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1,580,958	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	1108201280452122	👉👉Click to read more !👈👈	🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 🙈 🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 <br /> Her father attempted to murder her to get his inheritance; her boyfriend cheated on her with her sister. All of this makes her fall into an abyss. Until the strange man she met on the airplane said to her, "I'm a billionaire, marry me and I'll help you get revenge." Things start to spiral out of control ......<br /> -----------------------------------<br /> Chapter 1 Accidentally Provoking The Cold And Distant CEO　　<br /> Up in the sky.<br /> An aircraft glided over layers of puffy clouds, and soared in the azure sky.<br /> In half an hour, Zoe Ball will return to Gallino, the city where she had lived for twenty-two years.<br /> She didn't inform anyone about her return. <br /> She didn’t want to bother her family to make them rush to pick her up in the middle of the night. What’s more, she wanted to surprise Darius Saunders.<br /> Darius was her boyfriend, and tomorrow was his birthday. After staying for five years in love, and three years in a long distance relationship, Zoe counted, their relationship had been on for eight years.<br /> Suddenly, the plane jolted violently, followed by an ear piercing explosion. The items on the table scattered and rolled to the floor, making the passengers on board scream out in panic. <br /> [What's going on?]<br /> [What wrong with the plane?]<br /> [Did it hit something?]<br /> Not waiting for them to calm down, there were a few more piercing noises that were heard. Several large holes were blown out on the plane, with flames blazing brightly. The wind was blowing in, and the passengers screamed unceasingly. <br /> [Oh my God, what's going on?]<br /> [Did something happen to the plane?]<br /> [OMG, I never want to travel by plane again.]<br /> [God bless!]<br /> [Daddy, I'm scared.]<br /> The entire cabin was in chaos. Paper flew, luggage dumped on the ground, with an endless sound of things falling and people panicking. <br /> Zoe was stunned. Was there anything indeed going wrong?<br /> She had experienced a lot, but at this time, her heart still swept through a trace of panic.<br /> Because she was worried about not seeing Darius.<br /> "Passengers on board, please pay attention. Due to external factors, this aircraft is out of control. Please put on your parachute and escape at the designated escape port. This aircraft will crash in ten minutes, so all passengers don’t panic and maintain order…" The captain announced. <br /> The in-flight broadcast repeated those words, and Zoe thought that she was really screwed this time.<br /> According to the authoritative data, there had only been one air crash in 1.2 million flights, so she never thought that the probability of that would happen on her flight. <br /> Many passengers who had unfastened their seat belts rolled from side to side due to the turbulence. Uncontrollable screams rang from them, filling the entire flight.<br /> The plane reeled in every direction, and flew chaotically in the air for about two minutes. Some of the passengers even cried out as they couldn't take it anymore!<br /> Zoe thought that she couldn't just sit around and do nothing, waiting for herself to di&e. <br /> Ordinary passenger aircrafts were not usually equipped with escape tools, but this luxury aircraft Zoe traveled in was different.<br /> Before boarding the plane, Zoe had watched the crew practice parachute-donning methods, and the promotional video also introduced it. At this point, she put on the parachute quickly without panic. Then, she walked to the escape port, ready to leap off.<br /> The wind howled and her thin body swayed.<br /> Zoe had been afraid of heights since her childhood, but at this moment, she knew that if she didn’t jump, she won't have a chance to meet Darius again.<br /> Just then, someone pulled her slender wrist, and the shadow of a tall figure covered her. Before Zoe could react, the man's glittering eyes were staring at her.<br /> "Sir, what do you want to do?" Zoe asked. <br /> Zoe didn't expect to be accosted by a stranger in the nick of time.<br /> Although she was naturally beautiful and there were countless men pursuing her, at that critical moment, wasn't it more important to escape?<br /> "I need to share a parachute with you." The man's voice sounded dulcet.<br /> Zoe had never heard such a unique and handsome voice in her life. Even though she grew up in the upper class, and had met many men with handsome voices, she had heard that kind of chilly, low, and magnetic voice for the first time.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 2 He Suddenly Kissed Her　　<br /> The man had deep eyes, a tall nose, thin lips, and angular jawline. <br /> Apart from his voice, his appearance was eye-catching.<br /> Although Zoe grew up elegant and beautiful, her boyfriend, Darius, was also outstandingly handsome. It was the first time she had ever seen such an unparalleled handsomeness in her life.