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1,616,682	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1045231290369618	Read next chapter	#Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and was—"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h	102729319508493	Auroch novel	https://facebook.com/100092728788928	15,236	1	417,524,714,426,566	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Auroch novel	120208857985180245	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=263741546706881		2024-04-28 05:49	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439913718_3528414187421559_7344967619822514769_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XR16FIdFRN0Ab5Q_1b2&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAVzUKJCd-DUyr-wzaAuxfZwe-Nh7jiXPPV3VXhFApukA&oe=6635FC69	person_profile	0	Auroch novel	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440338309_807566447969253_8918463568035047650_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=50YIlAou06IAb7ZuebU&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAreTwJSBg8z7j0dzpRUfXKeFXucj0UYOL7jSyxYQe8og&oe=66360E14	0	3	Auroch novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,695	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	423795973707243	Read next chapter	#Chapter1 Revenge<br /> <br /> "Miss Edwards, I need your signature on this consent form for artificial insemination surgery," said the lawyer as he presented the document to Ariana Edwards. <br /> <br /> Ariana gripped the pen, her knuckles turning white as she stared at the consent form. <br /> <br /> The surgery was scheduled for tomorrow, and today was her wedding. <br /> <br /> The donor of the sperm was none other than Theodore Anderson, the eldest son of the wealthy Anderson family, and also her groom. <br /> <br /> But fate had dealt a cruel hand. Theodore had been in a horrific car accident three months prior and was now comatose, unlikely to ever recover. His life hung by a thread, and it was uncertain how long he would last. <br /> <br /> The Anderson family, known for their fixation on succession and legacy, was desperate to ensure Theodore's bloodline would continue. So his father, Darian Anderson, took it upon himself to get his son a wife. The sperm that Theodore froze years ago was going to be inseminated into the bride's womb before he died. <br /> <br /> As Ariana looked down at the consent form in front of her, her complexion was ashen, and her eyes betrayed a subtle sense of panic. <br /> <br /> "Please, can you give me some space to collect my thoughts? I need to read through it carefully," she said to the lawyer, her voice trembling with emotion. <br /> <br /> After a few seconds of silence, the lawyer nodded and left the room. <br /> <br /> The lawyer's departure left the room in an eerie silence. Ariana immediately placed the consent form on the table. She had to call Jasper Anderson, her secret boyfriend, for help. <br /> <br /> As fate would have it, Jasper, Theodore's half-brother, was the mastermind behind this wedding. <br /> <br /> Ariana's life had been turned upside down by the recent passing of her father, and the ruthlessness of her stepmother, Glenda Edwards. Ariana was left with nothing, not even her deceased mother's belongings which were also taken away. <br /> <br /> Just when Ariana felt cornered, Jasper came to her with a proposition: she would pretend to marry Theodore, and they would find a way to sabotage the surgery. After Theodore's death, Jasper would become the sole heir of the Anderson family, and in return, he promised to marry Ariana and help her reclaim her mother's belongings. <br /> <br /> Ariana, under Jasper's spell, initially agreed to the plan. However, as the wedding drew closer, she realized that she couldn't go through with it. <br /> <br /> Desperately seeking Jasper's comfort and counsel, Ariana tried calling him, but to no avail. <br /> <br /> In a state of anxiety, she sneaked out to look for him. She took off her high heels, held them in her hands, and walked down the corridor, her heart racing with fear and anticipation. <br /> <br /> Ariana's footsteps came to a sudden halt as she approached the last lounge at the end of the corridor. <br /> <br /> A faint noise could be heard coming from the slightly open door. It was the sound of a familiar giggle. <br /> <br /> Through the crack, she heard a familiar voice. "Stay with me for a little longer, Jasper. Ariana doesn't have time to look for you now."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank, and she inched closer to the door, peering inside through the small opening. She saw Brielle Edwards, her half-sister, and Jasper on the sofa. <br /> <br /> Jasper spoke impatiently as he pushed Brielle away to get up. "I need to keep an eye on her. I'm afraid she will have cold feet about the wedding."<br /> <br /> But Brielle, carelessly dismissing the concern, got close to him and said, "Oh, stop worrying so much. She always listens to you. Besides, we have her mother's belongings with us. She wouldn't dare to run away."<br /> <br /> Jasper seemed relieved. "You're right. Thank you, baby. I will get rid of her when I finish the plan. I only want you..."<br /> <br /> Ariana watched in horror as they talked about their scheme against her. <br /> <br /> The reality of the situation hit her hard, and she was left reeling, struggling to maintain her balance as she stumbled backward. <br /> <br /> The betrayal was too much for Ariana to bear. Her heart shattered into a million pieces as tears streamed down her cheeks. <br /> <br /> Fury surged through her veins, and she balled her fists so tightly that her nails dug into her palms. She listened to them with a mix of disgust and rage. <br /> <br /> But Ariana was not defeated. She had to take action. She would not let Jasper and Brielle get away with their treachery. <br /> <br /> With newfound determination, she wiped away her tears, slipped on her high heels, and strode back to the room. Without a moment's hesitation, she signed the consent form, determined to become the true daughter-in-law of the Anderson family. <br /> <br /> And she would make sure that Jasper and Brielle would pay for their betrayal, no matter what it took. <br /> <br /> * At night, the Anderson family's residence was illuminated by bright lights, casting a glow over the extravagant surroundings. <br /> <br /> Ariana was escorted to Theodore's room by the housekeeper, just after the wedding. <br /> <br /> This was the first time she was meeting her so-called husband. <br /> <br /> According to Jasper, Theodore was a man with a terrible temper, a bad character, and a cruel personality. He was even cold to his own family. Jasper used every insulting word to describe Theodore, even "ugly."<br /> <br /> Ariana had believed Jasper's words and was mentally prepared to face a husband who was anything but handsome. However, when she saw Theodore for the first time, even though he was ill, she couldn't help but notice his inherent nobility and incredibly handsome appearance. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood motionless beside the bed, admiring Theodore's stunning features, and began to doubt everything Jasper had told her. <br /> <br /> At that moment, Jasper pushed the door open and swaggered into the room, speaking loudly and with no regard for Theodore's condition. <br /> <br /> "I'm sorry, Aria. I was too preoccupied today, and I regret not answering your call," Jasper uttered, feigning remorse. <br /> <br /> Ariana had to play along with Jasper's scheme for the time being, so she replied, "It's alright. Don't worry about it."<br /> <br /> Jasper's smug grin widened. "I knew you would forgive me; you love me too much," he said confidently. <br /> <br /> Ariana clenched her fists, containing her fury. "It's late now. We can talk about whatever you wanted to discuss tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Jasper locked the door, plunging the room into darkness, and slowly approached her. <br /> <br /> Ariana retreated nervously, questioning him, "Jasper, what do you want from me?"<br /> <br /> With a wicked smirk, Jasper pounced on her, saying, "We shouldn't waste time. If you carry my child, our child will become an Anderson heir."<br /> <br /> Jasper didn't take Theodore seriously. How dare he want to do that right in front of his brother! <br /> <br /> Ariana fought back, shouting, "Let me go!"<br /> <br /> Jasper abruptly halted, and Ariana gazed up at him, dazed. She saw his expression shift to one of pure terror, as if he had seen a ghost behind her. <br /> <br /> In a trembling voice, Jasper muttered, "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter2 Artificial Insemination Operation<br /> <br /> Jasper immediately took to his heels.<br /> <br /> Ariana was confused. What was wrong with him? Did Theodore wake up?<br /> <br /> She quickly turned around, but she didn't notice anything odd. Theodore was still lying on the bed, and his breath was as steady and quiet as before.<br /> <br /> The only difference was that one of his hands was out of the quilt.<br /> <br /> Ariana tilted her head and studied the hand for a while. It looked limp, so she felt that it probably fell out when she bumped into the bedframe while trying to dodge Jasper.<br /> <br /> "Theodore?" Ariana called tentatively.<br /> <br /> There was no response.<br /> <br /> She leaned forward and called out more firmly, "Hey, Theodore!"<br /> <br /> Still, she got no response.<br /> <br /> Ariana swallowed hard and slowly walked to the bedside. She carefully took hold of his hand and put it back under the quilt. Theodore still didn't move a muscle during the process. This eased her mind greatly. It turned out he was still in a deep coma.<br /> <br /> Perhaps Jasper had hallucinated.<br /> <br /> Ariana breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> The room returned to its usual quietness again. Ariana's heart was still beating fast. For some unknown reason, she feared that Theodore would suddenly open his eyes. She sat on the edge of the bed and stared at him closely. A while later, she dozed off due to tiredness.<br /> <br /> The next day, Ariana woke up to find herself lying on the edge of the bed. She quickly turned her head to look at Theodore. To her relief, he didn't seem to have moved an inch the whole night. Ariana felt the weight of uncertainty drop off her shoulders now.<br /> <br /> She finally ruled out the possibility that Jasper had really seen Theodore move last night.<br /> <br /> Ariana went to the bathroom to wash up. While she was brushing her teeth, her eyes fell on a red mark on her neck. It wasn't there before. It looked like someone had pinched her there recently.<br /> <br /> When Ariana remembered the struggle with Jasper last night, she reasoned that the red mark was his doing.<br /> <br /> Disgust surged inside her at the thought of that betrayer.<br /> <br /> Ariana set down her toothbrush and went back into the bedroom. She put on a turtleneck top to cover the mark.<br /> <br /> When she was all dressed up, she went downstairs.<br /> <br /> She had just gotten to the bottom stair when Jasper appeared out of nowhere and pulled her into a cubicle nearby.<br /> <br /> "Did Theodore wake up last night?" he whispered into her ear, fearing that someone would hear them.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt sick to her stomach at the sight of Jasper. She took two steps back and replied expressionlessly, "No, he didn't."<br /> <br /> "That's good to know. My eyes tricked me last night. For a second, I thought Theodore opened his eyes and stared daggers at me. Thank goodness it was just an illusion." Jasper took a deep breath, feeling relieved. He flashed his usual sunny smile.<br /> <br /> This smile used to send excitement through Ariana's body in the past. But now, she hated it. She lowered her eyes so he wouldn't see the resentment in her eyes.<br /> <br /> Oblivious to the real reason, Jasper felt that she was unhappy because of what happened last night. He apologized softly. "I'm sorry about what happened, Aria. I didn't mean to be rough with you."<br /> <br /> Ariana forced a smile. "Okay, it's fine."<br /> <br /> She then made up an excuse so she could leave the cubicle immediately.<br /> <br /> When she got to the dining room, she saw that Darian was already seated at the table. He was a serious man who rarely smiled. After Ariana greeted him, he only nodded slightly. He exuded a cold and uncaring aura.<br /> <br /> On the other hand, Sharon, Theodore's stepmother, was enthusiastic. She was Jasper's biological mother, so she probably knew about his plan. It was the only logical explanation for her excessive warmth and friendliness.<br /> <br /> Ariana felt uncomfortable throughout breakfast.<br /> <br /> Once they were done eating, Darian took her to the private hospital owned by the Anderson family.<br /> <br /> Jasper came along. When Ariana was being ushered into the operating room, he gave her a knowing look.<br /> <br /> Ariana took the hint.<br /> <br /> She smiled to assure him that she hadn't forgotten the plan. But the moment she turned around, her smile vanished. She walked into the operating room with a cold face.<br /> <br /> Fear slowly crept into her heart at this time. But when she remembered how Jasper had betrayed her, she gritted her teeth and balled her fists. She was hell-bent on getting revenge and taking back what rightfully belonged to her.<br /> <br /> The insemination took about an hour. Ariana, whose face was pale, was wheeled out in a wheelchair. The doctor took off his mask and said to Darian, "Everything went well, Mr. Anderson. Now, we have to wait for about a month to confirm if it is successful."<br /> <br /> Jasper's face darkened as soon as he heard this.<br /> <br /> In contrast, Darian's usually cold face lit up with a smile. Even a blind man could see that he was pleased with the news. He looked at Ariana with an expression of satisfaction. Afterward, he ordered one of his drivers to drive her and Jasper back home.<br /> <br /> On the way, Jasper's face was red with anger. Several green veins became visible on his forehead and temples, but he didn't utter a word.<br /> <br /> Ariana didn't bother speaking to him. She looked out of the window, lost in thought.<br /> <br /> Once they got out of the car, Jasper flipped out. He grabbed her arm and pulled her to the garden to give her a piece of his mind.<br /> <br /> "Ariana! I thought we agreed that you would ruin the operation. Why didn't you do so?" Jasper growled.<br /> <br /> As far as Ariana was concerned, she didn't owe this backstabber an explanation. He disgusted her. She shook off his hand and said coldly, "Mind the way you speak to me, Jasper. I'm your sister-in-law now!"<br /> <br /> Jasper held his head and let out an angry laugh. He kicked the tree nearby. "What did you just say? Are you kidding me?"<br /> <br /> Ariana's heart skipped a beat when she saw his bloodshot eyes. She spun on her heels, but Jasper pulled her back.<br /> <br /> "Did I tell you to leave? Don't even dare walk out on me, Ariana! I'm not done speaking to you!" Sparks of fury burned in Jasper's eyes.<br /> <br /> Ariana was both scared and annoyed. She tried to break free while glaring at him. "Let go of me!"<br /> <br /> Jasper grabbed her with both hands and leaned over. "This wasn't what we agreed on. Are you trying to pull a fast one on me now that you are married to Theodore? Just so you know, you can't get rid of me. There's no telling that you would get pregnant. Even if you do, Theodore won't be able to protect you and your baby."<br /> <br /> "Bah! How are you so sure about that? Theodore is still alive, isn't he?" Ariana sneered. "No matter what happens, I'm still your sister-in-law. You better come to terms with it now!"<br /> <br /> This comment drove Jasper nuts. He raised his hand to slap her.<br /> <br /> But before that could happen, a servant rushed out of the house and shouted, "Ma'am! Mr. Theodore Anderson just woke up. He wants to see you!"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter3 He Woke Up<br /> <br /> Ariana and Jasper were both taken aback by the sudden revelation that Theodore had awakened from his coma. <br /> <br /> Jasper's face contorted with anger as he tightened his grip on Ariana's arm, accusing her of deception. "You lied to me? What I saw last night wasn't an illusion. You knew Theodore woke up, didn't you? That's why you've been acting so strange today!"<br /> <br /> Ariana refused to explain, her expression turning into a sneer as she shrugged off Jasper's grasp, leaving him behind as she followed the servant's lead. <br /> <br /> Jasper seethed with anger, his fists clenching as he watched her retreating form. He kicked a nearby flowerpot in frustration, the sound of shattering pottery echoing through the garden. <br /> <br /> The sprawling Andersons' estate was a maze of hallways and rooms, adorned with vibrant flowers in every shade. Ariana made her way down the endless corridor, lost in her thoughts and worries. She finally reached the small villa where Theodore was recuperating, nestled behind the lush garden. <br /> <br /> The peaceful surroundings were bathed in warm sunlight, a sharp contrast to the chaos in Ariana's mind. <br /> <br /> She couldn't shake the worries that clouded her thoughts, unsure if Theodore had awoken during the night or overheard her conversation with Jasper. <br /> <br /> Ariana's heart raced as she contemplated what would happen if Theodore had heard the conversation between her and Jasper. <br /> <br /> Her face was drained of color, her eyes filled with fear. <br /> <br /> Her husband was known to be cruel and merciless, with power and connections that reached far and wide, even among the police and gangs. Those who dared to cross him often met with a grisly fate. <br /> <br /> "Ma'am, here we are." Ariana was jolted back to reality by the servant's voice. <br /> <br /> She breathed deeply, steeled herself, and took a slow step inside. Coincidentally, Darian dashed toward her, both of them exchanging brief greetings. <br /> <br /> And in silence, they walked through the villa's entrance. <br /> <br /> A group of doctors encircled Theodore on the huge bed as they approached. <br /> <br /> After the examination, the attending doctor sighed and said, "Although Mr. Theodore Anderson has regained consciousness, the accident has taken a toll on his body, particularly his legs. They are too damaged, and he will never be able to walk normally again. Physiotherapy will take a long time."<br /> <br /> Darian's disbelief was palpable. "You mean he's... he's disabled?"<br /> <br /> Ariana frowned, and to her surprise, she glimpsed relief in Darian's expression. <br /> <br /> "I'm afraid so," the doctor admitted with deep regret. <br /> <br /> "I see. You can leave now." With a flick of his wrist, Darian dismissed the doctors and turned his attention to Theodore, wearing an unusually soft smile. "Rest well, Theodore. You shouldn't worry about anything else. I'll find the best doctor to treat your legs."<br /> <br /> Then, Darian turned to Ariana and said, "You may have to take care of Theodore from now on."