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đRead the next chaptersđ | At Grace Mansion, the lanterns in the corridors cast intricate shadows on the window frames, resembling beasts looming on the walls. Carissa Sinclair sat on a chair with her hands folded in her lap, her slender body hidden beneath plain clothes. She looked at the man before herâher husband whom she had spent a year waiting for. Barrett Warren was still wearing his slightly-worn battle armor. Standing under the dim light, he looked commanding and handsome. His face showed a mix of determination and a touch of regret. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for this marriage. Aurora will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has said that General Yates is a model for all women in the kingdom. Would she be willing to be a concubine?" Barrett's eyes flashed with a hint of annoyance. "No, she wonât be a concubine. Sheâll be my legal wife and equal to you." "Calling her that doesn't change anything. Ultimately, sheâs really just a concubine in disguise," Carissa replied, remaining indifferent. Barrett frowned. "What does it matter? Aurora and I developed feelings for each other on the battlefield. We earned this marriage through our achievements. I donât need your approval." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Developed feelings, huh? Do you remember what you said to me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett had left to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before leaving, he had lifted his wifeâs veil and promised her, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Feeling awkward, Barrett turned away. "Forget what I said. When I married you, I didnât understand love. I thought you were a suitable match for a wife until I met Rory." Talking about the woman he loved, his eyes softened and filled with deep affection. He turned back to Carissa and added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply. I hope you'll agree to this." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite feeling a mix of disgust and unwillingness, she still asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict. Besides, Aurora is straightforward, cheerful, and lovable. She visited my mother a while ago." They agreed? Hah... How ironic! Everything Carissa had done over the past year had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting her brow. Barrett spoke of Aurora Yates with a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother. Sheâs made her very happy. Even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was seriously ill. I brought in the best physician to treat her. I managed the estateâs affairs by day and stayed up nights by her bedside. It was only because of this that her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was stating the facts of her exhausting year. "But seeing Aurora has made my mother feel even better," Barrett said earnestly. "I know this is unfair to you, but for the greater good, please support Aurora and me." Carissa pressed her lips into a thin line as she blinked away the tears in her eyes and sharpened her gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need for that. Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. Sheâs a general, and she's above the usual household squabbles. She wouldnât want to meet you," Barrett refused instantly. Carissa retorted, "What kind of women do I know? What kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of a noble family. My father and my six brothers died on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "But you're a delicate woman suited for the comforts of home. Aurora has no respect for such women. Sheâs straightforward and unrestrained. If she meets you, she might say things you wonât like. Why put yourself through that?" As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under the corner of her eye became more evident in the light. She calmly said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. Understanding the bigger picture and acting with dignity are essential virtues for any matriarch. Don't you trust me?" Chapter 2 Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? There was a royal edict for this marriage. Even when Aurora moves in, youâll be in separate wings. She wonât compete with you for control of the household. She doesnât care about those things.â âDo you really think Iâm attached to managing this household?â Carissa countered. Running this mansion was no easy task. Just the monthly medicine for Barrettâs mother cost dozens of silver coins. Then, there was food, clothing, and social obligationsâall these things required money. This household was practically a hollow shell. Over the past year, Carissa had used much of her dowry to keep things running. And this was her reward. âEnough, I wonât argue with you. I just needed to inform you. Whether you agree or not changes nothing,â said Barrett, his patience wearing thin. As Carissa watched him leave in a huff, she felt even more bitter. âMy lady, my lord was too much!â said Lulu, Carissaâs maid, wiping her tears away. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, why would we stay in this house any longer?â Lulu held her forehead and gasped. âBut your mother arranged this marriage, and your father wanted you to marry and have children.â Tears finally welled up in Carissaâs eyes at the mention of her parents. Her father had stayed loyal to her mother, never taking a concubine. They had six sons and one daughter. All her brothers followed her father to the battlefield. Three years ago, none returned from the Southern Frontier. Though she was a girl, Carissa came from a family of warriors and started training as a child. At the age of seven, she was sent to study under a master, where she also learned military strategy. When she returned home at fifteen, she learned her father and brothers had died a year earlier. Her mother, who had gone blind from crying too much, held Carissa close and said, "You must live like the noble girls in the kingdom. Find a good husband, marry, have children, and lead a peaceful life. Youâre the only child I have left.â Carissa felt like someone had gouged her heart out. The pain she felt was so intense she couldn't even bring herself to cry. Determined to please her mother, she spent a year mastering the traditional values and duties expected of a noblewoman. She also learned accounting and how to manage a household. Not only was Carissa the Marquis of Northwatch's daughter, but she was also known for her beauty. So, suitors flooded their doorstep. Her mother had chosen Barrett because he had sworn he would never take another wife if he married Carissa. But six months ago, tragedy struck. All the residents of Northwatch Estate were murdered. No one was spared, not even the children or servants. Each victim suffered numerous knife wounds, and their bodies were brutally dismembered. Carissaâs youngest nephew had been only two and a half years old, born after the death of her third brother. The local authorities and garrison unit captured a few of the assailants. After further investigation, they were discovered to be spies from an enemy kingdom, Westhaven. The war at the front line was raging, yet these spies didn't hesitate to reveal themselves just to annihilate her family. The manner of the murder suggested it was more of a personal vengeance than anything else. When Carissa received the news, she rushed home, only to find her grandmotherâs and motherâs gruesomely dismembered bodies. Blood stained every corner of the residence, and the dead were left in agonizing states. Now, Carissa was the lone survivor of the marquis' family. The idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. They saw her merely as a delicate, fragile woman. However, Aurora was different. She had earned military merits for her contribution to the war and became the first female general in history. Even the queen dowager had high praise for her. With Aurora supporting Barrett, his future would be more secure. That was the reason the Warren family readily agreed to the marriage. Chapter 3 Lulu brought over the dowry list and explained, "This year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins to support the household. However, the shops, houses, and estates remain untouched. All the bank savings, along with the property deeds and land titles your mother left, are locked up in the chest." Carissa glanced at the list. "Alright." Just looking at the list put her in a melancholy mood. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she would suffer hardships in her husband's home. "My lady, where can we go? Are we returning to Northwatch Estate? Or should we go back to Meadow Ridge?" Lulu asked, looking distressed. Images of the bloodstained estate and the tragic deaths of her family members flashed through Carissaâs mind, causing a sudden pang of pain in her heart. "Anywhere is better than staying here." "If you leave, youâll be giving them exactly what they want." "So be it. If I stay, Iâll spend my whole life suffering as I watch those two be affectionate. Lulu, I must live well to give my parents and brothers peace in the afterlife," Carissa replied calmly. "My lady!" Lulu wept bitterly. She had been born and raised in Northwatch Estate. The murder had claimed the lives of everyone, including her own family. The images still haunted her, and returning there seemed unthinkable. "Is there no other way?" Lulu asked desperately. Carissaâs eyes grew cold. "There is. I could confront the king and use my familyâs achievements to force him to reverse his edict. If he refuses, Iâll take my own life in protest." Lulu was terrified and immediately protested, "My lady, you can't!" Carissaâs expression softened, and a sly smile appeared on her face. "Do you think Iâm that silly? If I manage to reach the king, Iâll only request an edict for an amicable divorce." Barrett was able to marry Aurora because of a royal edict. So, Carissa should also be issued an official edict to leave. She shouldn't have to sneak away like she was being cast out. The wealth from Northwatch Estate was more than enough for her to live comfortably for the rest of her life. She wouldn't degrade herself unnecessarily. Just then, someone called from outside, "Madam Carissa, the matriarch has requested your presence!" "Itâs Jade, Madam Rebecca's maid. It seems like Madam Rebecca wants to try and persuade you," Lulu whispered. Carissa straightened up, her expression serious. "Then, letâs go." The evening sun glowed like blood, and the autumn wind was chilly. The late king had bestowed the Warren family's current residence, Valor Estate, upon Barrett's grandfather. Though once prestigious, it had fallen into decline. Most of the Warren family's men were warriors who fought on battlefields. Only a few were civil servants who worked in the palace. Barrettâs father, Jonathan, didnât fare well in his official career. His second uncle, Gregory, only held a minor post in the Royal Citadel. Barrett and his eldest brother, Benjamin, were somewhat successful in the military. But before their recent victory, they were only fourth-ranked majors. Both families still lived together in Valor Estate. Splitting the family would only hasten their decline. Accompanied by Lulu, Carissa arrived at Rebeccaâs room. Rebecca's complexion looked a bit better, and she was sitting up in bed. She smiled warmly when she saw Carissa. "Youâre here." Benjamin and his wife, Amelia Morgan, were also in the room. Barrett's sister, Serena, and the other children of the concubines were present as well. Barrett's second aunt, Charlotte Lewis, was also seated nearby. However, her expression was cold and somewhat disdainful. "Hello, Mother. Aunt Charlotte, Benjamin, Amelia," Carissa greeted them politely. "Carissa, come here." Rebecca gestured for her daughter-in-law to sit by her bedside. The older woman held Carissa's hand affectionately and happily said, "Now that Barrett is back, you have someone to rely on. This year has been so hard on you, especially with what happened to your family. Youâre the only one left of the marquis' family. Fortunately, all of that is behind you now." Rebecca was shrewd. She made it clear that Carissa would need to depend on the Warren family in the future, since her family was gone. Carissa pulled her hand away and calmly said, "Mother, I heard you met General Yates today." Rebecca hadnât expected Carissa to be so straightforward. Her smile froze for a moment before she replied, "Yes, I did. Sheâs rather rough around the edges and doesnât compare to you in terms of looks." Carissa gazed at her mother-in-law steadily. "So, are you saying you don't like her?" Chapter 4 Rebecca forced a smile. "How can I decide that after meeting her only once? But since the king has arranged the marriage, itâs a done deal. In the future, she and Barrett will earn military merits together, while you manage the household and enjoy the benefits of their hard work. Isnât that nice?" "Yes, I'm sure," Carissa replied with a smile. "But itâs quite unfair to make General Yates a concubine." Rebecca laughed. "You silly child, how could she be a concubine? The kingâs edict makes her Barrett's legal wife. Also, sheâs a military officer who holds an official rank. Officials canât be concubines. She'll be a legal wife like you. There won't be any distinction between ranks for the two of you." "No distinction? Is there such a custom in our kingdom?" Carissa asked. Rebeccaâs expression grew a bit colder. "Carissa, youâve always been sensible. Now that youâve married into our family, you should prioritize us. According to the Defense Minister, Auroraâs contributions in this battle were greater than Barrettâs. With you managing the household, they'll be able to work together as husband and wife and focus on their military service. In the future, they'll surely become famous generals like his grandfather." Carissaâs tone remained chilly as she said, "If theyâre husband and wife, then I have no role here." "How can you say that? Arenât you still in charge of the household?" countered Rebecca, displeased. "I only managed the household because Amelia was unwell. Now that she has recovered, she should resume her duties. Iâll go over the accounts tomorrow and hand everything back to her," Carissa replied. Amelia quickly interjected, "Iâm still not fully recovered. Besides, everyone is satisfied with how youâve been managing things. You should continue doing it." Carissa smiled mockingly. Everyone was satisfied because she had spent her own money to support them. Most of it went towards Rebeccaâs medical expenses. Sebastian Dalton was a renowned physician, and his medicine was costly. Only a few could afford his services. Rebeccaâs medicine cost over a hundred coins a month, amounting to more than a thousand coins a year. As for the other household expenses, Carissa occasionally subsidized them. For example, she would sometimes use fabrics and silks from her familyâs business to make new clothes for everyone throughout the year. She didnât mind it before, as she had really wished to spend her life with Barrett. However, circumstances had changed. She no longer wanted to be a fool. Carissa stood up and said, "Thatâs settled, then. Iâll hand over the accounts tomorrow and wonât be involved in household matters anymore." "Stop right there!" Rebecca's face darkened with anger. "Carissa, youâre being unreasonable. Men having multiple wives and concubines is normal. If you can't accept that, people will say you're narrow-minded and jealous." Carissaâs compliance over the past year had made the Warren family think she was easy to manipulate. They believed a few harsh words would always keep her in line. Carissaâs expression was calm, a stark contrast to her usual docility. "People can say whatever they want. I'm not concerned about their opinions." Rebecca was so angry that she struggled to breathe and coughed harshly for a long while. In the past, Carissa would have rushed to help her. She would pat the older woman's back and try to soothe her. But now, Carissa remained where she was. The soft evening light from the doorway highlighted her delicate, almost ethereal beauty. "Carissa, look how badly you've upset Mom," Serena said as she stepped forward. Her round, youthful face puffed with anger as she glared at Carissa. "This isnât even about you. Do you think your family is still as prestigious as it once was? Your parents and brothers are gone; you're the only one left. Aren't you afraid that Barrett will divorce you if you keep putting on airs like you're a young lady from a prestigious family?" Carissa looked at her sister-in-law, who was dressed in a pale yellow outfit that Carissa had procured for her in early autumn. Now, wearing the clothes Carissa had provided, Serena dared to question her authority. How utterly⊠unsensible of her. "Take off that dress youâre wearing before you try to lecture me," Carissa said coolly. Serenaâs cheeks flushed with anger. "I didnât beg you to get this dress for me. You can have it back if you donât want me to have it." "Fine. And donât forget the jewelry youâre wearing. I expect it all to be returned to me." After Carissa said that, her gaze swept across the room. The only one who seemed pleased with the situation was Charlotte. Everyone else looked grim. "If thereâs nothing else, Iâll be leaving." With that, Carissa turned and walked out decisively. Chapter 5 The Warren family members exchanged puzzled glances. None expected the usually agreeable Carissa to stand her ground so firmly this time. She even defied Rebecca, the matriarch of the family! âSheâll come around. She doesnât have any other choice,â Rebecca said coldly. That was true. With Carissa's family gone, she had no one to rely on except the Warren family. Besides, she was still Barrett's rightful wife, and it wasnât like she had been mistreated. - Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu returned to Northwatch Estate. The estate was bleak and covered in fallen leaves. After just half a year of neglect, the courtyard was overgrown with weeds that were taller than a person. Stepping back into the estate, Carissaâs heart ached fiercely. Six months ago, she had collapsed upon hearing that her family had been murdered. She had wept when she saw the lifeless bodies of her grandmother and motherâtheir corpses cold and devoid of warmth. Every corner of the estate had been stained with blood. Memorial plaques for her ancestors and mother had been placed at the estateâs family chapel. Carissa and Lulu prepared flowers to place on the plaques, their tears unceasing. Carissa knelt before her parentsâ memorials. Though her eyes were swollen from crying, they held a determined gaze. âDad, Mom, if you can hear me from heaven, please forgive your daughter for what she is about to do. Itâs not that I donât want a peaceful life with a husband and children, but Barrett is not someone I can trust with my life. Rest assured, I promise Lulu and I will live well.â Lulu knelt beside her, sobbing uncontrollably. After they were done, they boarded a carriage and headed straight for the palace. It was noon by the time they arrived. Under the scorching autumn sun, Carissa and Lulu stood like statues in front of the palace gates. They waited for a full hour, but no one came to let them in. Lulu was distressed and said, âMy lady, the king might not see you. Maybe he thinks youâre here to oppose his edict about the marriage. You didnât eat last night or have breakfast today. Are you holding up okay? Should I go get you something to eat?â âIâm not hungry.â The only thing Carissa felt was the unwavering resolve to dissolve her marriage and return home. âPlease donât be so hard on yourself. Itâs not worth getting sick over. Why donât we just let it go? After all, youâre still the rightful wife and the lady of the Warren family. Even if General Yates is to be a legal wife, sheâll just be a glorified concubine at best. Maybe we should just endure it?â Lulu pleaded. Carissaâs gaze was cold. âLulu, if youâre going to talk like that, donât speak at all.â Lulu sighed, feeling lost and unsure of what else to do. She had hoped that once Barrett returned, Carissa would find some peace. But the situation had only worsened. - In the palace's study, Derek Walker had already reported Carissaâs arrival to the king three times. âYour Majesty, Mrs. Warren is still waiting outside the palace gates,â he repeated. The king, Salvador Quinton, set aside the document he was reading and rubbed his temples. âI canât see her. The edict has been issued, and I canât take it back. Tell her to go home.â âThe guards tried to persuade her, but she refused to leave. Sheâs been standing there for over an hour without moving.â Salvador felt a pang of guilt. âBarrett requested the marriage as a reward for his military service. I didnât want to agree, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have made significant contributions.â âIf we speak of military achievements, the Marquis of Northwatch and General Sullivanâs contributions surpass all others,â Derek countered. Salvador remembered the Marquis of Northwatch, Hector Sinclair. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Carissa was a familiar face from those days, though she had been a delicate child. He still remembered her fair skin and endearing looks. Salvador had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers. When Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. Apart from his brother who was known as the Devil Monarch on the battlefield, the kingdom had no other capable generals. In the recent war with Westhaven, Dominic Sullivanâs third son had lost an arm. Dominic's seventh son had been murdered, though this had been kept secret. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants. I'll even give her a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â Chapter 6 Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Salvador remembered the Sinclair family. Knowing that Carissa was now the only one left stirred a feeling of pity in him. "Rise and speak," he commanded. Carissa bowed deeply with her hands clasped. "Your Majesty, I know it's presumptuous of me to seek an audience today. But I also wish to implore for your grace." "I have already issued the edict. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I implore you to issue another edict. I want to divorce General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "What? You want a divorce?" Salvador thought she had come to ask him to rescind the marriage edict. He never expected a plea for a divorce. Holding back tears, Carissa pleaded, "Your Majesty, General Warren and General Yates sought the marriage edict with their military achievements. "Today is the death anniversary of my father and brothers. I wish to seek an edict to divorce my husband based on my late family's military merits. Please, Your Majesty, I'm begging you." "Carissa, do you know what you'll face after the divorce?" Salvador asked, a complicated expression on his face. Carissa hadn't heard Salvador call her by name in a long time. When he was still the crown prince, he used to occasionally visit Northwatch Estate. He would always find some interesting little gifts to give her when he did. After Carissa later went to Meadow Ridge to study under her master, they never saw each other again. "I do," she affirmed. There was a hint of a smile on Carissa's stunning face. But no matter how one looked at it, the smile seemed tinged with irony. "I'm sure you know the saying that a true gentleman appreciates and helps others to fulfill their aspirations, right? Even though I'm not a gentleman, I don't want to hinder General Warren and General Yates from being together," Carissa added. "Carissa, there's no one left at Northwatch Estate. Are you really going to go back there? Have you thought about your future?" Salvador asked. "I returned to the estate today to visit my family's memorial plaques. Seeing how the estate has fallen into disrepair made me want to live there again. I'll adopt a son for my father's sake, so there will still be someone to honor his memory," Carissa explained. Salvador had thought she was being impulsive; he hadn't expected her to be so considerate. "You're Barrett's legal wife. Aurora can't undermine your position. You really don't need a divorce." Carissa looked up with tear-filled eyes that were firm with resolve. "Your Majesty, that's meaningless. I don't want to waste my life like this. I'm the only one left from the Marquis of Northwatch's' family. My father and brothers lived honorably and bravely throughout their lives. I don't want to settle for a life of mediocrity." "I know you have feelings for Barrett. Are you willing to let go?" Salvador asked. Feelings? Not really. Carissa simply admired military men, and her mother had wanted her to marry and lead a stable life. That was why she had agreed to the marriage. Carissa smiled. At this moment, she looked like a strong woman who would be able to flourish even in the most challenging circumstances. "If he can let go of me, then I can let go of him," she declared. Beneath her delicate appearance, she possessed an unyielding backbone. This stunned Salvador. He had never seen such a woman before. He felt a pang of confusion, remembering the carefree little girl who used to smile all day long. Now, she was married and soon to be abandoned. To the world, divorce still meant abandonment. This was especially true in Carissaâs situation, as Barrett had publicly sought the marriage edict. Being a woman was already difficult, and she would have it even harder. How would she negotiate future marriages? There was no one left in her family to do it for her. Thinking of this, Salvador recalled Hector's merits, especially how they had saved each other on the battlefield, and his heart softened towards Carissa. "Alright, I agree. You may leave now. In a few days, the edict of divorce will be sent to the general's residence," Salvador said. Carissa breathed a sigh of relief and bowed her head. "Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty!" As Salvador watched her, he was suddenly reminded of when she was a little girl, and his heart softened further. "Carissa, if anyone mistreats you in the future, come to the palace and see me." "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Carissa bowed once again. | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 176 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458293998_1696356974464897_6574490535769686259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ljlu1lWjgjYQ7kNvgHOiB10&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AJgHR8gJNueul-Nz-Dq_499&oh=00_AYDylV4W6QttpDFgvTGvnQR3g8mZosBT8_TxOZttPDARTA&oe=6709009F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Termina el año invirtiendo en un negocio propio Adquiere una PURIFICADORA DE AGUAđŠđ§, la inversiĂłn mĂĄs segura de la actualidad, ya que es un producto de PRIMERA NECESIDAD y con gran variedad de modelos de negocio. SabĂas que al invertir en tu propia Purificadora de AguađŠ puedes generar ganancias constantes ya que es un negocio de giro 100% esencial ComunĂcate y recibe toda la asesorĂa de forma personalizada para iniciar YA TU NUEVO NEGOCIO. Purificadora de agua y productos de limpieza 5,8 y 10 productos Arma tu paquete, pon tu marca y fabrica tu producto. â InstalaciĂłn y programaciĂłn general â capacitaciĂłn â Apoyo tĂ©cnico los 7 dĂas de la semana â Trato directo y en persona â GarantĂa por escrito đLa mĂĄquina es de tu total propiedad y la puedes personalizar con tu marca. (Esto no es una franquicia) el horizonte de retorno de inversiĂłn es aproximado en 8 meses Te invito a ver nuestras referencias, nos distingue la honestidad e integridad en cada una de nuestras operaciones. | WHATSAPP_MESSAGE | https://api.whatsapp.com/send | ECSA Soluciones EnergĂ©ticas e HidrĂĄulicas | https://www.facebook.com/100065686381535/ | 2,018 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send WhatsApp message | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | https://api.whatsapp.com/send | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462222087_1241193210639736_969378443150396341_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mnFDNNwyWTUQ7kNvgGkTgCR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOXpai6VmzGCO17Y4P1sD6M&oh=00_AYBxaJC73Dxb-FOwLTi4zZ5ft1fvpPqOMGmNnkezIE3Pvg&oe=67090CF1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | ECSA Soluciones EnergĂ©ticas e HidrĂĄulicas | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention!Do not read in publicïŒđ | "I, Alpha Sebastian King of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, reject you, Zaia Toussaint, as my mate and Luna." Zaia gasps, as pain consumes her heart but she still keeps her head up, refusing to show weakness. Sebastian is watching her, almost as if doesn't think she can do it. "I Zaia Toussaint, former Luna of the Dark Hollow Falls Pack, accept your rejection." She groans with pain. "You accepted." Sebastian murmurs and stares at her in disbelief. But Zaia can't notice it, nor could she know that the moment her body collapses, the man who is also suffering from the rejection shields her in his arms. Later, Zaia opens her eyelids at the incessant beeping of a machine. She finds Valerie her doctor and best friend looking worriedly at her. "Are my babies ok, Valerie?"She whispers. "Yes, they are stronger than you think." Valerie replies. "Thanks. You saved us." Zaia says quietly. "So Sebastian rejected you and you let him? Why didn't you tell him you are carrying his babies?"She sighs. "He wouldn't have cared. Annalise has returned." Zaia tries to hide her tears. Her heart aches as she recalls the image of Sebastian with his arm around Annalise. "Can I ask you to not tell anyone about the babies? Even to Sebas... the Alpha. I will go far away." Zaia knows that she can't call him Sebastian anymore. Valerie nods. "I know, but are you sure Zaia, you are still our Luna." Zaia smiles bitterly."Luna? That is not my title anymore. I'll be leaving soon." "Where will you go?" "Anywhere but here." -- Four months later "Seb," Beta Jai breaks into Sebastian's office and hands him a file, "you're going to want to see this!" "Please don't!" Sebastian is about to flip it open when Valerie rushes in. "What are you guys doing?" Sebastian stares at the two intruders with a displeased face. "Please return it to me. Client privacy is not a joke!"She exclaims. "That report involves him. Zaia is his wife."Jai says coldly. Zaia? What happened to her? Thinking of Zaia's frail appearance on the day of the rejection, Sebastian opens the file with trembling hands... | LEARN_MORE | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335 | Galaxy in the Story | https://www.facebook.com/61555427913037/ | 1,375 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | gbminvest.com | DCO | https://gbminvest.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=8335&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459364345_1349170806057493_3193115337961862433_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fksn21KVdjkQ7kNvgHwJ1bY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ak1UyAvYO6ON4FrUhUGozUu&oh=00_AYC6ZYXmY8M6KL7Rjnu4Wqw2GXKN65WpSAqWz-TdktOwRQ&oe=670916E1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Galaxy in the Story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-10-06 21:55 | active | 1588 | 0 |
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đšâŒïžđ€©đ€©đ€©MERCANCIA NUEVAđ€©đ€©đ€©đšâŒïž đđđđ§ż PARTE 3 DE 4đ§ż đđđ DISPONIBLE APARTIR DE MAĂANA JUEVES đ„đ„đ„đ„đ„ OFERTAS DE LOCURA đ„đ„đ„đ„đ„ đ€Żđ€Żđ€ŻMAYOREO DESDE 1 PIEZAđ€Żđ€Żđ€Ż đČREAFIRMAMOS SOMOS LIDERES EN PRECIOS BAJOS đČ đ MERCANCIA HASTA AGOTAR EXISTENCIAS.đ Recuerda tenemos una alta demanda de productos en nuestras sucursales, como lĂneas de whatsatt tener paciencia por favor â€ïžâ€ïžDISPONIBLE EN NUESTRAS 7 SUCURSALES â€ïžâ€ïž đŠđŠđŠCONTAMOS CON ENVIOS A TODO MEXICOđŠđŠđŠ ââđ±PEDIDOS ENVIOS NACIONALES 228 846 0004đ± ââ đđđâ«ćœĄđ»đ°đŹđ”đ«đš đđ°đșđđȘđšâ«ćœĄđđđ Sucursal Jumbo Coatepec (Centro) đ ConstituciĂłn #45 đ Horario de atenciĂłn * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 7:00 PM * Domingo cerrado đ± WhatsApp: 228 846 0004 (Pedidos nacionales y locales) Sucursal Xalapa (Centro) đ XicotĂ©ncatl #22 đ Horario de atenciĂłn: * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 8:00 PM * Domingo de 10:00 AM a 5:00 PM * đ± WhatsApp: 228 852 9818 Sucursal Xalapa (RevoluciĂłn) đ Fray BartolomĂ© De Las Casas #1 segundo piso (esquina Atenas veracruzanas), Colonia RevoluciĂłn Referencia: parte alta de pizzerĂa la paz đ Horario de atenciĂłn: * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 7:00 PM * Domingo de 10:00 AM a 5:00 PM * đ± WhatsApp: 228 105 4164 Sucursal Jumbo Puerto de Veracruz đ 5 de Mayo #1322, Centro Veracruz (entre Arista y SerdĂĄn) đ Horario de atenciĂłn: * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 7:00 PM * Domingo cerrado * đ± WhatsApp: 229 414 4246 Sucursal Jumbo Perote đ Esquina Altamirano con Belisario DomĂnguez, Centro Perote (Referencia: detrĂĄs de la Parroquia San Miguel ArcĂĄngel, adelante de la ClĂnica Doctor NarvĂĄez, local en esquina rosado) đ Horario de atenciĂłn: * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 7:00 PM * Domingo cerrado * đ± WhatsApp: 282 123 2358 (Pedidos) Sucursal Banderilla đ NicolĂĄs Bravo #33, Centro de Banderilla đ Horario de atenciĂłn: * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 7:00 PM * Domingo de 10:00 AM a 5:00 PM * đ± WhatsApp: 228 365 9352 Sucursal Jumbo TeziutlĂĄn Puebla đ Calle Zaragoza #411, Centro de TeziutlĂĄn * Referencia: Media cuadra de la central ADO, AU * Adelante club leones * (ANTES BODEGA DE MATERIALES EL CARMEN) đ Horario de atenciĂłn: * Lunes a SĂĄbado de 10:00 AM a 7:00 PM * Domingo Cerrado | Mayoreo Coatepec Ofi | https://www.facebook.com/mayoreocoatepec/ | 101,424 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462219482_869050368686203_1239420063979197335_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KHKabGCPc9sQ7kNvgHLAZRU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWDQ9QyvXJWhgBnjYB6iVZQ&oh=00_AYCrXIlZ80WfYdJtgBNU2nUdrdNuuWQyaolweb7wqf42kg&oe=67091CA7 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Mayoreo Coatepec Ofi | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-06 21:54 | active | 1588 | 0 |
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Looking for a versatile, high-quality saddle? This 17" M. Toulouse Optima is just what you need! Lightly used a handful of times, this saddle has been meticulously cared for, ensuring itâs ready for many more rides. This saddle features the Genesisâą Adjustable Tree, allowing you to easily fit a variety of horsesâperfect for riders with multiple mounts or those whose horseâs shape may change over time. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a beautiful saddle that offers both comfort and adaptability. Trials are available. We are in the shop 9/7 from 10am-4pm and by appointment throughout the week! https://www.tackupequestrian.com/products/saddle-m-toulouse-optima-17-with-genesis-adjustable-tree?_pos=10&_sid=cf54d1b1b&_ss=r | MESSAGE_PAGE | Tack Up | https://www.facebook.com/tackupeq/ | 1,260 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462360983_884108920451045_4970767021371650999_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l8TBH1ofi2AQ7kNvgGFRydT&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A4ZmerNA7JF1TW2EQi-nHos&oh=00_AYDK394gDGGGx_ZOOJmkXeMnLcQmox3CYMgpyiCY-BIUJQ&oe=67092176 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Tack Up | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-06 21:57 | active | 1588 | 0 |
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Chatea con nosotros | ÂżQuieres sorprender a alguien especial? Con nuestros desayunos sorpresa, cada bocado es una experiencia Ășnica. đ đł Disfruta de una selecciĂłn exquisita de delicias matutinas, desde pancakes esponjosos hasta frutas frescas y cafĂ©s, todo entregado directamente en su puerta. Ideal para sorprender en cualquier ocasiĂłn: cumpleaños, aniversarios o simplemente para alegrar el dĂa. đ *Cada desayuno es una sorpresa, y cada sorpresa es un momento especial.* ÂżTe animas a hacer de su dĂa algo extraordinario? EnvĂanos un mensaje y descubre cĂłmo crear el desayuno perfecto para esa persona especial. đ© *ÂĄEstamos listos para sorprenderte!* | MESSAGE_PAGE | Desayunos Sorpresa âSophiaâ | https://www.facebook.com/Sophia.desayunosSorpresa/ | 4,185 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send message | 0 | DCO | {{product.description}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461923216_1559956491578804_6723117004433182659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SOJDkw7JQD0Q7kNvgF4Q_Nv&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A7hfM8DKonsLYmOr4hKOn2h&oh=00_AYAPshDLrGFnGVWeqGTL7nTzq700TFR3GIaZzu7u95F3Mw&oe=67092500 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Desayunos Sorpresa âSophiaâ | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-06 21:57 | active | 1588 | 0 | For October and November, Iâd like to run a special: A 6 look headshot session for $400 that can also be split with a friend. To promote that, I need a couple 6 look sessions to post about. Sooo what better way than to raffle off a free 6 look session! To enter: all you have to do is follow this page and tag a friend in the comments. On Oct 9th, Iâll pull a comment at random and choose the winner! Hereâs the best part: if your tagged friend also follows this page, they ALSO get a free 6 looks! Win/win has never been more win/win! | VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE | http://instagram.com/fullspectrumheadshots | Kasee's Headshots | https://www.facebook.com/kaseesheadshots/ | 203 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Visit Instagram profile | 0 | instagram.com | VIDEO | http://instagram.com/fullspectrumheadshots | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462227619_407866045718941_4757323074957623187_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=p5iYrjx3HBIQ7kNvgEBNOQm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AjT-jLVNq4TDS-piHYqRi2O&oh=00_AYCAYxRgo0kc_rsWkGgGwDp5Ry_NU9-3a3_8qbfgXzCqtg&oe=67090565 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Kasee's Headshots | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-06 21:57 | active | 1588 | 0 |
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New 2024 Ford Super Duty F-350 SRW XLT | $80,610 | VIN:1FT8W3BT9RED42251 | LEARN_MORE | https://www.frittsford.com/new-Riverside-2024-Ford | Fritts Ford | https://www.facebook.com/fritts.ford/ | 7,125 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | frittsford.com | CAROUSEL | VIN:1FT8W3BT9RED42251 | https://www.frittsford.com/new-Riverside-2024-Ford-Super+Duty+F+350+SRW+Pickup-XLT-1FT8W3BT9RED42251?alstad_source=car&alstad_vin=1FT8W3BT9RED42251&alstad_year=2024&alstad_make=Ford&alstad_model=Super+Duty+F-350+SRW&alstad_condition=new&alst_action=car&alst_action_value=1FT8W3BT9RED42251 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462355130_1056783909248910_2634921353506725205_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nOJPzmEA09UQ7kNvgGPouIg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AdgMVCBlx0K3vpD1lWqk2Df&oh=00_AYB-e_35bOFveAZY_JutPyD0nbrifm7GqnRSYF3jyibkyA&oe=67090EC0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fritts Ford | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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No | 2024-10-06 21:51 | active | 1588 | 0 |
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đ„đ„Click to read the next chapter for freeđ | CHAPTER 1 - Bridget Miller âOne, two, three! Push!â The doctor yells to the exhausted woman lying on the operating table. Soon a sound of innocent cry can be heard in the room. Hannahâs forehead was full of cold sweat and her lips were pale. Itâs been known that she has anemia and the doctors did their best to cure her bef ore giving birth to no luck. âWhere is Xander?â She asks nicely in a weak voice, her eyes are closed and her palms are sweating. âSir, your wifeâs in labor. She is waiting for you in the hospital now,â Mrs. Cooperfield frantically mumbles over the phone while the heavily in-labor Hannah is being helped to the car by other servants. Xander scoffed, âIâm at a very important meeting. She has money on her account to pay for the expenses.â He yelled over the phone before the line was cut off. âThe young master was elated to know that the baby was on the way. He said he was caught in the middle of an important meeting but will surely drive to the hospital once he is done.â Itâs not a secret that Xander never loved Hannah and their marriage was an accident but despite that Hannah played the part and played it so well that Xander bed her every chance he could. Thus, a child was conceived. âWhat a cute baby girl?â the nurse says as she puts the baby near her mother to see her face for the first time. The exhausted woman felt all her fatigue and stress washed away as she saw her daughter. âWhat would you name her?â Mrs. Copperfield asks. âBridget.â She mumbles gently as she stares at her daughter. Her eyes are still fixed on her child when she asks, âWhen will Xander visit us?â Mrs. Copperfield did not respond but she could see the sadness in her eyes. At the back of her mind; âwhatâs more important than seeing the birth of his own daughter?â She asks herself sorrowfully. AFTER two years... A toddler was running around the room while Hannah was following her. âBridget, stop running. I need to comb your hair!â She yells. The child only laughed at her mother and continued running. She then almost bumps her head into the tall figure of a man who suddenly shows up in front of her. She gazes upward, sheâs frightened. His towering height and the way he stares at her terrifies her and she starts crying. Hannah immediately carried her daughter and coaxed her. âBaby, donât cry, itâs just your father.â She says. Xander sneered. He hates the sound his daughter makes. The running. The laughter and now the crying. âMake her stop.â He yells. His voice scared the child even more and she cried louder. âYelling, will not help. Youâre scaring her even more.â She responded with her voice filled with sorrow. She glanced at him with contempt. âWhy are you even here? This is our room, weâre even far from your room and your study so we wonât disturb you.â She commented. âYeah, this is your room but this is my house. I can go wherever I want.â He yelled at her. Bridget is still crying. Mrs. Copperfield can hear it and she discreetly steps in the room to take the child away. Hannah glanced at Mrs. Copperfield with a thankful gaze. Once they are out of the room. She finally snapped at him. âWhat do you want?â The moment she said those words she met Xanderâs palm. Bam! She almost lost consciousness. She fell on the floor. Her head is spinning. This was the first time he hit her and it frightened her so much that she started to crawl away from him. Thinking he might hit her again. Xanderâs eyes widened; he didnât mean to hurt her. He is on edge, pressured, and stressed from work. He held her shoulders and helped her stand up. He sat her in the chair. He could see her cheek reddened. He then heard her weak trembling voice say, âI did everything you asked of me. I know youâre tired and stressed but Iâm exhausted too.â She explains while holding her throbbing cheek. He didnât respond. He is a man of few words and the word sorry is not one of the words he usually says nor the to accept that he is in the wrong. He only strokes her head as if coaxing a child to fall asleep. After several hours when both of their emotions subside. Xander finally broke the news to her. âLetâs get divorce.â He mumbles in a cold tone. Her face paled, hands trembled. She stared at him thinking how he said those words as if three years meant nothing. His eyes devoid of emotions, âYou have till the end of the month to read through the documents and make demands.â He added as he handed her the papers. She pleads to him to think it through and think of their daughterâs future. But her words were ignored. She saw how certain he was with his decision. Shortly, he left her with the documents. The night became sleepless. She was pacing back and forth in their room thinking what to do next. âWhat will happen once I sign the divorce papers?â She asks herself while staring at her sleeping daughter. CHAPTER 2 - Drunk THE coldness of the night added dread to the sleepless Hannah. She glances at her bedside table where the documents are neatly arranged inside a brown envelope waiting for her signature. Itâs haunting and taunting at the same time. She thought they were doing great. He works hard and does everything that pleases him. He could stay out all night and go home drunk and she would still welcome him with open arms. Even when he called her Denise the name of his ex while thrusting her he didnât hear her complain. Hannah on the other hand, is a full-time housewife, even with a lot of servants in the mansion sheâs the one who personally tends to Xander and his family. She cooks and serves them. Sheâs not even allowed to eat in the dining area with them. The only time she does is when there are visitors as the Millers donât want any rumors circulating that they are hurting her. She might not be the one who washed his clothes but she made sure his clothes were arranged properly in his walk-in closet according to his liking. He specifically demanded that all his clothes be arranged according to color from light to dark. All of his socks should be folded in a specific way and his coffee should be made in a specific measurement of coffee, cream, sugar, and temperature one mistake and heâll demand a new brew. With all the servants in the mansion, only Hannah can satisfy his delicate needs. Thatâs the reason why all the servants likes her and whenever their young master forgets any special day like Hannahâs birthday and their anniversary. They make sure to bring flowers and boxes of chocolates for her and address it to Xander as it sender. For Hannah, it was clear as day what she is for him but she thinks he will come around if she shows him love and care. Hoping that one day she could warm his cold heart. From the first day she set foot on the Miller mansion she never slept in his room. He made it clear from the very beginning that their marriage was only on paper but once the news of their unplanned wedding dies down theyâll get a divorce immediately, but things change when he develops an urge towards her. Their separate rooms are useless when he is drunk and high in libido. He will bang on her door and will not stop till she opens it and as his wife, itâs her marital duty to satisfy his desires while taking care of his well-being. Soon those nightly trips he does in her room got her with child. Not even once does he convey happiness in knowing heâll have a child. He didnât accompany her to any of her monthly checkups. Despite his lack of concern he never asks her to get rid of the baby and never mentions the word divorce again. Not until tonight. She frowns, âWhat change? Did I do something wrong?