<br /> The man's strong aura engulfed her, instantly making the air around thinner. <br /> Zoe did not know how to respond at this moment.<br /> Sharing a parachute with him was certainly playing a joke on life!<br /> But without waiting for her to refuse, the man had already leaned over, and his voice carried a compelling magnetism. <br /> "Excuse me," he said. <br /> Before she could react, the man had already unbuckled her seat belt and put the parachute on himself.<br /> Who did he think he was?<br /> Did he think he could do whatever he wanted just because he's good-looking?<br /> Every seat was equipped with a parachute, so why did he have to use hers?<br /> "Sir..." Zoe muttered. Just as Zoe was about to argue with him, the man suddenly kissed her on her lips, and his tall figure pressed her to the hatch in a rapt kiss.<br /> After eight years with Darius, Zoe had yet to give him her first kiss. But the man in front of her, whom she had met the first time, had inexplicably snatched it in advance.<br /> The alluring scent of his body oozed. It was fresh, light, reminiscent of the freezing breeze in winter. Despite stinging cold, it had a refreshing effect on the brain.<br /> Zoe was stunned for a while before she realized that he was kissing her. <br /> Even if he was outstanding, he couldn't do such a thing to her in a public place!<br /> Zoe was furious and was about to raise her hand and slap him on his face, when several tall men approached. They were sweeping around a few times and discussing in a low voice…<br /> [He's not here.]<br /> [Without a parachute, he must not dare to jump off rashly, not to mention that he is seriously injured.]<br /> [He must be hiding in the crowd, let's keep looking!]<br /> Seeing them search for a while and leaving in a rage, Zoe felt a little panic. <br /> Obviously, they were not good people. <br /> “Wasn’t it more important to escape and save themselves at that moment?”she thought to herself.<br /> At that point, another group of women came over. Each of them were dressed ably and looked strictly meticulous, reminiscent of female secret agents in the movies.<br /> Zoe noticed that they put one hand in their clothes and the other hand pressing on the outside. Looking at that posture, she couldn’t help but wonder if there was a gun.<br /> Zoe was stunned.<br /> Suddenly, they ruthlessly gazed at her, as if they were using a laser, sweeping straight towards her. <br /> Zoe was shocked. Damn it, was she being targeted?<br /> One of the women glanced at her, then at the back of the man who was kissing her. The woman’s eyes no longer lingered on them as she continued to look for other targets. <br /> For them, they were a couple facing the prospect of parting forever, making a final kiss before jumping out of the plane, and were posing no threat to them.<br /> The man's back was blocked by the parachute, just enough to conceal his figure.<br /> [He should be hiding somewhere else.]<br /> [If we miss again this time, the boss will never let us go.]<br /> [Looks like we'll have to step up and not let Napoli's people find him first.]<br /> [Let's go!]<br /> Zoe listened to their conversation and couldn't help but think that the passengers on the plane were too weird. The group of mafia-like men were looking for someone. Those "female agents" were also looking for something, and that indiscriminate man in front of her was taking advantage of her.<br /> Damn it!<br /> To think that the man was still kissing her, Zoe folded her knee and kicked the man hard.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 3 Parachute Jumping In Each Other's Arms<br /> However, as if he had expected what she was going to do, the man reached out and blocked her attack.<br /> The man had done too much.<br /> Zoe was so angry that she reached out and tried to push him away, not expecting him to hold her hands. He pressed against the hatch with her fingers clasped together in his.<br /> Zoe's eyes were full of protest. <br /> “Who are you? Get off me! It's about to crash! Do you hear me?”<br /> Once again, the man pressed her hard against the hatch and kissed her with more force and passion.<br /> One of the "female agents" who had just turned to leave, suddenly stood still and looked back at Zoe.<br /> "Boss, what's wrong?" Another agent asked her.<br /> "We don't have much time, those Napoli's-like people are close to finding him. We need to get out of here," the other agent added. <br /> "What are you looking at?" she asked. <br /> Most of the agents followed their boss' gaze which were directed toward Zoe. That was when Zoe realized that those women’s eyes were not on her. Rather, it was more directed at the man who was kissing her.<br /> She must have made too many movements and attracted their attention. <br /> While all that was going on, their "boss" had already taken out a pistol from her coat, and started pulling the trigger.<br /> The man had a sensitive hearing, and just as he heard the sound of the trigger, he threw a guest blanket at them with his backhand.