<br /> <br /> Ariana almost wanted to roll her eyes at Darian. She couldn't help but think that he was making her his son's caregiver. <br /> <br /> Theodore sat propped up against the headboard, his eyes filled with an icy indifference that sent shivers down anyone's spine. He seemed aloof and detached from everything around him, his face shrouded with an icy chill. <br /> <br /> Finally, he looked up and locked his gaze with Darian's, asking in a frigid tone, "Who is she?"<br /> <br /> Ariana was taken aback by Theodore's short question, unsure how to respond to him. Her heart raced, and her mind raced faster. <br /> <br /> She didn't even know how to introduce herself to him. <br /> <br /> The thought of Theodore being able to leave this arranged marriage at any moment caused Ariana to shiver. <br /> <br /> She had to see her plan through; otherwise, it would all be for nothing. <br /> <br /> "She is your wife, Ariana Edwards," Darian said. <br /> <br /> Theodore's expression turned colder. "I don't remember having a wife. Where did you find this liar?" he said, disdain dripping from his words. <br /> <br /> "I arranged her for you," Darian replied in a tone that was uncharacteristically sharp. "Everyone knows it."<br /> <br /> But Theodore wasn't going to let it go so easily. "Then I'll divorce her!" he spat. "Not just anyone can be my wife. If you want someone to take care of me, you'd better hire a caregiver directly."<br /> <br /> The words hung in the air, freezing the already tense atmosphere. Darian's face twitched with anger, but he restrained himself. "Divorce is impossible," he said through gritted teeth. <br /> <br /> Theodore sneered at Darian. "What right do you have to make decisions for me?"<br /> <br /> The tension was palpable in the room as Ariana stood. She felt like a mere onlooker to the father and son's tumultuous relationship. <br /> <br /> Darian's voice quivered with fury as he growled, "It was already decided. Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery, and there's a chance she's carrying your child."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes snapped to Ariana, scanning her form as if she was a mere object. <br /> <br /> It felt like an eternity before he chuckled and asked Ariana, "So, should I arrange a doctor for you to get rid of the baby?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter4 He Knew It<br /> <br /> Ariana was in shock after hearing what Theodore had said. She stood there, paralyzed and speechless. <br /> <br /> Darian was seething with anger and lashed out, "What are you saying? This child is of the Anderson family's lineage!"<br /> <br /> To this, Theodore replied with icy detachment, "The Anderson family has many descendants. This one can be abandoned. And if you don't want to abandon it, I have ways to make it disappear."<br /> <br /> Every word was like a crushing blow to Ariana's heart, leaving her unsettled and anxious. <br /> <br /> Darian was beyond furious and he pointed a trembling finger at Theodore. "How dare you speak to me in that manner? You are an ingrate! Do you not consider me your father?"<br /> <br /> Theodore let out a cold sneer. "Father? You are not worthy of being called that, Darian."<br /> <br /> The atmosphere was tense, as Darian's hand came down hard on the lamp, sending it crashing to the floor. <br /> <br /> Ariana took a step back, wary of the explosive emotions of the father and son. <br /> <br /> Despite Darian's rage, Theodore remained unperturbed. He appeared to be accustomed to the violent outbursts of his father, casually picking up a glass of water and taking a leisurely sip, unfazed by the intense situation. <br /> <br /> Darian took a deep breath, his body radiating anger as he realized there was no use in continuing the conversation. "It's too soon to be discussing a divorce," he said, his words dripping with authority. "Ariana just underwent the artificial insemination surgery. We would only find out if it was successful in a month. If you are still adamant about getting a divorce, then we can discuss it."<br /> <br /> He emphasized the last sentence and leveled a sharp look at Theodore, daring him to object. <br /> <br /> Theodore, however, sneered and remained silent. Even weakened by his illness, he exuded an aura of power that belied his physical state. <br /> <br /> "Think about it," Darian spat out, the frustration clear in his voice, before turning and storming off in a huff. <br /> <br /> Ariana stood there, unsure of what to do to break the tension between her and Theodore. <br /> <br /> They were married now, and Ariana might have been carrying his child. It would be easier for everyone if they could get along civilly in their future life together. <br /> <br /> But then, she thought about how much he must be suffering from his disability and his short temper. <br /> <br /> After careful consideration, Ariana decided to take the first step to mend their relationship. If she could show him kindness and care, perhaps she could use his affection for her to advance her own plans for revenge. <br /> <br /> Tentatively, Ariana stepped closer to Theodore's bedside and looked upon his handsome face with nervousness. <br /> <br /> She hesitated for a moment, steeling herself to start a conversation. His gaze was cold and unyielding, but she had to try. "Mr. Anderson, my name is Ariana, and I'm your wife..."<br /> <br /> Her voice trailed off as his icy stare bore into her. She knew she was telling the truth, but he didn't seem to want to accept it. <br /> <br /> Suddenly, Theodore's hand shot out and seized hers in a tight grip. Ariana gasped in surprise and stumbled, falling into his arms. <br /> <br /> His body was warm and his scent was intoxicating, overwhelming her senses. <br /> <br /> As she struggled to right herself, Theodore put his other hand on her nape and pressed her head closer. <br /> <br /> Fear welled up inside her as Ariana realized just how dangerous this man could be. <br /> <br /> "You don't have what it takes to be my wife. This position demands someone who isn't a coward, someone who isn't afraid of me. Do you have a guilty conscience? Is that why you're so nervous around me?" Theodore's breath was hot on Ariana's neck as he leaned in to whisper these cutting words, causing her to shiver in fear. <br /> <br /> He gazed down at Ariana as his slender fingers slid beneath the collar of her turtleneck blouse and then touched her neck with the tenderness of a doting lover. <br /> <br /> His gesture sent shivers down her spine and she felt her heart race. <br /> <br /> Ariana's voice quavered with trepidation as she stuttered, "I... I don't."<br /> <br /> Theodore sneered with a malevolent glint in his eyes, relishing the fear he had induced in her. <br /> <br /> Ariana could feel his heartbeat, each thump ringing in her ears like a death knell. <br /> <br /> What did he mean by this? <br /> <br /> Theodore's voice was low and menacing. "Did you enjoy your time with Jasper in front of me?"<br /> <br /> Panic settled in as Ariana realized that Theodore was awake the entire time on their wedding night. He had seen Jasper sneaking into their room. <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> #Chapter5 Terrifying Husband<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes bored into her, and for a moment, he seemed to take pleasure in her panic. But when his gaze fell on her belly, his expression twisted into one of pure malice. A cold, cruel glint flickered in his eyes, sending shivers down Ariana's spine. <br /> <br /> "You'd better hope that you're not pregnant," he hissed, his voice laced with venom. "Because if you are, I'll make sure it never sees the light of day."<br /> <br /> Her heart sank as she heard the threat in his words. Theodore was every bit as ruthless as Jasper had warned her. Maybe even worse. <br /> <br /> In a desperate bid to save her own life, Ariana lowered her head, her voice trembling with fear as she tried to explain herself. "Theodore, please listen to me. I broke up with Jasper, and I never..."<br /> <br /> "Get out!" Theodore's patience ran out, and his face twisted into an icy mask. "I never want to see your face again."<br /> <br /> Ariana realized that convincing Theodore was impossible, no matter how much she tried. She hastened to make her escape, but on her way out, she collided with a sophisticated gentleman in a sleek suit. <br /> <br /> Trembling, she apologized quickly and bolted out of Theodore's room, not daring to look back. <br /> <br /> Once Horace Silence strode into the room, he immediately observed Theodore's intense gaze fixed on the spot where Ariana had vanished. It was as if he was lost in deep contemplation, mulling over something of great importance. <br /> <br /> After a moment's reflection, Horace placed a test report on the nearby bedside table. <br /> <br /> "According to the doctor, your body is healthy, and after some remedial exercises of your legs, you can fully recover. He will continue to cooperate with your orders and pretend that your legs are disabled. Everyone in the Anderson family believes it," Horace reported to his boss. <br /> <br /> Theodore smiled, the satisfaction clear in his eyes. "Let's keep them in the dark for a little longer. I want them to think they are invincible before I destroy them."<br /> <br /> Horace then took out another document. <br /> <br /> "Boss, this contains information about your new wife, Ariana Edwards," he said, fulfilling his duty as a senior assistant. <br /> <br /> Horace moved to place the document on the bedside table, but Theodore snatched it from him. <br /> <br /> Horace was a bit surprised. Then he spoke with a touch of hesitancy. "You may be surprised to hear this, boss, but Ms. Edwards lived a miserable life. Her life has been marked by a series of unfortunate events that have left her with little recourse. She lost her mother at the tender age of 13, and shortly thereafter, her father remarried a woman who brought with her a girl. The girl is Ms. Edwards' younger half-sister. The existence of Ms. Edwards' stepmother and half-sister was clear proof that her father had been cheating on her mother for ages. <br /> <br /> Fueled by anger, Ms. Edwards left for studies abroad as soon as she became an adult, hoping to escape the pain of her past. However, she didn't get to see her father again before his death. Yet even with her father's passing, she was unable to find closure, as her stepmother seized control of the family's assets and cast her out onto the streets. Given her circumstances, it's possible she felt she had no choice but to marry you..."<br /> <br /> Theodore's eyes narrowed as he perused the report, a slight frown marring his features. "Horace, I can read. I don't need you to interpret," he said in a clipped tone. <br /> <br /> Horace nodded subserviently, but it wasn't long before he could no longer hold his tongue. <br /> <br /> "I just feel that Ms. Edwards' past is a little similar to yours. She also has a stepmother, and was—"<br /> <br /> Theodore's face contorted into a cruel smile as he cut him off. "Do I have to remind you of your surname?" he hissed. <br /> <br /> Horace gulped audibly and took a step back. His boss's threat was clear. He knew better than to push the issue any further. <br /> <br /> Theodore let out a disdainful snort as he recalled the fear that had been etched on Ariana's face. The memory only served to deepen his frown. <br /> <br /> *<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, Ariana scurried out of Theodore's room and headed to find the housekeeper, Judy Kelly. <br /> <br /> The warm-hearted, slightly plump middle-aged woman took Ariana's hands in hers as she persuaded, "Mr. Anderson has just woken up and he may need some time to adjust. Love requires patience and understanding. Please, my dear, be obedient and tolerant toward him. Things might turn around for the better soon."<br /> <br /> Ariana bit her tongue, holding back the retort that she wouldn't please that tyrant even if she was out of her mind. <br /> <br /> After Judy arranged a guest room for her, Ariana collapsed onto the bed, exhausted from the day's events. She fell asleep in no time. <br /> <br /> The next morning, Ariana jolted awake to the blaring sound of her phone alarm. As she blinked away the sleep from her eyes, she gazed up at the unfamiliar ceiling, her heart heavy with confusion and worry. Her mind swirled with thoughts of her future and how uncertain it had become. <br /> <br /> Ariana had foolishly believed that her husband's death was imminent and that she could secure her place as an Anderson family daughter-in-law. <br /> <br /> But the reality was far from what she had hoped. Not only had Theodore survived, but he also seemed intent on banishing her from the family altogether. <br /> <br /> Ariana groggily reached over and fumbled with her phone until she found the alarm. As she silenced the ringing, a piece of news caught her bleary eyes. "Hundreds of high-price items are on sale at the auction in Ivebridge..."<br /> <br /> The headline grabbed her attention, and she leaned closer to read more. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw the first item on the auction block was a necklace that belonged to her late mother. <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-h	102729319508493	Auroch novel	https://facebook.com/100092728788928	15,236	1	834,318,248,535,945	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	Auroch novel	120208857971530245	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/38520322-fb_contact-hys-0320-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=066827&accid=263741546706881		2024-04-28 05:49	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440788638_356420207423611_1525709311858587668_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=acla_Oz8bUEAb4_aFrK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCzC3qZW2YidEa5MKxdT1Ea-62bqOzOHJOBUHdNdmIosg&oe=6635ED9D	person_profile	0	Auroch novel	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440761853_3783851188608404_1768108545151094385_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=L3VFVrgI_vAAb7teoIg&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfA9XxA_gisP_nxfZqH14_zLAeQwk-Ho8TNVbvuGkmCqUw&oe=66362119	0	3	Auroch novel	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,800	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	794035295679248		“I was having lunch with some friends when the waiter stopped by to take our pictures. As one of my friends was looking at them, she commented, 'I can't believe how young you look - you could be 40!' That felt great, considering that I'm almost 64!”	SHOP_NOW	https://beautarea.com/products/66w	317193008133247	Edge of Reality-D	https://facebook.com/61558400737150	0	0	1,172,137,267,127,670	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Shop now	Edge of Reality-D	120207587459430053	beautarea.com	NONE	video		https://beautarea.com/products/66w		2024-04-29 02:57	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440322476_448706160903743_5824982486928926417_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QXDtx9hzgCIAb46-hIN&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBfM26SqPRMBBpU0yx4oRNvqZ3qklUUeDidTYS4_T-muw&oe=6636222E	person_profile	0	Edge of Reality-D	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440180628_1359455478077483_8361589574137915348_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cJUbnbeLhXEAb7AiWP4&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBkJb9I72e7z1Utd4j_36WH-ZhtAoTJcYrpfHJItBplGA&oe=6636045A	0	3	Edge of Reality-D	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,201	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	939491157674729	Celebrate Mother's Day with laughter in Longmont	ATTN: Moms who need a night out! <br /> Join us for a night of laughter on Wednesday, May 8th at the Dickens Opera House. <br /> <br /> Come celebrate Mother's Day early as we explore everything from motherhood, midlife crisis, marriage, divorce, and other things that irritate us. Men are welcome to the show, too. 🙂<br /> <br /> Performing: Stephanie McHugh, Kimberly Koester, Danielle Prado, and headliner Zoe Rogers. <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.andreavahl.com%2Fstandup-comedy-show-longmont&h=AT0S7PhTCZIVbWhtgxjP_7KixoZrrTQ1XXsOui2wKfZ8uXtpWJfykRLfg5c3W613z-q7sCZ06kjPpcZQ66zNsag6Pq0d32ch6pXxsefhUzWQcDmh74XXKFaYcvMTs6LZqcERXzCahmZoty8Fvg2Ok54Ha7A" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.andreavahl.com/standup-comedy-show-longmont</a><br /> <br /> Don't wait to get tickets - we frequently SELL OUT!<br /> <br /> Praise for Moms Unhinged:<br /> "This show was definitely a Comedic Masterpiece!!! What talent! My face is still hurting from non-stop laughing! Thanks for a wonderful evening!! 😁💕😁💕😁 - Nancy<br /> <br /> “You rocked it – that was such a fabulous show. Can’t wait for the next one!” – Sylvia<br /> <br /> "I haven't laughed that much in a long time" - Kelly	BOOK_TRAVEL	https://www.andreavahl.com/standup-comedy-show-lon	260008397194866	Moms Unhinged	https://facebook.com/MomsUnhingedComedy	76	1	962,230,758,674,297	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Book now	Moms Unhinged	6629870542086	andreavahl.com	NONE	image	Join us for Moms Unhinged - a standup comedy show where we explore motherhood, marriage, divorce, and other things that irritate us.	https://www.andreavahl.com/standup-comedy-show-longmont		2024-04-29 13:30	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440340972_3833176063580242_8300819924808877322_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7AsZuXdNMLgAb6GMVIT&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDHawIrNN86xyWGgV-Cz5oYSnQ7VPesFX3dSbRmH4Lc3A&oe=6635EEED	person_profile	0	Moms Unhinged	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440322332_1111363583272351_1388593239673486621_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6bz5xX3E03EAb5dYSEh&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDluEIKV0PikmKXnjB-NHY6XxrIaHTGtqJ13gBHUd7UgQ&oe=66361A39	0	3	Moms Unhinged	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,998	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	449517304287247	Nuna Mixx2 Stroller	Nuna Mixx2 Stroller - $125.00<br /> <br /> Excellent used condition. Includes cup holder. Asking $200 obo. Color is maroon.<br /> Facebook Marketplace	CONTACT_US	https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/825919526246	287350412176010	Kelly BL	/marketplace/?seller_profile=1153451686	0	1	422,936,883,814,881	2024-04-29 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	0	1	1	Contact us	Kelly BL	120210851795070663		NONE	image		https://facebook.com/marketplace/item/825919526246659/		2024-04-29 09:31	https://scontent.fphx1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440450431_1076763313384284_8561478591556665662_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JDARP4uuJZMQ7kNvgFo9kF1&_nc_ht=scontent.fphx1-2.fna&oh=00_AfCCZgsrxeKmfl3iQsh4aK7kkD4MP8AWVqPvScfbqa9Gmg&oe=6635ED00	regular_page	1	Kelly BL	https://scontent.fphx1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438239074_803503555035950_8546288361968325062_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dswxAYJsZfsQ7kNvgFC7iFs&_nc_ht=scontent.fphx1-1.fna&oh=00_AfCA3EXGF8VpfrukeXar4nBn5ao2wHpkYnaWTljKKn_IMA&oe=6636051C	1	3	Kelly BL	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,774	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	3830224723874168	Read with Your Ears➤➤	"I, James Rodriguez, soon to be alpha of Eclipse Pack reject you, Nikolina Reed as my mate and Luna. “ <br /> The pain was blinding for Nikolina. Her next words took both of them by surprise. She was anything but weak and she knew she deserved a lot better than some douche bag who was disrespectful towards his own mate. Alpha or not, he shouldn't be the one who gets the last laugh.