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Id	Vlad	Saved	Scrape Time	Status	Scrape Result	Title	Body	Cta Type	Link Url	Page Name	Page Profile Uri	Page Like Count	Enddate	Cta Text	Caption	Display Format	Link Description	Link Url	Creation Time	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Current Page Name	Startdate	Actions
2,747,342	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759		🧠Acupuncture is increasingly recognized for its potential benefits in managing neurological diseases, as it helps regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and promote neuroplasticity. Here’s how acupuncture may support patients with various neurological conditions: 1. Stroke Recovery • Improves motor function and coordination by enhancing blood circulation to the brain. • Reduces post-stroke pain, spasticity, and speech difficulties. • May aid cognitive recovery and emotional well-being. 2. Parkinson’s Disease • Helps regulate dopamine levels, which are crucial in Parkinson’s. • Reduces tremors, stiffness, and muscle rigidity. • Supports mood and sleep. 3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) • Alleviates neuropathic pain, muscle spasms, and fatigue. • Reduces inflammation and improves circulation. • Supports bladder control and cognitive function. 4. Peripheral Neuropathy • Stimulates nerve regeneration and reduces pain, numbness, and tingling. • Improves circulation to affected areas. • Helps manage diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, and nerve injuries. 5. Migraine and Chronic Headaches • Regulates neurotransmitters to reduce headache frequency and intensity. • Releases endorphins to provide natural pain relief. • Addresses underlying imbalances, such as stress and hormonal triggers. 6. Epilepsy • May help regulate abnormal brain activity. • Reduces seizure frequency and improves quality of life. • Works as a complementary therapy alongside medications. 7. Alzheimer’s & Dementia • Enhances memory and cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain. • Reduces stress and agitation in patients with dementia. • May slow neurodegeneration. Acupuncture’s Mechanisms in Neurology • Neuroprotection: Reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. • Neurotransmitter Regulation: Balances dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. • Neuroplasticity Support: Stimulates nerve regeneration and repair. • Pain Modulation: Activates the body’s natural pain-relieving pathways. Acupuncture offers a holistic and non-invasive approach to neurological care, often enhancing the effects of conventional treatments.	LEARN_MORE	http://www.erzhenaacupuncture.com/	Erzhena Acupuncture	https://www.facebook.com/erzhena.acupuncture/	65	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	erzhenaacupuncture.com	IMAGE		http://www.erzhenaacupuncture.com/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481657299_1539948820029965_7963307560585349371_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pgPRlCgjtAMQ7kNvgEkLCZf&_nc_oc=AdiJsCkSN3_YsNH0tv9Dv6b_oQ1B6u32f4Shx0p5Tyu8R5SJhDMrhCwObo9_Gj5Ba1bbr_Md-MTcsToGLFb2kijB&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Aj6YBpZHmTa1nqKNJxuj_Vj&oh=00_AYCyVyVlfYRdkYCUbefq-iIvumhjrftlLt7gtr4mps87Fg&oe=67CB7FE2	PERSON_PROFILE	Erzhena Acupuncture	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,343	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	“Adorable and awkward and funny and filthy!"	The honorable Fitzwilliam Jennings, younger brother to the Earl of Bentley and next in line for the earldom, nearly always had his nose buried in a book. Which was why, when he entered his drawing room at his family’s country estate, he failed to notice something was different in his domain. Breasts. Naked breasts. Glorious breasts. Dear Lord. This was the correct drawing room, was it not? The one he had repurposed as his study for working on his Italian translations? Yes, there was his desk. And there was his settee. With breasts on it. His eyes stretched wide, so wide the room grew blurry. He attempted to rub his vision clear and was immediately met with glass and metal. Right. Spectacles—which he wore for reading, not distance. He hastily removed them. But the breasts were still there. “I’ve been waiting for you,” the breasts said in a low, husky voice. Wait. No. That couldn’t be correct. Those words, and now a curse, came from the woman the breasts belonged to. Oh my God, there is a bare-bosomed woman in your study, Fitz. And what did a man do when presented with a bare bosom? He fled, of course. Fitz dropped his spectacles and book, slapped a hand over his eyes, and spun toward the exit of his study. “My a-apologies, my lady. Miss. Ma’am.” He rushed to the door, or at least what he was fairly certain was the— Crack! Bloody fuck. His skull rang and throbbed like a gong. He sucked in a sharp breath and clutched his aching head, stumbling backwards. Holy buggering ballocks, that bloody hurt. His heel connected with something and— Fitz’s back collided with the floor. Oomph. The air shot from his lungs, and his eyes slammed shut as pain ricocheted through his head. Now the back of his skull screamed in pain, too. Along with his back. And his arse. “Oh my God!” a feminine voice squealed. “Are you hurt?” The rustle of skirts interrupted the incessant throbbing in his head, and then small hands prodded his chest, then patted his cheeks. “My lord? Are you well? Can you speak?” He hesitantly opened his eyes. And the answer was, in fact, no. No, he wasn’t well. And no, he couldn’t speak. Because breasts. There were so many breasts. Well. Not so many. There were only two, he supposed. But dear God. Breasts. In his face. Breasts. Did he say breasts? He went to speak, but all he managed was a groan. The woman’s slim blonde eyebrows pinched, her gaze darting over him as though looking for the source of his pain. Too bad the pain was everywhere. From his pride to his posterior. Heat seared his cheeks, and his all-too-familiar embarrassment caught up with him. As did his nervous sweating. Someone shouldn’t be able to sweat this much when it was as frigid as tits outside. Urghh. Why did you think of tits, Fitz? It wasn’t enough he had just run into a pair of breasts—which was nerve-inducing all in itself—but the bosom belonged to the loveliest flaxen-haired, rosy-cheeked woman he’d ever seen. Fitz was tongue-tied and tactless by default, but when he was around a beautiful woman? Let’s just say there was a reason he rarely attended balls or soirées or supper parties or places where there were people. Hence why he was about to hide in his study while a ball went on at his country estate. “My lord?” the woman said again, concern coating her words. And then she slapped him. His gaze shot to hers, and his mouth popped open. “Did you just slap me?” Well, would you look at that, Fitzy. You found some words! A breath exploded from her, and her body slumped. Egads, now her breasts dangled tantalizingly close to his face. He gulped. Audibly. Which only had him inhaling her cinnamon-sweet scent. Sodding hell. She would smell like the very essence of Christmas. His gaze darted between her all-too pouty pink lips and her all-too perky pink nipples. Did she taste like Christmas, too… “Oh, thank goodness,” she was saying, blessedly interrupting that train of thought. “I feared you had done irreparable damage or some such when you seemed unable to speak.” He frowned. Was the woman unaware that her bosom was exposed? She was leaning over him, chattering away about—well, he wasn’t actually certain. The combination of diddies in his face and knocks to the dome had made him deaf and dumb. “Would you cover yourself?” he finally managed tersely. Before he did something outrageous. Like lick a stranger’s nipples. She tensed, and he winced. That had come out a touch boorish. But damnation, the woman seemed to have no compunction about waggling her wobblers in his face. “I beg your pardon, my lord,” she said stiffly. “How terribly thoughtless of me to come rushing to your aid and not cover myself beforehand. I hope I have not offended your delicate sensibilities.” Sweat trickled down the nape of his neck. He was botching this. If that was even possible. If something started out botched, was there even room for further botching? Fitz botched it even further. “Urrrgung…” Lovely, Fitz. What in the bloody hell was that supposed to be? She cocked her head. “Pardon?” She blinked down at him through thick, blonde lashes. Blonde lashes that framed vibrant green irises currently clouded in confusion. “Maybe I should ring for help.” She drew out the words. “I fear you did damage your brain.” No, he really hadn’t. This was actually quite normal for Fitz. Unfortunately. Read on at Amazon by clicking "Shop Now". Also available at Apple, Kobo (and Koboplus!), B&N, and Google Play: https://books2read.com/compromisedforChristmas/ What readers are saying: “Forced marriage + bumbling nerdy man + lonely beauty = The most heartwarming historical tale that leaves you swooning and sighing.” “there is some REALLY HOT $*X! Because when Fitz gets out of his head…he’s quite the freaky aficionado!” “A whirlwind rollercoaster romance with a definite Vasti-vibe” “This book quite literally left me panting for more and following the author for the next instalment of the series.” “this book…SO deliciously naughty and nice!” "This is a five-star for me. You absolutely must devour it until you understand why a mongoose is desirable and why you should always give the awkward need a chance. Bonus points for some of the hottest Italian dirty talk around.” "I’ve never read anything like this and I’m loving it so much! It is so adorable and awkward and funny and filthy!"	SHOP_NOW	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ5MLKV9?maas=maas_adg	Author Lizzie C Koz	https://www.facebook.com/authorlizzieckoz/	318	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop now	amazon.com/$4.99	IMAGE	Kindle \| Apple \| BN \| Kobo \| Google Play	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ5MLKV9?maas=maas_adg_247F6252749D879FFEC648D1EE89A893_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481093806_1571535640172725_5989952028491721475_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hyIAWIT8dm4Q7kNvgFvxIps&_nc_oc=AdiZg9uFSmBpoOTZj4fJHhxq6GMac-DKiv8cpLP_H-9A6H0ZsSuQhDCR2G1gF41ycy6qHp2bsgSq_VZ9tefOKJ8l&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Aj6YBpZHmTa1nqKNJxuj_Vj&oh=00_AYCbNpcrzsU2g_5XwLSaQzPRO3JJO0xSBeZ0pmZzh5S35w&oe=67CB92A7	PERSON_PROFILE	Author Lizzie C Koz	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,370	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747280}'	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759		Aidan Stein, the Eternal Lord Sovereign of the magnificent Eternity Palace, temporarily loses his memory and intelligence due to his 60-year cycle. He lives alone in Vertania until he encounters Jade Yule, who saves his life and becomes his wife. Years later, Jack Foley, an aristocrat of Vertania, develops an interest in Jade. He sends his men after Aidan, inadvertently triggering the resurgence of his memories and power.	WATCH_MORE	https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DALPF1052189.	DramaBox- drama movies3	https://www.facebook.com/61550858717796/	15,440	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	fb.dramabox.com	VIDEO		https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DALPF1052189.html?language=en&timestamp=1740755049948&channelCode=DALPF1052189&bid=41000112468&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&ad_group_name={{adset.name}}&ad_group_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481261041_3755326034765041_1395262483060830578_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QKuzvjsKK2MQ7kNvgHXZhkC&_nc_oc=AdgToT7uyaf1MIxcxFh4D4PSFJcK5R0xCqn5G0igLZaq_A2JR1Og0vAlioa7Ag_puj9T9CXDNiEfIoanld1o1oEQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Av9A7nGtAaZ3Eku_fxCCDTm&oh=00_AYA4JZtQtL4_W_nCdpRBaKU9OGAwa4lLlctVs5oL8eyGMQ&oe=67CB8B41	PERSON_PROFILE	DramaBox- drama movies3	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,443	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747305}'	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	I got a strange signal from an unknown girl	Strange signal from an unknown girl? #storytales #animated #filmzone #viralvideoシ			FILM ZONE	https://www.facebook.com/Netify.Filmzone/	34,443	1969-12-31 18:00			VIDEO			1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481211552_529101709760356_8767987712815112668_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=jKA9zsKYIOkQ7kNvgHNT9aZ&_nc_oc=AdhCrob7KyM0_0Sno8QYvBVjfTo-A4z1FXdyM383n6gnsxNlo85Jz_tCEOLI9VgfiNP8dV6oqBDorThtJHeFiB2d&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AzY7mddbY3z8W1Riw01vRG5&oh=00_AYB-23twscfonCPIh7V4dh9IpocWIDytTs6SmbJl2lkA3A&oe=67CBADC0	PERSON_PROFILE	FILM ZONE	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,480	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747477}'	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	❤️ 10 Books For 50% Off!	“Have you seen my fiancé?” “Last I saw, he was getting on the elevators.” Great. I fish my phone out of my clutch just as it pings. Pollux: I’m in your office, time to pay up. My heart lurches. I slip away from the party, weave through the lingering crowd, and step onto the elevator. The ride seems endless before the doors finally open onto my floor. The corridor is dark, only faint light from the city filtering through the windows. I nudge my office door open, breath held. “Pollux?” I whisper. I don’t even have time to flip the light switch before a large hand covers my mouth and another snakes around my waist, jerking me back against a very solid body. I let out a muffled scream. “I thought you’d never show up,” Pollux husks close to my ear. His warm breath tickles my skin, and my heart thunders. He keeps me pinned there, pressed against him. “Couldn’t wait any longer,” he murmurs, trailing a finger down my arm. My pulse roars in my ears. “Pollux, we can’t. Not here.” He slides his hand down, gathers the silky folds of my dress, and hikes it up around my hips. “You owe me.” My breath catches. I’m wet already. He eases his palm over the front of my panties, and I involuntarily arch my back, pushing against him. “See?” he mutters. “You want this as badly as I do.” His hand slips under the lace, stroking me until I can’t speak. “I need a taste,” he growls against my neck. Dropping to his knees, he drags my underwear over my thighs and tosses them aside. My mind screams that someone could walk in at any second, but the surge of excitement overwhelms me. “Pollux—” I manage, but then his mouth is on me. Heat explodes low in my belly, spiraling up my spine. His tongue licks a scorching path through my center, and my hips jerk. I can barely stay upright. The only things keeping me from melting to the floor are his strong grip and my death-clutch on the edge of my desk. “Oh, God,” I moan as he buries his face between my legs. Every nerve in my body fires at once. I grip his hair, tugging, guiding his mouth harder against me. The pleasure builds until I’m shaking. “I’m close,” I whisper in a ragged breath. “Don’t stop.” He doesn’t. He feasts on me, tongue and lips driving me over the edge. My release rips a cry from my throat, echoing against the office walls. It’s so risky, so wrong, yet it feels so good. When I finally come down, he rises to his feet, wiping the corner of his mouth with a smug grin. “Best payoff I’ve ever had,” he says, voice rough with lust. The rational part of me screams this is insane—anyone could have heard—but my body is still tingling, my heartbeat thudding. And the way Pollux is staring at me, I know he’s not finished. “We should get back down there,” I say, trying to sound steady. He presses me against the desk. “Later,” he whispers, sliding his hand over my stomach. “First, I’m collecting the rest of what you owe.” - - Find out why readers are saying, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “OMG! I never saw that coming. It may be a first for me, because I usually can always figure out the climax before it happens, but there was never any hint at this.” ~Katie R. The Ultimate Steamy Playboy Bundle Get 10 Books For 50% Off! Support Romance Authors Directly & #BuyDirect #RomanceBookBundles 🥰	SHOP_NOW	https://romancebookbundles.com/products/the-ultima	Logan Chance	https://www.facebook.com/61572429489914/	9	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop now	romancebookbundles.com	VIDEO	"FANTASTIC Series!!!" ~Reviewer	https://romancebookbundles.com/products/the-ultimate-steamy-playboy-bundle-by-logan-chance	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481188315_619991307482632_1919061907425393189_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ZnIR1PXxeSMQ7kNvgFu-qwr&_nc_oc=AdjmlM_uffPi_LHWD6BKEyuNhfmcVP2pAgiiPFp4ug7PVIG6R7khNCc4yA-C0KMjvtVXuh4nteFBmsi_sj5l685G&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A1Qm0EbnntgP5EzSWZM7CZW&oh=00_AYDXmVhN70ob489IZpiX4zTCH0wTQKd09AUZer24j8bmhg&oe=67CBA4C2	PERSON_PROFILE	Logan Chance	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,338	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747312}'	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	Keep your horse safe on the road	Travel confidently with your horse—EquiWatch™ gives you full visibility during transport. Real-time monitoring, night vision, and easy setup for total peace of mind! 50% OFF! Order today .🐎	SHOP_NOW	https://equi-waatch.com/	EquiWatch	https://www.facebook.com/61567192721318/	466	1969-12-31 18:00	Shop now	equi-waatch.com	VIDEO		https://equi-waatch.com/	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481073040_1915287898878648_1114967158113155902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hQ-W_24--50Q7kNvgF0NyJU&_nc_oc=Adg7LUgRvFOZoUuCYRCDw3iz5o_sCca51aoFXMuJerawjeCvUrBAJUi6PWoSZirk_Szi8yxTp0wQnBlb6DANDNVs&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=Aj6YBpZHmTa1nqKNJxuj_Vj&oh=00_AYAIHN2-ff8AMbIqF1Di5EWPBcggon3TfqIyemyDPYsGpw&oe=67CB95F6	PERSON_PROFILE	EquiWatch	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,371	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747280}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759		Aidan Stein, the Eternal Lord Sovereign of the magnificent Eternity Palace, temporarily loses his memory and intelligence due to his 60-year cycle. He lives alone in Vertania until he encounters Jade Yule, who saves his life and becomes his wife. Years later, Jack Foley, an aristocrat of Vertania, develops an interest in Jade. He sends his men after Aidan, inadvertently triggering the resurgence of his memories and power.	WATCH_MORE	https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DALPF1052189.	DramaBox- drama movies3	https://www.facebook.com/61550858717796/	15,440	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	fb.dramabox.com	VIDEO		https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DALPF1052189.html?language=en&timestamp=1740755049948&channelCode=DALPF1052189&bid=41000112468&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&ad_group_name={{adset.name}}&ad_group_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481821481_420127634495190_2013068370866239300_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QfwRuj8KPqYQ7kNvgFokcdk&_nc_oc=Adh-pIY8DU2BwsCY-txm_uQrqYom6xYsWUkz343SLULr3sT3hl1ZyU1RZRtxq1LQoa2AexMfqn71C7DvkOfMyA1M&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Av9A7nGtAaZ3Eku_fxCCDTm&oh=00_AYBcuzmLQkIbj1UbiehJs1578lQU009QPxoWlPOomfowEQ&oe=67CBB2C5	PERSON_PROFILE	DramaBox- drama movies3	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,304	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747233}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	His triplets were coming home. After 10 years of searching, 10 years of obsessing over little dead end clues, he finally had them back. "Hello I'm miss Jessie Moore, is this Rafael Romano." "Well Mr Romano I'm from social services in Ohio and I'm calling regarding Alexander, James and Skye" Rafael's permenant glare darkened "dont you dare" he was cut off though "I'm sorry sir but they were brought in a few days ago, a DNA test was done and it matches yours, would you like to take custody" "I swear if you're messing with me" Rafael practically growled. ____________ The siblings were given the all clear from the doctors, they had no life threatening injuries just severely bruised with extensive scars. A week past and once the police visited and took statements from the boys since Skye wasn't willing to talk to them, a social worker came in. "So your DNA was run through the system and we found some family in New York" she said excitedly. Alexander wasn't happy about this. "We are okay on our own" he spoke with no emotion. "You're still a minor kid" the police officer said. "Will they know about this abuse sir" James asked. "Yes" the officer said. "Please can you not tell them, we would like to be the ones to inform them, we don't trust easily and we want to make sure they are nice to us before we tell them our secrets, sir" James said quietly, hoping to get his way by showing emotion. "We don't have a choice I'm afraid, besides what are we suppose to say when they ask where you have been" the officer said sadly. "Please don't tell them, sir" Skye whispered with so much emotion it made the police officer a little emotional "they will want to know where you were" he said "Tell them were were in the foster system and their was a car accident so we ended up in the hospital " Alexander said. The police officer looked at the social worker who didn't know what to say. This was totally against protocol but the children were so afraid and especially Skye that they couldn't help agree. "I only mentioned to their father that they ended up in hospital. I thought it would be best to explain what had happened in person, it could work " the social worker said to the officer. "He will no doubt want hospital records though " the officer said still in doubt. "Not necessarily, by the time he wants them I'm sure they will be comfortable enough to have told them the truth. They have just been discharged so he won't have to sign any papers" "We could get into trouble " "Maybe but he said he would come pick them up as soon as possible " "Fine. We will not disclose this information but it would be wise to tell him when you feel ready too" the officer finally agreed. After that they were taken to the social workers office to wait for the arrival of their father. They had been given fresh clothes and allowed to shower at the hospital so they almost looked like normal kids. They even had their hair cut, it had been nerve wracking but it needed doing. The bruises on their face had almost dissapeared, the social worker had said she would tell him that they got it from the car accident. Earlier Rafael had been in the middle of torturing some fool who thought he could steal from them, when his phone rang. He cursed as he looked at the unknown caller. Usually he wouldn't anwser especially when he was torturing someone but this time he did. He wiped the blood splatter from his face with a towel and headed out of the room to take the call. "Hello who is this" he asked. "Hello I'm miss Jessie Moore, is this Rafael Romano" "Yes. What do you want" Rafael asked harshly, he wasn't happy that a woman he had never heard of was calling him. "Well Mr Romano I'm from social services in Ohio and I'm calling regarding Alexander, James and Skye" Rafael's permenant glare darkened "dont you dare" he was cut off though "I'm sorry sir but they were brought in a few days ago, a DNA test was done and it matches yours, would you like to take custody" "I swear if you're messing with me" Rafael practically growled. "No sir, they are currently in the hospital but should be out in a day or so" "Why are my children in a hospital" Rafael asked. "It would be best to speak in person. Would you like to take them in" "Yes. Send over the details and I will be there as soon as I can" he said then proceeded to give the social worker his personal email. That evening Rafael went home in a somewhat good mood. His triplets were coming home. After 10 years of searching, 10 years of obsessing over little dead end clues, he would finally have them back. Lorenzo was telling off Marco and Nico when Rafael entered the house. "What is going on" Rafael demanded. "These little shits decided it was a good idea to take my car out. It's scratched all the way along the side now...it will be coming out of your allowance" he explained, telling the two boys the last thing. "That was very reckless of you both. You will both loose driving privileges for a week" Rafael said knowing Lorenzo would fully handle it as it had been his car. Rafael couldn't care less about the car at this moment. "Lorenzo with me, you can deal with them later" Rafael said glaring at his sons. Lorenzo nodded also glaring at his brothers as he followed his father up to his office. "What is it father " Lorenzo asked once inside the office. "I had a phone call of a social worker today" he said taking a seat at his desk. He began