<br /> A few of the women’s sights were blocked by the blanket, and by the time they were done setting it aside, the man had already leapt down with Zoe in his arms. He was so fast that they staggered!<br /> The parachute blossomed in the air, and they floated in the air at once, pulled away a modest distance from the plane.<br /> [Boss, it's him! He got away!]<br /> [Shoot him!]<br /> The sound of thumping g0n&&fire echoed in the air.<br /> The parachute floated farther and farther, so the bullets were useless. The woman called as the boss reluctantly ordered, "After them."<br /> Several people quickly put on their parachutes and leaped down.<br /> Zoe could not have imagined that she would somehow be involved in that kind of chaos. Who was that man in front of her and why was he being hunted by different gangs?<br /> Holding the man's neck in an extremely tight grip, Zoe almost hung her entire body on him.<br /> The group of fierce men, and the meticulous "female agents"... Why were they after that man? What exactly was his identity?<br /> Zoe understood that she was in big trouble. <br /> Just as she wanted to question the man, she saw that his eyes gradually closed, the hand holding her waist weakly loosened, and he passed out. <br /> "Hey! Don't sleep… wake up." Zoe said urgently. She was scared to death and hugged him even tighter. <br /> They were in the mid-air. Her life would be in danger if she didn’t hold on.<br /> "Are you passed out? Our parachute seems broken." Zoe said. <br /> Those sho&ts earlier seemed to have broken her parachute. <br /> The man was unconscious and couldn't hear her.<br /> Zoe looked up and saw a few holes on the parachute as they were rapidly descending.<br /> "Oh my God! Oh my God, I'm not going to fall off here, right?” Zoe prayed.<br /> Below them was the vast sea. Zoe wished the parachute could hold on a little longer. <br /> She did not want to di&e so soon, nor di&e in such a desolate place, and a ridiculous way. That was not what she wanted. <br /> However, the parachute was sparsely descending at a very fast speed.<br /> In her 25 years of life, Zoe had never found herself so unlucky! Everything that happened to her today made everything worse for her.<br /> Without much time for her to think, they both fell heavily into the sea with a thud, and made a huge splash.<br /> Chapter 4 Saved His Life<br /> The seawater was salty, fishy, and bitter. Zoe was caught in a few mouthfuls without any preparation. She quickly floated up and gasped for breath.<br /> Luckily, she could swim, otherwise she would have di&ed there!<br /> After splashing on the sea surface for a few times, Zoe finally calmed down and looked at the vast sea.<br /> A large area of blood had diffused on the sea, as if someone had spilled a red dye, filling the sea with waves of shocking red.<br /> What's going on?<br /> Where did so much blood come from?<br /> Zoe looked around but couldn't find the man. Then she suddenly realized that the group of people earlier said that he was injured. Could that be blood from him?<br /> It seemed that he was badly injured.<br /> Zoe hesitated whether to save him. He was not an ordinary man, and she didn’t know when that group of people would catch up. If she intervened in that matter, she would certainly get into big trouble ...<br /> But if she would not save him, he would definitely sink into the sea and drow%n.<br /> Two thoughts were conflicting inside her mind.<br /> Zoe had a difficult choice to make.<br /> She started to think of her grandfather. Her grandfather had a heart attack when he was walking in the park many years ago, and at that time no one dared to come forward to help him. That incident caused him to miss the best time for treatment.<br /> Her grandfather usually went out with entourage, but that day, his entourage were waiting outside the park, no one knew he suddenly collapsed, and it was too late when he was discovered.<br /> Zoe thought of that and closed her eyes in pain. She knew that she had to save him! Since it was happening in front of her, she couldn't let him die!<br /> Diving into the sea, Zoe quickly found his direction in the water, although she was not a strong swimmer, but the physical training she received as a child allowed her to quickly overcome all difficulties to swim towards him. She struggled to pick him up. Zoe was almost overwhelmed by the heavy man.<br /> Finally she used all her strength to drag him onto shore. She did not know where the place was, but from the fishing nets hung by the residents, it should be a fishing village.<br /> The chimneys of every household were emitting white gas not for away. The smell of rice wafted into her nose, and Zoe's stomach growled spontaneously.<br /> She quickly found one of the homes, which was the closest and the fastest to arrive, and she decided to go to that family for help.<br /> "I'll be back for you soon." Zoe placed the man on the ground and, regardless of whether he heard her or not, ran alone toward the house and knocked on the door.<br /> "Is anyone there, please? I need help! Hello, is anyone there, please open the door."<br /> It didn't take long for the small door to creak open, revealing a kind face and a woman slightly taken aback, "You are?"