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1,616,024	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1203351827742495	Get Ready for Mother's Day	Update our lingerie drawer with Forlest® colorful wireless bras, exclusively for fuller-bust mamas!! #mothersday #forlest #wirelessbras	SHOP_NOW	https://forlest.com/collections/best-seller	109615881282364	Forlest	https://facebook.com/forlestofficial	8,080	2	1,771,333,876,683,395	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop Now	Forlest	120208177722880074	forlest.com	NONE	dco	Get extra 15% off	https://forlest.com/collections/best-seller		2024-04-29 02:43	https://scontent.fphx1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301085_3708472319470669_4504254467965927408_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kxfDV_zd8PQQ7kNvgGa6OpF&_nc_ht=scontent.fphx1-2.fna&oh=00_AfAzZy64jn8vfuOmuRzffSW9w-zTVFIDbeEFC8ZtRJ7RtA&oe=66361487	person_profile	0	Forlest®️	https://scontent.fphx1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438264147_1194182258626806_940649415750860765_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JF6RFymRjgAQ7kNvgGcuWNx&_nc_ht=scontent.fphx1-1.fna&oh=00_AfANGxuIQIMHKVz2-PI1w4HPcdoXcUJZCa7R7DKAJvkG5g&oe=663608B2	3	Forlest	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,098	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1339880666691775		*Links in the Comments<br /> 😧Worried You'll Lose your Low Mortgage Rate, if you Sold your 🏠?<br /> There's A Lot more to consider when considering making a move!<br /> 🤝Let's sit down together to weigh ALL your options⚖️<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Flisakelly.info%2FTellMeAboutYourPlans&h=AT1jQDsVKn9a93tC_NcmfXuYUDWUmyjASitTQOyUQzRkX-DW7hE8hjMNqmkc2TZln_yxg1_3Hb3VWN4cKKGOyIAeCJ8R3yhuZFYyY3JXZc6YDvayxXs_u_vRjTHqg1H3vGrbii8qijJ1n-6kVyCu4LYd3A78aw" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://lisakelly.info/TellMeAboutYourPlans</a><br /> 'Helping you make good decisions when selling or buying a home'<br /> 🎥 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Flisakelly.info%2FHowToDownsize-8Tip&h=AT1ozwt-zxSseZSyQgNRdmDmmi0IPLbdN6IQrs-NKUb_AvHRYYJKcw4-krenzd-Vw1gHgRj3z5YyCjsifkg2wzZ8OcbSJPMeRZx-mywr7M-KGP5SnbJqqswtvdKNKSSJ8dROx_c0p3EvD1eL8hWNxSEc-lSs_g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://lisakelly.info/HowToDownsize-8Tip</a><br /> s<br /> Lisa Kelly PA \| Lakeland Homes & Lifestyles \| PRN<br /> 863-221-2368	LEARN_MORE	https://lisakelly.info/SellerGuide	326276384074716	Lakeland Homes & Lifestyles by Lisa Kelly PA	https://facebook.com/LisaKellySells	1,418	1	404,539,365,803,775	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Lakeland Homes & Lifestyles by Lisa Kelly PA	6572690152985	lisakelly.info	NONE	video		https://lisakelly.info/SellerGuide		2024-04-29 08:34	https://scontent.fmem1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438087863_1156564878966539_5800118366527438251_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7XWewtdSUZ0Q7kNvgHMsWYP&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-2.fna&oh=00_AfD4ho1qfTnoaN2ByVby5DdBSNr9bDpZOpUdedbnIsm1CQ&oe=6635F14C	person_profile	0	Lisa Kelly	https://scontent.fmem1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421960871_474430645010806_4324873723164239454_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Pm8c10C4lmEQ7kNvgFq_Vit&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-2.fna&oh=00_AfC8z1-jQmz3stMZV5C0l3RfFBYAj6q4OfPpdauIvLYbzg&oe=663624F9	3	Lakeland Homes & Lifestyles by Lisa Kelly PA	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,117	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	313196584978513	The Ultimate Golfer’s Elbow Protocol 🏌️	Is elbow pain keeping you off the golf course? 🏌️<br /> <br /> Whether you’ve been dealing with outer elbow pain for years, or experienced your first bout after a day of golf… <br /> <br /> I’m here to tell you that you can recover from elbow pain swiftly — WITHOUT relying on unhealthy steroid injections or anti-inflammatory drugs. 👏<br /> <br /> With our step-by-step Golfer’s Elbow Protocol, you can get rid of the nagging pain & learn how to prevent it from recurring in just 6 days. 🚀<br /> <br /> Inside the protocol, you’ll learn:<br /> <br /> ✅ The cutting-edge approach is guaranteed to reduce elbow pain quickly, restore function, and prevent a recurrence.<br /> <br /> ✅ A proven self-treatment model that you can do yourself — no need to shell out hundreds on the physio or a personal trainer!<br /> <br /> ✅ A step-by-step video guide that anyone can follow — even if you have ZERO knowledge of physical therapy principles.<br /> <br /> 🙋‍♂️ Hey, I’m Dr. Kelly Starrett — leading mobility expert, co-founder of The Ready State, and author of the NYT bestseller, Built To Move. 🤸<br /> <br /> Inside this advanced physical therapy protocol, I’ll be teaching you the exact mobility principles & exercises I use to help top-performing athletes combat pain, prevent injury, and get back to peak performance (including Olympic gold medalists, players of the NFL, NBA, NHL, and more). <br /> <br /> The truth is, no one can heal your body as efficiently as you (after all, we’re wired for self-recovery)...<br /> <br /> You just need access to the “user’s manual” aka the expert tools & knowledge needed to treat any pain or injury safely and effectively. 🙌<br /> <br /> If you’re ready to take your recovery into your own hands and experience long-term relief from golfer’s elbow pain once and for all…<br /> <br /> Grab your copy of the Golfer’s Elbow Protocol now 👉	LEARN_MORE	https://thereadystate.com/product/golfers-elbow-pr	155425314471727	The Ready State	https://facebook.com/thereadystate	192,175	1	418,451,244,451,322	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	The Ready State	120210687012240531	thereadystate.com	NONE	video	Learn how to reduce elbow pain quickly, restore function, and prevent recurrence with Dr. Kelly Starrett’s step-by-step pain protocol.	https://thereadystate.com/product/golfers-elbow-protocol/?utm_source=Meta&utm_medium=Paid&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}		2024-04-29 08:12	https://scontent.fmem1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441027660_1466519964287715_3711523034820766290_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IhC7Iepu3h4Q7kNvgHgBHZ7&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-2.fna&oh=00_AfBbiKo5EVk-w2szp-9VkIAwAPBa3OjD0bZE6bVaRLWTpg&oe=663622C3	person_profile	0		https://scontent.fmem1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441054036_450434144316346_6376172279431789792_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ls7S3khdodsQ7kNvgFkTbDZ&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-2.fna&oh=00_AfDAyyedPFAid7wuhZUsc8lr7F4ZqkGqwXfQJpy97v953Q&oe=66360331	3	The Ready State	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,421	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	475516284903828	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜Regret's All You Get📜	🥵🥵🔞🔞<br /> In the presidential suite of the Winson Hotel in Litharia, a breathtakingly beautiful woman lay in bed. Her delicate skin was mostly hidden under a sheer blanket, with only her arms peeking out, bearing the faint red traces of a night filled with passion.<br /> <br /> Cynthia Jenkins stirred, letting out a soft moan as she woke from her deep sleep. She tried to get up, but her body, still weary and sore, sank back onto the bed.<br /> <br /> Memories from the night before came rushing back, bringing a faint smile to her face. For the first time in their three-year marriage, she and her husband, Nathan Richardson, had made love.<br /> <br /> She noticed Nathan wasn't in the room, and a tinge of disappointment flickered across her face, quickly replaced by composure.<br /> <br /> At the beginning of their marriage, Nathan had been distant, rarely showing any affection. Cynthia couldn't help but wonder if last night marked a turning point, a sign that he had finally accepted her.<br /> <br /> With a flicker of hope, Cynthia rose cheerfully from the bed. The moment her bare feet touched the cold floor, she felt a sudden chill.<br /> <br /> Picking up a blue sapphire cufflink, oddly shaped and shimmering, from the floor, Cynthia widened her eyes in surprise. 'Could this be Nathan's?'<br /> <br /> Thinking of this, Cynthia smiled and placed the cufflink in her bag. Then, she went to freshen up herself before returning home.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had barely stepped out of the door when she ran into an unexpected visitor.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia?" The woman in front of her, dressed in a crisp white dress and possessing a sharp, piercing voice, was Kelly Dixon, the second lady of the Dixon family.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had always been at odds with the Dixon sisters. Jessica Dixon, the eldest lady of the family, was Nathan's first love. But today, Cynthia was in a good mood. "Kelly, what a surprise to see you here."<br /> <br /> "Indeed." Kelly sized up Cynthia with a mocking smile. "If I had arrived a bit earlier or later, I might have missed catching you in the act."<br /> <br /> She pointed at the red marks on Cynthia's arms with disdain. "What is this? You shameless woman! How dare you fooling around with other men behind Nathan's back!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia frowned, "What are you talking about?"