turning on the computer to access his emails. "Did the boys joyride get them in trouble with the police involving social services " Lorenzo asked. "No, they found the triplets" Lorenzo was speechless when he heard this. He remembered everything about them, he had been 13 when they were born and 17 when they were taken. "Are you sure this is real" Lorenzo asked knowing the amount of people they had punished for telling them thought found the triplets or trying to pass themselves off as one. "A DNA test confirmed it. I'm flying out later on" "Very well. Would you like some company" Lorenzo asked. "Yes, I'll be getting Leo to make them some rooms up" "Okay where are they now" "Ohio I'll have their location exact when I get up the details. Go inform our pilot that we will be going to Ohio and send in your brothers" Lorenzo nodded and left. Not long after there was a knock and once Rafael said enter, the others walked in. "What's up father " Leo asked, being summoned was never a good thing especially since he had been summoned to the office with his idiot brothers. "The triplets have been found and I will be going to collect them soon. Yes it is them, a DNA test has been done and I've just received a copy of the results through an email" Rafael announced. "Why do they have to come back. It's been 10 years, send them to an orphanage" Marco snapped. Rafael was furious. He was about to speak his mind when Leo spoke "how dare you, we ought to send you to an orphanage simply for your lack of respect. I suggest you apologize for your comment. Right now" he said, his tone was calm but it had an undertone which promised nothing good. "I'm waiting Marco. I suggest an apology before you really do cause me to loose my temper " Rafael spoke. "Ugh fine I'm sorry" Marco said not wanting to anger his father. "I wonder what their favourite colours are. God I've got so much to do, I wonder if the mall is still open" Leonardo said voicing his thoughts. "What are you talking about Leo" Nico asked. "Their rooms of course, I need to get them ready" he paused and turned to his dad "I can do that right? Whilst you go get them" "Yes but hold off on customising them to much, they can do that themselves" he said. "got it" "Can I help" Nico said happy that his brothers and sister were coming back. He didn't remember much but he missed them. Rafael and Lorenzo walked into the social workers office. The only knowledge they had was that they had been in the hospital. They couldn't help but enjoy how everyone ran away in fear or stopped talking as they went down the corridors. They finally reached a reception. "I'm here for my kids" Rafael said to the receptionist. She gulped when she saw Rafael and Lorenzo. "Name?" She asked. "Rafael Romano" Rafael said. She typed away for a second and then nodded. "I have notified their Social worker of your arrival. She will be here shortly, can I get you anything whilst you wait" "We are fine" Rafael said. It only took a few minutes for Jessie Moore to come down. She gulped when she saw the men and she worried for the children. This probably wasn't the best option for them but they were family. "Good afternoon Mr Romano we spoke on the phone, I'm Jessie Moore, the children's social worker" she introduced herself. "You said they were in hospital, what happened" "They are okay Mr Romano, it was a car accident but the hospital released them and so if you follow me we can go meet them. I do have to warn you though that they are very nervous " Jessie proceeded to lead them to her office. She walked in first, she had told them before she left to get them that their father was here. "It seems your brother is here too. Anyway kids meet your father and brother" she told the kids and allowed Rafael and Lorenzo to enter. Alexander and James were sat with Skye in the middle of them, they both were extremely protective now they were meeting now people. Lorenzo analysed his siblings, an emotional expression on his face. Alexander saw what he was doing and did the same back. It took Lorenzo a little by suprised. Where did his carefree bubbley siblings go? "Hello children, I'm Rafael your father " Rafael introduced. It was still blunt but he managed to not sound so angry. "And you are?" Alexander asked looking at Lorenzo. "Lorenzo, your eldest brother" Lorenzo said with no emotion. "You have all grown up so much, can you introduce yourselves" Rafael asked, still being rather blunt but Lorenzo was a little suprised as this was considered 'kind' for his father. James looked at Alexander who glared at the two men. "What kind of father doesn't know his own children's names" Alexander finally said. Lorenzo wasn't happy with the disrespect but said nothing because the social worker was still in the room. "I do know your names, judging by your attitude, you are the eldest, Alexander, which makes you James. And you Skye" he said turning to each sibling as he said their names. Lorenzo was silently happy Alexander had been put in his place. "Why don't we get started on the paperwork. Of course I am aware you live in New York so this case will be transferred over and a house meeting will be scheduled in the next month or so. It's nothing to worry about, we just need to check on the kids for their own welfare" Jessie explain. "Very well" Rafael said. Jessie smiled and grabbed the paper work from her desk drawer. Rafael was busy looking through it and signing it, with Jessie explaining stuff that he wasn't paying attention to his children. Lorenzo and Alexander were still glaring at each other. Lorenzo finally had enough and sat down besides Alexander. He whispered lowly "I suggest you cut out the nonsense. We don't accept this behaviour, it's rude and disrespectful" he warned. Alexander gulped. He automatically went into protective mode and turned his body to face Lorenzo meaning his body was also sheilding his siblings. "I suggest you bare that in mind. The only reason I am going to look past this is because the social worker is here, next time I won't be so nice" he continued before getting up like nothing had happened. "Right we are all set. Thank you for contacting me" Rafael said as he and Jessie said goodbye. He then turned to his kids "lets go" Rafael was a little taken back again when he watched, Alexander made sure he had hold of his siblings hands as they followed him out. He presumed it was out of instinct to protect James and Skye from them, they were practically strangers to the siblings. The car ride was silent. James was lost in thought whilst, Skye laid her head on Alexander's shoulder as he stroked her hair. "You can sleep if you're tired Skye" Rafael said looking in the mirror as he checked on his kids, he noticed Skye looking extremely tired. Skye didn't know how to anwser so she looked up at Alexander in hopes he would do it. "She will sleep when she's ready" Rafael nodded "very well, I suppose it is best for her to stay awake another half hour whilst we get to the plane" he said. Lorenzo looked up from his phone and looked back at the siblings. Skye in particular looked terrible, she looked as though she would pass out any second. His focus then solely went to James who was looking out the window lost in thought. And then to Alexander, the boy was clearly very protective and got a bit too defensive at times. It was annoying really. Alexander and James were quick to note their family was rich when they finally boarded the plane but Skye seemed to out of it to acknowledge how rich they were. Despite being in the hospital she had only slept a little due to passing out from exhaustion. That was 5 days ago. She would pretend to sleep at night so they didn't sedate her. "She needs sleep" Lorenzo stated as he watched how Alexander and James helped her to her seat. Without them she would probably have collapsed. On the way to her seat, Skye tripped and due to how malnorished Alexander was he wasn't able to stay standing when she fell into him. Knocking them both over. Lorenzo smirked when he saw. James automatically tried to help but Lorenzo simply rolled his eyes and walked back over. Rafael had purposely not gone over, instead he had nudged Lorenzo to go because he saw Lorenzo wasn't pleased with them. He wanted to get Lorenzo talking to them. "Clearly you are all too incompetent to even find a seat. You two go sit" he said the last part to the two boys. They refused without Skye but he sent them a deadly glare "now" he ordered. Skye nodded at them to go, not wanting them to get hurt because of her. They reluctantly took the closest seat, both ready to get up again if he did something to her. Lorenzo felt them staring at him but ignored it and helped Skye up "as soon as we get in the air you're going to go have a nap" he told her as she stumbled. She shook her head fast. She couldn't sleep, especially on a plane with two strangers. There was no where to run. Nowhere to hide. "It's non negotiable, you can't even walk you're that tired" She tried to walk to prove him wrong but she was too tired and everything went dizzy. She almost fell again. Lorenzo sighed and picked her up. Alexander was quick to react, but before he could say or do anything, Lorenzo had placed her back down, this time in the seat next to Alexander. "When did you last sleep" Rafael asked. Skye looked to Alexander. "Skye isn't a fan of hospitals so it's effected her sleeping whilst we have been there " Alexander calmly said so they couldn't see it was a lie. "Well that's understandable but Skye you need to try get a bit of sleep" Rafael said looking at his only daughter with concern. Something Lorenzo had only seen a few times. Alexander and James were worried about Skye, her sleeping habits were bad. "She's going to try" Alexander said looking at her in concern. "Very well" Once in the air and the seatbelt sign went off, Lorenzo got up and walked back to them. "What are you doing" Alexander asked instantly. Lorenzo rolled his eyes "we all just agreed she needs sleep. Come on Skye" he said. "No" Alexander said as Skye nervously undid her seatbelt. "Excuse me?" Lorenzo said not liking Alexander's behaviour. "I said no. You're not taking her from me" he said with panic. He couldn't let her get hurt. Lorenzo rolled his eyes and picked up Skye. She normally would have freaked out but at this point she couldn't concentrate and wasn't fully aware. She was exhausted and sitting down on the chair was probably the most comfiest thing she had sat on before and so it drained her further. Alexander and James jumped up and followed Lorenzo."give her back " Alexander said. "Let her go. Let her go Please just let her go" he was frantic by now. Rafael was quick to jump in "boys it's okay, you can go with him, he's only putting her in the bed. We have a bed for long night journeys. He's only going to put her there so she can sleep easier" he spoke, concerned at how they freaked out. Again he played it off as a stranger taking away their baby sister. James nodded but Alexander was quick to follow Lorenzo. He watched him carefully as he placed her down on the bed. By this point she had passed out as he had been carrying her. "You are protective I get it but don't you dare yell at me like that again " Lorenzo warned and left. Alexander let his walls falls, a tear ran down his face. Everything was a mess. "It's going to be okay isn't it" James whispered after entering the room. "I don't know. How could we let her reach the point of exhaustion" he said angry with himself that he hadn't taken care of her proper. "She's sleeping now though Alex" James replied. "Yes but I doubt we will be on the plane for long. We need her to sleep more" He replied. "Are we in trouble for how we just acted" James asked, he was scared to go back out. Alex thought for a minute."I don't know, why don't you take a nap too" he said fully planning on taking whatever punishment they give before they could get angry with James. "But what about you" James asked. "I'm fine" Alex replied. James usually would say no but he was tired and didn't want his sister waking up alone so he agreed. Alex waited until James was asleep which didn't take long, before quietly leaving. He rather stay and watch his siblings but he needed to get the punishment over with before they woke. Whilst all this was going on, Rafael and Lorenzo had been discussing what had just happened. Rafael had scolded Lorenzo for walking off without talking to Alexander. "I will not have him speak to me like that" Lorenzo said. "Well next time calmly explain where you're taking her. He's obviously very protective of his siblings, it's admirable really. You need to remember, they have no idea who we are, we are just strangers to them" "Fine" Alexander entered and took a seat. "Where's James" Rafael asked. "Taking a nap too" "That's good, maybe you should have a little nap as well" Rafael replied. Alexander looked at his father, suprised he hadn't lashed out yet but then it hit him. Rafael obviously wanted him to fall asleep so he could punish his brother and sister for how he acted. Not a chance would he let that happen. "Okay how about you ask us some questions. It's obvious you don't trust us which makes sense since you don't remember us so ask away" "Why do we not live with you" Alexander asked. It had been on his mind since he had been told they had a family Lorenzo and Rafael shared a look. Rafael didn't seem to be replying so Lorenzo anwsered "you were kidnapped when you were 4, from a birthday party one of your friends was having " Alex nodded. It made sense. Those people who had them were criminals, they had connections. But why kidnap three 4 year olds. It didn't make sense. "You say you're the eldest, how many of you is there" Alex asked. "Three more brothers, Leo, Marco and Nico" Lorenzo replied. Alexander managed to keep his emotionless expression up, inside he was freaking out though. Living with 5 other men. Would they make him do dope runs? Would they threaten James and Skye? They looked even more stronger than the men who hurt them, how bad would their hits hurt. What will they have him do? How bad will the punishments be? He was already making a plan to keep his siblings safe in his head. He wouldn't let them get hurt like that. He had been failing as a brother recently. He should have just said thank you for the bread and that man wouldn't have touched Skye like that. He would need to be extra careful, Lorenzo kept warning him about disrespect, just like they had done. He would need to try harder not to be disrespectful. And then a new worry, Skye would freak out. James would probably hide it but he'd be a mess too. He knew he couldn't leave them alone with 5 others in the house. "Do James and Skye speak" Rafael said finally snapping out from reliving the awful nightmare, the day his triplets were taken from him. "They do but they are shy" Alex half lied. Sure they were shy but they had been beaten to the point where they feared to speak. "So I presume this means you will be speaking for them" Rafael asked. "Most likely. I want to apologize for the disrespect I've shown you both so far. I'm just very protective of them and you guys dont seem like the warm and friendly type" Alex said getting in a small insult. "It's understandable and I will give you time to get used to us but then any disrespect will not be taken lightly but we will give you a few days to settle in" "A few days?" Alex asked suspicious of why they were given time."yes a few days. did you expect me to summon you to my office after we have eaten dinner to give you all the rules, perhaps about how you can only talk to us and no socialising with kids your age" Rafael said with sarcasm so heavy even Alex could tell he was being sarcastic. Alex didn't even expect dinner though so that confused hin. Alex realized he probably meant after he (Rafael) had finished eating. Of course he wasn't going to feed James, Skye or his self. He made a mental note that when given food to say thank you and be greatful. He wasn't going to make that mistake again. "Well you could give me the rules now, saves screwing up" Alex needed to know the rules or he would overthink every little thing however he knew they would add more rules just to have them break it so they can punish them. " Respect. We all, especially Lorenzo and I, expect you to respect us. That means no back talk, no insults, no cheek. In return we will treat you with just as much respect. Secondly we appreciate you are teenagers wanting to try new things but you are 14, no alcohol, dopes or smoking" Flashbacks of what they made him do were brought back at the mention of dopes. Maybe they wouldn't use him to deliver dopes if they were telling him no dopes. Or maybe they just don't want him getting high when he's suppose to be selling it. "Apparently you were home schooled, however the new school year starts in two weeks so we will be getting you enrolled there. I expect you to put in effort, if you do poorly its not the end of the world, we will get you a tutor, any slacking off though is no accepted, you will respect your teachers and peers." Alexander slowly nodded. They had never been to school. When they were younger they were taught basic things, they were able to catch on quick. But Alexander worried about his siblings, he not only had to protect them from their family but now a whole school. "That brings me on to my next rule, you befriend whoever you want just no relationships just yet, you are too young at the moment" Alexander nodded shuddering at the thought. He knew what guys were like, he would need to keep a careful watch on Skye. "And finally if we ask you to do something, you will do it" Rafael finished. He hadn't meant this in such a bad way but Alexander took it as a bad way. "What happens if we break the rules" Rafael knew Alex would probably have a hard time being respectful. "we will talk about it and why you broke the rule before we give out punishments. I have a feeling you will struggle to be respectful out of protectiveness for James and Skye which I will accept but if you don't have a valid reason that's when it becomes a problem" Alex nodded. He would try his best and would make sure his siblings knew. "I'm a busy man so most likely Lorenzo will deal with the punishments" Rafael said. Lorenzo looked up from his laptop. He had took to doing some work whilst they talked. He smirked when he heard the sentance "if you would like an example, Marco and Nico stole my car and got it scratched, they have now had their cars taken from them and they will be working at the garage in town for a month" Lorenzo said. Alexander didn't think that seemed too harsh. Maybe they wouldn't beat them up as punishment. What if the garage wasn't a car garage but a torture place they called a garage. Yes he was an overthinker. "Anyway we will give you a few day, go wake your siblings up we are landing" Rafael said ending the conversation.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.letsreadnovel.com/ad/bGV0c3JlYWQvNDQzNzk	ForFun-120	https://www.facebook.com/61554751622817/	201	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.letsreadnovel.com	VIDEO		https://a.letsreadnovel.com/ad/bGV0c3JlYWQvNDQzNzkwLzIwMjUwMjI4MTYxOTAxL3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481084680_1151505359953504_7499682763745124283_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=LMr9KKNWkjcQ7kNvgHefdwi&_nc_oc=AdgO87qPx31BxUyS7BOeCv9zI6c0XHuZVbm3qB0ZkYLYXr8U-IiXRb9eONX77b2p0Mu6sIArZrhuC_NqOJfeu6jS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ALLCABeIklWXO8KhJjIk_2T&oh=00_AYBfS4hGLQ6-amle_469yO3aezombXYr7jt9j7yi0pPpbw&oe=67CB9C1F	PERSON_PROFILE	ForFun-120	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
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2,747,286	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747285}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"She's not an ex or a bunny, is she?" "What? No. Cora and I went to school together. Her stepfather was my coach in high school. We were friends." "Just friends?" "Just friends. She's probably the only girl who's ever just been my friend. I've known her since kindergarten." Until she wasn't my friend anymore. Until I screwed it up. ____________ Cora The night is busier than usual, and I've run myself ragged trying to keep up in the ER. As a nurse, I don't normally work the ER, but I've had trauma training, and when three nurses called off, I came in. The overtime will be a nice bonus. I'm behind on my rent, and I hope this extra money will help me not only catch up on that, but on the other bills as well. "Cora!" I glance up from my charts to see Mrs. Hesh, my supervisor in the ER, hurrying toward me. She looks panicked. "What's wrong?" "We have several VIP patients coming in. I need your help." "Of course." I close the chart and put it back in the pile I still need to go through. "What do I need to know?" "Several of the hockey players from the Raptors got injured and are being rushed here. We need to make sure they're taken care of straight away and that the team and coaches are kept informed of their status. Can you do that?" "Shouldn't Shelia do that? She's the senior RN. I'm only filling in." Hockey players make me uneasy. Bad past experience. "I don't trust her not to ask them all for autographs. She's a total fangirl." My eyes widen. I didn't know Mrs. H. knew what that term even meant. "And I heard you say you knew hockey." "I do." "Good. I trust you not to lose your mind when confronted by the team." "No, ma'am, I won't." "You may need to wrangle some of the other nurses, too. I'll be busy with the patients." "They're not going to like it, especially the ones who have seniority over me." "Does that mean you can't do it?" The older woman turns and looks me dead in the eye, hers shrewd and assessing. But she can change my status here at the hospital. I'm not going to do anything to disappoint her. It says a lot she's trusting me with this. "I can do it." "Good." We both rush to the ER entrance, waiting for the ambulances to arrive. I pull my ponytail down and redo it, tucking the loose strands of my heavy blonde hair behind my ear. I learned during my first real rotation to always keep my hair up and out of the way. Otherwise, you could get run over in a packed ER because you can't see when your hair is swinging everywhere. It only takes a few moments for the first two ambulances to come screeching into the ER entrance, sirens blaring. Taking a deep breath, I close my eyes for two seconds then move forward, meeting the ambulance doors and waiting for them to open. The first player out is Jamison O'Brian. He has a nasty cut to the face, and his leg is propped up and held immobile by the board strapped to it. He looks rough, but not in danger. Dr. Billings waves him off with the nurse standing behind me. I don't remember the guy's name. I'm not down here enough to know everyone. The second ambulance holds a more serious injury. Myers is the name emblazoned on his jersey. His head is a bloody mess, as is his arm, a nasty looking gash that was most likely caused by a blade. That's going to keep him out for a couple of weeks at least, depending on any kind of nerve or muscle damage. He goes with Ava, the other nurse down here from my regular floor. Ava and I are friends, and we both frown at the seriousness of the injury. Ava is a huge hockey fan, but she can be trusted not to lose her mind over treating a player, which is why she's been called out to meet the ambulances. The last ambulance is the one Mrs. H. seems the most concerned with. As soon as the doors spring open and the EMTs start shouting stats, I get a good look at the unconscious man lying prone and bleeding on the stretcher. All the air rushes out of my lungs, and all I can do is stare. No. It can't be. He's in Florida. Not Minnesota. "Cora?" The sharp tone snaps me out of my funk. "Sorry. It's just I know him." "You know him?" We run after the stretcher. "I went to school with him." "Is this going to be a problem?" "No, ma'am. I was just shocked is all. I hadn't realized he'd been traded to the Raptors. I'm good." She nods and we get to work, me helping cut his clothes off, revealing the extent of his injuries. He has massive bruises on his abdomen, which might indicate internal bleeding. There's also a nasty cut along one thigh, and his shoulder is at an odd angle. The doctors twist it back into its socket while he's unconscious. I wince when they do, glad he's unconscious for that. Resetting a shoulder is extremely painful. As the doctors do that, we keep working, helping to clean away the mess so they can evaluate him. The bleeding is stopped, and then he's gone to CT to make sure there was no damage to the brain and to see if he has internal bleeding where the bruising is. I go to check on the next patient, who is currently complaining that he's fine and he doesn't need all the fuss. The doctor and the male nurse are disagreeing with him, but he just gets louder. They do not know how to deal with hockey players, apparently. Or they don't want to upset a VIP patient. Either way, the patient's care comes first, even when said patient is acting like a big baby. "Sit." My tone is sharp and commanding when he tries to