for the umpteenth time. ‘The more nervous you are, the more suspicious you’ll become.’<br /> Spencer stood next to Trevor who was currently on the phone. The latter must have felt my presence. He ended the call and put his phone back in his pocket before turning to me and eventually locking his gaze onto mine.<br /> I held my breath.<br /> “Audrey, there is someone I would like to introduce to you.”<br /> Trevor Rodrigo didn’t need any introduction. We both knew that. His entire presence already spoke for who and what he was.<br /> “This is Alpha Trevor Rodrigo from the Crimson Moon pack. Alpha, this is Audrey, Oblivion’s star dancer.”<br /> I forced a smile and offered her a handshake. “I’ve heard beautiful things about you. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, alpha.”<br /> That was a lie. I did hear things about Trevor but so far, none of them were beautiful. Meeting him would never be a pleasure on my part. It was a disaster.<br /> Trevor didn’t say a word as if he couldn’t be bothered to do so. He only took a step closer to me but I could already feel the searing heat from his body. Despite the four inches high heels strapped to my feet, the alpha still towered over me.<br /> In his three-piece suit, he carried a certain air of sophistication around him. His presence had made this place seem so small, so simple, and so trivial.<br /> Trevor’s big, warm hand enveloped mine. One touch and I felt it. The electric heat, spreading quickly all over my body like a wildfire. If I wouldn’t be too careful now, I knew I would burn. And then suddenly, I heard his wolf roaring.<br /> My breathing had become shallow as I tried to keep my feet steady. I pretended I didn’t hear anything when the alpha’s sharp eyes lingered on my face. And then I saw something I couldn’t identify flickered in his eyes.<br /> “Pardon me, alpha, but I overheard from the warriors that the King wants to summon you in the castle right now,” Spencer interrupted.<br /> “That’s true,” Trevor answered, his eyes never leaving mine. “I do have a meeting in…” He glanced at his wristwatch before he added, “Fifteen minutes.”<br /> Trevor leaned down, his hot breath was gusting over my ear when he whispered, “I will see you again.”<br /> I heard the promise in his voice which didn’t do me any good. It was a statement, not a question. And he was certainly not asking for my permission. The other dancers were squealing right behind me. I didn’t have to look at them to know that they were staring at him with dreamy eyes. I knew they would kill to have Trevor as a client but it was the opposite for me.<br /> Spencer cleared his throat. Trevor gave my hand a light squeeze before he released it and turned his back on us. His exit was as grand as his entrance. All of the wolves stood up to bid him goodbye as his army followed right behind him.<br /> “You got yourself another VIP client and normally, I would be very happy for you but this time, I don’t know whether to congratulate you or feel sorry for you,” Spencer commented as we watched the last member of the Crimson Moon pack step out of the door.<br /> “You once said that none of the Rodrigos visit Oblivion, Spencer,” I said in a low voice as we walked in the hallway. “You even called them gods. And gods are not supposed to visit this place.”<br /> Granted, there was no club like Oblivion. Still, the Rodrigos were too high and mighty for this club. They didn’t need entertainers. They had their own women lining up in their estates to please them and to warm up their royal beds.<br /> Spencer’s jaw clenched. “What can I do? It’s not like I could stop the gods from descending on Earth,” he answered wryly. “That would be a sin I’m not quite ready to commit.”<br /> “I need to leave soon. You know that.”<br /> “We have a five-year deal, Priscilla. You still owe me two and a half years. Whether you like it or not, you will stay in Oblivion until the contract says so.”<br /> “But one of them has seen me already. It will only be a matter of time before he finds out the truth.”<br /> Spencer’s eyes narrowed. “It doesn’t change a damn thing. If Trevor Rodrigo doesn’t see you here the next time he visits, there will be a massive problem.”<br /> I know that if a problem were to break out, Spencer could always save himself. After all, he was a powerful Vampire. He had businesses in different parts of the world. He also had connections and numerous cards up his sleeves against anyone including the royals that’s why no one had ever dared to go against him in the past.<br /> I’d never expected obedience from the unruly owner of Oblivion. But for Spencer himself to be this bothered tonight meant that whatever card he had, it didn’t work on the alpha of the Crimson Moon pack which had only made me feel worse.<br /> “You don’t mess with the gods, Priscilla,” Spencer warned. “With your status, you can’t afford it.”<br /> <br /> Chapter 3<br /> ‘I’LL BE coming for you soon, butterfly. Wait for me. I will get you out of that hellhole. I’m now preparing the cage I’ll put you in. Remember this. I’m the only one who can touch you, hold you, and kiss you because you are mine, Audrey. Until then, be a good girl, butterfly, if you don’t want me to punish you.’