<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, I've always known you're shameless, clinging to Nathan. But I never pegged you as someone who'd stoop this low." Kelly's eyes sparkled with the thrill of uncovering a juicy piece of gossip. "Are you really going to say these marks are from a night with Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Before Cynthia could utter a word, Kelly cut her off. "Please, cut the act. Nathan was at the hospital last night, staying by my sister's side. He was too busy to even catch a nap, much less waste time on someone like you."<br /> <br /> Cynthia's face changed dramatically. "Nathan was at the hospital?"<br /> <br /> "Where else would he be? You think he'd come to see you?" Kelly's voice was thick with sarcasm, as if she had just heard something ridiculous. "You've been caught sneaking around with someone else, and I'm not letting this slide so easily!<br /> <br /> "I'm going to show Nathan just how low you can go!" Kelly declared, her resolve unwavering. "I'm calling him right now to come over!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't absorb a word. Her mind went blank.<br /> <br /> If Nathan had spent the entire night in the hospital, then who was the man who had been so passionately entwined with her last night?<br /> <br /> A sudden realization made Cynthia's face darken.<br /> <br /> She had been set up!<br /> <br /> Yesterday was their three-year wedding anniversary, and Nathan surprisingly messaged her to meet at a hotel.<br /> <br /> Overjoyed and without a second thought, Cynthia rushed over. But when she arrived, Nathan texted to say he would be late and even ordered her some takeout.<br /> <br /> Cynthia, not sensing anything amiss and simply savoring the food, didn't expect to completely lose consciousness after finishing her meal. And that man last night...<br /> <br /> As Cynthia thought about everything that happened last night, her face turned deathly pale. 'How could this happen?'<br /> <br /> "Nathan already hates you for taking Jessica's place, and now, he'll never forgive you!" Kelly said triumphantly after a quick phone call. She stood firmly in Cynthia's path, blocking her exit.<br /> <br /> Cynthia hadn't even considered leaving. She felt a chill run down her spine. Besides, there weren't many people who could send a message using Nathan's phone.<br /> <br /> Soon, Nathan hurried down the corridor. "Kelly, did you need something from me?"<br /> <br /> He glanced at Cynthia with impatience. "What are you doing here? Jessica is still in the hospital. What are you up to now?"<br /> <br /> "I..." Cynthia opened her mouth, her mind in turmoil, unsure how to respond to him.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, I called you here," Kelly interjected eagerly. "I just so happened to see Cynthia sneaking out of a hotel room with some guy. It's serious, so I had to tell you."<br /> <br /> Nathan's face darkened instantly. "Cynthia, is it true?"<br /> <br /> "Would you believe me if I say I was framed?" Cynthia's eyes held a flicker of hope. "It was you who..."<br /> <br /> A smack came!<br /> <br /> Nathan's hand struck her face with a resounding slap, his expression cold and detached.<br /> <br /> "Pathetic! Why would anyone frame you?" Nathan's eyes blazed with anger at the sight of the red marks on Cynthia's arms.<br /> <br /> Even if he had no feelings for Cynthia, she was still his wife in name. This was nothing but a shame to him.<br /> <br /> Kelly watched with a smirk, stirring the pot. "Exactly, you must be delusional to think someone's out to get you.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, she's just lashing out because you're nice to Jessica. I caught her once, but who knows how many times she's cheated on you. Wake up, man."<br /> <br /> "What else do you have to say?" Nathan's gaze was filled with disgust.<br /> <br /> "What can I say?" Cynthia touched her burning cheek, a cold despair settling in her heart. She looked at Nathan, fighting the urge to laugh bitterly. "Nathan, don't you even want to ask why I ended up here?"<br /> <br /> It was ridiculous that her husband seemed to be solely dedicated to helping others deceive her.<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were full of disgust. "What exactly are you trying to say?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt utterly disheartened. She held up her phone, emphasizing each word. "Your phone sent me a message to come here. I trusted it and showed up. Did you text me, Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze flickered. Last night, after getting treated, Jessica borrowed his phone...<br /> <br /> "It seems you know now who it was." Cynthia noticed his evasive look and had her suspicions. She smiled through her tears, "Nathan, I'm your wife. I'm the one being framed."<br /> <br /> Kelly quickly interjected, "Nathan, don't fall for her act. She's just looking for an excuse..."<br /> <br /> "This is between me and my husband. It's not your place to interfere," Cynthia retorted, showing her temper in front of Nathan for the first time.<br /> <br /> "You..." Kelly was furious and about to retort.<br /> <br /> However, Nathan had made up his mind at that moment. "I sent the text. I got tied up, sure, but that's no excuse for you cheating!"<br /> <br /> "It seems this is your choice, then." Cynthia's heart turned cold. Despite knowing she was wronged, he still chose to defend that hypocritical woman. She couldn't believe this was the man she loved.<br /> <br /> Nathan didn't show any sign of guilt. "Cynthia, it's you who fooled around with another man. Who else is there to blame?"<br /> <br /> Even though he felt somewhat uncomfortable about what Jessica did, he still firmly sided with her.<br /> <br /> "I was blind to have trusted the wrong person."<br /> <br /> Cynthia closed her eyes, and when she opened them moments later, they were clear and resolved. "Nathan, let's get a divorce."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> "Cynthia, what on earth are you thinking?" Nathan frowned slightly while Kelly's eyes flickered with surprise.<br /> <br /> Cynthia gave a self-mocking smile. "Nathan, I'm not someone who clings to what I can't have. Remember, I'm the one walking away from you, not the other way around."<br /> <br /> With those words, Cynthia felt a sudden clarity in her heart.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, you're the one who messed up, but here you are, playing word games. Are you threatening Nathan?" Kelly said, secretly pleased.<br /> <br /> Cynthia glanced coldly at her. "Kelly, sometimes, you should just stay quiet."<br /> <br /> But Nathan's response caught Cynthia off guard. "I don't agree to the divorce."<br /> <br /> Cynthia let out a bitter laugh. "Isn't this what you've always wanted? Now that I'm stepping aside, you can be with Jessica happily ever after. Why disagree?<br /> <br /> "Or is there something more you're after, something you haven't gotten from me yet?" Cynthia's tone shifted, causing a subtle change in the expressions of the two before her.<br /> <br /> She didn't think herself so self-absorbed to believe Nathan still had feelings for her. Their reactions pretty much confirmed her suspicions.<br /> <br /> "I guess I was right." Cynthia curled up her lips. "So, Nathan, what's it gonna take for you to sign those divorce papers?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were deep and solemn. At this point, there was nothing left to hide. "Jessica's really sick, Cynthia, and you're the only one who can donate a kidney to save her. That's my only condition. Help her, and you won't regret it, I promise."<br /> <br /> Cynthia was thunderstruck, her voice hoarse with disbelief. "You mean, this whole time...you were just after my kidney?"<br /> <br /> "Jessica is the only one Nathan loves. Why else would he marry you if not to save her?" Kelly sneered, and Nathan's look confirmed that she was right.<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt a chill in her heart. It all made sense now. Nathan had initially balked at his grandfather Mark Richardson's suggestion of marrying Cynthia. He had been adamant about marrying Jessica instead, only to abruptly change his mind when Cynthia was nearly ready to walk away.<br /> <br /> She had hoped that, over time, Nathan might come to love her. But she realized now that from the very start, he had been scheming for her kidney!<br /> <br /> "Cynthia," Nathan said, softening his tone deliberately. "Just help me out this one time, and I promise to keep today's drama under wraps. I'll make it worth your while, enough to start over somewhere far away."<br /> <br /> "In your dreams, Nathan." Cynthia emphasized each word. "Sure, I had feelings for you, but not enough to degrade myself like this."<br /> <br /> "Looks like you choose the hard way." Nathan, never one with a good temper, immediately hardened his stance. "If you refuse to donate a kidney to Jessica, I will absolutely not agree to the divorce."<br /> <br /> Cynthia laughed angrily and retorted, "Fine by me. Do you have any idea how hard I worked to marry you? If you want to grow old with me, then so be it."<br /> <br /> "Cynthia!" Nathan's face soured. He was about to speak when Cynthia ruthlessly cut him off.<br /> <br /> "I just give you one chance, Nathan. Be at the Courthouse entrance at 9 AM sharp tomorrow. If you don't show up..."<br /> <br /> Cynthia smirked coldly. "Then even better. Jessica can forget about marrying into the Richardson family. And I'll make sure to remind you that you'll be a cuckolds for the rest of your life!"<br /> <br /> With that, Cynthia turned and left, not bothering to give Nathan or Kelly a second glance.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, what if she refuses the surgery? What about Jessica?" Kelly, watching Cynthia's retreating figure, feigned urgency.