get off the table. His brown eyes snap to mine, and I just arch a brow. "I'm fine." He stands up, daring me to say a word. He has no idea he's dealing with someone who grew up around hockey players. "You are not fine. Now, sit down before you fall down." The nurse and doctor look at me like I've grown two heads, but O'Brian sits, a scowl on his face. He might terrify everyone else with that look, but not me. "Don't give me that look. Your leg could be broken, and the more you stand on it, the more damage you'll be doing. Which means longer time off the ice. So stop being a whiney prick and let us take care of you so you can get back out there." "Fine," he mutters, and I shake my head. Hockey players. Mrs. H. stands to the side, a small smile on her face. "Cora, we need you in here, please." I peel my gloves off and don a new pair when I push into the room where Myers sits, growling at everyone. The nurses are all a little too giddy and not really doing their job. Sighing, I push through them, snapping for them to get to work or get out. The low chuckle from the bed catches my attention, and I arch that same brow. "That's a nasty cut, Mr. Myers." "I've had worse." Dark green eyes dance with mischief even with the twinge of pain in them. "I'm sure you have." Ava hustles over, looking exasperated. "Thanks for that. They weren't listening to me." "No problem." Between the two of us, we get him stripped and cleaned, working around the doctors and getting them what they need as well. Soon he's hustled off to x-ray, and Ava and I take a moment to catch our breath. "That was intense." "I forget how surly they can be when they're hurt." "Your stepfather was a high school coach, wasn't he?" I nod, not really paying attention. "So that's how you know so much about hockey." We both jump at the sound of Mrs. H.'s voice. "Sorry, we just needed a moment." "Understandable. Cora if you can go inform the team of what's going on, I'd appreciate it. They're camped out in the waiting room." "And being very loud, I take it?" Her lips twitch, and I know I'm right. Sighing, I push off the wall and take a glance at the charts before walking down the hall to the waiting room. I hear the noise before I even reach the doors. Loud isn't quite the word I'd use. Think of about thirty two-year-olds all screaming at the top of their lungs. That would be the most accurate picture of the noise coming from out there. No fewer than six nurses, male and female alike, are trying to talk above the noise. But honestly, they're not asking about injuries or informing the team about the patients. They're talking about the game. "Excuse me." I make myself louder than normal, but it's not doing a thing to get anyone attention. So I do the one thing I know will get through. I put fingers to my lips and let out a whistle so shrill it hurts the ears. Another thing left over from my high school days. A little trick my stepfather taught me. But it's effective, and every single bit of noise dies down. "Thank you. Now, where is the head coach?" He stands and walks forward. "I'm Coach Baptist." "All three of your players are being taken care of. O'Brian's in x-ray, and Myers and Chandler are upstairs in CT. They're checking for head trauma and internal bleeding. As soon as we know more, I'll come out and let you know." I turn my attention back to the nurses. "You lot have things to do other than stand around out here and gossip. Get back to work." "I outrank you." The snottiest of them grins. "Yes, but Mrs. H. put me in charge. Sure you want to tell her why you decided to pull that snarky little comment out of your a$s?" Her eyes widen, and she turns and marches back through the doors. Idiot. "Well, what are the rest of you waiting for?" They grumble but shuffle off. Which leaves the team to deal with. "Is there anyone else out here who needs medical attention?" A collective shake of heads is the only answer. "Now, I know you're all tired, and anxious to find out about your teammates, but this is a hospital. There are sick people here, and all this noise isn't helping." More grumbling. "I get it, guys, I do, but I swear if you don't settle down, you're going to deal with me, and trust me, ladder drills have nothing on my ire, so please do us all a favor and behave." "Ladder drills, huh?" one player asks. "You know hockey?" "Yes. Now, unless you guys need something, I'll be back when I have more to report." I turn around, and a wolf whistle follows me. It takes me two seconds to have the offender's ear in between my fingers. You'd be amazed at how quickly a man will come to heel with a little pressure on his earlobe. "Ow!" he screeches. "I'm not your honey, babe, or a bunny. I'm Nurse Stevens, and if you disrespect me again, I will have your balls. Understand?" "Yes, ma'am." I turn him loose and give them all a level stare. "Understand?" A chorus of "yes, ma'ams" follow me as I turn around and disappear behind the doors leadings back to the ER. Hockey players. Cora Has it really been only four hours since the worst shock of my life? But my trusty watch says it has. Thank God for all my training, or I might have run from the hospital and never come back. Shaw Chandler. Dear sweet baby Jesus. I never expected to see him again, especially not in Minnesota, of all places. He swore he never wanted to play where it was cold ever again. The southern states or the warmer ones on the west coast are where he wanted to play. It's why I felt so safe moving here. Even though hockey is king in this state the same way football is in Texas, I knew he'd never play here. But then, players don't dictate trades. He might not have been given a choice. And besides, it's not like he'd care I'm here, anyway. We haven't spoken in over four years. Shaking my head, I pull myself together and focus on the patient who needs the nausea meds. Poor man seems to have gotten food poisoning. He's thrown up three times since he got here twenty minutes ago. He's dehydrated, but the IV I put in with the fluids should start to help soon. "Here you go, Mr. Croom. This will ease the nausea." I hand him the tablets and small paper cup. He takes it and swallows the pills down. "God, I hope this stays down." Me too. He threw up on me earlier. Glancing at the clock, a sigh escapes when I see my shift is over. I can go home and forget I saw Shaw Chandler. But the pale stillness of him when he came in worries me. Shaw was my best friend all throughout school, and as much as he hurt me, part of me still worries about him. I always will. "I'm getting ready to leave, Mr. Croom, but Amber will be the charge nurse on duty. She should be by in just a few minutes. Is there anything you need before I go?" He shakes his head miserably, and I smile encouragingly at him. Food poisoning is one of the worst things in the world. "Hey, Cora." Amber shoots me a smile when I walk over to the nurses' station to clock out on the computer. "Watch that one. He's got food poisoning and has already thrown up on me." "Ouch." I wrinkle my nose. I smell like vomit, but at least I have on clean scrubs. I learned early on to keep several extra sets on hand. I give her the rundown on the rest of the patients as I gather my things. "I heard about the hockey mess that came in." "Yeah. Two serious injuries and one very loud, very vocal team." "We've had them in a few times over the years. Takes some wrangling." "I handled it." "I knew you could." She waves me off as I walk around the station. "See you tomorrow!" No, she won't, but I don't bother mentioning that. Amber is one of the nicest people in this place, and I try not to let my snarky nature disrupt her bubbly attitude. It's not until I'm in the elevator stepping off onto the floor where Shaw is that I realize I've even done it. I shouldn't be here. I know it, but I'm worried. He looked so pale. Groaning at my own gluttony for punishment, I walk down the hall to his room. No one is around. He's probably still passed out. He had a nasty concussion, but because of the surgery to repair his spleen, he had to have anesthesia. If I remember correctly, he doesn't respond well to the stuff. It knocks him out for days afterward, so I should be good just to sneak in and check to make sure he's okay. But he's not alone. One of the nurses from the waiting room is standing there, taking photos on his phone. What the... "Just what the heck do you think you're doing?" He whirls around, and his eyes go round. I whip out my phone and text Mrs. H. She's the one nurse I know who will take care of this. "What are you doing?" he asks, voice low. "Texting my supervisor to let her know what you're doing." He looks from the phone to me and then shrugs. He knows he can sell those photos for a few hundred thousand, easy. It's no biggie if he gets fired. He breezes by me and out the door. Oh, he did not! Running after him, I catch his arm and pull him around. "You're not..." "Don't make me hurt you, babe." His tone is threatening, but it doesn't register. All I'm thinking about is those photos. Photos of Shaw when he's vulnerable and unable to defend himself. "You are not getting out of here with those pictures." "You going to stop me, babe?" Without thinking, I grab his phone and slam it on the ground, smashing it in the process. Well, cracking the screen more than the phone flying into little bits and pieces. "You little bimbo!" And before I can dodge, his fist has connects with my face. Everyone on the floor sees it. He seems to notice and tries to run, but one of the hockey guys from downstairs is only a few steps away and snags him. "You okay, Cora?" Natalee, one of my good friends, asks as she helps me up. "Did you hit your head?" The pain vibrating across my cheek is horrible. The bruise is going to be epically bad. My head does hurt, but it's not as bad as the cheek. "She broke my phone!" the offender shouts. "That doesn't give you the right to hit a girl, dude." Mr. Tall Dark and Deadly hockey player doesn't look impressed with the nurse's outburst. Mrs. H. arrives and, seeing my face, rushes over to check it, her fingers gentle on my jaw. "This needs x-rayed." "It'll be fine." I can't afford a hospital bill. Even with our insurance taking care of most of the bill, I still can't afford what would be left. "No, it won't," she rebukes. "Or do I need to pull the same spiel you gave earlier?" I try to smile, but it hurts too much. "Now, is this the man you texted about?" I nod. "Yes, ma'am. He was taking pictures of Sha...Mr. Chandler. When he tried to run, I smashed his phone. I'm sorry about that, but it's the only thing I could think to do. Our job is to take care of our patients, not exploit them when they're unconscious." "He did what?" The voice of the player holding the nurse drops two octaves and turns from soft to hard so fast it would make your head spin. Even those pretty brown eyes have gone so cold and dark, they're nearly black. "She's lying!" "I don't think so." Mrs. H. collects the smashed phone off the floor. "The police should be able to pull any photos from the phone. It's not damaged too badly." The man's face pales. "We'll take care of this." Mrs. H. turns to Natalee. "Get her checked in then off to x-ray. Someone will be by to fill out an incident report, and Cora, don't worry about the bill. You won't be getting one since it's a work-related injury." Her expression dares me to argue, so instead I pull out my own phone and text my babysitter that I'll be later than I thought. At least I don't have to worry about one more bill I can't afford. When I get back from x-ray, they don't take me down to the ER like I expected. They bring me back to Shaw's floor and to a room. Natalee winks when she comes in. "Can't have one of ours down there in the mess." I smile gratefully, knowing she pulled a few strings. This is my normal floor, and I love the nurses I work with up here. "You got some ninja skills, girlfriend." "Ha, if I had skills, I wouldn't have gotten hit." "Yeah, I didn't see that coming either. I was already up and coming over when you snatched Marty's phone, but I wasn't able to stop him. Sorry." I wave off her apology. "How much longer do you think this is going to be? Noah's already up and probably mad that I'm not there to make his breakfast." "How is the kiddo?" "He's good, adjusting better than I thought he would when we moved out here." "It had to be hard on him. When John and I moved here two years ago, our daughter declared us horrible people and said she'd never forgive us." "How'd that go?" "She was five. She got over it when we took her ice skating." I laugh and then wince. "Don't make me laugh. It hurts." "Sorry." She hands me the cup of coffee she'd been holding. "I brought this for you. It's from the stand outside, not the cafeteria. Thought you'd need some caffeine." "Thanks, Nat." "Anytime. I have to go check on patients, but the doctor shouldn't be too long. He has to haul it up from the ER, so..." I shrug. It'll probably be a while longer than she let on. I'll drink my coffee and try not to focus on the man a few doors down from me. The one I shouldn't even have checked on. But I'm glad I did. No matter what happened between Shaw and me, no one deserves to have their photo taken while they're at their most vulnerable. Especially not by the people who are supposed to be taking care of them. "Knock, knock." The hockey player who snagged the nurse walks in. "that looks bad." "I'd say it looks worse than it feels, but I'd be lying." He comes closer, his hands in his pockets. His black hoodie with the Raptors logo isn't nearly as dark as his hair. The stubble on his face gives him a rakish look. He reminds me of a pirate and is way hotter than Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean. The man is gorgeous, and he knows it. It's the way he moves, the confidence of his stride. I take a sip of my coffee, careful to blow on it first. "That's not from the cafeteria." "Nope. There's a little coffee vendor outside the hospital. Better than Starbucks." "No sh-it?" "No sh-it." "Good to know." After he stands there awkwardly for a full minute, I decide to put him out of his misery. "Is there anything I can help you with?" "Oh...uh...I just wanted to check on you, make sure you were okay." He doesn't sound nearly as confident as his stride. He sounds nervous. "I'm good." "And to thank you for what you did." "Not necessary. I'm sorry it happened. I didn't think anyone here would do something like that." "You'd be surprised at what people will do for money." The darkness lurking in his eyes tells me that he's well acquainted with the subject. Another minute goes by, and then his phone buzzes. He pulls it out and frowns at the message. "Everything okay?" He sighs. "My kid has terrorized another nanny. She's threatening to quit." Now that, I smile at. "My son went through three sitters when we moved here six months ago. He was adjusting to a new place, a new city, and sitters he didn't know." "My son has lived here his whole life, which is all of four years. He loves to cause chaos, and the nannies I hire don't like the chaos. I wish he was more like his sister. She's as sweet as can be." I laugh at that, not caring about the wince. "Three- and four-year-old little boys are a handful and take a certain brand of crazy to deal with all its own." "That they do." He smiles, and it lights up his entire face. "I'm Blaine Kirkos, by the way." "Nice to meet you, Mr..." He's shaking his head, interrupting me before I can get the word out. "No mister. Call me Blaine. We parents have to stick together. At least now I know how you handled a room full of hockey players and wrangled Myers and O'Brian. They said you were like a little general, daring them to disobey you." "Hockey players are very much like little boys." "I'm not saying I agree, but..." "But you do." His smile is my only answer. "So, I was thinking I could get you tickets to a game or something...to say thank you for taking care of everyone and stopping that guy from getting away with photos." "Oh, no, that's okay. You don't have to do that." "But I want to." "I work most nights you guys have games." "You could switch a shift or call in..." "Can't call in. Bills to pay and all that." "How about I send you tickets, and if you can come, then you come?" I start to tell him thank you but no when the doctor comes in. He glances at Blaine and does a double take. "Oh, Mr. Kirkos, I didn't know you knew Cora." He winks at me and shakes the doctor's hand. "Just in here checking on our favorite nurse. I'll let you talk to her so she can get out of here and home to her son. I'll be seeing you Nurse Stevens!" He walks out whistling, and the doctor turns to me, one eyebrow raised. I refrain from saying a word, and when he realizes I'm not about to gossip, he gets down to business. My cheekbone is not fractured as they'd feared, but it's going to hurt like crazy. He offers pain meds, and I decline, so he writes me a prescription for Ibuprofen 800 and calls it a day. Once my discharge papers are firmly in hand, I tell Natalee goodbye and waver in front of Shaw's door. Giving in to temptation, I go in and walk over to the bed. He's just as gorgeous as I remember. His skin is darker, pecked by the Florida sun. The blond hair that always made him look like the boy next door is lighter, sun bleached from days spent on the beach. His eyes are a dark stormy gray, and even though they're closed, I can picture them. His body has filled out a lot since the last time I saw him. He's become the man that the boy only hinted at. "Hey..." I turn to see Natalee come in. She's got questions in her eyes, but I shrug, not up to answering them. "How is he?" I ask instead. "In and out of consciousness, which is good, especially with the concussion. Surgery was successful, but he's not going to be on the ice anytime soon. Nasty concussion." I nod. It's what I assumed when they started talking about concussions in the ER. At least he's okay. I can go home and forget about him now. "Tinkerbell?" The hoarsely whispered word pulls my attention to pain-filled eyes. He's staring at me with an intensity that's hard to shake. But I have to. Without a word, I turn and walk out of the room.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.bingecherry.com/ad/L0JpbmdlQ2hlcnJ5LyR7b	ForFun-100	https://www.facebook.com/100094441775812/	280	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.bingecherry.com	VIDEO		https://a.bingecherry.com/ad/L0JpbmdlQ2hlcnJ5LyR7bGlua0lkfS8xNzQwMzc1ODM0NjgyL3BhZ2VjaHNqdg==?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481208070_599604419657397_2488305247226133368_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gMPA4biLJWcQ7kNvgFLlaEL&_nc_oc=AdhIfYhbJy-fNNqaK1VBbLnfOVnlqxVWZeoJhTGOQRpWLynM2iqlL--wrYUycvG4eIAQanetNan42ZYAxgGVY1Sq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AKugcj9FiU9hFemCyrLHt9B&oh=00_AYDhSu9Up-h0vNikyY0dOWW671xSaaFXaIpZShcLPIJ0AQ&oe=67CBB54D	PERSON_PROFILE	ForFun-100	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,287	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747285}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"She's not an ex or a bunny, is she?" "What? No. Cora and I went to school together. Her stepfather was my coach in high school. We were friends." "Just friends?" "Just friends. She's probably the only girl who's ever just been my friend. I've known her since kindergarten." Until she wasn't my friend anymore. Until I screwed it up. ____________ Cora The night is busier than usual, and I've run myself ragged trying to keep up in the ER. As a nurse, I don't normally work the ER, but I've had trauma training, and when three nurses called off, I came in. The overtime will be a nice bonus. I'm behind on my rent, and I hope this extra money will help me not only catch up on that, but on the other bills as well. "Cora!" I glance up from my charts to see Mrs. Hesh, my supervisor in the ER, hurrying toward me. She looks panicked. "What's wrong?" "We have several VIP patients coming in. I need your help." "Of course." I close the chart and put it back in the pile I still need to go through. "What do I need to know?" "Several of the hockey players from the Raptors got injured and are being rushed here. We need to make sure they're taken care of straight away and that the team and coaches are kept informed of their status. Can you do that?" "Shouldn't Shelia do that? She's the senior RN. I'm only filling in." Hockey players make me uneasy. Bad past experience. "I don't trust her not to ask them all for autographs. She's a total fangirl." My eyes widen. I didn't know Mrs. H. knew what that term even meant. "And I heard you say you knew hockey." "I do." "Good. I trust you not to lose your mind when confronted by the team." "No, ma'am, I won't." "You may need to wrangle some of the other nurses, too. I'll be busy with the patients." "They're not going to like it, especially the ones who have seniority over me." "Does that mean you can't do it?" The older woman turns and looks me dead in the eye, hers shrewd and assessing. But she can change my status here at the hospital. I'm not going to do anything to disappoint her. It says a lot she's trusting me with this. "I can do it." "Good." We both rush to the ER entrance, waiting for the ambulances to arrive. I pull my ponytail down and redo it, tucking the loose strands of my heavy blonde hair behind my ear. I learned during my first real rotation to always keep my hair up and out of the way. Otherwise, you could get run over in a packed ER because you can't see when your hair is swinging everywhere. It only takes a few moments for the first two ambulances to come screeching into the ER entrance, sirens blaring. Taking a deep breath, I close my eyes for two seconds then move forward, meeting the ambulance doors and waiting for them to open. The first player out is Jamison O'Brian. He has a nasty cut to the face, and his leg is propped up and held immobile by the board strapped to it. He looks rough, but not in danger. Dr. Billings waves him off with the nurse standing behind me. I don't remember the guy's name. I'm not down here enough to know everyone. The second ambulance holds a more serious injury. Myers is the name emblazoned on his jersey. His head is a bloody mess, as is his arm, a nasty looking gash that was most likely caused by a blade. That's going to keep him out for a couple of weeks at least, depending on any kind of nerve or muscle damage. He goes with Ava, the other nurse down here from my regular floor. Ava and I are friends, and we both frown at the seriousness of the injury. Ava is a huge hockey fan, but she can be trusted not to lose her mind over treating a player, which is why she's been called out to meet the ambulances. The last ambulance is the one Mrs. H. seems the most concerned with. As soon as the doors spring open and the EMTs start shouting stats, I get a good look at the unconscious man lying prone and bleeding on the stretcher. All the air rushes out of my lungs, and all I can do is stare. No. It can't be. He's in Florida. Not Minnesota. "Cora?" The sharp tone snaps me out of my funk. "Sorry. It's just I know him." "You know him?" We run after the stretcher. "I went to school with him." "Is this going to be a problem?" "No, ma'am. I was just shocked is all. I hadn't realized he'd been traded to the Raptors. I'm good." She nods and we get to work, me helping cut his clothes off, revealing the extent of his injuries. He has massive bruises on his abdomen, which might indicate internal bleeding. There's also a nasty cut along one thigh, and his shoulder is at an odd angle. The doctors twist it back into its socket while he's unconscious. I wince when they do, glad he's unconscious for that. Resetting a shoulder is extremely painful. As the doctors do that, we keep working, helping to clean away the mess so they can evaluate him. The bleeding is stopped, and then he's gone to CT to make sure there was no damage to the brain and to see if he has internal bleeding where the bruising is. I go to check on the next patient, who is currently complaining that he's fine and he doesn't need all the fuss. The doctor and the male nurse are disagreeing with him, but he just gets louder. They do not know how to deal with hockey players, apparently. Or they don't want to upset a VIP patient. Either way, the patient's care comes first, even when said patient is acting like a big baby. "Sit." My tone is sharp and commanding when he tries to get off the table. His brown eyes snap to mine, and I just arch a brow. "I'm fine." He stands up, daring me to say a word. He has no idea he's dealing with someone who grew up around hockey players. "You are not fine. Now, sit down before you fall down." The nurse and doctor look at me like I've grown two heads, but O'Brian sits, a scowl on his face. He might terrify everyone else with that look, but not me. "Don't give me that look. Your leg could be broken, and the more you stand on it, the more damage you'll be doing. Which means longer time off the ice. So stop being a whiney prick and let us take care of you so you can get back out there." "Fine," he mutters, and I shake my head. Hockey players. Mrs. H. stands to the side, a