<br /> He was back. Anxiety crept into my chest after I read the latest love letter from a man whose face I hadn’t even seen yet. I started receiving them two years ago. I couldn’t remember how many times I had to switch apartments because of the stalker.<br /> Twice a week, he would send me letters along with dead birds inside a cage. I knew it was his way of warning me, of telling me I would end up like the bird if I would let another man touch me.<br /> He stopped sending letters half a year ago after I finally told Spencer about it. He even assigned a driver slash bodyguard to pick me up and send me home to ensure my safety. And when we thought we succeeded in scaring the stalker, I stopped asking for the guard’s help.<br /> I thought I was safe. But then this happened.<br /> Back then, the letters would follow me everywhere. From my dressing room to my apartment. They were always at my doorstep as if he was just so close to me, hiding and watching from the shadows, but tonight, the letter was inside my bag which was odd and to think that this door was locked when I arrived.<br /> After being hailed as the club’s star dancer, I was given a solo dressing room. Spencer assured me that only I had the key to this room.<br /> It turned out he was wrong. This just proved that whoever he was, he had access anywhere, even in the east wing of this club which was strictly for the dancers. There goes another reason why I needed to get out of here. The sooner, the better.<br /> The stalker’s return and the crown prince’s arrival were making my knees weak.<br /> But I must not show it. I took a deep breath and crumpled the letter. I wanted to toss it to the nearest garbage bin since that was where it belonged but I had to keep this one as evidence in the future because for the first time, the letter was hand-written.<br /> I quickly changed into pants, sweaters, and sneakers before I stormed out of the dressing room and out of the club through the back door. Ten minutes before one in the morning and I found myself walking alone in the alleyway.<br /> Normally, there would be security guards who would hail cabs for us. For some reason, tonight, there was none. I clutched the taser in my bag and continued walking as fast as I could but a few minutes later, I felt someone walking behind me.<br /> All the hair on my nape rose. It was an alpha; I was sure of that. I could hear the sound his wolf was making. When I turned left, he followed me and even when I changed directions, I could still feel his terrifying presence behind me. I could still hear his footsteps getting closer and closer to me.<br /> My stomach lurched. Was he the stalker?<br /> It was a cold, windy morning but sweat still dripped down my forehead. My free hand kept dialing Spencer’s number but he wasn’t answering the phone. It was the first time this happened.<br /> “Pick up the phone, Spencer. Please!” I muttered underneath my breath.<br /> His phone was usually stuck to him like glue. And then all of a sudden, I heard the stranger’s laugh. It echoed in the alleyway.<br /> He was biding his time. I could see his shadow. He was a big man. He could have grabbed me already but he was obviously enjoying the chase like a predator to his prey.<br /> My body shook with anger and helplessness. It had been a long time since I last felt something like this. I was so focused on running and on typing something on the phone that it was too late when I realized I bumped into something hard and solid. The impact was so strong that my phone slipped from my hand.<br /> Strong, powerful arms surrounded my waist when I was about to fall on the ground. Slowly, I looked up. My heart started beating like a drum when I met Trevor Rodrigo’s discerning eyes.<br /> I glanced behind me. The alpha who was chasing me was now gone. But another problem arose in the form of this six-foot two inch man in front of me.<br /> My hands went to Trevor’s chest to push him away but I didn’t succeed. My hands were trembling and under the light post, I was sure he noticed that.<br /> A scowl crossed his face before he finally released me.<br /> What happened earlier reminded me of old times. I fought back the tears.<br /> Trevor lifted my chin to meet my gaze. “What happened?”<br /> I shook my head. I had a feeling that things would only get more complicated if he were to know. “Thank you for helping me a while ago, Alpha. Now, please excuse me. I have to go.”<br /> I was about to pick up the phone but Dean, his beta, had already beaten me to it. I clenched my hands when he surrendered the phone not to me but to his alpha. Trevor threw a quick glass at the screen before turning to his beta who nodded in return and left.<br /> The alpha handed me back my phone. It had a few cracks on the screen but the text I was typing earlier was still there. It was still readable.<br /> ‘Someone is following me, Spencer. I need your help!’<br /> I was sure that Trevor had read the message although he didn’t say anything anymore. After a while, his beta returned. He was now inside the car, sitting in the passenger’s seat.<br /> He stepped out and opened the door to the backseat. Trevor fixed his eyes on me and commanded, “Get in. We will send you home.”