<br /> "Hello, the plane I was on crashed and now there is a man who fell into the sea and is badly injured. I need your help, I can't pull him by myself."<br /> The woman was slightly surprised, and looked at the figure lying on the shore then shouted into the house, "Honey, come out and help."<br /> The fisherman came out with big steps. After hearing what happened, without saying a word, he carried the man back to the house.<br /> "Miss, your man is badly wounded, is this a gunshot wound?" The fisherman looked at his wound and judged.<br /> Zoe had some resistance inside. He was not her man! In her whole life, she had only one man, that was Darius!<br /> But at that point, Zoe didn't expose the truth and cooperatively said, "Yes, we encountered hijackers on the plane just now. Not only did they rob us, but they also fir**ed several shots at him."<br /> "What's wrong with the World?" The fisherman slapped his thighs in anger, "Wait a moment, I have good ancestral medicine. No matter how big the wound is, as long as you apply it, it will be fine tomorrow."<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 5 Two People In One Room<br /> <br /> "It’s amazing." It was the first time Zoe had heard of such a medicine.<br /> The woman smiled and said, "His family has been fishing for generations, and last time his arm was even bitten down by a big fish, but after applying it, he is now pretty well."<br /> "Okay…." Zoe was a little scared when she heard those words.<br /> The woman brought in a basin of water, "You first wash your man's wounds, and later he has to apply medicine."<br /> Zoe was helpless. She misunderstood their relationship again.<br /> Dropping her gaze to the man, he was sleeping soundly with his arms around her waist, his head resting on her knees as if he were holding a comfortable doll.<br /> Why was the man still taking advantage of her at this critical time?<br /> Wasn’t he in a coma! How could he do such a shameful thing! Zoe's impression of him was even worse!<br /> "Your man seems to really cherish you. Even though he's injured, he won't let go of you. Young people are so good. Our generation would get embarrassed just holding hands..."<br /> "I'm sorry to have embarrassed you..." Zoe maintained a composed smile, but in reality she hated the shameless man to the extreme! With everything in chaos, could he just calm down a bit?<br /> The woman was about to ridicule the young couple, but when her eyes fell on the man's face, she was stunned, "He…"<br /> Seeing the woman's slight surprise, Zoe thought, "Maybe he is a celebrity even if someone in a small fishing village knows him?<br /> "Ma'am, you know him?"<br /> "He…" the woman pondered for a moment and said, "looks familiar, maybe I have seen him somewhere."<br /> Zoe was surprised. Could he be the number one criminal often shown on TV or an escap%ed priso&ner from some prison? Judging from the way he was just chased, he must have offended someone!<br /> "Ma'am, please think about it again. Where have you seen him before?"<br /> That was a matter of her life's safety! If he was a criminal, she would call the police as soon as possible! Never would she hide a criminal!<br /> The woman shook her head. "I can't remember. You should be a city girl as you dress like this, right? With such a beautiful appearance you should be a star couple."<br /> "You are flattering.How could a star as dishevelled as us?"<br /> Just then, the fisherman fetched the medicine and warmly came to Zoe, "Miss, you put this powder on his wounds, I'll have my wife call you when dinner is ready. Rest here tonight, make yourself at home."<br /> "Thank you, it's really troublesome for you."<br /> "You are welcome."<br /> Seeing them close the door and go out, Zoe then pushed the man away!<br /> The shameless bastard! Not to mention he took her first kiss, he's still taking advantage of her!<br /> Zoe was furious and punched him in the chest.<br /> Seemingly having been hit on a painful spot, the man grunted, and frowned slightly.<br /> Zoe wondered if she had hit him in the wound.<br /> Seeing black blood spilling out of his suit, Zoe subconsciously took it off for him, not expecting the white shirt inside to be red with blood and a steady stream of blood was constantly pouring out of his chest.<br /> He really hurt badly, Zoe thought.<br /> Just now soaked in seawater, and now hit by her with a punch, she knew that the wound hurt a lot.<br /> Despite her reluctance, Zoe still helped him take off his shirt, not for anything else, but to prevent him from dying there and making things worse.<br /> Seeing the bloody wound, Zoe was shocked!<br /> She first wiped his body, because his whole body was soaked in seawater after all. She had to do that to apply the medicine to him.<br /> After wiping the upper half of his body, a basin of water was already turbid, Zoe dumped the water, went outside to get a new basin of hot water and was about to wipe his lower body. However, she hesitated when her fingers moved to the belt.<br /> In her whole life, she had never taken off any man's clothes before, let alone the pants!