â She asks herself as she slowly opens the door and discreetly walks outside. Planning to knock on his door and wish he was in the mood to speak. She walks in the long corridor on the other end of the mansion. She knocked three times and he did not answer. Feeling defeated she started to walk back to her room when she suddenly felt her phone buzz. She checked who it was and to her surprise it was him, she answered the call immediately, âXander, where are you?â She asks politely. The music coming from the other line was so loud that she needed to move the phone away from her ear. âHello?â She added in confusion. She was about to disconnect the call thinking he accidentally dialed her number but before she could do that she heard a voice, âHey, wait Hannah!â The voice on the other line yelled. âToby? Is that you?â She asks. âYes! Can you pick up Xander? He is too drunk to drive home.â Toby explained. âSure.â She replied immediately. âThanks. We are at a bar called The HideOut.â He exclaimed. Shortly, the call ended and Hannah hurriedly changed her clothes. She woke up one of the maids to accompany Bridget and then drove to the bar. When she got in there she was ushered by a waiter to the VIP room where there was a private club filled with rich men and beautiful women. On one of the booths, she saw her husband Xander together with two gorgeous women beside him. She ignored the ladies near him, she knew that Xander was not the type to cheat, especially with these types of women. She marched to him directly, âCan you walk?â She asks softly. Xander sneered, âWhy are you here?â He yelled then glanced at Toby who was sitting on the opposite side of him, âDid you call her?â Toby nods. âIâm too tired to drive you home.â He remarks while chugging his beer. âNow I know why the ambiance is off. Your stalking wife is here, Xander,â Ashton says mockingly as he sits on the other vacant seat in the booth. Toby and Ashton are Xanderâs closest friends. If Toby is friendly, nice, and soft-spoken. Ashton is the opposite heâs hot-tempered, bad-mouthed, impulsive, and most of all he doesnât like Hannah. He sees her as a cunning, gold digger that took something that doesnât belong to her. It is known to Hannah that Ashton and Denise, Xanderâs ex-girlfriend were pretty close. She knew too well that even after the scandal Denise got herself into, Xanderâs wedding to her and having their daughter. Ashton still thinks that Denise should be Mrs. Miller. Hannah ignored Ashtonâs remarks and continued to talk Xander into coming home with her, âIf you canât walk I can guide you to the car.â She says coaxingly while lightly tugging his arm. Xander grunted and closed his eyes. Ashton took it as a sign of disrespect. âHey!â He yelled at her. âDonât you ever ignore me!â He added as he took a glass of water and poured it on Hannahâs head. She was dumbfounded as the cold water drenched her. Xander didnât even bat an eye to what Ashton did and the girls beside him started laughing at her. In their minds, Hannah is one of those low-end call grils who want to get in a rich personâs pants. Hannah stared at Xander pitifully as if begging him to defend her or at least act like he cared but he did not he glanced away from her as if she was not his wife or the mother of his child. She heaved deeply and was about to burst into rage, but before she could Toby stood up for her. âAshton! What the heck? Why did you do that?â He exclaimed while handing Hannah his handkerchief. He soon stared at the laughing women in the booth. âLeave... Now!â He yelled his voice so loud that it frightened them and they hurriedly left. âHey!â Ashton growled in dismay at what Toby did. âWhy did you shoo my girls away.â He exclaimed. Toby smirked, âWhy do you need to be so rude to Hannah? Sheâs our friendâs wife. Treat her with respect.â He stated. Ashton scoffed, âIâll respect her if she is someone worth respecting. Have you forgotten what she did? and what kind of person she is?â He clamored while glaring at Hannah. She glances at Toby with a thankful gaze. Then to Ashton, sheâs about to defend herself against his claims when suddenly Xander stands up and speaks, âNext time when Toby asks you to pick me up donât go.â He says to her. âYouâre not needed here or anywhere.â He added as he stared at her like dirt. She frowns instantly. She could hear Ashtonâs taunting sneer, she felt embarrassed and out of place. She lowered her head and walked away with tears in her eyes. âI shouldnât have come here.â She yelled internally as she wiped her tears with the hanky Toby lent to her. As she walked to her car she saw a figure puffing a cigie in the parking lot but brushed it off and continued walking. Soon she heard the man calling her. âHannah?â She stared at the manâs location, narrowed her gaze then her eyes beamed, âZane?â she cried out. Zane walks to her and starts having a conversation. She was happy to see him, she felt safe seeing a familiar face. Zane is one of her oldest friends and he is also her best friendâs boyfriend. âAre you here with Clarise?â She asks. He shook his head, âIâm with Leon. He is in the restroom puking his guts out.â He remarks. She giggled, âIt seems like he hasnât changed.â She uttered. Unknown to them someone witnessed their closeness and the way she laughed at his words. He nods and continued puffing. âYou on the other hand changed a lot. Clarise, Leon, and I. We missed you.â He mumbles. ~I miss you all too...~ Thatâs what she wants to say but her words came to an abrupt end, âI miss you a...â âHannah!â Xander screamed while staring at her in displeasure. She turned around only to see the burning gaze of her husband, âXander,â she mumbled softly. She was about to introduce him to Zane but before she could he carried her like a sack of potatoes and hurriedly walked to his car and threw her at the passenger seat. Zane was dumbfounded and couldnât fathom what happened he was about to follow them and save Hannah but Leon arrived looking like a corpse when he glanced back at the car it was gone. âDid I miss something?â Leon asks weakly as he holds his stomach. CHAPTER 3 - Jealousy âYOU miss him!?â Xander yells as he drives fast. Hannahâs hand trembled and could only cling to her seat firmly as Xander drove 100 km/h on a 50 km/h road. He is clearly upset about the scene he saw and the words he heard. He sneered, âYou must be celebrating when I told you Iâm filing for divorce. I didnât know you were already dating someone. Did you really even go there for me? Have you forgotten you are still my wife?â He added as his hold on the steering wheel tightened. She shook her head, her heart was pounding. She knows when Xander is angry he doesnât listen to reason, but it will anger him more if she canât provide an answer. He might not love her, but he values his name and dignity. His main concern is if someone saw her with another man while still married to him, âHe... is Zane... A friend from high school. Iâm just telling him I miss them too. Him, his girlfriend Clarise, and another friend of ours. Itâs a coincidence that I saw him there. After I moved to the Miller mansion I grew apart from them,â she said stammeringly, her voice raspy and her eyes teary. He sighed, the way she spoke sounded believable to him, âDonât you ever do that again. At least wait for divorce.â He replied, his eyes devoid of emotion. Soon he drove slower. The car ride turned silent, but Hannah could feel his burning gaze as if he wanted to poke a hole in her. She could smell the booze as he breathed, she wanted to tell him to park the car, and sheâd drive. It was much safer for them. But she could vividly remember how he slapped her, and it still frightened her that she didnât want to make unnecessary movements that would anger him. Soon they reach the Miller mansion and she heaves a sigh of relief. After he parked the car, she waited for him to leave, but it seemed like he had no plans to go out. She clears her throat, slowly unlocks her side of the door, and gets out. Soon he followed her. None of them spoke, but she could feel his dark aura surrounding her. She brushed it off and walked to the east side of the mansion before she could take her first step. He held her wrist and dragged her to the west side where his room was. âXander,â she cried out as she tried to get herself out. He scoffed, âWhat? Are you refusing me now? You think too highly of yourself, Hannah.â He clamored. Her eyes reddened in exasperation. He has no right to treat her that way. Sheâs his wife, the mother of his child, and most of all, sheâs the person who saved him from the scandal 3 years ago. âWhy are you treating me like that? Am I not a good wife to you? I always keep my mouth shut, even if your family humiliates me. You, as my husband, should defend my name and honor. You know the truth, Xander.â She exclaimed. He grunted, âWhat are you even blabbering about? Should I thank you for throwing yourself at me?â He cried out his voice so loud that it started to wake people in the mansion. She wants to retort his accusation as thatâs not what happened. âWhatâs the meaning of this?â Lani screamed while looking at Hannah in disdain. âItâs in the middle of the night and I hear shouting.â Hannah glanced away and took advantage of the situation to escape Xanderâs grasp. Xander stared at his mother, âWhy donât you go back to your room? This is between me and Hannah.â He said as he gestured for her to go away. Lani sneered, âAre you drunk?â She mumbles, moves to Xander, then glares at Hannah. âDid you get my son drunk so you could charm him to have another child with you!â Her accusations are so absurd that Hannah canât help but chuckle. Laniâs face contorted in rage, âAre you laughing at me?â she exclaimed, then suddenly pulled Hannahâs hair, but Hannah did not fight back and only raised her hands in defense. âYou gold-digging.â âMoney-chasing. âVile woman.â At every harsh word, Lani yells, a piece of Hannahâs dignity leaves her body. âEnough!â Xander screamed dominantly. âGo back to your room, mother!â His words were so authoritative that Lani felt her heart skip a bit. She glowered at Hannah one last time and then marched back to her room. Hannahâs eyes were red in shame, in anger, in frustration. Her dry black hair made her look deranged. She took care of Xander so much that she let herself go. When she saw Lani walk away, she thought of leaving as well. âDid I permit you to leave?â Xander questions in a deep husky voice. She stopped dead in her tracks and stared at his dark brown eyes that matched his clean-cut hair. âWhat do you need from me?â She inquired in a low voice. Like a scared bunny in front of a dangerous predator. He breathes out, âFulfill your marital duty.â He declares, then holds her arm and walks her to his room. Inside the room. He stripped her down, pushed her belly flat on the bed, and penetrated her from behind. No kisses. No foreplay. Straight down to business. As if sheâs a call girl. After he relieved his desires, he would throw her out of the room like a dirty peasant, but tonight is different. He let her stay and hugged her till they fell asleep. THE NEXT DAY. Hannah was awakened by a ringing phone. She checked hers but it was not it. She searched for the source of the sound and found it was coming from his pants which were now on the floor. Still undressed she gently got out of bed and slowly fished his phone from his pants. She looked at the caller ID and it was an unsaved number. Not thinking anything about it sheâs about to answer the call. But Xander suddenly woke up. âWhat are you doing?â He asks in a cold tone. âUnsave number calling. I donât want to wake you up so--â âYou decided youâll answer the phone? What if itâs something important, what will you do then?â He intervenes. âIâll pretend to be your assistant and take the message.â She explains. He scoffed, stood up, and took the phone away from her. Sight still blurry, âWear some clothes would you and make some coffee.â He demanded. His face clearly shows displeasure. She was still picking up her clothes when his phone rang again. She saw that it was the same number. She witnessed how he answered the call and the expression on his face changed from annoyed to calm. She even saw him smile. Her eyes dilated in disbelief, âWho is he talking to?â She asks herself, as she tries to listen to their conversation. When he saw her staring at him, he moved away from her and went to the balcony while gesturing to her to leave the room, shooing her like a dog. Her heart sank as she walked away. She could feel that a storm was coming her way. CHAPTER 4 - Daddyâs Little Girl AFTER the weird phone call Xander received, he went down to the dining area in a seemingly good mood. Hannah could only steal glances at her husband as she served the food on the table. Soon Lani and Katarina join Xander in the dining area. When Hannah saw them she immediately walked to the kitchen as they didnât like seeing her when they were eating. While the Millers enjoy the warm food she cooks, sheâs in the kitchen eating with her daughter and Mrs. Copperfield. âMomma,â she mumbles as she points at the pieces of bananas beside the pancakes. Hannah gave her a small piece that she devoured in seconds. Hannah and Mrs. Copperfield laugh at how adorable Bridget is. LATER THAT DAY, at the Miller Group. Itâs bring your child to work day at the company. Xander stared at the kids seated beside their parents staring at the type of work they were doing. He doesnât detest children he is not just fond of crying, vomiting, pooing, and peeing. Thatâs the reason why he never got close to his daughter. In fact, the child is afraid of him. He once heard her say, âMomma, thereâs... Monster...â While pointing at him. He could vividly remember the horror on Hannahâs face. She immediately hid Bridget behind her and apologized to him. Remembering it now left a sour taste in his mouth. âMaybe I am a monster,â he mumbles to himself as he watches the kids playing with their parents. When Xander got home. He purposely went to the east wing of the mansion to check on Hannah and Bridget. When he knocks on the door only Mrs. Copperfield and Bridget are inside the room. The old woman doing her best to play with the energetic child but as she is in her 50âs it is a bit hard for her. âWhereâs Hannah?â He inquired his voice so deep that it frightened Bridget and hid behind Mrs. Copperfield. âShe is preparing dinner as we speak.â She replied politely as she breathed rapidly. He could sense that she was tired and needed a break. He stared at the child behind her and gestured for her to come near him. Mrs. Copperfield coaxed the child and assured her that it was safe. Hesitantly, Bridget walked to him when he held Bridgetâs hand he was surprised at how small her hand was. âHow old are you now?â He asks casually. âTwo!â She mumbles softly as she gestures her age with her fingers. âTwo, I wonder how small she is as a newborn,â he thought as a smile escaped his lips. âHow about you come with me and we let Mrs. Copperfield rest she seems tired.â He says as he bents in front of her. Bridget nods. Mrs. Copperfieldâs eyes well up. The scene in front of her is something only in dreams could happen. She discreetly pinches herself and winces in pain. Despite that, she smiled gleefully and watched how Xander carried Bridget over his shoulder and he smiled in joy. When Hannah finished cooking and setting up the dining area, she asked the maids to call Lani and Katarina to eat while she checked if Xander was in his room. As she walks to the west wing of the mansion she canât help but hear laughter. She was weirded out as the west wing should always be silent because it is where the Millers stay. Lani and Katarina are on the third floor and Xander is on the second floor. She hurriedly walks to the origin of the sound as the giggle and soft footsteps are familiar, âBridget,â she mumbles as her hands shiver in fear. Thinking Bridget got away from Mrs. Copperfield and got lost in the west wing. Sheâs afraid that Bridget might break a vase or an ornament. Like the last time. When she was cooking Bridget sneaked away and accidentally broke an angel figurine owned by Katarina. She witnessed how Katarina almost hit her daughter, if she hadnât arrived soon she wondered what could have happened. She fought against her sister-in-law but as it always been Lani came and berated her and her daughter. Called her names. All she could do was cover Bridgetâs ear as she listened to their mockery of her. When Xander arrived he didnât even bat an eye and hurriedly went to his room. She soon arrived at her destination. Her heart was pounding and slowly she opened the door. Only to see Xander playing with Bridget. They made a makeshift port using the sofa cushion and Bridget hid while Xander was counting. Hannahâs eyes well up. The day she always hoped finally came. Xander is starting to act like a father to their daughter. âMomma!â Bridget yelled as she ran to Hannah. She carried her daughter in her arms like she always does. Bridget smiles. âPoppa, carry...me .. higher...â She says while pointing at her motherâs shoulder. Hannah understood what she meant, âWell, Iâm not that tall and not that strong to carry you on my shoulder.â She explains softly. Bridget puckered her lips and then crossed her arms. Then glances at Xander with a pleading look. She wants her father to carry her again. Xander understood her and marched towards them and took her from her motherâs hand. As he does he canât help but stare at his wifeâs light brown eyes. âHas her eyes always been that brown?â He asks himself. The situation felt surreal for her and her face turned red. Being that close to her he notices it immediately. âAre you sick?â He asks as he holds Bridget then touches Hannahâs forehead with his other hand. âIâm fine,â she smiles. Still standing close to her. Xander felt things move slowly as if he was seeing her for the first time. Unknowingly he starts caressing her face and then kisses her on the lips as it happens both of them are dumbfounded and taken aback. Hannah lowered her head, âThe food is ready.â She mumbles awkwardly trying her best to change the weird ambiance. âFood!â Bridget yelled in glee. Soon they went downstairs, Xander still carrying his daughter while Hannah followed them behind. At that time Katarina and Lani are already in the dining area. When they saw them. Lani canât help but sneer, âAre you trying to win my son using your daughter?â Katarina then added fuel to Laniâs accusations, âWhat do you expect from a gold-digging trash and her useless daughter.â Hannah canât take it anymore. âSay what you want about me but never call my daughter like that. We were legally married when Bridget was conceived. The only trash Iâm seeing here is you.â She exclaimed while looking at Lani. It is not a secret in the Miller household that Lani Miller is not a legitimate child from a wealthy family sheâs a product of the infidelity of Xanderâs grandfather with a call girl. Despite that, she acts high and mighty. Lani and Katarinaâs faces contorted in anger. âXander, look at the woman you brought home. How insolent?â Lani yelled at the top of her lungs. Xander eyes enlarge upon hearing the words that came out of Hannah. âWhy must you say that?â He stated. She shook her head then took Bridget from him and went straight to the kitchen when suddenly Katarina stood up and grabbed Hannahâs hair. âHow dare you use such words on my mother?â She yelled. Bridget started crying, âBad! Bad! Trina!â She yelled then clenched her small hands into a fist to hit her aunt. Xander was dumbstruck by the chaos in front of him. âEnough!â He yelled dominantly. âKatarina go back to your seat!â He exclaimed. She obeyed Xanderâs words but didnât stop glaring at Hannah. He then moved to Hannah and took Bridget from her. âWhat are you doing? Give her back to me!â She roared at him. He held her hand while carrying Bridget in his other hand. Hannah did not fight anymore as he might accidentally let go of their daughter. The child starts wailing and it annoys Katarina. âPut a lid on that child.â She commented. As soon as the words left her Xander stared at her with a darkened gaze. She cowered in fear and could only lower her head. He handed the inconsolable Bridget to Mrs. Copperfield and then dragged Hannah to his room. The people in the dining area could only stare at them. INSIDE Xanderâs room. He pushed Hannah face down into his bed and pinned her using his knee. âWhy are you so feisty all of a sudden?â He yelled. She sneered, âIf I donât what do you think will happen to me and my daughter in this house? You saw how your mother and sister speak to me... Heck, even your friend and what did you do? NOTHING!â She screamed. She let out all her frustrations that she had been bottling up since the first day she set foot in the Miller mansion. âYou want a divorce!?â She shouted. She could feel his knee pressing her harder against the bed. âIâll sign the papers now, but I want sole custody of my daughter.â She declared with certainty. CHAPTER 5 - In-Laws XANDER laughs sarcastically. âNow you canât wait to divorce me? Is it because of that Zane guy?â He exclaimed in annoyance. Hannah gasped, âI already told you he is just a friend.â She remarked with conviction. He pressed his knee harder on her back. She winces. âForget about the divorce. From now on you canât leave this house.â He yells. Her body stiffened upon hearing his words. âXander!â She cried out, she felt his hands under her skirt. âWhat are you doing?â He did not answer and the next sound she heard was her skirt and shirt ripped out of her body, stripping her to her underwear. She shivers in fear and shame. He stood up and rummaged through his cabinet. She took advantage of it and slowly got out of bed to run out. The way he spoke scared her. She has no idea why he is acting the way he does. One moment heâd shout divorce, the next he wouldnât let her get away from him. âWhatâs wrong with you?â She thought as she discreetly walked to the door. She smiled as she turned the knob. She opened the door, one of her hands was holding the knob while the other was leaning for support on the door frame. Before she could get out, Xander forcefully shut the door and it collided with her hand. Stunned. She felt her heart skipped a beat. Soon she shouted in pain at the top of her lungs. The pain was unbearable. She gasped when she saw that two of her fingers had dislocated. Her knees weaken and slowly sits on the floor and starts sobbing. Her hand was throbbing and instead of helping her, he held her by the shoulder and dragged her back to bed. She continued sobbing. He looked at her hand then scoffed, âThatâs what you get for being a bad wife.â He exclaimed. He then showed her what he had taken from his drawer. Four pieces of necktie, seeing it she tried to stand but he held her shoulders and pinned her on the bed. Helpless, all she could do was watch him as he tied her limbs on his bed. Tears rolled down her cheeks, âXander, I donât understand you.â She yelled while looking at him. âWhat do you want from me? You ask me for divorce, now that Iâm giving it to you. Youâre acting like that.â She added as her vision blurred. He smirked, âYou will stay here and think of all the things you did yesterday and today,â he said dominantly. When he finished tying her up, he went to the restroom to get the first aid kit and started rubbing pain reliever medicine on her injured hand. âYour hand is injured, and youâre bound. Donât do anything naive.