small smile on her face. "Cora, we need you in here, please." I peel my gloves off and don a new pair when I push into the room where Myers sits, growling at everyone. The nurses are all a little too giddy and not really doing their job. Sighing, I push through them, snapping for them to get to work or get out. The low chuckle from the bed catches my attention, and I arch that same brow. "That's a nasty cut, Mr. Myers." "I've had worse." Dark green eyes dance with mischief even with the twinge of pain in them. "I'm sure you have." Ava hustles over, looking exasperated. "Thanks for that. They weren't listening to me." "No problem." Between the two of us, we get him stripped and cleaned, working around the doctors and getting them what they need as well. Soon he's hustled off to x-ray, and Ava and I take a moment to catch our breath. "That was intense." "I forget how surly they can be when they're hurt." "Your stepfather was a high school coach, wasn't he?" I nod, not really paying attention. "So that's how you know so much about hockey." We both jump at the sound of Mrs. H.'s voice. "Sorry, we just needed a moment." "Understandable. Cora if you can go inform the team of what's going on, I'd appreciate it. They're camped out in the waiting room." "And being very loud, I take it?" Her lips twitch, and I know I'm right. Sighing, I push off the wall and take a glance at the charts before walking down the hall to the waiting room. I hear the noise before I even reach the doors. Loud isn't quite the word I'd use. Think of about thirty two-year-olds all screaming at the top of their lungs. That would be the most accurate picture of the noise coming from out there. No fewer than six nurses, male and female alike, are trying to talk above the noise. But honestly, they're not asking about injuries or informing the team about the patients. They're talking about the game. "Excuse me." I make myself louder than normal, but it's not doing a thing to get anyone attention. So I do the one thing I know will get through. I put fingers to my lips and let out a whistle so shrill it hurts the ears. Another thing left over from my high school days. A little trick my stepfather taught me. But it's effective, and every single bit of noise dies down. "Thank you. Now, where is the head coach?" He stands and walks forward. "I'm Coach Baptist." "All three of your players are being taken care of. O'Brian's in x-ray, and Myers and Chandler are upstairs in CT. They're checking for head trauma and internal bleeding. As soon as we know more, I'll come out and let you know." I turn my attention back to the nurses. "You lot have things to do other than stand around out here and gossip. Get back to work." "I outrank you." The snottiest of them grins. "Yes, but Mrs. H. put me in charge. Sure you want to tell her why you decided to pull that snarky little comment out of your a$s?" Her eyes widen, and she turns and marches back through the doors. Idiot. "Well, what are the rest of you waiting for?" They grumble but shuffle off. Which leaves the team to deal with. "Is there anyone else out here who needs medical attention?" A collective shake of heads is the only answer. "Now, I know you're all tired, and anxious to find out about your teammates, but this is a hospital. There are sick people here, and all this noise isn't helping." More grumbling. "I get it, guys, I do, but I swear if you don't settle down, you're going to deal with me, and trust me, ladder drills have nothing on my ire, so please do us all a favor and behave." "Ladder drills, huh?" one player asks. "You know hockey?" "Yes. Now, unless you guys need something, I'll be back when I have more to report." I turn around, and a wolf whistle follows me. It takes me two seconds to have the offender's ear in between my fingers. You'd be amazed at how quickly a man will come to heel with a little pressure on his earlobe. "Ow!" he screeches. "I'm not your honey, babe, or a bunny. I'm Nurse Stevens, and if you disrespect me again, I will have your balls. Understand?" "Yes, ma'am." I turn him loose and give them all a level stare. "Understand?" A chorus of "yes, ma'ams" follow me as I turn around and disappear behind the doors leadings back to the ER. Hockey players. Cora Has it really been only four hours since the worst shock of my life? But my trusty watch says it has. Thank God for all my training, or I might have run from the hospital and never come back. Shaw Chandler. Dear sweet baby Jesus. I never expected to see him again, especially not in Minnesota, of all places. He swore he never wanted to play where it was cold ever again. The southern states or the warmer ones on the west coast are where he wanted to play. It's why I felt so safe moving here. Even though hockey is king in this state the same way football is in Texas, I knew he'd never play here. But then, players don't dictate trades. He might not have been given a choice. And besides, it's not like he'd care I'm here, anyway. We haven't spoken in over four years. Shaking my head, I pull myself together and focus on the patient who needs the nausea meds. Poor man seems to have gotten food poisoning. He's thrown up three times since he got here twenty minutes ago. He's dehydrated, but the IV I put in with the fluids should start to help soon. "Here you go, Mr. Croom. This will ease the nausea." I hand him the tablets and small paper cup. He takes it and swallows the pills down. "God, I hope this stays down." Me too. He threw up on me earlier. Glancing at the clock, a sigh escapes when I see my shift is over. I can go home and forget I saw Shaw Chandler. But the pale stillness of him when he came in worries me. Shaw was my best friend all throughout school, and as much as he hurt me, part of me still worries about him. I always will. "I'm getting ready to leave, Mr. Croom, but Amber will be the charge nurse on duty. She should be by in just a few minutes. Is there anything you need before I go?" He shakes his head miserably, and I smile encouragingly at him. Food poisoning is one of the worst things in the world. "Hey, Cora." Amber shoots me a smile when I walk over to the nurses' station to clock out on the computer. "Watch that one. He's got food poisoning and has already thrown up on me." "Ouch." I wrinkle my nose. I smell like vomit, but at least I have on clean scrubs. I learned early on to keep several extra sets on hand. I give her the rundown on the rest of the patients as I gather my things. "I heard about the hockey mess that came in." "Yeah. Two serious injuries and one very loud, very vocal team." "We've had them in a few times over the years. Takes some wrangling." "I handled it." "I knew you could." She waves me off as I walk around the station. "See you tomorrow!" No, she won't, but I don't bother mentioning that. Amber is one of the nicest people in this place, and I try not to let my snarky nature disrupt her bubbly attitude. It's not until I'm in the elevator stepping off onto the floor where Shaw is that I realize I've even done it. I shouldn't be here. I know it, but I'm worried. He looked so pale. Groaning at my own gluttony for punishment, I walk down the hall to his room. No one is around. He's probably still passed out. He had a nasty concussion, but because of the surgery to repair his spleen, he had to have anesthesia. If I remember correctly, he doesn't respond well to the stuff. It knocks him out for days afterward, so I should be good just to sneak in and check to make sure he's okay. But he's not alone. One of the nurses from the waiting room is standing there, taking photos on his phone. What the... "Just what the heck do you think you're doing?" He whirls around, and his eyes go round. I whip out my phone and text Mrs. H. She's the one nurse I know who will take care of this. "What are you doing?" he asks, voice low. "Texting my supervisor to let her know what you're doing." He looks from the phone to me and then shrugs. He knows he can sell those photos for a few hundred thousand, easy. It's no biggie if he gets fired. He breezes by me and out the door. Oh, he did not! Running after him, I catch his arm and pull him around. "You're not..." "Don't make me hurt you, babe." His tone is threatening, but it doesn't register. All I'm thinking about is those photos. Photos of Shaw when he's vulnerable and unable to defend himself. "You are not getting out of here with those pictures." "You going to stop me, babe?" Without thinking, I grab his phone and slam it on the ground, smashing it in the process. Well, cracking the screen more than the phone flying into little bits and pieces. "You little bimbo!" And before I can dodge, his fist has connects with my face. Everyone on the floor sees it. He seems to notice and tries to run, but one of the hockey guys from downstairs is only a few steps away and snags him. "You okay, Cora?" Natalee, one of my good friends, asks as she helps me up. "Did you hit your head?" The pain vibrating across my cheek is horrible. The bruise is going to be epically bad. My head does hurt, but it's not as bad as the cheek. "She broke my phone!" the offender shouts. "That doesn't give you the right to hit a girl, dude." Mr. Tall Dark and Deadly hockey player doesn't look impressed with the nurse's outburst. Mrs. H. arrives and, seeing my face, rushes over to check it, her fingers gentle on my jaw. "This needs x-rayed." "It'll be fine." I can't afford a hospital bill. Even with our insurance taking care of most of the bill, I still can't afford what would be left. "No, it won't," she rebukes. "Or do I need to pull the same spiel you gave earlier?" I try to smile, but it hurts too much. "Now, is this the man you texted about?" I nod. "Yes, ma'am. He was taking pictures of Sha...Mr. Chandler. When he tried to run, I smashed his phone. I'm sorry about that, but it's the only thing I could think to do. Our job is to take care of our patients, not exploit them when they're unconscious." "He did what?" The voice of the player holding the nurse drops two octaves and turns from soft to hard so fast it would make your head spin. Even those pretty brown eyes have gone so cold and dark, they're nearly black. "She's lying!" "I don't think so." Mrs. H. collects the smashed phone off the floor. "The police should be able to pull any photos from the phone. It's not damaged too badly." The man's face pales. "We'll take care of this." Mrs. H. turns to Natalee. "Get her checked in then off to x-ray. Someone will be by to fill out an incident report, and Cora, don't worry about the bill. You won't be getting one since it's a work-related injury." Her expression dares me to argue, so instead I pull out my own phone and text my babysitter that I'll be later than I thought. At least I don't have to worry about one more bill I can't afford. When I get back from x-ray, they don't take me down to the ER like I expected. They bring me back to Shaw's floor and to a room. Natalee winks when she comes in. "Can't have one of ours down there in the mess." I smile gratefully, knowing she pulled a few strings. This is my normal floor, and I love the nurses I work with up here. "You got some ninja skills, girlfriend." "Ha, if I had skills, I wouldn't have gotten hit." "Yeah, I didn't see that coming either. I was already up and coming over when you snatched Marty's phone, but I wasn't able to stop him. Sorry." I wave off her apology. "How much longer do you think this is going to be? Noah's already up and probably mad that I'm not there to make his breakfast." "How is the kiddo?" "He's good, adjusting better than I thought he would when we moved out here." "It had to be hard on him. When John and I moved here two years ago, our daughter declared us horrible people and said she'd never forgive us." "How'd that go?" "She was five. She got over it when we took her ice skating." I laugh and then wince. "Don't make me laugh. It hurts." "Sorry." She hands me the cup of coffee she'd been holding. "I brought this for you. It's from the stand outside, not the cafeteria. Thought you'd need some caffeine." "Thanks, Nat." "Anytime. I have to go check on patients, but the doctor shouldn't be too long. He has to haul it up from the ER, so..." I shrug. It'll probably be a while longer than she let on. I'll drink my coffee and try not to focus on the man a few doors down from me. The one I shouldn't even have checked on. But I'm glad I did. No matter what happened between Shaw and me, no one deserves to have their photo taken while they're at their most vulnerable. Especially not by the people who are supposed to be taking care of them. "Knock, knock." The hockey player who snagged the nurse walks in. "that looks bad." "I'd say it looks worse than it feels, but I'd be lying." He comes closer, his hands in his pockets. His black hoodie with the Raptors logo isn't nearly as dark as his hair. The stubble on his face gives him a rakish look. He reminds me of a pirate and is way hotter than Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean. The man is gorgeous, and he knows it. It's the way he moves, the confidence of his stride. I take a sip of my coffee, careful to blow on it first. "That's not from the cafeteria." "Nope. There's a little coffee vendor outside the hospital. Better than Starbucks." "No sh-it?" "No sh-it." "Good to know." After he stands there awkwardly for a full minute, I decide to put him out of his misery. "Is there anything I can help you with?" "Oh...uh...I just wanted to check on you, make sure you were okay." He doesn't sound nearly as confident as his stride. He sounds nervous. "I'm good." "And to thank you for what you did." "Not necessary. I'm sorry it happened. I didn't think anyone here would do something like that." "You'd be surprised at what people will do for money." The darkness lurking in his eyes tells me that he's well acquainted with the subject. Another minute goes by, and then his phone buzzes. He pulls it out and frowns at the message. "Everything okay?" He sighs. "My kid has terrorized another nanny. She's threatening to quit." Now that, I smile at. "My son went through three sitters when we moved here six months ago. He was adjusting to a new place, a new city, and sitters he didn't know." "My son has lived here his whole life, which is all of four years. He loves to cause chaos, and the nannies I hire don't like the chaos. I wish he was more like his sister. She's as sweet as can be." I laugh at that, not caring about the wince. "Three- and four-year-old little boys are a handful and take a certain brand of crazy to deal with all its own." "That they do." He smiles, and it lights up his entire face. "I'm Blaine Kirkos, by the way." "Nice to meet you, Mr..." He's shaking his head, interrupting me before I can get the word out. "No mister. Call me Blaine. We parents have to stick together. At least now I know how you handled a room full of hockey players and wrangled Myers and O'Brian. They said you were like a little general, daring them to disobey you." "Hockey players are very much like little boys." "I'm not saying I agree, but..." "But you do." His smile is my only answer. "So, I was thinking I could get you tickets to a game or something...to say thank you for taking care of everyone and stopping that guy from getting away with photos." "Oh, no, that's okay. You don't have to do that." "But I want to." "I work most nights you guys have games." "You could switch a shift or call in..." "Can't call in. Bills to pay and all that." "How about I send you tickets, and if you can come, then you come?" I start to tell him thank you but no when the doctor comes in. He glances at Blaine and does a double take. "Oh, Mr. Kirkos, I didn't know you knew Cora." He winks at me and shakes the doctor's hand. "Just in here checking on our favorite nurse. I'll let you talk to her so she can get out of here and home to her son. I'll be seeing you Nurse Stevens!" He walks out whistling, and the doctor turns to me, one eyebrow raised. I refrain from saying a word, and when he realizes I'm not about to gossip, he gets down to business. My cheekbone is not fractured as they'd feared, but it's going to hurt like crazy. He offers pain meds, and I decline, so he writes me a prescription for Ibuprofen 800 and calls it a day. Once my discharge papers are firmly in hand, I tell Natalee goodbye and waver in front of Shaw's door. Giving in to temptation, I go in and walk over to the bed. He's just as gorgeous as I remember. His skin is darker, pecked by the Florida sun. The blond hair that always made him look like the boy next door is lighter, sun bleached from days spent on the beach. His eyes are a dark stormy gray, and even though they're closed, I can picture them. His body has filled out a lot since the last time I saw him. He's become the man that the boy only hinted at. "Hey..." I turn to see Natalee come in. She's got questions in her eyes, but I shrug, not up to answering them. "How is he?" I ask instead. "In and out of consciousness, which is good, especially with the concussion. Surgery was successful, but he's not going to be on the ice anytime soon. Nasty concussion." I nod. It's what I assumed when they started talking about concussions in the ER. At least he's okay. I can go home and forget about him now. "Tinkerbell?" The hoarsely whispered word pulls my attention to pain-filled eyes. He's staring at me with an intensity that's hard to shake. But I have to. Without a word, I turn and walk out of the room.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.bingecherry.com/ad/L0JpbmdlQ2hlcnJ5LyR7b	ForFun-100	https://www.facebook.com/100094441775812/	280	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.bingecherry.com	VIDEO		https://a.bingecherry.com/ad/L0JpbmdlQ2hlcnJ5LyR7bGlua0lkfS8xNzQwMzc1ODM0NjgyL3BhZ2VjaHNqdg==?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/480888247_1150706873225848_457066365666476676_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zArbixIbRR8Q7kNvgGhSBdO&_nc_oc=Adi9gF0S4-PjDoZfpQcY4t9z7xDLB823iLjVy5OdnXb1clHm2RlLCDIkCC3-kmN9kpEQdY-IxKmkP41S2xM8Szdp&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AKugcj9FiU9hFemCyrLHt9B&oh=00_AYDAJsWuMcEUATrfKCK4zieT82eWDR9kACcuCnwbB7Zn8w&oe=67CBA956	PERSON_PROFILE	ForFun-100	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,241	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747269}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"Mine." The dangerous and menacing voice demanded in front of everyone in the room. "You are mistaken. Her father has already promised her hand to me in marriage. Once she turns 18 we will be marked and mated." Mason announced proudly and another menacing growl erupted from that man's throat. "You are not touching my mate." He growled out through gritted teeth. "He's your mate." Bella whispered. "Who are you?" I asked. "Tyler Lowe. Alpha of the Blue Moon Pack." He announced. And my mouth almost dropped open. __________ I was covered in black and blue bruises and fresh cuts from that beating. But also bruises under the new bruises that were yet to heal. I was malnourished and didn't heal as fast as werewolves. But I was used to it. Ever since my mother died when I was 6 my father has been getting progressively worse until it finally got to this kind of abuse. Which was the worst kind. Where I could barely walk or even look at myself in the mirror. I had a quick shower because the water stung my skin too much and I washed my length snow blonde hair and I came out of the bathroom and walked into my wardrobe. I got dressed into a pair of black tights, a loose fitting shirt and a hoodie over the top. It was pretty much my signature look. When I was putting my books in my bag my bedroom door slammed open and I jumped almost to the ceiling because it scared me so badly. Dad was standing there and I was surprised that he was actually able to stand. "Hurry up. The pack breakfast is starting." He demanded still slurring his words. How was he going to explain that to the pack elders? This was going to be interesting. But I really didn't care. I grabbed my bag and went downstairs and we left our side of the packhouse and walked through long corridors together and when I couldn't keep up with dad's pace he grabbed my arm and dragged me along which only hurt my ribs even more. "Quit your complaining. What is the matter with you?" He snarled at me. I wasn't surprised that he didn't remember. He was too drunk to remember. But when we got to the main part of the pack house he made sure that his clothes were neat and his balding gray hair and goatee weren't disheveled and we walked into the large dining room where a lot of important pack members had breakfast every morning. Including the Alpha, his daughter Bella, the pack elders and other influential people around the pack. Like the doctor ect. There were several tables set out and a buffet where you could eat all you wanted. And I was practically drooling at the food as dad approached it and he piled one plate up with heaps of food and then gave me the second plate with only toast and a pancake on it. I found Bella sitting at a table by herself next to the window. She was the Alpha's second born and only daughter. And my best friend. We're the same age and we've known each other since we were in diapers. "I see you've brought the hoodie out again." Bella whispers as I try to sit down without drawing any attention to myself at how much pain I was in. We all know what it means when we see the hoodie - It's for covering the bruises. "I didn't realize that I ever put it away." I say. "Well, I'm glad that I don't have to wear mine today." She commented. "Yeah. Your dad has eased off of you. Is there a reason why?" I asked curiously and a little jealous. "Yep. Because my brother is coming home today." She beamed at me. And a huge smile spread across my face as well. "You're kidding. Ethan is finally coming home." I say. And she nods her head. I could tell that she was trying everything to hide her excitement. "I can't believe that. That's fantastic." I said. I noticed Bella looking around at the room but she didn't say anything. So I glanced around as well and when I did everyone quickly stopped looking at me. Dad tried to hide his evil side. But he wasn't fooling anyone. When he got drunk, he would always start fights with people and become unbearable. And he was getting drunk a lot more lately. People had an idea of what was going on in our apartment. But no one was willing to go up against the Beta. Because they all knew that the Alpha would be there to support him and they would be kicked out of the pack. Or worse. A lot of pack members lived in fear of our Alpha and Beta. It was a horrible way to live. But if they tried to leave then the Alpha would send warriors after them to kill them. He's done it more than once. The warriors were ordered to kill entire families that were fleeing. Which included children. That's what made this pack the strongest on the East Coast. Because no one was game enough to leave so it was a huge pack and all the warriors trained relentlessly. The only problem was that girls weren't allowed to train. We basically lived in the stone ages. The Alpha believed that she-wolves are only here to find their mates and produce pups for their mates to keep the pack going strong. It was barbaric and insulting. But he was the Alpha. His word was law. "How long do we need to stay here to be respectful? I hate everyone staring at me." I whisper to Bella. "Just a couple more minutes. Then we can leave for school." She whispers back. I then saw the head warrior Mason walk in with his two sidekicks Levi and Lockie trailing behind him and Mason's eyes set straight on me. They got themselves some food and then invited themselves to join me and Bella. Mason sat right next to me and moved his chair over so he could be closer to me, but I squirmed away from him as much as possible. He was big and good looking but he was a horrible person. And I knew that from first hand experience. He was the one that they always called to track down those families that ran away. And I know that he personally killed a child of those fleeing families. I wanted nothing to do with him. "I have exciting news for you Tessa." Mason says, looking at me. "And what is that?" I asked, exhaling while drinking a little coffee. "I have you're fathers blessing." He said slowly. And my head snapped towards him. "What?" I almost shouted and a few people looked our way before they went back to what they were talking about. And Mason was smirking at me. "As soon as you turn 18, I am taking you as my mate." He says. "And what about my true mate? My goddess given mate? What about him? He's out there somewhere." I say. "Who cares. He'll find someone else. Or he'll just wither and die after you reject him. I really don't care. But you will be mine. That's all I've wanted for years." He says lightly while playing with my hair. And I look at Bella pleading with my eyes. "Yeah. We have to get to school now. It was good seeing you Mason." Bella says standing up and I stood up as well. They stayed sitting at the table as us two grabbed our bags and left the dining hall as quickly as we could and we didn't even stop to say goodbye to