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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage with Aurora. She will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Fell in love, huh? Have you forgot what you promised me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett was called away to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before he left, he lifted his wifeâs veil and vowed, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Embarrassed, Barrett avoided her eye contact. "Just forget what I said. Back then, I only considered you a suitable match for a wife. I knew nothing about love until I met Rory." When he spoke of the woman he loved, his eyes softened with deep affection. Turning back to Carissa, he added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply, and I hope you'll be generous enough to welcome her." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and mother liked her a lot upon seeing her." They agreed? Huh... How ironic! Seems like everything Carissa had done for this household had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting a brow. Barrett carried a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother and making her very happy. Even mother's health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was just laying out 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 lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "you're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her." As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under her eye became more evident in the light. Calmly, she said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. A true matriarch must understand the bigger picture and act with dignity. Donât you trust me?" Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? The king has approved this marriage, and Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things.â âOh, you think that's what I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa countered. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. 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 summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken 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, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowery and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831& | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&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/t39.35426-6/461342866_403665495877678_8039372569247806790_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pi5R4WJUIpIQ7kNvgEzCJgZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A5jz7ZpxlbeEAcuB0df0uRZ&oh=00_AYA1xM3BfwC6s0uVgyo0m4EuJJcAoaYUnYgSHWBC_o34PQ&oe=6745A035 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | February in Sureton City was wet. It had been drizzling throughout the day, leaving the roads damp. The cold wind brought with it the rain, making Freya Somner shiver. She held an umbrella and curled up while crouching before the entrance to the city hall. It was already 5:00 pm. Would that person come? She was worried as she thought about her grandfather, Neil Somner, who lay sick in bed. Had he finished his IV drip? Would he need to use the restroom? Had Thomas Talbot already gone home? She looked up and scanned the empty streets. The city hall would close for the day at 5:30 pm. She would just grit her teeth and wait for another half an hour, then. If that person didn't show up, she could blame him and tell Neil and Thomas that he'd stood her up. It wasn't because she didn't want to marry him or anything. Neil was sick. As a traditional medicine practitioner, he knew his time was running out. Freya was his only concernâshe would be alone in the world once he passed. He'd contacted Thomas, whom he'd saved many years ago. Thomas had promised Neil that he would do everything in his power to help if Neil ever needed it. All Neil had to do was make the call. Years had passed since then, but the call had miraculously gone through. Thomas had shown up the very next day. Neil had explained the situation to him and asked Thomas to help care for Freya in the future. Thomas had generously said, "It's only natural for me to care for her. How about thisâI have many grandsons, so I'll have one of them marry Fae as a way of repaying you. That way, she won't be alone." Neil had agreed, leaving Freya with no room to object. She didn't want to marryâshe could take care of herself and was fine alone. She was currently staying at the dormitory her university had prepared for graduate students. She even had 2,300 a month as financial aid. Eating at the hospital's and university's cafeterias was cheapâshe only needed to spend 15 a day on food. However, Neil had insisted. He felt that it was hard to predict the future, and he would only be able to rest in peace once he saw that marriage certificate. That way, he'd be able to face Freya's parents in the afterlife with no regrets. Freya's parents had died after falling off a cliff. They'd been searching for a herbal catalyst to save Thomas back in the day. It had rained that day, just as it had on this day. Freya had seen her parents' corpses entwined with one another, their hands still clutching the herbal catalyst. After her parents passed away, she and Neil depended on each other for survival. It was on that day that she'd suddenly grown up. She'd studied hard and skipped grades, sitting for her SATs at 17 years old. Then, she'd gotten into Sureton University's medical faculty, joining the seven-year integrated bachelor's and master's program. She only had two years to go before she could graduate and officially start working. Things were starting to look good. Then, Neil had been diagnosed with stomach cancer. It was taking his life away. The screeching of brakes pulled Freya out of her reverie. She looked up at the offroad vehicle before her. It was painted a military green and covered in mud, and the tires were soiled. It was clear the car had ventured through the mountains. The door opened, blocking the man's face from her view. Still, she'd gotten a glimpse of his chiseled features. His bushy brows, tall nose, and deep-set eyes formed a handsome, honest face. With the door open, all Freya could see was the army pants enveloping his long legs and the leather boots he wore. It was a cold day, yet he only wore an olive green T-shirt. He stepped away from the car. Before Freya could take a closer look at his face, he approached her, stopping before her so his boots were level with her eyes. "Are you Freya Somner?" he asked, his voice deep and somewhat daunting. "Yeah." "Let's get married, then." He turned and headed into the city hall. Chapter 2 Freya wanted to stand up, but she'd been crouching for so long that her legs had gone numb. "What's wrong?" the man asked. "My legs have gone numb." She was lifted off her feet as soon as the words were out of her mouth. An unfamiliar scent enveloped her, and she felt her face burn. The man placed her on the seat before the counter. "Get your identification." She kept her head lowered as she obediently placed the things on the counter. "Daniel Talbot," the staff said. "That's me," the man said. "Freya Somner." "Here," Freya said. She looked up at the staff. The staff looked at the identification she held, then at Freya. The latter's eyes were spirited but also carried a hint of naivety. Freya was only 22, but Daniel was already 28. He'd even carried her in. That made the staff suspect whether Freya had been forced into this. She asked, "Are you here to get married at your own will?" "Yes, I am," Freya said. "Alright, then. Fill up these forms, please." At 5:30 pm, Freya and Daniel walked out of the city hall. Freya looked down at her marriage certificate. She'd gone from being single to married once the staff stamped the certificate. She'd married a man she'd met for the first time without even dating him. The whole thing had only taken a matter of minutes. Daniel stopped and looked at her. "Where are you headed now?" She had kept her head down and hadn't been paying attention to the distance between them. She walked right into his chest. Pain spread through her, starting from her nose. Tears welled in Freya's eyes. How could his chest be as hard as a wall? She clamped a hand over her nose and looked at him tearily. "I'm going back to the hospital." He was so tall that her eyes were only level with his chest. It was incredibly muscular and looked just like the diagrams she'd seen in her medical texts. "Get in the car," he said. Freya struggled to open the door. She tugged it with all her strength, but it didn't budge. Daniel saw her from the driver's seat. He waved at her, gesturing for her to back up. Then, he opened the door from inside. "Which hospital are you going to?" he asked. "The county tumor hospital, the one at Percat Street. Thanks." Freya obediently settled in her seat. "Your seatbelt," he said. She put it on, and he started the car. She noticed that his hands and arms were tanned, with protruding veins. He oozed strength and power. Suddenly, Freya's stomach rumbled. The sound was magnified in the silent car. She instinctively held her stomach, her face turning beet red. What was wrong with her? Why did she keep embarrassing herself? Was there something about her that made her incompatible with Daniel? Her stomach continued to rumble for a while. Finally, the car stopped. Freya thought they'd arrived at the hospital and moved to open the door. Then, she looked out and said, "We're not at the hospital." Daniel had already gotten out of the car, though. He headed to a fruit store without looking back at her. Soon, he returned with a bag full of fruits. "I don't know what your grandfather likes, so I bought a little of everything." "He can't eat anything. Doctor's orders." Daniel looked at her, perhaps because she sounded too calm. Only then did Freya notice how deep-set his eyes were. There was a hint of dominance in them. "You have them, then." He placed the bag on her lap. "Have some to tide the hunger. I'm in a rush." Freya wondered whether he was showing his concern for her. A wave of warmth surged in her as she peeled a banana. It was sweet. ⌠The nurse had just removed Neil's IV drip when Freya and Daniel arrived at the ward. Thomas took the marriage certificates from Daniel and Freya and held them before Neil. He said happily, "Look at this, Neil. They're official marriage certificates with the stamps and all. They're genuine!" Neil smiled and nodded weakly. "That's great. I won't have anything to worry about anymore." "Come closer so Neil can see you, Dan," Thomas said. Daniel stepped forward. "Hi, Grandpa." Neil's smile widened. "HiâŚ" He held Daniel's hand and said, "I'll leave Freya in your hands from now on. She's a softie but is stubborn on the inside. I hope you'll be more tolerant of her and take the time to explain your thoughts to her if you two ever get into an argument." Tears streamed down Freya's face when she heard this. Daniel said, "I will, Grandpa." "Don't worry, Neil. We won't mistreat Freya. Daniel has property and a carâI'll have him show Freya around his place right now. She can move in when she's free," Thomas said. Freya forgot about crying and stared at Thomas in shock when she heard that. Didn't she and Daniel only have to get married? Why did they even have to live together? "Go on, then. It's still light out, so you can see what the place is like," Neil said. Daniel and Freya headed to his place under Thomas' urging. Chapter 3 Daniel's apartment was in Sureton City's central commercial area. It was an expensive area with good infrastructureâthe medical and education systems were well-established. The residential area was right next to Sureton City's largest park. Freya looked at the minimalist, almost stark apartment. The marble coffee table was covered in a layer of dust. "This is your home?" "Yeah." Daniel also saw the dust. "I don't usually stay here." That didn't make sense at all. Why would anyone not live in their own home? Freya couldn't understand it. "There's a card here that you can use to pay for the utilities." He opened a drawer in the TV cabinet to show her. "If anything needs fixing, you can speak to the management office. "I'll have someone clean up the place later. There are two rooms, so you can pick whichever one you want. Feel free to use the study as wellâŚ" Freya observed the place. It was well renovated but showed no signs of being lived in. There weren't even any plates or utensils around. "What am I to you?" she suddenly asked. "My wife." "But I feel like your mistress," she said boldly. She didn't know whether Daniel had a girlfriend or anythingâperhaps he'd only married her due to Thomas' pressure. Otherwise, he wouldn't have made her wait a whole afternoon for him, only arriving right before the city hall closed for the day. "What are you getting at?" Daniel asked. "I'm fine with getting a divorce if you already have a partnerâour grandfathers have seen the marriage certificates, anyway. I don't want to inadvertently end up as a homewrecker." She respected the elderly but wouldn't do anything immoral just to comply with Neil's and Thomas' wishes. Daniel understood now. "I'm single. I usually stay at the military camp in the mountains." Freya recalled his offroad vehicle and the mud on it. That, coupled with his outfit, made her realize just who he was. "I'm sorry for misunderstanding you." "It's fine. I'll take you back to the hospital nowâyou can move in here whenever it's convenient for you." "What about you?" she blurted. Then, she disdained herself for asking. What did his matters have to do with her? "I need to head back after this. There's an urgent mission I need to handle." That was the last thing Daniel said to her. ⌠Shortly after Daniel left, Neil's condition took a turn for the worse, and a new semester started. Freya bustled back and forth between the university and the hospital daily. On days when Neil felt better, he could even hold Freya's hand and reminisce with her. Neither of them mentioned that rainy night, though. He kept telling her that life was long and that she had to live well independently. However, he also told her she couldn't expect to do everything herself. She had to give in occasionally. Daniel looked like a good man, and they had to communicate with each other. They had to understand each other⌠Neil said many things. Freya wanted to object to everything and tell him that none of that mattered. She wanted him to know that she only wanted to spend her life with him in a small town called Floriver Town. She wanted to read medical texts and pick herbs with him. However, as a doctor, she was rational enough to know there was no chance of them ever returning to that life. The reports and data she saw every day were enough to tell her that Neil's condition was deteriorating. She cried almost daily throughout that month but hid it well. Neil never noticed. One day, white clouds floated in the blue sky. Freya drew the curtains, allowing the sunlight to stream into the room. Neil was in good spirits. "The weather is so nice today, Fae. Maybe you should take me off my oxygen tube now." He sounded calm, but Freya faltered while clipping his nails. She acted like she hadn't heard him and moved on to the next finger. "I can't take it anymore, Fae. I'm on drug every day, but it still hurts so bad. I'm begging you, okay?" His plea made Freya's nose prickle. Tears rolled down her face and landed on the floor, fading within seconds. Neil was a proud and strong man who'd never begged anyone in his life. Now⌠It looked like she really had to let him go. She slowly shut her eyes, sounding choked up as she said, "Okay. I'll get a doctor after I'm done clipping your nails." "The weather is so nice today that I feel so much more relaxed," Neil said. He lifted a hand with difficulty to caress her head one last time. It reminded her of how he'd praised her whenever she could memorize the things she'd read in the medical texts. After Freya signed the necessary documents, the doctor removed Neil's oxygen tube. She stood by his bedside and held his hand until his body became devoid of warmth. Thomas helped her with Neil's funeral, after which he urged her to move into Daniel's apartment. Chapter 4 Two years passed in the blink of an eye. "There's no time to eat, Dr. Somner. We're being dispatched for a house call." Freya was in a hospital's emergency room. When she heard the nurse, Jade Winton, call her, she put a folder over her unfinished instant mac and cheese and left the doctor's lounge. "Where's Dr. Wood?" she asked while wearing a mask. She hurried to catch up with Jade. "He's accompanying Lena for a prenatal check. I've called him, and he's on his way." Jade grabbed a first-aid kit and an extra bag of gauze and bandages. She handed them to Freya. "What's the situation? Why do we need so many bandages and gauze?" "A luxury jewelry store was robbed. The store's staff called the police, but the robbers discovered them and took ten staff hostage. We're being dispatched to provide medical assistance," Jade said. She told Freya everything she knew, then added, "Don't be rash later. Leave everything to Dr. Wood." "Got it. Thanks, Jade." Freya's mentor, Jason Wood, arrived at the same time as Freya and Jade. He was a tall, skinny man whose hairline was receding. He'd come from a prenatal check with his wife, Lena Johnson, and had already changed into his uniform. It made him look particularly spirited. "What's the situation?" he asked as he got into the car. "A jewelry store's been robbed. The robbers are armed," Jade said. Silence descended upon the car. They didn't know what they were facing but had to go at it regardless. Medicine knew no borders, and all lives were equal in worth. They had to save lives as long as they were at risk. When Freya and the others arrived, the police had already secured the scene. A crowd consisting of spectators and staff from various media outlets gathered behind the police line, surrounding the place and making it hard for anyone to get through. Police cars and vehicles belonging to a SWAT team were parked outside the jewelry store. There were also three buses with the windows tinted black. Freya followed Jason out of the car. A man who looked like an administrator hurried over to them, looking anxious. "The robbers need a doctor in there to save their comrade. Which one of you two will go in?" Freya looked at the jewelry store. It had three floors and was a corner lot with an expansive view. A mall was behind it, which meant it probably had more than one exit. "I'll go," Jason said, dragging Freya out of her reverie. She gave him a disagreeable look. "No way. I'll go, Dr. Wood. You have parents and children to care for, and Lena's conceived with your second child. You can't go in there." "You can't, either. You're inexperienced." Jason's attitude was firm. "The situation is complicated. I'm the only one who can head in there." Freya didn't argue with him. She turned to the administrator and volunteered. "I'll go, sir. I've passed the medical board exam and can practice independently. I don't have any dependents or relatives to care for." He looked at her. She was young and so nervous that she clenched her fists, but her expression was calm. She was bold, but her courage needed some training. "You can go, then. We don't know the situation inside, so we can only act when the Falcon Strike Unit arrives. All you need to do when you get in there is to save whoever is injured. Drag things out for as long as possible while ensuring your safety and wait for help." "Understood, sir." Freya wore her medical cap and gave herself a mental pep talk. "FreyaâŚ" Jason started. "I have to gain experience since I don't have it, Dr. Wood. You have to give me a chance," she said. That was what medicine was like. One had to be bold and careful while constantly defeating one's old self. That way, one would only become a better version of oneself. Jason knew what Freya was like. She'd met various people when treating patients. When some of them criticized or insulted her, she wouldn't take it lying down. Her retorts left much to be desired, though. For instance, if a patient said she was incapable and that a doctor online had told them this and that, she would say, "I'll leave, then. You can ask your online doctor to treat you." Once, someone had shouted at her, saying she was useless. She'd clapped back, calling that person the useless one. "Do you guys have a bulletproof vest or something? Give one to her." Jason knew nothing he said would change Freya's mind. The administrator gave one of his subordinates a look. A member of the SWAT team brought a bulletproof vest over. Freya took her doctor's coat off and put the bulletproof vest on over her T-shirt. Then, she put her uniform on. Chapter 5 Jade handed Freya the first-aid kit before hanging the stethoscope from her neck. "You're just going to ignore everything I told you before we came here, aren't you? You're bound to get into trouble if you continue like this." "No one is more suitable than me, Jade," Freya said calmly. "It's not like the military region's general hospital lacks doctors. If you turn them down, they'll arrange for someone else to come." "But it's too far away. They'll take at least 30 minutes to arrive. That doesn't conform to the principles of pre-hospitalization emergency care." Jade was one of the emergency room's most experienced nurses, so she knew Freya was right. It was the only thing they could do under the circumstances. The administrator held a loudspeaker and shouted toward the store, "The doctor is coming. Open the door." A hoarse voice rang out as soon as the words were out of his mouth. "Put the first-aid kit on the ground and turn in a circle. Then, take everything out of the first-aid kit and lay them on the ground." Freya did as told. She'd just placed the final tool on the ground when the hoarse voice rang out again. "Put the things back in and come inside." Freya packed everything back. She was about to enter the store when she felt a cool breeze. Curious, she looked in the direction it had come. A helicopter was hovering in midair in one of the jewelry store's blind spots. A tall figure in camouflage slid down the rope and made a smooth landing. It happened in seconds. Freya stared at the man, finding his figure incredibly familiar. He wore a black mask, and his sharp eyes flitted past her. Then, he hid behind the wall. Another team member landed behind him. "Come in," the hoarse voice urged loudly. He sounded impatient. Freya knew she had to enter the store since these people had yet to infiltrate it. Once she understood that, she didn't hesitate to head inside. As soon as she pushed open the door, she smelled the metallic scent of blood. Suddenly, someone grabbed her by the neck and roughly dragged her inside. Then, he flung her onto the floor and commanded, "Save him." She looked at the man on the floor. His mask, shaped like a pig's head, had been thrown aside. He looked ashen while struggling to breathe and had cyanosis of the nail bed. These were all signs of a lack of oxygen. Freya checked him and concluded that he was having an asthma attack. His throat had swelled up, leading to breathing difficulties. She searched his bag while muttering, "Where's the inhaler?" Asthma patients would bring their inhalers when they were out, but she didn't find one in his bag. "What are you looking for?" a man in a mask shaped like a dog's head asked. "His inhaler," she said. "He doesn't have one. Do a cricothyrotomy on him right now." Freya was taken aback. "How are you related to him? You know how to save him?" Suddenly, he pressed a gun to her forehead. "Shut up if you don't want to die. Just do as I say!" The iciness of the metal made Freya's heart clench. Her mind went blank for a second, and she couldn't think. "Hurry up!" He kicked her shoulder. The pain made her snap to her senses. She forced herself to calm down and took a deep breath before commencing anatomical positioning and sterilization. Then, she inserted a thick injection needle into the cricothyroid membrane. The process didn't take long, and the man gradually started looking better. Suddenly, a black thing landed not far from Freya. Before she realized what it was, a few more followed. The inside of the store was quickly filled with smoke, and people started yelling. The alarm went off. Freya wanted to take advantage of the chaos to hide, but a hand wrapped around her neck. A gun was pressed to her forehead, and someone snarled, "You're coming with me." Chapter 6 The man dragged Freya to a secluded corner to hide. The cold feeling against her temple made her compliant. Her palms grew sweaty as she stood there, and she could hear her heart racing. No matter how nervous or scared she was, she could only place her faith in the Falcon Strike Unit and tightly hold the needle in her hand. A few minutes later, red lights flashed at them. The man dragged Freya out of their hiding spot. Before she could even see what was happening, she heard a muffled groan behind her. Then, there was a thump, and the robber's hand fell before her. She was still lost when a team of three surrounded her. A familiar voice said, "Take her out, Rabbit." "Roger, Falcon." This voice belonged to a woman. Rabbit, or Loren Smith, turned to Freya. "Come with me." Freya turned to look at the familiar man while following Loren out. He glanced at her while walking up the stairs, and his sharp eyes matched the ones in her memory. She asked Loren, "Is the person you called Falcon Daniel Talbot?" Loren faltered. Then, she continued walking out while observing their surroundings. She didn't respond to Freya's question, but Freya knew she was right. After leaving the jewelry store, the situation outside left no room for Freya to be pensive. She threw herself into workâthe jewelry store's staff had more or less been injured. Jason was rescuing the most critically injured ones, so she had to handle those who were only bruised or scraped. The injured staff came and went as she stopped the bleeding, cleaned wounds, and bandaged them. "Freya." She looked up in the middle of stopping a patient's bleeding to see black leather boots before her. Then, she raised her head to find Daniel standing before her. She looked away and continued with her work. "Yes?" "Help me clean this up." He'd taken his mask off, his tanned face unreadable. It had been two years since they'd last seen each other. Now that they were reunited, Freya still couldn't help feeling a little scared of him. Based on what she remembered, he was a little domineering, and he spoke and acted brusquely. "I'm almost done here." She picked up the pace and recorded the time. Then, she called out to Jade, who was somewhere behind her, "I'm done with the last one, Jade. They can be sent to the hospital now." She turned back to Daniel. "Have a seat." She sterilized her hands and scanned him. There didn't seem to be any wounds on him, so she asked, "Where's your injury?" "The side of my abdomen." He lifted his shirt, revealing the bandage around his waist. Freya crouched before him, finding that the bandage had already been stained with blood. She removed it and looked at the stitches on the neat woundâit was a knife wound. He asked, "How have you been for the past two years?" "Not too bad." "I was on a mission abroad when your grandfather passed. I've only just returned." Freya faltered. Daniel was explaining why he had missed Neil's funeral. Her voice remained calm as she said, "I understand." They didn't speak anymore after that. Freya didn't ask about the wound, merely cleaning it and bandaging it again. She stood up and took off her gloves, throwing them into the medical waste bin. "You'll have to be careful with your wound for some time. It'll take longer for you to recover if you keep reopening it." "Thanks," he said. "You're welcome." Their conversation was polite and distant. "This is yours, right?" Daniel suddenly held out a sandalwood bracelet with an emerald pendant in the middle. Freya's face was carved on itâit didn't look much like her, though. It was a bracelet her father had made for her. "Yes, it is. Thanks." She reached out for it. Her fingers brushed against his palm as she took the bracelet from him, making her heart skip a beat. She immediately retracted her hand. "I'm leaving." Daniel stood up. He straightened his shirt and returned to his unit. Freya watched as the helicopter started up. The blades spun, lifting the aircraft into the air. Then, it flew away. "Let's go, Dr. Somner. We're taking a police car back," Jade called. Freya snapped to her senses. The helicopter was no longer in sight. All that was left was a vortex cloud left from its tail. She tightened her grip on the bracelet and packed everything up. Then, she ran to Jade with the first-aid kit and medical waste bag in hand. ⌠After the incident, Jason requested that she be placed under counseling and given a month off. Freya returned to work after only three days at home, though. "Go home and rest," he said. "I need to do something with my hands, Dr. Wood." Jason pressed a hand to his forehead and threw her a pair of gloves. "Go to the debridement room and change the dressing for the patients there. You're not allowed to go on house calls or dispatches in the future." "Why?" 