<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze was deep. "Don't worry. I'll find a way to make her agree."<br /> <br /> As Cynthia stepped out of the hotel, a sleek Rolls-Royce Phantom suddenly pulled up, blocking her path.<br /> <br /> The window rolled down, showing a woman in her forties, still exuding charm, a face often seen on financial news.<br /> <br /> "You're right on time, Mom." Recognizing the woman, Cynthia wasn't surprised at all, her voice and posture shifting to something more dignified.<br /> <br /> "Get in," Heather Brooks said calmly.<br /> <br /> With a deep breath, Cynthia got into the back seat. Throughout the ride, they hardly talked to each other.<br /> <br /> In Litharia, Jenkins Villa stood majestically in the most coveted scenic area, home to the affluent Jenkins family.<br /> <br /> "I've heard the story between you and Nathan. So, have you finally seen Nathan's true colors?"<br /> <br /> In the living room of Jenkins Villa, Heather sipped her coffee, looking at Cynthia indifferently. "It's time for you to come back and take over the family business."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Heather had five children, and aside from her only daughter, Cynthia, the other four sons kept their identities hidden, excelling in their fields but refusing to take over the family business.<br /> <br /> Left with no other option, Heather pinned her hopes on Cynthia.<br /> <br /> Cynthia breathed deeply, only then realizing that she had been under her mother's watchful eye for these past three years.<br /> <br /> It wasn't surprising, though. Since her father's death, the Jenkins family had been fragmented. Heather wasn't truly a Jenkins. Although she had been holding the reins, she was surrounded by those eyeing her position. Eventually, Heather had grown accustomed to keeping everything under her control, leaving no stone unturned.<br /> <br /> "It's not possible right now," Cynthia said somewhat helplessly.<br /> <br /> Heather's eyes narrowed as she spoke firmly. "What, you still have feelings for him?"<br /> <br /> "Of course not," Cynthia couldn't help but laugh dryly. "Mom, I just need some time to divorce him. I promise, after the divorce, I will definitely return to the Jenkins family."<br /> <br /> Cynthia mused, why did she ever waste three years pining for Nathan?<br /> <br /> Getting the response she wanted, Heather nodded in satisfaction. "That's more like a Jenkins girl. Also..."<br /> <br /> "What is it?" Seeing Heather hesitating to speak, Cynthia was curious.<br /> <br /> Heather spoke steadily. "The man you slept with at the hotel, do you recall who he is?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia's expression froze, and she remained silent.<br /> <br /> "I'm thinking about finding this man. If he's decent enough, we could welcome him into the family. The Jenkins can certainly afford to support one more. This would also solidify your position in the family."<br /> <br /> What Heather left unsaid was that if the man was not up to her standard, the consequences were obvious.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was at a loss for words. She didn't even know how to argue with that.<br /> <br /> Back in her room, Cynthia lay on the bed, overwhelmed. What happened today was more thrilling than her life during the past three years combined.<br /> <br /> She absently played with the cufflink in her hand, a lone clue left by the mysterious man from the previous night.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Cynthia realized something and sat up abruptly. The cufflink was a limited edition, and her brother, the third sir of the Jenkins, Eric Jenkins, also a leading designer, might know its origin.<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Cynthia called Eric.<br /> <br /> "Thia, you've finally taken your eyes off that idiot, huh? What's up?" Eric's voice was cheerful over the phone.<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't help but smile, "Starting today, Nathan and I have nothing to do with each other. We're getting divorced tomorrow."<br /> <br /> At that moment, in the midst of a major international jewelry show, Eric sat up straight. "What? What on earth happened to make the blind girl finally see the light?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia laughed. "Come on, stop kidding. Are you free right now? I could really use your help. Check your messages. I've sent you a picture. Can you figure out where this thing's from?"<br /> <br /> The next morning, outside the Courthouse, Nathan stood with a stern expression. He arrived on time and had been waiting for two hours without a glimpse of Cynthia.<br /> <br /> His calls went unanswered, and just as his patience was running thin, Cynthia finally arrived.<br /> <br /> She was dressed to the nines, radiant and elegant, a stark contrast to her former self. Nathan almost didn't recognize her at first sight.<br /> <br /> "What now? Getting cold feet about the divorce?" Seeing Cynthia slowly making her appearance, Nathan thought she regretted her decision not to divorce and had dressed up like this to win him back, feeling smug.<br /> <br /> "Getting cold feet? Why do I have to?" Cynthia touched her earring. She had intentionally made Nathan wait outside today.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was certain that Nathan wouldn't leave as long as his goal remained unmet, even if it meant waiting there all day.<br /> <br /> Nathan snorted, "As long as you're willing to help Jessica, we can still be friends."<br /> <br /> "What are you thinking? We're getting divorced and you still think we can be friends?" Cynthia scoffed dismissively. "You know what, Nathan? I've changed my mind. Why should I rely on a man who's after my organs? There are plenty of decent men out there, like that guy from the hotel. I'm quite satisfied with him."<br /> <br /> Even if Nathan had once saved her life, the help she had given him secretly over the past three years was more than enough to settle any debt.<br /> <br /> "Shameless!" Nathan didn't expect Cynthia to change her attitude so quickly, grinding his teeth in anger.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was unapologetic. "And what about you? Let's go. I can hardly wait."	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1,616,481	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	452998487303473	🔞🔥Click to Read more about📜Regret's All You Get📜	🥵🥵🔞🔞<br /> In the presidential suite of the Winson Hotel in Litharia, a breathtakingly beautiful woman lay in bed. Her delicate skin was mostly hidden under a sheer blanket, with only her arms peeking out, bearing the faint red traces of a night filled with passion.<br /> <br /> Cynthia Jenkins stirred, letting out a soft moan as she woke from her deep sleep. She tried to get up, but her body, still weary and sore, sank back onto the bed.<br /> <br /> Memories from the night before came rushing back, bringing a faint smile to her face. For the first time in their three-year marriage, she and her husband, Nathan Richardson, had made love.<br /> <br /> She noticed Nathan wasn't in the room, and a tinge of disappointment flickered across her face, quickly replaced by composure.<br /> <br /> At the beginning of their marriage, Nathan had been distant, rarely showing any affection. Cynthia couldn't help but wonder if last night marked a turning point, a sign that he had finally accepted her.<br /> <br /> With a flicker of hope, Cynthia rose cheerfully from the bed. The moment her bare feet touched the cold floor, she felt a sudden chill.<br /> <br /> Picking up a blue sapphire cufflink, oddly shaped and shimmering, from the floor, Cynthia widened her eyes in surprise. 'Could this be Nathan's?'<br /> <br /> Thinking of this, Cynthia smiled and placed the cufflink in her bag. Then, she went to freshen up herself before returning home.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had barely stepped out of the door when she ran into an unexpected visitor.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia?" The woman in front of her, dressed in a crisp white dress and possessing a sharp, piercing voice, was Kelly Dixon, the second lady of the Dixon family.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had always been at odds with the Dixon sisters. Jessica Dixon, the eldest lady of the family, was Nathan's first love. But today, Cynthia was in a good mood. "Kelly, what a surprise to see you here."<br /> <br /> "Indeed." Kelly sized up Cynthia with a mocking smile. "If I had arrived a bit earlier or later, I might have missed catching you in the act."<br /> <br /> She pointed at the red marks on Cynthia's arms with disdain. "What is this? You shameless woman! How dare you fooling around with other men behind Nathan's back!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia frowned, "What are you talking about?"<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, I've always known you're shameless, clinging to Nathan. But I never pegged you as someone who'd stoop this low." Kelly's eyes sparkled with the thrill of uncovering a juicy piece of gossip. "Are you really going to say these marks are from a night with Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Before Cynthia could utter a word, Kelly cut her off. "Please, cut the act. Nathan was at the hospital last night, staying by my sister's side. He was too busy to even catch a nap, much less waste time on someone like you."<br /> <br /> Cynthia's face changed dramatically. "Nathan was at the hospital?"