<br /> “I’ll be fine. You don’t really have to bother-“<br /> I stopped protesting when I saw him narrow his eyes. I had almost forgotten. A man like Trevor was used to getting his way. And if I would refuse this unwelcome generosity, the consequences could be worse.<br /> I swallowed and in a low, defeated voice, I answered, “Thank you, alpha.”<br /> I got in. After all, the stalker could still be out there. It was just a matter of choosing between the devil and the deep blue sea. I chose Trevor. I did hear how ruthless he was on the battlefield but I’d never heard of him killing a woman before. And for the next few minutes, I would hold onto that belief.<br /> Trevor sat beside me and his warrior started the engine.<br /> “Give him your address, Priscilla.”<br /> In the club, only my boss knew my real name. How much information did he get from Spencer? But then again, maybe the latter didn’t completely sell me out. He wouldn’t do that. Not yet. He still needed me. I was still safe. At least for now.<br /> Because if Trevor knew the truth about me, sending me to my apartment would be the last thing he would do to me. I shook my head to calm my raging nerves.<br /> “We are waiting, Priscilla,” he said.<br /> I told them the address of the condominium building I was currently residing in. I would have to move again soon anyway. Just the thought of it was making me feel exhausted already. I’d been running my whole life. It was draining.<br /> But I didn’t want to imagine what would happen if I’d stop running even for a brief moment.<br /> “You heard the lady, Todd,” Trevor said to his warrior slash driver.<br /> Todd nodded. “Loud and clear, alpha.”<br /> I could feel Trevor’s gaze on me. I lowered my head, afraid to meet his eyes, afraid that he might see through me. If only I had a choice, I would run to the place where Aunt Addison lived. I would feel more at ease if I was with her but I couldn’t risk it. Until I sort out all my problems, I had to be away from her. That was the only way I could protect her.<br /> Dean closed the car partition. Not seeing them made me feel more uncomfortable. The space was too narrow for Trevor and I. We still had some distance between us but it was not enough. He still felt too close for comfort.<br /> My palms had turned cold. I rubbed them together.<br /> “Feeling cold?” Trevor asked.<br /> “A little.”<br /> Trevor ordered his beta to adjust the AC but when he saw me still rubbing my palms, he said, “Look at me, Priscilla.”<br /> Reluctantly, I did as he commanded. Once again, I heard his wolf as if it was calling out to me. He inched closer and tucked a few strands of my hair behind my ear. And just when I thought he would remove his hand, it stayed right there, lazily rubbing my earlobe, sending heat curling through my stomach.<br /> Just like that and the coldness I felt had disappeared in an instant and was replaced by this dangerous heat.<br /> <br /> Chapter 4<br /> “ARE you still feeling cold?” Trevor asked.<br /> I shook my head and replied, “N-not anymore.”<br /> Trevor’s eyes darkened. “Don’t you have something to say to me?”<br /> Like what? I swallowed hard. He didn’t catch on yet, did he? I forced my head to think of something, anything that would help me get through the night. “I thought you had an important meeting? Why did you come back, alpha?”<br /> “There is something that belongs to me here that I forgot to mark as mine. That’s why there are pests who still foolishly chase after it.”<br /> “What about your meeting with the King?”<br /> “Meeting? Aren’t you going to ask what that ‘something’ is?”<br /> I cleared my throat and despite my fear, I replied, “You weren’t referring to a person, were you? I mean people, especially humans, can’t be owned. They can’t be simply marked as anyone else’s property without their knowledge. Or else, that would be… very cruel.”<br /> Trevor dragged his hand down to my nape, sending waves and waves of foreign sensations to my body. “Cruel?”<br /> He sounded as if that word didn’t exist in his vocabulary until tonight.<br /> “Yes. All the men who visit Oblivion think like that, like they could have me or any woman there so easily just because we happen to work there. I know that what we do isn’t really viewed as a respectable job. But we are there not to have fun. We are there to work and make a living. If they are genuine about wanting to have us, they need to make an effort.”<br /> When Trevor didn’t respond and just continued staring at me as if he was reading through my soul, I softly added, “But if you are referring to just anything, I sincerely hope you get that, whatever it is, alpha. If it’s worth it, then don’t let the pests break it.” I tried to laugh off the tension that I suddenly felt. “I’m sorry for blabbering.”<br /> Thankfully, the man called Todd had safely and quickly brought us in front of K building. Dean opened the door to my side. I politely smiled at him. Trevor finally lowered his hand and I almost let out a sigh of relief.<br /> “Thank you for bringing me home, alpha,” I said as I stepped out of the car in a hurry.