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1,778,160	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778306}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:34	active	760	723897569821229	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	What’s more embarrassing than a butt dial? Butt dialing your boss… And leaving a dirty voicemail when you’re uhh… “thinking” about them.<br /> Just had a sexual fantasy with my boss. I stand on legs that are just as shaky as he said they’d be. My throat hurts from moaning and I’m sore as all get-out. As I stand, my phone clatters to the floor.<br /> I reach down to pick it up—<br /> And freeze in horror.<br /> Ruslan’s name is lighting up my screen.<br /> And the call is active.<br /> For seven minutes and thirty-two seconds, I’ve been masturbating to the absolute filthiest fantasy I’ve ever had, starring Ruslan Oryolov.<br /> ————————<br /> Emma<br /> If anyone has a reason to cry, it’s me. My boss is an arrogant prick and my sister is dead and her husband is more of a burden than a help and I have three innocent kids I’m doing my best to raise right but I can’t seem to catch a break and I need sleep and food and more coffee and a vacation and a fresh start and—the list just goes on. One reason for each of my thousand tears.<br /> “Auntie Em! Auntie Em, wake up.”<br /> I come to with a start. The sun is slanting in through the blinds and I have absolutely no freaking idea what planet I’m on. I feel a sharp line of pain on my cheek. It takes me a long moment to realize that it’s because I have a shoelace plastered to my skin. I peel it off with a wince and look up to see Josh standing over me.<br /> “Auntie Em, it’s 7:45. We’re late for school.”<br /> The next fifteen minutes are a blur. I get the girls up and dressed in the least coordinated outfits in the history of terrible parenting. I hurl random food into their lunchboxes with no regard for nutritional value. And then we’re all sprinting out the door.<br /> Ben, needless to say, doesn’t so much as lift a finger to help.<br /> I get the evil eye from the receptionist at the kids’ school when I drop them off well into first period. I just pop a peck on each of their foreheads and then turn to Bane.<br /> I get another evil eye from the lobby receptionist there, too, but I don’t quite realize why until I’m in the elevator up to the thirtieth floor and I catch sight of my reflection in the polished bronze.<br /> I look like an absolute shitshow. My hair is a rat’s nest on my head and my blouse is on backwards. The fashionable one-shoulder cutout is framing my frayed bra strap instead of a tasteful slice of arm.<br /> Wet street dogs are more put-together than I am.<br /> It’s way too late to go back now, though. I can already imagine Ruslan’s eyebrow. It’s probably halfway up his scalp by now. His voice is going to be absolutely frigid when he hears me come stumbling in. Something like:<br /> “You have got to be kidding me.”<br /> Wait. That wasn’t my imagination. That was actually his voice.<br /> I open my eyes and turn around to realize that the elevator doors have opened—and who should be standing there but my beloved, benevolent boss?<br /> Sure enough, his eyebrow is locked and loaded and that cruelly sharp jaw of his clenched so tight that I wonder idly if he has a good dentist on speed dial.<br /> I open my mouth to defend myself, but what is there even to say? “I’m sorry,” I blurt. “I fell asleep after—It was a long night and—I’m sorry. I’m so, so sorry.”<br /> He doesn’t so much as blink. “I expect you to dress appropriately for your job, Ms. Carson,” he growls. “Not do the walk of shame through my building.”<br /> I frown. “The walk of—? Hold on. No, that’s not what this is. I didn’t—”<br /> “You’re wearing yesterday’s skirt and flaunting your undergarments like you think you can seduce your way out of being—” He checks his watch. “—two and a half hours late. I’m not sure if you think I’m stupid or easy. I’m also not sure which of those two would offend me more.”<br /> One word snags my attention. “Seduce?” I parrot stupidly.<br /> Out of nowhere, thoughts of what it would look like to seduce Ruslan Oryolov come prancing through my head.<br /> Wrapping his tie around my fist and bringing that smirking snarl down to my lips for a taste.<br /> Lying back on his desk, pencil skirt hiked above my hips, while he shoves my panties to the side and devours me like his last meal.<br /> On my knees on his office carpet as he stands over me and—<br /> “Ms. Carson, I’m not interested in your explanations. Go do your job. Before I find someone else to do it for you.”<br /> With that, he brushes past me and gets on the elevator. I turn and look dumbly at him as the doors close on his face. The last thing I see is the arrogant slant of his mouth.<br /> Then that, too, disappears.<br /> My cheeks are burning red for the rest of the day. Luckily, I have an extra cardigan at my desk, so I’m able to cover up the worst of my wardrobe malfunction.<br /> But my phone keeps pinging all day long with messages from Ruslan. Do this. Send that. Fax this. Email that. He’s as unbearable as ever. Everything from the expiration date on his coffee creamer to the status of the conference room chairs he’s so anal about merits yet another scathing comment from him. And after yesterday’s nightmare, I’m running on fumes.<br /> My only saving grace is that he has a gala tonight, so he’s scheduled to leave the office at 5:00 P.M. sharp. I’m counting down the last ten seconds until the clock strikes five like I’m a Times Square partier on New Year’s Eve.<br /> “Seven… Six… Five… Four… Three… Two… One…”<br /> Ping. Another text. I moan and look down to see the devil’s name pop up on my phone.<br /> RUSLAN: My office. Now.<br /> Goddammit. I was so close.<br /> Sighing, I get up and slink inside.<br /> “Shut the door,” he orders. It’s dark in here. The curtains are sealed tight and the temperature is Arctic. He’s a mass of shadows behind his desk, huge and fragrant. The only thing I can see is the sharp light of his amber eyes.<br /> “Sit.” A shadowy hand points at the chair across from his desk.<br /> I perch at the edge of the seat in question. My nerves are buzzing and frayed. I’m so, so tired. But I can’t show him that. Matter of fact, I refuse to show him that.<br /> I won’t give the smug prick the satisfaction of thinking he’s outlasted me.<br /> “I asked you yesterday if I had your full attention,” he begins. “I’m not so sure I do. So let me say this: if your priorities lie anywhere other than this company, then I will find a new assistant. I’m not a nice man, Ms. Carson. So believe me when I tell you that this is not the kind of place where you get three strikes before something bad happens. You mess up once—you’re gone. Am I making myself clear?”<br /> I swallow. “Yes, sir.”<br /> He nods. “Good. Be here on time tomorrow. Dress like you intend to keep your job. Now, if you’ll excuse me… there’s the door.”<br /> He looks down at his phone and poof, it’s like I don’t exist anymore.<br /> But I. Am. Pissed.<br /> He doesn’t know what I’m going through. He doesn’t know Ben is snoring and farting in my living room, or that three little kids are waiting on me to pick them up from after-school care. He doesn’t know that I buried my sister or that I’m barely keeping my head above water. He doesn’t know anything.<br /> “No.” I blurt it before I can think better of it. “No. No. I’m not some little worm under your shoe, Mr. Oryolov. I’m a—I mean, screw you, I’m a person! I have a life and hobbies and people who depend on me. I’m real! So I’d appreciate it very much if you’d pull your smug head out of your smug prick and treat me with some respect for once.”<br /> Ruslan blinks.<br /> Blinks.<br /> Blinks.<br /> “Is there something else, Ms. Carson?”<br /> That’s when I realize that my whole little tirade took place entirely in my head. It wasn’t real. All imagined. Just a pleasant little detour to a fantasy land where I give him my two cents and then some.<br /> I swallow past the nasty taste in my throat and stand. “No, sir,” I say quietly. “Nothing at all.”<br /> -<br /> I ended the call with my best friend, Phoebe.<br /> Then a face pops up on the black screen of my mind’s eye.<br /> It’s Ruslan because, like I told Pheebs, he haunts me even when I’m off the clock. He’s smiling that smile she described. That come-to-bed-and-let-me-show-you-what-I-can-do-to-you smile. The camera of my imagination pulls back and floats down.<br /> Imaginary Ruslan is wearing an ivory white button-down shirt with the top two buttons undone. Enough to see a dusting of dark chest hair and the edge of a tattoo I can’t quite make out. He flexes his forearms in front of him. Those knuckles crack, louder than I expected, and I let out a surprised little gasp.<br /> I like when you make that noise, he croons. Shall I see if I can make you do it again?<br /> I’m nodding before I’m even realizing what I’m doing. “Make me moan,” I plead.<br /> I’m also touching the inside of my knee before I realize what I’m doing. But it’s not my hands that are doing it—or at least, it doesn’t feel like it’s my hands. It’s Ruslan’s hands, huge and powerful, palming my thigh and drifting up under the edge of my pencil skirt.<br /> You’ve been a naughty assistant, he growls, breath minty in my face where it mingles with the woodsy spice of his cologne. There’s a faint laugh on the edge of his voice, like he knows that this whole thing is crazy but he’s just going with it because it’s hotter than it is ridiculous. You’ve been so very, very bad. Step into my office and shut the door.<br /> The rest of the world disappears like I just followed his orders. Gone is my messy apartment and the lingering smell of burrito cheese. Ruslan is all I smell now.<br /> That cologne.<br /> That breath.<br /> Beneath it, that musk that sets my nerve endings on fire.<br /> “Are you going to punish me, Ruslan?” I whisper.<br /> I’m on the literal edge of my seat, grinding and bucking against my fingers. Imaginary Ruslan has me eating out of the palm of his hand. I’d do anything for him. Say anything. Be anything.<br /> Imaginary Ruslan is every bit the cruel prick that real Ruslan is. He said he’d keep my orgasms to himself, but I feel like I stole this one from him. The euphoria of it rips through me in one endless lightning bolt after the next, until finally, what feels like an hour later, I come back to something like normal consciousness with drool on my lips and my fingers wet and sticky with my own desire.<br /> I stand on legs that are just as shaky as he said they’d be. My throat hurts from moaning and I’m sore as all get-out. As I stand, my phone clatters to the floor.<br /> I reach down to pick it up—<br /> And freeze in horror.<br /> Ruslan’s name is lighting up my screen.<br /> And the call is active.<br /> The reality of what is happening clicks in my gut immediately, but it takes a few delayed moments before my head comes to terms with it.<br /> For seven minutes and thirty-two seconds, I’ve been on a call with Ruslan Oryolov.<br /> For seven minutes and thirty-two seconds, I’ve been masturbating to the absolute filthiest fantasy I’ve ever had, starring Ruslan Oryolov.<br /> For seven minutes and thirty-two seconds, my phone has been recording every last moan and gasp and breath and twitch I made while I begged for his mercy and pleaded for him to make me come.<br /> Did Ruslan hear the whole thing?<br /> -<br /> “It’s over. My life as I know it is over. R.I.P. to me.”<br /> “I’m sorry, who is this?”<br /> “Pheebs!”<br /> She chuckles while I stare at my reflection in the mirror and try not to throw up. My phone is lying on the bathroom counter on speakerphone, mostly because my palms have been sweating since I saw the meeting invite in my calendar for today.<br /> 9:00 A.M. – 09:07:32 A.M.: Emma Carson 1-on-1 with Ruslan Oryolov.<br /> “Sorry. Couldn’t resist. Anyway, rewind, take a deep breath, then tell me what’s going on in your big girl voice. Unburden yourself. Take all the time you need. Just make it quick because I have a 9 o’clock appointment.”<br /> I’m bouncing on the balls of my feet now, the same way that Reagan does when she needs to pee really bad. “Yeah, so do I. With him.”<br /> “Ah. Oh, wait—oh.”<br /> I first called Phoebe last night right after realizing what I’d done. Her reaction was a dizzying mixture of pride and horror. I believe her exact words were, “Sure, it’s mortifying, but I’m glad you got your rocks off. Knew you had it in you.”<br /> She’s a little more reassuring now that things are escalating out of control. “That doesn’t necessarily mean he heard the voicemail, Em. Maybe this is just a standard, no-big-deal, super-boring-business-stuff Thursday morning meeting.”<br /> “It’s scheduled for seven minutes and thirty-two seconds. Precisely.”<br /> “Hm.” There’s a beat of silence. “Doesn’t look good, does it?”<br /> “Seriously? That’s all you’ve got for me? I’m gonna lose my job, Phoebe!”<br /> “You don’t know that for sure. Just take a deep breath and go in there, see what he wants. Play it cool, y’know?”<br /> “And what if what he wants is to kick my arse to the curb with a recommendation letter that claims I’m a dirty bimbo?”<br /> “I mean, there’s probably a market for that.” I moan as Phoebe’s laughter fades into a serious tone. “Listen, boo: whatever happens, you’re a strong, smart, confident woman and you’re gonna land on your feet. And until you do, I’ve got your back.”<br /> Her words mean everything to me, but I know that Phoebe doesn’t have much margin for error in her life, either. She struggles just as hard as I do. If she is able to help, it still wouldn’t put a dent in all the bills and loans looming over me.<br /> “Thanks for the pep talk. I’ve gotta go to my doom now.”<br /> “Keep your pecker up!”<br /> I blink. “Huh?”<br /> “Oklahoma talk. It means, like, ‘break a leg,’ but for Midwesterners.”<br /> If I weren’t worried about losing my job and ending up homeless on the street with three kids, I’d laugh. Instead, I say one more miserable goodbye, then spend a solid three minutes dry-heaving into one of the empty bathroom stalls.<br /> Once I’ve sufficiently bruised my stomach lining, I slink out of the bathroom and waste the remaining two minutes before the meeting standing outside of Ruslan’s door, watching the clock steal my life away one second at a time.<br /> “You okay, Emma?” asks Katie Miller, another of the executive assistants on this floor, as she passes by.<br /> “Dandy,” I mumble. “Just waiting for the noose.”<br /> “What was that?”<br /> “Nothing. I like your earrings. Have a good day.”<br /> She raises her brow a smidge. I’m not usually so dismissive, but I can’t concentrate on small talk right now. Not when I’m T-minus thirty seconds away from the end of my career.<br /> Dear God, I know I don’t pray to you often. Or, well, ever. But please help me out today and I’ll definitely consider starting on a more semi-regular basis.<br /> Great. Now, I’m bargaining with God. New low, Emma. New low.<br /> I take a deep breath and walk into his office. The shades are tight, snuffing out all the light of the Manhattan morning beyond. It’s like a bear cave in here—and the grizzly in question is sitting at his desk, scrolling through his phone. He doesn’t acknowledge me until I’m standing in front of his desk.<br /> “Sit.”<br /> The moment my rear end is parked, he puts his phone down and looks at me. Just looks at me.<br /> In the eighteen months that I’ve worked for him, he’s never once given me the benefit of his full attention. Even during our morning meetings, he’s either on his phone, flipping through files, or typing away on his laptop. I used to be annoyed about it. I’m only now realizing I should have been grateful.<br /> Should I say something?<br /> Maybe he wants me to break the silence. Maybe I’m supposed to give him an explanation, an apology, something. But the more the silence stretches on, the less I’m capable of breaking it.<br /> I decide once again that those amber eyes of his should be outlawed.<br /> “I heard the voicemail,” he says at last.<br /> I can’t place his tone. Amusement? Anger? Disbelief?<br /> “Do you have anything to say, Ms. Carson?”<br /> I launch into the apology I spent most of last night practicing in the mirror. “I can’t tell you how sorry I am, Mr. Oryolov. I have no idea what I was thinking. The whole thing was an accident; I didn’t realize I’d dialed you. I was so tired and out of it and… I can assure you that it will never happen again. I swear.”<br /> My cheeks are flushed with embarrassment, but I try to keep my voice steady. I can’t sound too desperate, although that’s exactly what I am.<br /> “Tell me, Ms. Carson: what would you do in my place?”<br /> “I would give the plucky, hard-working assistant another chance, maybe?” It’s a long shot, but I figure, what the heck? I just wish I’d asked it without my voice rising to an Alvin and the Chipmunks pipsqueak at the end.<br /> His mouth twitches with the promise of a smile, but it’s gone as quick as it came. “I know what you sound like when you climax, Emma. Is that the soundtrack you want running through all our interactions from now on?”<br /> Flushing the brightest of reds, I shake my head. “If we could maybe just forget this whole thing—”<br /> “The way I see it, there are only two options here.”<br /> I hold my breath.<br /> “One, I fire you.”<br /> There it is. I knew it. I’m done for. I’m going to need to call the welfare office and see what—<br /> “Or two… I give you exactly what you want.”<br /> I almost choke on my own saliva. What little is left in my gaping mouth. “W-what?”<br /> Silently, Ruslan offers me the blue folder lying in front of him. I pick it up with shaky hands and open the cover. It takes me a few long moments to figure out what on earth I’m looking at.<br /> A… contract?<br /> I read through the first page, feeling a strange sensation bubble up in my chest.Then, since I’m clearly misunderstanding something, I read through the first page again. And again. And again.<br /> Only then do I look up. “Is this a joke?”<br /> He doesn’t blink. “I never joke.”<br /> “It’s just that, it seems like, from what I read, um—”<br /> “I will offer you money and security in exchange for live encores of the little performance you sent me last night. In addition to meeting my other needs.”<br /> “And by ‘needs,’ you mean…intercourse?”<br /> He tilts his chin down and regards me solemnly. “How explicit would you like me to be, Ms. Carson?”<br /> What.<br /> “So this—” I raise the blue folder in my hand. “—is a sugar daddy contract?”<br /> His brow furrows. “I’d prefer to call it a ‘Friend With Benefits’ contract.”<br /> “But we’re not friends.”<br /> He smirks. “Fair enough. No, we’re not.”<br /> There’s a throbbing in my head that reminds me of the first time I got drunk. Sienna and I had snuck into Dad’s study the eve of my sixteenth birthday and stolen a 1984 Chateau Latour. We passed it back and forth, taking turns sipping from the bottle like it was cheap bagged drink until the whole thing was gone.<br /> For a moment, I think about what Sienna would say if she were here. Would she be outraged or intrigued? Would she slap the smug prick and storm out?<br /> Or would she grin and say, Double the price and I’m in.<br /> What would you do, Si?<br /> And then it hits me, a bolt of lightning straight to the chest, almost like she’s speaking to me herself. I miss her so much, it hurts. But she left little bits of herself behind, in all three of her children. The same kids I’m working off to protect.<br /> That right there is the answer.<br /> Sienna would have done whatever was best for her children.<br /> So I don’t slap him. I don’t storm out. I sit there and stare at my arrogant, prick boss who always gets exactly what he wants.<br /> And what he wants… is me.<br /> I meet Ruslan’s steely gaze. “What happens if I say no?”	LEARN_MORE	https://a.funstorys.com/ad/RnVuU3RvcnkvMTcyNTgwLzI	142292175627960	Fun003	https://facebook.com/61551606164621	66	1	970,737,374,493,373	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Fun003	120209474936090696	a.funstorys.com	NONE	video		https://a.funstorys.com/ad/RnVuU3RvcnkvMTcyNTgwLzIwMjQwNTA4MTYxNDI1L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-08 03:18	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441950602_1587455692101278_6573616080931112382_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BIbp956VVtEQ7kNvgFBb7Hh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDI0ipxq8xDtFXaVqr-ZJuKEgFxt4DTETf5cCh86Z_csg&oe=6641E2E2	person_profile	Fun003	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440853425_978925703879934_457878227196053153_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fWqhbvmTOUYQ7kNvgHOoEYY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBBBoJM0xjQ5ZkZEzBj_s9KcPdK0foh8CkMdNQwlQxT2A&oe=6641EEEF	3	Fun003	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,210	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778099}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:35	active	760	912437237302827	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	He won't be coming home tonight, he's too busy sleeping with me. A full year of passion, something you and him will never have.<br /> <picture attachment><br /> A picture of some random bimbo with blonde hair and a stupid smirk was cuddling up next to my boyfriend who was half undressed and sleeping. Long forgetting his girlfriend who was at home like a fool, waiting for her boyfriend to show up so they could celebrate their four years together. And that was the day I found out my boyfriend of four years was cheating on me for the last year of our relationship.<br /> ___________<br /> <br /> Everything was set on the table. Dinner, candles, cranberry juice for me and spirits for him, and pasta. All on the table that was covered in a table cloth. I was wearing a blood red knee length dress that flowed with every step I took. The spaghetti straps resting securely on my shoulder blades. I wore the diamond necklace he had gotten me for our four year anniversary. My hair settling on my back, the curls swaying back and forth as I walk from the kitchen to the dining room. I noticed the clock and sent him a quick text.<br /> I have a surprise for you! can't wait until you get home.<br /> I smile and press send, waiting patiently for him to arrive.<br /> 3 hours later<br /> I watch as the candles slowly start to die for the fifth time. I look back at my phone and let out a shaky breath as I reread the text that had a picture attached to it.<br /> He won't be coming home tonight, he's too busy sleeping with me. A full year of passion, something you and him will never have.<br /> <picture attachment><br /> A picture of some random bimbo with blonde hair and a stupid smirk was cuddling up next to my boyfriend who was half undressed and sleeping. Long forgetting his girlfriend who was at home like a fool, waiting for her boyfriend to show up so they could celebrate their four years together. And that was the day I found out my boyfriend of four years was cheating on me for the last year of our relationship.<br /> 3 months earlier<br /> "Okay but if you had to choose one person to take to an island who would it be?"<br /> He asks me as my legs rest on his lap and we share another night of long-random talks.<br /> "Well what kind of question is that? I'll obviously take Johnny Depp."<br /> I let out a laugh as he frowns at my response.<br /> "I'm joking silly! of course I'll take you!"<br /> He smiles<br /> "That's much better."<br /> He gives my leg a pat.<br /> "I love you."<br /> "I love you too Luke."<br /> "No matter what happens right?"<br /> "No matter what happens."<br /> I assure him.<br /> <br /> Present Time<br /> I move to sit on the couch and cross my legs letting my thoughts wander. He was a lying prick who deserves to rot in inferno along with his little friend. I wonder how many times he had cheated on me with that blonde bimbo. Probably as he slept with you he was thinking about her. All the pecks he shared with you, he was thinking of pecking her. All those passionate nights he had with you, he was thinking about her. All those I love you's meant nothing to him when they escaped his mouth, he just saw you as someone to return home to. He knew you wouldn't leave him, that is if you didn't find out about his little secret.<br /> All these thoughts clouded my mind making me become more aware of how the signs were there but I never paid attention to any of them and how tightly he had me wrapped around his finger. I was just a toy for him to play with when he got home and he needed someone to be next to, someone he knew would never leave him. And that someone was me. And yet again a memory fills my head.<br /> <br /> 2 months earlier<br /> "Sorry I'm late babe, work was piling up."<br /> He says and I notice his hair was a mess and his shirt untucked.<br /> "You probably did have a busy day, if you would let your hair be a mess like that."<br /> Giving me a nervous laugh he gives my cheek a peck.<br /> "I'm going to take a bath if you want to join me."<br /> I say, whispering in his ear.<br /> "Maybe another day Nikky, I'm really tired."<br /> I felt rejected, that was the fifth time this month. I gave him a smile and nodded walking to our bathroom to start my bath.<br /> <br /> Present Time<br /> "Well, of course, he didn't want to be with me because he had already had his time with the bimbo."<br /> I say out loud as I just sat there staring at nothing, I suddenly got an idea. Getting up I make my way to my bedroom and go to my closet and take out all his clothes along with his shoes. Laying them all on the bed I go back to the kitchen and grab a bunch of black garbage bags and start putting all his clothes in them. Once I was done with everything that belonged to him I called our landlord and asked him if he could help me with some garbage that I had. I waited patiently by the door and when I heard the knock I opened it and gave him a smile.