<br /> <br /> "Where else would he be? You think he'd come to see you?" Kelly's voice was thick with sarcasm, as if she had just heard something ridiculous. "You've been caught sneaking around with someone else, and I'm not letting this slide so easily!<br /> <br /> "I'm going to show Nathan just how low you can go!" Kelly declared, her resolve unwavering. "I'm calling him right now to come over!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't absorb a word. Her mind went blank.<br /> <br /> If Nathan had spent the entire night in the hospital, then who was the man who had been so passionately entwined with her last night?<br /> <br /> A sudden realization made Cynthia's face darken.<br /> <br /> She had been set up!<br /> <br /> Yesterday was their three-year wedding anniversary, and Nathan surprisingly messaged her to meet at a hotel.<br /> <br /> Overjoyed and without a second thought, Cynthia rushed over. But when she arrived, Nathan texted to say he would be late and even ordered her some takeout.<br /> <br /> Cynthia, not sensing anything amiss and simply savoring the food, didn't expect to completely lose consciousness after finishing her meal. And that man last night...<br /> <br /> As Cynthia thought about everything that happened last night, her face turned deathly pale. 'How could this happen?'<br /> <br /> "Nathan already hates you for taking Jessica's place, and now, he'll never forgive you!" Kelly said triumphantly after a quick phone call. She stood firmly in Cynthia's path, blocking her exit.<br /> <br /> Cynthia hadn't even considered leaving. She felt a chill run down her spine. Besides, there weren't many people who could send a message using Nathan's phone.<br /> <br /> Soon, Nathan hurried down the corridor. "Kelly, did you need something from me?"<br /> <br /> He glanced at Cynthia with impatience. "What are you doing here? Jessica is still in the hospital. What are you up to now?"<br /> <br /> "I..." Cynthia opened her mouth, her mind in turmoil, unsure how to respond to him.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, I called you here," Kelly interjected eagerly. "I just so happened to see Cynthia sneaking out of a hotel room with some guy. It's serious, so I had to tell you."<br /> <br /> Nathan's face darkened instantly. "Cynthia, is it true?"<br /> <br /> "Would you believe me if I say I was framed?" Cynthia's eyes held a flicker of hope. "It was you who..."<br /> <br /> A smack came!<br /> <br /> Nathan's hand struck her face with a resounding slap, his expression cold and detached.<br /> <br /> "Pathetic! Why would anyone frame you?" Nathan's eyes blazed with anger at the sight of the red marks on Cynthia's arms.<br /> <br /> Even if he had no feelings for Cynthia, she was still his wife in name. This was nothing but a shame to him.<br /> <br /> Kelly watched with a smirk, stirring the pot. "Exactly, you must be delusional to think someone's out to get you.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, she's just lashing out because you're nice to Jessica. I caught her once, but who knows how many times she's cheated on you. Wake up, man."<br /> <br /> "What else do you have to say?" Nathan's gaze was filled with disgust.<br /> <br /> "What can I say?" Cynthia touched her burning cheek, a cold despair settling in her heart. She looked at Nathan, fighting the urge to laugh bitterly. "Nathan, don't you even want to ask why I ended up here?"<br /> <br /> It was ridiculous that her husband seemed to be solely dedicated to helping others deceive her.<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were full of disgust. "What exactly are you trying to say?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt utterly disheartened. She held up her phone, emphasizing each word. "Your phone sent me a message to come here. I trusted it and showed up. Did you text me, Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze flickered. Last night, after getting treated, Jessica borrowed his phone...<br /> <br /> "It seems you know now who it was." Cynthia noticed his evasive look and had her suspicions. She smiled through her tears, "Nathan, I'm your wife. I'm the one being framed."<br /> <br /> Kelly quickly interjected, "Nathan, don't fall for her act. She's just looking for an excuse..."<br /> <br /> "This is between me and my husband. It's not your place to interfere," Cynthia retorted, showing her temper in front of Nathan for the first time.<br /> <br /> "You..." Kelly was furious and about to retort.<br /> <br /> However, Nathan had made up his mind at that moment. "I sent the text. I got tied up, sure, but that's no excuse for you cheating!"<br /> <br /> "It seems this is your choice, then." Cynthia's heart turned cold. Despite knowing she was wronged, he still chose to defend that hypocritical woman. She couldn't believe this was the man she loved.<br /> <br /> Nathan didn't show any sign of guilt. "Cynthia, it's you who fooled around with another man. Who else is there to blame?"<br /> <br /> Even though he felt somewhat uncomfortable about what Jessica did, he still firmly sided with her.<br /> <br /> "I was blind to have trusted the wrong person."<br /> <br /> Cynthia closed her eyes, and when she opened them moments later, they were clear and resolved. "Nathan, let's get a divorce."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> "Cynthia, what on earth are you thinking?" Nathan frowned slightly while Kelly's eyes flickered with surprise.<br /> <br /> Cynthia gave a self-mocking smile. "Nathan, I'm not someone who clings to what I can't have. Remember, I'm the one walking away from you, not the other way around."<br /> <br /> With those words, Cynthia felt a sudden clarity in her heart.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, you're the one who messed up, but here you are, playing word games. Are you threatening Nathan?" Kelly said, secretly pleased.<br /> <br /> Cynthia glanced coldly at her. "Kelly, sometimes, you should just stay quiet."<br /> <br /> But Nathan's response caught Cynthia off guard. "I don't agree to the divorce."<br /> <br /> Cynthia let out a bitter laugh. "Isn't this what you've always wanted? Now that I'm stepping aside, you can be with Jessica happily ever after. Why disagree?<br /> <br /> "Or is there something more you're after, something you haven't gotten from me yet?" Cynthia's tone shifted, causing a subtle change in the expressions of the two before her.<br /> <br /> She didn't think herself so self-absorbed to believe Nathan still had feelings for her. Their reactions pretty much confirmed her suspicions.<br /> <br /> "I guess I was right." Cynthia curled up her lips. "So, Nathan, what's it gonna take for you to sign those divorce papers?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were deep and solemn. At this point, there was nothing left to hide. "Jessica's really sick, Cynthia, and you're the only one who can donate a kidney to save her. That's my only condition. Help her, and you won't regret it, I promise."<br /> <br /> Cynthia was thunderstruck, her voice hoarse with disbelief. "You mean, this whole time...you were just after my kidney?"<br /> <br /> "Jessica is the only one Nathan loves. Why else would he marry you if not to save her?" Kelly sneered, and Nathan's look confirmed that she was right.<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt a chill in her heart. It all made sense now. Nathan had initially balked at his grandfather Mark Richardson's suggestion of marrying Cynthia. He had been adamant about marrying Jessica instead, only to abruptly change his mind when Cynthia was nearly ready to walk away.<br /> <br /> She had hoped that, over time, Nathan might come to love her. But she realized now that from the very start, he had been scheming for her kidney!<br /> <br /> "Cynthia," Nathan said, softening his tone deliberately. "Just help me out this one time, and I promise to keep today's drama under wraps. I'll make it worth your while, enough to start over somewhere far away."<br /> <br /> "In your dreams, Nathan." Cynthia emphasized each word. "Sure, I had feelings for you, but not enough to degrade myself like this."<br /> <br /> "Looks like you choose the hard way." Nathan, never one with a good temper, immediately hardened his stance. "If you refuse to donate a kidney to Jessica, I will absolutely not agree to the divorce."<br /> <br /> Cynthia laughed angrily and retorted, "Fine by me. Do you have any idea how hard I worked to marry you? If you want to grow old with me, then so be it."<br /> <br /> "Cynthia!" Nathan's face soured. He was about to speak when Cynthia ruthlessly cut him off.<br /> <br /> "I just give you one chance, Nathan. Be at the Courthouse entrance at 9 AM sharp tomorrow. If you don't show up..."<br /> <br /> Cynthia smirked coldly. "Then even better. Jessica can forget about marrying into the Richardson family. And I'll make sure to remind you that you'll be a cuckolds for the rest of your life!"<br /> <br /> With that, Cynthia turned and left, not bothering to give Nathan or Kelly a second glance.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, what if she refuses the surgery? What about Jessica?" Kelly, watching Cynthia's retreating figure, feigned urgency.<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze was deep. "Don't worry. I'll find a way to make her agree."<br /> <br /> As Cynthia stepped out of the hotel, a sleek Rolls-Royce Phantom suddenly pulled up, blocking her path.<br /> <br /> The window rolled down, showing a woman in her forties, still exuding charm, a face often seen on financial news.<br /> <br /> "You're right on time, Mom." Recognizing the woman, Cynthia wasn't surprised at all, her voice and posture shifting to something more dignified.