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Read more FREE chaptersđ | This wasnât the first time I received photos of Owen cheating on me. The blonde hair and slender build of the woman kissing him reminded me of my best friend Josie. Could it beâŚ? No, she would never do that to me! With trembling fingers, I dropped my phone. How could my husband cheat on me?! I thought I was the most important person in his life. After 7 horrible years at the orphanage, I was adopted by Owenâs family. I saved Owen's life when we were young. His family was so grateful that they took me in. How could Owen betray me after everything we went through?! We grew up together and were always inseparable. We fell in love and got married when we were 22 years old. I canât believe that was almost 3 years ago now. But Owen had been acting very strange lately. These photos seemed to explain why⌠I had to confront him. âOwen?â I called out. âOwen, where are you?â He didn't answer. He must be upstairs. I walked up the stairs and heard him talking to his friend Simon on the phone. As I was about to knock on the door, I overheard: âNo, I donât think I love her anymore.â His words gave me icy chills. âYou should be happy, Simon. I know you like Noah. If we get a divorce, you can have her.â Owen continued. âHe said...what?â I couldnât believe my ears and cried in my heart, âHow dare he talk about me like that? I wasn't just some object he could give away! â Hearing Owenâs frivolous talk with his friend, I felt sick. I grew up with him and got married for so many years. But he recently acted like a stranger. Did he have a new love? Why did he treat me in such a cruel way?! I was almost to open the door to question him, but suddenly I hesitated, âQuestion him and then what? Do I want divorce? No, I donât think so. Anyway, I have to calm down. At least I need to have a talk with him first. I need to know what happened to our marriage.â So, I quietly made my way back downstairs. I tried to forget about what I heard by preparing dinner. As I was dishing up our pasta, the delightful scent of italian herbs drifted through the house. I heard Owen come downstairs. âJust in time for your dinner, hun!â I said, trying to sound normal. But he was wearing his coat and gelled hair. He looked handsome as ever and ready to leave. I could smell his aftershave - my favorite smell in the world. âWhere are you going? Itâs getting late and dinner is ready.â I said. âDinner with a client. Donât wait for me.â Owen replied and left without hesitation. I sat alone at the table, looking at the food Iâd carefully prepared for him. Tears were streaming down my cheeks. I listlessly turned the spaghetti round and round with my fork. I wasnât hungry. After storing away the leftovers, I stared at the TV for a while. Nothing could get my mind off of Owen and whoever that blonde tramp was. I made my way to the bathroom. I washed my mascara stained face and looked at myself in the mirror. Why did he stop loving me? Am I not beautiful enough? Did I not do enough to make him happy? I gave my body a scrutinizing glance, suddenly seeing all the parts of me that werenât perfect. My belly wasnât as flat as it used to be. Maybe I shouldâve had my lips done, like my friend Josie. Mine always used to be fuller than hers. But now she had the plump, luscious lips of a model. After washing up, I went to bed. Dropping my face into my pillow, I felt miserable. I tried to fall asleep, but my mind kept wandering. Where was Owen? And with who? Will he even come home tonight? At 1 am, I finally heard the key turn in the front door. From all the stumbling I could hear Owen was very drunk. I swiftly made my way downstairs to help him to the bedroom. He started kissing me and said a blurry name. I tried to identify what it was. After he repeated it many times, I was shocked. It sounded like... âJoiseâ! âJosieâŚ? Were you with Josie?â I asked with panic in my voice. I helped his heavy body into bed. He grunted some words I couldnât understand. I couldnât believe my husband cheated on me with my best friend. I cried and pleaded with him to see that it was me, not Josie. He pushed me away. As his head hit the pillow, he started snoring right away. Looking at my husband - completely drunk - I didnât recognize the man I knew and loved. I tried to sleep next to him. But it felt like I was lying next to a stranger. I went downstairs and sat on the sofa all night, wide eyed, thinking about what happened between us. The next morning, Owen came downstairs after a shower. I wanted to ask him how he was feeling. He must be hungover. When I got up from the couch, I felt very weak and feverish. The sleepless night must've made me sick. âOwen, are you OK?â I asked as I struggled to walk over to him. I really wanted to hug him. If only for a sense of comfort. He swept my arms away and told me to leave him alone. I was so weak and dizzy, his push made me fall. Owen was stunned for a moment. Then he said coldly, âIf youâre sick, go see a doctor.â I scrambled up to my feet, and looked at him with a shocked expression. Suddenly, his phone rang. As he lifted it to his ear, the screen lit up. I could clearly see who was calling: âJosieâ. Chapter 2 - Hope Noah My heart sank when Owen picked up the phone. The screen clearly said âJosieâ. He answered: âHello? Yes, of course, sir. I can take a look at those documents for you.â I couldn't believe Owen was lying to my face. He glanced at me, then quickly walked over to the kitchen. When he thought I couldn't hear him, his voice softened. He sounded so sweet. Although I couldnât hear his words, the way he spoke to Josie reminded me of the beginning of our romance. Owen was still trying to hide his betrayal from me. He must have forgotten that he gave away his secret last night, when he called me Josie. Those pictures on my phone left no doubt. He was cheating on me, with my best friend. I leaned up against the wall. I felt weakened by my fever and this emotional rollercoaster. I stared at my husband as he came back inside the living room. He avoided my eyes. It felt as if he had become a stranger. In the past, he wouldâve never let me suffer like this. âIâll pick you up later.â Owen said, ready to go. I grabbed his hand and begged him to stay with me. âPlease, donât leave. I'm sick, Owen. I need to see a doctor. Iâm too weak to be all by myself.â He was very impatient. He said he had some important business to deal with. I couldnât help crying as I watched him leave. My husband and my best friend were betraying me, behind my back. I walked up the stairs slowly, carefully holding on to the railing. I was so weak and fragile. Bed rest was my best option right now. I really needed my husband to take care of me. When we got married, he vowed to me: âIn sickness and in health, in good times and badâ. This was definitely a bad time, and he was nowhere to be seen. When I woke up from my nap, I felt even worse. In my feverish haze, I reached for my phone and tried to call Owen. I opened my recent contacts and found that Owen had not had any calls with me these days at all. I had to open the contact list to look for him, but a few minutes later I dialed out with a headache and dizziness. Almost immediately I heard: âHello, Noah?â The voice on the phone sounded very deep. I figured Owen got a cold after his late night out. âIâm so sick, Iâm so weak. I need to get to the hospital. Please, come back, pleaseâŚâ I pleaded, my voice weak and trembling. âIâll be right there.â Said the voice on the phone and hung up right away. His voice sounded different from before. And his tone was a little urgent. Whatâs wrong? I didnât have enough energy to think about it. At least he might still care about me. That comforted me a lot. Before long, there was a heavy knock on the door. Did Owen leave his key? I opened the door, expecting to look into Owen's gray eyes, but found Raymond's kind, hazel brown eyes instead. What was he doing here? Raymond was Owenâs uncle. He was only several years older, but very mature. He was tall, tanned and handsome. His chocolate brown hair matched his eyes. With his strong, square jaw and muscular body. I always thought Owen was one of the most attractive men I knew. It wasn't until Raymondâs appearance that I realized how dominant the handsome genes are in this family in terms of good looking. After living in Australia for most of his life, he had come back several years ago to take over his familyâs business. By now, he was the most successful CEO in the city. Although all women admired him, he remained single. âDoes Owen know youâre sick?â Raymond said, looking concerned. âHow did you know I'm sick? Do I look that terrible?â I asked, suddenly aware that I was only wearing my little nightgown, had no make-up on and had my hair up in a messy bun. Raymond smiled. âDon't worry, Noah. I got your call earlier.â Oops, I must have pressed the number of âOwenâs Bossâ instead of âOwenâ. I apologized for the inconvenience. âYou are a member of our family, Noah. Itâs my duty to take care of you. And you are never an inconvenience to me.â Raymond said as he took me by the arm to support me. He led me to his streamlined, dark gray Mercedes to drive me to the hospital. I sat down on the cream colored leather seat. His car smelled brand new. The seat was heated, which helped warm me up, but I was still shivering. Raymond took off his suede blazer and handed it to me. His simple act of kindness made me feel warm, inside and out. âThank you, Raymond. This means a lot to me.â I said with a relieved sigh. âOf course, Noah. Whenever you need me, Iâll be there.â He responded. He still had a slight Australian accent. He asked me what happened. I wouldnât have shared my familyâs private problems with another man who I didnât even know very well. But at that time, I was on the very edge of a breakdown. I really needed someone to talk to. Yet when I lost two of my closest persons on the same day, my husband and my best friend, who else could I talk to? âI donât think Owen loves me as much as before. It seems that he has some secrets with another woman, who used to be my best girlfriend. I couldn't sleep all night. I think that's what caused my fever.â I concluded. I was in tears again by the time I finished the story. âHow could they do this to you? You are the best thing that's ever happened to Owen. If he can't see that, he is an even bigger idiot than I thought!â Raymond shouted out. His shocked, angry expression showed me how much he cared. âPlease, don't say a word about this to Owen. I haven't confronted him yet. I need to do this myself.â I responded. We sat quietly for a while, his hand resting very close to my thigh. I felt so weak and miserable. But his presence helped. When seeing the private doctor, I tried to get out of the car but almost fell. Raymond flung an arm around me, just in time to catch me. I blushed as I looked up to him. My face was very close to his. His piercing eyes looked at me with an intensity I hadnât seen before. I smelled something fresh. It might be his aftershave. I remembered Owen also used it, and I always told he that I love what he smelled. But I found Raymondâs aftershave smelled a little special. âRaymond? Noah? What are you doing?!â I suddenly heard Owenâs angry voice. Chapter 3 - Truth Noah Raymond quickly let go of me as Owen approached us. Just before taking a step back. I stumbled over to my husband. I wanted to lean on him for support, but he didnât seem to care about me at all. All I could read on his face was anger. I tried to be strong and stand by myself, shivering with fever. âSo, youâve got a new love, huh? I saw you flirting with my uncle!â Owen spat his angry words at me. I turned pale. How could he say this to me? Especially after what he had done? I wasnât the one who couldnât be trusted! âOwen! How dare you talk to her like that! Itâs not our familyâs manner!â Raymond berated him. He was fuming with rage at the injustice. He also knew about Owen's betrayal. Owen was a little timid when Raymond got angry. Although Raymond was only 31 years old, he had become a successful CEO. He had idolized Raymond when he was a child. And now, Raymond was also his boss. Owen had recently started working at his company. Raymondâs fists were clenched and his tense muscles were visible through his buttoned up shirt. He looked like he was about to hit Owen. I didnât want them to fight over me, so I tried to calm them both down. âRaymond, itâs okay. Owen will take me in to see a doctor. Thank you for driving me here.â I said gratefully. âPlease, donât say anything about Josieâ, I tried to tell him mentally through the look in my eyes. He nodded slightly, as if he understood. He relaxed and his eyes softened when he looked at me. I turned back to my angry husband. I couldnât detect any sign of trust in his eyes. I supposed he should be concerned about my health rather than the relationship between me and Raymond. âOwen, I can explain. I tried to call you, but I was so sick I accidentally dialed Raymondâs number. He brought me to see the doctor. You should be grateful to him. Without him I would still be miserable in bed, all alone.â Owen grabbed me and said, âWell, I was just on my way to come and get you. Then I saw you get out of uncle Raymond's car and âfallâ right into his arms.â He looked at Raymond with an arrogant smirk. âYou can go back to your important job now, uncle. Iâll look after my wife.â Raymondâs eyes were cold, but he respected my wishes. He didn't object. After warning Owen that heâd better take good care of me, he got back in his car and drove off. Although I was glad I could lean on Owen, something didn't feel right. I realized I was still wearing his suede jacket. It was so soft and warm, protecting me from the cold autumn wind. When the doctor dealt with my fever, Owen didnât want to speak to me, let alone look at me. He was engaging himself in typing on his phone. The doctor told me I shouldn't have waited much longer. My fever was so high I could have fainted. After getting examined and taking medicine for my fever, Owen drove me home. We sat next to each other in our car that held many memories. All our road trips and getaways together. Those times were over now. After an uncomfortable silence, I decided to address the elephant in the room. âOwen⌠What is going on? Do you still love me? Do you still regard me as your wife?â I asked. âSo what? Whose wife do you want to be?â Owen hissed. I couldn't believe how horrible he was to me after what he had done. âI know you cheated on me, Owen.â I uttered with pain in my voice. âYouâve been seeing Josie, right?â Owen stopped the car with a jerk and pulled over. We sat in silence for a while as he processed my words. âWhat do you know, Noah?â he pressed, looking me in the eyes at last. I finally confronted him about all the things that had been weighing heavily on my heart. I explained: âSomeone sent me photos of the two of you together. The first time, they didn't show your face. So I didnât want to believe it. But in the ones I received yesterday, it was clearly you. All those nights, when you told me you had to leave town for business... You lied to me. You spent them at a hotel with another woman! Then, last night, you kissed me and called me Josie. And this morning, I saw it was her calling you. You pretended it was a client. âOwen, we have grown up together since we were kids. I always thought we knew each other the most and could trust each other. I canât believe you would cheat me like that!â I cried, âOwen, did you fall in love with another woman... Is she my best friend Josie?!â His eyes showed a moment of doubt. Then, resolution. His mouth tightened as he clenched his jaw. Just when I thought he wouldnât answer, Owen said: âItâs true. I love her. I love Josie.â Chapter 4 - Hurt Noah I just couldn't accept it. I loved him so much. How could he cheat on me? âWhy, Owen? I thought we loved each other. I thought we would be together forever. Did I do something wrong?â I cried. Owen didn't respond. He drove us home in silence. His cruelty was too much for me to bear. I stared at the raindrops on the window. I felt more depressed than ever. That afternoon, Owen left again. I tried having some food and a nap, hoping that would help me heal. But I just couldn't fall asleep until Owen came back home in the early evening. I had to talk to him. I got out of bed and met him at the top of the stairs. âOwen, we need to talk about what happened. You can't keep going out and avoiding me.â He was obviously drunk again. All he said was, âI donât have anything to say to you. I am moving out, Noah. I supposed our years of marriage is a mistake!â I took his hands in mine and begged him to stay and try to work it out. But he shook off my hands and pushed me away. I was standing right on the edge of the staircase. His push made me lose balance, and I tumbled down the stairs. I managed to grab onto the railing so I didnât fall all the way down. But my head hit the wall when I tried to break my fall. I felt my forehead was bleeding. It was so painful that I couldnât get up. I thought Owen would help me, but only heard: âYou lost your footing. Itâs not my fault.â There was a sudden knock on the door. Owen stumbled past me down the stairs. âRaymond? What are you doing here? Now is not a good time.â âI came to ask you what is going on. You need to give me an explanation. You havenât ⌠Noah?â Raymond suddenly saw me sitting on the stairs behind Owen. He pushed Owen aside and ran over to me in alarm. Seeing my messy hair and injured forehead, he instantly knew what happened between us. He punched Owen in the face. âThis is how you treat your wife?! I donât believe you. Donât you see Noah is bleeding? Did you hurt her? What a disgusting thing you smelled! You drunk idiot!â Raymond raged at his nephew. I didnât even have time to explain. Raymond immediately wrapped me up in his suit jacket and took me to see the doctor. âTwice in one day? That must be a record.â The doctor said wearily. I gave her a wry grin and answered, âNot by choiceâŚâ The doctor took care of my wounds. I needed a couple of stitches and had some pretty bad bruises, but I would be okay. Thankfully, I didn't break any bones. It was getting dark outside. The autumn breeze was busy blowing the leaves off the maple trees surrounding the hospital parking lot. Raymond and I made our way back to the car. Our feet rustled through the thick carpet of yellow, brown and scarlet red leaves. After my second - and hopefully last - doctor's visit of the day, we sat next to each other in silence. We were back in his beautiful Mercedes. I could get used to these comfortable, heated seats. I felt a bit embarrassed. Raymond kept on having to save me. At least this time, I was wearing clothes and make-up, and my brown hair was neatly tied in a long, wavy ponytail. âI donât normally need so much help, you know.â I broke the ice. âI happen to be a strong, independent woman most of the time.â Raymond laughed heartily. âJokes aside, I'm really grateful for everything you've done for me.â I continued. âWhy did you come over tonight, Raymond?â âOwen hadnât come to work at the company for days. And I wanted to speak to him about what happened this morning, with you. I tried to call him, but he never answered. I decided to come over. To see for myself what was wrong with him.â Raymond explained. âI just canât believe what he did to you!â He continued. âIf he ever does anything like that again, please tell me. Iâll teach him a lesson.â His stern face showed how much he meant it. I took a deep breath. He had a way of making me feel safe and secure. âThank you, Raymond. Iâm okay now. It was an accident. Owen didnât push me off the stairs on purpose. He didnât mean to hurt me.â I explained. Raymond looked a little angry, but he still carefully drove me home. âGoodbye, Raymond. Thank you again, for everything.â I said with feeling as he hugged me. âBye, Noah. Itâs been my pleasure. Please be safe. Call me if you need anything.â He said. He gently patted me on my head as comfort as if I was a little girl and got back in his car. His simple actions made me feel warm. I thanked him and walked home. I entered the house. It was quiet and dark downstairs. I walked up to our room. When I opened our bedroom door, all I could see was Owen and Josie kissing on the bed. Chapter 5 - The Necklace Noah I couldnât believe my eyes! While the hours I was leaving, my husband was screwing with my best friend in my room! Didnât he remember I got hurt because of him?! How ridiculous! Even though I had seen Owen and Josieâs betrayal before in photos, witnessing it in real life was way worse. It felt like a million knives stabbed me in the chest. My heart shattered. âHow dare you cheat on me in our home! In our own bed, for Godâs sake!â I cried out. They hadnât heard me open the bedroom door over the romantic music that was playing. They turned around with shocked looks on their faces. If I wasnât so devastated, it mightâve been funny. Owen's mouth had lipstick smears all over it, and Josieâs blonde hair was disheveled. They were both in their underwear. Clothes were spread out all over our bedroom floor. I tried to hold back my tears. I didn't want to show them my pain. My crying might come across as weakness. I demanded an explanation. âI donât believe this. Owen! Did you forget I am your wife?! Josie, why did you betray me too?! I treat you as my best friend. How dare you take my husband away from me!â I insisted. Josie hid away in Owenâs arms. Owen comforted her gently, then snapped at me: âYouâve already seen us together anyway, haven't you, Noah?â âI am done with you.â He continued. âOur whole relationship was based on a lie. Josie shouldâve been with me all along!â I didnât understand. âWhat are you talking about, Owen?â He held up a delicate golden necklace with a tear shaped ruby that had been resting on Josieâs collarbone. âRemember this, Noah? The truth has finally come out. It was Josie who saved my life all those years ago, not you. You pretended that it was you in front of my parents. Youâve made her suffer long enough!â I was shocked. Why did Josie have my necklace? I couldn't believe her betrayal. I tried to explain to Owen that I lost that necklace before I was adopted by his family. I told him I would never lie to him. Especially about something so important. But Owen didnât believe me. âJosie,â I cried. âHow could you do this to me? Why would you steal my necklace? You know how much it means to me! Weâve been best friends since the orphanage, havenât we? Does that mean nothing to you?â âNoah, you know this necklace has always belonged to me. I was the one who saved Owen. But you stole my life to be adopted,âJosie played innocent with me, âI should have been the one who grew up with Owen! I see you as my sister, so I never attempted to reveal your lie until Owen found this necklace in my old jewelry box several months ago.â This convinced Owen even more that I had been bullying her. He wrapped his arms around her. Over his shoulder, when he couldnât see, Josie gave me a quick, mean smirk. I knew Josie had a mean side. She always had, even when we were kids. But so far, she had only taken it out on her boyfriends and whoever got on her bad side, not on me. I never thought she might treat me in such a mean way! I had searched everywhere but couldn't find my necklace. It turned out that she was the thief who was always around me. How could she tell such outrageous lies as if it were naturalďź I left the bedroom, rushed downstairs and broke down on the couch. Oh, what a nightmare! How could I make Owen see the truth? A little later, Owen and Josie came downstairs, all dressed up again. Josie was wearing her Prada pumps and the sleek, mint green dress I gifted her for her birthday. It accentuated her long legs and slender silhouette. I had to admit, she looked beautiful. I used to dress in a simple way such as simple jeans, white blouse and sneakers. Maybe I looked less attractive compared to Josie. Owen had an arm around Josieâs waist and warned me, âYouâd better stay out of our life from now on. Iâll move to another villa with Josie.â I couldn't believe it. After 3 years of marriage, he trusted her story over mine. And now he wanted nothing to do with me. We used to be happily married. Our whole lives, ever since I saved him, we had been so close. We used to laugh together, cry together, play pranks on each other⌠But now, everything changed, simply because of a necklace. In fact, ânecklaceâ is just an excuse for his betrayal. I didnât believe our years of affection couldnât prove my heart. âNoah, my life was ruined by you. You owe me that.â Josie said. âOne day youâll both regret this. I didnât do anything wrong.â I sobbed. As they walked out, I faintly heard Owen reply: âItâs my fault. I should have found you earlier, or you wouldnât have suffered so much.â I could only guess at his last insult as the door closed behind them. I zoned out in front of the TV and poured myself some of Owenâs whisky. The past couple of days had been the worst of my life ever since I lost my parents. My body and mind had been through so much. I felt numb. I must have fallen asleep on the couch. The sudden loud jingle of my phone ringing woke me up. The bright midmorning sun was shining in through the large windows. Looks like I slept in late. Disoriented, I picked up my phone and saw it was Owen calling. I accepted the call and brought the phone to my ear. Before I could say a word, I heard Owenâs angry shouting: âHow dare you do this to Josie! Those guys you hired? You must pay for what you have done!â Chapter 6 - Choice Noah âWhat?! What guys? I just woke up, Owen. I have no idea what youâre talking about.â I replied to the angry voice on the phone. âMore lies! I canât believe you, Noah. You're despicable!â Owen shouted. He was so loud, I had to move the phone away from my ear. âOwen, please calm down. All I remember is you leaving with Josie last night. I fell asleep on the couch. What happened?â âJosie is in the hospital because of you. I demand that you come here right now and apologize to her!â He ended the call before I could reply. What was this about? Would my life ever go back to normal? I decided to find out what was going on. My fever was over. Although my head still hurt, the wound was healing rapidly. I took a refreshing shower and got into a pencil skirt and light blue blouse. I combed my hair and decided to wear it in natural loose waves today. After a quick breakfast, I slipped into my high heels and coat, and made my way to my car. It was a crisp sunny day. I arrived at the hospital. At least it wasn't me who needed to see the doctor this time. âOh, itâs our âold friendâ.â The nurse said jokingly. I smiled as she directed me to Josieâs room. As soon as I knocked on the door, Owen opened it with an enraged look on his face. âFinally! That took you long enough.â He whispered angrily. âJosie is sleeping.â He came out and gently closed the door behind him. We walked towards the chairs in the hallway. âI have no idea what happened, Owen.â I said honestly. âCan you please tell me what is going on? Some guys attacked her?â âAre you still pretending you weren't behind this? You are unbelievable.â He shook his head, then continued. âJosie was attacked by some hooligans this morning, on her way to work. She shouted out and fainted from fear. Thankfully, a police officer was nearby. He heard her scream. She has a heavy concussion from the fall. She'll have to stay here a few days to recover.â âWhat? That's horrible!â I replied in shock. Although I was angry with Josie, I wouldn't wish this on anyone. âStop your act now, Noah. Those guys were arrested. They told the police someone paid them to kidnap Josie, because she broke up a marriage.â No wonder he doubted me. But I couldnât believe the trust between us was so fragile. âWould you believe me if I swore to you it wasn't me?â I asked with a last glimmer of hope. His reply made it clear to me that there was no hope left for us: âNever again will I believe a single word you say, Noah.