<br /> "Mr. Jackson thank you so much for helping me."<br /> I say and guided him to the bedroom where the bags were.<br /> He saw that there were hangers laying on the bed and that drawers were open and empty. He doesn't say anything but grabs as many bags he could until he had them all out the door.<br /> "Will that be it, Miss. Anderson?"<br /> He asks giving me a gentle smile.<br /> "Yes, thank you for your help Mr. Jackson."<br /> I say and he nods and I close the door.<br /> I wonder if all those trips he took that were supposedly just for meetings were actually him and the bimbo getting together for a vacation.<br /> <br /> 1 month earlier<br /> "That's so weird, that you have to go at such a short notice."<br /> I say as I keep my eyes on Luke walking in and out of the closet, as he set his things neatly in his suitcase.<br /> "I know, it's an important meeting and I can't miss it for anything."<br /> He gives me a small smile and I get up and go to our bathroom and get his toothbrush.<br /> "Forgetting something?"<br /> I say and he pecks my forehead.<br /> "You're a lifesaver."<br /> "I try."<br /> I say making my way to our sofa that was in our bedroom, I bring my legs up and rest my chin on top of my knees. All while watching my boyfriend pack his things. As I sat there, I quickly remember the fourth of July party.<br /> "But what about my family's fourth of July party? You know your family is also invited."<br /> He walks over and crouches in front of me.<br /> "No worries, I'll be back before that."<br /> I smile and nod as he gives my forehead a peck.<br /> "Love you and don't forget to lock the doors."<br /> He tells me as he zips up his suitcase.<br /> "I'm not a child Luke."<br /> I say and he smiles.<br /> "I know you're not, but I've never had a twenty- five year old girlfriend."<br /> That's right he always had someone closer to his age and I was five years younger than him.<br /> "Be careful."<br /> I say getting up and walks towards him.<br /> "Always am Nikky."<br /> He grabs my waist and gives me a quick peck.<br /> <br /> Present Time<br /> He was going on vacation with her, while you stayed home like a complete fool just waiting for him to come home. She's probably closer to his age and a lot more mature than you. And when he gets tired of your childish acts, that's when he leaves with her. With those thoughts in my head, I start searching the whole house for any pictures that might have him in them or remind me of him. I gather all the pictures I could find and take them to the living room. Setting the pictures down on the floor I grab the matches and start lighting one up, throwing it in the fireplace. Grabbing the pictures I start to throw one by one in letting the fire engulf them, making it that all that was left was the sparks and ashes.<br /> With every picture I burned, memories of him were vanishing along with my love for him. Everything was finally coming to pieces. All the trips he took, all those long nights at work, all those rejections were part of his lies. Just a cover up for where he truly was, sleeping around with some bimbo. All while I was at home waiting for him and giving him my love. As the pictures burned my hatred for him grew.<br /> "Babe I'm home."<br /> My head snaps up at the sound of his voice. A voice that once gave me comfort, but now disgusted me.<br /> "In the living room."<br /> I quickly hide the pictures under the couch, and put on a fake smile.<br /> He comes in with his black suit all wrinkled, his shirt un tucked, his tie loose around his neck. His blue eyes held a hint of guilt. A look I knew was fake just like the excuse he was about to give me. He was holding a bear that held a little black box, and a bouquet of red roses. Usually I would accept the gifts and forgive him, but that was before I knew his little cheating adventures. I hold my fake smile as I looked over the gifts in his hands.<br /> "So am I forgiven?"<br /> He says breaking the silence, and all I do is smile.<br /> "Oh babe it's fine, let me guess work was piling up today?"<br /> Let's see what you say you lying scumbag.<br /> I notice his eyes flicker with relief and he lets out a breath.<br /> "You know me so well babe, happy four years Nikky."<br /> He sets the bear, roses and small box on the couch. He comes closer and wraps his arms around me. All I wanted to do at that moment was push him off of me. But trying my best I hug him back. Huh he smells of cheap perfume.<br /> "I'll be back, I'm going to change and then we could have dinner."<br /> I just nod and watch him walk off to my room. I wait until he realizes that his clothes are nowhere to be found. Well at least he hasn't checked the garbage.<br /> "Nikky?"<br /> "Yea?"<br /> I respond looking at his confused face.<br /> "Why aren't any of my clothes in there?"<br /> Tell him now.<br /> "They're in the garbage."<br /> I respond.<br /> "Why?"<br /> "Well I thought since you probably have clothes at her house I could just throw away all the clothes you have here. And plus I need more space for the shoes and more clothes I want to buy."<br /> "What are you talking about?"<br /> He says confused.<br /> "Well I'm talking about the bimbo's house where you stay I'm pretty sure every night for a little sleepover."<br /> "So you assume I cheated on you?"<br /> "Oh no I'm not assuming anything, I have proof that you cheated on me."<br /> I push past him and grab my phone, opening the message and making him look at the picture. As he does his eyes go wide. He opens his mouth to say something but I cut him off.<br /> "Don't you dare say that this isn't you."<br /> I snap and he looks up at me with guilt in his blue eyes.<br /> "Don't do this."<br /> He pleads.<br /> "Leave."<br /> "Nikky come on please let me explain."<br /> "Explain what Luke?! How you cheated on me for who knows how long and yet you have the nerve to come home knowing well what you have done!"<br /> "Nikky it was a mistake!"<br /> "A mistake! No what you did was not a mistake but a choice."<br /> He doesn't say anything.<br /> "Leave! And take this because I don't want anything to do with you!"<br /> I throw the roses and bear at him, along with the little box. And the necklace I was currently wearing.<br /> "Ple-<br /> "Leave now before I call the police."<br /> He stands there looking at me.<br /> "Leave!"<br /> I bang on his chest and push him out the door. Once he is out the door I slam it shut and that's when I feel it. My heart clenches and a sob escapes my throat, tears following right after. And that's when I break, I fall to the ground and let out sobs as I realize that the guy I had loved had broken my heart and didn't think twice when he cheated on me. The guy I was having a baby with had broken me. Grabbing my stomach I let out another sob.<br /> I'm so sorry baby.<br /> <br /> The seconds turned to hours which turned to days. I had moved out from the apartment into a smaller one closer to the city. My once flat belly was now a small round bump, being 1 month pregnant and alone brought a lot of complications for me, emotionally wise. I had yet to tell my parents, for all they knew Luke and I were still a thing. I had told no one about the break up except for my best friend Charlie, who I called up the next day to help me find a new place. A place were I could start fresh, with new memories. Just my baby and I.<br /> I was meeting my mom and dad for brunch today so to make sure my bump wasn't noticeable I decided to wear a large black shirt and black leggings and a pair of vans. My hair which was once long was now above my shoulders.<br /> Mom: Sweetie why don't you invite Luke over to eat with us? Your father and I haven't seen or heard from him in a while<br /> I sigh as I look at the text.<br /> Well of course you haven't heard from the scumbag, we broke up because he cheated. And now I'm having his baby.<br /> That's what I wanted to text her, but of course I didn't. But instead replied with the same excuse. Luke was at work and couldn't make it.<br /> "Come on little bean, we have to go meet grandma and grandpa."<br /> I rub my belly and smile. Yea I was already talking to the baby, who was probably the size of a bean if not a bit larger.<br /> Walking out of the apartment I head over to my car and drive off to the cafe that was twenty minutes away.<br /> Driving was always something that I dreaded, because my mind tends to wander to questions I would rather most likely avoid. And the biggest one of course was, When are you going to tell Luke that you're pregnant? Or are you not going to? Personally I would rather keep my baby away from him and not let him know, but he is the father and legally has the right to know.<br /> Before I could get anymore into the subject, I turn the radio on, raising the volume up to drown my thoughts.<br /> By the time I get there parking was already full, so I'm forced to park a block away.<br /> "Great, that means more walking little bean. Which isn't a bad thing. But mommy gets tired."<br /> Dad: Kiddo are you almost here?<br /> I look at the text and chuckle, my dad was always impatient when it came to food.<br /> Me: Yes dad, had to park a block away but I should be there in three minutes.<br /> I turn the engine off and walk out to the crisp air. It was mid-September and the weather in Chicago was getting a bit cooler as fall approached.<br /> I start walking and as I do I start to feel nervous, the fact that my parents will finally know that Luke and I broke up and that I was pregnant and was going to be a single mom was quite the thing to get me all nervous.<br /> It'll be fine, no need to get all worked up about it. You are an adult and they can't tell you what to do anymore.<br /> I kept telling myself as I opened the door and was welcomed with the scent of coffee and warmth. I search the whole place and spot my parents all the way in the back, my dad waving his hands and my mom laughing as she brought the mug to her lips.<br /> Smiling at them I walk towards their table causing them both to get up and greet me with a hug.<br /> "Kiddo Long time no see! How's Luke?"<br /> Just the mention of that name made my stomach churn.<br /> "Yea dad it has been a long time."<br /> I reply ignoring the last part.<br /> "Mom."<br /> I say giving her a hug.<br /> "Darling, how I've missed you. Woah looks like someone is gaining a bit of weight."<br /> Come on Nikky it's now or never. You have to tell them.<br /> "Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you guys about."<br /> I explain, biting on the inside of my cheek.<br /> "Of you gaining weight?"<br /> My dad asks as he sits back down.<br /> And before I can answer a waitress comes by.<br /> "Can I get you anything to drink?"<br /> "Yea she'll have an espresso."<br /> My mom answers.<br /> I shake my head.<br /> "Actually I'll just have a hot chocolate with whipped cream on top and a chocolate chip muffin please."<br /> "Alrighty, then I'll be right out with that."<br /> "Hot chocolate?"<br /> "Yea I just wanted to try something different."<br /> I say playing around with the hem of my shirt.<br /> "So what did you want to talk about Nikky?"<br /> My mom says sitting back down and I follow sitting across from her and my dad.<br /> "Well, um okay, how do I tell you guys."<br /> Quit stalling and just tell them Nikky!<br /> "Nikky just spit it out. You know you can tell us anything."<br /> I nod, reassuring my mom that I knew that.<br /> "Okay, well I'm uh pregnant."<br /> There I said it.<br /> I looked at both my parents who had a blank stare. That is until my mother broke into a smile and stood up, making me stand up as well.<br /> "Sweetie congratulations! Why didn't you tell me sooner?"<br /> She wraps her arms around me and sways us side to side.<br /> "Come on let me get a hug."<br /> My dad says and my mom lets go letting my dad congratulate me by giving me one of his famous bear hugs.<br /> "Can't believe we're going to be grandparents."<br /> I look over at my mom who was on the verge of crying.<br /> "Mom please don't cry."<br /> I plead knowing that I had yet to tell them the other part of the news and not know how they would react with the second part once I had told them.<br /> "So how did Luke react?"<br /> They both look at me with the biggest smiles on their faces.<br /> "He doesn't know."<br /> I say and my mom blinks and my dad just smiles.<br /> "Of course! you want to make it a surprise!"<br /> I shake my head no.<br /> "We broke up, have been for a while now. I left the apartment and got a smaller one closer to the city. Charlie helped me pick it out."<br /> "You're not going to keep it am I right?"<br /> My mother asks looking rather angry.<br /> I was taken aback from her remark, does she mean an abortion?<br /> "No, I plan on keeping my baby."<br /> "Nikky do you know what our friends will say when they find out about this?"<br /> I don't answer her but just continue staring at both my parents, letting her comment process.<br /> Why would I want to have an abortion? This baby was a blessing for me and there was no way that I was going to end my little bean's life. Sure being a single mom would be a bit more challenging but I had my friends, and I thought I had my family but apparently they don't approve.<br /> "Or if you don't want an abortion, we can have it be adopted."<br /> I look at my mother with a look of disgust.<br /> "It's a baby, not it. And I will not have an abortion nor will I have the baby be adopted."<br /> I speak low as to not cause a scene, not that it mattered.<br /> "Nikky listen to your mother, this won't be good for your reputation. Think about it, you'll be a single mom living on your own and not even married with a baby on the way."<br /> I scoff.<br /> "Are you listening to yourself, dad?! Not married and with a baby? This is the twenty-first century, things change and not being married and with a kid is one of them."<br /> Before my mom could reply the waitress comes with our stuff.<br /> "Actually I'll like to have my things to go please."<br /> I say giving her a small smile.<br /> She looks between my mom and I and nods, maybe she could sense the tension going on.<br /> "Of course."<br /> "Thank you."<br /> I turn back to my parents.<br /> "Don't worry, we won't be causing you or your reputation any more trouble."	LEARN_MORE	https://b.chaptersapps.com/ad/Q2hhcHRlcnMvMTcxOTM4	195308346990040	Cha114	https://facebook.com/61553929473251	13	1	465,599,905,906,210	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Cha114	120207865989680258	b.chaptersapps.com	NONE	video		https://b.chaptersapps.com/ad/Q2hhcHRlcnMvMTcxOTM4LzIwMjQwNTA4MTEwODE4L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-07 22:12	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438299850_436990682490003_5812413733426350826_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MbLFs5nvW-QQ7kNvgERzXoz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBnTYeuGj0MJfba-jtA-r-rzSki82kTqB5tT0M6QgZ9nQ&oe=6641D348	person_profile	Cha114	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438259925_995585692222677_1348336911979444220_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3JJYNtaIFg4Q7kNvgHP1iuk&_nc_oc=AdgTso6iS9lbOx_IG6diHij0rUVX-sct-I16lGi8IyY9mSdVOr2B8wxyU2-ERnwNTtw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCovwr4NQrrXEzM95ivJsURmY4-rFV5hVkymibwwOA3cQ&oe=6641F06E	3	Cha114	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,540	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1777945}'	No	2024-05-08 18:39	active	760	1183155832855749	$49 First Exam	Know someone suffering from constant headaches or migraines? 🛑✋ STOP taking pain medication and consider chiropractic care! Headaches and migraines signal underlying body imbalances, such as compressed nerves or poor posture. These issues can lead to tension and pain, so addressing the root cause is essential rather than just treating the symptoms. We understand how debilitating this can be. That's why we're offering a special on your first chiropractic exam! Our expert care focuses on realigning your spine, relieving nerve pressure, and correcting posture to tackle the problem at its source. ✅ Experience a holistic approach to headache and migraine relief - no medications, no surgery ✅ Discover the benefits of chiropractic care in improving your overall health ✅ Take your first step towards a life free from pain Don't let headaches and migraines hold you back any longer. Book your appointment today and feel the difference chiropractic care can make. #HeadacheRelief #MigraineRelief #ChiropracticCare FIRST EXAM INCLUDES: 🔎 Consultation: This involves a comprehensive review of your medical history, a physical examination focusing on your spine and posture, and a discussion about your health concerns and goals to tailor a personalized treatment plan. 🔎 Posture Exam: We will carefully assess your spinal alignment and posture, possibly using visual observation and imaging tests, to identify any irregularities or imbalances leading to discomfort or impacting your overall health. 🔎 Palpation Exam: We will examine your spine and surrounding tissues for tenderness, warmth, or irregularities, helping to pinpoint areas of discomfort or dysfunction. *** Medicaid, Medicare, Personal Injury & Auto Accident Injury cases excluded by law.*	LEARN_MORE	http://fb.me/	133893540037455	Courtley Chiropractic	https://facebook.com/CourtleyChiropractic	1,443	1	434,040,809,083,835	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn More	Courtley Chiropractic	120208323540220389	fb.me	NONE	dco	200+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Online Reviews!	http://fb.me/	2024-05-08 08:36	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441517984_1863719157434807_2647829598489140999_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-Zh8xAyOG2IQ7kNvgH1VJKb&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCYQrQg3f2KgLPofe2pUnz5hmGhSIzMioAt8GZ3SPIOXA&oe=6641D789	person_profile	Courtley Chiropractic	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440356556_976066483867253_155543094260928244_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ykle15PMfegQ7kNvgFZK_ZN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBVtPCnKEPnifUbzqYz9_SUo9lkb6kHrTQhb343-i0T0A&oe=6641EAC9	3	Courtley Chiropractic	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,345	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778203}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:37	active	760	1878722002547770	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"Xavier, you’d better get this straight: it's me who's dumping you, not the other way round." It took all her willpower not to lash out at the cheating couple. <br /> "I hope you two have a long, 'happy' life together," she spat.<br /> Her boyfriend of three years, the one she had been with through thick and thin, was now engaged to her elder sister.<br /> "It doesn't matter who I am. What matters is that I’m here to help." Charles tapped his cufflink, his gaze steady and serene as he watched Noelle.<br /> He was her guardian angel in her darkest hour. "Marry me. I'll bring you unimaginable happiness!"<br /> ————————<br /> <br /> Autumn had painted Brookville in shades of gold and crimson when Noelle Shaw stepped off the plane. She grabbed her suitcase and walked out into the crisp air, a familiar sense of home wrapping around her.<br /> A whole year had passed since she left to pursue a corporate training program overseas, and now, she was back just in time.<br /> Her third anniversary with her boyfriend Xavier Harris was just days away, and she had been working nonstop to make it back early enough to surprise him.<br /> She hailed a cab and headed straight for Xavier's office. The moment she walked through the front doors, Alice, the receptionist, gave her a look of total shock. "Ms. Shaw? You’re back? Are you here for the CEO's engagement party?"<br /> Noelle's brow creased in confusion. "The CEO's engagement party? What are you talking about, Alice?"<br /> "It's Mr. Harris's engagement party with your sister!"<br /> "What?" Noelle's heart skipped a beat, and the happiness drained from her face. "Whose engagement party?"<br /> Alice seemed to realize she had dropped a bombshell and nervously swallowed. "The CEO... and your sister..."<br /> "Where is it happening?"<br /> "The... Golden Oasis Hotel."<br /> It felt like a punch to the gut. Noelle spun on her heel and rushed out. "Driver, take me to the Golden Oasis Hotel, please."<br /> She had not even made it inside the hotel when she saw a huge photo by the entrance. There Xavier was with his arm around Winter Shaw, who looked stunning in her elegant dress. They were gazing into each other's eyes, lost in a world of love.<br /> On her way over, Noelle was psyching herself up. Xavier was her boyfriend. He was hers! The idea of him getting engaged to her sister was just too bizarre. As she arrived, however, reality hit her like a ton of bricks.<br /> She walked in just in time to catch Xavier whispering sweet nothings into Winter's ear, making her cheeks turn a rosy pink.<br /> Noelle felt a surge of anger, her eyes blazing with fury.<br /> How ludicrous it was. Her boyfriend of three years, the one she had been with through thick and thin, was now cozying up to her elder sister while she had been miles away.<br /> Winter Shaw was mingling and toasting with the guests arm in arm with Xavier when she spotted Noelle. Her face drained of color, and her grip on Xavier's hand tightened without her even realizing it.<br /> Xavier's eyes met Noelle's. He paused for a split second, then flashed Winter a comforting smile before walking over to Noelle. "Hey Noelle, did you come to celebrate me and your sister's big day?"<br /> His voice, which was usually so warm and gentle, felt like a knife twisting in her heart. Noelle clenched her jaw. "Celebrate? Celebrate you stabbing me in the back? And Winter, really? Are you that desperate for a man? You knew he was mine, and you... you both..."<br /> Before she could finish, a slap snapped her head to the side, leaving her cheek throbbing.<br /> Holding her face, tears brimming in her eyes, she looked up in disbelief. "Mom!"<br /> "Don't you dare call me 'mom' right now! What kind of daughter or sister acts the way you're acting? It's your sister's engagement, and you can't even be happy for her? Instead, you show up here to make a scene. You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?" Jade Jones was fuming, her eyes shooting daggers at Noelle.<br /> Noelle's heart clenched. "Mom, what are you even saying? Xavier's my boyfriend."<br /> "Your boyfriend? Xavier is your sister's husband. Why do you have to challenge your sister for everything? I’m so disappointed in you."<br /> Noelle could not help but laugh. She stared at her mother, Jade, who had the nerve to twist the truth so blatantly. She turned to Xavier. "Xavier, come on. Tell us who you're really dating."<br /> His brow creased, his gaze on Noelle filled with uncertainty. The firm grip he felt, however, brought him back to the moment. "Noelle, I'm sorry, but there's only ever been one person for me, and that's your sister."<br /> Noelle's heart felt like it was being sliced open as she listened to Xavier's emotionless confession.<br /> What a joke! What bitter irony!<br /> "Xavier, you’d better get this straight: it's me who's dumping you, not the other way round." It took all her willpower not to lash out at the cheating couple. "I hope you two have a long, 'happy' life together," she spat.<br /> <br /> Noelle bolted from the hotel, her previously defiant face now streaked with tears.<br /> Out of nowhere, a black Cayenne screeched to a halt, its tires screaming against the pavement. Caught off guard, she tumbled to the ground.<br /> The driver gulped, his eyes darting to the man in the back seat, "Sir... Sir?"<br /> The man in the back, unfazed by the nearby accident, merely glanced at the passenger seat beside him. "Ronald, go see what happened."<br /> "Right away, sir." Ronald was out of the car in a flash, checking the front for any damage.<br /> About six feet ahead of the car, a woman sat on the ground with her eyes wide open, looking totally freaked out. Her cheeks were streaked with tears, and she had obviously been crying. "Miss? Are you okay? Do you need a ride to the hospital?"<br /> Noelle was scared out of her wits. She just gazed at Ronald, lost in shock, until she finally managed to pull herself together and stand up. Without a word, she tried to sidestep him, eager to get away.<br /> Ronald was puzzled by her reaction. "Are you sure you're alright? Do you need any..."<br /> "I... I'm fine, really, I'm okay." Noelle's eyes darted to the black Cayenne. She could not shake off the feeling that someone was watching her, and it sent shivers down her spine. She scowled, hating the feeling, and hobbled away as fast as she could.<br /> Ronald watched her go, confused. He wanted to stop her, but she was dodging him like he was bad news, leaving him speechless.<br /> Back in the car, Ronald noticed the man in the backseat craning his neck to watch the woman through the window. "Sir, we're at the hotel. Do you want to head straight in, or would you like to get out here?"<br /> The man, Charles Hoffman, did not say a word, and Ronald did not dare to make a move.<br /> Watching the petite figure disappear into the distance, Charles let out a slight smirk and tapped his finger against his knee in a steady beat. "Let's head back!"<br /> Ronald was taken aback. "But sir, isn't today..."