anyone. Least of all our fathers. But we weren't that lucky. "You two will be home straight after school. We're having a party here tonight with a lot of visiting Alpha's." The Alpha shouted across the room. We both stopped and nodded to him before leaving the house. "I can't believe that your father promised you to that sack of prick." Bella yelled as we were walking down the road. "I can. My father knows his own kind." I say. "I am so sorry Tess. What are you going to do?" Bella asked sympathetically. "I don't know. But I'll figure something out. Even if I have to run away before it can happen. I will definitely do that." I declare. "Well, tell me before you do. I'm coming with you." She says. "Sounds like a plan." I say. And then a black BMW stopped right in our walkway and we stopped before we hit the car and we both stepped back not knowing what to expect right now. Then a 6 foot 4 man with short brown hair and cleanly shaved with muscles that looked like they were going to rip his shirt off his body got out of the driver's seat and smiled at both of us. "What? Don't I even get a hug?" He asked. "Ethan." Bella yelled, jumping into his arms. And the other door opened to reveal an equally big man with dirty blonde hair and a little facial hair got out of the passenger seat. That was Ethan's best friend Wyatt. When Bella finally let Ethan go he walked over to me and hugged me and I winced a little in pain but tried to hide it and then I hugged Wyatt. And I had to do the same thing. "Are you hurt?" Ethan asked. "Yeah. It was stupid. Rough housing with a couple of the warriors and this is what happened. I should know better." I lied through my teeth. "Girls aren't allowed to train. Why are you rough housing with warriors?" Wyatt asked. "I don't know. It seemed like a good idea at the time." I shrugged. " Come on Bells, we're gonna be late." I say. "We'll see you tonight." Bella says hugging Ethan again and we start walking off down the road again. But when I looked to the side I could see Ethan and Wyatt leaning against the side of their car watching us and talking about something. I was afraid that they didn't believe my rough housing with the warrior's excuse. "Bella. What would Ethan do if he found out about my dad?" I asked nervously. "You know Ethan as well as I do. What do you think he would do to your dad?" Bella responded confidently. "Just wait until he finds out that your dad gave you away to Mason. Ethan has always hated Mason. I don't think that mating will go through if Ethan is here. That's a good thing." Bella says. "Yeah. I'll take your word for it." I say skeptically. My father always had his way of getting his own way. No matter what it was. If he wanted me to mark and mate with Mason, then it was pretty much as good as done. When we got to school we walked inside and we went to Bella's locker first and then mine. Everyone obviously knew who we were but they kept their distance from us. Both of our fathers were known for being crazy. And no one wanted to mess with the Alpha or Beta's daughters. So we only had each other at school. Which was fine with us. The further we stayed away from people, the least likely they were to find out about what was actually happening in our house. When we got to our first class we sat at the back of the classroom as usual and I pulled out my notebook and pen and started scribbling on the page in front of me. When our geography teacher arrived and started the class I just sat there with my head on my hand scribbling in my book and barely paying attention. When I was 6 years old I woke up in the morning to my 26-year-old mother and my 48-year-old father screaming at each other in our old house. The one that we had before we moved to the packhouse. I stayed in bed for ages because I couldn't find the courage to get out of bed and go out there to see what was going on. I could hear things smashing and my mother screaming at my father. I then heard the slap that he gave my mother while yelling at her. And that's when I got out of bed. I opened my door and slowly crept down the hallway and stood at the kitchen doorway and my mother was on the floor holding her face and dad was standing over her. She saw me standing there and scrambled to her feet. "It's alright sweetie. I'm alright. Hey, why don't you go and get dressed and then you can go outside and play with Bella. How does that sound?" My mother asked, crouching down to my level. But I just shook my head and looked at my father before I turned back to my room and I closed the door. I started getting dressed but their fight wasn't over. I could still hear them screaming at each other and I was shaking while I was buttoning up my shirt. But I managed to get dressed and I walked back to the kitchen. My father was storming out the backdoor from what I could see and my mother was holding a rag to her bloody nose. "Why does daddy get so angry all the time?" I asked. "I don't know sweetie. He just does. Hey, are you all ready? I think Bella is alright outside. I saw her playing in the playground earlier. Why don't you go and find her while I clean up this mess and all the broken glass." Mummy says to me. "Okay mummy." I say. And I hugged her before I walked outside and Bella was still at the playground. I got on the swing next to her and she looked at me and then back to the house. "I could hear your daddy screaming from here." Bella says. But I just nod my head. She knew that meant that I didn't want to talk about it. " Do you wanna go and annoy Ethan. He's with his friends." She says. And I smile at that and shake my head. So we jumped off the swings and went running to find Ethan so we could annoy him. Something that we loved to do all the time. And it always cheered us up. I was snapped out of my thoughts by Bella nudging me so I looked at her and she pointed down at the picture that I was absent mindedly drawing. It was a big snarling wolf attacking a woman and child. I quickly changed the page and started paying attention to the class that we were in. Try to get my mind to concentrate on what needs to be done at school. The day went by pretty quickly and before we knew it, it was time to head home. But we always took our time before going home. We slowly went to our lockers to get our things and then we headed outside but we saw that same black BMW sitting out the front waiting for us. "Ethan. What are you doing here?" Bella asked. "I'm giving you guys a lift home." He responded with a beaming smile. "It's alright. We can walk. It's not that far." I say. "Too bad. Get in." Ethan ordered. So we got in his car and he actually took us into town instead of taking us home. "The Alpha told us to get home straight after school because of that party tonight." I told Ethan. "Don't worry. Dad and the Beta know that you girls are with me. I told them before I picked you guys up. Don't worry. You won't get in trouble." Ethan assured us. Ethan took us to an ice cream store downtown and took us inside. "You do know that we're not 10 years old anymore, right?" I asked Ethan. "I know. But I thought we could all sit down and talk." He says. "A coffee shop would have been better." I say sitting down. The other two got ice cream but I didn't order anything. "So Tessa, how are the ribs going?" Ethan asked. "Pretty good. I think they're just bruised. They'll be back to normal soon." I say. "Yeah. Thank goddess for werewolf healing." Ethan says. And I just smile at him. "So Bells, how has dad been since I left? Has he gotten any worse?" Ethan asked. "About the same, I guess." Bella says eating a bit of her ice cream and then she side eyed me. But unfortunately, Ethan managed to see us. But he didn't say anything about it. I had a really bad feeling that he only brought us here to fish for information. He was asking too many questions and I didn't really like it. So I kept quiet for most of that ice cream adventure and Bella and Ethan just kept talking like always. Like they were just talking about old times. When we got back to the packhouse Ethan said that he needed to go run some errands for his dad before the party so Bella and I went inside. Both of our dad's were sitting in the living room waiting for us and we knew that couldn't be good. "We are having people here in a few hours and you two have been out galavanting with Ethan." The Alpha says. "He picked us up from school. What did you want us to do? If we didn't go with him then he knew that something would have been up." I defended us while Bella sank back a little. She was never able to stand up against them. "Well, now you two have a lot of work to do, don't you. There's cooking that needs to be done and all the bedrooms in the packhouse need to be ready in case anyone decides to stay over." My father says. "I'll go and help Bella with the rooms and then I will get started in the kitchen." I say. "There's not enough time. Bella can clean the bedrooms. That means scrub the bathrooms, change the sheets, vacuum, everything. In every bedroom in this packhouse. And Tessa, you need to get started on appetizers, then the first course, then the second course, then the main course and then dessert." The Alpha ordered. "Yes sir." I say. I looked at Bella and we had to head in separate directions. I went to the kitchen and there was no one there. Hardly any omega's worked at the packhouse because the Alpha and dad made us two girls do everything. It was a wonder that we were even allowed to go to school most of the time. But I grabbed some ingredients out and I started making the main course because it would take hours to cook and then I got started on several different appetizers to give the guests some variety. While I was in the kitchen my father walked in and he lingered behind me and I could feel my whole body tense up but he stood behind me watching me. He didn't even try to move any closer to me. He was just intimidating me. That's all it was to him. A game. He thought it was funny. By the time everything was ready the omega's arrived because they had to serve the food and I went up the backstairs to our apartment and I went straight to my bedroom. I had a shower and I couldn't even bear to look at myself in the mirror this time, so I just had a quick shower and I got out and went to the wardrobe. I got dressed into a floor length gown with a white strapless bodice with a light pink floral lace over the top that also went over my shoulders to make the straps and black the skirt of it was plain black and black strappy high heels. I then brushed my length snow blonde hair and I put on a silver and diamond bracelet and matching earrings. But I kept my neck out, except for my hair hanging down. And then I started to walk downstairs. I made it to the main area of the house and I stopped at Bella's room just as she was coming out and she was looking a little nervous about this party. "Alright. Just relax and greet a few people. There's nothing to worry about. Once we do that then us two can sit at one of the tables in the ballroom and everyone else can do whatever it is that they do." I told her. "Alright. You know I hate these parties. Getting all dressed up. It's like our father's are putting us on display." She says. "That's exactly what they're doing. And they know it too. Come on, before they get pissed at us for being too long." I say hooking my arm around hers and we started walking down the hall. We walked down the staircase and off to the right was the living room but all the furniture had been cleared out of it and the rooms adjacent to it so people would walk around freely and talk and have a good time. And the main ballroom was set up for dancing while the dining room had been lined with four very long tables that could easily seat a couple hundred people. Walking to the living room was really nerve wracking but I made sure that I held my head high and people did look at us. "It's only because we are the hottest ones here. Just remember that." I whispered to Bella as I felt her tense up. And we continued walking into the room. Alpha's from other packs would come over and introduce themselves and of course we needed to be on our best behavior and represent the pack well and we were nice and polite to everyone and we would have light conversations with people. I noticed that there were older Alpha's with their teenage sons who were obviously learning the ropes to becoming Alpha's themselves and there were others in their 20's and 30's that were there with friends or even their Beta's. I wasn't sure. We had been at the party for about 20 minutes mingling when a familiar scent filled my nose and strong arms wrapped around my waist and I knew immediately that it was Mason. "Take note of the people that you like in this room sweetie. We can invite them to our wedding." Mason hissed in my ear while smelling the crook of my neck. I tried to unravel his arms from around my stomach because I was now in a lot of pain with the broken ribs but he wasn't letting go for anything. I didn't have the strength to get him to let go. All of a sudden there was a growl that ripped through the room and the band stopped playing and I heard something smash. Like it was a wooden chair or something. Everyone looked in that direction and there was a man standing there that I had never noticed before. He would have been in his early 20's, brown hair to his shoulders, a brown goatee, 6-foot 6 at least and very defined muscles that were now tense as his intense gaze was staring directly at me and Mason. But I didn't know who he was. I was frozen in the spot and this man was just staring at us with pure hatred in his eyes. But then I realized that the hatred was for Mason. Not me. "Mine." He demanded. "Mine." The dangerous and menacing voice demanded in front of everyone in the room. All the Alpha's from nearby packs and even ones that have traveled long distances to be here. Mason finally loosened his grip around me and I noticed the woman standing next to that stranger with a horrified look on her face. She tried to grab his arm but he shook her off and marked towards Mason and me. I very subtly pushed Bella to the side away from where this man was coming for us. Just in case anything happened, she could be ready to duck and cover. "You are mistaken. Her father has already promised her hand to me in marriage. Once she turns 18 we will be marked and mated." Mason announced proudly and another menacing growl erupted from that man's throat. "You are not touching my mate." He growled out through gritted teeth. "He's your mate." Bella whispered. "Who are you?" I asked. "Tyler Lowe. Alpha of the Blue Moon Pack." He announced. And my mouth almost dropped open. They were a large pack. They were known for their strength. They were not to be messed with. I knew of their pack, but I had never met their Alpha and didn't know what his name was. "She is not your mate. She has been promised to me." Mason gritted out. This was going to get out of hand. Really quickly. But another man stood in and placed his hand on Tyler's shoulder. "My name is Cade. I am Tyler's Beta. And I'm sure you know young man that it is against werewolf rules and nature to come between a wolf and his mate. Especially that of an Alpha wolf." Cade educated Mason. "I know the laws. And I don't care. Her father promised her to me. And she will be mine." Mason insisted and Cade had to hold Tyler back after that.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.letsreadnovel.com/ad/bGV0c3JlYWQvNDQzNzc	ForFun-120	https://www.facebook.com/61554751622817/	201	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.letsreadnovel.com	VIDEO		https://a.letsreadnovel.com/ad/bGV0c3JlYWQvNDQzNzc2LzIwMjUwMjI4MTYxODUyL3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481160219_10010526808960555_5324897050461317259_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FGGpRfT-i5oQ7kNvgFdotyW&_nc_oc=AdhKwX1r9tn6T2QE8_5t8mVJSJsF5LLDCaEdyxKSxDi-fzJIRFHo8oNmq-29lougxIday9-JPZafwlul79AF9Ss6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=ACGQOmvbEdMMJ2C-RA7b1Mw&oh=00_AYBRtJAJsJx5V4Tq_GBCjlW3MwE4psnZBsaMA3W54GWmUg&oe=67CB9463	PERSON_PROFILE	ForFun-120	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,394	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747383}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	Proceed to the Next Video!	Aidan Stein, the Eternal Lord Sovereign of the magnificent Eternity Palace, temporarily loses his memory and intelligence due to his 60-year cycle. He lives alone in Vertania until he encounters Jade Yule, who saves his life and becomes his wife. Years later, Jack Foley, an aristocrat of Vertania, develops an interest in Jade. He sends his men after Aidan, inadvertently triggering the resurgence of his memories and power.	WATCH_MORE	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s	DramaBox- movies&drama	https://www.facebook.com/DramaBoxMoviesDrama/	9,339,614	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.storymatrix.drama	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/482139443_678052131221969_5230914857342989806_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BNa17n0mxsoQ7kNvgHwRdfb&_nc_oc=AdgYrLr54lst0LkXHUxN160f9uT5msAvmXR9BzHtUfDAi8HeHKc4nLnFFxNS5TSYChFXl6h1yM7OStLOvDVNrz-9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWdFuBZBgWbkxOcbt_M9kf9&oh=00_AYB8jYEvuki9VqeSuh6b2P-tdvh8wqtzhSPOGJOj1iQ4Xw&oe=67CB8167	PERSON_PROFILE	DramaBox- movies&drama	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,232	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747383}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	Continue Watching👉👉	Aidan Stein, the Eternal Lord Sovereign of the magnificent Eternity Palace, temporarily loses his memory and intelligence due to his 60-year cycle. He lives alone in Vertania until he encounters Jade Yule, who saves his life and becomes his wife. Years later, Jack Foley, an aristocrat of Vertania, develops an interest in Jade. He sends his men after Aidan, inadvertently triggering the resurgence of his memories and power.	WATCH_MORE	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.s	DramaBox- movies&drama	https://www.facebook.com/DramaBoxMoviesDrama/	9,339,609	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	play.google.com	VIDEO		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.storymatrix.drama	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481490635_651764690637569_5906153005655646216_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=saO8reg2eI0Q7kNvgEJ6RN7&_nc_oc=AdhVaX1lpkpZzZrFK11nPv-mVhszM2q7heoQvFnvXv1PveiffOenbUPv7so_mrjcG06JF8egHMuST0MBWplD7AQk&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ACGQOmvbEdMMJ2C-RA7b1Mw&oh=00_AYAhi1T6G8RBFSKpbkuBTCemvIrG03F3I7ZDE4p5AoB2Nw&oe=67CBA27A	PERSON_PROFILE	DramaBox- movies&drama	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,217	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747215}'	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	👉 Dive into their world now – download and start watching!	🌟 A Pretend Marriage Turns Into True Love! 🌟 She’s a talented jewelry designer, and he’s a mysterious billionaire. What starts as a fake marriage to save face quickly becomes an undeniable bond. Will their hearts fall for each other, or will their fake relationship fall apart? 🔥 From fiery arguments to passionate moments, “The Fake Marriage of a Billionaire” is a romantic rollercoaster you won’t want to miss! 💕 📺 Witness the emotional journey as two people who never expected to fall in love slowly discover they’re meant to be together. What started as a lie, ends up being their greatest truth. ✨ Join their unexpected love story, filled with laughter, tears, and everything in between. ✨ 👉 Start watching now – download and fall in love with the drama! 💖	LEARN_MORE	https://d.eavideo.net/w2a?p0=1lcsofp5&p1={{campaig	Eashort Flicks	https://www.facebook.com/61565937680017/	55	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	d.eavideo.net	VIDEO		https://d.eavideo.net/w2a?p0=1lcsofp5&p1={{campaign.name}}&p2={{campaign.id}}&p3={{adset.name}}&p4={{adset.id}}&p5={{ad.name}}&p6={{ad.id}}&p7=1716054102176369&accoutid=539492142286000&deeplink=esvideo%3A%2F%2Fbook.easou.com%2Fta%2Fesvideo.m%3Fgid%3D300000515%26nid%3D300000515%26sort%3D0%26ch%3D1255%26paytype%3Dwwppy7%26pi%3D0%26pa%3D999999	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481334637_933811948833830_8650644586028047262_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7haFbjJ0bA8Q7kNvgEzCW0P&_nc_oc=Adj9aC2XF07dc0xup8vhgvHMPpSEf34I3nt-kROIx59kKGFUT_GLhJjjZGVfciWOeeYqP4GeZHXaVH_CLrQ8MAgA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ag2DB4VZfy_2EiKOdDvDC9D&oh=00_AYD5S8vRvX4BCul4P0fwrKgHRzldHeEhxtz3odjSO-ZPKg&oe=67CB9EF8	PERSON_PROFILE	Eashort Flicks	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,240	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747285}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"She's not an ex or a bunny, is she?" "What? No. Cora and I went to school together. Her stepfather was my coach in high school. We were friends." "Just friends?" "Just friends. She's probably the only girl who's ever just been my friend. I've known her since kindergarten." Until she wasn't my friend anymore. Until I screwed it up. ____________ Cora The night is busier than usual, and I've run myself ragged trying to keep up in the ER. As a nurse, I don't normally work the ER, but I've had trauma training, and when three nurses called off, I came in. The overtime will be a nice bonus. I'm behind on my rent, and I hope this extra money will help me not only catch up on that, but on the other bills as well. "Cora!" I glance up from my charts to see Mrs. Hesh, my supervisor in the ER, hurrying toward me. She looks panicked. "What's wrong?" "We have several VIP patients coming in. I need your help." "Of course." I close the chart and put it back in the pile I still need to go through. "What do I need to know?" "Several of the hockey players from the Raptors got injured and are being rushed here. We need to make sure they're taken care of straight away and that the team and coaches are kept informed of their status. Can you do that?" "Shouldn't Shelia do that? She's the senior RN. I'm only filling in." Hockey players make me uneasy. Bad past experience. "I don't trust her not to ask them all for autographs. She's a total fangirl." My eyes widen. I didn't know Mrs. H. knew what that term even meant. "And I heard you say you knew hockey." "I do." "Good. I trust you not to lose your mind when confronted by the team." "No, ma'am, I won't." "You may need to wrangle some of the other nurses, too. I'll be busy with the patients." "They're not going to like it, especially the ones who have seniority over me." "Does that mean you can't do it?" The older woman turns and looks me dead in the eye, hers shrewd and assessing. But she can change my status here at the hospital. I'm not going to do anything to disappoint her. It says a lot she's trusting me with this. "I can do it." "Good." We both rush to the ER entrance, waiting for the ambulances to arrive. I pull my ponytail down and redo it, tucking the loose strands of my heavy blonde hair behind my ear. I learned during my first real rotation to always keep my hair up and out of the way. Otherwise, you could get run over in a packed ER because you can't see when your hair is swinging everywhere. It only takes a few moments for the first two ambulances to come screeching into the ER entrance, sirens blaring. Taking a deep breath, I close my eyes for two seconds then move forward, meeting the ambulance doors and waiting for them to open. The first player out is Jamison O'Brian. He has a nasty cut to the face, and his leg is propped up and held immobile by the board strapped to it. He looks rough, but not in danger. Dr. Billings waves him off with the nurse standing behind me. I don't remember the guy's name. I'm not down here enough to know everyone. The second ambulance holds a more serious injury. Myers is the name emblazoned on his jersey. His head is a bloody mess, as is his arm, a nasty looking gash that was most likely caused by a blade. That's going to keep him out for a couple of weeks at least, depending on any kind of nerve or muscle damage. He goes with Ava, the other nurse down here from my regular floor. Ava and I are friends, and we both frown at the seriousness of the injury. Ava is a huge hockey fan, but she can be trusted not to lose her mind over treating a player, which is why she's been called out to meet the ambulances. The last ambulance is the one Mrs. H. seems the most concerned with. As soon as the doors spring open and the EMTs start shouting stats, I get a good look at the unconscious man lying prone and bleeding on the stretcher. All the air rushes out of my lungs, and all I can do is stare. No. It can't be. He's in Florida. Not Minnesota. "Cora?" The sharp tone snaps me out of my funk. "Sorry. It's just I know him." "You know him?" We run after the stretcher. "I went to school with him." "Is this going to be a problem?" "No, ma'am. I was just shocked is all. I hadn't realized he'd been traded to the Raptors. I'm good." She nods and we get to work, me helping cut his clothes