Confucius Ads Library: Ads

Id	Vlad	Saved	Scrape Time	Status	Scrape Result	Adarchiveid	Title	Body	Cta Type	Link Url	Pageid	Page Name	Page Profile Uri	Page Like Count	Collationcount	Collationid	Enddate	Entitytype	Gatedtype	Hidedatastatus	Isaaaeligible	Isactive	Isprofilepage	Cta Text	Pagename	Ad Creative	Caption	Effective Authorization Category	Display Format	Link Description	Link Url	Page Welcome Message	Creation Time	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Instagram Actor Name	Instagram Profile Pic Url	Version	Current Page Name	Startdate	Actions
158,391	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158390}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	1173748743599440	I Got My Life Back!	This Breakthrough Device is Being Hailed by Musicians, Bikers, Office workers and Everyone in Between. Here’s Why 👏<br /> <br /> Watch as Joan, lifelong musician, shares the challenges of performing with advancing carpal tunnel and her ultimate discovery of safe nerve healing. <br /> <br /> If declining finger dexterity or constant wrist aches make your passions difficult, Joan's inspirational path to restoration could motivate your own. <br /> <br /> ✨ Revive compressed nerves, restore lost mobility and do what you love again, thanks to this innovative red light therapy. <br /> <br /> 👉 click to learn more! <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftry.remediqe.com%2FA067%2FAdv1&h=AT21zvkiYz6nCW3ukegpoS1UYQN3Xm2OYfJAkM_3x6ZnJoBLzv-bJ5o2y94EWUbiJb7YU9t_KqLZ5gqbDtGDmwltCVKZF8FrrrHzKFCsdVIFgbHGb8fscVU684I8k2dEnEuNlL5JFzZA7ZFK2e0kkFnmV80" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://try.remediqe.com/A067/Adv1</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://try.remediqe.com/A067/Adv1	183367918183653	PureVitality Blog	https://facebook.com/61553453101889	3	1	1,644,732,606,056,719	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	PureVitality Blog	120204772693610468	try.remediqe.com	NONE	image	Many who bought NeuroRadiant braces say it gave them a "new lease on life" after fighting wrist tunnel hurting for years.	https://try.remediqe.com/A067/Adv1		2024-01-24 03:33	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421484753_7181022328619922_289969604888425073_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-Kc32YBvU_oAX9G6YUF&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfCDR9JbbFR3oOtpSJzgADoNjaYOHqjyBVN_aB_WiIOhlQ&oe=65B89873	person_profile	PureVitality Blog	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421532947_1072687197308975_2963624782741467852_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=T8M4CG6B1rkAX-FGAA8&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfBB7nplBFRP2F5rgXRtgx3OOETDNtDoHiJHjpd9f0Udsg&oe=65B6F4D8	3	PureVitality Blog	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,272	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158270}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	389365796966341	Sell Your Home With Confidence	🏠 Selling your home can be a stressful process. You want to get the best price for your property, but you also want to make the process as simple as possible. As a real estate agent with a proven track record of success, I can help you sell your home quickly and easily. Let's work together to get your property sold.	CONTACT_US	http://verani.com/	166845746504685	Syeda Gardezi Realtor	https://facebook.com/61553086490705	0	0	207,848,032,416,390	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Contact Us	Syeda Gardezi Realtor	120205451886450207	verani.com	NONE	dco	From waterfront property to residential land, bungalows to luxury homes, find real estate for sale across NH, MA, ME and VT. Search our MLS listings now!	http://verani.com/		2024-01-24 08:20	https://scontent-bos5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421523784_352262044275678_4954579647521180155_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_fj7V8Oo-IQAX94SlBb&_nc_ht=scontent-bos5-1.xx&oh=00_AfANCD4iLuJrGcUE1xNO7N0a3dXeMpj23DUqumJFEW5c6g&oe=65B713FF	person_profile	Syeda Gardezi	https://scontent-bos5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421507950_916708690072812_1104577669738756270_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nZR23b_TDRIAX9r22lY&_nc_oc=AQmifJyC8un1jcsw1OoFenqJsjIZNi2NeTFpXDR1K2Gd0cFzDIjaOGMMKtLg9zbJf7pEjZ1DOue0PFrsIWxIUOX8&_nc_ht=scontent-bos5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDG_diNbZsv9VUY-Ue_VbuhDkSvY9HwGVBDeXl_MtY0nA&oe=65B6FC4E	3	Syeda Gardezi Realtor	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,538	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	909320100722147	Woman Refuses to Supervise 'Kids Table' at Wedding, Ignites In-Law Ire	Woman Refuses to Supervise 'Kids Table' at Wedding, Ignites In-Law Ire	LEARN_MORE	https://cooking4all.com/supervise-kids-table-weddi	275758569814605	Cooking 4 All	https://facebook.com/Cooking4AllFeed	2,631	1	2,629,659,077,207,489	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Cooking 4 All	120202635626060044	cooking4all.com	NONE	image	Anna and her husband, Jack, received an unexpected wedding invitation from Jack's brother, set to take place in the summer of 2024 in the UK. While the couple lived in the US and were diligently saving for a house, the prospect of a transatlantic voyage for the wedding was both exciting and financia...	https://cooking4all.com/supervise-kids-table-wedding-eb/		2024-01-23 14:39	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420770234_1391823741466140_5426544310878834941_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jCATLz0N6zgAX-Pma_B&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfCfS8CxtufqrWvO9nZJwaX-YuOoDJxEJt4lrcRI2_BY6Q&oe=65B6E9B5	person_profile	Cooking 4 All	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422560111_847185847181772_2571597439448657897_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0giCj3X31cMAX9mXX6D&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfCgENhxJ8mhwYbvNFkY-un5GtojKPUwb7cM88RbKvjwbQ&oe=65B800EB	3	Cooking 4 All	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,239	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158236}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	1435933897273685	Little-Known Secrets \| How To Beat Chronic Back, Neck, or Sciatic Nerve Pain	Hey, North Port Area!<br /> <br /> At North Port Chiropractic, we have an exciting new offer to help 15 more patients this month!<br /> <br /> For those suffering from:<br /> ❌ 𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱, 𝗼𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝘀<br /> ❌ 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘀<br /> ❌ 𝗡𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘀𝘆𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀<br /> ❌ 𝗟𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸, 𝗵𝗶𝗽, 𝗻𝗲𝗰𝗸, 𝗼𝗿 𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻 <br /> ❌ 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝘀, 𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘀, 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀<br /> <br /> We have a very special offer available for our Complete Back, Neck, Sciatica, Disc, or Stenosis Pain Relief Package for ONLY $21 ($347.00 value)!<br /> <br /> New patients who sign up right now will receive a:<br /> <br /> ✅Comprehensive Consultation and Second Opinion <br /> ✅Detailed Health History Review<br /> ✅𝗦𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗺 <br /> ✅Review of Any Pre-Existing X-rays or MRI Reports <br /> ✅𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 <br /> ✅Report of Findings <br /> ✅Breakdown of the Revolutionary Disc-Rehydration Protocol That Can Actually Work 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘔𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴, 𝘐𝘯𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴, 𝘰𝘳 𝘚𝘶𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘺!<br /> <br /> Our Revolutionary Disc-Rehydration Protocol is completely natural and painless! In fact, patients often report immediate relief and feelings of increased mobility, less stress, and reduced pain.<br /> <br /> All without: <br /> <br /> 🚫 OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS<br /> 🚫 PRESCRIPTION DRUGS<br /> 🚫 UNRELIABLE INJECTIONS<br /> 🚫 FANCY OVERPROMISING SUPPLEMENTS<br /> 🚫 COMPLICATED IN-HOME MEDICAL DEVICES<br /> 🚫 INVASIVE SURGERIES <br /> <br /> Find out if this can be the solution for you, just as it has for many others in our community.<br /> <br /> We all desire a healthier, happier, and more comfortable way of living. Why not start today? <br /> <br /> ⇒ LINK<br /> <br /> 𝗣.𝗦. This offer is extremely limited to a first-claimed basis. Get yours now before they’re gone!<br /> <br /> If the link still works, vouchers remain. Claim now to reserve yours.<br /> <br /> ⇒ <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.getnorthportchiropractic.com%2Fspinal-decompression&h=AT29HdbhxErVJPOvIL2bchpap6v9DOC5X9uU7ejJngSE65p3BZNWaI3kqOxYh3x0YSeEIbl4e46UFWuWQmvWFslLMnI_2a4MrmV838mTnEgc2IQyTMKWUUi-PSu-i2tpQDNVtKvNFMsn5g599IbHOW11rBBBKI78dTb0IQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.getnorthportchiropractic.com/spinal-decompression</a><br /> <br /> 𝗙𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗱𝗼 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆. 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻𝘀.<br /> <br /> North Port Chiropractic<br /> Dr. Daniel Rubin, DC<br /> 14888 Tamiami Trail <br /> North Port, FL 34287 USA<br /> (941) 357-7998	SIGN_UP	https://www.getnorthportchiropractic.com/spinal-de	172668036135298	North Port Chiropractic	https://facebook.com/northportchiropractic	881	1	911,457,007,228,724	2024-01-24 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Sign up	North Port Chiropractic	120205401941580105	getnorthportchiropractic.com	NONE	image	Sciatica doesn’t have to become permanent! Grab a voucher for ONLY $21!	https://www.getnorthportchiropractic.com/spinal-decompression		2024-01-24 09:54	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421752162_1095912131823696_3805274072548095865_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SqXfdBv_H_MAX-DH4lh&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA9DRBL5MgOtToXtQ1nKMMvdkvP_yQJ1G0YOVd0zUHpEA&oe=65B82073	person_profile	North Port Chiropractic	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422258239_896471891945340_4398721589769373008_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oyLG7unXwucAX9FQXe8&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCeQAa9JeORivOsKzcKeFQblOUxTjpxB9eaXQju6ZUi4Q&oe=65B8B0CF	3	North Port Chiropractic	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,523	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	339443885624408	Advanced Back Pain Relief Treatment Special Offer	Bulging Disc, Herniated Disc, Degenerative Disc, Spinal Stenosis, Sciatica, lower back pain…<br /> <br /> Reduce Excruciating Lower Back Pain & Chronic Pain Without Drugs or Surgery<br /> <br /> At Nevada Rehab Centers, our physicians specialize in treating chronic back, and sciatica pain using our Breakthrough Spinal Decompression Therapy treatments.<br /> <br /> We know those suffering from chronic back pain have often tried several treatments with disappointing results and simply want a solution that provides LONG-TERM relief.<br /> <br /> Patients who were told they needed surgery were able to successfully avoid surgery with our clinically proven, physician directed back pain relief treatments that include:<br /> <br /> ✔ X-Rays and Evaluation:<br /> ✔ Spinal Decompression Therapy<br /> ✔ Physical Therapy and more!<br /> ✔ Special initial discount offer<br /> <br /> Today our physician-directed program is very successful even with the most difficult cases.<br /> <br /> 🛑 No drugs, injections, or surgery involved in many cases<br /> <br /> 💰 Many save thousands in hospital bills & avoid risks with opioid use & failed back surgery.<br /> <br /> 📈 #1 Treatment with Our Success rate being OVER 91% vs. other options offering a 50% chance of relief.<br /> <br /> 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕ Clinically proven and used by Mayo Clinic, Harvard Medical, John Hopkins<br /> <br /> Call (702) 903-2402 or Tap the "Sign Up" button below to claim your life-changing consultation with one of our Physicians at Nevada Rehab Centers.<br /> <br /> This includes a consultation, x-rays, imaging review, and your personalized treatment plan to relieve your pain.<br /> <br /> This screening will help us determine if you are a candidate for our program. We will only take on a case if we know we can help<br /> <br /> Nevada Rehabilitation Centers<br /> (702) 903-2402<br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fnevadahealthsolutions.com%2F&h=AT36irMC3kD7xSBzvbueFIYCTaJQfWlRFRzsiR7Yu0nTyNH3qNGJL9IL0497IDjTjAQTAw5FpYFCqFiom2GrnQz3MDNFCG78X9bZ0jH1f9S-LHnEHd80Z1ighrIh-hUUkaTLk2gty1QjJf3Ce-o-3A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">nevadahealthsolutions.com</a><br /> 2440 W Horizon Ridge Pkwy #100, Henderson, NV 89052	LEARN_MORE	https://nevadahealthsolutions.com/	140089729195078	Nevada Rehab Centers	https://facebook.com/61553179400589	3	2	360,082,833,397,010	2024-01-23 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Nevada Rehab Centers	120204578369670598	nevadahealthsolutions.com	NONE	image	Our Guest Specialist will be giving you a call right away to go over the special offer. Reach us directly at: (725) 234-2480	https://nevadahealthsolutions.com/		2024-01-23 23:32	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421525806_1794715697716198_8358418694993990680_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QJGczeL1IDcAX-58WOy&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfAJtAqtmVEc4pRjkiTQ7SmtwgSOxZ0gxRDD6h1uhg64cA&oe=65B7EB33	person_profile	Nevada Rehab Centers	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421466267_1379134436042004_6347417155563544440_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NhpNxeeju4gAX9-GISs&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfDLcRnWos7wvpz-qp_iiASNuhJ5Mfzlo5FUH7TKN_mdpw&oe=65B6F6CA	3	Nevada Rehab Centers	2024-01-23 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,460	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158456}'	No	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	356288547334404	Read the full version now. >>>	💔💔💔The day Grace was released from prison, two men were waiting for her. One of them sent her to prison, and the other one convicted her.<br /> <br /> The snow was very heavy that day. They looked like two snowmen waiting outside the prison.<br /> <br /> Grace vowed in her heart, she’d make everyone pay the price for putting her there.<br /> <br /> "Get yourself a job and be a good person out there."<br /> <br /> That’s what the warden said to Grace as he opened the gate and set her free. <br /> <br /> Grace nodded. Through the iron bar on the prison window, she could see two black cars parked out of the gate. Waiting for her. <br /> <br /> One of them was Grace’s ex-boyfriend, and the other one was her childhood best friend.<br /> <br /> In front of them, two men from her past… Jacob and Sean.<br /> <br /> The two men stood quietly in front of their cars, snow falling gently from above<br /> <br /> Sean held a black umbrella and stared at the gate as it slowly opened. Jacob kept looking at his watch.<br /> <br /> They looked exactly as they did the day she went to prison. Tall, handsome, strong. If they hadn't sent Grace to prison and told the other inmates to “take good care” of her, maybe she’d run into their arms. <br /> <br /> Three years ago, Grace went to confront the richest girl in town Lily Atkinson for her cruelty, and her sister Jennifer was also there. In an unfortunate turn of events, Jennifer died in a car wreck. Although it was a terrible accident, everyone put the blame solely on Grace. <br /> <br /> Lily dragged her sister’s lifeless body out of the burning car and called the police. Sean arrived soon after. <br /> <br /> Lily sat on the ground and cried out, "Sean, your girlfriend killed my sister!"<br /> <br /> Sean's first reaction was to push Grace down onto the ground in case she ran away.<br /> <br /> But Grace was already hurt from her own injuries in the accident, and she was too weak to resist. What’s more… she was pregnant with Sean’s baby. <br /> <br /> Then Jacob rushed over, his eyes bloodshot as he questioned Grace, still laying on the ground. “Grace… how could you do this?” <br /> <br /> She couldn’t believe it. The two most important men in her, now thought she was an evil monster. She didn’t get the chance to explain the truth before the police took her away in handcuffs.<br /> <br /> Her heart took yet another blow when she walked into court and saw Jacob on Lily’s side, serving as her lawyer. <br /> <br /> Jacob argued to the court that everything was Grace’s fault. And they believed him. She was convicted of reckless driving and involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced to three years of imprisonment.<br /> <br /> After the judge announced her sentence, he walked past her and said, "Grace, you deserve this. Everyone has to pay for their mistakes."<br /> <br /> Once in prison, she quickly realized that life behind bars was going to be brutal. She was beaten by other inmates in places cameras couldn’t see so the guards never interfered. Her cell mates would grab her by the hair and shove her into toilets. She had bruises and cuts all the time. But she was stubborn, and never cried. That only made them beat her harder.<br /> <br /> One night, they even broke the bones in her fingers, one by one. She felt helpless and alone, with no one to turn to for help.<br /> <br /> At first, Grace didn't know why she was targeted. But after a while, she discovered the real reason. Grace sucked up to one of the female guards in prison, washing her feet, giving her massages, and even doing her laundry. Finally, she gained her trust, and she told Grace the truth. <br /> <br /> "You poor little thing… Someone paid us to beat you.” <br /> <br /> Grace knew immediately who was responsible.<br /> <br /> The man who she loved. The man who she thought would never betray her. The man who swore that he would always protect her. <br /> <br /> Sean Stevens. <br /> <br /> She stopped dead in her tracks when she saw their cars outside the gates. Grace begged the warden to let her leave from the back entrance. She couldn’t bear to see their faces. <br /> <br /> What if they still hated her? What if they wanted to hurt her even more?<br /> <br /> To them, I’m nothing. I can’t fight back against them. Grace thought to herself. <br /> <br /> Grace remembered her confrontation with Lily Atkinson. Lily stood in front of Grace while holding her dog and shouted, "Did you know? My dog is worth 70,000 dollars. Bet that’s more than your grandfather’s life is worth."<br /> <br /> Grace was three when her mother died, and her father remarried and abandoned her. After that, her grandfather raised her all by himself. <br /> <br /> He worked night and day collecting junk, just to get enough pennies scrap by. <br /> <br /> When Grace was in junior high, they moved to the city from the countryside and lived in a small rental apartment. Her grandfather told her that they could make more money in the city because there was more junk to collect. <br /> <br /> But Grace knew the true reason why her grandfather wanted her to go to school there.<br /> <br /> The girls in the city had shiny hairpins, and Grace wanted them too.<br /> <br /> Grace’s grandfather once stood outside a small jewelry store for hours, before finally going inside to buy a shiny new hairpin for Grace. He wanted her to fit in, and be just like every other girl.<br /> <br /> The school she attended offered financial aid to students from lower-class families. Grace’s teacher Mrs. Green helped her apply for it. That’s when Grace met Jacob, Mrs. Green’s son. The two became fast friends. <br /> <br /> Jacob had the best scores at school, and he occasionally helped Grace with her studies. Because of him, her grades quickly improved.<br /> <br /> Grace’s grandfather was very grateful to Mrs. Green for helping his granddaughter. He had no money to repay her, so he offered to help tend her garden. <br /> <br /> Mrs. Green lived in a small cottage. After school every day, Grace’s grandfather tended the garden while Jacob and Grace did their homework and played in the yard. <br /> <br /> Once, Mrs. Green joked to Grace’s grandfather, "Your granddaughter is so sweet and adorable. Maybe she and Jacob will make a cute couple someday."<br /> <br /> He rubbed his hands nervously and said, "We’d be lucky to have Jacob with us. He’s a gifted boy."<br /> <br /> Jacob blushed deep red, but he kept his head down and pretended not to hear. <br /> <br /> Later, Grace was accepted by a top university, and her grandfather returned to the countryside. He didn't let Grace go back with him, but sometimes she would visit secretly. <br /> <br /> That’s when Grace saw him begging friends for money to cover her college tuition. <br /> <br /> Her grandfather always did his best to give her everything. She vowed in her heart that she would grow up to be a rich lawyer, so he would never have to work again. <br /> <br /> He was the best grandfather that anyone could have asked for, but then… he died.<br /> <br /> The year after graduating from law school, Grace started dating Sean Stevens. His family was rich and powerful, a well-known name. Suddenly, her father wanted to be in her life again. <br /> <br /> The day she took Sean to meet her grandfather, he said to her, "He is a good man. You should keep him."<br /> <br /> He held her hand and patted it. "Now that you’re with a rich man, you need to look the part. Wear beautiful clothes and jewels. Otherwise, his family will look down on you.."<br /> <br /> Afterwards, her grandfather continued to collect junk to make money behind her back. Grace told him not to, many times. He was getting too old, and she was worried about his health. But it wouldn’t be poor health that took him away…<br /> <br /> It was winter, three years ago. He was tackled by an unleashed dog in the park when he was collecting junk.<br /> <br /> He fell headfirst on the concrete, blood spilling everywhere.<br /> <br /> Grace would later find out; it was Lily's dog. The one she said was worth 70,000 dollars.