<br /> Before he could finish, Charles cut him off with a piercing look. "The show's over. There's nothing left to see," Charles said, his words heavy with implication. "Ronald, you seem to be losing your touch."<br /> The Majestic Lounge was Brookville's hotspot, its lights blazing and music pumping every night. Noelle's friend, Rowena Smith, always said it was the prime spot for a wild time after dark.<br /> Noelle was not one for these scenes, but tonight, she was hunched over the bar, downing drinks as if there was no tomorrow. She peered at the sea of unfamiliar faces swirling around her through half-closed eyes.<br /> "Hey there. Did you come here alone?"<br /> A hand clamped onto Noelle's shoulder, the stranger's touch lingering a bit too long. Noelle jerked away, revulsion coursing through her. "Back off."<br /> The guy shot a knowing look at his buddy and smirked at Noelle. "Feisty, aren't you? Back off? Ladies like you just play hard to get, secretly hoping for some attention."<br /> He moved in as if to plant a buss on her, but Noelle shoved him back and stood up, her stance unsteady and her heart racing. She shook her head, trying to clear the fog. "I said back off! Is that so hard to understand?"<br /> She stumbled, nearly toppling over, but the man caught her, his arm snaking around her waist. "See, you’re saying no, but your body's telling a different story."<br /> <br /> Trapped in the man's grip, Noelle struggled to break free, her body refusing to cooperate. Her vision was blurry as she glared at him. "What are you trying to do?"<br /> "Just having a bit of fun..." He chuckled, his voice dripping with sleaze as he steadied her. "Let's go somewhere more entertaining, shall we?"<br /> Noelle might have been out of it, but she could still sense the danger in the man's tone. However, her whole body ached, and she knew she was no match for them. She scanned the area for anyone who could help her, but she was invisible to the passersby.<br /> She spotted a figure approaching through her haze. Acting instinctively, she shoved the two men aside and bolted, slamming right into the newcomer. "Save me!" she gasped.<br /> Her fingers dug into the fabric of the man's shirt, and she inhaled a sharp, clean scent. "Please, save me," she pleaded.<br /> Charles squinted, taking in the woman who had just collided with him. There was a flicker of something sharp in his gaze.<br /> Noelle did not let go, pressing herself against him. Her lips, tainted with the strong smell of booze, were inches from his face, and her cheeks were unnaturally rosy.<br /> "Sir..." Ronald, who was standing a few steps back, watched in disbelief. She had the nerve to approach Charles, yet he was not pushing her away?<br /> Charles shot a cold look at the two men harassing Noelle. "Time to leave, don't you think?"<br /> "You… Who do you think you are? Do you even know who I am? I had my eye on that girl," one of the men blurted out.<br /> Charles smirked and let out a soft laugh. "You laid a hand on her? Which hand was it? Show me!"<br /> The courage of the other man drained away when he met Charles's icy stare. "Uh... Mr. Hoffman, we didn't realize who you were. We... we haven't touched her, not at all," he stammered, realizing they were in deep trouble.<br /> "Ronald," Charles shot him a look before scooping Noelle into his arms like she was the heroine in some epic romance, “give these guys a lesson they won't forget. Make it clear that The Majestic Lounge isn't for scum like them."<br /> With Noelle in his arms, Charles spun on his heel and left. Ronald gave a curt nod. "Understood." A sly grin spread across his face as he faced the two troublemakers. "So, which one of you was it that touched the lady?"<br /> The two guys exchanged panicked glances, too scared to utter a word. Ronald let out a mocking scoff. "What, did both of you touch her? Mr. Hoffman wants to let you keep a little bit of your offending hand as a souvenir."<br /> They dropped to their knees with a thud, as pale as ghosts, begging, "Please, have mercy! You can't do this. My dad is a big shot at Evergreen Group..."<br /> Meanwhile, Charles, with Noelle in his arms, was like a walking iceberg.<br /> Noelle felt she was being drained of blood and eaten alive by a swarm of ants. She whimpered, overcome by a wave of dizziness, "It's so hot..."<br /> Charles glanced down at his shirt, which was now a mess thanks to Noelle, and his gaze frosted over. He held her tighter and picked up the pace to the elevator.<br /> Though she was barely conscious, she caught a glimpse of the man's strong profile. The chill from his body was oddly soothing, and she snuggled closer without thinking. Charles's eyes darkened just as the elevator doors slid open, and he stepped out into the unknown.<br /> <br /> At the top of The Majestic Lounge was a room that belonged to Charles alone. He swung the door open and carried Noelle in. She was feeling so awful that she hung onto Charles like she was trying to meld into him, her limbs all over the place with nary a hint of elegance.<br /> He managed to detach Noelle from himself with a bit of a struggle and gently placed her in the bathroom. Taking a deep breath, he dialed Ronald’s number. "I need ice, and make it quick."<br /> Once he ended the call, he saw Noelle trying to get out of the tub. He gently but firmly pushed her back down and turned on the cold tap. "Stay still!"<br /> His voice was firm and grew even more intense as he noticed how the water in the tub accentuated her figure. His gaze sharpened.<br /> Ronald was fast, arriving shortly with two buckets of ice. "Here's the ice, sir."<br /> "Hold on," Charles instructed Ronald. "Just set them down and leave, thanks." His tone was cool and detached.<br /> Ronald raised an eyebrow at Charles's unusual sternness. However, he kept his thoughts to himself and left as told.<br /> Once alone, Charles brought the ice buckets into the bathroom.<br /> Noelle was submerged in the icy water, her body shaking uncontrollably. Her mind was still foggy, and Charles's expression was grim.<br /> Noelle was burning up inside, feeling like she was on the brink of collapse. The icy water was a harsh contrast to that, enveloping her in a torturous chill. She squirmed in agony, but Charles's hands kept her steady, and his voice cut through the haze. "Hang in there. It'll pass soon."<br /> ...<br /> Noelle's eyes fluttered open, her body feeling sore and like it had forgotten how to function. She lay still, gazing up at the stark white ceiling. As the fog in her brain slowly lifted, the memories of last night started to play like a movie in her head.<br /> Her face drained of color as panic flickered across her features. She flung off the covers and was relieved to find herself in pajamas, untouched. Still, that aching... where did it come from?<br /> "You're awake?" A chilly voice cut through the silence, and Noelle's head whipped toward the door. There she saw a man clad in cool elegance and fancy threads who was obviously not your average Joe. His face was so drop-dead gorgeous that even a beauty queen would swoon at him.<br /> Noelle's brow creased in confusion. She did not know this man. As the reality of her situation hit her, she blurted out, "Who are you?" Her voice sounded so harsh and grating that it scared her. The words came out as a dry, quacking mess.<br /> Charles arched an eyebrow, not bothering with an answer. He strolled over, poured her a glass of water, and handed it to her with smooth and elegant hands.<br /> Noelle was taken aback for a second but then grabbed the glass, downing the water with an eagerness that bordered on uncouth. Once the glass was empty, she eyed Charles suspiciously. "Are you the one who rescued me?"<br /> He did not say yes or no, but Noelle let out a relieved breath. "Okay. Thanks for whatever you did last night." She glanced down at her clothes, a silent question hanging in the air, and her expression turned to one of confusion. However, her gratitude remained evident despite the puzzlement.<br /> Charles's gaze landed softly on Noelle's face, his mind replaying her stunning presence from the night before and stirring something within him. "It’s all good, Ms. Shaw. Don’t worry about it," he said, sidestepping the potential embarrassment with a smooth deflection.<br /> Noelle bit her lip, fighting the urge to say more. She would have to deal with the fallout and act like this whole mess never happened. Then, it hit her. "How did you find out my last name is Shaw?"<br /> "Surprised? There's been a lot of buzz about a Ms. Shaw today. Have you not heard?" Charles said, casually fiddling with his cufflinks, looking the picture of cool.<br /> Noelle's face drained of color. "What... What are you talking about?"<br /> "There are many versions of your story. Which one do you want to hear?"<br /> "Who are you, really? And what do you want from me?"	LEARN_MORE	https://c.read4funs.com/ad/aXJvbWFuY2UvMTcxMjc4LzI	193365490526262	ForFun-120	https://facebook.com/61554751622817	74	1	421,194,414,187,446	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	ForFun-120	120210837679780664	c.read4funs.com	NONE	video		https://c.read4funs.com/ad/aXJvbWFuY2UvMTcxMjc4LzIwMjQwNTA3MTYwOTQ2L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-07 03:23	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438299562_1613122372844275_7698827050425162813_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=w7vWCQJwmCsQ7kNvgE8jDRl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB3ltL0-HtYtNtyxI3g1vgrOrhsgcaOk7yAvrVvp-OmEw&oe=6641C87C	person_profile	ForFun-120	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/425491821_822097969768489_4910011732913355272_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U-eSHpLAvukQ7kNvgF6-osJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfD2S8vAPQCyquusZCfyAhvuQx2tpR7LWZ_QMJhHD-KARQ&oe=6641E85B	3	ForFun-120	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,371	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778226}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:37	active	760	3575360699391369	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	He won't be coming home tonight, he's too busy sleeping with me. A full year of passion, something you and him will never have.<br /> <picture attachment><br /> A picture of some random bimbo with blonde hair and a stupid smirk was cuddling up next to my boyfriend who was half undressed and sleeping. Long forgetting his girlfriend who was at home like a fool, waiting for her boyfriend to show up so they could celebrate their four years together. And that was the day I found out my boyfriend of four years was cheating on me for the last year of our relationship.<br /> ___________<br /> <br /> Everything was set on the table. Dinner, candles, cranberry juice for me and spirits for him, and pasta. All on the table that was covered in a table cloth. I was wearing a blood red knee length dress that flowed with every step I took. The spaghetti straps resting securely on my shoulder blades. I wore the diamond necklace he had gotten me for our four year anniversary. My hair settling on my back, the curls swaying back and forth as I walk from the kitchen to the dining room. I noticed the clock and sent him a quick text.<br /> I have a surprise for you! can't wait until you get home.<br /> I smile and press send, waiting patiently for him to arrive.<br /> 3 hours later<br /> I watch as the candles slowly start to die for the fifth time. I look back at my phone and let out a shaky breath as I reread the text that had a picture attached to it.<br /> He won't be coming home tonight, he's too busy sleeping with me. A full year of passion, something you and him will never have.<br /> <picture attachment><br /> A picture of some random bimbo with blonde hair and a stupid smirk was cuddling up next to my boyfriend who was half undressed and sleeping. Long forgetting his girlfriend who was at home like a fool, waiting for her boyfriend to show up so they could celebrate their four years together. And that was the day I found out my boyfriend of four years was cheating on me for the last year of our relationship.<br /> 3 months earlier<br /> "Okay but if you had to choose one person to take to an island who would it be?"<br /> He asks me as my legs rest on his lap and we share another night of long-random talks.<br /> "Well what kind of question is that? I'll obviously take Johnny Depp."<br /> I let out a laugh as he frowns at my response.<br /> "I'm joking silly! of course I'll take you!"<br /> He smiles<br /> "That's much better."<br /> He gives my leg a pat.<br /> "I love you."<br /> "I love you too Luke."<br /> "No matter what happens right?"<br /> "No matter what happens."<br /> I assure him.<br /> <br /> Present Time<br /> I move to sit on the couch and cross my legs letting my thoughts wander. He was a lying prick who deserves to rot in inferno along with his little friend. I wonder how many times he had cheated on me with that blonde bimbo. Probably as he slept with you he was thinking about her. All the pecks he shared with you, he was thinking of pecking her. All those passionate nights he had with you, he was thinking about her. All those I love you's meant nothing to him when they escaped his mouth, he just saw you as someone to return home to. He knew you wouldn't leave him, that is if you didn't find out about his little secret.<br /> All these thoughts clouded my mind making me become more aware of how the signs were there but I never paid attention to any of them and how tightly he had me wrapped around his finger. I was just a toy for him to play with when he got home and he needed someone to be next to, someone he knew would never leave him. And that someone was me. And yet again a memory fills my head.<br /> <br /> 2 months earlier<br /> "Sorry I'm late babe, work was piling up."<br /> He says and I notice his hair was a mess and his shirt untucked.<br /> "You probably did have a busy day, if you would let your hair be a mess like that."<br /> Giving me a nervous laugh he gives my cheek a peck.<br /> "I'm going to take a bath if you want to join me."<br /> I say, whispering in his ear.<br /> "Maybe another day Nikky, I'm really tired."<br /> I felt rejected, that was the fifth time this month. I gave him a smile and nodded walking to our bathroom to start my bath.<br /> <br /> Present Time<br /> "Well, of course, he didn't want to be with me because he had already had his time with the bimbo."<br /> I say out loud as I just sat there staring at nothing, I suddenly got an idea. Getting up I make my way to my bedroom and go to my closet and take out all his clothes along with his shoes. Laying them all on the bed I go back to the kitchen and grab a bunch of black garbage bags and start putting all his clothes in them. Once I was done with everything that belonged to him I called our landlord and asked him if he could help me with some garbage that I had. I waited patiently by the door and when I heard the knock I opened it and gave him a smile.<br /> "Mr. Jackson thank you so much for helping me."<br /> I say and guided him to the bedroom where the bags were.<br /> He saw that there were hangers laying on the bed and that drawers were open and empty. He doesn't say anything but grabs as many bags he could until he had them all out the door.<br /> "Will that be it, Miss. Anderson?"<br /> He asks giving me a gentle smile.<br /> "Yes, thank you for your help Mr. Jackson."<br /> I say and he nods and I close the door.<br /> I wonder if all those trips he took that were supposedly just for meetings were actually him and the bimbo getting together for a vacation.<br /> <br /> 1 month earlier<br /> "That's so weird, that you have to go at such a short notice."<br /> I say as I keep my eyes on Luke walking in and out of the closet, as he set his things neatly in his suitcase.<br /> "I know, it's an important meeting and I can't miss it for anything."<br /> He gives me a small smile and I get up and go to our bathroom and get his toothbrush.<br /> "Forgetting something?"<br /> I say and he pecks my forehead.<br /> "You're a lifesaver."<br /> "I try."<br /> I say making my way to our sofa that was in our bedroom, I bring my legs up and rest my chin on top of my knees. All while watching my boyfriend pack his things. As I sat there, I quickly remember the fourth of July party.<br /> "But what about my family's fourth of July party? You know your family is also invited."<br /> He walks over and crouches in front of me.<br /> "No worries, I'll be back before that."<br /> I smile and nod as he gives my forehead a peck.<br /> "Love you and don't forget to lock the doors."<br /> He tells me as he zips up his suitcase.<br /> "I'm not a child Luke."<br /> I say and he smiles.<br /> "I know you're not, but I've never had a twenty- five year old girlfriend."<br /> That's right he always had someone closer to his age and I was five years younger than him.<br /> "Be careful."<br /> I say getting up and walks towards him.<br /> "Always am Nikky."<br /> He grabs my waist and gives me a quick peck.<br /> <br /> Present Time<br /> He was going on vacation with her, while you stayed home like a complete fool just waiting for him to come home. She's probably closer to his age and a lot more mature than you. And when he gets tired of your childish acts, that's when he leaves with her. With those thoughts in my head, I start searching the whole house for any pictures that might have him in them or remind me of him. I gather all the pictures I could find and take them to the living room. Setting the pictures down on the floor I grab the matches and start lighting one up, throwing it in the fireplace. Grabbing the pictures I start to throw one by one in letting the fire engulf them, making it that all that was left was the sparks and ashes.<br /> With every picture I burned, memories of him were vanishing along with my love for him. Everything was finally coming to pieces. All the trips he took, all those long nights at work, all those rejections were part of his lies. Just a cover up for where he truly was, sleeping around with some bimbo. All while I was at home waiting for him and giving him my love. As the pictures burned my hatred for him grew.<br /> "Babe I'm home."<br /> My head snaps up at the sound of his voice. A voice that once gave me comfort, but now disgusted me.<br /> "In the living room."<br /> I quickly hide the pictures under the couch, and put on a fake smile.<br /> He comes in with his black suit all wrinkled, his shirt un tucked, his tie loose around his neck. His blue eyes held a hint of guilt. A look I knew was fake just like the excuse he was about to give me. He was holding a bear that held a little black box, and a bouquet of red roses. Usually I would accept the gifts and forgive him, but that was before I knew his little cheating adventures. I hold my fake smile as I looked over the gifts in his hands.<br /> "So am I forgiven?"<br /> He says breaking the silence, and all I do is smile.<br /> "Oh babe it's fine, let me guess work was piling up today?"<br /> Let's see what you say you lying scumbag.<br /> I notice his eyes flicker with relief and he lets out a breath.<br /> "You know me so well babe, happy four years Nikky."<br /> He sets the bear, roses and small box on the couch. He comes closer and wraps his arms around me. All I wanted to do at that moment was push him off of me. But trying my best I hug him back. Huh he smells of cheap perfume.<br /> "I'll be back, I'm going to change and then we could have dinner."<br /> I just nod and watch him walk off to my room. I wait until he realizes that his clothes are nowhere to be found. Well at least he hasn't checked the garbage.<br /> "Nikky?"<br /> "Yea?"<br /> I respond looking at his confused face.<br /> "Why aren't any of my clothes in there?"<br /> Tell him now.<br /> "They're in the garbage."<br /> I respond.<br /> "Why?"<br /> "Well I thought since you probably have clothes at her house I could just throw away all the clothes you have here. And plus I need more space for the shoes and more clothes I want to buy."<br /> "What are you talking about?"<br /> He says confused.<br /> "Well I'm talking about the bimbo's house where you stay I'm pretty sure every night for a little sleepover."<br /> "So you assume I cheated on you?"<br /> "Oh no I'm not assuming anything, I have proof that you cheated on me."<br /> I push past him and grab my phone, opening the message and making him look at the picture. As he does his eyes go wide. He opens his mouth to say something but I cut him off.<br /> "Don't you dare say that this isn't you."<br /> I snap and he looks up at me with guilt in his blue eyes.<br /> "Don't do this."<br /> He pleads.<br /> "Leave."<br /> "Nikky come on please let me explain."<br /> "Explain what Luke?! How you cheated on me for who knows how long and yet you have the nerve to come home knowing well what you have done!"<br /> "Nikky it was a mistake!"<br /> "A mistake! No what you did was not a mistake but a choice."<br /> He doesn't say anything.<br /> "Leave! And take this because I don't want anything to do with you!"<br /> I throw the roses and bear at him, along with the little box. And the necklace I was currently wearing.<br /> "Ple-<br /> "Leave now before I call the police."<br /> He stands there looking at me.<br /> "Leave!"<br /> I bang on his chest and push him out the door. Once he is out the door I slam it shut and that's when I feel it. My heart clenches and a sob escapes my throat, tears following right after. And that's when I break, I fall to the ground and let out sobs as I realize that the guy I had loved had broken my heart and didn't think twice when he cheated on me. The guy I was having a baby with had broken me. Grabbing my stomach I let out another sob.<br /> I'm so sorry baby.<br /> <br /> The seconds turned to hours which turned to days. I had moved out from the apartment into a smaller one closer to the city. My once flat belly was now a small round bump, being 1 month pregnant and alone brought a lot of complications for me, emotionally wise. I had yet to tell my parents, for all they knew Luke and I were still a thing. I had told no one about the break up except for my best friend Charlie, who I called up the next day to help me find a new place. A place were I could start fresh, with new memories. Just my baby and I.<br /> I was meeting my mom and dad for brunch today so to make sure my bump wasn't noticeable I decided to wear a large black shirt and black leggings and a pair of vans. My hair which was once long was now above my shoulders.<br /> Mom: Sweetie why don't you invite Luke over to eat with us? Your father and I haven't seen or heard from him in a while<br /> I sigh as I look at the text.<br /> Well of course you haven't heard from the scumbag, we broke up because he cheated. And now I'm having his baby.<br /> That's what I wanted to text her, but of course I didn't. But instead replied with the same excuse. Luke was at work and couldn't make it.<br /> "Come on little bean, we have to go meet grandma and grandpa."<br /> I rub my belly and smile. Yea I was already talking to the baby, who was probably the size of a bean if not a bit larger.<br /> Walking out of the apartment I head over to my car and drive off to the cafe that was twenty minutes away.<br /> Driving was always something that I dreaded, because my mind tends to wander to questions I would rather most likely avoid. And the biggest one of course was, When are you going to tell Luke that you're pregnant? Or are you not going to? Personally I would rather keep my baby away from him and not let him know, but he is the father and legally has the right to know.<br /> Before I could get anymore into the subject, I turn the radio on, raising the volume up to drown my thoughts.<br /> By the time I get there parking was already full, so I'm forced to park a block away.<br /> "Great, that means more walking little bean. Which isn't a bad thing. But mommy gets tired."<br /> Dad: Kiddo are you almost here?<br /> I look at the text and chuckle, my dad was always impatient when it came to food.<br /> Me: Yes dad, had to park a block away but I should be there in three minutes.<br /> I turn the engine off and walk out to the crisp air. It was mid-September and the weather in Chicago was getting a bit cooler as fall approached.<br /> I start walking and as I do I start to feel nervous, the fact that my parents will finally know that Luke and I broke up and that I was pregnant and was going to be a single mom was quite the thing to get me all nervous.<br /> It'll be fine, no need to get all worked up about it. You are an adult and they can't tell you what to do anymore.<br /> I kept telling myself as I opened the door and was welcomed with the scent of coffee and warmth. I search the whole place and spot my parents all the way in the back, my dad waving his hands and my mom laughing as she brought the mug to her lips.<br /> Smiling at them I walk towards their table causing them both to get up and greet me with a hug.<br /> "Kiddo Long time no see! How's Luke?"<br /> Just the mention of that name made my stomach churn.<br /> "Yea dad it has been a long time."<br /> I reply ignoring the last part.<br /> "Mom."<br /> I say giving her a hug.<br /> "Darling, how I've missed you. Woah looks like someone is gaining a bit of weight."<br /> Come on Nikky it's now or never. You have to tell them.<br /> "Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you guys about."<br /> I explain, biting on the inside of my cheek.<br /> "Of you gaining weight?"<br /> My dad asks as he sits back down.<br /> And before I can answer a waitress comes by.<br /> "Can I get you anything to drink?"<br /> "Yea she'll have an espresso."<br /> My mom answers.<br /> I shake my head.<br /> "Actually I'll just have a hot chocolate with whipped cream on top and a chocolate chip muffin please."