â I refused to apologize. I didn't have anything to do with this. If anyone needed to stand out and make an apology, it was them for what they had done to meďź On my way out, I contacted a friend who had lots of connections all over the city. I asked her to investigate the situation. I also called the office on my way home, to let them know I was still recovering from my fever and head wound. My boss was understanding. She told me to take as long as I needed. In the evening, Owen came home just as I was about to have dinner. âI didnât prepare your dinner. I guess you would have dinner with Josie?â I said plainly. I didnât know why he came back at this time, but I didnât care about it anymore. He ignored my words and said, âYou still donât want to apologize, right? You have two choices, Noah. Apologize and make amends with Josie, or divorce me and get out of this house!â âJosie is the one who betrayed us both. She lied to you, Owen. She stole my necklace. She is the one who should apologize!â I argued. Owen burst out in rage and slapped me in the face. I stared at him in disbelief. I was totally disappointed. Over the past few days he had hit me, pushed me, cheated on me. He had hurt me in every way. I made up my mind. âI choose divorce.â I said coldly. âGood. My lawyer will contact you in the next morning,âOwen said ruthlessly with a wicked smile, âOh, Iâve prepared another âsurpriseâ for you. Hope you will enjoy it!â | LEARN_MORE | https://redtgb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=14837&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | redtgb.com | DCO | https://redtgb.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=14837&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/t39.35426-6/463746090_1935842656910759_3812755172762740403_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KheIiI5-NMMQ7kNvgESJNDY&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AoVwcBqbDTXJy8a8quxnlH-&oh=00_AYD_6_k8iXzHFNSR01kZxJ7UB03JWoioZhOmmhD1hT1Sqg&oe=6745B888 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | "I, Barrett Warren, vow with my life that I'll take no concubine! Carissa Sinclair shall be my one and only!" These were the words that convinced Carissa Sinclair, the daughter of general, to hide her martial talents and forsake her promising future to marry into the crumbling Warren family. Even on their wedding night, when Barrett was abruptly summoned to the battlefield, Carissa never complained. She used her dowry to support the struggling Warren household, waiting faithfully for his return. But she never imagined that when Barrett finally returned, the first thing he would do was marrying his new love... --- At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage to Aurora." he said, his voice steady, " She will be joining our household. There's no question about it." Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Fell in love? Huh, looks like he is determined in breaking the vow he made a year ago... Carissa's soft smile wiped off by a mocking one, she had once believed Barrettâs victory would earn him a higher rank, freeing her from the burden of supporting the Warren household with her dowry. Yet instead, in exchange for his victory, he only asked the king for another woman's hand, and now he even dared to silence her with his so-called 'glorified victory'... Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and Aurora is amicable. Mother liked her a lot upon seeing her, even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." "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 be generous enough to welcome Aurora." Carissa lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them." Barrett interrupted, "You're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her. Also rest assured. Mother has promised me that Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things." âOh, that's what you and mother think I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa couldn't help but laughing. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. 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 summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken 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, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left in the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowry and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831& | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&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/t39.35426-6/463384564_1258191665321352_3920804691950976922_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=owKWd7ipD7gQ7kNvgHYKfEG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A--hbIVMe4X0xy7L2vieAjo&oh=00_AYAf5DyxXbM_d005Anb13Zspff2gTgA5XMvelv-snwAumA&oe=6745BC15 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | After a tragic accident left Emily Yates without her memories, she fell in love with her savior, Justin Yates, unaware that he was hiding the truth and using her as a stand-in for his first love. For three long years, Emily poured everything into the relationship, hoping he would love her back. But on the day Justin proposed, he held his "one true love" in his arms and left Emily stranded on a foreign street, still expecting her to remain his secret mistress. * âDidnât I tell you to go home? Why are you still here?â Justinâs voice dripped with disdain and impatience, as if his irritation had taken on a life of its own. Emily stood her ground, unafraid. She needed answers. âYou proposed to me in Merika State just 16 hours ago, but now youâre holding another woman and completely ignoring me. And youâre not even coming home? Staying out all night?â âStop being unreasonable. Leave. Now,â he ordered, his voice cold and commanding, his gaze on her as though she were an unruly employee who had crossed the line. Emily wasnât leaving without answers. âYou think Iâm being unreasonable? Iâm your fiancĂŠe. You left me on the street in a foreign country to carry another woman away without a second thought. Did you ever consider how I felt? âIâll go, but only if you leave the hospital with me. There are doctors and nurses here to care for that woman. Right now, youâre coming home with me.â Desperate, Emily reached out to grab Justinâs arm. But before she could make contact, her arm was blocked by Justinâs personal bodyguard, William Carter. Emily was stunned, unable to believe what she was seeing. It felt as though her heart was being torn in two. âWhat do you mean by this?â Emilyâs voice trembled, mirroring the unease in her heart. Justin didnât respond. He stared at her with cold, detached eyes, as if she were a stranger and not the fiancĂŠe he had just proposed to. Finally, he spoke, his words sharp and emotionless. âDonât be childish.â Childish? Once, he had said he loved how she depended on him, how she claimed him for herself. And now he was calling her childish? âIf you want to stay here with her, then what about our marriage? You proposed to me just today!â | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15056&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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=15056&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/t39.35426-6/464744275_1717283745733017_8817052015286460716_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AtfJmCNY7a4Q7kNvgH6YPX0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AIoy_gYI-oSrKTGHT0EQkml&oh=00_AYBnvRloza8o2HHwbnBYSANZTXtBcrMbCh3-bLBXu-BwMw&oe=6745C390 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Read next chapterđ | In the dimly lit, opulent private cinema, the most exclusive jewelry auction was being broadcast live. The rich cadence of the auctioneer's voice echoed through the room. "One million, going once, going twice-" Alicia Bennett barely registered the words, her thoughts entirely consumed by the man under her. His intensity overwhelmed her, driving her to sink her teeth into his shoulder in a desperate attempt to brace herself against the onslaught. "Loosen up, will you?" he rasped, voice thick with strain as he tightened his grip around her waist. Alicia froze, heat rushing to her cheeks. Between their bodies only grew fiercer as time passed. The auctioneer's gavel fell. "Sold for ten million! Let's give a round of applause to Mr. Joshua Yates!" The name struck Alicia like a lightning bolt. Today is their wedding anniversary, Joshua's mistress drugged Alicia. Her body instantly went rigid, something that the man couldn't help but notice. His movements paused as his eyes, half-lidded with satisfaction, flicked lazily toward the screen. "Joshua Yates, the second son of the Yates family... an acquaintance perhaps?" he drawled, the corners of his mouth tugging into a sly smile as he playfully nibbled Alicia's earlobe. Alicia's frown deepened. "Is gossip part of your services too?" she snapped. Services? He didn't bother denying it. Instead, his grip on her waist tightened further, his movements growing more relentless, his rhythm chaotic and untamed, as if challenging her. The room seemed to pulse with their passionate desires, the air thick with lust, their ragged breaths merging into one. When it was over, Alicia took advantage of the man's time in the shower, she fished out a stack of banknotes from her purse and left them on the chair. Then she quietly made her escape. When Caden Ward finally emerged from the bathroom, his gaze instantly fell on the neat stack of dollar bills waiting for him on the chair. Amusement flickered in his eyes, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips... &6& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/63310322-fb_contact-e | Lera reading | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.moboreader.net | IMAGE | https://fbweb.moboreader.net/63310322-fb_contact-ena265_2-1019-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=798859118295947&rawadid=120216748704610091 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465576611_1284602392981053_6537176935976676202_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ls1qs7ERarAQ7kNvgFwZ1-m&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A3M1miOSQr_woseT4J3EEIm&oh=00_AYCGtBxDOd--urNzfwdjTknMFTEpom5d7topP9HT1-ABHA&oe=6745B940 | REGULAR_PAGE | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | February in Sureton City was wet. It had been drizzling throughout the day, leaving the roads damp. The cold wind brought with it the rain, making Freya Somner shiver. She held an umbrella and curled up while crouching before the entrance to the city hall. It was already 5:00 pm. Would that person come? She was worried as she thought about her grandfather, Neil Somner, who lay sick in bed. Had he finished his IV drip? Would he need to use the restroom? Had Thomas Talbot already gone home? She looked up and scanned the empty streets. The city hall would close for the day at 5:30 pm. She would just grit her teeth and wait for another half an hour, then. If that person didn't show up, she could blame him and tell Neil and Thomas that he'd stood her up. It wasn't because she didn't want to marry him or anything. Neil was sick. As a traditional medicine practitioner, he knew his time was running out. Freya was his only concernâshe would be alone in the world once he passed. He'd contacted Thomas, whom he'd saved many years ago. Thomas had promised Neil that he would do everything in his power to help if Neil ever needed it. All Neil had to do was make the call. Years had passed since then, but the call had miraculously gone through. Thomas had shown up the very next day. Neil had explained the situation to him and asked Thomas to help care for Freya in the future. Thomas had generously said, "It's only natural for me to care for her. How about thisâI have many grandsons, so I'll have one of them marry Fae as a way of repaying you. That way, she won't be alone." Neil had agreed, leaving Freya with no room to object. She didn't want to marryâshe could take care of herself and was fine alone. She was currently staying at the dormitory her university had prepared for graduate students. She even had 2,300 a month as financial aid. Eating at the hospital's and university's cafeterias was cheapâshe only needed to spend 15 a day on food. However, Neil had insisted. He felt that it was hard to predict the future, and he would only be able to rest in peace once he saw that marriage certificate. That way, he'd be able to face Freya's parents in the afterlife with no regrets. Freya's parents had died after falling off a cliff. They'd been searching for a herbal catalyst to save Thomas back in the day. It had rained that day, just as it had on this day. Freya had seen her parents' corpses entwined with one another, their hands still clutching the herbal catalyst. After her parents passed away, she and Neil depended on each other for survival. It was on that day that she'd suddenly grown up. She'd studied hard and skipped grades, sitting for her SATs at 17 years old. Then, she'd gotten into Sureton University's medical faculty, joining the seven-year integrated bachelor's and master's program. She only had two years to go before she could graduate and officially start working. Things were starting to look good. Then, Neil had been diagnosed with stomach cancer. It was taking his life away. The screeching of brakes pulled Freya out of her reverie. She looked up at the offroad vehicle before her. It was painted a military green and covered in mud, and the tires were soiled. It was clear the car had ventured through the mountains. The door opened, blocking the man's face from her view. Still, she'd gotten a glimpse of his chiseled features. His bushy brows, tall nose, and deep-set eyes formed a handsome, honest face. With the door open, all Freya could see was the army pants enveloping his long legs and the leather boots he wore. It was a cold day, yet he only wore an olive green T-shirt. He stepped away from the car. Before Freya could take a closer look at his face, he approached her, stopping before her so his boots were level with her eyes. "Are you Freya Somner?" he asked, his voice deep and somewhat daunting. "Yeah." "Let's get married, then." He turned and headed into the city hall. Chapter 2 Freya wanted to stand up, but she'd been crouching for so long that her legs had gone numb. "What's wrong?" the man asked. "My legs have gone numb." She was lifted off her feet as soon as the words were out of her mouth. An unfamiliar scent enveloped her, and she felt her face burn. The man placed her on the seat before the counter. "Get your identification." She kept her head lowered as she obediently placed the things on the counter. "Daniel Talbot," the staff said. "That's me," the man said. "Freya Somner." "Here," Freya said. She looked up at the staff. The staff looked at the identification she held, then at Freya. The latter's eyes were spirited but also carried a hint of naivety. Freya was only 22, but Daniel was already 28. He'd even carried her in. That made the staff suspect whether Freya had been forced into this. She asked, "Are you here to get married at your own will?" "Yes, I am," Freya said. "Alright, then. Fill up these forms, please." At 5:30 pm, Freya and Daniel walked out of the city hall. Freya looked down at her marriage certificate. She'd gone from being single to married once the staff stamped the certificate. She'd married a man she'd met for the first time without even dating him. The whole thing had only taken a matter of minutes. Daniel stopped and looked at her. "Where are you headed now?" She had kept her head down and hadn't been paying attention to the distance between them. She walked right into his chest. Pain spread through her, starting from her nose. Tears welled in Freya's eyes. How could his chest be as hard as a wall? She clamped a hand over her nose and looked at him tearily. "I'm going back to the hospital." He was so tall that her eyes were only level with his chest. It was incredibly muscular and looked just like the diagrams she'd seen in her medical texts. "Get in the car," he said. Freya struggled to open the door. She tugged it with all her strength, but it didn't budge. Daniel saw her from the driver's seat. He waved at her, gesturing for her to back up. Then, he opened the door from inside. "Which hospital are you going to?" he asked. "The county tumor hospital, the one at Percat Street. Thanks." Freya obediently settled in her seat. "Your seatbelt," he said. She put it on, and he started the car. She noticed that his hands and arms were tanned, with protruding veins. He oozed strength and power. Suddenly, Freya's stomach rumbled. The sound was magnified in the silent car. She instinctively held her stomach, her face turning beet red. What was wrong with her? Why did she keep embarrassing herself? Was there something about her that made her incompatible with Daniel? Her stomach continued to rumble for a while. Finally, the car stopped. Freya thought they'd arrived at the hospital and moved to open the door. Then, she looked out and said, "We're not at the hospital." Daniel had already gotten out of the car, though. He headed to a fruit store without looking back at her. Soon, he returned with a bag full of fruits. "I don't know what your grandfather likes, so I bought a little of everything." "He can't eat anything. Doctor's orders." Daniel looked at her, perhaps because she sounded too calm. Only then did Freya notice how deep-set his eyes were. There was a hint of dominance in them. "You have them, then." He placed the bag on her lap. "Have some to tide the hunger. I'm in a rush." Freya wondered whether he was showing his concern for her. A wave of warmth surged in her as she peeled a banana. It was sweet. ⌠The nurse had just removed Neil's IV drip when Freya and Daniel arrived at the ward. Thomas took the marriage certificates from Daniel and Freya and held them before Neil. He said happily, "Look at this, Neil. They're official marriage certificates with the stamps and all. They're genuine!" Neil smiled and nodded weakly. "That's great. I won't have anything to worry about anymore." "Come closer so Neil can see you, Dan," Thomas said. Daniel stepped forward. "Hi, Grandpa." Neil's smile widened. "HiâŚ" He held Daniel's hand and said, "I'll leave Freya in your hands from now on. She's a softie but is stubborn on the inside. I hope you'll be more tolerant of her and take the time to explain your thoughts to her if you two ever get into an argument." Tears streamed down Freya's face when she heard this. Daniel said, "I will, Grandpa." "Don't worry, Neil. We won't mistreat Freya. Daniel has property and a carâI'll have him show Freya around his place right now. She can move in when she's free," Thomas said. Freya forgot about crying and stared at Thomas in shock when she heard that. Didn't she and Daniel only have to get married? Why did they even have to live together? "Go on, then. It's still light out, so you can see what the place is like," Neil said. Daniel and Freya headed to his place under Thomas' urging. Chapter 3 Daniel's apartment was in Sureton City's central commercial area. It was an expensive area with good infrastructureâthe medical and education systems were well-established. The residential area was right next to Sureton City's largest park. Freya looked at the minimalist, almost stark apartment. The marble coffee table was covered in a layer of dust. "This is your home?" "Yeah." Daniel also saw the dust. "I don't usually stay here." That didn't make sense at all. Why would anyone not live in their own home? Freya couldn't understand it. "There's a card here that you can use to pay for the utilities." He opened a drawer in the TV cabinet to show her. "If anything needs fixing, you can speak to the management office. "I'll have someone clean up the place later. There are two rooms, so you can pick whichever one you want. Feel free to use the study as wellâŚ" Freya observed the place. It was well renovated but showed no signs of being lived in. There weren't even any plates or utensils around. "What am I to you?" she suddenly asked. "My wife." "But I feel like your mistress," she said boldly. She didn't know whether Daniel had a girlfriend or anythingâperhaps he'd only married her due to Thomas' pressure. Otherwise, he wouldn't have made her wait a whole afternoon for him, only arriving right before the city hall closed for the day. "What are you getting at?" Daniel asked. "I'm fine with getting a divorce if you already have a partnerâour grandfathers have seen the marriage certificates, anyway. I don't want to inadvertently end up as a homewrecker." She respected the elderly but wouldn't do anything immoral just to comply with Neil's and Thomas' wishes. Daniel understood now. "I'm single. I usually stay at the military camp in the mountains." Freya recalled his offroad vehicle and the mud on it. That, coupled with his outfit, made her realize just who he was. "I'm sorry for misunderstanding you." "It's fine. I'll take you back to the hospital nowâyou can move in here whenever it's convenient for you." "What about you?" she blurted. Then, she disdained herself for asking. What did his matters have to do with her? "I need to head back after this. There's an urgent mission I need to handle." That was the last thing Daniel said to her. ⌠Shortly after Daniel left, Neil's condition took a turn for the worse, and a new semester started. Freya bustled back and forth between the university and the hospital daily. On days when Neil felt better, he could even hold Freya's hand and reminisce with her. Neither of them mentioned that rainy night, though. He kept telling her that life was long and that she had to live well independently. However, he also told her she couldn't expect to do everything herself. She had to give in occasionally. Daniel looked like a good man, and they had to communicate with each other. They had to understand each other⌠Neil said many things. Freya wanted to object to everything and tell him that none of that mattered. She wanted him to know that she only wanted to spend her life with him in a small town called Floriver Town. She wanted to read medical texts and pick herbs with him. However, as a doctor, she was rational enough to know there was no chance of them ever returning to that life. The reports and data she saw every day were enough to tell her that Neil's condition was deteriorating. She cried almost daily throughout that month but hid it well. Neil never noticed. One day, white clouds floated in the blue sky. Freya drew the curtains, allowing the sunlight to stream into the room. Neil was in good spirits. "The weather is so nice today, Fae. Maybe you should take me off my oxygen tube now." He sounded calm, but Freya faltered while clipping his nails. She acted like she hadn't heard him and moved on to the next finger. "I can't take it anymore, Fae. I'm on drug every day, but it still hurts so bad. I'm begging you, okay?" His plea made Freya's nose prickle. Tears rolled down her face and landed on the floor, fading within seconds. Neil was a proud and strong man who'd never begged anyone in his life. Now⌠It looked like she really had to let him go. She slowly shut her eyes, sounding choked up as she said, "Okay. I'll get a doctor after I'm done clipping your nails." "The weather is so nice today that I feel so much more relaxed," Neil said. He lifted a hand with difficulty to caress her head one last time. It reminded her of how he'd praised her whenever she could memorize the things she'd read in the medical texts. After Freya signed the necessary documents, the doctor removed Neil's oxygen tube. She stood by his bedside and held his hand until his body became devoid of warmth. Thomas helped her with Neil's funeral, after which he urged her to move into Daniel's apartment. Chapter 4 Two years passed in the blink of an eye. "There's no time to eat, Dr. Somner. We're being dispatched for a house call." Freya was in a hospital's emergency room. When she heard the nurse, Jade Winton, call her, she put a folder over her unfinished instant mac and cheese and left the doctor's lounge. "Where's Dr. Wood?" she asked while wearing a mask. She hurried to catch up with Jade. "He's accompanying Lena for a prenatal check. I've called him, and he's on his way." Jade grabbed a first-aid kit and an extra bag of gauze and bandages. She handed them to Freya. "What's the situation? Why do we need so many bandages and gauze?" "A luxury jewelry store was robbed. The store's staff called the police, but the robbers discovered them and took ten staff hostage. We're being dispatched to provide medical assistance," Jade said. She told Freya everything she knew, then added, "Don't be rash later. Leave everything to Dr. Wood." "Got it. Thanks, Jade." Freya's mentor, Jason Wood, arrived at the same time as Freya and Jade. He was a tall, skinny man whose hairline was receding. He'd come from a prenatal check with his wife, Lena Johnson, and had already changed into his uniform. It made him look particularly spirited. "What's the situation?" he asked as he got into the car. "A jewelry store's been robbed. The robbers are armed," Jade said. Silence descended upon the car. They didn't know what they were facing but had to go at it regardless. Medicine knew no borders, and all lives were equal in worth. They had to save lives as long as they were at risk. When Freya and the others arrived, the police had already secured the scene. A crowd consisting of spectators and staff from various media outlets gathered behind the police line, surrounding the place and making it hard for anyone to get through. Police cars and vehicles belonging to a SWAT team were parked outside the jewelry store. There were also three buses with the windows tinted black. Freya followed Jason out of the car. A man who looked like an administrator hurried over to them, looking anxious. "The robbers need a doctor in there to save their comrade. Which one of you two will go in?" Freya looked at the jewelry store. It had three floors and was a corner lot with an expansive view. A mall was behind it, which meant it probably had more than one exit. "I'll go," Jason said, dragging Freya out of her reverie. She gave him a disagreeable look. "No way. I'll go, Dr. Wood. You have parents and children to care for, and Lena's conceived with your second child. You can't go in there." "You can't, either. You're inexperienced." Jason's attitude was firm. "The situation is complicated. I'm the only one who can head in there." Freya didn't argue with him. She turned to the administrator and volunteered. "I'll go, sir. I've passed the medical board exam and can practice independently. I don't have any dependents or relatives to care for." He looked at her. She was young and so nervous that she clenched her fists, but her expression was calm. She was bold, but her courage needed some training. "You can go, then. We don't know the situation inside, so we can only act when the Falcon Strike Unit arrives. All you need to do when you get in there is to save whoever is injured. Drag things out for as long as possible while ensuring your safety and wait for help." "Understood, sir." Freya wore her medical cap and gave herself a mental pep talk. "FreyaâŚ" Jason started. "I have to gain experience since I don't have it, Dr. Wood. You have to give me a chance," she said. That was what medicine was like. One had to be bold and careful while constantly defeating one's old self. That way, one would only become a better version of oneself. Jason knew what Freya was like. She'd met various people when treating patients. When some of them criticized or insulted her, she wouldn't take it lying down. Her retorts left much to be desired, though. For instance, if a patient said she was incapable and that a doctor online had told them this and that, she would say, "I'll leave, then. You can ask your online doctor to treat you." Once, someone had shouted at her, saying she was useless. She'd clapped back, calling that person the useless one. "Do you guys have a bulletproof vest or something? Give one to her." Jason knew nothing he said would change Freya's mind. The administrator gave one of his subordinates a look. A member of the SWAT team brought a bulletproof vest over. Freya took her doctor's coat off and put the bulletproof vest on over her T-shirt. Then, she put her uniform on. Chapter 5 Jade handed Freya the first-aid kit before hanging the stethoscope from her neck. "You're just going to ignore everything I told you before we came here, aren't you? You're bound to get into trouble if you continue like this." "No one is more suitable than me, Jade," Freya said calmly. "It's not like the military region's general hospital lacks doctors. If you turn them down, they'll arrange for someone else to come." "But it's too far away. They'll take at least 30 minutes to arrive. That doesn't conform to the principles of pre-hospitalization emergency care." Jade was one of the emergency room's most