<br /> “Wait,” Trevor said before I could leave. He followed me out and brought out a calling card from his wallet. “Take this. If you find yourself in another trouble, call me. Unlike your boss, I would show up right away. Wherever you are. Whatever the time is.”<br /> Both Dean and Todd gasped as if it was the first time this was happening.<br /> “I'm thankful but... why are you doing this?”<br /> He stepped closer to me. “It’s as you said, Priscilla. I’m making an effort.”<br /> I accepted the card and kept my smile on, hoping and desperately praying that I would never need it. Owing something to Trevor would never be good. He would never do anything for free.<br /> He would certainly demand for a payment. And it could be more than what I could afford. He was still a Rodrigo, after all. And Rodrigos never changed.<br /> After thanking the alpha, I walked away, aware that he was still watching me. I could feel his burning gaze on my back. I only heard his car leave after I entered the building.<br /> I rushed to the elevator.<br /> But I should have known that my prayers won’t be heard. And they never will. Because as soon as I reached my unit, I received a call from my boss.<br /> “I didn’t get to answer your call a while ago. I was in the hospital,” he said.<br /> "It’s fine. I’m-"<br /> “No, it isn’t fine. This is about Addison. She got in a major accident.”<br /> My steps faltered. Spencer was the only one who had Addison’s phone number. He was our bridge whenever she and I wanted to contact each other. “What? How is she? Where are you?”<br /> “I will tell you the rest of the details later. Right now, just know that she would need a werewolf blood, Priscilla, otherwise, she wouldn’t survive the night. It is not just any blood, but royal werewolf blood.”<br /> Only those who possessed royal blood had the ability to heal human injuries, no matter how fatal, without turning them into werewolves. It was the same with Spencer. His blood had the power to heal but it would mean turning Addison into a vampire.<br /> Right now, there was only one royal we knew. The crown prince.<br /> “There is only one way to save her,” Spencer added. “But it comes with a price. A very high price.”<br /> “I know.” I clutched Trevor’s calling card. I didn’t think that I would be giving him a call soon.<br /> My heart broke when Spencer sent me Aunt Addison’s photo from the hospital. I almost had a hard time recognizing the old woman because of the wounds in her face and the apparatuses attached in her frail body.<br /> I leaned against the wall. Tears were streaming down my cheeks when I dialed the alpha’s number. Aunt Addison was the only human who could bring me to my knees.<br /> After the second ring, I already heard Trevor’s familiar voice. “Priscilla.”<br /> My heart thumped. “How did you know it was me?”<br /> “You are the only one I gave my personal number to. You need help.”<br /> Again, it was not a question, but a confirmation.<br /> Tears blurred my vision when I nodded. “Yes, I do.”<br /> “Alright. I will be there soon, Priscilla.”<br /> The warning bells rang in my head, they were louder this time, telling me to back off while I still could. Trevor Rodrigo was my destruction but right now, he was my hope, too.<br /> My only hope.<br /> <br /> Chapter 5<br /> THE COLD wind blew. I wrapped my arms around myself while waiting for Trevor’s car outside the building. Anxiety gnawed a hole in my stomach. My chest rose and fell with my heavy breaths. And I know I would keep feeling this way unless I was a hundred percent sure that my aunt was okay, unless I saw for myself that she was safe and sound.<br /> But how?<br /> This was a huge favor. I was well-aware that the Rodrigos don’t shed their blood for just anyone. Will Trevor grant a request from someone he just met tonight?<br /> I fought the strong urge to dial Spencer’s number. I know he wouldn’t want that. He was my only access to the most important person in my life and I can’t piss him off just because I was anxious.<br /> After a while, I saw Trevor’s familiar car approaching the building. Seeing the only man who had the power to save my aunt’s life made tears slip down my cheeks. When the car stopped in front of me, this time, the alpha didn’t wait for his beta to open the door for him.<br /> Here was Trevor, looking so invincible as if nothing could ever faze him while here I was, still so foolishly weak.<br /> He stepped out of the car and swallowed the remaining distance between us with his long and powerful legs. Something I couldn’t fathom flickered in his eyes when he saw my tears.<br /> I bit my lower lip. I swore to myself that I would never be like this again.<br /> In fact, I thought I had strengthened myself enough that the thick scent of blood and the number of wounded bodies I saw in and out of Oblivion didn’t make my stomach squirm anymore.<br /> But it was Addison who was involved here. She was not just anyone. One news from her and it made my defenses crumble in an instant. She was my saving grace. My family. My home. She was the only reason why I was alive.<br /> And the thought of losing her made the tears keep falling. I could feel the fear all the way down to my bones.<br /> Trevor’s expression was unreadable. All I could see was my embarrassing reflection in his eyes. I lowered my head. “I’m sorry, Alpha, I really didn’t want to bother you again.”