<br /> <br /> Her grandfather was rushed to the hospital, but the damage was already done. He became paralyzed. <br /> <br /> Grace owed a lot of money to the hospital, so she went to Lily for compensation. It was her dog after all. <br /> <br /> Lily stood in front of Grace and said arrogantly, "You are Sean’s girlfriend? What, you didn't get money from him, so you came crawling to me?" <br /> <br /> Everyone knew Lily had always liked Sean. But he chose Grace over her, and she hated her for it. <br /> <br /> "My dog's leg is broken because of your idiot grandfather, I should be the one asking you for money!" She sneered down her nose, and said, "You and your grandpa are just a bunch of country bumpkins. You’re both worthless!"<br /> <br /> Grace couldn’t hold back the rage inside her. She slapped Lily across the face. <br /> <br /> The two started to fight, pulling and clawing at each other. Jennifer, Lily’s sister, saw this and came to help. <br /> <br /> By this point, Grace was already pregnant, too weak to fight them off both, so she ran to her car to drive away. Jennifer and Lily chased after her in their fancy convertible. The car chase was too fast, and it spun out of control. That’s when the accident happened. <br /> <br /> After her arrest, Grace didn't even try to escape. She knew she was doomed, so she cried to Sean and Jacob from across the courtroom, hoping that at least one of them could take care of her grandfather.<br /> <br /> But they were on the side of Jennifer and Lily. <br /> <br /> Inside the prison, she was informed that her grandfather had been discharged from the hospital, because he couldn’t afford to stay.<br /> <br /> He was an old man, and now paralyzed. He didn’t want to be a burden to Grace anymore. A few days later, she was told he took his own life. <br /> <br /> That same day, Grace laid alone on the ice-cold ground in her cell, and lost her baby.<br /> <br /> She couldn't save her grandfather… or her baby. Her whole family was gone.<br /> <br /> Some time later, Lily went to see her in prison. <br /> <br /> She whispered to Grace, "My dog is trained. Do you really think he tackled your grandfather by accident?” <br /> <br /> Trained dogs know nothing, only to follow their owner’s orders, and his owner’s heart… was cruel. <br /> <br /> Grace had a lot of time to think while she was in prison. She blamed herself for the death of her grandfather. Lily would’ve never harmed her grandfather if she didn’t date Sean. She wasn’t a good granddaughter to him. Just a piece of garbage.<br /> <br /> If she could turn back time, she wouldn’t want any shiny hairpins or any nice dresses, and she most certainly wouldn’t want Sean Stevens. <br /> <br /> The only thing she wants… is just to have her family back. <br /> <br /> But they were all dead. <br /> <br /> Chapter 1<br /> <br /> Grace opened her eyes and woke up from her daydream with a gasp. It was another dream of everything that happened all those years ago. Or, more like a nightmare.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her calloused, misshapen hands. After three years of imprisonment, and the multiple fractures to her bones, her hands would never look or feel the same way again. <br /> <br /> They healed oddly because the prison doctors hadn’t bothered to properly reset them. Her joints looked distorted, and she still had residual pain and nerve damage. She still struggled with some more complicated movements, and her fingers ached especially when it was cold or humid outside. It was a constant reminder of her time behind bars.<br /> <br /> Grace flexed her hands and breathed deeply. <br /> <br /> It’s okay. You’re okay. <br /> <br /> Today is a new day. <br /> <br /> She repeated the mantra as she stood up and resumed working. <br /> <br /> Sometimes, the memories were too much for her. <br /> <br /> She’d lost more than just her freedom in that accident. Her future. Her boyfriend. Her grandpa. Everyone and everything she’d cared about was gone in an instant. <br /> <br /> Jennifer Atkinson was the daughter of one of the most powerful families in the country. She was even engaged to Jason Reed—the richest man in the city. <br /> <br /> It’s okay. You’re okay. <br /> <br /> Today is a new day. <br /> <br /> You don’t need anybody.<br /> <br /> Grace finished mopping the cafeteria, wiping the sweat off her forehead.<br /> <br /> She caught a glimpse of herself in a mirror on the wall. She wore the bright-colored work suit of a janitor, her long hair tied into a simple ponytail. Her delicate face was slightly reddish due to the cold weather, and her mouth was pressed into a thin line. <br /> <br /> If you were to only look at her face, you’d think she had just graduated from college. But the glow of youth and innocence was gone. She’d seen how cruel the world could be. <br /> <br /> The eyes that stared back at her were old, far older, and duller than they used to be.<br /> <br /> She sighed and rolled her cleaning cart toward the exit. <br /> <br /> With an eye on the time, she moved quickly and efficiently to clean the rest of the building. <br /> <br /> The life of a janitor wasn’t glamorous, but after she left prison this was the only job she could find. <br /> <br /> As she packed her things to leave, she heard two people watching the news on their phones.<br /> <br /> “Did you hear? Lily Atkinson is engaged to Sean Stevens!” <br /> <br /> “God, she’s so lucky! She’s basically a superstar and rich already, , now she is going to marry into the even wealthier Stevens family."<br /> <br /> Grace shuddered, and then she hurried out of the office building.<br /> <br /> She took a deep breath, and repeated her mantra again, pushed the thoughts of her ex-boyfriend and his new fiancée far from her mind.<br /> <br /> This time of year, the cold winter wind blew harshly, sending pain through her hands. <br /> <br /> She had forgotten to grab her coat on her way out, too fixated on escaping any more ‘good news’ about the happy couple that made her life hell.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, a Ferrari stopped in front of her. Three men and a woman got out of the car, all obviously drunk. <br /> <br /> One of the men looked at Grace, and through his drunken haze he recognized her. “I know you! You’re Sean’s ex-girlfriend, aren’t you?”<br /> <br /> Grace paled. The man in front of her was another trust fund baby in Sean’s social circle. She cussed out once when he made a pass at her, knowing she was dating Sean. She searched her mind for his name: Christopher Peterson.<br /> <br /> In hindsight, many of Sean’s friends were elitist creeps. She should’ve paid more attention to that. Birds of a feather do flock together. <br /> <br /> "Aren’t you supposed to be a lawyer?" He walked towards her with staggering steps. <br /> <br /> Another man stepped forward after Chris. Grace didn’t recognize him. “Hey, didn’t you know? She went to jail after killing the Atkinson girl."<br /> <br /> “Ha, look at her rags!” The woman pointed at her clothes and laughed. "She’s just a poor janitor now!”<br /> <br /> Chris stepped closer, alcohol on his breath. “Pretty girl like you… There are better ways for you to make money. You should come with me tonight. Beats sweeping the streets." <br /> <br /> He held out his big, fat hand and the other three burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> But Chris wasn’t asking permission; he was already moving in on Grace. She flinched away from his hand, but there was a building right behind her and he was blocking her exits. He grabbed her arms and pressed her against the wall.<br /> <br /> It was late at night, and no one passed by this part of the city. <br /> <br /> She screamed but she knew there was nothing left inside the building who could hear.<br /> <br /> Chris’ friends got back into the car. They didn’t care what he did to her. <br /> <br /> She tried struggling and pushing against his chest. He got angry, and knocked her head back against the wall, dimming her vision. <br /> <br /> He wrapped a hand around her throat and tightened, while she clawed at his arm. “L-let me go…”<br /> <br /> Grace kicked out hard, kneeing him in the crotch. <br /> <br /> He growled in pain, then backhanded her so hard her ears started ringing. <br /> <br /> When she kicked again, he jumped backward, and it was just the chance she needed. Grace slipped from his arms and took off running. <br /> <br /> Christopher blocked the way back into her building, so she had no choice but to run down the street. <br /> <br /> Construction on the road limited the traffic and the late hour ensured there was no one to help her—or to hear her scream.<br /> <br /> She heard the sound of a car engine starting and tires screeching, and she knew he hadn’t abandoned the chase. She stuck to the sidewalk thinking she could evade them, but when she turned down a side street, the car jumped the curb and followed. <br /> <br /> When she came out the other side and circled back down the next street, thinking she could run back to the office for safety, the car cut around her and clipped her, sending her to the ground. <br /> <br /> She collapsed and struggled to lift her head off the pavement. <br /> <br /> Chris leapt out of the car. His two friends fanned out on either side. She could only make out their shadows, headlights blinding her. <br /> <br /> She scrambled to stand as Chris shook his head at Grace. “You didn’t think I'd forget the way you insulted me, did you? You told Sean what I did to you, and it cost my family millions!”<br /> <br /> He advanced on her like a predator. “But Sean isn’t here to protect you anymore...” <br /> <br /> Grace finally got back on her feet, but she was slow, still disoriented. <br /> <br /> When Christopher lunged, her body couldn’t react quick enough, and he pinned her to the concrete. <br /> <br /> “Stop! Let go!” Grace cried on the top of her lungs. <br /> <br /> “I think you should listen to the lady.” A cold voice said from behind them. <br /> <br /> Chris froze. Grace turned her head to the man standing beside them. She didn’t know where he came from. <br /> <br /> “Mind your own business!” Chris told him. He wasn’t scared of the man. It was three against one. <br /> <br /> Grace whimpered. She had no reason to think this newcomer would risk himself for some stranger on the street. And if he did, she had no doubt he would lose…<br /> <br /> Terrence Klein shifted in the driver’s seat and considered his options. <br /> <br /> His boss, Jason, had approached the scene near the sports car in the middle of the road. A woman on the ground and the three men above her. <br /> <br /> He glanced around, gauging if there were any traffic cameras on this deserted stretch of road or if there were any other bystanders who might witness Jason committing a crime. <br /> <br /> Terrence had seen his boss lose it before. He only hoped he wouldn’t go too far.<br /> <br /> But he knew Jason, and what he was capable of. <br /> <br /> This was going to be bloody. <br /> <br /> Jason wanted to be alone tonight. But these goons with the ferrari had disturbed his peace. And by the looks of it, they were tormenting an innocent woman.<br /> <br /> Every year on this day, Jason always closed this whole road and drove along it by himself, wearing his old clothes from his younger days.<br /> <br /> No one dared to ask him for his reasons.<br /> <br /> Even Terrence, who had worked for Jason all these years, didn't know the reason why. <br /> <br /> But he never questioned his boss. Not even now, as he watched Jason lift a heavyset man with ease and slam his head against the wall over and over.<br /> <br /> He got out of the car.<br /> <br /> Beating up some thugs was one thing. Killing them… that wouldn’t be so easy to overlook. Or clean up.<br /> <br /> And the men on this road were driving a Ferrari, and wore designer clothes and watches. Which meant they weren’t ordinary street thugs. They had money.<br /> <br /> He saw his boss pull the man on the ground off the woman and began punching him over and over, until his face was twisted and bloody. He started toward Jason and then paused when just as suddenly, his boss stopped his attacks… Because the woman on the ground told him to.<br /> <br /> “Stop. Please.” Grace touched the stranger’s arm. "He’s had enough. If you keep doing this, he’ll die."<br /> <br /> "So?" the man said. But despite his protests, he let Chris go, who slid down the wall. <br /> <br /> Grace was stunned. It wasn't until this moment that she really was able to see the man clearly.<br /> <br /> He was handsome. With dark eyes and a strong jaw. Full lips and a strong body. <br /> <br /> His hair was longer on top and just slightly messy in the most perfect way. <br /> <br /> When Chrisgot to his feet, the man took a menacing step toward him.<br /> <br /> “Don’t,” she said. “He isn’t worth it.”<br /> <br /> The man’s dark eyes returned to her. He had killing intent in them, as if these people's lives meant nothing. <br /> <br /> Grace took a deep breath. "It’s not worth being imprisoned for a lowlife like him."<br /> <br /> The man didn’t move or say a word, but she sensed him relaxing. <br /> <br /> Chris ran to grab his injured friends and get back into his car. “You’ll pay for this!” he screamed.<br /> <br /> Grace didn’t know if he was addressing her, the stranger, or maybe both. <br /> <br /> But she wasn’t scared. There wasn’t much he could do that she hadn’t already experienced in prison. <br /> <br /> The woman who’d been with these bastards stuck her head out of the car. “Wait… I think I’ve seen that guy at a party before…”<br /> <br /> The other three men looked at her like she was insane. One asked, “Are you crazy? That’s just a random homeless guy."<br /> <br /> Grace understood their confusion. <br /> <br /> The man—her savior—wore old ragged clothes. He looked… as broken as she did. <br /> <br /> This was not a rich person like them . His jacket was threadbare, and his face looked haunted by his past.<br /> <br /> Chris peeled out with his buddies. Grace watched the car as it disappeared down the street. When the road was once again quiet, she looked back at the man. <br /> <br /> She hesitantly said, "Thank you… for saving me back there."<br /> <br /> He grunted in response. <br /> <br /> He walked across to the other side of the road, he sat down with his back against a brick wall.<br /> <br /> It was cold and windy. And the temperature was due to drop even lower. If this man had nowhere to stay, he’d freeze to death out here.<br /> <br /> Grace started walking over to him. He’d saved her life. She couldn’t leave him here alone.<br /> <br /> “Hey, it’s pretty late. Aren’t you going home now?” She crouched down to him. “Where is your family? Do you have their phone number? I can help you call them and ask them to pick you up.”<br /> <br /> He slowly raised his head and Grace saw… pure darkness.<br /> <br /> It was the same darkness she’d seen in her own eyes too many times. <br /> <br /> The kind of darkness that spoke of nothing to live for. No hope. <br /> <br /> "If you have nowhere to stay," she said softly. “You can come with me.”<br /> <br /> Grace did not expect to bring a stranger back to her apartment. She wasn’t impulsive by nature, and she certainly hadn’t dated anyone or even considered hooking up with a man since being released, especially after her experience with Sean.<br /> <br /> But this man had saved her from a horrendous situation. She shuddered at the thought of what could’ve happened if he wasn't there. <br /> <br /> Those men, the three of them were soulless… and how could that woman watch on while she was beat up? As an attorney, she would’ve fought hard to see all of them in prison for their crimes or complacency in it. But life had taught her that the innocent rarely prevailed. <br /> <br /> And life was never fair. <br /> <br /> So why bring this man home?<br /> <br /> Perhaps she wasn’t ready to concede just yet. <br /> <br /> Her apartment was small, just one room with a small kitchen and bathroom. She grabbed a blanket from the closet and laid it on the floor. She took her pillow and placed it on the floor.<br /> <br /> “The bathroom is just through there,” she said.<br /> <br /> He walked in and closed the door behind him. The water kicked on a moment later. <br /> <br /> When the man came out of the bathroom, his hair was wet. He had washed his hair and face. His sleeves were rolled up.<br /> <br /> Looking at the man's wet hair, Grace fetched a towel and said, "Bend over, please."<br /> <br /> The man eyed her suspiciously.<br /> <br /> "I just want to help you dry your hair with a towel," she said. "You could catch a cold."<br /> <br /> He still gazed at her, but after a few moments he asked in a deep voice, "Are you really so concerned about me?"<br /> <br /> "Yes." Grace did not avoid eye contact with him. "After bringing you to my home, I don't want you getting sick."<br /> <br /> With his eyes taking her in like she was some oddity, he slowly bent over.<br /> <br /> Toweling his wet hair, Grace asked, "What's your name?"<br /> <br /> He remained silent for a long time. "Jason," he said<br /> <br /> "Jason." She repeated his name. It was a very common name, so Grace didn’t think much about it. <br /> <br /> “My name is Grace. Where do you live? Where’s your family?"<br /> <br /> "I don't have any family," he responded.<br /> <br /> She suddenly stopped. <br /> <br /> She knew how it felt to be alone.<br /> <br /> She had people before—but they’d turned their backs on her. <br /> <br /> "Looks like we're in the same boat," she said with a bitter smile on her face as she continued to towel his hair dry.<br /> <br /> She rose and got a comb and came back to him. It felt so intimate, to touch his hair and smooth it away from his face. But this stranger—Jason—had risked his life for her. It was the least she could do.<br /> <br /> As she pushed his hair back, the true features of his face were revealed. He was a devastatingly attractive man. Strong jaw. Full mouth. Dark eyes. <br /> <br /> Eyes that were inches from hers and staring deeply into hers.<br /> <br /> “I…” she stammered, lost in his eyes. "Um… Are you hungry?”<br /> <br /> He tilted his head. “What?”<br /> <br /> She wrung her hands together. “I'll uh… make you something to eat.” <br /> <br /> Grace moved to the tiny stove and threw some instant noodles and eggs into a pot. She didn’t have any meat, but she chopped what vegetables she had and added them too.<br /> <br /> She set the tiny table and poured them both a glass of water from the sink. He moved cautiously to take a seat when she set the bowls down.<br /> <br /> "Be careful, it's quite hot," she said.<br /> <br /> She didn’t mean to treat him like a child, but his presence made her nervous. But at the same time, there was something incredibly calming about him. <br /> <br /> He lowered his head and ate his noodles quietly. Grace stared at him in silence. <br /> <br /> Normally, she’d come home and hate the feeling of being alone, confined in this tiny space. Now, the loneliness that she’d usually feel was gone. She felt somewhat… happy. <br /> <br /> After he had finished eating, Grace cleaned up his bowl and cutlery. "I usually sleep with the lights on. I hope you don't mind," she said. It was an old habit from prison. Lights made her sleep easier, when she could see who’s coming.<br /> <br /> “That’s fine," he said.<br /> <br /> Grace took her pajamas into the bathroom and shut the door to brush her teeth and change. Was it weird having a man alone beside where she’d sleep? Yeah. Probably.<br /> <br /> But she didn’t feel scared by his presence. If he’d wanted to hurt her, he wouldn’t have defended her on the street. <br /> <br /> When she got out, he was laying on the pillow on the floor. <br /> <br /> The room was silent save for the sound of the heater. If she listened hard enough, she could hear each breath he took. <br /> <br /> It was a steady rhythm, peaceful even.<br /> <br /> Grace closed her eyes and focused on sleeping. This was her routine every night, because it was almost impossible for her to relax. Even being out of jail, at night she would always dream of her time inside.<br /> <br /> She would be beaten, shamed, and abused... and every finger would burn with the pain of being broken and the nails being torn off…<br /> <br /> She’d wake up screaming, fingers curled, terrified and heart-pounding. <br /> <br /> However, oddly, that didn’t happen tonight.<br /> <br /> She wasn’t visited by her usual nightmares. She slept until sunrise.<br /> <br /> As she awakened, she rolled over to look at the figure lying on the ground beside her. Still here.<br /> <br /> Was it because of him? Because she was no longer alone?<br /> <br /> Before she even knew it, she had gotten up, squatted down, and placed her hand on his cheek. Her hand felt warm.<br /> <br /> He was real.Not something from her imagination. <br /> <br /> Last night, she really had taken a strange man into her apartment.<br /> <br /> When she came to herself, she found that he was already awake. His beautiful eyes were fixed on her.<br /> <br /> "S-Sorry." Her face heated with embarrassment. "I... I just... that... If you don't have anywhere to go, you can stay here."<br /> <br /> She spoke in a hurry, but after she had said it, she felt relieved.<br /> <br /> His eyes widened slightly.<br /> <br /> "If you don't want to, just pretend I didn't say anything," she added, biting her lip.<br /> <br /> His mouth finally opened and he spoke quietly. "Do you want me to stay?" <br /> <br /> If this had been said by a man like Chris, it would've sounded different. It would’ve sounded wrong.<br /> <br /> But when the words came from him, it was just an honest question. She didn’t read any hidden meaning or intent into his words, and even if there had been, she realized her answer would be the same. Grace pursed her lips. "Yes, I do."<br /> <br /> He stared at her, and a smile slowly formed on his lips. "Good."<br /> <br /> This was the first time she had seen him smile. Although it was very light... It was beautiful.<br /> <br /> Jason remained at the tiny table while Grace got ready for work. She left money on the table for him to buy himself some food.