<br /> <br /> "Get in," Heather Brooks said calmly.<br /> <br /> With a deep breath, Cynthia got into the back seat. Throughout the ride, they hardly talked to each other.<br /> <br /> In Litharia, Jenkins Villa stood majestically in the most coveted scenic area, home to the affluent Jenkins family.<br /> <br /> "I've heard the story between you and Nathan. So, have you finally seen Nathan's true colors?"<br /> <br /> In the living room of Jenkins Villa, Heather sipped her coffee, looking at Cynthia indifferently. "It's time for you to come back and take over the family business."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Heather had five children, and aside from her only daughter, Cynthia, the other four sons kept their identities hidden, excelling in their fields but refusing to take over the family business.<br /> <br /> Left with no other option, Heather pinned her hopes on Cynthia.<br /> <br /> Cynthia breathed deeply, only then realizing that she had been under her mother's watchful eye for these past three years.<br /> <br /> It wasn't surprising, though. Since her father's death, the Jenkins family had been fragmented. Heather wasn't truly a Jenkins. Although she had been holding the reins, she was surrounded by those eyeing her position. Eventually, Heather had grown accustomed to keeping everything under her control, leaving no stone unturned.<br /> <br /> "It's not possible right now," Cynthia said somewhat helplessly.<br /> <br /> Heather's eyes narrowed as she spoke firmly. "What, you still have feelings for him?"<br /> <br /> "Of course not," Cynthia couldn't help but laugh dryly. "Mom, I just need some time to divorce him. I promise, after the divorce, I will definitely return to the Jenkins family."<br /> <br /> Cynthia mused, why did she ever waste three years pining for Nathan?<br /> <br /> Getting the response she wanted, Heather nodded in satisfaction. "That's more like a Jenkins girl. Also..."<br /> <br /> "What is it?" Seeing Heather hesitating to speak, Cynthia was curious.<br /> <br /> Heather spoke steadily. "The man you slept with at the hotel, do you recall who he is?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia's expression froze, and she remained silent.<br /> <br /> "I'm thinking about finding this man. If he's decent enough, we could welcome him into the family. The Jenkins can certainly afford to support one more. This would also solidify your position in the family."<br /> <br /> What Heather left unsaid was that if the man was not up to her standard, the consequences were obvious.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was at a loss for words. She didn't even know how to argue with that.<br /> <br /> Back in her room, Cynthia lay on the bed, overwhelmed. What happened today was more thrilling than her life during the past three years combined.<br /> <br /> She absently played with the cufflink in her hand, a lone clue left by the mysterious man from the previous night.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Cynthia realized something and sat up abruptly. The cufflink was a limited edition, and her brother, the third sir of the Jenkins, Eric Jenkins, also a leading designer, might know its origin.<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Cynthia called Eric.<br /> <br /> "Thia, you've finally taken your eyes off that idiot, huh? What's up?" Eric's voice was cheerful over the phone.<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't help but smile, "Starting today, Nathan and I have nothing to do with each other. We're getting divorced tomorrow."<br /> <br /> At that moment, in the midst of a major international jewelry show, Eric sat up straight. "What? What on earth happened to make the blind girl finally see the light?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia laughed. "Come on, stop kidding. Are you free right now? I could really use your help. Check your messages. I've sent you a picture. Can you figure out where this thing's from?"<br /> <br /> The next morning, outside the Courthouse, Nathan stood with a stern expression. He arrived on time and had been waiting for two hours without a glimpse of Cynthia.<br /> <br /> His calls went unanswered, and just as his patience was running thin, Cynthia finally arrived.<br /> <br /> She was dressed to the nines, radiant and elegant, a stark contrast to her former self. Nathan almost didn't recognize her at first sight.<br /> <br /> "What now? Getting cold feet about the divorce?" Seeing Cynthia slowly making her appearance, Nathan thought she regretted her decision not to divorce and had dressed up like this to win him back, feeling smug.<br /> <br /> "Getting cold feet? Why do I have to?" Cynthia touched her earring. She had intentionally made Nathan wait outside today.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was certain that Nathan wouldn't leave as long as his goal remained unmet, even if it meant waiting there all day.<br /> <br /> Nathan snorted, "As long as you're willing to help Jessica, we can still be friends."<br /> <br /> "What are you thinking? We're getting divorced and you still think we can be friends?" Cynthia scoffed dismissively. "You know what, Nathan? I've changed my mind. Why should I rely on a man who's after my organs? There are plenty of decent men out there, like that guy from the hotel. I'm quite satisfied with him."<br /> <br /> Even if Nathan had once saved her life, the help she had given him secretly over the past three years was more than enough to settle any debt.<br /> <br /> "Shameless!" Nathan didn't expect Cynthia to change her attitude so quickly, grinding his teeth in anger.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was unapologetic. "And what about you? Let's go. I can hardly wait."	LEARN_MORE	https://www.yumread.com/share/middle/hi4orr0xtkbxs	119497494574812	Lereader-Great Novel	https://facebook.com/61550087387871	185	2	1,675,314,543,224,645	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Lereader-Great Novel	120207740445570449	www.yumread.com	NONE	video		https://www.yumread.com/share/middle/hi4orr0xtkbxsaqtqgsdgqx3?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120207740430190449&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}		2024-04-29 05:37	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440121628_1418697238771764_5786450212012797591_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MI9aeCP-C3MAb6i6EAi&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCLoB8RHc2ihZ_gTU9k7ZLv4S9ftIPUmxEZNsRgjIvQlQ&oe=66361D46	person_profile	0	Lereader-Great Novel	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440120292_794704969286693_2912861566802850260_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OY5Z_zfvJYMAb5AaCZv&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCGZYUOLMzWhZjATHMi7gajYbnF70iPhxWTpp0N2IvIfw&oe=663602A9	3	Lereader-Great Novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,818	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1136164824364940					226766199295203	Dawn Phillips	https://facebook.com/61550481103647	0	1	349,803,301,412,563	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	logged_out	NONE	0	1	0		Dawn Phillips								1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440415172_980554072978759_3073725323284948828_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4gAxe9l7yQ4Ab5c7-9j&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCvYuJASt-DlugFoNX5wkvjcHBaDzZcHh0KFwlH37su3w&oe=66361ED1	person_profile	0			0		2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,122	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1004073301133809	The Ultimate Surgery Recovery Protocol	Surgery is NOT the end of your athletic life! It can actually be the return to yourself… if you approach your pre- and post-surgery routine intentionally. 🙌 But no one is telling us what to eat, how to move, how to manage our sleep, or how to maintain our fitness during this time… When in reality, all these things are crucial to ensure you come out of this experience intact. Our guided Surgery Recovery Protocol was created EXACTLY with this in mind. With over 3 hours of content, this protocol will help you: ✅ Develop a pre-surgery plan that will set you up for success post-surgery ✅ Understand what surgery day will look like ✅ Actively desensitize and decongest tissues & decrease symptoms during recovery ✅ And create behaviors that optimize your tissues for speedy healing! 💪 Over the past 15 years, Dr. Kelly Starrett has helped some of the best-performing athletes in the world recover from injuries and the sometimes inevitable orthopedic surgery with this game-changing protocol. Will you be next? 🔥 If you’re ready to have more agency over your surgery experience at every stage of the process, get Dr. Kelly’s exclusive Surgery Recovery Protocol now.	