â He warned. Suddenly, he forced her broken finger back into place. She heard her bone snapped and felt her bones move. The shock made her almost lose consciousness. She yelled in pain, she arched her back and clung to her bonds tightly. He sneered at her, âDonât be overdramatic, Hannah,â he said mockingly. He then stood up and went to his walk-in closet where he searched for a change of clothes as the one he was wearing was creased due to the commotion. She lifted her head trying to follow his movements, âWhere are you going?â She cried out. âUntie me,â She pleads. He grins devilishly, âNo! You will stay there. Till I return from work.â He roared at her. She gasped, âBridget might be looking for me.â She pointed out. He marched back to her and stared at her intently. She tilted her head to the side and closed her eyes. She knew he was making fun of her. Even with her eyes closed she knew he was looking at her in contempt. Sheâs well aware that Xander only sleeps with her when he is intoxicated. In his exact words, he told her, âI can only use you when Iâm drunk because you disgust me.â Words that always haunt her dreams. He stared at her with scrutiny. He never saw her undressed while he was sober and the lights werenât dim and every time all he could see was her back. The way she was tied with legs akimbo in the bed was inviting. He got into bed and removed her underwear, stripping her undressed. Hannah continued to close her eyes and didnât think much of it. When suddenly she felt his lips intertwined with hers. His kiss was so gentle, that she opened her eyes immediately, thinking someone else was in the room. She gasped in disbelief. She felt like she was dreaming. Xander continued kissing her and nibbling her neck. She canât help but moan at his movements. When he heard her sound, his gaze darkened, then started penetrating her roughly. Her soft moaning turns to a cry for help. He covers her mouth to muffle her voice. Her eyes are wide open as he roughly thrust her. Tears rolled down her face with her blurry vision she could no longer see him clearly. She could feel his thing inside her and instead of pleasure, she could feel a stabbing pain in her insides. Nothing worth enjoying for her. She started shouting and begging him to stop, but he didnât. She didnât even remember when he left. Later that day, Hannah woke up still tied to Xanderâs bed. She opens her eyes only to see her mother-in-law standing in front of her with phone in hand taking pictures of her bare body. She wanted to scream, but her mouth was dry, and her voice came out raspy, âWhat are you doing?â She inquired. Lani smirked, âNot so feisty now are we Hannah? I will upload these photos of you over the internet.â She remarks. Hannah laughs. âWhatâs funny? Arenât you ashamed that people will see you undressed? Wonât that be degrading, or you are such a low-class dirt that you donât even care?â Lani says mockingly. Hannah sneered, âYou donât get it, do you? Iâm a nobody. Upload my photos all you want, no one will bat an eye on me, but once they learn Iâm Xander Millerâs wife, I think it will hurt your sonâs career more than me.â She declared with certainty. Her words made sense and Laniâs face contorted in rage as he didnât think it through. Luckily for her, she hasnât uploaded any of the images she took. Lani stumped her foot in annoyance that, even with a tied-up Hannah, she was still defeated. Soon an idea slipped into her mind. She went to Xanderâs bathroom and when she returned she was holding a clipper. Hannahâs eyes widened instantly, âGet away from me!â She yelled. âOh, look, are you scared now,â Lani says hauntingly. Hannah starts tugging on her bonds, but Xander ties her up too well. She starts squirming and arching her back, but itâs useless when Katarina suddenly arrives. âMom, whatâs happening? I heard yelling.â She says, then smiles ear to ear when she sees Hannah on the bed. âGood, youâre here. Come on and help me with her.â Lani demanded. Katarina grinned, âWith pleasure Mother.â She said in a malevolent tone. âHow bad is my brother,â she commented as she stared at Hannah, then slowly moved to the bed, sat on Hannahâs stomach, and started slapping her while Lani began cutting her hair with the clippers. Hannah shouts but Katarina covers her mouth. They only stopped when they heard the sound of Xanderâs car. âXanderâs here. What are we going to do now?â Katarina asked anxiously. âWhy are you scared? Do you think your brother will care? Even if we take care of this fool he wonât do anything to us. The only thing he will comment on is how we left the room dirty with this useless womanâs blood.â Lani remarks while spatting at Hannahâs face. Hannahâs face was swollen from Katarinaâs slaps. She couldnât fully open her eyes. Shortly, the two hurriedly left the room. When Xander stepped into his room, it was pitch dark, but he could see Hannahâs silhouette on the bed still tied. âI hope you learned your lesson,â he says as he turns on the light. Hannah was so exhausted, starving, and thirsty that she could not form any words or sound to get his attention. In her mind, she kept on asking herself, âWould he actually care? Or will he just say it serves me right for disrespecting her mother?â Without looking at her, he walked to his walk-in closet where he changed his clothes. When he finally caught a glimpse of her, his eyes widened in horror. âHannah!?â He calls out to her. CHAPTER 6 - Sly Fox âWHAT happened?â Xander asks in shock. He could see her hair on the floor. The clipper was stuck on the corner of her head. Itâs clear someone tried to cut her hair with his beard trimmers, but her hair was too thick. Her face was swollen, her lips bloodied, and her body filled with scratches. Hannah did not speak and only closed her eyes. Xander did not push her as it is obvious who did it. He removed her bonds and saw the marks they left on her body. The moment he untied her, she slowly got up. âWhere are you going?â Xander asks curiously. âI need to prepare dinner for you,â she replied while trying to remove the stuck clipper on her hair. He shook his head. âYouâll scare Bridget. Have you seen yourself in the mirror?â He replied concernedly, but the choice of words sounded mockery to her. She smiled bitterly, then sat on the bed. Undresseded. Tired. Hungry and thirsty. He witnessed how she stared blankly at the floor. âStay here. Iâll ask the servants to bring you food and a change of clothes.â He mumbles as he goes in the bathroom. She could only nod in agreement. Once more, Xander took out the first aid kit, cleaned her wounds, and applied topical pain relief. Shortly, he starts cutting the hair stuck in the clippers and fixing her hair. In the end, the only haircut passable was a pixie cut. âThere, thatâs the best cut I could come up with,â he uttered proudly. Hannah stared at herself and kept on brushing what was left of her hair. âI canât be here anymore. I donât want to be here. Letâs go our separate ways.â She exclaimed. âI said no more talk about divorce again,â he muttered. âWhy? Isnât that what you want? Why bring it up, then change your mind? The news had died down long ago, and I thinkâŠâ She paused then heaved profoundly, âNO... I know Bridget would be better off without the Millers.â He smirked then held her shoulder. âIâm tired Hannah.â He clamored. âStop talking nonsense and tell that boyfriend of yours to back away.â He accused. She frowned. âWhat?â She uttered. She is tired of explaining who Zane is. Xander took her silence as accepting defeat. âAs I said, stay here. I donât want anyone seeing you like that. They might say Iâm hurting you.â He clamored. She scoffed, âOf course, all he thinks of is himself and what others would think about him.â She mumbled under her breath. His audacity shook her and left a pit in her stomach. In the kitchen, Xander told the maid to prepare dinner and advised Mrs. Copperfield to take care of Bridget. âIs young Mrs. Miller okay, young master?â She asks in concern. He ignored her question and soon left. The old woman felt pity for Hannah as it was not a secret that the Miller family was hard to please and easy to offend. Mrs. Copperfield could only lower her head and take good care of Bridget in Hannahâs absence. CONCURRENTLY, Katarina is in Laniâs room. Sheâs pacing back and forth while sheâs biting her nails. She was scared of what Xander might do to her. Lani sighed in annoyance, âWould you stop panicking?â She mumbled as she sat comfortably in front of her vanity mirror, fixing her hair and removing Hannahâs dark hair that clung to her. Katarinaâs hands were sweating. She swallowed slowly and then uttered, âI think we overdid it.â She could still remember the fear on Hannahâs face when her mother moved the clipper near her. At that moment, she felt impulsive and helped her mother, but soon she felt a wave of guilt. Lani mocked, âOverdid? That sly fox had it coming. Have you seen how she was trapped on the bed? She probably tried to seduce Xander, but your brother is not that fool, and he tied her up there as punishment. How shameless.â She remarks in disgust. Lani then held her hand and assured her, âEverything we did to that trash, she deserves it. Have you forgotten that if not for her, you would have had a grand celebration for your 18th birthday?â She says. The remorse Katarina felt earlier dissipated instantly. She could vividly remember how Hannahâs arrival in the Miller mansion changed everything. Sheâs been planning her 18th birthday since she was a child. All of a sudden, Xander forbids her from celebrating extravagantly. With the scandal he is in and the unplanned wedding, he doesnât want to be on the news as it might affect the fragile state of the company. Being Xanderâs sister, everything she does reflects on her brother. Her hands clench in a fist. She couldnât forget the humiliation she had been put through. She had already given out her invitation and bragged to everyone that her birthday would be the biggest celebration the city had ever seen, that it would be put in the newspapers and various online sites and would go down in history. None of that happened, and she shamefully called off the event a month before her birthday. She was mocked by other rich kids who usually wouldnât go out of her way. It was the most embarrassing thing that happened to her. As she remembers it now, she felt that she could have hurt Hannah more. A knock on the door called her back to her senses. Without any hesitation, she opened the door and saw Xanderâs cold gaze. The fear she had earlier was now gone, and she stared at her brotherâs head held high. âWhat do you want, brother? Did your good-for-nothing wife ask you to avenge her?â She commented as she crossed her arms. Xander ignored her remarks and stepped into the room. Lani gestured for Katarina to leave them alone and she did. âMother.â He muttered perfunctory. Lani narrowed her gaze, âWhat? Are you going to take her side?â She stated in annoyance. He shook his head, âThatâs not important. Whatâs important is Denise has returned, and I canât leave Hannah looking like that. What do you think people will say?â he exclaimed. Laniâs eyes widened in glee. âDenise is back? That means...â âYes!â He confirmed hastily. She stood up and marched to her son, âYou should have told me that. If I knew, I wouldnât have let Katarina hit her in the face.â She commented while patting his back as she smiled merrily. Her words surprised him but he brushed them off. âFinally, the rightful wife has returned. We could get rid of the sly fox.â She added as she hummed in happiness. | LEARN_MORE | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=14304&u | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | redtgb.com | DCO | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=14304&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461130637_998149928730487_7761764593139129907_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E-fJezB1vRAQ7kNvgEgu26Y&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOvzPwr3qp7SVPk0CuVV1f8&oh=00_AYAS93jqXPUcTgVkKOyR5fMRt0SonSDeX6Ghi-hpcX8t2Q&oe=6709167F | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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New 2024 Ford Super Duty F-350 SRW XLT | $80,610 | VIN:1FT8W3BT9RED42251 | LEARN_MORE | https://www.frittsford.com/new-Riverside-2024-Ford | Fritts Ford | https://www.facebook.com/fritts.ford/ | 7,125 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | frittsford.com | CAROUSEL | VIN:1FT8W3BT9RED42251 | https://www.frittsford.com/new-Riverside-2024-Ford-Super+Duty+F+350+SRW+Pickup-XLT-1FT8W3BT9RED42251?alstad_source=car&alstad_vin=1FT8W3BT9RED42251&alstad_year=2024&alstad_make=Ford&alstad_model=Super+Duty+F-350+SRW&alstad_condition=new&alst_action=car&alst_action_value=1FT8W3BT9RED42251 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462355130_1056783909248910_2634921353506725205_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nOJPzmEA09UQ7kNvgGPouIg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AdgMVCBlx0K3vpD1lWqk2Df&oh=00_AYB-e_35bOFveAZY_JutPyD0nbrifm7GqnRSYF3jyibkyA&oe=67090EC0 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Fritts Ford | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Designs Option Modular 5 Pc Sectional | Long Island Sectional Chairs America Living has made it their mission to provide the best possible modular sectionals available. Furniture that can transion with you through life's stages and be used in many different environments. It also provides the flexibilty to add on or to be reconfigured as needed. Fabrics Chairs America LIVING offers over 20 different base cloths for our sectional pieces. Our base fabrics are all proven durable covers. Some are also "Performance Covers", like REVOLUTION and CRYPTON which are made to resist staining and are backed by the fabric manufacturer | SHOP_NOW | https://www.railwayfreight.com/collections/tifton- | Railway Furniture & Mattress | https://www.facebook.com/RailwayFurnitureAndMattressTifton/ | 6,322 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | https://www.railwayfreight.com/collections/tifton-... | CAROUSEL | Long Island Sectional Chairs America Living has made it their mission to provide the best possible modular sectionals available. Furniture that can transion with you through life's stages and be used in many different environments. It also provides the flexibilty to add on or to be reconfigured as needed. Fabrics Chairs America LIVING offers over 20 different base cloths for our sectional pieces. Our base fabrics are all proven durable covers. Some are also "Performance Covers", like REVOLUTION and CRYPTON which are made to resist staining and are backed by the fabric manufacturer | https://www.railwayfreight.com/collections/tifton-winter-collection-sofas | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462210296_553383247344350_755278390425911995_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9Pdt1dx0SqwQ7kNvgGtcBmx&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ARGRfa_0sAoxuUyOjsmEMs8&oh=00_AYAHp4agDZ-0I-1deanskrf4ZY2hZFbZs3jRgy2JKumrVQ&oe=6708FFE6 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Railway Furniture & Mattress | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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CALL_NOW | Oklahoma Heritage Farm | https://www.facebook.com/OKheritagefarm/ | 13,451 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Call now | 0 | IMAGE | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462240464_1274966660373131_6406188746433674983_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=l7h2pe6zn5kQ7kNvgFLcvkz&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AE78BuAo3uD4CNAaGdCIE2a&oh=00_AYAuxyL3CZTyq3_I7bYogb9PZWkH9JvVXDoPB5GcitUp2Q&oe=67092805 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Oklahoma Heritage Farm | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Read next chapter | When they met again many years later, the mute ex-wife had a new lover, and the scumbag ex-husband begged for reconciliation, but the first thing she could say was to tell him to get lost! ===== During a stormy night, Kallie Cooper propped herself against the headboard and read a book. Abruptly, the bedroom door swung open, her husband, Jake Reeves, walked in. Before Kallie could utter a word, Jake pressed his lips to hers, the smell of alcohol mingling with the rain's freshness. "Don't move." In a thick, persuasive tone, Jake commanded, his cold hand slid under her skirt, pressing firmly against her resisting leg. Kallie ceased her struggles, the pain escalating. She emitted faint, distorted noises. At her sounds, Jake frowned and placed his hand over her mouth. Being silenced, Kallie clung to Jake's muscular arm, her grip desperate as if anchoring herself in a tumultuous sea. She was overwhelmed by the time Jake released her and headed for the shower. Moments after Jake disappeared behind the bathroom door, his phone on the nightstand came to life. Out of reflex, Kallie glanced at it and saw a new message flash on the screen. "Jake, I'm sorry, okay? Can you stop going back to your mute wife every time we fight? It's really hurting me." The light faded from Kallie's eyes. She realized she would never master the art of playful scolding or tender grievances shared softly in the quiet of night. Due to a childhood illness, Kallie's voice had been stolen from her, leaving her unable to speak. She could only produce fragmented sounds, which even her own husband found unbearable to hear. Through the frosted glass of the bathroom window, Kallie could see Jake's tall silhouette. She averted her gaze quickly. Jake was carelessly drying his damp hair, looking down at her with a dismissive stare. "Did you just look at my phone?" he asked. Kallie tensed, shook her head swiftly, and instinctively denied it. She wanted to clarify that it was an accidental glimpse. But Jake's patience had worn thin. He declared icily, "Don't touch my phone again." Kallie forced a smile, biting her lip as she nodded. Jake's love was not hers to claim. Their marriage was arranged by his grandfather. Jake had bluntly stated he married her solely because she was the adopted daughter of the Reeves family, and he didn't want to defy his grandfather's wishes. For five years, Kallie had never overstepped, fully aware of Jake's affairs, yet she remained silent, fearing he would find her bothersome. Taking a deep breath, Kallie gestured to fetch a glass of milk for him. Without the courage to meet Jake's indifferent gaze, she hastily exited the room. Behind her, Jake picked up his phone and dismissively deleted the message without even checking its content. Kallie got up early. Jake, notorious for his picky eating habits, had a delicate stomach. For years, Kallie had meticulously prepared his breakfast every morning. As Jake descended the stairs, the first thing that caught his eye was Kallie, bustling about the kitchen. The strings of her apron accentuated Kallie's slender waist, while faint hickeys lingered on her neck from the night before. She was the epitome of gentleness, always serene and avoiding making a fuss, truly an exemplary wife. A subtle softening touched Jake's usually impassive features. He broke the silence. "Let's have breakfast together." Overjoyed, Kallie nodded vigorously and signed her gratitude. She removed her apron and seated herself carefully next to him, closer than they'd ever been. Jake passed her a sandwich, which Kallie accepted with a cautious, grateful smile. In a nonchalant manner, Jake mentioned, "Tomorrow's my brother's baby's hundred-day celebration. You should come with me." Kallie nearly let the sandwich slip through her fingers in astonishment. He seldom invited her to public gatherings. Yet here he was, asking her to join him for such an occasion. Her eyes flickered with hesitation and conflict. A trace of reluctance crossed Kallie's expression, unnoticed by Jake. Nonchalantly, Jake added, "I'll have my assistant drop off some clothes tomorrow and pick you up at noon." Kallie had no other option but to agree. The Reeves family held immense influence in Arcpool, and Dean Reeves, the eldest son, was celebrating his firstborn's hundred-day milestone with a lavish affair. Dean had reserved a premier hotel for the occasion, now buzzing with excitement. Kallie, dressed in a beige gown complemented by subtle makeup, looked radiant. Her fine features and bright eyes made her the center of attention. However, the gazes that swept over her were critical, not admiring. "How fortunate she is! Born unable to speak, yet she married so well. Why can't I be that lucky? Is it because I can talk?" "And what good does talking do you? Can you evoke sympathy the way she does?" "What are you implying?" "Remember, she seemed so forlorn that Roderick Reeves took her in as his foster daughter and married her off to Jake. Such a pity play!" "People call it luck, but it's all calculated. You should learn from her!" Kallie inwardly protested, wanting to argue that Roderick simply sympathized with her. Yet, she knew her silent rebuttal fell on deaf ears. "Kallie, there you are! We've been waiting for you." Chapter 2 Skipped Medicine Last Night A sweet, melodious voice filled the air. It belonged to Kallie's sister-in-law, Melinda Reeves, who was cradling her baby and smiling warmly at Kallie. "Come hold the baby for some good luck," Melinda urged. "You and Jake have been trying for five years without any news. It's time to pick up the pace." All eyes suddenly fixated on Kallie, sharp as knives. Kallie's hands began to sweat with anxiety. Melinda continued, "Look, no one blames you for your disability. But sweetness alone won't suffice as a wife. How can you meet your responsibilities if you can't bear children?" Crushed by embarrassment, Kallie moved to take Melinda's baby. However, Kallie was abruptly stopped by another hand. Her mother-in-law, Shirley Reeves, quickly took Melinda's baby away. "This child is healthy. We can't let her risk being affected by bad luck or sickness once you hold her." Kallie's heart sank. She tried to explain it wasn't that she couldn't bear children. The thing was... The crowd was puzzled by Kallie's sign language, and Shirley interrupted her sharply. "Even if you could have children, we'd rather you didn't. What if your child inherits your problems? We can't allow that!" The crowd murmured in agreement, "Exactly, we must think of the children's well-being!" Kallie felt a cold dread. If she couldn't have children, then surely that woman could? She wasn't as infertile as Melinda implied. She had once fallen pregnant unexpectedly. However, Shirley, insisting that the child might inherit her muteness and that Jake would not want such a child, coerced her into having an abortion. Kallie was unable to convey that her muteness was caused by an illness, not hereditary. Thus, with heavy tears, she aborted the child. The pain of that decision lingered, sharper than she ever imagined it would. Melinda remarked softly, "Shirley, I hear your concerns. However, I've only been able to have one daughter, and I faced complications that may prevent me from having more children. If Kallie is unable to have children, our family line could end here." Turning to Jake with a soft expression, Melinda asked, "Jake, what are your thoughts on this?" The room's attention pivoted to Jake, many anticipating a scene. It was common knowledge that Jake was not fond of his arranged marriage. A public rejection of Kallie would certainly stir up headlines. Yet, a frosty demeanor overtook Jake's stern features as he retorted sarcastically, "You're speaking too much. What's your point?" Melinda's expression faltered, realizing she had