experienced nurses, so she knew Freya was right. It was the only thing they could do under the circumstances. The administrator held a loudspeaker and shouted toward the store, "The doctor is coming. Open the door." A hoarse voice rang out as soon as the words were out of his mouth. "Put the first-aid kit on the ground and turn in a circle. Then, take everything out of the first-aid kit and lay them on the ground." Freya did as told. She'd just placed the final tool on the ground when the hoarse voice rang out again. "Put the things back in and come inside." Freya packed everything back. She was about to enter the store when she felt a cool breeze. Curious, she looked in the direction it had come. A helicopter was hovering in midair in one of the jewelry store's blind spots. A tall figure in camouflage slid down the rope and made a smooth landing. It happened in seconds. Freya stared at the man, finding his figure incredibly familiar. He wore a black mask, and his sharp eyes flitted past her. Then, he hid behind the wall. Another team member landed behind him. "Come in," the hoarse voice urged loudly. He sounded impatient. Freya knew she had to enter the store since these people had yet to infiltrate it. Once she understood that, she didn't hesitate to head inside. As soon as she pushed open the door, she smelled the metallic scent of blood. Suddenly, someone grabbed her by the neck and roughly dragged her inside. Then, he flung her onto the floor and commanded, "Save him." She looked at the man on the floor. His mask, shaped like a pig's head, had been thrown aside. He looked ashen while struggling to breathe and had cyanosis of the nail bed. These were all signs of a lack of oxygen. Freya checked him and concluded that he was having an asthma attack. His throat had swelled up, leading to breathing difficulties. She searched his bag while muttering, "Where's the inhaler?" Asthma patients would bring their inhalers when they were out, but she didn't find one in his bag. "What are you looking for?" a man in a mask shaped like a dog's head asked. "His inhaler," she said. "He doesn't have one. Do a cricothyrotomy on him right now." Freya was taken aback. "How are you related to him? You know how to save him?" Suddenly, he pressed a gun to her forehead. "Shut up if you don't want to die. Just do as I say!" The iciness of the metal made Freya's heart clench. Her mind went blank for a second, and she couldn't think. "Hurry up!" He kicked her shoulder. The pain made her snap to her senses. She forced herself to calm down and took a deep breath before commencing anatomical positioning and sterilization. Then, she inserted a thick injection needle into the cricothyroid membrane. The process didn't take long, and the man gradually started looking better. Suddenly, a black thing landed not far from Freya. Before she realized what it was, a few more followed. The inside of the store was quickly filled with smoke, and people started yelling. The alarm went off. Freya wanted to take advantage of the chaos to hide, but a hand wrapped around her neck. A gun was pressed to her forehead, and someone snarled, "You're coming with me." Chapter 6 The man dragged Freya to a secluded corner to hide. The cold feeling against her temple made her compliant. Her palms grew sweaty as she stood there, and she could hear her heart racing. No matter how nervous or scared she was, she could only place her faith in the Falcon Strike Unit and tightly hold the needle in her hand. A few minutes later, red lights flashed at them. The man dragged Freya out of their hiding spot. Before she could even see what was happening, she heard a muffled groan behind her. Then, there was a thump, and the robber's hand fell before her. She was still lost when a team of three surrounded her. A familiar voice said, "Take her out, Rabbit." "Roger, Falcon." This voice belonged to a woman. Rabbit, or Loren Smith, turned to Freya. "Come with me." Freya turned to look at the familiar man while following Loren out. He glanced at her while walking up the stairs, and his sharp eyes matched the ones in her memory. She asked Loren, "Is the person you called Falcon Daniel Talbot?" Loren faltered. Then, she continued walking out while observing their surroundings. She didn't respond to Freya's question, but Freya knew she was right. After leaving the jewelry store, the situation outside left no room for Freya to be pensive. She threw herself into workâthe jewelry store's staff had more or less been injured. Jason was rescuing the most critically injured ones, so she had to handle those who were only bruised or scraped. The injured staff came and went as she stopped the bleeding, cleaned wounds, and bandaged them. "Freya." She looked up in the middle of stopping a patient's bleeding to see black leather boots before her. Then, she raised her head to find Daniel standing before her. She looked away and continued with her work. "Yes?" "Help me clean this up." He'd taken his mask off, his tanned face unreadable. It had been two years since they'd last seen each other. Now that they were reunited, Freya still couldn't help feeling a little scared of him. Based on what she remembered, he was a little domineering, and he spoke and acted brusquely. "I'm almost done here." She picked up the pace and recorded the time. Then, she called out to Jade, who was somewhere behind her, "I'm done with the last one, Jade. They can be sent to the hospital now." She turned back to Daniel. "Have a seat." She sterilized her hands and scanned him. There didn't seem to be any wounds on him, so she asked, "Where's your injury?" "The side of my abdomen." He lifted his shirt, revealing the bandage around his waist. Freya crouched before him, finding that the bandage had already been stained with blood. She removed it and looked at the stitches on the neat woundâit was a knife wound. He asked, "How have you been for the past two years?" "Not too bad." "I was on a mission abroad when your grandfather passed. I've only just returned." Freya faltered. Daniel was explaining why he had missed Neil's funeral. Her voice remained calm as she said, "I understand." They didn't speak anymore after that. Freya didn't ask about the wound, merely cleaning it and bandaging it again. She stood up and took off her gloves, throwing them into the medical waste bin. "You'll have to be careful with your wound for some time. It'll take longer for you to recover if you keep reopening it." "Thanks," he said. "You're welcome." Their conversation was polite and distant. "This is yours, right?" Daniel suddenly held out a sandalwood bracelet with an emerald pendant in the middle. Freya's face was carved on itâit didn't look much like her, though. It was a bracelet her father had made for her. "Yes, it is. Thanks." She reached out for it. Her fingers brushed against his palm as she took the bracelet from him, making her heart skip a beat. She immediately retracted her hand. "I'm leaving." Daniel stood up. He straightened his shirt and returned to his unit. Freya watched as the helicopter started up. The blades spun, lifting the aircraft into the air. Then, it flew away. "Let's go, Dr. Somner. We're taking a police car back," Jade called. Freya snapped to her senses. The helicopter was no longer in sight. All that was left was a vortex cloud left from its tail. She tightened her grip on the bracelet and packed everything up. Then, she ran to Jade with the first-aid kit and medical waste bag in hand. ⌠After the incident, Jason requested that she be placed under counseling and given a month off. Freya returned to work after only three days at home, though. "Go home and rest," he said. "I need to do something with my hands, Dr. Wood." Jason pressed a hand to his forehead and threw her a pair of gloves. "Go to the debridement room and change the dressing for the patients there. You're not allowed to go on house calls or dispatches in the future." "Why?" Freya didn't get it. | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15224&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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=15224&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/t39.35426-6/465177296_583272707382050_3697801936779761977_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BQdgMbf_E5oQ7kNvgHWIYrN&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A5jz7ZpxlbeEAcuB0df0uRZ&oh=00_AYA6w5UAnQ3CHE6miyla3taOlzN6Av0CEuYzHNTN30TMkA&oe=67459C91 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | Neil Somner entrusts his granddaughter, Freya Somner, to an old patient he saved back in the day. The patient promises that he'll have his grandson marry Freya. The man disappears right after he and Freya register their marriage. When they meet again two years later, he's an army captain, and she's a brave, calm doctor in the emergency room. To keep Freya out of danger, Daniel Talbot uses his influence and clout to transfer her out of the emergency room. Unbeknownst to him, his rival in love is waiting for Freya in the new department. It's one of Daniel's rare moments of failure. One day, Daniel asks Freya, "What do you think of me?" She looks at him. "I'm not going to comment on that. I don't know you." He stands in her way, refusing to let her go. "You can get to know me now." | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=15224&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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=15224&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/t39.35426-6/465363118_1068771147804090_8770423159999719943_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UNuwy3hCLvcQ7kNvgG0x-gL&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A5jz7ZpxlbeEAcuB0df0uRZ&oh=00_AYD_x9gajyleq6Vi9weHmTC8btGCUN5emtp-9qfJAgA7UQ&oe=6745C114 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đRead the next chaptersđ | At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage with Aurora. She will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Fell in love, huh? Have you forgot what you promised me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett was called away to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before he left, he lifted his wifeâs veil and vowed, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Embarrassed, Barrett avoided her eye contact. "Just forget what I said. Back then, I only considered you a suitable match for a wife. I knew nothing about love until I met Rory." When he spoke of the woman he loved, his eyes softened with deep affection. Turning back to Carissa, he added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply, and I hope you'll be generous enough to welcome her." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and mother liked her a lot upon seeing her." They agreed? Huh... How ironic! Seems like everything Carissa had done for this household had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting a brow. Barrett carried a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother and making her very happy. Even mother's health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was just laying out 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 lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "you're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her." As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under her eye became more evident in the light. Calmly, she said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. A true matriarch must understand the bigger picture and act with dignity. Donât you trust me?" Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? The king has approved this marriage, and Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things.â âOh, you think that's what I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa countered. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. 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 summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken 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, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowery and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/463076519_523298044026874_3884852766861475102_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xd_3KbwFA4UQ7kNvgFz9aYr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AoVwcBqbDTXJy8a8quxnlH-&oh=00_AYC6jwZwRzVgr-Nf7L_mCOFLW1lS4JgkAEA2EwjIfQu1Nw&oe=6745BA0E | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | "I, Barrett Warren, vow with my life that I'll take no concubine! Carissa Sinclair shall be my one and only!" These were the words that convinced Carissa Sinclair, the daughter of general, to hide her martial talents and forsake her promising future to marry into the crumbling Warren family. Even on their wedding night, when Barrett was abruptly summoned to the battlefield, Carissa never complained. She used her dowry to support the struggling Warren household, waiting faithfully for his return. But she never imagined that when Barrett finally returned, the first thing he would do was marrying his new love... --- At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage to Aurora." he said, his voice steady, " She will be joining our household. There's no question about it." Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Fell in love? Huh, looks like he is determined in breaking the vow he made a year ago... Carissa's soft smile wiped off by a mocking one, she had once believed Barrettâs victory would earn him a higher rank, freeing her from the burden of supporting the Warren household with her dowry. Yet instead, in exchange for his victory, he only asked the king for another woman's hand, and now he even dared to silence her with his so-called 'glorified victory'... Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and Aurora is amicable. Mother liked her a lot upon seeing her, even her health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." "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 be generous enough to welcome Aurora." Carissa lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them." Barrett interrupted, "You're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her. Also rest assured. Mother has promised me that Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things." âOh, that's what you and mother think I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa couldn't help but laughing. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. 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 summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken 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, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left in the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowry and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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/t39.35426-6/465007860_556303920324636_9012944690241824242_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BNuSphay5OEQ7kNvgEZbOnS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AIoy_gYI-oSrKTGHT0EQkml&oh=00_AYBo5GrP81eGzdxLvVJOI79MpP_kRQFS00CKVjVyUNfLaQ&oe=6745A142 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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/ | 321 | 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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/460083192_1205140647401870_535574737225378412_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fVK4h_eDuJsQ7kNvgHKvllR&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A7H2JowJgk88M6R0wzd6Hj4&oh=00_AYBTxPtqqpEHDyPleVK_BfkMxYWI7D7YclMy7aSJrcFGwg&oe=6745C51D | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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ЧиŃаŃŃ ŃНодŃŃŃŃŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Ńđ | ĐОгда Она ŃСнаНа, ŃŃĐž ноСнакОПŃĐš ĐźŃĐśŃина, Ń ĐşĐžŃĐžŃŃĐź Она ĐżŃОвоНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐżĐľŃвŃŃ ĐąŃаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃ, ОкаСаНŃŃ ĐľĐľ СакОннŃĐź ĐźŃМоП пО дОгОвОŃоннОŃŃи, Она ŃĐžŃНа Ń ŃПа! ===== ĐаПиННа ĐĐľŃŃОва ŃĐľĐłĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń Đ˛ŃŃНа СаПŃĐś. РноŃŃаŃŃŃŃ Đ´ĐťŃ Đ˝ĐľŃ, ĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ° нигдо но ĐąŃНО виднО. Đна ОгНŃдоНа ĐżŃŃŃŃŃ ĐşĐžĐźĐ˝Đ°ŃŃ, и ĐľŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐž ŃŃаНО йоНŃĐź, ŃНОвнО ĐżŃĐžŃŃŃĐ˝Ń. Đна ŃŃвŃŃвОваНа ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃОвоŃŃоннО ŃниМоннОК. ĐаПиННа но МоНаНа ŃĐľŃпоŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐžŃкОŃйНонио! ĐĐž ŃŃĐž Она ПОгНа пОдоНаŃŃ? ĐĄ ŃаПОгО ŃĐžĐśĐ´ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛ŃĐľ аŃпокŃŃ ĐľŃ ĐśĐ¸ĐˇĐ˝Đ¸ кОнŃŃОНиŃОваНиŃŃ Đ´ŃŃгиПи ĐťŃĐ´ŃПи. ХаПО ŃОйОК ŃаСŃПооŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž каŃаНОŃŃ Đ¸ ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐźŃМоŃŃва. ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐżŃинŃдиН Đş ŃŃĐžĐźŃ ŃĐžŃĐˇŃ ĐžŃĐľŃ, ŃоНОвок, кОŃĐžŃŃĐź ŃĐżŃавНŃНа МаднОŃŃŃ. ĐŃ Đ´ĐľĐ´ŃŃка ŃайОŃаН ŃĐžŃŃŃОП Ń Đ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐžĐ˝Đ° ĐОвикОва, ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Ń ĐźĐžĐłŃŃĐľŃŃвоннОК ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ . ĐĐž Đ´ĐžŃаднОК ŃĐťŃŃаКнОŃŃи Они пОпаНи в ŃМаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ°Đ˛Đ°ŃиŃ, в кОŃĐžŃОК дод ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐżĐžĐłĐ¸Đą, ŃпаŃĐ°Ń Đ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐžĐ˝Đ°. РпОŃНоднио ПоŃŃŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐ°Ń ĐşĐžĐźĐżĐ°Đ˝Đ¸Ń, кОŃĐžŃОК ŃĐżŃавНŃНа ĐľŃ ŃоПŃŃ, воСдо и вŃŃĐ´Ń ĐżĐžĐłŃŃСНа в ОгŃОПнŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐťĐłĐ°Ń . Đни Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐ¸ŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐłŃани йанкŃĐžŃŃŃва. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃĐž, ĐľŃ Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃĐš ĐžŃĐľŃ ĐžŃкаСаНŃŃ ĐżŃĐžŃиŃŃ ĐżĐžĐźĐžŃи Ń ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ , СнаŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐž ĐžŃĐźĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ´ĐžĐťĐł, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš Они Đ´ĐžĐťĐśĐ˝Ń ĐąŃНи ŃоПŃĐľ ĐĐľŃŃОвŃŃ . ĐПоŃŃĐž ŃŃОгО Он ĐżŃидŃПаН пНан, ŃОгНаŃнО кОŃĐžŃĐžĐźŃ Đ˛Đ˝ŃĐş РОдиОна, ĐиŃаНиК ĐОвикОв, МониŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐаПиННо. ĐŁŃиŃŃĐ˛Đ°Ń ĐąĐžĐłĐ°ŃŃŃвО ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ , Они ĐąŃНи ŃвоŃонŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃĐľ дадŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃио донŃги в ОйПон на ŃŃĐşŃ Đ¸ ŃĐľŃĐ´ŃĐľ ĐаПиННŃ. Đ, в каŃĐľŃŃво дОпОНниŃоНŃнОгО йОнŃŃа, Они, накОноŃ, ŃŃŃанОвиНи ĐąŃ ĐąĐžĐťĐľĐľ ĐżŃĐžŃĐ˝ŃŃ ŃвŃĐˇŃ Ń ŃоПŃŃĐš ĐОвикОвŃŃ , кОŃĐžŃĐ°Ń ĐąŃНа ĐąŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐşĐžĐ˝Đ˝Đž ŃĐşŃопНона. РаСŃПооŃŃŃ, ŃоПŃŃ ĐОвикОвŃŃ Đ˝Đľ ПОгНа пОСвОНиŃŃ Ńойо ĐžŃкаСаŃŃŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃОгО ĐżŃодНОМониŃ, инаŃĐľ Они ŃиŃкОваНи пОŃĐľŃŃŃŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐž в ŃОП иНи инОП ŃĐťŃŃао. ĐиŃаНиК ŃĐľŃиН вŃŃаСиŃŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ˝ĐľĐ´ĐžĐ˛ĐžĐťŃŃŃвО вŃоП ŃŃиП, но ŃвивŃиŃŃ Đ˝Đ° йанкоŃ, Ń ĐžŃŃ Đ˝Đ° Đ˝ŃĐź но ĐżŃиŃŃŃŃŃвОваНО никОгО, ĐşŃОПо ŃНонОв ŃоПоК. ĐĐ˝ ŃакМо ĐžŃкаСаН ĐаПиННо в иŃпОНŃСОвании ŃаПиНии ĐОвикОвŃŃ Đ¸ СапŃĐľŃиН оК гОвОŃиŃŃ ĐťŃĐ´ŃĐź, ŃŃĐž Она огО Мона. Đа ĐżŃĐžŃŃМонии вŃогО ŃŃОгО, ĐžŃ Đ˝Đ°ŃаНа и Đ´Đž кОнŃа, никŃĐž но пОŃŃŃдиНŃŃ ŃĐżŃĐžŃиŃŃ ĐźĐ˝ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Đľ ŃаПОК ĐаПиННŃ. ХоКŃĐ°Ń ĐžĐ˝Đ° ŃŃĐžĐ¸Ń Ń ĐżŃŃПОК ŃпинОК и ŃаŃĐżŃавНоннŃПи пНоŃаПи. ĐŃ ŃĐľŃниŃŃ, вОСПОМнО, ŃНогка Đ´ŃОМаНи, нО в ĐłĐťĐ°ĐˇĐ°Ń ŃиŃаНОŃŃ ŃĐżŃŃĐźŃŃвО. Đна но ŃОйиŃаНаŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ´Đ´Đ°Đ˛Đ°ŃŃŃŃ ŃниМониŃ. ĐĐž как оК ŃНодŃĐľŃ ĐżĐžŃŃŃпиŃŃ? Đ ŃĐž вŃоПŃ, кОгда довŃŃка ŃаСПŃŃĐťŃНа Đž ŃОП, как ĐżŃОводŃŃ ĐżĐľŃвŃŃ ĐąŃаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃ, Она пОНŃŃиНа ŃООйŃонио ĐžŃ ĐžĐ´Đ˝ĐžĐš иС ŃĐ˛ĐžĐ¸Ń ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐł. ĐонŃина ĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐżĐžĐ´ĐźĐľĐ˝Đ¸ŃŃ ĐľŃ Đ˝Đ° нОŃнОК ŃПоно. Та но ŃŃаНа дОНгО ŃаСдŃĐźŃваŃŃ. Đна вŃŃНа иС СаНа и вŃСваНа ŃакŃи, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐžŃĐżŃавиŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ йОНŃниŃŃ. ĐгнОвониоП пОСМо Она ОкаСаНаŃŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃĐľ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа йОНŃниŃŃ, ĐżŃОвоŃŃŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ¸Ńи паŃионŃОв, а ĐľŃ Đ˛ĐľŃĐľŃноо пНаŃŃĐľ давнО ŃПониНОŃŃ ĐąĐľĐťŃĐź НайОŃаŃĐžŃĐ˝ŃĐź Ń Đ°ĐťĐ°ŃОП. ĐноСапнО двоŃŃ Ń ĐłŃОПкиП ŃŃŃкОП ŃаŃĐżĐ°Ń Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ Ń Đ˛Đ˝ĐľŃноК ŃŃĐžŃĐžĐ˝Ń Đ¸ ŃдаŃиНаŃŃ Đž ŃŃонŃ. ĐĐľ ŃŃпоНа ĐаПиННа пОднŃŃŃ ĐłĐťĐ°ĐˇĐ°, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛ĐˇĐłĐťŃĐ˝ŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐżŃОиŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸Ń, как двоŃŃ ŃнОва ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐťĐžĐżĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ. ĐаŃоП Она ŃŃĐťŃŃаНа ŃоНŃОк вŃкНŃŃаŃоНŃ, и в пОПоŃонии ŃŃаНО ŃоПнО. ĐĐž ĐľŃ Ńпино ĐżŃОйоМаН Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´ĐžĐş. ÂŤĐŃĐž...Âť ĐĐľ ŃŃпоНа Она дОгОвОŃиŃŃ, как ĐľŃ ŃОНкнŃНи на ŃŃОН. ĐŃŃа канŃоНŃŃŃĐşĐ¸Ń ĐżŃинадНоМнОŃŃоК ŃпаНа на пОН, и в ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐžĐ˝Đ° пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа, как Đş ĐľŃ Ńоо ĐżŃиМаНŃŃ Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐš ĐžŃŃŃŃĐš Đş*аК Đ˝*Ма. ÂŤĐ˘Đ¸Ń Đž!Âť - ŃвиŃопО ĐżŃĐžŃопŃаН нападавŃиК. ĐовŃŃка одва ПОгНа ŃаСгНŃĐ´ĐľŃŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐž ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ, Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž гНаСа вŃдоНŃНиŃŃ. Đни ПоŃŃаНи в ŃŃŃкНОП ŃвоŃĐľ, огО вСгНŃĐ´ ĐąŃĐť пОНОн йдиŃоНŃнОŃŃи. РвОСдŃŃ Đľ вОкŃŃĐł Đ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛Đ¸ŃаН СнакОПŃĐš ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ°Ń ĐśĐľĐťĐľĐˇĐ°, и Она пОнŃНа, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐžŃ ŃоНОвок Ńанон. ĐНагОдаŃŃ ĐźĐ˝ĐžĐłĐžĐťĐľŃĐ˝ĐľĐźŃ ĐžĐąŃŃĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ¸ ОпŃŃŃ Đ˛ŃаŃа, ĐаПиННа ŃПОгНа ŃĐžŃ ŃаниŃŃ ŃпОкОКŃŃвио. ĐаŃоП Она ПодНоннО ŃОгнŃНа ĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń Đ˝ĐžĐłŃ, пНаниŃŃŃ Đ°ŃакОваŃŃ ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ĐşĐžĐťĐľĐ˝ĐžĐź. ĐĐž ŃĐžŃ Đ˛Đ¸Đ´ĐľĐť ĐľŃ Đ˝Đ°ŃквОСŃ. Đак ŃОНŃкО Он пОŃŃвŃŃвОваН ĐľŃ Đ´Đ˛Đ¸ĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Đľ, ŃĐž Ń ŃиНОК ŃМаН ĐľŃ Đ˝ĐžĐłĐ¸ вПоŃŃĐľ и ĐżŃиМаН Đş ŃŃĐžĐťŃ ŃвОиПи ПОŃĐ˝ŃПи ĐąŃĐ´ŃаПи. ĐĐ´ŃŃĐł в кОŃидОŃĐľ пОŃĐťŃŃаНŃŃ ŃŃĐź ŃагОв. Đни напŃавНŃНиŃŃ ĐżŃŃПО в кОПнаŃŃ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа. ÂŤĐŃŃŃŃоо, Ń Đ˛Đ¸Đ´ĐľĐťĐ°, как Он ŃŃĐť ŃŃда!Âť ĐĐžŃŃаŃĐžŃнО ĐąŃНО ОднОгО ĐşŃика Đž пОПОŃи, и ŃŃи ĐťŃди вОŃваНиŃŃ ĐąŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃŃ. ĐŃŃаŃвŃиŃŃ, ĐźŃĐśŃина ОпŃŃŃиН ĐłĐžĐťĐžĐ˛Ń Đ¸ пО**НОваН ĐаПиННŃ. Đна ŃŃаНа йОŃĐžŃŃŃŃ Đ¸ ĐąŃНа ŃдивНона ŃоП, ŃŃĐž ŃПОгНа НогкО ĐžŃŃОНкнŃŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž. ТоП йОНоо, ŃŃĐž ĐźŃĐśŃина йОНŃŃĐľ но ŃĐłŃОМаН оК Đ˝*МОП. ĐŃŃНи довŃŃки СаПоŃаНиŃŃ. Đ ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ŃĐžŃ, ĐşŃĐž Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťŃŃ ĐżĐž ŃŃ ŃŃĐžŃĐžĐ˝Ń Đ´Đ˛ĐľŃи, ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиНŃŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃŃŃĐşŃ. ĐŃинŃв ŃĐľŃонио, ĐаПиННа ĐżŃиŃŃĐ˝ŃНа ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń Đş Ńойо и ОйвиНа ŃŃкаПи огО ŃĐľŃ. Đа ŃŃĐžŃ ŃаС Она пО**НОваНа огО. ÂŤĐŻ ĐźĐžĐłŃ Đ˛Đ°Đź пОПОŃŃÂť, - ĐżŃОйОŃПОŃаНа Она пОд нОŃ, надоŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐľŃ ŃŃŃĐ°Ń Đ˝Đľ ĐąŃĐť СаПоŃон. ĐŃĐśŃина ŃŃПнО ŃгНОŃĐ˝ŃĐť. ĐĐźŃ ĐżĐžŃŃойОваНаŃŃ ŃокŃнда, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżŃинŃŃŃ ŃĐľŃонио, СаŃоП Она пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа огО гОŃŃŃоо Đ´ŃŃ Đ°Đ˝Đ¸Đľ Ń ŃвОогО ŃŃ Đ°: ÂŤĐŻ вОСŃĐźŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐľĐąŃ ĐžŃвоŃŃŃвоннОŃŃŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃŃО. ĐгО ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐąŃĐť ниСкиП и ĐżŃиŃŃгаŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐź. ĐĐž Он, ĐżĐžŃ ĐžĐśĐľ, нопŃавиНŃнО пОнŃĐť. Đна Ń ĐžŃоНа, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛ŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНО ĐżŃиŃвОŃŃŃвОП. ĐĐ˝ но дОНМон ĐąŃĐť ни Са ŃŃĐž ĐąŃаŃŃ ĐžŃвоŃŃŃвоннОŃŃŃ. Đ ŃНодŃŃŃŃŃ ŃокŃĐ˝Đ´Ń Đ´Đ˛ĐľŃŃ ŃнОва ŃаŃĐżĐ°Ń Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ. ĐаПиННа и ĐźŃĐśŃина ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ ŃНиНиŃŃ Đ˛ ĐžŃĐľŃоднОП пО**ĐťŃĐľ. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° Đ¸Ń ĐˇĐ°ŃŃŃдниŃоНŃнОо пОНОМонио, ĐźŃĐśŃина ОйнаŃŃМиН, ŃŃĐž огО ŃоНО ŃŃоагиŃОваНО на СвŃĐş. ĐĐ˝ ПОг ĐąŃ ĐżĐžŃĐľŃŃŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ Đ˝ŃĐź, ĐľŃНи ĐąŃ ĐťŃди Са двоŃŃŃ Đ˝Đľ СагОвОŃиНи. Ч*ŃŃ Đ˛*СŃПи! Đа ŃŃĐž Мо ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž Ń**ŃŃŃаŃŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃĐžŃка. ЧŃвак, Они и впŃĐ°Đ˛Đ´Ń ĐˇĐ°Đ˝Đ¸ĐźĐ°ŃŃŃŃ ŃŃиП в йОНŃниŃĐľ. ĐПоКŃĐľ Ń ĐžŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐźĐ˝ĐžĐłĐž ĐżŃиНиŃиŃ!Âť ĐĄĐ˛ĐľŃ Đ¸Đˇ кОŃидОŃа ĐżŃОникаН в кОПнаŃŃ, ĐžĐąĐ˝Đ°ĐśĐ°Ń ĐżĐ°ŃŃ. ĐднакО ŃоНО ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ĐąŃНО ĐžĐąŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃонО ĐаПиННОК, ŃĐşŃŃĐ˛Đ°Ń ĐľĐłĐž НиŃĐž ĐžŃ ĐťŃйОпŃŃĐ˝ŃŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đˇ ноСванŃŃ ĐłĐžŃŃоК. ЧŃĐž Đś, ŃŃĐž ŃĐžŃнО но ĐиŃаНиК. ĐŃĐžŃ ŃйНŃдОк ŃŃМоНО Ńанон. ĐоваМнО, наŃкОНŃкО ŃОйНаСниŃоНŃна МонŃина, Ń ŃОПноваŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Ń Đ˝ĐľĐłĐž Ń Đ˛Đ°ŃĐ¸Ń ŃиН ŃдоНаŃŃ Ń Đ˝ĐľĐš ŃŃĐž-нийŃĐ´ŃÂť. ÂŤĐĐž, ŃŃвак, ŃŃа МонŃина иСдаŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐ˛ĐžĐťŃнО ĐżŃиŃŃĐ˝ŃĐľ СвŃки, а?Âť ÂŤĐаŃкниŃŃ Đ¸ пОŃовоНиваКŃŃ! ĐаП Đ˝ŃМнО наКŃи ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐşĐ°Đş ПОМнО ŃкОŃоо, инаŃĐľ ĐźŃ ĐżĐžŃĐľŃŃоП гОНОвŃ!Âť ĐĐžŃĐťŃŃаНŃŃ ŃĐžŃĐžŃ Đ¸ ŃĐžĐżĐžŃ Đ˝ĐžĐł, и ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ĐąŃĐžŃиНиŃŃ ĐżŃĐžŃŃ, а двоŃŃ Đ˛ĐľŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ¸ŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ˝ĐžĐľ пОНОМонио. ĐŃĐśŃина СнаН, ŃŃĐž огО ĐżŃĐľŃНодОваŃоНи ŃŃНи, нО ĐžŃОСнанио ŃОгО, ŃŃĐž ŃопоŃŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ¸ ĐžŃŃаНиŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ˝Đ¸, пОдоКŃŃвОваНО на огО ŃаПООйНаданио. ĐĐ˝ ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž ŃĐžŃваНŃŃ, и Đ˝ĐľĐžĐśĐ¸Đ´Đ°Đ˝Đ˝Đ°Ń Đ˛ĐžĐťĐ˝Đ° Đż**ĐžŃи ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐťĐľŃŃĐ˝ŃНа огО. ĐŃĐžŃ ĐżĐžŃОк Мо**Đ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˝Đľ ОйОŃŃĐť ŃŃĐžŃОнОК и ĐаПиННŃ. ĐОСПОМнО, доНО ĐąŃНО в Đ¸Ń ĐąĐťĐ¸ĐˇĐžŃŃи, иНи в ŃОП, как инŃиПнО Они каŃаНиŃŃ Đ´ŃŃĐł Đ´ŃŃга, а ĐźĐžĐśĐľŃ ĐąŃŃŃ, вО вноСапнОП ĐżŃиНиво адŃонаНина, нО на пОвоŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ ĐąŃĐ˝ŃаŃŃĐşĐ°Ń ĐśĐ¸ĐťĐşĐ°, Đž кОŃĐžŃОК Она даМо но пОдОСŃоваНа. ĐĐž ŃŃОгО ПОПонŃа довŃŃка МиНа ŃĐľŃОК ОднООйŃаСнОК МиСнŃŃ, вŃогда пОдŃинŃŃŃŃ ĐżŃавиНаП и пНанаП, ŃŃŃанОвНоннŃĐź Đ´ĐťŃ Đ˝ĐľŃ Đ´ŃŃгиПи. Đа ŃŃĐžŃ ŃаС - Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐąŃ ŃаС - Она ŃОйиŃаНаŃŃ ĐżĐžĐąĐ°ĐťĐžĐ˛Đ°ŃŃ ŃойŃ. ĐовŃŃка ĐžŃĐąŃĐžŃиНа ŃвОи СапŃĐľŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃодОŃŃавиНа ĐźŃĐśŃино ŃĐ˛ĐžĐąĐžĐ´Ń Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвиК, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐžĐ˝ доНаН вŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐžŃĐľŃ. ĐОгда Они СакОнŃиНи, ĐźŃĐśŃина ноМнО пОŃоНОваН ĐľŃ Đ˛ ŃŃĐşŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ĐżŃĐ¸Đ´Ń ĐˇĐ° ŃОйОК, - ĐżŃĐžŃопŃаН Он, в огО гОНОŃĐľ вŃŃ ĐľŃŃ ŃĐťŃŃаНиŃŃ ĐžŃгОНОŃки наŃНаМдониŃ. РСаŃоП Он ŃŃŃĐť, Ńак Мо вноСапнО, как и ĐżŃиŃŃĐť. ĐŃĐžŃНО ноПаНО вŃоПони, ĐżŃоМдо ŃоП ĐаПиННа ŃПОгНа пОднŃŃŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° нОги. ТиŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń Đ˛ кОПнаŃĐľ наŃŃŃиН СвОнОк ĐľŃ ŃоНоŃОна. Đна ОгНŃдоНаŃŃ Đ¸ ОйнаŃŃМиНа, ŃŃĐž Он ĐťĐľĐśĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐşŃĐ°Ń ŃŃОНа. ĐаПиННа ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиНа ŃоНоŃОн, пОка Он но ŃпаН, и наМаНа на ĐşĐ˝ĐžĐżĐşŃ ĐžŃвоŃа. ÂŤĐОкŃĐžŃ! - ŃаСдаНŃŃ Đ˛ĐˇĐ˛ĐžĐťĐ˝ĐžĐ˛Đ°Đ˝Đ˝ŃĐš гОНОŃ. -Đ ŃонŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐžŃНОМнОК пОПОŃи ŃОНŃкО ŃŃĐž ĐżŃивоСНи паŃионŃа. ĐĐ˝ пОпаН в аваŃĐ¸Ń Đ¸ пОНŃŃиН ŃĐľŃŃŃСнŃĐľ ŃŃавПŃ. ĐаП Đ˝ŃМнО, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛Ń Đ˝ĐľĐźĐľĐ´ĐťĐľĐ˝Đ˝Đž ОкаСаНи ĐľĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐźĐžŃŃ!Âť ĐаПиННа ĐżŃĐžŃиŃŃиНа гОŃНО, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐˇĐ˛ŃŃаН ŃОвнО: ÂŤĐĽĐžŃĐžŃĐž, Ń ĐąŃĐ´Ń ŃĐľŃоС ПинŃŃŃÂť. Đна пОНОМиНа ŃŃŃĐąĐşŃ Đ¸ напŃавиНаŃŃ Đş двоŃи, нО ĐžŃŃанОвиНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° пОŃОго. Đна ОгНŃдоНа ŃойŃ. Đна и впŃĐ°Đ˛Đ´Ń ĐˇĐ°Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ Ń*ĐşŃОП Ń Đ˝ĐľĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐźŃоП в ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐąŃаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃ. ĐŃĐž ĐąŃĐť ŃаПŃĐš вОСПŃŃиŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐš пОŃŃŃпОк в ĐľŃ ĐśĐ¸ĐˇĐ˝Đ¸! ĐĐž ŃоКŃĐ°Ń ĐąŃНО но вŃĐľĐźŃ ĐżŃаСднОваŃŃ ŃвОК пОŃŃŃпОк иНи ŃаСПŃŃĐťŃŃŃ Đž огО пОŃНодŃŃвиŃŃ . ĐаПиННа ĐżŃивоНа ŃĐľĐąŃ Đ˛ пОŃŃдОк и ĐžŃĐżŃавиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃонŃŃ ŃĐşŃŃŃоннОК пОПОŃи. ĐĐľŃŃ ĐžŃŃаŃОк нОŃи Она ĐąŃНа СанŃŃа ŃайОŃОК. ĐОгда Она Đ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ĐľŃ ĐžŃвОйОдиНаŃŃ, ŃМо йНиСиНŃŃ ŃаŃŃвоŃ. ĐĐľŃĐ˝ŃвŃиŃŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃŃ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа, Она ОйнаŃŃМиНа, ŃŃĐž в кОПнаŃĐľ ĐąŃНО вŃŃ Ńак Мо ĐłŃŃСнО. Đ Ńки довŃŃки ŃМаНиŃŃ Đ˛ ĐşŃНаки, а в гОНОво ĐżŃОноŃНиŃŃ Đ˛ĐžŃĐżĐžĐźĐ¸Đ˝Đ°Đ˝Đ¸Ń Đž ĐąŃŃнОП ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ. ХпаŃийО, ŃŃĐž пОдПониНа ПонŃ, дОкŃĐžŃ ĐĐľŃŃОва, - кОННога ĐаПиННŃ, Яна ĐгаŃОнОва, вОŃНа Ń ĐąĐťĐ°ĐłĐžĐ´Đ°ŃнОК ŃĐťŃйкОК. Та вŃдавиНа иС ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃĐťŃйкŃ: ÂŤĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа. ÂŤĐаНŃŃĐľ Ń ŃĐżŃавНŃŃŃ ŃаПа. Тойо ŃНодŃĐľŃ Đ˛ĐľŃĐ˝ŃŃŃŃŃ Đ¸ ноПнОгО ĐžŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝ŃŃŃ, - Яна пОŃПОŃŃоНа на ĐąŃПаги, ŃаСйŃĐžŃаннŃĐľ пО пОНŃ, и ĐżŃипОднŃНа ĐąŃОви. - ЧŃĐž СдоŃŃ ĐżŃОиСОŃНО? ĐĐžŃĐľĐźŃ Đ˛ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ĐťŃĐľŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° пОНŃ?Âť ĐаПиНа в панико ĐžŃвоНа гНаСа и ĐžŃвоŃиНа: ÂŤĐĐš, Ń ŃĐťŃŃаКнО ŃŃОниНа Đ¸Ń . ĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа, ĐżŃийоŃиŃŃ ĐˇĐ´ĐľŃŃ. ĐŻ ŃŃŃаНа, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐšĐ´ŃÂť. Яно пОкаСаНŃŃ ŃŃŃаннŃĐź ĐžŃĐ˛ĐľŃ ĐаПиННŃ, нО Она но ĐżŃидаНа ŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ŃониŃ. Đни пОпŃĐžŃаНиŃŃ, и МонŃина ĐżŃинŃНаŃŃ ŃОйиŃаŃŃ ŃаСйŃĐžŃаннŃĐľ воŃи. Đна одва ŃŃпоНа наŃаŃŃ, как в двоŃŃŃ ĐżĐžŃвиНŃŃ ŃаП диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ, а Са ниП - пОПОŃник ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐНава 2 ЧŃвŃŃвО Đ˛Đ¸Đ˝Ń ÂŤĐŃĐž вŃаŃ, доМŃŃивŃĐ°Ń Đ˛ŃĐľŃа воŃĐľŃОП, - ŃкаСаН диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ. - ĐОкŃĐžŃ ĐŻĐ˝Đ° ĐгаŃОнОва. ĐŃŃиŃŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐиŃаНиŃ, ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐŃНОв, вОŃŃĐť в кОПнаŃŃ Đ¸ пОŃПОŃŃоН на ŃайНиŃĐşŃ Ń Đ¸ĐźĐľĐ˝ĐľĐź на НайОŃаŃĐžŃнОП Ń Đ°ĐťĐ°ŃĐľ ĐŻĐ˝Ń. ÂŤĐОКдŃĐźŃĐľ ŃĐž ПнОК. Яна ĐąŃНа в СаПоŃаŃоНŃŃŃво. ÂŤĐŃда ĐźŃ Đ¸Đ´ŃĐź?Âť ĐĐž диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ Đ˝Đľ ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐžŃоН ĐžŃвоŃаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐľŃ Đ˛ĐžĐżŃĐžŃ. ĐĐ˝ Ń ŃиНОК пОŃŃĐ˝ŃĐť ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃŃĐşŃ Đ¸ ŃкаСаН: ÂŤĐŃĐžŃŃĐž пОКдŃĐźŃĐľ. ĐĐľ СаŃŃавНŃĐšŃĐľ гОŃпОдина ĐОвикОва МдаŃŃÂť. ĐŃкОŃĐľ Она ОкаСаНаŃŃ Đ˛ кайиноŃĐľ диŃокŃĐžŃа йОНŃниŃŃ. ĐиŃаНиК ŃидоН на дивано, огО Ń ŃĐ´ĐžŃавОо и ĐźŃŃĐşŃНиŃŃОо ŃоНО ĐžŃкинŃНОŃŃ Đ˝Đ°ĐˇĐ°Đ´ в нопŃинŃМдŃннОК пОСо, а дНиннŃĐľ нОги ĐąŃНи ŃĐşŃĐľŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżĐľŃод ниП. ĐŃМнО ĐąŃНО иПоŃŃ ĐžŃŃŃŃĐš гНаС и ĐżŃиŃПОŃŃĐľŃŃŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ˛Đ˝Đ¸ĐźĐ°ŃоНŃноо, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐžĐ˝ŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž огО ĐłŃĐąŃ ĐąŃНи йНодноо ОйŃŃнОгО. Đ ŃŃаŃŃŃŃ, ŃоСкиК ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ°Ń Đ´ĐľĐˇĐ¸Đ˝ŃиŃиŃŃŃŃогО ŃŃодŃŃва, кОŃĐžŃŃĐź ĐąŃНи ĐżŃОпиŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ, ŃĐşŃŃваН ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ°Ń Đş**ви на огО кОМо. ĐĐ˝ ĐąŃĐť ĐžĐ´ĐľŃ Đ˛ ŃиŃŃŃĐš ŃŃŃĐ˝ŃĐš кОŃŃŃĐź, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš ŃакМо пОПОг ŃĐşŃŃŃŃ ĐşŃаŃĐ˝ŃĐľ ĐżŃŃна, в ĐżŃĐžŃивнОП ŃĐťŃŃао вŃŃŃовОМивŃио ĐąŃ Đ˛ŃĐľŃ ĐžĐşŃŃМаŃŃĐ¸Ń . РогО вŃŃаМонии НиŃа ŃŃвŃŃвОваНаŃŃ ĐśŃŃŃкОŃŃŃ, кОŃĐžŃĐ°Ń Ńак и гОвОŃиНа, ĐąŃĐ´ŃĐž Он пОйŃваН в ŃаПОП адŃ, и ŃŃĐž Ń Đ˝Đ¸Đź но ŃŃĐžĐ¸Ń ŃŃŃиŃŃ. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżĐžĐ´ĐžŃŃĐť Đş Đ´Đ¸Đ˛Đ°Đ˝Ń Đ¸ накНОниНŃŃ ĐżĐžĐąĐťĐ¸ĐśĐľ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżŃĐžŃопŃаŃŃ ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° ŃŃ Đž: ÂŤĐидоОСапиŃи Ń ĐşĐ°ĐźĐľŃ Đ˝Đ°ĐąĐťŃĐ´ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃи ĐąŃНи наПоŃоннО пОддоНанŃ, ŃкОŃоо вŃогО, ŃŃĐž ŃдоНаНи ваŃи нападавŃио. Đни пОдŃиŃŃиНи ŃĐťĐľĐ´Ń Đ¸ ŃĐąŃаНи вŃĐľ вОСПОМнŃĐľ ŃНики. ĐŃĐž дОкŃĐžŃ ĐŻĐ˝Đ° ĐгаŃОнОва, доМŃŃивŃĐ°Ń ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ. ĐиŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ ŃаП пОдŃвоŃдиН ŃŃĐž. ĐŻ ŃакМо поŃопŃОвоŃиН СапиŃи. ĐŃĐž доКŃŃвиŃоНŃнО Она. ТОНŃкО ŃОгда ĐиŃаНиК пОднŃĐť гНаСа. ĐŁ ĐŻĐ˝Ń ŃоСкО поŃĐľŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиНО Đ´ŃŃ Đ°Đ˝Đ¸Đľ и Она пОнŃНа, ŃŃĐž поŃод ноК ŃаП йОŃŃ ĐşĐžŃпОŃаŃии ÂŤĐаŃаПаŃĐ˝ŃÂť. ÂŤĐŃ ŃĐžŃ ŃоНОвок, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš пОПОг Пно ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН ĐиŃаНиК, ОгНŃĐ´ŃĐ˛Đ°Ń ĐľŃ Ń ĐłĐžĐťĐžĐ˛Ń Đ´Đž нОг. Яна ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ ĐżŃигнŃНа гОНОвŃ, но ŃĐľŃаŃŃŃ Đ˛ŃŃŃĐľŃиŃŃŃŃ Ń ĐłŃОСнŃĐź вСгНŃдОП ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ. ÂŤĐа... Đ-ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНа ŃÂť, - Она но ŃОвŃоП пОниПаНа, Đž ŃŃĐź идŃŃ ŃĐľŃŃ, нО СнаНа, ŃŃĐž в ĐľŃ Đ¸Đ˝ŃĐľŃĐľŃĐ°Ń Đ˛ĐžĐšŃи в дОвоŃио Đş ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐОвикОвŃ. ĐŃгОда но СаŃŃĐ°Đ˛Đ¸Ń ŃĐľĐąŃ ĐśĐ´Đ°ŃŃ. Так ŃĐťŃŃиНОŃŃ, ŃŃĐž в ЌонŃŃаНŃнОП вОоннОП гОŃпиŃаНо ŃОйиŃаНиŃŃ ĐžŃОйŃаŃŃ ĐşĐ°Đ˝Đ´Đ¸Đ´Đ°ŃОв Đ´ĐťŃ ĐżŃĐžŃ ĐžĐśĐ´ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżŃакŃики. Đ Ń ĐžŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНО ОйОСнаŃонО как ŃакОвОо, вŃĐľ в ŃŃОК ĐžŃŃаŃНи СнаНи, ŃŃĐž инŃĐľŃĐ˝Ń Đ˛ кОноŃнОП иŃОго ĐąŃĐ´ŃŃ ĐżŃинŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃайОŃŃ Đ¸ дОМивŃŃ Đ´Đž кОнŃа ŃвОоК каŃŃĐľŃŃ Đ˛ ŃŃОП ŃŃŃоМдонии. ĐŃНи ŃĐś на ŃĐž пОŃНО, ЌонŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вОоннŃĐš гОŃпиŃĐ°ĐťŃ Đ¸ĐźĐľĐť Đ´ĐžŃŃŃĐż Đş ŃĐľŃŃŃŃаП, кОŃĐžŃŃĐľ ĐąŃНи наПнОгО ĐťŃŃŃĐľ, ŃоП в ŃŃОК йОНŃниŃĐľ. Яна пНаниŃОваНа пОдŃŃМиŃŃŃŃ Ń ĐиŃаНиоП в надоМдо иŃпОНŃСОваŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž ŃвŃСи, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐžĐżĐ°ŃŃŃ Đ˛ ĐťŃŃŃŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ĐźĐžĐłŃ ĐşĐžĐźĐżĐľĐ˝ŃиŃОваŃŃ Ńойо вŃоП, ŃоП ŃŃ ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐžŃĐľŃŃ, даМо ĐąŃакОП, - вноСапнО ĐżŃĐľŃваН ĐľŃ ĐźŃŃНи Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐš ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐгО НиŃĐž ĐžŃŃаваНОŃŃ ĐžŃŃŃŃанŃннŃĐź, нО ĐźŃŃĐťŃ Đž вŃĐľŃаŃноК нОŃи ŃĐźŃĐłŃиНа ĐśŃŃŃĐşŃŃ ĐťĐ¸Đ˝Đ¸Ń ĐľĐłĐž ŃŃа. ЧŃĐž Đś... ĐŻ...Âť - ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНО наŃŃОНŃкО ноОМиданнО, ŃоП Яна ПОгНа Ńойо ĐżŃодŃŃавиŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Она Ń ŃŃŃдОП ПОгНа пОдОйŃаŃŃ ŃНОва. ÂŤĐŃĐ¸Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ кО Пно, как ŃОНŃкО ĐżŃиПоŃŃ ŃĐľŃонио, - вŃŃаН ĐиŃаНиК и МоŃŃОП пОпŃĐžŃиН ĐониŃа даŃŃ ĐľĐš ŃвОК кОнŃакŃĐ˝ŃĐš ŃоНоŃОн. ĐиŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ ĐżĐžŃпоŃиН и ĐżŃодНОМиН ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐżŃОвОдиŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž Đş вŃŃ ĐžĐ´Ń. ÂŤĐ ŃŃОП Đ˝ĐľŃ Đ˝ĐľĐžĐąŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐźĐžŃŃи, - ĐžŃкаСаНŃŃ ŃĐžŃ, и вŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž пОводонио ŃнОва ŃŃаНО Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐź. ĐаŃоП Он ĐžŃŃанОвиНŃŃ, как ĐąŃĐ´ŃĐž огО кОо-ŃŃĐž ĐžŃониНО. ĐĐ˝ ОйоŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ Đş диŃокŃĐžŃŃ Đ¸ ŃкаСаН: ÂŤĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа, пОСайОŃŃŃĐľŃŃ Đž ноК. ÂŤĐОноŃнО, - СавоŃиН огО диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ Ń Đ˛ĐľĐśĐťĐ¸Đ˛ĐžĐš ŃĐťŃйкОК. УйодивŃиŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Они Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´ŃŃŃŃ Đ˛Đ˝Đľ ĐżŃодоНОв ŃĐťŃŃиПОŃŃи, ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżĐžĐ´ĐžŃŃĐť Đş ĐиŃаНиŃ. ÂŤĐаŃаНŃник, - ОйŃаŃиНŃŃ ĐžĐ˝ ŃĐ¸Ń Đ¸Đź, нО наŃŃĐžŃŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐź гОНОŃОП, - Đ˛Ń Đ˛ĐľĐ´Ń ŃМо МонаŃŃ. ĐŻ но Đ´ŃПаŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐąŃак ŃвНŃĐľŃŃŃ ĐżŃиоПНоПŃĐź ваŃианŃОП Đ´ĐťŃ ĐłĐžŃпОМи ĐгаŃОнОвОК. ĐаП ŃНодŃĐľŃ ĐžŃкаСаŃŃŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃОгО ĐżŃодНОМониŃÂť. ĐŃĐąŃ ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń Đ´ŃŃĐ˝ŃНиŃŃ ĐżŃи ŃпОПинании Đž огО ĐąŃако, а НиŃĐž ĐľŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐľ пОПŃаŃноНО, кОгда Он пОдŃПаН Đž МонŃино, на кОŃĐžŃОК огО СаŃŃавиНи МониŃŃŃŃ. Тойо ŃŃĐž, МиŃŃ Đ˝Đ°Đ´ĐžĐľĐťĐž?Âť - ĐżŃигŃОСиН Он ŃĐ˛ĐžĐľĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐźĐžŃникŃ. Đ˘ĐžŃ ĐżĐžĐ˝ŃĐť, ŃŃĐž ŃкаСаН ŃĐž, ŃогО но ŃНодОваНО, и ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ СадŃОМаН. Đ ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐžĐ˝ но СнаН, ĐşŃĐž йОНŃŃĐľ вŃогО ĐˇĐťĐ¸Ń ĐľĐłĐž йОŃŃа - Đ˝ĐžĐ˛Đ°Ń Đ˝ĐľĐ˛ĐľŃŃа иНи ŃоНОвок, ŃŃĐžŃŃиК Са вŃĐľŃаŃниП нападониоП. ТоП вŃоПоноП ĐаПиННа воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° виННŃ, кОŃĐžŃŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐťĐśĐ˝Đ° ĐąŃНа доНиŃŃ Ń ĐźŃМоП. ĐкОнОПка ŃŃĐľĐ´Đ˝Đ¸Ń ĐťĐľŃ, ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń Đ ĐžĐźĐ°Đ˝ĐžĐ˛Đ°, вŃŃŃĐľŃиНа ĐľŃ Đ˛ ŃОКо, на ĐľŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐľ ĐąŃНО напиŃанО йоŃпОкОКŃŃвО. ÂŤĐĐžŃĐľĐźŃ Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ˝Đľ ĐąŃНО вŃĐľŃа воŃĐľŃОП, гОŃпОМа?Âť ÂŤĐŻ дОНМна ĐąŃНа пОдПониŃŃ ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐłŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа Ńа. ĐŃ ĐłĐťĐ°ĐˇĐ° ĐąŃНи пОкŃаŃновŃиПи и ŃНоСиНиŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃŃаНОŃŃи. Увидов ŃŃĐž, ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ŃĐľŃиНа но наŃŃаиваŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃвОŃĐź. ĐаПиННа пОднŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ°Đ˛ĐľŃŃ Đ¸ пОгŃŃСиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ваннŃ. ĐŃ ĐźŃŃНи новОНŃнО воŃĐ˝ŃНиŃŃ Đş ĐżŃодŃĐ´ŃŃоК нОŃи, и Она пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа, как ĐľŃ ŃŃки наŃаНи гОŃĐľŃŃ. Đна Đ˛ĐˇĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝ŃНа и пОгŃŃСиНаŃŃ Đ˛ вОдŃ, как ĐąŃ ŃпаŃаŃŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃовОМнŃŃ Đ˛ĐžŃпОПинаниК. ĐŃ ŃŃвŃŃва пО ŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐ˛ĐžĐ´Ń ĐąŃНи ŃПоŃаннŃПи, и Она но СнаНа, Ń ŃогО наŃаŃŃ. Đна даМо но ĐżŃодŃŃавНŃНа, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐž ĐąŃĐť Са ŃоНОвок. ĐОНоо ŃОгО, Она ŃопоŃŃ ĐąŃНа СаПŃМоП. ĐŃ ŃŃОК ĐźŃŃНи Она пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа винŃ. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ОйŃŃĐžŃŃоНŃŃŃва, кОŃĐžŃŃĐľ ĐżŃивоНи Đ¸Ń Đş Đ˝ŃноŃĐ˝ĐľĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐťĐžĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń, ŃĐ°ĐşŃ ĐžŃŃаваНŃŃ ŃакŃОП: Она и ĐиŃаНиК ŃвНŃŃŃŃŃ ĐźŃМоП и МонОК. ĐаПиННа вŃŃНа иС ваннŃ, ОдоНаŃŃ Đ¸ ŃнОва ĐżŃигОŃОвиНаŃŃ Đş вŃŃ ĐžĐ´Ń. Đак ŃОНŃкО Она ŃĐżŃŃŃиНаŃŃ Đ˛Đ˝Đ¸Đˇ, ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ СаŃŃĐľŃиНаŃŃ Đ˛ĐžĐşŃŃĐł ноŃ: ÂŤĐŃ ĐžĐżŃŃŃ ŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ŃĐľ Ńак ŃкОŃĐž? ĐĐžŃĐľĐźŃ ĐąŃ Đ˛Đ°Đź ŃнаŃаНа но пОСавŃŃакаŃŃ?Âť Та пОŃПОŃŃоНа на вŃоПŃ. ÂŤĐĐľŃ, Ń ĐžĐżĐžĐˇĐ´Đ°Ń Đ˝Đ° ŃайОŃŃÂť. ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐťĐ°, ŃŃĐž ĐаПиННа вŃаŃ, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ° пОниПаНа, ŃŃĐž Đ´ĐťŃ ŃŃОК ПОНОдОК довŃŃки ŃвНŃĐľŃŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃПОК ĐżŃОвОдиŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃайОŃĐľ ноŃПоŃоннОо кОНиŃĐľŃŃвО вŃоПони. ТОгда Она ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐ˝ŃНа оК ŃŃакан ПОНОка: ÂŤĐŃпоКŃĐľ Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐąŃ ŃŃĐž. ĐŃŃĐžŃОМнО, ОнО гОŃŃŃоо. ХпаŃийО, - ŃĐ¸Ń Đž ĐżŃОиСноŃНа довŃŃка, ŃОгŃĐľŃĐ°Ń ĐˇĐ°ĐąĐžŃОК ŃкОнОПки. ÂŤĐĐľ Са ŃŃО, - ĐťŃйоСнО ŃĐťŃйнŃНаŃŃ ŃкОнОПка. ĐОСПОМнО, ŃŃĐžŃ ĐąŃак и ĐąŃĐť вŃĐ˝ŃМдоннŃĐź, нО Она Đ´ĐžŃŃаŃĐžŃнО Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐž СнаНа, ŃŃĐž ноНŃĐˇŃ ŃПОŃŃĐľŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ŃвŃŃОка. ĐаМо йоС ŃиŃŃНа ĐśĐľĐ˝Ń ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐОвикОва ĐаПиННа - ĐżŃĐžŃĐľŃŃиОнаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вŃаŃ, и ŃŃĐž Đ´ĐľĐťĐ°ĐľŃ ĐľŃ ĐąĐžĐťĐľĐľ ŃоП Đ´ĐžŃŃОКнОК ŃваМониŃ. ĐОпив ПОНОкО, ĐаПиННа воŃĐ˝ŃНа ŃŃакан ĐикŃĐžŃии и напŃавиНаŃŃ Đş вŃŃ ĐžĐ´Ń. ĐднакО Она но пОŃНа ŃŃĐ°ĐˇŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃŃ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа. Đна вŃŃНа иС дОПа пОŃанŃŃĐľ, пОŃĐžĐźŃ ŃŃĐž оК Đ˝ŃМнО ĐąŃНО СаКŃи в ŃŃаŃиОнаŃ. ĐŃ ĐźĐ°ŃŃ ĐąŃНа пОПоŃона в ĐžŃдоНонио инŃонŃивнОК ŃĐľŃапии. ĐаПиННа ПОНŃа вОŃНа в паНаŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃОвоŃиНа ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнио ПаŃĐľŃи. ĐонŃина пО-ĐżŃĐľĐśĐ˝ĐľĐźŃ Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐ°ŃŃ Đ˛ ĐżĐťĐžŃ ĐžĐź ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнии. ĐĄĐľŃĐ´ŃĐľ довŃŃки СанŃНО. ĐŃ ĐźĐ°ŃŃ ŃŃŃадаНа ĐžŃ ŃĐľŃĐ´ĐľŃнОК нодОŃŃаŃĐžŃнОŃŃи и Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐ°ŃŃ Đ˛ ĐşŃиŃиŃĐľŃкОП ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнии. ĐдинŃŃвоннŃĐź ŃпОŃОйОП ŃĐžŃ ŃаниŃŃ ĐśĐ¸ĐˇĐ˝Ń ĐźĐ°ŃĐľŃи ĐąŃНа поŃĐľŃадка ŃĐľŃĐ´Ńа, кОŃĐžŃаŃ, ĐľŃŃĐľŃŃвоннО, ОйОŃНаŃŃ ĐąŃ Đ˛ ŃоНОо ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнио. ĐŃнОвнОК ĐżŃиŃинОК, пО кОŃĐžŃОК ĐаПиННа ŃОгНаŃиНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐąŃак, ĐąŃНО ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž ĐľŃ ĐžŃĐľŃ ŃĐłŃОМаН ŃĐ´ĐľŃМаŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐ˝Ńги, Đ˝ĐľĐžĐąŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐźŃĐľ Đ´ĐťŃ ĐžĐżĐľŃаŃии. ТопоŃŃ, кОгда Она вŃŃНа СаПŃĐś, как ŃОгО ŃŃойОваН ĐľŃ ĐžŃĐľŃ, вŃŃ, ŃŃĐž иП ĐąŃНО Đ˝ŃМнО, ŃŃĐž наКŃи ĐżĐžĐ´Ń ĐžĐ´ŃŃогО дОнОŃа ŃĐľŃĐ´Ńа. ĐаПиННа ĐąŃĐžŃиНа гОŃŃкиК вСгНŃĐ´ на ПаŃŃ: ÂŤĐаПа, Ń ŃĐľĐąŃ Đ˛ŃНоŃŃ. ĐŻ ОйоŃаŃÂť. ĐŃ ĐźĐ°ŃŃ ĐąŃНа ŃаПŃĐź йНиСкиП ŃоНОвокОП, ĐľŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Đ˝ĐžĐš пОддоŃМкОК и надŃМнŃĐź дОвоŃоннŃĐź НиŃОП. ĐоОМиданнО СаСвОниН ŃоНоŃОн. ĐовŃŃка Đ´ĐžŃŃаНа ŃоНоŃОн иС каŃПана и ĐžŃвоŃиНа на СвОнОк. ÂŤĐиНа, - ŃаСдаНŃŃ ĐźŃĐśŃкОК гОНОŃ. - Đно Đ˝ŃМнО, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃŃ ĐžĐşĐ°ĐˇĐ°ĐťĐ° Пно ĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń ŃŃĐťŃĐłŃÂť. ĐНава 3 ЧаŃŃĐ˝ŃĐš паŃĐ¸ĐľĐ˝Ń ĐаПиННо пОСвОниН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ¤Đ°ĐťŃкОв. Đни ŃŃиНиŃŃ Đ˛ ОднОП ПодиŃинŃкОП ŃнивоŃŃиŃĐľŃĐľ, Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐžĐ˝ ĐąŃĐť на два гОда ŃŃаŃŃĐľ ĐľŃ. ĐаŃоП Он ŃĐľŃ Đ°Đť Са ĐłŃаниŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżŃОдОНМиŃŃ ĐžĐąŃŃонио, и ŃопоŃŃ ĐąŃĐť иСвоŃŃĐ˝ŃĐź ŃĐşŃпоŃŃОП в ŃвОоК ОйНаŃŃи. ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˛Ńогда Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐž СайОŃиНŃŃ Đž ĐаПиННо, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ¸ ĐąŃНи дОвОНŃнО йНиСки. РкакОК ŃŃĐťŃго идŃŃ ŃĐľŃŃ?Âť - ĐżŃŃПО ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐаПиННа. ÂŤĐŁ ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐľŃŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃ, Đ˝ŃМдаŃŃиКŃŃ Đ˛ НоŃонии, ОднакО Ń ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżĐžŃвиНОŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐžŃНОМнОо доНО, и Ń Đ˝Đľ Đ´ŃПаŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃĐźĐžĐłŃ ĐˇĐ°Đ˝ŃŃŃŃŃ ŃŃиП в йНиМаКŃоо вŃоПŃ. ĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа, вОСŃПи паŃионŃа пОд ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐşŃŃНО, - пОпŃĐžŃиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ. ĐаПиНа вСгНŃĐ˝ŃНа на ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ŃаŃпиŃанио. ĐĄĐľĐłĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń Ń Đ˝ĐľŃ Đ˝Đľ ĐąŃНО доН в ĐžŃиŃĐľ, и, ĐľŃНи но ŃŃиŃаŃŃ Đ´Đ˛ŃŃ ĐžĐżĐľŃаŃиК, СапНаниŃОваннŃŃ Đ˝Đ° пОНдонŃ, Она ĐąŃНа ĐżŃакŃиŃĐľŃки ŃвОйОдна. ÂŤĐа, кОноŃнО. ĐŃда Пно пОдŃĐľŃ Đ°ŃŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐаПиННа. ÂŤĐŻ напиŃŃ Ńойо адŃĐľŃ. ĐОгда дОйоŃŃŃŃŃŃ ŃŃда, ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž ŃкаМи ĐžŃ ŃанникаП, ŃŃĐž ŃŃ ĐżŃĐ¸ĐľŃ Đ°ĐťĐ° Đş гОŃĐżĐžĐ´Đ¸Đ˝Ń ĐаНаŃникОвŃ, и Они ОйО вŃŃĐź пОСайОŃŃŃŃŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ. ÂŤĐОгОвОŃиНиŃŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа довŃŃка. ÂŤĐŃŃ ĐşĐžĐľ-ŃŃĐž, - дОйавиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ, и огО ŃОн ŃŃаН ŃĐľŃŃŃСнŃĐź. - ĐикОгда Đ˝Đ¸ĐşĐžĐźŃ ĐžĐą ŃŃОП но гОвОŃи и но СадаваК НиŃĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛ĐžĐżŃĐžŃОв. ĐŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Ńойо Đ˝ŃМнО ŃдоНаŃŃ, ŃŃĐž вŃНоŃиŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃа. ÂŤĐŻŃнО. ĐĐľ вОНнŃĐšŃŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа ĐаПиННа. Đни пОпŃĐžŃаНиŃŃ, и ĐаПиННа вŃСваНа ŃакŃи, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ´ĐžĐąŃаŃŃŃŃ Đş паŃионŃŃ. ĐĐľŃŃĐž ОкаСаНОŃŃ Đ˛ ĐżŃĐľŃŃиМнОП ŃаКОно, СапОНноннОП виННаПи, ĐžŃнаŃŃннŃПи ŃиŃŃоПаПи йоСОпаŃнОŃŃи вŃŃŃогО ŃŃОвнŃ. Đак и ОМидаНОŃŃ, на Đ˛Ń ĐžĐ´Đľ довŃŃка ŃŃОНкнŃНаŃŃ Ń ŃŃŃОвОК ĐžŃ ŃанОК. ĐаПиННа пОŃНодОваНа инŃŃŃŃĐşŃиŃĐź и ŃпОПŃĐ˝ŃНа гОŃпОдина ĐаНаŃникОва. ХдоНав СвОнОк, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃйодиŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ ĐżŃавдивОŃŃи ĐľŃ ŃНОв, ĐžŃ Ńанник ĐżŃигНаŃиН ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ Đ˛Đ˝ŃŃŃŃ. ĐовŃŃка НогкО наŃНа виННŃ. Đна пОднŃНаŃŃ ĐżĐž ŃŃŃпонŃкаП и пОСвОниНа в двоŃŃ. ЧоŃоС ноŃкОНŃкО ŃокŃнд двоŃŃ ĐžŃĐşŃŃНаŃŃ. ĐаСаНОŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃиŃŃаŃĐ¸Ń Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвиŃоНŃнО ĐąŃНа ŃŃĐžŃнОК. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐźŃŃиНŃŃ. Đни МдаНи ФŃĐ´ĐžŃа, нО вПоŃŃĐž ŃŃОгО на пОŃОго ОкаСаНаŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐˇĐ˛Đ°Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐłĐžŃŃŃŃ. ÂŤĐŃĐžŃŃиŃĐľ, вŃâŚÂť - наŃаНа довŃŃка. ĐС ŃкаСаниК ФŃĐ´ĐžŃа ĐаПиННа ŃМо ŃдоНаНа вŃвОд, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐžŃ ĐżĐ°ŃĐ¸ĐľĐ˝Ń ŃĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃнОо ĐżŃĐžŃŃŃанŃŃвО, и ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ¸ĐˇĐąĐľĐśĐ°ŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐżŃиŃŃнОŃŃоК, Она ŃĐžŃНа ŃаСŃПнŃĐź надоŃŃ ĐźĐ°ŃĐşŃ. ĐоСОпаŃнОŃŃŃ ĐąŃНа в ĐżŃиОŃиŃĐľŃĐľ. ÂŤĐОкŃĐžŃ Đ¤Đ°ĐťŃкОв пОпŃĐžŃиН ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżŃĐ¸ĐľŃ Đ°ŃŃ ŃŃда, - ŃкаСаНа ĐаПиННа. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐźĐľĐťŃкОП вСгНŃĐ˝ŃĐť на апŃĐľŃĐşŃ, кОŃĐžŃŃŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ° Đ´ĐľŃМаНа: ÂŤĐŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐľŃĐľ, ŃŃĐž доНаŃŃ?Âť ÂŤĐа, дОкŃĐžŃ Đ¤Đ°ĐťŃкОв даН Пно инŃŃŃŃĐşŃии. ĐŻ ŃĐžŃ ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń Đ˛ŃŃ Đ˛ ŃŃŃОгОК кОнŃидонŃиаНŃнОŃŃи, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа довŃŃка. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐˇĐ˝Đ°Đť, ŃŃĐž ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝Đľ поŃодаН ĐąŃ ŃвОи ОйŃСаннОŃŃи ŃОПŃ, ĐşŃĐž но СаŃĐťŃĐśĐ¸Đ˛Đ°ĐľŃ Đ´ĐžĐ˛ĐľŃĐ¸Ń Đ¸ĐťĐ¸ нокОПпоŃонŃон, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ŃŃвоŃдиŃоНŃнО кивнŃĐť и впŃŃŃиН ĐаПиННŃ. ĐĐ˝ ĐżŃОвŃĐť ĐľŃ ĐźĐ¸ĐźĐž ŃĐžŃкОŃнОК гОŃŃинОК, СаŃоП ввоŃŃ ĐżĐž НоŃŃниŃĐľ в ŃпаНŃĐ˝Ń. РкОПнаŃĐľ ĐąŃНО ŃоПнО. ÂŤĐак Ń ĐąŃĐ´Ń ĐżŃОвОдиŃŃ ĐťĐľŃонио йоС ŃвоŃа?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐаПиННа. ĐОгда ĐиŃаНиК ŃŃĐťŃŃаН МонŃкиК гОНОŃ, ŃĐž пОŃпоŃнО ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиН ŃвОК пидМак и наŃŃĐ˝ŃĐť огО на НиŃĐž. ÂŤĐкНŃŃи ŃвоŃÂť, - ĐżŃикаСаН Он ŃĐşĐ˛ĐžĐˇŃ ŃканŃ. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ŃŃНкнŃĐť вŃкНŃŃаŃоНоП, и кОПнаŃŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐťĐ¸Đť ŃŃкиК ŃвоŃ. ĐĐľŃвОК ĐźŃŃĐťŃŃ ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐąŃНО ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃа ĐąŃĐť дОвОНŃнО СнакОПŃĐź, ОднакО Она ĐžŃĐźĐ°Ń Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃĐ¸Ń ĐźŃŃНоК. Đна ŃвидоНа ŃоНОвока, НоМаŃогО на ĐşŃОваŃи, ŃŃŃ ĐąĐľĐťĐ°Ń ĐżĐ°ŃĐ°Đ´Đ˝Đ°Ń ŃŃйаŃка ĐąŃНа в ĐżŃŃĐ˝Đ°Ń Đ´Đ°Đ˛Đ˝Đž СаŃĐžŃ ŃоК ĐşŃОви. ĐаПиННа но Ń ĐžŃоНа вдаваŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ пОдŃОйнОŃŃи и ŃĐľŃиНа ŃĐžŃŃодОŃĐžŃиŃŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐ°Đ˝Đ°Ń . ĐŃĐśŃина ŃвнО но Ń ĐžŃоН вŃдаваŃŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃнОŃŃŃ, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ Đ´ĐľĐ˛ŃŃка ĐľŃŃĐľŃŃвоннŃĐź ОйŃаСОП ŃваМаНа огО ĐłŃаниŃŃ Đ¸ воНа ŃĐľĐąŃ ĐżŃиНиŃнО. Đна пОŃŃавиНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ°ĐżŃĐľŃĐşŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃПйОŃĐşŃ Đ¸ Đ´ĐžŃŃаНа Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃгиŃĐľŃкио инŃŃŃŃПонŃŃ. ĐаПиННа нОМниŃаПи ŃаСŃоСаНа ŃŃйаŃĐşŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃа, ОйнаМив огО ŃанŃ, кОŃĐžŃŃĐľ ĐąŃНи пОкŃŃŃŃ ŃОнкиП ŃНОоП ПаŃНи. Đна ŃĐąŃаНа вŃŃ Đ¸, накОноŃ, ŃвидоНа дво СиŃŃŃио ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐżŃавОК ŃŃĐžŃОно ŃĐžŃŃа ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ. ĐаПиННа наŃаНа НоŃонио, ОйŃайОŃав ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃвОиПи НОвкиПи ŃŃкаПи. ĐŃŃ ŃŃĐž вŃĐľĐźŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ° ĐžŃŃаваНаŃŃ ŃпОкОКнОК, а ĐľŃ Đ´Đ˛Đ¸ĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐąŃНи ĐąŃŃŃŃŃПи и ŃŃŃокŃивнŃПи. ÂŤĐŃŃŃ ĐťĐ¸ Ń Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ°ĐťĐťĐľŃĐłĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° аноŃŃоСиŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа Она ŃĐľŃоС нокОŃĐžŃОо вŃоПŃ. Đ ŃŃаŃŃŃŃ, ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ĐąŃНи ногНŃйОкио и пОвŃодиНи НиŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐąĐžĐťŃŃŃŃ ŃаŃŃŃ ĐşĐžĐśĐ¸, ОднакО ŃŃойОваНОŃŃ Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃгиŃĐľŃкОо вПоŃаŃоНŃŃŃвО. ĐŃĐžŃĐľŃŃ ŃŃойОваН ĐżŃĐ¸ĐźĐľĐ˝ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐźĐľŃŃнОК аноŃŃоСии. ĐаПиННа гОвОŃиНа ŃпОкОКнО, пОŃŃи ŃĐ¸Ń Đž, ŃŃĐž ŃоСкО кОнŃŃаŃŃиŃОваНО Ń ĐľŃ ĐąĐľĐˇŃПнŃĐź гОНОŃОП ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ. ĐĐžŃŃОПŃ, ноŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ОйПон ноŃкОНŃкиПи ŃНОваПи, ĐиŃаНиК ŃОвŃоП но ŃСнаН ĐľŃ. ÂŤĐĐľŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН Он ŃвОиП ОйŃŃĐ˝ŃĐź Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐź гОНОŃОП, ĐżŃĐž ŃĐľĐąŃ Đ˛ĐžŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ĐťŃŃ ĐľŃ ĐżŃĐžŃĐľŃŃиОнаНиСП. ĐаПиННа ĐżŃиŃŃŃпиНа Đş ĐżŃигОŃĐžĐ˛ĐťĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ°Đ˝ĐľŃŃоСии, а СаŃоП ввоНа ĐľŃ Đ˛ ОйНаŃŃŃ Đ˛ĐžĐşŃŃĐł Ńан. ĐĐź ĐżŃиŃНОŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ´ĐžĐśĐ´Đ°ŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃŃ ĐźĐ¸Đ˝ŃŃ, пОка наŃаНОŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвио ĐżŃопаŃаŃа, пОŃНо ŃогО Она наНОМиНа ŃвŃ. ĐŃиПоŃнО ŃĐľŃоС ŃĐ°Ń ĐаПиННа Đ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ŃиНа. Đ ŃоНОП, НоŃонио ĐżŃĐžŃНО ĐąŃŃŃŃĐž и ŃŃпоŃнО. ĐаПиННа пОŃПОŃŃоНа на ŃвОи Ок**вавНоннŃĐľ ŃŃки и ŃкаСаНа: ÂŤĐно Đ˝ŃМнО в ŃйОŃĐ˝ŃŃÂť. ÂŤĐŃ ĐźĐžĐśĐľŃĐľ иŃпОНŃСОваŃŃ ŃŃ, ŃŃĐž вниСŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиН ĐониŃ. ĐаПиННа пОŃпоŃнО пОкинŃНа ŃпаНŃĐ˝Ń. УйодивŃиŃŃ, ŃŃĐž довŃŃка воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° поŃвŃĐš ŃŃаМ, ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐˇĐ°ĐşŃŃĐť двоŃŃ Đ¸ пОŃпоŃиН Đş ĐиŃаНиŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ŃСнаН, ŃŃĐž йандиŃŃ, напавŃио на Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ˛ŃĐľŃа, пОдОŃĐťĐ°Đ˝Ń ĐŃŃŃПОП. ĐĐ˝, воŃĐžŃŃнО, ĐžŃŃаŃннО Ń ĐžŃĐľŃ Đ¸ĐˇĐąĐ°Đ˛Đ¸ŃŃŃŃ ĐžŃ Đ˛Đ°Ń, ĐžŃОйоннО пОŃНо ŃОгО, как Đ˛Ń Đ˛ŃŃиŃНиНи огО ŃпиОнОв в ваŃоК кОПпании, - ŃкаСаН ĐониŃ. ĐиŃаНиК СаŃŃОнаН ĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťĐ¸, ŃŃаМиваŃŃŃ, а СаŃоП пОдŃŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ Đş ĐşŃĐ°Ń ĐşŃОваŃи и ОпŃŃŃиН нОги на пОН. ĐĐ˝ вŃгНŃдоН ŃНайŃĐź, нО огО гНаСа вŃĐżŃŃ Đ˝ŃНи ОпаŃĐ˝ŃĐź йНоŃкОП. ĐŃĐśŃина поŃовŃĐť ĐżŃОнСиŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вСгНŃĐ´ на ŃвОогО пОПОŃника. ÂŤĐŃа МонŃина, на кОŃĐžŃОК Ń ĐąŃĐť вŃĐ˝ŃМдон МониŃŃŃŃ, Đ¸ĐźĐľĐľŃ ĐşĐ°ĐşĐžĐľ-НийО ĐžŃнОŃонио Đş ĐŃŃŃĐźŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН Он. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżĐžĐ˝Đ¸ĐˇĐ¸Đť гОНОŃ: ÂŤĐа ŃаПОП доНо, ĐŃŃŃĐź ŃвŃСаНŃŃ Ń Đ˛Đ°ŃиП ŃĐľŃŃоП, ĐиŃОнОП. ĐĐ˝ ŃŃŃоПиНŃŃ Đ˛ŃдаŃŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ´ĐžŃŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐźŃĐś Са ŃНона ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ , нО, ĐżĐžŃ ĐžĐśĐľ, никОгда но ŃаŃŃПаŃŃиваН ваŃогО ĐşŃСона ĐĐťŃŃ, как ĐżĐžĐ´Ń ĐžĐ´ŃŃогО кандидаŃа. ĐОНМнО ĐąŃŃŃ, ĐŃŃŃĐź дОгОвОŃиНŃŃ Ń Đ˝Đ¸ĐźÂť. ÂŤĐĐ˝ но поŃĐľŃŃаŃŃ ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ŃдивНŃŃŃ ĐşĐ°ĐśĐ´ŃĐš донŃ. ĐĄ ПОоК ŃŃĐžŃĐžĐ˝Ń ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃ Đ˝Đľ воМНивО ĐżŃОПОНŃаŃŃ Đ˛ ĐžŃвоŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН ĐиŃаНиК. Đа вŃĐľĐźŃ ĐžŃŃŃŃŃŃĐ˛Đ¸Ń ĐиŃаНиŃ, в гОŃОдо ĐżŃОиСОŃНО ПнОгО ŃОйŃŃиК, в кОŃĐžŃŃŃ ĐąŃĐť СаПоŃан ĐĐťŃŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ŃĐťŃŃаН, ŃŃĐž Ń ĐĐťŃи ĐľŃŃŃ ĐˇĐ°Ń ŃдаНŃĐš ĐąĐ°Ń "ШаŃĐź" на ŃНиŃĐľ ĐŃйаŃŃкаŃÂť, - ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐ˝ŃĐť ĐиŃаНиК. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛ŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ˝ŃĐť Ń ĐżĐžĐťŃŃНОва. ÂŤĐа, пОŃкОНŃĐşŃ ŃпиОнОв вŃгнаНи иС кОПпании, ŃŃĐžŃ ĐşĐťŃĐą ŃŃаН Đ¸Ń ĐľĐ´Đ¸Đ˝ŃŃвоннŃĐź иŃŃĐžŃникОП Đ´ĐžŃ ĐžĐ´Đ°, и ĐľŃНи огО СакŃĐžŃŃ, ŃĐž иП ĐżŃидŃŃŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐ˛ĐžĐťŃнО ŃŃгО, - ŃкаСаН ĐониŃ. ÂŤĐОПОги иП в ŃŃОП, - ŃкаСаН ĐиŃаНиК, и огО ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ŃŃаН на ОкŃĐ°Đ˛Ń Đ˝Đ¸ĐśĐľ. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ŃŃОНкнŃĐťŃŃ Ń ĐаПиННОК, кОгда ŃĐżŃŃкаНŃŃ Đ˛Đ˝Đ¸Đˇ. ĐĐ˝ ĐżŃодпОНОМиН, ŃŃĐž ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ ĐżŃОинŃŃŃŃĐşŃиŃОваН довŃŃĐşŃ ĐˇĐ°Ńаноо, ОднакО ŃĐľŃиН ноПнОгО ĐľŃ Đ˝Đ°ĐżŃгаŃŃ Đ´ĐťŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃогО ŃŃŃокŃа: ÂŤĐŃНи Đ˛Ń ŃаŃŃкаМоŃĐľ Ой ŃŃОП кОПŃ-нийŃĐ´Ń, Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ˝Đ°ŃŃĐ¸ĐłĐ˝ĐľŃ ŃМаŃĐ˝Đ°Ń ŃПоŃŃŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН Он. ĐŃНи ŃĐťŃŃ Đž ŃŃĐ°Đ˛ĐźĐ°Ń ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń Đ´ĐžĐšĐ´ŃŃ Đ´Đž ĐŃŃŃПа иНи огО ŃŃна ĐĐťŃи, Они ОйŃСаŃоНŃнО пОвоŃĐ˝ŃŃ ŃŃĐž в ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐżĐžĐťŃСŃ. ĐаПиННа кивнŃНа: ÂŤĐŻ ŃĐžŃ ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃŃĐž в ŃаКно. ĐŻ ŃОНŃкО вОСŃĐźŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ°ĐżŃĐľŃĐşŃ Đ¸ ноПодНоннО ŃКдŃÂť. ĐОгда довŃŃка воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃпаНŃĐ˝Ń, ŃĐž ОйнаŃŃМиНа ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ, ŃŃĐžŃŃогО Ń ĐžĐşĐ˝Đ° напŃĐžŃив двоŃи. ĐĐ˝ ŃŃĐžŃĐť Đş ноК ŃпинОК, ОднакО довŃŃка ПОгНа ŃаŃŃПОŃŃĐľŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž ŃиŃОкио пНоŃи и ĐźŃŃĐşŃНиŃŃŃŃ ŃпинŃ. ĐгО ŃоНО ĐąŃНО ŃŃŃОКнŃĐź, ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž идоаНŃĐ˝ŃĐź. ÂŤĐŃ ŃаСво но ŃŃНи?