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2,707,389	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707378}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜The Billionaire's Ex-Wife (Her Ex-Husband's Regret)📜	💖🔞💋Please, baby. Help me change Daddy's heart. I march towards my husband's office on the top floor of Steele Corp Building, carrying a present in my hand. It's our third anniversary and I thought I'd give my husband a surprise. I just came back from the OBGYN. I placed my ultrasound photos inside a small box and wrapped it with a ribbon. "Excuse me, Miss Carlisle. You need an appointment to see the CEO," Tara, my husband's secretary, blocks the entrance to my husband's office. "Or do you want me to call your supervisor?" She raises a haughty brow at me, acting like she's above me. Well, I suppose she is above me. She is the CEO's executive secretary, sitting in the office at the top floor, while I'm just a graphic designer with a cubicle on the third floor. I have been married to Steele Corp's CEO, Kayden Steele, for three years. But sadly, no one in the office knows about it. "Umm..." I force a smile on my face. "Mr. Steele called my extension and personally asked me to bring the present that arrived for him." I motion at the box in my hands. "A present? From whom?" "His wife, maybe," I reply nonchalantly. Tara smirks. "You know he's still single!" See? Not even his secretary has a clue. "Although, I wonder if it's from that woman he asked to be picked up at the airport." "What?" Now, it's my turn to be surprised. "What woman?" Tara raises a skeptical brow at me again. "That information is none of your business," she replies. Then she turns to open the door to Kayden's office. "The graphic artist is here to see you, Sir?" "Let her in," I hear Kayden say. As I walk past Tara, I can't help smiling at her smugly. If she only knew what I'm carrying in my hands right now. This gift, this wonderful news, is going to bring my husband closer to me. This baby will change everything! I close the door behind me, and with wobbly legs and a big smile of anticipation on my face, I walk towards Kayden. He looks up from the papers on his desk as he watches me intensely. I almost lost my nerve as I remembered how devilishly handsome he was, with his midnight black hair, and blue-gray eyes. We've been married for three years, but he still takes my breath away. "Kayden," I call, my voice almost squeaking. "I have... some news for you." "Before you say anything, I have something to say to you, too," he says in a voice laced with ice. When he speaks so coldly to me like that, I wonder if he's the same man who makes hot love to me at night. "Oh, okay. What do you want to tell me?" I ask. He stands up from his seat. I cannot read the expression on his face as he stares back at me in silence. "Kayden, what is it?" He sighs heavily before turning away from me, as if he can't bear to look at me when he says what he needs to say. "You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone," he mumbles. "But unfortunately, I couldn't because..." he trails off, heaving another sigh. "But now, she's back in town. And I don't think I can do this anymore, Cassie." Wait, what did he mean by that? He turns around. His eyes look distant, devoid of any emotion. "This is not working out for both of us. I want a divorce." Divorce? The word keeps ringing in my head like a deafening siren. Sure, this marriage was far from perfect. But in the years that I've been married to Kayden, I tried to be the perfect wife. I made sure I gave him no reason to regret ever marrying me. "But... why?" Tears begin to brim my eyes. “Come on, Cassie. Did you really think this marriage was going to last?” he asks. His voice was ice cold, and his face almost stoic. “You know it wasn’t my choice to get married. You drugged me and threatened to expose my indiscretion the same week that I was going to be announced as CEO of Steele Corp! What was I supposed to do? Of course, I had no choice but to marry you!" I shake my head. "No, Kayden! I told you before that I didn't drug you. That night, somebody drugged me, too! I-I was framed. I don't even remember how I got to your room that night! Somebody made it seem like... like I staged it all!" He sighs heavily. I doubt that he heard anything that I just said. Or maybe he did. He just doesn’t care. “It doesn’t matter anymore. I managed to gain control of my father’s company. Your family got whatever it is you wanted to gain out of this marriage. Maybe it’s better we walk away now, while we still can. Before we tear each other apart.” “I gave my life to this marriage, too, Kayden!” I tell him evenly. “I didn’t plan on marrying a stranger as soon as I graduated university! This was against my will, too. I also have dreams I gave up because of this marriage.” “How could I believe you? Your father was too eager to give you away. And his business suddenly boomed, didn’t it? I was desperate to gain control of my father’s company. And you just took advantage of my vulnerable situation.” I can’t believe I’m hearing this. In the three years that we’re married, I can hardly remember when Kayden showed me any affection. He’s always been reserved and indifferent. It wasn’t a perfect marriage, but I never thought he’d ask me for a divorce so soon. My hands tremble. The box I'm carrying drops to the floor. My wonderful news, my little ray of hope, completely forgotten. "Tricking you into marriage is the last thing I would do!” He scoffs. “But that’s exactly what you did, didn’t you? I dreamt of building a family for myself. On my own terms and at the right time. Marrying you felt like I wasn’t given a chance to choose what I wanted for myself.” I shake my head, unable to control the tears that's flowing from my eyes. I realize that no matter what I say or do, Kayden will never believe me. "Is that why no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife... even after the many nights we made love, you... you never learned to love me?" Kayden's face remains relentless as he stares back at me. "Love? When you trapped me in this marriage, were you thinking about love at all? Your father bagged his biggest clients at the mere mention of my name, remember? It’s all about money and power. Of course, I could never love you!” I inhale deeply. It's painfully obvious now what the man I had desperately loved for three years thought of me: a gold-digging, scheming bitch! Looking back at that night, I know that somebody had spiked my drink, and somehow, I ended up in Kayden's penthouse. And the morning after, somebody had tipped the paparazzi and made it look like I blackmailed Kayden into marrying me. I know that somebody had set me up. I just don't know who. Kayden inhales deeply. “How could I love anyone who robbed me of my will?” "You're wrong, Kayden," I sob. "It seems that after all these years, you never saw me for who I really am." Kayden shakes his head. "It doesn't matter now. My lawyers are already preparing the divorce papers as we speak. Let's do this as quietly as possible," he says. "Anyway, there are only a few people who knew you were my wife." I nod, feeling numb. "Yes. You did an excellent job keeping me a secret." That was his first request to me: keep quiet about the marriage. Thinking about it now, he must have been planning to divorce me since then. Why did he wait three years to do this? I wipe the tears on my cheeks as I struggle to compose myself. I know that when Kayden makes a decision, there's very little chance that he'll change his mind. "An—anything else you want to say?" "One last thing," he replies. I look up at him, pretty sure that there's nothing he can say that would make me feel any worse than I do at this moment. He takes a deep breath and announces, "I don’t want to see you around the office. You're fired!" .............................................................................. Hold on, baby! Mommy’s here. I will do everything to protect you. This was not how I imagined this day would end. Somehow, when I got the news that I was pregnant, I was so overjoyed that finally, something good came out of my marriage to Kayden Steele. For the first time in three years, I do not feel alone. But suddenly, my life takes a one-eighty. Not only did I lose my husband, but I also lost my job and my health insurance, all in the space of two hours. I can still remember the HR Manager's apologetic smile when I signed my termination papers. "Can... can I at least keep the insurance for another eight months?" I plead. She shakes her head slightly and gives me a sad smile. "It's company policy, sweetheart. Once you're terminated, all benefits, including insurance, will cease." "But... I was fired without a reason!" I argue. "That's why you're getting severance pay," she counters. "And two months’ worth of salary. Otherwise, you walk away with nothing." The severance pay and two months’ worth of salary won't be enough for my food, vitamins, prenatal checkups, and hospital bills when I deliver. I must find a job soon. When I get home, and by home I mean the mansion where Kayden and I live in, Kevin, the fifty-year-old family butler meets me at the main entrance. He, too, cannot hide the pity in his gray eyes. "This is as far as you can go. I've been told to pack all your belongings. They're all in the car now." Kevin whispers softly. "I'm just following instructions." I can almost hear the tears in his voice. "It's okay, Kevin." I raise my chin and paste a smile on my face. That smile that I always wear like a uniform. The armor that hides my real emotions. "You've been so good to me these past three years. I will never forget that." Kevin nods gracefully. Then he holds his arm out for me. "For the last time, Madam Steele. Let me escort you to your car." Holding back my tears, I take his arm and let him escort me to the car that will carry me and what little belongings I have for the next chapter of my life. As the car drives away, a wave of sadness washes over me. I gently place my hand on my abdomen, picturing the life growing inside of me. This baby is Kayden's own flesh and blood. It deserves to live and be raised in that grand mansion. But like me, this little one has been denied Kayden's love and all the privileges that came with it. "I'm so sorry, little angel!" I can no longer hold back my tears. "I'm so sorry!" I don't know what I'm going to do next, or how I'm going to do it. But I know that I will never let this baby suffer. I will make sure that it will live a happy, comfortable life. I will not deny it its birthright! Even though Kayden may not be ready to hear it now, I will make sure to tell him about our baby in the future. He may not have been able to love me. But I'm sure he will love his own baby. Kayden may be cold and ruthless, but I don't think he's a complete monster. There were times during our marriage that I actually felt that he was trying to make it work. Maybe I just wasn't good enough. Or maybe we were just not meant to be. Then suddenly, I remember what he said. ‘You see, when I was young, I vowed to marry someone…’ My heart feels like it's breaking into a million tiny pieces as if it wasn't already completely shattered. What Tara said about Kayden having someone picked up at the airport all makes sense now. I completely understand why after all these years, no matter how hard I tried to be the perfect wife, Kayden just couldn't love me. He's in love with someone else. And he felt that I robbed him of his future with her. He must have been secretly loathing me because he thought I masterminded this marriage. When in truth, I was as much a victim as he is. "Aargh!" Something in my abdomen throbs and I feel a little jolt of pain. Is my baby feeling my heartbreak, too? The driver stops in front of a house in a very familiar neighborhood. It is far from the posh neighborhood where the magnificent Steele Mansion sits, but somehow, this place, this house brings back so many memories of my childhood. Perhaps Kevin made a good decision to send me back here to my parents' home. There was a time when this house used to be a picture of bliss. It is made of wood carvings and sculptures that add to its unique charm. No one has lived here for years, but I come here occasionally. This reminds me so much of my mother. "I'll bring your things inside, Ma'am?" the driver asks. "No, it's alright. You can just leave them by the door." The driver leaves, and I take my keys to open the main door when I realize that it's unlocked. "Huh? Did someone break into this house?" I push the door slightly, careful not to make a sound. When I step inside the house, I find that the lights are turned on. "Shit! Someone's here!" Panic starts to grip me. I know I should call the cops, but somehow, something possesses me, and I grab the dusty golf club sitting behind the door instead. Then I walk towards the corridors, ready to swing at the potential burglar. But suddenly, I hear a familiar voice coming from the living room. "My lawyers told me that this house is still in her name, Kayden. I thought we agreed that this was going to be mine!" I know that voice perfectly well even though I haven't heard it in years. Wait, what? Did I hear it right? Was she talking to Kayden? As in my Kayden? I sneak towards the living room, deliberately trying to overhear her phone conversation. "You're the most powerful man in the country, Kayden Steele! Didn't you promise to make me happy? Well, this house was my parents'. It should also be mine. It will really make me happy!" Mine? How dare she? My father, who is an architect, remodeled this house for my mother before she died. This belonged to my mother even before she got married. So, it's only right that it gets passed on to me! Why is this bitch claiming the house as hers? "Alright, love. I trust you. I'll see you at dinner. Love you!" What the ? Realization hits me like an ice-cold bucket. This is the woman that Kayden asked to be picked up at the airport. She is the reason why Kayden is divorcing me. She's the reason why my baby will not have a complete family. I drop the golf club in my hand as I clutch my belly, feeling a flush of anger and betrayal. The woman must have heard the thud as she turned around to see me. She gives me a proud smirk, not even ashamed that I heard her conversation with my husband. "Well, well. Look who's here," she snickers. "Happy to see me again, my dear stepsister?" .............................................................................. 'Mommy! Cassie pushed me!' 'Mommy! I want Cassie's toy! Take it from her!' 'Daddy! Cassie won't let me borrow her dress!' 'Mommy! Cassie stole my boyfriend!' Unpleasant memories flood my brain. My stepsister's relentless whining while we were growing up still echoes in my ears, even after all these years. My father married Megan's mother when I was eight years old. I tried my best to make Megan feel at home with us, to form a sisterly bond with her, but she never really liked me. She constantly watched me, the things that I had, and the stuff that my father bought for me. I could feel that envy that simmered within her whenever I got a new toy, no matter how small or inexpensive it was. As we grew older, the rivalry only got more complex. We were no longer fighting over toys or material possessions. I felt that we were competing for the same affection and attention. She made sure to steal every guy that I ever dated, making me feel like I was insignificant and undatable. She even made my father dislike me. And now... "Were you... talking to Kayden just now?" I ask in a shaky voice. "Oh, you heard that, huh?" she asks, smirking. "Well, I guess there's no point keeping it a secret now. Yes, I was just talking to Kayden." She holds out her left hand in front of me, showing me a gold ring with a huge rock in the center. "Do you agree that this ring is perfect for the future Mrs. Kayden Steele?" As I stare at the sparkling ring on Megan's finger, my heart sinks. I know she expects me to salivate over how huge the rock is, or how expensive the ring must have been. But the only thought that runs through my mind is, 'She gets a ring?' Because Kayden just signed our marriage license. He didn't bother to get me an engagement ring, not even a wedding ring. "Oh, you poor thing,' Megan puts on a pout that is supposed to be apologetic, but clearly, she is just rubbing her affair with my husband in my face. "Your marriage with Kayden was never going to work out. I knew it." "How... how long have you known my husband?" "Too long. I have always thought we'd end up together. But then you stole him from me like the scheming, sneaky gold digger you are! But he would never love you. The two of us share a bond since we were kids. No amount of scheming or seduction from you could take him away from me.” My blood boils as I hear Megan's tirade. How could she flaunt her affair with my husband and have the audacity to accuse me of stealing Kayden from her? "That's not true!" I cry. "We were building a family! We were doing okay until you came back to the picture. If you didn't, I know he would stay with our little family." "Family?" she hisses. "What family are you talking about?" I don't reply. Instead, I raise a brow at her triumphantly. Her eyes widen in shock, and her glance goes to my tummy. "You're..." She shakes her head in disbelief. "No way that baby is Kayden’s.” This time, I feel a little victorious. It's good to see Megan fall from the high table for a change. "Believe it or not, Megan," I continue to taunt her. "When Kayden decided to marry me, I did believe he was willing to try. He wouldn't do that if he completely hates me, would he?" “So, you managed to seduce him to go to bed with you? He must have been wasted to even sleep with you.” It’s my turn to smirk at her. "What are you scared of Megan? The fact that Kayden isn’t completely immune to my charms? Or that this baby might change everything between us?” Megan takes a step closer, her eyes looking livid. “How will a bastard change anything?” What the did she just call my baby? My blood boils as Megan's words hang in the air. The audacity, the cruelty! I ball my hands into fists as I try my damnedest to stay calm and composed. "This baby is not a bastard! This baby could just well be the heir of Steele Corp. Remember, we're still married. And Kayden has yet to find out about this baby. He just might rethink his decision about divorcing me." Anger flares in Megan’s eyes when she hears my words. I can tell that she realizes just how vulnerable her position is. "You're just like your mother! A shameless, scheming slut!" She raises her hand and swings, but I anticipated that move, as she has always done this to me in the past. I catch her arm before her palm can land on my cheek. "I'm not going to tolerate you calling my baby a bastard, and my mother a slut, Megan! You are way out of line!" I push her arm away, giving her a small shove. Megan stumbles backward, but her eyes remain filled with anger. She groans in frustration and swings her arm to to knock off the gas lamp on the table. Then she grabs the nearest vase and throws it at me. "Bitch!" she screams. Acting on instinct, I dodge the vase but lose my balance. I fall to the floor. Just then, I feel a gush of blood flow from between my thighs. I look down and realize that I'm sitting in my own pool of blood, while my vile stepsister looms over me, smiling triumphantly. "No, no! My baby!" I cry out in agony and pain. Suddenly, everything feels hot. That's when I realize that the fire has quickly escalated. My mother's house is going down in flames. "Oh, God, please no!" I know that Megan will never help me. It will be better for her if I were to lose this baby. I know I must call for help, or I will lose everything—including my and my baby's life. I reach for my cellphone and press the first key on my speed dial. Kayden's phone rings several times but he never picks up. 'Kayden... please!' 'Pick up the phone. Our baby... our baby needs you!' But all I hear is the ringing tone from the other line. Oh, God! I know I haven't been lucky in this life. But please... spare the life of my baby! This baby is all I have now. Please save it! That's all I ask. That's all I need! Kayden, if you can't be there for me, at least be there for our child. But even after another try, there's nothing. Once again, Kayden has chosen to ignore me. Coming back to my senses, I dial 911 instead. "Help! Bleeding... pregnant..." The smell of smoke threatens to choke me. "Fire!" I fall to the floor, almost passing out. When I open my eyes again, I see a devilishly handsome face staring back at me. "Kayden..." I would recognize that face everywhere. Amidst the raging inferno, Kayden miraculously appears and finds me lying on the floor, bleeding. "Jesus Christ, Megan!" he curses. "What happened here?" Kayden approaches me, and for the first time in years, I see a glimmer of worry in his eyes. "Cassie..." He kneels in front of me. But then, we hear a shrill scream and then a thud. We both turn around and discover that Megan has collapsed onto the floor. Kayden's driver appears and he turns to him. "Take Cassie out of here!" Then he walks toward Megan and gathers her in his arms, while his driver lifts me from the floor. The taste of defeat lingers on my tongue as I watch Kayden carry Megan out of the blazing house. I doubt that she's seriously injured. I bet she fainted to get Kayden's attention! Megan seems unscathed, and I can't help but think that she just pretended to faint when she saw Kayden coming to my rescue. Even in spite of my pitiful state, Kayden chose to abandon me. It seems... the three years we spent together really meant nothing to him! Whatever concern I thought I saw in his eyes is all gone now. And in the end, it's all the same. Kayden has chosen Megan over me. .............................................................................. Wake up! You must get back on your feet and keep walking, and then you need to move on! I bolt up from the bed, my heart races as the urgency in the voice echoes inside my mind. I look around the unfamiliar surroundings, feeling confused and disoriented. Where am I? The room I'm in is all white. From the paint on the walls to the sheet that keeps me warm. "Easy, child. You might hurl if you force your movements," the nurse says to me. "How long have I been unconscious?" "Two days. But don’t worry, you’ll be fine.” Suddenly, I remember something. "My baby!" I ask frantically. "Tell me my baby is okay!" Tears brim my eyes, as panic grips my insides. The nurse reaches out for my hands to steady me. "Don't worry, dear," she smiles at me reassuringly. "The babe is safe." I sigh in relief. I touch my abdomen with my hands as if cradling my baby. I'm so sorry, my love. I should have been more careful. I swear I will never risk your life like that again! I guess I forgot how cruel and childish Megan can be. I should not have told her about the baby. But where is Megan? I remember she fainted and Kayden saved her. I sink back on the bed as I remember the way Kayden carried Megan in his arms, saving her from danger, while I, his wife, was bleeding on the floor. I can't help but feel a mix of anger and betrayal as I recall that moment. The realization hits me hard, shattering whatever illusion I may have that Kayden would learn to love me. "There was… there was a woman with me. What happened to her?" I dare ask. "The last time I saw her, she was unconscious." Or pretending to be unconscious! The nurse shakes her head. "She was just brought into the emergency room, and then she was discharged. She didn't sustain any injury." "Did anyone come here to check on me?" I ask, my voice both tearful and hopeful. I could not have mistaken the sliver of concern I saw in Kayden's face when he saw me in my pitiful state. But it quickly disappeared when Megan put on one of her best acting performances. "You mean your husband?” I nod. “I haven’t seen him around. But I bet he’s preoccupied with dealing with the media about this whole fiasco.” "Media?" I echo. The nurse smiles as she straightens the sheet on my bed. "Well, you and the baby need plenty of rest. It's best not to bother yourself with such trivial things," she replies. “Rest now. Just press the call button if you need me.” The nurse closes the door behind her, leaving me alone with my thoughts. The two of us share a special bond… How long have she and Kayden known each other? When did they start an affair when Kayden's drowning in work here, and Megan is busy working as a model in Paris? Damn it! I should not bother with such useless things. The entertainment news is on when I turn on the TV. "It seems that business tycoon, Kayden Steele, is officially off the market." The news anchor's voice echoes through the room, and my heart skips a beat. Images of Kayden flash across the screen. "Rumors have been circulating the past few days that the elusive CEO of Kayden Corp is secretly married. However, today, his PR team confirmed that there's no truth to this. Instead, they confirmed that he is dating model, Megan Brown. It is reported that the two have been good friends since they were kids, and their relationship has recently evolved into something more romantic." My heart breaks as I watch the videos of Kayden and Megan together. Sightings of Kayden holding Megan's hand and kissing her feel like a knife stabbing me multiple times in my chest. How could Kayden do this to me? How could he easily announce his relationship with Megan, when he's kept me a secret for three years? He discarded me the moment Megan came back to town. When he saw me bleeding, he still chose to rescue Megan, and left me for his driver to save! Tears roll down my cheeks, and the moment I realize it, I quickly wipe them away. you, Kayden Steele! You do not deserve these tears! I will not shed a tear for him. I'm pregnant with his child, but this baby will remain my own! Kayden will have no right to know about it. His child will never call him 'Daddy'! Perhaps, that will be the most suitable punishment for a monster like him! With shaking hands, I reach for my phone and send Kayden a message. 'You had a good thing going on, but you chose to give it away. You don't deserve me. Let's get a divorce! Goodbye, Kayden.’ I click send without even rereading my message, not trusting myself completely that I will have enough courage to send it. I gently caress my tummy. It's okay, baby. We're going to be just fine. *** Kayden. '...Goodbye, Kayden.' Those words ring in my head like a nightmare. I can't shake off the feeling of dread that has been eating me up inside since I saw her lying in a pool of blood. I still remember the way she looked at me—hopeful and pleading. She looked at me like I was some sort of guardian angel created to keep her safe. Damn it! I should have saved her. But Megan screamed and fainted. And like a force of habit, I went to her instead. Megan and I shared a past, and because of that, I’d always thought she’d be the one I would spend the rest of my life with. Until Cassie came and life threw me a curveball. I take my coat off and lay it on the bed. Then I realize that the bed covers are purple. I look around. I remember coming to this room whenever I was feeling too much pressure from work, or my family. I don't know why, but somehow, this room feels warm and peaceful. Funny how I only realize this now. This was Cassie's room. And now that she's gone, I didn't expect it to be as cold as all the other rooms in this house. Somehow, somebody got wind of our marriage. The gossip almost went out of hand. The PR Team told me how bad it would look if people found out that I've been married to one of my employees for three years, and I kept it from the public, leaving her to be treated like a lowly employee. That's why they suggested that I announce dating Megan immediately, to divert the issue and prevent damage to Steele Corps' reputation. It seems like the right thing to do. But... why doesn't it feel right? Why do I feel guilty for every little thing I did and said to Cassie? I stare at her number on my phone. I close my eyes and press the call button. I don't know what to say to her. I just know that suddenly, I want to hear her voice again. But she doesn't answer until finally, she turns off her phone. I groan in frustration, throwing my phone on the bed. I know this is for the better. Finally, she's gone... she's out of my life. But ! Why do I suddenly feel so empty? .............................................................................. Cassie. "Cassie, your grandfather’s lawyer, Attorney Magnus, has been calling you since morning,” Lyn, my assistant, says. “I’m still not interested.” A few days ago, I had the shock of my life when I discovered that my mother’s family is old rich. They own King's Court, a chain of luxury hotels. And my grandfather named me his successor to handle the business. “I doubt there’s room in my portfolio for managing a chain of hotels, don’t you agree?” Lyn raises a brow at me for a moment. “You’re one of the smartest women I know. You probably got your father’s talent for designing. But your knack for closing lucrative business deals? Maybe you got that from your late grandfather. I heard he was brilliant." Four years ago, I discovered my passion for interior design. With my relentless efforts to give my son a better life, I built Cassandra Designs, which is now one of the biggest interior design firms in the country. “I heard King’s Court is in trouble,” I remember one of the many articles I read the night I learned about my grandfather. “Your grandfather had been sick for a while. No one was good enough to continue his life’s work. But it's only right that you take over his company, and later, pass it on to your son." A smile tugs at my lips as I remember my three-year-old son. Jet black hair and piercing blue eyes. He’s a spitting image of… “By the way,” Lyn interrupts my thoughts. “Attorney Magnus seems to be aware of your son’s condition.” "What do you mean?" "He'll use whatever he can to convince you to do this." "Ha! What could they possibly have that I want?" Lyn looks at me meaningfully. "We're talking about your mother's family here. Blood-related family. Who knows? Maybe one of them just might be your son's perfect bone marrow match." "Are you saying what I think you're saying?" Lyn nods. "We're running out of options. Unless you want to go to your son's fa..." "No!" I cut her off. "There must be another way. Kai's father doesn't even know about him!" "Then I suggest you meet with your grandfather's attorney." As soon as I step into my office, the smell of flowers fills my senses. I find baskets of roses of different colors around the room. My eyes catch sight of the man standing near the glass walls and gazing at the city view. "Do you really have to be overly sentimental, Mr. Sullivan?" I ask. Ethan Sullivan used to be my next-door neighbor. He sought me out when he heard the news of my old house catching fire. I could hardly believe that from a scrawny little boy who wears thick glasses, he turned into this tall, charming man, who built one of the country's biggest financial institutions. He turns around, his gray eyes dancing. "Happy birthday, Cassandra." "You really shouldn't have gone berserk at the flower shop," I tease. "Well, Cassandra Carlisle deserves only the best, doesn't she?" "Please, have a seat." I lead him towards my desk. "Can I offer you anything?" "No, thank you," he replies. "I won't stay long. I'm running late for a board meeting." "Then why did you come? You should have just called. We can always meet later." "But I want to greet you in person. And for you, Cassandra, I'd make the whole world wait." I look away from him, a blush starts to creep over my cheeks. For the past year, Ethan has made it known that his feelings for me are more than friendly. But he's been very patient and understanding. "Ethan," I say. "You've been a wonderful friend and support system to me and Kai." He narrows his eyes, looking at me intently. "But you know I could be so much more than that, right?" "Ethan, you know I care about you, too. But I've been through a lot. And Kai's health is my priority." He reaches across the table to squeeze my hand. "I know that, Cassandra. And trust me, I would never ask you to put anything before your son." I squeeze his hand back. Ethan has always been there for me and Kai. I know he deserves more than just friendship from me. I smile at him. "Ethan, I..." Then suddenly, Lyn bursts into the room, with a look of urgency on her face. "Sorry, Cassandra. But..." she trails off. "Attorney Magnus is here to see you." I groan. "He's really persistent, isn't he?" "Want me to take care of it?" Ethan asks. I shake my head. "I'll manage. I guess, we can just talk later." Ethan looks disappointed. I guess he felt that I was going to finally give him the answer he'd been waiting for before we were interrupted. "Okay. I'll see you at dinner later," he said in a sober voice. 'Was I really going to say yes to Ethan just now?' I ask myself as I watch Ethan leave. 