inadvertently crossed a line with the wrong person. Shirley intervened, attempting to smooth things over. "Your sister-in-law was only expressing her concern out of care for you. It was out of line for you to respond so harshly." Melinda cast her eyes down, her voice tinged with remorse. "Dean is away on business, and I've been handling everything on my own since the baby came. I meant only to show I care, but I apologize if I've caused any offense." Jake's skepticism was palpable, his voice frosty as he said, "If managing the household feels overwhelming, you don't have to force yourself to do it." Jake gestured to his assistant, instructing the latter to set aside the gifts. "My personal life is off-limits," he declared firmly. In the stunned silence that followed, filled with the astonished and perplexed gazes of those around them, Jake escorted Kallie away from the party. Kallie was dumbfounded, barely registering the events until they were seated in the car. She hadn't anticipated Jake defending her so openly. Jake's brow creased slightly, annoyance tinged his voice as he said, "Ignore what they said." Kallie shook her head, indicating the comments hadn't affected her. Jake's frustration grew. "So, in all these five years, have you really never considered the idea of us having children?" Kallie had always been compliant and kind, her love for Jake unquestionable. Yet, her apparent indifference to the idea of children now made him doubt her feelings. Ever since their wedding, Kallie had harbored dreams of them sharing a child. However, she knew that as long as Shirley was in the picture, it would remain a dream. She wondered if Jake was testing her desire for motherhood. Pausing briefly, Kallie finally gestured to let slide of the incident. She was afraid, as Shirley had said, that her child might not be able to talk like her. Jake looked at her sharply. "You're saying you don't want to have a baby with me. But unless I'm mistaken, we were quite careless last night, and you haven't taken any medicine since then." Chapter 3 Sarah's Thoughts Kallie gestured, saying last night was not her fertile days. A glint of disappointment flickered in Jake's eyes as he responded, "Good to know you've thought it through." Kallie didn't note his feelings, assuming he wasn't interested in having children. She turned to gaze out the window, her eyes skimming over the cityscape. "Would you like to go shopping? Or perhaps a spa day? I can arrange for someone to go with you," Jake said, his voice trailing from behind her. Kallie shook her head, her sign language indicating she had work to attend to. Jake said gently, "You are not in a crucial position. You don't have to push yourself so hard. You can just stay home and enjoy life as my wife." To Kallie, though devoid of love, Jake was nearly the ideal husband in every other respect. Apart from making breakfast for him, she had no other household worries, and he provided her with a generous monthly allowance. He even furnished her with a supplementary credit card for unrestricted spending. However, Kallie yearned for love, not material comforts. When Kallie first moved in with him, Jake was only seventeen. He had vowed to cherish her and love her forever. While he had kept his first promise, the second had long since been forgotten. Lost in her thoughts, Kallie barely noticed the car come to a stop. A gentle tapping on the window pulled her from her reverie. As the window slid down, it revealed a pale face marred by swollen, red eyes. It was a pitiful, heart- wrenching sight, Jake's lover, Sarah Miller. Tears had already started streaming down Sarah's face before she managed to utter a word. Clinging to the car window pitifully, she spoke in a soft, pleading voice. "I waited and waited for you but never heard anything. I went to your house, and they told me you were at your brother's baby's hundred-day celebration. I had to follow you here, just hoping for a chance to see you. Are you really angry with me? Did you come to her side to find some peace and escape my incessant talking?" There was an unmistakable tinge of sarcasm in Sarah's words. Kallie could sense the indirect mockery, almost as if calling her mute. Watching Sarah's distraught expression, Jake's aloof demeanor softened slightly. "Do you realize what you did wrong?" Sarah responded with a playful pout, "If you want an apology, you'll have to let me do it face-to-face. How can I apologize properly while standing out in the cold?" Sarah's gaze then shifted intently toward Kallie's seat. Jake turned to Kallie and broke the silence after a moment. "Your workplace is right there. Aren't you getting out?" Actually, there was still some distance away from Kallie's workplace, though not far away. In the past, Jake would always drop her right at the door. Kallie, obedient as ever, nodded and stepped out of the car, her heart heavy. But she didn't go far. Kallie silently observed Jake's car from a bookstore not far away, standing by a towering window. Whether by chance or intent, the car hadn't moved off, and the window remained open. From her spot, she could see into the vehicle. Sarah was now practically in Jake's lap, their figures swaying slightly together. Although Sarah's position obscured Jake's face from Kallie's view, Kallie believed Jake was probably quite happy. After all, he was in the company of the person he loved. Tears rapidly filled Kallie's eyes and quietly traced their way down her cheeks, blurring her subtle makeup. It seems like this five-year marriage of pretense and estrangement should come to an end... ... Kallie, a mute who had been ignored by her husband for five years since their wedding, also suffered the loss of her pregnancy due to her cruel mother-in-law. After the divorce, she learned that her ex-husband had quickly gotten engaged to the woman he truly loved. Holding her slightly rounded belly, she realized that he had never really cared for her. Determined, she left him behind, treating him as a stranger. Yet, after she left, he scoured the globe in search of her... What happens next? Available chapters here are limited, click the button below to install the App and enjoy more exciting chapters (Automatically jump to this novel when you open the app) &5& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/57974322-fb_contact-e | Good Story | https://www.facebook.com/100090635329790/ | 207 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.moboreader.net | IMAGE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/57974322-fb_contact-ena208_2-0724-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=331118&accid=233925549638247&rawadid=120212206189750604 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/460622201_1042358157196721_388108615599045180_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HYS-GzKHK5wQ7kNvgEN_YMJ&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AbpO_5LDbea2qbnSKhG0BR_&oh=00_AYCAWBEuyTtMIey1MuaQgZSprwXXIP9Gg_nKqKIQtyljcA&oe=670920DD | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Good Story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đ„đ„Click to read the next chapter for freeđ | Chapter 1 Theresa Cohen saw Hansel Zimmer again in Northville in October. She was there for a year-long work assignment, and the cold had already gripped the city. Theresa arrived late at almost 11:00 pm. Shortly after she stepped off the plane and made her way through the airport, Hansel called and asked where she was. "I'm at Gate A," she replied. "I'll be there soon." Before long, Theresa noticed a man approaching from a distance. He was tall and upright, dressed in training gear. His demeanor was even more composed and mature. With his neatly cropped hair and well-defined facial features, his chiseled jawline and serious expression gave him a distinctive appearance. His eyes, while seemingly calm, carried a sense of aloofness. Theresa couldn't help but tense up. It had been long since she last saw Hansel, and to say she wasn't nervous would be a lie. Hansel's gaze settled on her, and his deep voice broke the silence. "Have you been waiting long?" She shook her head, trying to sound casual. "No. I just got here." As Theresa wasn't dressed warmly enough, her face was flushed from the cold, and her eyes glistened with a certain innocence. Hansel stared at her for a moment, his expression calm but carrying a subtle intensity. "Let's go," he finally said, taking her suitcase and heading toward the exit. Theresa hurried to keep up with him. "Thank you for picking me up." "It's no trouble." When they got into the car, Hansel turned on the heater. The warmth was a relief, but Theresa still felt uneasy. She sat stiffly with her hands neatly folded on her lap while Hansel started the car and pulled away from the airport. Having just landed in Northville, Theresa planned to stay at a hotel for the night and report for work at the hospital the following morning. After a few minutes of silence, Hansel spoke up. "You're staying in Northville for a year?" "Yes." "Do you have a place to stay?" "I'll stay at a hotel for now. The hospital will assign me a dorm later." Hansel's grip on the steering wheel tightened for a brief moment, then he said, "I have a place in the city center. I'm rarely there. You can move in for the time being." Theresa instinctively declined, "That's not necessary." Hansel glanced into the rearview mirror, his tone firm. "It's a ten-minute walk from the hospital." She fidgeted slightly, feeling increasingly uncomfortable. "I don't want to imposeâ" He cut her off, "Your family asked me to look after you." The implication was clearâhe was simply helping her because of family obligations, nothing more. Theresa bit her lip. She wanted to keep a distance from Hansel. If it hadn't been for her family arranging for him to pick her up from the airport, she wouldn't have even told him she was coming to Northville. "What if your girlfriend comes over? Wouldn't it be inconvenient?" If she remembered correctly, Hansel did have a girlfriend. "Who told you that?" he asked. "No one," Theresa quickly replied. Hansel paused. "Don't worry about it. Just stay at my place." "Then, how about I pay you monthly rent and utilities? Would that be okay?" After all, they weren't actually family and had no blood relation. Theresa didn't feel right taking advantage of him. "Theresa." Hansel's voice suddenly deepened as he uttered her name, startling her. Theresa's pulse quickened, and she felt a rush of unease. "When did you start being so formal with me?" Theresa's heart skipped a beat, and she wanted to shrink away. In the end, she said nothing. Thankfully, Hansel didn't press the matter further. He turned his attention back to the road. After a while, he asked, "Are you hungry?" "No. I ate on the plane," she answered. He didn't say anything else, and the rest of the drive passed in silence until they reached their destination an hour later. The place was a spacious three-bedroom duplex with central heating. It was clean, tidy, and decorated in cool tonesâblack, white, and grayâperfectly matching Hansel's style. After Hansel carried her suitcase upstairs, he said, "You can stay in the room upstairs. The housekeeper comes by occasionally to clean. There's a spare key hanging on the wall. If you need anything, just let me know." Theresa kept her tone polite and formal. "Thank you. I don't need anything right now." Hansel's gaze was dark, and though he appeared calm, something else lurked behind his eyes. "Get some rest. I'll be going now." "Alright, take care." The door closed with a soft click, and Theresa received a phone call from her friend, Anthony Garcia, almost immediately. "Have you arrived in Northville? Are you settled in?" "Yes, I'm settled." "Did Hansel pick you up?" "How did you know?" "He asked me about you. Since you'll be in Northville for one year and he lives there, I thought it might be helpful to have him around. So I told him." Theresa panicked a little. "Please don't tell him anything about me next time." "Why? Don't you like him?" Theresa felt her heart clench. "Let's drop itâŠ" "Alright, I won't ask." Anthony added, "By the way, has Kaleb reached out to you?" The mention of Kaleb Brooks didn't faze Theresa. "No." Anthony probed gently, "Did you really break up with him?" "Yes." "Why?" If Theresa had to give a reason, Kaleb never really cared about her. It was Kaleb's birthday three months ago. She had thoughtfully prepared a gift and brought it to the party. However, before she could get into the room, she overheard their conversation. One of Kaleb's friends has asked him, "When are you going to marry Theresa? She's been around you like a puppy dog for so long. It should be soon, right?" Kaleb had then replied, "Just because she's a simp doesn't mean I want her. She's beneath me." "Kaleb, that's cold." His friends had laughed and teased him, while Kaleb remained indifferent as he remarked, "A woman like her is cheap." "Yeah, she should have more self-respect." That night, Theresa threw away the gift and sent Kaleb a breakup text before blocking his number. She never reached out to him again afterward. Before she blocked him, their last conversation had been her wishing him a happy birthday and all his wishes coming true. He hadn't even bothered to respond. Just then, the door suddenly clicked open, startling Theresa. She turned to see Hansel returning. As though having been caught red-handed, she hastily ended the phone call. Did he overhear her? She hoped the walls weren't that thin. Hansel's expression was as calm as ever. "I came back to grab something." "Okay." She quickly composed herself, but her eyes betrayed her lingering unease. Hansel quietly went into the room and, when he came out, Theresa was still standing there with her hands clasped behind her. She was leaning against the wall, nervousness written across her face. He said sullenly, "Call me if you need anything." Theresa looked down, avoiding his gaze. "Oh, okay." He was merely treating her like a younger relative, and Theresa's behavior showed that she was distant from him, even a little afraid. With that, Hansel gave her one last look before leaving. Once the door closed, he stood in the hallway and took a slow drag. The pale fog quickly dispersed into the air. He had heard everything Theresa had said on the phone. As he suspected, she didn't want anything to do with him. Not only that, but she was also making sure to keep her distance. Chapter 2 Theresa hadn't always avoided Hansel. In fact, she used to be very attached to him. Several years ago, just a few days before her father was set to marry Hansel's sister, she had gone to see him. But when she arrived at his place, she found him with another woman. The woman had her arms wrapped around his shoulders, and he leaned down to her with a softness in his eyes that was foreign to Theresa. Hiding behind the door, she overheard the woman say in a coquettish voice, "Don't be mad at me anymore, okay? I won't make you angry again. Just don't go looking for other girls to upset me." Hansel asked casually, "What other girls?" "The girl from the Cohen family. Theresa, I think." "You're imagining things." "Then what's going on between the two of you? She's always hanging around you. It makes me jealous." "She's my future brother-in-law's daughter. Nothing is going on between us." "I see. So, you're just getting to know your future niece. Well then, when I meet her, she will have to treat me as her aunt, right?" ⊠The next day, Theresa reported to the hospital and was assigned under Dr. David Lincoln's supervision. Alongside her were three other medical residents, including a girl named Lucy Reed, and two guys. Adjusting to the new environment left her with no time to breathe. The workload was intense, with constant overtime and never-ending tasks. Even break times were often rushed and irregular. During this period, Hansel didn't return to the duplex. The hospital provided dorms for the residents, and Theresa was paired with Lucy. Not wanting to stay at Hansel's place, she moved into the hospital dorm as soon as it was available. One evening, around 9:00 pm, Theresa received a call while on her way back to the dorm. It was Hansel. She hesitated momentarily before answering. "Hello?" "Did you move out?" He must have returned home and noticed her absence. She replied honestly, "Yes, I moved into the hospital dorm." "I told you to stay at Elmwood Estates," he said, referring to his duplex. "I didn't want to trouble you." "Theresa, are you avoiding me?" His straightforwardness stunned Theresa. He had seen right through her. She timidly denied it, "No." There was a brief pause before he asked, "Where are you now?" "At the dorm." "Why didn't you tell me?" Theresa quietly explained, "I didn't think it was a big issue. I'm sorry. I'll inform you next time." "Do you want me to call your dad?" Theresa became frantic. "Please don't call my dad." Travis Cohen would no doubt insist that she stay at Hansel's place. Hansel left no room for negotiation as he threatened, "If I don't see you at Elmwood Estates in an hour, I'll come to the hospital and help you move." Only Hansel would be able to make her feel this cornered. And he wasn't asking; he was commanding. Theresa believed Hansel was the type to follow through. ⊠A short while later, Theresa returned to the dorm and began packing. She didn't have many clothes, just a lot of books, so it didn't take long. Lucy, fresh out of the shower, was drying her hair when she saw Theresa packing. She asked, "Where are you going this late?" Theresa hesitated before saying, "I'm moving out." "Why?" Theresa explained, "My family's worried about me and want me to stay with them." "Aren't you from Lyptus City? You have family in Northville?" After a brief pause, Theresa nodded. "Yes." "But do you really have to move out in the middle of the night? Why not wait until tomorrow?" "It's fine. I don't have much stuff anyway. I'll be done soon." "Your family really cares about you, huh?" ⊠When Theresa returned to Elmwood Estates, Hansel wasn't there. She carried her suitcase upstairs, back to the room she had only stayed in for a day. Everything was just as she had left itâneatly arranged. Her heart pounded with anxiety and fear of Hansel's imminent return. As she waited, her nerves frayed with each passing moment. Then, she heard the sound of the front door opening downstairs, which sent a chill down her spine. She was feeling torn as to whether she should go downstairs. While she was still debating, there was a knock on her door. Hansel was standing right outside her room. When he first walked in and saw the shoes at the entrance, he immediately knew she had moved back. Seeing that the light under her door was off, he assumed she was asleep and decided to head back downstairs. Theresa heard the faint sound of him descending the stairs. In the quiet of the night, even the slightest noise felt magnified. Suddenly, her phone lit up with an Instagram notification. She checked it and saw a message from Hansel. Although they followed each other on the app, they hadn't communicated through it. And ever since they "became family," she had restricted his account. Hansel asked, "Are you asleep?" Theresa didn't reply, nor did she even open the chat. Instead, she stared at his profile picture for a long time. He seemed to have forgotten about this account, as it was the same profile picture from years ago, and he hadn't posted anything on his feed. Ten minutes later, he sent another message, possibly to reassure her and make her feel comfortable staying at his place. "I'm heading back to the military base." Theresa still didn't reply. She lay on her bed, unable to sleep the entire night. The next morning, Theresa went downstairs and saw two bags on the coffee table in the living room. They were filled with snacks and daily necessities. They must have been from Hansel. She didn't touch them and instead headed to the hospital. Several days passed without Theresa seeing Hansel, and she didn't contact him either. The days were exhausting, filled with overtime and sleepless nights, leaving her too tired to rest properly. By the time she got off work and returned to Elmwood Estates, she was so drained that she collapsed on the couch, too weak to even make it upstairs. When her best friend, Noelle Chandler, called, Theresa could barely manage a faint greeting. "Tessa, what's wrong with your voice? Are you okay?" Noelle immediately sensed something was off. "I'm not feeling well," Theresa mumbled, her head spinning, throat aching, and body weak. "Have you been really busy these past few days?" "Yeah, pulled a few all-nighters. I have a day off tomorrow, so I'll just sleep it off." "But you don't sound well. Maybe you should see a doctor?" Theresa didn't even want to move. She knew she was probably just coming down with something and figured she'd feel better after a good night's sleep. "No need. I'll be fine after some restâŠ" Her eyes grew heavy, and she slowly drifted off to sleep. "Hey? Tessa?" Noelle called out several more times, but Theresa didn't respond. ⊠Theresa had a dream. She dreamed of the time when her parents had just divorced. Her father had rushed into a new relationship, buying a house and preparing for his wedding, while her mother had been hospitalized, hysterical. She had become a completely different person, screaming at Theresa and calling her ungrateful, heartless, and useless. Theresa awoke suddenly, tears blurring her vision. She felt someone gently wiping her tears away. Startled, her body tensed as her mind slowly cleared, and she began to make out the face of the person before her. Chapter 3 Hansel was sitting on the edge of the bed, his rough fingertips gently brushing against her face. When he saw her wake up, he didn't withdraw his hand but asked, "You're awake?" Theresa was momentarily stunned. Her face was still streaked with tears, and her voice was hoarse. "What happened to me?" His tone was somber. "You have a high fever. You've been asleep for a whole day." Hansel was still in his training gear, his lean frame and sharp features casting a serious, almost intimidating presence. He looked at her with dark, unreadable eyes and a stern expression. Theresa glanced around and realized she was in a ward of the hospital she worked at. "Why are you here?" She remembered falling asleep last night but had no recollection of how she got to the hospital. Hansel explained, "Zoey tried to call you last night but couldn't reach you. She called me, worried something might have happened to you." Upon receiving Zoey Zimmer's call, Hansel had rushed back to Elmwood Estates from the military base. As soon as he get in, he found Theresa curled up on the couch. Initially, he had thought she had merely dozed off. But when he saw her trembling and her cheeks flushed unnaturally, he realized she had a fever. Thus, he immediately took her to the hospital. After the doctor examined her, she slowly regained consciousness and cried out several times, calling for her mother and apologizing repeatedly. "I'm sorry for troubling you," Theresa said hoarsely. Hansel's brows furrowed, his voice tinged with coldness. "Is that all you can say? You're a medical student, yet you didn't think to see a doctor? "Do you not understand the consequences of a fever? Should I have to teach you that too?" Theresa knew she had overexerted herself in adjusting to the new environment, constantly staying up late and dealing with jet lag. She felt terrified and intimidated by Hansel. After all, he came from a military background and was especially fearsome when he wasn't speaking. Theresa couldn't