<br /> ***<br /> Nikolina POV<br /> 4 hours earlier<br /> I woke up in a very good mood. I am finally eighteen and today is the day I find my mate. It actually depends on both sides. If they are of age, they'll find each other soon enough, seventeen is the youngest you can be when you find your mate.<br /> However, most of the time, the guy or the girl have to wait for their other half to come of age, which I think is a great idea.<br /> Yes, I'm a werewolf, specifically the current Beta's daughter and soon to be Beta's sister. The disappointment of the family. But that's okay; I'm not very inclined to make them proud or follow in their footsteps, but mostly they want Alex to do it.<br /> Don't get me wrong. I'm not abused or bullied; except for the occasional remarks, shunned from society, the usual stuff.<br /> They say I'm ugly, but I know better than to believe that. I could have been popular due to my blue eyes and gold speckles, blonde hair and hourglass figure. But I like to keep to myself. Plus my hair was naturally blonde unlike my mother's peroxide bleached hair that comes out of bottles and pricey extensions. Actually, dad and Alex both have brown hair so I don't know how I have blonde hair. For months, I even checked the roots of my hair to find some sort of discoloration to prove that even my hair was bleached. But in vain.<br /> My mom was the stereotypical cheerleader in high school while my dad was the “douche” and quarterback. Apparently they want me to be like them, and social hierarchy exists in packs as well. And my brother is following our parents footsteps, sleeping with more than half of the population, while I'm not.<br /> They revel in attention and bullying people who are lower than them, as they say. To the outside world, my family and I love each other. On the inside it’s an extreme hate relationship, something the pack is aware of except for the Alpha and Luna.<br /> If they knew the truth, my parents, Tiffany and Mark, would lose their respect and beloved Alex's position would be taken away from him. Which would obviously take his popularity down a notch. Horrifying for him. Entertaining for me.<br /> Anyways, today is also the soon-to-be Alpha's eighteenth birthday. James Rodriguez.<br /> Sometimes I wonder how someone as sweet and kind as Diana and George, produce a kid like James.<br /> In short, James is the snobby player. It’s actually really surprising how none of the girls are pregnant yet...<br /> Back to me, I dressed up with more care than usual. I wore a baby pink sundress with black gladiator sandals. I applied a bit of winged liner to make my eyes pop. I've always read stories about loving mates. Who knows how much of it is true? For all I know, it’s some made up fantasy to make mates seem like the ultimate endgame. Maybe one day, I would meet my mate and then we could run away towards the sunset............or something, I don't really care.<br /> Apparently, all mates are compatible with their other half. It’s like love at first sight and the males getting all possessive about their mates is very appealing and a turn on, or so I've heard.<br /> It's all hearsay. And I think it’s stupid. It’s like the males are all custom made robots. Why else would their behavior be so alike?<br /> And there was a paragraph about heat and shifting and marking. Maybe, my mate's gonna go all caveman on me and tear my throat out.<br /> I'm just kidding, morbid thoughts on my birthday are kind of my thing. And its wishful thinking. I don't care. He might even be an omega and I still wouldn't care. Even if he's a human, it wouldn't matter. And if he's not in this pack then..... Oh well... It's better for me. I don't want to stay in a pack where I have no respect and people treat me bad. Status had once mattered to me. But when you have parents like mine, you kind of start praying not to ever be like them.<br /> Not once did they look at me but of course, Alexander was doted on by everyone. Kids. Parents. Friends. You name it.<br /> Apparently, it's because he's a boy. And according to my mother, girls are good for getting screwed, getting hit on, obeying their men, acting flirty along, and popping out heirs.<br /> And lucky for you all, my mother happens to be exhibit A.<br /> You should all be jealous because it's not everyday that you have a live walking, talking example to show the word and tell them what a hoe your mother is.<br /> Third Person POV <br /> Nikolina walked to school as she was not allowed a car. Though Alex was the proud owner of a shiny Silver Volvo. Double standards were very common in the Reed family. She had always wanted her own car, something that was a stunning shade of bright canary yellow, but that dream was nowhere close to becoming a reality.<br /> All of a sudden, she smelt an amazing scent; peppermint and honey. Lydia purred and rolled around in happiness, barely able to contain her excitement.<br /> On searching for the source, her eyes met warm, hazel orbs. His eyes expressed lust and adoration as they raked all over her body.<br /> Realization finally hit her hard when she saw that James-freaking-Rodriguez was her mate! The next Alpha of Solaris Eclipse Pack. And he was Portia's long-standing boyfriend.<br /> You know what he did next? James went back to groping the head cheerleader. “Portia.... “ Oh, sorry. Rookie mistake. Portia Scott.<br /> Tears threatened to fall while her wolf Lydia whimpered, seeing her mate touch another...<br /> “Our mate is beautiful.” James's wolf, Jace said. Nikolina was more than just beautiful. Many males of the pack thought she was gorgeous but never mentioned it out loud due to the fear of facing Alex's wrath. Alex was the one to start it all: the petty insults, the hateful words and making an outcast out of her. Others had just followed his footsteps. And of course, some of the girls were shallow enough to find happiness by making Nikolina feel miserable, because they were insecure about themselves.<br /> But the main issue was, though James thought Nikolina was pretty, he would never accept her as his mate and Luna. Though she was Beta Mark's daughter and was of high status, both him and his ego considered her a nobody. He knew about the insults and he had done it as well. In his eyes, she was worthless and all everyone ever did was talk down on her and she never fought back.<br /> He couldn't have a... thing like that as his mate. Beauty just wasn't enough for him, being a ruthless woman was a requirement.<br /> “She might be beautiful but I don't want her. She's a nobody. If people know that she is my mate, I would become the laughing stock of my pack. Seriously, people walk all over her. She can never be my Luna.” That was the thought going through his mind as he sucked on Portia's neck hard enough to bruise.<br /> “Ow! You're hurting me, boo! You know Kelly has my concealer today.” Portia whined but still made no move to shove James away. She just proceeded to grind her lower body into James and trying to get as close as humanly possible without getting rid of her clothes in public.<br /> James finally pried Portia off his body and walked towards his mate. In some ways, Portia was like a bloodsucking leech or an annoying wart, never leaving without a fight.<br /> “Baby, where are you going? I need you!” Her voice was like a cat dragging its claws across a board.<br /> James just signalled her to shut up before walking towards his mate. He would do the right thing, of course, as the future Alpha of Solaris Eclipse Pack and give Nikolina what she deserves.<br /> He stopped in front of her and asked, “What's your name?”<br /> “Nikolina,” she stated. He soon noticed that she had no friends and no car and he felt the curious stares on his back as everyone's attention was on him.<br /> “I, James Rodriguez, soon to be alpha of Eclipse Pack reject you, Nikolina Reed as my mate and Luna. “ As he rejected her, Jace whimpered and cowered. And James felt bad but he knew this was the right thing to do for himself and the pack. From his perspective, Nikolina was someone who brought out the worst in people and Portia was way more deserving to be his mate and Luna, considering that she was fearless and wasn't afraid to fight dirty for her rights.<br /> James was an egoistic douche bag who mistook petty behavior for fearless but he was blinded by the greed for power and popularity.<br /> The pain was blinding for Nikolina. She would have collapsed if not for the anger that surged through her. She was furious. At James. The Moon Goddess. Not realizing how painful rejection was. Her fate. It was a never ending list.<br /> It felt like she was being drowned in liquid bleach, her lungs burned and she saw red. Anger took over the pain she was feeling and she didn't want to give him the satisfaction of knowing how hurt she was.<br /> Her next words took both of them by surprise. She was anything but weak and she knew she deserved a lot better than some douche bag who was disrespectful towards his own mate. Alpha or not, he shouldn't be the one who gets the last laugh.<br /> “I, Nikolina Reed, accept your rejection as my mate and Alpha. I sincerely hope you get the clap!”<br /> With that, she turned on her heel and left the school premises.<br /> “Who needs a mate? Especially someone like James. People like him need girls like Portia by their sides, who cater to their whims and needs and whatever freaky carnal desire they might have.” Nikolina thought darkly. She wasn't going to give in to her pain and this rejection was the final push that encouraged her to chase after her freedom and break bonds with the family who had clipped off her wings.<br /> James felt a tiny bit of hurt realizing that she didn't even think twice before accepting the rejection and all he could wonder was how did she not burst into tears or grovel at his feet to take her back. Jace did not talk. He just whimpered, feeling the loss of his mate. Before James could think of it anymore, Portia dragged him to an empty classroom to distract her beloved Jamie boo. It seemed as if James wasn't the least bit affected by the incident with Nikolina, because his actions didn't falter as he hitched Portia's skirt up and ripped her panties, drilling her like an animal and releasing himself on her clothes and face as he left her alone to clean up.<br /> Nikolina POV<br /> “Well, he can go drill his toy as much as he wants.” I thought darkly while making my way towards home. All Lydia did was whimper. The moment I saw James, I knew something like this was bound to happen. You don't have any expectations when someone like him is supposed to be your destined mate. He was born with a big ego and he can just stuff it up his.<br /> “Maybe he regrets hurting us, you know.” Lydia whimpered.<br /> Before I could reply, searing hot pain flooded my senses. I felt myself fall on the pavement and the pain started to become more intense. It is obvious, isn't it? He's already drilling someone just minutes after rejecting me. It felt like my body was set on fire and the blistering flames charred my skin.<br /> I slowly got up and almost keeled over as my vision turned white. Dizziness washed over me. I had to clench my fists and dig my fingers hard enough to draw blood. Getting away from him and this stupid pack is my best bet. He was doing it intentionally considering the fact he knows that we're both connected unless one of us dies or gets marked by another. Walking never felt so strenuous and with every step I had to force myself to not curl up on the pavement and cry. I know I deserve someone better but I did want to cry my pain away.<br /> After what seemed like hours, the pain slowly ebbed away. Painful times ahead. The only problem is that the mate bond doesn't break even after being rejected. Only if the rejected is marked by the first mate or by another, or if one of the mates die, will the bond break.<br /> I entered my house and went to my room to pack my bags. You know, in every werewolf story the rejected mate writes letters before leaving. There's no logic to it. I mean, don't you get it? No one cares if you leave. No one cares if you die. No one cares if you slit your throat or get molested or murdered. That's the harsh truth. Why should I open my feelings on a letter make them feel pity? I can just run away and live my best life, away from them. It's not like they will send out search teams for you.<br /> I don't want pity. I can do better than that. I picked up my red lipstick and wrote in capitals before leaving. I know I'm dramatic but it serves them right. They'll remember this for years to come: women can walk away without feeling a twinge of guilt or regret.<br /> Showing vulnerability would only make me seem weak and I've let people walk over me way too many times.<br /> My mom was probably busy getting her hair done or something. That's the only thing she ever does. Or her nails. Or maybe she was out shopping with snobby people like herself. It's obvious that birds of a feather flock together. The only thing I ever liked about her is that she cooked for us, sometimes. Mom made a mean lasagna.<br /> Dad was probably with Alpha George. That's usually where he is. But then again, he also has this terrible habit of getting drunk during daylight hours. And once he even groped some other girl in front of the whole pack. Mom turned an ugly shade of red as she kicked him in the crotch. Those were the good days. It was fun when he laid on the couch with a bag of frozen peas on his groin and mom was nowhere around.<br /> Leaving was better for me anyway. Nothing was tying me down to this place. No friends. No proper family. I would be doing myself and them a favor.<br /> I took my dad's sleek black Porsche for my escapade. I might as well leave loaded and in style, besides it's high time I had a car.<br /> Just as I reached the pack border, I said, “I, Nikolina Reed, break all ties with the Solaris Eclipse Pack.” The patrol guards looked at me, but its not like they would stop me.<br /> The pack links broke and with that I revved up the engine and sped through the borders, driving towards my new life. A better life. It was a blessing that this pack did not care enough to stop me.<br /> <br /> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><br /> Wanna continue this incredible story? Please download our App and search for novel ID: 99168!	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.	107631418945071	Soundscapes of Love	https://facebook.com/100090755812071	1	1	781,839,700,674,415	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Install now	Soundscapes of Love	120210593030560294	play.google.com	NONE	video		https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.story.iaudios		2024-04-27 20:43	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440793804_414910488166475_1812374443438718187_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kTIilMnMrjEQ7kNvgFUUszM&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC6EwbMSMJfgcZg-VrDkj1SkDnKSMZ7DNIucUd9lcTdxQ&oe=6635FFE1	person_profile	0	Soundscapes of Love	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440770495_945555940331399_7675391789435784431_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BkPsU1MOrvYQ7kNvgHHN--b&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBj8msEBRzoZ_TREqhq6oq8zb1uUkPT_hFY_3ZF8YFqhg&oe=66360ED4	0	3	Soundscapes of Love	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,776	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	7492220400836360	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"My dear husband, reject her now!" I command Adam using all my Luna force.<br /> "I, Alpha Adam Hawkins, Alpha of the Red Blood Pack, I reject you, Lexie Banks, as my mate!" and giving her a serious look he commands her "Accept my rejection!"<br /> In the last life, I've been Luna since I married Adam and even if we were not fated mates I've done my job in the interest of this pack outstandingly. But finally, Lexie tortured me, Adam killed me.<br /> This time is only about me and about surviving, so screw you Lexie Banks, Adam Hawkins and Red Blood Pack! I had enough of you! <br /> "I want to divorce" I say and I can't believe that I am saying this but this is what I want.<br /> "I want to divorce!"<br /> ————————<br /> I lift my face and I look directly into my abuser eyes. I know him and he knows me. He knows that I am his Luna. We grew up together and he swore his oath to me three years ago and now he is whipping me like I am some kind of criminal?<br /> "Why are you beating me?" I say trying to look at his with dignity.<br /> "I asked you something, Bill?" I say again trying to support myself in my arms as I am kneeled on the ground of my cell.<br /> "What harm have I ever done to be treated like this?"<br /> But Bill throws me a furious gaze:<br /> "You know what you have done!" and out of nowhere another whip comes on my back ripping my flesh.<br /> "Kelly..."I whisper to my wolf and my head falls between my arms hitting the ground.<br /> "Kelly it hurts too much..." and my tears started to flow on my cheeks even if I tried, I really tried to resist and be brave but I can't do it anymore so I lean on the floor.<br /> "Can you help me, Kelly? Can you heal me?" I ask my wolf.<br /> "I want to, Natalie" she groans in pain.<br /> "but I can't do it anymore. I am too weak. He is beating us for hours" andI can hear her howls. She is begging the gods for help. Where is my Goddess right now? I don't deserve this.<br /> "Please" I whisper and try again to lift my head.<br /> "What is going on, Bill? Whatever is happening here you must know that it is just a misunderstanding. " and I placed my head on the ground so I could watch him as I spoke to him.<br /> "You fooled!" Bill growls at me.<br /> "You made us think that you are a good woman but you are just a malicious woman with no heart" and he lifts his arm in the air to hit me again.<br /> I know I can't escape from this. He even gave me wolfsbane so I could become weak and submit to him. I have no chance. I have no power in this.<br /> "I swear to you, Bill" I say in a whisper "I have no idea what are you talking about.."<br /> "Then how is it that her pup is dead,huh?" Bill asks and slaps me hard over my face "How is that our little Alpha is dead?"<br /> WHAT? What little Alpha? Who is dead?<br /> "Don't look at me as if you have no idea what is going on!" he says and slaps me. "You killed Lexie's baby! Our pack's heir!"<br /> Lexie's unborn pup is dead?<br /> "I didn't do it!" I scream with all the strength that was left in me. I would never do that!<br /> "I didn't touch her! It is not my fault if she aborted her pup!" I tell him and now my heart started to beat faster and faster.<br /> You might think that there is a problem,talking about another woman's pup as the pack's heir as I am Luna and the legal wife of Adam Hawkins, the Alpha of Red Blood Pack but there is more than that.<br /> I may be his Luna, but I am infertile and for three years all he wanted was to have an heir. And his fated mate gave it to him what I couldn't.<br /> I have no idea why the Moon Goddess made me infertile, but this is the way I am.<br /> But why are they accusing me of killing her pup? I have nothing to do with that.