<br /> "Alrighty, then I'll be right out with that."<br /> "Hot chocolate?"<br /> "Yea I just wanted to try something different."<br /> I say playing around with the hem of my shirt.<br /> "So what did you want to talk about Nikky?"<br /> My mom says sitting back down and I follow sitting across from her and my dad.<br /> "Well, um okay, how do I tell you guys."<br /> Quit stalling and just tell them Nikky!<br /> "Nikky just spit it out. You know you can tell us anything."<br /> I nod, reassuring my mom that I knew that.<br /> "Okay, well I'm uh pregnant."<br /> There I said it.<br /> I looked at both my parents who had a blank stare. That is until my mother broke into a smile and stood up, making me stand up as well.<br /> "Sweetie congratulations! Why didn't you tell me sooner?"<br /> She wraps her arms around me and sways us side to side.<br /> "Come on let me get a hug."<br /> My dad says and my mom lets go letting my dad congratulate me by giving me one of his famous bear hugs.<br /> "Can't believe we're going to be grandparents."<br /> I look over at my mom who was on the verge of crying.<br /> "Mom please don't cry."<br /> I plead knowing that I had yet to tell them the other part of the news and not know how they would react with the second part once I had told them.<br /> "So how did Luke react?"<br /> They both look at me with the biggest smiles on their faces.<br /> "He doesn't know."<br /> I say and my mom blinks and my dad just smiles.<br /> "Of course! you want to make it a surprise!"<br /> I shake my head no.<br /> "We broke up, have been for a while now. I left the apartment and got a smaller one closer to the city. Charlie helped me pick it out."<br /> "You're not going to keep it am I right?"<br /> My mother asks looking rather angry.<br /> I was taken aback from her remark, does she mean an abortion?<br /> "No, I plan on keeping my baby."<br /> "Nikky do you know what our friends will say when they find out about this?"<br /> I don't answer her but just continue staring at both my parents, letting her comment process.<br /> Why would I want to have an abortion? This baby was a blessing for me and there was no way that I was going to end my little bean's life. Sure being a single mom would be a bit more challenging but I had my friends, and I thought I had my family but apparently they don't approve.<br /> "Or if you don't want an abortion, we can have it be adopted."<br /> I look at my mother with a look of disgust.<br /> "It's a baby, not it. And I will not have an abortion nor will I have the baby be adopted."<br /> I speak low as to not cause a scene, not that it mattered.<br /> "Nikky listen to your mother, this won't be good for your reputation. Think about it, you'll be a single mom living on your own and not even married with a baby on the way."<br /> I scoff.<br /> "Are you listening to yourself, dad?! Not married and with a baby? This is the twenty-first century, things change and not being married and with a kid is one of them."<br /> Before my mom could reply the waitress comes with our stuff.<br /> "Actually I'll like to have my things to go please."<br /> I say giving her a small smile.<br /> She looks between my mom and I and nods, maybe she could sense the tension going on.<br /> "Of course."<br /> "Thank you."<br /> I turn back to my parents.<br /> "Don't worry, we won't be causing you or your reputation any more trouble."	LEARN_MORE	https://a.topicksapp.com/ad/dGlnZXJyZWFkZXIvMTcxOT	183677941496513	Picks103	https://facebook.com/61554329588198	17	1	1,648,489,065,914,436	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Picks103	120208776118910429	a.topicksapp.com	NONE	video		https://a.topicksapp.com/ad/dGlnZXJyZWFkZXIvMTcxOTMzLzIwMjQwNTA4MTEwODE3L3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-07 22:12	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441178107_437079022394070_7549652178016573324_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rchji2LN0i4Q7kNvgF9hTo_&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCai2vZR3YfdRfHfptu_RtcCMzu6VmJAMq5dYaSKxGu_A&oe=6641F4D7	person_profile	Picks103	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160948_1179777483030449_4742280104718528852_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=39qeomBHkgcQ7kNvgF2ntbp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDIm6P_3llrYzSpDkDNEQFmFBP-wui0xc0zYYN2Btcrqw&oe=6641DAC2	3	Picks103	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,416	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778853}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:38	active	760	970373321428773	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	In her previous life, she spent eight years of her life madly in love with Ian Holcomb. <br /> But all she got in return was a divorce certificate and a terrible death in a mental institution.<br /> Now she'd traveled three years back in time, she wouldn't make the same mistakes anymore. <br /> "I've drawn up a divorce agreement. Let's go get the divorce settled before City Hall closes for the day."<br /> She wouldn't remain madly in love with Ian, nor would she wait for him to respond to her. <br /> He could do whatever he wanted and be with whoever he wanted. It no longer had anything to do with her. <br /> From now on, she only wanted to live for herself and her family!<br /> ————————<br /> "Since you're in such a hurry to die, why don't you just stab yourself and end it? Why go to the trouble of jumping off a building and causing a scene?" A man's voice rang out. It was filled with contempt.<br /> "I wanted to stab—" Suddenly, Sage Joyner found that something was wrong with what Ian Holcomb had said. When had she jumped off a building?<br /> "You're finally awake, Mrs. Holcomb." The housekeeper, Wanda May, came over with a glass of water and some pills. "Does your head hurt? The doctor said you have minor symptoms of a concussion and prescribed some medication for you. Do you want to take it now?"<br /> Sage didn't answer. She found that she was lying on a bed in a spacious bedroom. From the furnishings, it seemed to be the master bedroom at the Holcomb residence.<br /> She hadn't seen the inside of this place since being sent to a mental institution two years ago. Could Ian have suddenly brought her home?<br /> No, something was wrong.<br /> Sage was certain she'd stabbed herself in the heart. Even if she'd made it out alive, there was no way she hadn't undergone surgery.<br /> She looked down at herself. There weren't any injuries on her chest! Instead, her head and wrist had been wrapped in gauze.<br /> Ian frowned at her, taking in her expression as it morphed from suffering to shock. His patience ran out. "Find yourself a taller place next time if you still wanna jump off buildings. Throwing yourself off the second floor isn't gonna kill you!"<br /> With that, he strode out of the room.<br /> Sage couldn't be bothered about him. She continued to check the rest of her body. After spending two years at the mental institution, she'd become gaunt and haggard. But now, her skin was flawless, smooth, and supple.<br /> Her arms and body were also free from the wounds and bruises the carers and patients at the mental institution had inflicted on her.<br /> "Mrs. Holcomb, Mr. Holcomb was only saying that because he was angry." Wanda thought she was saddened by Ian's words and tried to console her. "Couples don't bear grudges against each other. As long as you talk to him properly, Mr. Holcomb—"<br /> "What day is it today, Wanda?" Sage interrupted urgently. She was still reeling from what had happened.<br /> Wanda gave her a confused look. "It's Ms. Shekdotter's birthday. You heard about Mr. Holcomb celebrating her birthday for her, so you called him to come home …"<br /> Sage didn't have time to explain despite knowing Wanda had misunderstood her. She quickly glanced around and grabbed her phone from the bedside table. The date was three years ago!<br /> Suddenly, she recalled something. She shot out of bed and ran to the conservatory. As expected, it was a mess. There'd been all sorts of expensive flowers inside, but now, all that was left of them were bald stems.<br /> Three years ago, Sage had been enraged upon hearing that Ian wanted to celebrate Ivy Shekdotter's birthday with her. And when she'd heard about him buying flowers for Ivy, she'd trashed the conservatory in a fit of rage.<br /> The shards of ceramic had cut her on the wrist. She'd ignored the pain and jumped from the second-floor balcony. Though the bushes beneath had cushioned her fall and prevented her from breaking any limbs, she'd still knocked her head against the bricks around the bushes and had fainted on the spot.<br /> So … she'd gone back three years in time?<br /> "Why are you in the conservatory again, Mrs. Holcomb? There are ceramic shards everywhere; please, don't do anything rash again!"<br /> Wanda was afraid of Sage kicking up a fuss again and followed her, wanting to talk some sense into her. "Mr. Holcomb cares about you. That's why he returned after hearing that you were injured … Mr. Holcomb!"<br /> Sage looked up when Wanda's tone turned nervous. Ian wasn't the only one walking toward them. Ivy, dressed demurely, was with him. They stood shoulder to shoulder before her, looking like a match made in heaven.<br /> "Haven't you had enough of this, Sage? When will you stop causing trouble?" Ian snarled.<br /> Sage laughed silently. She was his wife, yet he treated her worse than he did an outsider.<br /> But before she could say anything, Ivy said, "Don't be so fierce toward Sage, Ian."<br /> She turned to Sage and explained, "Ian didn't drop by just to celebrate my birthday, Sage. It's just that my father invited him over for a meal because he hadn't seen Ian in ages.<br /> "I didn't expect you to get the wrong idea about this and even get hurt. I feel terrible, which is why I came over to explain the situation to you. Please, don't be mad at Ian anymore. This is all my fault."<br /> Ivy's tone was soft and gentle, as was her smile. Her apology also sounded earnest.<br /> Sage could still remember how Ivy had also followed Ian home in her previous life. She'd given her the same explanation. But at the time, they'd been in the bedroom.<br /> Sage had listened to Ivy's explanation but had been enraged to see them looking so perfect standing side by side. In a fit of rage, she'd screamed at Ivy to get lost and had grabbed a vase from the bedside table and flung it at Ivy.<br /> The vase had hit Ivy in the head, making her bleed and faint. Ian had been furious. He'd immediately lifted Ivy into his arms and taken her to the hospital. Then, he'd stayed there to take care of her for a few days.<br /> From that day onward, they grew closer to each other …<br /> The words that had enraged Sage in her previous life no longer affected her in this life. She even smiled nonchalantly. "Thanks for explaining everything to me, Ms. Shekdotter. I'm not mad. Your father wanted to have a meal with Ian, right? You guys should get going. Don't keep him waiting!"<br /> Ivy was taken aback, obviously not expecting Sage to react like that.<br /> Even Ian frowned. What was she playing at now? She wasn't kicking up a fuss despite him reprimanding her. She was even telling him and Ivy to go have a meal together. Just two hours earlier, she'd jumped off the balcony because she'd failed to force him to return home.<br /> Did she think she could win his heart by pretending to back down?<br /> Now that Ian understood what Sage was up to, he sneered. Then, he turned to Ivy and said, "Since she's given the green light, let's go."<br /> With that, he turned and left without another look back. Ivy hesitated, told Sage to rest well, and ran after Ian.<br /> Wanda was worried when she saw this. "Mrs. Holcomb, you can't let Mr. Holcomb leave with Ms. Shekdotter no matter how mad you are …"<br /> "I'm not," Sage said calmly. Now that she was sure she'd traveled three years back in time, she wouldn't make the same mistakes anymore. She wouldn't remain madly in love with Ian, nor would she wait for him to respond to her.<br /> He could do whatever he wanted and be with whoever he wanted. It no longer had anything to do with her. From now on, she only wanted to live for herself and her family!<br /> "I'm starving, Wanda. Could you make me something good to eat?" Sage said.<br /> Throughout her time in the mental institution, she'd only been given a watery bowl of oats daily alongside her medication. It had resulted in her getting stomach cancer. Now, she wanted a delicious meal to compensate herself for everything she'd gone through.<br /> Wanda was surprised. "... Of course. I'll get on it right now."<br /> "I'll go with you!" Sage followed Wanda to the kitchen.<br /> Neither of them noticed Ian standing not too far away. He'd turned back and was watching them with a deep frown. He thought he'd catch Sage throwing a crazed fit upon suddenly turning back. He'd even thought about how he was going to teach her a lesson.<br /> Yet when he returned, he found that Sage wasn't throwing a tantrum at all. She'd even asked Wanda to cook her something!<br /> Why was she suddenly acting so out of character? This had to be a new scheme of hers!<br /> The thought irritated Ian to no end. He turned and left again.<br /> --<br /> Sage spent the next three days recuperating at home. The wounds she'd gotten from jumping off the balcony had pretty much healed completely, and she had a steady mental state.<br /> Ian hadn't shown up since leaving with Ivy three days ago. Surprisingly enough, he'd still stay away from home in this life despite Ivy not getting hurt.<br /> Not that Sage cared. She'd already decided to cut Ian out of her life and put an end to this awful marriage. Once everything was taken care of, they would take their respective paths and live their respective lives.<br /> Sage dug out Ian's phone number and called him. It rang for ages, but no one answered. Then, it hit her. She'd almost forgotten about how Ian almost never answered her calls because he didn't want her to bother him.<br /> And so, she texted him. "Are you free now? Bring your identification and the necessary documents so we can head to City Hall and get divorced."<br /> Ian didn't reply to her message. Sage thought he hadn't read it, so she sent it again. Just like before, it went unanswered.<br /> She thought about it and decided to seek him out at Holcomb Corporation. The receptionist recognized her.<br /> After all, after marrying Ian, Sage had made a point of announcing their marriage at the company to ward off any women who were interested in him.<br /> Now, when the receptionist saw Sage, she couldn't help smiling with a hint of mockery. "Sorry, but you'll have to make an appointment if you want to see Mr. Holcomb."<br /> Everyone knew Ian couldn't care less about her and even despised her. Sage didn't let the receptionist's attitude bother her. Instead, she pulled out an envelope. "Please pass this to Ian, then."<br /> With that, she turned to leave. She'd only taken a few steps when she heard the receptionist say mockingly, "I bet it's yet another disgusting love letter. God, she doesn't even know how embarrassing she is!"<br /> Then, she threw the envelope into the trash can.<br /> Sage turned around. "Who gave you permission to throw that away? Pick it back up!"<br /> The receptionist wasn't afraid of her. "Why waste time on that? Mr. Holcomb's not gonna read it anyway. He's told us to throw everything that you've left here for him!"<br /> In the past, Sage worried that Ian would push himself too hard. She would always drop by and deliver little trinkets and snacks to help him destress. She'd even written him letters to convey her feelings to him.<br /> So, this was how he'd treated her care and concern. Even a mere receptionist dared to do whatever she wanted with the things Sage had left!<br /> Sage glared at the receptionist. "Regardless of whether Ian looks at the things I bring, you still don't have the right to throw them away. Now, pick the envelope up!"<br /> The receptionist curled her lip, saying scornfully, "Fine. What's the point of pretending to be the president's wife when you're just clinging to him like the sorry woman you are?"<br /> "You—"<br /> "What's going on here?"<br /> Sage was about to make the receptionist apologize when a man's stern voice rang out. She turned to see it was Ian's assistant, Terry Zane. And beside him was Ian, who wore a black tailor-made suit.<br /> He was handsome, and his complexion was flawless. Even with an icy expression, he was charismatic. In the past, Sage's heart would always race, and she would blush when she saw him. She would speak to him shyly and tenderly. Now, she didn't even want to say a word to him.<br /> "Mrs. Holcomb," Terry greeted her politely.<br /> Sage didn't respond to him gleefully as she'd done in the past. From beginning to end, Ian had never acknowledged her as his wife. The fact that Terry had addressed her as "Mrs. Holcomb" was only him being polite.<br /> "What's happened here?" Terry didn't know what Sage was thinking. He repeated his question.<br /> The receptionist glanced at Ian and said in grievance, "Mr. Holcomb instructed us not to accept anything that Mrs. Holcomb brought, but she kept forcing me to deliver an envelope to him. I didn't dare to go against her, so …"<br /> At that, Ian scowled. He turned to Sage and snarled, "Who gave you the right to boss people around like this?"<br /> Sage said truthfully, "I did nothing of the sort, and I didn't force her to do anything. She threw my things away, so I—"<br /> "That's enough!" Ian interrupted her impatiently. "You're the one in the wrong, yet you keep trying to shift the blame. You're beyond rescue, Sage!"<br /> He hadn't even bothered to find out the whole truth before deciding that she was in the wrong. It was no wonder the receptionist had the nerve to frame her. She supposed that in Ian's eyes, she had and always would be a horrendous person.<br /> Sage couldn't be bothered to explain any further. She smiled faintly. "You won't need to bear with me for much longer."<br /> She picked the envelope up from the trash can and continued, "I've drawn up a divorce agreement. Let's go get the divorce settled before City Hall closes for the day."<br /> When Terry heard this, he surreptitiously waved the receptionist away and backed away from them.<br /> "I called and messaged you, but you never answered or replied. That's why I came to the company." Sage handed the envelope to him.<br /> Ian didn't accept it. He sneered. "Is this all that you've come up with after laying low for a few days? Is this some new trick?"<br /> Sage's smile remained in place. "You won't believe me no matter what I say, anyway. The best way to prove my innocence is for us to go to City Hall right now."<br /> Ian's brows furrowed even tighter when he saw her faint smile and emotionless gaze. He'd never seen her like this before.<br /> Sage had shamelessly chased after him for years. She'd pulled all sorts of tricks to marry him. Now, she was demanding a divorce? It was the biggest joke of the century! He bet this was yet another way to attract his attention.<br /> "Since you're in such a rush to head to City Hall, you must have something else lying in wait there for me," Ian said coldly. "Don't you have anything to do other than clinging to me and harassing me?"<br /> To Ian, all of Sage's love and care was nothing more than harassment and trouble. Once again, Sage was glad that she'd woken up from her dream. She pulled the divorce agreement out of the envelope. "Look, you can sign the divorce papers now. At least that'll prove that I'm not harassing you."<br /> Ian's patience ran out as he looked at the divorce agreement. Since Sage wanted to throw a tantrum by demanding a divorce, he would make her wish come true!<br /> "Get me a pen!" Ian barked.<br /> "Mr. Holcomb, Mr. Jones and the others are still waiting for you to sign the contract. It's almost time." Just then, Terry walked over to remind Ian in a low voice.<br /> This was regarding an important business deal Holcomb Corporation had been negotiating for a while. Sage's sudden appearance was causing them to almost be late.<br /> Ian immediately forgot about Sage. He and Terry hurried out of the building.<br /> "Ian!" Sage ran after him.<br /> "Drag her away!" On Ian's orders, a few security guards surrounded Sage.<br /> She knew he was a workaholic; it seemed like there wouldn't be time for them to get the divorce over with today. Sage had no choice but to shout, "I'll see you at City Hall at 9:00 am tomorrow!"<br /> Ian got into the waiting car with a poker face, then sped off without a word.<br /> Did this mean he would be there or not? Sage bet he would. He couldn't wait to be free of her, after all. She relaxed...	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1,778,429	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-08 18:38	active	760	799516891800437		Your daily intake of magnesium is only one, easy-to-take pill away! Qunol® Ultra Magnesium Glycinate Complex is formulated for superior absorption and to be gentle on your stomach. Try it today and feel the difference for yourself!	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/qunolgummies	1510554529258886	Qunol	https://facebook.com/QunolOfficial	336,441	1	451,156,637,409,097	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Visit Instagram profile	Qunol	6555284341387	instagram.com	NONE	video		http://instagram.com/qunolgummies	2024-05-08 10:04	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196705_1157915815564481_5436443624372003623_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=bDA7KqLcXXQQ7kNvgEAN_3J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDt3ELMsb2P92EeBd03x8m90oOQ2-5HO_1GbFnsUIQaEA&oe=6641F2FF	person_profile	Qunol Gummies	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438196645_1199667587710093_6588533670814062242_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Uulv20Z10xsQ7kNvgFNp3-s&_nc_oc=AdglPJ3ZpoQ1jLN1g2V4IFt-EXRfIWopV75aQvAtR3hU0pDY3gsIT11HVvrWHdpRN8A&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfANKvv_eLI4CacMc-1crCHv3bty5OzaZufqQFJnixKzeA&oe=6641E3B1	3	Qunol	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,778,958	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778933}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:44	active	760	952561929845111	Read More	She signed the divorce papers and left without taking her phone. He checked her phone and got floored at the message: Please come tomorrow for another prenatal care checkup!<br /> =============<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Ex-girlfriend Returns<br /> <br /> Raegan Hayes was a little absent-minded at the moment. <br /> <br /> All she could think of since this afternoon was the doctor's words. "Congratulations! You are going to be a mom."<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Mitchel Dixon pinched her arm. His low voice came the next second. "Come back to earth. What are you thinking about?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel was her husband. They had been married secretly for two years. He was her superior at work, the president of the Dixon Group. <br /> <br /> Everything had happened so fast. She was newly employed in the company when they unexpectedly got married. <br /> <br /> At that time, Mitchel's grandfather fell seriously ill. It was then he proposed a fake marriage just to fulfill his grandfather's dying wish. <br /> <br /> They signed a prenup, agreeing to hide their marriage from the public. Their union could be terminated at any time. <br /> <br /> It was an unconventional thing to do. However, Raegan only considered herself lucky at that time. <br /> <br /> Never in a million years did she think she would ever get married to the man she had a crush on for eight years. She delightfully agreed. <br /> <br /> After their marriage, Mitchel was very busy. He spent most of his time working. <br /> <br /> Raegan wished she could spend more time with him at home. However, she was rest assured because there hadn't been any rumors or scandals about him with women in the past two years. <br /> <br /> Except for his mild indifference, Mitchel was a perfect husband. <br /> <br /> Raegan had mixed feelings as she stared at the medical report. <br /> <br /> In the end, she decided to tell Mitchel this news. <br /> <br /> She also wanted to tell him that she hadn't learned about him for the first time two years ago and that she had been crushing on him for many years before then. <br /> <br /> Just then, Mitchel’s phone rang. He went to the balcony and answered the phone. <br /> <br /> Raegan checked the time and found that it was already midnight. <br /> <br /> She felt a little uneasy. Who would call Mitchel at this hour? <br /> <br /> Mitchel spent a few minutes on the balcony. Thereafter, he returned and changed into formal attire. His handsome face which had a clear outline made him look dignified. <br /> <br /> He was something to see now. <br /> <br /> "Don't wait up for me. Good night," he said finally. <br /> <br /> What? He was on his way out? At this hour? <br /> <br /> Raegan's grip on the report tightened as she stared at him in disappointment. Unconsciously, she withdrew slightly. After thinking for a while, she blurted out, "It's already so late."<br /> <br /> Mitchel's fingers froze on his tie. With a faint smile, he pinched her earlobe and said, "Be good, okay? There's something I have to do. Don't wait up."<br /> <br /> With that, he headed for the door. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel."<br /> <br /> Raegan quickly ran and caught up with him. <br /> <br /> Mitchel turned around and looked at her seriously. <br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> There was a tinge of coldness to his voice. An icy cloud hung over them as they stared at each other. <br /> <br /> A little distressed, Raegan asked in a low voice, "I would like to visit my grandma tomorrow. Can you accompany me there?"<br /> <br /> Her grandmother always wanted to see her. As a result, Raegan wanted to take Mitchel there to assure her grandma they were happy. <br /> <br /> "Let's talk about it tomorrow, okay?" Without agreeing or declining, Mitchel left in a hurry. <br /> <br /> Several thoughts were threading Raegan's mind. She couldn't sleep a wink. <br /> <br /> After tossing and turning for a long time, she went to the kitchen and made herself a warm glass of milk. <br /> <br /> A few notifications from some online blogs came into her phone. <br /> <br /> However, she wasn't interested in them. She was about to swipe them away when one of them caught her attention. The familiar name made her click on it. <br /> <br /> The news read, "Famous designer, Lauren Murray was spotted at the airport with her mysterious boyfriend earlier today."<br /> <br /> Lauren was wearing a bucket hat. The man's figure was vague, but the outline of his body was enough to show that he was dashing. <br /> <br /> Raegan zoomed in on the picture. The next second, her heart dropped. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was the man in the picture! <br /> <br /> So, he canceled the afternoon meeting just to go pick up his ex-girlfriend from the airport? <br /> <br /> This realization settled like a boulder in Raegan's gut, rendering her flustered. <br /> <br /> Her hands trembled. Subconsciously, she dialed Mitchel's number. <br /> <br /> The dial tone brought her back to her senses. Just as she was about to hang up, the line connected, and a voice came from the other end. <br /> <br /> "Hello!"<br /> <br /> It was a particularly gentle woman's voice. <br /> <br /> Raegan froze for a second and then threw the phone away. <br /> <br /> She suddenly felt sick in her stomach. Covering her mouth, she ran into the bathroom and threw up in the toilet bowl. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Raegan went to work on time. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had tried to get her to stop working after they got married. Stubbornly, she insisted on making her own money. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't kick against her decision, but he asked her to work as his assistant, helping him with the daily chores. <br /> <br /> The head assistant, Matteo Jenkins was left to take care of the major affairs Mitchel had. <br /> <br /> Matteo was the only Dixon Group employee who knew about their marriage. <br /> <br /> Since inception, only male assistants were hired for the president's office. Reagan was the first and only female. Her employment broke the protocol. As a result, other workers couldn't help but wonder if she was involved with Mitchel. <br /> <br /> It took a while before they realized that Mitchel never gave Raegan special treatment. Strangely, this made them despise her even more. <br /> <br /> After all, no one would last long in anything while taking advantage of their looks.<br /> <br /> At this time, one of Raegan's colleagues handed her a document and ordered her to take it to Mitchel's office. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't return home last night. Raegan was so worried that she didn't sleep at all. <br /> <br /> All she kept thinking about was the woman who answered his phone when she called. What was her relationship with Mitchel?<br /> <br /> Raegan already knew the answer to that, but she was still in denial. <br /> <br /> It was difficult for her to come to terms with that fact. <br /> <br /> Raegan tried to remain calm now. She reasoned that no matter what happened, she deserved a result that would be rewarding for all the years she spent loving Mitchel. This couldn't be all for nothing, right? <br /> <br /> She pressed the elevator button calmly and went up to the president's office. Before she walked out of the elevator, she smoothed her hair to make sure she looked good. <br /> <br /> She had arrived at the office, only to see that the door was ajar. A man's voice came. She halted instantly. <br /> <br /> "Come on, man! Do you have any feelings for Raegan or not?"<br /> <br /> The voice belonged to Luis Stevens, a childhood friend of Mitchel's. <br /> <br /> "What do you mean exactly?" Mitchel asked in a cold voice. <br /> <br /> "You know exactly what I mean!" Luis clicked his tongue impatiently and added, "I think Raegan is a good girl. Isn't she your type?"<br /> <br /> "Do you want me to hand her over to you?" Mitchel asked carelessly. <br /> <br /> "You know what, forget it!"<br /> <br /> The scornful laughter of Luis sounded particularly harsh in Raegan's ears. <br /> <br /> They were talking about her as if she were an object. <br /> <br /> Raegan took a deep breath and tightened her grip on the document. <br /> <br /> Soon, Luis's voice was heard again. <br /> <br /> "By the way, I saw the gossip news about Lauren's mysterious boyfriend this morning. That was you, right?"<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> "Well, well, well! That woman still has you wrapped around her little finger. You always want to please her."<br /> <br /> Luis sighed and continued to tease Mitchel. "As the old saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Tell me, did you two..."<br /> <br /> Their conversation was like a thunder exploding over Raegan's head. <br /> <br /> Her face turned pale and her body was as cold as ice. <br /> <br /> The woman was indeed Lauren! <br /> <br /> Absence made the heart grow fonder! <br /> <br /> Every word drove a knife into her heart. <br /> <br /> Several whispering voices filled her head at this time. She suddenly felt light-headed. Her vision became blurry. <br /> <br /> She held the wall and took a step backward. Suddenly, the door was opened from inside. <br /> <br /> "Raegan?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 One-sided Love<br /> <br /> Luis was the one who opened the door. It appeared he was on his way out. <br /> <br /> Raegan balled her hands, turned to him, and nodded. "Hey, Mr. Stevens!"<br /> <br /> Without waiting for him to respond to her greeting, she walked past him and entered the office with the document. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was seated behind a large luxurious desk. In an expensive suit and matching tie, he looked particularly handsome. <br /> <br /> Raegan noticed it wasn't the same suit he had on when he left home last night. How did he get changed? <br /> <br /> With her eyes lowered, she swallowed that question and said instead, "Mr. Dixon, this is from the Marketing Department. Please sign it."<br /> <br /> Mitchel was expressionless as he signed the document at a glance. <br /> <br /> Raegan walked out the door as soon as he handed the document back to her. Luis was still standing at the threshold. <br /> <br /> It wasn't until she went out of sight that Luis turned to Mitchel and said in a hushed tone, "Do you think she heard us?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel's appealing eyes were expressionless at the moment. Obviously, he wasn't paying attention to what Luis was saying. <br /> <br /> To Mitchel, Raegan had always been docile and never felt jealous of anyone. <br /> <br /> Her strict obedience was all Mitchel demanded from her in exchange for treating her well. <br /> <br /> In the elevator. <br /> <br /> Raegan held her breath just to hold back her tears. Unfortunately, it didn't work. <br /> <br /> She had thought two years would be enough for Mitchel to realize how much she loved him and reciprocate her love. <br /> <br /> Now, it turned out that was just a pipe dream. <br /> <br /> She realized she would always play second fiddle to Lauren, Mitchel's true love. <br /> <br /> Reagan wiped her tears when the elevator halted. Save for her pale face, she looked normal when the doors opened. <br /> <br /> She dragged herself to the break room, intending to make herself a cup of tea. <br /> <br /> Several employees were chatting inside. <br /> <br /> "Guys, have you heard? Lauren Murray is back."<br /> <br /> "And who is that?"<br /> <br /> "Oh, my! You don't know her? Lauren is the heiress of the Murray Group as well as a world-class designer. Most importantly, she's the only girlfriend Mr. Dixon has ever shown off in public. She's his first love!"<br /> <br /> "Why is her return such a big deal? Isn't it rumored that there is something between Mr. Dixon and Raegan?"<br /> <br /> "Raegan? She's nothing to Mr. Dixon. Mr. Dixon never admitted that he was dating her. And that is no surprise to me. After all, look at her. She's not even that beautiful. Yet, she behaves as if she's already Mrs. Dixon. What a fool!"<br /> <br /> Standing at the door, Raegan smiled with self-mockery as she listened to them. It turned out everyone else saw the truth except her. <br /> <br /> The love was one-sided. <br /> <br /> "Ha-ha, have you finally woken up from your wild dream, Raegan?"<br /> <br /> A voice of mockery suddenly came from behind. Raegan turned around to see Tessa Lloyd, Mitchel's cousin, who had always despised her. <br /> <br /> Tessa must have also heard the employees gossiping. <br /> <br /> The last thing Raegan wanted to do now was argue with Tessa in the company. She turned to leave, but Tessa blocked her way. <br /> <br /> With a cup of coffee in her hand, Tessa uttered sarcastically, "Lauren is back now. Do you think Mitchel will still give you any attention?"<br /> <br /> Raegan said nothing to that. <br /> <br /> Seconds later, Tessa continued the ridicule. "Maybe it’s time for you to seek out another man, you pathetic fool."<br /> <br /> Raegan clenched her fists and said coldly, "Ms. Lloyd, if you are interested in that kind of thing, feel free to pursue it yourself."<br /> <br /> "You..."<br /> <br /> Raegan's retort made Tessa's face change. <br /> <br /> The next second, Tessa raised her hand and emptied the cup of coffee on Raegan. <br /> <br /> Raegan didn't think for a second that Tessa would do something so crazy. She held up her arms just to block the liquid from her face. In no time, the coffee drenched her clothes. <br /> <br /> Raegan frowned. "What did you do that for? Are you out of your mind?"<br /> <br /> It was lunch break and many employees were free to watch the drama. Tessa was even more complacent when she saw growing onlookers. <br /> <br /> She put on a mean-girl look as she said, "What makes you so smug every day, huh? Do you seriously think that others don't know you are just an orphan? The nerve of..."<br /> <br /> Tessa was silenced by Raegan’s shove. <br /> <br /> Her jaw dropped to the floor. She had never expected that Raegan, who was so quiet and timid, would shove her. <br /> <br /> Tessa stuttered, "You... You pushed me? How dare you!"<br /> <br /> Raegan eyed her and replied, "Yes, I did! It seems you need to be taught simple politeness."<br /> <br /> Indeed, she lost her parents when she was a child. But that didn't mean she would allow someone to walk over her for it. <br /> <br /> Wrinkles appeared on Tessa's face as she frowned in anger. As Mitchel's cousin, she was used to being fawned over and respected. This was the first time she had been treated like this. <br /> <br /> Tessa charged at Raegan like a raging bull, poised to retaliate. <br /> <br /> This time, Raegan was fully prepared for what was coming. She grabbed Tessa's wrist so that the latter couldn't move another inch. <br /> <br /> Tessa was shorter than Raegan. As a result, she struggled like an octopus that had one of its tentacles stuck in a fishing trap. <br /> <br /> Tessa cursed angrily, "How dare you put your hands on me? Who do you think you are?"<br /> <br /> These harsh words attracted more people to the break room. <br /> <br /> "That's enough!"<br /> <br /> Out of the blue, a baritone came from behind. Mitchel had left his office and ran into this hullabaloo. <br /> <br /> The entire room fell silent. <br /> <br /> "Mitchel?" Tessa's blood ran cold at the sight of Mitchel. She had always been scared of him. Her mother also warned her against provoking him. <br /> <br /> But when she remembered that Raegan humiliated her, she put on a pitiful expression and sobbed. "Mitchel, she bullied me."<br /> <br /> The sunlight from outside fell on Mitchel's handsome face. <br /> <br /> Raegan felt so grieved all of a sudden, and lowered her head to look at her clothes which were soaked with coffee. <br /> <br /> Their gaze met in the air. With a deep frown, Mitchel looked at Raegan and said, "Raegan, have you forgotten the rules of the company?"<br /> <br /> His ruthlessness made Raegan's breathing cease. She couldn't believe her ears. <br /> <br /> No one dared to make a sound at this moment. <br /> <br /> Raegan just stood straight there with her slender figure. <br /> <br /> When she got employed here, Mitchel had told her that the Dixon Group wasn't a place for her to mess around and that he would not tolerate her making any mistakes. <br /> <br /> Raegan could understand why he took this stand. <br /> <br /> However, at this moment, she was desperate to know whether Mitchel had heard those hard words Tessa scolded her or he was just pretending not to have heard because he agreed to those words. <br /> <br /> Was she truly insignificant to him?<br /> <br /> Scared to death by Mitchel's rage, the crowd soon dispersed. A few employees were bold enough to peep from a distance, unwilling to miss the good show. <br /> <br /> Mitchel's cold eyes made Raegan shiver from head to toe. <br /> <br /> Raegan pinched her palm to suppress her emotions as she looked at Tessa. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Ms. Lloyd. As an employee of the Dixon Group, it was wrong of me to have offended you."<br /> <br /> Eyeing Raegan, Tessa raised her chin complacently. "Humph! Don't think you'll be let off the hook just by making a simple apology. I don't buy..."<br /> <br /> "The offence has nothing to do with the company. Personally, I refuse to apologize to you. Now, if you'd excuse me," Raegan chimed in. <br /> <br /> She then walked past Mitchel without sparing him another look. <br /> <br /> "You..."<br /> <br /> Tessa's face turned blue after hearing what Raegan said. <br /> <br /> Never in her years of being alive had she been so humiliated. She was always the bully, not the victim! <br /> <br /> The humiliation was so much that scolding Raegan wouldn't appease her anger. <br /> <br /> Pointing in Raegan's direction, Tessa shouted, "Mitchel, did you hear what that woman just said? She humiliated me, yet she's still so arrogant. Call her back. I have to teach her some manners!"<br /> <br /> Mitchel, staring at Raegan's thin back, had an ambiguous expression at this moment. <br /> <br /> "Enough!" he said coldly, raising his hand. <br /> <br /> As someone who lived and breathed drama and cruelty, Tessa didn't think Mitchel was partial to Raegan just now. She assumed that Mitchel didn't care about Raegan at all. <br /> <br /> Tessa gritted her teeth and said viciously, "Next time, I'll get someone to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> "Tessa!" Mitchel's tone and squint made it a reproof. <br /> <br /> Tessa trembled at once. <br /> <br /> With a somber face, Mitchel said, "I'll only say it once. Forget about what happened here today. Leave Raegan alone."<br /> <br /> The aura he exuded made her tongue go dry. All the vicious ideas she had in store against Raegan disappeared in an instant. <br /> <br /> She stammered, "Ok... Okay, got it..."<br /> <br /> Mitchel cast a cold glance at her and spoke to Matteo. "Irrelevant people wouldn't be allowed in here from today onwards."<br /> <br /> Without catching the drift, Tessa flattered Mitchel. "Nice call. This is a top company. Not everyone gains access in here."<br /> <br /> Matteo nodded to Mitchel and then walked over to Tessa. He gestured to the exit. "Ms. Lloyd, this way, please."<br /> <br /> It wasn't until this moment that Tessa realized that she was the irrelevant person Mitchel just mentioned. She tried to speak to him, but Matteo blocked her way. The security guards then escorted her out. <br /> <br /> They showed her no mercy. Her struggle was useless. <br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Raegan got changed when she returned to her office. <br /> <br /> Her heart was filled with sadness as she thought of how Mitchel looked at her minutes ago. <br /> <br /> Closing hour soon rolled by. <br /> <br /> Raegan took her bag and headed for the exit. However, Matteo stopped her. <br /> <br /> He said, "Mr. Dixon has something urgent to deal with, so he asked me to drive you home."<br /> <br /> Raegan declined the ride without thinking twice. <br /> <br /> She was blind before, but now she could see through the situation. <br /> <br /> In Mitchel's eyes, she was just a nobody. <br /> <br /> How could Mitchel agree to accompany her to visit her grandmother when he didn't even care about her? <br /> <br /> Upon arriving at the hospital, Raegan saw that the nurse was about to feed her grandmother dinner. Raegan took the job over and did it by herself. <br /> <br /> All her life, her grandmother had been living in the countryside, enjoying a quiet life. Everything changed last month when her routine medical checkup showed that she was in need of medical care. Raegan insisted on bringing her to the city for better treatment. <br /> <br /> Her grandmother wasn't aware of her marriage to Mitchel. <br /> <br /> Raegan had planned to surprise her today. But as it turned out, that was no longer necessary. <br /> <br /> Raegan waited for her grandmother to fall asleep before she left. She walked out of the hospital and waited for a taxi. <br /> <br /> In the distance, a black luxury car pulled into the entrance of the hospital. <br /> <br /> Raegan's eyes lit up when she saw it. She recognized that car as Mitchel's. <br /> <br /> Did he come to pick her up? <br /> <br /> At this moment, she forgot all the pain she had been feeling. <br /> <br /> Were her thoughts about him all wrong? Did he care for her, contrary to the gossip? <br /> <br /> The door of the driver's side opened and Mitchel got out. <br /> <br /> Raegan started walking toward him with her heart brimming with joy. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, she stopped dead in her tracks. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had just walked over to the other side and carried a woman out of the car. <br /> <br /> Worry and compassion were written all over his handsome face. <br /> <br /> This wiped the smile on Raegan's face. Her heart sank. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Let's Divorce<br /> <br /> Mitchel's tall and straight figure got closer and closer to Raegan. And then, without saying a word, he strode past Raegan. <br /> <br /> It was hard to tell if Mitchel saw Raegan or just ignored her. <br /> <br /> Regardless, Raegan noticed that the woman in his arms was the same one who had been photographed with him yesterday. <br /> <br /> She was Lauren. <br /> <br /> Raegan's shoes felt like they were made of lead as she walked away. <br /> <br /> She lost all awareness of her surroundings. She got into a taxi absentmindedly. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, the driver uttered, "Ma'am, where to?"<br /> <br /> Raegan was stunned for a moment. <br /> <br /> She didn't want to go back to Serenity Villas. It was only a matter of time before that place stopped being her home. <br /> <br /> After a while, she replied, "Please take me to Crystal Bay."<br /> <br /> She had purchased an apartment at Crystal Bay after getting married to Mitchel. <br /> <br /> At the time, she had hopes of bringing her grandmother to the city, so she bought the apartment on mortgage. It wasn't that big, but it had more than enough space for two people. <br /> <br /> Mitchel didn't understand why she wanted to buy an apartment. He offered to give her a bigger one, but she declined. <br /> <br /> Looking back now, she realized that buying that apartment was the only wise decision she had ever made in the last two years. <br /> <br /> When she arrived at the apartment complex, Raegan sat in the park alone, trying to cool herself down. <br /> <br /> The memories of the past two years were bittersweet. <br /> <br /> Two years had passed in the blink of an eye even though it was more than seven hundred days and nights. <br /> <br /> Love could move mountains, they said. <br /> <br /> Yet, her love didn't move that stone of a man. She finally realized what a fool she had been. She had been making herself a laughingstock in front of everyone. <br /> <br /> It was already late in the night before Raegan finally decided to go into her apartment. <br /> <br /> As soon as she stepped out of the elevator, she saw Mitchel standing in front of the door. <br /> <br /> His sleeves were rolled up casually, and the top buttons of his shirt were undone, which revealed his long neck and part of his collarbone. He was leaning on the wall by the door, his handsome face straight. <br /> <br /> Raegan froze for a moment. <br /> <br /> Why was he here? Didn't she see him at the hospital with Lauren? What brought him here? <br /> <br /> Their eyes met. With his coat draped over his arm and one of his hands in his pocket, Mitchel squinted at her. <br /> <br /> "Why didn't you answer the phone?" he asked, sounding a little grumpy like someone who hadn't slept in a long time. <br /> <br /> Raegan took out her phone and saw she had accidentally put it on DND. <br /> <br /> There were five missed calls from Mitchel. <br /> <br /> This marked the first time in their two-year marriage. <br /> <br /> Mitchel blew up her phone because he couldn't find her? Surprising! <br /> <br /> Before today, she would have been overjoyed by this. People would've thought she won the lottery. <br /> <br /> But now, she just threw her phone back into her bag, folded her arms, and said in a hoarse voice, "I didn't hear it ring."<br /> <br /> Mitchel raised his hand to check the time on the watch, and said impatiently, "I've been looking for you for two hours."<br /> <br /> After arranging everything for Lauren, he returned home to find an empty house. He looked for Raegan everywhere. When he couldn't find her, he asked Matteo to check the surveillance footage of all the roads that led away from the company. <br /> <br /> He later found out that Raegan went to Crystal Bay without telling him. <br /> <br /> "Next time, tell me when you are coming here, okay? Let's go home now." After that, Mitchel walked toward the elevator without sparing her another glance. <br /> <br /> He meant to go back to Serenity Villas. <br /> <br /> Raegan didn't move an inch. She just stared at his broad back and pondered reluctantly. <br /> <br /> Would they have a future? <br /> <br /> Mitchell turned around, only to see that Raegan hadn't taken a single step. He frowned and asked, "Can't you walk? Do you want me to carry you instead?"<br /> <br /> The light in the corridor illuminated his face, making his side profile almost impeccable. <br /> <br /> Raegan took a deep breath and said, "Let's divorce."<br /> <br /> "What do you mean?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel's voice was cold, and his handsome face changed immediately. <br /> <br /> "I want to move into my own place. After all, we will be strangers soon."<br /> <br /> Raegan forced a smile, but her heart was aching as if someone was tearing it apart bit by bit. <br /> <br /> "We will be strangers?"<br /> <br /> Mitchel smiled coldly. "Raegan, what do you think our relationship is now?"<br /> <br /> His questioning left Raegan stunned for a moment. <br /> <br /> Mitchel had made it very clear to her from the very beginning. This facade of their marriage had happened by mutual agreement. There was no love. In the eyes of others, they were nothing more than just a superior and a subordinate. <br /> <br /> Mitchel was quite the catch in Ardlens. Many young ladies longed for his love and were even willing to throw themselves at him. <br /> <br /> His question just now reminded her of that fact. Was he afraid that she wouldn't let him go that easily? If that was the case, he couldn't be more wrong... <br /> <br /> After biting her lower lip to conceal her bitterness, Raegan said, "I'm sorry, Mr. Dixon. I was giving it too much thought. Anyway, please leave me alone from now on. You don't have to come here again."<br /> <br /> After saying that, Raegan couldn't help but burst into tears. <br /> <br /> How could she not be sad when she was cutting ties with the man she had loved for a decade? It was such a long time. <br /> <br /> Regardless of how difficult it was, she knew it was time to let go. <br /> <br /> It was high time she stopped being a fool. <br /> <br /> Strangely, the light in the corridor began flickering. <br /> <br /> The deathly stare Mitchel was giving Raegan right now made the atmosphere seem like the moment before an attack in a horror movie. <br /> <br /> Although he understood that Raegan sometimes could throw a tantrum, he felt that she had just crossed the line now. <br /> <br /> His eyes shone like blazing torches at this moment. But when he saw the tears in her eyes, the rage inside him extinguished in an instant. He said in a low voice, "If this is about what happened between you and Tessa, I..."<br /> <br /> "No, this isn't about her. Mr. Dixon, please leave now."<br /> <br /> A lot of things happened between them. And the incident with Tessa didn't come close to any. <br /> <br /> Raegan felt exhausted. She passed by Mitchel and was about to open the door. <br /> <br /> Yet, Mitchel was displeased with her stubbornness. <br /> <br /> He loosened his tie irritably. He then took a step forward and grabbed her wrist. <br /> <br /> "Stop this, will you?"