<br /> <br /> He sat staring at the twenty dollar bill for a long time after she was gone. The room was eerily still. <br /> <br /> None of her light vanilla scent or somewhat nervous energy to fill the space. He rolled up the quilt that he’d slept on and then washed out the coffee cup he’d used. <br /> <br /> Normally he’d be tempted to look around, maybe snoop a bit. But he didn’t want to intrude on her space.<br /> <br /> After he was done, he stepped out of the apartment. There were several people waiting for him outside. <br /> <br /> They respectfully greeted him, “Mr. Reed.”<br /> <br /> "Let's go," Jason responded faintly.<br /> <br /> A black Bentley was parked in front. Jason got into the backseat and looked at the twenty dollar bill in his hand. It had been many years since someone had given him money like this. On the contrary, for as long as he could remember, people only wanted to take money from him.<br /> <br /> Terrence met his gaze in the rearview mirror. “The woman who was with you last night is a contract janitor working cleaning offices. She started renting her current residence here a month ago, and was just released from prison two months prior."<br /> <br /> "Prison?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, her name is Grace Cummins. She's the ex-girlfriend of Sean Stevens of the Stevens family. She was convicted of manslaughter in the death of Jennifer Atkinson. She was sentenced to three years of imprisonment and had her law practice license revoked," Terrence said as he carefully observed Jason's reaction.<br /> <br /> Jason kept his face even. “Grace…” he whispered. “Well, this is interesting.”	USE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s	107981368921916	Kiss-Fantasy Fiction	https://facebook.com/100091259960084	4,048	2	893,424,212,512,638	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	1	Use app	Kiss-Fantasy Fiction	120204941078800250	play.google.com	NONE	image	Enjoy all book genres in Kiss - Read & Write Romance.	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stardust.kissreader		2024-01-24 00:42	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421746897_312605154566103_7100355218526549802_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aE0kTfwg3JQAX-hXASR&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfA4U1qiaWQUzAvAQDi6tdeG9iE3rbYw2i5AGdYP8ZEZJA&oe=65B7B87E	person_profile	KISS: Read & Write Romance	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422151944_414166454370424_5597732948631541112_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1FuyDkaGCpkAX9C8zKO&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfDvNEXHR6KeMimgtzfpwzmu0XF4NmCnbyzx32MqEVUxHg&oe=65B810CC	3	Kiss-Fantasy Fiction	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,459	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158456}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	1314162312492060	Read the full version now. >>>	💔💔💔The day Grace was released from prison, two men were waiting for her. One of them sent her to prison, and the other one convicted her.<br /> <br /> The snow was very heavy that day. They looked like two snowmen waiting outside the prison.<br /> <br /> Grace vowed in her heart, she’d make everyone pay the price for putting her there.<br /> <br /> "Get yourself a job and be a good person out there."<br /> <br /> That’s what the warden said to Grace as he opened the gate and set her free. <br /> <br /> Grace nodded. Through the iron bar on the prison window, she could see two black cars parked out of the gate. Waiting for her. <br /> <br /> One of them was Grace’s ex-boyfriend, and the other one was her childhood best friend.<br /> <br /> In front of them, two men from her past… Jacob and Sean.<br /> <br /> The two men stood quietly in front of their cars, snow falling gently from above<br /> <br /> Sean held a black umbrella and stared at the gate as it slowly opened. Jacob kept looking at his watch.<br /> <br /> They looked exactly as they did the day she went to prison. Tall, handsome, strong. If they hadn't sent Grace to prison and told the other inmates to “take good care” of her, maybe she’d run into their arms. <br /> <br /> Three years ago, Grace went to confront the richest girl in town Lily Atkinson for her cruelty, and her sister Jennifer was also there. In an unfortunate turn of events, Jennifer died in a car wreck. Although it was a terrible accident, everyone put the blame solely on Grace. <br /> <br /> Lily dragged her sister’s lifeless body out of the burning car and called the police. Sean arrived soon after. <br /> <br /> Lily sat on the ground and cried out, "Sean, your girlfriend killed my sister!"<br /> <br /> Sean's first reaction was to push Grace down onto the ground in case she ran away.<br /> <br /> But Grace was already hurt from her own injuries in the accident, and she was too weak to resist. What’s more… she was pregnant with Sean’s baby. <br /> <br /> Then Jacob rushed over, his eyes bloodshot as he questioned Grace, still laying on the ground. “Grace… how could you do this?” <br /> <br /> She couldn’t believe it. The two most important men in her, now thought she was an evil monster. She didn’t get the chance to explain the truth before the police took her away in handcuffs.<br /> <br /> Her heart took yet another blow when she walked into court and saw Jacob on Lily’s side, serving as her lawyer. <br /> <br /> Jacob argued to the court that everything was Grace’s fault. And they believed him. She was convicted of reckless driving and involuntary manslaughter and was sentenced to three years of imprisonment.<br /> <br /> After the judge announced her sentence, he walked past her and said, "Grace, you deserve this. Everyone has to pay for their mistakes."<br /> <br /> Once in prison, she quickly realized that life behind bars was going to be brutal. She was beaten by other inmates in places cameras couldn’t see so the guards never interfered. Her cell mates would grab her by the hair and shove her into toilets. She had bruises and cuts all the time. But she was stubborn, and never cried. That only made them beat her harder.<br /> <br /> One night, they even broke the bones in her fingers, one by one. She felt helpless and alone, with no one to turn to for help.<br /> <br /> At first, Grace didn't know why she was targeted. But after a while, she discovered the real reason. Grace sucked up to one of the female guards in prison, washing her feet, giving her massages, and even doing her laundry. Finally, she gained her trust, and she told Grace the truth. <br /> <br /> "You poor little thing… Someone paid us to beat you.” <br /> <br /> Grace knew immediately who was responsible.<br /> <br /> The man who she loved. The man who she thought would never betray her. The man who swore that he would always protect her. <br /> <br /> Sean Stevens. <br /> <br /> She stopped dead in her tracks when she saw their cars outside the gates. Grace begged the warden to let her leave from the back entrance. She couldn’t bear to see their faces. <br /> <br /> What if they still hated her? What if they wanted to hurt her even more?<br /> <br /> To them, I’m nothing. I can’t fight back against them. Grace thought to herself. <br /> <br /> Grace remembered her confrontation with Lily Atkinson. Lily stood in front of Grace while holding her dog and shouted, "Did you know? My dog is worth 70,000 dollars. Bet that’s more than your grandfather’s life is worth."<br /> <br /> Grace was three when her mother died, and her father remarried and abandoned her. After that, her grandfather raised her all by himself. <br /> <br /> He worked night and day collecting junk, just to get enough pennies scrap by. <br /> <br /> When Grace was in junior high, they moved to the city from the countryside and lived in a small rental apartment. Her grandfather told her that they could make more money in the city because there was more junk to collect. <br /> <br /> But Grace knew the true reason why her grandfather wanted her to go to school there.<br /> <br /> The girls in the city had shiny hairpins, and Grace wanted them too.<br /> <br /> Grace’s grandfather once stood outside a small jewelry store for hours, before finally going inside to buy a shiny new hairpin for Grace. He wanted her to fit in, and be just like every other girl.<br /> <br /> The school she attended offered financial aid to students from lower-class families. Grace’s teacher Mrs. Green helped her apply for it. That’s when Grace met Jacob, Mrs. Green’s son. The two became fast friends. <br /> <br /> Jacob had the best scores at school, and he occasionally helped Grace with her studies. Because of him, her grades quickly improved.<br /> <br /> Grace’s grandfather was very grateful to Mrs. Green for helping his granddaughter. He had no money to repay her, so he offered to help tend her garden. <br /> <br /> Mrs. Green lived in a small cottage. After school every day, Grace’s grandfather tended the garden while Jacob and Grace did their homework and played in the yard. <br /> <br /> Once, Mrs. Green joked to Grace’s grandfather, "Your granddaughter is so sweet and adorable. Maybe she and Jacob will make a cute couple someday."<br /> <br /> He rubbed his hands nervously and said, "We’d be lucky to have Jacob with us. He’s a gifted boy."<br /> <br /> Jacob blushed deep red, but he kept his head down and pretended not to hear. <br /> <br /> Later, Grace was accepted by a top university, and her grandfather returned to the countryside. He didn't let Grace go back with him, but sometimes she would visit secretly. <br /> <br /> That’s when Grace saw him begging friends for money to cover her college tuition. <br /> <br /> Her grandfather always did his best to give her everything. She vowed in her heart that she would grow up to be a rich lawyer, so he would never have to work again. <br /> <br /> He was the best grandfather that anyone could have asked for, but then… he died.<br /> <br /> The year after graduating from law school, Grace started dating Sean Stevens. His family was rich and powerful, a well-known name. Suddenly, her father wanted to be in her life again. <br /> <br /> The day she took Sean to meet her grandfather, he said to her, "He is a good man. You should keep him."<br /> <br /> He held her hand and patted it. "Now that you’re with a rich man, you need to look the part. Wear beautiful clothes and jewels. Otherwise, his family will look down on you.."<br /> <br /> Afterwards, her grandfather continued to collect junk to make money behind her back. Grace told him not to, many times. He was getting too old, and she was worried about his health. But it wouldn’t be poor health that took him away…<br /> <br /> It was winter, three years ago. He was tackled by an unleashed dog in the park when he was collecting junk.<br /> <br /> He fell headfirst on the concrete, blood spilling everywhere.<br /> <br /> Grace would later find out; it was Lily's dog. The one she said was worth 70,000 dollars.<br /> <br /> Her grandfather was rushed to the hospital, but the damage was already done. He became paralyzed. <br /> <br /> Grace owed a lot of money to the hospital, so she went to Lily for compensation. It was her dog after all. <br /> <br /> Lily stood in front of Grace and said arrogantly, "You are Sean’s girlfriend? What, you didn't get money from him, so you came crawling to me?" <br /> <br /> Everyone knew Lily had always liked Sean. But he chose Grace over her, and she hated her for it. <br /> <br /> "My dog's leg is broken because of your idiot grandfather, I should be the one asking you for money!" She sneered down her nose, and said, "You and your grandpa are just a bunch of country bumpkins. You’re both worthless!"<br /> <br /> Grace couldn’t hold back the rage inside her. She slapped Lily across the face. <br /> <br /> The two started to fight, pulling and clawing at each other. Jennifer, Lily’s sister, saw this and came to help. <br /> <br /> By this point, Grace was already pregnant, too weak to fight them off both, so she ran to her car to drive away. Jennifer and Lily chased after her in their fancy convertible. The car chase was too fast, and it spun out of control. That’s when the accident happened. <br /> <br /> After her arrest, Grace didn't even try to escape. She knew she was doomed, so she cried to Sean and Jacob from across the courtroom, hoping that at least one of them could take care of her grandfather.<br /> <br /> But they were on the side of Jennifer and Lily. <br /> <br /> Inside the prison, she was informed that her grandfather had been discharged from the hospital, because he couldn’t afford to stay.<br /> <br /> He was an old man, and now paralyzed. He didn’t want to be a burden to Grace anymore. A few days later, she was told he took his own life. <br /> <br /> That same day, Grace laid alone on the ice-cold ground in her cell, and lost her baby.<br /> <br /> She couldn't save her grandfather… or her baby. Her whole family was gone.<br /> <br /> Some time later, Lily went to see her in prison. <br /> <br /> She whispered to Grace, "My dog is trained. Do you really think he tackled your grandfather by accident?” <br /> <br /> Trained dogs know nothing, only to follow their owner’s orders, and his owner’s heart… was cruel. <br /> <br /> Grace had a lot of time to think while she was in prison. She blamed herself for the death of her grandfather. Lily would’ve never harmed her grandfather if she didn’t date Sean. She wasn’t a good granddaughter to him. Just a piece of garbage.<br /> <br /> If she could turn back time, she wouldn’t want any shiny hairpins or any nice dresses, and she most certainly wouldn’t want Sean Stevens. <br /> <br /> The only thing she wants… is just to have her family back. <br /> <br /> But they were all dead. <br /> <br /> Chapter 1<br /> <br /> Grace opened her eyes and woke up from her daydream with a gasp. It was another dream of everything that happened all those years ago. Or, more like a nightmare.<br /> <br /> She looked down at her calloused, misshapen hands. After three years of imprisonment, and the multiple fractures to her bones, her hands would never look or feel the same way again. <br /> <br /> They healed oddly because the prison doctors hadn’t bothered to properly reset them. Her joints looked distorted, and she still had residual pain and nerve damage. She still struggled with some more complicated movements, and her fingers ached especially when it was cold or humid outside. It was a constant reminder of her time behind bars.<br /> <br /> Grace flexed her hands and breathed deeply. <br /> <br /> It’s okay. You’re okay. <br /> <br /> Today is a new day. <br /> <br /> She repeated the mantra as she stood up and resumed working. <br /> <br /> Sometimes, the memories were too much for her. <br /> <br /> She’d lost more than just her freedom in that accident. Her future. Her boyfriend. Her grandpa. Everyone and everything she’d cared about was gone in an instant. <br /> <br /> Jennifer Atkinson was the daughter of one of the most powerful families in the country. She was even engaged to Jason Reed—the richest man in the city. <br /> <br /> It’s okay. You’re okay. <br /> <br /> Today is a new day. <br /> <br /> You don’t need anybody.<br /> <br /> Grace finished mopping the cafeteria, wiping the sweat off her forehead.<br /> <br /> She caught a glimpse of herself in a mirror on the wall. She wore the bright-colored work suit of a janitor, her long hair tied into a simple ponytail. Her delicate face was slightly reddish due to the cold weather, and her mouth was pressed into a thin line. <br /> <br /> If you were to only look at her face, you’d think she had just graduated from college. But the glow of youth and innocence was gone. She’d seen how cruel the world could be. <br /> <br /> The eyes that stared back at her were old, far older, and duller than they used to be.<br /> <br /> She sighed and rolled her cleaning cart toward the exit. <br /> <br /> With an eye on the time, she moved quickly and efficiently to clean the rest of the building. <br /> <br /> The life of a janitor wasn’t glamorous, but after she left prison this was the only job she could find. <br /> <br /> As she packed her things to leave, she heard two people watching the news on their phones.<br /> <br /> “Did you hear? Lily Atkinson is engaged to Sean Stevens!” <br /> <br /> “God, she’s so lucky! She’s basically a superstar and rich already, , now she is going to marry into the even wealthier Stevens family."<br /> <br /> Grace shuddered, and then she hurried out of the office building.<br /> <br /> She took a deep breath, and repeated her mantra again, pushed the thoughts of her ex-boyfriend and his new fiancée far from her mind.<br /> <br /> This time of year, the cold winter wind blew harshly, sending pain through her hands. <br /> <br /> She had forgotten to grab her coat on her way out, too fixated on escaping any more ‘good news’ about the happy couple that made her life hell.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, a Ferrari stopped in front of her. Three men and a woman got out of the car, all obviously drunk. <br /> <br /> One of the men looked at Grace, and through his drunken haze he recognized her. “I know you! You’re Sean’s ex-girlfriend, aren’t you?”<br /> <br /> Grace paled. The man in front of her was another trust fund baby in Sean’s social circle. She cussed out once when he made a pass at her, knowing she was dating Sean. She searched her mind for his name: Christopher Peterson.<br /> <br /> In hindsight, many of Sean’s friends were elitist creeps. She should’ve paid more attention to that. Birds of a feather do flock together. <br /> <br /> "Aren’t you supposed to be a lawyer?" He walked towards her with staggering steps. <br /> <br /> Another man stepped forward after Chris. Grace didn’t recognize him. “Hey, didn’t you know? She went to jail after killing the Atkinson girl."<br /> <br /> “Ha, look at her rags!” The woman pointed at her clothes and laughed. "She’s just a poor janitor now!”<br /> <br /> Chris stepped closer, alcohol on his breath. “Pretty girl like you… There are better ways for you to make money. You should come with me tonight. Beats sweeping the streets." <br /> <br /> He held out his big, fat hand and the other three burst into laughter.<br /> <br /> But Chris wasn’t asking permission; he was already moving in on Grace. She flinched away from his hand, but there was a building right behind her and he was blocking her exits. He grabbed her arms and pressed her against the wall.<br /> <br /> It was late at night, and no one passed by this part of the city. <br /> <br /> She screamed but she knew there was nothing left inside the building who could hear.<br /> <br /> Chris’ friends got back into the car. They didn’t care what he did to her. <br /> <br /> She tried struggling and pushing against his chest. He got angry, and knocked her head back against the wall, dimming her vision. <br /> <br /> He wrapped a hand around her throat and tightened, while she clawed at his arm. “L-let me go…”<br /> <br /> Grace kicked out hard, kneeing him in the crotch. <br /> <br /> He growled in pain, then backhanded her so hard her ears started ringing. <br /> <br /> When she kicked again, he jumped backward, and it was just the chance she needed. Grace slipped from his arms and took off running. <br /> <br /> Christopher blocked the way back into her building, so she had no choice but to run down the street. <br /> <br /> Construction on the road limited the traffic and the late hour ensured there was no one to help her—or to hear her scream.<br /> <br /> She heard the sound of a car engine starting and tires screeching, and she knew he hadn’t abandoned the chase. She stuck to the sidewalk thinking she could evade them, but when she turned down a side street, the car jumped the curb and followed. <br /> <br /> When she came out the other side and circled back down the next street, thinking she could run back to the office for safety, the car cut around her and clipped her, sending her to the ground. <br /> <br /> She collapsed and struggled to lift her head off the pavement. <br /> <br /> Chris leapt out of the car. His two friends fanned out on either side. She could only make out their shadows, headlights blinding her. <br /> <br /> She scrambled to stand as Chris shook his head at Grace. “You didn’t think I'd forget the way you insulted me, did you? You told Sean what I did to you, and it cost my family millions!”<br /> <br /> He advanced on her like a predator. “But Sean isn’t here to protect you anymore...” <br /> <br /> Grace finally got back on her feet, but she was slow, still disoriented. <br /> <br /> When Christopher lunged, her body couldn’t react quick enough, and he pinned her to the concrete. <br /> <br /> “Stop! Let go!” Grace cried on the top of her lungs. <br /> <br /> “I think you should listen to the lady.” A cold voice said from behind them. <br /> <br /> Chris froze. Grace turned her head to the man standing beside them. She didn’t know where he came from. <br /> <br /> “Mind your own business!” Chris told him. He wasn’t scared of the man. It was three against one. <br /> <br /> Grace whimpered. She had no reason to think this newcomer would risk himself for some stranger on the street. And if he did, she had no doubt he would lose…<br /> <br /> Terrence Klein shifted in the driver’s seat and considered his options. <br /> <br /> His boss, Jason, had approached the scene near the sports car in the middle of the road. A woman on the ground and the three men above her. <br /> <br /> He glanced around, gauging if there were any traffic cameras on this deserted stretch of road or if there were any other bystanders who might witness Jason committing a crime. <br /> <br /> Terrence had seen his boss lose it before. He only hoped he wouldn’t go too far.<br /> <br /> But he knew Jason, and what he was capable of. <br /> <br /> This was going to be bloody. <br /> <br /> Jason wanted to be alone tonight. But these goons with the ferrari had disturbed his peace. And by the looks of it, they were tormenting an innocent woman.<br /> <br /> Every year on this day, Jason always closed this whole road and drove along it by himself, wearing his old clothes from his younger days.<br /> <br /> No one dared to ask him for his reasons.<br /> <br /> Even Terrence, who had worked for Jason all these years, didn't know the reason why. <br /> <br /> But he never questioned his boss. Not even now, as he watched Jason lift a heavyset man with ease and slam his head against the wall over and over.