bring herself to look at him; even breathing felt difficult. When Hansel moved closer, his presence became overwhelming. His gaze was deep and unreadable. While keeping her eyes down, Theresa noticed the glint of his belt buckle and felt a tightening in her body. She struggled to speak. "I'm sorryâŠ" Her fear was palpable, and she gripped her pants tightly. "From now on, I'll come by every day. Even when I'm not here, the housekeeper will look after you." Theresa's heart raced, and a shiver ran down her spine. She hurriedly protested, "You don't have to go through all that troubleâŠ" Hansel's voice was unyielding. "Theresa, do I need to repeat myself?" The sense of inevitability made her throat dry, and she couldn't make a sound. Hansel began, "You used to be so clingyâ" "Uncle Hansel!" blurted Theresa. The room fell into a chilling silence. Theresa didn't dare look at Hansel's expression. Her eyes were still wet with tears, and a sharp pain twisted inside her. The thought of what he had almost said made her wish she could disappear on the spot. Some things were better left buried deep inside. Back then, when she said those words to him, they had nothing serious going on between them. Her parents hadn't divorced yet, and she could say whatever she wanted without consequence. But everything had changed. "Forget what I said before. I was young and didn't know any better," she said, feeling Hansel's intense gaze bored into her. She could barely keep her eyes open, afraid to meet his stare. Just when she felt like she might suffocate, the ringing of a phone broke the heavy silence. Hansel glanced at the screen, stood up, and went out to take the call. As he left, the tension in Theresa's body finally began to ease. Chapter 4 Theresa didn't dare to dwell on what Hansel was about to say earlier, afraid of crossing an invisible line, particularly when he mentioned that he would come to see her every day. Just the thought of it made her insides twist uncomfortably. It was worse than being sick. Hansel was taking a call in the hallway. Jesse Gilbert asked, "Hansel, how's your kid doing?" Jesse was his subordinate. The night before, Hansel mentioned that his little girl was missing, and Jesse called to check in since the situation hadn't been resolved. "It's fine now," Hansel replied. Jesse then reported on matters regarding the military base, mentioning some important plans for the day. When he finished, Hansel said, "We'll talk more when I get back." "Sure, take care." After hanging up, Hansel didn't rush back to the ward. Instead, he called Zoey. "How's Tessa doing?" Zoey asked. "She just woke up, the fever's gone." "That's good. Tessa's health has always been fragile. Northville's climate is different from Lyptus City, so it's not surprising she's having trouble adjusting. If you can, keep an eye on herâshe's Travis' only child." Zoey sighed. "Besides, she just went through a breakupâŠ" Hansel paused. "She was in a relationship?" "Yeah, it's been a few years now. Travis and I both met himâhe's from the Brooks family, three years older than her, a good guy. We're not sure why they suddenly broke up. I didn't want to push her for details and make her feel worse." "What's his name?" "Kaleb." "Got it." When Hansel returned to the ward, Theresa grew uneasy again. He pulled out a chair and sat by the bed. "Are you hungry?" "No," she replied, still avoiding his gaze. Her stomach was still unsettled, and eating was the last thing on her mind. She asked, "How much are my medical expenses? I'll transfer the money to you." A private ward like this wasn't cheap. She didn't want to owe him anything, and thus, it was best to settle accounts where she could. "It's not necessary." Theresa insisted, "I have to pay you back." "You really want to keep things so formal between us?" "It's not that," Theresa explained. "I just know you've got a lot on your plate, and it's not right for me to add to your expenses." "I'm not worried about the money. Just focus on getting better." "I have incomeâ" "Are you getting paid a lot as a resident?" Theresa couldn't say that was the case. Since starting college, she hadn't asked her family for money. She had worked part-time to support herself, and if she was careful with her spending, she could stretch what she had until her residency ended. Theresa didn't reveal how much she earned, and Hansel didn't pry. Seeing that he had no intention of leaving, Theresa glanced at the time and said, "I'm feeling much better now. You can leave if you have other things to do. Don't worry about me." Hansel seemed to see right through her, his gaze piercing. "You really don't want me around." Theresa shook her head but didn't explain further. Even though she didn't want him around, it seemed the more she resisted, the more it happened. "You're under my care now, so you'll follow my arrangements," Hansel stated, his voice firm and clear. "Unless you decide to leave Northville." ⊠Theresa was silent the entire way back to Elmwood Estates, and Hansel was even quieter, moving so silently like a ghost. He unlocked the door and walked inside, with Theresa following close behind. She stood awkwardly, unsure of what to do next. Her head was still a little dizzy. Hansel told her to go upstairs and lie down, and she obediently complied. Not long after she got into bed, Hansel came upstairs carrying a bowl of chicken soup. He knocked before entering. Theresa had considered locking the door but decided against it. This was his house, after all. "Eat something to fill your stomach," he said. Theresa felt uneasy. She hadn't even change her cloth before lying down, and now she was glad she hadn't. She pulled the covers back, ready to get out of bed, but Hansel stopped her. "Eat in bed. No need to get up." She lay back down as instructed, carefully taking the bowl and spoon from him, making sure not to touch his hand. She was determined to avoid any physical contact. "Thank you." It was already after four in the afternoon, and daylight still streamed through the windows. She wore only a tight black sweater, which clung to her figure. Noelle used to tease her, saying that all her curves were in the right places and that it was a waste not to become a lingerie model. She'd always told Theresa that with a body like hers, she should flaunt it while she was young. Theresa never thought much of her figure, but the memory of Noelle's teasing made her hunch her back and lower her head, offering Hansel only the top of her head to look at. As she ate, Hansel's gaze lingered on her for a moment before he looked away, his expression darkening. When she finished, Hansel took the bowl and spoon and then brought her some medicine and a glass of water. "Take the medicine, then get some rest." Theresa did as he asked, reaching out to take the pill from his hand. His palms were calloused, hardened from years of military training, making her delicate hand seem even more fragile by comparison. She quickly swallowed the pill with a sip of water. As she tilted her head back, her curves were fully revealed. "Thank you, Uncle Hansel." Hansel frowned at the way she addressed him, clearly displeased. But considering she was sick, he didn't say anything. He stood up, turned off the lights, and left the room. Theresa only allowed herself to close her eyes and drift off to sleep once his footsteps had faded entirely. Downstairs, Hansel washed the dishes and put them away. He then sat on the couch and called a friend in Lyptus City. When the call connected, he spoke slowly, "Wade, it's me." "Hansel, what's up?" Wade Fabian was Hansel's childhood friend, and they had always been close. "I need you to look into Kaleb Brooks for me." Chapter 5 Wade echoed, "Kaleb Brooks? From the Brooks family?" Hansel had been away from Lyptus City for a few years and wasn't as familiar with the local affairs there anymore. He didn't know much about Theresa eitherâhe'd always thought of her as a little girl, not someone who would be in a relationship. Now he realized she'd grown up, no longer the child he once knew. "Yes." "So why the sudden interest in checking him out?" Wade was curious. There was no connection between the two of them, so it seemed odd that Hansel wanted to investigate Kaleb. "Theresa was dating him." Wade understood immediately. "I'll look into it. By the way, is Theresa really in Northville?" "Yes." "And youâŠ" Wade knew Theresa through Hansel. Back then, Hansel would take her everywhere, claiming she was his teacher's daughter. Over time, all of Hansel's close friends got to know Theresa as well. "What about me?" Hansel prompted. Wade hesitated, then said, "Nothing. She's all grown up now, huh? I'll have to visit Northville sometime and see her." "What for? Don't come here and cause trouble." With that, Hansel ended the call. The next morning, Theresa insisted on going to work despite not fully recovered. When she went downstairs, Hansel had already prepared breakfast, which consisted of various classic dishes from Lyptus City. Hansel was wearing a gray sweater and black pants. He looked softer than usual. The harshness had faded from his demeanor, and even the sharpness in his features seemed gentler. But his words from the night before at the hospital had left a lingering dread in Theresa's heart. "Uncle Hansel," Theresa greeted him. "Come have breakfast." After a few seconds of hesitation, Theresa walked over and took a seat. This was the first time she had ever sat down for a proper breakfast with him. She wasn't sure if it was due to her sickness or his presence, but she felt uncomfortable. Hansel sat across from her. The table was large, but with his long limbs, it felt like she couldn't escape his presence. "Are you feeling better?" "Yeah." Theresa nodded, keeping her head down as she ate her food. Out of nowhere, she felt a hand reaching toward her. The next moment, Hansel's warm fingers touched her forehead. She froze, not daring to move as she recalled his previous warnings. Thankfully, he was just checking her temperature and didn't do anything else. "The fever's gone. Make sure to take all your medicine today." "Okay." Hansel noticed Theresa was only eating toast, so he placed some other dishes on her plate. She quietly thanked him, and though her voice was barely audible, he caught onto it. She only managed to finish a few slices of toast before setting her cutlery down. Hansel said, "Leave it. The housekeeper will clean up later." Theresa bit her lip. "Thank you, Uncle Hansel. I'll head to the hospital now." "I'll take you." "No need. It's close byâjust a few minutes' walk." "I have some business at your hospital anyway. I'll go with you." Theresa had no reason to refuse. Hansel looked at her. "Hold still." Theresa's eyes widened as he reached out and wiped the corner of her mouth with his thumb. The brief warmth of his touch sent a chill through her body, and she shot up from her chair, the sound of it scraping against the floor echoing loudly. Caught off guard, she met Hansel's sullen gaze. "Are you really that uncomfortable around me?" Theresa's scalp tingled, and her breathing became erratic. "No." "You've started dating." Theresa thought for a moment, then nodded. Hansel was silent for a while before asking, "Did you come to Northville to heal from a breakup?" She answered without thinking, "Yes." Chapter 6 Mindlessly, Theresa arrived at the hospital. Hansel's expression had darkened when she admitted to him that she had come to Northville to mend a broken heart. Yet, he said nothing and went on with his business. In the office, Theresa changed into her work clothes. Lucy pulled her aside, eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Theresa, you moved in with your boyfriend, didn't you?" "No." Theresa became alert. "Don't lie to me. I just saw you arrive at the hospital with a handsome guy," Lucy teased. "Are you talking about my uncle?" "That was your uncle?" "Yeah." "My bad, I thought he was your boyfriend. He's really good-looking." There was no denying it. Hansel had always been striking with his sharp, rugged features. Even as a child, Theresa had thought he was handsome. But now, all she felt toward him was a deep sense of reverence. Still intrigued, Lucy continued, "Your uncle looks so young. Is he married?" Theresa's voice was cool as she answered, "Not yet, but he has a girlfriend." "Why do all the good-looking ones have girlfriends? I guess it's too much to hope for a guy like that to be single," Lucy lamented. Theresa kept quiet. Soon, the morning rounds began. The residents were called on one by one to answer questions. Their supervisor, David, was present, and his questions were particularly tough. When it was Theresa's turn, he was even more demanding. Fortunately, she had prepared in advance and managed to answer, though just barely. The others didn't fare much better, and David's expression grew stern. Even though he didn't say anything, it was clear he wasn't pleased. Lucy had an unexpected errand that afternoon and asked Theresa to cover for her. Without waiting for a response, Lucy was already out the door. While Theresa was busy with her own tasks, a nurse called her over. She was immediately cornered by a patient's family demanding answers. After learning the patient's pain was normal post-surgery discomfort, Theresa tried to explain, but the family refused to believe her and wouldn't let her leave. During the confrontation, Theresa was shoved and hit her forehead against the bed's metal rail. The pain was so intense she nearly passed out. It wasn't until a senior doctor arrived that the situation was defused. Her senior colleague, Bruce Parker, who had heard what happened, came to check on her. After an examination revealed only a swelling on her forehead, he chided, "Next time something like this happens, just walk away and get a senior doctor. Don't just stand there." "Got it," Theresa agreed. She had been frightenedâthe man was huge and strong, and it was her first time facing such a situation, so she froze up. "Anyway, go home early today, apply a cold compress, and get some rest." "Okay." It was only when Bruce left that Lucy turned to Theresa, feigning innocence. "I'm sorry I asked you to cover for me. I didn't expect the family to get physical. If I'd known, I wouldn't have asked you to help." Theresa knew it was pointless to say anything, so she prepared to leave. Just then, her phone buzzed in her pocketâit was Hansel calling. She stepped out of the office to answer. "Yes?" "Are you off work?" "Yes, I just left the office." Hansel's tone was low. "What do you want for dinner? I'll have the housekeeper make it." "I'm fine with anything." "Alright." Theresa swallowed and asked, "Will you be home tonight?" Hansel's response was cold. "Do you want me to be?" Theresa didn't answer. After a moment, Hansel added, "I have business at the base tonight." She exhaled quietly. "Alright, then. I won't bother you." She ended the call and returned to Elmwood Estates. As she entered, the housekeeper walked out of the kitchen. "You must be Ms. Cohen. I'm Mr. Zimmer's housekeeper. You can call me Margot." As long as she wasn't facing Hansel, Theresa felt more at ease. "Hello, Margot." "Go wash your hands. Dinner's ready." "Thank you." After the meal, Margot cleaned up the kitchen and left. Theresa sat down to reply to Noelle's text, filling her in on how she'd been sick the day before. Chapter 7 Just after sending her message, Theresa received a call from Anthony. She answered the call and heard Anthony's hesitant voice. "Tessa, do you have a moment?" "Yes, what's up?" Anthony stammered, "Um, Kaleb's here. I'll let him talk to you." Before Theresa could react, Kaleb took the phone and spoke. "Theresa." "Yeah?" "What's going on?" Theresa fell silent. Kaleb pressed on, "Why are you throwing a tantrum? Going missing without telling me, moving to Northville, and blocking me? What on earth is going on with you?" "I sent you a message about the breakup. Didn't you see it?" Theresa replied calmly. "And exactly why the sudden breakup?" Kaleb demanded. "I overheard what you said to your friends at the birthday party a few months ago." Kaleb went quiet for a moment, seemingly recalling what was said that day. After a few seconds, he responded, "It was just a joke. Why are you taking it so seriously?" Theresa felt a pang of discomfort. How could he dismiss it so lightly as a joke? "Theresa, I'll be in Northville in a few days. Let's meet and talk." "No need. I don't want to see you, and I'm very busy. Sorry, but please don't contact me again." Theresa ended the call before Kaleb could say more. In the past, she would always wait for him to end the call. Kaleb was shocked. He had never expected the usually gentle and ever-compliant Theresa to end things so decisively. Being dumped for the first time in 28 years was a blow to his pride, especially with his social status and reputation on the line. While observing Kaleb's reaction, Anthony figured out most of the situation. He took back his phone and said, "Don't be fooled by Tessa's sweet demeanor. Once she's made up her mind, it's impossible to change it. It's best to part on good terms." Anthony knew Theresa well. He had never thought highly of Kaleb, primarily because of Kaleb's poor reputation in their social circle. When he heard Kaleb mention going to Northville, Anthony grew concerned for Theresa and decided to send Hansel a text. ⊠Meanwhile, as Hansel read Anthony's message, he received a call from Wade with an update on the investigation. "I couldn't find out why they broke up, but Kaleb's reputation has always been bad. He used to be quite the ladies' man, but he seemed to have toned it down while he was with Theresa. "Turns out, though, he's been involved with his ex-girlfriend, Jasmine Young, again recently." "Jasmine's the illegitimate daughter of the Young family. They've had an on-off relationship for a long time," Wade added, choosing not to dive into the Young family's background in detail. Hansel scowled and grunted in acknowledgment. "Speaking of which, when do you plan on coming back? You've been in Northville for too long. Hasn't your family called you back yet?" Ignoring his question, Hansel asked, "How far were they into the relationship?" "They've met each other's families and were planning to get engaged after Theresa graduated from college. But from the looks of things, that's probably off." ⊠Theresa was taken aback to learn that Kaleb was actually coming to Northville. When a nurse came and told Theresa that someone was looking for her, she was in the middle of getting reprimanded by Bruce, a common occurrence for medical residents. However, noticing the time and remembering that she had injured her forehead the day before, Bruce waved her off exasperatedly and let her leave for the day. Theresa had been struggling with stress and sleepless nights lately. The pressure from Hansel added to her anxiety, and her eye bags became increasingly visible. After talking to the nurse, Theresa was directed to the consultation desk where the person was waiting. At around seven in the evening, the ward was still busy. It took Theresa a while to spot a familiar figure amidst the crowd. It was Kaleb. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=13801&ut | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | beokn.com | DCO | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=13801&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458107320_487488477581472_5173863341854517360_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nUNxyQ3to1IQ7kNvgHuzqSU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AwYRQEgnXR4B53l1gdsDdFY&oh=00_AYCJayfjmwF9-zjKqJ1VcNPl9KagSBTeciAkjiLOLzdieQ&oe=67091723 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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â â AGENDA TU CITA, APARTA TU ASESORĂA AHORAâ â SOMOS EXPERTOS ABOGADOS EN: MATERIA FAMILIAR. â DIVORCIOS: VOLUNTARIOS, CONTENCIOSOS, INCAUSADOS, CUANDO UNA DE LAS PERSONAS ESTĂ EN OTRO ESTADO O PAĂS, CUANDO UNA DE LAS PERSONAS ESTĂ EN EL CERESO. â PENSIONES ALIMENTICIAS; ES DERECHO DE LOS NIĂOS QUE SE LES OTORGUE. â DERECHO DE CONVIVENCIA Y VISITA; ES DERECHO DE LOS MENORES VER A SU PADRE NO CUSTODIO. â GUARDA Y CUSTODIA; ES DERECHO DEL MENOR ESTAR CON EL PROGENITOR QUE MEJOR CUIDADO LE OTORGUE, SEA PADRE O MADRE. â PERDIDA DE PATRIA POTESTAD; EL PADRE O MADRE PUEDE PERDER SUS DERECHOS CON LOS MENORES SI NO CUMPLE CON SUS OBLIGACIONES. (SEA PADRE O MADRE) â ADOPCIONES; EL MENOR TIENE DERECHO A SER CUIDADO, PROTEGIDO Y AMADO. (ya sea pareja heterosexual u homoparental) â PIDE INFORMES AL 656 100 5483, O AGENDA TU CITA PARA UNA ASESORĂA MĂS AMPLIA @seguidores âđđ±AGENDA TU CITA AL 656 100 5483 đ„APROVECHA ESTA OPORTUNIDAD PARA REGULARIZAR LA CASA QUE TE DEJĂ TU FAMILIARđ„ đâđ„LA COTIZACIĂN QUE TE DEMOS DE INTESTAMENTARIOS YA LLEVA GASTOS INCLUIDOS TENEMOS FACILIDADES DE PAGO â¶REQUISITOS: đDOCUMENTOS DE LA PROPIEDAD đACTAS DE NACIMIENTO đACTA DE DEFUNCIĂN DE TU FAMILIAR **QUE NO HAYA CONFLICTO ENTRE HEREDEROS đ„ESCRITURACIĂN DE PROPIEDADESđ„ âTIENE AĂOS VIVIENDO AHĂ? âSOLO TIENES CONTRATO DE COMPRA VENTA? âLAS PERSONAS QUE TE VENDIERON NO QUIEREN FIRMAR LA ESCRITURA? âLAS PERSONAS QUE TE VENDIERON FALLECIERON? âASENTAMIENTOS HUMANOS NO TE RESUELVE LO DE TU TITULO? đđTE RESOLVEMOS EL PROBLEMA, Y TE REGULARIZAMOS AGENDA CITA AL 656@seguidores?âš @seguidores #Juarez #CdJuarez #viralposts2024 #virals #mexicocity #mujeres #hombres #longoriaserviciosjuridicosyasesoria #Todos #paratiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii #jrz #juaritos #chihuahuamexico #chihuahualove #chihuahua #chihuahuamex #chihuahuamexico #elpasotexas #chihuahuacity #chihuahuachihuahua #chihuahualifestyle #chihuahuamex #elpaso #elpasotx #elpasotexass #maquiladoraslg #MAQUILADORAS | WHATSAPP_MESSAGE | Servicios juridicos y asesoria-abogados | https://www.facebook.com/100057259068072/ | 1,444 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Send WhatsApp message | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462187334_566824945782441_1141854425677630169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kysz6KRCkjAQ7kNvgGl-Fyo&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A2bJbXAiwSnG69qy1qJkreJ&oh=00_AYByka0_KcS-GQMDUYvlpPFvusyWK9AqIuRZ9N9gFLaWvQ&oe=6708FD34 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Servicios juridicos y asesoria-abogados | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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4-Day Faith+Fit Reset đ± Register Here đ | Faith-Filled Women Approaching Midlife and Beyond â> You have a BIG DREAM to get your health and fitness under control so that you can focus on finding your God-given calling. But maybe youâre also feeling⊠đš Scared to jump in and really commit đš Overwhelmed with all the latest diet trends & exercise gadgets đš Like you donât know where to start đš A lack of confidence in your abilities to reach your goals đš Like youâve tried everything and youâre just sick and tired Or maybe youâve already started, but your progress is as slow as molasses, if at all. đ§ Girl, I got you. I hear you. I see you. I may be in season of maintenance in my health and fitness and fulfilling Godâs true calling in my life now, but I REMEMBER THOSE DAYS so clearly. When I first started on my health and fitness journey + stepping into my true calling, I not only left behind a lot of comfort, but it was so hard to gain the momentum I thought was possible. I tried so many things⊠âĄïž Counting calories, crash diets and diet pills in my 20âs and early 30âs thinking âthis is the one that will work!