'Am I over the past? And am I ready for this?' Lyn comes back into my office followed by an older man. "Miss Carlisle," Attorney Magnus says. "I am sorry to barge in on you like this. But desperate times call for desperate measures." "I thought I made myself clear, Attorney Magnus. I'm not interested in my grandfather's business." Attorney Magnus takes out an envelope from his suitcase and puts it in front of me. I open it and see photos of people I do not know. Most of them are old, some are even handicapped. "Who are these people?" "These are the people who worked with your grandfather in building his hotel empire," Attorney Magnus replies. "So?" "Right now, they stand to lose their jobs, their benefits, their means of living. All because you refuse to take what your grandfather has given to you." "What?" "No one is leading the company right now, and the other shareholders are selling their shares to another company for a takeover." "But isn't a takeover a good thing? You gain what you can and cut your losses?" "King's Court is still a lucrative venture. The company that will take over knows this. But it will be a complete takeover, meaning the very people who helped your grandfather build it will be let go for a small amount of compensation. That includes all the other members of your family... including your grandmother." "My grandmother?" I echo. I have no idea I have another living grandparent. Attorney Magnus puts a photo of an old woman who looks like my mother in front of me. "Your grandfather's dying wish is for King Court to remain in your family. He regretted his decision to send your mother away, and it drove a wedge between him and your grandmother. Your grandmother has depression. She never took it well that your mother had been sent away." Listening to his story, I feel my eyes start to get wet. "If the CEO of the company that wants to buy the hotel manages to convince the major shareholders to sell their shares, then your family will lose King's Court. Your grandmother will lose everything. These people," he motions at the photos in front of you. "It's like you just handed them a death sentence." "Are you trying to make me feel guilty?" "I know about your child's condition," Attorney Magnus says gently. "You have cousins, nieces, and nephews from your mother's side of the family. None of them is interested or capable of running the business. But... perhaps one of them could be your son's match." Damn it! "Do you really think I'm capable of saving my grandfather's legacy?" "Your grandfather watched your success over the years. He believes in you. And so do I." I feel like I don’t have a choice. Besides, what have I got to lose? "Okay, I will give it a shot." Attorney Magnus gives me a triumphant smile. "I'll guide you through this, don't worry." "What do I need to do first?" "Attend the investor's meeting on Friday," he replies. "Announce that you have accepted the position. The CEO of the company that's buying us out will be there, too. Tell him that if he wants to invest, he's welcome to do so. But they can't take over your grandfather's business." "Where is this meeting?" "In South Carolina." I suddenly stop short. South Carolina was my old hometown. "And... what's the name of the company that wants to take over King's Court?" I ask nervously. "Steele Corp," Attorney Magnus replies. "You need to meet with its CEO, Kayden Steele." .............................................................................. "You're not backing out, are you?" I can hear the weary in Lyn's voice when I told her what Attorney Magnus had asked me to do. "Attorney Magnus drives a hard bargain. He did assure me that my family is willing to help my son, should one of them be a match. But... South Carolina is the one place I tried hard to stay away from!" "But, Cassie, we have been searching for years," Lyn heaves a frustrated breath. "I suggested going to your relatives because I know you don't want to see or talk to your ass of an ex-husband. But it turns out, you'll have to go to him anyway!" "I know. Life's a bitch, right?" I have gone a long way from the last time I've seen Kayden Steele. I've built a pretty good life for myself and my son. Back then, I vowed never to see or think of him ever again. And I certainly didn't plan to do business with him! "You..." Lyn trails off. My eyebrow shot up at her. She squirms as if the question she's about to ask is physically hurting her. "You don't still have feelings... for... him, right?" "Ha!" is all I can utter for a moment. My mind wanders to that devilishly handsome man, with midnight black hair and dazzling blue eyes, who is a replica of my son. I don't love him anymore! I close my eyes for a moment and call in my last memory of him: him carrying my bitchy stepsister out of the blazing house that she burned. And with that memory in mind, I raise my chin to Lyn and say, "When I was Mrs. Kayden Steele, I was a sweet, innocent, gentle pushover. I had nothing to my name, and I would do anything to please my father." I slightly slam my fist on my desk. "I am no longer that woman! And the only feelings I have for Kayden Steele right now, are feelings of loathing!" "If you don't want to ask Kayden for help with Kai, you have other relatives who probably are a match, too. This just gives us plenty of alternatives." "I didn't say yes to Attorney Magnus yet." "There's an inaugural event that you should go to two days from now. It would be a good opportunity for you to meet important people in the city. You should go to that. Give Kayden Steele the shock of his life." Lyn's suggestion is quite tempting. But in all honesty, I don't even need my grandfather's company. I am happy with my peace now. Why do I need shake up my life and see the person who broke my heart years ago? Just then, Lyn's phone rings. "Yes... what?!" The tone of her voice sends me on high alert. "We'll be right there!" I stare back at Lyn in panic. That tone, and that look on her face can only mean thing... Kai is having another episode. "Let's go to the ER!" "Is he okay?" I ask, my voice shaking. "I'm sure he will be. He had a nosebleed and then he fainted." I quickly grab my bag and half run towards the door in legs that can barely support my weight. This is not the first time this has happened. And I know that after a blood transfusion, Kai will be okay. But that's the other problem. His blood type is one of the rarest. We're running out of places to get it. As my driver speeds to the hospital, I try to calm my raging nerves. Please, god! Let him be okay! I won't ask for anything else, just save my son! Lyn and I rush into the emergency room, panic visible in both our faces. My heart pounds inside my ribcage as I desperately search for my son's doctor. Finally, I spot Doctor Willis, Kai's hematologist, standing near the nurse's station. "Doctor! What happened to my son?" "Miss Carlisle, Kai has another episode of severe anemia," she responds. "I'm ordering blood transfusion right away. We're just waiting for the blood supply." "Is he going to be alright?" I ask, my voice shaky. "As long as he receives the blood he needs, he'll be fine." But that's always the problem. Kai's blood type is extremely rare. I feel a surge of panic as the reality sinks in. If we can't find a suitable blood donor soon, my son's life will hang by a thread. I glance over at Lyn, her eyes filled with worry. "Doctor Willis," I say, trying to keep my voice steady. "Is there anything we can do? Any alternative options?" She sighs. I can hear the frustration in it. "We've exhausted all our resources in the area. The blood bank is running low on Kai's blood type, and it takes time to locate a suitable match." Time. That's a luxury I don't have. If Kai doesn't receive the transfusion soon, I might lose him. Then everything that I worked hard for in the last four years would have been for nothing. "Perhaps we can help," a familiar voice says behind me. I spin around and I see Attorney Magnus standing here beside a guy, who looks like he just got out of college. "How?" "This is Alberte King," Attorney Magnus replies, referring to the guy beside him. "He's your nephew." "Nephew?" "Yep," the guy replies. "And like your son, I'm an AB negative, too." Relief washes over me like a cold bucket. I forget about my own ego, my own doubts and apprehensions. Right now, I'll accept any help, even if it's tagged with the almost impossible favor that Attorney Magnus is asking from me. "Good," Doctor Willis says. "Come with me, young man." As we wait for Alberte, I sit beside Attorney Magnus in the waiting area. "I know why you brought him here," I tell him. He looks at me nonchalantly. "No, you don't know. Because we just genuinely want to help you. Whether you fly to South Carolina to meet with your son's father is entirely your decision to make." Right! "And I'm done!" Alberte announces as he reappears in the waiting area. "We're initiating your son's blood transfusion right away, Miss Carlisle. He'll be out of danger soon." "Thank you, Doctor." Alberte extends his hand to me. "It's nice to meet you, Aunt Cassie." Despite having donated a huge amount of blood, Alberte's attitude is still positively jolly. "Just call me Cassie, you brat!" I say, breathing in a sigh of relief. Instead of taking his hand, I reach forward to give him a hug. I am happy to meet a new relative, and one that has the same blood type as my son no less! "Nice to meet you, too, Alberte! And thank you!" An hour later, I set beside my son's bed, watching him sleep peacefully. I study his face and cannot help but remember his father. I enclose his tiny hand between my palms and bring it to my lips for a kiss. "Mommy..." My eyes fly open when I hear his voice. "Kai, my baby..." He smiles at me weakly. "Where's my Daddy?" What did he just ask me? I blink back at him in utter surprise. "Do... do I even have a Daddy?" He's only three! Who taught him to ask these kinds of questions? I clear my throat and giggle nervously. "Well... you know how truly special you are?" "Uh-huh?" "Well... you're very special because God created you to be only for me!" Then I tickle him, and I am rewarded by his high-pitched laugh. Damn it! Pretty soon, I will no longer get away with these answers! I reached forward and give my son a tight embrace. my ego. my fears. I will do anything to save my son. And I realize now what I really have to do. It's time to see my ex-husband once again.	LEARN_MORE	https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/vbb2055wg	OasisFun	https://www.facebook.com/100091233910499/	528	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	www.novel-oasis.com	VIDEO		https://www.novel-oasis.com/share/middle/vbb2055wgvd1wbyhqadl53nf?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120219105342830400&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481265326_1344597036705233_3002370583817855066_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ohGRISUAXWMQ7kNvgHR8KmO&_nc_oc=AdjfYSZXbmuK7NpvDisMtKDgtemKQ4YnDLgZgl2GIddWHxOY099R1v-ti8TA6L8BTqz1yXFl2XWbwow6LtvCTW8X&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A2UC_PL8ThUgA0FArcXJ6I5&oh=00_AYAcbdFSs7KL55Gat1M6jhpEHmJj7THZOjS6UE4OtdjlcQ&oe=67C73FD7	PERSON_PROFILE	OasisFun	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
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2,707,265	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707216}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜Vengeance With My White Knight📜	Chapter 1 Teaching Her The Math Standing in front of the mirror, Stephanie Giovanni studied her reflection, her lips curling into a soft smile. "Stunning," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. The gown hugged her slender waist, flowing into a skirt that reminded her of something straight out of a fairytale. Her face, still free of makeup, looked just as delicate and enchanting in the natural light. The shop manager was adjusting the pleats on the gown. She couldn't resist commenting, "Why isn't Mr. Ashford here with you? Men and women, they've got different tastes, you know." A faint smile tugged at the corner of Stephanie's lips. She glanced at the manager with a shrug. "You know men. Busy with work. Can't get away." Just then, her phone vibrated on the nearby counter. Stephanie glanced at the caller ID before answering, "Ella." On the other end, Ella Turner's voice came through quickly, almost breathless. "Stefi, I saw Olivia and Chris!" The moment she heard those names, Stephanie's fingers tightened around the phone, her knuckles going white. The smile that had lingered on her face slowly faded, replaced by a chill in her eyes. Chris Ashford—her fiancé—was just a week away from marrying her. And Olivia Hart, just hearing her name disgusted Stephanie. Stephanie looked over at the shop manager, who immediately nodded in understanding. With a silent gesture, the manager ushered the staff out of the room. Once the room was empty, Stephanie lowered her gaze to her perfectly manicured nails. "Where did you see them?" she asked casually. Ella's voice cracked with urgency. "At the hospital. In the obstetrics and gynecology department." Stephanie raised an eyebrow, a quiet laugh escaping her lips. "Quite a special place," she muttered, her expression turning to one of thinly veiled sarcasm. A man and a woman in the obstetrics and gynecology department? Stephanie didn't need to think twice to know why. Ella, still flustered, pressed on. "That Olivia is a calculating bitch, and Chris is an idiot. You shouldn't marry him!" While Stephanie seemed calm, Ella was seething with anger. Stephanie sipped from the water cup on the table, unfazed. "Every time she calculates, the trouble's on ME. Why are YOU so worked up?" When she was leaving two years ago, Olivia begged for Stephanie's forgiveness in tears. And now, she came back and threw herself on Chris, again. 'Am I a pushover? Or just too kind?' Stephanie thought to herself. Ella didn't let up. "She's picking the perfect time—just before you and Chris are about to get married. She's clearly up to something." Stephanie's eyes sharpened, her grip on the phone tightening. "I'm hanging up now," she said flatly. Ella's voice was frantic. "What are you going to do?" Stephanie's lips curled into a thin smile. "Someone's made a bad calculation. I'm going to teach her how to do the math." Then, she ended the call, the silence that followed settling in like a weight. Staring at her reflection in the mirror, Stephanie reached up to touch the bust of the dress. With a sudden, sharp rip, she tore the gown in half, throwing the pieces to the floor. The sound of fabric ripping echoed through the silent room. The saleswomen gasped in shock, their eyes wide. But when they saw the cold fury in Stephanie's expression, none of them dared to move or speak. After she'd changed back into her own clothes, her phone vibrated again. She glanced at the screen—Chris's name. Without a word, she answered, and his voice came through immediately, firm and clipped. "Once you're done with the fitting, come to the office." For the past two years, Chris had always been gentle and considerate. Now Olivia is back, he suddenly became cold. This abrupt shift in tone made the already cold room feel even colder. A flicker of sarcasm flashed in Stephanie's eyes. She couldn't be bothered to respond. Without hesitation, she hung up. *** Half an hour later... Stephanie stepped into Chris's office. He was standing by the floor-to-ceiling windows, speaking on the phone. Bathed in sunlight, he looked every bit the image of refinement and gentleness. His perfectly sculpted profile was hard to ignore, the kind of face that made it impossible to look away. His appearance was so rare and flawless, it seemed like something most people in Long Harbor City could only dream of. Noticing her presence, Chris quickly muttered into the phone, "Can't join you for lunch today. Sorry. Goodbye." He hung up and walked over to the nearby leather couch, settling into it with a soft creak of the cushions. The warmth from the phone call seemed to vanish in an instant, replaced by an icy coldness that darkened his expression. His eyes locked onto Stephanie, and his voice became clipped as he ordered, "Come here." Stephanie held his gaze, not moving an inch. The tension between them was thick, hanging heavy in the air. Unlike the usual routine, she didn't sit beside him. Instead, she chose to sit across from him, maintaining a distance that mirrored the coldness between them. Chris's eyes narrowed, and the coldness deepened. Click—the sound of a lighter echoed through the silence. The faint smell of gasoline hung in the air. Irritated, Stephanie waved her hand to fan it away, her nose wrinkling slightly at the scent. Chris, unfazed, took a drag from the cigarette, exhaling slowly. Then, with a hint of reluctance, he spoke. "Olivia's back." For a split second, guilt flickered in his eyes, but it disappeared almost as quickly as it had come. Then came the words that froze her. "Our wedding... it has to be postponed." Stephanie had already seen this coming after the call with Ella. Her voice was cold as she asked, "What do you mean?" Their wedding should have nothing to do with Olivia. Chris exhaled another cloud of smoke, his tone steady as he explained, "She's sick. It's terrible." As he spoke, he handed her a file, adding, "The admission letter from the University of Saint Peter. You should go study there." His voice had an almost condescending edge, like he was giving her an order. Stephanie glanced at the file in his hand but didn't reach for it. A small, almost playful smile tugged at the corner of her mouth. "Sending me abroad? Getting out of your way?" she asked, her voice dripping with sarcasm. Chris's face darkened, his jaw tightening. "Isn't this the school you've always wanted to go to? Now you've got the chance..." "Chris Ashford!" she interrupted sharply, her voice cutting through the tension like a knife. Without waiting for him to finish, Stephanie reached forward, snatched the envelope from his hand, and tore it apart. The pieces of the envelope scattered across the floor, and the last shred stuck to her hand. Without a second thought, she tossed it straight into Chris's face. His expression shifted, the warmth draining from his eyes. Stephanie didn't spare him another glance. "Postpone he wedding? Don't bother. It's canceled." She let the words hang in the air, the finality of them cutting through the room. Postponing? She couldn't bring herself to consider it. Canceling would be easier. Chapter 2 Ditching The Fiancé Chris's face shifted in disbelief, his brows knitting together as the weight of Stephanie's words hit him. He stared at her, utterly stunned by her coldness. 'Cancel the wedding? Is she... crazy?' Chris's mind raced, countless thoughts swirling, but they all crumbled in the face of her icy indifference. His voice faltered slightly as he tried to explain, "She's sick. Once she recovers, she'll leave, and we'll have a bigger wedding." Stephanie's lips curled into a sneer, her voice frigid. "Is she sick, or is she pregnant?" The moment her words hung in the air, the air stiffened, like the weight of her question was too much to bear. Chris's eyes darkened, his voice low as he asked, "What do you know?" Stephanie didn't answer immediately. She leaned back in her chair, her tone cool as she replied, "You and she were so open about being at the hospital, in the gynecology department." A mocking smile tugged at her lips. Her voice was biting, filled with frost. "Now, you're talking to me about a bigger wedding. Don't you think that's ironic?" They were supposed to marry in just a week. The thought of it, mixed with everything else, made something inside Stephanie crumble. He made another woman pregnant, and now he was here talking about the wedding with Stephanie. 'Is he really playing both sides to her face? Thinking I won't cut him off?' Stephanie's eyes were steely, her resolve unshakable. Chris's face grew even darker, his voice hushed, almost desperate. "She's not pregnant. She's sick." Stephanie's gaze was unwavering, cold as ice. "Sick? And you're the one taking her to the hospital? Am I missing something?" Her question hung in the air, sharp and unforgiving. Chris's expression darkened further, and his fingers absently traced the edge of the desk. Stephanie couldn't bear to look at him any longer. She stood up and walked to the door. As she moved, her voice was cold, the words dripping with mockery. "Now that she's here, she might as well stay. After all, she still has a debt to settle here in Long Harbor, and I'm sure it'll take long." Two years of building a relationship, of calm affection, seemed to collapse in an instant. Chris had severed his ties with Olivia, but now Stephanie was doing it too, tearing apart what little remained... Her heart was filled with cold resolve, and she wasn't looking back. Relationships took work from both sides. There was no point in one person doing all the labor. Stephanie's heart was heavy with disappointment, but also fierce with anger. Chris's voice became hard, carrying a hint of warning. "Don't make things difficult for her!" Stephanie's hand rested on the doorknob, her expression unreadable. Chris gritted his teeth, voice barely above a growl. "You sure you want to cancel the wedding? Do you really think the Hart family would bail you out?" The Hart family. The mention of them made Stephanie's eyes grow even colder, like a chill had settled deep in her bones. The Harts were a group of people who couldn't tell friend from foe. Stephanie had known for a long time that they were not her safety net, but it didn't matter. The Hart family was her bloodline, but it was also where Olivia had grown up. Years ago, Olivia's biological mother had worked as a maid for the Hart family. Both she and Stephanie's mother, Mrs. Hart, had been pregnant at the same time. Because her unreliable, gambling husband couldn't provide, Olivia's birth mother had hoped her child would have a better life. So, she switched babies at the hospital after giving birth. Olivia's birth mother was heartless. After taking Stephanie away, she never had plans of raising her. She simply throw the baby girl away like trash. She kept working as a maid at the Hart family, watching her biological daughter live a privileged life while she stayed by her side. Three years ago, Mrs. Hart had a car accident, and the truth came out. The hospital revealed that Olivia wasn't her biological daughter. The shocking secret stunned the entire family. A search began for the real heiress. They eventually found Stephanie, but through the entire process, they always favored Olivia, the one they had raised. Chris wasn't entirely wrong. If Stephanie called off the engagement, she would have nowhere to go because the Hart family would never accept her. Chris stepped forward and grabbed her wrist. "Once she's better, I'll send her away, alright?" His voice softened, almost as if he were trying to calm her. Stephanie looked at him, her eyes cold. She slowly pulled her hand away. "Stefi... " Chris inhaled sharply, his face growing even darker. Stephanie didn't bother saying another word. She turned and walked out of the office. The sound of her high heels echoed in the hallway as she walked away, head held high. Chris, who was always admired by everyone, was so furious his head felt like it was going to explode. He couldn't believe that Stephanie would actually cancel their wedding. Everyone had seen how committed she'd been to him these past two years. With that thought, Chris didn't chase after her. Instead, he slammed the door shut with a loud 'bang.' * The secretarial department buzzed with whispers as the loud noise echoed down the hall. Each person had their own thoughts. Two years ago, the gossip about Stephanie and Chris had caused quite the stir. Back then, everyone assumed Stephanie was trying to steal him away from Olivia. Now that Olivia was back, people were eagerly waiting to see what drama would unfold. One employee leaned toward another, whispering, "Miss Hart is back. About time. Stephanie totally deserves this!" Another scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Exactly. Two years ago, Miss Hart was practically forced out by her. What's stolen always comes back." Just as Stephanie walked past, she overheard them. She glanced toward the source of the gossip. Stephanie clicked her heels sharply as she walked directly toward them. Caught off guard, the two women quickly fell silent, eyes wide with fear. Without a word, Stephanie reached out, gripping one of their chins and tilting her head back. The secretary was pretty—stunning, even. But the moment their eyes locked, the young woman froze, visibly shaken by the intensity of Stephanie's gaze. "Miss... Miss Giovanni," she stammered, her voice barely a whisper. Stephanie's eyes narrowed. "Enjoying my gossip that much?" The young woman's face drained of color. "No... no, I didn't—" Stephanie released her with a look of contempt. Then, she swept her gaze over the entire department, her eyes like ice. Everyone quickly lowered their heads, afraid to make a sound. Chapter 3 A Humiliating Fall As soon as Stephanie stepped out of the building, she saw Olivia getting out of a car. Chris's assistant, Kevin Wright, opened the door for her. She handed him several shopping bags. "Give these to the secretaries," she instructed with a graceful nod. Her posture exuded authority, like she owned the place. Kevin took the bags with a respectful nod. "Thank you, Miss Hart." Olivia gave a soft smile before turning, her eyes locking with Stephanie's across the parking lot. Stephanie narrowed her gaze. Olivia paused, then walked toward her. "Stefi." Her voice was sweet, almost like a kind big sister. When Stephanie had first been brought into the Hart family, they'd mentioned that Olivia was only an hour older than her. Stephanie knew that sweet tone was for Kevin's benefit. And, the challenge in Olivia's eyes was unmistakable. As Olivia got closer, her voice dropped, almost a whisper. "You're his fiancée, but he wants me here in his workplace. Tell me, what does that mean?" Stephanie's expression didn't shift. She stayed silent. After a beat, she scoffed. "I'm his fiancée. And as long as I want, I can visit here and even the Ashford family anytime. You where else can you go except here? Oh, right—meeting in the darkness like rats doesn't count." Olivia's face flickered with a mix of surprise and irritation. She quickly smoothed over the smugness, but her eyes narrowed with cold fury. It was clear—Olivia couldn't go to the Ashford family. Too many old-fashioned relatives there would never accept her. Stephanie couldn't help feeling a rush of satisfaction as she saw Olivia's discomfort. Olivia shot her a glare, her voice sharp. "Don't get too comfortable. As long as I'm around, you'll never marry him." Stephanie gave a slight smile, her tone unaffected. She brushed imaginary dust off her shoulder. "The world doesn't revolve around him. I don't need to marry him." In truth, Stephanie had known from the start that Chris's heart belonged to someone else. Walking away from him had always been the right choice. Some things just couldn't wait. Stephanie knew it was time to move fast. Olivia's face stiffened. "What do you mean?" She stared at Stephanie, completely thrown off, unable to process what was happening. She had always believed Stephanie was hopelessly in love with Chris. She could still remember how fiercely they had fought over him two years ago. But now, to see Stephanie acting so indifferent—it made Olivia think that maybe it was all just a front. Stephanie raised an eyebrow. "I mean exactly what I said. If I lose Chris, I can move on and find someone else. But you? He's the only guy who will ever marry you, and you won't even get a grand wedding. Honestly, I almost feel sorry for you." Olivia's face, already pale with anger, drained white with fury. Stephanie secretly enjoyed seeing Olivia's confidence crumble. She didn't understand why Olivia had the nerve to provoke her today—maybe she had forgotten the bitter lesson from two years ago. Not wanting to waste any more time, Stephanie turned to leave. But just as she was about to walk away, Olivia suddenly grabbed her wrist. "Stefi, I'm just back in town to see a doctor." She put on her most pitiful expression and added, "I don't want to come between you and Chris. Please don't get me wrong, okay?" "Let go of me," Stephanie said. Her face twisted in disgust as Olivia touched her wrist. She tried to pull away, but Olivia yanked her hand back forcefully. Slap—the sound echoed, like a piece of fat falling from a great height. Clearly, it wasn't a gentle drop. Stephanie rolled her eyes, barely registering what had just happened. But then, from a distance, she heard Chris's enraged voice. "Stephanie!" Finally, it clicked for Stephanie—the drama queen was just putting on a show for her favorite audience. Stephanie glanced down at Olivia, still acting her part, before looking over at the nearby fountain. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as she stalked toward Olivia, grabbing her hair in one quick motion. Olivia screamed in pain, "Ah—!" With a sharp jerk, Stephanie dunked Olivia's head into the icy cold water. The shock of the freezing water hit Olivia like a ton of bricks, and she began to thrash around in panic. But Stephanie was relentless, her grip firm as she held Olivia under. If Olivia wanted to play the victim and make her look bad, Stephanie was more than willing to give her a performance she wouldn't forget. "Help! Ah—!" Olivia screamed as Stephanie briefly pulled her up for air. Before Olivia could even take a full breath, Stephanie shoved her head back into the water. Chris, now running toward them, finally reached the scene and shouted, "Stephanie, stop!" Olivia, gasping and choking, felt like her lungs were about to explode. Her hands flailed wildly. Chris reached them, shoved Stephanie aside, and pulled Olivia out of the water. Olivia, drenched and coughing violently, struggled to speak. Chris, full of concern, looked at her. "Are you okay?" Olivia gasped for air, her chest burning. "I... I... wheeze." Her eyes were cloudy with pain, and she was barely able to form words. Chris's expression hardened, his eyes narrowing as he glared at Stephanie. Stephanie, unfazed, took two swift steps forward and without hesitation, stomped down on Olivia's ankle. Olivia screamed in agony. "Argh—!" Chris roared, fury radiating off him. "Stephanie!" He shoved her away again, his hands shaking with rage. But Stephanie wasn't phased. She raised her small purse and threw it straight at Chris's head. The impact made Chris stagger back, momentarily dazed, but his rage only grew stronger. He couldn't believe how rude and brutal Stephanie had become. Before Chris could react, Stephanie lunged at Olivia again, kicking her in the leg. Olivia, already struggling from the water, felt a sharp pain shoot through her leg as it started to swell. Chapter 4 Blocking Catlin After the chaotic, mud-slinging fight, a crowd quickly gathered, eager to see how it would all play out. Kevin struggled to drag Stephanie away from the scene. Olivia's face contorted in pain, her eyes brimming with tears as she glanced at Chris. "Chris, I..." Chris's face twisted into a mask of rage. He barked at Kevin, still holding on to Stephanie. "Get her out of here—now!" Stephanie yanked at Kevin's grip, but he wasn't about to let go. It was the first time he'd realized just how strong she was—he could barely hold her back. "Come on, Miss Giovanni, let's go," Kevin urged. That's when Stephanie suddenly remembered something. "My bag! My bag," she rushed to say. The bag she'd used to hit Chris was lying next to him. In a fit of fury, Chris grabbed it and hurled it at her. Kevin snatched it out of the air just in time, shoving it into Stephanie's arms. "Got it, let's go." Finally, the chaos started to settle. Kevin managed to drag Stephanie to the car, planning to take her home, but she wouldn't have it. She didn't want to be anywhere near Chris—or anything related to him—so she drove off by herself. Chris, still dazed from the blow to his head, stood frozen for a moment. When his mind finally clicked back into place, his eyes landed on Olivia—her hair a mess and her leg swollen. His anger toward Stephanie flared up even more. Without hesitation, he scooped Olivia up into his arms. "I'm taking you to the hospital." Tears welled up in Olivia's eyes as she nodded weakly. She looked utterly broken. Seeing her like that, Kevin rushed to bring the car around. But when he reached the spot where they'd parked, the car was gone. "Miss Giovanni took the car," Kevin said, his voice full of frustration as he stood behind Chris. Kevin had planned to drive Stephanie, but she'd been quick—and now she was gone in the car. Chris's face darkened even more. Noticing Chris's growing frustration, Kevin quickly added, "I'll grab another car from the garage." Without waiting for a response, Kevin dashed off—he had to get the keys from the office first. * As Stephanie waited for the light to change, her phone buzzed. She picked it up and saw it was a call from her mother, Catlin Hart. Without wasting any time, Catlin snapped, "Come home tonight. We need to talk." Stephanie took a sip of water, her voice flat. "Can't. I'm busy." In reality, she wasn't busy at all, but she knew exactly what Catlin wanted to talk about—and she didn't want to hear it. Catlin's voice, now tinged with annoyance, cut through. "Busy? With what? You haven't even been trying with Chris." Stephanie felt a jolt of bitterness rise in her chest. She was Catlin's daughter, but there was no love in the relationship—Catlin didn't hate her, but affection was never there. "So you sent Olivia to take care of him instead?" Stephanie shot back. A brief silence hung on the line. Stephanie knew exactly what Catlin was after. Her fallout with Olivia two years ago was still fresh. If Olivia hadn't left back then, she'd probably be sitting in a jail cell right now. Now that Olivia was back, Chris and the Hart family were clearly worried Stephanie would stir things up again. Catlin must've realized she couldn't pretend anymore. Her voice softened slightly. "That's all in the past, Stephanie. You need to let it go." It was getting cold. The half-open window let in a sharp gust of wind, and Stephanie felt the chill sweep across her neck, biting into her skin. For a moment, she almost forgot the cold. She let out a bitter laugh, then spoke again, her voice laced with irony. "Catlin, I almost died in that car crash. It's only been three years. Remember what I looked like when they brought me back?" She'd spent two whole months in a hospital bed after they pulled her out. Olivia had been the mastermind behind the crash. She feared that if Stephanie returned to the Hart family, she'd take everything that was rightfully hers. The crash had been meant to end Stephanie's life, to make sure she never came back. Now, Catlin, Stephanie's own mother, was blaming her—the victim. Catlin's voice came through, cool and dismissive. "That wasn't her fault, Stephanie. Stop holding so much malice toward her." Stephanie tossed her empty water bottle into a nearby trash can, landing it perfectly. She took a deep breath, her voice snapping out, fast and sharp. "She says I'm malicious toward her, and you believe her? If you trust her so much, why do you still need me, your own daughter? "Just pretend I'm not your daughter, okay? Or better yet, I'll block your number right now." Catlin was fuming now, "Stephanie! Can't you just calm down? You always lose it when we talk about this!" Every time Olivia came up, this was how it went, and Catlin was beyond fed up. After more scolding, Catlin finally got to the real point, her tone changing as if she had a trump card ready. She said, pitifully, "You've always had issues with Olivia, but that's in the past now. You need to change your attitude. She's sick, Stephanie. Really sick." Stephanie snorted. "She's sick, so I'm supposed to delay my wedding to Chris, and Chris has to keep taking care of her, right?" Stephanie didn't care about Chris, but the humiliation she felt was undeniable. Now Catlin's argument sounded even more absurd, and Stephanie couldn't help but throw in a cutting remark. Catlin's anger flared. "She and Chris grew up together. She's can't hang on much longer without him." Then, as if she could read Stephanie's mind, she softened. "Don't worry, Stephanie. In the end, Chris will marry you. For now, let's focus on Olivia's illness, okay?" Stephanie nearly rolled her eyes. They were treating Olivia like a queen, and now they wanted her to step aside too. She was so close to losing it. Catlin noticed her silence. "Did you hear me?" Stephanie just felt nauseous. The more Catlin spoke, the worse she felt. Too tired to argue, she hung up. And, just like that, she blocked Catlin's number. Truth be told, she'd blocked Catlin countless times before. But somehow, every time, Catlin's number mysteriously unblocked itself without explanation. Chapter 5 Dealing With The Fornicators Stephanie made her way back to Cloudridge Valley, the place that still felt like home. As soon as she stepped into the elevator lobby, she spotted Ella sitting on the couch, looking up from her phone. When Ella saw her, she shot up and rushed over, pulling her into a hug. "Girl, all men are pigs. Tomorrow, I'll introduce you to someone way better." Stephanie gave a tired nod. "Sure." Ella expected Stephanie to lash out, but instead, she seemed strangely calm—like the whole thing with Chris hadn't even fazed her. Ella pulled back, giving her a quick once-over. When she noticed bloodstains on Stephanie's clothes, her eyes widened. "Wait, what? That's blood? Did you get hurt?" She rushed over to check. Stephanie glanced down and saw a few spots of blood on her beige coat. With a nonchalant smile, she shrugged. "Easy. They're not mine." Ella blinked, confused. "Whose is it, then?" Her voice was laced with concern. Stephanie replied coolly, "Don't know. Maybe Olivia's or Chris's." Ella's eyes went wide. "What?" Stephanie, noticing the worry in her friend's face, casually explained, "Yeah. I taught Olivia and Chris a lesson." Ella's eyebrows twitched when she heard Stephanie's calm response. She was in awe of how efficiently Stephanie had handled everything. Ella had just run into Chris and Olivia at the hospital that morning and told Stephanie about it. Now, not even half a day had passed, and Stephanie had already dealt with them. She couldn't help giving her a thumbs-up. A mischievous grin spread across her face as she teased, "I know a short fuse can get you in trouble, but when it comes to jerks like them, you need a temper like yours." What those two had done was outrageous—so much so that even Ella couldn't hold back her anger. And she wasn't the one who'd been betrayed. Ella had thought Stephanie would cry and whine about Olivia, but instead, she didn't shed a tear. She'd taken action and handled things herself. Ella didn't fully get how Stephanie had pulled it off, but she was glad to see her handling it so well. She knew Stephanie wasn't usually this fiery—it was just that Olivia had a way of pushing her buttons, making her lose control. Ella glanced at her phone, a playful gleam in her eyes. "Don't head upstairs just yet. Let's grab something to eat. It's already past noon." Stephanie nodded. "You took the afternoon off?" Ella flashed a grin. "Nuh, I left early. Still gotta to get back to work after lunch." With Stephanie's wedding coming up in just a week, and everything going on, Ella worried she might start overthinking things. They wandered around the street for a while before heading into a nearby restaurant. Stephanie struggled with her steak, poking at it as she muttered, "Let's not get this next time. It doesn't taste that great." She wasn't a fan of bland food—Ella knew that well. Ella, on the other hand, was devouring her meal, not even slowing down to chew properly. She mumbled between bites, "I don't have time for that today, but I'll take you to a Mexican place next time." Lunch during the workday was usually quick and no-nonsense for most people. Ella paused for a second, swallowed, then asked, "So what's the plan with Chris?" At the mention of his name, Stephanie's steak suddenly tasted even worse. She put down her knife and fork with a sigh, wiping her mouth before turning to Ella. "Can you help me issue a statement? I want to announce that we're canceling the wedding." Ella froze. Her fork hovered in mid-air as she processed the request. After a beat, she asked, "Your families are okay with this?" She could hardly believe it. Just hours ago, Stephanie was dealing with Olivia, and now she was already making moves with the families? Stephanie shrugged, the casualness in her voice at odds with the weight of what she was saying. "I don't need their approval." Ella raised an eyebrow, surprised by the response. But after a moment of thought, she realized it made sense. That was the truth. They didn't need anyone's approval. The engagement with Chris had never really been Stephanie's choice in the first place. The Ashford family knew Olivia wasn't really the Hart family's biological daughter—she was born to a maid, a secret they'd kept hidden for years. The Ashfords had wanted to call off the engagement from the start. But the Hart family had been desperate. They relied on the Ashfords for several major business deals, and losing that connection could be disastrous. So, Catlin and Chad Hart had quietly arranged everything with Stephanie. Two years ago, when Stephanie and Olivia had fallen out, Chris had unexpectedly stood by Stephanie's side—a major shift from his usual behavior. After Olivia was sent away, Chris had pampered Stephanie, treating