<br /> <br /> He got out of the car.<br /> <br /> Beating up some thugs was one thing. Killing them… that wouldn’t be so easy to overlook. Or clean up.<br /> <br /> And the men on this road were driving a Ferrari, and wore designer clothes and watches. Which meant they weren’t ordinary street thugs. They had money.<br /> <br /> He saw his boss pull the man on the ground off the woman and began punching him over and over, until his face was twisted and bloody. He started toward Jason and then paused when just as suddenly, his boss stopped his attacks… Because the woman on the ground told him to.<br /> <br /> “Stop. Please.” Grace touched the stranger’s arm. "He’s had enough. If you keep doing this, he’ll die."<br /> <br /> "So?" the man said. But despite his protests, he let Chris go, who slid down the wall. <br /> <br /> Grace was stunned. It wasn't until this moment that she really was able to see the man clearly.<br /> <br /> He was handsome. With dark eyes and a strong jaw. Full lips and a strong body. <br /> <br /> His hair was longer on top and just slightly messy in the most perfect way. <br /> <br /> When Chrisgot to his feet, the man took a menacing step toward him.<br /> <br /> “Don’t,” she said. “He isn’t worth it.”<br /> <br /> The man’s dark eyes returned to her. He had killing intent in them, as if these people's lives meant nothing. <br /> <br /> Grace took a deep breath. "It’s not worth being imprisoned for a lowlife like him."<br /> <br /> The man didn’t move or say a word, but she sensed him relaxing. <br /> <br /> Chris ran to grab his injured friends and get back into his car. “You’ll pay for this!” he screamed.<br /> <br /> Grace didn’t know if he was addressing her, the stranger, or maybe both. <br /> <br /> But she wasn’t scared. There wasn’t much he could do that she hadn’t already experienced in prison. <br /> <br /> The woman who’d been with these bastards stuck her head out of the car. “Wait… I think I’ve seen that guy at a party before…”<br /> <br /> The other three men looked at her like she was insane. One asked, “Are you crazy? That’s just a random homeless guy."<br /> <br /> Grace understood their confusion. <br /> <br /> The man—her savior—wore old ragged clothes. He looked… as broken as she did. <br /> <br /> This was not a rich person like them . His jacket was threadbare, and his face looked haunted by his past.<br /> <br /> Chris peeled out with his buddies. Grace watched the car as it disappeared down the street. When the road was once again quiet, she looked back at the man. <br /> <br /> She hesitantly said, "Thank you… for saving me back there."<br /> <br /> He grunted in response. <br /> <br /> He walked across to the other side of the road, he sat down with his back against a brick wall.<br /> <br /> It was cold and windy. And the temperature was due to drop even lower. If this man had nowhere to stay, he’d freeze to death out here.<br /> <br /> Grace started walking over to him. He’d saved her life. She couldn’t leave him here alone.<br /> <br /> “Hey, it’s pretty late. Aren’t you going home now?” She crouched down to him. “Where is your family? Do you have their phone number? I can help you call them and ask them to pick you up.”<br /> <br /> He slowly raised his head and Grace saw… pure darkness.<br /> <br /> It was the same darkness she’d seen in her own eyes too many times. <br /> <br /> The kind of darkness that spoke of nothing to live for. No hope. <br /> <br /> "If you have nowhere to stay," she said softly. “You can come with me.”<br /> <br /> Grace did not expect to bring a stranger back to her apartment. She wasn’t impulsive by nature, and she certainly hadn’t dated anyone or even considered hooking up with a man since being released, especially after her experience with Sean.<br /> <br /> But this man had saved her from a horrendous situation. She shuddered at the thought of what could’ve happened if he wasn't there. <br /> <br /> Those men, the three of them were soulless… and how could that woman watch on while she was beat up? As an attorney, she would’ve fought hard to see all of them in prison for their crimes or complacency in it. But life had taught her that the innocent rarely prevailed. <br /> <br /> And life was never fair. <br /> <br /> So why bring this man home?<br /> <br /> Perhaps she wasn’t ready to concede just yet. <br /> <br /> Her apartment was small, just one room with a small kitchen and bathroom. She grabbed a blanket from the closet and laid it on the floor. She took her pillow and placed it on the floor.<br /> <br /> “The bathroom is just through there,” she said.<br /> <br /> He walked in and closed the door behind him. The water kicked on a moment later. <br /> <br /> When the man came out of the bathroom, his hair was wet. He had washed his hair and face. His sleeves were rolled up.<br /> <br /> Looking at the man's wet hair, Grace fetched a towel and said, "Bend over, please."<br /> <br /> The man eyed her suspiciously.<br /> <br /> "I just want to help you dry your hair with a towel," she said. "You could catch a cold."<br /> <br /> He still gazed at her, but after a few moments he asked in a deep voice, "Are you really so concerned about me?"<br /> <br /> "Yes." Grace did not avoid eye contact with him. "After bringing you to my home, I don't want you getting sick."<br /> <br /> With his eyes taking her in like she was some oddity, he slowly bent over.<br /> <br /> Toweling his wet hair, Grace asked, "What's your name?"<br /> <br /> He remained silent for a long time. "Jason," he said<br /> <br /> "Jason." She repeated his name. It was a very common name, so Grace didn’t think much about it. <br /> <br /> “My name is Grace. Where do you live? Where’s your family?"<br /> <br /> "I don't have any family," he responded.<br /> <br /> She suddenly stopped. <br /> <br /> She knew how it felt to be alone.<br /> <br /> She had people before—but they’d turned their backs on her. <br /> <br /> "Looks like we're in the same boat," she said with a bitter smile on her face as she continued to towel his hair dry.<br /> <br /> She rose and got a comb and came back to him. It felt so intimate, to touch his hair and smooth it away from his face. But this stranger—Jason—had risked his life for her. It was the least she could do.<br /> <br /> As she pushed his hair back, the true features of his face were revealed. He was a devastatingly attractive man. Strong jaw. Full mouth. Dark eyes. <br /> <br /> Eyes that were inches from hers and staring deeply into hers.<br /> <br /> “I…” she stammered, lost in his eyes. "Um… Are you hungry?”<br /> <br /> He tilted his head. “What?”<br /> <br /> She wrung her hands together. “I'll uh… make you something to eat.” <br /> <br /> Grace moved to the tiny stove and threw some instant noodles and eggs into a pot. She didn’t have any meat, but she chopped what vegetables she had and added them too.<br /> <br /> She set the tiny table and poured them both a glass of water from the sink. He moved cautiously to take a seat when she set the bowls down.<br /> <br /> "Be careful, it's quite hot," she said.<br /> <br /> She didn’t mean to treat him like a child, but his presence made her nervous. But at the same time, there was something incredibly calming about him. <br /> <br /> He lowered his head and ate his noodles quietly. Grace stared at him in silence. <br /> <br /> Normally, she’d come home and hate the feeling of being alone, confined in this tiny space. Now, the loneliness that she’d usually feel was gone. She felt somewhat… happy. <br /> <br /> After he had finished eating, Grace cleaned up his bowl and cutlery. "I usually sleep with the lights on. I hope you don't mind," she said. It was an old habit from prison. Lights made her sleep easier, when she could see who’s coming.<br /> <br /> “That’s fine," he said.<br /> <br /> Grace took her pajamas into the bathroom and shut the door to brush her teeth and change. Was it weird having a man alone beside where she’d sleep? Yeah. Probably.<br /> <br /> But she didn’t feel scared by his presence. If he’d wanted to hurt her, he wouldn’t have defended her on the street. <br /> <br /> When she got out, he was laying on the pillow on the floor. <br /> <br /> The room was silent save for the sound of the heater. If she listened hard enough, she could hear each breath he took. <br /> <br /> It was a steady rhythm, peaceful even.<br /> <br /> Grace closed her eyes and focused on sleeping. This was her routine every night, because it was almost impossible for her to relax. Even being out of jail, at night she would always dream of her time inside.<br /> <br /> She would be beaten, shamed, and abused... and every finger would burn with the pain of being broken and the nails being torn off…<br /> <br /> She’d wake up screaming, fingers curled, terrified and heart-pounding. <br /> <br /> However, oddly, that didn’t happen tonight.<br /> <br /> She wasn’t visited by her usual nightmares. She slept until sunrise.<br /> <br /> As she awakened, she rolled over to look at the figure lying on the ground beside her. Still here.<br /> <br /> Was it because of him? Because she was no longer alone?<br /> <br /> Before she even knew it, she had gotten up, squatted down, and placed her hand on his cheek. Her hand felt warm.<br /> <br /> He was real.Not something from her imagination. <br /> <br /> Last night, she really had taken a strange man into her apartment.<br /> <br /> When she came to herself, she found that he was already awake. His beautiful eyes were fixed on her.<br /> <br /> "S-Sorry." Her face heated with embarrassment. "I... I just... that... If you don't have anywhere to go, you can stay here."<br /> <br /> She spoke in a hurry, but after she had said it, she felt relieved.<br /> <br /> His eyes widened slightly.<br /> <br /> "If you don't want to, just pretend I didn't say anything," she added, biting her lip.<br /> <br /> His mouth finally opened and he spoke quietly. "Do you want me to stay?" <br /> <br /> If this had been said by a man like Chris, it would've sounded different. It would’ve sounded wrong.<br /> <br /> But when the words came from him, it was just an honest question. She didn’t read any hidden meaning or intent into his words, and even if there had been, she realized her answer would be the same. Grace pursed her lips. "Yes, I do."<br /> <br /> He stared at her, and a smile slowly formed on his lips. "Good."<br /> <br /> This was the first time she had seen him smile. Although it was very light... It was beautiful.<br /> <br /> Jason remained at the tiny table while Grace got ready for work. She left money on the table for him to buy himself some food.<br /> <br /> He sat staring at the twenty dollar bill for a long time after she was gone. The room was eerily still. <br /> <br /> None of her light vanilla scent or somewhat nervous energy to fill the space. He rolled up the quilt that he’d slept on and then washed out the coffee cup he’d used. <br /> <br /> Normally he’d be tempted to look around, maybe snoop a bit. But he didn’t want to intrude on her space.<br /> <br /> After he was done, he stepped out of the apartment. There were several people waiting for him outside. <br /> <br /> They respectfully greeted him, “Mr. Reed.”<br /> <br /> "Let's go," Jason responded faintly.<br /> <br /> A black Bentley was parked in front. Jason got into the backseat and looked at the twenty dollar bill in his hand. It had been many years since someone had given him money like this. On the contrary, for as long as he could remember, people only wanted to take money from him.<br /> <br /> Terrence met his gaze in the rearview mirror. “The woman who was with you last night is a contract janitor working cleaning offices. She started renting her current residence here a month ago, and was just released from prison two months prior."<br /> <br /> "Prison?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, her name is Grace Cummins. She's the ex-girlfriend of Sean Stevens of the Stevens family. She was convicted of manslaughter in the death of Jennifer Atkinson. She was sentenced to three years of imprisonment and had her law practice license revoked," Terrence said as he carefully observed Jason's reaction.<br /> <br /> Jason kept his face even. “Grace…” he whispered. “Well, this is interesting.”	USE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s	107981368921916	Kiss-Fantasy Fiction	https://facebook.com/100091259960084	4,048	1	730,008,549,090,068	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	1	Use app	Kiss-Fantasy Fiction	120204599426010250	play.google.com	NONE	image	Enjoy all book genres in Kiss - Read & Write Romance.	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stardust.kissreader		2024-01-12 00:09	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418749613_3563272340603279_7715427490094662550_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6pJeROdNPzgAX_2l2Nu&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfB5xooNZ1FtBQWNi6wvgmavo1oilhWurqMrhqY0iNGRsA&oe=65B88A19	person_profile	KISS: Read & Write Romance	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/418749569_355567677419052_3357813575001068044_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0Xx5wPoMaQEAX9kjlKH&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfBghiSJk5WeQOfb089Gu-Wzb2Md8dBInmOnXDRCzwywig&oe=65B6EC51	3	Kiss-Fantasy Fiction	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,219	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158198}'	No	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	1322647175057462	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"You are my mate? Why can't I smell you?" Alpha Matthew Stone grabbed Sam's arm and felt bursts of electrical current to every cell and nerve ending in his body. <br /> ******** <br /> Sam’s POV<br /> She couldn't help but wonder how far she had come and how much farther she had to go. She remembered her mother had told her that the White Feather pack was located near something with the word Lake in it but wasn't sure of the full name or of how much farther she had to go.<br /> She lost track of how many days she had been running and it didn't really matter because she was free! The only thing was, she didn't feel safe and it was so hard to find something to eat. She was so hungry and tired. She hadn't been able to fall into a deep sleep in she couldn't even remember how long, because she was constantly afraid. She was afraid of someone catching her or attacking her.<br /> She had no idea what day it was or how long she had been on the run when she came up on another stretch of highway. After looking both ways and only seeing black top pavement and more trees, she decided to follow it to see if she could find a sign that would tell her something. She stuck as close as possible to the trees but kept getting a feeling that someone was watching her. She couldn't tell what it was that had her on edge but something was making the hair on the back of her neck stand up, like it was telling her to be on alert.<br /> Since she had shifted back to her human form while she was near the road and she had been walking and jogging in her human form，but felt maybe it was time to get back in her wolf form. She could run faster as a wolf than she could as a human. <br /> She slipped back into the woods and stripped, tied her clothes around her leg then shifted and smelled water. She followed her nose, weaving her way through the trees until she found the source. There was a small stream running just inside the tree line and she was thirsty. She carefully watched the area around her, her ears standing straight up and twitching back and forth, listening to every sound in the woods as she drank.<br /> Suddenly her heart beat jumped to almost double speed when she heard a twig snap to her right. She whipped her head around and saw a pair of red eyes staring straight at her. Rogue!<br /> At the same time, she heard a low growl slightly behind her and then a flash of black fur leaped over her head and raced towards the rogue. Sam was stunned as she watched the huge black wolf attack the rogue. The rogue was almost as tall but was half the size in body weight and it was basically no contest. The two wolves tangled for a few seconds and then the black wolf snapped the rogue's neck and threw him to the side.<br /> Sam felt frozen in place as the large black wolf turned to her and she saw his eyes. They were golden and almost shining as he looked over at her. He slowly turned and stepped behind a tree and shifted. He untied the pants that had been tied around his ankle and pulled them on before stepping out to confront her.<br /> He was as big in his human form as he had been in his wolf form except you could now see each muscle clearly defined and he bulged with them everywhere! She couldn't look him in the face but her eyes wandered over really wide shoulders, massive long arms led down to some of the biggest hands she had ever seen. His hairless chest was impressive as were the ridges of muscles that lined his torso down in a tantalizing V that disappeared in the band of his low riding shorts. <br /> She forced her eyes down to huge muscular thighs and calves. The only part hidden from her view was the area his low riding shorts covered, but the tight material did nothing to hide a large bulge in the front that hung slightly down on to his thigh. She was afraid to look at his face. She had learned the hard way that looking a person of authority in the eye was disrespectful and painful.<br /> He was amazed that she had not moved and seemed to be frozen in place as she inspected him.<br /> "Shift!" He commanded.<br /> Her eyes got wide and she shook her head. "I said Shift!" He commanded again.<br /> She shook her head and then turned in a circle. He understood that she wanted him to turn around first. He smiled and chuckled but did as she requested. He turned his back on her and heard some material rustling and then she whispered "Ok, you can turn around now."<br /> His eyes widened when he saw the tiny little woman with hair like milk chocolate and skin the color of pale caramel standing before him with her head slightly bent as if she was afraid to look him in the face.<br /> "Thank you for saving me." Sam whispered as she watched him through her lashes. She took a step back when he took a step forward but he stopped right away.<br /> "You're welcome. Who are you? What are you doing on our land?" He asked.<br /> "My name is Sam Madison. I'm looking for the White Feather pack. Can you tell me if I'm close or not?" Sam replied, still not looking directly at him.<br /> "Another mile or so and you would be at the pack house if you took the right fork in the road up here about a hundred yards around the next bend. Why are you looking for the White Feather pack?"<br /> "My mother was originally from the White Feather pack. My parents are dead and I ran away from my old pack because they are cruel and abusive. I overheard the pack's Alpha's son when he said he wanted to make me a breeder. I was terrified the Alpha was going to allow it so I ran. I've been running for I'm not even sure how.<br /> "Now." She said softly. "Can I talk to your Alpha please?" "You already are." He said. "I'm Alpha Matthew Stone."<br /> With that, Sam's head snapped up and her eyes got wide as she stared at him for a moment before she dropped to her knees and bent her neck, showing submission to him. Her head swam at the quick movements and then everything went black.<br /> <br /> Matthew's POV<br /> Matthew had spotted her about a mile down the road, weaving her way through the trees, staying close to the road as if she didn't want to lose sight of it. He was deeper in the trees and the attraction he felt was undeniable but confusing. He had followed her as he wondered who she was? What was this beautiful golden caramel wolf doing on White Feather Pack land? Why had he not smelled her and why couldn't he now? She had only the scent of a wild flower that he couldn't identify right off the bat.<br /> She was obviously not a rogue but he had not received any messages about a neighboring pack asking for permission for a member of their pack to cross his territory. She almost looked lost. He knew she was going to be reaching the entrance road to his property soon so he jogged slightly faster, wanting to get ahead of her so that he could meet her at the entrance but kept a close eye on her.<br /> He had received a report earlier of a rogue in the area and wanted to be sure that no harm came to her before she reached her destination. He hadn't been able to catch her scent yet, like she had hidden it, which made him more curious about her.<br /> Suddenly he smelled something else. He stopped in his tracks and looked around. He saw the female wolf stop at the small stream that ran along the edge of the tree line to take a drink. She was obviously on alert because her ears kept twitching. He saw her lift her head and then freeze. Her eyes were wide and were the most beautiful blue he had ever seen. He heard the twig snap and he snapped his head around. The rogue! He was less than fifty yards from her and crouched as if he was going to attack. Matt was about a hundred yards away from him but he used his Alpha speed to quickly close the distance.<br /> Matt ran towards them, coming up behind her, he jumped over her head and charged the rogue. The rogue was seriously malnourished and no contest for him. Within less than a minute, he snapped the rogue's neck and tossed him to the side. Then he turned towards the golden wolf and realized if they were going to be able to talk, they needed to shift first. He stepped behind a large tree and quickly untied the shorts he had tied around his calf and pulled them on.<br /> He stepped out from behind the tree and took several steps towards her. She seemed to be frozen in place and hadn't moved a muscle.<br /> "Shift!" He commanded.<br /> Her eyes got wide and she shook her head.<br /> "I said Shift!" He commanded again, pushing a bit of his Alpha power forward .<br /> She shook her head again and then turned in a circle. He understood that she wanted him to turn around first. He smiled and chuckled but did as she requested. He turned his back on her and heard some material rustling and then she whispered "Ok, you can turn around now."