<br /> I didn’t even want to see him again. But the universe had a twisted sense of humor.<br /> “What’s the matter?” Trevor asked instead. He lifted my chin and our gazes met. “Answer me, Priscilla.”<br /> I didn’t know if it was just me but his voice seemed to be a shade softer now as his knuckles brushed the tears off my cheeks.<br /> The gesture was so unexpected that for a moment, I just stood there and looked at him. His hands dropped down to my waist possessively, holding me steady, as if he was showing me that whatever I was going through, he got my back.<br /> Which of course, was impossible. It was almost like saying that the earth was square.<br /> There was no way anyone from the Rodrigo family could have my back. Ever.<br /> I took a deep breath before explaining my aunt’s situation to him. He kept his gaze on me the whole time. There was a desperate edge in my voice when I added, “My aunt needs your blood, alpha. I promise I will give you anything. Just please… help her live.”<br /> “Which hospital is she at?” he asked after some time.<br /> I told him the name of the hospital. It was a three-hours and thirty minutes’ drive away from here. He released me and glanced at his beta who stood a few steps away from us. They were not talking but I could tell that Trevor linked with him when Dean nodded and typed something on his phone.<br /> And then the alpha shifted and returned his gaze on me. “Let’s go to the rooftop.”<br /> My eyes widened as panic started to spread in my chest. “We are not going to the hospital?”<br /> “We are.”<br /> "Then how-"<br /> “We will take the helicopter. It’s faster. You are in a hurry to see your aunt, right? The helicopter will arrive in twenty minutes.”<br /> Dean led us inside, towards the elevator, as if he had been in the building before. But he didn’t come with us inside. Trevor pressed the button towards the rooftop. His beta lowered his head as the door closed.<br /> When it was just the alpha and I inside, I became aware of his warm hand on my lower back. I cleared my throat and glanced at my reflection on the elevator. I almost flinched at the sight that greeted me. My hair was in a mess. I’d run my hands over my hair a few times while waiting for Trevor. My nose was still red and my eyes were swollen from crying.<br /> And yet, Trevor was still looking at my reflection.<br /> He disregarded his meeting with the King to accompany me to my aunt. In the wolf clan, no one disobeys the King. Yet, Trevor did.<br /> And for some reason, he did it for me.<br /> “What will you gain from this, alpha?” I asked.<br /> Before Trevor could answer, his phone rang. His gaze became hard and cold when he answered the phone on the third ring.<br /> The terrifying air around him was back when he uttered, “I don’t remember giving you my number, Weston.”<br /> I knew that name. It was the Alpha King’s right hand man.<br /> “Forgive me, alpha, but His Majesty has his ways of acquiring the things he wants. As of the moment, he requires your presence here in the castle.”<br /> I didn’t want to hear their conversation but I couldn’t help it.<br /> “Tell him that I’m in the middle of something very important.”<br /> "The search is now ongoing and-"<br /> “Stop the search at once.”<br /> "You can’t do that, alpha. The King-"<br /> “Tell him that I’ve found her.”<br /> Trevor returned his attention back at my reflection as he let out those words. And when I saw how anger flashed in his eyes, fear crawled in my veins once more. This time, it was not only for Aunt’s life. But also for my life.<br /> I immediately dragged myself away from him and reached out for the elevator button but his hand was quick to catch my wrist.<br /> The elevator doors opened and I remembered trying to scream for help before my knees wavered and darkness swallowed me whole.	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1,210,966	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1210939}'	No	2024-04-14 13:48	active	515	1013879717109877	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	【He won't be coming home tonight, he's too busy sleeping with me. A full year of passion, something you and him will never have.】<br /> A picture of some random bimbo with blonde hair and a stupid smirk was cuddling up next to my boyfriend who was half undressed and sleeping.<br /> Long forgetting his girlfriend who was at home like a fool, waiting for her boyfriend to show up so they could celebrate their four years together. <br /> And that was the day I found out my boyfriend of four years was cheating on me for the last year of our relationship.<br /> ————————<br /> With every picture I burned, memories of him were vanishing along with my love for him. Everything was finally coming to pieces. All the trips he took, all those long nights at work, all those rejections were part of his lies. Just a cover up for where he truly was, sleeping around with some cheap woman. All while I was at home waiting for him and giving him my love. As the pictures burned my hatred for him grew.<br /> "Babe I'm home."<br /> My head snaps up at the sound of his voice. A voice that once gave me comfort, but now disgusted me.