her like she was the most important person in the world. Back then, Stephanie thought he'd finally seen through Olivia's true colors. But now, Chris's shift back toward Olivia made it crystal clear. Two years ago, he had been kind to her only to keep her close, in line. After all, Stephanie had sworn to put Olivia behind bars, and she had the evidence to make that happen. Ella immediately grasped the complexity of the situation and muttered under her breath, "He's a total jerk." She paused for a moment, a confused frown creasing her forehead. "Wait, you knew exactly what kind of guy Chris was two years ago, right? So why the hell did you agree to get engaged to him? "And today... you went and tried on wedding dresses? Were you really planning to marry him in a week?" Ella's voice was a mix of disbelief and frustration. Stephanie didn't answer right away. When Ella asked why, her gaze dropped, and for a brief moment, her eyes seemed to darken. Why? Stephanie didn't really know. Maybe it was because they both had something to gain, or maybe they both had their own hidden agendas. In the end, Stephanie just waved her hand dismissively and muttered, "Enough with this. Just make sure to include the pictures of him and Olivia at the hospital when you post the statement." Ella noticed that Stephanie wasn't in the mood to elaborate, so she let it go. What mattered more to her was how Stephanie felt about all of this. Once she realized that Stephanie wasn't as in love with Chris as everyone had assumed, her worries started to ease. Ella thought for a moment, then gave a determined nod. "Alright, I'll post it right now." She grabbed her phone with purpose. Ella had once been a professional reporter for a major newspaper, and she still ran several accounts with millions of followers. The Ashford family was one of the top elite families in Long Harbor, so Chris's wedding had been under constant public scrutiny. Ella wasn't about to let this slip through her fingers. She carefully crafted the announcement, making sure to get every detail right. She knew that if she didn't handle this carefully, Stephanie could end up taking all the heat. Half an hour later, the internet exploded. The first story quickly took over the local headlines: "The Hart family's adopted daughter returning, spotted with the Ashford heir at a hospital." Another one followed shortly after: "Miss Hart announces cancellation of wedding to Mr. Ashford!" These two stories took over the local news, throwing the spotlight back on the scandal from two years ago—the adopted daughter and the real heiress. People hadn't forgotten the drama, and now, it was being thrust back into the public eye. Almost immediately, Stephanie's phone started ringing off the hook. Chapter 6 Black Card Ella watched as the screen of Stephanie's phone flickered, the constant barrage of calls taking its toll. In just a few minutes, the phone had been ringing nonstop. Ella couldn't help but suggest, "Why don't you just turn it off?" Stephanie glanced at the phone, frustrated. Blocking the numbers wasn't doing much anymore—every call was from an unknown number. Stephanie didn't even need to answer to know that Catlin was behind this, probably calling from one of their maids' phones. She sighed, clearly irritated. Ella was right. Stephanie accepted her advice and turned off the phone. But Catlin's punishment didn't stop there. Stephanie stayed with Ella for a while, trying to calm down. After a few moments, they both got ready to leave. When it was time to pay, the waitress walked over with a strange expression, hesitating slightly before saying, "Sorry, Miss, your card was declined." Stephanie's eyes flickered to the card she had grabbed randomly from her wallet. She remembered—it was the one Catlin had given her when she first returned to the Hart family, years ago. Back then, she hadn't wanted it, but Catlin had insisted. Now, the card wouldn't go through. Ella, noticing the exchange, quickly pieced things together. "Anything wrong?" Stephanie sighed deeply. "Catlin froze my card." Ella's lips twitched in disbelief. "Because of Olivia? What kind of mother does that to her own daughter?" Ella couldn't hide her disgust. She was appalled by how some people would treat their children this way. Stephanie gave a nonchalant smile, clearly used to this. "It's not the first time." Ella gently pushed Stephanie's hand away from the card. "Let me." Without waiting for a response, she pulled her own card from her bag and handed it to the waitress. Stephanie immediately protested. "No, I got this." But Ella insisted, her tone firm, and the waitress walked away with the card. Once they were back in the car, Ella was fuming. "I'll transfer $50,000 to you. Don't let them push you around." Stephanie felt a warmth spread through her. For once, someone was standing up for her. She sighed, trying to brush it off. "It's okay, I really do have the money for myself." Ella shot her a skeptical look. "How? You don't even have a job. The Hart family's a bunch of animals. I'm going to give them a piece of my mind." Ella's anger was practically radiating off her. Stephanie paused, thinking carefully, and then decided to come clean. "I really do have money. Well, it's a long story." She hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. The truth wasn't exactly simple. Despite spending the last couple of years with Chris, she wasn't entirely dependent on him or the Hart family. Ella waved her off, unimpressed. "Fine, I trust you, but take this 50,000 anyway." Stephanie's been with Chris these past few years. Any money she has is probably from the Hart family. She couldn't have real cash. Ella couldn't shake her doubts. Stephanie, practically begging her to stop insisting, said, "Really, I don't need it." Ella shot back, "I'm just saying..." No matter how much Stephanie argued, Ella was determined to believe she didn't have anything of her own. Finally, to prove her wrong, Stephanie dragged Ella to a mall and bought a bunch of things worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Ella's disbelief began to fade. When she saw the black card Stephanie had used, her eyes widened in surprise. "Where'd you get this black card? Who gave it to you? Chris?" Now, the only person Ella could imagine giving her a card like that was Chris. Stephanie stared at the card she had pulled out earlier, her mind momentarily blank. A wave of emotion surged through her as memories flooded back. She swallowed before answering, "Chris? No way." Chris had never been that generous with her. Ella's eyes widened, and she quickly asked, "Then who gave it to you?" Since it wasn't Chris, and it couldn't possibly be from the Hart family. Ella's mind started racing. She worried that her friend might be involved in something illegal or mixed up with shady people. "Who is this generous guy?" Ella asked, tapping her chin thoughtfully, a playful but concerned look on her face. A soft, distant expression crossed Stephanie's eyes as she thought about the owner of the card, but she didn't answer. Instead, she grabbed Ella's hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. "Let's go." Without saying anything else, they walked out of the mall together, their bags in hand. *** After parting ways with Ella, Stephanie made her way back to Cloudridge Valley. She'd barely stepped through the door when she ran straight into Chris, who was standing in her way, blocking her entrance. Chris looked furious. He glanced at his watch, irritation radiating from him. He'd been waiting for two full hours. "Why did you turn off your phone?" His voice was tight with anger. Stephanie shot back with a clipped, "It was annoying." A month ago, Chris hadn't cared about her well-being at all. But today, all of a sudden, he was bombarding her with calls—because of Olivia, no less. Stephanie reached for her keys to open the door, but before she could even unlock it, Chris grabbed her wrist. "Stephanie!" His voice was low and forceful. She glared at him, her eyes cold as ice. With a sneer, she bit back, "Your true love's in the hospital with no one by her side. How pathetic." The mention of "true love" hit a nerve with Chris, only fueling his anger. His grip on her wrist tightened as his teeth clenched in frustration. "We need to talk," he growled. Stephanie didn't even flinch. "No need." With one swift motion, she yanked her wrist free and tried to slam the door in his face. But Chris was faster than she expected, his arm shooting out to stop the door from closing. In the blink of an eye, he was about to push his way inside when Stephanie kicked out, aiming straight for his groin. Chris hadn't anticipated the force of her kick. He stumbled back, shocked, and yelled, "You vicious woman!" He twisted his body just in time to avoid the hit, but it pulled his arm out of the doorframe. That was enough for Stephanie to try and slam the door again. Chris was quicker this time. He grabbed the door just before it slammed shut and shoved his way inside. Stephanie glared at him, her voice as frosty as her expression. "I suggest you leave now." Chris was panting with anger, his words dripping with venom. "I swear you'll regret this." For the first time, Stephanie let her true violent side show. She was nothing like the delicate, obedient woman Chris had once known. Chapter 7 Where Did She Get The Money? Chris walked over to the couch and sat down, pulling out a cigarette from the pack as though it was second nature. But before he could light it, Stephanie stepped forward without hesitation, snatched it from his hand, and tossed it into the trash. Chris's face darkened immediately. "What the hell are you doing?" This was the first time anyone had dared treat him this rudely—especially a woman. When he was with Olivia, no matter what he wanted, Olivia never questioned him. She just went along with whatever he said or did. Stephanie clapped her hands together and shut the trash can lid with a soft thud. "Sorry, I just don't like the smell." Chris stood frozen, his mouth hanging slightly open as if he hadn't fully processed what had just happened. Countless memories of Stephanie's gentle side flashed through his mind, but they all shattered when he saw the cold, indifferent expression on her face. In the end, Chris decided to let it go—for now. His thoughts drifted to the two major news stories that had broken that morning. The Ashford family's phone lines were probably about to get flooded. His tone softened, almost as if he were trying a new approach. "The news today... was it Ella who sent it out?" When Stephanie had first mentioned calling off the wedding, Chris hadn't believed her at all. He'd just thought it was another tantrum. But this time? It seemed like she had actually gone too far. Stephanie didn't answer. She walked over to the fridge, pulled out a small piece of cake, and started eating it as if the conversation didn't matter anymore. Stephanie hadn't eaten enough during her steak meal at lunch, and after two hours of shopping with Ella, her stomach was practically growling. Chris watched her, his frustration bubbling up. She acted like he wasn't even there, and it was pushing him to the edge. He reached for the fridge door and shut it with a slight thud. "The wedding's supposed to be between the two of us," he said, his voice tight with annoyance. "Why do you have to make it a public spectacle?" He could deal with her venting in private, but this drama she was stirring up in front of everyone? That was another story. Chris paused for a moment, his mind spinning as he tried to find a reason to forgive her, something, anything, to make sense of it all. Suddenly, Stephanie let out a small laugh, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Are you serious? Do you really think the wedding is just between the two of us?" If only it were that simple. She almost wished it were. Things would be so much easier. Stephanie shot him a cold, dismissive look and added, "Either way, even if I keep it quiet, someone else will spill the beans. It's better if I take control of the narrative." Chris froze. He immediately understood who "someone" was. He couldn't help himself. "You shouldn't always think so badly of Olivia," he said, his tone defensive. Stephanie smirked and took a spoonful of cake, popping it into her mouth like she didn't have a care in the world. "If she wasn't so bad, why'd you have to kick her out of the country for protection two years ago?" Chris immediately clamped his mouth shut. His face flushed red, like someone who had just swallowed a fly. The events of two years ago were a sore spot for him—a part of his past he rarely mentioned. He had almost buried it completely. But now, with Stephanie bringing it up again, his expression darkened. "That was different," he muttered through clenched teeth. "You were relentless back then. If Olivia hadn't left, I'm afraid you would've really sent her to prison." Stephanie took another leisurely bite of cake, barely looking at him. "Yeah, I would've." Chris's face turned darker with anger, but he was careful not to let it show too much. He couldn't lose his temper now—not yet. Thinking back to everything that had happened, he couldn't help feeling disgusted by Stephanie. It was because of her constant outbursts that she was stuck in this mess with the Hart family. But then he reminded himself—now wasn't the time to press her. He still needed the wedding to happen. Chris's expression softened slightly, trying to regain some control over the situation. "Olivia's just sick. Once she gets better, we'll send her away." Stephanie gave him a cold, piercing glance but didn't say a word. Chris continued, pushing his point. "Your parents won't let you keep causing a scene. If this keeps up, it'll only make your life harder." He knew exactly how much leverage the Hart family had over her. He could already predict it—if things had gone as expected, her card was probably frozen by now. Looking around the house, Chris shifted the conversation. "How long's the rent on this place been paid? When's the next payment due?" He remembered that this house was one Stephanie had rented after leaving the Hart family. Cloudridge Valley wasn't cheap. The unit she was living in probably cost at least ten thousand a month. His point was clear: She didn't have the luxury of acting on a whim. Unexpectedly, Stephanie, still holding her spoon, leaned back in her chair and replied, "You should leave now." Chris's eyes narrowed, his face darkening even further. Before he could say anything else, his phone vibrated in his pocket. He glanced at the screen. It was Olivia calling. Without moving away from Stephanie, he answered. "Olivia." Stephanie had more or less figured out Chris's mindset. He probably believed that in a marriage, the person who needed help had no right to demand respect. But she also thought Chris was incredibly dim-witted. He claimed not to want to break up with her, but here he was, shamelessly answering calls from a third party right in front of her. This time, as she started to cause a scene, Chris's true nature was exposed. For two years, he'd been wearing a facade, but now, in front of her, he had just ripped it off. She didn't catch what was said on the other end of the line, but Chris stood up, his face stiff. "Don't worry, I'll be there soon." After hanging up, he finally turned to face her. His eyes flicked over her face, which was neither a smile nor a sneer. He sighed, his tone sharper. "What I said earlier—think it over. No matter how much of a scene you make, you can't steal the spotlight. Everyone will be focused on Olivia's illness right now." His attitude was clear: he was warning her that causing a spectacle was pointless. Stephanie didn't respond. Instead, she walked over to the entrance, casually picking up the shopping bags she'd gotten with Ella earlier. The bags were all from high-end brands, the kind that screamed luxury. Chris stared at them for a moment, his brow furrowing in confusion. He double-checked, hesitated, then asked, "You still have money to go shopping?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and curiosity. He'd assumed the Hart family would punish her for causing trouble, but these bags seemed to tell a very different story. He knew all too well how the Hart family operated. Every time Stephanie stepped out of line, they'd freeze her credit card for ten days—or even half a month—just to remind her that she depended on them. If they cut her off, she'd have nothing. Stephanie shot him a look, her expression unfazed. "Yeah, I've got money to shop. What's the problem? Call the police, arrest me if you want." Chris blinked, completely taken aback. His mouth opened and closed, but no words came out. He'd never realized before just how good Stephanie was at infuriating him.	LEARN_MORE	https://website.novelbars.com/share/middle_new/qts	Novelbar	https://www.facebook.com/61563955556860/	766	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	website.novelbars.com	VIDEO		https://website.novelbars.com/share/middle_new/qts1dd2vcvjslblfnjrm010v?campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480995816_997327602459098_7871278248468446664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kuQvs_SIlQAQ7kNvgHIdQmj&_nc_oc=AdjzdXeIkjaQUbsAiQFVGBD8yqtcVDsOUxkTk9SPZ2BQMW6uBCR98oJNGIWvP33rAT8XKjVEeyvoKDHRfdfqwAj3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AyjbXEE3J6IwnrgXBE-aFBT&oh=00_AYDWIhzz18XsWw-zkOm5oMSNEdAOjxvjcKUvrRJarWUayQ&oe=67C727B2	PERSON_PROFILE	Novelbar	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
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2,707,485	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	😍Click to continue reading	I never thought I’d see him again. As I step off the bus, the scorching sun beats down on me. The heat here is unbearable, with not even the slightest breeze to offer relief. I already miss the places I've come to call home over the years. Grabbing my suitcase from the driver—who’s been eyeing me with a mix of disinterest and impatience—I flash him a polite smile, take my bag, and turn away without another glance. The bus station is smaller than I remember. I push through the crowd, scanning the faces around me, searching for my aunt. I’ve moved around more times than I can count—first with my mother, and then, after she passed away, with my aunt, who took me in along with her mate and daughter. Constantly relocating wasn’t a choice; it was a necessity. Someone was always after me. My aunt was insistent that I return to this town, though I still don’t understand why. This place holds nothing but bad memories for me—especially since he is here. I refuse to say his name. He abandoned my mother and me when I was just ten years old. I watched her heart break a little more each day, while he never once looked back. He was too caught up in his pack, too in love with his own life to remember the daughter he left behind. So why did my aunt want me back here? She and my cousin Eleanor have settled in this place, but I made it clear—I would only return if it was a matter of life and death. And now, I’m back, trapped in a town that will no doubt become my personal hell. “Sierra, OVER HERE!” I hear her before I see her. Turning to my left, I spot my aunt waving frantically, bouncing on her toes to get my attention. I force a smile and start making my way toward her. As I walk, my senses sharpen. I can feel the weight of several eyes on me, curious and assessing. This town is a werewolf town. There are humans here, but my aunt told me they’re aware of the supernatural. Two packs live on the outskirts of town, sitting on opposite ends. One of them is his pack. And from what I’ve heard, they roam freely here. This is going to be interesting—a panther shifter living in the middle of werewolf territory. “Auntie,” I greet her with a smile, stepping closer. She groans at the word, her expression shifting immediately. “Sierra, you know I hate being called that.” I chuckle. “Sorry, Raven.” I pull her into a hug, feeling some of the tension ease from my body. “How was the trip?” she asks, taking my bag from me as we head toward the exit. “It was fine. First a plane ride, then a twelve-hour bus ride. There were a few stops along the way, so I got to stretch my legs. But I didn’t mind—I’m used to it. I also made sure no one was following me,” I add, glancing over my shoulder. That’s when I notice the bus driver handing off his keys to another driver. Both of them are staring right at me. I sigh. “If one more person keeps staring, I swear I’ll rip their throats out,” Aria growls in my mind. She’s my panther counterpart—always on edge, always ready for a fight. My mother was a panther shifter, just like me, just like Raven and Eleanor. “Why is everyone staring at me?” I mutter, uneasy. Aria steps forward in my mind, scanning the area through my eyes. Raven smirks. “Well, it’s not every day a stunning twenty-year-old woman rolls into town.” I snort. “Yeah, right. There must be plenty of girls here. But you know what I mean.” I catch two elderly women watching me. The moment I meet their eyes, they quickly look away—but one of them seems to be mind-linking someone. “I bet she’s telling her Alpha that someone new is here,” Aria muses, stretching lazily before retreating to the back of my mind. Raven studies me, lowering her voice. “Be careful when Aria comes forward. Your eyes shift color slightly.” I nod. “We’ll talk more in the car.” We exit the bus station and head toward the parking lot, Raven leading the way to her small Toyota. Just as we approach, a black Mustang screeches to a stop right in front of her car. Raven groans. “One Alpha too many,” she mutters under her breath. “Be nice, Sierra.” The driver steps out first, his gaze flicking to me before he opens the rear door. Two young men climb out, looking to be around my age. Then it hits me. A familiar scent—one I haven’t smelled in years. I stiffen as a low growl escapes me before I can stop it. I know that scent. He’s not my father. But he smells just like him. Which means... He must be his son. Chapter 2 Sierra I have a brother—or at least, someone who seems to be my age. "You must be Raven’s niece, Sierra. My name is Dane. I’m the Beta of the Dark Valley Pack, and this here is Caleb, our Gamma. We wanted to introduce ourselves," Dane said. I stared at him, unimpressed. His Alpha was either too busy or just didn’t care enough to find out who I was. "Yeah, that’s me. Now, can you move your car so we can leave?" I said through clenched teeth. Raven looked like she wanted to slap me but managed to restrain herself. "Sierra," she warned. "My apologies, we didn’t realize this was your car," Dane said, clearly lying. Raven had been living here for months, and they had to know. "Cruz, could you move the car to a parking spot, please?" The driver, Cruz, nodded, got back into the car, and drove it into a space on the opposite side of Raven’s vehicle. "Better?" Dane asked with a smug smile. "Yeah, I guess," I said with a hint of irritation. "Raven, can we go now? I’ve been awake for over twenty-four hours, and I’m exhausted." I let out a fake yawn for emphasis. Raven smirked, knowing full well I was just trying to get out of this conversation. "Of course, Sierra. Beta, Gamma, was there anything else you needed?" she asked while placing my bag in the back seat and loading my suitcase into the trunk. Both men looked at me, and I noticed Caleb seemed to be mind-linking someone. "He’s linking the Alpha," Aria, my wolf, murmured from the back of my mind. She had been watching everything unfold through my eyes, clearly amused. After a few seconds, Dane turned back to us, his expression unreadable. "No, nothing else. Oh, actually—one thing. We’ll be stopping by the café later to pick up the cakes we ordered for the ceremony." "No problem. They’ll be ready by the time you come to collect them. I hope the new Alpha has a great welcome-home party," Raven said. "Oh, he will," Dane replied with a cocky grin. I shuddered, my thoughts immediately going to all the crude things he could be implying. But then he caught me off guard. "You two should come," he said. Raven glanced at them before shaking her head. "I don’t think so. Sierra needs to rest after her long journey," she said. I knew exactly why she was acting this way, and my blood boiled. I knew who would be at that party. "Well, the invitation stands," Dane said. Caleb looked at me carefully. "You should come to the packhouse—" "I don’t think so," I cut him off before he could finish. "You both know my father is part of your pack. I will not—no, I will never—step foot in your packhouse. So why don’t you two go do whatever it is you need to do before I throw up all over those nice shoes of yours?" I snapped. I turned to open the car door but hesitated for a second, looking back at Caleb. "Oh, and do me a favor—say hi to my father. I doubt he’ll show his face anytime soon, especially since it’s been ten years since he last saw me. So enjoy your little party, but don’t ever come near me again." Without another word, I climbed into the car and slammed the door shut. "Stupid wolves," I muttered under my breath. I sat there, waiting for Raven to get in. Glancing through the window, I saw the three of them standing there, speechless from my outburst. I hated that man. I never wanted to see the person who abandoned me. "I apologize for Sierra," Raven said as she walked to the car, opening the driver’s side door. Dane had recovered from my outburst and gave me a smug smile. "I hope she changes her mind. We don’t want any trouble," he said. Without another word, the three of them turned and walked off. Raven and I watched them go. "Stupid wolves," I muttered again. "Sierra, you need to be careful with what you say," Raven warned as she started the engine. We pulled out of the parking lot and onto the main road, driving in silence for a while. Finally, I broke it. "Raven, why did you want me here?" Chapter 3 Sierra "Raven, why did you want me here?" She sighed. "Because I wanted to see you. You’re my niece." I studied her face. I believed her, but I also knew there was more to it. "And?" I pressed. She was quiet for a moment. "Your father came into the café a few weeks ago when I first moved here. One of his pack members told him I was in town. He wanted to know how you were… and if you were coming back to live here," she admitted, stealing a glance at me. "He wants to get to know you, Sierra." I laughed dryly. "Yeah, sure. He hasn’t cared for ten years. Why now?" She shrugged. "I don’t know. I understand why you hate him for what he did to your mother and for abandoning you. I hate him too. But when I told him you’d never want to see him again… he seemed genuinely hurt." I didn’t respond. I knew Raven would let me make my own choice about this, but as far as I was concerned, that man was dead to me. "Sierra, you don’t know the full story of why he left," she said softly. I turned to her, my expression blank. The problem with that? I did know why he left. And I knew exactly what had made him do it. Either Raven didn’t know, or she believed whatever lies he had told her. Trying to change the subject, I asked, "Who’s the new Alpha? Why are they throwing a welcome-home party for him?" She hesitated before answering. "His name is Damon. He’s the Alpha’s son. He’s been away for the past few months, training with neighboring packs," she said. "Before he left, he came into the café every day. You’ll probably see him around soon enough." I didn’t want to see anyone—especially not an Alpha. I let the conversation drop and turned to stare out the window. The town was surrounded by dense forest, but the houses were built close together. After a few minutes, Raven pulled into the driveway of a small terraced house. It looked normal enough. The houses were near the forest, making it easy for wolves to shift and run freely. "We need to shift soon. It’s been too long," Aria murmured in my head. As I stepped out of the car, I suddenly felt like someone was watching me. "Aria, do you sense anyone?" I asked, keeping my back straight. "I don’t know, but I don’t like it here," she admitted. "Something feels… off." I agreed. There was something unsettling about this place. Raven must have felt it too because she glanced behind me, her expression unreadable. "Let’s get you inside. I need to head to the café to close up," she said, grabbing my arm and leading me toward the house. Once inside, I glanced around. The living room and kitchen were open-plan, and a staircase led upstairs. Raven hesitated before locking the front door. "Everything okay?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. "Yeah… Let me show you to your room. You can shower and rest while I head to the café," she said quickly. She led me upstairs, showing me my room—which had its own bathroom. "I had this installed last week, knowing you’d be visiting. Now that you’re staying, it’ll be useful," she said with a smile. I nodded. The room was small but cozy—a far cry from sleeping on the ground or in trees. "I got everything you might need. If you need anything else, we can go shopping tomorrow. Also, do you want to work some shifts at the café?" she asked. "Yeah, sure," I said, just as my stomach growled. She chuckled. "I’ll make you some sandwiches. You should eat, then sleep." I yawned. "Thanks, Raven." As she left, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. I was too exhausted to dwell on it. Within minutes of my head hitting the pillow, sleep pulled me under. Chapter 4 Raven I can’t believe Sierra is back. I’ve missed her so much these past two years. She wanted to travel, and who could blame her? After everything she’s been through in the last decade, she deserved it. I knew the lavender and sage in her room would knock her and Aria out cold. I needed her to rest, but more than that, I needed her to be safe. He’s been outside, lurking in the shadows, watching her return home. I step outside and lock the door behind me. I know he’s still there, watching, waiting. He wants to see her. But she hates him—loathes him—for abandoning her and for what he did to her mother. As I walk down the driveway, I spot him standing to my right. “She looks just like Eden,” he murmurs. I shoot him a cold, hard glare. No matter that he’s Sierra’s father—what he did was unforgivable. I don’t like him either, not after everything he put my sister through. “You shouldn’t be here. She doesn’t want to see you,” I say flatly. “By the way, she met your son. He wanted to come to the party tonight, but she shut that down real quick.” My voice drips with venom. “I heard she takes after Eden—same fire in her spirit,” he says. I bare my teeth at him. “Stop saying my sister’s name. You lost the right to speak it a long time ago.” I push past him, my blood boiling. He looks wounded. “Raven, please… you know what happened,” he says, guilt thick in his voice. “I didn’t have a choice.” I whirl around, facing him head-on, my panther stirring beneath my skin, itching to tear him apart. “You have some goddamn nerve saying that. I wouldn't be surprised if Sierra knows more about what really happened than you think,” I snap. “And listen to me carefully—you need to stay away from her. She despises you. As for your so-called son, she doesn’t know him or that daughter of yours. So if I were you, I’d keep them far away from her.” He stares down at me, expression unreadable. “Raven, please... I just want to know my daughter.” I sneer, his name like poison on my tongue. “Kieran, back the hell off. I’m warning you. You, your mate, your children, and that old Alpha you chose over your own flesh and blood—stay the hell away from her. You have no idea what she’s been through.” I realize too late that I’ve said too much. His brow furrows. “What do you mean? What has she been through?” His shock is evident, though he quickly masks it. Shit. That’s not my story to tell. I turn on my heel and keep walking. The café is just around the corner from my place. “Raven, tell me, please,” he calls after me, still following. I push open the café door. It’s closing time—we’re shutting early for the ceremony. Eleanor stands behind the counter, a warm smile on her face when she sees me, but the moment she spots Kieran, her expression hardens. She hates him too. “Raven,” he says, stepping inside, “you can’t keep this from me. She’s my daughter.” I’ve had enough of this bastard. He hasn’t given a damn about Sierra for ten years. The only reason I’m even living here again is because I have to be. I spin around to face him, my patience gone. “Listen up, you worthless piece of shit. You were never in her life. I don’t owe you a damn thing. You never came back for her—not once—even after all the messages I sent you. You are not, and will never be, her father,” I hiss. “I had to raise her and Eleanor on my own, you jackass, with no help from you. You want to know Sierra? Then come here and talk to her yourself. Or better yet, wait until she actually wants to talk to you—which, let me tell you, will be never.” I can feel the shame radiating off him, but before I can lay into him further, the door swings open. His son, Dane, walks in with the new Alpha, Damon. Both of them take in the scene, Dane immediately sensing the tension. “Dad, what are you doing here?” he asks, glancing between me and Kieran. Kieran straightens, his jaw tightening. “Raven, what’s going on?” Damon asks, his tone authoritative. I roll my eyes. Stupid wolves. “She was just telling this asshole to get lost and never come back,” Eleanor chimes in, stepping up beside me. A low growl rumbles from Damon’s chest. “Show some respect, cat, or I’ll put you down myself,” he grits out. Eleanor lets out a soft growl of her own. “You may be the Alpha, and I may be part of this pack, but you don’t get to tell my mother what to do—especially when it doesn’t concern you,” she snaps. I don’t want her getting into trouble, but I hold Damon’s gaze. “I’m asking Kieran to leave. Now isn’t the time for this,” I say firmly. Kieran and Dane stand on opposite sides of Damon, but I have one last thing to say. “Here are the cakes for the ceremony. Take them and go,” I grind out. “And Alpha, if you ever speak to my daughter like that again, you’ll see exactly what a cat can do.” He stares at me, momentarily taken aback. I rarely let my anger spill over like this—and he knows it. He knew me before he left to train the packs. “Raven, I’m going to be the new Alpha soon. Please,” he says, as if that means a damn thing to me. I glance at Kieran and Dane. “Neither of you are welcome here when Sierra is around. You hear me?” My panther snarls, my fury barely contained. “I mean it. If you come in here and upset her, I’ll rip you apart myself.” “You can’t stop me from seeing my daughter,” Kieran says stubbornly. But before I can reply, the café door swings open again. The scent that fills the air makes my stomach drop. Kieran stiffens. Oh, hell. She’s pissed. Chapter 5 Raven "YEAH, SHE CAN," a voice snaps from behind him. I can tell she’s pissed. How the hell is she still standing after being awake for 24 hours? Kieran spins around, and his face goes pale when he sees the daughter he once knew. She’s no longer the little girl he left behind. Sierra glares at him, but before she can say anything, a low growl fills the room—"MATE." All of us turn to look at Damon. His eyes are locked onto Sierra. Oh, shit. This is not going to end well. Sierra meets his gaze briefly before striding towards Kieran and Dane, her face unreadable. “You need to back off,” she snarls. I can feel Aria trying to break through. The energy radiating from Sierra is overwhelming. Eleanor glances at her cousin and smirks. "Don't talk to—" Dane starts, but Sierra cuts him off with a guttural growl. Her eyes shift from their usual blue to a striking, glowing green. "You wouldn’t want to piss me off, brother." We all freeze, stunned. Eleanor and I have heard Aria and Sierra speak in unison before, but seeing it now is still something else. I glance at Damon, but he’s still fixated on Sierra—his mate. "What? You thought I wouldn't figure out who you are?" Sierra challenges Dane. "I recognized your scent at the station. You smell just like him." Then, she turns to Kieran. "And don’t think for a second that acting like the father I should have had is going to work. You abandoned me for ten years. So why the hell would I want you in my life now?" Kieran looks wounded. But what did he expect? I told him Sierra wanted nothing to do with him. She didn’t even know about Dane—let alone the sister she’s yet to meet. Sierra steps closer, eyes locked onto them both. Aria is close to the surface, her power amplified by Sierra’s rage. If we can feel it, I wonder if they can, too. "You’re going to listen, and you’re going to listen well," she says, voice deadly calm. "I don’t want anything to do with you or your new little family. You left me alone to survive for a decade, and guess what? I did just fine. If you ever come back, I’ll let my panther out. And trust me—she’s a hell of a lot less friendly than I am." She bares her teeth. "Now take whatever you came for and go." She strides between them and heads straight toward me. That’s when I realize—she’s still in her Minnie Mouse pajamas. She must have sensed him outside earlier. Damon hasn’t taken his eyes off her. Before anyone else can speak, Sierra turns to him. "Oh, and Alpha—I don’t want a mate." Damon lets out a deep growl. "You don’t mean