<br /> His eyes widened when he saw the tiny little woman with hair like milk chocolate and skin the color of pale caramel standing before him with her head slightly bent as if she was afraid to look him in the face. She was rather busty but otherwise really skinny, like she hadn't been eating well for a long while. She wasn't what he would call boney and her small, slender frame suggested well defined muscles, but she definitely needed to put on some weight.<br /> "Thank you for saving me." Sam whispered as she watched him through her lashes. She took a step back when he took a step forward but he stopped right away.<br /> "You're welcome. Who are you? What are you doing on our land?" He asked.<br /> "My name is Sam Madison. I'm looking for the White Feather pack. Can you tell me if I'm close or not?" Sam replied, still not looking directly at him.<br /> "Another mile or so and you would be at the pack house if you took the right fork in the road up here about a hundred yards around the next bend. Why are you looking for the White Feather pack?"<br /> "My mother was originally from the White Feather pack. My parents are dead and I ran away from my old pack because they are cruel and abusive. I overheard the pack's Beta's son when he said he wanted to make me a breeder. I was terrified the Alpha was going to allow it so I ran. I've been running for I'm not even sure how long now." She said softly. "Can I talk to your Alpha please?" <br /> "You already are." He said. "I'm Alpha Matthew Stone."<br /> With that, Sam's head snapped up and her eyes got wide as she stared at him for a moment before she dropped to her knees and bent her neck, showing submission to him. Her blue eyes in her wolf form had been beautiful but the deep gray blue of her large human eyes were amazing. He had never seen eyes like hers. They seemed to look right through him.<br /> Suddenly she fell to the side and lay still. He rushed to her side and grabbed her arm. It was like he had grabbed hold of a live wire as the shock ran up his arm, straight into his chest and he jerked his hand back.<br /> "Is she my mate? Why can't I smell her?" He slowly reached out and pushed her hair back out of her face and she looked pale. He ignored the electrical shocks that ran up his arms as he scooped her up holding her tightly to his chest, he ignored the warm electric shocks that ran through him and ran to the pack clinic as fast as he could go. He covered the almost two mile stretch through the trees and across the yard in under two minutes.<br /> He kicked the clinic doors open and yelled "Doctor Andy! I need you now!" He pushed his Alpha voice out.<br /> Nurse Abby and Doctor Andy came racing down the hall and were amazed to see their Alpha in nothing but shorts, carrying what looked like a child in his big powerful arms with a look of total fear on his face.<br /> "Follow me. What happened? Who is she?" Dr. Andy asked, as he led the Alpha into an exam room. "Lay her down here."<br /> "I think she's my mate and I don't know what happened. We were in the forest just talking and suddenly she just passed out." Matt said in bewilderment.<br /> "Well, go outside and let me check her over. I'll be out in a few minutes to talk to you." Dr. Andy said, giving the large Alpha a stern look.<br /> Matt didn't want to leave her but knew he needed to give the doctor room to work. He reluctantly left the exam room and paced back and forth while he waited. What was taking so long? He wondered after the first 15 minutes, that felt like it had been hours. Finally Dr. Andy stepped outside and he looked concerned.<br /> "What? What's wrong with her?" Matt demanded.<br /> "Sit down, Alpha. And remember, no one here did this to her." Dr. Andy said and wished his parents or Beta were here.<br /> Matt's heart rate jumped into overdrive. Was he going to lose his mate right after meeting her?<br /> "Is she going to be OK? Who did what to her?" Matt asked, his voice shook slightly.<br /> "Well, she's still unconscious so I can't question her and her first and most urgent problem is that she is seriously malnourished. Looks like she hasn't been eating well for a long time. We've got her on an IV but what she's going to need is food, especially meat and green vegetables. Her iron counts are very low." Dr. Andy told him but Matt could tell from the sorrowful look on his face that her being hungry was not the whole story.<br /> "What else doc? I can tell there's something else." Matt said, almost afraid to hear what he had to say.<br /> "She's been beaten, Matt, repeatedly over a long period of time. Her back is covered in scars, so whatever they were hitting her with must have been soaked in wolfsbane or silver otherwise the scars wouldn't be as bad as they are. It must have taken a long time for them to heal. I'd like to take some x-rays to be sure but I suspect that she's had some broken bones in the past." Dr. Andy said quietly and got the reaction he had suspected he was going to get when Alpha Matt stood up and punched a hole in the wall.<br /> "Breaking your hands and destroying my clinic is not going to help her, Matt. Nurse Abby is going to stay with her until she wakes up but right now, what she needs is rest and then food. Be gentle with her Matt. I've got a feeling she's been through a lot of misery. What's her name?"<br /> "Sam Madison. She said her mother was originally from our pack." Matt replied, as he sat back down. His legs suddenly didn't feel strong enough to hold him up anymore.<br /> "Rafe and Angie Madison's daughter?" Dr. Andy's eyebrows went clear up to his hairline.<br /> "You knew her parents?" Matt asked in amazement.<br /> "Yes! Her mother was your mother's best friend. They had been almost inseparable growing up until Angie met Rafe when he came<br /> to visit your grandfather with his father. He took one look at her and said Mate! She left with him and we never saw her again."<br /> Just then Nurse Abby stepped out of the exam room and said "She's waking up, Doctor."<br /> "Let me get the x-rays, Matt and then you can see her. OK?" Dr. Andy said as he turned to go back in the room. He instructed Nurse Abby to bring in the portable x-ray machine and then stepped back in the room.<br /> Matt sat down and dropped his head into his hands. He needed to let his mom know about this. He mind linked her to come to the clinic and then waited for her to arrive.<br /> Nurse Abby pushed the x-ray machine into the room just a minute before Natalie arrived.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.topicksapp.com/ad/dGlnZXJyZWFkZXIvODMxND	108277385665157	Picks001	https://facebook.com/100094268485917	23	1	918,192,872,905,534	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Picks001	120204756244200635	a.topicksapp.com	NONE	video		https://a.topicksapp.com/ad/dGlnZXJyZWFkZXIvODMxNDkvMjAyNDAxMTkxNjI4MTIvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}		2024-01-19 02:33	https://scontent.fsac1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420465366_934158690902974_5879456103466912072_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oFeeHOaU--kAX8l2xOI&_nc_ht=scontent.fsac1-1.fna&oh=00_AfAhlbvdSv3ZPV5iR5l3DZsQWcvg6fM7OTX_JD0mz0qY-w&oe=65B7C245	person_profile	Picks001	https://scontent.fsac1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420051924_955693312555262_5478508755034322915_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PAMUsb1mMQ8AX_wU_iB&_nc_ht=scontent.fsac1-1.fna&oh=00_AfDM8ELUB7dJDr1NL7DL6W0t2z6wqjc03n0hXpU5cJftaw&oe=65B79C45	3	Picks001	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,165	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158169}'	No	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	874515764358061	😍Read More Chapters👉👉	My Alpha mate rejected me for my sister. But he soon regretted it after he drove me into the arms of another Alpha, or worse.<br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 1: Ayla<br /> "Ma," I called down the hall. "Come on, Ma. They'll be here soon. You need to get out here."<br /> <br /> "I'm coming," my mother yelled back. "Don’t rush me.”<br /> <br /> She came out of her bedroom and down the hall. I was grateful that she didn’t seem to sway at all, and as she approached, the only scent wafting off her was mouthwash. And she actually seemed presentable. It was the first time in weeks. <br /> <br /> Although, I shouldn’t have been surprised. She always managed to look presentable in front of Kylee. Goddess forbid her precious baby learn the truth about her. <br /> <br /> No, that was my burden to bear. And in truth, I accepted it willingly. I wanted to protect Kylee from that reality as much as Ma wanted to hide it from her. However, I will admit we had different reasons. <br /> <br /> I waved Ma to the armchair in the living room while I went back into the kitchen to check on dinner. I was making Kylee’s favorites. It had been two months since my little sister had been home, and we were both excited. Even more exciting, she was bringing home her mate for the first time.<br /> <br /> I was so happy for her. They had apparently met almost two. Years ago, when she visited the local college campus with her high school. I had no idea they had found each other until her freshman year of university. I had asked her why the secrecy, and she told me they needed to wait to make their relationship public because of his position in the pack. They announced their relationship a few months into her first year. Still, she kept putting off us meeting him even though they were only a couple hours away. Don’t get me wrong, she told me all about him. Whenever we talked, she would just gush about how perfect he was. But it wasn’t until a month ago that she finally admitted to us that he was our future Alpha. <br /> <br /> Ma and I were ecstatic. We couldn’t be more pleased. Especially me. Our current Alpha, Alpha Torin, was a good leader, a fair leader, and a good man. We were very blessed to have had his support after our father died. <br /> <br /> Not that we knew him all that well, but he was the one who helped me get the family back on its feet after such a terrible loss. I knew he had a son, but I had never met him before. Again, it’s not like we were exactly close to the Alpha at all. I doubt he ever really thought of us. He was just taking care of the members of his pack, and for that, I will always be grateful. <br /> <br /> But I had heard that his son, Theo, was promising to be just as good an Alpha as his father. So I really couldn’t have been more relieved that he was my sister’s mate. She would be properly looked after and taken care of, and she would be happy. <br /> <br /> I was pulling the chicken out of the oven when I heard Ma from the living room. <br /> <br /> “They're here,” she sang. <br /> <br /> I moved quickly. Getting out our nice serving dishes that were gifted to my parents at their mating ceremony, I started to plate dinner onto them. I was still transferring the food when I heard the front door open and the squeals of my mother and sister as they embraced. I finished my task and moved the dishes to the dining room table that was already set neatly. I smiled at my presentation and excitedly hurried to the living room. <br /> <br /> I froze at the threshold. A scent overwhelmed my senses, causing my stomach to knot and my heart to race. <br /> <br /> The tall, broad man standing next to my sister turned toward me and we locked eyes. <br /> <br /> Mate.<br /> <br /> I practically gagged trying to stifle the word from slipping from my mouth. <br /> <br /> What was happening?<br /> <br /> This was my sister’s mate. <br /> <br /> Not mine. <br /> <br /> This man was fated to Kylee. <br /> <br /> So why was I having this reaction?<br /> <br /> Better question…<br /> <br /> Why did HE seem to be having the same reaction?<br /> <br /> His eyes were wide, pupils dilated, and they held my gaze with a vice-like grip as he, too, seemed frozen to where he stood. <br /> <br /> Dasha, my wolf, bounced excitedly in my head, recognizing him and his wolf just as I was. It took a minute for her to understand the situation, but once she did, she started whimpering in the back of my mind.<br /> <br /> This couldn’t be happening. <br /> <br /> What was happening?<br /> <br /> I forced myself to address the situation as a whole. Fine, this was happening. Now, what is the best way to handle the situation? I wasn’t going to break my sister’s heart. Absolutely not. I wouldn’t let him either. Not right now. We’ll just get through dinner, and I’ll find a way to speak with him in private later. <br /> <br /> I cleared my throat and plastered a smile on my face.<br /> <br /> “Kylee, I’m so excited you’re home,” I said, opening my arms so she could jump into them like she had since she was little.<br /> <br /> “I’ve missed you, sis,” she said. <br /> <br /> “I’ve missed you, too,” I said quietly. <br /> <br /> We separated, and she turned to the male behind her. “Theo, this is my sister, Ayla. Ayla, this is my mate, Theo.”<br /> <br /> Theo’s hands were clenched into fists, and he forced a tight-jawed smile toward me. At least I was better at faking it them him. Geesh. <br /> <br /> I nodded to him with a broad smile. I knew it didn’t reach my eyes, but at least Ma and Kylee wouldn’t notice. <br /> <br /> “It’s lovely to meet you, Theo,” I said. “Dinner is ready in the dining room. Why don’t you guys go take a seat, and I’ll be right there. I need to tend to dessert first.”<br /> <br /> “Don’t take too long,” Kylee said brightly. “We have some big news, and I don’t think I can wait much longer.”<br /> <br /> “I promise I’ll be right there,” I assured her as I rubbed her shoulder. <br /> <br /> Kylee grabbed Ma by the arm and led her to the dining room. Theo followed a few steps behind. He had to pass me to get through. Right as he approached, I turned my body to ensure we didn’t touch. He paused in front of me for a moment. I looked up to meet his eyes.<br /> <br /> There was anger, confusion, desire, and possibly even hurt reflecting in his eyes that I couldn’t help but notice were the color of honey. He had questions. I subtly shook my head at him. Hoping and silently begging that he knew we couldn’t do this here. <br /> <br /> The sound of Kylee’s laugh from the other room made me jump and then quickly retreat to the kitchen. I grabbed the homemade cheesecake from the fridge and set it on the counter for later. I listened to the others conversing in the next room and quietly slipped out the back door. <br /> <br /> I stood on the porch and took several deep breaths. I felt a lump start to form in my throat and quickly pushed it down. This wasn’t the time to cry. So, I did what I usually do instead of crying. <br /> <br /> I released a string of curses.<br /> <br /> “What is happening? Why is this happening? This ISN’T happening,” I whispered with the force of a yell. <br /> <br /> ‘Our mate.’ Dasha insisted.<br /> <br /> “No, he’s not,” I said back to her. “He’s Kylee’s. There must be some kind of mistake. Just get through dinner like nothing is going on, and we’ll figure that out later. Easy.”<br /> <br /> I didn’t believe myself, neither did Dasha, but I didn’t have time to deal with that. So, I took two more deep breaths and went back into the house. I was almost to the dining room when I heard the last part of what Kylee was saying, and again, I was left frozen at the threshold.<br /> <br /> “… our mating ceremony is in three months.” Kylee looked up at me. “Oh, Ayla, I’m sorry. I just couldn’t hold back any longer. Aren’t you happy for us?”<br /> <br /> I put the same fake smile back on. “Of course I’m happy for you,” I said. “You deserve the best.”<br /> <br /> I took my seat at the table, ignoring the fact that I was left sitting directly across from Theo. His eyes were boring into me, and my face felt like it was on fire. I started dishing out food and passing plates. I didn’t say much over dinner. Instead, I just listened to Kylee and Ma talk about all the ideas they had for the mating ceremony. Theo didn’t say much either but slowly started to do a better job hiding his discomfort with the situation. <br /> <br /> It took everything to ignore the touches they shared, pushing down the jealousy that kept surging through me. As soon as I saw the opportunity, I started clearing the plates. As I was bringing in the dessert, my phone dinged in my pocket, and I had never been more grateful.<br /> I pulled it out and checked the screen. <br /> <br /> “I’m so sorry. Please, excuse me. This is important. I have to take it.”<br /> <br /> Ma waved me off, and Kylee didn’t even seem to notice. Theo glared at me, but to be honest, I didn’t really care. <br /> <br /> I answered the phone as I left the dining room and exited out the back door again. <br /> <br /> “Hey, Zeff. What’s up?” I said as I walked to the back of the yard.<br /> <br /> “How’s the dinner going?” Zeff, my best friend and colleague, asked.<br /> <br /> “It’s full of excitement, that’s for sure,” I said, hoping he didn’t catch on to the kind of excitement I was feeling. <br /> <br /> He chuckled on the other line. “I can’t wait to hear all about it,” he said with a hint of sarcasm. “I hate to interrupt, but Carla wanted me to check if you were done with those chapters.”<br /> <br /> “Oh, um, yeah, I just finished them up this morning. I was going to run through another round of editing, but I can go ahead and send them over tonight.” I doubted I would have the mental capacity to deal with editing today.<br /> <br /> “Perfect. I’ll let her know to watch for them,” Zeff said.<br /> <br /> “Mhmm.”<br /> <br /> “Hey, you okay, Ayls?” Zeff asked.<br /> <br /> I stiffened as a mouthwatering scent hit my nose. I knew who was standing behind me. “Yeah, I just gotta go. Talk to you tomorrow.”<br /> <br /> Chapter 2: Theo<br /> I fought against the urges her scent was influencing as I stalked up to her, including the rage that she was currently talking to another male. But more importantly, the urge to grab her and take her against the nearest tree. My wolf was going crazy about the idea, but he would learn fast that that was never going to happen. <br /> <br /> I wouldn’t accept her. <br /> <br /> Knowing what I knew about her, that would never happen. <br /> <br /> She hung up the phone and turned to face me. <br /> <br /> “This won’t happen,” I spat out before she had a chance to speak. <br /> Her jaw clenched, and her silvery-gray eyes stared into mine for a few short moments. But I couldn’t read a thing behind them. <br /> <br /> “I absolutely agree,” she stated evenly. <br /> <br /> My wolf growled and snarled inside me, demanding to know what I was doing. I pushed down the hurt that hit me when she didn’t fight me. Her reaction just proved why this needed to be done. I could never be with someone so cold and self-absorbed as her. There was no way someone like her could ever be my Luna. <br /> <br /> ‘Don’t know her.’ Kieran yelled in my head. <br /> <br /> I knew enough. <br /> <br /> “Kylee is my mate. Not you. I, Theo Arden, future Alpha of the Greytooth Pack, reject you, Ayla Garner, as my mate and Luna.” Kieran was snapping his teeth, pushing to take control to stop this.<br /> <br /> “I, Ayla Garner, accept your rejection and relinquish my claim as your mate and Luna.”<br /> <br /> My wolf howled in pain. A pain that was mirrored within me as it felt like my heart was being ripped apart. It was the bond breaking. Releasing me from the tie that bound us together. <br /> She stood there like nothing happened. <br /> <br /> How could she stand there like nothing had happened?<br /> <br /> She really didn’t feel anything, did she? It was so easy for her to let us go.<br /> <br /> ‘Mate wants me.’<br /> <br /> I grimaced. He meant her wolf. Her wolf wanted mine. He could sense her. She was even denying her wolf. I couldn’t stand it anymore. I needed to get away from her. <br /> <br /> I stormed back into the house, returning to the woman the goddess should have made my mate. I returned to the dining room to find her mother and her still deep in conversation. I was grateful she hadn’t seemed to notice my absence or the change in my mood. It wasn’t surprising. She was excited about seeing her family and sharing the news with them. <br /> <br /> I had been, too, until her sister walked into the room. The scent had engulfed me, driving me to seek out the source like a lifeline. When I saw her, her beauty took my breath away. She was petit but strong, with long legs and perfect curves. She had a mass of caramel-blonde hair that cascaded over her shoulders, framing a face with plump lips and intense gray eyes that shined green in the light. I couldn’t help but want her. I recognized who she was to me immediately. <br /> <br /> But then I noticed her narrow nose and soft jawline were familiar. Her fair skin had a sun-kissed glow that I had always found attractive. Once I realized she had similar features to Kylee, I knew this was her sister, Ayla. <br /> <br /> Kylee had told me on many occasions how her sister had changed after the death of their father. She was there for Kylee at first, but in less than a year, she started spending all her time away from home. She ended up dropping out of the private school her parents had worked so hard to send her to. Eventually, Kylee lost track of what she was doing with her life. <br /> <br /> Kylee was there for her when she was around, trying to be supportive. But she wasn’t the sister she used to love. What bothered her most was Ayla’s treatment of their mother. Ayla still lived in the house with her, but Kylee always got the impression that helping their mother was just a burden. She worried their mother would be left with no one to take care of her, and she wasn’t in the best of health anymore. <br /> <br /> “I have an idea,” I interrupted. They both looked up at me expectantly. “Why doesn’t your mother come to stay with us for a while? At least until the ceremony? We have the room in the packhouse, and I’m sure you and my mother would appreciate the extra input.”<br /> <br /> Both their faces lit up.<br /> <br /> “Really? We can do that?” Kylee said happily. <br /> <br /> “Of course,” I said with a smile. <br /> <br /> “Thank you.”<br /> <br /> Kylee jumped up from the table and threw her arms around me, kissing me sweetly. I ignored the growls coming from Kieran. Seeing their reaction told me I had made the exact right decision. Despite what was burning in my chest told me. <br /> <br /> This was who I was supposed to be with. Not Ayla.