<br /> "Stop looking at me like that!" Bill suddenly growls, making me come back from my thoughts. "Stop looking at me as if you are innocent!"<br /> And I close my eyes in horror as I see the whip coming in my direction again but before he could touch me, the door opens and a hard growl comes from the frame door.<br /> "For the goddess's name, what have you done, Bill?"<br /> "What it was told to me. I made her pay for her crimes!" Bill says but in the next second he is pushed away from me by Philip McNeil, our beta. I can barely see Bill because of the blood that flows down my face, but he falls to the ground close to me.<br /> But what is making my soul jump is the scent of Adam. He is here, he will trust me. He knows me and he loves me. He knows that I would never do what Bill is accusing me. I try to look at him but before I could do it, Philip growls at Bill.<br /> "Who do you think you are to punish her? She deserves a trial. Until then no one can say if she is guilty or not!" Phillip tells him in a harsh voice,and kneels next to and looks at my wounds.<br /> "Get out of here, Bill, and don't show up again or I am strangling you for abusing your Luna!" he commands Bill.<br /> "She is not my Luna anymore!" Bill growls but he listens to Phillip and leaves my cell, leaving me alone with Adam and Philip. But why is Adam silent?<br /> "What have you done, Natalie?" Phillip whispers, looking at me with sadness.<br /> "I...did...nothing" I whisper and try to look into his eyes but I am way too weak, so I turn my face to Adam, and try to reach his gaze, but he looks at me with hatred.<br /> "Adam..."I whisper.<br /> "Lexie says that you did it" Phillip tells me and now my heart stops, but Philip's voice is not harsh anymore. He is talking to me calmly. "Everything is against you, Natalie."<br /> I look at Adam. He can't believe this. No,no, no. He must trust me, I just found out about Lexie's pup. How can I prove to them that I didn't do it?<br /> Who is gone say for me in front of Adam?<br /> Rosie!<br /> My omega must know that I wasn't in Lexie's room. She was with me all the time. She must help me. She is my only chance.<br /> "Adam" I say and this time I opened my eyes and looked directly into my mate's eyes "Please, talk with Rosie Walker. She knows that I didn't do it. She is my servant. She will stay by my side and tell you the truth. I would never touch an innocent pup, Adam. I am not that kind of person" and I burst into tears again.<br /> "I didn't do it!" I almost screamed,freaking out for the first time since this madness started.<br /> But before I could add something else the voice that I loved the most in this world mocks me hard as if he never loved me, as if I am his biggest enemy.<br /> "There is no need to tell me anything " Adam, my Alpha, my chosen mate and my husband says. "I already know what you did."<br /> What? No, this can't happen.<br /> "Love, I would never..." but the moment I said that his face became dark and coming in my direction he made me almost jump in fear.<br /> "Don't hurt me!" I screamed in horror,trying to hug my knees, and come in a fetal position as an attempt to defend myself from his hit, but my action shocked him.<br /> "What are you doing, Adam?" Phillip asks him and looks at me with strange eyes.<br /> "You are asking me that?" Adam asks furious and he is using his alpha command on him. "How do you dare to question me for this dog?" and the moment his words came out, Kelly's howls started to become louder and louder in my head. He hates us. He doesn't believe us.<br /> "Is not about betrayal, Adam" Phillip tells him "Is about giving her a chance to explain herself, to defend herself if there is something that was not spoken until now."<br /> Adam looks at me and I grab my wounded arms and wrap them around my body. I feel so cold, as the blood is flowing out of my system.<br /> "She will die soon, if you don't stop this madness" Phillip says, looking at me and that made Adam flinch. Maybe there are still a few emotions, a gram of love in his heart that it is destined for me.<br /> "I didn't do it" I whisper, trying my luck.<br /> "I would never hurt you this way, Adam"<br /> I say.<br /> I would never do that. He must know that.<br /> "But yet you did it!" Adam says in the end with some remorse in his gaze and turns his head in another direction as if he can't look at my wounded body anymore.<br /> "You were jealous of Lexie. I told you that she would never take your Luna position, but I need her to procreate. And you? What have you done? You worked on my back out of jealousy!"<br /> "I trusted you, Adam. There was no need to hurt her. I trusted you" I say and using all my strength I kneel and try to get on my feet.<br /> "You are lying!" He says turning around and pointing his index finger in my direction, looking at me with bloody eyes but I can't be weak. I need to beg him to listen to me.<br /> "You hurt my mate!" he growls at me "The mother of my pup!"<br /> His mate? HIS MATE? I can't do this anymore.<br /> "If she is your mate, what am I, Adam?" I asked him without even flinching because everything started to become clear. He loves her too even if he said he doesn't. But my question took him by surprise, because he just stares at me as if he has no idea how to answer that.<br /> "If you ever loved me even for a second"<br /> I tell him and look directly into his eyes.<br /> "I beg you, bring my servant here. Rosie knows my actions. She was with me almost all the time. She will be my witness."<br /> He is staring at me and he is doubting me.<br /> "Man she may..."Phillip starts but he is interrupted by a soft woman's voice.<br /> "She is right" and Adam turns around and almost runs to the door.<br /> "What are you doing here, Lexie?" he asks with a scared voice. "You should rest after everything you've suffered."<br /> "I wanted to see, Natalie," she whispers with the same soft voice. "I wanted to ask her why she did it".<br /> "Because she was jealous!" Adam explains to her and pulls her into his arms, making me and Kelly surfer. He marked me, he must know that he makes me suffer.<br /> "She said that she has a witness," Lexie tells him. "Maybe she is right, maybe it is all a misunderstanding" and my heart stopped.<br /> "Something is not right, Nat" Kelly whispers. "Is she defending us? Why would she do that?"<br /> "Bring her servant here" Lexie tells Adam ."I want to know if she wasn't the one who put poison in my food to abort our sweet and innocent pup." and my heart is not beating anymore.<br /> Is he going to give me a chance to defend myself? Is he going to save me from this madness? But why is Lexie helping me?<br /> "Are you sure?" he asks Lexie, without looking at me and she just nods,looking at him with puppy eyes.<br /> "I will give only one more chance,Natalie" Adam says and leaves Lexie's embrace. "For the sake of our past together" and looking at Phillip commands him.<br /> "Bring Rosie Walkers here"<br /> He did it. He gave us another chance..<br /> Even if it was not for us but for Lexie's sake, at least I have a chance to explain myself.<br /> "Did you ask for me, Alpha?" Rosie says and looking at me she lost her colors.<br /> "Luna!" she screams in horror, as she tries to reach me, but Adam stops her.<br /> "Leave her!" and using his Alpha command asks her.<br /> "Tell me the truth, Rosie. Is Natalie guilty or not for my unborn pup's death?" and that question made Rosie stop in her tracks. She is all shivering and bursts into tears.<br /> "What is going on?" I ask myself. What is with her reaction?<br /> "I command you to talk!" Adam growls at her and she looks at me and gives me devilish grin.<br /> "I am so sorry Alpha!" she busted in tears.<br /> Sorry for what? What is going on?<br /> "She forced me to do it, Alpha!" Rosie says and now I am really dead.<br /> "I didn't want to but she forced me."<br /> And Rosie kneels in front of Adam. "She used her Luna command on me and I was forced to submit to her! She commanded me to poison your fated mate!"<br /> "I never used my Luna command on anyone!" I tell him but Adam turns around and slaps me. "Please, love, please believe me!" I beg him, crying my heart out. "You know me since I was two, I would never do that!" and I grab his leg but Adam just kicks me to the ground.<br /> "Don't touch me!" he growls at me.<br /> "I love you, Adam. I would never..." but he turns his back to me and grabbing Lexie's hand he commands Phillip.<br /> "Prepare everything. Tomorrow I will execute her!"<br /> "You can't do that!" I growl at him. "This is a set up!" but he just left, dragging Lexie after him.<br /> "Just a moment," she says. "I need to ask her something." she excuses herself.<br /> "I am not leaving you alone with a criminal" Adam says and let me tell you.<br /> He is the criminal here, because he is killing me with his actions.<br /> "She can't hurt me anymore" Lexie tells him and gives him a nod. "Not now when I know the truth. Please" she begs him with her fake soft voice.<br /> "I will give you five minutes and if you are not in bed, Lexie, I swear to the goddess that I am going to beat you."<br /> he commands her but she just smiles and pecks his cheek.<br /> "I promise, my Alpha"<br /> Kelly growls "She is doing it on purpose!" and she would like to transform and kill Lexie, but she can't even heal me.<br /> "So?" Lexie asks me as soon as we are alone. "How is it to lose everything?"and she starts to laugh like crazy.<br /> "Why are you staring at me like this?"<br /> she asks me, mocking me. "You were such an easy target," she says,wrapping her arms at her chest."<br /> "You framed me out!" I told her while I supported myself on a wall so I could sit on my feet. "This is your work" I say and I know that I am right and for the first time in my life, my heart is full of hatred. I hate Lexie Banks. At this moment I even hate Adam for not believing in me, for hurting me so badly.<br /> "Of course it was my work. I saw Adam three years ago, on the day of your wedding and I knew he was my mate,but I couldn't just show up so I waited. It is said that whoever waits until the end will receive his reward, well I waited and planned everything."<br /> And she laughs at me , looking at her "Were you even pregnant?" I can't stop myself from asking but that made her stop.<br /> "Of course I was" she says "With a rogue." and she turns around and leaves but right before she exits she looks at me and says.<br /> "Now everything is right how it should be. Adam will give me your Luna position and I will get what I was looking for."<br /> "You are crazy" I said more in a whisper,but that remark made her laugh.<br /> "Oh, my dear, you have no idea what I have done to reach this point" and turning around she comes to me again and places a hand on my womb.<br /> "I must confess to you. Anyway you will die tomorrow and at this point no one will ever believe you again."<br /> Confess me what? What does she mean?<br /> "You, not being able to procreate...that is my work too."<br /> And my blood is boiling in my veins. She did something? But we have been trying for three years to have a pup, and she showed up months after our wedding.<br /> How could she.?<br /> "Rosie!" Kelly whispered. "They worked together"<br /> I must be like an opened book for her,because she started to laugh even harder.<br /> "You figured it out, didn't you?" Lexie mocks me, but I am not in the mood to hear her again and I jump on her and grab her by her neck.<br /> "Was it all because of you?"<br /> She ruined my life! I could have been happy. I could have had my happily ever after but this jerk showed up and robbed my life!<br /> "I will kill you!" I growl trying to elongate my claws and rip her head, but Lexie pushed me and made me hit the wall with my head.<br /> Everything is spinning around and I fall on my knees again and lean on the ground, without being able to support my own weight.<br /> "You are so pathetic!" Lexie laughs.<br /> "Look how weak you are!"<br /> Oh, Lexie...If I get up you will be so dead right now, but you made them give me wolfbane.<br /> "I am leaving, sorry for not being in the mood to see your weak and ugly face right now" she says. "I am going to my mate and who knows, maybe tonight we will conceive a pup!" and she leaves me there laughing her heart out.<br /> "Over my dead body!" I tell her more in a whisper.<br /> "Yeah...yeah.." she says as if she ignores me "And that will be right tomorrow. I will intercourse Adam over your dead body!"<br /> He won't do it? Isn't he? Adam will not kill me...he is my mate, my husband...<br /> but no matter how much I repeated this in my mind in the morning when the doors opened I knew that whatever I thought that I thought I knew about Adam was gone.<br /> "Take her!" Bill commands his warriors as they push me out of my cell.<br /> "Where are they taking us?" Kelly asks me scared, trying to take the command but the wolfsbane intoxicates her.<br /> "Nat!" she calls me but I can't utter a single word, he is going to do it. He is going to keep his word. The warriors throw me ugly looks and push me to walk, and I would do it but I can barely stay on my feet and then the doors open and the sun rays hit me hard.<br /> Everything hurts. My eyes are hurting because of the strong light, my skin that is all wounded feels like burning under the summer heat and my ears...oh my goddess! Is this really the pack I loved with all my heart? Is this a Red Blood Pack? Are those the same werewolves that swore faith to me or is some kind of a nightmare?<br /> "Kill her!!!!" everyone yells "She killed our pack heir! She doesn't deserve to live anymore!" and they started to throw things in my direction. Tomatoes, shoes,rocks... and none stops them.<br /> "Criminal!!!!" someone screamed from the crowd. "Kill her Alpha! I can't stand to look at her!"<br /> Well I can't stand to look at this pack either.<br /> I put so much effort in the last three years. So many nights without sleeping.<br /> Everything I did in the last years was for this pack and they want me dead? And why? Because I wasn't able to offer them an heir? I thought that working hard will compensate for my inability to convince but they just dumped me as soon as they had the opportunity to do it.<br /> I was their Luna but at the same timeI was their Alpha because Adam never cared about the pack, but about the power that comes with the Alpha position.<br /> I did everything in my power to keep this pack united. I attended all the meetings he skipped. My life was only at the service of this pack and now it is more than clear that it was all for nothing.<br /> I understood Adam in the past. I knew he was not a very social person so took the lead and I held the reins of this pack by myself, but I would have never expected that this would be the way he would reward me.<br /> He dumped me as soon as he found his fated mate, even if he said he wouldn't do it. She became the center of his ambitious plan to have an heir and even slept with her.<br /> Oh, Adam, you are so stupid!<br /> This dog is going to bury you. She fooled and played you on your fingers,just as she did it with me.<br /> After everything you have done I am just sad that I will not have the opportunity to watch your fall. Will be greater than mine.<br /> I wanted to run away hearing that Lexie is pregnant with your child. You killed me that day so now that there is nothing left I can see it clearly. Now everything was revealed.<br /> I was so stupid to will to accept that pup in my life just for you, I should have stayed for myself and ban her out of this pack. But you know what? Red Blood Pack deserves Lexie as its Luna.<br /> This will be my revenge.<br /> I walk through the crown and their insults are not affecting me anymore.<br /> They would better trust an omega than their Luna. They are just some opportunistic cowards. They are taking revenge on me for demanding high training standards, but it was all to protect them from the rogues.<br /> They really think that someone like Lexie would be a better choice for them? Just wait and watch Red Blood Pack! This woman will perish you!<br /> Maybe I exceeded my skills by taking<br /> Adam's duties but it was only for your own good.<br /> "Nat!" Suddenly Kelly whispers "The council is here!"<br /> And dad is here too. And I can see his panicked gaze, and I can see the tears that he is trying to hold. He was Adam father's beta for years and he always looked strong and unstoppable but now he looks so human, as if seeing me this way killed his heart.<br /> "I love you dad," I mindlink him and give him a straight look into his eyes, so he would know that I mean every single word I say.<br /> "Be strong," I whisper. " Be strong for me. Don't cry for me, dad. Just be the man I know you are" and would give him a smile but I can't find the strength to move my facial muscles. I can't even utter a single word.<br /> "This is not right, Natalie" he tells me and I see him coming in my direction,but I move my eyes and command him.<br /> "No dad, let him do what he puts in his mind. I can't escape from this" and I let Bill and his warriors drive me in front of the council, even if I feel my dad eyes watching me. In this crowd he is the only one who is on my side. Everyone else wants me dead.<br /> "Natalie Williams" one of the elders of the council announces. "We found you guilty for crime against you alpha and your pack"<br /> Guilty? Oh, elder, you are so wrong here!<br /> If I wouldn't be drugged I would prove to you who the real culprit is, but I can't continue talking about your nonsense.<br /> "The punishment for your crime is death!" he utters so sure of his words and I stare at the crowd that started to cheer at his words as if he just announced that they will receive more money.<br /> I turn my head and look at Adam. Adam the love of my life and also the executioner of my life. He walks in military steps and lifts the sword that the council brought for my execution.<br /> He is not even flinching. He is doing this by conviction. He wants to kill me. His inner spirit longs for my blood.<br /> "I will miss you dad" I whisper, giving my dad a last look, and I see him falling on his knees.<br /> "I will miss you Kelly" I whisper and I would like to hug my wolf if I could, to tell her that I am not mad at her for not being able to defend me, but this is above us. This is a betrayal I could never imagine that I will face.<br /> I see Adam in front of me but he is not watching me. He just lifted the sword and pierced my heart. He kicks me with his foot and makes me fall on the ground while the crowd cheers in madness , and my father collapses for good.<br /> "Kelly" I whisper, feeling dizzy. "This is it. This is the end." and my eyelashes started to flutter as I was not able not even to keep my eyes open for a few more seconds.<br /> All I could see was my blood flowing on the ground.<br /> "Stop it!"<br /> Someone said stop it? Am I hallucinating? I opened my eyes just a little bit and I could see a handsome man running in my direction. Do I know him?	