â âĄïž Over exercising in my late 30âs and 40âs thinking âyep I can out run my emotions, food, or anything else I donât want to face.â âĄïž Spending my time trying to win competitions thinking, âI have to prove my worth.â âĄïž Trying to do it all in my own strength thinking âGod has enough worries without wasting his time on me and my messâ. Itâs tough, isnât it? Whereâs the rule book that tells me if I just do XYZ then I will be successful? Well guys, when I figured out the secret to creating a balanced, healthy existence in Godâs timing and strength, it came because I decided to focus on making a MASSIVE IMPACT, not only in my own life, but also those of my clientsâ. Which is exactly what I am going to teach you in the 4-Day Revive Your Temple: Faith & Fit Reset đ At the end of the day, as believers we are not creating a life like the world is. God is calling us to something so specific, and the sooner we figure that out, the sooner we will have a breakthrough. đ So let me help you step into this next season of massive growth. Join me in the Revive Your Temple, Faith & Fit Reset! Register here: https://www.foreverfitmindbody.com/templechallenge | LEARN_MORE | https://www.foreverfitmindbody.com/templechallenge | Forever Fit Mind and Body | https://www.facebook.com/staceymillicanforeverfitmindandbody/ | 1,227 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | foreverfitmindbody.com | DCO | {{product.description}} | https://www.foreverfitmindbody.com/templechallenge | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462188229_1637709983627406_417501294417453532_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=eXryvij8vOkQ7kNvgFFj90s&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AfsSNodF5lqIUqMYsEcM6ZS&oh=00_AYBmQYyxJXy5CgT4mLFnVkontLeAX2HjYaVndpUgLkYg0g&oe=6708F746 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Forever Fit Mind and Body | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicïŒđ | Neah "Where is she?" I hear the Beta scream. I groan and rise to my feet, grabbing the cleaning basket before heading over. The moment Beta Kyle sees me, he strides towards me and his hand slices against my cheek. I don't make a sound. Years of experience has taught me to keep my mouth shut at all times. "Alpha Trey and I are expecting company and you still have not cleaned the office." Beta Kyle spits at me. I nod my head and my hand tightens on the cleaning basket. If only I could find the courage to swing it at his head, it would make my day. But I didn't need another week locked up with no food. My stomach already hurt enough. "We are trying to make a good impression on Alpha Dane. Don't you understand how important it is for us to join ourselves with his pack?!" I don't answer, It's a trap, a ploy to provoke me into saying something that would justify punishment. I keep my eyes lowered, avoiding his gaze. Alpha Dane, I had only ever heard rumours about him. He was a ruthless man, a Wolf feared by others. He didn't mess around and he had the largest pack. "He is the Alpha of Black Shadow, the biggest pack in the world, we need him!" We had never been attacked and we had never attacked anyone, so why did we need another pack to help us? He grabs my shoulders, his nails digging into my skin as he turns me around and kicks me into the office. "Useless Wolf." He mutters as he moves away. Quietly closing the door, I lean against it, observing the already clean office. It looked perfectly fine for a meeting with this so-called powerful Alpha. Closing my eyes, I slide down to the floor. I hated this house. I thought that when I turned eighteen, I could finally escape, but four years later, here I still am, a slave in my own home. Doing all the dirty tasks for my brother, Alpha Trey and the pack. While my ex mate, Beta Kyle waltzes around reminding me of how worthless I am. Someone clears their throat and I freeze, I thought I was alone. Leaning forward, I see a handsome man sitting in a chair, just around the corner. A foot propped up on his knee as he nurses a glass of alcohol. His short hair is dark and his eyes are a deep crimson colour, that don't quite look right. They suddenly shift to me and I throw myself back against the door as my heart pounded. "Is this the way you greet all Alphas?" His deep voice rumbles through the room, there was an edge of amusement to his tone. "I'm sorry." I whisper, getting to my feet. "I...I thought I was alone." I had no idea who he was but I could feel the power radiating off of him, even without my Wolf. "Come forward." He orders and I already feel a lump forming in my throat. Alpha Trey wil kill me. I step around the corner, doing as I'm told, allowing him to see me properly. I close my eyes, expecting the worst. "You smell funny. Yet you are a Wolf, correct?" I nod, though I couldn't tell how he was going to react. Most laughed when they found out about me. "I would prefer it if you spoke to me." He growls, "I'm not in the mood to play games." "Yes." I whisper. I couldn't help but think of all the punishments I was going to have to endure. A whipping maybe? Starvation for another week? "Why do you smell strange? And how is it possible for you to not know I was in the room? You should have scented me." "I..." I hated the question. "You should open your eyes when you are talking to someone. It's rude to not look at them. Has your Alpha not taught you anything?" His deep voice sends a shiver through me. Slowly, I open my eyes and lower them, there was no way I was making eye contact."My Wolf abilities were bound," I mutter. Twice, I wanted to add. Twice my abilities were bound. But he probably wasn't interested in that part. He leans forward, I could feel him staring at me, "Why would someone do that?" If this is the Alpha that my brother is supposed to be meeting with, I knew I could screw everything up for him by saying too much. "It was a punishment." I whisper. It wasn't far from the entire truth. There's a twitch in his cheek. Was he angry to hear of such a punishment? Or maybe, just like the others, he was amused by it. I couldn't tell. The door swings open and my brother screeches at me "Neah, what are you doing in my office?" He turns to the crimson eyed man. "I am so sorry that my sister is bothering you, Alpha Dane." Crap, it's him. My brother spins around, hand poised to hit me. I close my eyes, bracing myself, ready to feel the burn. "I wouldn't do that if I were you."Peeking through slits, I see Alpha Dane has risen to his feet, his hand coiled around my brother's wrist. He is taller than my brother, more muscly too. "Neah," My name rolls off of his tongue, "was kindly showing me to your office, Alpha Trey, as you failed to meet me at the front of your house like I requested." What? I had no idea what he was talking about. And he had no reason to lie for me. My brother glares at me, clenching his jaw tight. "Go and get Beta Kyle." Alpha Trey seethes. "Tell him our guest is here." I nod my head and hurry from the room, the last thing I wanted was to be caught between bickering men. "Beta Kyle," I whisper as I enter the dining hall. He instantly glares at me with his dark eyes. I had spoken without being spoken to. "Alpha Trey is in the office with Alpha Dane. I was sent to inform you." He slams the newspaper down on the table and glares at me as he walks by. "You're lucky that the Alpha sent you to get me, otherwise you wouldn't see sunlight for a few days." Pausing behind me, he yanks my head back, locking his fingers in my hair, leaning in close to me, I feel his hot breath on my skin. He doesn't speak, it was just his way of proving that he could do what he wants when he wants. I try to keep myself busy so I can stay as far away from the office as possible. My peace doesn't last long when I hear my brother calling out to me. Quietly, I pad towards the office and plaster a smile on my face as I open the door. "Neah, go get the champagne and some glasses, we are celebrating." I bow my head and hurry to the drinks cabinet. Quickly finding what my brother has asked for. As I re-enter the office, I can feel Alpha Dane watching my every move, even the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. No one ever watches me this closely. "Neah is your sister, correct?" Alpha Dane questions my brother. "She is." Alpha Trey mutters with disgust. He looks away from me to focus on the man asking questions. "Why do you treat her like trash?" Straight to the point, my brother wouldn't like that. He only liked sharing information on his terms. No one had spoken to my brother about his treatment of me because everyone took great joy in beating me. I didn't know what to do. I couldn't move but I knew I had to get out of there. If this deal goes to pot because of me, then that would be my fault too. "Neah was responsible for our parents' death." Alpha Trey spits I closed my eyes, battling back the tears that were threatening to break free. "Responsible how?" Alpha Dane's voice rumbles through me. He was definitely angry. "She served them Wolfsbane." Don't make a sound. Don't make a sound. I knew Alpha Dane was studying me. They all did, no one could ever quite believe how someone could do something so disgusting as poisoning their own parents. I stood there, with my head hanging low, wishing for the ground to open up and suck me in. There are movements around me. He was standing directly in front of me. With a rough finger he tilts my face up towards his, forcing me to look at him. "You poisoned your parents?" "I was six." I splutter. "I just made them lemonade." My voice comes out all squeaky as I try to defend myself. I could barely remember my parents, but I could remember all the guilt I had been made to feel since that day. His crimson eyes flash to my brothers. "Hardly seems fair to blame a six year old." "A six year old should know the difference between plants." Alpha Trey snaps "Sounds to me like she was set up." Alpha Dane shrugs his shoulders, letting go of me. "You weren't there, Alpha Dane." My brother muttered through gritted teeth as his eyes narrowed to slits. "I didn't ask you here to talk about my slave!" Alpha Dane grabs his leather jacket from the chair. Unlike other Alpha's he seemed to dress more casually. A simple black tee and jeans covered his huge frame. And unlike other Alpha's, his arms are bare of tattoos, not a single bit of ink poked out anywhere. "You're right and now I have a few things to mull over." "I thought we agreed." My brother exclaims "Nothing has been signed. Now I will show myself out." The moment he is out of the office, both my brother and Beta Kyle round on me. "What the heck did you say to him?" My brother demands, slamming a hand into my stomach. "N...nothing. Well, he just asked me why I smelled funny." "Did you tell him?" Beta Kyle demands. He was practically spitting in my face. I hated him. I hated him so much that I had vowed to one day get my revenge and rip his stomach out through his mouth. "WELL?" My brother yells when I don't immediately respond and smacks me across the side of the head. My head involuntarily moves up and down. "But I didn't say it was you." I tried to sound strong and confident but it just comes out as a whisper. My brother's hand locks into my black hair as he yanks my head back, sending a shooting pain through my skull. "If you have ruined this, you won't see daylight again." He drags me by my hair from the office and down the hallway towards the basement door. "PleaseâŠ." I beg. "He was an AlphaâŠI⊠I had to answer him." My cheeks burn with my tears as he flings the door open. On the other side of the door is Alpha Dane. He is leaning against the wall with his arms folded, staring out at us. My brother's hand falls from my hair, relieving the pressure on the back of my skull... "Alpha Dane, I thought you had left." Alpha Trey murmurs angrily. "I said I would show myself out. I thought I had found the door, but instead I find a basement, riddled in your sister's strange scent. Is this how you treat your family?" "As I said," my brother holds his ground, "She is responsible for the death of my parents, so yes, this is what she deserves." "You should keep your nose out of other packs' business!" Beta Kyle adds. Alpha Dane laughs. "If I agree to this deal, everything about your business becomes my business. So tell me, what would your punishment be for her? No food, locked away for a week, beatings?" Both Alpha Trey and Beta Kyle hold their tongues. There was no reason for him to defend me and yet he was. I was a nobody, no one special. Just who everyone called a traitor. Only instead of being given a death sentence, my brother had decided to make me spend my life suffering. I see those crimson eyes land on my swollen face. "I have a proposition for you, Alpha Trey." Alpha Dane speaks up again. "We have already agreed on terms." "Well, I'm adding one. And if you don't agree, you will not get my help. Instead, you will become my enemy. And we both know, you don't want that." "I take it that your new terms have something to do with her?" Alpha Trey mutters through clenched teeth. "You would be correct. Let me take her away to my pack and then you, Trey will have a deal." Me? Why would he want me? As my brother and his Beta discuss me, Alpha Dane is still studying me. His look made me nervous. What could someone like him possibly want with me? "Deal." Alpha Trey sticks out his hand for Alpha Dane to shake. He doesn't take it, instead his crimson eyes shift from me to my brother. "I will have paperwork drawn up and will return tomorrow." He reaches a hand out and cups my face, "Ensure you have everything packed." He drags his thumb across my bottom lip and strides to the opposite end of the hallway and straight to the front door. He knew exactly where the front door was, so what was he up to? He pauses at the door. "If I find out any one of you has laid a hand on her. The contract will be the last thing you need to worry about." He struts out, slamming the door behind him. After Dane leaves, my brother grabs me by the collar. "You think you're going to have a good life if you follow Alpha Dane out of here? Don't be naive!" He continues in a vicious voice. "He's the coldest man in the world, he's killed nine of his mates, I'm waiting to see what happens to you!" | LEARN_MORE | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783& | New world publications | https://www.facebook.com/100090352943774/ | 3,708 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | wwwedb.com | DCO | https://wwwedb.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=11783&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&placement={{placement}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/460865424_27147135751566946_5519644588160587045_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FiRuq8R2JHcQ7kNvgFehXRt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ak1UyAvYO6ON4FrUhUGozUu&oh=00_AYAbXpi2PED6aiEzC0rjB2FGiERgSyUzAN-u5M1qFrNFiA&oe=6708F7A1 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | New world publications | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đ„đ„Click to read the next chapter for freeđ | Haley hadn't seen her husband William for a week and when she finally called him in the evening he seemed annoyed. "I have a meeting now. Excuse me." He brushed hang up the phone before she could say a word. Haley felt a little disappointed since tonight marked their third anniversary. Anyway, she decided to stay awake until he got home. Bored, she picked up her phone, checking into her tiktok to kil-l time. Just then, a piece of news popped up, featuring NK Enterprise, her husband's company. Excited, Haley tapped into the news; "William Nash, Famous CEO of NK Enterprise, Checks Into Hotel With his Mystery Girlfriend, Relationship Revealed" Her William? Haley's eyes glued to her phone's screen, shock and disbelief taking over when she saw the image of her husband entering the Hotel, his arm snaked around a woman's waist. Haley couldnât believe her husband was with a woman. She must be mistaken. Sinking in confusion was pointless. Haley dialed his number. On her third trial, he finally picked up. âWhat's up?â he asked coldly. Haley inhaled deeply, controlling her emotions. âLiam, where are you? Today's our 3rd anniversary, remember?â âSo?â he said through his careless tone, âNot coming home. Sleep by yourself.â His voice holding no remorse, a gut-wrenching punch to her pride. Just then, a female voice, soft and seductive, came on the phone. âWilly, I'm thirsty.â Willy? Even Haley wasn't allowed to call him that. He truly was with a woman! The phone beeped. He hung up the call. Haley sank onto the bed, her thoughts spinning and that voice echoing. It was Leah! Liamâs secretary who looked a lot like his Ex. Dazed, Haley's gaze fell on the decorations; her hard work. Tears blurred Haley's vision. Suddenly, a message notification appeared. [I'm pre-gnant. It's time for me to become the new Mrs. Nash.] Haley gripped the phone, her body trembling. It was from Leah. She'd been having second thoughts whenever she wanted to leave the man, but now she gave up her last hope. Haley stood up and retrieved the document she'd hidden in a corner of the closet and signed her name on it. Tears that reminded her of how weak and helpless she'd reduced herself to all in this marriage. Never again. | LEARN_MORE | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12277&u | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | redtgb.com | DCO | https://redtgb.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=12277&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/449525230_1517807349133217_6430272564784193668_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=v9_iRCi93OsQ7kNvgFSHFVr&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AuGx6sfOucNjATMtEogqgvB&oh=00_AYAnhd3cnucOhpsvbC3EsJP0r0IPOKaeCD_SMJnv0Fty8Q&oe=6709203E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đRead the next chaptersđ | Chapter 1 âSir, Madam is not feeling well," the butler of the Gannon mansion reported on the phone. The man at the end of the line spoke in a nonchalant tone. "So, take her to the hospital. Iâm not a doctor." The line died immediately. The butler was so pale, beads of sweat formed on his forehead. Zora relaxed her back against the sofa, feeling weak from abdominal pains. Trying to mask the pain, she asked hopefully. âWhat did he say?â The butler instantly put on a calm smile when he turned in her direction. âMadam, sir said he will meet us at the hospital.â Zoraâs eyes lit up. Ezrah had not been home for almost three days, and she was missing him so much. This sickness seemed to be her lucky charm to get him to her side again. âOkay. Letâs go.â Zoraâs heart warmed at the fact that Ezrah at least cared about his child. Both of them were caught in a scandal two years ago, so getting married was the only way to curb the situation. Ezrahâs stance was clear through it all. âWhen everything calms down, we are getting a divorce.â Zora hoped that by that time, she would have been able to melt his cold heart and make him fully hers, so her hopes were high. However, over time, she found him slowly drawing away from her, even when they worked together in the same company and shared the same bedroom. Two months ago, Ezrah returned and asked Zora for a divorce but chanced upon the test results. His expression was dark. âLetâs hold off on the divorce until after the child is born, but donât expect to remain Mrs. Gannon. That title belongs to somebody else, but itâs definitely not you.â The marriage after those words had been terrible. Ezrah barely returned home, barely got intimate with her. The only reason she still bore Mrs. Gannon was because of the child in her womb. Zora thought that his reason for being away was because of work since he was the CEO of the Gannon Group, a multibillion-dollar company where Zora also worked as an assistant manager. Unknown to Ezrah, Zora had been secretly in love with him for five years, but that drunk night at her best friend Cocoâs birthday party, Zora woke up in bed with Ezrah. She decided to keep it a secret and a memory she would forever cherish when the media picked up the news. Ezrah could not allow the scandal to ruin his well-kept reputation and cause him losses, so he announced that he and Zora were already dating secretly and were soon getting married. Zora, who had been madly in love with him, was excited about the news of getting married to Ezrah. Zora hoped that with time, his heart would warm up towards her, but that did not happen. Even in her state, Ezrah hardly spent the night at home. On the way to the hospital, Zoraâs phone beeped, and looking at the content, her heart dropped. Ezrah was holding the delicate hand of a beautiful woman, a proud smile on his face. The caption read, âMr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.â Zoraâs eyes were swollen with tears. As they dropped down her cheeks, she refused to believe it. Maybe it was photoshopped. There was never any news about Ezrah dating any woman before she had a baby for him. He never even warmed up to women. The man had long been secretive and kept his face from the media. Also, the butler Rudolph had said that Ezrah promised to meet them at the hospital, so the media must be spreading this false news to gain popularity. Even after everything, she still could not help the unease in her heart, instantly dialing his number. Despite him warning her to only communicate with him through the butler, Zora took the bull by the horn this time. Her call went through, but there was no answer. Her old self would have given up, but due to the unease in her heart because of the news, she couldnât bring herself to do so. On the fourth ring, a woman answered the call. Her melodious voice made Zora feel less of a woman. âEzrah is in the bathroom.â Zoraâs hands holding the phone shook, her heart in tatters. Ezrah never allowed her to touch his phone, but this woman casually answered his call, and was he really in the bathroom? Zora felt the pain in her chest worse than that of her abdomen. âWho are you?â The words forced themselves out of her mouth. The woman responded casually, âPiper, his fiancĂ©e. And you are?â âWhatever he saved my name with,â Zora responded calmly. The pain of the news was more than she could bear. Though knowing that Ezrah never loved her, she thought they could live in peace for the sake of the baby in her womb, but Ezrah never meant to make her dreams come true. The woman at the end of the line moved the phone from her ear to have a better view of the caller ID. âOh, Zora. If itâs urgent, I could drop a message for you when he comes out.â The nights Ezrah spent away when Zora thought he was busy at work, it was a great disappointment that he was with the woman he loved, leaving her to suffer with her unborn child. She was still in her first trimester, and due to all the morning sickness and other health issues, Zora had taken a break from working at the company to recover first. Her mind lacked clarity, and she was beginning to doubt all the responses she got from Rudolph when she asked him to get in touch with Ezrah. âJust tell him to call me.â Zora ended the call. At the hotel room, Ezrah returned from the meeting in the conference room. Since he never allowed anyone to answer their calls during meetings, he equally left his phone in the presidential suite meant for his relaxation. âWhat are you doing with my phone?â He asked as soon as he entered the bedroom. Before Piper spoke, he asked again, âand I made it clear that you should wait for me at the lounge. How did you have access?