<br /> <br /> ‘Keep saying. Maybe believe.’<br /> <br /> I told him to shut up, and he retreated into the back of my mind, cutting himself off from me. <br /> <br /> He would get over it. Once the bond was completely severed, he would understand this was the right thing for us and the pack.<br /> <br /> ---<br /> Ayla<br /> <br /> <br /> I had managed to get myself together enough to rejoin my family. The pain that seared through me from Theo’s rejection and my subsequent acceptance almost brought me to my knees. It took all of my strength to keep my body from shaking, praying he didn’t notice the blood coming from my palms. I had clenched my fists so hard trying to stay on my feet that I broke the skin.<br /> <br /> When he finally left, I released the sob that was the only thing capable of coming out of my mouth. But I didn’t let the tears fall. Not yet. They couldn’t know. <br /> <br /> So, I steadied my breathing and went back into my house. I was surprised to find that Kylee and Ma weren’t in the dining room anymore. They weren’t in the living room either. But Theo was. <br /> <br /> “They’re in your mother’s room packing,” he said coldly.<br /> <br /> “Packing?” What was he talking about?<br /> <br /> He stepped closer to me, lowering his voice. “I think it’s best that you keep your distance from Kylee for a while. We don’t want her finding out about this. But I know she’ll want her mother to be a part of the ceremony planning. So she’s coming back with us.”<br /> <br /> I felt like he just slapped me in the face. As if I would ever tell her. That’s why I was doing this. So that I wouldn’t break my baby sister’s heart. I gave him what he wanted, and now he was going to keep me from my family?<br /> <br /> Dasha was confused and in pain, whimpering in my head because she didn’t understand how he could be so cruel to us. <br /> <br /> ‘Because he doesn’t want to deal with the trouble,’ I told her, fighting the tears that were forming. ‘If this is how he is going to treat us, fine. It just makes this easier.’<br /> <br /> “If that’s what you think is best,” I said to Theo through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> “Kylee,” he called out, not breaking eye contact. “Let’s get going.”<br /> <br /> My sister came prancing into the room. “Already?”<br /> <br /> “It’s getting late. Let’s head to the hotel for the night. We’ll swing by in the morning to pick up your mother.”<br /> <br /> “Okay,” she said brightly before turning to me. “What about you, Ayla? You’re coming with, too, right?”<br /> <br /> I opened my mouth to speak, but Theo decided to answer for me. <br /> <br /> “We were just talking about that. Ayla has some things going on with work and can’t get away.”<br /> <br /> I gave her a tight smile. “Yes, I’m sorry. But I will try to come out there as soon as I can.”<br /> <br /> “Oh, okay, I understand. But I’ll make sure we have a room ready for you whenever you can come.”<br /> <br /> “Of course. I can’t wait,” I said, my heart breaking again, knowing Theo wouldn’t allow me to be there with her. <br /> <br /> We all said our goodbyes, and they left. Ma was still standing at the window watching them drive off when I went to clean up the dishes in the kitchen. She finally came in behind me and started opening another bottle of wine. We had gone through four during dinner already. And I barely touched my glass. <br /> <br /> “Ma, you’ve had enough for the night,” I said calmly.<br /> <br /> “Oh, come on. It’s a celebration,” Ma said. “It’s not every day you find out your baby is going to be a Luna.”<br /> <br /> “Ma, you can celebrate more tomorrow. You need to finish packing,” I said, gently taking the bottle from her hand. “I’m sure Kylee and Theo will be here first thing in the morning.”<br /> <br /> “We can celebrate together while you help me pack,” she said, grabbing the bottle back from me. “Then I’ll help you pack.”<br /> <br /> I winced. This wasn’t going to end well. “I’m not coming, Ma.”<br /> <br /> She stopped with the glass halfway to her lips. “What do you mean you’re not coming?” she asked with a pout. “You have to be there. Kylee is going to be mated. I told her we would help pay for the ceremony.”<br /> <br /> I winced again. She meant me. I would be helping pay for the ceremony. Ma didn’t have a penny to her name.<br /> <br /> “I will send you however much you need. But I have to stay close to work for the next few weeks. I’ll come out later. We have six months to get ready,” I said, guiding her down the hall. <br /> <br /> “That’s not the point. You should be there for her. This is a big deal. Don’t be so selfish, Ayla.”<br /> <br /> Her words stung, but they weren’t unexpected. This was kind of the norm when she got like this. I know she didn’t really mean it. At least, she wouldn’t mean it when she was sober. It was just her way of coping with her abandonment issues. I got her into her bedroom and set her on the bed. I changed her into her nightgown and tucked her in. I left her sitting up against the pillows while I pulled clothes out of her closet, asking if she wanted to take specific items. <br /> <br /> Pretty soon, she started to tip to the side. I coaxed her to lie down and tucked her all the way in. She was asleep in seconds. I hurried through the rest of her packing. Stuffing two large suitcases as full as I could before carrying them out to the living room. Then I locked the front door, finished the last of the dishes, and slipped out into the backyard.<br /> <br /> I stripped off my clothes as I headed for the forest, desperate to get under its protective shadows. As soon as I passed the treeline, I shifted, taking off at full speed. I let Dasha feel all the pain. I didn’t try to hold her back anymore. <br /> <br /> We would mourn the loss of our fated mate. The loss of the one person who was supposed to see us for who we were. The one person who was supposed to always put us first, without demands or expectations. We would mourn the loss of never getting to experience that. <br /> But we wouldn’t mourn him.<br /> <br /> We ran until we could barely breathe. Until Dasha stopped at the edge of our pond — our place of solace — and let out a heartwrenching howl into the night air. Shifting at the end as she retreated back into my mind, out of reach to heal her broken heart, while I let the torrent of tears finally fall.<br /> <br /> I fell to the forest floor, curling into myself as the sobs wracked my body, intensifying the burn that was still there from our bond being ripped from my heart. I lay there and cried until I had nothing left in my body, and my eyes drifted closed on the image of the moon and the stars reflecting on our peaceful little pond.<br /> <br /> Chapter 3: Ayla<br /> I woke up to the first rays of sunshine heating my body. I was grateful for the warm night of mid-summer. Otherwise, I probably wouldn’t have made it through the night in my human form. My wolf still hadn’t re-emerged, and I couldn’t say I blamed her. The prospect of seeing Theo again this morning was hard enough for me. Dasha wouldn’t be able to handle sensing his wolf again. She had told me he wasn’t happy about the rejection. <br /> <br /> But it had to be done. <br /> <br /> And we had to accept it. <br /> <br /> I wasn’t going to break Kylee’s heart like that. Especially if he actually loved her that much. <br /> <br /> She would be happy. And I had to find a way to make that enough. <br /> <br /> I sat up and looked out at the reflective pool. I stood up and I walked into the water. I submerged myself completely, washing my body clean of Theo, the mate bond, and every dream of finding my soulmate. <br /> <br /> The ritual wasn’t new to me. I did this after my father died. I came here to wash away the grief. And when my mother started to fall apart. When she started drinking heavier and gambling and I realized we were running out of the money Dad had left us. I had to make some tough decisions to keep the family going. Once I made them, I came back here to forget the person I was. So I could be who my family needed me to be. <br /> <br /> I came here to wash away all of the what-ifs and what-could-have-beens.<br /> <br /> When I emerged, I started the long walk back home. <br /> <br /> When I made it back to the house, I could hear the faint sound of voices coming from inside. They had already arrived. I quickly collected my clothes from the lawn, putting them back on before heading inside. <br /> <br /> I had to pause when I opened the door, bracing myself against the intoxicating scent that belonged to Theo. I had hoped the effects would have lessoned by now since we broke our bond, but I wasn’t that lucky. But again, I shook off the feeling and prepared to push through this like everything was normal. <br /> <br /> I walked through the kitchen and into the living room, where, again, I found Theo alone. I could hear Ma and Kylee down the hall, and I prayed they would be out soon. Theo’s hands clenched when his eyes met mine. It wasn’t hard to read the look of disgust he held in them. <br /> <br /> I failed to hide the hitch in my breath, but I still managed to raise my chin. I wasn’t about to let him see how he still affected me. Just a few more minutes and we would both be rid of each other, at least for a little while. Hopefully, it would be enough time for the bond to dissipate and free us of all this. <br /> <br /> “There you are,” Kylee’s voice rang down the hall. <br /> <br /> I turned to her with a smile, returning her hug as she wrapped her arms around me. I held on for a minute, letting her proximity calm me. <br /> <br /> “Where have you been? Why is your hair wet?”<br /> <br /> “She went out again last night,” Ma said with bitterness in her voice. <br /> <br /> I had to stop myself from rolling my eyes.<br /> <br /> “Ma, I just went for a run,” I said. <br /> <br /> “All night?” she said haughtily.<br /> <br /> How would you know? You were passed out drunk. I cleared my throat and brushed it off. <br /> <br /> “I guess you guys need to get on the road,” I said, smiling down at Kylee as I rubbed her arms. Looking at the face of the girl I had practically raised since she was nine, I couldn’t stop the lump in my throat. “I’m gonna miss you.”<br /> <br /> “Hey, we’ll see you soon. Come up whenever you’re ready,” she said as she gave me another hug.<br /> <br /> “I love you,” I whispered. <br /> <br /> “I love you.”<br /> <br /> She pulled away and I turned to my mother, taking her in my arms despite her hesitation. <br /> <br /> “Take care of yourself, Ma.”<br /> <br /> “Kylee, let’s get going,” Theo said from the door. <br /> <br /> With a few more smiles and waves, they walked out, closing the door behind them. I was standing in an empty room in an empty house. The silence was deafening. And it all came crashing down. I sank to my knees, begging the goddess to just let it all go away, just for a little while. I just wanted to feel numb.<br /> <br /> I lost track of how long I sat in that spot, staring without seeing. I didn’t even know Zeff was there until I felt him grip my arms.<br /> <br /> “Ayls, what?! What’s wrong?” he asked, brushing hair out of my face, forcing me to look at him. “Ayla, what is going on?”<br /> <br /> “I found my mate,” I said, the corner of my lips tipping up mockingly. “He’s scheduled to be mated to my sister.”<br /> <br /> “What?” Zeff exclaimed, anger and concern twisting his handsome features. <br /> <br /> Zeff was a good man. He had been there for me when no one else was. He was the only person who knew everything I went through. And here he was, listening to me tell him about meeting Theo, the mating ceremony, and my rejection. Why couldn’t he have been my mate? He should have been. <br /> <br /> “Come on,” he said, lifting me up. “You’re coming to stay with me.”<br /> <br /> I didn’t protest. The goddess had given me this one little blessing. I was numb. Zeff held me up by my waist and led me out to his car. He tucked me into the passenger seat and disappeared into the house again, only to emerge a few minutes later with a duffel bag in hand. <br /> <br /> He pulled out and drove us the twenty minutes to his house. Just like before, he helped me inside, this time sitting me on the big, comfy leather couch in his living room. I loved this couch. We had spent a lot of time on this couch, watching movies, talking about books, brainstorming ideas for work. This was like a second home to me. But even that felt wrong now. <br /> <br /> Zeff’s phone rang in his pocket. He cursed as he pulled it out, checking the screen.<br /> <br /> “God,” he said. “Honey, I have to take this. I’ll be right back, okay?”<br /> <br /> I nodded. He answered the call, kissing my head before walking out of the room. Alone again, I pulled my feet up onto the couch, tucking them into my chest as I wrapped my arms around my knees. Silent tears began to fall. The numbness was wearing off. <br /> <br /> It was time to snap out of it. I needed to move on. <br /> <br /> I heard Zeff coming back, and I quickly wiped the tears from my eyes. No one had seen me cry. Not since the night my father died. I wasn’t about to change that now. Not over someone like Theo. He paused, giving me a look. He knew I’d been crying. It always bugged him when I did that. Not that I often cried anyway, let alone enough for anyone to see it. But Zeff was always trying to get me to open up more. <br /> <br /> He came and sat next to me, putting an arm over my shoulder and pulling me into him. I let myself relax some. This was the first thing since Theo walked into my life that felt normal, felt comfortable. He leaned his head on mine, rubbing his fingers along my arm. <br /> <br /> “Did you get my laptop?” I asked quietly. <br /> <br /> His chest rose and fell heavily. “Yes, but we’re not going to worry about that right now.”<br /> <br /> I pushed off of him, going to the duffel bag he left by the door. <br /> <br /> “I have to send Carla my chapters. I didn’t get to it last night.”<br /> <br /> “Ayla,” Zeff said, getting up and coming to pull me away from the bag. “You’re not going to do this. You’re not going to bury yourself in work. You’re going to deal with this — we’re going to deal with this together. Screw him, okay. He’s dumb. You deserve so much better than one who doesn’t see how incredible you are.”<br /> <br /> I wanted to roll my eyes, but it wasn’t just about him. <br /> <br /> “He took my family, Zeff. I would have gotten over him just rejecting me because of Kylee. At least she would be safe and happy.”<br /> <br /> “Screw them,” Zeff said angrily.<br /> <br /> “Zeff,” I warned. He wasn’t exactly Kylee’s biggest fan. There was a big age difference between the two of them, and she kind of annoyed him. But he always respected how protective I was of her. <br /> <br /> “No, Ayla. I’m sick of this. They either treat you like a servant or a bank. They don’t care what their actions do to you as long as they keep getting what they want."<br /> <br /> "Zeff, that’s not fair,” I protested. My family wasn’t perfect, but they were my family. They loved me in their own way. <br /> <br /> He moved to say something else but thought better of it. <br /> <br /> “Fine,” he conceded. “Then Kylee’s happy. He can try to keep you from going to see them, but they’ll be back to see you. You believe that, don’t you?”<br /> <br /> I hesitated for a moment, but I did believe that. “Yes.”<br /> <br /> “Okay, then get over him.” He took a step toward me, reaching up to hold my chin. “He’s not the only one who can take care of you, Ayla. He may be stvpid enough not to want you, but I’m not.”<br /> <br /> My breath caught in my throat. He had told me about his feelings before, but we both avoided going down that road with each other. We knew we could find our fated mates at any time, and we didn’t want to deny each other that. <br /> <br /> “Move in here with me, Ayls,” Zeff said. “There’s nothing stopping us now.”<br /> <br /> “Zeff, you still have a mate out there somewhere.”<br /> <br /> “Ayla, stop. I’m thirty-four and well-traveled. If I was going to find her, I would have long before now. We both know that.” <br /> <br /> Suddenly his lips were on mine. I was shocked, but mostly because it felt good. I felt wanted. I kissed him back, not wanting to give that feeling up. I leaned into him — until Dasha came charging to the forefront, growling and snarling that someone who wasn’t our mate was touching us. <br /> <br /> I ripped myself from Zeff’s embrace. Breathing heavily, the pain of the severed bond renewed. I clutched my chest. <br /> <br /> “Ayla.” <br /> <br /> “I can’t. The bond. It’s still there. It hasn’t faded yet.”<br /> <br /> Zeff pulled me into his arms. “Okay. It’s okay. We can wait. We’ll take it slow. But I want you here with me. You’re not staying in that house alone.”<br /> <br /> I rested my head on him. “Okay.”<br /> <br /> He squeezed me tighter. I still didn’t know if we could make this work, but I wanted to try. <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4: Theo<br /> It had been a week since I had gone home with Kylee. Seven days and a hundred miles away, and the bond was still there. The burning in my chest wouldn’t go away. I didn’t understand and it was driving me crazy. I had been in an awful mood because of it. <br /> <br /> I had taken to holing up in my office most of the time. I didn’t want to snap at Kylee, or her mother, which had become hard to avoid by the third day. They didn’t deserve that. Kylee definitely didn’t deserve that. I was glad I had a good reason for me being so busy all of a sudden. <br /> <br /> Alpha was sick. He was diagnosed with a progressive disease almost a year ago. It had gotten to the point that he and my mother were concerned about the toll the Alpha role was taking on him. So, he decided it was time to hand the title down to me. It wasn’t official yet. We were planning on making the change at the same time as Kylee’s and my mating ceremony. Actually, that’s why I decided to make Kylee my official mate. Alpha’s were always stronger with a strong Luna by their side. With the circumstances of my father’s abdication, our pack needed to be as strong as possible. <br /> <br /> But there was still a lot to take care of and a lot I had to learn about being an Alpha before that time. So it wasn’t hard to convince her that it was the stress that was causing me to be distant. <br /> <br /> There was a knock on my office door, and Kylee poked her head in before I had a chance to answer. She walked around my desk with a bright smile. <br /> <br /> “There you are, mate,” she cooed, sitting in my lap. “You’ve been up here all day.”<br /> <br /> “I’m sorry, babe. I’ve been working.”<br /> <br /> She ran a hand up my chest, leaning in to kiss me. Kieran’s growl started immediately. He had spent the whole week giving me the silent treatment, except when Kylee was around. Then all he did was growl and snarl. It was getting exhausting. <br /> <br /> Kylee pulled away. “I know. I understand. I just wanted to check on you.”<br /> <br /> “Thanks,” I said with a smile. She really was sweet. “I’m fine, just knee-deep in all this paperwork. Did you need anything?”<br /> <br /> She tried to hide her pout, but I saw it for a moment.<br /> <br /> “What is it, Ky?”<br /> <br /> “I don’t want to bother you. You’re already so busy.”<br /> <br /> “You can ask me for anything. Don’t ever feel bad for doing so,” I insisted.<br /> <br /> Her face brightened. “Well, there’s this necklace of my mother’s. She wants me to wear it for our mating ceremony, but it was left at the house. I called Ayla to have her bring it to me when she came up, but she won’t be able to make it for a few more weeks.”<br /> <br /> I gripped the arm of the chair at hearing her name. At hearing that Kylee spoke to her. I fought the urge to ask how she was. Knowing I shouldn’t care. <br /> <br /> “Do you really need it sooner than that? We have months until the ceremony.”<br /> <br /> “Well, I have my first dress appointment on Tuesday. I would really like to have it so we can match it to the perfect dress,” Kylee said, leaning into me, tracing her finger along the collar of my shirt. <br /> <br /> I sighed. “Okay, I’ll send someone to pick it up. Just send me the details to pass along.”<br /> <br /> She kissed me again, accompanied by my wolf’s protests again, and pulled away with a smile. “Thank you, baby. You’re the best.” She moved to get up but paused. “Are you coming to see me tonight?”<br /> <br /> “I’ll try. If I don’t get done here too late.”<br /> <br /> “You better. We miss you.”<br /> <br /> ‘Evie doesn’t.’<br /> <br /> Evie was Kylee’s wolf. Kieran had never had a problem with Evie, but he never really showed much interest in her either. It wasn’t that surprising. Our wolves only reacted to their fated mates. The only way to change that was to mark someone else and be marked by them. So I had never been too worried about it. But now I was. If I couldn’t completely sever the bond between me and Ayla, he could end up taking control and stop me from marking Kylee. <br /> I would need to do something about this.<br /> <br /> “I miss you, too. I promise I’ll work something out soon.” <br /> <br /> “Okay,” she said with a sigh. “I’ll let you get back to work then.”<br /> She kissed me on the cheek and sashayed out of my office. I couldn’t keep avoiding her. It would hurt her if I stopped showing interest in her. I didn’t want to do that. I had to do something. <br /> <br /> ---<br /> <br /> I decided to drive down to Kylee’s house myself. I left early the following morning before anyone else woke up. I wanted to avoid any questions. I broke every speed limit on the way. I wanted to get there and get back before too many people noticed I was gone. <br /> It shouldn’t be too hard. I’d get the necklace, I’d reject Ayla again, making sure it stuck this time, and I’d go back home. <br /> <br /> But when I pulled up to the house, something twisted in my gut. I cut the engine to the car and grabbed the house key I had gotten from Kylee’s keyring. If Ayla was home, I didn’t want to scare her by barging in, so I knocked first. There was no answer, and I didn’t hear any movement inside. I tested the doorknob, and it was locked. I let myself in with the key, and the feeling in my gut returned as soon as I stepped into the house. <br /> <br /> No one had been here in a while. All the scents, although still easily detected, were too faded to have been recent. Including Ayla’s. Her invigorating scent of oranges and cloves invaded my nostrils, but it wasn’t nearly as strong as it should have been. Had Ayla not been here since we left? Kieran paced in my head. What if something happened to her?