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1,615,924	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":true,"simple_request_ratio":0.034912718204488775,"is_bh_selenium":null,"selenium_ratio":null,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1131885654523763	We Outside: Rebirth Brass Band w/ Dj Kelly Green	The Rabbit Hole Presents: on the OUTDOOR stage<br /> REBIRTH BRASS BAND <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Frebirthbrassband%2F&h=AT2L6UoPv4OvMmSwAN08hYLKSsvk0xl2T55oNB_7x0u7I4DmhmSdIDJqhrYyvJFPhYmTsPkXx8AD3ynkz0P9H_3pnUb6Qq0_BqrCIQnzfxpgIVsOmWRn_U2wVZgGtFT93QfsGTMMC98I6fpNoJKcSV0ZS450SJ7BpA6M_w" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.instagram.com/rebirthbrassband/</a><br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rebirthbrassband.com%2F&h=AT3Iggl_LkEWKEsy9t9dm51PUoX64oMyxg7q3QeDsgNu9WbAS0lZ3Zt8BYujZxfpWmHVtybD8LFr0rw43SgmtW3xSPovi_CxCmP6xW-7HoVGCDEjQk7RN5llxQ6YNsiNzIxrirco0RBng86T15_Lzm18kZjqrDsn7N1F3g" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.rebirthbrassband.com/</a><br /> <br /> + DJ Sets From: <br /> DJ KELLY GREEN <br /> <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fdjkellygreen%2F&h=AT3vSpmRL1SqfUnLiK-NnlgMmaKZJm6VnHU_LG2n2KhIwIoOUxJPLUtOGbRmNF917RxI6QkgTYZ-wEeFk9FQ9gJvpVG5_AYtDO6Zycexf2XjBZ0PE-LpPjvk1VBRMYRM530JAfRZUxT7MhzAQMTH9wOicfp-o2d9Az0KXg" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.instagram.com/djkellygreen/</a><br /> Doors 8pm \| Show 9pm	BUY_TICKETS	https://www.tixr.com/groups/rabbitholenola/events/	279535028576970	The Rabbit Hole Nola	https://facebook.com/61558395986163	45	1	1,222,129,615,423,108	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Buy tickets	The Rabbit Hole Nola	120211328657560729	tixr.com	NONE	event	https://www.tixr.com/groups/rabbitholenola/events/rebirth-brass-band-outside--97379	https://www.tixr.com/groups/rabbitholenola/events/rebirth-brass-band-outside--97379		2024-04-29 09:54	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440959594_411226385109728_2023558777092425664_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rZ1yo_cczm4Ab49Z2wk&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCLC71vByluYBpW8xRLSWgBk2M6r_17TKMhg_gPbnCNkw&oe=663609AD	person_profile	0	The Rabbit Hole	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440950612_1897542887415976_4350435662149283195_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y5o-mwBRE6IAb4N5DXh&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCwe2rhw3_rzk0Bw8exjL3QP9jcIAx3HzFhBFGMgbDNFQ&oe=6635FD93	0	3	The Rabbit Hole Nola	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,600	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1573480340209536	👉👉Click to read more !👈👈	🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 🙈 🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 <br /> Her father attempted to murder her to get his inheritance; her boyfriend cheated on her with her sister. All of this makes her fall into an abyss. Until the strange man she met on the airplane said to her, "I'm a billionaire, marry me and I'll help you get revenge." Things start to spiral out of control ......<br /> -----------------------------------<br /> Chapter 1 Accidentally Provoking The Cold And Distant CEO　　<br /> Up in the sky.<br /> An aircraft glided over layers of puffy clouds, and soared in the azure sky.<br /> In half an hour, Zoe Ball will return to Gallino, the city where she had lived for twenty-two years.<br /> She didn't inform anyone about her return. <br /> She didn’t want to bother her family to make them rush to pick her up in the middle of the night. What’s more, she wanted to surprise Darius Saunders.<br /> Darius was her boyfriend, and tomorrow was his birthday. After staying for five years in love, and three years in a long distance relationship, Zoe counted, their relationship had been on for eight years.<br /> Suddenly, the plane jolted violently, followed by an ear piercing explosion. The items on the table scattered and rolled to the floor, making the passengers on board scream out in panic. <br /> [What's going on?]<br /> [What wrong with the plane?]<br /> [Did it hit something?]<br /> Not waiting for them to calm down, there were a few more piercing noises that were heard. Several large holes were blown out on the plane, with flames blazing brightly. The wind was blowing in, and the passengers screamed unceasingly. <br /> [Oh my God, what's going on?]<br /> [Did something happen to the plane?]<br /> [OMG, I never want to travel by plane again.]<br /> [God bless!]<br /> [Daddy, I'm scared.]<br /> The entire cabin was in chaos. Paper flew, luggage dumped on the ground, with an endless sound of things falling and people panicking. <br /> Zoe was stunned. Was there anything indeed going wrong?<br /> She had experienced a lot, but at this time, her heart still swept through a trace of panic.<br /> Because she was worried about not seeing Darius.<br /> "Passengers on board, please pay attention. Due to external factors, this aircraft is out of control. Please put on your parachute and escape at the designated escape port. This aircraft will crash in ten minutes, so all passengers don’t panic and maintain order…" The captain announced. <br /> The in-flight broadcast repeated those words, and Zoe thought that she was really screwed this time.<br /> According to the authoritative data, there had only been one air crash in 1.2 million flights, so she never thought that the probability of that would happen on her flight. <br /> Many passengers who had unfastened their seat belts rolled from side to side due to the turbulence. Uncontrollable screams rang from them, filling the entire flight.<br /> The plane reeled in every direction, and flew chaotically in the air for about two minutes. Some of the passengers even cried out as they couldn't take it anymore!<br /> Zoe thought that she couldn't just sit around and do nothing, waiting for herself to di&e. <br /> Ordinary passenger aircrafts were not usually equipped with escape tools, but this luxury aircraft Zoe traveled in was different.<br /> Before boarding the plane, Zoe had watched the crew practice parachute-donning methods, and the promotional video also introduced it. At this point, she put on the parachute quickly without panic. Then, she walked to the escape port, ready to leap off.<br /> The wind howled and her thin body swayed.<br /> Zoe had been afraid of heights since her childhood, but at this moment, she knew that if she didn’t jump, she won't have a chance to meet Darius again.<br /> Just then, someone pulled her slender wrist, and the shadow of a tall figure covered her. Before Zoe could react, the man's glittering eyes were staring at her.<br /> "Sir, what do you want to do?" Zoe asked. <br /> Zoe didn't expect to be accosted by a stranger in the nick of time.<br /> Although she was naturally beautiful and there were countless men pursuing her, at that critical moment, wasn't it more important to escape?<br /> "I need to share a parachute with you." The man's voice sounded dulcet.<br /> Zoe had never heard such a unique and handsome voice in her life. Even though she grew up in the upper class, and had met many men with handsome voices, she had heard that kind of chilly, low, and magnetic voice for the first time.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 2 He Suddenly Kissed Her　　<br /> The man had deep eyes, a tall nose, thin lips, and angular jawline. <br /> Apart from his voice, his appearance was eye-catching.<br /> Although Zoe grew up elegant and beautiful, her boyfriend, Darius, was also outstandingly handsome. It was the first time she had ever seen such an unparalleled handsomeness in her life.<br /> The man's strong aura engulfed her, instantly making the air around thinner. <br /> Zoe did not know how to respond at this moment.<br /> Sharing a parachute with him was certainly playing a joke on life!<br /> But without waiting for her to refuse, the man had already leaned over, and his voice carried a compelling magnetism. <br /> "Excuse me," he said. <br /> Before she could react, the man had already unbuckled her seat belt and put the parachute on himself.<br /> Who did he think he was?<br /> Did he think he could do whatever he wanted just because he's good-looking?<br /> Every seat was equipped with a parachute, so why did he have to use hers?<br /> "Sir..." Zoe muttered. Just as Zoe was about to argue with him, the man suddenly kissed her on her lips, and his tall figure pressed her to the hatch in a rapt kiss.<br /> After eight years with Darius, Zoe had yet to give him her first kiss. But the man in front of her, whom she had met the first time, had inexplicably snatched it in advance.<br /> The alluring scent of his body oozed. It was fresh, light, reminiscent of the freezing breeze in winter. Despite stinging cold, it had a refreshing effect on the brain.<br /> Zoe was stunned for a while before she realized that he was kissing her. <br /> Even if he was outstanding, he couldn't do such a thing to her in a public place!<br /> Zoe was furious and was about to raise her hand and slap him on his face, when several tall men approached. They were sweeping around a few times and discussing in a low voice…<br /> [He's not here.]<br /> [Without a parachute, he must not dare to jump off rashly, not to mention that he is seriously injured.]<br /> [He must be hiding in the crowd, let's keep looking!]<br /> Seeing them search for a while and leaving in a rage, Zoe felt a little panic. <br /> Obviously, they were not good people. <br /> “Wasn’t it more important to escape and save themselves at that moment?”she thought to herself.<br /> At that point, another group of women came over. Each of them were dressed ably and looked strictly meticulous, reminiscent of female secret agents in the movies.<br /> Zoe noticed that they put one hand in their clothes and the other hand pressing on the outside. Looking at that posture, she couldn’t help but wonder if there was a gun.<br /> Zoe was stunned.<br /> Suddenly, they ruthlessly gazed at her, as if they were using a laser, sweeping straight towards her. <br /> Zoe was shocked. Damn it, was she being targeted?<br /> One of the women glanced at her, then at the back of the man who was kissing her. The woman’s eyes no longer lingered on them as she continued to look for other targets. <br /> For them, they were a couple facing the prospect of parting forever, making a final kiss before jumping out of the plane, and were posing no threat to them.<br /> The man's back was blocked by the parachute, just enough to conceal his figure.<br /> [He should be hiding somewhere else.]<br /> [If we miss again this time, the boss will never let us go.]<br /> [Looks like we'll have to step up and not let Napoli's people find him first.]<br /> [Let's go!]<br /> Zoe listened to their conversation and couldn't help but think that the passengers on the plane were too weird. The group of mafia-like men were looking for someone. Those "female agents" were also looking for something, and that indiscriminate man in front of her was taking advantage of her.<br /> Damn it!<br /> To think that the man was still kissing her, Zoe folded her knee and kicked the man hard.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 3 Parachute Jumping In Each Other's Arms<br /> However, as if he had expected what she was going to do, the man reached out and blocked her attack.<br /> The man had done too much.<br /> Zoe was so angry that she reached out and tried to push him away, not expecting him to hold her hands. He pressed against the hatch with her fingers clasped together in his.<br /> Zoe's eyes were full of protest. <br /> “Who are you? Get off me! It's about to crash! Do you hear me?”<br /> Once again, the man pressed her hard against the hatch and kissed her with more force and passion.<br /> One of the "female agents" who had just turned to leave, suddenly stood still and looked back at Zoe.<br /> "Boss, what's wrong?" Another agent asked her.<br /> "We don't have much time, those Napoli's-like people are close to finding him. We need to get out of here," the other agent added. <br /> "What are you looking at?" she asked. <br /> Most of the agents followed their boss' gaze which were directed toward Zoe. That was when Zoe realized that those women’s eyes were not on her. Rather, it was more directed at the man who was kissing her.<br /> She must have made too many movements and attracted their attention. <br /> While all that was going on, their "boss" had already taken out a pistol from her coat, and started pulling the trigger.<br /> The man had a sensitive hearing, and just as he heard the sound of the trigger, he threw a guest blanket at them with his backhand.<br /> A few of the women’s sights were blocked by the blanket, and by the time they were done setting it aside, the man had already leapt down with Zoe in his arms. He was so fast that they staggered!<br /> The parachute blossomed in the air, and they floated in the air at once, pulled away a modest distance from the plane.<br /> [Boss, it's him! He got away!]<br /> [Shoot him!]<br /> The sound of thumping g0n&&fire echoed in the air.<br /> The parachute floated farther and farther, so the bullets were useless. The woman called as the boss reluctantly ordered, "After them."<br /> Several people quickly put on their parachutes and leaped down.<br /> Zoe could not have imagined that she would somehow be involved in that kind of chaos. Who was that man in front of her and why was he being hunted by different gangs?<br /> Holding the man's neck in an extremely tight grip, Zoe almost hung her entire body on him.<br /> The group of fierce men, and the meticulous "female agents"... Why were they after that man? What exactly was his identity?<br /> Zoe understood that she was in big trouble. <br /> Just as she wanted to question the man, she saw that his eyes gradually closed, the hand holding her waist weakly loosened, and he passed out. <br /> "Hey! Don't sleep… wake up." Zoe said urgently. She was scared to death and hugged him even tighter. <br /> They were in the mid-air. Her life would be in danger if she didn’t hold on.<br /> "Are you passed out? Our parachute seems broken." Zoe said. <br /> Those sho&ts earlier seemed to have broken her parachute. <br /> The man was unconscious and couldn't hear her.<br /> Zoe looked up and saw a few holes on the parachute as they were rapidly descending.<br /> "Oh my God! Oh my God, I'm not going to fall off here, right?” Zoe prayed.<br /> Below them was the vast sea. Zoe wished the parachute could hold on a little longer. <br /> She did not want to di&e so soon, nor di&e in such a desolate place, and a ridiculous way. That was not what she wanted. <br /> However, the parachute was sparsely descending at a very fast speed.<br /> In her 25 years of life, Zoe had never found herself so unlucky! Everything that happened to her today made everything worse for her.<br /> Without much time for her to think, they both fell heavily into the sea with a thud, and made a huge splash.<br /> <br /> 👇👇👇>>>>>>>>>>>>>👇👇👇<br /> 💕💕Click the button below to install [RosyRead] <br /> To continue reading 💕💕	LEARN_MORE	https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pix	100344252868372	Kelly White	https://facebook.com/100086485784589	300	0	0	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Kelly White	120210410253680483	www.rosymance.com	NONE	video		https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pixel_id=713027707555740&page_no=ff8080818f27d9a2018f28707f9800db&language=en_us&type=2&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}		2024-04-29 01:43	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438078513_730634559150796_6766217402532473879_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=u2ZqYtvJPDoAb7MAbss&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC9KohE8unQK9g9TpD_4EmtyrmiNuAhTrKNK7kHbwStMA&oe=66360F99	person_profile	0	Kelly White	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438118252_3617674728471625_3349093178609982072_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7R5fyOHYpx0Ab6gXXPR&_nc_oc=Adhr7lgLMK3--aYiP0eS5PuYSxF1zyMCa5PkWwln0sVNIKGdWIj4DHQxjhafBwc4NpM&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBMKVvlM0YBKo9rNkEQ1tRyZ4gulZb5dfJeE854An82uQ&oe=6635EEF4	0	3	Kelly White	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,383	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	7782115571808748	Find your dream home!	Looking to make your next move? As your trusted advisor, I'm here to guide you through today's fast-changing market.	LEARN_MORE	https://www.golyon.com/real-estate-agent/631/kelly	110316788491159	Lyon Real Estate - a Windermere Company	https://facebook.com/lyonrealestateproperties	72	1	7,116,435,468,462,789	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Lyon Real Estate - a Windermere Company	120209934884470615	www.golyon.com	NONE	image	Start your search today.	https://www.golyon.com/real-estate-agent/631/kelly-mcnabb		2024-04-29 11:38	https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438170651_7815762125109147_3306261890560805757_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LMy07RFfiiMQ7kNvgEHzzUj&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBMoplm31n-9_VAI0DHwM91au23vrdruTpkkIa6deQm4g&oe=6635F225	person_profile	0	Lyon Real Estate Properties	https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438088419_307426692396905_1132913625482436366_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WAV7MuJ6k0gQ7kNvgEEdztx&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB1hWR8uOTNSdMdxv6hM6ZnqYVT4TcDs73272Cjj5EcJA&oe=6635FA41	0	3	Lyon Real Estate - a Windermere Company	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,170	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:16	active	645	3229082133889302	Hampton Sides \| National Writers Series	Hurry, get tickets NOW! We're is proud to host <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HamptonSidesAuthor">Hampton Sides</a> both virtually and in-person in Traverse City, Michigan, this Wednesday, May1, at 7 p.m. EDT at the historic <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CityOperaHouse">City Opera House</a>.<br /> <br /> Hampton's book is an exciting, informative, and balanced account of the wild, courageous, and disputed life of Captain James Cook. Did you know that Captain Cook was the first voyager who eliminate scurvy on his expeditions in the mid-1700s? He was well ahead of science and fed his crew an amble amount of vitamin C.<br /> <br /> This book has many fascinating facts researched by the acclaimed, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nytimes">The New York Times</a> bestselling historical nonfiction author Hampton Sides.