that," he says, barely keeping himself and his wolf in check. Sierra shrugs. "Take it however you want. I’m only here for a few weeks, and then I’m gone." Damon stares at her, saying nothing, though the hurt in his eyes is obvious. I know why she doesn’t want a mate. There are memories—dark ones—she’d rather forget. She hates men in general, and honestly, I don’t blame her. The tension in the air is suffocating. After a long moment, I turn to Kieran and Dane. "I think you all should leave now," I say. "Oh, and don’t forget the cakes on your way out." Dane glances at me and offers a small, grateful smile, mouthing thank you. He looks like he wants to say more, but he doesn’t. Damon still hasn’t moved. He’s rooted in place, staring at Sierra. Dane finally pulls him toward the door, leading him outside to the waiting SUV. Kieran hesitates, looking like he wants to say something, but he just exhales sharply, grabs the boxes, and walks out. Eleanor holds the door open for him. Another SUV pulls up, and Kieran loads the boxes inside before climbing in. Within seconds, the vehicle disappears down the road. Dane lingers a moment longer, stepping back into the café for the last box. Sierra and I watch him from behind the counter. He stops at the door, glancing over his shoulder at us. "I know what our father did. I don’t condone it," he says. "But if possible, I’d like to get to know my older sister." Sierra lets out a low growl. Dane flinches slightly but keeps his gaze steady. "I’m sorry, Sierra," he murmurs before walking out. Eleanor shuts the door and turns back to us. "Well, cuz, I’m so glad you’re here," she teases with a smirk. Sierra walks up to her and smiles, pulling her into a hug. They both turn to look at me, but before either can speak— "How did you know?" I ask Sierra. She studies me for a second before answering. "I smelled his scent outside. It woke Aria up. But the rest? I’ve always known. I just never told you." She exhales sharply, her expression darkening. "I hate him even more now. He never came for me." The bitterness in her voice is unmistakable. I know she’s hurting. And I have no doubt that Kieran is a big reason why she refuses to accept her mate. "Well, let’s close up. You look like you should be in bed," I say with a chuckle. Sierra glances down at herself, and Eleanor notices too. They both start laughing. We move around the café, making sure everything is cleaned up—tables wiped down, chairs in their proper places, all the lights turned off. Sierra yawns. "You need rest," I tell her. She nods. "Let’s go home," she says before turning to Eleanor. "You coming? We could have one of our famous sleepovers." Eleanor grins but shakes her head. I know that’s not happening—Eleanor has a ceremony to attend with her mate. "I can’t, cuz. You need your beauty sleep," she teases. Sierra rolls her eyes, but Eleanor shoots me a knowing look. Don’t tell her about Caleb yet, Mom. I nod subtly. Eleanor only knows bits and pieces of why Sierra refuses to accept her mate, but she’s scared to tell her just yet. She has no idea how Sierra will react when she finds out. Sierra yawns again, making us laugh. "Come on, Sleeping Beauty. Time for bed," I say, leading her out of the café and toward home. Chapter 6 Damon I found my mate. But she wants nothing to do with me. I’m beyond pissed. Why doesn’t she want me? I glance at Kieran. His face is unreadable, but I know he’s hurting. He finally met his daughter, yet she rejected him outright. I don’t know the full story between them, but whatever it is, it’s bad. “I’m sorry, Damon,” he suddenly says, still staring ahead. When I turn to look at him, I notice a small, sad smile on his face. He doesn’t elaborate. “You okay, Kieran?” I ask, studying him. His expression remains blank, but I continue, “I just wanted to say sorry about what happened at the café.” He nods, and I can feel the guilt radiating off him. He’s deeply wounded. After a moment, he exhales heavily. “We need to see your father when we get back to the pack house,” he says. “But I have one request.” His voice is almost pleading. “Don’t tell him about Sierra being your mate just yet.” His words catch me off guard. Why wouldn’t he want me to tell my own father? Especially since my mate is his best friend’s daughter—well, his long-lost daughter. “Why, Kieran? He’d be happy that I found my mate,” I say, but the look on his face tells me there’s more to this than I understand. “He will be—once he knows she’s my daughter. But there are things you don’t know yet, and that’s why we need to talk to him first. We have to explain everything to you. It might help you understand why Sierra doesn’t want a mate,” he finally says. I stare at him, momentarily stunned, but I quickly regain my composure. “Alright, I won’t say anything. But Kieran… what happened to make her hate you so much?” I ask, immediately regretting it as soon as the words escape my mouth. His shame crashes over me like a tidal wave. “I hurt her mother in the worst way possible,” he confesses quietly. “And I never claimed her as my mate.” I’m speechless. “I’ll explain everything when we see your father,” he adds. I glance at the man who had trained me when my father was too busy. I grew close to his son, Dane, who’s now about to become my Beta, and his sister, Nova. They’ve been like siblings to me—we argue and fight just like real siblings do. Sierra would have made an impression on me if she’d been around. Even in those pajamas, she exuded a quiet strength. I couldn’t quite make out her figure, but I didn’t care. Those piercing blue eyes, the rich brown hair messily tied into a bun, and those soft pink lips—it all made me want her even more. When her panther stirred, her eyes glowed green, and I felt an immense power roll off her in waves. It was unnerving. There was more to her than I could see. Her emotions dictated the intensity of her energy, and at that moment, all I felt from her was pure rage. The car ride back to the pack house is quiet. It’s a long drive from town, and our driver is stuck behind another vehicle. Kieran stares out the window, lost in thought. I mind-link my father. “Hey, Dad, we’re on our way back with the cakes. There’s something you need to know. Sierra is back.” “Yeah, I heard,” my father replies gruffly. “Kieran went to see her. I take it that didn’t go well? I told him to give her a few days to settle in.” I sigh. “‘Didn’t go well’ is an understatement. She was furious. He wants the three of us to meet in your office to talk about it.” My father is silent for a beat before responding. “We need to talk. I think you should be there for all of this—you’ll be Alpha soon.” “Alright. We’ll be there in twenty minutes.” I stick to Kieran’s request and don’t mention to my father that Sierra is my mate. When we finally arrive at the pack house, we step out of the SUV. Caleb, my soon-to-be Gamma, is waiting nearby. I know why—his mate, Eleanor, nearly got herself ripped apart for disrespecting me. From the look on his face, he already knows. “Sorry about Eleanor, Alpha,” he says immediately. “She was just protecting her mother.” I nod. “I’ll apologize to her later.” He gives me a strange look. “You shouldn’t have to apologize. She’s still adjusting to our ways here. They lost their pack years ago and have been moving around ever since,” he explains, his gaze shifting past me to Kieran. “He shouldn’t have gone there,” he mutters. “I know most of what happened—Eleanor told me. It’s bad.” I stare at him, taken aback. “I’ll find out more when we talk to my father,” I say before shutting off the mind-link. Caleb nods and heads toward his house, where Eleanor is waiting. He probably misses her. Eleanor had mentioned wanting to tell Sierra something, but she wasn’t sure how her cousin would react—especially when it came to the subject of mates. There has to be a reason why she despises the idea of having one. A low growl rumbles in my head—my wolf, Cruz. “She’ll come around. We just need to take things slow with her.” I freeze. My wolf has been obsessed with finding our mate for years, but he’s never been this patient before. Normally, he’s possessive and restless. But now, he just wants what’s best for Sierra—even if that means taking our time. “What’s gotten into you? You’ve been quiet since you told me Sierra was our mate,” I ask him. Cruz is silent for a moment before sighing. “I’m being careful with her. Seeing her father after all these years made her angry. And her panther… she’s powerful. Her emotions fuel her strength, and I think her panther has her own feelings about this entire situation. We need to figure out what happened.” I nod. “You’re right, Cruz. Let’s find out exactly what we’re dealing with.” He chuckles before settling in the back of my mind, alert but waiting. Waiting to learn more about our mate. 😍Click to continue reading	LEARN_MORE	https://novel.tapread.com/overseas-h5/flow?pixelId	TapNovel	https://www.facebook.com/61570337432882/	81	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	novel.tapread.com	VIDEO		https://novel.tapread.com/overseas-h5/flow?pixelId=609517044808042&page_id=f9c4d591d039483e866c50a0983ab6d9	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482075789_2148117952257523_8409484577439689987_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BEoRjsT3RasQ7kNvgGMw8Ah&_nc_oc=AdhQITdGRcnpSxKMHQuTasv86wHGCdJHc4iM5cP9PLGkgsMIr-biRPZtXmEvwLxXtMX_oUXObpUwDlUd_5l8QrmU&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A5lK-hFfovQTF5I5AEgBfvN&oh=00_AYDIkaxFkYYkLJLCLlvpBbLvjGdQM4pixc07QvDXG2phDg&oe=67C715CA	PERSON_PROFILE	TapNovel	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,920	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706883}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"Francesca! Francesca, what are you … I mean … Francesca, how … how did you know?" Mark stuttered. "You are the lowest of the low, Mark Kirwan." She spoke in a cold, clear voice. It took her husband by surprise and he lowered his gaze, unable to meet her contemptuous stare. "How dare you treat me like dirt? How dare you come from that bimbo's bed to mine?" "Francesca, stop that," Mark snapped. "You. Don’t you tell me what to do. You liar. You sly prick. I never want to see you again." ———————— ‘I’ll ring tonight.’ Mark leaned over, pecked her perfunctorily on the cheek, got out and took his luggage from the back of the car. He didn’t look back or wave as he strode towards Departures. He’d overdone the aftershave a bit, Francesca thought as she eased herself over to the driver’s side and adjusted the seat to accommodate her shorter length. Mark spent more time on planes than he did at home. She shook her head. The joys of being an international banker. Mark glanced at his watch as he hurried towards the automatic doors to Departures. His eyes raked the monitors looking for his flight number. Delayed. Mark heaved a sigh of relief … there was a God. For the first time that morning he felt his tension ease. He was here now. He hadn’t missed the flight. He hurried over to the information desk to collect his ticket, anxious to get to Check-in. ‘Would Mr Mark Kirwan pick up a courtesy telephone, please. Mr Mark Kirwan please pick up a courtesy telephone.’ The Tannoy message echoed through Departures. Mark grinned. He knew exactly who was at the other end of the phone. Francesca leaned across the dashboard to switch the CD player on and cursed as she saw Mark’s mobile phone plugged into the recharger. He’d go ballistic without his phone. He’d been in such a tizzy this morning. It was most unusual for him, he was usually so organized about things. She sped back in a semicircle. Maybe, if the security man was sympathetic, she could park on the double yellows outside Departures and catch Mark before he went airside. She saw an airport policeman and breathlessly explained the problem to him, waving Mark’s phone to emphasize the urgency of the situation. ‘That’s OK, go on. Try not to be too long,’ the policeman said kindly as a Tannoy announcement declared that Departures was a set-down area only. Francesca gave a wry smile and ran. What was the Check-in-desk number for Brussels? She was about to stand back to look up at the big monitors when by chance she glanced over at the escalators and saw her husband’s tawny head disappear from view. Relief flooded her. Great! She called his name but he didn’t hear her. What on earth was he going downstairs to Arrivals for? she thought, perplexed, as she made her way over to the escalators. She could see Mark at the very end and was about to step on the escalator herself and call his name when her eyes widened in shock and her voice caught in her throat. A young woman had stepped forward to greet him and, to Francesca’s absolute horror, Mark wrapped his arms around her and pecked her ardently. FRANCESCA FELT THE blood drain from her face. Her heart lurched sickeningly. It was as though someone had just punched her hard in the solar plexus. She couldn’t breathe. You’re dreaming, she told herself, incredulously. She looked down again. No! It was no dream. Mark and the young woman were moving away, talking and laughing animatedly. Fear gripped Francesca. What was going on? She vaguely remembered the glamorous brunette. She worked in the Acquisitions and Mergers department of Mark’s bank. She’d seen her at a few functions but hadn’t taken much notice of her. She couldn’t remember her name. Hesitantly, she moved towards the stairs that paralleled the escalators. She took a few steps down and saw Mark and the woman striding purposefully along. They weren’t checking in for a flight to Brussels. They seemed to be heading for Area 9, the Check-in area for domestic flights. She shadowed them, loitering in O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar until they had checked in and sauntered towards their boarding area, obviously now in no rush. Francesca walked past the small queue at the desk and looked at the flight destination. Cork. Mark and the woman were on their way to Cork and she knew exactly where they were going. How could he? How could he have an affair and bring his tart to the hotel that he’d taken Francesca to, just a few weeks ago, to celebrate her fortieth birthday? But he couldn’t be having an affair. It wasn’t possible, she thought frantically, not knowing what to do. Should she follow them and confront them? She felt sick. She started to shake as shock set in. Taking a deep breath Francesca turned and retraced her steps. She needed to get to the car, needed to be alone to try and make sense of this nightmare that her life had suddenly become. Why was this happening to her? To them? How could one’s life be flowing along smoothly one minute and the next be an absolute catastrophe? How long had Mark been seeing this woman? Did he come from her bed to Francesca’s? The thought made her feel nauseous. How had he been able to keep it from her? What did this mean for their marriage? How could she tell the boys that their father was a philanderer? What was she going to do? Francesca's phone rang, Mark’s voice came tetchily down the line. ‘Francesca, it’s me. I wish you’d bring your phone with you and keep it switched on. I’ve left mine in the car, make sure to take it with you before you leave it in for a service. I won’t be able to take calls and I’ll be late getting back to the apartment so I’ll call you later. Bye.’ Francesca stared at the phone in disbelief. How dare he leave a message like that for her? How dare he rebuke her for not having her phone, he who had left his own phone in the car, and then how double dare he lie to her? Late back to the apartment. The apartment was in Brussels and he was phoning her on his way to Cork! ‘That’s it, Mark Kirwan. You’ve played me for a fool once too often. By God, that’s the end of it.’ She raced upstairs in a fury and pulled two large suitcases from the top shelf of the walk-in closet. Suits, jumpers, tracksuits, underwear, including the giveaway Calvin Kleins, went higgledy-piggledy into the cases. Shoes, trainers, anything that she could find, were dumped in until the cases were bulging at the seams. She struggled to close the zips, but her anger gave her strength and finally the cases were fastened. She inhaled deeply like a runner who has just finished a gruelling race. Her jaw jutted with a determined set. Her eyes were uncharacteristically hard. Her anger was mounting by the minute. It was time her husband found out that their marriage was well and truly over. And he was going to find out personally, from her, before this day was out. THE TRAFFIC HAD eased as she made her second journey to the airport in less than an hour. A quick phone call to the Oaklands Hotel had elicited the information that yes, Mr Mark Kirwan was booked in but had not yet checked in. The receptionist very obligingly gave her the room number when Francesca said that she’d call later. Another call to Aer Lingus strengthened her resolve when she learned that there was availability on the lunchtime flight to Cork and on the early-evening return flight. She could pay for her tickets by credit card and collect them at the airport. Francesca conducted the transaction in double-quick time. She was anxious to get under way. Now that she had decided on her course of action she was determined to carry it through. Francesca smiled at the receptionist. ‘Hello. I’m just dropping my boss’s luggage up to him in room 311. He’s expecting me. He’s checked in. Mark Kirwan?’ She looked expectantly at the smartly groomed redhead. ‘Yes, indeed. Mr and Mrs Kirwan checked in earlier. John can help you there.’ She nodded towards the young porter who was hefting the cases onto a luggage trolley. ‘John, suite 311, please,’ she instructed. The nerve of Mark! How dare he call his trollop Mrs Kirwan, how dare he dismiss Francesca’s right to the title so easily? she raged as she followed the porter into the lift. It glided silently to the third floor. ‘Just open the door, please, and put the cases inside,’ she said briskly, handing the young man a fiver. ‘Certainly, madam.’ The porter was delighted with his tip and inserted the key into the lock without further ado. With youthful vigour he deposited the cases in the hall, then departed swiftly, whistling to himself. Francesca eased the door shut and surveyed the scene. She could hear a woman’s laughter behind the door on the left-hand side. She took a deep breath, swallowed and opened the door. Mark and the woman looked over from where they were sitting, surprised. Surprise gave way to shock as Mark recognized Francesca. He paled and jumped to his feet as she walked over to the table. The woman’s eyes opened wide and her hand went to her mouth. ‘Francesca! Francesca, what are you … I mean … Francesca, how … how did you know?’ Mark stuttered as he pulled his robe tighter around him and tied the belt. Francesca stared at him. He looked so handsome and relaxed in the white towelling robe, his hair, still damp from his shower, curling against the collar. Up until now she hadn’t really believed what was happening. Had hoped against hope that it was all a big mistake. But there was no mistaking their intimacy. She was the outsider here. The shock was very physical. She felt quite dazed. It was an effort to pull herself together. But she had to. For her own pride. Pride was all that would get her through this. ‘You are the lowest of the low, Mark Kirwan.’ She spoke in a cold, clear voice. Surprisingly strong. It took her husband by surprise and he lowered his gaze, unable to meet her contemptuous stare. ‘I hope our sons haven’t inherited any of your sly, lying, cheating ways. How dare you treat me like dirt? How dare you come from that bimbo's bed to mine?’ She turned to Nikki and said icily, her eyes full of scorn, ‘Did he tell you that our marriage was over? That we weren’t making love any more? He lied. Or maybe he didn’t. Maybe you just don’t mind sharing a man. Well, I do. I have some self-respect. So you can have him … with pleasure. He’s obviously found his level in life and it’s pretty low.’ ‘Now just a minute.’ Nikki stood up, eyes glittering. She turned angrily to Mark. ‘I won’t have her say things like that about me.’ ‘Francesca, stop that,’ Mark snapped. She turned on him furiously. ‘You. Don’t you tell me what to do. You liar. You sly prick. I never want to see you again.’	LEARN_MORE	https://a.icomicapp.com/ad/ZVJlYWRlci80NDI0MTYvMjA	ICo010	https://www.facebook.com/100093538782712/	77	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.icomicapp.com	VIDEO		https://a.icomicapp.com/ad/ZVJlYWRlci80NDI0MTYvMjAyNTAyMjcxNTIzMzYvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480982272_510566298817419_4475079620682334472_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Y7gdjbqb_FkQ7kNvgFkdfC0&_nc_oc=AdgKXEKOWcjOsPdwDq8gv_CjLmCOE7ofxifywPEhC3V7dJVrk8g_cwpCE_f8Abt5OS6O_JkftkC8if_907ri2Foi&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A77LaBfyZ7asaS7SrKZnSgQ&oh=00_AYA65b_hNGigSZTBlEooznzh8xBS1bCisvpZNhsqG9VfyQ&oe=67C73728	PERSON_PROFILE	ICo010	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,866	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Addicted to You The CEO's Love👀Click to watch	She, a powerhouse sports agent CEO, has spent years cleaning up scandals for him—the NFL’s most explosive superstar. When she unexpectedly inherits his estranged grandfather’s fortune, their icy rivalry ignites. He resents needing her yet burns with conflicted desire. She hides her secret: she’s loved him through every scandal. Now, with billions at stake and buried passion erupting, can trust survive?	LEARN_MORE	https://www.dramatvshort.com/market/ad?utm_source=	DreameShort-Shows	https://www.facebook.com/100081182302764/	3,043	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	www.dramatvshort.com	VIDEO		https://www.dramatvshort.com/market/ad?utm_source=facebook_ads&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&af_c_id={{campaign.id}}&af_adset={{adset.name}}&af_adset_id={{adset.id}}&af_ad={{ad.name}}&af_ad_id={{ad.id}}&af_channel={{site_source_name}}&placement={{placement}}&ads=1029	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481054213_1134966044619334_2478025813413157959_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=siRtmCd7fy4Q7kNvgEhfQW7&_nc_oc=AdidNQkPPWb3Mdx3QD6EtVX0VH5bi2CaLlDh7n6RhFYJxHoUZ5O9WJB6vEg2O0NWP8wti3XPNcPTvtlPfqVVEUnH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AoIhAlbnaLo-abNKHye8pD-&oh=00_AYARKSt8Qu1FSQeu0kja8WqCC20x-Gzo-pCa5QEwPPxqrw&oe=67C7253E	PERSON_PROFILE	DreameShort-Shows	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,404	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706400}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔥NEW POPULAR READ🔥	Today was supposed to be the day my fated mate and I got engaged. But now I’m watching him kiss another woman. Marrying her could make him the future Alpha because she’s the daughter of Gavin Landry, the most powerful Lycan chairman in the world. A couple of months ago, our Alpha died during a battle, and now all the candidates are competing for that position, including my mate, Ethan. Everyone knows the Lycans control the werewolf population. And Gavin? He could singlehandedly appoint everyone the new Alpha. So, Ethan made his choice. Her, not me. “Get me a whiskey and a martini for the lady,” A deep voice sounded from nearby. “Is it the future bride, or the future groom that’s got you in a mood?” “I’m just not into parties,” I decided to say. “Nor am I,” he murmured. “I’m here out of obligation.” The bartender placed my drink in front of me and I immediately took a sip, sighing in contentment. I waited for it to do its job and finish numbing the pain. Every time Ethan kissed her it destroyed me a little more. How had my life taken such a devastating turn? How could my fated mate do this to me? Did our 2 years together truly mean nothing? Did the mark on my neck mean that little to him? “Thank you for the drink,” I told the man. I took one last sip of my martini and started to get down from the stool, except my blouse snagged on the corner of the counter and just as I heard a tearing sound, I began to fall to the ground. I closed my eyes, bracing myself for the impact, but it never came. Instead, I felt strong arms wrapping around my body, lifting me into the air. I opened my eyes and peeked up at the man who caught me, and my breath hitched. He was so handsome. He held me with ease as if I weighed nothing and I could tell from the feeling of his arms around me that he was muscular. He smiled down at me and a dimple appeared on his right cheek. I wanted to lick that dimple. “Madam, are you falling for me?” He asked teasingly. I stared at him for a heartbeat longer before I squinted my eyes at him, seeing what he did there. “You’re a funny one, aren’t you?” He grinned. Then he looked at my shirt and immediately frowned. “Let me take you to my suite upstairs,” he said, making my heart skip a beat. “What?” I said in barely a whisper. His eyes met mine and I got lost in their beauty for a moment. Goddess, his good looks were sinful. “Your shirt is ripped. I have one you can wear upstairs in my VIP suite,” he explained. I blinked a couple of times and gave a nervous chuckle. “Oh, alright. Thank you,” I managed to sputter. He turned to the bartender. “Charge our drinks to my suite,” he ordered. “Yes, sir.” I allowed the man to carry me out of the room. His arms were so warm that I found myself resting my head against his broad chest, breathing in his minty scent. My wolf was practically purring in my mind. She’d been quiet for most of the evening while she licked the wounds the broken mate bond had caused. But right now, it was as if she had forgotten she was heartbroken. “Take off your shirt,” he instructed once we were in the suite. He had released me and was walking to the closet. “Excuse me?” I squeaked. “So, you can put on a new shirt,” he explained. “Right,” I breathed. I lifted my ripped shirt over my head and threw it onto the bed, leaving me in only my innerwear from the waist up. Once he found a shirt, he turned around to face me, and his entire body froze as his eyes trailed down my body. I was too busy checking him out to notice him staring at me but the longer I stared at him, the more I started to recognize him. Then, realization struck me, and I gasped. “It’s you…” I breathed, taking a step back. His eyes shifted upward and met mine; his brow arched. “You know me?” He asked. “I know of you,” I clarified. The corner of his lips tipped upward as he walked towards me, slowly, as if he were stalking his prey. I could practically hear the sounds of my heartbeat. “And what do you know of me?” “Only what I’ve heard…” I admitted. “And what have you heard?” “You’re Gavin Landry, Lycan Chairman. You’re a heartbreaker. You have a new woman each week and you never sleep with the same woman twice.” He raised his brows. “Is that so?” He asked. “Tell me more about myself.” Heck, he's the father of the bride and Ethan's future father-in-law? I'm confused, I don't know what I should do. But I'm not surprised I didn't recognize him at first. The Lycan family isn't high profile, they're more used to staying behind the scenes than becoming politicians and celebrities like werewolf Alpha. Should I tell him who I am? But that would be foolish at this moment. He continued to walk towards me, and I continued to walk backward until my back hit the wall. “What more do you want to know?” I asked, my voice coming out breathy. “Everything.” I’m not sure if it was the martini speaking or me, but I decided to be bold. If Ethan can indulge himself in someone new, then so could I. I lifted my gaze to meet his as he neared closer. “Your eyes…” I started to say. “I’ve heard that they were mesmerizing, and I must agree.” “What else?” I swallowed the lump in my throat. “When you smile, you have this adorable dimple on your cheek…” I whispered. He was only inches from me now, staring so intently at me that I thought I would burn up under his scrutiny. He licked his lips, drawing my attention to his mouth. “And your lips…” Before I could finish that sentence, his mouth crashed into mine. His kiss was anything but soft and sweet but filled with hunger and possession. I kissed him with just as much eagerness. His tongue made its way to mine, tasting every inch of me. He lifted me into the air, my body pinned between the wall and him. Instinctively I wrapped my legs around his waist and allowed him to deepen the kiss. His tongue trailed down the nape of my neck and warmth spread across my body as I felt him nibbling my soft flesh. All self-control and common sense left my mind the moment we kissed. All I could think about was Gavin; he consumed my mind, body, and soul entirely. I pulled at his tie, wanting to take it and his shirt off. He helped me undo his tie and then lifted his shirt over his head, tossing it to the ground. I let my fingers explore his body; they roamed over his torso and up his broad shoulders. I moaned into his mouth as his tongue found mine again. “Are you sure you want this?” He asked between kisses. “Yes,” I rasped out. “We are both willing adults, so why not?” We kissed again and just as he was about to take off my innerwear, I received a tearful mindlink from my adoptive mother. “Judy! Please, come home!” She sounded panicked; my mother never panicked. Hearing her voice was like cold water being dumped on my head and I gasped. I let my legs fall from around him and I pressed against his chest. “Stop,” I said breathlessly. “I have to go.” He frowned. “I don’t have much patience; stop joking,” he says, a hint of anger in his tone. “I’m so sorry. But I’m sure you have plenty of other options,” I said and started to run towards the door, but he grabbed my arm, stopping me. I whirl around to face him, my own anger rushing to the surface but before I can say anything, he points to the bed. “Your shirt is ripped, remember?” I looked down at my innerwear with a frown. “Oh…” He sighed, grabbing his shirt and putting it over my head. I inhaled deeply and warmth spread throughout my body; it smelled like him. …… The moment I stepped into the house; I could hear my mother sobbing. “Judy?” My mother sobbed; I could hear that she was in the kitchen and my heart stuttered at the sound of her broken voice. “Your father was taken away by the Gammas tonight.” Chapter 2 Judy’s POV My heart fell into my stomach. “What?!” I gasped. We lived in a decent-sized house; my adoptive father, being a successful businessman and a Delta of the Redmoon pack, had a lot of money. “He was arrested,” she explained. “He made a bad investment for the company, and he ended up losing all the money. He went completely bankrupt and now he owes the pack so much money. Until he pays it, they put him in jail.” “They can’t just come and take him away like this,” I said, standing to my feet, hardly able to contain my emotions. “Without any warning? That’s not fair!” “They can do whatever they want. The Beta is under the jurisdiction of the Lycans, and it was his decision. Loan sharks are ruthless, and nobody wishes to deal with them. It’s easier to just get rid of the problem and right now… your father is the problem.” Before I could say anything more, my phone started to ring. I reached into my bag and pulled it out. I frowned when I saw the name flash across the screen. “I heard about your father,” Ethan’s voice was soft as he spoke, and my traitorous heart skipped a beat. I hated how my body responded to him still; it was because of this foolish mate bond. Even though he rejected me, and I accepted it, that didn’t mean it severed our bond. It won’t be severed until he marks someone else.“I might have a suggestion though. But I’d like to tell you in person. Come outside.” I quickly left the kitchen and walked out of the house. Ethan was leaning against his car with his arms folded across his chest. Goddess, I hated how good he looked. I had been in love with him for longer than 2 years. He was my friend, my confidant, my fated mate. When he rejected me, it destroyed everything I had dreamt of. I wrapped my arms around my body, desperately trying to hold myself together. “Why are you here?” I asked him after a long and awkward silence. “I wanted to talk to you,” he replied. “Why?” The corner of his lips tipped upwards as he stared at me; I nearly melted under his scrutiny, and I had to shift my gaze to look at the ground. “Because I can help you,” he answered. “Your father’s funding chain is broken, and he now owes a lot of money. I know for a fact that he doesn’t have that kind of money, especially now that his business has gone under. But I do.” I lifted my gaze to meet him; he was serious. “Are you saying you’d pay my father’s debt?” I asked him. He nodded. “Yes,” he answered. “And what would we have to do in return?” I asked, almost afraid to ask. He smirked, which gave me an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach. “There is a condition,” he confessed. I waited silently for him to continue, my eyes never leaving his. “After I get married, I want you to drop out of school and become my mistress.” I couldn’t have heard him correctly; I stared at him with my jaw practically on the ground. “Excuse me?” I managed to sputter. “You want me to what??” “Drop out of school and become my mistress. I already have a luxurious home for you to live in. You would never have to want for anything. I’ll pay off your father’s debt and give you more money than you could dream of.” “How… how could you ask me to do such a thing?” I asked in a choked whisper; tears threatened to spill from my eyes, but I kept them away, not wanting him to see my break. He stepped closer to me, and I felt rooted to the ground, unable to move away. My wolf was whimpering about his request; she couldn’t believe our mate could ask such a thing from us. She was gutted and I hated that she was put in this position. “Because we’ve always been so good together, Judy,” he said, reaching out and touching my arm gently. “We will always have this strong connection, even if I mark someone else. You and your family would be set for life… all you have to do is say yes…” He was rubbing his fingers up and down my arms and I felt sick to my stomach. I finally found the strength to step away from him, my body trembling. “No,” I said, meeting his eyes. “I would never become your mistress.” His eyes darkened. “I’m about to become the Alpha, Judy. You must get with the times. Becoming my mistress would only benefit you and plus, don’t you want your father out of jail?” “I will find another way,” I said through my teeth. “If that’s all you came here to say, then I’ve heard enough. You can leave.” He raised his brows as he stared at me. He studied me for a moment longer like he expected me to change his mind at any moment. “You’ll change your mind,” he told me as he stepped away from me and towards his car. “And when you do, I’ll be here. But until then, your father will remain in prison.” “I’ll figure it out,” I said to his retreating back. “We don’t need you, Ethan!” He chuckled as he opened his car door and then he turned back to gaze into my eyes. “In order to get him out of prison, you’ll need at least 5 million dollars. When you realize that there’s no other option, you’ll come to your senses. I’m sure of it.” Without another word, he got into his car. I watched as he drove away, disappearing into the night. It was only when he disappeared that I allowed myself to fall to the ground. Tears streamed down my cheeks before I could stop them. 5 million dollars? How was I going to come up with that kind of money? —————— I had two classes this morning and one later in the afternoon. My first class was warrior training, and my second class was shifting, both of which I excelled at. I was going to college for Gamma training so that once I graduated, I could prove myself to the Gamma force and become a warrior. Then I would easily be able to pay off my father’s debt and save my family. “You look terrible,” my best friend, Nan, pointed out as I sat beside her against the large Oaktree; the very tree we always met up at. “It was a rough night,” I admitted as I took out my textbook to study. “Where did you go last night? When I returned, you were gone. Did you leave early because of the engagement party?” I bit my lower lip as I thought about what to say to her. If I lied, she’d be able to see right through me. I was a terrible liar initially, but Nan could read me like a book. “I ripped my shirt, and someone brought me into his room to change,” I said, feeling my cheeks growing warm at the memory. She raised her brows, and I could barely look at her. “You went to someone’s room?” She asked. “Whose?” I was quiet for a moment, and she grabbed my arm, getting my attention. “Judy, who did you leave with?” She asked, now her voice was filled with alarm. I knew there was no getting out of this conversation. I bit my lip and peeked up at her through my lashes. “Gavin Landry,” I squeaked. Chapter 3 Judy’s POV “Shut up!” She gasped. “Are you serious?? You went to Gavin Landry’s VIP suite? As in THE Gavin Landry?!” I nearly tackled her; she was being so loud! “Keep your voice down!” I scolded, attempting to cover her mouth with my hands but she was too quick and dodged me. “How can I possibly keep it down when my best friend went to Gavin Landry’s hotel room last night and waited until now to tell me!” She exclaimed. Nan was a waitress at the hotel restaurant the engagement party was at last night. The hotel, called