off, revealing the extent of his injuries. He has massive bruises on his abdomen, which might indicate internal bleeding. There's also a nasty cut along one thigh, and his shoulder is at an odd angle. The doctors twist it back into its socket while he's unconscious. I wince when they do, glad he's unconscious for that. Resetting a shoulder is extremely painful. As the doctors do that, we keep working, helping to clean away the mess so they can evaluate him. The bleeding is stopped, and then he's gone to CT to make sure there was no damage to the brain and to see if he has internal bleeding where the bruising is. I go to check on the next patient, who is currently complaining that he's fine and he doesn't need all the fuss. The doctor and the male nurse are disagreeing with him, but he just gets louder. They do not know how to deal with hockey players, apparently. Or they don't want to upset a VIP patient. Either way, the patient's care comes first, even when said patient is acting like a big baby. "Sit." My tone is sharp and commanding when he tries to get off the table. His brown eyes snap to mine, and I just arch a brow. "I'm fine." He stands up, daring me to say a word. He has no idea he's dealing with someone who grew up around hockey players. "You are not fine. Now, sit down before you fall down." The nurse and doctor look at me like I've grown two heads, but O'Brian sits, a scowl on his face. He might terrify everyone else with that look, but not me. "Don't give me that look. Your leg could be broken, and the more you stand on it, the more damage you'll be doing. Which means longer time off the ice. So stop being a whiney prick and let us take care of you so you can get back out there." "Fine," he mutters, and I shake my head. Hockey players. Mrs. H. stands to the side, a small smile on her face. "Cora, we need you in here, please." I peel my gloves off and don a new pair when I push into the room where Myers sits, growling at everyone. The nurses are all a little too giddy and not really doing their job. Sighing, I push through them, snapping for them to get to work or get out. The low chuckle from the bed catches my attention, and I arch that same brow. "That's a nasty cut, Mr. Myers." "I've had worse." Dark green eyes dance with mischief even with the twinge of pain in them. "I'm sure you have." Ava hustles over, looking exasperated. "Thanks for that. They weren't listening to me." "No problem." Between the two of us, we get him stripped and cleaned, working around the doctors and getting them what they need as well. Soon he's hustled off to x-ray, and Ava and I take a moment to catch our breath. "That was intense." "I forget how surly they can be when they're hurt." "Your stepfather was a high school coach, wasn't he?" I nod, not really paying attention. "So that's how you know so much about hockey." We both jump at the sound of Mrs. H.'s voice. "Sorry, we just needed a moment." "Understandable. Cora if you can go inform the team of what's going on, I'd appreciate it. They're camped out in the waiting room." "And being very loud, I take it?" Her lips twitch, and I know I'm right. Sighing, I push off the wall and take a glance at the charts before walking down the hall to the waiting room. I hear the noise before I even reach the doors. Loud isn't quite the word I'd use. Think of about thirty two-year-olds all screaming at the top of their lungs. That would be the most accurate picture of the noise coming from out there. No fewer than six nurses, male and female alike, are trying to talk above the noise. But honestly, they're not asking about injuries or informing the team about the patients. They're talking about the game. "Excuse me." I make myself louder than normal, but it's not doing a thing to get anyone attention. So I do the one thing I know will get through. I put fingers to my lips and let out a whistle so shrill it hurts the ears. Another thing left over from my high school days. A little trick my stepfather taught me. But it's effective, and every single bit of noise dies down. "Thank you. Now, where is the head coach?" He stands and walks forward. "I'm Coach Baptist." "All three of your players are being taken care of. O'Brian's in x-ray, and Myers and Chandler are upstairs in CT. They're checking for head trauma and internal bleeding. As soon as we know more, I'll come out and let you know." I turn my attention back to the nurses. "You lot have things to do other than stand around out here and gossip. Get back to work." "I outrank you." The snottiest of them grins. "Yes, but Mrs. H. put me in charge. Sure you want to tell her why you decided to pull that snarky little comment out of your a$s?" Her eyes widen, and she turns and marches back through the doors. Idiot. "Well, what are the rest of you waiting for?" They grumble but shuffle off. Which leaves the team to deal with. "Is there anyone else out here who needs medical attention?" A collective shake of heads is the only answer. "Now, I know you're all tired, and anxious to find out about your teammates, but this is a hospital. There are sick people here, and all this noise isn't helping." More grumbling. "I get it, guys, I do, but I swear if you don't settle down, you're going to deal with me, and trust me, ladder drills have nothing on my ire, so please do us all a favor and behave." "Ladder drills, huh?" one player asks. "You know hockey?" "Yes. Now, unless you guys need something, I'll be back when I have more to report." I turn around, and a wolf whistle follows me. It takes me two seconds to have the offender's ear in between my fingers. You'd be amazed at how quickly a man will come to heel with a little pressure on his earlobe. "Ow!" he screeches. "I'm not your honey, babe, or a bunny. I'm Nurse Stevens, and if you disrespect me again, I will have your balls. Understand?" "Yes, ma'am." I turn him loose and give them all a level stare. "Understand?" A chorus of "yes, ma'ams" follow me as I turn around and disappear behind the doors leadings back to the ER. Hockey players. Cora Has it really been only four hours since the worst shock of my life? But my trusty watch says it has. Thank God for all my training, or I might have run from the hospital and never come back. Shaw Chandler. Dear sweet baby Jesus. I never expected to see him again, especially not in Minnesota, of all places. He swore he never wanted to play where it was cold ever again. The southern states or the warmer ones on the west coast are where he wanted to play. It's why I felt so safe moving here. Even though hockey is king in this state the same way football is in Texas, I knew he'd never play here. But then, players don't dictate trades. He might not have been given a choice. And besides, it's not like he'd care I'm here, anyway. We haven't spoken in over four years. Shaking my head, I pull myself together and focus on the patient who needs the nausea meds. Poor man seems to have gotten food poisoning. He's thrown up three times since he got here twenty minutes ago. He's dehydrated, but the IV I put in with the fluids should start to help soon. "Here you go, Mr. Croom. This will ease the nausea." I hand him the tablets and small paper cup. He takes it and swallows the pills down. "God, I hope this stays down." Me too. He threw up on me earlier. Glancing at the clock, a sigh escapes when I see my shift is over. I can go home and forget I saw Shaw Chandler. But the pale stillness of him when he came in worries me. Shaw was my best friend all throughout school, and as much as he hurt me, part of me still worries about him. I always will. "I'm getting ready to leave, Mr. Croom, but Amber will be the charge nurse on duty. She should be by in just a few minutes. Is there anything you need before I go?" He shakes his head miserably, and I smile encouragingly at him. Food poisoning is one of the worst things in the world. "Hey, Cora." Amber shoots me a smile when I walk over to the nurses' station to clock out on the computer. "Watch that one. He's got food poisoning and has already thrown up on me." "Ouch." I wrinkle my nose. I smell like vomit, but at least I have on clean scrubs. I learned early on to keep several extra sets on hand. I give her the rundown on the rest of the patients as I gather my things. "I heard about the hockey mess that came in." "Yeah. Two serious injuries and one very loud, very vocal team." "We've had them in a few times over the years. Takes some wrangling." "I handled it." "I knew you could." She waves me off as I walk around the station. "See you tomorrow!" No, she won't, but I don't bother mentioning that. Amber is one of the nicest people in this place, and I try not to let my snarky nature disrupt her bubbly attitude. It's not until I'm in the elevator stepping off onto the floor where Shaw is that I realize I've even done it. I shouldn't be here. I know it, but I'm worried. He looked so pale. Groaning at my own gluttony for punishment, I walk down the hall to his room. No one is around. He's probably still passed out. He had a nasty concussion, but because of the surgery to repair his spleen, he had to have anesthesia. If I remember correctly, he doesn't respond well to the stuff. It knocks him out for days afterward, so I should be good just to sneak in and check to make sure he's okay. But he's not alone. One of the nurses from the waiting room is standing there, taking photos on his phone. What the... "Just what the heck do you think you're doing?" He whirls around, and his eyes go round. I whip out my phone and text Mrs. H. She's the one nurse I know who will take care of this. "What are you doing?" he asks, voice low. "Texting my supervisor to let her know what you're doing." He looks from the phone to me and then shrugs. He knows he can sell those photos for a few hundred thousand, easy. It's no biggie if he gets fired. He breezes by me and out the door. Oh, he did not! Running after him, I catch his arm and pull him around. "You're not..." "Don't make me hurt you, babe." His tone is threatening, but it doesn't register. All I'm thinking about is those photos. Photos of Shaw when he's vulnerable and unable to defend himself. "You are not getting out of here with those pictures." "You going to stop me, babe?" Without thinking, I grab his phone and slam it on the ground, smashing it in the process. Well, cracking the screen more than the phone flying into little bits and pieces. "You little bimbo!" And before I can dodge, his fist has connects with my face. Everyone on the floor sees it. He seems to notice and tries to run, but one of the hockey guys from downstairs is only a few steps away and snags him. "You okay, Cora?" Natalee, one of my good friends, asks as she helps me up. "Did you hit your head?" The pain vibrating across my cheek is horrible. The bruise is going to be epically bad. My head does hurt, but it's not as bad as the cheek. "She broke my phone!" the offender shouts. "That doesn't give you the right to hit a girl, dude." Mr. Tall Dark and Deadly hockey player doesn't look impressed with the nurse's outburst. Mrs. H. arrives and, seeing my face, rushes over to check it, her fingers gentle on my jaw. "This needs x-rayed." "It'll be fine." I can't afford a hospital bill. Even with our insurance taking care of most of the bill, I still can't afford what would be left. "No, it won't," she rebukes. "Or do I need to pull the same spiel you gave earlier?" I try to smile, but it hurts too much. "Now, is this the man you texted about?" I nod. "Yes, ma'am. He was taking pictures of Sha...Mr. Chandler. When he tried to run, I smashed his phone. I'm sorry about that, but it's the only thing I could think to do. Our job is to take care of our patients, not exploit them when they're unconscious." "He did what?" The voice of the player holding the nurse drops two octaves and turns from soft to hard so fast it would make your head spin. Even those pretty brown eyes have gone so cold and dark, they're nearly black. "She's lying!" "I don't think so." Mrs. H. collects the smashed phone off the floor. "The police should be able to pull any photos from the phone. It's not damaged too badly." The man's face pales. "We'll take care of this." Mrs. H. turns to Natalee. "Get her checked in then off to x-ray. Someone will be by to fill out an incident report, and Cora, don't worry about the bill. You won't be getting one since it's a work-related injury." Her expression dares me to argue, so instead I pull out my own phone and text my babysitter that I'll be later than I thought. At least I don't have to worry about one more bill I can't afford. When I get back from x-ray, they don't take me down to the ER like I expected. They bring me back to Shaw's floor and to a room. Natalee winks when she comes in. "Can't have one of ours down there in the mess." I smile gratefully, knowing she pulled a few strings. This is my normal floor, and I love the nurses I work with up here. "You got some ninja skills, girlfriend." "Ha, if I had skills, I wouldn't have gotten hit." "Yeah, I didn't see that coming either. I was already up and coming over when you snatched Marty's phone, but I wasn't able to stop him. Sorry." I wave off her apology. "How much longer do you think this is going to be? Noah's already up and probably mad that I'm not there to make his breakfast." "How is the kiddo?" "He's good, adjusting better than I thought he would when we moved out here." "It had to be hard on him. When John and I moved here two years ago, our daughter declared us horrible people and said she'd never forgive us." "How'd that go?" "She was five. She got over it when we took her ice skating." I laugh and then wince. "Don't make me laugh. It hurts." "Sorry." She hands me the cup of coffee she'd been holding. "I brought this for you. It's from the stand outside, not the cafeteria. Thought you'd need some caffeine." "Thanks, Nat." "Anytime. I have to go check on patients, but the doctor shouldn't be too long. He has to haul it up from the ER, so..." I shrug. It'll probably be a while longer than she let on. I'll drink my coffee and try not to focus on the man a few doors down from me. The one I shouldn't even have checked on. But I'm glad I did. No matter what happened between Shaw and me, no one deserves to have their photo taken while they're at their most vulnerable. Especially not by the people who are supposed to be taking care of them. "Knock, knock." The hockey player who snagged the nurse walks in. "that looks bad." "I'd say it looks worse than it feels, but I'd be lying." He comes closer, his hands in his pockets. His black hoodie with the Raptors logo isn't nearly as dark as his hair. The stubble on his face gives him a rakish look. He reminds me of a pirate and is way hotter than Johnny Depp in Pirates of the Caribbean. The man is gorgeous, and he knows it. It's the way he moves, the confidence of his stride. I take a sip of my coffee, careful to blow on it first. "That's not from the cafeteria." "Nope. There's a little coffee vendor outside the hospital. Better than Starbucks." "No sh-it?" "No sh-it." "Good to know." After he stands there awkwardly for a full minute, I decide to put him out of his misery. "Is there anything I can help you with?" "Oh...uh...I just wanted to check on you, make sure you were okay." He doesn't sound nearly as confident as his stride. He sounds nervous. "I'm good." "And to thank you for what you did." "Not necessary. I'm sorry it happened. I didn't think anyone here would do something like that." "You'd be surprised at what people will do for money." The darkness lurking in his eyes tells me that he's well acquainted with the subject. Another minute goes by, and then his phone buzzes. He pulls it out and frowns at the message. "Everything okay?" He sighs. "My kid has terrorized another nanny. She's threatening to quit." Now that, I smile at. "My son went through three sitters when we moved here six months ago. He was adjusting to a new place, a new city, and sitters he didn't know." "My son has lived here his whole life, which is all of four years. He loves to cause chaos, and the nannies I hire don't like the chaos. I wish he was more like his sister. She's as sweet as can be." I laugh at that, not caring about the wince. "Three- and four-year-old little boys are a handful and take a certain brand of crazy to deal with all its own." "That they do." He smiles, and it lights up his entire face. "I'm Blaine Kirkos, by the way." "Nice to meet you, Mr..." He's shaking his head, interrupting me before I can get the word out. "No mister. Call me Blaine. We parents have to stick together. At least now I know how you handled a room full of hockey players and wrangled Myers and O'Brian. They said you were like a little general, daring them to disobey you." "Hockey players are very much like little boys." "I'm not saying I agree, but..." "But you do." His smile is my only answer. "So, I was thinking I could get you tickets to a game or something...to say thank you for taking care of everyone and stopping that guy from getting away with photos." "Oh, no, that's okay. You don't have to do that." "But I want to." "I work most nights you guys have games." "You could switch a shift or call in..." "Can't call in. Bills to pay and all that." "How about I send you tickets, and if you can come, then you come?" I start to tell him thank you but no when the doctor comes in. He glances at Blaine and does a double take. "Oh, Mr. Kirkos, I didn't know you knew Cora." He winks at me and shakes the doctor's hand. "Just in here checking on our favorite nurse. I'll let you talk to her so she can get out of here and home to her son. I'll be seeing you Nurse Stevens!" He walks out whistling, and the doctor turns to me, one eyebrow raised. I refrain from saying a word, and when he realizes I'm not about to gossip, he gets down to business. My cheekbone is not fractured as they'd feared, but it's going to hurt like crazy. He offers pain meds, and I decline, so he writes me a prescription for Ibuprofen 800 and calls it a day. Once my discharge papers are firmly in hand, I tell Natalee goodbye and waver in front of Shaw's door. Giving in to temptation, I go in and walk over to the bed. He's just as gorgeous as I remember. His skin is darker, pecked by the Florida sun. The blond hair that always made him look like the boy next door is lighter, sun bleached from days spent on the beach. His eyes are a dark stormy gray, and even though they're closed, I can picture them. His body has filled out a lot since the last time I saw him. He's become the man that the boy only hinted at. "Hey..." I turn to see Natalee come in. She's got questions in her eyes, but I shrug, not up to answering them. "How is he?" I ask instead. "In and out of consciousness, which is good, especially with the concussion. Surgery was successful, but he's not going to be on the ice anytime soon. Nasty concussion." I nod. It's what I assumed when they started talking about concussions in the ER. At least he's okay. I can go home and forget about him now. "Tinkerbell?" The hoarsely whispered word pulls my attention to pain-filled eyes. He's staring at me with an intensity that's hard to shake. But I have to. Without a word, I turn and walk out of the room.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.bingecherry.com/ad/L0JpbmdlQ2hlcnJ5LyR7b	ForFun-100	https://www.facebook.com/100094441775812/	280	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.bingecherry.com	VIDEO		https://a.bingecherry.com/ad/L0JpbmdlQ2hlcnJ5LyR7bGlua0lkfS8xNzQwMzc1ODM0NjgyL3BhZ2VjaHNqdg==?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481297780_1786851248764016_2193721133394134758_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Vt-onBijy1MQ7kNvgHGajn-&_nc_oc=AdiG1pGScKtUsx5MmWoKZ8buraQRD-kpzIjcjZ_zl4fn9nl3Yq18G5huMRG3SXFZdmqpwEgdrC_RZ3GYVjdgHRtY&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=ACGQOmvbEdMMJ2C-RA7b1Mw&oh=00_AYDYnXjfLLyY2tLeQB7Vcm7Pn2BVRwolYlkJ3WfIPipiCQ&oe=67CB8D3F	PERSON_PROFILE	ForFun-100	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,096	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥📚《 No Failure in His Dictionary 》🔥Free Reading📚	He Imprisoned of jail for his beloved wife, only to be betrayed by her. But she never expected that he was now the ruler of the world. Chapter 1 The God Of Prison In the Fourth Prison of Huxville, a battalion of soldiers, outfitted with cutting-edge military gear, maintained a high-security stronghold. This facility was renowned for housing the world's most fearsome criminals. Each inmate was exceptionally skilled, ranging from ruthless demons with an inherent penchant for violence to former elite soldiers whose mere names had once instilled terror in their adversaries. Among the prisoners were also some highly influential tycoons. On this day, a sudden wave of commotion reverberated through the prison. A new inmate was being admitted—a man known as the “Coyote,” the third most powerful mercenary leader in the world. He was notorious for allegedly massacring over sixty people at the border of Ledroustein. At that moment, the prison door clanged shut behind him. The Coyote, with his bald head and a wolf tattoo, swaggered in, his eyes glinting with a trace of ferocity. He strode confidently through the recreational area, heading straight for Cell No. 7. Inside, a young man lay on the bed, absorbed in a book. Rumble! The Coyote, kicked the bed frame and, with a voice as cold as ice, declared, “Request a transfer from the guard yourself. Move to another cell. I don't like sharing a room.” The young man slowly stretched and sat up, sizing up the Coyote standing before him. At around six feet tall and nearly one hundred kilograms, the Coyote's imposing presence was accentuated by his broad chest and a rugged, intimidating face. He resembled a wild man who had emerged straight from the depths of the wilderness. “In this prison, power rules,” the young man said, a teasing smile playing on his lips. “So if you want this room all to yourself... how about a one-on-one duel?” At that moment, a crowd of convicts had gathered outside, their eyes reflecting a mix of curiosity and pity. The Coyote's expression momentarily faltered. This young man has some nerve! Once, he had single-handedly defeated twenty-one mercenaries, earning his fearsome reputation as the Coyote in the jungle of Jussipi. He was taken aback by the audacity of this wiry young man, who, despite his skinny build, had the courage to challenge him to a one-on-one duel. In an instant, the Coyote erupted into a chilling cackle, his fist clenched tightly. “Kid, if you're so eager to meet your end, I'll be happy to oblige.” Before he could finish his sentence, he raised his fist to strike the young man. But in the blink of an eye, the young man had vanished. The Coyote felt a sudden tightening at the back of his collar and, before he could react, was hurled into the air and slammed forcefully onto the ground. The impact of his over one hundred kilograms body caused the entire prison to tremble momentarily. The young man didn't even spare a glance at the Coyote, who lay sprawled on the ground like a discarded rag. Instead, he turned his attention to the group of onlookers gathered at the entrance. With a confident grin, he asked, “Pretty impressive, huh?” The inmates, each capable of causing a stir on their own before they were captured, all responded with eager admiration. Their smiles were as flattering as they were synchronized, nodding enthusiastically like chicks pecking at grains. “Impressive, Boss. You're really something!” “As expected of Silas' successor.” At the mention of “Silas”, a flicker of nostalgia passed through the young man's eyes. It's been a year since Silas left. All the skills I've acquired are thanks to him. He even said he had a surprise planned for me when I got out. Yet, it's been a whole d*mn year, and he hasn't even bothered to visit. At that moment, a guard pushed through the crowd and approached. Seeing the Coyote sprawled on the ground, he didn't seem at all surprised. Instead, a smile spread across his face as he announced, “Mr. Lassche, it's time for your release.” Today was indeed the day for Jaziel Lassche to be released from prison. Influenced by Silas's superstitions, Jaziel had chosen to be released precisely at noon, believing it to be an auspicious time. “All right,” Jaziel said, adjusting his clothes before following the guard out. As he emerged, the prisoners in the vicinity straightened up and greeted him respectfully. “Boss!” “Greetings, Boss!” “I'm about to leave, so behave yourselves and don't give the guards any trouble. And that Coyote—make sure he's locked in isolation for three days with no meals. He had the nerve to be arrogant here in Fourth Prison. It's time he learned some respect,” Jaziel instructed as he said his farewells. “Don't worry, Boss. We'll make sure everything is handled perfectly,” someone replied. Soon after, Jaziel followed the guard out of the prison. As he reached the front courtyard, a woman in military attire approached with a commanding presence. Her cool, heroic demeanor was underscored by the single star on her shoulder, marking her as a general—a rank impressive for