<br /> <br /> A second later, he put his arm around her shoulder and pulled her into his arms. <br /> <br /> He instantly realized that she was burning up like someone who had been set on fire. <br /> <br /> "You have a fever?"<br /> <br /> Raegan felt dizzy. She rested her head on his chest weakly. <br /> <br /> This made the whole situation complicated. <br /> <br /> Reagan was slow to catch that. When she finally realized that her body was too close to his, she put her hands against his chest and tried to pull back. <br /> <br /> Before she could escape, Mitchel pulled her back and held her by the waist. With a cold face, he said in a low voice, "Where do you think you are going?"<br /> <br /> The light flickered again. Out of the blue, Mitchel lifted her up. <br /> <br /> He then headed for the elevator. <br /> <br /> In a daze, Raegan asked softly, "What are you doing?"<br /> <br /> "What does it look like I am doing?" Mitchel remarked. "Taking you to the hospital, of course."<br /> <br /> "No way!" Raegan cried out in surprise and seemed to regain more strength. <br /> <br /> Mitchel might find out about her condition if they went to the hospital.<br /> <br /> Raegan struggled to get out of Mitchel's arms. However, his tight grip made her efforts fruitless. <br /> <br /> "Don't be so stubborn. You are sick, so you must see the doctor," Mitchel said firmly. <br /> <br /> He walked to the elevator with her in his arms. At this moment, Raegan's heart was thumping so hard that it could jump out of her chest. She flailed in protest. <br /> <br /> "Put me down! I don't want to go to the hospital!"<br /> <br /> &13&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-FB_CONTACT-E	106206892171576	Love Story City	https://facebook.com/100083614308933	17,592	1	1,562,804,447,625,095	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	0	Learn more	Love Story City	120208810894090493	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/46526322-FB_CONTACT-ENJ57_9-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=961225&accid=1325826931416330&jump=1	2024-05-06 21:02	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438172839_427547056583859_6596688852573732153_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tRvYxDAt-tIQ7kNvgHLPzkM&_nc_oc=AdhvM_9E_7i7mzeoRnQu2wEPPMlkawJyHBxMpUv2m4SHQHCIBCJf_P8wFPkzOkpcKQk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDP-tOelD5Lt8tlWZCAGkdrC1l5ntY_667eS74JrlFwtQ&oe=6641E785	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438160268_1931504187306716_5665053931752674942_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CiH863ACgOsQ7kNvgG1Xi-f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCGvQ7LnC-qjuIcHwe5SC71LNcaHZK3ljV88G4Lps-1vg&oe=6641DEA4	3	Love Story City	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,443	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778441}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:38	active	760	766748972230701	Ready for Natural Pain Relief?	It's time to get serious about our health. We all want an option for pain relief that doesn't harm our bodies AND helps us feel better while working on the root issue.<br /> <br /> No more covering up symptoms or feeling hazy and out of ourselves.<br /> <br /> Our PAIN PEACE TINCTURE is formulated with 4 different plants that work together to help ease multiple different kinds of pain:<br /> <br /> NERVE PAIN🌿<br /> MUSCLE PAIN🌻<br /> JOINT PAIN🌱<br /> PERIOD CRAMPING🌞<br /> NECK AND HEAD TENSION AND PAIN🌸<br /> <br /> We grow all of these plants on our ORGANIC farm and use ORGANIC INGREDIENTS to craft this tincture.<br /> <br /> Willow bark, california poppy, wild lettuce and blue vervain are the plants that have helped hundreds of people ready to find natural relief.<br /> <br /> With over 60 five star reviews, we know this special remedy WORKS and people with all different types of pain are feeling more like themselves✨<br /> <br /> Shop this tincture and all of our farm to bottle remedies today💚	SHOP_NOW	https://healingmotherherbals.com/products/pain-pea	516176598577286	Healing Mother Herbals	https://facebook.com/healingmotherherbals	942	6	642,941,397,997,175	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop now	Healing Mother Herbals	120207000459260328	healingmotherherbals.com	NONE	image	Ease and calm your aches and pains with fresh california poppy, willow bark, blue vervain and wild lettuce grown organically on our farm•Crafted with organic 190 proof cane alcohol for 4-6 weeks using the energy of the sun and moon•Handmade in small batches with love and intention•California p...	https://healingmotherherbals.com/products/pain-peace-tincture-pain-relief-extract-tinctures-aches-and-pains-medicinal-herbs-california-poppy-willow-bark-wild-lettuce-organic	2024-04-25 20:45	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440326116_932604328654466_7096979961125464852_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gcXG90Y1BikQ7kNvgEGJp8J&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBG2Y0pr9e3_uNxMXPKvuROAZDVRxdUjRwFHmg6Ae85aw&oe=6641DE0E	person_profile	Anna Bradford	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440202718_1128058038243131_2896491889547465134_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qx_Uz4_JfEMQ7kNvgFyVP2N&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAoVkwPukaPO6-2CSunEIENqcQ4lpArTechxPr3zojO9Q&oe=6641DEF6	3	Healing Mother Herbals	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,466	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778467}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:39	active	760	991304795193239	No More Neuropathic Foot Pain!	New Neuropathy Breakthrough In Huntsville! Folks Are Ditching Gabapentin for this safe & affordable pain relief treatment. <br /> <br /> Peripheral Neuropathy refers to conditions that result when nerves carrying messages from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body are damaged or inflamed. <br /> <br /> When these nerves are damaged, we can experience endless Burning 🔥, Numbness and Tingling, Chronic Pain 🤕 and even Loss of Balance.<br /> <br /> Rebelution Healthcare uses breakthrough technology that offers relief from neuropathic foot pain, stiffness, and swelling almost instantly by promoting blood circulation and healing the damaged tissue in your foot. <br /> <br /> Experience the only non-pharmaceutical neuropathy treatment that’s both effective and FDA cleared. It’s specifically designed to quickly alleviate the discomfort of burning and tingling sensations, transforming your life into one of comfort and mobility.<br /> <br /> What’s Included:<br /> ✅ Consultation with one of our medical professionals<br /> ✅ Thermal imaging device to determine blood flow and nerve damage<br /> ✅ Stimulates blood flow<br /> ✅ Naturally promotes nerve regeneration process (no harsh medication)<br /> <br /> Thorough testing is so critically important in helping patients suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy and we here at Rebelution Healthcare want to help as many people as we can.<br /> <br /> Click below to learn more about the underlying cause of your discomfort and find out about the revolutionary treatment and how it can change your life!<br /> <br /> Our goal is to get our patients back to doing the things they love with the people they love without drugs, needles or surgery and in as painless a way as possible.<br /> <br /> 🎉 Step into 2024 with newfound energy and freedom. No more restless nights or days overshadowed by foot pain.<br /> <br /> ⬇️ Click Learn More<br /> <br /> People can and do overcome their Neuropathy!	LEARN_MORE	https://www.rebelutionhealthcarehuntsvilleoffer.co	352896392419196	Rebelution Healthcare	https://facebook.com/rebelutionhealthcare	1,842	1	1,161,018,201,704,907	2024-05-08 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Rebelution Healthcare	120209707802580369	rebelutionhealthcarehuntsvilleoffer.com	NONE	image	Folks Are Ditching Gabapentin For This Safe & Affordable Treatment	https://www.rebelutionhealthcarehuntsvilleoffer.com/neuropathy	2024-05-08 09:20	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301316_450573420961187_7867212990071151089_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tjyWw6n10vsQ7kNvgGC3kki&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDWskhR4g-p0OeUu10Nq_spQCvvRL0-sI17FS2NPLZN6A&oe=6641DCD5	person_profile	Drs. Josh and Mollie Rood	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301088_669331428653711_7777353142670802204_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qHs3jQMsFN8Q7kNvgHXYzkd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAzH2sT7nXfaVUE95ctmdIdPeMmIKSJoQk30Yfrd3_i9w&oe=6641D4FB	3	Rebelution Healthcare	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,488	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778499}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:39	active	760	313177225172363	Client Acquisition So Simple It’d Make Elon Cry	“Big boy Elon ❤️’s this funnel….” Tesla did 2 million in preorders of the Cybertruck with it… Which could equate to 120 billion in sales. Holy side hustles batman And I’m gonna show you what this has to do with a lil’ selling system. That can flood your business…. 90-480+ pippin’ hot leads in the next 42 days. No cold-emailing. No DM’ing strangers. No begging for referrals. No hoping and praying. Just a calendar booked solid... With super-qualified, red-hot appointments. Watch this free video to see how we do it. Then click the link and book a call. https://go.kingkong.co/strategy P.S. This thing is unlike anything you’ve ever seen or heard about. It combines AI, Viral hooks and a ‘secret blend’ of 11 herbs and spices… that convert like crazy! Go see for yourself: https://go.kingkong.co/strategy	LEARN_MORE	https://go.kingkong.co/strategy	562378543780840	King Kong Co.	https://facebook.com/kingkongco	44,917	1	350,626,320,842,991	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn More	King Kong Co.	6610984817780	kingkong.co	NONE	dco	(Watch Carefully. Then Click)	https://go.kingkong.co/strategy	2024-04-21 22:12	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437708112_1591507995119353_2077774410756904250_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xC4xJmpaWocQ7kNvgEyx3Ez&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC-5IZmMEkG14XioON0Eoud4CxujwwnqTE-9TBQrJIrWw&oe=6641CD3A	person_profile	King Kong®	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438097536_983693403313311_539693983471645137_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VuzDebBWTwoQ7kNvgFSMEWA&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA6alYcKazDzM5MckMUMTGTZznjcaBa5AfK4seOeK5gkQ&oe=6641D8E3	3	King Kong Co.	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,042	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778474}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:33	active	760	2112626632447922		🌸 Join us this Friday, May 10th, for our Mother's Day Sale! 🌷Treat mom to a special day with FREE FOOD, huge discounts, and a chance to win a pampering gift basket! Plus, as always, enjoy<br /> ✨FREE Delivery<br /> ✨No Credit Checks<br /> ✨Everyone is preapproved! <br /> Don't miss out! #MothersDaySale #TreatMomRight<br /> <br /> 📍 1005 N Pine St Suite B, DeRidder, LA 70634<br /> ☎ 337-221-9124	CALL_NOW		554311254629349	Affordable Home Furnishings	https://facebook.com/ahfderidder	633	1	427,363,189,925,437	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Call now	Affordable Home Furnishings	120207325587500352		NONE	multi_images			2024-05-08 12:11	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440331062_1480640412821192_6093846543340122680_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Aup5Ga8S7TgQ7kNvgF9aifI&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCpm1435YQxwZBn-HHTjDtFtdOeeOBqtiEfQZcgft8TVw&oe=6641DFE8	person_profile			3	Affordable Home Furnishings	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,494	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778499}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:39	active	760	371724941926115	The “Dirty Secret” Agencies Don't Want You To Know	“THIS client getting hack feels illegal…” How would you like 90-480+ qualified leads/month? From people who have jumped through all types of hoops. And filled out qualifying questionnaires… Waiting in line eager to speak to you? All for as little as 35 bucks a pop! Pur for daddy But seriously what kind of peace of mind would this give you? If you knew exactly how many new leads. And clients you were gonna get each week? What kind of stress would this remove? What would this allow you to do? Cos THIS new funnel changes everything. It combines AI, viral hooks and… A ‘secret blend’ of 11 herbs and spices… That convert like CRAZY! Now, if you wanna get: 🌶️ 90-480+ highly-qualified leads/month. 🔥 5-50 “dream clients’ (semi-automated) 💰Cruise past 100k/month (like clockwork) 🐻 Sleep like a Siberian brown bear at night. We’ve used this selling system to generate 7.8B and counting… And that's why, in my wildly biased, but accurate, opinion… This is the fastest, easiest and SINGLE BEST way. To generate HUNDREDS of qualified leads… Every month on autopilot. Or, hey…you could keep sliding into the DMs. And posting content every 5 minutes. To an imaginary audience… That gets 11 likes and no leads… I’d rather have my soul carried away by an eagle demon. And cast into a pit of venomous vipers than do that. Anyhoo. Watch this free 24 min video. If it floats ya boat. Then click the link and book a call. https://go.kingkong.co/strategy And we’ll give you a free “test run” of how it works. P.S. We’re not like the gurus flooding your feed... making outlandish “we guarantee you XYZ" blah blah claims. We’ve been doing this for 10 years. We'll let our numbers do the talkin’... 💰 7.8b in sales generated raises pinky 🔑 1067 different industries and niches. ⭐️ 5,000+ reviews (average of 4.7 stars) 💵 75 millionaires created 🤑 6x 8 figure clients created This isn't theory. This is what we know works. Over and over and over. Alright. Watch. Click. Then scale. 🚀 https://go.kingkong.co/strategy	LEARN_MORE	https://go.kingkong.co/strategy	562378543780840	King Kong Co.	https://facebook.com/kingkongco	44,917	1	1,183,313,846,016,305	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn More	King Kong Co.	6615711297180	kingkong.co	NONE	dco	(Watch Carefully. Then Click)	https://go.kingkong.co/strategy	2024-05-08 00:28	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441213009_465633756040329_2640466864234026933_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zhjBO-Nn9rwQ7kNvgGYyys-&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCED9xxugzjpOVB2scWM3PQktV_J2DNrouaROq-0pfjgA&oe=6641E409	person_profile	King Kong®	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441062484_1881093112342000_4868169970712857940_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tcOyK_pe5K4Q7kNvgFiZb48&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA2RCkE07UEwIZ0magFhAwNsvx2CBKHENOf1kutNJHasA&oe=6641CEBD	3	King Kong Co.	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,405	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1777945}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:38	active	760	1004915954522838	⚠️$59 EXAM, CONSULTATION AND MORE	Neighbors of Miami and surrounding areas! 👋<br /> 🚫 𝗕𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴, 🚫 𝗧𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴, 🚫 𝗜𝘁𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴, 🚫 𝗡𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀, 🚫 𝗣𝗶𝗻𝘀 & 𝗡𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝘁, 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝘀 are ALL 𝒄𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒄 𝒔𝒚𝒎𝒑𝒕𝒐𝒎𝒔 of 𝙣𝙚𝙪𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙮 that take the fun out of life. We can now effectively help these symptoms from nerve damage without endless medications!<br /> <br /> We are giving 25 discount vouchers this month to help you with the pain at the low cost of 𝗢𝗡𝗟𝗬 $59❗<br /> <br /> That includes:<br /> Day 1: ✔️Exam, ✔️Consultation , ✔️Review of any existing medical records & ✔️Report of findings<br /> <br /> Day 2: ✔️Neuropathy treatment session <br /> <br /> ¡Tap “Get Offer” to claim your appointment before they all go! 👇<br /> ----------------------------------------<br /> Address: 9425 SW 72nd St #130, Miami, FL 33173, USA.<br /> Phone: (786) 475-1209	GET_OFFER	http://fb.me/	104735818408426	South Florida Spine and Neuropathy Centers	https://facebook.com/southfloridaspineandneuropathycenters	259	1	2,884,900,944,996,565	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Get offer	South Florida Spine and Neuropathy Centers	120210300787990315	fb.me	NONE	image		http://fb.me/	2024-05-08 10:28	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441142863_1000498354841707_8062636806149145098_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dNpo4Smil60Q7kNvgH_GUZm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDwJv8gPsBrhGP7CRYda8G7Nsao-88OZlkX5xfve2lYXQ&oe=6641F682	person_profile		https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440452152_2188238734845108_8912529763383587462_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=42-BlCIUWgsQ7kNvgHDHy9f&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCv26UkoimYlboRJikWd4ZxqJ7jVGe92hEkW1UlFXhVJg&oe=6641C8A0	3	South Florida Spine and Neuropathy Centers	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,778,242	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778362}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:36	active	760	985255962988548	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	So many nights I watched his dad instead. Nothing hot, except for the way he makes walking through a room look hot, but those are my little secrets.<br /> I settle in at the perfect angle where I can see Jayce, and get comfortable enough to take care of myself. I swear he keeps looking at my window. Can he see me?<br /> Swallowing hard, I slide my hand into the waistband of my shorts. My fingers brush over my curls. This is probably illegal. I'll blame it on emotional scarring from Brett denying me se.x while he was boning someone else.<br /> Hand, tongue, shaft...so many orgasms...I stir myself into a frenzy. Another moan escapes my lips, my eyes fall shut, and I drop my head back as I draw myself closer.<br /> Light streams into my consciousness. Is it the start of my climax? I'm so close. It's not my climax though. What's happening?<br /> I blink hard against the brightness coming from the hallway as I take in my dad's voice, "Madi, you okay?"<br /> ————————<br /> Madison<br /> Crossingthemountainridge into Eggplant Canyon, I can't believe I'm moving back to my dad's house on the eve of my first job. But when a last-minute position to teach kindergarten was offered, I spent the morning packing my tiny apartment, made the six-hour drive, and now I'm ready to tuck myself into bed.<br /> I want to be well-rested for the mandatory district training day tomorrow.<br /> The house is dark as I make the familiar turn into the driveway. My dad texted to let me know that he got called into the hospital. Nothing new there.<br /> Carrying a couple suitcases with my essentials inside, I don't bother to call my boyfriend, who was my next-door neighbor growing up. I haven't been able to get hold of him for the last few days, but I chalked it up to him being busy with his med school application. The disconnect is symbolic of how well our long-distance relationship has worked out while we attended different universities. Dating was so much easier when we just walked across the grass to see each other.<br /> If he listened to the series of four voice messages I left, he would know that I had a sudden change of plans. It's not that I expected him to drop everything and come back to see me since he's only an hour away, I just wanted to share my excitement.<br /> As I open the curtains in my bedroom to enjoy the moonlight over the mountains, I'm certain he didn't listen.<br /> Otherwise, he would have at least had the decency to close his blinds...I hope.<br /> My phone falls from my hand. I don't bother to pick it up.<br /> My heart breaks as everything I thought I knew about the cute, ambitious, and respectful boy next door, who I've saved my first time for, bangs some chick.<br /> He was the one to say we shouldn't have intercourse until we're married. That's not something you just forget. Is it something against me personally? We were supposed to have a future. How long has this been going on?<br /> Dreams shatter far easier than they're built. I can't tear my eyes off the undressed tangle of their bodies. How long have I been a fool?<br /> Brett, my suddenly ex-boyfriend, hadn't wanted to risk either of our careers with an unplanned pregnancy.<br /> My dad had talked to him about the rigors of med school and how it was really hard to raise a child while going through it. Waiting made sense. Watch out for our futures. A little ridiculous since all I wanted to do was be a mom, but my dad insisted I plan on a career since relationships can go wrong.<br /> Like right now.<br /> My heart splits in two.<br /> The fatigue from my long day channels into anger.<br /> All of my pent-up sexual frustration has been for naught. What's his endgame? I would have screwed him. I'd begged actually. Not a proud moment, but I had. And he'd had the nerve to tell me I should be able to control my urges better.<br /> I'd thought I was an over-sexed freak for all of my naughty thoughts he refused to entertain. And for the ones he didn't know about, like the ones that involved his dad.<br /> It looks like we both had secrets, but mine didn't hurt anyone.<br /> I force myself to look away. This is over. And I'm going to make sure he doesn't have any wiggle room to sweet talk his way out of it.<br /> I rush downstairs and out of my house, across the grass to his front door, and don't bother knocking.<br /> "Madison?" Brett's father, Jayce, calls out as I storm past his office, which is just off the entry. I don't have to look to know that he's at his desk, he almost always is. Concern has replaced the swoon-worthiness of the wealthy CEO's usual deep voice. I don't care. If he, in any way, taught his son to be a cheater, he's as despicable as his spawn.<br /> As I stride through their living room, I question how I was able to forget his dad could be home. Apparently, I'm drunk on the toxic cocktail of exhaustion, anger, and tunnel vision, and it's served with a blanket of shame. I never forget about his dad—the lingering glances I sometimes catch him sneaking, the tension in his jaw every time I gave Brett a peck on the cheek, or my imaginary belief that he made himself scarce when I was around because he secretly wanted me too—which are all more reasons I thought something was wrong with me.<br /> I would never cheat on my boyfriend. Especially not with his dad.<br /> But if anyone had read my mind... Every time Jayce called me Madison, never the nickname Madi that everyone else used, it made me feel so hot, so desirable. Not the girl-next-door his son dated, but the woman...never mind. It's my given name, not a seduction. More proof that I'm not wired quite right.<br /> I quicken my pace to get up the stairs when I hear Jayce behind me.<br /> "Wait...I thought you two broke up." So he does know what Brett's doing.<br /> "We are now." My blanket of shame is starting to suffocate me. It's hard enough to find out my boyfriend is a loser, much less reveal it in front of my secret crush. But my freight train of anger is in motion.<br /> Throwing Brett's bedroom door open, I want to vomit. Seeing him with another woman from my window was one thing, but up close...it's far too real. What had I planned on doing? Pieces of thoughts form a maelstrom of hurt and chaos in my mind.<br /> Brett and his buddy realize I'm in the room. They break their peck to look at me. The other part of them stays together. Gag. I need a plan, and fast. I've done, or not done, everything Brett asked. Look where that got me. I won't be the victim.<br /> Think. Think. Think.<br /> "Madi?" Brett lifts up. My urge to vomit heightens.<br /> The thinking train derails. I rush forward, shrugging my blanket of shame. I'm not the one at fault. There are a million things I want to say to him but words fail me as I rear my fist back.<br /> When I thrust it forward, a primal scream erupts from me, sparing me from having to hear his nose break. Wow! That felt good. Like I'm doing all women a favor by standing up for myself.<br /> Brett falls onto the girl, making a horrible sound as he grips his face and rolls off. Thankfully the sheet spares me the details that are no longer my business.<br /> He doesn't deserve a chance to explain.<br /> Before anyone can say anything coherent, I spin around and rush out of the room as quickly as I entered, not bothering to close the door.<br /> Turning the corner, tears blur my vision. I plow into Jayce. His hard body becomes a wall supporting me. His hands circle my waist and for way longer than a split second, I hope Brett comes out of his room and catches his father holding me.<br /> Maybe there is something wrong with me. I'm not usually the type of person to want revenge.<br /> I shift my eyes to the stairwell past Jayce. "Umm, sorry, I need to go."<br /> His grip tightens.<br /> "I've got you." His tone has never been so low and possessive. "Let's go downstairs."