Carter Resorts, was in the human territory, and it was owned by Patrick Carter, the Delta of the Silver Crescent pack. Which happened to be Gavin Landry’s pack. I wasn’t surprised to see Gavin there last night, especially considering his daughter was the bride-to-be. I was less surprised to see that he had a VIP suite at the hotel. I sighed. “It all happened so fast, and I had a bit too much to drink,” I admitted. “I forgot when I got home because other stuff happened.” I wrapped my arms around my body and looked up at her concerned eyes. “What else happened?” She asked, her voice dropping to a whisper. I took a deep breath, and I told Nan everything that happened, right up until Ethan came over and asked me to be his mistress in exchange for him paying off my father’s debt. By the time I finished talking, Nan’s jaw had dropped. “The nerve of that scum!” She hissed. “How dare he! He rejected you and now he wants you to be his bit on the side?! He has zero shame.” “I’m not sure what I’m going to do, Nan,” I whispered. “There’s no way I could come up with 5 million dollars to pay off my father’s debt.” We both fell silent as our thoughts consumed us and then her face lit up. I knew that look well and it grew nervous as a smile spread across her face. I knew right away that she had an idea, and I also knew that I wasn’t going to like it. “You said that he gave you his shirt to wear?” She asked. I nodded. She gasped and grabbed my arm. “Isn’t it obvious, Judy? Gavin is into you. That’s the only reason he’d give you his shirt. He wanted his scent on you! He's very picky. In all my time as a waitress, you're the first woman he's ever offered.” I gawked at her. She had officially lost her mind. “Gavin’s not into me,” I said, shaking my head. “He gave me his shirt because mine ripped. There was nothing to it.” “Why would he even care?” Nan asked, folding her arms across her chest. “He’s Gavin Landry and doesn’t need to care about any of this. Besides, you mentioned that he kissed you heatedly. You were ready to go all the way with him, which is huge because you were planning on waiting until after you were married. There had to be some kind of connection last night.” I glanced at my hands. “Or maybe I was just hurting and wanted to get back at Ethan,” I murmured. “Plus, I had a little too much to drink.” “Drunk actions are sober thoughts or something like that,” she said, waving away my words. Then, she smirked. “You could use this to your advantage. Do you still have that lingerie you bought for your wedding night? You should pay Gavin a little visit and make him an offer he can’t refuse.” ___ I knew it was a bad idea the moment she spoke the words, but her words continued to replay in my mind for the remainder of the day and night. When I woke up the next morning, my mind was made up. I went to my closet and grabbed my red lingerie. I had only tried it on once and I felt a little self-conscious wearing it, but I knew the night of my wedding when I finally gave myself over to Ethan fully, it wouldn’t matter what I was wearing. My heart ached at the thought, and I quickly brushed it out of my head before I started to cry again. I dressed in the lingerie, and I grabbed a long trench coat, wrapping it around my body. I left my hair down and I put on a little makeup to make my features pop. For the last day or so, my mother had either been speaking on the phone to lawyers, visiting my father in prison, or in her room. I had barely seen or spoken to her since I told her Ethan wasn’t going to help us. I hated knowing I disappointed her, but hopefully, this would fix all our problems. It was no secret where Gavin’s office was; everybody knew the famous Gavin Landry Corporation. When I walked through the front door, the receptionist was typing on her computer. She barely spared me a look as I approached the desk. “Good morning, I’m here to see Gavin Landry,” I said as politely as I could. The receptionist looked upward at me and blinked a couple of times, looking less than amused. “Do you have an appointment?” “Uh, no, but—” “Look, I don’t have time for this. Countless women come in here and request to speak with Gavin and I’m going to tell you what I tell them. Mr. Landry is incredibly busy, and he doesn’t have time or patience to be dealing with another fan girl,” she said bitterly. “And what gives you the right to turn away those who come to see me?” A deep voice boomed. Chapter 4 Judy’s POV “Mr. Landry,” the receptionist said, quickly standing to her feet. She suddenly seemed disheveled, and I wanted to smirk with satisfaction, but I kept it held in. “I asked you a question, Laura,” he said, narrowing his eyes at her. “What gives you the right to send away guests? You know the protocol. You are to call my office, and I am the one who decides whether or not I will see them or not. Not you.” She swallowed and glanced at the ground as if staring directly at him physically hurt her. “Come with me.” It took me a second to realize he was speaking to me, but when I saw the receptionist glaring at me and Gavin’s retreating back, I nearly stumbled over my feet to catch up to him. He walked through a luxurious waiting room until we reached a glass elevator. It was very high-tech with a touch screen attached to it. He brought up a keypad and typed in some sequence before pressing the floor number. He stood so close to me that the elevator felt almost cramped, despite it being a wide space. I could smell his incredible minty scent, mixed in with his aftershave and my heart skipped a beat. He didn’t bother looking at me though and I was starting to doubt this plan would work. Maybe he didn’t like me as much as I thought he did. I felt awkward knowing that under this coat was nothing but lingerie. The elevator came to a halt and the doors opened. It was an extremely large space with marble flooring and granite walls. “Where exactly is your office?” I asked, staring around the gorgeous area. He glanced at me; his face kept indifferent. “This is my office.” My eyes grew large at his words. He continued walking until he rounded the corner and sure enough, there was his desk right in front of large windows that overlooked the human city. It was gorgeous and my stomach twisted with nerves. He didn’t bother sitting on his desk chair. Instead, he turned to face me, leaning against his desk and folding his arms across his chest. I swallowed the lump in my throat as I took him in. He wore a white dress shirt with sleeves rolled up halfway, showing off his incredible muscles and his dark dress pants hugged his waist perfectly, showcasing his incredible form. My wolf purred with satisfaction, and I found myself staring at him for way longer than I intended to. He cleared his throat, making me nearly jump out of my skin as my gaze shot upward and met his. He was smirking at me, as if to say, “Caught you.” My cheeks burned from the embarrassment I felt. “So, what did you come here for?” He asked, breaking the tension between us. Oh. Right. The reason I’m here. “I have a problem, and I need your help,” I said in a rush. He raised his right brow. “What kind of problem?” I cleared my throat before continuing. “My father was arrested the other night,” I blurted. “His business went bankrupt, and he owes a lot of money. Roughly 5 million dollars.” He was silent as he stared at me; I realized he was waiting for me to continue. Probably wanted to know how I needed his help. “I was hoping you’d be able to help him and maybe pay the debt for my father so he could get out of prison?” I asked, biting my lip. He was quiet for another moment, processing my request before he ran his hands over his face. “And what would I get in return for helping your family?” He asked. I swallowed the lump in my throat. Confidence: I needed confidence. I held my head up high and looked him right in the eyes. It was known as a challenge to look an Alpha directly in the eyes, even worse so looking a Lycan directly in the eyes. But Gavin wasn’t as angry as I thought he would be, instead, he looked intrigued. “Well,” I began, I dropped my voice low as I stepped closer to him. “At the party the other day, we obviously had a connection…” I felt my cheeks growing hot as I spoke those words. “And I thought maybe…” I took a deep breath and undid my coat, revealing a portion of my lingerie, but not all of it. Not yet at least. His eyes darkened as he gazed over my body, and I nearly melted under his scrutiny. I suddenly had a surge of confidence, and I reached my hand out to touch his arm. “I thought maybe I could do some favors for you in return,” I said in a sultry voice. “I’m a college student and very clean. I haven’t done it before, but I’m on birth control, so you don’t need to worry about anything.” His breathing grew heavy as he straightened his posture, closing the small gap between us. His nearness was intoxicating, and my heart started to race against my chest. His scent enveloped me, and I couldn’t remember the last time I felt this delirious. He reached his hand up and I felt his fingers glide down my cheek, sending a wave of warmth throughout my whole body. We were so close together that I thought I was going to pass out from the heat that consumed me. His eyes were dark like they were the night in the VIP suite. He swallowed hard and I watched his Adam’s apple move slightly. I closed my eyes, preparing for him to kiss me. I could feel his breath on my lips and just as I leaned in close to him, getting ready for his embrace, it never came. Instead, I felt him adjusting my coat, covering my body. My eyes flew open, and I looked at his stern expression. “Do you really think I need to pay a woman for her body?” He asked, breaking the silence. “You said it yourself that I have many options.” My cheeks flushed immediately. “I just thought—” “You thought you could use your body to pay for my help,” he said, interrupting me. “You are still young, Miss Montague. You will regret taking such shortcuts in the future.” How did he know my name? I hadn’t told him. Had he looked into me? My heart skipped a beat at the thought, but his words were slowly crushing me. He didn’t want me. I lowered my gaze, hating how hot my face was getting. I knew he could see just how embarrassed I was. When he spoke next, he softened his voice and spoke with compassion. “Look, I have a daughter,” he told me. “I would never teach her to use her body as a transaction. I want more for her and her future, and I expect better from her.” He reached his hand and caressed the nape of my neck with his fingertips; my breath hitched as I gazed into his eyes. “I expected better from you,” he added; my heart fell into my stomach and disappointment consumed me. He was right. I was better than this. I nodded my head and opened my mouth to speak, but I heard footsteps behind me. I turned to see a couple of security guards standing nearby and I whipped around to look at Gavin with wide eyes. “I’m afraid my time is up, and my patience has run out,” Gavin said, looking at me briefly before glancing at the security guards. “Accompany Miss Montague out of the building, please.” “Yes sir,” they both said. They stood on each side of me, and I stared at Gavin with shock. I didn’t fight or argue with the security guards as they told me to come with them. “Thank you for your time,” I managed to say before I turned and left the office. I wanted to cry because of the shame, but I knew more importantly I needed a new job. …. “I’m so excited we get to work together,” Nan said with a wide smile. “And you look great in that uniform.” I looked down at my uniform. I felt ridiculous in this thing; it was a short skirt and a crop top that showed way too much bosom. I felt like I was on display. Especially at night when this place pretty much turned into a club. These men are wealthy and would tip generously. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up when I was struggling for money. “That’s what friends are for,” she said, nudging my arm with hers. She looked behind me and sighed. “Looks like we are getting a group of guys. Good luck,” she said. I sighed and turned to greet the customers but then I froze when I saw who was amongst them. Ethan. Chapter 5 Judy’s POV “You were right,” I heard one of his friends saying. “She does work here. This is going to be so good.” “Hey, call girl, can we get a table, or are you just going to stare at us?” Call girl? I placed the menus on the table for them and waited for each of them to take a seat. “I’m not a call girl. Please, take your seat.” As I leaned over the table to put the beer in front of each of them, one of them grabbed my rear end. I felt my entire body freeze. “I like this little uniform on you. How about you take it off and see what’s underneath.” My entire body went hot as I stepped back from the table, forcing his hand to drop. “Do not touch me,” I said loudly to each of them. “Oh, come on, Judy. Aren’t you here to satisfy men?” Another of his friends asked. “So come here and satisfy us. Sit on my lap.” I pressed my lips together. “I’m not a call girl,” I told them for the final time. “I’m a waitress.” “You got this job because you’re hot,” one of them chuckled. “The manager didn’t care about your skills. He cared about whether or not you could flirt with the customers and make him a lot of money. I’m willing to give you a good tip if you let me see what’s underneath your uniform and sit on my lap.” I felt my blood going cold from his words. “Come here baby girl,” he said, patting his lap and winking at me. I just stared at him, disbelieving. I looked at Ethan who was watching me, waiting to see what I would do. How could he just let his friends speak to me like this? At one point, he would have never allowed this. He would have punched anyone who looked at me with desire in their eyes. Now, he was acting as if he didn’t care. “I’ll give you 10 thousand dollars if you drink this entire beer,” one of his friends asked. My mouth nearly fell open. “What?” I asked. “You heard me,” he answered. “Drink this whole beer and you’ll get 10 thousand dollars.” “We’ll all give you 10 thousand dollars each if you drink all of our beers,” another one said. I stared at the beer and then at the men. My eyes landed on Ethan once more; he raised his brows, waiting for my answer. Swallowing my pride, I stepped towards the table and grabbed one of the glasses. I really didn’t like beer, but money was money, and I knew Ethan’s friends were rich and could pay that kind of money easily. I needed the cash to get my father out of prison and pay off his debt. I brought the cup to my lips and let the liquid run down my throat. I winced at the bitter taste, but I kept pushing myself until the cup was empty. His friends were cheering and chanting as I drank the contents of the cup. I slammed the cup on the counter and looked at the next guy who slid his beer at me, winking as he did so. I chugged his beer as well. I only got halfway through the third glass when I felt a firm grip around my wrist and I was yanked away. I heard Ethan’s friends booing and telling him he was a party pooper. I had no idea where Ethan was taking me; he was quiet until we reached outside and then he whipped around to glare at me. “Accept my offer and stop this foolishness,” he ordered. “I won’t be your mistress, Ethan,” I told him, narrowing my eyes, my head fuzzy from the beer. “You can forget about that.” “You’d rather act like a little call girl instead?” He asked through his teeth. “You looked ridiculous in there!” “Why do you care? You have your fiancé. This is my private business, and my private business no longer includes you.” “You are still mine, Judy. You will always be mine,” he growled. I wanted to laugh at his ridiculousness, but I also wanted to cry. He was so sweet at one point; I spent more than 2 years loving this man. Now as he stood before me, I realized he was a stranger. “I am not yours,” I told him, glad that my voice came out stronger than I felt. He let out a bitter laugh. “Fine, be a call girl for all I care,” he growled. “Spread your legs for money because that’s all you’re good for—” Before I could stop myself, my hand swung and made contact with his cheek, causing a loud slap. He didn’t flinch but he did grow angrier as he went to grab my throat. He froze though when he looked at my neck and I watched the color draining from his face. “What the heck,” he hissed. He grabbed my chin and yanked my head to the side. “Is that a lovebite?” I realized when getting dressed this morning that the lovebite Gavin left on me the other night was still there. It was fading, but visible. “So, what if it is?” I asked. He released my chin and glared at me, his gaze icy. “Who the heck have you been with?” “That’s not your concern,” I retorted. I turned to walk away, but he gripped my arm, making me whimper in pain as he whipped me around to face him again. “Answer my freaking question, Judy! Who have you been with?!” Through gritted teeth, I answered, “Gavin. Your future father-in-law. Happy now?” He released me and let out a bark of laughter. “Are you kidding me? You don’t have to make up such a ridiculous story,” Ethan said through a fit of laughter. I heard more laughter from nearby and I realized Ethan’s friends were crowding around. “Is she talking about Gavin Landry? He has standards. He would never go for a girl like, Judy.” “Yeah, Judy is a call girl and Gavin is a Lycan chairman. There’s no way,” another friend laughed. “I’m being serious,” I told them, folding my arms across my chest. This time Ethan did grab my throat, and his gaze turned almost deadly. “Stop playing me for a fool and tell me the truth,” he growled. “Gavin would never want someone like you. You are nobody. You don’t fit into his world. ” I couldn’t breathe as his hands tightened around my throat, so I couldn’t respond. “Now, how about you do as I say and move into the house I bought? Once I get married, I’ll see you frequently at night and you can spread your pretty little legs for me only—” There was a loud honk from nearby, making Ethan drop his hold around my neck. I coughed and rubbed my sore neck as he glared at the person interrupting us. I glanced at the black limo and frowned when the door opened. I gasped when I saw Gavin seated in the back, his eyes on me. “Get in,” he ordered. I stared at him, disbelieving. “I won’t ask you again, Judy,” he said through his teeth. I felt Ethan’s shocked eyes on me as I quickly hurried towards the car and got in, closing the door behind me. “Drive,” he instructed the driver. “Yes, sir.” The car started to move; Ethan stood on the curb; his mouth nearly dropped. His friends were equally shocked. Gavin glanced at me, and I felt my cheeks redden. “Using me to make your ex-fiancé jealous, are you?”	LEARN_MORE	https://getokn.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=18448&	Galaxy in the Story	https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/	2,435	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	getokn.com	VIDEO		https://getokn.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=18448&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480174785_930889425700901_7998785118624193752_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6ZTEk5RvfqsQ7kNvgFkfg9s&_nc_oc=Adh-6gGBEYjwoOmeBpAYXUTQOdZoh8IWqpCGfOOLaMYc40hnfcj1yjjL7-Lp6Uo4vb2goqzefGB2A7vPX_xcsVm6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ALvWnFVLCG14Ake_YUCbjOF&oh=00_AYAHL7tksf8if0ptbXxcgMvUmgXpuvFdydGbhX7TfjUp5A&oe=67C7386D	PERSON_PROFILE	Galaxy in the Story	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,469	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707166}'	No	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	😍Click to continue reading	I never thought I’d see him again. As I step off the bus, the scorching sun beats down on me. The heat here is unbearable, with not even the slightest breeze to offer relief. I already miss the places I've come to call home over the years. Grabbing my suitcase from the driver—who’s been eyeing me with a mix of disinterest and impatience—I flash him a polite smile, take my bag, and turn away without another glance. The bus station is smaller than I remember. I push through the crowd, scanning the faces around me, searching for my aunt. I’ve moved around more times than I can count—first with my mother, and then, after she passed away, with my aunt, who took me in along with her mate and daughter. Constantly relocating wasn’t a choice; it was a necessity. Someone was always after me. My aunt was insistent that I return to this town, though I still don’t understand why. This place holds nothing but bad memories for me—especially since he is here. I refuse to say his name. He abandoned my mother and me when I was just ten years old. I watched her heart break a little more each day, while he never once looked back. He was too caught up in his pack, too in love with his own life to remember the daughter he left behind. So why did my aunt want me back here? She and my cousin Eleanor have settled in this place, but I made it clear—I would only return if it was a matter of life and death. And now, I’m back, trapped in a town that will no doubt become my personal hell. “Sierra, OVER HERE!” I hear her before I see her. Turning to my left, I spot my aunt waving frantically, bouncing on her toes to get my attention. I force a smile and start making my way toward her. As I walk, my senses sharpen. I can feel the weight of several eyes on me, curious and assessing. This town is a werewolf town. There are humans here, but my aunt told me they’re aware of the supernatural. Two packs live on the outskirts of town, sitting on opposite ends. One of them is his pack. And from what I’ve heard, they roam freely here. This is going to be interesting—a panther shifter living in the middle of werewolf territory. “Auntie,” I greet her with a smile, stepping closer. She groans at the word, her expression shifting immediately. “Sierra, you know I hate being called that.” I chuckle. “Sorry, Raven.” I pull her into a hug, feeling some of the tension ease from my body. “How was the trip?” she asks, taking my bag from me as we head toward the exit. “It was fine. First a plane ride, then a twelve-hour bus ride. There were a few stops along the way, so I got to stretch my legs. But I didn’t mind—I’m used to it. I also made sure no one was following me,” I add, glancing over my shoulder. That’s when I notice the bus driver handing off his keys to another driver. Both of them are staring right at me. I sigh. “If one more person keeps staring, I swear I’ll rip their throats out,” Aria growls in my mind. She’s my panther counterpart—always on edge, always ready for a fight. My mother was a panther shifter, just like me, just like Raven and Eleanor. “Why is everyone staring at me?” I mutter, uneasy. Aria steps forward in my mind, scanning the area through my eyes. Raven smirks. “Well, it’s not every day a stunning twenty-year-old woman rolls into town.” I snort. “Yeah, right. There must be plenty of girls here. But you know what I mean.” I catch two elderly women watching me. The moment I meet their eyes, they quickly look away—but one of them seems to be mind-linking someone. “I bet she’s telling her Alpha that someone new is here,” Aria muses, stretching lazily before retreating to the back of my mind. Raven studies me, lowering her voice. “Be careful when Aria comes forward. Your eyes shift color slightly.” I nod. “We’ll talk more in the car.” We exit the bus station and head toward the parking lot, Raven leading the way to her small Toyota. Just as we approach, a black Mustang screeches to a stop right in front of her car. Raven groans. “One Alpha too many,” she mutters under her breath. “Be nice, Sierra.” The driver steps out first, his gaze flicking to me before he opens the rear door. Two young men climb out, looking to be around my age. Then it hits me. A familiar scent—one I haven’t smelled in years. I stiffen as a low growl escapes me before I can stop it. I know that scent. He’s not my father. But he smells just like him. Which means... He must be his son. Chapter 2 Sierra I have a brother—or at least, someone who seems to be my age. "You must be Raven’s niece, Sierra. My name is Dane. I’m the Beta of the Dark Valley Pack, and this here is Caleb, our Gamma. We wanted to introduce ourselves," Dane said. I stared at him, unimpressed. His Alpha was either too busy or just didn’t care enough to find out who I was. "Yeah, that’s me. Now, can you move your car so we can leave?" I said through clenched teeth. Raven looked like she wanted to slap me but managed to restrain herself. "Sierra," she warned. "My apologies, we didn’t realize this was your car," Dane said, clearly lying. Raven had been living here for months, and they had to know. "Cruz, could you move the car to a parking spot, please?" The driver, Cruz, nodded, got back into the car, and drove it into a space on the opposite side of Raven’s vehicle. "Better?" Dane asked with a smug smile. "Yeah, I guess," I said with a hint of irritation. "Raven, can we go now? I’ve been awake for over twenty-four hours, and I’m exhausted." I let out a fake yawn for emphasis. Raven smirked, knowing full well I was just trying to get out of this conversation. "Of course, Sierra. Beta, Gamma, was there anything else you needed?" she asked while placing my bag in the back seat and loading my suitcase into the trunk. Both men looked at me, and I noticed Caleb seemed to be mind-linking someone. "He’s linking the Alpha," Aria, my wolf, murmured from the back of my mind. She had been watching everything unfold through my eyes, clearly amused. After a few seconds, Dane turned back to us, his expression unreadable. "No, nothing else. Oh, actually—one thing. We’ll be stopping by the café later to pick up the cakes we ordered for the ceremony." "No problem. They’ll be ready by the time you come to collect them. I hope the new Alpha has a great welcome-home party," Raven said. "Oh, he will," Dane replied with a cocky grin. I shuddered, my thoughts immediately going to all the crude things he could be implying. But then he caught me off guard. "You two should come," he said. Raven glanced at them before shaking her head. "I don’t think so. Sierra needs to rest after her long journey," she said. I knew exactly why she was acting this way, and my blood boiled. I knew who would be at that party. "Well, the invitation stands," Dane said. Caleb looked at me carefully. "You should come to the packhouse—" "I don’t think so," I cut him off before he could finish. "You both know my father is part of your pack. I will not—no, I will never—step foot in your packhouse. So why don’t you two go do whatever it is you need to do before I throw up all over those nice shoes of yours?" I snapped. I turned to open the car door but hesitated for a second, looking back at Caleb. "Oh, and do me a favor—say hi to my father. I doubt he’ll show his face anytime soon, especially since it’s been ten years since he last saw me. So enjoy your little party, but don’t ever come near me again." Without another word, I climbed into the car and slammed the door shut. "Stupid wolves," I muttered under my breath. I sat there, waiting for Raven to get in. Glancing through the window, I saw the three of them standing there, speechless from my outburst. I hated that man. I never wanted to see the person who abandoned me. "I apologize for Sierra," Raven said as she walked to the car, opening the driver’s side door. Dane had recovered from my outburst and gave me a smug smile. "I hope she changes her mind. We don’t want any trouble," he said. Without another word, the three of them turned and walked off. Raven and I watched them go. "Stupid wolves," I muttered again. "Sierra, you need to be careful with what you say," Raven warned as she started the engine. We pulled out of the parking lot and onto the main road, driving in silence for a while. Finally, I broke it. "Raven, why did you want me here?" Chapter 3 Sierra "Raven, why did you want me here?" She sighed. "Because I wanted to see you. You’re my niece." I studied her face. I believed her, but I also knew there was more to it. "And?" I pressed. She was quiet for a moment. "Your father came into the café a few weeks ago when I first moved here. One of his pack members told him I was in town. He wanted to know how you were… and if you were coming back to live here," she admitted, stealing a glance at me. "He wants to get to know you, Sierra." I laughed dryly. "Yeah, sure. He hasn’t cared for ten years. Why now?" She shrugged. "I don’t know. I understand why you hate him for what he did to your mother and for abandoning you. I hate him too. But when I told him you’d never want to see him again… he seemed genuinely hurt." I didn’t respond. I knew Raven would let me make my own choice about this, but as far as I was concerned, that man was dead to me. "Sierra, you don’t know the full story of why he left," she said softly. I turned to her, my expression blank. The problem with that? I did know why he left. And I knew exactly what had made him do it. Either Raven didn’t know, or she believed whatever lies he had told her. Trying to change the subject, I asked, "Who’s the new Alpha? Why are they throwing a welcome-home party for him?" She hesitated before answering. "His name is Damon. He’s the Alpha’s son. He’s been away for the past few months, training with neighboring packs," she said. "Before he left, he came into the café every day. You’ll probably see him around soon enough." I didn’t want to see anyone—especially not an Alpha. I let the conversation drop and turned to stare out the window. The town was surrounded by dense forest, but the houses were built close together. After a few minutes, Raven pulled into the driveway of a small terraced house. It looked normal enough. The houses were near the forest, making it easy for wolves to shift and run freely. "We need to shift soon. It’s been too long," Aria murmured in my head. As I stepped out of the car, I suddenly felt like someone was watching me. "Aria, do you sense anyone?" I asked, keeping my back straight. "I don’t know, but I don’t like it here," she admitted. "Something feels… off." I agreed. There was something unsettling about this place. Raven must have felt it too because she glanced behind me, her expression unreadable. "Let’s get you inside. I need to head to the café to close up," she said, grabbing my arm and leading me toward the house. Once inside, I glanced around. The living room and kitchen were open-plan, and a staircase led upstairs. Raven hesitated before locking the front door. "Everything okay?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. "Yeah… Let me show you to your room. You can shower and rest while I head to the café," she said quickly. She led me upstairs, showing me my room—which had its own bathroom. "I had this installed last week, knowing you’d be visiting. Now that you’re staying, it’ll be useful," she said with a smile. I nodded. The room was small but cozy—a far cry from sleeping on the ground or in trees. "I got everything you might need. If you need anything else, we can go shopping tomorrow. Also, do you want to work some shifts at the café?" she asked. "Yeah, sure," I said, just as my stomach growled. She chuckled. "I’ll make you some sandwiches. You should eat, then sleep." I yawned. "Thanks, Raven." As she left, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. I was too exhausted to dwell on it. Within minutes of my head hitting the pillow, sleep pulled me under. Chapter 4 Raven I can’t believe Sierra is back. I’ve missed her so much these past two years. She wanted to travel, and who could blame her? After everything she’s been through in the last decade, she deserved it. I knew the lavender and sage in her room would knock her and Aria out cold. I needed her to rest, but more than that, I needed her to be safe. He’s been outside, lurking in the shadows, watching her return home. I step outside and lock the door behind me. I know he’s still there, watching, waiting. He wants to see her. But she hates him—loathes him—for abandoning her and for what he did to her mother. As I walk down the driveway, I spot him standing to my right. “She looks just like Eden,” he murmurs. I shoot him a cold, hard glare. No matter that he’s Sierra’s father—what he did was unforgivable. I don’t like him either, not after everything he put my sister through. “You shouldn’t be here. She doesn’t want to see you,” I say flatly. “By the way, she met your son. He wanted to come to the party tonight, but she shut that down real quick.” My voice drips with venom. “I heard she takes after Eden—same fire in her spirit,” he says. I bare my teeth at him. “Stop saying my sister’s name. You lost the right to speak it a long time ago.” I push past him, my blood boiling. He looks wounded. “Raven, please… you know what happened,” he says, guilt thick in his voice. “I didn’t have a choice.” I whirl around, facing him head-on, my panther stirring beneath my skin, itching to tear him apart. “You have some goddamn nerve saying that. I wouldn't be surprised if Sierra knows more about what really happened than you think,” I snap. “And listen to me carefully—you need to stay away from her. She despises you. As for your so-called son, she doesn’t know him or that daughter of yours. So if I were you, I’d keep them far away from her.” He stares down at me, expression unreadable. “Raven, please... I just want to know my daughter.” I sneer, his name like poison on my tongue. “Kieran, back the hell off. I’m warning you. You, your mate, your children, and that old Alpha you chose over your own flesh and blood—stay the hell away from her. You have no idea what she’s been through.” I realize too late that I’ve said too much. His brow furrows. “What do you mean? What has she been through?” His shock is evident, though he quickly masks it. Shit. That’s not my story to tell. I turn on my heel and keep walking. The café is just around the corner from my place. “Raven, tell me, please,” he calls after me, still following. I push open the café door. It’s closing time—we’re shutting early for the ceremony. Eleanor stands behind the counter, a warm smile on her face when she sees me, but the moment she spots Kieran, her expression hardens. She hates him too. “Raven,” he says, stepping inside, “you can’t keep this from me. She’s my daughter.” I’ve had enough of this bastard. He hasn’t given a damn about Sierra for ten years. The only reason I’m even living here again is because I have to be. I spin around to face him, my patience gone. “Listen up, you worthless piece of shit. You were never in her life. I don’t owe you a damn thing. You never came back for her—not once—even after all the messages I sent you. You are not, and will never be, her father,” I hiss. “I had to raise her and Eleanor on my own, you jackass, with no help from you. You want to know Sierra? Then come here and talk to her yourself. Or better yet, wait until she actually wants to talk to you—which, let me tell you, will be never.” I can feel the shame radiating off him, but before I can lay into him further, the door swings open. His son, Dane, walks in with the new Alpha, Damon. Both of them take in the scene, Dane immediately sensing the tension. “Dad, what are you doing here?” he asks, glancing between me and Kieran. Kieran straightens, his jaw tightening. “Raven, what’s going on?” Damon asks, his tone authoritative. I roll my eyes. Stupid wolves. “She was just telling this asshole to get lost and never come back,” Eleanor chimes in, stepping up beside me. A low growl rumbles from Damon’s chest. “Show some respect, cat, or I’ll put you down myself,” he grits out. Eleanor lets out a soft growl of her own. “You may be the Alpha, and I may be part of this pack, but you don’t get to tell my mother what to do—especially when it doesn’t concern you,” she snaps. I don’t want her getting into trouble, but I hold Damon’s gaze. “I’m asking Kieran to leave. Now isn’t the time for this,” I say firmly. Kieran and Dane stand on opposite sides of Damon, but I have one last thing to say. “Here are the cakes for the ceremony. Take them and go,” I grind out. “And Alpha, if you ever speak to my daughter like that again, you’ll see exactly what a cat can do.” He stares at me, momentarily taken aback. I rarely let my anger spill over like this—and he knows it. He knew me before he left to train the packs. “Raven, I’m going to be the new Alpha soon. Please,” he says, as if that means a damn thing to me. I glance at Kieran and Dane. “Neither of you are welcome here when Sierra is around. You hear me?” My panther snarls, my fury barely contained. “I mean it. If you come in here and upset her, I’ll rip you apart myself.” “You can’t stop me from seeing my daughter,” Kieran says stubbornly. But before I can reply, the café door swings open again. The scent that fills the air makes my stomach drop. Kieran stiffens. Oh, hell. She’s pissed. Chapter 5 Raven "YEAH, SHE CAN," a voice snaps from behind him. I can tell she’s pissed. How the hell is she still standing after being awake for 24 hours? Kieran spins around, and his face goes pale when he sees the daughter he once knew. She’s no longer the little girl he left behind. Sierra glares at him, but before she can say anything, a low growl fills the room—"MATE." All of us turn to look at Damon. His eyes are locked onto Sierra. Oh, shit. This is not going to end well. Sierra meets his gaze briefly before striding towards