someone so young. Jaziel stopped in his tracks, not just because of her rank, but because her face seemed oddly familiar. She was his high school classmate, Selina Tagara. Back in school, Selina had been a mysterious figure with extraordinary combat skills, and rumors swirled about her prestigious military background. After graduation, she vanished. To encounter her here, of all places, was unexpected. Upon recognizing Jaziel, Selina frowned slightly as she took in his prison uniform. “Are you Jaziel?” she asked, her tone a mix of surprise and curiosity. Jaziel nodded. “Yeah, I didn't expect us to run into each other here. It's been years since I last heard anything about you.” Selina replied, “On the contrary, I've heard quite a bit about you. It's not your fault you ended up in jail—I just didn't expect you to be confined here. These past three years must have been tough, but now that you're being released, you're finally free.” As she spoke, she reached into her bag, pulled out a pen, and wrote down a phone number on a note. She handed it to Jaziel with a smile. “It's been three years, and a lot has changed outside,” Selina said. “If you need any help, don't hesitate to reach out. We were classmates once, after all. I have official duties to attend to now, but we'll catch up when we can.” With that, she walked past Jaziel. As she moved away, she explained to her colleagues, “He was a classmate of mine. His girlfriend was assaulted by a wealthy scion, and in retaliation, he ended up harming the offender. As a result, he was sentenced to prison. I heard that his girlfriend married the scion he attacked. He was an exceptional student with a promising future, so it's a shame—spending three years in a place like this can ruin anyone.” Her two colleagues showed little reaction, their expressions unchanged. To them, he was merely a young man who had lost his way, existing in a world vastly different from their own. His story didn't evoke any empathy from them. After all, each individual is an island in the vast sea of humanity, and no one can truly share another's pain. Jaziel discarded his prison attire and changed into a fresh set of casual clothes. After bidding farewell to the few guards, he stepped out of the prison gates. As soon as he crossed the threshold, he was greeted by the sight of a long line of black sedans, easily numbering over a hundred. People dressed in black and wearing sunglasses stood beside each vehicle, their presence commanding attention. The instant Jaziel appeared, the group of individuals in black bowed in unison and greeted him with, “Good day, Mr. Jaziel.” Chapter 2 Gift From Silas Jaziel looked at the men in black, all lined up and bowing in perfect unison, feeling a mix of confusion and disbelief. Mr. Jaziel? I come from a lineage of eight generations of poor farmers. When did I become so esteemed? Could they be mistaking me for someone else? Just then, the middle-aged man who had been leading the group straightened from his bow and approached Jaziel with purpose. “My name is Sean. I was sent by Mr. Nalitch to welcome you,” the man said with a polite nod. “Mr. Nalitch? Silas?” Jaziel's eyes widened in surprise. Silas was the one who had passed on his combat skills to Jaziel, and he knew that Silas' surname was Nalitch. “Yes, Mr. Jaziel. Please, get in the car. We can discuss the details on the way.” “All right.” Since it was Silas' arrangement, Jaziel naturally followed along, though doubts lingered in his mind. Just who is Silas, really? He settled into the car, and the entire convoy executed a precise U-turn before driving off into the distance. Meanwhile, Selina, having just finished her official duties, emerged from the prison. As she observed the departing convoy, a glint of admiration crossed her face. “Who is this big shot leaving prison today? What a grand spectacle,” she mused. With her professional acumen, Selina quickly recognized that these cars had been equipped with the most advanced military modifications, comparable to the exclusive vehicles of high-ranking military officials. Inside the car, Jaziel settled into the back seat while Sean took the front passenger seat. Turning around, Sean addressed Jaziel with deep respect. “Mr. Nalitch is aware that you're returning to Cadrexia, so he made all the necessary arrangements. He instructed us to remain on standby, ready to follow any of your commands.” “Where's Silas? I want to see him,” Jaziel said. Sean shook his head. “Mr. Nalitch is tied up with some important matters. He will come to meet you as soon as he's available. In the meantime, he asked me to give you this.” Sean handed Jaziel a photograph. The image featured a beautiful young woman, and the address on the back was familiar. This was indeed his ex-girlfriend, about whom he had heard—she had married her abuser. A fleeting smile of self-mockery appeared on Jaziel's lips as he crumpled the photograph in his hand, his emotions churning. The car traveled for an hour, and upon reaching Cadrexia, Sean led Jaziel to the base of a towering building. “This is Dominion Group,” Sean announced with a touch of pride. “Mr. Nalitch has invested two hundred billion into it as a gift specifically for you. It's now officially under your name.” “Silas sure is wealthy,” Jaziel remarked, taken aback. Following Sean, he ascended to the top floor of the building. The executives of Dominion Group had been waiting, and their surprise was palpable when they saw Jaziel walking ahead of Sean. While Jaziel's identity was unmistakable, the executives were taken aback by how young the new boss appeared. Moments later, the influential figures who held significant sway within the company approached one by one to shake hands with Jaziel. Jaziel noticed a woman with golden curly hair, not particularly old, standing among them. Sean introduced her, “This is Heather, the CEO of Dominion Group.” “Hello, Boss,” Heather Gellert said with a warm smile, extending her delicate hand. Her charm was undeniable, and even Jaziel found himself momentarily mesmerized by her presence. Jaziel took Heather's hand and, guided by her, gained a basic understanding of Dominion Group's primary operations. After a brief overview, he stood up and prepared to leave. In reality, even without Silas' lavish gifts, Jaziel was already quite wealthy. During his time in prison, he had learned about stock market strategies from various financial tycoons and had accumulated tens of millions through his investments. Right then, Sean handed him a gift box. “Mr. Jaziel, this is the Earl Grey tea you requested. It's the finest quality,” he said with assurance. “All right, thanks,” Jaziel said, giving Sean a friendly pat on the shoulder. The Earl Grey tea was a gift for his aunt. After the loss of his parents, his Aunt Susannah Lassche was the only family he had left. Over the years, she had been a steadfast presence, visiting him frequently in prison. Now that he was released, his first thought was to express his gratitude to her for her care. “Mr. Jaziel, are you sure you don't need me to accompany you?” Sean asked, unable to hide his concern. “No need, I'll call you if something comes up,” Jaziel replied, waving his hand dismissively without looking back as he stepped into the elevator. Upon reaching the first floor, Jaziel spotted a familiar and charming figure. It was Selina—fate seemed to be at work, bringing them together twice in a single day. At that moment, Selina had changed out of her military attire into a sleek black outfit that accentuated her curvaceous figure and enhanced her feminine allure. When she saw Jaziel, she was momentarily surprised but quickly masked it with a smile. “Jaziel, what brings you here? Are you here for a job interview? With Dominion Group just established, it's the perfect time to recruit talent. How did it go? Are you satisfied with how things went?” Jaziel was briefly taken aback by her question but chose not to elaborate. He simply replied, “It's all right.” Noticing Jaziel's reluctance to discuss further, Selina couldn't help but sigh inwardly. Just out of jail and already looking for a job—this classmate of mine certainly has ambition. But who would hire someone recently released from prison? A wave of sympathy rose within her. She offered, “The CEO of Dominion Group is a friend of mine. Perhaps I could put in a good word for you?” Jaziel politely declined, “No need, thank you for your kindness. I have some matters to attend to, so I'll be leaving now.” With that, Jaziel left without hesitation. He and Selina were from different worlds. Selina shook her head. This old classmate of mine still clings to his pride. It's evident he desperately needs this job, yet refuses to accept my help. He doesn't seem to realize that in this ruthless society, his pride is worth little. After leaving Dominion Group, Jaziel unfolded the note he had been given. Following the address written on it, he arrived at an upscale residential area. His uncle, Timothy Barker, a successful businessman, had been thriving recently and had even upgraded to a new house. This was Jaziel's first visit to the new residence. Following the address, he arrived at Block 19 and rang the doorbell. “Who is it?” came a woman's voice from inside. Hearing the familiar voice, Jaziel felt excited and emotional. After a brief pause, he responded, “Aunt Susannah, it's me, Jaziel.” Susannah cried in surprise. Jaziel quickly entered the elevator and made his way to the thirteenth floor. As the door opened, he was met with the sight of Susannah, her eyes brimming with tears. “You're finally out! Why didn't you tell me? I could have come to pick you up,” she exclaimed, her voice trembling with relief and joy. “Come in, quickly.” Susannah welcomed Jaziel into the house, holding onto his arm as if she never wanted to let go. Inside the living room, a plump man sat comfortably on the couch. This was Jaziel's uncle, Timothy. With his square face and partially bald head, Timothy carried an air of authority despite his relaxed posture. Among Jaziel's relatives, Timothy was known for his capabilities. However, given Jaziel's mischievous nature as a child, Timothy never really liked him. Susannah guided Jaziel to the couch and said, “Jaz, take some time to catch up with your uncle. I'll go prepare something for you. Vivian will be back soon. You two used to love playing together when you were kids.” Once Susannah was gone, Timothy handed Jaziel an apple and said, “Here you go.” Jaziel accepted it with a nod, as if he were an obedient child. “Thanks, Uncle Timothy.” Timothy then asked, “What are your plans now that you're out of jail?” “Um...” Jaziel hesitated, not having given it much thought yet. Timothy frowned in displeasure. He had never been particularly fond of this nephew, but he had to admit that Jaziel had shown promise. The young man had always been bright and even managed to gain admission to a prestigious university. Among the younger generation of the Lassche family, Jaziel had been exceptional. However, prison had branded him as an ex-convict, and all those years he spent in university seemed to have been for nothing. Now that he was finally released, Jaziel appeared directionless and had yet to make any plans for the future. Timothy was disappointed, feeling that the time Jaziel spent behind bars had left him reduced to a shell of his former self. In the kitchen, Susannah chimed in, “Jaz just got out; how would he know what to do? Isn't your company hiring? Maybe he could join your team.” Timothy frowned instantly. “My company has specific hiring requirements, and Jaziel's field of study isn't relevant to our industry.” Truthfully, Timothy was reluctant to consider bringing Jaziel into his company. Jaziel had been stubborn since young, and Timothy wasn't keen on inviting trouble by bringing Jaziel in. “I've heard that driving for ride-hailing services can be quite profitable these days. Why not consider renting a car and becoming a driver?” Timothy suggested. Jaziel chuckled softly. “No need.” Timothy snorted in disapproval. “You've been through prison, yet you still refuse to humble yourself and work from the bottom. Do you still see yourself as a university graduate from a prestigious institution?” Chapter 3 World Domination As they spoke, the door creaked open, and in walked a stunning girl. Her hair was tied up in a sleek ponytail, with round sunglasses resting against her fair skin. She stepped in, still absorbed in her phone. “Vivian, it's been a while,” Jaziel said, rising from the couch. It was only then that Vivian looked up. Her beautiful eyes widened with surprise when they landed on Jaziel. Vivian studied her cousin, whom she hadn't seen in three years. As a child, she used to trail behind Jaziel constantly, always eager to spend time with him. But as the years passed, their lives had drifted in different directions. After hanging her bag on the coat rack, Vivian noticed a box of Earl Grey tea near the door. Her curiosity piqued, she picked it up and opened it. Almost immediately, a frown appeared on her face. “Is this tea even drinkable?” she asked, her tone laced with disdain. “The packaging looks so cheap, and the tea's all black.” She put the box down with an expression of clear distaste, as though it were beneath her standards. A few days ago, she had accompanied a friend to an upscale tea shop, where the packaging was elegant and luxurious—nothing like the humble box Jaziel had brought. “Your cousin just got out of prison and doesn't have much to his name. It's the thought that counts, not the packaging,” Susannah chided. Vivian stuck out her tongue playfully, then sauntered over to the couch, flopping down casually. The sternness in Timothy's expression softened slightly as he gazed at his daughter, a rare smile tugging at the corners of his lips. Lunch was served swiftly, and the family gathered around the table. Timothy poured himself a glass of wine and turned his attention to his daughter. “Vivi, you've just started your internship, and now the company's changed hands. How's work been treating you?” Vivian, busy piling food onto her plate, smiled. “It's been great. The benefits at Dominion Group have improved a lot compared to before. You've got to hand it to them—they know how to throw money around. When they bought out Flora Group, they offered twenty percent above the asking price. Our old boss was speechless!” She paused, glancing at her father with a mischievous grin. “Oh, and guess what, Dad? The new boss of Dominion Group came by for an inspection today. Can you guess how old he is?” “Someone who can buy a company for twenty billion must be at least in their forties or fifties, right?” Timothy guessed, raising an eyebrow. Vivian shook her head, wagging her finger playfully. “Nope, wrong guess! The owner of Dominion Group is only in his twenties.” Both Timothy and Susannah exchanged surprised looks, clearly taken aback by the revelation. Meanwhile, Jaziel, quietly picked up a piece of chicken and placed it on his plate, his expression unreadable. “Surprised, right?” Vivian continued, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “Even our colleagues were shocked. It's just a pity the boss only went to the top floor before leaving. None of us got a chance to meet him or see what this young prodigy looks like.” Jaziel listened quietly as his cousin unknowingly spoke about him. He felt a bit awkward, but he didn't show it. After lunch and a brief chat with his aunt, Jaziel decided it was time to leave. As he was about to go, Susannah, her concern evident, asked, “Jaz, do you have a place to stay?” Jaziel smiled reassuringly. “Don't worry, Aunt Susannah. I've already rented a house.” After Jaziel left, Timothy turned to Susannah, his expression stern. “Susannah, you need to think before you speak. The company isn't just mine to control. Your nephew just got out of prison, remember? I can't just let anyone waltz into the business.” Susannah's face immediately darkened. “What's wrong with helping my nephew? He's family! Is it such a big deal to ask you to arrange a job for him?” The tension between them quickly escalated, and soon they were caught in a heated argument. Vivian, sitting nearby, felt overwhelmed by the noise. Fed up, she grabbed her bag and decided to go shopping with her best friend. After leaving Susannah's place, Jaziel made his way to Lakefield Estates, an upscale neighborhood lined with luxurious mansions. One of these properties was among the many gifts Silas had prepared for him. As he approached the entrance, the quiet streets were briefly disturbed by the roar of an SUV speeding by. Glancing over, Jaziel caught a glimpse of the figure inside—it looked unmistakably like Selina. “Does she live here too?” Jaziel muttered in surprise. How uncanny—to run into her three times in a single day. Shaking his head, he continued through the gates. The mansion was a sight to behold. Its crimson walls and dark tiles gave it an ancient, dignified feel. Intricately carved railings framed the entry, and jade-like pillars supported the ornate structure. Two imposing stone lions flanked the entrance, their gaze fierce, as if guarding the place with an air of unshakable authority. Above the grand doors, the phrase “World Domination” gleamed in bold, gold-embossed letters. Seeing the bold inscription, Jaziel found himself momentarily speechless. There was no mistaking it—this was Silas's doing. Naming the newly acquired company “Dominion Group” and now branding the villa with a similar theme spoke volumes about Silas' aspirations for him. It was a grand, almost overwhelming gesture. Yet, despite the extravagance, a warm feeling stirred in Jaziel's chest. Silas wasn't just giving him material wealth; he was investing in him, placing his trust and expectations squarely on his shoulders. Meanwhile, Vivian was sharing her frustrations with her best friend, Sophie Zaltman, at a chic café. Vivian sighed heavily. “Sophie, it's so frustrating—my parents had another argument.” “What's wrong?” Sophie, dressed in a stylish light yellow mini skirt, radiated a blend of maturity and confidence. She looked elegant even when sipping her coffee. “It's all because of my cousin who just got out of prison. My mom wants him to work at my dad's company, but my dad's not on board. Their arguing has given me a massive headache.” “Ah, I see.” Sophie smiled sympathetically. “But don't worry—Caleb has been thinking about how to impress you lately. Just give him a chance, and he'll handle everything for your cousin.” When Caleb's name came up, Vivian's eyes lit up. She had recently met Caleb Zillen, a wealthy young heir who had been pursuing her. “Is it really okay?” Vivian asked, her uncertainty clear. “Of course it is,” Sophie said with confidence. “If you're uncomfortable making the call, I can do it for you.” With that, Sophie promptly pulled out her cellphone. After a quick conversation, Sophie's face lit up with excitement. “Vivian, Caleb just told me they're training at the boxing studio downtown and asked us to go over. Call your cousin and ask him to join us.” At that moment, Jaziel was gazing out the window when his phone buzzed in his pocket. He glanced at the screen and saw Vivian's name. “Jaziel, are you free right now? I need to talk to you about something. Could you come by Supreme Boxing Studio downtown?” “All right.” Jaziel ended the call and put his phone away. Vivian had always been the cousin he was closest to during their childhood. With his schedule open, he decided to head over to Supreme Boxing Studio. After leaving Lakefield Estates, he caught a taxi and soon arrived at the studio, where Vivian and Sophie were waiting at the entrance. When Jaziel stepped out of the car, Vivian quickly introduced him to Sophie before they all entered the boxing studio together. The studio was located in the basement, where the sounds of punches and grunts filled the air. Inside, two young men were engaged in an intense bout in the ring. “You made it!” A tall, well-built young man with a confident smile approached them. His eyes, while warm and welcoming, held a trace of intensity as they briefly assessed Jaziel. His gaze then lingered on Vivian with evident fondness. “This must be Jaziel,” Caleb said with a friendly smile, extending his hand. “You can count on me.” Vivian quickly responded, “I really appreciate your help.” Caleb chuckled, a smug grin on his face. “It's no trouble at all. No need to be so formal with me.” In the distant audience, a few young men were whispering and pointing at Vivian. “That new girl Caleb's into is quite stunning. It won't be long before she sleeps with him,” one of them remarked. “Definitely. Caleb's got a knack for charming women,” another agreed. “And some girls just dream of marrying into wealth without considering their own backgrounds. Caleb's already engaged, so he's just playing around,” said a third, shrugging. The basement was noisy and crowded, making it difficult for Vivian to catch the details of the conversation from where she stood. However, Jaziel's brow furrowed as he clearly overheard the whispers.	LEARN_MORE	https://page.joyreadland.com/h5-book-share-custom4	The novel	https://www.facebook.com/100085523883301/	20,949	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	page.joyreadland.com	IMAGE		https://page.joyreadland.com/h5-book-share-custom4.html?lang=en&id=8768&brand=2&app=0&ppid=6004&pid=FBW2A&utm_source=FBW2A&utm_medium={{placement}}&utm_campaign={{campaign.id}}&utm_term={{adset.id}}&utm_content={{ad.id}}&pixel_id=816574679413893&ori_campaign_id=120216563525040490&ori_adset_id=120216563525960490&ori_ad_id=120216563535950490	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481795623_9010174735771484_8596248503927126034_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ymv28R0nfJ8Q7kNvgFBG02H&_nc_oc=AdgQdz1aHfLrkO7iHbNm-yuZZ6_QtlZFO24yKWh6GwgiNaOb2_QHcMbAurcfSqQ9TP1WVnA-oolzIfEX8N_hITC-&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWoS5QOx-QwgPLtIMHVdqyb&oh=00_AYAJ9jKZZ_-7HSQv9Cd6ooPu1umZ_Mpx7ScUUoM0hKgIOQ&oe=67CB9310	PERSON_PROFILE	The novel	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,272	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747304}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	His triplets were coming home. After 10 years of searching, 10 years of obsessing over little dead end clues, he finally had them back. "Hello I'm miss Jessie Moore, is this Rafael Romano." "Well Mr Romano I'm from social services in Ohio and I'm calling regarding Alexander, James and Skye" Rafael's permenant glare darkened "dont you dare" he was cut off though "I'm sorry sir but they were brought in a few days ago, a DNA test was done and it matches yours, would you like to take custody" "I swear if you're messing with me" Rafael practically growled. ____________ The siblings were given the all clear from the doctors, they had no life threatening injuries just severely bruised with extensive scars. A week past and once the police visited and took statements from the boys since Skye wasn't willing to talk to them, a social worker came in. "So your DNA was run through the system and we found some family in New York" she said excitedly. Alexander wasn't happy about this. "We are okay on our own" he spoke with no emotion. "You're still a minor kid" the police officer said. "Will they know about this abuse sir" James asked. "Yes" the officer said. "Please can you not tell them, we would like to be the ones to inform them, we don't trust easily and we want to make sure they are nice to us before we tell them our secrets, sir" James said quietly, hoping to get his way by showing emotion. "We don't have a choice I'm afraid, besides what are we suppose to say when they ask where you have been" the officer said sadly. "Please don't tell them, sir" Skye whispered with so much emotion it made the police officer a little emotional "they will want to know where you were" he said "Tell them were were in the foster system and their was a car accident so we ended up in the hospital " Alexander said. The police officer looked at the social worker who didn't know what to say. This was totally against protocol but the children were so afraid and especially Skye that they couldn't help agree. "I only mentioned to their father that they ended up in hospital. I thought it would be best to explain what had happened in person, it could work " the social worker said to the officer. "He will no doubt want hospital records though " the officer said still in doubt. "Not necessarily, by the time he wants them I'm sure they will be comfortable enough to have told them the truth. They have just been discharged so he won't have to sign any papers" "We could get into trouble " "Maybe but he said he would come pick them up as soon as possible " "Fine. We will not disclose this information but it would be wise to tell him when you feel ready too" the officer finally agreed. After that they were taken to the social workers office to wait for the arrival of their father. They had been given fresh clothes and allowed to shower at the hospital so they almost looked like normal kids. They even had their hair cut, it had been nerve