LEARN_MORE	https://thereadystate.com/product/surgery-recovery	155425314471727	The Ready State	https://facebook.com/thereadystate	192,175	1	1,472,392,306,685,125	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn More	The Ready State	120210686977870531	thereadystate.com	NONE	dco	Discover how to move, what to eat, how to maintain your fitness pre- and post-surgery & more… so you can recover faster and get back to doing the things you love.	https://thereadystate.com/product/surgery-recovery-protocol/?utm_source=Meta&utm_medium=Paid&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}		2024-04-29 08:07	https://scontent.fmem1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440162204_1458374284818127_2315815430958989343_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JfDzxkpTC10Q7kNvgH_VIR6&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-1.fna&oh=00_AfCKUSbEPHljzNHoLx8-EgMAqvrOduPkhEsIsLn71usCag&oe=6635F959	person_profile	0		https://scontent.fmem1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440371904_1356822601661266_6221878127543862140_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RwqKIPfzfT0Q7kNvgEWUhwH&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-2.fna&oh=00_AfCXe2roBfpWhJ388WwKpR3dmw2FW8Hcj3ICJ8uEg0__wA&oe=66360D99	3	The Ready State	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,657	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	806028397611789	Read next chapter	#Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and was—"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h	102729319508493	Auroch novel	https://facebook.com/100092728788928	15,236	1	971,054,598,018,111	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Auroch novel	120208857943920245	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=263741546706881		2024-04-28 05:47	https://scontent.flas1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438098723_3729208270650855_2380568303291913540_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AJgjVscBKY0Ab4HGG2R&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-2.fna&oh=00_AfDsTxeAZLfxdba6WNnTJzr2Ndxx4uWZKIt2PTnFcJdkAQ&oe=66360780	person_profile	0	Auroch novel	https://scontent.flas1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438146640_974036643768166_7362287135306076344_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5qUOkgUyo7oAb4aDnfa&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-2.fna&oh=00_AfAysy7kp0geCTLspLTaNG79efGJaomZPYJpumxE68yz_g&oe=66361589	3	Auroch novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,662	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":1,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1139744047164666	Read next chapter	#Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and was—"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h	102729319508493	Auroch novel	https://facebook.com/100092728788928	15,236	1	1,356,008,021,764,047	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Auroch novel	120208857991480245	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=263741546706881		2024-04-28 05:49	https://scontent.flas1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438168974_770170281963175_8838923399267140299_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JjnX7WbudAsAb4SbMzZ&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-1.fna&oh=00_AfANb3ugVJozdMBm6TURgcgU7e-bVB14gZEVgvDpJldk1w&oe=66360201	person_profile	0	Auroch novel	https://scontent.flas1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438087332_1004569827753610_1742837744394012452_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=J2bIN1_cYqsAb48PeU2&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-2.fna&oh=00_AfDTWFOMv1HuWIsdtrv7NP8xNNF1lwjhvV3pyET-SbqRMw&oe=66362066	3	Auroch novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,668	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	982899403208680	Read next chapter	#Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and was—"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h	102729319508493	Auroch novel	https://facebook.com/100092728788928	15,236	1	320,975,937,682,261	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Auroch novel	120208857955780245	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=263741546706881		2024-04-28 05:48	https://scontent.flas1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440582222_3706762149580972_1053973241241212762_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6MJIjscDuu4Ab4gE54-&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-2.fna&oh=00_AfDQMbAmfvzULBoqyp7-DnLo9FeyG1AQa2vU89h77zqZXQ&oe=6636063C	person_profile	0	Auroch novel	https://scontent.flas1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438765847_26122240294029720_8632887536268662897_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mkIzL9e8xfUAb7PaARs&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-1.fna&oh=00_AfAVw3SPCPuidYeXRVZcNuEu-l1uTKjnk7ZzLmP09vKg9A&oe=663618E3	3	Auroch novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,669	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	456099456865343	Read next chapter	#Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and was—"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h	102729319508493	Auroch novel	https://facebook.com/100092728788928	15,236	2	865,913,131,963,694	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Auroch novel	120208857954860245	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=263741546706881		2024-04-28 05:48	https://scontent.flas1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439192101_791570672910770_6263014914274412577_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=COi9Co8We_oAb4Grbpu&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-2.fna&oh=00_AfCiTcRrB2rbWnLyDibMthmY6ju37BeIUspx0ueDabbUlA&oe=663600ED	person_profile	0	Auroch novel	https://scontent.flas1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439153922_801982898506107_4364833715260657423_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rVOurRGfumAAb4w8JjE&_nc_ht=scontent.flas1-1.fna&oh=00_AfC_qHQwHUw_N6Kmm8sjZn0LKtJdyUWtXMfXgxhLIX3f6g&oe=66361269	3	Auroch novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,708	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1171823037283497	🔞Click to read on📜"Regret's All You Get”📜🤩😍🤩	🔞💔Cynthia was a kindhearted heiress. Three years after marrying Nathan, Cynthia finally had her first intimate moment, only to wake up and realize the man wasn't Nathan. Nathan had been at the hospital with his first love all night and accused Cynthia of cheating when he saw her. Overwhelmed, Cynthia asked for a divorce. Nathan refused because Cynthia was a kidney match for his first love. She had married him out of love, but he had only married her for the kidney match.<br /> <br /> Lawrence was a domineering CEO. By chance, he had a one-night stand and later felt drawn to Cynthia. But later, he discovered that she was his nephew's ex-wife. Despite usually keeping his distance from women, Lawrence was struck by Cynthia's strength and felt sorry for how she was used and hurt. However, going public with his feelings for his nephew's ex-wife would cause a scandal and family disapproval.<br /> <br /> Would Cynthia see through the illusion of love to find genuine happiness? Could Lawrence overcome societal barriers to protect and cherish the woman who has captured his heart?<br /> ----------------------------------------------------------<br /> In the presidential suite of the Winson Hotel in Litharia, a breathtakingly beautiful woman lay in bed. Her delicate skin was mostly hidden under a sheer blanket, with only her arms peeking out, bearing the faint red traces of a night filled with passion.<br /> <br /> Cynthia Jenkins stirred, letting out a soft moan as she woke from her deep sleep. She tried to get up, but her body, still weary and sore, sank back onto the bed.<br /> <br /> Memories from the night before came rushing back, bringing a faint smile to her face. For the first time in their three-year marriage, she and her husband, Nathan Richardson, had made love.<br /> <br /> She noticed Nathan wasn't in the room, and a tinge of disappointment flickered across her face, quickly replaced by composure.<br /> <br /> At the beginning of their marriage, Nathan had been distant, rarely showing any affection. Cynthia couldn't help but wonder if last night marked a turning point, a sign that he had finally accepted her.<br /> <br /> With a flicker of hope, Cynthia rose cheerfully from the bed. The moment her bare feet touched the cold floor, she felt a sudden chill.<br /> <br /> Picking up a blue sapphire cufflink, oddly shaped and shimmering, from the floor, Cynthia widened her eyes in surprise. 'Could this be Nathan's?'<br /> <br /> Thinking of this, Cynthia smiled and placed the cufflink in her bag. Then, she went to freshen up herself before returning home.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had barely stepped out of the door when she ran into an unexpected visitor.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia?" The woman in front of her, dressed in a crisp white dress and possessing a sharp, piercing voice, was Kelly Dixon, the second lady of the Dixon family.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had always been at odds with the Dixon sisters. Jessica Dixon, the eldest lady of the family, was Nathan's first love. But today, Cynthia was in a good mood. "Kelly, what a surprise to see you here."<br /> <br /> "Indeed." Kelly sized up Cynthia with a mocking smile. "If I had arrived a bit earlier or later, I might have missed catching you in the act."<br /> <br /> She pointed at the red marks on Cynthia's arms with disdain. "What is this? You shameless woman! How dare you fooling around with other men behind Nathan's back!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia frowned, "What are you talking about?"<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, I've always known you're shameless, clinging to Nathan. But I never pegged you as someone who'd stoop this low." Kelly's eyes sparkled with the thrill of uncovering a juicy piece of gossip. "Are you really going to say these marks are from a night with Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Before Cynthia could utter a word, Kelly cut her off. "Please, cut the act. Nathan was at the hospital last night, staying by my sister's side. He was too busy to even catch a nap, much less waste time on someone like you."<br /> <br /> Cynthia's face changed dramatically. "Nathan was at the hospital?"