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН ĐźŃĐśŃина наŃПоŃНивŃĐź гОНОŃОП. ĐĐ˝ но ОйоŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ, нО какиП-ŃĐž ОйŃаСОП пОнŃĐť, ŃŃĐž Она ŃПОŃŃĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° ногО. ĐОСПОМнО, Он пОŃŃвŃŃвОваН ĐľŃ ĐłĐžŃŃŃиК вСгНŃĐ´. ĐаПиННа ŃĐźŃŃŃннО ОпŃŃŃиНа гОНОвŃ. Đак ĐąŃ ĐľĐš но Ń ĐžŃоНОŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐżŃиСнаваŃŃ, нО ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźŃĐśŃина СаинŃĐľŃĐľŃОваН ĐľŃ. ĐНава 4 ĐĄŃаМиŃОвка ĐаПиННа, ОпŃŃŃив гОНОвŃ, ŃĐžŃОпНивО вСŃНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ°ĐżŃĐľŃĐşŃ. ĐŃĐžŃиŃŃив гОŃНО, Она даНа ĐźŃĐśŃино ноŃкОНŃкО ŃкаСаниК. Đак ĐąŃ ŃаП ни ĐąŃНО, Она вŃŃ ĐśĐľ ĐąŃНа вŃаŃОП. ÂŤĐаП ноНŃĐˇŃ ĐżĐžĐşĐ° ПОŃиŃŃ ŃвОи ŃанŃ. ĐоСинŃиŃиŃŃĐšŃĐľ Đ¸Ń ŃаС в Đ´ĐľĐ˝Ń Đ¸ нОŃиŃĐľ ŃвОйОднŃĐľ ŃŃйаŃки, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˝Đľ ŃаСдŃаМаŃŃ ŃанŃÂť. Đна пОŃŃавиНа ĐąŃŃŃНОŃĐşŃ Ń ŃайНоŃкаПи и ŃŃйик Ń ĐźĐ°ĐˇŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃПйОŃĐşŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ĐžŃŃавНŃŃ Đ˛Đ°Đź ŃŃи НокаŃŃŃва. ĐиŃаНиК ŃŃĐž-ŃĐž ĐżŃОйОŃПОŃаН в Снак ĐżŃиСнаŃоНŃнОŃŃи, нО но ОйоŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ. ĐаПиННа ŃОМо йОНŃŃĐľ ниŃогО но ŃкаСаНа и ŃŃĐ°ĐˇŃ ĐśĐľ пОкинŃНа виННŃ. ĐОгда Она воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˛ йОНŃниŃŃ, ĐąŃНО ŃМо пОŃŃи ОдиннадŃаŃŃ Đ´Đ˝Ń. Đна напŃавиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃŃОНОвŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐľŃокŃŃиŃŃ. Đдва ŃŃŃŃОивŃиŃŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃвОиП ŃŃОНОП, ĐľŃ Đ˛ŃСваНи в ĐşĐ°ĐąĐ¸Đ˝ĐľŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Đ˛ŃаŃа. ÂŤĐŻ ĐžŃĐżŃавНŃŃ ĐŻĐ˝Ń Đ˛ ЌонŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вОоннŃĐš гОŃпиŃĐ°ĐťŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃаМиŃОвкŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН гНаввŃĐ°Ń ŃОнОП, но ŃĐľŃĐżŃŃиП вОСŃаМониК. ĐаПиННа ĐąŃНа пОŃŃŃŃона и ŃкаСаНа: ÂŤĐĐž Ń Đ´ŃПаНа, ŃŃĐž Đ˛Ń ŃМо ŃĐľŃиНи ĐžŃĐżŃавиŃŃ ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń?Âť ÂŤĐаПиННа, Ń ŃвоŃон, ŃŃĐž ŃŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐľŃŃ Đž ŃОП, ŃŃĐž вŃŃ Đ˛ŃŃОкОŃĐľŃ Đ˝ĐžĐťĐžĐłĐ¸ŃнОо ОйОŃŃдОванио наŃоК йОНŃниŃŃ ŃпОнŃиŃОваНОŃŃ ĐşĐžŃпОŃаŃиоК "ĐаŃаПаŃĐ˝Ń". ĐŃĐľĐˇĐ¸Đ´ĐľĐ˝Ń ĐОвикОв НиŃнО пОпŃĐžŃиН ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżĐžĐˇĐ°ĐąĐžŃиŃŃŃŃ Đž Яно. ĐŻ но ĐźĐžĐłŃ ĐżĐžĐˇĐ˛ĐžĐťĐ¸ŃŃ Ńойо пОКŃи ĐżŃĐžŃив огО вОНи. ĐаПиННа ĐžŃĐľŃиниНаŃŃ ĐżŃи ŃпОПинании иПони ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐĽĐžŃŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ¸ и ĐąŃНи ĐžŃиŃиаНŃнО МонаŃŃ, нО Они никОгда но вŃŃŃĐľŃаНиŃŃ. Đна видоНа ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ŃОНŃкО в ĐśŃŃĐ˝Đ°ĐťĐ°Ń Đ¸ инОгда в нОвОŃŃŃŃ ĐżĐž ŃоНовиСОŃŃ. ĐнаŃиŃ, Он и Яна? ĐĄĐľŃĐ´ŃĐľ ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ŃкнŃНО, нО Она ĐžŃŃаваНаŃŃ ŃпОкОКнОК. ÂŤĐĐžŃ ĐşĐ°Đş?Âť ÂŤĐа, йОŃŃŃ, Ń ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ŃвŃĐˇĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃŃки. ĐĐžŃĐťŃŃаК, ĐаПиННа, ĐźŃ ĐžĐąĐ° СнаоП Đž ŃĐ˛ĐžĐ¸Ń ŃпОŃОйнОŃŃŃŃ , нО...Âť - гНаввŃĐ°Ń Ń ĐžŃоН ŃŃпОкОиŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐ˛ŃŃĐşŃ, нО но СнаН, как. ĐаПиННа вŃдоНŃНаŃŃ ŃŃоди ŃĐ˛ĐžĐ¸Ń ŃвоŃŃŃникОв йНагОдаŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐ˛ĐľŃĐžŃŃĐ˝ĐžĐźŃ ŃаНанŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃĐžŃĐľŃŃиОнаНŃнОК ŃŃико. ĐНаввŃĐ°Ń ŃониН ĐľŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐľ вŃĐľŃ ĐžŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃŃ . ÂŤĐŻ пОниПаŃÂť, - ĐżŃОйОŃПОŃаНа ĐаПиННа Ńойо пОд нОŃ. ĐовŃŃка гОвОŃиНа Ńойо, ŃŃĐž Она ĐąŃНа но в ŃОП пОНОМонии, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃаŃŃŃŃаиваŃŃŃŃ Đ¸Đˇ-Са вПоŃаŃоНŃŃŃва ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐĐ˝ ĐąŃĐť вŃĐ˝ŃМдон МониŃŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ноК, и, ĐľŃŃĐľŃŃвоннО, Она но ПОгНа ŃаŃŃŃиŃŃваŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž Он ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐąĐžŃиŃŃŃŃ Đž ноК. ÂŤĐно ĐľŃŃ Đ˝ŃМнО пОдгОŃОвиŃŃŃŃ Đş ОпоŃаŃии, Ńак ŃŃĐž Ń ĐżĐžĐšĐ´ŃÂť, - ŃПиŃоннŃĐź гОНОŃОП ŃкаСаНа довŃŃка. ĐаПиННа пОниПаНа, ŃŃĐž ниŃогО но ĐźĐžĐśĐľŃ ŃдоНаŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ¸ĐˇĐźĐľĐ˝Đ¸ŃŃ ŃиŃŃаŃиŃ. ĐНаввŃĐ°Ń ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž Đ˛ĐˇĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝ŃĐť и ŃПОŃŃоН, как Она ŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸Ń. ĐаПиННа Ń ŃĐ˝ŃŃСиаСПОП пОгŃŃСиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃайОŃŃ, ĐżŃŃаŃŃŃ Đ˝Đľ Đ´ŃПаŃŃ Đž ŃŃаМиŃОвко. Đна йоС СаПинки ĐżŃОвоНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ˛ŃĐžŃŃŃ ĐžĐżĐľŃаŃиŃ, СаŃоП ŃĐ˝ŃНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃгиŃĐľŃĐşŃŃ ŃĐžŃĐźŃ Đ¸, пОŃПОŃŃов ввоŃŃ , ŃŃŃаНО пНŃŃ Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃŃĐť. ĐПоннО в ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń Đ˛ гОŃŃинŃŃ Đ˛ĐžŃНа Яна и ŃкаСаНа: ÂŤĐĐ´ŃавŃŃвŃĐš, ĐаПиННа, - пОпŃивоŃŃŃвОваНа Она, ŃŃкО ŃĐťŃйаŃŃŃ. - Đ˘Ń ŃвОйОдна воŃĐľŃОП? ĐĐžĐˇĐ˛ĐžĐťŃ ŃгОŃŃиŃŃ ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃМинОП. ÂŤĐСвини, нО Ń ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐľŃŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐťĐ°, Ń ĐşĐžŃĐžŃŃПи Đ˝ŃМнО ŃаСОйŃаŃŃŃŃ ĐżĐžĐˇĐśĐľÂť, - воМНивО ĐžŃкаСаНаŃŃ ĐаПиННа. ĐовŃŃка но ĐąŃНа в Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ĐžŃнОŃониŃŃ Ń ĐŻĐ˝ĐžĐš. Đни ĐąŃНи ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž кОННогаПи, а но пОдŃŃгаПи. Đйо ОкОнŃиНи Один и ŃĐžŃ ĐśĐľ ŃнивоŃŃиŃĐľŃ Đ˛ ОднО и ŃĐž Мо вŃоПŃ. ĐŃŃ ŃОгда Яна ĐąŃНа ŃОК ĐľŃŃ ŃŃŃŃкОК. Đна ĐąŃНа ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń Đ°ĐźĐąĐ¸ŃиОСнОК и вŃогда Ń ĐžŃоНа пОкŃаŃОваŃŃŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃивНокаŃŃ Đ˛ŃоОйŃоо вниПанио. ĐаПиННа, в ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐžŃĐľŃодŃ, ĐżŃодпОŃиŃаНа ĐžŃŃаваŃŃŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐˇĐ°ĐźĐľŃнОК и ĐąŃНа пОгŃŃМона в ŃвОи книги. ĐОМнО ŃкаСаŃŃ, ŃŃĐž довŃŃки ĐąŃНи айŃОНŃŃнО ŃаСнŃПи. ĐОнŃŃнОо доНО, ŃŃĐž Они но ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐž НадиНи. ÂŤĐ, ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐśĐ°ĐťŃ, - ŃкаСаНа Яна, вŃгНŃĐ´Ń ĐżĐžŃоПŃ-ŃĐž ŃĐźŃŃŃннОК. - ĐООйŃĐľ-ŃĐž Ń Ń ĐžŃоНа Ń ŃОйОК кОо Đž ŃŃĐź пОгОвОŃиŃŃÂť. ĐаПиННа вŃŃаНа и пОдОŃНа Đş ŃĐ˛ĐžĐľĐźŃ ŃкаŃŃикŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐžĐ˛ĐľŃиŃŃ Ń Đ°ĐťĐ°Ń. ÂŤĐОвОŃи, - ŃкаСаНа Она, но гНŃĐ´Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐŻĐ˝Ń. Đ˘ĐžŃ ŃакŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐľŃ ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐłĐ° Ńак иНи инаŃĐľ ŃвŃСаНаŃŃ Ń ĐиŃаНиоП, ĐľŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐľ ĐžŃдаНиН ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐžŃ ĐŻĐ˝Ń. ТŃ, дОНМнО ĐąŃŃŃ, ŃĐťŃŃаНа, да? Đно ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐśĐ°ĐťŃ. ĐŻ пОнŃŃĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đľ иПоНа, ŃŃĐž диŃокŃĐžŃâŚÂť ÂŤĐŃŃ Đ˛ пОŃŃдко, - поŃойиНа ĐаПиННа. ĐднакО Яна ĐľŃŃ Đ˝Đľ вŃŃ ŃкаСаНа и ĐżŃОдОНМиНа: ÂŤĐ ĐľŃŃ, ПОМоŃŃ ŃĐžŃ ŃаниŃŃ Đ˛ ŃокŃĐľŃĐľ ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž вŃĐľŃа воŃĐľŃОП ŃŃ Đ˛ŃŃНа на ŃĐźĐľĐ˝Ń Đ˛ĐźĐľŃŃĐž ПонŃ? ĐнаоŃŃ, пОŃкОНŃĐşŃ Ń ŃОйиŃаŃŃŃ Đ˛ ЌонŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вОоннŃĐš гОŃпиŃаНŃ, Ń Đ˝Đľ Ń ĐžŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃŃĐž ĐżŃиŃиниНО какио-НийО ĐżŃОйНоПŃÂť. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž ĐżŃĐžŃŃйа ĐŻĐ˝Ń ĐąŃНа ноОйŃŃнОК, ĐаПиННа но Đ´ŃПаНа Ой ŃŃОП и ĐžŃвоŃиНа: ÂŤĐŻ Đ˝Đ¸ĐşĐžĐźŃ Đ˝Đľ ŃкаМŃÂť. Đ ĐťŃйОП ŃĐťŃŃао, но ĐąŃНО ниŃогО ŃŃŃаннОгО в ŃОП, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛ĐˇŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐłĐ¸. ĐŃĐľĐźŃ ĐžŃ Đ˛ŃоПони иП ĐżŃĐ¸Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐžŃŃ ŃŃаНкиваŃŃŃŃ Ń ĐťĐ¸ŃĐ˝ŃПи ŃŃоСвŃŃаКнŃПи ОйŃŃĐžŃŃоНŃŃŃваПи. Đа ŃĐľŃŃиŃĐžŃии йОНŃниŃŃ. ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ ŃидоН на СадноП ŃидонŃĐľ Đ´ĐžŃОгОК ŃŃŃнОК ПаŃинŃ, кОŃĐžŃĐ°Ń ĐąŃНа ĐżŃипаŃкОвана Ń Đ˛ĐžŃĐžŃ. ÂŤĐŃ, - ŃкаСаН Он гОНОŃОП, поŃопОНноннŃĐź гОŃĐ´ĐžŃŃŃŃ, - ŃŃĐž Đ´ŃПаоŃŃ Đž ПОоК ŃŃониŃĐľ? ĐŁ Đ˝ĐľŃ ĐžŃНиŃĐ˝ŃĐľ ŃпОŃОйнОŃŃи, но Ńак Ни?Âť Đ ŃдОП Ń ĐźŃĐśŃинОК ŃидоН ĐиŃаНиК, ĐžŃкинŃвŃиŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐżĐ¸Đ˝ĐşŃ ŃидонŃŃ. ĐĐ˝ ŃнОва пОдŃПаН Đž вŃаŃĐľ, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš НоŃиН огО, и вŃпОПниН, какиПи ŃпОкОКнŃПи и ŃĐžŃĐ˝ŃПи ĐąŃНи ĐľŃ Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвиŃ. Đа ŃаПОП доНо, ĐźŃĐśŃина ĐąŃĐť пОŃаМон ĐľŃ ŃпОŃОйнОŃŃŃПи. ÂŤĐŃĐž гОŃпОМа ĐОНкОва, - вдŃŃĐł СагОвОŃиН ĐониŃ. ĐиŃаНиК ОпŃŃŃиН ŃŃокНО как ŃаС в ŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń, кОгда Яна пОдОŃНа Đş ПаŃино. ĐŃОви ФŃĐ´ĐžŃа пОднŃНиŃŃ, и Он ŃкаСаН: Яна?Âť ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐžĐąĐľŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ Ń Đ˛ĐžĐ´Đ¸ŃоНŃŃкОгО ПоŃŃа и ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН: ÂŤĐŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐľŃĐľ ĐľŃ?Âť ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ ĐşĐ¸Đ˛Đ˝ŃĐť, огО вСгНŃĐ´ СайНоŃŃоН ĐžŃ ĐťŃйОпŃŃŃŃва. ÂŤĐна ĐąŃНа ŃŃŃдонŃкОК на гОд ПНадŃĐľ в ПОŃĐź ŃнивоŃŃиŃĐľŃо. ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ŃŃаНО ĐťŃйОпŃŃнО, кОгда Он ŃŃĐťŃŃаН ŃŃĐž. ĐнаŃиŃ, ŃŃа довŃŃка но ŃОНŃкО ŃпаŃНа огО ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ, нО и СаНоŃиНа огО ŃанŃ? ÂŤĐŃĐž ŃŃĐ´Ńйа?Âť - вОŃкНикнŃĐť ĐониŃ. ĐŃĐľĐťĐľĐ˝Đ˝Đ°Ń Đ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ĐľŃ ŃĐľŃиНа даŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž йОŃŃŃ ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐťŃйОвŃ? ÂŤĐакОгО ŃŃŃŃа ŃŃ Đ˝ĐľŃŃŃŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ, Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐźŃŃивŃиŃŃ, поŃĐľĐ˛ĐžĐ´Ń Đ˛ĐˇĐłĐťŃĐ´ Ń ĐžĐ´Đ˝ĐžĐłĐž ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° Đ´ŃŃгОгО. ...... ЧŃĐž ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃ Đ´Đ°ĐťŃŃĐľ? ĐОНиŃĐľŃŃвО гНав СдоŃŃ ĐžĐłŃаниŃонО, наМПиŃĐľ на ĐşĐ˝ĐžĐżĐşŃ Đ˝Đ¸ĐśĐľ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃŃŃанОвиŃŃ ĐżŃиНОМонио и ĐżŃОдОНМиŃŃ ŃŃонио йОНоо ĐˇĐ°Ń Đ˛Đ°ŃŃваŃŃĐ¸Ń ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛! (ĐŃ ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃĐľ авŃОПаŃиŃĐľŃки поŃонапŃĐ°Đ˛ĐťĐľĐ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° книгŃ, кОгда ĐžŃĐşŃОоŃĐľ ĐżŃиНОМонио) &9& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.litradnovie.com/10251418-fb_contact- | Hello reading | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.litradnovie.com | IMAGE | https://fbweb.litradnovie.com/10251418-fb_contact-ruj17_6-1108-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=238502339210583&rawadid=120213195235520476 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465737714_1050368360105220_116821604764712851_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Tx2dKGwTrcoQ7kNvgEqkhVi&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AN9IFGtRXwCWLeji_vgs1Yk&oh=00_AYB8Zy21FcUsdY5upmDM-Jkby8sq7P2EjdC7GlqTT-DHhQ&oe=674599CD | REGULAR_PAGE | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-21 19:36 | active | 1905 | 0 | ЧиŃаŃŃ ŃНодŃŃŃŃŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Ńđ | ĐОгда Она ŃСнаНа, ŃŃĐž ноСнакОПŃĐš ĐźŃĐśŃина, Ń ĐşĐžŃĐžŃŃĐź Она ĐżŃОвоНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐżĐľŃвŃŃ ĐąŃаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃ, ОкаСаНŃŃ ĐľĐľ СакОннŃĐź ĐźŃМоП пО дОгОвОŃоннОŃŃи, Она ŃĐžŃНа Ń ŃПа! ===== ĐаПиННа ĐĐľŃŃОва ŃĐľĐłĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń Đ˛ŃŃНа СаПŃĐś. РноŃŃаŃŃŃŃ Đ´ĐťŃ Đ˝ĐľŃ, ĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ° нигдо но ĐąŃНО виднО. Đна ОгНŃдоНа ĐżŃŃŃŃŃ ĐşĐžĐźĐ˝Đ°ŃŃ, и ĐľŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐž ŃŃаНО йоНŃĐź, ŃНОвнО ĐżŃĐžŃŃŃĐ˝Ń. Đна ŃŃвŃŃвОваНа ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃОвоŃŃоннО ŃниМоннОК. ĐаПиННа но МоНаНа ŃĐľŃпоŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐžŃкОŃйНонио! ĐĐž ŃŃĐž Она ПОгНа пОдоНаŃŃ? ĐĄ ŃаПОгО ŃĐžĐśĐ´ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛ŃĐľ аŃпокŃŃ ĐľŃ ĐśĐ¸ĐˇĐ˝Đ¸ кОнŃŃОНиŃОваНиŃŃ Đ´ŃŃгиПи ĐťŃĐ´ŃПи. ХаПО ŃОйОК ŃаСŃПооŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž каŃаНОŃŃ Đ¸ ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐźŃМоŃŃва. ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐżŃинŃдиН Đş ŃŃĐžĐźŃ ŃĐžŃĐˇŃ ĐžŃĐľŃ, ŃоНОвок, кОŃĐžŃŃĐź ŃĐżŃавНŃНа МаднОŃŃŃ. ĐŃ Đ´ĐľĐ´ŃŃка ŃайОŃаН ŃĐžŃŃŃОП Ń Đ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐžĐ˝Đ° ĐОвикОва, ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Ń ĐźĐžĐłŃŃĐľŃŃвоннОК ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ . ĐĐž Đ´ĐžŃаднОК ŃĐťŃŃаКнОŃŃи Они пОпаНи в ŃМаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ°Đ˛Đ°ŃиŃ, в кОŃĐžŃОК дод ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐżĐžĐłĐ¸Đą, ŃпаŃĐ°Ń Đ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐžĐ˝Đ°. РпОŃНоднио ПоŃŃŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐ°Ń ĐşĐžĐźĐżĐ°Đ˝Đ¸Ń, кОŃĐžŃОК ŃĐżŃавНŃНа ĐľŃ ŃоПŃŃ, воСдо и вŃŃĐ´Ń ĐżĐžĐłŃŃСНа в ОгŃОПнŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐťĐłĐ°Ń . Đни Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐ¸ŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐłŃани йанкŃĐžŃŃŃва. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃĐž, ĐľŃ Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃĐš ĐžŃĐľŃ ĐžŃкаСаНŃŃ ĐżŃĐžŃиŃŃ ĐżĐžĐźĐžŃи Ń ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ , СнаŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐž ĐžŃĐźĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ´ĐžĐťĐł, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš Они Đ´ĐžĐťĐśĐ˝Ń ĐąŃНи ŃоПŃĐľ ĐĐľŃŃОвŃŃ . ĐПоŃŃĐž ŃŃОгО Он ĐżŃидŃПаН пНан, ŃОгНаŃнО кОŃĐžŃĐžĐźŃ Đ˛Đ˝ŃĐş РОдиОна, ĐиŃаНиК ĐОвикОв, МониŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐаПиННо. ĐŁŃиŃŃĐ˛Đ°Ń ĐąĐžĐłĐ°ŃŃŃвО ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ , Они ĐąŃНи ŃвоŃонŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃĐľ дадŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃио донŃги в ОйПон на ŃŃĐşŃ Đ¸ ŃĐľŃĐ´ŃĐľ ĐаПиННŃ. Đ, в каŃĐľŃŃво дОпОНниŃоНŃнОгО йОнŃŃа, Они, накОноŃ, ŃŃŃанОвиНи ĐąŃ ĐąĐžĐťĐľĐľ ĐżŃĐžŃĐ˝ŃŃ ŃвŃĐˇŃ Ń ŃоПŃŃĐš ĐОвикОвŃŃ , кОŃĐžŃĐ°Ń ĐąŃНа ĐąŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐşĐžĐ˝Đ˝Đž ŃĐşŃопНона. РаСŃПооŃŃŃ, ŃоПŃŃ ĐОвикОвŃŃ Đ˝Đľ ПОгНа пОСвОНиŃŃ Ńойо ĐžŃкаСаŃŃŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃОгО ĐżŃодНОМониŃ, инаŃĐľ Они ŃиŃкОваНи пОŃĐľŃŃŃŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐž в ŃОП иНи инОП ŃĐťŃŃао. ĐиŃаНиК ŃĐľŃиН вŃŃаСиŃŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ˝ĐľĐ´ĐžĐ˛ĐžĐťŃŃŃвО вŃоП ŃŃиП, но ŃвивŃиŃŃ Đ˝Đ° йанкоŃ, Ń ĐžŃŃ Đ˝Đ° Đ˝ŃĐź но ĐżŃиŃŃŃŃŃвОваНО никОгО, ĐşŃОПо ŃНонОв ŃоПоК. ĐĐ˝ ŃакМо ĐžŃкаСаН ĐаПиННо в иŃпОНŃСОвании ŃаПиНии ĐОвикОвŃŃ Đ¸ СапŃĐľŃиН оК гОвОŃиŃŃ ĐťŃĐ´ŃĐź, ŃŃĐž Она огО Мона. Đа ĐżŃĐžŃŃМонии вŃогО ŃŃОгО, ĐžŃ Đ˝Đ°ŃаНа и Đ´Đž кОнŃа, никŃĐž но пОŃŃŃдиНŃŃ ŃĐżŃĐžŃиŃŃ ĐźĐ˝ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Đľ ŃаПОК ĐаПиННŃ. ХоКŃĐ°Ń ĐžĐ˝Đ° ŃŃĐžĐ¸Ń Ń ĐżŃŃПОК ŃпинОК и ŃаŃĐżŃавНоннŃПи пНоŃаПи. ĐŃ ŃĐľŃниŃŃ, вОСПОМнО, ŃНогка Đ´ŃОМаНи, нО в ĐłĐťĐ°ĐˇĐ°Ń ŃиŃаНОŃŃ ŃĐżŃŃĐźŃŃвО. Đна но ŃОйиŃаНаŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ´Đ´Đ°Đ˛Đ°ŃŃŃŃ ŃниМониŃ. ĐĐž как оК ŃНодŃĐľŃ ĐżĐžŃŃŃпиŃŃ? Đ ŃĐž вŃоПŃ, кОгда довŃŃка ŃаСПŃŃĐťŃНа Đž ŃОП, как ĐżŃОводŃŃ ĐżĐľŃвŃŃ ĐąŃаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃ, Она пОНŃŃиНа ŃООйŃонио ĐžŃ ĐžĐ´Đ˝ĐžĐš иС ŃĐ˛ĐžĐ¸Ń ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐł. ĐонŃина ĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐżĐžĐ´ĐźĐľĐ˝Đ¸ŃŃ ĐľŃ Đ˝Đ° нОŃнОК ŃПоно. Та но ŃŃаНа дОНгО ŃаСдŃĐźŃваŃŃ. Đна вŃŃНа иС СаНа и вŃСваНа ŃакŃи, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐžŃĐżŃавиŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ йОНŃниŃŃ. ĐгнОвониоП пОСМо Она ОкаСаНаŃŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃĐľ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа йОНŃниŃŃ, ĐżŃОвоŃŃŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ¸Ńи паŃионŃОв, а ĐľŃ Đ˛ĐľŃĐľŃноо пНаŃŃĐľ давнО ŃПониНОŃŃ ĐąĐľĐťŃĐź НайОŃаŃĐžŃĐ˝ŃĐź Ń Đ°ĐťĐ°ŃОП. ĐноСапнО двоŃŃ Ń ĐłŃОПкиП ŃŃŃкОП ŃаŃĐżĐ°Ń Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ Ń Đ˛Đ˝ĐľŃноК ŃŃĐžŃĐžĐ˝Ń Đ¸ ŃдаŃиНаŃŃ Đž ŃŃонŃ. ĐĐľ ŃŃпоНа ĐаПиННа пОднŃŃŃ ĐłĐťĐ°ĐˇĐ°, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛ĐˇĐłĐťŃĐ˝ŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐżŃОиŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸Ń, как двоŃŃ ŃнОва ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐťĐžĐżĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ. ĐаŃоП Она ŃŃĐťŃŃаНа ŃоНŃОк вŃкНŃŃаŃоНŃ, и в пОПоŃонии ŃŃаНО ŃоПнО. ĐĐž ĐľŃ Ńпино ĐżŃОйоМаН Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´ĐžĐş. ÂŤĐŃĐž...Âť ĐĐľ ŃŃпоНа Она дОгОвОŃиŃŃ, как ĐľŃ ŃОНкнŃНи на ŃŃОН. ĐŃŃа канŃоНŃŃŃĐşĐ¸Ń ĐżŃинадНоМнОŃŃоК ŃпаНа на пОН, и в ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐžĐ˝Đ° пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа, как Đş ĐľŃ Ńоо ĐżŃиМаНŃŃ Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐš ĐžŃŃŃŃĐš Đş*аК Đ˝*Ма. ÂŤĐ˘Đ¸Ń Đž!Âť - ŃвиŃопО ĐżŃĐžŃопŃаН нападавŃиК. ĐовŃŃка одва ПОгНа ŃаСгНŃĐ´ĐľŃŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐž ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ, Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž гНаСа вŃдоНŃНиŃŃ. Đни ПоŃŃаНи в ŃŃŃкНОП ŃвоŃĐľ, огО вСгНŃĐ´ ĐąŃĐť пОНОн йдиŃоНŃнОŃŃи. РвОСдŃŃ Đľ вОкŃŃĐł Đ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛Đ¸ŃаН СнакОПŃĐš ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ°Ń ĐśĐľĐťĐľĐˇĐ°, и Она пОнŃНа, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐžŃ ŃоНОвок Ńанон. ĐНагОдаŃŃ ĐźĐ˝ĐžĐłĐžĐťĐľŃĐ˝ĐľĐźŃ ĐžĐąŃŃĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ¸ ОпŃŃŃ Đ˛ŃаŃа, ĐаПиННа ŃПОгНа ŃĐžŃ ŃаниŃŃ ŃпОкОКŃŃвио. ĐаŃоП Она ПодНоннО ŃОгнŃНа ĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń Đ˝ĐžĐłŃ, пНаниŃŃŃ Đ°ŃакОваŃŃ ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ĐşĐžĐťĐľĐ˝ĐžĐź. ĐĐž ŃĐžŃ Đ˛Đ¸Đ´ĐľĐť ĐľŃ Đ˝Đ°ŃквОСŃ. Đак ŃОНŃкО Он пОŃŃвŃŃвОваН ĐľŃ Đ´Đ˛Đ¸ĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Đľ, ŃĐž Ń ŃиНОК ŃМаН ĐľŃ Đ˝ĐžĐłĐ¸ вПоŃŃĐľ и ĐżŃиМаН Đş ŃŃĐžĐťŃ ŃвОиПи ПОŃĐ˝ŃПи ĐąŃĐ´ŃаПи. ĐĐ´ŃŃĐł в кОŃидОŃĐľ пОŃĐťŃŃаНŃŃ ŃŃĐź ŃагОв. Đни напŃавНŃНиŃŃ ĐżŃŃПО в кОПнаŃŃ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа. ÂŤĐŃŃŃŃоо, Ń Đ˛Đ¸Đ´ĐľĐťĐ°, как Он ŃŃĐť ŃŃда!Âť ĐĐžŃŃаŃĐžŃнО ĐąŃНО ОднОгО ĐşŃика Đž пОПОŃи, и ŃŃи ĐťŃди вОŃваНиŃŃ ĐąŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃŃ. ĐŃŃаŃвŃиŃŃ, ĐźŃĐśŃина ОпŃŃŃиН ĐłĐžĐťĐžĐ˛Ń Đ¸ пО**НОваН ĐаПиННŃ. Đна ŃŃаНа йОŃĐžŃŃŃŃ Đ¸ ĐąŃНа ŃдивНона ŃоП, ŃŃĐž ŃПОгНа НогкО ĐžŃŃОНкнŃŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž. ТоП йОНоо, ŃŃĐž ĐźŃĐśŃина йОНŃŃĐľ но ŃĐłŃОМаН оК Đ˝*МОП. ĐŃŃНи довŃŃки СаПоŃаНиŃŃ. Đ ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ŃĐžŃ, ĐşŃĐž Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťŃŃ ĐżĐž ŃŃ ŃŃĐžŃĐžĐ˝Ń Đ´Đ˛ĐľŃи, ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиНŃŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃŃŃĐşŃ. ĐŃинŃв ŃĐľŃонио, ĐаПиННа ĐżŃиŃŃĐ˝ŃНа ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń Đş Ńойо и ОйвиНа ŃŃкаПи огО ŃĐľŃ. Đа ŃŃĐžŃ ŃаС Она пО**НОваНа огО. ÂŤĐŻ ĐźĐžĐłŃ Đ˛Đ°Đź пОПОŃŃÂť, - ĐżŃОйОŃПОŃаНа Она пОд нОŃ, надоŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐľŃ ŃŃŃĐ°Ń Đ˝Đľ ĐąŃĐť СаПоŃон. ĐŃĐśŃина ŃŃПнО ŃгНОŃĐ˝ŃĐť. ĐĐźŃ ĐżĐžŃŃойОваНаŃŃ ŃокŃнда, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżŃинŃŃŃ ŃĐľŃонио, СаŃоП Она пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа огО гОŃŃŃоо Đ´ŃŃ Đ°Đ˝Đ¸Đľ Ń ŃвОогО ŃŃ Đ°: ÂŤĐŻ вОСŃĐźŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐľĐąŃ ĐžŃвоŃŃŃвоннОŃŃŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃŃО. ĐгО ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐąŃĐť ниСкиП и ĐżŃиŃŃгаŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐź. ĐĐž Он, ĐżĐžŃ ĐžĐśĐľ, нопŃавиНŃнО пОнŃĐť. Đна Ń ĐžŃоНа, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛ŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНО ĐżŃиŃвОŃŃŃвОП. ĐĐ˝ но дОНМон ĐąŃĐť ни Са ŃŃĐž ĐąŃаŃŃ ĐžŃвоŃŃŃвоннОŃŃŃ. Đ ŃНодŃŃŃŃŃ ŃокŃĐ˝Đ´Ń Đ´Đ˛ĐľŃŃ ŃнОва ŃаŃĐżĐ°Ń Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ. ĐаПиННа и ĐźŃĐśŃина ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ ŃНиНиŃŃ Đ˛ ĐžŃĐľŃоднОП пО**ĐťŃĐľ. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° Đ¸Ń ĐˇĐ°ŃŃŃдниŃоНŃнОо пОНОМонио, ĐźŃĐśŃина ОйнаŃŃМиН, ŃŃĐž огО ŃоНО ŃŃоагиŃОваНО на СвŃĐş. ĐĐ˝ ПОг ĐąŃ ĐżĐžŃĐľŃŃŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ Đ˝ŃĐź, ĐľŃНи ĐąŃ ĐťŃди Са двоŃŃŃ Đ˝Đľ СагОвОŃиНи. Ч*ŃŃ Đ˛*СŃПи! Đа ŃŃĐž Мо ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž Ń**ŃŃŃаŃŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃĐžŃка. ЧŃвак, Они и впŃĐ°Đ˛Đ´Ń ĐˇĐ°Đ˝Đ¸ĐźĐ°ŃŃŃŃ ŃŃиП в йОНŃниŃĐľ. ĐПоКŃĐľ Ń ĐžŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐźĐ˝ĐžĐłĐž ĐżŃиНиŃиŃ!Âť ĐĄĐ˛ĐľŃ Đ¸Đˇ кОŃидОŃа ĐżŃОникаН в кОПнаŃŃ, ĐžĐąĐ˝Đ°ĐśĐ°Ń ĐżĐ°ŃŃ. ĐднакО ŃоНО ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ĐąŃНО ĐžĐąŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃонО ĐаПиННОК, ŃĐşŃŃĐ˛Đ°Ń ĐľĐłĐž НиŃĐž ĐžŃ ĐťŃйОпŃŃĐ˝ŃŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đˇ ноСванŃŃ ĐłĐžŃŃоК. ЧŃĐž Đś, ŃŃĐž ŃĐžŃнО но ĐиŃаНиК. ĐŃĐžŃ ŃйНŃдОк ŃŃМоНО Ńанон. ĐоваМнО, наŃкОНŃкО ŃОйНаСниŃоНŃна МонŃина, Ń ŃОПноваŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Ń Đ˝ĐľĐłĐž Ń Đ˛Đ°ŃĐ¸Ń ŃиН ŃдоНаŃŃ Ń Đ˝ĐľĐš ŃŃĐž-нийŃĐ´ŃÂť. ÂŤĐĐž, ŃŃвак, ŃŃа МонŃина иСдаŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐ˛ĐžĐťŃнО ĐżŃиŃŃĐ˝ŃĐľ СвŃки, а?Âť ÂŤĐаŃкниŃŃ Đ¸ пОŃовоНиваКŃŃ! ĐаП Đ˝ŃМнО наКŃи ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐşĐ°Đş ПОМнО ŃкОŃоо, инаŃĐľ ĐźŃ ĐżĐžŃĐľŃŃоП гОНОвŃ!Âť ĐĐžŃĐťŃŃаНŃŃ ŃĐžŃĐžŃ Đ¸ ŃĐžĐżĐžŃ Đ˝ĐžĐł, и ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ĐąŃĐžŃиНиŃŃ ĐżŃĐžŃŃ, а двоŃŃ Đ˛ĐľŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ¸ŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ˝ĐžĐľ пОНОМонио. ĐŃĐśŃина СнаН, ŃŃĐž огО ĐżŃĐľŃНодОваŃоНи ŃŃНи, нО ĐžŃОСнанио ŃОгО, ŃŃĐž ŃопоŃŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ¸ ĐžŃŃаНиŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ˝Đ¸, пОдоКŃŃвОваНО на огО ŃаПООйНаданио. ĐĐ˝ ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž ŃĐžŃваНŃŃ, и Đ˝ĐľĐžĐśĐ¸Đ´Đ°Đ˝Đ˝Đ°Ń Đ˛ĐžĐťĐ˝Đ° Đż**ĐžŃи ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐťĐľŃŃĐ˝ŃНа огО. ĐŃĐžŃ ĐżĐžŃОк Мо**Đ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˝Đľ ОйОŃŃĐť ŃŃĐžŃОнОК и ĐаПиННŃ. ĐОСПОМнО, доНО ĐąŃНО в Đ¸Ń ĐąĐťĐ¸ĐˇĐžŃŃи, иНи в ŃОП, как инŃиПнО Они каŃаНиŃŃ Đ´ŃŃĐł Đ´ŃŃга, а ĐźĐžĐśĐľŃ ĐąŃŃŃ, вО вноСапнОП ĐżŃиНиво адŃонаНина, нО на пОвоŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ ĐąŃĐ˝ŃаŃŃĐşĐ°Ń ĐśĐ¸ĐťĐşĐ°, Đž кОŃĐžŃОК Она даМо но пОдОСŃоваНа. ĐĐž ŃŃОгО ПОПонŃа довŃŃка МиНа ŃĐľŃОК ОднООйŃаСнОК МиСнŃŃ, вŃогда пОдŃинŃŃŃŃ ĐżŃавиНаП и пНанаП, ŃŃŃанОвНоннŃĐź Đ´ĐťŃ Đ˝ĐľŃ Đ´ŃŃгиПи. Đа ŃŃĐžŃ ŃаС - Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐąŃ ŃаС - Она ŃОйиŃаНаŃŃ ĐżĐžĐąĐ°ĐťĐžĐ˛Đ°ŃŃ ŃойŃ. ĐовŃŃка ĐžŃĐąŃĐžŃиНа ŃвОи СапŃĐľŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃодОŃŃавиНа ĐźŃĐśŃино ŃĐ˛ĐžĐąĐžĐ´Ń Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвиК, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐžĐ˝ доНаН вŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐžŃĐľŃ. ĐОгда Они СакОнŃиНи, ĐźŃĐśŃина ноМнО пОŃоНОваН ĐľŃ Đ˛ ŃŃĐşŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ĐżŃĐ¸Đ´Ń ĐˇĐ° ŃОйОК, - ĐżŃĐžŃопŃаН Он, в огО гОНОŃĐľ вŃŃ ĐľŃŃ ŃĐťŃŃаНиŃŃ ĐžŃгОНОŃки наŃНаМдониŃ. РСаŃоП Он ŃŃŃĐť, Ńак Мо вноСапнО, как и ĐżŃиŃŃĐť. ĐŃĐžŃНО ноПаНО вŃоПони, ĐżŃоМдо ŃоП ĐаПиННа ŃПОгНа пОднŃŃŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° нОги. ТиŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń Đ˛ кОПнаŃĐľ наŃŃŃиН СвОнОк ĐľŃ ŃоНоŃОна. Đна ОгНŃдоНаŃŃ Đ¸ ОйнаŃŃМиНа, ŃŃĐž Он ĐťĐľĐśĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐşŃĐ°Ń ŃŃОНа. ĐаПиННа ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиНа ŃоНоŃОн, пОка Он но ŃпаН, и наМаНа на ĐşĐ˝ĐžĐżĐşŃ ĐžŃвоŃа. ÂŤĐОкŃĐžŃ! - ŃаСдаНŃŃ Đ˛ĐˇĐ˛ĐžĐťĐ˝ĐžĐ˛Đ°Đ˝Đ˝ŃĐš гОНОŃ. -Đ ŃонŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐžŃНОМнОК пОПОŃи ŃОНŃкО ŃŃĐž ĐżŃивоСНи паŃионŃа. ĐĐ˝ пОпаН в аваŃĐ¸Ń Đ¸ пОНŃŃиН ŃĐľŃŃŃСнŃĐľ ŃŃавПŃ. ĐаП Đ˝ŃМнО, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛Ń Đ˝ĐľĐźĐľĐ´ĐťĐľĐ˝Đ˝Đž ОкаСаНи ĐľĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐźĐžŃŃ!Âť ĐаПиННа ĐżŃĐžŃиŃŃиНа гОŃНО, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐˇĐ˛ŃŃаН ŃОвнО: ÂŤĐĽĐžŃĐžŃĐž, Ń ĐąŃĐ´Ń ŃĐľŃоС ПинŃŃŃÂť. Đна пОНОМиНа ŃŃŃĐąĐşŃ Đ¸ напŃавиНаŃŃ Đş двоŃи, нО ĐžŃŃанОвиНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° пОŃОго. Đна ОгНŃдоНа ŃойŃ. Đна и впŃĐ°Đ˛Đ´Ń ĐˇĐ°Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ Ń*ĐşŃОП Ń Đ˝ĐľĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐźŃоП в ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐąŃаŃĐ˝ŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃŃ. ĐŃĐž ĐąŃĐť ŃаПŃĐš вОСПŃŃиŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐš пОŃŃŃпОк в ĐľŃ ĐśĐ¸ĐˇĐ˝Đ¸! ĐĐž ŃоКŃĐ°Ń ĐąŃНО но вŃĐľĐźŃ ĐżŃаСднОваŃŃ ŃвОК пОŃŃŃпОк иНи ŃаСПŃŃĐťŃŃŃ Đž огО пОŃНодŃŃвиŃŃ . ĐаПиННа ĐżŃивоНа ŃĐľĐąŃ Đ˛ пОŃŃдОк и ĐžŃĐżŃавиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃонŃŃ ŃĐşŃŃŃоннОК пОПОŃи. ĐĐľŃŃ ĐžŃŃаŃОк нОŃи Она ĐąŃНа СанŃŃа ŃайОŃОК. ĐОгда Она Đ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ĐľŃ ĐžŃвОйОдиНаŃŃ, ŃМо йНиСиНŃŃ ŃаŃŃвоŃ. ĐĐľŃĐ˝ŃвŃиŃŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃŃ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа, Она ОйнаŃŃМиНа, ŃŃĐž в кОПнаŃĐľ ĐąŃНО вŃŃ Ńак Мо ĐłŃŃСнО. Đ Ńки довŃŃки ŃМаНиŃŃ Đ˛ ĐşŃНаки, а в гОНОво ĐżŃОноŃНиŃŃ Đ˛ĐžŃĐżĐžĐźĐ¸Đ˝Đ°Đ˝Đ¸Ń Đž ĐąŃŃнОП ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ. ХпаŃийО, ŃŃĐž пОдПониНа ПонŃ, дОкŃĐžŃ ĐĐľŃŃОва, - кОННога ĐаПиННŃ, Яна ĐгаŃОнОва, вОŃНа Ń ĐąĐťĐ°ĐłĐžĐ´Đ°ŃнОК ŃĐťŃйкОК. Та вŃдавиНа иС ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃĐťŃйкŃ: ÂŤĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа. ÂŤĐаНŃŃĐľ Ń ŃĐżŃавНŃŃŃ ŃаПа. Тойо ŃНодŃĐľŃ Đ˛ĐľŃĐ˝ŃŃŃŃŃ Đ¸ ноПнОгО ĐžŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝ŃŃŃ, - Яна пОŃПОŃŃоНа на ĐąŃПаги, ŃаСйŃĐžŃаннŃĐľ пО пОНŃ, и ĐżŃипОднŃНа ĐąŃОви. - ЧŃĐž СдоŃŃ ĐżŃОиСОŃНО? ĐĐžŃĐľĐźŃ Đ˛ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ĐťŃĐľŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° пОНŃ?Âť ĐаПиНа в панико ĐžŃвоНа гНаСа и ĐžŃвоŃиНа: ÂŤĐĐš, Ń ŃĐťŃŃаКнО ŃŃОниНа Đ¸Ń . ĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа, ĐżŃийоŃиŃŃ ĐˇĐ´ĐľŃŃ. ĐŻ ŃŃŃаНа, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐšĐ´ŃÂť. Яно пОкаСаНŃŃ ŃŃŃаннŃĐź ĐžŃĐ˛ĐľŃ ĐаПиННŃ, нО Она но ĐżŃидаНа ŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ŃониŃ. Đни пОпŃĐžŃаНиŃŃ, и МонŃина ĐżŃинŃНаŃŃ ŃОйиŃаŃŃ ŃаСйŃĐžŃаннŃĐľ воŃи. Đна одва ŃŃпоНа наŃаŃŃ, как в двоŃŃŃ ĐżĐžŃвиНŃŃ ŃаП диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ, а Са ниП - пОПОŃник ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐНава 2 ЧŃвŃŃвО Đ˛Đ¸Đ˝Ń ÂŤĐŃĐž вŃаŃ, доМŃŃивŃĐ°Ń Đ˛ŃĐľŃа воŃĐľŃОП, - ŃкаСаН диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ. - ĐОкŃĐžŃ ĐŻĐ˝Đ° ĐгаŃОнОва. ĐŃŃиŃŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐиŃаНиŃ, ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐŃНОв, вОŃŃĐť в кОПнаŃŃ Đ¸ пОŃПОŃŃоН на ŃайНиŃĐşŃ Ń Đ¸ĐźĐľĐ˝ĐľĐź на НайОŃаŃĐžŃнОП Ń Đ°ĐťĐ°ŃĐľ ĐŻĐ˝Ń. ÂŤĐОКдŃĐźŃĐľ ŃĐž ПнОК. Яна ĐąŃНа в СаПоŃаŃоНŃŃŃво. ÂŤĐŃда ĐźŃ Đ¸Đ´ŃĐź?Âť ĐĐž диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ Đ˝Đľ ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐžŃоН ĐžŃвоŃаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐľŃ Đ˛ĐžĐżŃĐžŃ. ĐĐ˝ Ń ŃиНОК пОŃŃĐ˝ŃĐť ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃŃĐşŃ Đ¸ ŃкаСаН: ÂŤĐŃĐžŃŃĐž пОКдŃĐźŃĐľ. ĐĐľ СаŃŃавНŃĐšŃĐľ гОŃпОдина ĐОвикОва МдаŃŃÂť. ĐŃкОŃĐľ Она ОкаСаНаŃŃ Đ˛ кайиноŃĐľ диŃокŃĐžŃа йОНŃниŃŃ. ĐиŃаНиК ŃидоН на дивано, огО Ń ŃĐ´ĐžŃавОо и ĐźŃŃĐşŃНиŃŃОо ŃоНО ĐžŃкинŃНОŃŃ Đ˝Đ°ĐˇĐ°Đ´ в нопŃинŃМдŃннОК пОСо, а дНиннŃĐľ нОги ĐąŃНи ŃĐşŃĐľŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżĐľŃод ниП. ĐŃМнО ĐąŃНО иПоŃŃ ĐžŃŃŃŃĐš гНаС и ĐżŃиŃПОŃŃĐľŃŃŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ˛Đ˝Đ¸ĐźĐ°ŃоНŃноо, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐžĐ˝ŃŃŃ, ŃŃĐž огО ĐłŃĐąŃ ĐąŃНи йНодноо ОйŃŃнОгО. Đ ŃŃаŃŃŃŃ, ŃоСкиК ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ°Ń Đ´ĐľĐˇĐ¸Đ˝ŃиŃиŃŃŃŃогО ŃŃодŃŃва, кОŃĐžŃŃĐź ĐąŃНи ĐżŃОпиŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ, ŃĐşŃŃваН ĐˇĐ°ĐżĐ°Ń Đş**ви на огО кОМо. ĐĐ˝ ĐąŃĐť ĐžĐ´ĐľŃ Đ˛ ŃиŃŃŃĐš ŃŃŃĐ˝ŃĐš кОŃŃŃĐź, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš ŃакМо пОПОг ŃĐşŃŃŃŃ ĐşŃаŃĐ˝ŃĐľ ĐżŃŃна, в ĐżŃĐžŃивнОП ŃĐťŃŃао вŃŃŃовОМивŃио ĐąŃ Đ˛ŃĐľŃ ĐžĐşŃŃМаŃŃĐ¸Ń . РогО вŃŃаМонии НиŃа ŃŃвŃŃвОваНаŃŃ ĐśŃŃŃкОŃŃŃ, кОŃĐžŃĐ°Ń Ńак и гОвОŃиНа, ĐąŃĐ´ŃĐž Он пОйŃваН в ŃаПОП адŃ, и ŃŃĐž Ń Đ˝Đ¸Đź но ŃŃĐžĐ¸Ń ŃŃŃиŃŃ. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżĐžĐ´ĐžŃŃĐť Đş Đ´Đ¸Đ˛Đ°Đ˝Ń Đ¸ накНОниНŃŃ ĐżĐžĐąĐťĐ¸ĐśĐľ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżŃĐžŃопŃаŃŃ ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° ŃŃ Đž: ÂŤĐидоОСапиŃи Ń ĐşĐ°ĐźĐľŃ Đ˝Đ°ĐąĐťŃĐ´ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃи ĐąŃНи наПоŃоннО пОддоНанŃ, ŃкОŃоо вŃогО, ŃŃĐž ŃдоНаНи ваŃи нападавŃио. Đни пОдŃиŃŃиНи ŃĐťĐľĐ´Ń Đ¸ ŃĐąŃаНи вŃĐľ вОСПОМнŃĐľ ŃНики. ĐŃĐž дОкŃĐžŃ ĐŻĐ˝Đ° ĐгаŃОнОва, доМŃŃивŃĐ°Ń ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ. ĐиŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ ŃаП пОдŃвоŃдиН ŃŃĐž. ĐŻ ŃакМо поŃопŃОвоŃиН СапиŃи. ĐŃĐž доКŃŃвиŃоНŃнО Она. ТОНŃкО ŃОгда ĐиŃаНиК пОднŃĐť гНаСа. ĐŁ ĐŻĐ˝Ń ŃоСкО поŃĐľŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиНО Đ´ŃŃ Đ°Đ˝Đ¸Đľ и Она пОнŃНа, ŃŃĐž поŃод ноК ŃаП йОŃŃ ĐşĐžŃпОŃаŃии ÂŤĐаŃаПаŃĐ˝ŃÂť. ÂŤĐŃ ŃĐžŃ ŃоНОвок, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš пОПОг Пно ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН ĐиŃаНиК, ОгНŃĐ´ŃĐ˛Đ°Ń ĐľŃ Ń ĐłĐžĐťĐžĐ˛Ń Đ´Đž нОг. Яна ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ ĐżŃигнŃНа гОНОвŃ, но ŃĐľŃаŃŃŃ Đ˛ŃŃŃĐľŃиŃŃŃŃ Ń ĐłŃОСнŃĐź вСгНŃдОП ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ. ÂŤĐа... Đ-ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНа ŃÂť, - Она но ŃОвŃоП пОниПаНа, Đž ŃŃĐź идŃŃ ŃĐľŃŃ, нО СнаНа, ŃŃĐž в ĐľŃ Đ¸Đ˝ŃĐľŃĐľŃĐ°Ń Đ˛ĐžĐšŃи в дОвоŃио Đş ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐОвикОвŃ. ĐŃгОда но СаŃŃĐ°Đ˛Đ¸Ń ŃĐľĐąŃ ĐśĐ´Đ°ŃŃ. Так ŃĐťŃŃиНОŃŃ, ŃŃĐž в ЌонŃŃаНŃнОП вОоннОП гОŃпиŃаНо ŃОйиŃаНиŃŃ ĐžŃОйŃаŃŃ ĐşĐ°Đ˝Đ´Đ¸Đ´Đ°ŃОв Đ´ĐťŃ ĐżŃĐžŃ ĐžĐśĐ´ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżŃакŃики. Đ Ń ĐžŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНО ОйОСнаŃонО как ŃакОвОо, вŃĐľ в ŃŃОК ĐžŃŃаŃНи СнаНи, ŃŃĐž инŃĐľŃĐ˝Ń Đ˛ кОноŃнОП иŃОго ĐąŃĐ´ŃŃ ĐżŃинŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃайОŃŃ Đ¸ дОМивŃŃ Đ´Đž кОнŃа ŃвОоК каŃŃĐľŃŃ Đ˛ ŃŃОП ŃŃŃоМдонии. ĐŃНи ŃĐś на ŃĐž пОŃНО, ЌонŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вОоннŃĐš гОŃпиŃĐ°ĐťŃ Đ¸ĐźĐľĐť Đ´ĐžŃŃŃĐż Đş ŃĐľŃŃŃŃаП, кОŃĐžŃŃĐľ ĐąŃНи наПнОгО ĐťŃŃŃĐľ, ŃоП в ŃŃОК йОНŃниŃĐľ. Яна пНаниŃОваНа пОдŃŃМиŃŃŃŃ Ń ĐиŃаНиоП в надоМдо иŃпОНŃСОваŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž ŃвŃСи, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐžĐżĐ°ŃŃŃ Đ˛ ĐťŃŃŃŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ĐźĐžĐłŃ ĐşĐžĐźĐżĐľĐ˝ŃиŃОваŃŃ Ńойо вŃоП, ŃоП ŃŃ ĐˇĐ°Ń ĐžŃĐľŃŃ, даМо ĐąŃакОП, - вноСапнО ĐżŃĐľŃваН ĐľŃ ĐźŃŃНи Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐš ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐгО НиŃĐž ĐžŃŃаваНОŃŃ ĐžŃŃŃŃанŃннŃĐź, нО ĐźŃŃĐťŃ Đž вŃĐľŃаŃноК нОŃи ŃĐźŃĐłŃиНа ĐśŃŃŃĐşŃŃ ĐťĐ¸Đ˝Đ¸Ń ĐľĐłĐž ŃŃа. ЧŃĐž Đś... ĐŻ...Âť - ŃŃĐž ĐąŃНО наŃŃОНŃкО ноОМиданнО, ŃоП Яна ПОгНа Ńойо ĐżŃодŃŃавиŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Она Ń ŃŃŃдОП ПОгНа пОдОйŃаŃŃ ŃНОва. ÂŤĐŃĐ¸Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ кО Пно, как ŃОНŃкО ĐżŃиПоŃŃ ŃĐľŃонио, - вŃŃаН ĐиŃаНиК и МоŃŃОП пОпŃĐžŃиН ĐониŃа даŃŃ ĐľĐš ŃвОК кОнŃакŃĐ˝ŃĐš ŃоНоŃОн. ĐиŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ ĐżĐžŃпоŃиН и ĐżŃодНОМиН ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐżŃОвОдиŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž Đş вŃŃ ĐžĐ´Ń. ÂŤĐ ŃŃОП Đ˝ĐľŃ Đ˝ĐľĐžĐąŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐźĐžŃŃи, - ĐžŃкаСаНŃŃ ŃĐžŃ, и вŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž пОводонио ŃнОва ŃŃаНО Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐź. ĐаŃоП Он ĐžŃŃанОвиНŃŃ, как ĐąŃĐ´ŃĐž огО кОо-ŃŃĐž ĐžŃониНО. ĐĐ˝ ОйоŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ Đş диŃокŃĐžŃŃ Đ¸ ŃкаСаН: ÂŤĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа, пОСайОŃŃŃĐľŃŃ Đž ноК. ÂŤĐОноŃнО, - СавоŃиН огО диŃокŃĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃниŃŃ Ń Đ˛ĐľĐśĐťĐ¸Đ˛ĐžĐš ŃĐťŃйкОК. УйодивŃиŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Они Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´ŃŃŃŃ Đ˛Đ˝Đľ ĐżŃодоНОв ŃĐťŃŃиПОŃŃи, ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżĐžĐ´ĐžŃŃĐť Đş ĐиŃаНиŃ. ÂŤĐаŃаНŃник, - ОйŃаŃиНŃŃ ĐžĐ˝ ŃĐ¸Ń Đ¸Đź, нО наŃŃĐžŃŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐź гОНОŃОП, - Đ˛Ń Đ˛ĐľĐ´Ń ŃМо МонаŃŃ. ĐŻ но Đ´ŃПаŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐąŃак ŃвНŃĐľŃŃŃ ĐżŃиоПНоПŃĐź ваŃианŃОП Đ´ĐťŃ ĐłĐžŃпОМи ĐгаŃОнОвОК. ĐаП ŃНодŃĐľŃ ĐžŃкаСаŃŃŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃОгО ĐżŃодНОМониŃÂť. ĐŃĐąŃ ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń Đ´ŃŃĐ˝ŃНиŃŃ ĐżŃи ŃпОПинании Đž огО ĐąŃако, а НиŃĐž ĐľŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐľ пОПŃаŃноНО, кОгда Он пОдŃПаН Đž МонŃино, на кОŃĐžŃОК огО СаŃŃавиНи МониŃŃŃŃ. Тойо ŃŃĐž, МиŃŃ Đ˝Đ°Đ´ĐžĐľĐťĐž?Âť - ĐżŃигŃОСиН Он ŃĐ˛ĐžĐľĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐźĐžŃникŃ. Đ˘ĐžŃ ĐżĐžĐ˝ŃĐť, ŃŃĐž ŃкаСаН ŃĐž, ŃогО но ŃНодОваНО, и ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ СадŃОМаН. Đ ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐžĐ˝ но СнаН, ĐşŃĐž йОНŃŃĐľ вŃогО ĐˇĐťĐ¸Ń ĐľĐłĐž йОŃŃа - Đ˝ĐžĐ˛Đ°Ń Đ˝ĐľĐ˛ĐľŃŃа иНи ŃоНОвок, ŃŃĐžŃŃиК Са вŃĐľŃаŃниП нападониоП. ТоП вŃоПоноП ĐаПиННа воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° виННŃ, кОŃĐžŃŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐťĐśĐ˝Đ° ĐąŃНа доНиŃŃ Ń ĐźŃМоП. ĐкОнОПка ŃŃĐľĐ´Đ˝Đ¸Ń ĐťĐľŃ, ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń Đ ĐžĐźĐ°Đ˝ĐžĐ˛Đ°, вŃŃŃĐľŃиНа ĐľŃ Đ˛ ŃОКо, на ĐľŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃĐľ ĐąŃНО напиŃанО йоŃпОкОКŃŃвО. ÂŤĐĐžŃĐľĐźŃ Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ˝Đľ ĐąŃНО вŃĐľŃа воŃĐľŃОП, гОŃпОМа?Âť ÂŤĐŻ дОНМна ĐąŃНа пОдПониŃŃ ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐłŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа Ńа. ĐŃ ĐłĐťĐ°ĐˇĐ° ĐąŃНи пОкŃаŃновŃиПи и ŃНоСиНиŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃŃаНОŃŃи. Увидов ŃŃĐž, ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ŃĐľŃиНа но наŃŃаиваŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃвОŃĐź. ĐаПиННа пОднŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ°Đ˛ĐľŃŃ Đ¸ пОгŃŃСиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ваннŃ. ĐŃ ĐźŃŃНи новОНŃнО воŃĐ˝ŃНиŃŃ Đş ĐżŃодŃĐ´ŃŃоК нОŃи, и Она пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа, как ĐľŃ ŃŃки наŃаНи гОŃĐľŃŃ. Đна Đ˛ĐˇĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝ŃНа и пОгŃŃСиНаŃŃ Đ˛ вОдŃ, как ĐąŃ ŃпаŃаŃŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃовОМнŃŃ Đ˛ĐžŃпОПинаниК. ĐŃ ŃŃвŃŃва пО ŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐ˛ĐžĐ´Ń ĐąŃНи ŃПоŃаннŃПи, и Она но СнаНа, Ń ŃогО наŃаŃŃ. Đна даМо но ĐżŃодŃŃавНŃНа, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐž ĐąŃĐť Са ŃоНОвок. ĐОНоо ŃОгО, Она ŃопоŃŃ ĐąŃНа СаПŃМоП. ĐŃ ŃŃОК ĐźŃŃНи Она пОŃŃвŃŃвОваНа винŃ. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ОйŃŃĐžŃŃоНŃŃŃва, кОŃĐžŃŃĐľ ĐżŃивоНи Đ¸Ń Đş Đ˝ŃноŃĐ˝ĐľĐźŃ ĐżĐžĐťĐžĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń, ŃĐ°ĐşŃ ĐžŃŃаваНŃŃ ŃакŃОП: Она и ĐиŃаНиК ŃвНŃŃŃŃŃ ĐźŃМоП и МонОК. ĐаПиННа вŃŃНа иС ваннŃ, ОдоНаŃŃ Đ¸ ŃнОва ĐżŃигОŃОвиНаŃŃ Đş вŃŃ ĐžĐ´Ń. Đак ŃОНŃкО Она ŃĐżŃŃŃиНаŃŃ Đ˛Đ˝Đ¸Đˇ, ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ŃŃŃ ĐśĐľ СаŃŃĐľŃиНаŃŃ Đ˛ĐžĐşŃŃĐł ноŃ: ÂŤĐŃ ĐžĐżŃŃŃ ŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ŃĐľ Ńак ŃкОŃĐž? ĐĐžŃĐľĐźŃ ĐąŃ Đ˛Đ°Đź ŃнаŃаНа но пОСавŃŃакаŃŃ?Âť Та пОŃПОŃŃоНа на вŃоПŃ. ÂŤĐĐľŃ, Ń ĐžĐżĐžĐˇĐ´Đ°Ń Đ˝Đ° ŃайОŃŃÂť. ĐикŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐťĐ°, ŃŃĐž ĐаПиННа вŃаŃ, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ° пОниПаНа, ŃŃĐž Đ´ĐťŃ ŃŃОК ПОНОдОК довŃŃки ŃвНŃĐľŃŃŃ Đ˝ĐžŃПОК ĐżŃОвОдиŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃайОŃĐľ ноŃПоŃоннОо кОНиŃĐľŃŃвО вŃоПони. ТОгда Она ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐ˝ŃНа оК ŃŃакан ПОНОка: ÂŤĐŃпоКŃĐľ Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐąŃ ŃŃĐž. ĐŃŃĐžŃОМнО, ОнО гОŃŃŃоо. ХпаŃийО, - ŃĐ¸Ń Đž ĐżŃОиСноŃНа довŃŃка, ŃОгŃĐľŃĐ°Ń ĐˇĐ°ĐąĐžŃОК ŃкОнОПки. ÂŤĐĐľ Са ŃŃО, - ĐťŃйоСнО ŃĐťŃйнŃНаŃŃ ŃкОнОПка. ĐОСПОМнО, ŃŃĐžŃ ĐąŃак и ĐąŃĐť вŃĐ˝ŃМдоннŃĐź, нО Она Đ´ĐžŃŃаŃĐžŃнО Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐž СнаНа, ŃŃĐž ноНŃĐˇŃ ŃПОŃŃĐľŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ŃвŃŃОка. ĐаМо йоС ŃиŃŃНа ĐśĐľĐ˝Ń ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ĐОвикОва ĐаПиННа - ĐżŃĐžŃĐľŃŃиОнаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вŃаŃ, и ŃŃĐž Đ´ĐľĐťĐ°ĐľŃ ĐľŃ ĐąĐžĐťĐľĐľ ŃоП Đ´ĐžŃŃОКнОК ŃваМониŃ. ĐОпив ПОНОкО, ĐаПиННа воŃĐ˝ŃНа ŃŃакан ĐикŃĐžŃии и напŃавиНаŃŃ Đş вŃŃ ĐžĐ´Ń. ĐднакО Она но пОŃНа ŃŃĐ°ĐˇŃ Đ˛ кОПнаŃŃ ĐžŃĐ´ŃŃ Đ° поŃŃОнаНа. Đна вŃŃНа иС дОПа пОŃанŃŃĐľ, пОŃĐžĐźŃ ŃŃĐž оК Đ˝ŃМнО ĐąŃНО СаКŃи в ŃŃаŃиОнаŃ. ĐŃ ĐźĐ°ŃŃ ĐąŃНа пОПоŃона в ĐžŃдоНонио инŃонŃивнОК ŃĐľŃапии. ĐаПиННа ПОНŃа вОŃНа в паНаŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃОвоŃиНа ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнио ПаŃĐľŃи. ĐонŃина пО-ĐżŃĐľĐśĐ˝ĐľĐźŃ Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐ°ŃŃ Đ˛ ĐżĐťĐžŃ ĐžĐź ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнии. ĐĄĐľŃĐ´ŃĐľ довŃŃки СанŃНО. ĐŃ ĐźĐ°ŃŃ ŃŃŃадаНа ĐžŃ ŃĐľŃĐ´ĐľŃнОК нодОŃŃаŃĐžŃнОŃŃи и Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐ°ŃŃ Đ˛ ĐşŃиŃиŃĐľŃкОП ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнии. ĐдинŃŃвоннŃĐź ŃпОŃОйОП ŃĐžŃ ŃаниŃŃ ĐśĐ¸ĐˇĐ˝Ń ĐźĐ°ŃĐľŃи ĐąŃНа поŃĐľŃадка ŃĐľŃĐ´Ńа, кОŃĐžŃаŃ, ĐľŃŃĐľŃŃвоннО, ОйОŃНаŃŃ ĐąŃ Đ˛ ŃоНОо ŃĐžŃŃĐžŃнио. ĐŃнОвнОК ĐżŃиŃинОК, пО кОŃĐžŃОК ĐаПиННа ŃОгНаŃиНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ĐąŃак, ĐąŃНО ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž ĐľŃ ĐžŃĐľŃ ŃĐłŃОМаН ŃĐ´ĐľŃМаŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐ˝Ńги, Đ˝ĐľĐžĐąŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐźŃĐľ Đ´ĐťŃ ĐžĐżĐľŃаŃии. ТопоŃŃ, кОгда Она вŃŃНа СаПŃĐś, как ŃОгО ŃŃойОваН ĐľŃ ĐžŃĐľŃ, вŃŃ, ŃŃĐž иП ĐąŃНО Đ˝ŃМнО, ŃŃĐž наКŃи ĐżĐžĐ´Ń ĐžĐ´ŃŃогО дОнОŃа ŃĐľŃĐ´Ńа. ĐаПиННа ĐąŃĐžŃиНа гОŃŃкиК вСгНŃĐ´ на ПаŃŃ: ÂŤĐаПа, Ń ŃĐľĐąŃ Đ˛ŃНоŃŃ. ĐŻ ОйоŃаŃÂť. ĐŃ ĐźĐ°ŃŃ ĐąŃНа ŃаПŃĐź йНиСкиП ŃоНОвокОП, ĐľŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Đ˝ĐžĐš пОддоŃМкОК и надŃМнŃĐź дОвоŃоннŃĐź НиŃОП. ĐоОМиданнО СаСвОниН ŃоНоŃОн. ĐовŃŃка Đ´ĐžŃŃаНа ŃоНоŃОн иС каŃПана и ĐžŃвоŃиНа на СвОнОк. ÂŤĐиНа, - ŃаСдаНŃŃ ĐźŃĐśŃкОК гОНОŃ. - Đно Đ˝ŃМнО, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃŃ ĐžĐşĐ°ĐˇĐ°ĐťĐ° Пно ĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń ŃŃĐťŃĐłŃÂť. ĐНава 3 ЧаŃŃĐ˝ŃĐš паŃĐ¸ĐľĐ˝Ń ĐаПиННо пОСвОниН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ¤Đ°ĐťŃкОв. Đни ŃŃиНиŃŃ Đ˛ ОднОП ПодиŃинŃкОП ŃнивоŃŃиŃĐľŃĐľ, Ń ĐžŃŃ ĐžĐ˝ ĐąŃĐť на два гОда ŃŃаŃŃĐľ ĐľŃ. ĐаŃоП Он ŃĐľŃ Đ°Đť Са ĐłŃаниŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżŃОдОНМиŃŃ ĐžĐąŃŃонио, и ŃопоŃŃ ĐąŃĐť иСвоŃŃĐ˝ŃĐź ŃĐşŃпоŃŃОП в ŃвОоК ОйНаŃŃи. ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˛Ńогда Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐž СайОŃиНŃŃ Đž ĐаПиННо, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ¸ ĐąŃНи дОвОНŃнО йНиСки. РкакОК ŃŃĐťŃго идŃŃ ŃĐľŃŃ?Âť - ĐżŃŃПО ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐаПиННа. ÂŤĐŁ ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐľŃŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃ, Đ˝ŃМдаŃŃиКŃŃ Đ˛ НоŃонии, ОднакО Ń ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżĐžŃвиНОŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐžŃНОМнОо доНО, и Ń Đ˝Đľ Đ´ŃПаŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃĐźĐžĐłŃ ĐˇĐ°Đ˝ŃŃŃŃŃ ŃŃиП в йНиМаКŃоо вŃоПŃ. ĐОМаНŃĐšŃŃа, вОСŃПи паŃионŃа пОд ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐşŃŃНО, - пОпŃĐžŃиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ. ĐаПиНа вСгНŃĐ˝ŃНа на ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ŃаŃпиŃанио. ĐĄĐľĐłĐžĐ´Đ˝Ń Ń Đ˝ĐľŃ Đ˝Đľ ĐąŃНО доН в ĐžŃиŃĐľ, и, ĐľŃНи но ŃŃиŃаŃŃ Đ´Đ˛ŃŃ ĐžĐżĐľŃаŃиК, СапНаниŃОваннŃŃ Đ˝Đ° пОНдонŃ, Она ĐąŃНа ĐżŃакŃиŃĐľŃки ŃвОйОдна. ÂŤĐа, кОноŃнО. ĐŃда Пно пОдŃĐľŃ Đ°ŃŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐаПиННа. ÂŤĐŻ напиŃŃ Ńойо адŃĐľŃ. ĐОгда дОйоŃŃŃŃŃŃ ŃŃда, ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž ŃкаМи ĐžŃ ŃанникаП, ŃŃĐž ŃŃ ĐżŃĐ¸ĐľŃ Đ°ĐťĐ° Đş гОŃĐżĐžĐ´Đ¸Đ˝Ń ĐаНаŃникОвŃ, и Они ОйО вŃŃĐź пОСайОŃŃŃŃŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ. ÂŤĐОгОвОŃиНиŃŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа довŃŃка. ÂŤĐŃŃ ĐşĐžĐľ-ŃŃĐž, - дОйавиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ, и огО ŃОн ŃŃаН ŃĐľŃŃŃСнŃĐź. - ĐикОгда Đ˝Đ¸ĐşĐžĐźŃ ĐžĐą ŃŃОП но гОвОŃи и но СадаваК НиŃĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛ĐžĐżŃĐžŃОв. ĐŃŃ, ŃŃĐž Ńойо Đ˝ŃМнО ŃдоНаŃŃ, ŃŃĐž вŃНоŃиŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃа. ÂŤĐŻŃнО. ĐĐľ вОНнŃĐšŃŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа ĐаПиННа. Đни пОпŃĐžŃаНиŃŃ, и ĐаПиННа вŃСваНа ŃакŃи, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ´ĐžĐąŃаŃŃŃŃ Đş паŃионŃŃ. ĐĐľŃŃĐž ОкаСаНОŃŃ Đ˛ ĐżŃĐľŃŃиМнОП ŃаКОно, СапОНноннОП виННаПи, ĐžŃнаŃŃннŃПи ŃиŃŃоПаПи йоСОпаŃнОŃŃи вŃŃŃогО ŃŃОвнŃ. Đак и ОМидаНОŃŃ, на Đ˛Ń ĐžĐ´Đľ довŃŃка ŃŃОНкнŃНаŃŃ Ń ŃŃŃОвОК ĐžŃ ŃанОК. ĐаПиННа пОŃНодОваНа инŃŃŃŃĐşŃиŃĐź и ŃпОПŃĐ˝ŃНа гОŃпОдина ĐаНаŃникОва. ХдоНав СвОнОк, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃйодиŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ ĐżŃавдивОŃŃи ĐľŃ ŃНОв, ĐžŃ Ńанник ĐżŃигНаŃиН ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ Đ˛Đ˝ŃŃŃŃ. ĐовŃŃка НогкО наŃНа виННŃ. Đна пОднŃНаŃŃ ĐżĐž ŃŃŃпонŃкаП и пОСвОниНа в двоŃŃ. ЧоŃоС ноŃкОНŃкО ŃокŃнд двоŃŃ ĐžŃĐşŃŃНаŃŃ. ĐаСаНОŃŃ, ŃŃĐž ŃиŃŃаŃĐ¸Ń Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвиŃоНŃнО ĐąŃНа ŃŃĐžŃнОК. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐźŃŃиНŃŃ. Đни МдаНи ФŃĐ´ĐžŃа, нО вПоŃŃĐž ŃŃОгО на пОŃОго ОкаСаНаŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐˇĐ˛Đ°Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐłĐžŃŃŃŃ. ÂŤĐŃĐžŃŃиŃĐľ, вŃâŚÂť - наŃаНа довŃŃка. ĐС ŃкаСаниК ФŃĐ´ĐžŃа ĐаПиННа ŃМо ŃдоНаНа вŃвОд, ŃŃĐž ŃŃĐžŃ ĐżĐ°ŃĐ¸ĐľĐ˝Ń ŃĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃнОо ĐżŃĐžŃŃŃанŃŃвО, и ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ¸ĐˇĐąĐľĐśĐ°ŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐżŃиŃŃнОŃŃоК, Она ŃĐžŃНа ŃаСŃПнŃĐź надоŃŃ ĐźĐ°ŃĐşŃ. ĐоСОпаŃнОŃŃŃ ĐąŃНа в ĐżŃиОŃиŃĐľŃĐľ. ÂŤĐОкŃĐžŃ Đ¤Đ°ĐťŃкОв пОпŃĐžŃиН ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżŃĐ¸ĐľŃ Đ°ŃŃ ŃŃда, - ŃкаСаНа ĐаПиННа. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐźĐľĐťŃкОП вСгНŃĐ˝ŃĐť на апŃĐľŃĐşŃ, кОŃĐžŃŃŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ° Đ´ĐľŃМаНа: ÂŤĐŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐľŃĐľ, ŃŃĐž доНаŃŃ?Âť ÂŤĐа, дОкŃĐžŃ Đ¤Đ°ĐťŃкОв даН Пно инŃŃŃŃĐşŃии. ĐŻ ŃĐžŃ ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń Đ˛ŃŃ Đ˛ ŃŃŃОгОК кОнŃидонŃиаНŃнОŃŃи, - ĐžŃвоŃиНа довŃŃка. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐˇĐ˝Đ°Đť, ŃŃĐž ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝Đľ поŃодаН ĐąŃ ŃвОи ОйŃСаннОŃŃи ŃОПŃ, ĐşŃĐž но СаŃĐťŃĐśĐ¸Đ˛Đ°ĐľŃ Đ´ĐžĐ˛ĐľŃĐ¸Ń Đ¸ĐťĐ¸ нокОПпоŃонŃон, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ ŃŃвоŃдиŃоНŃнО кивнŃĐť и впŃŃŃиН ĐаПиННŃ. ĐĐ˝ ĐżŃОвŃĐť ĐľŃ ĐźĐ¸ĐźĐž ŃĐžŃкОŃнОК гОŃŃинОК, СаŃоП ввоŃŃ ĐżĐž НоŃŃниŃĐľ в ŃпаНŃĐ˝Ń. РкОПнаŃĐľ ĐąŃНО ŃоПнО. ÂŤĐак Ń ĐąŃĐ´Ń ĐżŃОвОдиŃŃ ĐťĐľŃонио йоС ŃвоŃа?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа ĐаПиННа. ĐОгда ĐиŃаНиК ŃŃĐťŃŃаН МонŃкиК гОНОŃ, ŃĐž пОŃпоŃнО ŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ŃиН ŃвОК пидМак и наŃŃĐ˝ŃĐť огО на НиŃĐž. ÂŤĐкНŃŃи ŃвоŃÂť, - ĐżŃикаСаН Он ŃĐşĐ˛ĐžĐˇŃ ŃканŃ. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ŃŃНкнŃĐť вŃкНŃŃаŃоНоП, и кОПнаŃŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐťĐ¸Đť ŃŃкиК ŃвоŃ. ĐĐľŃвОК ĐźŃŃĐťŃŃ ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐąŃНО ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃа ĐąŃĐť дОвОНŃнО СнакОПŃĐź, ОднакО Она ĐžŃĐźĐ°Ń Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ ĐžŃ ŃŃĐ¸Ń ĐźŃŃНоК. Đна ŃвидоНа ŃоНОвока, НоМаŃогО на ĐşŃОваŃи, ŃŃŃ ĐąĐľĐťĐ°Ń ĐżĐ°ŃĐ°Đ´Đ˝Đ°Ń ŃŃйаŃка ĐąŃНа в ĐżŃŃĐ˝Đ°Ń Đ´Đ°Đ˛Đ˝Đž СаŃĐžŃ ŃоК ĐşŃОви. ĐаПиННа но Ń ĐžŃоНа вдаваŃŃŃŃ Đ˛ пОдŃОйнОŃŃи и ŃĐľŃиНа ŃĐžŃŃодОŃĐžŃиŃŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐ°Đ˝Đ°Ń . ĐŃĐśŃина ŃвнО но Ń ĐžŃоН вŃдаваŃŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐťĐ¸ŃнОŃŃŃ, пОŃŃĐžĐźŃ Đ´ĐľĐ˛ŃŃка ĐľŃŃĐľŃŃвоннŃĐź ОйŃаСОП ŃваМаНа огО ĐłŃаниŃŃ Đ¸ воНа ŃĐľĐąŃ ĐżŃиНиŃнО. Đна пОŃŃавиНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ°ĐżŃĐľŃĐşŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃПйОŃĐşŃ Đ¸ Đ´ĐžŃŃаНа Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃгиŃĐľŃкио инŃŃŃŃПонŃŃ. ĐаПиННа нОМниŃаПи ŃаСŃоСаНа ŃŃйаŃĐşŃ ĐżĐ°ŃионŃа, ОйнаМив огО ŃанŃ, кОŃĐžŃŃĐľ ĐąŃНи пОкŃŃŃŃ ŃОнкиП ŃНОоП ПаŃНи. Đна ŃĐąŃаНа вŃŃ Đ¸, накОноŃ, ŃвидоНа дво СиŃŃŃио ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐżŃавОК ŃŃĐžŃОно ŃĐžŃŃа ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ. ĐаПиННа наŃаНа НоŃонио, ОйŃайОŃав ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃвОиПи НОвкиПи ŃŃкаПи. ĐŃŃ ŃŃĐž вŃĐľĐźŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ° ĐžŃŃаваНаŃŃ ŃпОкОКнОК, а ĐľŃ Đ´Đ˛Đ¸ĐśĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐąŃНи ĐąŃŃŃŃŃПи и ŃŃŃокŃивнŃПи. ÂŤĐŃŃŃ ĐťĐ¸ Ń Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ°ĐťĐťĐľŃĐłĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° аноŃŃоСиŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиНа Она ŃĐľŃоС нокОŃĐžŃОо вŃоПŃ. Đ ŃŃаŃŃŃŃ, ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ĐąŃНи ногНŃйОкио и пОвŃодиНи НиŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐąĐžĐťŃŃŃŃ ŃаŃŃŃ ĐşĐžĐśĐ¸, ОднакО ŃŃойОваНОŃŃ Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃгиŃĐľŃкОо вПоŃаŃоНŃŃŃвО. ĐŃĐžŃĐľŃŃ ŃŃойОваН ĐżŃĐ¸ĐźĐľĐ˝ĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐźĐľŃŃнОК аноŃŃоСии. ĐаПиННа гОвОŃиНа ŃпОкОКнО, пОŃŃи ŃĐ¸Ń Đž, ŃŃĐž ŃоСкО кОнŃŃаŃŃиŃОваНО Ń ĐľŃ ĐąĐľĐˇŃПнŃĐź гОНОŃОП ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ. ĐĐžŃŃОПŃ, ноŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ОйПон ноŃкОНŃкиПи ŃНОваПи, ĐиŃаНиК ŃОвŃоП но ŃСнаН ĐľŃ. ÂŤĐĐľŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН Он ŃвОиП ОйŃŃĐ˝ŃĐź Ń ĐžĐťĐžĐ´Đ˝ŃĐź гОНОŃОП, ĐżŃĐž ŃĐľĐąŃ Đ˛ĐžŃŃ Đ˛Đ°ĐťŃŃ ĐľŃ ĐżŃĐžŃĐľŃŃиОнаНиСП. ĐаПиННа ĐżŃиŃŃŃпиНа Đş ĐżŃигОŃĐžĐ˛ĐťĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ°Đ˝ĐľŃŃоСии, а СаŃоП ввоНа ĐľŃ Đ˛ ОйНаŃŃŃ Đ˛ĐžĐşŃŃĐł Ńан. ĐĐź ĐżŃиŃНОŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ´ĐžĐśĐ´Đ°ŃŃ ĐżĐ°ŃŃ ĐźĐ¸Đ˝ŃŃ, пОка наŃаНОŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвио ĐżŃопаŃаŃа, пОŃНо ŃогО Она наНОМиНа ŃвŃ. ĐŃиПоŃнО ŃĐľŃоС ŃĐ°Ń ĐаПиННа Đ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ŃиНа. Đ ŃоНОП, НоŃонио ĐżŃĐžŃНО ĐąŃŃŃŃĐž и ŃŃпоŃнО. ĐаПиННа пОŃПОŃŃоНа на ŃвОи Ок**вавНоннŃĐľ ŃŃки и ŃкаСаНа: ÂŤĐно Đ˝ŃМнО в ŃйОŃĐ˝ŃŃÂť. ÂŤĐŃ ĐźĐžĐśĐľŃĐľ иŃпОНŃСОваŃŃ ŃŃ, ŃŃĐž вниСŃÂť, - ĐžŃвоŃиН ĐониŃ. ĐаПиННа пОŃпоŃнО пОкинŃНа ŃпаНŃĐ˝Ń. УйодивŃиŃŃ, ŃŃĐž довŃŃка воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° поŃвŃĐš ŃŃаМ, ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐˇĐ°ĐşŃŃĐť двоŃŃ Đ¸ пОŃпоŃиН Đş ĐиŃаНиŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ŃСнаН, ŃŃĐž йандиŃŃ, напавŃио на Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ˛ŃĐľŃа, пОдОŃĐťĐ°Đ˝Ń ĐŃŃŃПОП. ĐĐ˝, воŃĐžŃŃнО, ĐžŃŃаŃннО Ń ĐžŃĐľŃ Đ¸ĐˇĐąĐ°Đ˛Đ¸ŃŃŃŃ ĐžŃ Đ˛Đ°Ń, ĐžŃОйоннО пОŃНо ŃОгО, как Đ˛Ń Đ˛ŃŃиŃНиНи огО ŃпиОнОв в ваŃоК кОПпании, - ŃкаСаН ĐониŃ. ĐиŃаНиК СаŃŃОнаН ĐžŃ ĐąĐžĐťĐ¸, ŃŃаМиваŃŃŃ, а СаŃоП пОдŃŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ Đş ĐşŃĐ°Ń ĐşŃОваŃи и ОпŃŃŃиН нОги на пОН. ĐĐ˝ вŃгНŃдоН ŃНайŃĐź, нО огО гНаСа вŃĐżŃŃ Đ˝ŃНи ОпаŃĐ˝ŃĐź йНоŃкОП. ĐŃĐśŃина поŃовŃĐť ĐżŃОнСиŃоНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вСгНŃĐ´ на ŃвОогО пОПОŃника. ÂŤĐŃа МонŃина, на кОŃĐžŃОК Ń ĐąŃĐť вŃĐ˝ŃМдон МониŃŃŃŃ, Đ¸ĐźĐľĐľŃ ĐşĐ°ĐşĐžĐľ-НийО ĐžŃнОŃонио Đş ĐŃŃŃĐźŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН Он. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐżĐžĐ˝Đ¸ĐˇĐ¸Đť гОНОŃ: ÂŤĐа ŃаПОП доНо, ĐŃŃŃĐź ŃвŃСаНŃŃ Ń Đ˛Đ°ŃиП ŃĐľŃŃоП, ĐиŃОнОП. ĐĐ˝ ŃŃŃоПиНŃŃ Đ˛ŃдаŃŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ´ĐžŃŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐźŃĐś Са ŃНона ŃоПŃи ĐОвикОвŃŃ , нО, ĐżĐžŃ ĐžĐśĐľ, никОгда но ŃаŃŃПаŃŃиваН ваŃогО ĐşŃСона ĐĐťŃŃ, как ĐżĐžĐ´Ń ĐžĐ´ŃŃогО кандидаŃа. ĐОНМнО ĐąŃŃŃ, ĐŃŃŃĐź дОгОвОŃиНŃŃ Ń Đ˝Đ¸ĐźÂť. ÂŤĐĐ˝ но поŃĐľŃŃаŃŃ ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ŃдивНŃŃŃ ĐşĐ°ĐśĐ´ŃĐš донŃ. ĐĄ ПОоК ŃŃĐžŃĐžĐ˝Ń ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃ Đ˝Đľ воМНивО ĐżŃОПОНŃаŃŃ Đ˛ ĐžŃвоŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН ĐиŃаНиК. Đа вŃĐľĐźŃ ĐžŃŃŃŃŃŃĐ˛Đ¸Ń ĐиŃаНиŃ, в гОŃОдо ĐżŃОиСОŃНО ПнОгО ŃОйŃŃиК, в кОŃĐžŃŃŃ ĐąŃĐť СаПоŃан ĐĐťŃŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ŃĐťŃŃаН, ŃŃĐž Ń ĐĐťŃи ĐľŃŃŃ ĐˇĐ°Ń ŃдаНŃĐš ĐąĐ°Ń "ШаŃĐź" на ŃНиŃĐľ ĐŃйаŃŃкаŃÂť, - ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐ˝ŃĐť ĐиŃаНиК. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń Đ˛ŃŃ ĐżĐžĐ˝ŃĐť Ń ĐżĐžĐťŃŃНОва. ÂŤĐа, пОŃкОНŃĐşŃ ŃпиОнОв вŃгнаНи иС кОПпании, ŃŃĐžŃ ĐşĐťŃĐą ŃŃаН Đ¸Ń ĐľĐ´Đ¸Đ˝ŃŃвоннŃĐź иŃŃĐžŃникОП Đ´ĐžŃ ĐžĐ´Đ°, и ĐľŃНи огО СакŃĐžŃŃ, ŃĐž иП ĐżŃидŃŃŃŃ Đ´ĐžĐ˛ĐžĐťŃнО ŃŃгО, - ŃкаСаН ĐониŃ. ÂŤĐОПОги иП в ŃŃОП, - ŃкаСаН ĐиŃаНиК, и огО ĐłĐžĐťĐžŃ ŃŃаН на ОкŃĐ°Đ˛Ń Đ˝Đ¸ĐśĐľ. ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ŃŃОНкнŃĐťŃŃ Ń ĐаПиННОК, кОгда ŃĐżŃŃкаНŃŃ Đ˛Đ˝Đ¸Đˇ. ĐĐ˝ ĐżŃодпОНОМиН, ŃŃĐž ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ ĐżŃОинŃŃŃŃĐşŃиŃОваН довŃŃĐşŃ ĐˇĐ°Ńаноо, ОднакО ŃĐľŃиН ноПнОгО ĐľŃ Đ˝Đ°ĐżŃгаŃŃ Đ´ĐťŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃогО ŃŃŃокŃа: ÂŤĐŃНи Đ˛Ń ŃаŃŃкаМоŃĐľ Ой ŃŃОП кОПŃ-нийŃĐ´Ń, Đ˛Đ°Ń Đ˝Đ°ŃŃĐ¸ĐłĐ˝ĐľŃ ŃМаŃĐ˝Đ°Ń ŃПоŃŃŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН Он. ĐŃНи ŃĐťŃŃ Đž ŃŃĐ°Đ˛ĐźĐ°Ń ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń Đ´ĐžĐšĐ´ŃŃ Đ´Đž ĐŃŃŃПа иНи огО ŃŃна ĐĐťŃи, Они ОйŃСаŃоНŃнО пОвоŃĐ˝ŃŃ ŃŃĐž в ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐżĐžĐťŃСŃ. ĐаПиННа кивнŃНа: ÂŤĐŻ ŃĐžŃ ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃŃĐž в ŃаКно. ĐŻ ŃОНŃкО вОСŃĐźŃ ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ°ĐżŃĐľŃĐşŃ Đ¸ ноПодНоннО ŃКдŃÂť. ĐОгда довŃŃка воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃпаНŃĐ˝Ń, ŃĐž ОйнаŃŃМиНа ĐźŃĐśŃинŃ, ŃŃĐžŃŃогО Ń ĐžĐşĐ˝Đ° напŃĐžŃив двоŃи. ĐĐ˝ ŃŃĐžŃĐť Đş ноК ŃпинОК, ОднакО довŃŃка ПОгНа ŃаŃŃПОŃŃĐľŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž ŃиŃОкио пНоŃи и ĐźŃŃĐşŃНиŃŃŃŃ ŃпинŃ. ĐгО ŃоНО ĐąŃНО ŃŃŃОКнŃĐź, ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž идоаНŃĐ˝ŃĐź. ÂŤĐŃ ŃаСво но ŃŃНи?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН ĐźŃĐśŃина наŃПоŃНивŃĐź гОНОŃОП. ĐĐ˝ но ОйоŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ, нО какиП-ŃĐž ОйŃаСОП пОнŃĐť, ŃŃĐž Она ŃПОŃŃĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đ° ногО. ĐОСПОМнО, Он пОŃŃвŃŃвОваН ĐľŃ ĐłĐžŃŃŃиК вСгНŃĐ´. ĐаПиННа ŃĐźŃŃŃннО ОпŃŃŃиНа гОНОвŃ. Đак ĐąŃ ĐľĐš но Ń ĐžŃоНОŃŃ ŃŃĐž ĐżŃиСнаваŃŃ, нО ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźŃĐśŃина СаинŃĐľŃĐľŃОваН ĐľŃ. ĐНава 4 ĐĄŃаМиŃОвка ĐаПиННа, ОпŃŃŃив гОНОвŃ, ŃĐžŃОпНивО вСŃНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ°ĐżŃĐľŃĐşŃ. ĐŃĐžŃиŃŃив гОŃНО, Она даНа ĐźŃĐśŃино ноŃкОНŃкО ŃкаСаниК. Đак ĐąŃ ŃаП ни ĐąŃНО, Она вŃŃ ĐśĐľ ĐąŃНа вŃаŃОП. ÂŤĐаП ноНŃĐˇŃ ĐżĐžĐşĐ° ПОŃиŃŃ ŃвОи ŃанŃ. ĐоСинŃиŃиŃŃĐšŃĐľ Đ¸Ń ŃаС в Đ´ĐľĐ˝Ń Đ¸ нОŃиŃĐľ ŃвОйОднŃĐľ ŃŃйаŃки, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˝Đľ ŃаСдŃаМаŃŃ ŃанŃÂť. Đна пОŃŃавиНа ĐąŃŃŃНОŃĐşŃ Ń ŃайНоŃкаПи и ŃŃйик Ń ĐźĐ°ĐˇŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃПйОŃĐşŃ. ÂŤĐŻ ĐžŃŃавНŃŃ Đ˛Đ°Đź ŃŃи НокаŃŃŃва. ĐиŃаНиК ŃŃĐž-ŃĐž ĐżŃОйОŃПОŃаН в Снак ĐżŃиСнаŃоНŃнОŃŃи, нО но ОйоŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ. ĐаПиННа ŃОМо йОНŃŃĐľ ниŃогО но ŃкаСаНа и ŃŃĐ°ĐˇŃ ĐśĐľ пОкинŃНа виННŃ. ĐОгда Она воŃĐ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˛ йОНŃниŃŃ, ĐąŃНО ŃМо пОŃŃи ОдиннадŃаŃŃ Đ´Đ˝Ń. Đна напŃавиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃŃОНОвŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐľŃокŃŃиŃŃ. Đдва ŃŃŃŃОивŃиŃŃ ĐˇĐ° ŃвОиП ŃŃОНОП, ĐľŃ Đ˛ŃСваНи в ĐşĐ°ĐąĐ¸Đ˝ĐľŃ ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛Đ˛ŃаŃа. ÂŤĐŻ ĐžŃĐżŃавНŃŃ ĐŻĐ˝Ń Đ˛ ЌонŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вОоннŃĐš гОŃпиŃĐ°ĐťŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃаМиŃОвкŃÂť, - ŃкаСаН гНаввŃĐ°Ń ŃОнОП, но ŃĐľŃĐżŃŃиП вОСŃаМониК. ĐаПиННа ĐąŃНа пОŃŃŃŃона и ŃкаСаНа: ÂŤĐĐž Ń Đ´ŃПаНа, ŃŃĐž Đ˛Ń ŃМо ŃĐľŃиНи ĐžŃĐżŃавиŃŃ ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń?Âť ÂŤĐаПиННа, Ń ŃвоŃон, ŃŃĐž ŃŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐľŃŃ Đž ŃОП, ŃŃĐž вŃŃ Đ˛ŃŃОкОŃĐľŃ Đ˝ĐžĐťĐžĐłĐ¸ŃнОо ОйОŃŃдОванио наŃоК йОНŃниŃŃ ŃпОнŃиŃОваНОŃŃ ĐşĐžŃпОŃаŃиоК "ĐаŃаПаŃĐ˝Ń". ĐŃĐľĐˇĐ¸Đ´ĐľĐ˝Ń ĐОвикОв НиŃнО пОпŃĐžŃиН ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐżĐžĐˇĐ°ĐąĐžŃиŃŃŃŃ Đž Яно. ĐŻ но ĐźĐžĐłŃ ĐżĐžĐˇĐ˛ĐžĐťĐ¸ŃŃ Ńойо пОКŃи ĐżŃĐžŃив огО вОНи. ĐаПиННа ĐžŃĐľŃиниНаŃŃ ĐżŃи ŃпОПинании иПони ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐĽĐžŃŃ ĐžĐ˝Đ¸ и ĐąŃНи ĐžŃиŃиаНŃнО МонаŃŃ, нО Они никОгда но вŃŃŃĐľŃаНиŃŃ. Đна видоНа ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń ŃОНŃкО в ĐśŃŃĐ˝Đ°ĐťĐ°Ń Đ¸ инОгда в нОвОŃŃŃŃ ĐżĐž ŃоНовиСОŃŃ. ĐнаŃиŃ, Он и Яна? ĐĄĐľŃĐ´ŃĐľ ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ŃкнŃНО, нО Она ĐžŃŃаваНаŃŃ ŃпОкОКнОК. ÂŤĐĐžŃ ĐşĐ°Đş?Âť ÂŤĐа, йОŃŃŃ, Ń ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ŃвŃĐˇĐ°Đ˝Ń ŃŃки. ĐĐžŃĐťŃŃаК, ĐаПиННа, ĐźŃ ĐžĐąĐ° СнаоП Đž ŃĐ˛ĐžĐ¸Ń ŃпОŃОйнОŃŃŃŃ , нО...Âť - гНаввŃĐ°Ń Ń ĐžŃоН ŃŃпОкОиŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐ˛ŃŃĐşŃ, нО но СнаН, как. ĐаПиННа вŃдоНŃНаŃŃ ŃŃоди ŃĐ˛ĐžĐ¸Ń ŃвоŃŃŃникОв йНагОдаŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐ˛ĐľŃĐžŃŃĐ˝ĐžĐźŃ ŃаНанŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃĐžŃĐľŃŃиОнаНŃнОК ŃŃико. ĐНаввŃĐ°Ń ŃониН ĐľŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐľ вŃĐľŃ ĐžŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃŃ . ÂŤĐŻ пОниПаŃÂť, - ĐżŃОйОŃПОŃаНа ĐаПиННа Ńойо пОд нОŃ. ĐовŃŃка гОвОŃиНа Ńойо, ŃŃĐž Она ĐąŃНа но в ŃОП пОНОМонии, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃаŃŃŃŃаиваŃŃŃŃ Đ¸Đˇ-Са вПоŃаŃоНŃŃŃва ĐиŃаНиŃ. ĐĐ˝ ĐąŃĐť вŃĐ˝ŃМдон МониŃŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ноК, и, ĐľŃŃĐľŃŃвоннО, Она но ПОгНа ŃаŃŃŃиŃŃваŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž Он ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃ ĐˇĐ°ĐąĐžŃиŃŃŃŃ Đž ноК. ÂŤĐно ĐľŃŃ Đ˝ŃМнО пОдгОŃОвиŃŃŃŃ Đş ОпоŃаŃии, Ńак ŃŃĐž Ń ĐżĐžĐšĐ´ŃÂť, - ŃПиŃоннŃĐź гОНОŃОП ŃкаСаНа довŃŃка. ĐаПиННа пОниПаНа, ŃŃĐž ниŃогО но ĐźĐžĐśĐľŃ ŃдоНаŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ¸ĐˇĐźĐľĐ˝Đ¸ŃŃ ŃиŃŃаŃиŃ. ĐНаввŃĐ°Ń ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž Đ˛ĐˇĐ´ĐžŃ Đ˝ŃĐť и ŃПОŃŃоН, как Она ŃŃ ĐžĐ´Đ¸Ń. ĐаПиННа Ń ŃĐ˝ŃŃСиаСПОП пОгŃŃСиНаŃŃ Đ˛ ŃайОŃŃ, ĐżŃŃаŃŃŃ Đ˝Đľ Đ´ŃПаŃŃ Đž ŃŃаМиŃОвко. Đна йоС СаПинки ĐżŃОвоНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Đ˛ŃĐžŃŃŃ ĐžĐżĐľŃаŃиŃ, СаŃоП ŃĐ˝ŃНа ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ Ń Đ¸ŃŃŃгиŃĐľŃĐşŃŃ ŃĐžŃĐźŃ Đ¸, пОŃПОŃŃов ввоŃŃ , ŃŃŃаНО пНŃŃ Đ˝ŃНаŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃŃŃĐť. ĐПоннО в ŃŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń Đ˛ гОŃŃинŃŃ Đ˛ĐžŃНа Яна и ŃкаСаНа: ÂŤĐĐ´ŃавŃŃвŃĐš, ĐаПиННа, - пОпŃивоŃŃŃвОваНа Она, ŃŃкО ŃĐťŃйаŃŃŃ. - Đ˘Ń ŃвОйОдна воŃĐľŃОП? ĐĐžĐˇĐ˛ĐžĐťŃ ŃгОŃŃиŃŃ ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃМинОП. ÂŤĐСвини, нО Ń ĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐľŃŃŃ Đ´ĐľĐťĐ°, Ń ĐşĐžŃĐžŃŃПи Đ˝ŃМнО ŃаСОйŃаŃŃŃŃ ĐżĐžĐˇĐśĐľÂť, - воМНивО ĐžŃкаСаНаŃŃ ĐаПиННа. ĐовŃŃка но ĐąŃНа в Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐ¸Ń ĐžŃнОŃониŃŃ Ń ĐŻĐ˝ĐžĐš. Đни ĐąŃНи ĐżŃĐžŃŃĐž кОННогаПи, а но пОдŃŃгаПи. Đйо ОкОнŃиНи Один и ŃĐžŃ ĐśĐľ ŃнивоŃŃиŃĐľŃ Đ˛ ОднО и ŃĐž Мо вŃоПŃ. ĐŃŃ ŃОгда Яна ĐąŃНа ŃОК ĐľŃŃ ŃŃŃŃкОК. Đна ĐąŃНа ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń Đ°ĐźĐąĐ¸ŃиОСнОК и вŃогда Ń ĐžŃоНа пОкŃаŃОваŃŃŃŃ Đ¸ ĐżŃивНокаŃŃ Đ˛ŃоОйŃоо вниПанио. ĐаПиННа, в ŃĐ˛ĐžŃ ĐžŃĐľŃодŃ, ĐżŃодпОŃиŃаНа ĐžŃŃаваŃŃŃŃ Đ˝ĐľĐˇĐ°ĐźĐľŃнОК и ĐąŃНа пОгŃŃМона в ŃвОи книги. ĐОМнО ŃкаСаŃŃ, ŃŃĐž довŃŃки ĐąŃНи айŃОНŃŃнО ŃаСнŃПи. ĐОнŃŃнОо доНО, ŃŃĐž Они но ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń Ń ĐžŃĐžŃĐž НадиНи. ÂŤĐ, ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐśĐ°ĐťŃ, - ŃкаСаНа Яна, вŃгНŃĐ´Ń ĐżĐžŃоПŃ-ŃĐž ŃĐźŃŃŃннОК. - ĐООйŃĐľ-ŃĐž Ń Ń ĐžŃоНа Ń ŃОйОК кОо Đž ŃŃĐź пОгОвОŃиŃŃÂť. ĐаПиННа вŃŃаНа и пОдОŃНа Đş ŃĐ˛ĐžĐľĐźŃ ŃкаŃŃикŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ĐżĐžĐ˛ĐľŃиŃŃ Ń Đ°ĐťĐ°Ń. ÂŤĐОвОŃи, - ŃкаСаНа Она, но гНŃĐ´Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐŻĐ˝Ń. Đ˘ĐžŃ ŃакŃ, ŃŃĐž ĐľŃ ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐłĐ° Ńак иНи инаŃĐľ ŃвŃСаНаŃŃ Ń ĐиŃаНиоП, ĐľŃŃ ĐąĐžĐťŃŃĐľ ĐžŃдаНиН ĐĐ°ĐźĐ¸ĐťĐťŃ ĐžŃ ĐŻĐ˝Ń. ТŃ, дОНМнО ĐąŃŃŃ, ŃĐťŃŃаНа, да? Đно ĐžŃĐľĐ˝Ń ĐśĐ°ĐťŃ. ĐŻ пОнŃŃĐ¸Ń Đ˝Đľ иПоНа, ŃŃĐž диŃокŃĐžŃâŚÂť ÂŤĐŃŃ Đ˛ пОŃŃдко, - поŃойиНа ĐаПиННа. ĐднакО Яна ĐľŃŃ Đ˝Đľ вŃŃ ŃкаСаНа и ĐżŃОдОНМиНа: ÂŤĐ ĐľŃŃ, ПОМоŃŃ ŃĐžŃ ŃаниŃŃ Đ˛ ŃокŃĐľŃĐľ ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž вŃĐľŃа воŃĐľŃОП ŃŃ Đ˛ŃŃНа на ŃĐźĐľĐ˝Ń Đ˛ĐźĐľŃŃĐž ПонŃ? ĐнаоŃŃ, пОŃкОНŃĐşŃ Ń ŃОйиŃаŃŃŃ Đ˛ ЌонŃŃаНŃĐ˝ŃĐš вОоннŃĐš гОŃпиŃаНŃ, Ń Đ˝Đľ Ń ĐžŃŃ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃŃĐž ĐżŃиŃиниНО какио-НийО ĐżŃОйНоПŃÂť. ĐĐľŃПОŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐž, ŃŃĐž ĐżŃĐžŃŃйа ĐŻĐ˝Ń ĐąŃНа ноОйŃŃнОК, ĐаПиННа но Đ´ŃПаНа Ой ŃŃОП и ĐžŃвоŃиНа: ÂŤĐŻ Đ˝Đ¸ĐşĐžĐźŃ Đ˝Đľ ŃкаМŃÂť. Đ ĐťŃйОП ŃĐťŃŃао, но ĐąŃНО ниŃогО ŃŃŃаннОгО в ŃОП, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ Đ˛ĐˇŃŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐľĐąŃ ŃĐźĐľĐ˝Ń ĐşĐžĐťĐťĐľĐłĐ¸. ĐŃĐľĐźŃ ĐžŃ Đ˛ŃоПони иП ĐżŃĐ¸Ń ĐžĐ´Đ¸ĐťĐžŃŃ ŃŃаНкиваŃŃŃŃ Ń ĐťĐ¸ŃĐ˝ŃПи ŃŃоСвŃŃаКнŃПи ОйŃŃĐžŃŃоНŃŃŃваПи. Đа ŃĐľŃŃиŃĐžŃии йОНŃниŃŃ. ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ ŃидоН на СадноП ŃидонŃĐľ Đ´ĐžŃОгОК ŃŃŃнОК ПаŃинŃ, кОŃĐžŃĐ°Ń ĐąŃНа ĐżŃипаŃкОвана Ń Đ˛ĐžŃĐžŃ. ÂŤĐŃ, - ŃкаСаН Он гОНОŃОП, поŃопОНноннŃĐź гОŃĐ´ĐžŃŃŃŃ, - ŃŃĐž Đ´ŃПаоŃŃ Đž ПОоК ŃŃониŃĐľ? ĐŁ Đ˝ĐľŃ ĐžŃНиŃĐ˝ŃĐľ ŃпОŃОйнОŃŃи, но Ńак Ни?Âť Đ ŃдОП Ń ĐźŃĐśŃинОК ŃидоН ĐиŃаНиК, ĐžŃкинŃвŃиŃŃ Đ˝Đ° ŃĐżĐ¸Đ˝ĐşŃ ŃидонŃŃ. ĐĐ˝ ŃнОва пОдŃПаН Đž вŃаŃĐľ, кОŃĐžŃŃĐš НоŃиН огО, и вŃпОПниН, какиПи ŃпОкОКнŃПи и ŃĐžŃĐ˝ŃПи ĐąŃНи ĐľŃ Đ´ĐľĐšŃŃвиŃ. Đа ŃаПОП доНо, ĐźŃĐśŃина ĐąŃĐť пОŃаМон ĐľŃ ŃпОŃОйнОŃŃŃПи. ÂŤĐŃĐž гОŃпОМа ĐОНкОва, - вдŃŃĐł СагОвОŃиН ĐониŃ. ĐиŃаНиК ОпŃŃŃиН ŃŃокНО как ŃаС в ŃĐžŃ ĐźĐžĐźĐľĐ˝Ń, кОгда Яна пОдОŃНа Đş ПаŃино. ĐŃОви ФŃĐ´ĐžŃа пОднŃНиŃŃ, и Он ŃкаСаН: Яна?Âť ĐĐľĐ˝Đ¸Ń ĐžĐąĐľŃĐ˝ŃĐťŃŃ Ń Đ˛ĐžĐ´Đ¸ŃоНŃŃкОгО ПоŃŃа и ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН: ÂŤĐŃ ĐˇĐ˝Đ°ĐľŃĐľ ĐľŃ?Âť ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ ĐşĐ¸Đ˛Đ˝ŃĐť, огО вСгНŃĐ´ СайНоŃŃоН ĐžŃ ĐťŃйОпŃŃŃŃва. ÂŤĐна ĐąŃНа ŃŃŃдонŃкОК на гОд ПНадŃĐľ в ПОŃĐź ŃнивоŃŃиŃĐľŃо. ĐиŃĐ°ĐťĐ¸Ń ŃŃаНО ĐťŃйОпŃŃнО, кОгда Он ŃŃĐťŃŃаН ŃŃĐž. ĐнаŃиŃ, ŃŃа довŃŃка но ŃОНŃкО ŃпаŃНа огО ĐżŃĐžŃНОК нОŃŃŃ, нО и СаНоŃиНа огО ŃанŃ? ÂŤĐŃĐž ŃŃĐ´Ńйа?Âť - вОŃкНикнŃĐť ĐониŃ. ĐŃĐľĐťĐľĐ˝Đ˝Đ°Ń Đ˝Đ°ĐşĐžĐ˝ĐľŃ ŃĐľŃиНа даŃŃ ĐľĐłĐž йОŃŃŃ ŃĐ°Đ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° ĐťŃйОвŃ? ÂŤĐакОгО ŃŃŃŃа ŃŃ Đ˝ĐľŃŃŃŃ?Âť - ŃĐżŃĐžŃиН ФŃĐ´ĐžŃ, Đ˝Đ°Ń ĐźŃŃивŃиŃŃ, поŃĐľĐ˛ĐžĐ´Ń Đ˛ĐˇĐłĐťŃĐ´ Ń ĐžĐ´Đ˝ĐžĐłĐž ĐźŃĐśŃĐ¸Đ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° Đ´ŃŃгОгО. ...... ЧŃĐž ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃ Đ´Đ°ĐťŃŃĐľ? ĐОНиŃĐľŃŃвО гНав СдоŃŃ ĐžĐłŃаниŃонО, наМПиŃĐľ на ĐşĐ˝ĐžĐżĐşŃ Đ˝Đ¸ĐśĐľ, ŃŃĐžĐąŃ ŃŃŃанОвиŃŃ ĐżŃиНОМонио и ĐżŃОдОНМиŃŃ ŃŃонио йОНоо ĐˇĐ°Ń Đ˛Đ°ŃŃваŃŃĐ¸Ń ĐłĐťĐ°Đ˛! (ĐŃ ĐąŃĐ´ĐľŃĐľ авŃОПаŃиŃĐľŃки поŃонапŃĐ°Đ˛ĐťĐľĐ˝Ń Đ˝Đ° книгŃ, кОгда ĐžŃĐşŃОоŃĐľ ĐżŃиНОМонио) &9& | LEARN_MORE | https://fbweb.litradnovie.com/10251418-fb_contact- | Lime novel | https://www.facebook.com/100090847180115/ | 862 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn more | 0 | fbweb.litradnovie.com | VIDEO | https://fbweb.litradnovie.com/10251418-fb_contact-ruj17_6-1108-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=1016312736312375&rawadid=120213381659820790 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/465792578_598653076050650_3950164271136370649_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_amBs69p-wMQ7kNvgFdFXWe&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AN9IFGtRXwCWLeji_vgs1Yk&oh=00_AYCcyrRglxKxqf5b-mjg9781Vr5icXEArLKNQwpwLxf8Wg&oe=6745C063 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Lime novel | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đRead the next chaptersđ | At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage with Aurora. She will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Fell in love, huh? Have you forgot what you promised me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett was called away to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before he left, he lifted his wifeâs veil and vowed, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Embarrassed, Barrett avoided her eye contact. "Just forget what I said. Back then, I only considered you a suitable match for a wife. I knew nothing about love until I met Rory." When he spoke of the woman he loved, his eyes softened with deep affection. Turning back to Carissa, he added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply, and I hope you'll be generous enough to welcome her." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and mother liked her a lot upon seeing her." They agreed? Huh... How ironic! Seems like everything Carissa had done for this household had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting a brow. Barrett carried a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother and making her very happy. Even mother's health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was just laying out 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 lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "you're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her." As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under her eye became more evident in the light. Calmly, she said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. A true matriarch must understand the bigger picture and act with dignity. Donât you trust me?" Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? The king has approved this marriage, and Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things.â âOh, you think that's what I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa countered. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. 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 summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken 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, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowery and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/463739219_933768168563373_5870892638427917721_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mIQBEPoA2L4Q7kNvgERGBY6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AoVwcBqbDTXJy8a8quxnlH-&oh=00_AYCmDDBNbXv9TJ12hQTADha05MHttIyoGEVTfQB9U6BZuw&oe=67459644 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đRead the next chaptersđ | At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage with Aurora. She will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Fell in love, huh? Have you forgot what you promised me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett was called away to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before he left, he lifted his wifeâs veil and vowed, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Embarrassed, Barrett avoided her eye contact. "Just forget what I said. Back then, I only considered you a suitable match for a wife. I knew nothing about love until I met Rory." When he spoke of the woman he loved, his eyes softened with deep affection. Turning back to Carissa, he added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply, and I hope you'll be generous enough to welcome her." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and mother liked her a lot upon seeing her." They agreed? Huh... How ironic! Seems like everything Carissa had done for this household had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting a brow. Barrett carried a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother and making her very happy. Even mother's health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was just laying out 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 lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "you're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her." As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under her eye became more evident in the light. Calmly, she said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. A true matriarch must understand the bigger picture and act with dignity. Donât you trust me?" Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? The king has approved this marriage, and Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things.â âOh, you think that's what I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa countered. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carisse's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted me to have?' It took Carissa no time to made up her mind. âLulu, get prepared. There's somewhere we need to go tomorrow.â ... Early the next morning, Carissa and Lulu boarded a carriage, heading straight for the royal 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. 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 summon her in. The edict has been issued, and can't be taken 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, either, but not granting it would embarrass both him and General Yates. They have after all won a big war.â âYour Majesty, when it comes to military achievements, no one can compare to the Marquis of Northwatch,â Derek countered. Salvador thought of Hector Sinclair, the Marquis of Northwatch. When Salvador was a crown prince who had recently joined the military, it was Hector who had guided him. Back then, he had also known Carissa when she was only a cute kid. Salvador himself had fought a bloody path to the throne, paved with death. He understood the struggles of military officers, so when Barrett requested marriage as a reward, Salvador had hesitated but eventually agreed. But Derek was right. In terms of military merit, Barrett and Aurora were far inferior to Hector Sinclair. âAlright, let her in. If she agrees to this marriage, Iâll grant her whatever she wants, even if it's a noble title or an official rank,â said Salvador. Derek breathed a sigh of relief. âAs always, you're wise, Your Majesty!â ... Carissa knelt in the study with her head bowed. Recalling that Carissa was now the only one left the Sinclair family, Salvador felt nothing but pity for her. "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." "Carissa Sinclair, I have already issued the edict of marriage. It's impossible to revoke it," Salvador said. Carissa shook her head gently. "Your Majesty, I'm not imploring you to reverse that edict, but imploring you for another edict - an amicable divorce with General Warren." The young king was taken aback. "Divorce? You want a divorce?" Carissa nodded her head firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barret Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowery and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13853&u | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 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-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/462070849_1186717122429002_4317317778552029382_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gvl5v7B9B2cQ7kNvgHFw5Zu&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AoVwcBqbDTXJy8a8quxnlH-&oh=00_AYDf9yosf6Fq-EC0WGGxqOrbZvu4tJhJjie_ireOgG6W-g&oe=6745C65A | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đRead the next chaptersđ | Madeline felt nauseous, feeling like she needed to purge immediately. She crouched down to clutch the bin and gagged, but nothing came up. Trevon watched, his brow furrowed in disbelief. Why did her sickness stir something in him? Was it a mere coincidence? Seeing her ashen face, it was clear she was unwell. Trevor gave Madeline a questioning look. "Are you sick? When did it start? What's wrong?" Madeline felt the urge to throw up but could not, which only intensified her discomfort. Clinging to the trash can seemed like the only thing she could do. At the sound of his question, her fingers tensed uncontrollably. She forced a casual response. "Maybe it's just a cold. No big deal." "Answer me!" His voice turned sharp, sending a jolt through Madeline, and she murmured almost without thinking. "This afternoon, when you were⌠I'm just feeling a bit of chest tightness, weak limbs, and a touch of nausea. Typical cold symptoms." She did not bring up the hospital visit, quickly labeling it a cold to avoid any wild guesses. The timing and the symptoms lined up perfectly. 'So, it's because we caught a cold at the same time?' Trevon wondered. Madeline finally let go of her resistance. She deliberately avoided the divorce papers on the table and fetched the sour orange she had bought earlier from the fridge. Her mouth was unbearably uncomfortable, and she craved the relief of something sour. After all, she would need some strength in her hand to sign those papers. The moment she took out the sour orange, its tangy scent filled the room. Catching a glimpse of Trevon standing to the side, watching her with a frown, she hesitated before offering, "Want one?" Trevon looked away, clearly uninterested. Madeline chuckled awkwardly. "Sorry, it slipped my mind. You're not into sour stuff." However, as she sliced into the vibrant sour orange and its juicy interior burst with a potent tangy aroma, Trevon seemed unable to look away. Madeline was about to take a bite when she noticed Trevon approaching. His towering presence felt like a wall closing in, making the kitchen feel smaller by the second. Instinctively, Madeline stepped back. "If you don't like it, then I'll just..." | LEARN_MORE | https://beokn.com/market/buenovela/3?lpid=10922&ut | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61560831098071/ | 21 | 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=10922&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/t39.35426-6/449649369_982697950216881_6633127791340967840_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mpTObHdBlWoQ7kNvgEKtWeL&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AIoy_gYI-oSrKTGHT0EQkml&oh=00_AYAtGP4LU7dVIluC_dlrpO3jblmikdNOYNN6-A9XR7_CIw&oe=6745A44C | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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/ | 321 | 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/t39.35426-6/459610380_1042624133927545_3798084507760860138_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WcJScKeiWckQ7kNvgHGTbFw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AJ8X3ONxY_vOf4UIUPiWLiE&oh=00_AYBnUY9qbfZlQmxqcRa0ZwFCBCNQKZOB1XmPsdmOwoglNg&oe=67459853 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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/ | 321 | 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/t39.35426-6/459610380_1042624133927545_3798084507760860138_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WcJScKeiWckQ7kNvgHGTbFw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AJ8X3ONxY_vOf4UIUPiWLiE&oh=00_AYBnUY9qbfZlQmxqcRa0ZwFCBCNQKZOB1XmPsdmOwoglNg&oe=67459853 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | In Debra's last life, she loved Juan so much, but everyone knew that the one he cherished was Shelia. After Debra was drained of her last bit of value by Juan, she tragically died on the operating table. Reborn in this life, Debra swears never to repeat the same mistakes, and she will make Juan regret what he has done! "Get the defibrillator! Increase the voltage!" "Doctor! The patient is experiencing massive bleeding, and the A-type blood from the blood bank was just urgently taken away." The intern nurse's hands were covered in blood, and she trembled. The operating room reeked of blood. She had never seen so much blood before. At that moment, a thought flashed through her mind. 'Who would suddenly take away A-type blood from the blood bank?' The woman lying on the bed was pale. Her lips were dry, and her eyes started to lose focus. "Juan..." "What?" "Juan Nichols..." The intern nurse made out the name murmured by Debra Frazier. Juan Nichols was the most influential businessman in Seamar City. The doctor was on the verge of collapse. He dialed the wrong number three times before finally getting it right. He quickly pleaded with the person on the other end of the phone, "Mr. Nichols, your wife is experiencing massive bleeding, but the blood from the blood bank has been taken away. Please, come and see her for the last time." But Juan's voice was filled with indifference. "She's still alive? Call me when she's dead." With that, he hung up the phone. All the light disappeared from Debra's eyes. 'Juan, do you hate me so much? Even at this point, you wouldn't come to see me.' The machine emitted a flat, cold beep, indicating the patient's vital signs had disappeared. Debra felt her soul leaving her body. Her withered, frail body collapsed weakly on the bed. Debra felt exhausted. At just twenty-seven, she died from postpartum hemorrhage in the hospital. In her lifetime, she loved Juan dearly. As the only daughter of the Frazier family, she should have enjoyed the best life. But to marry Juan, she sacrificed herself and her family. In the end, she met a tragic fate. Debra slowly closed her eyes. Given another chance, she would never make the same mistakes. ... "Madam, Mr. Nichols wants to take you to the auction. Which outfit would you like to wear?" Sophie asked. Debra gasped and opened her eyes. Everything in front of her was strikingly familiar. This place was Juan and her home. They had been married for a month, but Juan had rarely visited her. She remembered that Juan was attending a land auction, and due to the occasion, he had to bring his family along. But this was all five years ago. 'How could it be? ' she thought, deeply confused, 'Am I reborn?' "Mr. Nichols has never stayed overnight before. You should seize this opportunity." Sophieâs voice brought Debra back to reality. She picked out a white gown, hesitating. "How about this one, Madam?" Looking at it, Debra gave a self-deprecating smile. It was well known that Juan favored Shelia. In the past, she often dressed like Shelia to please Juan Miles. Shelia liked white dresses, so she followed suit, just to earn a little favor from Juan. For this auction, Juan didn't inform her of the change in companion and brought Shelia instead, making her look ridiculous in a white dress similar to Shelia's. The thought of the past made her laugh. "No, I'll wear that one," she said, picking up a red dress. Debra never liked plain clothes. Shelia was just a poor college student. Debra felt that she must have lost her mind to wear cheap clothes for a man. It only lowered her status and self-esteem. "But Mr. Nichols likes white dresses," Sophie said hesitantly. Debra simply ignored her hints. "I'll wear this one," she said. "Throw away all those white dresses. I don't like them." Sophie sighed and complied. Debra looked at herself in the mirror, still vibrant and beautiful. But in a few years, she would be worn down by Juan's torment. Before that happened, she would end it all. In the evening, Debra appeared in a burgundy dress that accentuated her curves. Her delicate makeup, curls, and a mole under her eye made her mesmerizing. She looked like a painting, untouchable. Not far away, a man in a white shirt and black leather combat boots saw her. With a cigarette dangling from his mouth, Marion Houston asked, "Who is she?" "You don't know her? She's Debra, the daughter of the Frazier family and Juan's wife," said his friend, Randy Osborne. "I just saw Juan entering with another woman. Maybe we'll witness a showdown between the mistress and the wife. It will be fun." Marion made no comments. Randy clicked his tongue. "Juan's taste is just terrible, preferring a skinny woman to his beautiful woman. Don't you think?" Randy turned around, but Marion was nowhere to be seen. "Damn it!" he cursed, quickly catching up with Marion. Shelia, in a white dress, held Juan's arm timidly. "I've never been to such an event before. Maybe I should go back." "You'll get used to it. You'll be attending these events frequently in the future," Juan said. Shelia nodded. Juan was about to enter with Shelia when Joe spoke up. "Sir, won't we wait for Mrs. Nichols?" Juan frowned. "Didn't I ask you to tell her not to come today?" Joe glanced at Shelia, and she quickly said, "It's not Joe's fault. I told him not to inform Debra. With my status, I'm afraid of gossip, so I thought it would be better for Debra to accompany you in." Shelia lowered her head like a scared hare. Juan rubbed his temples. He didn't want Debra to show up at all. "Mr. Nichols," Shelia murmured, biting her lip. "It's alright." Juan patted Shelia's head and said to Joe, "Go intercept her and send her away." In the crowd, there were murmurs of surprise. Joe looked over and was also shocked. "I'm afraid it's too late." | LEARN_MORE | https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=1 | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | thebvhwysgng.com | DCO | https://thebvhwysgng.com/market/goodnovel/1?lpid=13914&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/t39.35426-6/462483624_1046414663443486_2784424457317863530_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vvZMDcgRB5QQ7kNvgFuOR5h&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A5jz7ZpxlbeEAcuB0df0uRZ&oh=00_AYAp8wrze4EBfwBZC8NRFqGk_w67HV7jjApVgfuGFKSC6A&oe=6745967B | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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đAttention! Do not read in publicďźđ | At Grace Mansion, Carissa Sinclair stared at the man before herâher husband she had waited for a whole year. Barrett Warren, still in his battle armor, wore an expression of both determination and guilt. "Carissa, the king has issued a royal edict for my marriage with Aurora. She will be joining our household. There's no question about it," said Barrett. Carissa's eyes clouded with confusion. "The queen dowager has praised General Yates as 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, equal to you." "But calling her equal doesn't change the fact that sheâs still just a concubine," Carissa said, a soft smile playing on her lips. Barrett frowned. "Why can't you face the reality? Aurora and I fell in love with each other on the battlefield, and we earned this marriage with our glorified victory. In fact, I donât really need your approval on it." Carissa smiled mockingly. "Fell in love, huh? Have you forgot what you promised me before you left for war?" On their wedding night a year ago, Barrett was called away to lead reinforcements on an expedition. Before he left, he lifted his wifeâs veil and vowed, "Carrisa Sinclair, you're the only woman I'll ever love in my life. I will never take a concubine!" Embarrassed, Barrett avoided her eye contact. "Just forget what I said. Back then, I only considered you a suitable match for a wife. I knew nothing about love until I met Rory." When he spoke of the woman he loved, his eyes softened with deep affection. Turning back to Carissa, he added, "Sheâs unlike any woman Iâve ever met. I love her deeply, and I hope you'll be generous enough to welcome her." Carissa felt a lump in her throat. Despite her disgust and reluctance, she asked, "What about your parents? Do they agree?" "They do. It was a royal edict, and mother liked her a lot upon seeing her." They agreed? Huh... How ironic! Seems like everything Carissa had done for this household had all been for nothing. "Is she currently in the mansion?" Carissa asked, lifting a brow. Barrett carried a softness in his voice, "Yes, sheâs talking to my mother and making her very happy. Even mother's health seems to be improving." "Improving?" Carissa felt a whirlwind of emotions. "When you went to war, your mother was already gravely ill. I brought in the best physician, managed the estateâs affairs by day, and stayed up nights caring for her. That's how her condition started to improve." Carissa wasnât seeking praise. She was just laying out 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 lowered her eyes, as if blinking away the tears. But inspected closely, that's actually her sharpened gaze. "Invite General Yates over. I have a few things to ask her." "There's no need," Barrett refused instantly. "Carissa, sheâs different from any woman you know. As a general, sheâs above household squabbles and wouldnât want to meet you." Carissa retorted, "What are women I know like? Or tell me, what kind of woman am I to you? Have you forgotten? I'm also the daughter of the Marquis's family. My father and my six brothers sacrificed on the Southern Frontier three years ago-" "Thatâs them," Barrett interrupted. "you're still a delicate woman suited only for home comforts, while Aurora has no respect for that. Besides, she never holds back her true thoughts. Trust me, you won't want to hear it from her." As Carissa looked up, the striking beauty mark under her eye became more evident in the light. Calmly, she said, "Itâs fine. If she says anything unpleasant, Iâll ignore it. A true matriarch must understand the bigger picture and act with dignity. Donât you trust me?" Barrett sighed in frustration. âWhy put yourself through this? The king has approved this marriage, and Aurora will never threaten your control of the household. Carissa, she couldn't care less about those things.â âOh, you think that's what I fear? Losing the control of this household?â Carissa countered. Little did Barrett know his household had been reduced to a hollow shell - managing it was a hot potato no one else would bear. Over the past year, it was Carissa's dowry alone that kept the Warren familyâs life respectable, and this was her reward. âEnough,â Barrett snapped, his patience running thin. âIâve done my duty by informing you. Your opinion wonât change anything.â As Carissa watched hum storm out, her bitterness deepened. âMy lady, my lord has really crossed the line!â Lulu, Carissaâs maid, said, wiping her tears. âDonât call him that!â Carissa gave her a stern look. âWe never consummated the marriage. Heâs not your lord. Now go fetch my dowry list.â âWhy the dowry list?â Lulu asked, puzzled. Carissa tapped her on the forehead. âSilly girl, we need to reckon everything before we leave.â Lulu gasped. âLeave? But where can we go? To the Northwatch Estate?â Suddenly Lulu held her tongue, aware that she had touched the sensitive subject. She spared Carissa a guilty look, "I'll get the list now, my lady." Upon the mention of Northwatch Estate, the always restrained Carissa finally let her tears fall. When she was fifteen, her father, the Marquis of Northwatch, had sacrificed his life on the battlefield. Then, just six months ago, her entire family at the Northwatch Estate was brutally slaughtered â assassins rumored to be spies from the enemy nation, Westhaven. She rushed back after getting the news, only to find the dismembered bodies of her mother and grandmother. Even her youngest nephew, two years old, didn't escape death, neither. Now, she was the lone survivor of the marquis' family, the idea of restoring her familyâs former glory seemed impossibleâat least to outsiders. After all, she was presented mostly as a delicate, fragile woman, while Aurora Taytes had just made herself the first female general in history. It's only natural that the Warren family was more than happy to agree to the marriage. Yet, unbeknownst to the world, Carissa's martial talent was never beneath her father and brothers. If given a chance on the battlefield, she would definitely outshine Aurora Taytes, perhaps a million times more... Just then, Lulu had brought over the dowry list, "My lady, this year alone, you've spent over six thousand silver coins supporting 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." "I see." Carissa's gaze lingered on the list with melancholy. Her mother had given her such a substantial dowry, fearing she might face hardship in her husband's home. Yet now here she was. The Warren family had disregarded all her effort, and Barrett had even broken his vow to take no concubine - the very promise that led her mother to choose him over more eligible suitors, despite the Warren familyâs fall from grace. 'Was this really the life mother wanted for me?' Soon, Carissa lifted her gaze, determination tightening her grip on the dowry list, âLulu, make preparations. Weâre going to see His Majesty tomorrow.â Luluâs brow furrowed, as if knowing Carissa's purpose, âBut, my lady, I donât think His Majesty will revoke his edictââ Carissa shook her head, âNo, Lulu, Iâm not asking him to change the edict, but to request a new oneâan amicable divorce from Barrett.â Luluâs eyes widened that instant, âA divorce! My lady, you want a divorce?â Carissa nodded firmly. She was never someone to pester some man. If Barrett Warren loved Aurora Yates so much, then she would let him go. What she needed now was a single edict for an amicable divorce, so she could take away all her dowry and get rid of the despicable Warren family for good, dignified and head high... | LEARN_MORE | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831& | Random Reading | https://www.facebook.com/61559743679549/ | 321 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | shgjfh.com | DCO | https://shgjfh.com/market/meganovel/13?lpid=13831&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/t39.35426-6/464975882_1204712524149205_7926569809786181278_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jMWLnZ_D020Q7kNvgHlny0-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A5jz7ZpxlbeEAcuB0df0uRZ&oh=00_AYBckAhJi6344GW6Qvw4zVTvaMAlmi4j0MCT930PuQH8Zg&oe=6745A243 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Random Reading | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete |
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