<br /> "In the living room."<br /> I quickly hide the pictures under the couch, and put on a fake smile.<br /> He comes in with his black suit all wrinkled, his shirt un tucked, his tie loose around his neck. His blue eyes held a hint of guilt. A look I knew was fake just like the excuse he was about to give me. He was holding a bear that held a little black box, and a bouquet of red roses. Usually I would accept the gifts and forgive him, but that was before I knew his little cheating adventures. I hold my fake smile as I looked over the gifts in his hands.<br /> "So am I forgiven?"<br /> He says breaking the silence, and all I do is smile.<br /> "Oh babe it's fine, let me guess work was piling up today?"<br /> Let's see what you say you lying scumbag.<br /> I notice his eyes flicker with relief and he lets out a breath.<br /> "You know me so well babe, happy four years Nikky."<br /> He sets the bear, roses and small box on the couch. He comes closer and wraps his arms around me. All I wanted to do at that moment was push him off of me. But trying my best I hug him back. Huh he smells of cheap perfume.<br /> "I'll be back, I'm going to change and then we could have dinner."<br /> I just nod and watch him walk off to my room. I wait until he realizes that his clothes are nowhere to be found. Well at least he hasn't checked the garbage.<br /> "Nikky?"<br /> "Yea?"<br /> I respond looking at his confused face.<br /> "Why aren't any of my clothes in there?"<br /> Tell him now.<br /> "They're in the garbage."<br /> I respond.<br /> "Why?"<br /> "Well I thought since you probably have clothes at her house I could just throw away all the clothes you have here. And plus I need more space for the shoes and more clothes I want to buy."<br /> "What are you talking about?"<br /> He says confused.<br /> "Well I'm talking about the girl's house where you stay I'm pretty sure every night for a little sleepover."<br /> "So you assume I cheated on you?"<br /> "Oh no I'm not assuming anything, I have proof that you cheated on me."<br /> I push past him and grab my phone, opening the message and making him look at the picture. As he does his eyes go wide. He opens his mouth to say something but I cut him off.<br /> "Don't you dare say that this isn't you."<br /> I snap and he looks up at me with guilt in his blue eyes.<br /> "Don't do this."<br /> He pleads.<br /> "Leave."<br /> "Nikky come on please let me explain."<br /> "Explain what Luke?! How you cheated on me for who knows how long and yet you have the nerve to come home knowing well what you have done!"<br /> "Nikky it was a mistake!"<br /> "A mistake! No what you did was not a mistake but a choice."<br /> He doesn't say anything.<br /> "Leave! And take this because I don't want anything to do with you!"<br /> I throw the roses and bear at him, along with the little box. And the necklace I was currently wearing.<br /> "Ple-<br /> "Leave now before I call the police."<br /> He stands there looking at me.<br /> "Leave!"<br /> I bang on his chest and push him out the door. Once he is out the door I slam it shut and that's when I feel it. My heart clenches and a sob escapes my throat, tears following right after. And that's when I break, I fall to the ground and let out sobs as I realize that the guy I had loved had broken my heart and didn't think twice when he cheated on me. The guy I was having a baby with had broken me. Grabbing my stomach I let out another sob.<br /> I'm so sorry baby.<br /> The seconds turned to hours which turned to days. I had moved out from the apartment into a smaller one closer to the city. My once flat belly was now a small round bump, being 1 month pregnant and alone brought a lot of complications for me, emotionally wise. I had yet to tell my parents, for all they knew Luke and I were still a thing. I had told no one about the break up except for my best friend Charlie, who I called up the next day to help me find a new place. A place were I could start fresh, with new memories. Just my baby and I.<br /> I was meeting my mom and dad for brunch today so to make sure my bump wasn't noticeable I decided to wear a large black shirt and black leggings and a pair of vans. My hair which was once long was now above my shoulders.<br /> Mom: Sweetie why don't you invite Luke over to eat with us? Your father and I haven't seen or heard from him in a while<br /> I sigh as I look at the text.<br /> Well of course you haven't heard from the scumbag, we broke up because he cheated. And now I'm having his baby.<br /> That's what I wanted to text her, but of course I didn't. But instead replied with the same excuse. Luke was at work and couldn't make it.<br /> "Come on little bean, we have to go meet grandma and grandpa."<br /> I rub my belly and smile. Yea I was already talking to the baby, who was probably the size of a bean if not a bit larger.<br /> Walking out of the apartment I head over to my car and drive off to the cafe that was twenty minutes away.