<br /> <br /> My heart rate sped up, my hands balled into fists. I made my way through the house, looking for any signs that something had occurred here. I went to their mother’s room first. It all seemed in order. Even the jewelry box was untouched. I grabbed the whole box, not bothering to look through it for the particular piece Kylee wanted. Then I checked Kylee’s old room. It, too, seemed unbothered. <br /> <br /> I paused outside what had to be Ayla’s room, my hand gripping the doorknob tightly. I could smell her scent through the wood. I had to brace myself, both against the onslaught of her scent hitting me and what I may find inside. I turned the knob and pushed the door open. <br /> <br /> I had to grip the door jamb to keep Kieran from forcing the shift. All he wanted to do was roll around in here, gathering up Ayla’s delicious smell, rubbing his over everything that was hers. He wanted to stake his claim. Absolutely not. I managed to push him back, but he came surging back the moment we looked at the scene before us. <br /> <br /> The place wasn’t trashed, but there were definitely signs that someone had left in a hurry. Clothes were hanging out of half-open drawers, shoes had been scattered out of the closet, and there was no sign of any electronics or chargers. And then I caught it. <br /> <br /> There was another scent in the room.<br /> <br /> I moved to the dresser, grabbing a shirt from a drawer and sniffing it. This time, I was the one who growled, my wolf in chorus along with me. The scent was male. It was faint, he wasn’t here long, but mixed in with the distinctive scent of my mate, I could pick it out anywhere. From the trail, it seemed as if he was the one who packed up her things. <br /> <br /> The question was, did he take her or did she go willingly?<br /> <br /> Either way, we would find her. <br /> <br /> I stormed out of the house. Tossing the jewelry box in the passenger seat, I took my phone out and searched for the number for the publishing house Kylee said Ayla worked for. I punched it in as soon as it pulled up. A receptionist picked up. <br /> <br /> “I need to speak to Ayla Garner,” I barked into the phone. <br /> <br /> “Just a moment,” she said, putting me on hold for a moment. “I’m sorry, sir. She doesn’t have a meeting scheduled for today.”<br /> <br /> “When will she be in next?”<br /> <br /> “Her next meeting isn’t until next Thursday, sir.”<br /> <br /> What did she mean she wouldn’t be in until Thursday? That was almost a whole week. What meeting was she talking about? Kylee said she was some kind of assistant.<br /> <br /> “This is her… sister’s mate. Kylee and their mother have been trying to get a hold of her, and they’re worried. Do you have a phone number or address for her?” I know it was low to use Kylee like that, but it was the only way I might have gotten her to give me that information.<br /> <br /> “Oh, actually, it does look like she had added a forwarding address to her profile,” the receptionist said. <br /> <br /> I punched in the address as she rattled it off. I hung up without even saying anything else and tore out of the driveway. My knuckles turned white as I gripped the steering wheel. I followed the GPS to the address, pulling into the drive of a large, two-story house in a nice neighborhood. Parking half on the lawn, I didn’t even close the car door before taking the front steps two at a time. <br /> <br /> I banged on the door until I heard movement inside. A man opened it. It was the male I smelled in Ayla’s room. Before he could say anything, I lunged at him, my hands grabbing the front of his shirt and practically lifting him off the ground.<br /> <br /> “What have you done with her? I smell her all over you. Where is she?”<br /> <br /> He pushed me off him, his eyes glaring at me with recognition and disdain.<br /> <br /> “You must be Theo.”<br /> <br /> Chapter 5: Theo<br /> “What is going on?” Ayla’s voice floated down to me as she ran down the stairs. She froze halfway down the moment she laid eyes on me. “What are you doing here?”<br /> <br /> A silk robe hung open, revealing the shorts and cut-off tank top she wore underneath, her caramel-colored hair flowing loosely around her shoulders. She was gorgeous. And clearly not in distress. I took a step toward her as my rage grew.<br /> <br /> “What are you doing here?” I spat back. <br /> <br /> “That’s none of your concern,” the male interjected.<br /> <br /> I turned on him again, a rumbling growl emanating from my chest, my claws extending. I was ready to rip his throat out. <br /> <br /> “Stop,” Ayla yelled, coming the rest of the way down the stairs and stepping between the two of us. “Zeff, go to work.”<br /> <br /> “Absolutely not. I’m not leaving you here with him. Not in the state he’s in.”<br /> <br /> “I would never hurt her.” Kieran was ready to burst from my skin. How dare this air head think we would ever lay a hand on her.<br /> <br /> “We both know that’s a load of nonsense.”<br /> <br /> “Zeff, you’re not helping. Shut the up and leave. Go to work,” Ayla insisted. <br /> <br /> “Ayla…”<br /> <br /> “I said go.” Her expression softened a little. “I’ll call you later.”<br /> <br /> The Zeff guy shot me another hate-filled look before exiting out the open front door. We stood in silence until the sound of his engine faded. <br /> <br /> “Are you sllepping with him?” <br /> <br /> Her eyes went wide, then narrowed as she took a step forward. “Are you doing that with my sister?”<br /> <br /> A strangled snarl escaped me, but she started speaking again before I could recover from her accusation.<br /> <br /> “What I do with a male — or anyone for that matter — is none of your business.”<br /> <br /> “What?! It isn’t.” Electricity passed through the air between us. “He has no right to put his hands on you.”<br /> <br /> “He does if I want him to,” she yelled, not only holding her ground against the alpha energy I was exuding but taking another step toward me. “I don’t belong to anyone, remember? I have no mate.”<br /> <br /> I lost it. My hand was around her neck and my lips was on hers before I even knew what I had done. But I didn’t stop. I couldn’t stop. Sparks of intense electricity shot through me, invigorating all my senses. I pushed her to open for me, my tongue seeking hers. God, she tasted so good. She returned the kiss, her arousal mingling in the air. <br /> <br /> “MINE.” <br /> <br /> She pushed me off her with force.<br /> <br /> “Get off.” <br /> <br /> I took a step toward her again but she backed away. <br /> <br /> “Don’t you dare hurt Kylee like this.”<br /> <br /> “Like you care about your sister getting hurt,” I spat, but for some reason, I instantly regretted it. But I couldn’t take it back. I wouldn’t take it back.<br /> <br /> “Excuse me?” Pure rage radiated off of her, her eyes turning an icy blue. <br /> <br /> “You abandoned Kylee a long time ago. Putting your own life ahead of hers while she was left behind.”<br /> <br /> Ayla’s face paled. Every ounce of anger seemed to drain from her instantly, that blue fire fading from her eyes. <br /> <br /> “What did you just say?”<br /> <br /> “You stopped being a sister to Kylee years ago. You disappeared all the time, leaving her alone with a mother who was struggling to keep everything together.”<br /> <br /> Ayla’s posture completely changed. She almost went completely limp in front of me, stumbling until her back hit the wall. Her façade cracked. <br /> <br /> “That’s what she told you? She said that?” her voice was almost a whisper. <br /> <br /> Kieran was going insane in my head, telling me to shut up, to just stop talking. Urging me to stop hurting her. Because I was hurting her. I had struck a nerve, a very deep one, and I wouldn’t stop. She had to break the bond. Once and for all. If it meant I had to break her to do it, I would.<br /> <br /> “She told me everything. She told me how you would keep things from her and your mother. That you would be out at all hours of the night when you were a teenager. How you dropped out of high school, waisting the tuition your parents worked so hard for.”<br /> <br /> “What?” <br /> <br /> “I could never be with someone as cold and heartless as you.”<br /> <br /> Ayla’s head snapped up. Her eyes a steely gray as she resolved herself to something I couldn’t figure out but would soon find out. <br /> <br /> “I, Ayla Garner, reject you, Theo Arden, as my mate. I relinquish my claim as your mate and Luna.”<br /> <br /> I gritted my teeth as Kieran howled in my head, screaming for me not to accept it. <br /> <br /> “I, Theo Arden, accept your rejection.” The pain in my chest amplified, but I could still feel the bond. “We’ve done this before. It’s not working.”<br /> <br /> “Your wolf has to accept it,” she said. <br /> <br /> “Yours didn’t.”<br /> <br /> “Didn’t she?” Ayla said.<br /> <br /> You said she didn’t want to break the bond. <br /> <br /> ‘She didn’t. Still accepted.’<br /> <br /> How was that possible? Our wolves were primal creatures. They were animals, after all. They weren’t ones to deny themselves what they wanted. Not without a very good reason.<br /> <br /> “Tell your wolf to accept it,” Ayla said with a crack in her voice. <br /> <br /> The muscles in my jaw tightened to a point I thought my teeth would shatter. The noise in my head from Kieran becoming almost unbearable.<br /> <br /> “He won’t.”<br /> <br /> “Make him,” she forced out.<br /> <br /> “I can’t.”<br /> <br /> “He doesn’t have a choice. I’ll never be with him, and neither will she,” Ayla said, tears threatening to fall from her eyes. <br /> <br /> I could feel the pain he felt. It was excruciating. I told him it would end if he just accepted, but he wouldn’t give in. He was an Alpha. He was as strong as me. I’d never overpower him on this. Ayla must have sensed my stalemate. Or her wolf did and told her because she pulled herself from against the wall, standing up straight again.<br /> <br /> “I, Ayla Garner, cut my ties to Alpha Torin…”<br /> <br /> “What are you doing?” There was desperation in my voice. She couldn’t do this. I moved to stop her. <br /> <br /> “And the Greytooth Pack.”<br /> <br /> “No.” I fell to a knee, feeling the invisible tether that united pack members with their Alpha splinter. Kieran was pounding against the barriers of my control, putting all his might into taking over the shift. I knew I was on the verge.<br /> <br /> “From this day forth, I am a rogue.” She took an unsteady step toward me, silent tears rolling freely down her face. “Now get out.”<br /> <br /> She had used my father’s name. Either of our names would have worked in the limbo state we were currently in. But she used my father’s. There was nothing I could do to stop her. Nothing I could do to fight the separation. She knew exactly what she was doing. <br /> <br /> If my wolf wouldn’t sever the mate bond, she would remove herself from any control I had over her. <br /> <br /> With one final, agonizing look, she walked away, disappearing upstairs. <br /> <br /> I took in a ragged breath of air. Ayla now had until midnight to be out of our territory. If I caught her on our land after that, I would have to kill her. Mate bond or not. She was a rogue now. It was our laws. <br /> <br /> Kieran had finally gone still in my mind. <br /> <br /> ‘Mate’s gone.’<br /> <br /> Did he mean Ayla or her wolf?<br /> <br /> ‘Dasha. Mate’s name is Dasha. Dasha’s gone.’<br /> <br /> Realization hit me and panic set in. Her wolf was gone. The pain was too much. She had retreated deep into the recesses of Ayla’s subconscious. Ayla wouldn’t be able to call on her. She wouldn’t be able to shift. She wouldn’t be able to heal.<br /> <br /> She was a rogue without a wolf. She couldn’t protect herself. <br /> <br /> I had to get as far away from her as possible. <br /> <br /> I dragged myself back to my feet, forcing them to walk out the door.	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158,213	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158198}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	1102519197416101	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"You are my mate? Why can't I smell you?" Alpha Matthew Stone grabbed Sam's arm and felt bursts of electrical current to every cell and nerve ending in his body. <br /> ******** <br /> Sam’s POV<br /> She couldn't help but wonder how far she had come and how much farther she had to go. She remembered her mother had told her that the White Feather pack was located near something with the word Lake in it but wasn't sure of the full name or of how much farther she had to go.<br /> She lost track of how many days she had been running and it didn't really matter because she was free! The only thing was, she didn't feel safe and it was so hard to find something to eat. She was so hungry and tired. She hadn't been able to fall into a deep sleep in she couldn't even remember how long, because she was constantly afraid. She was afraid of someone catching her or attacking her.<br /> She had no idea what day it was or how long she had been on the run when she came up on another stretch of highway. After looking both ways and only seeing black top pavement and more trees, she decided to follow it to see if she could find a sign that would tell her something. She stuck as close as possible to the trees but kept getting a feeling that someone was watching her. She couldn't tell what it was that had her on edge but something was making the hair on the back of her neck stand up, like it was telling her to be on alert.<br /> Since she had shifted back to her human form while she was near the road and she had been walking and jogging in her human form，but felt maybe it was time to get back in her wolf form. She could run faster as a wolf than she could as a human. <br /> She slipped back into the woods and stripped, tied her clothes around her leg then shifted and smelled water. She followed her nose, weaving her way through the trees until she found the source. There was a small stream running just inside the tree line and she was thirsty. She carefully watched the area around her, her ears standing straight up and twitching back and forth, listening to every sound in the woods as she drank.<br /> Suddenly her heart beat jumped to almost double speed when she heard a twig snap to her right. She whipped her head around and saw a pair of red eyes staring straight at her. Rogue!<br /> At the same time, she heard a low growl slightly behind her and then a flash of black fur leaped over her head and raced towards the rogue. Sam was stunned as she watched the huge black wolf attack the rogue. The rogue was almost as tall but was half the size in body weight and it was basically no contest. The two wolves tangled for a few seconds and then the black wolf snapped the rogue's neck and threw him to the side.<br /> Sam felt frozen in place as the large black wolf turned to her and she saw his eyes. They were golden and almost shining as he looked over at her. He slowly turned and stepped behind a tree and shifted. He untied the pants that had been tied around his ankle and pulled them on before stepping out to confront her.<br /> He was as big in his human form as he had been in his wolf form except you could now see each muscle clearly defined and he bulged with them everywhere! She couldn't look him in the face but her eyes wandered over really wide shoulders, massive long arms led down to some of the biggest hands she had ever seen. His hairless chest was impressive as were the ridges of muscles that lined his torso down in a tantalizing V that disappeared in the band of his low riding shorts. <br /> She forced her eyes down to huge muscular thighs and calves. The only part hidden from her view was the area his low riding shorts covered, but the tight material did nothing to hide a large bulge in the front that hung slightly down on to his thigh. She was afraid to look at his face. She had learned the hard way that looking a person of authority in the eye was disrespectful and painful.<br /> He was amazed that she had not moved and seemed to be frozen in place as she inspected him.<br /> "Shift!" He commanded.<br /> Her eyes got wide and she shook her head. "I said Shift!" He commanded again.<br /> She shook her head and then turned in a circle. He understood that she wanted him to turn around first. He smiled and chuckled but did as she requested. He turned his back on her and heard some material rustling and then she whispered "Ok, you can turn around now."<br /> His eyes widened when he saw the tiny little woman with hair like milk chocolate and skin the color of pale caramel standing before him with her head slightly bent as if she was afraid to look him in the face.<br /> "Thank you for saving me." Sam whispered as she watched him through her lashes. She took a step back when he took a step forward but he stopped right away.<br /> "You're welcome. Who are you? What are you doing on our land?" He asked.<br /> "My name is Sam Madison. I'm looking for the White Feather pack. Can you tell me if I'm close or not?" Sam replied, still not looking directly at him.<br /> "Another mile or so and you would be at the pack house if you took the right fork in the road up here about a hundred yards around the next bend. Why are you looking for the White Feather pack?"<br /> "My mother was originally from the White Feather pack. My parents are dead and I ran away from my old pack because they are cruel and abusive. I overheard the pack's Alpha's son when he said he wanted to make me a breeder. I was terrified the Alpha was going to allow it so I ran. I've been running for I'm not even sure how.<br /> "Now." She said softly. "Can I talk to your Alpha please?" "You already are." He said. "I'm Alpha Matthew Stone."<br /> With that, Sam's head snapped up and her eyes got wide as she stared at him for a moment before she dropped to her knees and bent her neck, showing submission to him. Her head swam at the quick movements and then everything went black.<br /> <br /> Matthew's POV<br /> Matthew had spotted her about a mile down the road, weaving her way through the trees, staying close to the road as if she didn't want to lose sight of it. He was deeper in the trees and the attraction he felt was undeniable but confusing. He had followed her as he wondered who she was? What was this beautiful golden caramel wolf doing on White Feather Pack land? Why had he not smelled her and why couldn't he now? She had only the scent of a wild flower that he couldn't identify right off the bat.<br /> She was obviously not a rogue but he had not received any messages about a neighboring pack asking for permission for a member of their pack to cross his territory. She almost looked lost. He knew she was going to be reaching the entrance road to his property soon so he jogged slightly faster, wanting to get ahead of her so that he could meet her at the entrance but kept a close eye on her.<br /> He had received a report earlier of a rogue in the area and wanted to be sure that no harm came to her before she reached her destination. He hadn't been able to catch her scent yet, like she had hidden it, which made him more curious about her.<br /> Suddenly he smelled something else. He stopped in his tracks and looked around. He saw the female wolf stop at the small stream that ran along the edge of the tree line to take a drink. She was obviously on alert because her ears kept twitching. He saw her lift her head and then freeze. Her eyes were wide and were the most beautiful blue he had ever seen. He heard the twig snap and he snapped his head around. The rogue! He was less than fifty yards from her and crouched as if he was going to attack. Matt was about a hundred yards away from him but he used his Alpha speed to quickly close the distance.<br /> Matt ran towards them, coming up behind her, he jumped over her head and charged the rogue. The rogue was seriously malnourished and no contest for him. Within less than a minute, he snapped the rogue's neck and tossed him to the side. Then he turned towards the golden wolf and realized if they were going to be able to talk, they needed to shift first. He stepped behind a large tree and quickly untied the shorts he had tied around his calf and pulled them on.<br /> He stepped out from behind the tree and took several steps towards her. She seemed to be frozen in place and hadn't moved a muscle.<br /> "Shift!" He commanded.<br /> Her eyes got wide and she shook her head.<br /> "I said Shift!" He commanded again, pushing a bit of his Alpha power forward .<br /> She shook her head again and then turned in a circle. He understood that she wanted him to turn around first. He smiled and chuckled but did as she requested. He turned his back on her and heard some material rustling and then she whispered "Ok, you can turn around now."<br /> His eyes widened when he saw the tiny little woman with hair like milk chocolate and skin the color of pale caramel standing before him with her head slightly bent as if she was afraid to look him in the face. She was rather busty but otherwise really skinny, like she hadn't been eating well for a long while. She wasn't what he would call boney and her small, slender frame suggested well defined muscles, but she definitely needed to put on some weight.<br /> "Thank you for saving me." Sam whispered as she watched him through her lashes. She took a step back when he took a step forward but he stopped right away.<br /> "You're welcome. Who are you? What are you doing on our land?" He asked.<br /> "My name is Sam Madison. I'm looking for the White Feather pack. Can you tell me if I'm close or not?" Sam replied, still not looking directly at him.<br /> "Another mile or so and you would be at the pack house if you took the right fork in the road up here about a hundred yards around the next bend. Why are you looking for the White Feather pack?"<br /> "My mother was originally from the White Feather pack. My parents are dead and I ran away from my old pack because they are cruel and abusive. I overheard the pack's Beta's son when he said he wanted to make me a breeder. I was terrified the Alpha was going to allow it so I ran. I've been running for I'm not even sure how long now." She said softly. "Can I talk to your Alpha please?" <br /> "You already are." He said. "I'm Alpha Matthew Stone."