<br /> "I'm fine." I try to move but not enough to convince him that's what I want. I give in to his grip, his protection. My se.x tingles. My entire body tingles. And when he pulls me into his chest, his arms firm around my back, and if I can believe myself, his lips in my hair, and something very hard against my belly. For the first time ever, I question that being wired wrong might not be such a bad thing.<br /> "You deserve to be treated better than that." His words. His tone. His belief in me. They're turning me to mush. They're giving me hope for something I know better than to believe in.<br /> "A real man would treat me better." It's supposed to be a jab at his son, his child, but as I angle my head up and get lost in Jayce's possessive gaze, I can't be sure of my intent. My momentary bravado lures me into the forbidden.<br /> The sincerity in his gaze penetrates me. It's how a man should look at a woman he loves. Not that I've experienced it until this moment. But it's clear. It has me questioning everything.<br /> It's too much. I'm hurt. I'm mad. I'm making things up.<br /> Before I embarrass myself, I pull away from his comfort and warmth. I drift my hands down both handrails, and stride to the front door. The cold metal of the handle is my ticket to freedom, but movement in Jayce's office catches my attention.<br /> Is someone else here? I have the door in motion as I turn my face to see.<br /> The handsome stranger is chiseled in all of the right ways. Enough to make me misstep. To crack the door into the side of my head.<br /> "Oomph." I stumble back, unsure if I've lost balance from the collision or if the ravenous look in his eyes, which I certainly made up, made my legs go weak.<br /> He circles the desk. The look intensifies. I can't let him touch me. I still can't breathe from Jayce's contact. Why am I thinking he would do that? I must have hit my head harder than I thought.<br /> Steadying myself, I run out of the Hampton household as fast as possible.<br /> That should be it. Brett and I are done. I'm not going to pretend that Mister Hampton or his friend lust after me. I'm going to give myself a minute for an impromptu pity party then do my best to get some sleep before the school district's training day for new hires.<br /> But this night can't go wrong enough.<br /> When I get home, my curtains are still open. My house still faces the Hampton's house, because despite it feeling like the entire world shifted on its axis and everything tilted out of whack, nothing has changed.<br /> I'm still wildly turned on by Brett's dad. And his friend. It's not just in the lingering sensation of his fingers wrapped around my waist like he didn't want to let go, or the incredible hardness of his body as he held me tightly. Or the way both of them looked at me like I was theirs.<br /> I'm standing at my floor-to-ceiling window, my hands gripped on the curtains on either side ready to pull them closed, and once again, I can't move.<br /> Jayce's silhouette is in his window, one that I know to be their entertainment room. He's backlit by a lamp. His hands are braced just above shoulder height on either side of the window. If I can trust my eyes, he's staring at me.<br /> Or more accurately, he's staring at my window, because up until a split second ago, I wasn't in it.<br /> But now that I am, he's not moving, so I guess that makes my first assumption correct...he's staring at me.<br /> I like it.<br /> And when his friend walks up behind him, I like it even more.<br /> -<br /> Mydad and I were hanging out but he had somewhere to go. I suppose that was his way of avoiding saying he had something to do at the hospital. Why bother hiding it?<br /> It's fine. I'm exhausted, so I retreat to my bedroom.<br /> For the last three days, I've been swamped with district training and revamping my lesson plans.<br /> It's been a wild, exhausting ride. The training alone would have been enough since I had to switch gears from first grade to kindergarten to take this position, which meant revamping my lesson plans. But I'd also taken on the after-school program, which meant extra long days and an entire other lesson plan.<br /> All of the hecticness aside, I'm glad I made a last-minute change to accept the teaching position close to where I grew up. Once I settle into a routine, I ought to be able to see old friends. Or am I putting it off because I'm a chicken?<br /> My former best friend, Calli, is here and I really want to make amends. I need to apologize for dismissing her concerns years before and being a pretty horrific best friend.<br /> What if her number changed? I'll just think she's ghosting me. Which I would deserve. Plus, I must have left my phone downstairs. I'll text her tomorrow. Bawk<br /> Slipping my silky robe over my pajama set, a tank top and short shorts, I stare at my closed curtains. I could easily say that I've been too busy to bother opening them...for three days.<br /> The truth is that I'm worried what I'll see if I do. Bawk. Bawk.<br /> It's not Brett's window that worries me anymore. He left town the day after someone broke his nose. Word travels fast in a small town, but thankfully the detail about me is missing.<br /> Each night when I've crawled into bed, I've stared at the curtains, pretending that if I open them Jayce will still be in his window, hands braced on the edges, waiting on me. Wanting to make sure I'm okay. Desperate to show me how a man should treat a woman.<br /> This is when his friend usually enters the fantasy, and I let both men tend to the needs I've been denied.<br /> I've gone off the deep end.<br /> I thought it was a twisted rebound fantasy...wanting my ex's dad and his friend. The truth is that I've always wanted Jayce. I kept trying to force the desire into an inaccessible part of my brain since I was dating his son.<br /> Now that I'm single, I'd hoped to get Jayce and his friend out of my system by letting my fantasies run wild while I pleasured myself.<br /> That took things the wrong direction. Thoughts of them morphed into what I can only describe as an obsession. It's clouding my ability to think, even when I'm at work.<br /> And that's too much. I can't lose this job.<br /> I moved back home not only because my tough-love dad developed a soft spot and let me stay for free, but I want to work on our relationship. I'd felt alone when I was away at school. Now that I'm an adult with a job, I think he'll be able to relate to me more—thus the added reason not to lose it. While I was growing up, he'd been so busy with patients and creating new programs at the hospital that I hardly knew him.<br /> Which is why when he got a text and said he needed to leave tonight, I wasn't surprised.<br /> I laugh out loud. Considering how many hours of the day I'm putting into my job, the apple didn't fall far from the tree. At least we spend time together each evening since he agreed he could do better.<br /> It's weird recognizing that my dad's obsession with work is rooted in wanting to bring better healthcare to our little neck of the woods. Too bad it came with the sacrifice of not being around much when I was little. Not so different than my love of kids and wanting to give them the best start possible.<br /> My thoughts deviate back to Jayce. This can't be healthy. Perhaps Brett was right, my interest in intercourse is—No. No more of that thinking. He lied to me. He cheated on me. He made me feel dirty for wanting intercourse.<br /> But wanting intercourse with his dad...that has to qualify as dirty.<br /> Perhaps if I open my curtains, I'll find out just how dirty he is.<br /> I rub my hands over my face. No. I'll pull the curtains back so I can accept that he doesn't brood in his window each night. My fantasy is clearly out of control. I need to find someone else to fantasize about.<br /> I tamp down the idea of his friend. Too awkward. Too old. Actually, the friend is younger. And I'm back down one of my lust spirals.<br /> Pushing both panels back a few inches, my breath hitches when the light is on in the Hampton's game room.<br /> Curling my fingers around the edges of my curtains, I tuck the fabric to my chest. The flutters and tingles rushing through me are wrong.<br /> I force my gaze to Brett's window. Nothing. No light. No Brett. No feelings. Yay? Shouldn't I feel something?<br /> Movement pulls my attention back to the illuminated window. Jayce enters the room.<br /> My skin tickles every time he looks my way. I'm sure it's all in my head. With my lights off, he can't see me anyway.<br /> Angling one thigh into the other, I shift my hips to ease the mounting tension. I'll have to throw myself back into the dating scene. Find a guy who doesn't criticize me for wanting to have intercourse. Should I list on my profile that I'm looking for real men? I snicker at my misstep...looking for a real man. Maybe someone older?<br /> My heartbeat quickens as I consider what it would be like to have more than one. Is that a deviant thought? Maybe if Brett hadn't deprived me, I wouldn't be so wound up.<br /> Drawing the curtains to have a couple feet of opening, I sit on the plush chaise that faces the window from only a few feet away. Growing up, I used it for relaxing and reading, staring out at the mountains, and yes, staring at Brett. He never did the same. And when he caught me in my window one night, he texted to tell me it wasn't polite to watch people through their windows.<br /> It was one of many desires I had that he didn't share. He'd made me feel naughty for the things I wanted.<br /> But with my lights off, no one in their house can see into my room. I know from leaving my stuffed animals on the chaise then trying to see them from Brett's window. He may not have wanted to watch, but that didn't stop me. So many nights I'd willed my dirty thoughts would go away. So many nights they didn't.<br /> So many nights I watched his dad instead. Nothing hot, except for the way he makes walking through a room look hot, but those are my little secrets.<br /> I settle in at the perfect angle where I can see Jayce, and get comfortable enough to take care of myself. I swear he keeps looking at my window. Can he see me?<br /> Nearly breathless, I monitor his glances. Four more pauses on my window give no indication he can see in. But he's looking. I like that.<br /> Swallowing hard, I slide my hand into the waistband of my shorts. My fingers brush over my curls. This is probably illegal. I'll blame it on emotional scarring from Brett denying me se.x while he was boning someone else.<br /> Lazily dragging my finger through my juices, I let out a sigh. I'm so wet it's ridiculous. Not sure my thing for older guys would translate well into real-life dating, but it's good fantasy fodder.<br /> You deserve to be treated better than that. Jayce's words carry so loudly through my mind that I look around my room. Not here. He's still safely two panes of glass and lawns away.<br /> I relax into the seat. Jayce moves back and forth across the room, around the pool table, occasionally stepping out of sight, but never for long.<br /> Succumbing to my imagination, I pretend I'm on the pool table. He's circling me. Studying me the way I've watched him study the angle for a pool shot.<br /> Jayce's gaze lands on my window, a little longer this time. My breath catches in my throat. I don't breathe again until he looks away. If he could see, there's no way he would have looked away. Right?<br /> A hint of guilt niggles in my mind...unless he wishes his son's ex-girlfriend would get control of herself, and quit being a lewd little voyeur. Or is it a naughty exhibitionist? Is it possible to be both? It seems wrong that I think of myself as naughty and lewd, but that turns me on too.<br /> He studies the table, rakes a hand through his hair, and leans over. I double-down circling my cherry. How good would his tongue feel?<br /> I moan and sink my fingers inside of me. Forget his tongue. What would his shaft feel like? Instead of telling me he wants to wait until we're married, he'd show me how a real man pleases a woman.<br /> Hand, tongue, shaft...so many orgasms...I stir myself into a frenzy. Another moan escapes my lips, my eyes fall shut, and I drop my head back as I draw myself closer.<br /> Light streams into my consciousness. Is it the start of my climax? I'm so close. It's not my climax though. What's happening?<br /> I blink hard against the brightness coming from the hallway as I take in my dad's voice, "Madi, you okay?"<br /> He was supposed to leave already.<br /> I scramble to pull my robe over myself, get my hand out of my shorts, and rectify my spread-eagle position.<br /> "I'm fine," I blurt. Please don't let him realize what I'm doing. He can't see Jayce's window from where my door is. Tempering my voice with annoyance, I shift so I'm facing over the back of the chaise and continue, "I was looking at the stars, relaxing."<br /> Feigning a glance outside, my sights catch on Jayce standing squarely in his window. This can't be happening.<br /> "Hmm, didn't know you liked to do that." My dad steps into my room, extending his hand and my phone. "You left this downstairs."<br /> No. No. No. I can't let him come over.<br /> "Set it on my dresser." I point to the other side of the door. "Thanks, Dad. Catch you in the morning."<br /> He follows my cue—problem one solved.<br /> "You know. It's nice having you home and getting to spend quality time with you. I love you, Madi."<br /> "Love you too, Dad." I don't have time for a trip down memory lane or correcting him that I don't want to use that nickname anymore. And I don't dare look out the window.<br /> "You worked hard this week. You deserve some R and R. I'm proud of you."<br /> Maybe not if you knew what you just interrupted. My stomach is in knots waiting as he steps out and closes the door. Darkness cloaks my room once again.<br /> A second passes before I turn to the window. Nothing could prepare me for what I see. Jayce is waiting for me. Exactly the way I imagined in my fantasies—his hands braced on either side of the window.<br /> I draw a slow breath. He must have seen me. He can't see me now. What do I do?<br /> Do I want to find out how a real man treats a woman?	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1,778,250	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1778237}'	Yes	2024-05-08 18:36	active	760	989567519550257	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	He is not the male I thought he was. I refuse to fight for someone who can spit on all the effort I put into making him great.<br /> "Don't walk away from me, Zell," Kosta yelled.<br /> "Why not? You don't need me. You have Khalis here to take care of all your needs. She is welcome to you. I hope you all will be very happy together. As for me, I'm done. Good luck to you and this pack. I hope you can handle the fallout for you and your bimbo's actions."<br /> ____________<br /> <br /> "So Kay, what did you want to talk to me about?" I ask.<br /> Sapphire sits up. She is really interested in what Khalis has to say. I can feel her unease. Whatever this is about is not going to be good. Sapphire has been a little jumpy lately and is very protective. We just found out that we are pregnant after trying for the past 6 months. Kosta and I finally feel like we were in a good place since our pack is now ranked number 3 in the nation. I guess I should give Khalis my undivided attention and hear whatever it is she is pressed to talk to me about.<br /> "Well Zel, I just wanted to let you know that I plan on being the Luna of this pack, and your days as Kosta's mate and luna are numbered. I have decided that I deserve to be luna of the third strongest pack in the nation. I mean why should you get everything and I get stuck with nothing?" Khalis says.<br /> Is this bimbo serious? I just sat there staring at her for a few seconds. Not much shocks me, but this is something else. I knew Khalis was selfish, but this is on a whole other level. There have been rumors about Khalis sleeping with mated males, but I always gave her the benefit of the doubt. I never thought we would be having this kind of conversation. We have been friends since elementary school. Her father and brothers are elite warriors in my father's pack. <br /> She was with me when Kosta declared we were mates. She even encouraged me to go with him when he begged me and my father to let me come to his pack with him before I turned 18. She moved to this pack with me, hoping to meet her own mate. She knows Kosta is my fated mate. The moon goddess chose for him me. We both have known Kosta for most of our lives. <br /> Kosta is one of my brother's best friends. I keep thinking about everything we have done together and now this bimbo is sitting in my office telling me she plans to take my mate. I'm really speechless. This is a new low, even for her.<br /> "Just so that I am clear, what exactly do you mean that you want my goddess-given mate and title," I asked.<br /> "I mean exactly what I said. I want Kosta. I want to be his luna and I am going to make that happen. I've already started the process. I deserve to be a luna."<br /> "So you just want to come in here and tell me that you want my mate? What about your own mate? Have you thought about that? If the goddess meant for you to be a luna, you would have been fated to an alpha."<br /> "I waited for my mate. I gave the goddess a chance to do right by me. She gave everyone around me an Alpha. My sister got one, my little ugly cousin got one and even you got one, but what did I get? I got a lowly elite warrior as a mate." She spat.<br /> "How can you speak like that about elite warriors? Your father and your brother are elite warriors."<br /> "I know, and I deserve better than that. I deserve to be a luna. I deserve to have people respect me and cater to me."<br /> "Well, obviously the goddess did not agree with you," I said. "Just to clarify, you're saying that even though you found your destined mate, the one that was made specifically for you by the goddess, you're still interested in my mate? You are unbelievable. What is wrong with you?"<br /> "It's simple. I'm not meant to be the mate of a warrior. I am meant to be a luna. The moon goddess got it wrong and I am correcting her mistake. As soon as I scented my fated mate and realized he was a warrior, I rejected him and he accepted my rejection. Good riddance."<br /> "So you think you know better than the goddess?" I asked.<br /> I am still somewhat shocked. I have a hard time reconciling this cold-blooded bimbo to the person that has been my best friend for over a decade.<br /> "Zell, I told you a long time ago not to trust her. She has always been this person. She just pretended with you." Sapphire said.<br /> "This isn't personal, Zell. It's simple since the moon goddess did not give me an alpha, I'm going to take one."<br /> This bimbo is sitting here calmly telling me she is going to take my mate from me like we are talking about going shopping. She actually thinks this is ok. How could I have been so blind for so long? Everyone tried to warn me about her, but she was my only friend and I just didn't want to believe that about her. I convinced myself that the others were just jealous of her.<br /> "Do you really think it is ok to try to break your best friend's mate bond?" I say.<br /> "Oh Honey, I'm not going to try. I'm going to do it. He will be mine. I'm just giving you the courtesy of walking away with your dignity. You might as well start making arrangements for yourself because once I am the luna, there is no way that I will let you remain in my pack. He may keep some tender feelings for you. After all, you are fated."<br /> "You got one thing right; Kosta and I are fated. You are not the first she-wolf to try to break our mate bond and since he is an alpha, I'm sure you won't be the last. I will tell you what I tell them all, If you can get Kosta to cheat on our bond, you can have him. If he can do that, then he is not the man I have believed him to be and wouldn't deserve me. You would be welcome to him. Just remember, it is because of me and my family that this pack is ranked third. All of that goes with me, but you would be more than welcome to whatever is left." I say.<br /> "It's not an if, it's a when it happens. And when you leave, Kosta will still be the alpha of this pack. You will just be the ex-luna of the pack. I will be the luna."<br /> "That's where you are wrong. I am alpha born; a pure-blooded alpha. If I leave, I will still be an alpha and you will still be that bimbo on the side. Some males may be dumb enough to sleep with you, but I have not seen any of the mate men you've been accused of leaving their mates for you. Even the ones who got rejected didn't choose to be with you. Now I suggest you leave my office while I am still being nice or else you will find out why I am feared by others. And if you are successful, don't think for a minute that my family will let either of you go."<br /> "I will leave for now. Enjoy this office while it is still yours. Your arrogance will be your downfall. Why should I fear you or your family? They have not even been around since your luna ceremony. I'll give you 1 week to make arrangements for yourself. In 7 days, all of this will be mine and you will be out. I will break you and completely disgrace you.<br /> I have to thank you for working so hard to build this pack up for me to take over. I will be sure to enjoy the fruit of your labor. I and my children will enjoy this. I am glad he listened to me early on when I told him to wait to have children so you could live your life first. I had to set the groundwork just in case. Now it's time for you to go before you give him an heir." Khalis says and walks out of my office like nothing happened.<br /> "What do you think, Sapphi? Do you think she really will get Kosta to cheat on our mate bond? Do you think Emil will let it happen?"<br /> "I honestly don't know Zell. Last year I would have said that our bond was solid, but Kosta has been acting funny lately. Emil has been a little distant as well. Khalis is a little too confident. She is definitely up to something and Kosta isn't acting like our mate right now. Also, Jen, Khalis' wolf is mad at her about something that she won't tell me about."<br /> "I'm sorry I didn't listen to all the warnings you were giving me about her. I should have never moved her with us. I invited that snake into our home. I open the door for her to get her paws on Kosta, but if he allows it, he does not deserve us."<br /> "I Feel sorry for her mate and her wolf. They did not deserve what she did to them. But at least her fated mate will get a second chance mate. One much better."<br /> "Zell, I think we should wait and see what happens before will tell Kosta about our pup. I would burn this whole pack if something happened to our pup."<br /> "I agree Sapphy. We will do whatever we have to do to protect our pup."<br /> Kosta has been questioning me a lot lately. It's like he woke up a different person one day. He suddenly lost trust in me, but I have never given him a reason to doubt me. I have found him outside of my door listening to business phone calls, which is crazy because he could just walk in at any time and join the conversation. I have never hidden anything I was doing from him.<br /> The worse thing is that our sexual life is now nonexistent. Kosta is always too busy or too tired. His behavior has led me to believe that he is not attracted to me anymore. He had the nerve to ask me why I have been trying so hard to seduce him lately. Like he didn't just stop making love to me cold turkey all of a sudden. We went from making love every day, sometime multiple times a day, to nothing in over a month. <br /> Seems like he should have been worried if I didn't try to seduce him. I don't know any mated pair that has gone this long without being intimate with each other. I don't know what the issue is. If we were not marked, I would wonder if he was cheating, but I know he is not. I would have felt it. Why did all of this suddenly become so hard? <br /> Why do I even need to seduce my goddess-given mate? It was never supposed to be this way. At least not yet. I'm only 20 years old. Much too young to be going through a dry spell while mated.<br /> I got so desperate at one time I asked our friends what was going on with him. Kosta tells his beta and gamma everything. I figured if there was a problem, they would tell me and I could fix it, but they just said that he was under a lot of stress. What exactly does he have to stress about?<br /> The pack is doing better than it has been in years. In half a year, the pack will be self-sufficient again and won't need to depend on my finances to keep it afloat. I have everything set in motion for the pack to have more disposable cash and residual income. I have a feeling this has Khalis written all over it. Kosta appears to have fallen in line with her already.<br /> Maybe this was their plan all along. Kosta needed me to get his pack back on track and now that they are almost completely independent, they don't need me anymore. If that's the case, they are in for a rude awakening. My six-month plan depends on me closing several more deals. All of these deals are allies with my father, uncle, and grandfather. They will not work with Kosta if our bond falls apart. He would erase everything that I have done over the past three years. Well, that would be his problem.<br /> Since he has not been showing me any care, they are not either. That really hurts. I sacrificed a lot for this pack. I thought they cared more than this for me. I should just go back to my room. I don't know if I want to be around this pack right now, especially if they could turn their backs on me this quickly. Were they all just using me for my family's wealth?