<br /> Driving was always something that I dreaded, because my mind tends to wander to questions I would rather most likely avoid. And the biggest one of course was, When are you going to tell Luke that you're pregnant? Or are you not going to? Personally I would rather keep my baby away from him and not let him know, but he is the father and legally has the right to know.<br /> Before I could get anymore into the subject, I turn the radio on, raising the volume up to drown my thoughts.<br /> By the time I get there parking was already full, so I'm forced to park a block away.<br /> "Great, that means more walking little bean. Which isn't a bad thing. But mommy gets tired."<br /> Dad: Kiddo are you almost here?<br /> I look at the text and chuckle, my dad was always impatient when it came to food.<br /> Me: Yes dad, had to park a block away but I should be there in three minutes.<br /> I turn the engine off and walk out to the crisp air. It was mid-September and the weather in Chicago was getting a bit cooler as fall approached.<br /> I start walking and as I do I start to feel nervous, the fact that my parents will finally know that Luke and I broke up and that I was pregnant and was going to be a single mom was quite the thing to get me all nervous.<br /> It'll be fine, no need to get all worked up about it. You are an adult and they can't tell you what to do anymore.<br /> I kept telling myself as I opened the door and was welcomed with the scent of coffee and warmth. I search the whole place and spot my parents all the way in the back, my dad waving his hands and my mom laughing as she brought the mug to her lips.<br /> Smiling at them I walk towards their table causing them both to get up and greet me with a hug.<br /> "Kiddo Long time no see! How's Luke?"<br /> Just the mention of that name made my stomach churn.<br /> "Yea dad it has been a long time."<br /> I reply ignoring the last part.<br /> "Mom."<br /> I say giving her a hug.<br /> "Darling, how I've missed you. Woah looks like someone is gaining a bit of weight."<br /> Come on Nikky it's now or never. You have to tell them.<br /> "Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you guys about."<br /> I explain, biting on the inside of my cheek.<br /> "Of you gaining weight?"<br /> My dad asks as he sits back down.<br /> And before I can answer a waitress comes by.<br /> "Can I get you anything to drink?"<br /> "Yea she'll have an espresso."<br /> My mom answers.<br /> I shake my head.<br /> "Actually I'll just have a hot chocolate with whipped cream on top and a chocolate chip muffin please."<br /> "Alrighty, then I'll be right out with that."<br /> "Hot chocolate?"<br /> "Yea I just wanted to try something different."<br /> I say playing around with the hem of my shirt.<br /> "So what did you want to talk about Nikky?"<br /> My mom says sitting back down and I follow sitting across from her and my dad.<br /> "Well, um okay, how do I tell you guys."<br /> Quit stalling and just tell them Nikky!<br /> "Nikky just spit it out. You know you can tell us anything."<br /> I nod, reassuring my mom that I knew that.<br /> "Okay, well I'm uh pregnant."<br /> There I said it.<br /> I looked at both my parents who had a blank stare. That is until my mother broke into a smile and stood up, making me stand up as well.<br /> "Sweetie congratulations! Why didn't you tell me sooner?"<br /> She wraps her arms around me and sways us side to side.<br /> "Come on let me get a hug."<br /> My dad says and my mom lets go letting my dad congratulate me by giving me one of his famous bear hugs.<br /> "Can't believe we're going to be grandparents."<br /> I look over at my mom who was on the verge of crying.<br /> "Mom please don't cry."<br /> I plead knowing that I had yet to tell them the other part of the news and not know how they would react with the second part once I had told them.<br /> "So how did Luke react?"<br /> They both look at me with the biggest smiles on their faces.<br /> "He doesn't know."<br /> I say and my mom blinks and my dad just smiles.<br /> "Of course! you want to make it a surprise!"<br /> I shake my head no.<br /> "We broke up, have been for a while now. I left the apartment and got a smaller one closer to the city. Charlie helped me pick it out."<br /> "You're not going to keep it am I right?"<br /> My mother asks looking rather angry.<br /> I was taken aback from her remark, does she mean an abortion?<br /> "No, I plan on keeping my baby."<br /> "Nikky do you know what our friends will say when they find out about this?"<br /> I don't answer her but just continue staring at both my parents, letting her comment process.<br /> Why would I want to have an abortion? This baby was a blessing for me and there was no way that I was going to end my little bean's life. Sure being a single mom would be a bit more challenging but I had my friends, and I thought I had my family but apparently they don't approve.<br /> "Or if you don't want an abortion, we can have it be adopted."<br /> I look at my mother with a look of disgust.<br /> "It's a baby, not it. And I will not have an abortion nor will I have the baby be adopted."<br /> I speak low as to not cause a scene, not that it mattered.<br /> "Nikky listen to your mother, this won't be good for your reputation. Think about it, you'll be a single mom living on your own and not even married with a baby on the way."