<br /> <br /> His new book is currently #6 on the @nytimes bestseller list for Hardcover Nonfiction. Congrats, Hampton! Guest host for this event is NYT bestseller <a href="https://www.facebook.com/doug.stanton.71">Doug Stanton</a>, who is also a co-founder of NWS. Tickets here: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fnationalwritersseries.org%2Fhampton-sides-2%2F&h=AT11dYT9CIaHNSGvUnPQyYdxRzG-vLjfuy6tdGyTKjx0Ym6CKwhXdbLdATbTYitz3A57TOJ9hQtxc0DqEaqwXEEDDovA5-blnfTVrwICNb2weUJF1QWuaEFDk46dZkSfFsKntt9mSnRNYxV5HeY-SZtjZfM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://nationalwritersseries.org/hampton-sides-2/</a><br /> <br /> Event Sponsor: Ron Chao and Paula Kelly<br /> Literary Sponsor: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/people/Bay-Books/100067181122409/">Bay Books</a>	BUY_TICKETS	https://nationalwritersseries.org/hampton-sides-2/	172766266579	Traverse City National Writers Series	https://facebook.com/nationalwritersseries	6,045	1	2,279,762,528,896,300	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Buy tickets	Traverse City National Writers Series	6541609260922	nationalwritersseries.org	NONE	event	(IN PERSON AT CITY OPERA HOUSE & LIVESTREAMED) On Wed. May 1, Hampton Sides joins the National Writers Series	https://nationalwritersseries.org/hampton-sides-2/		2024-04-29 14:03	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438239773_7737319942957696_8246195656930506329_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uDOYMF2I9IkQ7kNvgET-ZNN&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBYnYB3Ci7FCE8W9-18txbxd32mgJVbSegxUBIBkttG_w&oe=66362296	person_profile	0	National Writers Series	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440425831_786697390093393_7756360341522598215_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MvypJhfLbacQ7kNvgEIc5kk&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfB03Naq64iy1U8pNFv4xvQNmPyWHXPVqDdnqWKO5oEKyw&oe=663604B1	0	3	Traverse City National Writers Series	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,372	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	847991237371541	Get 70% Off from✌️🥑 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢😀𝐚𝐥 Website	𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧: Beware of Other 𝐊𝐞𝐭𝐨 Scam Ads. I have👉💖 never🥝 sold 𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐨 product on other websites. don't believe those false ads, and please share this video with your friends to prevent them from getting scammed.	LEARN_MORE	https://todaysharknews.com/xm1232?fbclid={fbclid}&	165745429945462	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	https://facebook.com/61552918551614	0	4	1,177,095,899,974,808	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	120208586622050493	todaysharknews.com	NONE	video		https://todaysharknews.com/xm1232?fbclid={fbclid}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_placement={{placement}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}		2024-04-29 11:48	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440854097_318892904357338_6416967952635190270_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=o8GyGsK_314Q7kNvgEqzuuE&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfDMtQ3mw_ud9GndVUlZ89MH7GfZ_Kt8a1riocT1NXd5aw&oe=6635F5DA	person_profile	0	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440988607_1693827154693416_9022439818916552357_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=WRXwuDDIML0Q7kNvgEU525y&_nc_oc=Adg2SisiqYWghfsk5aN4zcQEVnNnJ6Or2ksavWcIdE1eL-SV_aYHOO-RsgVkQ2P9Z5HXuKSJ7APLqsCEZWbNhAvD&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=00_AfA3SfWGEot3_rYZzw40yeUbtFVLvYO19bK7jtoGe_qZjA&oe=66360636	0	3	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,611,997	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":0.9851809632373896,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	Yes	2024-04-29 19:15	active	645	3609485199300186	Click to Download Now and Work Tomorrow	Your Job Journey Begins Now	DOWNLOAD	https://info.kellyservices.com/kelly-now?utm_sourc	6004652953	Kelly Services	https://facebook.com/kellyservices	145,625	2	311,934,915,250,957	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Download	Kelly Services	6585713993903	www.kellynow.com	NONE	carousel	Your Job Journey Begins Now	https://info.kellyservices.com/kelly-now?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpm&utm_campaign=2024_4_pni_b2c_kelly_now_traffic&utm_content=carousel_2_remarketing		2024-04-29 09:43	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413941_946927980428911_8766344105780486528_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mhin0CiOLRoQ7kNvgHbkaig&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfDpoOTZUPrv-vGZkA0lqFXCzudR9EsotEplXYBQdfawBA&oe=663617C2	person_profile	0	Kelly	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440413901_957341322449038_6410714074526375933_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=amVQF0qCHf0Q7kNvgHQUKo6&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfBGAW8iJ7LJoyHPeKexVdrBEzDtgy4QGtmCVgZEY2FjPQ&oe=663612DC	0	3	Kelly Services	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,925	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1424828661731982			MESSAGE_PAGE		261327770399595	AKS Insurance Plus Taxes USA	https://facebook.com/General.Liability.Insurance.Call.Us.281.451.6301	3	3	985,422,516,426,487	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Send message	AKS Insurance Plus Taxes USA	120207631622040038		NONE	video			{"type":"VISUAL_EDITOR","version":2,"landing_screen_type":"welcome_message","media_type":"text","text_format":{"customer_action_type":"ice_breakers","message":{"ice_breakers":[{"title":"Necesitas General Libility Insurance para tu negocio?","response":""},{"title":"Necesitas W. Compensation Insurance para tu negocio?","response":""},{"title":"Necesitas un seguro Umbrella, Bonds, O Excess Liability insurance para tu negoci","response":""}],"text":"Hola {{user_first_name}}! Necesitas un seguro (Insurance) para tu negocio?"}},"user_edit":false,"autofill_message_edited":false,"ice_breakers_edited":false,"welcome_message_edited":false,"surface":"boosted_post"}	2024-04-29 09:54	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438253135_752324216706704_2405459789961259631_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3l4ykXkl9rQAb7bM-0J&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBEVYAn5X6M-wCwKwehYPKE0_pQEvIBOImxLvx7f2aLTg&oe=66360313	person_profile	0	AKS Insurance Plus Taxes USA	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438301163_3327373797563584_5885655932366004048_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gTgG4a9WE98Ab4COk4G&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCTfkEsBRWSDrjdvy7WJTytrJK03evUhUPr2_y2qMJa5g&oe=66361538	0	3	AKS Insurance Plus Taxes USA	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,277	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	440845535159435		This night was sparkling with every single detail! Congratulations to Kelly & Pat! 💙<br /> <br /> Planning: @weddingsbyhannah <br /> Rentals: @yourstrulyeventrentals <br /> Stationery & Signage: @yellowbrickgraphics <br /> Floral: @goodearthfloral <br /> Venue: @nichelemybell @nelsonatkins <br /> Tabletop and Linens: @marquee_rents @bbjlatavola	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/yellowbrickgraphics	150598584974710	YellowBrick Graphics	https://facebook.com/yellowbrickgraphics	921	1	442,216,775,153,401	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Visit Instagram profile	YellowBrick Graphics	6570634595811	instagram.com	NONE	video		http://instagram.com/yellowbrickgraphics		2024-04-29 12:30	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440758025_1473931480218094_5766700808262499537_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-MGonyP2CjAAb6WfN6W&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDqkQ_go7OqcB_0VQNbG7MNsqMEX5i4_tkQfdHYIWmGyw&oe=6636238A	person_profile	0	Kansas City Wedding Invitations + Event Signage	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440946788_1469774860600391_4585559764885049017_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=84QY8v3cZCUAb4OkDKC&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDsgNaDJRQn0U3z7dj4CJypLOPBYR7otx_HawmKAzX2Qg&oe=6635EE2F	0	3	YellowBrick Graphics	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,615,408	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	441631211606135	Get 70% Off from✌️🥑 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢😀𝐚𝐥 Website	𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐨𝐧: Beware of Other 𝐊𝐞𝐭𝐨 Scam Ads. I have👉💖 never🥝 sold 𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐨 product on other websites. don't believe those false ads, and please share this video with your friends to prevent them from getting scammed.	LEARN_MORE	https://todaysharknews.com/xm1201?fbclid={fbclid}&	165745429945462	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	https://facebook.com/61552918551614	0	1	906,577,814,557,834	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	120209415453650025	todaysharknews.com	NONE	video		https://todaysharknews.com/xm1201?fbclid={fbclid}&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_source={{site_source_name}}&utm_placement={{placement}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}		2024-04-29 11:31	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440376837_3699346930381983_7704125207900532895_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V4Z4AZF6Ca8Q7kNvgF2Tgrg&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBBcYTOCISFmdVGo9UEgIBkTBcue9XBf3buHf1OfI7t-w&oe=6635EFBD	person_profile	0	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	https://scontent-mia3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439929233_311478535306321_1906517888193434853_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5O06izDEbJgQ7kNvgGTG9yq&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDq_CMcNWBDccRw10chvdjK-KQiJgUcTk2GzxmbDcwwiQ&oe=66360AB5	0	3	𝐅𝐃𝐀 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝘼𝘾𝙑 𝙜𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,111	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	1611824872968708	I have a fact I want to clarify.	Feeling self-doubt and low confidence? Unlock your true potential with our boosting self-esteem techniques!	LEARN_MORE	https://healthporche.com/zbq/productsun/SUN000/?ut	320535734468121	Natravor Research Center C	https://facebook.com/61559083944352	1	1	1,457,219,121,847,226	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Learn more	Natravor Research Center C	120208517480320394	healthporche.com	NONE	image		https://healthporche.com/zbq/productsun/SUN000/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=%7B%7Bcampaign.id%7D%7D&utm_content=%7B%7Badset.id%7D%7D&utm_term=%7B%7Bad.id%7D%7D		2024-04-29 08:06	https://scontent.fmem1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441022653_949206813653793_8494627686809701561_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KfpaTaIK51gQ7kNvgFSzVZS&_nc_ht=scontent.fmem1-2.fna&oh=00_AfBN5kPDP_HqimUAjBfMqIIrTxlWbv-_W8JiZMFQbIupCQ&oe=663611A3	person_profile	0			0	3	Natravor Research Center C	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,211	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	428234663157958	📚📚Title "Regret's All You Get"🥰👉	In the presidential suite of the Winson Hotel in Litharia, a breathtakingly beautiful woman lay in bed. Her delicate skin was mostly hidden under a sheer blanket, with only her arms peeking out, bearing the faint red traces of a night filled with ptootshieion.<br /> <br /> Cynthia Jenkins stirred, letting out a soft moan as she woke from her deep sleep. She tried to get up, but her body, still weary and sore, sank back onto the bed.<br /> <br /> Memories from the night before came rushing back, bringing a faint smile to her face. For the first time in their three-year marriage, she and her husband, Nathan Richardson, had made love.<br /> <br /> She noticed Nathan wasn't in the room, and a tinge of disappointment flickered across her face, quickly replaced by composure.<br /> <br /> At the beginning of their marriage, Nathan had been distant, rarely showing any affection. Cynthia couldn't help but wonder if last night marked a turning point, a sign that he had finally accepted her.<br /> <br /> With a flicker of hope, Cynthia rose cheerfully from the bed. The moment her bare feet touched the cold floor, she felt a sudden chill.<br /> <br /> Picking up a blue sapphire cufflink, oddly shaped and shimmering, from the floor, Cynthia widened her eyes in surprise. 'Could this be Nathan's?'<br /> <br /> Thinking of this, Cynthia smiled and placed the cufflink in her bag. Then, she went to freshen up herself before returning home.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had barely stepped out of the door when she ran into an unexpected visitor.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia?" The woman in front of her, dressed in a crisp white dress and possessing a sharp, piercing voice, was Kelly Dixon, the second lady of the Dixon family.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had always been at odds with the Dixon sisters. Jessica Dixon, the eldest lady of the family, was Nathan's first love. But today, Cynthia was in a good mood. "Kelly, what a surprise to see you here."<br /> <br /> "Indeed." Kelly sized up Cynthia with a mocking smile. "If I had arrived a bit earlier or later, I might have missed catching you in the act."<br /> <br /> She pointed at the red marks on Cynthia's arms with disdain. "What is this? You shameless woman! How dare you fooling around with other men behind Nathan's back!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia frowned, "What are you talking about?"<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, I've always known you're shameless, clinging to Nathan. But I never pegged you as someone who'd stoop this low." Kelly's eyes sparkled with the thrill of uncovering a juicy piece of gossip. "Are you really going to say these marks are from a night with Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Before Cynthia could utter a word, Kelly cut her off. "Please, cut the act. Nathan was at the hospital last night, staying by my sister's side. He was too busy to even catch a nap, much less waste time on someone like you."<br /> <br /> Cynthia's face changed dramatically. "Nathan was at the hospital?"<br /> <br /> "Where else would he be? You think he'd come to see you?" Kelly's voice was thick with sarcasm, as if she had just heard something ridiculous. "You've been caught sneaking around with someone else, and I'm not letting this slide so easily!<br /> <br /> "I'm going to show Nathan just how low you can go!" Kelly declared, her resolve unwavering. "I'm calling him right now to come over!"<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't absorb a word. Her mind went blank.<br /> <br /> If Nathan had spent the entire night in the hospital, then who was the man who had been so ptootshieionately entwined with her last night?<br /> <br /> A sudden realization made Cynthia's face darken.<br /> <br /> She had been set up!<br /> <br /> Yesterday was their three-year wedding anniversary, and Nathan surprisingly messaged her to meet at a hotel.<br /> <br /> Overjoyed and without a second thought, Cynthia rushed over. But when she arrived, Nathan texted to say he would be late and even ordered her some takeout.<br /> <br /> Cynthia, not sensing anything amiss and simply savoring the food, didn't expect to completely lose consciousness after finishing her meal. And that man last night...<br /> <br /> As Cynthia thought about everything that happened last night, her face turned deathly pale. 'How could this happen?'<br /> <br /> "Nathan already hates you for taking Jessica's place, and now, he'll never forgive you!" Kelly said triumphantly after a quick phone call. She stood firmly in Cynthia's path, blocking her exit.<br /> <br /> Cynthia hadn't even considered leaving. She felt a chill run down her spine. Besides, there weren't many people who could send a message using Nathan's phone.<br /> <br /> Soon, Nathan hurried down the corridor. "Kelly, did you need something from me?"<br /> <br /> He glanced at Cynthia with impatience. "What are you doing here? Jessica is still in the hospital. What are you up to now?"<br /> <br /> "I..." Cynthia opened her mouth, her mind in turmoil, unsure how to respond to him.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, I called you here," Kelly interjected eagerly. "I just so happened to see Cynthia sneaking out of a hotel room with some guy. It's serious, so I had to tell you."<br /> <br /> Nathan's face darkened instantly. "Cynthia, is it true?"<br /> <br /> "Would you believe me if I say I was framed?" Cynthia's eyes held a flicker of hope. "It was you who..."<br /> <br /> A smack came!<br /> <br /> Nathan's hand struck her face with a resounding slap, his expression cold and detached.<br /> <br /> "Pathetic! Why would anyone frame you?" Nathan's eyes blazed with anger at the sight of the red marks on Cynthia's arms.<br /> <br /> Even if he had no feelings for Cynthia, she was still his wife in name. This was nothing but a shame to him.<br /> <br /> Kelly watched with a smirk, stirring the pot. "Exactly, you must be delusional to think someone's out to get you.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, she's just lashing out because you're nice to Jessica. I caught her once, but who knows how many times she's cheated on you. Wake up, man."<br /> <br /> "What else do you have to say?" Nathan's gaze was filled with disgust.<br /> <br /> "What can I say?" Cynthia touched her burning cheek, a cold despair settling in her heart. She looked at Nathan, fighting the urge to laugh bitterly. "Nathan, don't you even want to ask why I ended up here?"<br /> <br /> It was ridiculous that her husband seemed to be solely dedicated to helping others deceive her.<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were full of disgust. "What exactly are you trying to say?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt utterly disheartened. She held up her phone, emphasizing each word. "Your phone sent me a message to come here. I trusted it and showed up. Did you text me, Nathan?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze flickered. Last night, after getting treated, Jessica borrowed his phone...<br /> <br /> "It seems you know now who it was." Cynthia noticed his evasive look and had her suspicions. She smiled through her tears, "Nathan, I'm your wife. I'm the one being framed."<br /> <br /> Kelly quickly interjected, "Nathan, don't fall for her act. She's just looking for an excuse..."<br /> <br /> "This is between me and my husband. It's not your place to interfere," Cynthia retorted, showing her temper in front of Nathan for the first time.<br /> <br /> "You..." Kelly was furious and about to retort.<br /> <br /> However, Nathan had made up his mind at that moment. "I sent the text. I got tied up, sure, but that's no excuse for you cheating!"<br /> <br /> "It seems this is your choice, then." Cynthia's heart turned cold. Despite knowing she was wronged, he still chose to defend that hypocritical woman. She couldn't believe this was the man she loved.<br /> <br /> Nathan didn't show any sign of guilt. "Cynthia, it's you who fooled around with another man. Who else is there to blame?"<br /> <br /> Even though he felt somewhat uncomfortable about what Jessica did, he still firmly sided with her.<br /> <br /> "I was blind to have trusted the wrong person."<br /> <br /> Cynthia closed her eyes, and when she opened them moments later, they were clear and resolved. "Nathan, let's get a divorce."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> "Cynthia, what on earth are you thinking?" Nathan frowned slightly while Kelly's eyes flickered with surprise.<br /> <br /> Cynthia gave a self-mocking smile. "Nathan, I'm not someone who clings to what I can't have. Remember, I'm the one walking away from you, not the other way around."<br /> <br /> With those words, Cynthia felt a sudden clarity in her heart.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, you're the one who messed up, but here you are, playing word games. Are you threatening Nathan?" Kelly said, secretly pleased.<br /> <br /> Cynthia glanced coldly at her. "Kelly, sometimes, you should just stay quiet."<br /> <br /> But Nathan's response caught Cynthia off guard. "I don't agree to the divorce."