Kieran and Dane, her face unreadable. “You need to back off,” she snarls. I can feel Aria trying to break through. The energy radiating from Sierra is overwhelming. Eleanor glances at her cousin and smirks. "Don't talk to—" Dane starts, but Sierra cuts him off with a guttural growl. Her eyes shift from their usual blue to a striking, glowing green. "You wouldn’t want to piss me off, brother." We all freeze, stunned. Eleanor and I have heard Aria and Sierra speak in unison before, but seeing it now is still something else. I glance at Damon, but he’s still fixated on Sierra—his mate. "What? You thought I wouldn't figure out who you are?" Sierra challenges Dane. "I recognized your scent at the station. You smell just like him." Then, she turns to Kieran. "And don’t think for a second that acting like the father I should have had is going to work. You abandoned me for ten years. So why the hell would I want you in my life now?" Kieran looks wounded. But what did he expect? I told him Sierra wanted nothing to do with him. She didn’t even know about Dane—let alone the sister she’s yet to meet. Sierra steps closer, eyes locked onto them both. Aria is close to the surface, her power amplified by Sierra’s rage. If we can feel it, I wonder if they can, too. "You’re going to listen, and you’re going to listen well," she says, voice deadly calm. "I don’t want anything to do with you or your new little family. You left me alone to survive for a decade, and guess what? I did just fine. If you ever come back, I’ll let my panther out. And trust me—she’s a hell of a lot less friendly than I am." She bares her teeth. "Now take whatever you came for and go." She strides between them and heads straight toward me. That’s when I realize—she’s still in her Minnie Mouse pajamas. She must have sensed him outside earlier. Damon hasn’t taken his eyes off her. Before anyone else can speak, Sierra turns to him. "Oh, and Alpha—I don’t want a mate." Damon lets out a deep growl. "You don’t mean that," he says, barely keeping himself and his wolf in check. Sierra shrugs. "Take it however you want. I’m only here for a few weeks, and then I’m gone." Damon stares at her, saying nothing, though the hurt in his eyes is obvious. I know why she doesn’t want a mate. There are memories—dark ones—she’d rather forget. She hates men in general, and honestly, I don’t blame her. The tension in the air is suffocating. After a long moment, I turn to Kieran and Dane. "I think you all should leave now," I say. "Oh, and don’t forget the cakes on your way out." Dane glances at me and offers a small, grateful smile, mouthing thank you. He looks like he wants to say more, but he doesn’t. Damon still hasn’t moved. He’s rooted in place, staring at Sierra. Dane finally pulls him toward the door, leading him outside to the waiting SUV. Kieran hesitates, looking like he wants to say something, but he just exhales sharply, grabs the boxes, and walks out. Eleanor holds the door open for him. Another SUV pulls up, and Kieran loads the boxes inside before climbing in. Within seconds, the vehicle disappears down the road. Dane lingers a moment longer, stepping back into the café for the last box. Sierra and I watch him from behind the counter. He stops at the door, glancing over his shoulder at us. "I know what our father did. I don’t condone it," he says. "But if possible, I’d like to get to know my older sister." Sierra lets out a low growl. Dane flinches slightly but keeps his gaze steady. "I’m sorry, Sierra," he murmurs before walking out. Eleanor shuts the door and turns back to us. "Well, cuz, I’m so glad you’re here," she teases with a smirk. Sierra walks up to her and smiles, pulling her into a hug. They both turn to look at me, but before either can speak— "How did you know?" I ask Sierra. She studies me for a second before answering. "I smelled his scent outside. It woke Aria up. But the rest? I’ve always known. I just never told you." She exhales sharply, her expression darkening. "I hate him even more now. He never came for me." The bitterness in her voice is unmistakable. I know she’s hurting. And I have no doubt that Kieran is a big reason why she refuses to accept her mate. "Well, let’s close up. You look like you should be in bed," I say with a chuckle. Sierra glances down at herself, and Eleanor notices too. They both start laughing. We move around the café, making sure everything is cleaned up—tables wiped down, chairs in their proper places, all the lights turned off. Sierra yawns. "You need rest," I tell her. She nods. "Let’s go home," she says before turning to Eleanor. "You coming? We could have one of our famous sleepovers." Eleanor grins but shakes her head. I know that’s not happening—Eleanor has a ceremony to attend with her mate. "I can’t, cuz. You need your beauty sleep," she teases. Sierra rolls her eyes, but Eleanor shoots me a knowing look. Don’t tell her about Caleb yet, Mom. I nod subtly. Eleanor only knows bits and pieces of why Sierra refuses to accept her mate, but she’s scared to tell her just yet. She has no idea how Sierra will react when she finds out. Sierra yawns again, making us laugh. "Come on, Sleeping Beauty. Time for bed," I say, leading her out of the café and toward home. Chapter 6 Damon I found my mate. But she wants nothing to do with me. I’m beyond pissed. Why doesn’t she want me? I glance at Kieran. His face is unreadable, but I know he’s hurting. He finally met his daughter, yet she rejected him outright. I don’t know the full story between them, but whatever it is, it’s bad. “I’m sorry, Damon,” he suddenly says, still staring ahead. When I turn to look at him, I notice a small, sad smile on his face. He doesn’t elaborate. “You okay, Kieran?” I ask, studying him. His expression remains blank, but I continue, “I just wanted to say sorry about what happened at the café.” He nods, and I can feel the guilt radiating off him. He’s deeply wounded. After a moment, he exhales heavily. “We need to see your father when we get back to the pack house,” he says. “But I have one request.” His voice is almost pleading. “Don’t tell him about Sierra being your mate just yet.” His words catch me off guard. Why wouldn’t he want me to tell my own father? Especially since my mate is his best friend’s daughter—well, his long-lost daughter. “Why, Kieran? He’d be happy that I found my mate,” I say, but the look on his face tells me there’s more to this than I understand. “He will be—once he knows she’s my daughter. But there are things you don’t know yet, and that’s why we need to talk to him first. We have to explain everything to you. It might help you understand why Sierra doesn’t want a mate,” he finally says. I stare at him, momentarily stunned, but I quickly regain my composure. “Alright, I won’t say anything. But Kieran… what happened to make her hate you so much?” I ask, immediately regretting it as soon as the words escape my mouth. His shame crashes over me like a tidal wave. “I hurt her mother in the worst way possible,” he confesses quietly. “And I never claimed her as my mate.” I’m speechless. “I’ll explain everything when we see your father,” he adds. I glance at the man who had trained me when my father was too busy. I grew close to his son, Dane, who’s now about to become my Beta, and his sister, Nova. They’ve been like siblings to me—we argue and fight just like real siblings do. Sierra would have made an impression on me if she’d been around. Even in those pajamas, she exuded a quiet strength. I couldn’t quite make out her figure, but I didn’t care. Those piercing blue eyes, the rich brown hair messily tied into a bun, and those soft pink lips—it all made me want her even more. When her panther stirred, her eyes glowed green, and I felt an immense power roll off her in waves. It was unnerving. There was more to her than I could see. Her emotions dictated the intensity of her energy, and at that moment, all I felt from her was pure rage. The car ride back to the pack house is quiet. It’s a long drive from town, and our driver is stuck behind another vehicle. Kieran stares out the window, lost in thought. I mind-link my father. “Hey, Dad, we’re on our way back with the cakes. There’s something you need to know. Sierra is back.” “Yeah, I heard,” my father replies gruffly. “Kieran went to see her. I take it that didn’t go well? I told him to give her a few days to settle in.” I sigh. “‘Didn’t go well’ is an understatement. She was furious. He wants the three of us to meet in your office to talk about it.” My father is silent for a beat before responding. “We need to talk. I think you should be there for all of this—you’ll be Alpha soon.” “Alright. We’ll be there in twenty minutes.” I stick to Kieran’s request and don’t mention to my father that Sierra is my mate. When we finally arrive at the pack house, we step out of the SUV. Caleb, my soon-to-be Gamma, is waiting nearby. I know why—his mate, Eleanor, nearly got herself ripped apart for disrespecting me. From the look on his face, he already knows. “Sorry about Eleanor, Alpha,” he says immediately. “She was just protecting her mother.” I nod. “I’ll apologize to her later.” He gives me a strange look. “You shouldn’t have to apologize. She’s still adjusting to our ways here. They lost their pack years ago and have been moving around ever since,” he explains, his gaze shifting past me to Kieran. “He shouldn’t have gone there,” he mutters. “I know most of what happened—Eleanor told me. It’s bad.” I stare at him, taken aback. “I’ll find out more when we talk to my father,” I say before shutting off the mind-link. Caleb nods and heads toward his house, where Eleanor is waiting. He probably misses her. Eleanor had mentioned wanting to tell Sierra something, but she wasn’t sure how her cousin would react—especially when it came to the subject of mates. There has to be a reason why she despises the idea of having one. A low growl rumbles in my head—my wolf, Cruz. “She’ll come around. We just need to take things slow with her.” I freeze. My wolf has been obsessed with finding our mate for years, but he’s never been this patient before. Normally, he’s possessive and restless. But now, he just wants what’s best for Sierra—even if that means taking our time. “What’s gotten into you? You’ve been quiet since you told me Sierra was our mate,” I ask him. Cruz is silent for a moment before sighing. “I’m being careful with her. Seeing her father after all these years made her angry. And her panther… she’s powerful. Her emotions fuel her strength, and I think her panther has her own feelings about this entire situation. We need to figure out what happened.” I nod. “You’re right, Cruz. Let’s find out exactly what we’re dealing with.” He chuckles before settling in the back of my mind, alert but waiting. Waiting to learn more about our mate.	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.t	Enjoyreading	https://www.facebook.com/61572725436723/	2	1969-12-31 18:00	Install now	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.tapread.reader	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480965592_1396533991727498_6102807386195311270_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dCN4VjYFEyIQ7kNvgFljSJ6&_nc_oc=Adip4E_hpIN2gZZbIFIMxTxWDR_EJr8kWnFsAPNBBQnb6utnt1V6vAJiO3K0nvmJoh9Wppig1cFyvFv6rvWRb_oD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A5lK-hFfovQTF5I5AEgBfvN&oh=00_AYBBP8YlUlW5GfB52ffqsg-FRtebFux8FUDQChhYuAZifg&oe=67C7334D	PERSON_PROFILE	Enjoyreading	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,607	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":0.9982204897890009,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	No	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	Click to watch now!😏	🔥💥👠In her past life, her adopted sister drained her dry and had her beaten to death. Reborn, she cut ties with her cold-hearted family. Using her memories, she turned bottled water into a tenfold profit after an earthquake, then launched BikBok, which raked in billions in its first month. 💰👑Rising fast, she founded ROA Group, now valued at $10 billion. Her fortune surpassed $100 billion. 💅🏻🤡When her adopted sister begged for a piece of her empire, she simply painted her nails and said,"Sweet sis? You’ve drained 4000CC of my blood—time to pay me back, with interest!" #GoodShortapp	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.n	Short Drama Channel	https://www.facebook.com/61553285674756/	140,898	1969-12-31 18:00	Install now	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.newreading.goodreels	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481043932_1360978485253269_3512668804702604658_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=F30dR9s0EKwQ7kNvgEVDAgO&_nc_oc=Adha-433lyk3xlvTBD7XvpM3PowlHAVRDITQDJLubfLhEJVKB_WeCXODS_SAGq17m4H-3Bm_NZduvqTnICWEXHgm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ApbGyADEFbu5ji-aqFuzakR&oh=00_AYCdLbC8_QYZ3OuWhjcoYUcw9B2KZkNgDAKMeHmHRFGLyA&oe=67C73E5D	PERSON_PROFILE	Short Drama Channel	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,789	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706778}'	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	🔞Attention! Do not read in public！📖	Today was supposed to be the day my fated mate and I got engaged. But now I’m watching him kiss another woman. Marrying her could make him the future Alpha because she’s the daughter of Gavin Landry, the most powerful Lycan chairman in the world. A couple of months ago, our Alpha died during a battle, and now all the candidates are competing for that position, including my mate, Ethan. Everyone knows the Lycans control the werewolf population. And Gavin? He could singlehandedly appoint everyone the new Alpha. So, Ethan made his choice. Her, not me. “Get me a whiskey and a martini for the lady,” A deep voice sounded from nearby. “Is it the future bride, or the future groom that’s got you in a mood?” “I’m just not into parties,” I decided to say. “Nor am I,” he murmured. “I’m here out of obligation.” The bartender placed my drink in front of me and I immediately took a sip, sighing in contentment. I waited for it to do its job and finish numbing the pain. Every time Ethan kissed her it destroyed me a little more. How had my life taken such a devastating turn? How could my fated mate do this to me? Did our 2 years together truly mean nothing? Did the mark on my neck mean that little to him? “Thank you for the drink,” I told the man. I took one last sip of my martini and started to get down from the stool, except my blouse snagged on the corner of the counter and just as I heard a tearing sound, I began to fall to the ground. I closed my eyes, bracing myself for the impact, but it never came. Instead, I felt strong arms wrapping around my body, lifting me into the air. I opened my eyes and peeked up at the man who caught me, and my breath hitched. He was so handsome. He held me with ease as if I weighed nothing and I could tell from the feeling of his arms around me that he was muscular. He smiled down at me and a dimple appeared on his right cheek. I wanted to lick that dimple. “Madam, are you falling for me?” He asked teasingly. I stared at him for a heartbeat longer before I squinted my eyes at him, seeing what he did there. “You’re a funny one, aren’t you?” He grinned. Then he looked at my shirt and immediately frowned. “Let me take you to my suite upstairs,” he said, making my heart skip a beat. “What?” I said in barely a whisper. His eyes met mine and I got lost in their beauty for a moment. Goddess, his good looks were sinful. “Your shirt is ripped. I have one you can wear upstairs in my VIP suite,” he explained. I blinked a couple of times and gave a nervous chuckle. “Oh, alright. Thank you,” I managed to sputter. He turned to the bartender. “Charge our drinks to my suite,” he ordered. “Yes, sir.” I allowed the man to carry me out of the room. His arms were so warm that I found myself resting my head against his broad chest, breathing in his minty scent. My wolf was practically purring in my mind. She’d been quiet for most of the evening while she licked the wounds the broken mate bond had caused. But right now, it was as if she had forgotten she was heartbroken. “Take off your shirt,” he instructed once we were in the suite. He had released me and was walking to the closet. “Excuse me?” I squeaked. “So, you can put on a new shirt,” he explained. “Right,” I breathed. I lifted my ripped shirt over my head and threw it onto the bed, leaving me in only my innerwear from the waist up. Once he found a shirt, he turned around to face me, and his entire body froze as his eyes trailed down my body. I was too busy checking him out to notice him staring at me but the longer I stared at him, the more I started to recognize him. Then, realization struck me, and I gasped. “It’s you…” I breathed, taking a step back. His eyes shifted upward and met mine; his brow arched. “You know me?” He asked. “I know of you,” I clarified. The corner of his lips tipped upward as he walked towards me, slowly, as if he were stalking his prey. I could practically hear the sounds of my heartbeat. “And what do you know of me?” “Only what I’ve heard…” I admitted. “And what have you heard?” “You’re Gavin Landry, Lycan Chairman. You’re a heartbreaker. You have a new woman each week and you never sleep with the same woman twice.” He raised his brows. “Is that so?” He asked. “Tell me more about myself.” Heck, he's the father of the bride and Ethan's future father-in-law? I'm confused, I don't know what I should do. But I'm not surprised I didn't recognize him at first. The Lycan family isn't high profile, they're more used to staying behind the scenes than becoming politicians and celebrities like werewolf Alpha. Should I tell him who I am? But that would be foolish at this moment. He continued to walk towards me, and I continued to walk backward until my back hit the wall. “What more do you want to know?” I asked, my voice coming out breathy. “Everything.” I’m not sure if it was the martini speaking or me, but I decided to be bold. If Ethan can indulge himself in someone new, then so could I. I lifted my gaze to meet his as he neared closer. “Your eyes…” I started to say. “I’ve heard that they were mesmerizing, and I must agree.” “What else?” I swallowed the lump in my throat. “When you smile, you have this adorable dimple on your cheek…” I whispered. He was only inches from me now, staring so intently at me that I thought I would burn up under his scrutiny. He licked his lips, drawing my attention to his mouth. “And your lips…” Before I could finish that sentence, his mouth crashed into mine. His kiss was anything but soft and sweet but filled with hunger and possession. I kissed him with just as much eagerness. His tongue made its way to mine, tasting every inch of me. He lifted me into the air, my body pinned between the wall and him. Instinctively I wrapped my legs around his waist and allowed him to deepen the kiss. His tongue trailed down the nape of my neck and warmth spread across my body as I felt him nibbling my soft flesh. All self-control and common sense left my mind the moment we kissed. All I could think about was Gavin; he consumed my mind, body, and soul entirely. I pulled at his tie, wanting to take it and his shirt off. He helped me undo his tie and then lifted his shirt over his head, tossing it to the ground. I let my fingers explore his body; they roamed over his torso and up his broad shoulders. I moaned into his mouth as his tongue found mine again. “Are you sure you want this?” He asked between kisses. “Yes,” I rasped out. “We are both willing adults, so why not?” We kissed again and just as he was about to take off my innerwear, I received a tearful mindlink from my adoptive mother. “Judy! Please, come home!” She sounded panicked; my mother never panicked. Hearing her voice was like cold water being dumped on my head and I gasped. I let my legs fall from around him and I pressed against his chest. “Stop,” I said breathlessly. “I have to go.” He frowned. “I don’t have much patience; stop joking,” he says, a hint of anger in his tone. “I’m so sorry. But I’m sure you have plenty of other options,” I said and started to run towards the door, but he grabbed my arm, stopping me. I whirl around to face him, my own anger rushing to the surface but before I can say anything, he points to the bed. “Your shirt is ripped, remember?” I looked down at my innerwear with a frown. “Oh…” He sighed, grabbing his shirt and putting it over my head. I inhaled deeply and warmth spread throughout my body; it smelled like him. …… The moment I stepped into the house; I could hear my mother sobbing. “Judy?” My mother sobbed; I could hear that she was in the kitchen and my heart stuttered at the sound of her broken voice. “Your father was taken away by the Gammas tonight.” Chapter 2 Judy’s POV My heart fell into my stomach. “What?!” I gasped. We lived in a decent-sized house; my adoptive father, being a successful businessman and a Delta of the Redmoon pack, had a lot of money. “He was arrested,” she explained. “He made a bad investment for the company, and he ended up losing all the money. He went completely bankrupt and now he owes the pack so much money. Until he pays it, they put him in jail.” “They can’t just come and take him away like this,” I said, standing to my feet, hardly able to contain my emotions. “Without any warning? That’s not fair!” “They can do whatever they want. The Beta is under the jurisdiction of the Lycans, and it was his decision. Loan sharks are ruthless, and nobody wishes to deal with them. It’s easier to just get rid of the problem and right now… your father is the problem.” Before I could say anything more, my phone started to ring. I reached into my bag and pulled it out. I frowned when I saw the name flash across the screen. “I heard about your father,” Ethan’s voice was soft as he spoke, and my traitorous heart skipped a beat. I hated how my body responded to him still; it was because of this foolish mate bond. Even though he rejected me, and I accepted it, that didn’t mean it severed our bond. It won’t be severed until he marks someone else.“I might have a suggestion though. But I’d like to tell you in person. Come outside.” I quickly left the kitchen and walked out of the house. Ethan was leaning against his car with his arms folded across his chest. Goddess, I hated how good he looked. I had been in love with him for longer than 2 years. He was my friend, my confidant, my fated mate. When he rejected me, it destroyed everything I had dreamt of. I wrapped my arms around my body, desperately trying to hold myself together. “Why are you here?” I asked him after a long and awkward silence. “I wanted to talk to you,” he replied. “Why?” The corner of his lips tipped upwards as he stared at me; I nearly melted under his scrutiny, and I had to shift my gaze to look at the ground. “Because I can help you,” he answered. “Your father’s funding chain is broken, and he now owes a lot of money. I know for a fact that he doesn’t have that kind of money, especially now that his business has gone under. But I do.” I lifted my gaze to meet him; he was serious. “Are you saying you’d pay my father’s debt?” I asked him. He nodded. “Yes,” he answered. “And what would we have to do in return?” I asked, almost afraid to ask. He smirked, which gave me an uneasy feeling in the pit of my stomach. “There is a condition,” he confessed. I waited silently for him to continue, my eyes never leaving his. “After I get married, I want you to drop out of school and become my mistress.” I couldn’t have heard him correctly; I stared at him with my jaw practically on the ground. “Excuse me?” I managed to sputter. “You want me to what??” “Drop out of school and become my mistress. I already have a luxurious home for you to live in. You would never have to want for anything. I’ll pay off your father’s debt and give you more money than you could dream of.” “How… how could you ask me to do such a thing?” I asked in a choked whisper; tears threatened to spill from my eyes, but I kept them away, not wanting him to see my break. He stepped closer to me, and I felt rooted to the ground, unable to move away. My wolf was whimpering about his request; she couldn’t believe our mate could ask such a thing from us. She was gutted and I hated that she was put in this position. “Because we’ve always been so good together, Judy,” he said, reaching out and touching my arm gently. “We will always have this strong connection, even if I mark someone else. You and your family would be set for life… all you have to do is say yes…” He was rubbing his fingers up and down my arms and I felt sick to my stomach. I finally found the strength to step away from him, my body trembling. “No,” I said, meeting his eyes. “I would never become your mistress.” His eyes darkened. “I’m about to become the Alpha, Judy. You must get with the times. Becoming my mistress would only benefit you and plus, don’t you want your father out of jail?” “I will find another way,” I said through my teeth. “If that’s all you came here to say, then I’ve heard enough. You can leave.” He raised his brows as he stared at me. He studied me for a moment longer like he expected me to change his mind at any moment. “You’ll change your mind,” he told me as he stepped away from me and towards his car. “And when you do, I’ll be here. But until then, your father will remain in prison.” “I’ll figure it out,” I said to his retreating back. “We don’t need you, Ethan!” He chuckled as he opened his car door and then he turned back to gaze into my eyes. “In order to get him out of prison, you’ll need at least 5 million dollars. When you realize that there’s no other option, you’ll come to your senses. I’m sure of it.” Without another word, he got into his car. I watched as he drove away, disappearing into the night. It was only when he disappeared that I allowed myself to fall to the ground. Tears streamed down my cheeks before I could stop them. 5 million dollars? How was I going to come up with that kind of money? —————— I had two classes this morning and one later in the afternoon. My first class was warrior training, and my second class was shifting, both of which I excelled at. I was going to college for Gamma training so that once I graduated, I could prove myself to the Gamma force and become a warrior. Then I would easily be able to pay off my father’s debt and save my family. “You look terrible,” my best friend, Nan, pointed out as I sat beside her against the large Oaktree; the very tree we always met up at. “It was a rough night,” I admitted as I took out my textbook to study. “Where did you go last night? When I returned, you were gone. Did you leave early because of the engagement party?” I bit my lower lip as I thought about what to say to her. If I lied, she’d be able to see right through me. I was a terrible liar initially, but Nan could read me like a book. “I ripped my shirt, and someone brought me into his room to change,” I said, feeling my cheeks growing warm at the memory. She raised her brows, and I could barely look at her. “You went to someone’s room?” She asked. “Whose?” I was quiet for a moment, and she grabbed my arm, getting my attention. “Judy, who did you leave with?” She asked, now her voice was filled with alarm. I knew there was no getting out of this conversation. I bit my lip and peeked up at her through my lashes. “Gavin Landry,” I squeaked. Chapter 3 Judy’s POV “Shut up!” She gasped. “Are you serious?? You went to Gavin Landry’s VIP suite? As in THE Gavin Landry?!” I nearly tackled her; she was being so loud! “Keep your voice down!” I scolded, attempting to cover her mouth with my hands but she was too quick and dodged me. “How can I possibly keep it down when my best friend went to Gavin Landry’s hotel room last night and waited until now to tell me!” She exclaimed. Nan was a waitress at the hotel restaurant the engagement party was at last night. The hotel, called Carter Resorts, was in the human territory, and it was owned by Patrick Carter, the Delta of the Silver Crescent pack. Which happened to be Gavin Landry’s pack. I wasn’t surprised to see Gavin there last night, especially considering his daughter was the bride-to-be. I was less surprised to see that he had a VIP suite at the hotel. I sighed. “It all happened so fast, and I had a bit too much to drink,” I admitted. “I forgot when I got home because other stuff happened.” I wrapped my arms around my body and looked up at her concerned eyes. “What else happened?” She asked, her voice dropping to a whisper. I took a deep breath, and I told Nan everything that happened, right up until Ethan came over and asked me to be his mistress in exchange for him paying off my father’s debt. By the time I finished talking, Nan’s jaw had dropped. “The nerve of that scum!” She hissed. “How dare he! He rejected you and now he wants you to be his bit on the side?! He has zero shame.” “I’m not sure what I’m going to do, Nan,” I whispered. “There’s no way I could come up with 5 million dollars to pay off my father’s debt.” We both fell silent as our thoughts consumed us and then her face lit up. I knew that look well and it grew nervous as a smile spread across her face. I knew right away that she had an idea, and I also knew that I wasn’t going to like it. “You said that he gave you his shirt to wear?” She asked. I nodded. She gasped and grabbed my arm. “Isn’t it obvious, Judy? Gavin is into you. That’s the only reason he’d give you his shirt. He wanted his scent on you! He's very picky. In all my time as a waitress, you're the first woman he's ever offered.” I gawked at her. She had officially lost her mind. “Gavin’s not into me,” I said, shaking my head. “He gave me his shirt because mine ripped. There was nothing to it.” “Why would he even care?” Nan asked, folding her arms across her chest. “He’s Gavin Landry and doesn’t need to care about any of this. Besides, you mentioned that he kissed you heatedly. You were ready to go all the way with him, which is huge because you were planning on waiting until after you were married. There had to be some kind of connection last night.” I glanced at my hands. “Or maybe I was just hurting and wanted to get back at Ethan,” I murmured. “Plus, I had a little too much to drink.” “Drunk actions are sober thoughts or something like that,” she said, waving away my words. Then, she smirked. “You could use this to your advantage. Do you still have that lingerie you bought for your wedding night? You should pay Gavin a little visit and make him an offer he can’t refuse.” ___ I knew it was a bad idea the moment she spoke the words, but her words continued to replay in my mind for the remainder of the day and night. When I woke up the next morning, my mind was made up. I went to my closet and grabbed my red lingerie. I had only tried it on once and I felt a little self-conscious wearing it, but I knew the night of my wedding when I finally gave myself over to Ethan fully, it wouldn’t matter what I was wearing. My heart ached at the thought, and I quickly brushed it out of my head before I started to cry again. I dressed in the lingerie, and I grabbed a long trench coat, wrapping it around my body. I left my hair down and I put on a little makeup to make my features pop. For the last day or so, my mother had either been speaking on the phone to lawyers, visiting my father in prison, or in her room. I had barely seen or spoken to her since I told her Ethan wasn’t going to help us. I hated knowing I disappointed her, but hopefully, this would fix all our problems. It was no secret where Gavin’s office was; everybody knew the famous Gavin Landry Corporation. When I walked through the front door, the receptionist was typing on her computer. She barely spared me a look as I approached the desk. “Good morning, I’m here to see Gavin Landry,” I said as politely as I could. The receptionist looked upward at me and blinked a couple of times, looking less than amused. “Do you have an appointment?” “Uh, no, but—” “Look, I don’t have time for this. Countless women come in here and request to speak with Gavin and I’m going to tell you what I tell them. Mr. Landry is incredibly busy, and he doesn’t have time or patience to be dealing with another fan girl,” she said bitterly. “And what gives you the right to turn away those who come to see me?” A deep voice boomed. Chapter 4 Judy’s POV “Mr. Landry,” the receptionist said, quickly standing to her feet. She suddenly seemed disheveled, and I wanted to smirk with satisfaction, but I kept it held in. “I asked you a question, Laura,” he said, narrowing his eyes at her. “What gives you the right to send away guests? You know the protocol. You are to call my office, and I am the one who decides whether or not I will see them or not. Not you.” She swallowed and glanced at the ground as if staring directly at him physically hurt her. “Come with me.” It took me a second to realize he was speaking to me, but when I saw the receptionist glaring at me and Gavin’s retreating back, I nearly stumbled over my feet to catch up to him. He walked through a luxurious waiting room until we reached a glass elevator. It was very high-tech with a touch screen attached to it. He brought up a keypad and typed in some sequence before pressing the floor number. He stood so close to me that the elevator felt almost cramped, despite it being a wide space. I could smell his incredible minty scent, mixed in with his aftershave and my heart skipped a beat. He didn’t bother looking at me though and I was starting to doubt this plan would work. Maybe he didn’t like me as much as I thought he did. I felt awkward knowing that under this coat was nothing but lingerie. The elevator came to a halt and the doors opened. It was an extremely large space with marble flooring and granite walls. “Where exactly is your office?” I asked, staring around the gorgeous area. He glanced at me; his face kept indifferent. “This is my office.” My eyes grew large at his words. He continued walking until he rounded the corner and sure enough, there was his desk right in front of large windows that overlooked the human city. It was gorgeous and my stomach twisted with nerves. He didn’t bother sitting on his desk chair. Instead, he turned to face me, leaning against his desk and folding his arms across his chest. I swallowed the lump in my throat as I took him in. He wore a white dress shirt with sleeves rolled up halfway, showing off his incredible muscles and his dark dress pants hugged his waist perfectly, showcasing his incredible form. My wolf purred with satisfaction, and I found myself staring at him for way longer than I intended to. He cleared his throat, making me nearly jump out of my skin as my gaze shot upward and met his. He was smirking at me, as if to say, “Caught you.” My cheeks burned from the embarrassment I felt. “So, what did you come here for?” He asked, breaking the tension between us. Oh. Right. The reason I’m here. “I have a problem, and I need your help,” I said in a rush. He raised his right brow. “What kind of problem?” I cleared my throat before continuing. “My father was arrested the other night,” I blurted. “His business went bankrupt, and he owes a lot of money. Roughly 5 million dollars.” He was silent as he stared at me; I realized he was waiting for me to continue. Probably wanted to know how I needed his help. “I was hoping you’d be able to help him and maybe pay the debt for my father so he could get out of prison?” I asked, biting my lip. He was quiet for another moment, processing my request before he ran his hands over his face. “And what would I get in return for helping your family?” He asked. I swallowed the lump in my throat. Confidence: I needed confidence. I held my head up high and looked him right in the eyes. It was known as a challenge to look an Alpha directly in the eyes, even worse so looking a Lycan directly in the eyes. But Gavin wasn’t as angry as I thought he would be, instead, he looked intrigued. “Well,” I began, I dropped my voice low as I stepped closer to him. “At the party the other day, we obviously had a connection…” I felt my cheeks growing hot as I spoke those words. “And I thought maybe…” I took a deep breath and undid my coat, revealing a portion of my lingerie, but not all of it. Not yet at least. His eyes darkened as he gazed over my body, and I nearly melted under his scrutiny. I suddenly had a surge of confidence, and I reached my hand out to touch his arm. “I thought maybe I could do some favors for you in return,” I said in a sultry voice. “I’m a college student and very clean. I haven’t done it before, but I’m on birth control, so you don’t need to worry about anything.” His breathing grew heavy as he straightened his posture, closing the small gap between us. His nearness was intoxicating, and my heart started to race against my chest. His scent enveloped me, and I couldn’t remember the last time I felt this delirious. He reached his hand up and I felt his fingers glide down my cheek, sending a wave of warmth throughout my whole body. We were so close together that I thought I was going to pass out from the heat that consumed me. His eyes were dark like they were the night in the VIP suite. He swallowed hard and I watched his Adam’s apple move slightly. I closed my eyes, preparing for him to kiss me. I could feel his breath on my lips and just as I leaned in close to him, getting ready for his embrace, it never came. Instead, I felt him adjusting my coat, covering my body. My