<br /> I scoff.<br /> "Are you listening to yourself, dad?! Not married and with a baby? This is the twenty-first century, things change and not being married and with a kid is one of them."<br /> Before my mom could reply the waitress comes with our stuff.<br /> "Actually I'll like to have my things to go please."<br /> I say giving her a small smile.<br /> She looks between my mom and I and nods, maybe she could sense the tension going on.<br /> "Of course."<br /> "Thank you."<br /> I turn back to my parents.<br /> "Don't worry, we won't be causing you or your reputation any more trouble."<br /> With that said I walk to the cash register grabbing my hot chocolate and muffin and leaving the coffee shop.<br /> I was preoccupied with my thoughts but the chime of my phone quickly pulled me back to reality.<br /> "So let me get this straight your mother wants you to have an abortion or have the baby be adopted?"<br /> Charlie looks over at me as he flips over the omelet, he looked a bit shocked that my mother would think such thing.<br /> "Yup, my dad even said that it was bad for my reputation being a single mother and all. That it was immoral for me to have the baby and not have the father here with me."<br /> I move around to the cupboard to get the plates along with the cups.<br /> "Well, why would you want a douchebag to me near your baby, especially a cheating one."<br /> "Well he is the father, I have to tell him. But no way will I get back with him."<br /> "So are you for sure ready to tell him? The real question I'm asking is if you're ready to face him again."<br /> He places the omelet on the plate and sets the pan down before looking at me.<br /> "I have no clue, whenever I think about him I feel like throwing up, and I just get nervous. But he has to know, doesn't he?"<br /> I ask looking as Charlie starts preparing his omelet. He shrugs his shoulders before cracking an egg followed by another.<br /> "That's up to you. Do you want him to be part of the baby's life?"<br /> I let out a sigh and run my hands through my face, feeling exhausted from the whole situation.<br /> "I don't know what I want anymore, I just want to live a happy life with my baby."<br /> "Here eat already."<br /> He nudges the plate towards me and I grab it sitting down, waiting for Charlie to finish making his.<br /> "I don't have his number anymore so that means I'm going to have to talk with his parents and get his number from them."<br /> I take my fork and cut a piece of the omelet bringing it to my mouth.<br /> "This is so good."<br /> I exclaim with a full mouth. Charlie chuckles and turns his head to look at me.<br /> "Glad you two like it."<br /> "Like it? We love it."<br /> I take another bite letting my mouth savor the flavors that the sausage, bacon, and ham brought to my taste buds. Charlie joins me finally with his omelet my hot chocolate and his coffee mug, taking a seat across from me.<br /> "Veggie omelet?"<br /> I ask looking at his omelet which contained mushrooms, avocado, spinach, and tomatoes.<br /> "Yea it's good."<br /> He says taking a bite and looking at me with his blue eyes.<br /> I shake my head.<br /> "Maybe, but little bean and I prefer the meat omelet."<br /> The rest of our breakfast time we spent time talking about random stuff, school, and a new project he had. We talked about almost everything except my parents, luke, and the problems I soon had to face.<br /> "Okay so let me get this, you have a date tomorrow and you're barely telling me today?! Why didn't you tell me sooner jerk?"<br /> I smack his arm playfully.<br /> "Becuase I'm not for sure if it will turn out into more dates."<br /> "I don't care, you should have told me. It's about time you got a date."<br /> He rolls his eyes, he opens his mouth to say something smart but he was cut off by a sudden knock at the door.<br /> "Are you expecting someone?"<br /> "Not that I'm aware of."<br /> I get up from my seat and make my way towards the door, before opening it I look through the peephole and feel my heart start beating faster, and not in a good way.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.hitnovelapp.com/ad/aGl0bm92ZWwvMTQ4MTMzL	109127152242195	HHitt013	https://facebook.com/100094431461254	36	1	823,489,426,285,945	2024-04-14 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	HHitt013	120206793854190227	a.hitnovelapp.com	NONE	video		https://a.hitnovelapp.com/ad/aGl0bm92ZWwvMTQ4MTMzLzIwMjQwNDExMTQ0NzEwL3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-11 01:58	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436302553_395334660091131_4749109858755572123_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=odxMZ36HVOcAb5-xnTS&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBGtacSQQbjGG6UhbeglLVYYXHUfArP8jlWEHp3MoLA_Q&oe=6621FE30	person_profile	0	HHitt013	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/436408366_1865723033884664_2108094994097558181_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qOZoBWRNiF8Ab4B6oeM&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfA3wFdJbUF1KvxrXhsTXlxQep4DZmCgyyyzQntIIGdlVg&oe=6621DD85	3	HHitt013	2024-04-13 02:00	View Edit Delete

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