â The pout on Piperâs lips only made her cuter as she faked anger. âIs it wrong for me to come? We would have gotten married if Zora had not appeared.â Ezrah was a man who loved to keep his love life private. He and Piper had been in a secret long-distance relationship. The night they arranged to meet at the birthday party of one of his business partnerâs sister, Piper had an emergency and could not attend as planned. That night, he mysteriously ended up in bed with Zora, an incident that should have been brushed under the carpet until the media took hold of it. Not wanting his well-maintained reputation to crack, he apologetically married Zora, promising Piper to divorce Zora secretly after two years when the news dies down. Things took a different turn when he found the test result after promising Piper that he was ending things with Zora. âI told you I was working on it. You should keep yourself hidden away from the press. We shouldnât be seen together.â Ezrahâs voice was stern. It was business for him first, and he didnât want Piperâs presence to ruin it for him. Piper was uneasy at the reminder. Forcing a smile, she relayed, âI could be your confidential secretary. Please Ezrah, I donât want to be away from you anymore.â Ezrah did not give a response. His actions were always well thought out. It wasnât easy for him to be the CEO of the legendary Gannon Group as the youngest of three sons. Any wrong move and his elder brothers would begin to fight for the position. âDid anyone call?â He was scrolling through his phone when he caught sight of Zoraâs name. âYeah. Zora. She said you should call her,â Piper responded with a smile, her fingers sliding over her exposed thighs as she lay seductively on the luxurious king-size bed. âWhat did you tell her?â Ezrah frowned a little. He wanted to keep Piper a secret until after the divorce. âI pretended not to know about her existence.â Piper lifted herself to a sitting position, and due to the long slit of the dress, her full thighs were exposed, but Ezrahâs attention was on the phone in his hand. âDo me a favor and donât answer my calls again.â His voice had lost its warmth. Piper faked remorse. âIâm sorry. I thought it was urgent.â Ezrah finally held her gaze as he spoke roughly, âNothing about Zora is ever urgent.â Chapter 2 Piper was very happy with his remark, but Zora was still Misses Gannon, the title Piper had long coveted. How she wished that night had not happened. If only that useless man had not appeared when she was about to leave for the airport to board the private jet, she would have been the one waking up in bed with Ezrah. It pained her that it had to be that woman, Zora. âEzrah, are you sure you will divorce her?â Ezrah hated to be doubted. âYou donât believe me? Iâm only with her because sheâs carrying my child. As soon as heâs born, I will divorce her.â Piper smiled with satisfaction, and since she had mentally stored Zora's number after answering the call, she sent the recording to her. Remembering that the butler had called Ezrah informing him that Zora was sick, she asked after deleting the audio from her phone. âCan you go shopping with me? I didnât bring enough clothes.â Even if Zora showed the audio to Ezrah, Piper would deny it as she had used a number Ezrah didnât know to send it. âI have another meeting in two hours, so you have an hour and a half to finish shopping,â Ezrah said softly. Zoraâs heart tightened in her chest when she played the audio. The butler who was driving the car felt helpless, equally disappointed in his boss. Zora asked from the back seat of the luxurious car she was seated in. âDid he really tell you he was coming to the hospital?â The butlerâs throat went dry. He always succeeded in making up excuses for his boss, but this time, everything backfired. That audio destroyed everything. âIâm sorry, maâam. I just didnât want to see you sad.â Zoraâs heart twitched, a bitter smile curled the corner of her lips, feeling like a fool as tears welled up in her eyes. She was nothing to Ezrah. The little surprises sent to ignite her hope were merely prepared by the butler. No matter how hard she tried, she couldnât recover from the pain as she felt a force hit the car from the side, causing it to swerve off the road and somersault thrice. The butler was instantly unconscious. Zora felt unbearable pain, blood sputtered from her mouth and nose, then in between her thighs. No words could describe the agony as she watched the life draining out of her with intense pain settled in her abdomen. She managed to pick up her phone, which had fallen to the side from the impact, dialing her husbandâs number. Unable to lift the phone to her ear, she activated the speaker. âZora. Iâm busy.â That was what Ezrah said as soon as he answered the phone, not waiting to hear what she had to say. After all, nothing about Zora was ever urgent to him. Before she lost consciousness, she heard the laughter of a woman with the words, âEzrah, I want these shoes.â âTry them on. If they fit, you can have them.â âSo, shopping with a woman is what you call busy.â That was what Zora thought before losing consciousness. Zora woke up at the hospital after hours of surgery. Her face was as pale as a ghost, her countenance pitiful. Her butler, Rudolph, sat at her hospital bed, a smile on his face. He had sustained a few injuries, but they were not serious, and he was already discharged. âMadam, you are awake. Thank God.â Zora was glad to see that Rudolph was fine. There were just bruises on his face. He quickly rushed out to call a doctor. âMrs. Gannon, how are you feeling?â The doctor asked as he examined Zora, writing a few things on a writing pad he carried along. Zora was only concerned about one thing. âHow is my baby?â Zora asked. The doctorâs eyes dulled. âIâm very sorry, but your baby couldnât survive the impact.â Tears brimmed in the back of Zoraâs eyes, but she fought them back. She lost everything. She left her fatherâs company to work for her husband, nurturing his business and enduring all the taunts of his arrogant family. At twenty-three, she had nothing to show for the man she had secretly loved for five good years. âItâs alright. She would have just suffered anyway.â Her heart had turned cold due to the loss of the child. âExcuse me?â The doctor was shocked. He expected her to cry like any woman in her situation would, but Zora bottled it in. She could endure all of Ezrahâs indifference towards her, but she would never forgive him for the loss of her child. That woman appeared, and Zora suddenly got involved in an accident. The case had to be investigated, but as for Ezrah, he no longer had a place in her heart. âSorry, that was not directed at you.â There was no warmth in Zoraâs apologetic voice. The doctor forced a smile, finished his examination, and left. Zora stared at the butler at the doorway. He stood there since the doctor arrived. Zora was about to tear down but couldnât do so. She had been weak for too long, leading to the death of her child. If she had left the first time Ezrah asked her for a divorce, this would not have happened. When she discovered this baby, she decided to consent to the divorce and leave. At least, she would have his child to remind her of the relationship they once shared. Unfortunately, the test result fell from her handbag, Ezrah saw it. Even when he decided for them to wait until after she gave birth, his treatment of her was no better. âWhere is Ezrah?â Zora asked. Butler Rudolph was scared. He could feel the cold in Zoraâs voice, and even with the distance, he could feel the chills. âMadam, the man who hit us was drunk, and he died on the spot. The police are not able to contact his family either,â Rudolph reported, trying to avoid answering her question. He was a middle-aged man. Zora did not believe the report but kept it to herself. The moment she discovered that the man she respected so much was lying to her, her trust in him dwindled. She will find ways to investigate the matter by herself. âThat isnât my question.â âBoss left here a few minutes ago,â Rudolph answered. Zora was enraged this time. Not only Ezrah but Rudolph, the butler Ezrah assigned to her, was equally taking her for a fool. âDonât lie to my face again.â Her voice was stern and full of contempt. Rudolph pursed his lips, his head lowered. âBoss said, and I quote. âItâs rather unfortunate. Let the doctors take care of her. Iâm very busy at the moment.â Zora knew what he was busy with. It was the woman whose voice she heard in the audio. She thought she was strong enough to take it, but a tear fell from her eyes before she could stop it. Ashamed of showing her weak side in front of Rudolph, she discharged him. âThank you, and please excuse me.â Rudolph was never supposed to leave Zora's side, so he was reluctant. âMaâŠâ âI said, excuse me, Rudolph,â Zoraâs voice raised, Rudolph decided to wait in front of the door. âOkay.â As soon as he left the ward, Zora dialed a number. âSophâŠâ âDad, Iâm sorry. I made a mistake, and now, I lost everything.â Zora didnât hold back her tears as she spoke to her father on the phone. He was against the marriage the moment he realized that Ezrah did not feel the same way Zora felt about him, but she was optimistic, insisting that Ezrah would change. Expecting her father to scold her an, âI told you soâ lecture, his voice was rather soft as he asked her. âWhat happened, Zora?â âI had an accident and lost the baby. Iâm coming home.â The silence at the end of the line was deafening. She knew her father was saddened about the loss of his grandchild. When she was about to end the call, he suddenly said, âOh Zora. Iâm coming to get you. Just send me your location.â Zora refused. She couldnât leave until she was legally separated from Ezrah. âNo dad, I have a few things to do first.â âWhat is that? Let me help you with it?â Her father eagerly said, but she was in no mood to burden the middle-aged man. The loss had caused Zora to mature so fast as the reality of life hit her. No more would she depend on anyone. It was time to do something worthwhile with her life, but first of all, she will still have to face Ezrah for the last time. âDonât worry. Itâs nothing I canât handle. âOkay. We shall prepare your welcome party. I will inform your mom.â Zora smiled and didnât refuse her fatherâs kindness. Three days later, she was discharged from the hospital. As she waited for Ezrahâs return, she got the divorce papers ready. It was three days later in the dead of the night when Ezrah returned, tired-looking but his attractive features remained untouched by his fatigue. Zora had lost sleep, waiting for Ezrah during most of the days. As soon as she heard the sound of the car, she quickly rushed downstairs but paused on top of the stairs when Ezrah walked through the door of the living room. Arriving home, Ezrah no longer met the woman who always met him with a smile. She stood on top of the stairs and yelled with a cold expression, âGood news Ezrah! Our baby died in a car accident. There is nothing between us, so letâs get a divorce.â The man who was always cold to her instantly panicked. He stood momentarily frozen. Chapter 3 Ezrah was baffled by the news. Twice, he had asked her for a divorce and saw how gloomy she turned at the subject. This was what he wanted but he couldnât help the unease filling his heart. Was it because Zora was the one asking? Was she trying to mess up his reputation with the loss of the child? Ezrah was confused. Zora descended the stairs, walking to the dining table. Ezrah did not utter an acceptance or rejection of her request for a divorce and went up the stairs, returning after ten minutes in loungewear. Seemed he wasnât going out or was it the shock from the news? Seeing the dinner table hosting different delicacies, excitement filled his heart as he took a seat. If she really wanted a divorce, then she wouldnât have cooked for him. At this moment, Piper was momentarily forgotten. Ezrah avoided Zoraâs gaze as this was the first time she was so cold to him. Without alerting her of his arrival, she still ensured that his supper was ready. As he uncovered one of the dishes, his eyes darkened as he glared at her. It was not the food he was expecting but rather, the cold divorce papers, with a pen beside them, waiting to be signed. âWhat is this?â Ezrah was furious, being famished from not having time to eat. In times past, Zora would have been worried and tried to appease him but that Zora was gone. After crying her eyes out for days, she waited to serve Ezrah these cold documents, she had no more tears to shed but her eyes were dangerously red. âDo I need to get you a pair of glasses?â Her voice was taunting, as she saw the shocked expression on his face. He must have taken her request as a joke the first time but the documents exposed the reality. âWhy? Were you expecting me to cook when I had no idea when you will be home?â Ezrahâs expression was blank. She could have made the maids do it. It burned Zora that she could not read his emotions but she didnât care anymore. âPlease sign the papers. In case the prints are too tiny, I got you a magnifying glass,â she dropped the item in front of him. Ezrah was not irrational. When he asked for a divorce, he ensured that there would be nothing for the media to feed on but now that they just lost a child? What will people think? His parents liked Zora, except his two elder brothers who always saw her as a threat. The situation was complicated now. Ezrah never thought she would stand on it to ask for a divorce because of how she always claimed to love him, not caring if he was just cold to her. He needed time to think. âWe shall talk about it later,â he finally said and was about to stand up when Zora played an audio from her phone. With her mind made up, she wanted the divorce here and now. The woman in front of Ezrah was different from the one he always came home to. She always wore attractive clothes with a little makeup to seduce him which sometimes worked but after his release, Ezrah would return to being cold. Today, Zora did not have on any makeup. Her hair was not even combed. All she wore was pajamas, her long dark hair looking lifeless, in contrast to Ezrah who was looking so attractive. He had the looks and physique Zora used to die for but not anymore. All she felt for him now was resentment. She suddenly matured past looks or smartness in a man. What was there in being hot and a genius in business when there is no conscience or empathy? Zora was just seeing that the man she has always been obsessed with was a selfish monster, caring only about his own image, money, and passion. Whatever blinded her eyes before was removed the moment she woke up on that hospital bed. The voice from the audio was as clear as daylight. A female and a male but the male voice was indeed that of Ezrah. Female: Iâm sorry. I thought it was urgent. Male: Nothing about Zora is ever urgent. Female: Ezrah, are you sure you will divorce her? Male: You donât believe me? Iâm only with her because sheâs carrying my child. As soon as heâs born, I will divorce her. Zora caught an expression of guilt on his face but there was no remorse. His voice was hard. âWhere did you get that?â He demanded. Piper could not have done this, right? She had no contact with Zora. But it was just the two of them in the room. Were there secret cameras? Though confused, his expression returned to being blank. âYou have to destroy that audio before I sign this paper,â he threatened her. Zora could not tell how she managed to pretend that she was fine. Up until now, he didnât even care to apologize for sharing their private information with whatever name he calls the woman in his life. What on earth could have made her fall in love with such a man? He was different from that man from a long time ago who saved her from the pool when she was bullied by some jealous friends. Ezrah did not remember that day but that was when Zora fell in love with him. She calmly showed him another caption on her phone. âMr. Ezra Gannon admits to reigniting his love for his old flame, Miss Piper Henshaw.â This time, Ezrah paled but his eyes were dark and he picked up his phone instantly. He couldnât find the person who took those pictures and how they went viral but had to get someone to take them down. The hacker would also be able to find out who sent that information to the press. Zora had grown thorns after listening over and over to the audio and reading that news on her phone. Ezrah had already told her the same thing so this shouldnât hurt. âIt doesnât matter. The hindrance has already been removed and you already have a woman waiting for you. Just sign the freaking papers.â Chapter 4 Ezrah paced back and forth elegantly, his mind filled with confusion and fear after ending the call. âYou want to blackmail me? How much do you want?â He was enraged and disdained that Zora would resort to such means, but he was willing to pay to prevent the audio from going viral. His parents would not hesitate to demote him despite his hard work in the company, while his lazy elder brothers would benefit without putting in the effort. âWhat I want, you already gave, but since the accident took it away, there is nothing you can give me.â She did not disclose her suspicions, as she had someone investigating the matter. Ezrah suddenly laughed mockingly. âYour fatherâs company is not as strong as you think. He has been seeking an alliance with me. You want fifty percent of my hard work.â This could be the reason Zora was pushing for the divorce. Fifty percent from the Gannon Group would elevate her family business to new heights. She felt bitter that he would think so poorly of her. Despite her feelings, she kept her composure. âNo. You were the one who proposed the divorce, so were you planning to leave me with nothing?â Her question left him speechless, and she reminded him of the prenup agreement. âDid you forget that I signed a prenup before marrying you? I just refreshed your memory so you are free to sign.â Ezrah recalled that Zora had willingly proposed and prepared the prenup when they announced their marriage after the scandal. She did it all to prove to him that she wasnât âinterested in his wealth. He suddenly felt uneasy. This was not the scenario he had anticipated when he entered the room. Besides, he was hungry and not in the right state to make such a decision. What if Zora was being supported by one of his brothers or both? âYou may have dismissed it, but it's only a matter of time before you reveal that you left with nothing.â Zora struggled to suppress the pain that came with realizing that Ezrah's delay in finalizing the divorce was not due to developing feelings for her or guilt, but rather to protect his image in front of the media and family. She felt a bitter smile form on her lips. âTrust me, nothing about our divorce will be leaked to the media.â âI donât believe you,â Ezrah responded bluntly. Zora had worked closely with him, and despite her absence from the office in recent weeks, she was privy to confidential information. Ezrah had never seen her as a threat due to her infatuation with him, but now he feared she might make his life difficult. âAs soon as the papers are signed, you wonât hear from me again. You can have a happy life with the woman you love,â Zora proposed. Ezrah was already contemplating how he could benefit from her disappearance after the divorce. It seemed like she wanted to start fresh somewhere far away. âAlright. Iâm not heartless. I will still give you 50 million,â he said as he signed the document, only to find that Zora had already signed her part. After signing the divorce agreement, Ezrahâs phone rang. Seeing it was Piper, he answered it and began to climb the stairs in long strides. Piper keeps breaking the agreement. She wasnât supposed to call him when she was home. Zora overheard him on the phone, âAre you the one who recorded our conversation at the hotel?â She couldnât hear Piperâs response but had the conviction that it was her. Deciding it was best to spend the night on the sofa, Zora couldn't fathom sharing a room with him after their divorce. She was too exhausted to move to another room. Her sleep was restless, prompting her to wake up before Ezrah. She had already packed her bags, so she dressed and approached him. âEzrah, itâs time to finalize our divorce in court.â Ezrah woke up and looked at her glumly. She was still in a somber mood, her eyes red despite the makeup. He sighed, âjust a few minutes.â An hour later, they arrived at the divorce court. With Zora having made prior arrangements, the process was swift, and they soon had their divorce certificates. Without hesitation, they signed their respective portions. âYou should keep your word and leave New York for good, or else you wonât like what I will do,â Ezrah warned solemnly. Zora had a faint smile on her face. âI have a gift waiting for you at home.â Ezrah frowned, wondering what kind of gift she arranged for him after their divorce. Zora has always been generous, buying him gifts and anything she knew he would like. He would neither accept nor refuse them. Whereas, he never used any of the gifts she bought for him. They left together, but Zora departed in a cab against his wishes to drop her at the airport. She reiterated that he would never see her again. Ezrah felt conflicted but remembered his promise to Piper. Despite his desire to head straight to the office for a meeting, curiosity got the best of him. He rescheduled the meeting and drove home to see the gift Zora had left for him. Upon arriving, he found a letter on the dining table addressed to him. âEZRAH.â He couldn't recall seeing it earlier that morning, and a sense of unease crept over him as he approached and opened the letter. It was written in Zoraâs handwriting, unmistakable to him. As he read the words, fear, panic, and regret flooded his heart. The letter slipped from his trembling fingers as he cried out, âZORA, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?â | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13232&u | Indulge in story | https://www.facebook.com/61552702618591/ | 810 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | shgjfh.com | IMAGE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13232&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}} | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/454629905_3717587101837332_3016641749081930890_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tHunio0VRG0Q7kNvgGwz7Sq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AvwsL3HECpHiTtQ2LM0vunN&oh=00_AYBjnQaJL7fnuDwMgTG5PuwMWTnEBMD2bLTy0wsvl5xAuw&oe=6708F42A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Indulge in story | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Our RV Park has come a long way in the 9 short months we've been open. Grass is growing, next up we will be planting shade trees, some landscaping for the front,and getting signs made for our dog park area. Come visit us for a quite, countryside weekend!! | CALL_NOW | Butterbean Acres RV Park | https://www.facebook.com/61550335453159/ | 227 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Call now | 0 | MULTI_IMAGES | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462232867_343274482141139_5954276091101815294_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=0lm4dLdUuMIQ7kNvgEU8Nvd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ANOOdlrtwTdMZkK_2H2Dnig&oh=00_AYDklDzf38wnGTb0NtsELPnO-Lp91-uHMVm0XiwpVKOz-Q&oe=6709217E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Butterbean Acres RV Park | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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