eyes flew open, and I looked at his stern expression. “Do you really think I need to pay a woman for her body?” He asked, breaking the silence. “You said it yourself that I have many options.” My cheeks flushed immediately. “I just thought—” “You thought you could use your body to pay for my help,” he said, interrupting me. “You are still young, Miss Montague. You will regret taking such shortcuts in the future.” How did he know my name? I hadn’t told him. Had he looked into me? My heart skipped a beat at the thought, but his words were slowly crushing me. He didn’t want me. I lowered my gaze, hating how hot my face was getting. I knew he could see just how embarrassed I was. When he spoke next, he softened his voice and spoke with compassion. “Look, I have a daughter,” he told me. “I would never teach her to use her body as a transaction. I want more for her and her future, and I expect better from her.” He reached his hand and caressed the nape of my neck with his fingertips; my breath hitched as I gazed into his eyes. “I expected better from you,” he added; my heart fell into my stomach and disappointment consumed me. He was right. I was better than this. I nodded my head and opened my mouth to speak, but I heard footsteps behind me. I turned to see a couple of security guards standing nearby and I whipped around to look at Gavin with wide eyes. “I’m afraid my time is up, and my patience has run out,” Gavin said, looking at me briefly before glancing at the security guards. “Accompany Miss Montague out of the building, please.” “Yes sir,” they both said. They stood on each side of me, and I stared at Gavin with shock. I didn’t fight or argue with the security guards as they told me to come with them. “Thank you for your time,” I managed to say before I turned and left the office. I wanted to cry because of the shame, but I knew more importantly I needed a new job. …. “I’m so excited we get to work together,” Nan said with a wide smile. “And you look great in that uniform.” I looked down at my uniform. I felt ridiculous in this thing; it was a short skirt and a crop top that showed way too much bosom. I felt like I was on display. Especially at night when this place pretty much turned into a club. These men are wealthy and would tip generously. It was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up when I was struggling for money. “That’s what friends are for,” she said, nudging my arm with hers. She looked behind me and sighed. “Looks like we are getting a group of guys. Good luck,” she said. I sighed and turned to greet the customers but then I froze when I saw who was amongst them. Ethan. Chapter 5 Judy’s POV “You were right,” I heard one of his friends saying. “She does work here. This is going to be so good.” “Hey, call girl, can we get a table, or are you just going to stare at us?” Call girl? I placed the menus on the table for them and waited for each of them to take a seat. “I’m not a call girl. Please, take your seat.” As I leaned over the table to put the beer in front of each of them, one of them grabbed my rear end. I felt my entire body freeze. “I like this little uniform on you. How about you take it off and see what’s underneath.” My entire body went hot as I stepped back from the table, forcing his hand to drop. “Do not touch me,” I said loudly to each of them. “Oh, come on, Judy. Aren’t you here to satisfy men?” Another of his friends asked. “So come here and satisfy us. Sit on my lap.” I pressed my lips together. “I’m not a call girl,” I told them for the final time. “I’m a waitress.” “You got this job because you’re hot,” one of them chuckled. “The manager didn’t care about your skills. He cared about whether or not you could flirt with the customers and make him a lot of money. I’m willing to give you a good tip if you let me see what’s underneath your uniform and sit on my lap.” I felt my blood going cold from his words. “Come here baby girl,” he said, patting his lap and winking at me. I just stared at him, disbelieving. I looked at Ethan who was watching me, waiting to see what I would do. How could he just let his friends speak to me like this? At one point, he would have never allowed this. He would have punched anyone who looked at me with desire in their eyes. Now, he was acting as if he didn’t care. “I’ll give you 10 thousand dollars if you drink this entire beer,” one of his friends asked. My mouth nearly fell open. “What?” I asked. “You heard me,” he answered. “Drink this whole beer and you’ll get 10 thousand dollars.” “We’ll all give you 10 thousand dollars each if you drink all of our beers,” another one said. I stared at the beer and then at the men. My eyes landed on Ethan once more; he raised his brows, waiting for my answer. Swallowing my pride, I stepped towards the table and grabbed one of the glasses. I really didn’t like beer, but money was money, and I knew Ethan’s friends were rich and could pay that kind of money easily. I needed the cash to get my father out of prison and pay off his debt. I brought the cup to my lips and let the liquid run down my throat. I winced at the bitter taste, but I kept pushing myself until the cup was empty. His friends were cheering and chanting as I drank the contents of the cup. I slammed the cup on the counter and looked at the next guy who slid his beer at me, winking as he did so. I chugged his beer as well. I only got halfway through the third glass when I felt a firm grip around my wrist and I was yanked away. I heard Ethan’s friends booing and telling him he was a party pooper. I had no idea where Ethan was taking me; he was quiet until we reached outside and then he whipped around to glare at me. “Accept my offer and stop this foolishness,” he ordered. “I won’t be your mistress, Ethan,” I told him, narrowing my eyes, my head fuzzy from the beer. “You can forget about that.” “You’d rather act like a little call girl instead?” He asked through his teeth. “You looked ridiculous in there!” “Why do you care? You have your fiancé. This is my private business, and my private business no longer includes you.” “You are still mine, Judy. You will always be mine,” he growled. I wanted to laugh at his ridiculousness, but I also wanted to cry. He was so sweet at one point; I spent more than 2 years loving this man. Now as he stood before me, I realized he was a stranger. “I am not yours,” I told him, glad that my voice came out stronger than I felt. He let out a bitter laugh. “Fine, be a call girl for all I care,” he growled. “Spread your legs for money because that’s all you’re good for—” Before I could stop myself, my hand swung and made contact with his cheek, causing a loud slap. He didn’t flinch but he did grow angrier as he went to grab my throat. He froze though when he looked at my neck and I watched the color draining from his face. “What the heck,” he hissed. He grabbed my chin and yanked my head to the side. “Is that a lovebite?” I realized when getting dressed this morning that the lovebite Gavin left on me the other night was still there. It was fading, but visible. “So, what if it is?” I asked. He released my chin and glared at me, his gaze icy. “Who the heck have you been with?” “That’s not your concern,” I retorted. I turned to walk away, but he gripped my arm, making me whimper in pain as he whipped me around to face him again. “Answer my freaking question, Judy! Who have you been with?!” Through gritted teeth, I answered, “Gavin. Your future father-in-law. Happy now?” He released me and let out a bark of laughter. “Are you kidding me? You don’t have to make up such a ridiculous story,” Ethan said through a fit of laughter. I heard more laughter from nearby and I realized Ethan’s friends were crowding around. “Is she talking about Gavin Landry? He has standards. He would never go for a girl like, Judy.” “Yeah, Judy is a call girl and Gavin is a Lycan chairman. There’s no way,” another friend laughed. “I’m being serious,” I told them, folding my arms across my chest. This time Ethan did grab my throat, and his gaze turned almost deadly. “Stop playing me for a fool and tell me the truth,” he growled. “Gavin would never want someone like you. You are nobody. You don’t fit into his world. ” I couldn’t breathe as his hands tightened around my throat, so I couldn’t respond. “Now, how about you do as I say and move into the house I bought? Once I get married, I’ll see you frequently at night and you can spread your pretty little legs for me only—” There was a loud honk from nearby, making Ethan drop his hold around my neck. I coughed and rubbed my sore neck as he glared at the person interrupting us. I glanced at the black limo and frowned when the door opened. I gasped when I saw Gavin seated in the back, his eyes on me. “Get in,” he ordered. I stared at him, disbelieving. “I won’t ask you again, Judy,” he said through his teeth. I felt Ethan’s shocked eyes on me as I quickly hurried towards the car and got in, closing the door behind me. “Drive,” he instructed the driver. “Yes, sir.” The car started to move; Ethan stood on the curb; his mouth nearly dropped. His friends were equally shocked. Gavin glanced at me, and I felt my cheeks redden. “Using me to make your ex-fiancé jealous, are you?”	LEARN_MORE	https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16927&u	Werewolf Novel	https://www.facebook.com/61560470905590/	726	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	getokn.com	VIDEO		https://getokn.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=16927&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481163475_1085468836714355_345009176507258872_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mWlduCBSOrEQ7kNvgGAb1aS&_nc_oc=AdhXkppPbpzqNHHpRprH4upGB3EgSXWfU0xCq1l7RiGL9UjQRHir46OUCx-dbbB0HI6EDc7oL4A-BdeIA5Iym3GN&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Am3bLnyCoj75ryoIui9bTuv&oh=00_AYBxo9NQTXv8pfHtVoiRkkGwpnT_UBkzDuGzY6MZ8K-S3Q&oe=67C72CD6	PERSON_PROFILE	Werewolf Novel	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,547	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707535}'	No	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	Take back your life and start living pain-free.	Struggling with nerve pain, and sleepless nights? Whether your discomfort is due to diabetes, age, or underlying health conditions... nerve pain can disrupt your life and sleep. It's essential to find a solution before another night of pain and discomfort takes its toll... Mama Bear Nerve Relief Lotion harnesses the power of magnesium to offer relief from nerve pain and sleep disturbances almost instantly. This special blend seeps deep into the skin, targeting the root cause of your neuropathic discomfort. Just a dab before bedtime is all it takes, and you can drift into a peaceful, deep sleep, free from nerve pain. Mama Bear Nerve Relief Lotion also comes with FREE Shipping & a 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee. Experience pain relief and restful nights or get your money back, guaranteed. ✅ Alleviates nerve pain ✅ Natural magnesium blend for effective pain relief (no harsh chemicals) ✅ Endorsed & loved by those suffering from neuropathy across the country for its effectiveness	SHOP_NOW	https://mamabearoasis.com/products/mama-bear-nerve	Mama Bear Oasis	https://www.facebook.com/100088425910904/	4,507	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop Now	mamabearoasis.com	DCO	{{product.description}}	https://mamabearoasis.com/products/mama-bear-nerve-relief-lotion	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482049857_616216177706934_3117458270618332453_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VOVJ0RYGgLMQ7kNvgE6EB4w&_nc_oc=Adhex7RTTEGihuR_KPVFYLyv3i3qxA8uhCoWcOOyBwYA3oazEXTsimGVKmUubtPvvitFdo3AYkrjRAzDTCsrgStm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=At2-2U9ZkV_3-Lr_mC355j4&oh=00_AYCppMpTYW0c1YJ-s6l33H6lBAhiQNfJuvfbf5wdPSonAg&oe=67C71868	PERSON_PROFILE	Mama Bear Oasis	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,098	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2707095}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Read the Full Version👉	For seven years, I've been Castro Harrison's secret lover. Our love was hidden in the shadows, but his kisses and promises kept me willing to stay. I thought he would finally acknowledge me—until that day when I overheard him talking with his friends. It turned out I was nothing more than a substitute. That night, I finally stepped into the room he had forbidden me from entering. On the desk, there was a picture frame—inside, a photo of him and another woman locked in a tight embrace, the Eiffel Tower in Paris in the background. At that moment, my heart turned completely cold. I erased every trace of myself in a single night and left without looking back. One minute before my flight took off, I sent my brother a message. "This afternoon, have the man you chose come and register the marriage." For seven years, I've been in a secret relationship with Castro Harrison, my brother's best friend. Just as I was hoping he'd propose, I tracked his location to a private lounge at an upscale restaurant, where I found they were joking about me. "Castro, now that Oriana's back from London, what are you going to do about that replacement?" Castro remained silent, his lack of response speaking volumes. The tension in the air was broken by another friend's sardonic laugh. "You've got to hand it to Castro–having the nerve to pursue William Blackwood's sister while Oriana was away. Now that you've had your fun, and Oriana's back..." "Well, Oriana deserved it after how coldly she left. A replacement was just what she needed to teach her a lesson!" ...... The next day, Castro took me to Oriana's welcome-home party at the Blackwood Estate, lavishing attention on me with an almost theatrical display of affection. But when Oriana ran out in tears, her Chanel dress stained with wine, Castro pushed me aside without a second thought and rush out. I returned home alone, my cream silk blouse ruined by scalding soup and my skin was still stinging. With trembling hands, I finally opened the door to his study---the one room he'd always declared off-limits. There, prominently displayed on his mahogany desk, was a photograph of him and Oriana in Paris, the Eiffel Tower gleaming behind their embracing figures. My heart turned to ice as I dialed my brother's number in Switzerland. "William... about that arranged marriage–I'll do it." "Aveline?" My brother's voice softened with concern, catching the unfamiliar strain in my tone. "What's wrong? This doesn't sound like you at all." A lump formed in my throat, but I forced a light laugh. "Nothing's wrong. I just realized - marriage is inevitable, isn't it? Does it really matter who it is?" "Besides," I continued, trying to keep my voice steady. "I trust your and father's judgment. Even for a business merger marriage, I know you would have vetted the candidate thoroughly." William's relief was audible through the phone. "I'm glad you're being sensible about this. When are you coming back? Would you like to meet him first before making your final decision?" "No need. The sooner we proceed, the sooner we can resolve the company's crisis. Go ahead and start planning the wedding. Let's set it for... a month from now." "Perfect! By the way, have you heard from Castro?" he coninued, "His first love is finally back in town. You should invite him to the wedding - let him share in your happiness." So William knew about Oriana too. No wonder Castro never let me tell my brother about us. I lowered my eyes, concealing the pain that threatened to spill over. "Don't bother him, Will. We're... not that close." Hearing the door unlock, I quickly said goodbye and ended the call. I looked up to find Castro leaning against the doorframe, his signature smirk playing across his lips. "Not close to whom?" "You." My honest answer only made his smirk widen as he pulled me into his arms. "Oh really?" His voice dropped to a husky whisper. "Should we discuss just how 'not close' we are? All those nights together weren't close enough?" His breath was hot against my ear, and for the first time, his intimate gesture made my skin crawl instead of flutter. As I struggled, I caught sight of the lipstick stain on his collar - a shade I'd never worn. The movement aggravated my scalds, sending sharp stabs of pain through my body until tears sprang to my eyes. "What's wrong, sweetheart? Are you hurt?" My tears seemed to spark genuine panic in Castro. When he pushed up my sleeve and saw the angry red scalds on my wrist, his voice trembled with concern. “God, when did this happen? Why didn't you tell me you were scalded?” He seemed to have completely forgotten about the incident at the party. I remained silent, unsure whether to remind him and shatter his façade of devotion. "Stop crying, darling. Let me get some medicine for that." He stroked my hair soothingly before standing to retrieve the first aid kit, muttering as he walked. "You're still such a child sometimes, aren't you? So sensitive to pain, so quick to tears. What would you do without me?" I stared numbly at the scalds on my wrist. Yes, what would I do without him after seven years of his "protection"? But Castro... I don't want you anymore. I don't want this false love anymore! I spent a restless night, tossing and turning, my skin clammy with fever sweat on the sheets. At dawn, Castro tried to coax me out of bed. When I mumbled protests and pushed him away, he leaned in with an amused smile to kiss me. For the first time in seven years, his kiss made me flinch. My hand instinctively rose to slap him but I caught myself. Thankfully, it was just a brief peck. "Awake yet, sleeping beauty?" he teased. I turned away, wiping my mouth with the back of my hand. "It's Saturday. Why can't you let me sleep?" His expression softened with concern. "You were running a fever last night. Come on, we need to get you to the hospital." Though I felt better, his insistence won out and I reluctantly got dressed. In the hospital corridor, we ran into Oriana. She was hobbling along alone, clearly having injured her ankle. Castro's gentle demeanor vanished instantly. His brow furrowed with worry as he rushed to her side, steadying her with his hands. "What happened to you?" Oriana gave him a warm smile, then glanced meaningfully at me. "Just twisted my ankle. What a coincidence seeing you both here." Castro tensed, throwing me a quick, guilty look. "Ah yes, my friend's sister wasn't feeling well. Brought her in to check her fever." I was long used to this charade. From the moment Castro decided to keep our relationship secret, he'd introduced me to all his friends as his best friend's sister who he'd promised to look after. Only his innermost circle knew the truth about us. "You're such a good guardian to the poor girl." Oriana nodded sympathetically. Well, don't let me keep you - my appointment's down that way." She gestured toward a clinic door further down the hall. When she started to hop again, Castro didn't hesitate. He swept her up into his arms bridal-style. "Let me take you there." he said eagerly, "Aveline, wait here for me, alright?" Watching them, something inside me crumbled. My fever seemed to return full force, leaving me weak and dizzy. I leaned against the cold hospital wall, not bothering to respond. The stark white corridor suddenly felt endless and empty, much like my future without him. Castro didn't wait for my response - he was already carrying Oriana toward the clinic, her arms wrapped around his neck. How telling. No matter how well he played his part, his true feelings always surfaced around Oriana, betraying everything he tried to hide. Yet he seemed completely oblivious to his own transparency. I let out a bitter laugh and headed to my own appointment. My suspicions were confirmed - my temperature was 106°F. The doctor explained that my untreated scalds, combined with emotional stress, had led to an infection. I needed immediate IV antibiotics. My finger hovered over Castro's number out of habit before I caught myself. Habits really are terrifying things, aren't they? With a self-deprecating smile, I handled everything alone - getting the prescription and finding the IV treatment room. After the treatment, I felt even worse, nearly collapsing as I tried to walk. However, Castro hadn't returned - not even a text or call. Reluctantly, I called him. "You're still at the hospital?" He sounded surprised. "I'm sorry, sweetheart. I was going to drop Oriana home quickly and come back, but her stomach condition flared up and..." But his explanation was cut short by a waitress's voice in the background: "Sir, your meals are served. Buon apetite!" Despite his rushed attempt to muffle the phone, I heard every word. "It's fine. I can handle on my own!" I said, as much to convince myself as him. Before I could hang up, he called out, "Aveline, go home first. I'll explain everything later." What was there to explain? Just another lie to add to his collection. I ended the call and ordered an Uber home. Castro didn't return that night. Unable to sleep through the New Year's fireworks outside, I worked on some jewelry designs for my clients on my iPad. Accidentally touching the messaging app icon, I saw Oriana's social media post from an hour ago - a stunning photo of fireworks lighting up the night sky, captioned: "After years of wandering, I've come home to you. The fireworks welcome me back, just as brilliant as your love. Worth every moment of waiting." I stared at the screen for a long moment before realizing I was logged into Castro's account on my iPad. I had no interest in reading their intimate messages. I logged out immediately, trying to ignore the hollow feeling in my heart. The next morning, feeling somewhat better, I arrived at the design firm right on time. Sarah, my creative director, held my resignation letter with mixed emotions when I told her about returning home for marriage. "First my best jewelry designer leaves for marriage," she sighed, shaking her head. "The studio won't be the same without you." Words failed me, so I hugged her instead, grateful for her mentorship over the years. News of my departure spread quickly through the office. My colleagues insisted on throwing me a farewell dinner. I suggested the Italian restaurant Castro and I frequented - partly because I didn't know many others, but mostly because their seafood risotto was exceptional. During dinner, I excused myself to the wash my hand, only to find Oriana touching up her makeup at the marble vanity. "What a coincidence!" She smiled warmly at my reflection. "You know, Castro first brought me here during our college days. We've had so many special moments in this place since then." I returned a polite smile and turned to leave, seeing no reason for small talk between us. But Oriana wasn't finished. She called after me, "I noticed something the other night - Castro always rinses the spicy sauce off your shrimp. Are you sensitive to spice too?" That single word - "too" - made me freeze. The truth was, I loved spicy food. But Castro always insisted on rinsing my shrimp, claiming spicy food wasn't ladylike. I'd believed he was being protective. Now I realized he was simply acting on habit. It’s Oriana, who couldn't handle spice. Seeing my silence, she tilted her head, studying my face with unsettling intensity. "You know, I've been meaning to say this since I first saw you... Don't you think we look remarkably similar?" I'd never felt more humiliated. Under her triumphant gaze, I fled the bathroom, the pieces finally falling into place - I hadn't been his love, I'd been her replacement. Back in the private dining room, my colleagues' warmth slowly thawed my frozen state. Just as I was beginning to push aside the unpleasant encounter, the door swung open. Castro stood in the doorway, his Armani suit slightly disheveled, his eyes scanning the crowded room before landing on me with laser focus. In that moment of eye contact, I saw barely contained rage in his expression, though I couldn't fathom why. "Aveline." His voice cut through the chatter like ice. "A word?" Following him into the marble-lined hallway, I was utterly unprepared for what happened next. His hand connected with my cheek in a sharp crack that echoed off the pristine walls. In seven years, he had never raised a hand to me. "How dare you push Oriana?" Meeting my shocked gaze, he showed no remorse - only fury. "You knew her ankle was injured. I told you I'd explain everything later - is this your way of getting revenge?" My cheek stung where he'd struck me. Oriana limped toward us from down the hallway. Her designer blouse was rumpled and stained with water. Before I could defend myself, she collapsed dramatically to the floor. Castro shoved past me, rushing to gather her in his arms. "Why did you follow us? I told you I'd bring her to apologize," he said to Oriana, his harsh words belied by his tender tone. Oriana shook her head, tears glistening. "It's nothing serious. She probably didn't mean it. Don't be so hard on her." "If William finds out you struck his sister..." she added softly. At the mention of my brother, something flickered in Castro's eyes. But looking at Oriana, his resolve hardened. "William trusted me with her care," he said firmly. "If she needs correction, that's my responsibility." I let out a bitter laugh. "What exactly did I do? Even criminals get due process. You're denouncing and striking me without any evidence - doesn't that seem unjust to you?" Castro's fists clenched as he glared at me. "You knew there were no cameras in the restroom. That's why you chose to attack her there." The absurdity of it all made me want to laugh and cry simultaneously. "If there were no cameras, how can you be so sure it was me?" "Because Oriana wouldn't lie!" He took a step toward me, his cologne - the one she'd given him years ago, I now realized - overwhelming. "What possible reason would she have? I've known her for years. She's not capable of that kind of deception." I met his gaze, unflinching. "So I must be the liar then?" Seven years together. I'd thought that would mean something - that Castro would at least trust my character. But in Oriana's presence, those seven years might as well have been seven minutes. “Her word alone was enough to convict me. One accusation, and I was guilty beyond redemption.” The favoritism was unmistakable, his blind devotion to her undeniable. And me? I was just the understudy who'd forgotten her place. There was no point in arguing further. Ignoring Castro's angry calls, I walked away, my cheek still stinging from his slap. Not wanting to cast a shadow over my colleagues' celebration, I quietly settled the bill and texted them: "Something came up. Please enjoy the rest of the evening - dinner's on me." Back home, I found myself really seeing our apartment for the first time in seven years. Every corner held memories: the window seat where we'd shared Sunday morning coffee, the kitchen island where he'd taught me to make his grandmother's tiramisu. What once felt magical now felt poisonous, each memory a thorn in my heart. I found a moving box and spent the night methodically erasing our relationship: the matching "Beauty and Beast" slippers, the "his and hers" coffee mugs that fit together, and a whole collection of professional couple photographs - holiday cards, vacation shots, carefully staged moments of perfect happiness. These had been my security blanket, my proof that what we had was real. Now they were just artifacts of an elaborate performance. Castro didn't come home for two weeks. Between finishing my last jewelry designs,, I systematically emptied the apartment. I sold or donated every piece of furniture I'd chosen, every decorative touch I'd added. The space returned to its original state: stark minimalist, black and white, emptiness echoing off the walls. The night before my departure, I tried calling him one last time. Each attempt met with immediate rejection. Finally, a text appeared: "Unless you're ready to admit your guilt and properly apologize to Oriana, we have nothing to discuss." I laughed bitterly at my phone's screen. So be it. Some conversations were better left unsaid. My early morning flight beckoned. As I wheeled my suitcase out, this space that had once felt so precious now felt like a prison I was finally escaping. Just before boarding, my phone lit up with birthday wishes. Friends and colleagues sending hopes for my future, wishes for happiness, prayers for true love. I responded to each one before switching off my phone. As the plane lifted off, I made a silent promise to myself: I would be happy. With so many people wishing me well, how could I not be? 【5909】	LEARN_MORE	https://image.noveltells.net/landing-page/h5-1290.	FavoRead	https://www.facebook.com/100083109648305/	1,138	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	image.noveltells.net	VIDEO		https://image.noveltells.net/landing-page/h5-1290.html?id=1290&yy_appname=Favoread&badid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482054811_2166611837107305_3569589392901737773_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ts2PFvt7LiUQ7kNvgEzClzr&_nc_oc=AdhzkQFtwPMZIlwe1usIspOhXxR4XzMfy1r6xTVAsq8My7mVc0xyyikUtB4h2I4JgaHS1iYFrbWZPv-Ti3TLL-Wq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ApJASm6m2wnWEJ_BeM064Ma&oh=00_AYBbvB9zQ9dbvrKZtAi4FPsTdlmmSB3JxbjKZmH0NldAvg&oe=67C722F1	PERSON_PROFILE	FavoRead	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,144	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	❤️😍Continue reading👉👉👉	I never thought I’d see him again. As I step off the bus, the scorching sun beats down on me. The heat here is unbearable, with not even the slightest breeze to offer relief. I already miss the places I've come to call home over the years. Grabbing my suitcase from the driver—who’s been eyeing me with a mix of disinterest and impatience—I flash him a polite smile, take my bag, and turn away without another glance. The bus station is smaller than I remember. I push through the crowd, scanning the faces around me, searching for my aunt. I’ve moved around more times than I can count—first with my mother, and then, after she passed away, with my aunt, who took me in along with her mate and daughter. Constantly relocating wasn’t a choice; it was a necessity. Someone was always after me. My aunt was insistent that I return to this town, though I still don’t understand why. This place holds nothing but bad memories for me—especially since he is here. I refuse to say his name. He abandoned my mother and me when I was just ten years old. I watched her heart break a little more each day, while he never once looked back. He was too caught up in his pack, too in love with his own life to remember the daughter he left behind. So why did my aunt want me back here? She and my cousin Eleanor have settled in this place, but I made it clear—I would only return if it was a matter of life and death. And now, I’m back, trapped in a town that will no doubt become my personal hell. “Sierra, OVER HERE!” I hear her before I see her. Turning to my left, I spot my aunt waving frantically, bouncing on her toes to get my attention. I force a smile and start making my way toward her. As I walk, my senses sharpen. I can feel the weight of several eyes on me, curious and assessing. This town is a werewolf town. There are humans here, but my aunt told me they’re aware of the supernatural. Two packs live on the outskirts of town, sitting on opposite ends. One of them is his pack. And from what I’ve heard, they roam freely here. This is going to be interesting—a panther shifter living in the middle of werewolf territory. “Auntie,” I greet her with a smile, stepping closer. She groans at the word, her expression shifting immediately. “Sierra, you know I hate being called that.” I chuckle. “Sorry, Raven.” I pull her into a hug, feeling some of the tension ease from my body. “How was the trip?” she asks, taking my bag from me as we head toward the exit. “It was fine. First a plane ride, then a twelve-hour bus ride. There were a few stops along the way, so I got to stretch my legs. But I didn’t mind—I’m used to it. I also made sure no one was following me,” I add, glancing over my shoulder. That’s when I notice the bus driver handing off his keys to another driver. Both of them are staring right at me. I sigh. “If one more person keeps staring, I swear I’ll rip their throats out,” Aria growls in my mind. She’s my panther counterpart—always on edge, always ready for a fight. My mother was a panther shifter, just like me, just like Raven and Eleanor. “Why is everyone staring at me?” I mutter, uneasy. Aria steps forward in my mind, scanning the area through my eyes. Raven smirks. “Well, it’s not every day a stunning twenty-year-old woman rolls into town.” I snort. “Yeah, right. There must be plenty of girls here. But you know what I mean.” I catch two elderly women watching me. The moment I meet their eyes, they quickly look away—but one of them seems to be mind-linking someone. “I bet she’s telling her Alpha that someone new is here,” Aria muses, stretching lazily before retreating to the back of my mind. Raven studies me, lowering her voice. “Be careful when Aria comes forward. Your eyes shift color slightly.” I nod. “We’ll talk more in the car.” We exit the bus station and head toward the parking lot, Raven leading the way to her small Toyota. Just as we approach, a black Mustang screeches to a stop right in front of her car. Raven groans. “One Alpha too many,” she mutters under her breath. “Be nice, Sierra.” The driver steps out first, his gaze flicking to me before he opens the rear door. Two young men climb out, looking to be around my age. Then it hits me. A familiar scent—one I haven’t smelled in years. I stiffen as a low growl escapes me before I can stop it. I know that scent. He’s not my father. But he smells just like him. Which means... He must be his son. Chapter 2 Sierra I have a brother—or at least, someone who seems to be my age. "You must be Raven’s niece, Sierra. My name is Dane. I’m the Beta of the Dark Valley Pack, and this here is Caleb, our Gamma. We wanted to introduce ourselves," Dane said. I stared at him, unimpressed. His Alpha was either too busy or just didn’t care enough to find out who I was. "Yeah, that’s me. Now, can you move your car so we can leave?" I said through clenched teeth. Raven looked like she wanted to slap me but managed to restrain herself. "Sierra," she warned. "My apologies, we didn’t realize this was your car," Dane said, clearly lying. Raven had been living here for months, and they had to know. "Cruz, could you move the car to a parking spot, please?" The driver, Cruz, nodded, got back into the car, and drove it into a space on the opposite side of Raven’s vehicle. "Better?" Dane asked with a smug smile. "Yeah, I guess," I said with a hint of irritation. "Raven, can we go now? I’ve been awake for over twenty-four hours, and I’m exhausted." I let out a fake yawn for emphasis. Raven smirked, knowing full well I was just trying to get out of this conversation. "Of course, Sierra. Beta, Gamma, was there anything else you needed?" she asked while placing my bag in the back seat and loading my suitcase into the trunk. Both men looked at me, and I noticed Caleb seemed to be mind-linking someone. "He’s linking the Alpha," Aria, my wolf, murmured from the back of my mind. She had been watching everything unfold through my eyes, clearly amused. After a few seconds, Dane turned back to us, his expression unreadable. "No, nothing else. Oh, actually—one thing. We’ll be stopping by the café later to pick up the cakes we ordered for the ceremony." "No problem. They’ll be ready by the time you come to collect them. I hope the new Alpha has a great welcome-home party," Raven said. "Oh, he will," Dane replied with a cocky grin. I shuddered, my thoughts immediately going to all the crude things he could be implying. But then he caught me off guard. "You two should come," he said. Raven glanced at them before shaking her head. "I don’t think so. Sierra needs to rest after her long journey," she said. I knew exactly why she was acting this way, and my blood boiled. I knew who would be at that party. "Well, the invitation stands," Dane said. Caleb looked at me carefully. "You should come to the packhouse—" "I don’t think so," I cut him off before he could finish. "You both know my father is part of your pack. I will not—no, I will never—step foot in your packhouse. So why don’t you two go do whatever it is you need to do before I throw up all over those nice shoes of yours?" I snapped. I turned to open the car door but hesitated for a second, looking back at Caleb. "Oh, and do me a favor—say hi to my father. I doubt he’ll show his face anytime soon, especially since it’s been ten years since he last saw me. So enjoy your little party, but don’t ever come near me again." Without another word, I climbed into the car and slammed the door shut. "Stupid wolves," I muttered under my breath. I sat there, waiting for Raven to get in. Glancing through the window, I saw the three of them standing there, speechless from my outburst. I hated that man. I never wanted to see the person who abandoned me. "I apologize for Sierra," Raven said as she walked to the car, opening the driver’s side door. Dane had recovered from my outburst and gave me a smug smile. "I hope she changes her mind. We don’t want any trouble," he said. Without another word, the three of them turned and walked off. Raven and I watched them go. "Stupid wolves," I muttered again. "Sierra, you need to be careful with what you say," Raven warned as she started the engine. We pulled out of the parking lot and onto the main road, driving in silence for a while. Finally, I broke it. "Raven, why did you want me here?" Chapter 3 Sierra "Raven, why did you want me here?" She sighed. "Because I wanted to see you. You’re my niece." I studied her face. I believed her, but I also knew there was more to it. "And?" I pressed. She was quiet for a moment. "Your father came into the café a few weeks ago when I first moved here. One of his pack members told him I was in town. He wanted to know how you were… and if you were coming back to live here," she admitted, stealing a glance at me. "He wants to get to know you, Sierra." I laughed dryly. "Yeah, sure. He hasn’t cared for ten years. Why now?" She shrugged. "I don’t know. I understand why you hate him for what he did to your mother and for abandoning you. I hate him too. But when I told him you’d never want to see him again… he seemed genuinely hurt." I didn’t respond. I knew Raven would let me make my own choice about this, but as far as I was concerned, that man was dead to me. "Sierra, you don’t know the full story of why he left," she said softly. I turned to her, my expression blank. The problem with that? I did know why he left. And I knew exactly what had made him do it. Either Raven didn’t know, or she believed whatever lies he had told her. Trying to change the subject, I asked, "Who’s the new Alpha? Why are they throwing a welcome-home party for him?" She hesitated before answering. "His name is Damon. He’s the Alpha’s son. He’s been away for the past few months, training with neighboring packs," she said. "Before he left, he came into the café every day. You’ll probably see him around soon enough." I didn’t want to see anyone—especially not an Alpha. I let the conversation drop and turned to stare out the window. The town was surrounded by dense forest, but the houses were built close together. After a few minutes, Raven pulled into the driveway of a small terraced house. It looked normal enough. The houses were near the forest, making it easy for wolves to shift and run freely. "We need to shift soon. It’s been too long," Aria murmured in my head. As I stepped out of the car, I suddenly felt like someone was watching me. "Aria, do you sense anyone?" I asked, keeping my back straight. "I don’t know, but I don’t like it here," she admitted. "Something feels… off." I agreed. There was something unsettling about this place. Raven must have felt it too because she glanced behind me, her expression unreadable. "Let’s get you inside. I need to head to the café to close up," she said, grabbing my arm and leading me toward the house. Once inside, I glanced around. The living room and kitchen were open-plan, and a staircase led upstairs. Raven hesitated before locking the front door. "Everything okay?