<br /> "We need to eat Zell. Remember, we are eating for our pup as well. Don't let them win. We are better than this. If they show us they don't want us here, we will leave. Remember, we are alpha born. We will rise above this. We will go back to where we are celebrated. If they turn against us, they don't deserve us. We will sit back and let them destroy themselves."<br /> "You are right Sapphire. Let's go eat. Our pup needs sustenance."<br /> I went and cleaned myself up and walked to the dining room. As soon as I walked through the door, all the talking stopped. The whole place went silent. As I walked all the way in, I saw why everyone went silent. <br /> Khalis was sitting in my seat, putting food on Kosta's plate like she is the luna. When she saw me, she just smirked and kept doing what she was doing. Kosta just keep eating like I was not standing there. Sapphire stared, pushing forward. She wanted blood. I did too, but I have to think about our pup.<br /> "What is going on, Kosta? Why is she sitting in my seat feeding you?" I growled.<br /> "I meant no harm, Zell. You were busy, so I decided to take care of Kosta for you. Someone needs to care for him while you are caring for other things. "<br /> "I was speaking to my mate, not his bimbo on the side."<br /> "You were not here for your mate, so I have been taking care of his needs."<br /> Sapphire pushed forward and growled loudly. Everyone in the room bowed their neck to her.<br /> "I could kill you in less than 30 seconds, Khalis. I would advise you not to keep crossing my line and you will find yourself very dead. You obviously have forgotten who I am. Don't make me remind you what my family name is," Sapphire said.<br /> I regained control and looked at Kosta. He didn't even appear to be concerned. He didn't show an ounce of regret or remorse. That took a little of the fight out of me. Khalis can only do what Kosta allows her to do.<br /> "Kosta, I asked you a question. What is going on?"<br /> "As Khalis said, you were busy, so she came to do your job for you. If you spent more time catering to me, your mate, and less time working or whatever you are doing, Khalis wouldn't have to step in and take care of my needs." Kosta said.<br /> I and every pack member gasped. I could not believe he openly disrespected me like that after everything I have done for him and this pack. I did all of that for him. This ungrateful prick.<br /> "So now I'm working too much, making your pack financially secure? You were not complaining when the pack was bankrupted and I worked day and night just so you could feed the pack another day. I was working too hard then.<br /> It's only now that you think the pack is out of the woods that I am working too hard. Now that everyone is comfortable and not at risk of starving, you want to change. <br /> Ok, I see who you are now. So instead of appreciating the sacrifices I made for us and the pack, you are sitting here with your bimbo, enjoying the feast that my hard work made possible. I am glad I finally understand where your priorities lie. Trust me, I will never make the same mistake twice." I said and walked away.<br /> I need to get out of here before I wolf out and kill one of them. After tonight, Khalis can have him. He is not the male I thought he was. I refuse to fight for someone who can spit on all the effort I put into making him great.<br /> "Don't walk away from me, Zell," Kosta yelled.<br /> "Why not? You don't need me. You have Khalis here to take care of all your needs. She is welcome to you. I hope you all will be very happy together. As for me, I'm done. Good luck to you and this pack. I hope you can handle the fallout for you and your bimbo's actions."<br /> "Mind how you talk to me, Zell. I may be your mate, but I am still the alpha. As a matter of fact, as of right now, I am stripping you of all of your luna privileges."<br /> "Alpha, what are you doing?" Beta James asked<br /> "Mind your business Beta. This is my pack." Kosta says.<br /> "Yes, and as your beta and friend, it is my job to tell you when you are making a mistake. Alpha, you are dangerously close to crossing the line of no return. Let's all calm down and discuss this later." Beta James said.<br /> "Beta, my word stands. Zel, until you learn to respect me as your alpha, you can forget about representing this pack in any aspect. I will be instructing the security team to restrict all of your access. You are no longer the COO of our businesses. As of now, you are just a regular pact member with no power."<br /> "First of all Alpha." I spat. "Respect is earned. While you are trying to throw your weight around, you can have the luna title back. I no longer want it. As for the business, have you forgotten that I own 51% of every business we have? I also provide 60% of the pack budget from my personal accounts. So while you can restrict my duties as Luna, you cannot touch the business, but I'll do you a solid. You can buy me out of the business and I will withdraw all of my personal finances from the pack."<br /> I can see that he had forgotten how dependent his pack was on me, but oh well. He made his bed. Now he and his bimbo can lie in it.<br /> "Oh, and Alpha, if you try to strong-arm me, I will have to call in the full loan that I gave this pack when we mated. Remember, we signed a contract for the loan. You have only paid me a small portion of the loan and I have not pushed the issue, but the contract is legal and binding. Don't push me, Kosta. You, of all people, know how ruthless I can be if pushed."<br /> I walked off again and made it as far as the stairs. I realized that I could not stay in my current room anymore. There is no way on this goddess-green earth that I want to be in a room with Kosta. Not that he has really shared it with me lately. Now I know why. Khalis has been feeding him and he has been eating it up. They both miscalculated. They thought I would be leaving here with nothing. The jokes on them. I may have been in love, but there is no love in business. I may have put my all into saving this pack and making it independently wealthy, but my parents did not raise a fool and I protected my finances. I invested millions in this company and pack. Did he really think I would protect my money? Does he not remember the prenup my father made him sign since I was a minor when he brought me to this pack? He never gained control over my finances.<br /> Khalis just showed her hand. After what I just saw, she has a right to be confident. Kosta has completely changed. He is not the man that I mated. He is not the boy that I followed around when I was younger. I don't know what happened or when he changed. Maybe this is who he really is and, like with Khalis, I just never saw his true self. He must have hidden it from my father and brother as well. There is no way they would have let me come here when I was 17 if they knew this was how he would end up treating me. I can see now that it is over between Kosta and me. I need to start planning my exit. I pulled up my computer and moved all of my finances from the pack accounts. I closed all the joint accounts I had with Kosta. It was mostly my money that financed them. I left the ones that he financed in his name. I don't want anything from him at all. After I handle business, I call my brother. I will need his help to leave here safely. Now that Kosta knows that all the money is still tied up with me, I doubt he will let me leave easily. I'm sure he and the bimbo are plotting up something.<br /> I have all of my stuff moved to a guest room. Once I get settled, I pick up my phone and call my brother.<br /> 'Hi, baby sister." My brother says.<br /> That's all it takes for the dam to finally break. I start crying my heart out. Zach keeps trying to ask me what is wrong, but I can't stop crying. After a few minutes, my crying finally slows down.<br /> "What's wrong Zell? Who do I need to kill? I can call Uncle Jerry and we can be to you in 30 minutes. No one makes my baby sister cry. Where is Kosta?"<br /> I pull myself together so that I can actually talk to Zach and let him know what I need from him.<br /> "Sorry, big brother. It just hurts so much. Don't come right now. I'm ok. I just had to get that out. I have been holding it in for a while. Kosta stripped me of all my Luna privileges tonight after I walked into the dining room and saw Khalis sitting in the Luna chair feeding him. She apparently is taking care of all of his needs because I have been working too much and neglecting him."<br /> "What the heck." Zach yelled, "I will kill them both!"<br /> "Not yet Zach. I want to see how this plays out. Khalis told me that she wants Kosta and the luna position. She and Kosta are planning something to discredit me in the eyes of the pack. Zach, I'm pregnant and I have to think about my pup's future. I need to see this through and expose them for the low lives they are. I recorded my conversation with Khalis. The recording is on the private server you installed for me. I am keeping the camera's in my office even though I have been stripped. I need to gather as much evidence as I can get so that when this blows up, I can take my case to the council. He will either try to use my pup to get back at me or use him or her for personal gain, and I can't let any of that happen."<br /> "So what's the plan, baby sis?"<br /> "Well, I have already moved all of my personal money from the pack accounts. They are now responsible for themselves. I'm not sure how that is going to go over. I was covering most of the pack's budget. Tomorrow, I will contact my attorneys to protect all of my other assets. I also plan to call our allies and let them know that I am no longer associated with the pack. I am erasing everything I've done over the past three years. They will need to start over from scratch and rebuild it all on their own. There is no way they will get to enjoy my hard work. No, sir."<br /> "Very smart Zell. What do you need me to do?"<br /> "I'm going to need you, Uncle Jerry, and a few elite warriors here to help me leave safely. Khalis said she will have him in seven days. I don't know if I will be able to stay here for the whole seven days, but I need to stay for now. I want to give Kosta the benefit of the doubt. I want to know if there is any hope of us working it out in the future. Don't get me wrong, I am leaving no matter what because he completely disrespected me, but as of now, he has not broken our bond. As long as he doesn't, the door will be open for us to work through this in the future, but if she gets him to cheat on me, it is 100% over."<br /> "Ok Zell, I will get with Uncle Jerry and we will have everything ready. You need to be ready to move at a moment's notice. I'm going to send a few of my elite warriors close to that pack in case something happens. They can keep you safe until I can get to you. I can promise you Kosta will regret hurting my baby sister. He has known me long enough to know that I will kill anything that hurts you. He better hope mom does not get to him before I do."<br /> "I have already had all of my things moved to a guest room. All of the things I want are packed and ready to go. I may ship a few things ahead. Sapphire and I are both ready to leave.'<br /> "I'm surprised Sapphire does not want to fight for her mate. Is she ready to leave Emil?"<br /> "We are giving both of them a chance by still being here. Honestly, Zach, we have not had a relationship in over a month. Emil has not connected with Sapphire in just as long. Our bond is weakened already. If I wasn't with pup, I wouldn't even try."<br /> "I understand, sis. I am so disappointed in Kosta. He was one of my closest friends. I entrusted my baby sister to him and he greatly let me down. I thought you were safe with him. He will pay for every tear that you shed. I promise you that. I'm going to call Uncle Jerry and get everything set up. I have six warriors already on their way to you. They will keep an eye on things and let me know what's happening."<br /> "Ok. Love you, big brother."<br /> "Love you muffin. Get some rest."<br /> We get off the phone, and I finish doing all my business transactions. I need to make sure that my finances and shares are protected. I feel sorry for the pack members who will have to suffer because of a selfish she-wolf and a prick alpha. I wonder if Kosta knows how close the pack is to being bankrupt without the support of my family and my personal finances? I'm just glad that they showed their hands now before I had completely gotten them out of the hole. I guess since they were living better and had more luxuries; they thought the pack was in the black. Jokes on them.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.thepopfic.com/ad/UG9wRmljLzE3MjEyNS8yMDI	104059476000396	Pop002	https://facebook.com/100092368062082	65	1	1,101,293,101,096,887	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Pop002	120210776709160398	a.thepopfic.com	NONE	video		https://a.thepopfic.com/ad/UG9wRmljLzE3MjEyNS8yMDI0MDUwODExMTc1Ni9wYWdl?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-05-07 22:23	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438302224_1451959329014283_7953928604890279413_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=b7EMuro7qGkQ7kNvgFfLyBk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA1uPLISuOtRnvGXrnPkllYk_Rjls38vR6vyatXi5GC1A&oe=6641D375	person_profile	Pop002	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438299397_426611670122125_6790495319529955191_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6Z0symfBauUQ7kNvgGf1oz2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBufnyyXW-DMvzhXHRkhTazeIaf8EdVu7R-cpoY9vFnhw&oe=6641DCF7	3	Pop002	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,778,595	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-08 18:40	active	760	1138439117193345	😘 Read Chapter1 👉	""I, Ann Veritas reject you, Brad Lunaris as my fated mate and the other half of my soul, on the basis of your infidelity with my own sister and your scant regard for the sanctity of the mate bond."<br /> Brad glared at Ann furiously, his body shaking as Ann felt the connection she held to him and his wolf snap.<br /> "I do not accept your rejection." He ground out between gritted teeth.<br /> "It seems I've arrived at a bad time... Ann, or should I say my Luna," a deep baritone emanated from behind Brad's trembling frame.<br /> <br /> After discovering that her fiance and mate, Brad Lunaris, had cheated on her sister, Ann was urged by her wolf Maeve to go to the bar to get drunk to comfort their broken hearts.<br /> <br /> Before long Ann found herself in dire need of a visit to the toilet and as she made her way through the maze-like corridors of private rooms and private offices, she walked straight into what she thought was the ladies' room.<br /> <br /> As she adjusted her dress and took a seat in the cubicle, the sound of footsteps entering the room could be heard and she stifled a giggle.<br /> <br /> She swayed a little as she stood and turned to flush when she froze. The distinct tones of the 2 males talking could be heard quite clearly.<br /> <br /> "Alpha, I know you don't want to talk about this but you really must consider your options." A male voice pleaded.<br /> <br /> "Not this again, Allen." A deep, husky voice sighed heavily, clearly tired of whatever subject this related to.<br /> <br /> "If the others find out about the curse, then you know it will lead to bids for takeovers."<br /> <br /> "And what? If I don't have a Luna I can't rule well? Give me a break, Allen." The deep voice snorted derisively.<br /> <br /> "If you can't produce an heir the pack's future isn't secure! At least consider taking a chosen mate. "<br /> <br /> "And if my mate shows up in the meantime?"<br /> <br /> "Can you be sure that they would be truthful about that matter? The curse took away your ability to..."<br /> <br /> The curse? What the curse is?<br /> <br /> "Can you be sure that they would be truthful about that matter? The curse took away your ability to find your true mate. Who's to say the blasted witches won't send imposters to attempt to take over the pack, hmm? This isn't something trivial to be laughed at!" The man identified as Allen answered in frustration.<br /> <br /> Ann's eyes were wide. Just what had she stumbled into?!<br /> <br /> She didn't recognize the voice but his predicament seemed to be difficult. As she leaned forward onto the door to try to hear better, the door flew open and she stumbled out, hitting the wall opposite her with a loud grunt.<br /> <br /> Maeve snickered in her head, "Forget to close the door properly?"<br /> <br /> "You're not helping…" Ann replied as she clutched the spot on her head that had made an impact on the wall and winced painfully.<br /> <br /> As she looked up, her eyes made contact with the two momentarily stunned males who had been poised to attack and right at this moment, were a little unsure of how to proceed now.<br /> <br /> "What…? Who are you?! Explain yourself!" the man whose voice had been identified as Allen, blustered at her furiously.<br /> <br /> She dropped her hand to her side and looked at him incredulously.<br /> <br /> "I can explain myself! Don't you think it should be the other way around?!"<br /> <br /> "What...?" he started to protest as Ann cut him off furiously.<br /> <br /> "Two grown men using the lady's bathroom to talk about such nonsense...what are you? Perverts?!" She glared at them furiously.<br /> <br /> Allen looked at the other man helplessly.<br /> <br /> The man with the deep voice had adopted a relaxed demeanor, shoving his hands into his pockets as his assessing gaze swept over her.<br /> <br /> "Interesting choice of attire for the men's bathroom... don't you think?" He commented dryly with a raised eyebrow.<br /> <br /> Ann blinked stupidly. Men's bathroom? This wasn't the men's bathroom, was it?<br /> <br /> She allowed her gaze to travel across the room and noticed the men's urinals on the wall and bit her lip anxiously.<br /> <br /> For Moon Goddess' sake.<br /> <br /> The man with a deep voice chuckled at her obvious discomfort and turned away as if to leave.<br /> <br /> "We can't just leave her. If your secret gets out…" Allen protested loudly as the man with a deep voice turned his head slightly as he considered his friend's words.<br /> <br /> Eventually, he gave a slight nod before turning to leave again.<br /> <br /> Allen's eyes switched suddenly to the golden eyes that signified an imminent change and Ann's heart began to race furiously.<br /> <br /> They were going to kill her for overhearing a conversation?!<br /> <br /> 'Let them try!' Maeve snarled as she tried to push forward to meet her opponent.<br /> <br /> 'Wait!' Ann shouted suddenly. "You need a chosen mate and I need a way to get out of this wedding tomorrow. I'll do it! I'll marry you."<br /> <br /> The man with the deep voice paused and turned to face her suddenly.<br /> <br /> He took in the appearance of the slightly drunk woman in a wedding dress staring at him boldly, with no trace of fear in her eyes.<br /> <br /> He contemplated the meaning of this sudden appearance before smiling slightly.<br /> <br /> "I accept. Allen will draw up a basic contract with you and we can discuss the final terms when you have concluded your business with your… non-wedding."<br /> <br /> "Alpha! Are you seriously…" Allen protested.<br /> <br /> "That's an order, Allen." He snapped with a voice full of authority as a vivid silver flashed across his eyes.<br /> <br /> Allen paled slightly and visibly gulped before answering.<br /> <br /> "Yes, Alpha Nocturne." He ground out as he bared his neck in submission to him.<br /> <br /> Ann blinked in surprise.<br /> <br /> Alpha Nocturne?!<br /> <br /> What had she gotten herself into?<br /> <br /> ......<br /> <br /> Alpha Nocturne sat quietly and watched Ann shrewdly as she sat at the other side of the booth while Allen prepared an initial agreement.<br /> <br /> He wondered idly why she wanted to get out of the marriage that she had been clearly prepared for so badly. It was a pity really, the dress looked quite fetching on her.<br /> <br /> Allen sighed as he hastily typed out the agreement and conferred lightly with Alpha Nocturne about his expectations.<br /> <br /> On the other side of the table, Ann watched them both nervously. She clutched at the material of her wedding dress under the table and her stomach rolled uncomfortably.<br /> <br /> 'I don't know why you're so nervous. He has a strong pack, it's the most powerful in the country is it not? I think it is a good deal.' Maeve commented casually.<br /> <br /> 'Yes, but he has a fearsome reputation and he has a cold demeanor. I don't actually know the first thing about his businesses, his ideals...just that father hates him.'<br /> <br /> 'Better to know where you stand with a cold powerful man than to be in excruciating pain every time your mate sticks his thing where it doesn't belong.' Maeve snarled suddenly.<br /> <br /> Ann grimaced at Maeve's choice of words but had to agree with the principle.<br /> <br /> "Miss?" Allen asked with a hint of irritation.<br /> <br /> It was evident that he had asked her something but she hadn't been paying too much attention and she smiled apologetically at him.<br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, my wolf was distracting me."<br /> <br /> "Oh really? I assume she isn't too pleased then." Allen smirked.<br /> <br /> "Not at all. Quite the opposite. She thinks it's perfect. Her exact words were that the contract was better than a fated mate who sticks his thing where it doesn't belong." Ann answered unwaveringly with a sweet smile.<br /> <br /> Allen almost choked on her answer and spluttered loudly. Alpha Nocturne suppressed a grin at her directness toward his beta. He found it refreshing.<br /> <br /> "Um...okay. So, the standard requirements as stated by Alpha Nocturne are that you will live with him at the pack house of the Dark Moon Pack, and you will assume the duties of the Luna of the pack for a period of not less than 5 years. Is that acceptable?" Allen asked with a look of apprehension when he had recovered.<br /> <br /> Ann nodded demurely.<br /> <br /> "You will also be required not to disclose information regarding this contract or the Alpha's curse to anyone. The consequences will be both swift and brutal if you do. Is that clear?"<br /> <br /> "That's fine by me. I do have a request though of my own."<br /> <br /> Alpha Nocturne narrowed his eyes slightly at her. What was it that she would demand from him exactly? He steeled himself for extortionate demands and retained his impassive demeanor as he waited patiently.<br /> <br /> "You can ask…" Allen stated in a non-committal tone, as he waved for her to continue.<br /> <br /> Ann took a deep breath and smiled lightly.<br /> <br /> "It's nothing major, don't worry. First of all, before I return to the pack with you, I want to have the opportunity to say goodbye to my family. Second, I want to be able to continue my work at the company of my former pack if possible. Third...I still want to be able to see my friends."<br /> <br /> "Alpha Nocturne agrees to your demands. Is there nothing else?" he inquired cautiously.<br /> <br /> Ann shook her head.<br /> <br /> "Very well. We have a business to attend to in the city so we can collect you tomorrow night from your parent's pack. Is this acceptable?"<br /> <br /> Ann nodded quietly.<br /> <br /> "Very well, then if you'll sign your name here as acceptance of the first draft of the contract, then any further alterations can be made at a later date with both parties' approval. Understood?"<br /> <br /> Ann reached for the stylus and signed and printed her name.<br /> <br /> "Then if there's nothing else Alpha Nocturne, Allen, I'll leave now and head home to make the necessary arrangements."<br /> <br /> "You should call me Adam. Referring to me as alpha Nocturne is going to draw suspicious eyes."<br /> <br /> "Very well, Adam. I'll see you tomorrow night." Ann grinned as she stood, and made her way out.<br /> <br /> After she had left, Adam turned to Allen and smirked.<br /> <br /> "Happy now? Contracted mate and Luna for the pack." He said as he leaned back and let his head rest on the high back of the seating, closing his eyes in satisfaction as he did so.<br /> <br /> Silence met his words before a cautious voice answered.<br /> <br /> "Alpha, have you ever met that woman before?"<br /> <br /> "No."<br /> <br /> "It's just…"<br /> <br /> "Spit it out, Allen..." Adam said impatiently, his brows creasing in a frown.<br /> <br /> "That woman is Ann Veritas. The Alpha King's daughter." Allen said hesitantly.<br /> <br /> Adam's eyes flew open and he stared at the ceiling momentarily before leaning forward and looking directly at Allen.	LEARN_MORE	https://getpassionapp.com/?f=b&book=book18&lang=en	198027613403812	Romance Stories	https://facebook.com/61556623813760	216	2	1,207,215,614,054,174	2024-05-08 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Romance Stories	120210374902400551	getpassionapp.com	NONE	video		https://getpassionapp.com/?f=b&book=book18&lang=en&trial_screen=select_price_v3&hard_wall=true&intro=cover-nocturne-mate&discount_available=no&intro=cover-nocturne-mate	2024-05-08 07:12	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441027574_1164383171580356_1560627991589886976_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=neojZy0yC_QQ7kNvgFDW6C3&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDneGAfMjqaDBq9kB4XRDHrZfKgQvhs_e8s1lVoz78J7w&oe=6641DF2A	person_profile	Passion Reading App	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441020034_460077196413601_7010580451612504033_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=otV6QKBGQ8wQ7kNvgGpgbdp&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5_Iw2xQgQu9xFbBNfxly782kip01HjOoSPn1No_IP4w&oe=6641D028	3	Romance Stories	2024-05-08 02:00	View Edit Delete

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