<br /> With that, Sam's head snapped up and her eyes got wide as she stared at him for a moment before she dropped to her knees and bent her neck, showing submission to him. Her blue eyes in her wolf form had been beautiful but the deep gray blue of her large human eyes were amazing. He had never seen eyes like hers. They seemed to look right through him.<br /> Suddenly she fell to the side and lay still. He rushed to her side and grabbed her arm. It was like he had grabbed hold of a live wire as the shock ran up his arm, straight into his chest and he jerked his hand back.<br /> "Is she my mate? Why can't I smell her?" He slowly reached out and pushed her hair back out of her face and she looked pale. He ignored the electrical shocks that ran up his arms as he scooped her up holding her tightly to his chest, he ignored the warm electric shocks that ran through him and ran to the pack clinic as fast as he could go. He covered the almost two mile stretch through the trees and across the yard in under two minutes.<br /> He kicked the clinic doors open and yelled "Doctor Andy! I need you now!" He pushed his Alpha voice out.<br /> Nurse Abby and Doctor Andy came racing down the hall and were amazed to see their Alpha in nothing but shorts, carrying what looked like a child in his big powerful arms with a look of total fear on his face.<br /> "Follow me. What happened? Who is she?" Dr. Andy asked, as he led the Alpha into an exam room. "Lay her down here."<br /> "I think she's my mate and I don't know what happened. We were in the forest just talking and suddenly she just passed out." Matt said in bewilderment.<br /> "Well, go outside and let me check her over. I'll be out in a few minutes to talk to you." Dr. Andy said, giving the large Alpha a stern look.<br /> Matt didn't want to leave her but knew he needed to give the doctor room to work. He reluctantly left the exam room and paced back and forth while he waited. What was taking so long? He wondered after the first 15 minutes, that felt like it had been hours. Finally Dr. Andy stepped outside and he looked concerned.<br /> "What? What's wrong with her?" Matt demanded.<br /> "Sit down, Alpha. And remember, no one here did this to her." Dr. Andy said and wished his parents or Beta were here.<br /> Matt's heart rate jumped into overdrive. Was he going to lose his mate right after meeting her?<br /> "Is she going to be OK? Who did what to her?" Matt asked, his voice shook slightly.<br /> "Well, she's still unconscious so I can't question her and her first and most urgent problem is that she is seriously malnourished. Looks like she hasn't been eating well for a long time. We've got her on an IV but what she's going to need is food, especially meat and green vegetables. Her iron counts are very low." Dr. Andy told him but Matt could tell from the sorrowful look on his face that her being hungry was not the whole story.<br /> "What else doc? I can tell there's something else." Matt said, almost afraid to hear what he had to say.<br /> "She's been beaten, Matt, repeatedly over a long period of time. Her back is covered in scars, so whatever they were hitting her with must have been soaked in wolfsbane or silver otherwise the scars wouldn't be as bad as they are. It must have taken a long time for them to heal. I'd like to take some x-rays to be sure but I suspect that she's had some broken bones in the past." Dr. Andy said quietly and got the reaction he had suspected he was going to get when Alpha Matt stood up and punched a hole in the wall.<br /> "Breaking your hands and destroying my clinic is not going to help her, Matt. Nurse Abby is going to stay with her until she wakes up but right now, what she needs is rest and then food. Be gentle with her Matt. I've got a feeling she's been through a lot of misery. What's her name?"<br /> "Sam Madison. She said her mother was originally from our pack." Matt replied, as he sat back down. His legs suddenly didn't feel strong enough to hold him up anymore.<br /> "Rafe and Angie Madison's daughter?" Dr. Andy's eyebrows went clear up to his hairline.<br /> "You knew her parents?" Matt asked in amazement.<br /> "Yes! Her mother was your mother's best friend. They had been almost inseparable growing up until Angie met Rafe when he came<br /> to visit your grandfather with his father. He took one look at her and said Mate! She left with him and we never saw her again."<br /> Just then Nurse Abby stepped out of the exam room and said "She's waking up, Doctor."<br /> "Let me get the x-rays, Matt and then you can see her. OK?" Dr. Andy said as he turned to go back in the room. He instructed Nurse Abby to bring in the portable x-ray machine and then stepped back in the room.<br /> Matt sat down and dropped his head into his hands. He needed to let his mom know about this. He mind linked her to come to the clinic and then waited for her to arrive.<br /> Nurse Abby pushed the x-ray machine into the room just a minute before Natalie arrived.	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158,309	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158310}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	703785351936640	FREE Chronic Pain Seminar ⭐ Jan 31 at 11:30 AM - RSVP	FREE LUNCH SEMINAR! 👋 Hi, I'm Dr. Brian Coyle, D.C. and I'm hosting a FREE Lunch + Chronic Pain + Inflammation Seminar on January 31st at 11:30 AM. Contemplating surgery or invasive treatments can be stressful and scary! We help patients find REAL relief for chronic inflammation and pain.<br /> <br /> AVOID:<br /> ❌ Endless physical therapy<br /> ❌ Life-interrupting surgery<br /> ❌ Drugs <br /> <br /> This seminar is perfect for anyone dealing with:<br /> ✔️arthritis<br /> ✔️inflammation<br /> ✔️back and neck pain<br /> ✔️knee pain<br /> ✔️shoulder issues<br /> ✔️plantar fasciitis<br /> ✔️tennis elbow<br /> ✔️tendonitis<br /> ✔️and more...<br /> <br /> When: January 31st at 11:30 AM<br /> Where: Advanced Health Center - 6110 Hellyer Ave., Suite 100 \| San Jose CA 95138<br /> <br /> Imagine being pain-free for walks, shopping or hanging out with your family and friends! Our approach is LIFE CHANGING!<br /> <br /> ⬇️ Seats will fill quickly. Click below to RSVP now! ⬇️<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbriancoyle.easywebinar.live%2Fregistration-6&h=AT3BXP7MGPKC7F2ovCS8gxkomC99xAOuASN4gaQyEhRqa_ZgxUKVg7benwYIkIE9JFlEvjOp0_nEpBkRop2BBK62rw8uEKfaFuCS3rMym73ORyfE8CxAF8GKTdfP-KTrKHdRZryfoTPiqUmVbGwy1By2iZnVCNN7WW6FZySjJnQ" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://briancoyle.easywebinar.live/registration-6</a>	SIGN_UP	https://briancoyle.easywebinar.live/registration-6	137244776133327	Advanced Health Center San Jose	https://facebook.com/61551447102206	5	1	3,573,883,426,207,551	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Sign up	Advanced Health Center San Jose	120205811558890155	briancoyle.easywebinar.live	NONE	image	If you keep hearing this from your doctor, it's time for a different approach to your pain. Are you looking for a completely different approach to healthcare? One that addresses the problem naturally, at the level of cause?	https://briancoyle.easywebinar.live/registration-6		2024-01-15 12:24	https://scontent.fsac1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/419846786_1561562984646852_2309382930897025564_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AkaT6TOcsnkAX9i8mI_&_nc_ht=scontent.fsac1-1.fna&oh=00_AfBnWj9YGz0-iAtAwcAGrXQoD-uw8jHRKABeiSDPgNYFmg&oe=65B7FF85	person_profile	Advanced Health Center San Jos	https://scontent.fsac1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/419913803_384322477472633_8632853830249032212_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7g_MOns_YTMAX8hJ6wP&_nc_ht=scontent.fsac1-2.fna&oh=00_AfAo471Y4QHzw5DzscW5KBbaD-eSOjC2KaV6SxJtJdRkgg&oe=65B6D6A4	3	Advanced Health Center San Jose	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,132	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158156}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	406026111865173		Come see us today and start feeling better! <br /> <br /> #lymphdrainage #lifecoaching #massage #naturalwellness #holisticwellnes #natural #stressrelief #painmanagement #wellness #detox #health #selfcare #massagetherapy #infrared #healthylifestyle #recovery #relax #painrelief #healthandwellness #massagetherapist #deeptissuemassage #relaxation #swedishmassage #cuppingtherapy #healing #cupping #sale #idahofalls #seidaho #jacksonwyoming	MESSAGE_PAGE		102816369278551	Fidere Wellness	https://facebook.com/100086280680563	91	1	893,533,092,265,735	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Send message	Fidere Wellness	120204126003020490		NONE	image			{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"I am dealing with lowerback\/leg pain.","response":"We are so happy you reached out! One of our team members will be in touch shortly."},{"title":"I am dealing with shoulder\/neck pain.","response":"We are so happy you reached out! One of our team members will be in touch shortly."},{"title":"I am dealing with other pain\/ I want additional information.","response":"We are so happy you reached out! One of our team members will be in touch shortly."}],"text":"Hi {{user_first_name}}! Please let us know how we can help you."}},"user_edit":false,"surface":"boosted_post"}	2024-01-24 10:47	https://scontent-lax3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422570659_3649356382014278_8340123143341183257_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=upED08d_QzAAX9b2d16&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC-MC-l3PBZIhSZbBNhC9Q-BTPDHiu2AvByVfLC6bX55A&oe=65B6EB4C	person_profile	Fidere Wellness	https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422441092_1571003733732194_2326783512520569147_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NZzH3Q_JFp8AX_qeU4e&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAhpWXst0LyslQgEkEooEporUKiNA6a7W3rVEfxe553kA&oe=65B8B10A	3	Fidere Wellness	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,293	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158290}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	916656899872459	Nervous introverts use 'adrenaline blockers' to go from 'shaky and sweaty' to confident	Nervous introvert presenters are using our 'adrenaline blockers' to go from 'shaky and sweaty' to 'confidently cool.'<br /> <br /> After witnessing thousands of celebrities, performers, and executives overcome 'stage anxiety,' I’ve realized the real problem.<br /> <br /> It’s NOT that they’re introverts or shy…<br /> <br /> … They simply have an overactive nervous system.<br /> <br /> Which makes it almost biologically impossible to be calm on stage.<br /> <br /> The solution isn’t years of ‘Toastmasters’ training.<br /> <br /> All they need is the 'insider’s edge' to instantly block adrenaline….<br /> <br /> See, I talk to people every day who avoid important presentations at all costs.<br /> <br /> Because of a racing heartbeat.. sweaty palms… shaky voice… dry mouth… tunnel vision.<br /> <br /> They’ve failed classes, bombed job interviews, or missed out on promotions.<br /> <br /> They’ve been 'left out' in a society that prizes confidence.<br /> <br /> They turn down and avoid great opportunities because they fear they will only embarrass themselves.<br /> <br /> It was the same for me.<br /> <br /> Anytime I had to perform under pressure, I had a debilitating knot in my stomach…<br /> <br /> 🥵 Flushing and sweating<br /> 😐 Mind went blank<br /> 🤢 Uncontrollable shaky legs<br /> <br /> But the worst part was always wondering how different my life could be if I had risen to the occasion.<br /> <br /> Instead of falling on my face.<br /> <br /> Then one day, I was catching up with a psychologist friend…<br /> <br /> And he casually mentioned some studies on an 'insider's edge' that people used to release and overcome extreme fears.<br /> <br /> I had never heard of anything like it. I dove headfirst into the research.<br /> <br /> It turns out that the majority of professional musicians have used this edge.<br /> <br /> And they’re not the only ones.<br /> <br /> This 'insider’s edge' is used by salespeople, marketing execs, grad students, pop stars, lawyers, stand-up comedians, Broadway stars, and even surgeons.<br /> <br /> So the next time I had to present, I tried this 'edge'...<br /> <br /> And I confidently nailed my talk.<br /> <br /> For the first time in my entire life, I CONFIDENTLY 'felt like myself' during my pitch.<br /> <br /> I was fully present. The nerves were gone. I showed up and gave my best presentation ever.<br /> <br /> I started wondering why no one else had heard about this.<br /> And here’s what I discovered:<br /> <br /> The racing heartbeat and sweaty, shaky palms come from a surge of adrenaline in your body.<br /> <br /> That’s the classic 'fight or flight' hormone response to danger.<br /> <br /> It’s great when we’re being chased by a lion. <br /> Not great if we’re afraid of a stage...<br /> <br /> When our body OVERproduces adrenaline, we get performance anxiety.<br /> <br /> But the 'insider’s edge' BLOCKS high levels of adrenaline…<br /> <br /> …and restores it to optimal levels - which keeps us confidently cool.<br /> <br /> This 'edge' has been common knowledge in medical circles for 50 years.<br /> <br /> It’s a simple, cheap, and safe treatment known as a beta-blocker...<br /> <br /> To be taken ONLY AS NEEDED an hour before any nerve-wracking event. <br /> <br /> And even naturally nervous introverts EXUDE 'prescription-strength' confidence.<br /> <br /> However, beta-blockers for blocking adrenaline have been hard to get in the past.<br /> <br /> I had to see an expensive psychiatrist to get my prescription.<br /> <br /> Ouch.<br /> <br /> Everyone should have easy access to performance medicine at an affordable price. So I teamed up with a Stanford-trained psychiatrist to start Kick Health.<br /> <br /> Kick is the first online performance medicine clinic devoted to helping you overcome those ‘shakes and sweats’ to stay confidently cool during big moments.<br /> <br /> And we’ve worked to make this system as simple as possible.<br /> <br /> Just fill out a simple intake in less than 10 minutes on our website instead of scheduling an inconvenient in-person doctor’s appointment.<br /> <br /> And a board-certified doctor will issue a prescription (if appropriate). <br /> <br /> All for only $49. 👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️<br /> <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gokick.com%2Fr%2Ffb-imgtb-confidently-cool&h=AT0SvYA97166YRNFa4huVuuO6JcHd0SpO_k30SDsXBnVu3WZceHLxzSCbnzfSDRrXFaJtr80Y-DSUhOuMaDU-n-r-Xwnj9CUmrI1obE98sY_AeeEvj9Ri0mc9dAFdSSGuV-JTq874SR8VkYmJ-HUZuE0vjbs1Ipv2zQKdqZKnCs" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.gokick.com/r/fb-imgtb-confidently-cool</a><br /> <br /> We also partner with a mail-order pharmacy to deliver the medication directly to your door for only $20 more. 💊<br /> ✔️ No insurance necessary.<br /> ✔️ No monthly fees.<br /> ✔️ No appointment, video, or phone call needed.<br /> <br /> We even offer a 'Doctor's Guarantee,' so you don't get charged until a doctor determines the prescription is suitable for you.<br /> <br /> If you’re ready to finally block that 'adrenaline overdrive' and present <br /> 'confidently cool'...<br /> <br /> …then take 10 minutes to get your personalized supply of Kick's beta-blockers at the link below.	NO_BUTTON	https://www.gokick.com/r/fb-imgtb-confidently-cool	1589576631259151	Kick	https://facebook.com/kickhealth	2,951	1	717,917,800,482,685	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	No button	Kick	6488233197461	gokick.com	NONE	image		https://www.gokick.com/r/fb-imgtb-confidently-cool		2023-10-16 11:35	https://scontent-bos5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/393369748_1337683437142717_5419490290075150120_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jhGEdugP4YwAX-nyGD9&_nc_ht=scontent-bos5-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzG11UUOJ7iuNNeIui35zo_68f3OBioW9CSw_a8kjHGA&oe=65B7A923	person_profile	Kick Your Fears.	https://scontent-bos5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/393374924_1502698147207214_4341856716824566584_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z8kAl9zWVTEAX8_VEDY&_nc_ht=scontent-bos5-1.xx&oh=00_AfCcLq5lIU1GqYiGansfMrd6pA-XsPZc51jbzx4tkm2LwA&oe=65B85773	3	Kick	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,332	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":158334}'	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	1059789881910676	Groundbreaking Class IV Laser Therapy	Sciatica symptoms include: painful, shooting sensations down your leg, numbness or tingling in your lower back, buttocks, or legs. Sciatica is a common condition caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve.<br /> <br /> At Thrive Restoration Clinic, we understand the debilitating effects of sciatica and offer effective, non-surgical treatment options that address the root cause of your pain. Our team of experienced practitioners will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.<br /> <br /> We've helped hundreds find pain relief with Class IV Laser Therapy. Laser therapy is a non-invasive and drug-free alternative to treating pain and accelerating the healing process. This therapy uses a powerful cold laser that penetrates deep into the tissue to accelerate healing on a cellular level. Many patients experience pain relief and an increased range of motion after the first treatment. <br /> <br /> Don't let sciatica hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards a pain-free life by scheduling your appointment today. Click the button below to learn more. ⬇️<br /> <br /> Thrive Restoration Clinic<br /> 100 East Sybelia Ave Ste 217<br /> Maitland FL 32751	LEARN_MORE	https://www.thriverestorationclinic.com/new-laser-	102017592824225	Thrive Restoration Clinic	https://facebook.com/100090262573948	131	1	708,410,978,048,021	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Thrive Restoration Clinic	120207109432200569	https://www.thriverestorationclinic.com/new-laser-...	NONE	image	Limited Time Offer ⏳	https://www.thriverestorationclinic.com/new-laser-therapy		2024-01-24 05:36	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421747472_1414476759167144_2284544695785942314_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wvrFnAHP0cYAX9xw7j2&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDFDeMDVd8xnc4GnelOTOlMfUdrCpbkWiu9l-orRcQHtw&oe=65B7F67F	person_profile	Thrive Restoration Clinic	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422227816_1862883504165078_7197845666261577942_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=khj4ow8toSoAX_iKbvB&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDlJ2w9w5rDoZVQ5prWpO6MRljIv4S-sRsQDH1ayokQQw&oe=65B86C61	3	Thrive Restoration Clinic	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,080	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	392170720019770	What Is AMD?	Did you know age-related macular degeneration affects 1 in 10 adults over 50 in the US? Learn about treatments and more.	NO_BUTTON	https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/macular-degenerat	11736558481	WebMD	https://facebook.com/WebMD	1,954,608	0	1,133,912,971,352,053	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	No button	WebMD	6508237476848	webmd.com	NONE	image	See causes and symptoms.	https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/macular-degeneration/age-related-macular-degeneration-overview?ecd=socpd_fb_Gen_4051_spns_ctv11673		2024-01-24 12:11	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/421533283_3633868790222712_8561478580396905311_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-jhBEy-9uzMAX8O9sxW&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD9Z2yG5PLuJNkx32YwkwcH0Cg0eEo0OrWJ9UAPT2JxzA&oe=65B8AA2B	person_profile			3	WebMD	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete
158,243	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-01-25 14:51	active	121	356879637297006		Dr. Kenneth Rosenzweig is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon who has focused his practice in the non-operative care of spinal conditions, general Orthopaedic and industrial/sports-related conditions.<br /> <br /> Dr. Rosenzweig performs spinal epidural steroid injections, selective nerve blocks, facet injections, radiofrequency denervation/rhizotomy, SI joint injections, caudal epidural injections, and provocative discography (using ISIS standards), as well as other procedures.<br /> <br /> If you're in need of a pain management physician, request an appointment with Dr. Rosenzweig. <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Farksurgicalhospital.com%2Fdoctors%2Fkenneth-rosenzweig%2F&h=AT2HSXo5mmdDjo7bg3ZhIkh_HeeBR1KxYlwBgLoLjv0TmbPAdM9i17RhOxY2xXMk2wnxsg1TdqTzPDiEhD5y101RSuSTDxLeY2USCTScegVelE7lzKGqoPhtjWWiGfIPGqcuZCbprkWhgpE-sNSS6XTLP7ZifTDm-S7spg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://arksurgicalhospital.com/doctors/kenneth-rosenzweig/</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://arksurgicalhospital.com/doctors/kenneth-ro	229515517155008	Arkansas Surgical Hospital	https://facebook.com/ArkansasSurgicalHospital	7,778	1	356,318,033,854,627	2024-01-24 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Learn more	Arkansas Surgical Hospital	120204531103300376	arksurgicalhospital.com	NONE	video		https://arksurgicalhospital.com/doctors/kenneth-rosenzweig/		2024-01-24 09:36	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/422586532_1095379621601727_6017143438440749775_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=26JgcwwVFnEAX__M6Lo&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC7he8oLFKfYi9MxXNC5TvX_1q065HBt0KOrPwYQc34uA&oe=65B78285	person_profile	Arkansas Surgical Hospital	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/420553257_756597879234251_2161256273319395710_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=i-SI0NBVmR4AX9Hg_sB&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC3Dv9JAL0ZAw6JkTiOa3aBkHxAKlkiZp-0d6zmg65iMA&oe=65B88C16	3	Arkansas Surgical Hospital	2024-01-24 02:00	View Edit Delete

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