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. "Yeah… Let me show you to your room. You can shower and rest while I head to the café," she said quickly. She led me upstairs, showing me my room—which had its own bathroom. "I had this installed last week, knowing you’d be visiting. Now that you’re staying, it’ll be useful," she said with a smile. I nodded. The room was small but cozy—a far cry from sleeping on the ground or in trees. "I got everything you might need. If you need anything else, we can go shopping tomorrow. Also, do you want to work some shifts at the café?" she asked. "Yeah, sure," I said, just as my stomach growled. She chuckled. "I’ll make you some sandwiches. You should eat, then sleep." I yawned. "Thanks, Raven." As she left, I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. I was too exhausted to dwell on it. Within minutes of my head hitting the pillow, sleep pulled me under. Chapter 4 Raven I can’t believe Sierra is back. I’ve missed her so much these past two years. She wanted to travel, and who could blame her? After everything she’s been through in the last decade, she deserved it. I knew the lavender and sage in her room would knock her and Aria out cold. I needed her to rest, but more than that, I needed her to be safe. He’s been outside, lurking in the shadows, watching her return home. I step outside and lock the door behind me. I know he’s still there, watching, waiting. He wants to see her. But she hates him—loathes him—for abandoning her and for what he did to her mother. As I walk down the driveway, I spot him standing to my right. “She looks just like Eden,” he murmurs. I shoot him a cold, hard glare. No matter that he’s Sierra’s father—what he did was unforgivable. I don’t like him either, not after everything he put my sister through. “You shouldn’t be here. She doesn’t want to see you,” I say flatly. “By the way, she met your son. He wanted to come to the party tonight, but she shut that down real quick.” My voice drips with venom. “I heard she takes after Eden—same fire in her spirit,” he says. I bare my teeth at him. “Stop saying my sister’s name. You lost the right to speak it a long time ago.” I push past him, my blood boiling. He looks wounded. “Raven, please… you know what happened,” he says, guilt thick in his voice. “I didn’t have a choice.” I whirl around, facing him head-on, my panther stirring beneath my skin, itching to tear him apart. “You have some goddamn nerve saying that. I wouldn't be surprised if Sierra knows more about what really happened than you think,” I snap. “And listen to me carefully—you need to stay away from her. She despises you. As for your so-called son, she doesn’t know him or that daughter of yours. So if I were you, I’d keep them far away from her.” He stares down at me, expression unreadable. “Raven, please... I just want to know my daughter.” I sneer, his name like poison on my tongue. “Kieran, back the hell off. I’m warning you. You, your mate, your children, and that old Alpha you chose over your own flesh and blood—stay the hell away from her. You have no idea what she’s been through.” I realize too late that I’ve said too much. His brow furrows. “What do you mean? What has she been through?” His shock is evident, though he quickly masks it. Shit. That’s not my story to tell. I turn on my heel and keep walking. The café is just around the corner from my place. “Raven, tell me, please,” he calls after me, still following. I push open the café door. It’s closing time—we’re shutting early for the ceremony. Eleanor stands behind the counter, a warm smile on her face when she sees me, but the moment she spots Kieran, her expression hardens. She hates him too. “Raven,” he says, stepping inside, “you can’t keep this from me. She’s my daughter.” I’ve had enough of this bastard. He hasn’t given a damn about Sierra for ten years. The only reason I’m even living here again is because I have to be. I spin around to face him, my patience gone. “Listen up, you worthless piece of shit. You were never in her life. I don’t owe you a damn thing. You never came back for her—not once—even after all the messages I sent you. You are not, and will never be, her father,” I hiss. “I had to raise her and Eleanor on my own, you jackass, with no help from you. You want to know Sierra? Then come here and talk to her yourself. Or better yet, wait until she actually wants to talk to you—which, let me tell you, will be never.” I can feel the shame radiating off him, but before I can lay into him further, the door swings open. His son, Dane, walks in with the new Alpha, Damon. Both of them take in the scene, Dane immediately sensing the tension. “Dad, what are you doing here?” he asks, glancing between me and Kieran. Kieran straightens, his jaw tightening. “Raven, what’s going on?” Damon asks, his tone authoritative. I roll my eyes. Stupid wolves. “She was just telling this asshole to get lost and never come back,” Eleanor chimes in, stepping up beside me. A low growl rumbles from Damon’s chest. “Show some respect, cat, or I’ll put you down myself,” he grits out. Eleanor lets out a soft growl of her own. “You may be the Alpha, and I may be part of this pack, but you don’t get to tell my mother what to do—especially when it doesn’t concern you,” she snaps. I don’t want her getting into trouble, but I hold Damon’s gaze. “I’m asking Kieran to leave. Now isn’t the time for this,” I say firmly. Kieran and Dane stand on opposite sides of Damon, but I have one last thing to say. “Here are the cakes for the ceremony. Take them and go,” I grind out. “And Alpha, if you ever speak to my daughter like that again, you’ll see exactly what a cat can do.” He stares at me, momentarily taken aback. I rarely let my anger spill over like this—and he knows it. He knew me before he left to train the packs. “Raven, I’m going to be the new Alpha soon. Please,” he says, as if that means a damn thing to me. I glance at Kieran and Dane. “Neither of you are welcome here when Sierra is around. You hear me?” My panther snarls, my fury barely contained. “I mean it. If you come in here and upset her, I’ll rip you apart myself.” “You can’t stop me from seeing my daughter,” Kieran says stubbornly. But before I can reply, the café door swings open again. The scent that fills the air makes my stomach drop. Kieran stiffens. Oh, hell. She’s pissed. Chapter 5 Raven "YEAH, SHE CAN," a voice snaps from behind him. I can tell she’s pissed. How the hell is she still standing after being awake for 24 hours? Kieran spins around, and his face goes pale when he sees the daughter he once knew. She’s no longer the little girl he left behind. Sierra glares at him, but before she can say anything, a low growl fills the room—"MATE." All of us turn to look at Damon. His eyes are locked onto Sierra. Oh, shit. This is not going to end well. Sierra meets his gaze briefly before striding towards Kieran and Dane, her face unreadable. “You need to back off,” she snarls. I can feel Aria trying to break through. The energy radiating from Sierra is overwhelming. Eleanor glances at her cousin and smirks. "Don't talk to—" Dane starts, but Sierra cuts him off with a guttural growl. Her eyes shift from their usual blue to a striking, glowing green. "You wouldn’t want to piss me off, brother." We all freeze, stunned. Eleanor and I have heard Aria and Sierra speak in unison before, but seeing it now is still something else. I glance at Damon, but he’s still fixated on Sierra—his mate. "What? You thought I wouldn't figure out who you are?" Sierra challenges Dane. "I recognized your scent at the station. You smell just like him." Then, she turns to Kieran. "And don’t think for a second that acting like the father I should have had is going to work. You abandoned me for ten years. So why the hell would I want you in my life now?" Kieran looks wounded. But what did he expect? I told him Sierra wanted nothing to do with him. She didn’t even know about Dane—let alone the sister she’s yet to meet. Sierra steps closer, eyes locked onto them both. Aria is close to the surface, her power amplified by Sierra’s rage. If we can feel it, I wonder if they can, too. "You’re going to listen, and you’re going to listen well," she says, voice deadly calm. "I don’t want anything to do with you or your new little family. You left me alone to survive for a decade, and guess what? I did just fine. If you ever come back, I’ll let my panther out. And trust me—she’s a hell of a lot less friendly than I am." She bares her teeth. "Now take whatever you came for and go." She strides between them and heads straight toward me. That’s when I realize—she’s still in her Minnie Mouse pajamas. She must have sensed him outside earlier. Damon hasn’t taken his eyes off her. Before anyone else can speak, Sierra turns to him. "Oh, and Alpha—I don’t want a mate." Damon lets out a deep growl. "You don’t mean that," he says, barely keeping himself and his wolf in check. Sierra shrugs. "Take it however you want. I’m only here for a few weeks, and then I’m gone." Damon stares at her, saying nothing, though the hurt in his eyes is obvious. I know why she doesn’t want a mate. There are memories—dark ones—she’d rather forget. She hates men in general, and honestly, I don’t blame her. The tension in the air is suffocating. After a long moment, I turn to Kieran and Dane. "I think you all should leave now," I say. "Oh, and don’t forget the cakes on your way out." Dane glances at me and offers a small, grateful smile, mouthing thank you. He looks like he wants to say more, but he doesn’t. Damon still hasn’t moved. He’s rooted in place, staring at Sierra. Dane finally pulls him toward the door, leading him outside to the waiting SUV. Kieran hesitates, looking like he wants to say something, but he just exhales sharply, grabs the boxes, and walks out. Eleanor holds the door open for him. Another SUV pulls up, and Kieran loads the boxes inside before climbing in. Within seconds, the vehicle disappears down the road. Dane lingers a moment longer, stepping back into the café for the last box. Sierra and I watch him from behind the counter. He stops at the door, glancing over his shoulder at us. "I know what our father did. I don’t condone it," he says. "But if possible, I’d like to get to know my older sister." Sierra lets out a low growl. Dane flinches slightly but keeps his gaze steady. "I’m sorry, Sierra," he murmurs before walking out. Eleanor shuts the door and turns back to us. "Well, cuz, I’m so glad you’re here," she teases with a smirk. Sierra walks up to her and smiles, pulling her into a hug. They both turn to look at me, but before either can speak— "How did you know?" I ask Sierra. She studies me for a second before answering. "I smelled his scent outside. It woke Aria up. But the rest? I’ve always known. I just never told you." She exhales sharply, her expression darkening. "I hate him even more now. He never came for me." The bitterness in her voice is unmistakable. I know she’s hurting. And I have no doubt that Kieran is a big reason why she refuses to accept her mate. "Well, let’s close up. You look like you should be in bed," I say with a chuckle. Sierra glances down at herself, and Eleanor notices too. They both start laughing. We move around the café, making sure everything is cleaned up—tables wiped down, chairs in their proper places, all the lights turned off. Sierra yawns. "You need rest," I tell her. She nods. "Let’s go home," she says before turning to Eleanor. "You coming? We could have one of our famous sleepovers." Eleanor grins but shakes her head. I know that’s not happening—Eleanor has a ceremony to attend with her mate. "I can’t, cuz. You need your beauty sleep," she teases. Sierra rolls her eyes, but Eleanor shoots me a knowing look. Don’t tell her about Caleb yet, Mom. I nod subtly. Eleanor only knows bits and pieces of why Sierra refuses to accept her mate, but she’s scared to tell her just yet. She has no idea how Sierra will react when she finds out. Sierra yawns again, making us laugh. "Come on, Sleeping Beauty. Time for bed," I say, leading her out of the café and toward home. Chapter 6 Damon I found my mate. But she wants nothing to do with me. I’m beyond pissed. Why doesn’t she want me? I glance at Kieran. His face is unreadable, but I know he’s hurting. He finally met his daughter, yet she rejected him outright. I don’t know the full story between them, but whatever it is, it’s bad. “I’m sorry, Damon,” he suddenly says, still staring ahead. When I turn to look at him, I notice a small, sad smile on his face. He doesn’t elaborate. “You okay, Kieran?” I ask, studying him. His expression remains blank, but I continue, “I just wanted to say sorry about what happened at the café.” He nods, and I can feel the guilt radiating off him. He’s deeply wounded. After a moment, he exhales heavily. “We need to see your father when we get back to the pack house,” he says. “But I have one request.” His voice is almost pleading. “Don’t tell him about Sierra being your mate just yet.” His words catch me off guard. Why wouldn’t he want me to tell my own father? Especially since my mate is his best friend’s daughter—well, his long-lost daughter. “Why, Kieran? He’d be happy that I found my mate,” I say, but the look on his face tells me there’s more to this than I understand. “He will be—once he knows she’s my daughter. But there are things you don’t know yet, and that’s why we need to talk to him first. We have to explain everything to you. It might help you understand why Sierra doesn’t want a mate,” he finally says. I stare at him, momentarily stunned, but I quickly regain my composure. “Alright, I won’t say anything. But Kieran… what happened to make her hate you so much?” I ask, immediately regretting it as soon as the words escape my mouth. His shame crashes over me like a tidal wave. “I hurt her mother in the worst way possible,” he confesses quietly. “And I never claimed her as my mate.” I’m speechless. “I’ll explain everything when we see your father,” he adds. I glance at the man who had trained me when my father was too busy. I grew close to his son, Dane, who’s now about to become my Beta, and his sister, Nova. They’ve been like siblings to me—we argue and fight just like real siblings do. Sierra would have made an impression on me if she’d been around. Even in those pajamas, she exuded a quiet strength. I couldn’t quite make out her figure, but I didn’t care. Those piercing blue eyes, the rich brown hair messily tied into a bun, and those soft pink lips—it all made me want her even more. When her panther stirred, her eyes glowed green, and I felt an immense power roll off her in waves. It was unnerving. There was more to her than I could see. Her emotions dictated the intensity of her energy, and at that moment, all I felt from her was pure rage. The car ride back to the pack house is quiet. It’s a long drive from town, and our driver is stuck behind another vehicle. Kieran stares out the window, lost in thought. I mind-link my father. “Hey, Dad, we’re on our way back with the cakes. There’s something you need to know. Sierra is back.” “Yeah, I heard,” my father replies gruffly. “Kieran went to see her. I take it that didn’t go well? I told him to give her a few days to settle in.” I sigh. “‘Didn’t go well’ is an understatement. She was furious. He wants the three of us to meet in your office to talk about it.” My father is silent for a beat before responding. “We need to talk. I think you should be there for all of this—you’ll be Alpha soon.” “Alright. We’ll be there in twenty minutes.” I stick to Kieran’s request and don’t mention to my father that Sierra is my mate. When we finally arrive at the pack house, we step out of the SUV. Caleb, my soon-to-be Gamma, is waiting nearby. I know why—his mate, Eleanor, nearly got herself ripped apart for disrespecting me. From the look on his face, he already knows. “Sorry about Eleanor, Alpha,” he says immediately. “She was just protecting her mother.” I nod. “I’ll apologize to her later.” He gives me a strange look. “You shouldn’t have to apologize. She’s still adjusting to our ways here. They lost their pack years ago and have been moving around ever since,” he explains, his gaze shifting past me to Kieran. “He shouldn’t have gone there,” he mutters. “I know most of what happened—Eleanor told me. It’s bad.” I stare at him, taken aback. “I’ll find out more when we talk to my father,” I say before shutting off the mind-link. Caleb nods and heads toward his house, where Eleanor is waiting. He probably misses her. Eleanor had mentioned wanting to tell Sierra something, but she wasn’t sure how her cousin would react—especially when it came to the subject of mates. There has to be a reason why she despises the idea of having one. A low growl rumbles in my head—my wolf, Cruz. “She’ll come around. We just need to take things slow with her.” I freeze. My wolf has been obsessed with finding our mate for years, but he’s never been this patient before. Normally, he’s possessive and restless. But now, he just wants what’s best for Sierra—even if that means taking our time. “What’s gotten into you? You’ve been quiet since you told me Sierra was our mate,” I ask him. Cruz is silent for a moment before sighing. “I’m being careful with her. Seeing her father after all these years made her angry. And her panther… she’s powerful. Her emotions fuel her strength, and I think her panther has her own feelings about this entire situation. We need to figure out what happened.” I nod. “You’re right, Cruz. Let’s find out exactly what we’re dealing with.” He chuckles before settling in the back of my mind, alert but waiting. Waiting to learn more about our mate.	LEARN_MORE	https://wolf.tapread.com/overseas-h5/flow?pixelId=	GreatNovels	https://www.facebook.com/61570845060031/	38	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	wolf.tapread.com	VIDEO		https://wolf.tapread.com/overseas-h5/flow?pixelId=603906235511531&page_id=982d1c8b79554eb981e7e9149bddef2c	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480744925_1593125321342352_4832151460432742851_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vkA3gBfBpCUQ7kNvgHOjpY8&_nc_oc=Adi3CRjLpimjGRFrJ-1mmMKBuLuASWk-cP0D7m_loZIjFKPlQPTYVFYQi8rjcQmOHQyRycALcKGgN2s6tIsfa_2D&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A0AoMVF0Z6yyibJ8fZDQIFt&oh=00_AYDh6LIPAbmJw5zP9C9C29wJr333z7xcRurgCFq-EcfD5Q&oe=67C74096	PERSON_PROFILE	GreatNovels	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,765	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	Topical Pain Management – Exploring Ways to Treat Pain Topically - Richie's Specialty Pharmacy	NERVE PAIN? WANT TO TREAT YOUR PAIN TOPICALLY? Check out this video and more in the comments section! We are excited to share information related to our relaunch of topical pain management based upon numerous requests from prescribers. Please note, we are more than willing to share this information as well as our research and what we've learned with any healthcare provider (including other pharmacies) if desired. If you're interested in learning more, you can reach out directly to our pharmacist-in-charge and owner, Richie Ray, at richie@kih-llc.com. www.richiespharmacy.com/hcp/tpm @followers Kingdom Investment Holdings	LEARN_MORE	http://www.richiespharmacy.com/hcp/tpm	Richie's Specialty Pharmacy	https://www.facebook.com/61560213257030/	970	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	richiespharmacy.com	IMAGE	The FDA does not review any compounded medication for safety or efficacy. Richie’s Specialty Pharmacy® (“RSP”) is a registered trademark of Richie’s Pharmacy and Medical Supply, LLC. RSP serves patients solely within the state of Texas. No compounded medication is reviewed by FDA for safety...	http://www.richiespharmacy.com/hcp/tpm	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481070404_1015260900502972_1804749632086249376_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MTE_B4sc2sQQ7kNvgFgbAug&_nc_oc=AdiUI3F9ffW80ogAO-qx-RPlhHPMC-ar1hoOWYG5JNaXDAGuObqoEfLVgjc_wd8quH38OzIMZ28-FD9343h-hARX&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AYCvgeMvlDm3IcgG6G4XXiE&oh=00_AYA7z5noPtM9OZ4W5fmL68-LTRm5TErx9inSpg4WmPhfRA&oe=67C742F5	PERSON_PROFILE	Richie's Specialty Pharmacy	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,707,474	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2025-02-28 00:31	active	2651	Read Next Chapter Now👉	She wants to be dominated, so she goes to a BDSM club for the first time. The three mafia doms she volunteers for turn out to be... one of them is her professor in school, one is her classmate, and one is her boss. Chapter 1 - Emily For the first time in my life, I was pushing myself out of my comfort zone. My heart was beating like crazy, both from excitement and nervousness. I was on my own, having told no one about this, and I didn't know if that was a good thing or a bad thing as I stared ahead of me. The door in front of me looked dark and ominous, but I knew exactly what was behind it-hot and delicious danger. My skin was clammy under the coat, the only outward sign of my nerves. I stood straight and proud, but on the inside, I was a wreck. I couldn't believe I was doing this. It wasn't too late to turn around; I hadn't entered yet. But I knew I wouldn't. This was something I had wanted to do for a long time. Having lived my whole life in a little town in Greenport, NY, I hadn't had the opportunity to do this until now. Well, that might not be entirely accurate. I moved to New York two years ago, as a transfer student, but it was only now that I had worked up the nerve to come here. Most of the time, I was a pussy. I could admit to that much. I had never been the go-getter, do-what-I-want, fuck-everyone's-opinion, and fuck-the-consequences kind of girl. The never-stand-out, calm-and-quiet, never-push-myself kind of girl? Yeah, that was definitely more me. Right now, though, I was saying "FUCK IT" in big block letters, and I was proud of it. The bouncers looked at me, no doubt wondering if I was going to go in or not. Probably time to move my ass along, I had been standing here for far too long. As I stepped forward, one of the men stopped me with his hand. "ID." I took out my student ID, making sure to give it to him with a steady hand. I didn't want them to find out how nervous I was. A minute later, he gave me the card back. "Did you follow the dress code?" he asked. "Yes, I did." It had been tough to decide what to wear, but at the last minute I found an outfit I'd gotten as a gag present from a friend. She probably didn't envision me using it for this purpose. "I need to confirm it," the bouncer said, nodding at my body covered in a long coat. Fuck, I wasn't prepared to let go of my cover so soon. With my shoulders poised, I unbuttoned my coat, slowly revealing the black lingerie underneath until it was all out in the open. The corset was tight, like a second skin, showcasing my hourglass figure with respectively large breasts and ass, and a smaller waist. A garter belt pulled the attention to my slightly big thighs. And the open toes stilettos made my legs look longer, more sensuous. The men were polite, only taking a quick look before turning to open the door for me. I didn't know if I was disappointed or not when I walked away from them. Wasn't I pretty enough for a second look? But then again, I was sure they were used to seeing girls' bodies and it was a part of their job not to freak out both current and possible members. It felt forbidden to cross the threshold into the club, as if I was entering an entire new world, and in a sense, I was. I could hear the slow beat of music-seductive and provocative-over the murmur of people talking. My heart was beating a mile a minute, but still, I didn't let it show. I am a confident, sexy woman who takes control over my desires. If I told myself that enough times, maybe I would begin to believe it. Since I first started my sexual awakening, I had been timid and unsure, and definitely not confident. More like an awkward girl who didn't know what to do. With zero boyfriends, and only drunk hookups, I struggled with being comfortable to let go enough to enjoy myself. Now was my time to seek out what I found thrilling, and something I had fantasized about from the time I knew I wanted something more than vanilla sex. Which was why I now found myself at a BDSM dungeon. Even with the tension, I still felt tingles of excitement. My curiosity overruled any nervousness I might have had. "Welcome to Desire's Den," a gorgeous brunette with a tall, slim figure said from behind a desk just by the entrance. "Hi, I heard you had an open house today?" I asked, mentally cursing my shaky voice. She looked me up and down, and judgment was clear in her eyes. "Yeah, we do. I'll take that jacket from you and show you to one of the hosts for tonight. He or she will show you around and answer any questions you might have. Oh, and I'll need your phone as well. We value our members privacy, and don't accept photos or videos being taken. This is just a safety precaution." I let go of my safety cover reluctantly, suddenly feeling naked standing in only underwear and heels. Goosebumps appeared along my body from the abrupt chill. I had an urge to put my hands over my breasts, even though I wasn't actually showing anything, and needed to physically force my hands to stay by my sides. The woman turned towards me as soon as she finished hanging up my coat. "Okay then, follow me." She led me down the stairs and through a corridor. The music grew louder with each step I took, and with it, my heart raced even faster. I was really doing this, I thought as I followed the brunette beauty. I couldn't believe it, it felt like a dream. My heels clicked to the rhythm of my steps; it was the only sound I made. The corridor wasn't that long, and it was sparse of any furniture, although it did have some intriguing photos on the wall. At the end of the hall was another door, this one made of the same dark oak as the one to the entrance. As the woman knocked once, twice, thrice, I had to lock my knees to keep them from shaking. This Is it, the first time I would see with my own eyes a real dungeon. Chapter 2 - Emily Someone opened the door from the other side, and with a few extra steps, I was inside. Following the receptionist, or whatever she was-welcoming committee?-further in, we walked towards another woman standing off to the side, talking to a man. This woman was older, with leather everything. Thigh high boots, in leather. A body suit, in leather. Gloves, in what also looked like leather. "Mistress Claire, I have a new one. Would you show her around and inform her on how we do it here?" The brunette spoke with respect, but as she turned to look at me, her eyes once again showed signs of judgment. Why? What could possibly judge me off? It couldn't be because I was considering joining, not with her working here. That would've been double standard. "Of course, Jennifer. I'll take good care of her." Claire, or Mistress Claire, looked at me with warmth, the complete opposite Jennifer had. It immediately put me at ease, or at least, a little. Jennifer gave Claire a nod before moving back to the door, and out of sight. "Hello dear, what's your name?" Claire asked, the man I had seen her talking to was long gone. "Emily, Mistress?" I didn't mean for it to sound like a question, but I was unsure as to how to refer to her as. "Mistress is completely fine," She chuckled. "Is it your first time at a BDSM club?" "Yes, I'd always wanted to try, but I've been gathering up the courage," I admitted as I looked around, taking in all I could see from here-not wanting to miss a single thing. "Completely understandable to be nervous your first time, everyone is. It can be a frightening thing to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Some come with their friends or partner, which helps them explore while also having someone to 'hold their hand' so to speak." She started walking, and I went with her. "I don't... I'm not really open about my sexual desires with my friends, and I don't have a partner." The den was dimly lit with a reddish glow, I could still see everything clearly, but it made the setting more... sensual, as if it offered a sense of privacy in the midst of a crowd. I could hear Claire speak, without the music drowning out her voice. As I took in the view, I couldn't help but feel giddy. The nervousness was temporarily forgotten. We went by someone in the middle of a play, with people standing around to watch. A man hung from a cross, like many I had read about, while a woman circled him with a whip. I could hear the smack as she hit him, and his groans of either pleasure or pain, but probably both. He was completely naked, and from where I stood, I could see red marks on different parts of him. "It's called a scene. Those are two of our frequent members, they love the cross. As you can see by the marks on him, there's places she won't hit. Kidneys, among other things, because it can bruise them. You never want to have a dom who doesn't know his stuff, or he or she could cause you serious hurt." I must have stopped walking, because she had to backtrack a little as she explained what was going on. I tried not to stare at the scene in front of me, but I couldn't help but look. It was pornographic, and interesting to see. I couldn't help but feel aroused at the show they were putting on for the silent watchers. "I forgot to ask, are you a dom or a sub, or maybe a sex slave?" Claire asked as I motioned for us to continue our walk. "Definitely not a sex slave," I gasped, unprepared for the mention of being a slave. "I'm a sub, at least, that's what attracted me when it comes to BDSM. I want someone to take control of me in bed. Only in bed." My eyes scanned the room, wanting to see everything at once. Claire chuckled as she led me to another section. This one had a woman on a pedestal, her hands and feet hogtied, with the rope attached to the ceiling. She was completely naked, except for a blindfold over her eyes. It was weird to see another woman in the nude in real life, but not as weird as I thought it would be. I couldn't help but envision myself in her position, tied up and helpless while the man could do whatever he wanted to me. I could feel slick wetness seeping from my Intimate area, soaking my panties as I continued watching. The scene was the most erotic thing I'd ever seen, not even my favorite porn could measure to seeing the real thing. I was jealous as the dom by her side used a feather to stroke her inner thighs. Her stomach clenched from the sensations. Fuck. I wanted to feel what she felt, to do what she did. I wanted to be her. This was why I was here, to experience it for myself. And I hoped I didn't have to wait long until I could participate in this kind of delicious kink. "There's nothing wrong with being a sex slave, but it's not for everyone. I wouldn't advise anyone new to the community to try it out right away. Start with something less... intense. Ease yourself into it." She nodded towards the scene in front of us. "New beginners might see this as something easy to start with, but it isn't always so. It takes a lot to let someone tie you up and place a blindfold on you. You have to trust your dom and know he or she would do what you could handle and nothing more. It can take a while to build up that trust. Right now, he's teasing her senses. A stroke of a feather can be felt more clearly when your sight is taken away. The same can be said for taste. You don't know what to expect, so your body is more attuned to that feeling or taste," She explained. I could understand what she meant, and I found the thought thrilling; I wanted to try that out. God, there were so many things I wanted to try out. I couldn't wait to start. "Whenever You're ready, I'll show you where we have the bar. I remember how exciting it was the first few times I watched scenes, so we didn't have to hurry." see that she meant it and would happily let me watch a while longer, butI didn't mind going. I could always come back if I wanted to see some more, andI had a feeling I would come back. I wanted to see more. More of everything	LEARN_MORE	https://m.blingnews.cc/land/page/id/2136.html	Novelsago-fiction	https://www.facebook.com/100063935299875/	2,041	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	m.blingnews.cc	VIDEO		https://m.blingnews.cc/land/page/id/2136.html	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482000445_1548052279220025_8999417090519893668_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T8XRK_gYCHsQ7kNvgHlHFEy&_nc_oc=Adg03yjDGvIP1Yp2LuWFIZJtwiRFFKEGLwTMhWX093M6iQ9SuFn32dlKrsH8meEeeS1F41EYbCs0g0uSV2-kNF04&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A5lK-hFfovQTF5I5AEgBfvN&oh=00_AYDVqw1uDRqC2K4Nt7x3AGFEh1kMXqSphHcRyIoYX4b4kg&oe=67C7320C	PERSON_PROFILE	Novelsago-fiction	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,706,814	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2706811}'	No	2025-02-28 00:30	active	2651	👇Download ReelShort TV to watch more series	Jessica, the Wolf Queen, grew tired of war and bloodshed, so she disguised herself as a plain healer in the woods. To ensure a normal, happy life for her daughter, she sent her to the Russo pack. Little did she know, she had sent her daughter into a living nightmare. Her daughter was treated like a slave—humiliated, abused, beaten, and nearly raped, simply because she had no fame or power. Realizing her mistake, Jessica resolved to save her daughter and make those who mistreated her pay. Meanwhile, she discovered that the Russo pack had betrayed their country and collaborated with Lord Kilian Darkmoom. Finally, Jessica defeated them and restored peace to the wolf world once more.	WATCH_MORE	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.n	Reelshort-Video stories	https://www.facebook.com/100090841033078/	608,953	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.newleaf.app.android.victor	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482191294_508414662366216_7135643669188381474_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tQ6L3_ySm9wQ7kNvgH2H7WP&_nc_oc=AdhfxA5S3kZGMGjIDgRDSPNiyVBlAY_lwMtNw66T9Vye7v2Riz2u_cp6_hSJH6NFONoDvYOVO6cpsG7pWP1EBeOS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AsS1nK8m89Nxt_kdST2FU8G&oh=00_AYAQwp3vl19GiBAVpXLRkc4FcCsi1dNyurZP79Xu6LpZRw&oe=67C72C56	PERSON_PROFILE	Reelshort-Video stories	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete

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