<br /> <br /> Cynthia let out a bitter laugh. "Isn't this what you've always wanted? Now that I'm stepping aside, you can be with Jessica happily ever after. Why disagree?<br /> <br /> "Or is there something more you're after, something you haven't gotten from me yet?" Cynthia's tone shifted, causing a subtle change in the expressions of the two before her.<br /> <br /> She didn't think herself so self-absorbed to believe Nathan still had feelings for her. Their reactions pretty much confirmed her suspicions.<br /> <br /> "I guess I was right." Cynthia curled up her lips. "So, Nathan, what's it gonna take for you to sign those divorce papers?"<br /> <br /> Nathan's eyes were deep and solemn. At this point, there was nothing left to hide. "Jessica's really sick, Cynthia, and you're the only one who can donate a kidney to save her. That's my only condition. Help her, and you won't regret it, I promise."<br /> <br /> Cynthia was thunderstruck, her voice hoarse with disbelief. "You mean, this whole time...you were just after my kidney?"<br /> <br /> "Jessica is the only one Nathan loves. Why else would he marry you if not to save her?" Kelly sneered, and Nathan's look confirmed that she was right.<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt a chill in her heart. It all made sense now. Nathan had initially balked at his grandfather Mark Richardson's suggestion of marrying Cynthia. He had been adamant about marrying Jessica instead, only to abruptly change his mind when Cynthia was nearly ready to walk away.<br /> <br /> She had hoped that, over time, Nathan might come to love her. But she realized now that from the very start, he had been scheming for her kidney!<br /> <br /> "Cynthia," Nathan said, softening his tone deliberately. "Just help me out this one time, and I promise to keep today's drama under wraps. I'll make it worth your while, enough to start over somewhere far away."<br /> <br /> "In your dreams, Nathan." Cynthia emphasized each word. "Sure, I had feelings for you, but not enough to degrade myself like this."<br /> <br /> "Looks like you choose the hard way." Nathan, never one with a good temper, immediately hardened his stance. "If you refuse to donate a kidney to Jessica, I will absolutely not agree to the divorce."<br /> <br /> Cynthia laughed angrily and retorted, "Fine by me. Do you have any idea how hard I worked to marry you? If you want to grow old with me, then so be it."<br /> <br /> "Cynthia!" Nathan's face soured. He was about to speak when Cynthia ruthlessly cut him off.<br /> <br /> "I just give you one chance, Nathan. Be at the Courthouse entrance at 9 AM sharp tomorrow. If you don't show up..."<br /> <br /> Cynthia smirked coldly. "Then even better. Jessica can forget about marrying into the Richardson family. And I'll make sure to remind you that you'll be a cuckolds for the rest of your life!"<br /> <br /> With that, Cynthia turned and left, not bothering to give Nathan or Kelly a second glance.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, what if she refuses the surgery? What about Jessica?" Kelly, watching Cynthia's retreating figure, feigned urgency.<br /> <br /> Nathan's gaze was deep. "Don't worry. I'll find a way to make her agree."<br /> <br /> As Cynthia stepped out of the hotel, a sleek Rolls-Royce Phantom suddenly pulled up, blocking her path.<br /> <br /> The window rolled down, showing a woman in her forties, still exuding charm, a face often seen on financial news.<br /> <br /> "You're right on time, Mom." Recognizing the woman, Cynthia wasn't surprised at all, her voice and posture shifting to something more dignified.<br /> <br /> "Get in," Heather Brooks said calmly.<br /> <br /> With a deep breath, Cynthia got into the back seat. Throughout the ride, they hardly talked to each other.<br /> <br /> In Litharia, Jenkins Villa stood majestically in the most coveted scenic area, home to the affluent Jenkins family.<br /> <br /> "I've heard the story between you and Nathan. So, have you finally seen Nathan's true colors?"<br /> <br /> In the living room of Jenkins Villa, Heather sipped her coffee, looking at Cynthia indifferently. "It's time for you to come back and take over the family business."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Heather had five children, and aside from her only daughter, Cynthia, the other four sons kept their identities hidden, excelling in their fields but refusing to take over the family business.<br /> <br /> Left with no other option, Heather pinned her hopes on Cynthia.<br /> <br /> Cynthia breathed deeply, only then realizing that she had been under her mother's watchful eye for these past three years.<br /> <br /> It wasn't surprising, though. Since her father's death, the Jenkins family had been fragmented. Heather wasn't truly a Jenkins. Although she had been holding the reins, she was surrounded by those eyeing her position. Eventually, Heather had grown accustomed to keeping everything under her control, leaving no stone unturned.<br /> <br /> "It's not possible right now," Cynthia said somewhat helplessly.<br /> <br /> Heather's eyes narrowed as she spoke firmly. "What, you still have feelings for him?"<br /> <br /> "Of course not," Cynthia couldn't help but laugh dryly. "Mom, I just need some time to divorce him. I promise, after the divorce, I will definitely return to the Jenkins family."<br /> <br /> Cynthia mused, why did she ever waste three years pining for Nathan?<br /> <br /> Getting the response she wanted, Heather nodded in satisfaction. "That's more like a Jenkins girl. Also..."<br /> <br /> "What is it?" Seeing Heather hesitating to speak, Cynthia was curious.<br /> <br /> Heather spoke steadily. "The man you slept with at the hotel, do you recall who he is?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia's expression froze, and she remained silent.<br /> <br /> "I'm thinking about finding this man. If he's decent enough, we could welcome him into the family. The Jenkins can certainly afford to support one more. This would also solidify your position in the family."<br /> <br /> What Heather left unsaid was that if the man was not up to her standard, the consequences were obvious.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was at a loss for words. She didn't even know how to argue with that.<br /> <br /> Back in her room, Cynthia lay on the bed, overwhelmed. What happened today was more thrilling than her life during the past three years combined.<br /> <br /> She absently played with the cufflink in her hand, a lone clue left by the mysterious man from the previous night.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, Cynthia realized something and sat up abruptly. The cufflink was a limited edition, and her brother, the third sir of the Jenkins, Eric Jenkins, also a leading designer, might know its origin.<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Cynthia called Eric.<br /> <br /> "Thia, you've finally taken your eyes off that idiot, huh? What's up?" Eric's voice was cheerful over the phone.<br /> <br /> Cynthia couldn't help but smile, "Starting today, Nathan and I have nothing to do with each other. We're getting divorced tomorrow."<br /> <br /> At that moment, in the midst of a major international jewelry show, Eric sat up straight. "What? What on earth happened to make the blind girl finally see the light?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia laughed. "Come on, stop kidding. Are you free right now? I could really use your help. Check your messages. I've sent you a picture. Can you figure out where this thing's from?"<br /> <br /> The next morning, outside the Courthouse, Nathan stood with a stern expression. He arrived on time and had been waiting for two hours without a glimpse of Cynthia.<br /> <br /> His calls went unanswered, and just as his patience was running thin, Cynthia finally arrived.<br /> <br /> She was dressed to the nines, radiant and elegant, a stark contrast to her former self. Nathan almost didn't recognize her at first sight.<br /> <br /> "What now? Getting cold feet about the divorce?" Seeing Cynthia slowly making her appearance, Nathan thought she regretted her decision not to divorce and had dressed up like this to win him back, feeling smug.<br /> <br /> "Getting cold feet? Why do I have to?" Cynthia touched her earring. She had intentionally made Nathan wait outside today.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was certain that Nathan wouldn't leave as long as his goal remained unmet, even if it meant waiting there all day.<br /> <br /> Nathan snorted, "As long as you're willing to help Jessica, we can still be friends."<br /> <br /> "What are you thinking? We're getting divorced and you still think we can be friends?" Cynthia scoffed dismissively. "You know what, Nathan? I've changed my mind. Why should I rely on a man who's after my organs? There are plenty of decent men out there, like that guy from the hotel. I'm quite satisfied with him."<br /> <br /> Even if Nathan had once saved her life, the help she had given him secretly over the past three years was more than enough to settle any debt.<br /> <br /> "Shameless!" Nathan didn't expect Cynthia to change her attitude so quickly, grinding his teeth in anger.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was unapologetic. "And what about you? Let's go. I can hardly wait."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Half an hour later, the two emerged from the Courthouse. Cynthia held the divorce papers, knowing that from now on, her marriage to Nathan was officially over.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, my offer is always on the table. When you're ready, you know where to find me," Nathan said, glancing at Cynthia, his words laced with implication.<br /> <br /> He had always thought that Cynthia came from a modest background. The financial security he could provide was something he thought Cynthia couldn't earn in a lifetime.<br /> <br /> Cynthia scoffed, "Dream on, Nathan. That day will never come."<br /> <br /> Nathan was about to respond when his expression suddenly changed. He quickly descended the steps, leaving Cynthia behind.<br /> <br /> "Jessica? What are you doing here?"<br /> <br /> At the foot of the steps, a girl with an innocent appearance and long hair cascading over her shoulders rushed toward them. Her face was ghostly pale. It was Jessica, the one Nathan always held dear.<br /> <br /> In just a few short steps, Jessica was panting.<br /> <br /> Nathan, heart aching, wrapped his arms around Jessica, gently stroking her back to help her catch her breath.<br /> <br /> Cynthia had had enough of their closeness. She was ready to leave then and there.<br /> <br /> "Wait up, Cynthia, please, just a sec," Jessica panted, rushing to intercept Cynthia.<br /> <br /> "Do you need something?" Cynthia asked indifferently, causing Nathan to frown.<br /> <br /> Jessica bit her lip. "I... I'm sorry about Nathan. He's always saying the opposite of what he feels. He really cares about you, you know. The last thing I want is for you guys to split."<br /> <br /> Seeing Jessica's meekness, Nathan felt a twinge of pain. "Jessica, you don't have to apologize for me."<br /> <br /> "Nathan's right. Why do you think you can apologize on his behalf?" Cynthia looked at Jessica, whose facade of innocence was grating on her.<br /> <br /> It's all my fault. He's been tough on you because he's worried about my condition. Can you just let it slide this time? I don't have much time left, and...I really hope there's someone by his side when I'm gone.<br /> <br /> Cynthia smiled, "It seems you're quite aware of your own health condition. You two are really close, right? Then how could you bear to push him towards me?"<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, don't push your luck," Nathan said, his face clouding over.<br /> <br /> Jessica bit her lip. "Nathan and I are just friends. I genuinely wish you two to patch things up."<br /> <br /> "But the divorce is already final," Cynthia said deliberately.<br /> <br /> Jessica quickly suggested. "But if there's a chance, why not consider remarriage?"<br /> <br /> "You're really looking out for us, huh? Do you even believe what you're saying?" Cynthia scoffed. She was done playing along and decided to confront the truth head-on. "You don't want us back together, Jessica. You're worried that if we divorce, Nathan won't be able to control me to get you a kidney transplant in time before finding a new donor. Sorry, but I'm not budging. I won't let you get your way."<br /> <br /> "It's not like that, Cynthia. You've got it all wrong. I would never..." She shook her head vigorously, looking utterly wronged.<br /> <br /> Cynthia smirked. "You may not do it yourself, but you're great at hinting. I believe someone would do it for you."<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, this was all my idea. What does it have to do with Jessica? Back off," Nathan said, his expression darkening as he quickly jumped to Jessica's defense.<br /> <br /> Cynthia sneered, "Funny, I didn't even mention a name. But since you care so much for each other, why not make it official? The city hall is just around the corner. Why wait? Go get married today.<br /> <br /> "At least you're his wife when you are gone, Jessica. Isn't that right?"<br /> <br /> Jessica's eyes flickered with unreadable emotion, and she still played innocent. "Cynthia, Nathan and I are really just good friends. I'm getting worse. After years without a matching kidney donor, I've given up hope."<br /> <br /> "So, I'm your only hope, huh? No wonder you're so desperate to having me stay," Cynthia said bluntly, cutting to the heart of the matter.<br /> <br /> Jessica, overwhelmed with frustration and unable to counter Cynthia's relentless words, suddenly collapsed.<br /> <br /> "Jessica, Jessica!" Nathan held her in his arms, calling her name repeatedly, but Jessica showed no response.<br /> <br /> "How convenient to ptootshie out at this moment." Cynthia noted with a smile.<br /> <br /> Nathan glared at Cynthia, scooping Jessica up in his arms, and warned sternly, "If anything happens to Jessica, Cynthia, I'll never forgive you."<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Having said that, Nathan hurriedly carried Jessica to the car and headed for the hospital.<br /> <br /> Cynthia, unfazed, turned and drove towards Richardson Villa to pack her things.<br /> <br /> She had lived in Richardson Villa for three years. Three years ago, she was overjoyed, thinking she had finally found the person from her childhood.<br /> <br /> It was she who had saved Nathan from danger, even daring to bet with Heather and hiding her identity to marry into the Richardson family. She tiptoed through life there, desperately trying to fit in.<br /> <br /> Yet, throughout all those three years, the Richardsons never accepted her as one of them, always leaving her feeling like an outsider no matter how hard she tried.<br /> <br /> Cynthia finally realized that Nathan had been insincere from the start. Reflecting on it now, she just couldn't believe how naive she had been, viewing everything through the rose-colored gltootshiees of her childhood memories.<br /> <br /> Luckily, she had finally woken up. There was no going back to this family for her.<br /> <br /> As she entered the living room, Kelly stood at the top of the stairs, looking down at her with a smug expression.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was not surprised. A month ago, Nathan had brazenly brought the Dixon sisters back to live in Richardson Villa.<br /> <br /> Nathan's mother, Sharon Richardson, had been completely charmed by them, never showing Cynthia any kindness.<br /> <br /> Looking down on Cynthia, Kelly gloated. "Cynthia, you're already divorced from Nathan. Why do you even show your face here?<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, I'm talking to you! Do you think playing deaf and dumb will get you through? Shameless." Kelly stood in the middle of the staircase, arms crossed, saying sternly.<br /> <br /> Cynthia glanced at her indifferently. "You know very well that who's the shameless one. Move aside."<br /> <br /> "What if I don't?" Kelly smirked triumphantly. "You are nothing but a discarded wife, and yet you dare to be arrogant in front of me. If you want me to step aside, beg for it."<br /> <br /> "Kelly, I really admire your reckless courage," Cynthia said with a light laugh. "I haven't even bothered with you yet, and here you are, stepping right into the crosshairs."<br /> <br /> Kelly didn't take Cynthia's words seriously, her eyes filled with scorn. "You think you can intimidate me, Cynthia? Really, what do you think you're capable of?"<br /> <br /> A sharp glint flashed in Cynthia's eyes as she spoke calmly. "A minor actress shamelessly moves into a married man's house, and within a month, the young couple is divorced. I wonder, if this little scandal hits the headlines, how your fans will react. Will they stand by you, or will they turn their backs, dragging your name through the mud?"<br /> <br /> Kelly, a mediocre graduate from a film academy with unremarkable looks and talent, had only managed to carve a niche for herself in showbiz with Nathan's financial support. She was, at best, a second-tier star, and her position in the entertainment world was what she valued most.<br /> <br /> Sure enough, Kelly's face changed drastically at these words. "Cynthia, are you threatening me?"<br /> <br /> "Right, I am threatening you," Cynthia admitted. "Better watch your step with me. If not, I'll make sure this story goes public. You've got plenty of enemies itching for a scoop like this. I wonder how many fans will stick by you after that."<br /> <br /> "You wouldn't dare!" Kelly's face betrayed a flash of panic.<br /> <br /> Cynthia scoffed, "Try me. I've got nothing to hide. You're the one who should be worried, not me. Don't believe me? Go ahead, push your luck!"<br /> <br /> Perhaps it was her tolerance over these past three years that had given these people the audacity to challenge her.<br /> <br /> Having said that, Cynthia pushed past Kelly's shoulder, striding upstairs to her room, leaving Kelly standing there in fury.<br /> <br /> The master room was divided into two parts - a study and a bedroom. Nathan never spent the night in the bedroom, and the study was more like a shared area for the two.<br /> <br /> In less than half an hour, Cynthia had packed her things. After three years, all she had filled was one suitcase and a backpack. Looking at them, she almost wanted to laugh.<br /> <br /> Suddenly, she remembered a pen of hers in the study. As she went in to retrieve it, she noticed a document on the desk.<br /> <br /> Her eyes fell on the paper. It was a bidding proposal from Nathan's company for a project under the Jenkins Group.<br /> <br /> Cynthia almost laughed. In the past, if she had seen this document, she would have secretly helped, arranging for the Jenkins Group to internally fix the bid to help Nathan secure the project.<br /> <br /> But now, seeing the proposal, Cynthia smiled, promising herself to give Nathan a surprise.<br /> <br /> After packing her things, Cynthia, dragging her suitcase, was about to leave when suddenly someone appeared at the door.<br /> <br /> "Don't worry, I'm all packed and I won't be back," Cynthia said indifferently. To her, Nathan had become less significant than a stranger.<br /> <br /> Nathan snorted, "That's it? That's all you have to say?"