<br /> <br /> "Where else would he be? You think he'd come to see you?" Kelly's voice was thick with sarcasm, as if she had just heard something ridiculous. "You've been caught sneaking around with someone else, and I'm not letting this slide so easily!<br /> <br /> "I'm going to show Nathan just how low you can go!" Kelly declared, her resolve unwavering. "I'm calling him right now to come over!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't absorb a word. Her mind went blank.<br /> <br /> If Nathan had spent the entire night in the hospital, then who was the man who had been so passionately entwined with her last night?<br /> <br /> A sudden realization made Cynthia's face darken.<br /> <br /> She had been set up!<br /> <br /> Yesterday was their three-year wedding anniversary, and Nathan surprisingly messaged her to meet at a hotel.<br /> <br /> Overjoyed and without a second thought, Cynthia rushed over. But when she arrived, Nathan texted to say he would be late and even ordered her some takeout.<br /> <br /> Cynthia, not sensing anything amiss and simply savoring the food, didn't expect to completely lose consciousness after finishing her meal. And that man last night...<br /> <br /> As Cynthia thought about everything that happened last night, her face turned deathly pale. 'How could this happen?'<br /> <br /> "Nathan already hates you for taking Jessica's place, and now, he'll never forgive you!" Kelly said triumphantly after a quick phone call. She stood firmly in Cynthia's path, blocking her exit.<br /> <br /> Cynthia hadn't even considered leaving. She felt a chill run down her spine. Besides, there weren't many people who could send a message using Nathan's phone.<br /> <br /> Soon, Nathan hurried down the corridor. "Kelly, did you need something from me?"<br /> <br /> He glanced at Cynthia with impatience. "What are you doing here? Jessica is still in the hospital. What are you up to now?"<br /> <br /> "I..." Cynthia opened her mouth, her mind in turmoil, unsure how to respond to him.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, I called you here," Kelly interjected eagerly. "I just so happened to see Cynthia sneaking out of a hotel room with some guy. It's serious, so I had to tell you."<br /> <br /> Nathan's face darkened instantly. "Cynthia, is it true?"<br /> <br /> "Would you believe me if I say I was framed?" Cynthia's eyes held a flicker of hope. "It was you who..."<br /> <br /> A smack came!<br /> <br /> Nathan's hand struck her face with a resounding slap, his expression cold and detached.<br /> <br /> "Pathetic! Why would anyone frame you?" Nathan's eyes blazed with anger at the sight of the red marks on Cynthia's arms.<br /> <br /> Even if he had no feelings for Cynthia, she was still his wife in name. This was nothing but a shame to him.<br /> <br /> Kelly watched with a smirk, stirring the pot. "Exactly, you must be delusional to think someone's out to get you.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, she's just lashing out because you're nice to Jessica. I caught her once, but who knows how many times she's cheated on you. Wake up, man."<br /> <br /> "What else do you have to say?" Nathan's gaze was filled with disgust.<br /> <br /> "What can I say?" Cynthia touched her burning cheek, a cold despair settling in her heart. She looked at Nathan, fighting the urge to laugh bitterly. "Nathan, don't you even want to ask why I ended up here?"<br /> <br /> It was ridiculous that her husband seemed to be solely dedicated to helping others deceive her.<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were full of disgust. "What exactly are you trying to say?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt utterly disheartened. She held up her phone, emphasizing each word. "Your phone sent me a message to come here. I trusted it and showed up. Did you text me, Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze flickered. Last night, after getting treated, Jessica borrowed his phone...<br /> <br /> "It seems you know now who it was." Cynthia noticed his evasive look and had her suspicions. She smiled through her tears, "Nathan, I'm your wife. I'm the one being framed."<br /> <br /> Kelly quickly interjected, "Nathan, don't fall for her act. She's just looking for an excuse..."<br /> <br /> "This is between me and my husband. It's not your place to interfere," Cynthia retorted, showing her temper in front of Nathan for the first time.<br /> <br /> "You..." Kelly was furious and about to retort.<br /> <br /> However, Nathan had made up his mind at that moment. "I sent the text. I got tied up, sure, but that's no excuse for you cheating!"<br /> <br /> "It seems this is your choice, then." Cynthia's heart turned cold. Despite knowing she was wronged, he still chose to defend that hypocritical woman. She couldn't believe this was the man she loved.<br /> <br /> Nathan didn't show any sign of guilt. "Cynthia, it's you who fooled around with another man. Who else is there to blame?"<br /> <br /> Even though he felt somewhat uncomfortable about what Jessica did, he still firmly sided with her.<br /> <br /> "I was blind to have trusted the wrong person."<br /> <br /> Cynthia closed her eyes, and when she opened them moments later, they were clear and resolved. "Nathan, let's get a divorce."<br /> ----------------------------------------------------------<br /> Due to the word limit, it can only be updated here!Install the APP<br /> to search for the title "Regret's All You Get”🤩🤩	LEARN_MORE	https://www.yumread.com/share/middle/jjccmihmyegwk	101489936134366	OasisStory	https://facebook.com/100087803393468	26,741	1	353,048,663,965,429	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	OasisStory	120208269150030660	www.yumread.com	NONE	video		https://www.yumread.com/share/middle/jjccmihmyegwkxrprkbtozfj?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120208268940090660&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}		2024-04-29 04:46	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440469610_666647978921493_2286562447500599093_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NiAAWow2mJYAb5GRmE3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCras_zk1KTYJ47flDnZ6voK1h5sBh1-UKAlte8Envf8w&oe=6635F3FB	person_profile	0	OasisStory	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438230615_1596520807853831_615589476348037190_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mNgebLSdTqsAb7f69DW&_nc_oc=AdjpyOdtx6mjUdqt6dYt2GiVi74p8bU7PlT0cothuZdgxzGpUJzApjMTY7r96_scM0o&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDM-XvpKBNSKqnncjV3mFZKQniGvGR_942_2KsSDaQnyw&oe=663618A3	3	OasisStory	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,621,463	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1616600}'	Yes	2024-04-29 19:19	active	645	1136164824364940					226766199295203	Dawn Phillips	https://facebook.com/61550481103647	0	1	349,803,301,412,563	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	logged_out	NONE	0	1	0		Dawn Phillips								1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440415172_980554072978759_3073725323284948828_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=4gAxe9l7yQ4Ab5c7-9j&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCvYuJASt-DlugFoNX5wkvjcHBaDzZcHh0KFwlH37su3w&oe=66361ED1	person_profile	0			0		2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,806	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1101032081120517		“I was having lunch with some friends when the waiter stopped by to take our pictures. As one of my friends was looking at them, she commented, 'I can't believe how young you look - you could be 40!' That felt great, considering that I'm almost 64!”	SHOP_NOW	https://beautarea.com/products/66w	317193008133247	Edge of Reality-D	https://facebook.com/61558400737150	0	0	1,172,137,267,127,670	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Shop now	Edge of Reality-D	120207514398850179	beautarea.com	NONE	video		https://beautarea.com/products/66w		2024-04-29 02:55	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438733576_1413654312849394_9026471846538564010_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Xug3mHGaCPgAb5FEIuB&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB57qThPtRlBNKPge__l4YHgY2NOPvFBBB4NL_ley-oKg&oe=6635EFE6	person_profile	0	Edge of Reality-D	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438833137_393458566850945_1363071236643780281_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=17zAkrz00X0Ab55RiZ-&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBJhC50VGXa8dfuzHI6vu-olJOp7CCOX65HOzLGIERdXg&oe=6635F6A4	3	Edge of Reality-D	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,422	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1120681175908448	BARBER WANTED	Our barbershop is looking for a talented barber who is passionate about cutting hair and making their clients look great! Our team is dedicated to exceptional customer service and building up a larger client base. With a consistent 5-star rating on Google, Facebook, and our booking site Setmore you'll see great customer service, and quality cuts are our priority. The ideal candidate for this role has similar goals in mind.<br /> Bob's Barbershop has been around since 2000 & nearly 1/2 of our barbers have been with us for 5 to 15+ years, as has much our client base. <br /> We offer a low-stress atmosphere but require a great work ethic, commitment, and reliability. We are rooted in our community and see our barbers as an extension of our family. <br /> <br /> QUALIFICATIONS:<br /> Must have own clientele. <br /> Must be able to cut military regulation haircuts. <br /> Must be comfortable cutting fades as well as longer hairstyles. On-the-job training is available to help improve skills.