wracking but it needed doing. The bruises on their face had almost dissapeared, the social worker had said she would tell him that they got it from the car accident. Earlier Rafael had been in the middle of torturing some fool who thought he could steal from them, when his phone rang. He cursed as he looked at the unknown caller. Usually he wouldn't anwser especially when he was torturing someone but this time he did. He wiped the blood splatter from his face with a towel and headed out of the room to take the call. "Hello who is this" he asked. "Hello I'm miss Jessie Moore, is this Rafael Romano" "Yes. What do you want" Rafael asked harshly, he wasn't happy that a woman he had never heard of was calling him. "Well Mr Romano I'm from social services in Ohio and I'm calling regarding Alexander, James and Skye" Rafael's permenant glare darkened "dont you dare" he was cut off though "I'm sorry sir but they were brought in a few days ago, a DNA test was done and it matches yours, would you like to take custody" "I swear if you're messing with me" Rafael practically growled. "No sir, they are currently in the hospital but should be out in a day or so" "Why are my children in a hospital" Rafael asked. "It would be best to speak in person. Would you like to take them in" "Yes. Send over the details and I will be there as soon as I can" he said then proceeded to give the social worker his personal email. That evening Rafael went home in a somewhat good mood. His triplets were coming home. After 10 years of searching, 10 years of obsessing over little dead end clues, he would finally have them back. Lorenzo was telling off Marco and Nico when Rafael entered the house. "What is going on" Rafael demanded. "These little shits decided it was a good idea to take my car out. It's scratched all the way along the side now...it will be coming out of your allowance" he explained, telling the two boys the last thing. "That was very reckless of you both. You will both loose driving privileges for a week" Rafael said knowing Lorenzo would fully handle it as it had been his car. Rafael couldn't care less about the car at this moment. "Lorenzo with me, you can deal with them later" Rafael said glaring at his sons. Lorenzo nodded also glaring at his brothers as he followed his father up to his office. "What is it father " Lorenzo asked once inside the office. "I had a phone call of a social worker today" he said taking a seat at his desk. He began turning on the computer to access his emails. "Did the boys joyride get them in trouble with the police involving social services " Lorenzo asked. "No, they found the triplets" Lorenzo was speechless when he heard this. He remembered everything about them, he had been 13 when they were born and 17 when they were taken. "Are you sure this is real" Lorenzo asked knowing the amount of people they had punished for telling them thought found the triplets or trying to pass themselves off as one. "A DNA test confirmed it. I'm flying out later on" "Very well. Would you like some company" Lorenzo asked. "Yes, I'll be getting Leo to make them some rooms up" "Okay where are they now" "Ohio I'll have their location exact when I get up the details. Go inform our pilot that we will be going to Ohio and send in your brothers" Lorenzo nodded and left. Not long after there was a knock and once Rafael said enter, the others walked in. "What's up father " Leo asked, being summoned was never a good thing especially since he had been summoned to the office with his idiot brothers. "The triplets have been found and I will be going to collect them soon. Yes it is them, a DNA test has been done and I've just received a copy of the results through an email" Rafael announced. "Why do they have to come back. It's been 10 years, send them to an orphanage" Marco snapped. Rafael was furious. He was about to speak his mind when Leo spoke "how dare you, we ought to send you to an orphanage simply for your lack of respect. I suggest you apologize for your comment. Right now" he said, his tone was calm but it had an undertone which promised nothing good. "I'm waiting Marco. I suggest an apology before you really do cause me to loose my temper " Rafael spoke. "Ugh fine I'm sorry" Marco said not wanting to anger his father. "I wonder what their favourite colours are. God I've got so much to do, I wonder if the mall is still open" Leonardo said voicing his thoughts. "What are you talking about Leo" Nico asked. "Their rooms of course, I need to get them ready" he paused and turned to his dad "I can do that right? Whilst you go get them" "Yes but hold off on customising them to much, they can do that themselves" he said. "got it" "Can I help" Nico said happy that his brothers and sister were coming back. He didn't remember much but he missed them. Rafael and Lorenzo walked into the social workers office. The only knowledge they had was that they had been in the hospital. They couldn't help but enjoy how everyone ran away in fear or stopped talking as they went down the corridors. They finally reached a reception. "I'm here for my kids" Rafael said to the receptionist. She gulped when she saw Rafael and Lorenzo. "Name?" She asked. "Rafael Romano" Rafael said. She typed away for a second and then nodded. "I have notified their Social worker of your arrival. She will be here shortly, can I get you anything whilst you wait" "We are fine" Rafael said. It only took a few minutes for Jessie Moore to come down. She gulped when she saw the men and she worried for the children. This probably wasn't the best option for them but they were family. "Good afternoon Mr Romano we spoke on the phone, I'm Jessie Moore, the children's social worker" she introduced herself. "You said they were in hospital, what happened" "They are okay Mr Romano, it was a car accident but the hospital released them and so if you follow me we can go meet them. I do have to warn you though that they are very nervous " Jessie proceeded to lead them to her office. She walked in first, she had told them before she left to get them that their father was here. "It seems your brother is here too. Anyway kids meet your father and brother" she told the kids and allowed Rafael and Lorenzo to enter. Alexander and James were sat with Skye in the middle of them, they both were extremely protective now they were meeting now people. Lorenzo analysed his siblings, an emotional expression on his face. Alexander saw what he was doing and did the same back. It took Lorenzo a little by suprised. Where did his carefree bubbley siblings go? "Hello children, I'm Rafael your father " Rafael introduced. It was still blunt but he managed to not sound so angry. "And you are?" Alexander asked looking at Lorenzo. "Lorenzo, your eldest brother" Lorenzo said with no emotion. "You have all grown up so much, can you introduce yourselves" Rafael asked, still being rather blunt but Lorenzo was a little suprised as this was considered 'kind' for his father. James looked at Alexander who glared at the two men. "What kind of father doesn't know his own children's names" Alexander finally said. Lorenzo wasn't happy with the disrespect but said nothing because the social worker was still in the room. "I do know your names, judging by your attitude, you are the eldest, Alexander, which makes you James. And you Skye" he said turning to each sibling as he said their names. Lorenzo was silently happy Alexander had been put in his place. "Why don't we get started on the paperwork. Of course I am aware you live in New York so this case will be transferred over and a house meeting will be scheduled in the next month or so. It's nothing to worry about, we just need to check on the kids for their own welfare" Jessie explain. "Very well" Rafael said. Jessie smiled and grabbed the paper work from her desk drawer. Rafael was busy looking through it and signing it, with Jessie explaining stuff that he wasn't paying attention to his children. Lorenzo and Alexander were still glaring at each other. Lorenzo finally had enough and sat down besides Alexander. He whispered lowly "I suggest you cut out the nonsense. We don't accept this behaviour, it's rude and disrespectful" he warned. Alexander gulped. He automatically went into protective mode and turned his body to face Lorenzo meaning his body was also sheilding his siblings. "I suggest you bare that in mind. The only reason I am going to look past this is because the social worker is here, next time I won't be so nice" he continued before getting up like nothing had happened. "Right we are all set. Thank you for contacting me" Rafael said as he and Jessie said goodbye. He then turned to his kids "lets go" Rafael was a little taken back again when he watched, Alexander made sure he had hold of his siblings hands as they followed him out. He presumed it was out of instinct to protect James and Skye from them, they were practically strangers to the siblings. The car ride was silent. James was lost in thought whilst, Skye laid her head on Alexander's shoulder as he stroked her hair. "You can sleep if you're tired Skye" Rafael said looking in the mirror as he checked on his kids, he noticed Skye looking extremely tired. Skye didn't know how to anwser so she looked up at Alexander in hopes he would do it. "She will sleep when she's ready" Rafael nodded "very well, I suppose it is best for her to stay awake another half hour whilst we get to the plane" he said. Lorenzo looked up from his phone and looked back at the siblings. Skye in particular looked terrible, she looked as though she would pass out any second. His focus then solely went to James who was looking out the window lost in thought. And then to Alexander, the boy was clearly very protective and got a bit too defensive at times. It was annoying really. Alexander and James were quick to note their family was rich when they finally boarded the plane but Skye seemed to out of it to acknowledge how rich they were. Despite being in the hospital she had only slept a little due to passing out from exhaustion. That was 5 days ago. She would pretend to sleep at night so they didn't sedate her. "She needs sleep" Lorenzo stated as he watched how Alexander and James helped her to her seat. Without them she would probably have collapsed. On the way to her seat, Skye tripped and due to how malnorished Alexander was he wasn't able to stay standing when she fell into him. Knocking them both over. Lorenzo smirked when he saw. James automatically tried to help but Lorenzo simply rolled his eyes and walked back over. Rafael had purposely not gone over, instead he had nudged Lorenzo to go because he saw Lorenzo wasn't pleased with them. He wanted to get Lorenzo talking to them. "Clearly you are all too incompetent to even find a seat. You two go sit" he said the last part to the two boys. They refused without Skye but he sent them a deadly glare "now" he ordered. Skye nodded at them to go, not wanting them to get hurt because of her. They reluctantly took the closest seat, both ready to get up again if he did something to her. Lorenzo felt them staring at him but ignored it and helped Skye up "as soon as we get in the air you're going to go have a nap" he told her as she stumbled. She shook her head fast. She couldn't sleep, especially on a plane with two strangers. There was no where to run. Nowhere to hide. "It's non negotiable, you can't even walk you're that tired" She tried to walk to prove him wrong but she was too tired and everything went dizzy. She almost fell again. Lorenzo sighed and picked her up. Alexander was quick to react, but before he could say or do anything, Lorenzo had placed her back down, this time in the seat next to Alexander. "When did you last sleep" Rafael asked. Skye looked to Alexander. "Skye isn't a fan of hospitals so it's effected her sleeping whilst we have been there " Alexander calmly said so they couldn't see it was a lie. "Well that's understandable but Skye you need to try get a bit of sleep" Rafael said looking at his only daughter with concern. Something Lorenzo had only seen a few times. Alexander and James were worried about Skye, her sleeping habits were bad. "She's going to try" Alexander said looking at her in concern. "Very well" Once in the air and the seatbelt sign went off, Lorenzo got up and walked back to them. "What are you doing" Alexander asked instantly. Lorenzo rolled his eyes "we all just agreed she needs sleep. Come on Skye" he said. "No" Alexander said as Skye nervously undid her seatbelt. "Excuse me?" Lorenzo said not liking Alexander's behaviour. "I said no. You're not taking her from me" he said with panic. He couldn't let her get hurt. Lorenzo rolled his eyes and picked up Skye. She normally would have freaked out but at this point she couldn't concentrate and wasn't fully aware. She was exhausted and sitting down on the chair was probably the most comfiest thing she had sat on before and so it drained her further. Alexander and James jumped up and followed Lorenzo."give her back " Alexander said. "Let her go. Let her go Please just let her go" he was frantic by now. Rafael was quick to jump in "boys it's okay, you can go with him, he's only putting her in the bed. We have a bed for long night journeys. He's only going to put her there so she can sleep easier" he spoke, concerned at how they freaked out. Again he played it off as a stranger taking away their baby sister. James nodded but Alexander was quick to follow Lorenzo. He watched him carefully as he placed her down on the bed. By this point she had passed out as he had been carrying her. "You are protective I get it but don't you dare yell at me like that again " Lorenzo warned and left. Alexander let his walls falls, a tear ran down his face. Everything was a mess. "It's going to be okay isn't it" James whispered after entering the room. "I don't know. How could we let her reach the point of exhaustion" he said angry with himself that he hadn't taken care of her proper. "She's sleeping now though Alex" James replied. "Yes but I doubt we will be on the plane for long. We need her to sleep more" He replied. "Are we in trouble for how we just acted" James asked, he was scared to go back out. Alex thought for a minute."I don't know, why don't you take a nap too" he said fully planning on taking whatever punishment they give before they could get angry with James. "But what about you" James asked. "I'm fine" Alex replied. James usually would say no but he was tired and didn't want his sister waking up alone so he agreed. Alex waited until James was asleep which didn't take long, before quietly leaving. He rather stay and watch his siblings but he needed to get the punishment over with before they woke. Whilst all this was going on, Rafael and Lorenzo had been discussing what had just happened. Rafael had scolded Lorenzo for walking off without talking to Alexander. "I will not have him speak to me like that" Lorenzo said. "Well next time calmly explain where you're taking her. He's obviously very protective of his siblings, it's admirable really. You need to remember, they have no idea who we are, we are just strangers to them" "Fine" Alexander entered and took a seat. "Where's James" Rafael asked. "Taking a nap too" "That's good, maybe you should have a little nap as well" Rafael replied. Alexander looked at his father, suprised he hadn't lashed out yet but then it hit him. Rafael obviously wanted him to fall asleep so he could punish his brother and sister for how he acted. Not a chance would he let that happen. "Okay how about you ask us some questions. It's obvious you don't trust us which makes sense since you don't remember us so ask away" "Why do we not live with you" Alexander asked. It had been on his mind since he had been told they had a family Lorenzo and Rafael shared a look. Rafael didn't seem to be replying so Lorenzo anwsered "you were kidnapped when you were 4, from a birthday party one of your friends was having " Alex nodded. It made sense. Those people who had them were criminals, they had connections. But why kidnap three 4 year olds. It didn't make sense. "You say you're the eldest, how many of you is there" Alex asked. "Three more brothers, Leo, Marco and Nico" Lorenzo replied. Alexander managed to keep his emotionless expression up, inside he was freaking out though. Living with 5 other men. Would they make him do dope runs? Would they threaten James and Skye? They looked even more stronger than the men who hurt them, how bad would their hits hurt. What will they have him do? How bad will the punishments be? He was already making a plan to keep his siblings safe in his head. He wouldn't let them get hurt like that. He had been failing as a brother recently. He should have just said thank you for the bread and that man wouldn't have touched Skye like that. He would need to be extra careful, Lorenzo kept warning him about disrespect, just like they had done. He would need to try harder not to be disrespectful. And then a new worry, Skye would freak out. James would probably hide it but he'd be a mess too. He knew he couldn't leave them alone with 5 others in the house. "Do James and Skye speak" Rafael said finally snapping out from reliving the awful nightmare, the day his triplets were taken from him. "They do but they are shy" Alex half lied. Sure they were shy but they had been beaten to the point where they feared to speak. "So I presume this means you will be speaking for them" Rafael asked. "Most likely. I want to apologize for the disrespect I've shown you both so far. I'm just very protective of them and you guys dont seem like the warm and friendly type" Alex said getting in a small insult. "It's understandable and I will give you time to get used to us but then any disrespect will not be taken lightly but we will give you a few days to settle in" "A few days?" Alex asked suspicious of why they were given time."yes a few days. did you expect me to summon you to my office after we have eaten dinner to give you all the rules, perhaps about how you can only talk to us and no socialising with kids your age" Rafael said with sarcasm so heavy even Alex could tell he was being sarcastic. Alex didn't even expect dinner though so that confused hin. Alex realized he probably meant after he (Rafael) had finished eating. Of course he wasn't going to feed James, Skye or his self. He made a mental note that when given food to say thank you and be greatful. He wasn't going to make that mistake again. "Well you could give me the rules now, saves screwing up" Alex needed to know the rules or he would overthink every little thing however he knew they would add more rules just to have them break it so they can punish them. " Respect. We all, especially Lorenzo and I, expect you to respect us. That means no back talk, no insults, no cheek. In return we will treat you with just as much respect. Secondly we appreciate you are teenagers wanting to try new things but you are 14, no alcohol, dopes or smoking" Flashbacks of what they made him do were brought back at the mention of dopes. Maybe they wouldn't use him to deliver dopes if they were telling him no dopes. Or maybe they just don't want him getting high when he's suppose to be selling it. "Apparently you were home schooled, however the new school year starts in two weeks so we will be getting you enrolled there. I expect you to put in effort, if you do poorly its not the end of the world, we will get you a tutor, any slacking off though is no accepted, you will respect your teachers and peers." Alexander slowly nodded. They had never been to school. When they were younger they were taught basic things, they were able to catch on quick. But Alexander worried about his siblings, he not only had to protect them from their family but now a whole school. "That brings me on to my next rule, you befriend whoever you want just no relationships just yet, you are too young at the moment" Alexander nodded shuddering at the thought. He knew what guys were like, he would need to keep a careful watch on Skye. "And finally if we ask you to do something, you will do it" Rafael finished. He hadn't meant this in such a bad way but Alexander took it as a bad way. "What happens if we break the rules" Rafael knew Alex would probably have a hard time being respectful. "we will talk about it and why you broke the rule before we give out punishments. I have a feeling you will struggle to be respectful out of protectiveness for James and Skye which I will accept but if you don't have a valid reason that's when it becomes a problem" Alex nodded. He would try his best and would make sure his siblings knew. "I'm a busy man so most likely Lorenzo will deal with the punishments" Rafael said. Lorenzo looked up from his laptop. He had took to doing some work whilst they talked. He smirked when he heard the sentance "if you would like an example, Marco and Nico stole my car and got it scratched, they have now had their cars taken from them and they will be working at the garage in town for a month" Lorenzo said. Alexander didn't think that seemed too harsh. Maybe they wouldn't beat them up as punishment. What if the garage wasn't a car garage but a torture place they called a garage. Yes he was an overthinker. "Anyway we will give you a few day, go wake your siblings up we are landing" Rafael said ending the conversation.	LEARN_MORE	https://a.letsreadnovel.com/ad/bGV0c3JlYWQvNDQzNzk	ForFun-120	https://www.facebook.com/61554751622817/	201	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	a.letsreadnovel.com	VIDEO		https://a.letsreadnovel.com/ad/bGV0c3JlYWQvNDQzNzkwLzIwMjUwMjI4MTYxOTAxL3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481084287_1651932788741703_1920964320381016780_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KG7cLxnNIGcQ7kNvgFQaXet&_nc_oc=AdiM-5nP6HSpnwDsKhxaEZlRSpQ885oM4H2c4YAyaRVdA47isIUWnQOqsd4CY2HZloKZ5Jv5eqT_p36ardYVHxcL&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AhgAUIE0q4_ey4ZHkh7DOyv&oh=00_AYCcAujuIjWrVRJxesu6EWCMZyvJndnggLqkIwoPuHS-ag&oe=67CB9C65	PERSON_PROFILE	ForFun-120	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,450	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747456}'	No	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	Rising Dawn: The Awakening of Power (DUBBED)	Aidan Stein, the Eternal Lord Sovereign of the magnificent Eternity Palace, temporarily loses his memory and intelligence due to his 60-year cycle. He lives alone in Vertania until he encounters Jade Yule, who saves his life and becomes his wife. Years later, Jack Foley, an aristocrat of Vertania, develops an interest in Jade. He sends his men after Aidan, inadvertently triggering the resurgence of his memories and power.	WATCH_MORE	https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DLLPF1059457.	DramaBox- drama movies2	https://www.facebook.com/61551046958457/	282,612	1969-12-31 18:00	Watch more	fb.dramabox.com	VIDEO		https://fb.dramabox.com/db_land_page/DLLPF1059457.html?language=en&timestamp=1740749855253&channelCode=DLLPF1059457&bid=41000112468&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&ad_group_name={{adset.name}}&ad_group_id={{adset.id}}&ad_id={{ad.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481019779_502741719542836_3038977701215476811_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gIRCgDdqFWwQ7kNvgGCrQX6&_nc_oc=Adh8ADWJ208Jr8U3MibBaTY8RsUKzCkqcf4l47c1TGjGT3ZO5x5eHTnHgtWjXXXBHEcSmMmA342Xyp_v2-XlT7xz&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Ad6TFJbsrrE3zJGvqaJRXEn&oh=00_AYD46c3pCRg2jv_lhYTN2AjskclC45X8qzWKNHXyRrtbmg&oe=67CB832B	PERSON_PROFILE	DramaBox- drama movies2	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete
2,747,119	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":2747103}'	Yes	2025-03-03 09:21	active	2759	Guide to Magnesium's Health Benefits ✨	Did you know magnesium can support your overall well-being? 🧘‍♀️ Learn more.	LEARN_MORE	https://searchlabz.com/understanding-the-importanc	Finally Media	https://www.facebook.com/100067978975745/	265	1969-12-31 18:00	Learn more	searchlabz.com	IMAGE	Understanding the importance of magnesium is becoming increasingly crucial in today's health-conscious society. Magnesium serves as a powerhouse mineral essential for over 300 enzymatic reactions, including energy production, muscle and nerve function, and blood sugar regulation. Despite its signifi...	https://searchlabz.com/understanding-the-importance-of-magnesium/?cid=ch15060+ch15066&adtext=Guide to Magnesium's Health Benefits �&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_medium={{ad.id}}&utm_source=fb&utm_content={{campaign.id}}&fb_pixel_id=1178421023860202&fpcv=Lead&lang=en_US&stid=1632776705	1969-12-31 18:00	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/481046465_1165171001781723_1107690574530904900_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CVeSm_KGxn4Q7kNvgF4qCi6&_nc_oc=AdhQVm9dYoIO8gEPdp5s8VBUutGlLg4VIsxyD0qvOIVj5Qy-efC2YKkLh-IZ_5wG59Xkm9zljQ9LgyxTV0odk6sG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AgitUlMz9nIEpCRx9-QXvZV&oh=00_AYDyVxSLfztKn0xypr9ysYuMrUf4TLgKHGPZQA0c_LX6IA&oe=67CBA471	PERSON_PROFILE	Finally Media	1969-12-31 18:00	View Edit Delete

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