<br /> <br /> "What more is there between us?" Cynthia couldn't help but laugh. "The fact that you're standing here means Jessica is still alive. Now, if you don't mind, step aside. I'm hurried to move out."<br /> <br /> "Cynthia, I never realized how sharp-tongued you could be," Nathan said coldly, staring at the person before him. "Before you leave, you must apologize to Kelly!"<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> "Why should I apologize?" Cynthia released her suitcase, her eyes brimming with mockery. "Really, Nathan? Isn't Jessica enough for you? Or are you trying to have them both?"<br /> <br /> Nathan was close to losing his temper. "What nonsense are you talking about? Kelly is like a sister to me, nothing more!"<br /> <br /> "That's a question you should be asking your dear mother, not me," Cynthia said, uninterested in arguing further.<br /> <br /> Sharon had always favored the Dixon sisters. While Jessica was delicate and often sick, Sharon secretly hoped Kelly would be Nathan's wife. Nathan, however, was completely oblivious to this.<br /> <br /> Nathan took a deep breath, trying to keep his anger in check. He needed to remember why he was here. His voice softened but still carried a hint of superiority. "Listen, Cynthia, I'm here to make a deal with you. If you agree to donate a kidney to Jessica, I'll compensate you."<br /> <br /> "Compensate? How much?" Cynthia's tone was full of mockery, but Nathan, oblivious, thought she was actually considering it.<br /> <br /> "Forty thousand dollars, Cynthia. That's way more than you'd make in years," Nathan said, confident in his proposition, believing that to Cynthia, 40 thousand dollars was a fortune.<br /> <br /> Cynthia burst into uncontrollable laughter, almost crying with mirth.<br /> <br /> Nathan, infuriated and embarrtootshieed, demanded, "What's so funny?"<br /> <br /> It took Cynthia a while to compose herself. She spoke slowly, "Your absurd daydreams, Nathan. And how clueless you are about your own ignorance. Here's my offer. Four million dollars for Kelly's kidney. Convince her. It's way more than she could make in years."<br /> <br /> "Enough! If you want more, just say it. Stop pretending," Nathan said, looking at her as if she were insane.<br /> <br /> Cynthia calmly replied, "Believe it or not, that's your problem. I'll say this one last time. I will never donate a kidney to Jessica. This is it. We're done!"<br /> <br /> With that, she dragged her suitcase past Nathan.<br /> <br /> From behind, Nathan called out confidently. "Cynthia, one day you'll come back to me for money!"<br /> <br /> "In your dreams," Cynthia retorted without turning back just as she was about to leave. Suddenly, a man approached her head-on.<br /> <br /> Their eyes met unexpectedly, and Cynthia was momentarily startled. The man was tall, easily six foot three, with a straight nose and strikingly handsome features. What caught the attention most, however, were his deep eyes that could easily draw someone in without them realizing it.<br /> <br /> This was Nathan's younger uncle, Lawrence Richardson.<br /> <br /> The moment Lawrence saw Cynthia's face clearly, his brow twitched subtly. His look was complex, unreadable, like a sharp sword fixed on her face, shrouded in mystery.<br /> <br /> Cynthia guessed that Lawrence might have overheard her argument with Nathan and was reacting to it. She nodded casually, keeping her cool.<br /> <br /> Within a few seconds, Lawrence masked his emotions, his eyes settling into a serene calmness. They continued walking, merely brushing past each other.<br /> <br /> However, in that brief moment of ptootshieing, Cynthia's expression changed dramatically. Subconsciously, she slowed her pace, her eyes drawn to Lawrence's suit.<br /> <br /> The left sleeve of his gray, tailor-made suit sported a unique sapphire cufflink, exuding a subtle elegance. However, the right sleeve was conspicuously bare, missing its matching piece.<br /> <br /> In an instant, Cynthia felt utterly disheveled, as if a tornado had just swept through her world.<br /> <br /> "Thia, about that thing you asked me to look into, I think I'm onto something." Eric's voice rose teasingly from the other end of the phone, deliberately keeping her in suspense.<br /> <br /> Stopped at a red light, Cynthia sat in her Ferrari, her mind elsewhere. "No need to guess. I've figured it out."<br /> <br /> "Oh, really?" Eric sounded genuinely surprised. "I haven't even told you yet. How did you know?"<br /> <br /> "Just forget about it." Cynthia pressed her temples, weary. "Eric, let's pretend I never asked. Focus on your work. Bye."<br /> <br /> Before Eric could respond, Cynthia reclined in her seat, her head throbbing. The way Lawrence had looked at her earlier made her wonder...if he had recognized her.<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Cynthia couldn't help but feel relieved. Luckily, she was already divorced. Otherwise, bumping into him all the time would've been too awkward to handle.<br /> <br /> Just as she returned to Jenkins Villa, the butler immediately approached her to report that Heather was waiting for her in the upstairs study. Cynthia, with a resigned smile, handed her things over to a servant and made her way upstairs.<br /> <br /> "Back already?" Heather, surrounded by a mountain of papers, glanced up and gave a small nod. "Everything sorted?"<br /> <br /> Cynthia smiled freely, "I've got the divorce papers, and all my stuff is moved back. There's no need for further contact."<br /> <br /> She sat down in front of Heather's desk, tentatively starting the conversation. "Mom, I heard the Jenkins Group is starting the bidding process for the project in the Grimes Group? Have we made a decision yet?"<br /> <br /> Heather looked up, her stern gaze softening a bit as she scrutinized Cynthia. "The bidding is set for next week. So far, we haven't found the right fit yet. What's got you interested all of a sudden?<br /> <br /> "Right, you said before that after the divorce, you would return to the Jenkins Group and take over my place. Are you ready to step up now?" Heather reminded her again.<br /> <br /> Cynthia smiled wryly, "Running the Jenkins Group can wait a bit. I've been out of the game for three years. Jumping in headfirst might just show off my rust. I'm thinking of starting with the Grimes Group project, you know, to get my feet wet. Gotta ease into it."<br /> <br /> "Why bother with all that? You've got the talent," Heather disagreed, confident in Cynthia's abilities.<br /> <br /> Cynthia felt somewhat helpless but still stood her ground. "We need to let the old guard get used to the idea. If I swoop in right after coming back, who knows how many troubles they might throw in my way. Even if I can handle it, it's still a htootshiele."<br /> <br /> Heather looked at her for a long moment before giving in. "Alright, have it your way. But get up to speed fast. I can't hold off for long."<br /> <br /> "Okay, I won't let you down," Cynthia said with a slight smile, her gaze drifting to the scenery outside the window.<br /> <br /> In the VIP ward of the rehabilitation hospital, all the nurses knew Jessica in Room 5 had a super devoted boyfriend. But inside that room, the truth was a whole other story.<br /> <br /> "Nathan, don't be so impulsive. Cynthia's a good girl, really. You should be nicer to her." Jessica leaned against the headboard, her face ghostly pale.<br /> <br /> Nathan strongly disagreed, "Jessica, don't be fooled by her. Remember what she did to you? And how she spoke to Kelly? She's just a troublemaker, trust me."<br /> <br /> Jessica smiled gently, placing her hand on Nathan's back. "She just cares too much about you. Look, my body... It's not great. You should focus on your life, not mine.<br /> <br /> "I want you two to get back together. Let her be there for you. That way, I can go peacefully, knowing you're not alone."<br /> <br /> "Jessica..." Nathan's heart sank as he looked at her, her selflessness only deepening his pain. "Don't say that. We're going to beat this, okay?"<br /> <br /> Jessica's eyes were downcast as she feigned nonchalance. "At this point, unless we find a kidney that matches, there's no hope. Please, I don't want you to be worried about me anymore."<br /> <br /> "Cynthia's a match. Leave it to me, I'll talk to her," Nathan said confidently.<br /> <br /> Jessica quickly shook her head. "Don't push her, okay? If she's not up to it, I won't accept it either."<br /> <br /> "You're just too kind..." Nathan became even more determined to get Cynthia's agreement. He was about to speak when his phone suddenly rang.<br /> <br /> "hecko, is this Mr. Nathan Richardson from the Richardson Group? This is the Jenkins Group. We've gone through your proposal, and our head would like to talk with you one on one.<br /> <br /> Nathan was overjoyed upon hearing this. Getting along with the Jenkins could elevate his status in the Richardson family.<br /> <br /> He mouthed "the Jenkins Group" to Jessica, who also looked pleasantly surprised.<br /> <br /> "Can you do this afternoon?" The person from the Jenkins Group had already set the time.<br /> <br /> Nathan hesitated as he looked at Jessica's beautiful yet pale face. "This afternoon?" He had promised to spend the entire day with Jessica.<br /> <br /> The ward fell silent. Noticing Nathan's hesitation, Jessica smiled and waved her hand, signaling him not to worry about her and to quickly agree. Urged by Jessica, Nathan awkwardly consented.<br /> <br /> He hung up the phone, his expression clouded. "Jessica, I..."<br /> <br /> Jessica spoke with understanding. "Come on, you've been working so hard on this project, and now you've got a chance you just can't ptootshie up."<br /> <br /> "But I promised to spend the whole day with you today," Nathan said, his brow furrowing with guilt.<br /> <br /> "Don't be silly, I'll be fine, and Kelly will come over this afternoon," Jessica said, her eyes glistening. "How about this? If you feel guilty, make it up to me by spending all day with me tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Nathan's heart softened. "Okay, I'll also come over early tonight. Just take care of yourself, okay?"<br /> <br /> Once Nathan left, Jessica watched his retreating figure, a complex emotion hidden in her eyes.<br /> <br /> The Jenkins Group towered in the heart of the bustling city center, occupying an entire office building. Nathan, full of ambition, walked in, trying to calm his emotions, determined to present his best self in the upcoming meeting.<br /> <br /> A staff member knocked and led him into the reception room.<br /> <br /> Behind the wooden desk, the rotating chair was turned away from the door. The project manager, with her back to him, tapped her left hand lightly on the desk, casting a silent but palpable tension in the air.<br /> <br /> Nathan hadn't felt this nervous in a long time. He steadied his nerves and put on a composed smile. "hecko, I'm Nathan from the Richardson Group. We have an appointment this morning. Here is the Richardson Group's proposal for the Grimes Group project."<br /> <br /> A moment ptootshieed, and then a clear, confident voice answered, "Mr. Richardson, pleased to meet you." As the chair swiveled around, Nathan finally saw the project manager's face. At that moment, his eyes widened in surprise.<br /> <br /> ..............................................................................<br /> Nathan blurted out without thinking, "Cynthia?"<br /> <br /> "What?" Cynthia's expression was cold, her brows slightly furrowed.<br /> <br /> Nathan finally got a good look at her.<br /> <br /> Cynthia was clad in a sharp white suit, and her short chestnut hair framed her face, exuding a sense of authority.<br /> <br /> "Sorry, my mistake. Thought you were someone else," Nathan quickly apologized, swiftly denying his initial thought. He didn't think that this woman, with such control over her surroundings, could be Cynthia.<br /> <br /> Yet, her face resembled Cynthia's so closely.<br /> <br /> "Is that so?" Cynthia responded indifferently. "Enough for the small talk, let's discuss your proposal, shall we?" She got straight into the point.<br /> <br /> Nathan, not lacking in professional skills, quickly engaged in the conversation, explaining his planning concepts in detail. Cynthia interjected occasionally with her opinions and pointed out potential problems in implementation, asking Nathan for solutions.<br /> <br /> The two of them conversed back and forth, thoroughly enjoying their discussion.<br /> <br /> "I'll take the Richardson Group proposal into careful consideration," Cynthia stated, neatly wrapping up their conversation.<br /> <br /> Nathan felt a thrill of hope at the prospect of collaboration.<br /> <br /> As their business talk concluded, Nathan couldn't help but take a few more glances at her. Driven by an inexplicable urge, he blurted out, "Do you happen to know a woman named Cynthia?"<br /> <br /> After the question, Nathan immediately regretted it, wishing he could take back his words.<br /> <br /> He was about to change the subject when Cynthia's next statement wiped the smile off his face.<br /> <br /> "Cynthia? I'm quite familiar with her."<br /> <br /> Observing Nathan's transformation from shock to utter disbelief, Cynthia chuckled internally while maintaining her apparent composure. "Surprised?"<br /> <br /> "I just didn't expect that you would actually know her," Nathan replied, staring at the woman who bore a striking resemblance to Cynthia yet with a distinctly different vibe. He couldn't help but wonder if there were really two people so similar in this world.<br /> <br /> He was filled with confusion, unable to fathom how Cynthia, with her humble background, could be connected to a project manager of the Jenkins Group.<br /> <br /> He was about to ask for details when Cynthia interjected coldly, "Mr. Richardson, let's end it here for today. I've gone over your proposal. I'll get back to you with my decision after the seminar. I've got several other meetings lined up."<br /> <br /> Since she had said that, and Nathan was no slouch at picking up cues, he quickly stood up and humbly said, "Then I'll look forward to hearing from you. I'll get going now."<br /> <br /> "Take care."<br /> <br /> As Nathan left, Cynthia sneered. She couldn't help but find amusement in Nathan's hesitant, almost fearful demeanor.<br /> <br /> Finishing her work at the office, she decided it was time to head home.<br /> <br /> In the underground parking lot, Cynthia was searching for her car with the key in hand.<br /> <br /> She hadn't walked far when she suddenly noticed someone standing not far away. The moment their eyes met, Cynthia's smile froze.<br /> <br /> The man was tall, strikingly handsome, and it was none other than Lawrence!<br /> <br /> Cynthia's mouth twitched as she forced composure, averting her gaze and steeling herself as she located her car.<br /> <br /> Pretending not to recognize him, she tried to get in her car and leave. Suddenly, the sound of approaching footsteps froze her in place. A few seconds later, Lawrence stood in front of her car, halting her movements completely. Cynthia could feel the stare.<br /> <br /> Taking a deep breath, Cynthia turned around, offering a polite smile, "Mr. Richardson, is there something you need?"<br /> <br /> Although Lawrence was Nathan's uncle, the two had actually only met once at Cynthia and Nathan's wedding three years ago. Cynthia had no idea why he would want to see her now.<br /> <br /> Lawrence stood there silently, his gaze so penetrating that it alarmed Cynthia.<br /> <br /> Just as she started to suspect he had seen through her, Lawrence smiled faintly, "Your car is blocking the way."<br /> <br /> It was only then that Cynthia noticed her vehicle was parked right behind a sleek Jaguar.	LEARN_MORE	https://www.yumread.com/share/middle/h1s052yjjngiy	101489936134366	OasisStory	https://facebook.com/100087803393468	26,741	2	988,551,596,183,588	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	0	Learn more	OasisStory	120207914956330455	www.yumread.com	NONE	video		https://www.yumread.com/share/middle/h1s052yjjngiylt1gjmuhgwr?ad_id={{ad.id}}&sid=120207914929040455&campaign={{campaign.name}}&adgroup={{adset.name}}		2024-04-29 07:34	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440420675_1131630881374277_1695938486838013583_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X5CfKCHzXSQAb7WoNqT&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBwEL5LV84ElKWvJ5mAMM3JSYGO3oiGsfApxpKzzzg2-Q&oe=6636223A	person_profile	0	OasisStory	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438300858_455369620395398_432910881884216462_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uWGHhJUnrvMAb6-q2xZ&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBO0IpO8XxXMxsqNsVMhtWRWhvC64kVUaaTkuZJEnwWYg&oe=66360522	0	3	OasisStory	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,600	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	378853151813289					101854289416685	Rodney Positive Postman Williams	https://facebook.com/rt12zone22	994	1	3,685,226,008,357,047	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0		Rodney Positive Postman Williams	120209667222040661		NONE	video				2024-04-29 05:19	https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440778341_2764336967058236_2648721530029707855_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=j01rGCpoK1IQ7kNvgEmS8xP&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfAnovNGUNUYTH_u751CTiQ-u2j-Lj23xrEpxQaw0l-qdQ&oe=66361A6B	person_profile	0	Rodney Positive Postman Willia	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440800438_1583011252493702_8677260303118508396_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CKh66E4Ch3sQ7kNvgGkvPzH&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfBDhCIjCluHnkZ1l_gdZA9vbx9DyWGC8oeCV4ahFmjQ_g&oe=6635EFD7	0	3	Rodney Positive Postman Williams	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,616,231	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":1,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	Yes	2024-04-29 19:17	active	645	429323079835283		Had to share these new , gorgeous @forlestofficial bras with you! They are so beautiful, so comfortable and affordable! Have you checked them out yet?!<br /> <br /> #forlestbra #forlest #wirelessbra #plussize #plussizefashion #plussizeunderwear #plusootd #whatfatgirlsactuallywear	SHOP_NOW	https://forlest.com/collections/best-seller	109615881282364	Thephatteacher	https://facebook.com/61558374992286	0	2	1,168,575,027,930,854	2024-04-29 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	0	Shop now	Forlest	120208183783800074	forlest.com	NONE	video		https://forlest.com/collections/best-seller		2024-04-29 07:27	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441030230_1109238116981618_7731656669420995828_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O8YWRMa33_wAb5-WU_V&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC1rBhOMB5xL3O6VPLGra6ETVXvk8dijtosKIHxCSBjVQ&oe=6636033B	person_profile	0	Katlin Cadavid Orozco	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440956054_446845124512074_4582948079878852110_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pt4w6GRCCEUAb5vlZpK&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAy5R9dZcTL73eD31uJYRgb7xts1lvtMlan_A_XYkFbFw&oe=6636038A	0	3	Thephatteacher	2024-04-29 02:00	View Edit Delete

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