<br /> Must be a licensed barber to apply.<br /> <br /> Barbershop hours are:<br /> Monday – Friday: 9am- 6pm<br /> Saturday: 8am-4pm<br /> Sunday: Closed<br /> <br /> To apply call 813-907-9123 ask to speak with Walt or Kelly<br /> <br /> 27319 Wesley Chapel Blvd, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544	CALL_NOW		141951519152229	Bobs Barber Shop	https://facebook.com/BobsBarberShopWC	555	1	787,705,689,989,520	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Call now	Bobs Barber Shop	6585730068903		NONE	image				2024-04-29 11:18	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440167147_448915377629781_214403369289250662_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p0-mSCaXkNQQ7kNvgH3_CRd&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDyLxa2lY1sRqg8qvqRBe114Tg6GN4s21VtOeTEm6GPJg&oe=663618AF	person_profile	0	Bobs Barber Shop	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440235450_1420737088832074_3848581798956528495_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HlPi4K3fMngQ7kNvgHnoez7&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC74cwxpy2JRiYgDl-V4uqmTvGbKGEzYBKntcn6m8km9g&oe=66361B4F	3	Bobs Barber Shop	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,780	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	402889325921714	ALL NEW LS MT2 26 Cab HST w/ Freeloader	ALL NEW LS MT2 26 Cab HST w/ Freeloader - $28,500.00<br /> <br /> LS TRACTORS<br /> ALL NEW MT 226HE<br /> <br /> * 25 HP YANMAR Diesel<br /> * Dual Pedal 3 Range HST<br /> * 4wd, Industrial Tires<br /> * 3-Point Lift Capacity - 1,408 lbs.<br /> * Grill Guard<br /> * Cup Holder<br /> * Rear Remote <br /> * AC / Heat <br /> <br /> * FREE FRONT LOADER , Lift Capacity - 1,965 lbs w/ 66" Quick Release Bucket<br /> <br /> 6 Year Limited Warranty<br /> <br /> This tractor is 25hp on the 40 hp Frame giving you plenty of power with Higher Lift Capacity<br /> <br /> With FREELOADER 28,488.00.00 or Payments as low as $399.00 a month (wac ) does not include sales tax and insurance<br /> <br /> Located at<br /> 1509 US Hwy 117s<br /> Goldsboro, NC 27530<br /> Call or Email us Mon thru Fri from 9am to 5pm with any questions and Availability<br /> ##9198000031##<br /> <br /> Visit us @ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fsmithsenterprise.co%2Fls-tractors&h=AT006Z1wQw7wgzPKyDQ_FjRBzCy793jZnQ1nSjbRgJvSvqjcl6cxGtfjbwKnFkbKGy7gXXpRJnkpWVQooGPcvc1fn6tp8hYy_wYbqZLx6LX7k8AtLkqZ-S8xAgAQ8VY0aikTcGWPcfCmCFcAH-dE1w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://smithsenterprise.co/ls-tractors</a><br /> For Specification visit <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Flstractorusa.com%2F&h=AT0BlYiYJ9pLgXd7MvhjgT7lHOC4-VY08Zb26xMKSSSJyd_OnOZBDczX0LA28GKx_Dv9FsrouonyFGFK3RRzVPIBcLFxRwgv4AUvYStRHeg-FNFe-L13RUVmZaNnKE9Zs1FOjZHq8fcd6xymtbJXEg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">lstractorusa.com</a><br /> Facebook Marketplace	CONTACT_US	https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/401213439350	807896626252308	Michael Kelly	/marketplace/?seller_profile=100011719272746	0	1	1,384,172,035,610,742	2024-04-29 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Contact us	Michael Kelly	6537689905075		NONE	image		https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/401213439350446/		2024-04-29 10:58	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441044037_985814563167435_6002759654218453882_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6IMLtqu8RfkAb5L89Ua&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBRhJE9TiHnbm37GehJ6Icf81ECSXm190gz3_EQp98tMw&oe=66360FA3	regular_page	1	Michael Kelly	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440979653_402590426028165_3932757080664855255_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9OvHkdE_uVoAb6QkCgp&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfDKwRRStYiKiWEyt-gQOWIHv_B9Q4G-bqN2Jk0CnSoKjg&oe=6636209D	3	Michael Kelly	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,786	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	925621359349974		📞 469-912-8095 Necesitas un seguro (Insurance) para tu negocio de Construcción, Restaurante, Limpieza, Landscaping, Etc?	MESSAGE_PAGE		593118337490955	AKS Insurance & Taxes	https://facebook.com/Aksinsurance.General.Liability.WORKERS.COMP	3,985	1	1,112,538,186,646,032	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Send message	AKS Insurance & Taxes	120207633204270038		NONE	video			{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Necesitas General Libility Insurance para tu negocio?","response":""},{"title":"Necesitas W. Compensation Insurance para tu negocio?","response":""},{"title":"Necesitas un seguro Umbrella, Bonds, O Excess Liability insurance para tu negoci","response":""}],"text":"Hola {{user_first_name}}! Necesitas un seguro (Insurance) para tu negocio?"}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"}	2024-04-29 10:55	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326630_3202823586693002_5580877982805409292_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VIA0WVgH2ywAb59AioX&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfADHiMe9ynAa1UqFENG1KTMYm915EpjQF-XUqvdDpC1Pw&oe=66360DDD	person_profile	0	AKS Insurance & Taxes	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440316806_3775894576068529_564917989158214913_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7Dc-vVMSXhkAb4gly7j&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfC9f8dVt4_Xnx-NG3pf62qzx-It5WnbFrN6sH3WeSKTAQ&oe=66361A25	3	AKS Insurance & Taxes	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,700	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1773436463144218	Facebook	😀Kelly Clarkson: ""I want to apologize to everyone for not being the first to stop the gummy bear scam. The facts are as you can see.""😀	LEARN_MORE	https://www.vectorss.shop/growthknowledgestorm/	294487647082729	Eternal love2	https://facebook.com/61558592713667	0	1	424,137,573,569,181	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Eternal love2	120209719391990748	vectorss.shop	NONE	image		https://www.vectorss.shop/growthknowledgestorm/		2024-04-29 04:54	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440100721_1155659298796338_4999332014790835865_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=OpvGIAXleEYAb7rW8hH&_nc_oc=AdgiI8pVdbWzR7GXNVvPA9WofXK94Oj8mBpH80wEfd6DPk2HWnRIqVaa0B2ok2rsQUk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAbKWM3gNaEg66Cqt1gvvMdABTsaW3AXj_uakSS0V2SVQ&oe=6635FBC1	person_profile	0	Eternal love2	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440253533_402539279421861_753034739205539085_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TOZomcaq5ekAb7zjDzo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCwgdCyEGOio1c2kcwMOhq64zWQ5J9ahD6xK3i1CDpDHw&oe=663608A3	3	Eternal love2	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,212	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	357855347270560		🌻Helpful tips to remember when landscaping your home. 🌴<br /> <br /> Kelly Wirt<br /> Kelly Wirt Realty Group<br /> <br /> “ We promise to be as highly motivated as you are to accomplish your real estate dreams.”			89883751091	Kelly Wirt Realty Group	https://facebook.com/KWSellsRealEstate	4,394	1	477,351,628,188,535	2024-04-29 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1		Kelly Wirt Realty Group	120210189573730271		NONE	video				2024-04-29 13:20	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438254610_3852775891656806_3798369273266743073_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6nkUpH_WUGgAb7-Dsbz&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAjwTKBHx6XHrDXJmR4xFxLIlo-wEju2sVTmthL4aePPA&oe=6635F40A	person_profile	0	Kelly Wirt Realty Group	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438230346_1218442392870689_3259369022741818142_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ob-NpM9G1foAb4ZUDYQ&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAnsl9U0dudXCCH4dXD_vNmS-_Dkxi69lODGp86QZ0fcw&oe=663621D2	3	Kelly Wirt Realty Group	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,518	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1209788810008087	Más de 40 veces la gente engañó al sistema	Más de 40 veces la gente engañó al sistema	LEARN_MORE	https://parentztalk.com/gente-engano-al-sistema-bt	104238192067446	Fox'oclock	https://facebook.com/100076064792214	3,864	1	1,821,763,438,234,887	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Learn more	Fox'oclock	120207670903020447	parentztalk.com	NONE	image	No hay duda de que la vida es dura. Pero, afortunadamente, existen muchas lagunas y formas de engañar al sistema que pueden facilitar un poco las cosas. Desde obtener comida y Wi-Fi gratis hasta trabajar lo menos posible, pero aun así ganar un gran sueldo, estas personas recurrieron a Reddit para ...	https://parentztalk.com/gente-engano-al-sistema-bt/		2024-04-29 05:31	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439934681_1358942042166774_5722627537154531581_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=g4TtWCInfNoQ7kNvgFfg8uI&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDIIe-xuro4CHWA6SFru05wSlxv4tDJ9q0jw5xwLAQmMQ&oe=6635FAB7	person_profile	0	Fox'oclock	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439934757_1375013356547129_8183563637965879197_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-wQax3pmOekQ7kNvgE6_ZMh&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCWX9-QXM8z350c893atMA2Pp8jNPryZUi4-5S-8ZTGTA&oe=6636222C	3	Fox'oclock	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete

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