<br /> <br /> 👇👇👇>>>>>>>>>>>>>👇👇👇<br /> 💕💕Click the button below to install [RosyRead] <br /> To continue reading 💕💕	LEARN_MORE	https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pix	100344252868372	Kelly White	https://facebook.com/100086485784589	299	2	298,745,199,944,861	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Kelly White	120210385457600483	www.rosymance.com	NONE	video		https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pixel_id=713027707555740&page_no=ff8080818f193431018f244d4b9009bd&language=en_us&type=2&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}	2024-04-28 05:49	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438077649_1751941305330194_3247182219764502547_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=B8wxP5S-0WcQ7kNvgFxqbNS&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAaB5t6V4qV7PCvtBMSjnyEYKJf9MT7ZJlRWeCYcc4Tnw&oe=663487F4	person_profile	Kelly White	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438099174_1141384980228236_8022470780723928079_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2FfTnAKAB-EQ7kNvgG59ll_&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCftIDuifs-JOHsyqTjJrFwtyjC7OTPmKuXjME5o1Qvfw&oe=6634950D	3	Kelly White	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,581,016	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580837}'	No	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	1635571340523701	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"I had a discussion with Alpha Jack of the Grey Blood Pack. His son, Matthew, will become the new Alpha in a few months. His father and I have agreed that Matthew needs to have a strong mate by his side to lead the pack successfully," Lily's father explained, "And that is not you." <br /> Lily felt as if her whole world had been turned upside down. She didn't know if she wanted to scream or cry. How could they make this decision for her?<br /> "In three days, you will attend the Rejection Ceremony. Then in a week, you will have a mating ceremony with someone more on your level, his brother, Garrett Hunter."<br /> Garrett? Garrett Hunter?? The disfigured, rejected brother of Matthew? How could they force me to reject my fated mate and then mate to his ruthless brother?!<br /> ————————<br /> Lily stared in horror at her father. She couldn't make sense of what he was saying. Why would Matthew reject her? When they talked on the phone all day, he never mentioned it.<br /> "You're joking," Lily said. "You have to be joking." <br /> Her father scowled at her because he disliked repeating himself. He paused for a moment to collect himself before saying, "This is no joke. You will be marrying Garrett Hunter."<br /> When Lily heard her father say those words, her heart sank. "I am his fated mate. We're meant to be together. Why would he want to reject me? There must be a mistake!"<br /> "Lily, you're an omega. No respectable Alpha would want you as their Luna. We're saving you the agony of having to deal with your mate having a mistress," her mother explained, "and it's not like you won't have a mate."<br /> "It's what you deserve, Lily. Garrett is perfect for you," Brandy said smugly. <br /> Garrett? Garrett Hunter?? The disfigured, rejected brother of Matthew? This had to be some sort of joke. They couldn't possibly be serious. But her parents were not laughing.<br /> Lily slid her seat back and stood up. She ran back to her room, slamming the door behind her. Brandy stood up to bring her back downstairs, but her mother stopped her.<br /> "Leave her alone. There is nowhere she can go. This is something she must accept," her mother stated.<br /> "Pick up the phone, Matthew. Come on!" Lily murmured as she dialed his number for the tenth time. It just rang again and again until it went to voicemail. Lily didn't bother leaving another voicemail because she had already left five.<br /> Lily sighed in frustration and tossed her phone to the floor before pacing the room. Why would her parents subject her to such cruelty? Wasn't it enough that they treated her like trash because she was an omega? But now they were going to take this away from her as well?!<br /> Lily nearly crashed into the wall to get to her phone when it buzzed on the bed. Her heart sank again when she realized it was Tiffany, not Matthew, calling. Lily answered the phone.<br /> "Hey girlie! It has been hours. What was the dinner about? Are you..." Tiffany started.<br /> Lily interjected and said, "Can I come over? I can't stay here. Please say yes."<br /> Hearing her tone, Tiffany became serious and asked, "What's wrong? Your sister is bothering you again?"<br /> "No. It's much worse. Please tell me I can come over," Lily pleaded.<br /> "Yes, you can come. I am not leaving for my parents' until tomorrow. Where are you? I can come to get you," Tiffany offered.<br /> "No. I will come to you," Lily said, "Thank you." She quickly hung up the phone. Lily went to her closet and grabbed an overnight bag. She yanked her dress off and changed into a t-shirt and workout pants.<br /> Lily then began packing items she didn't want to lose and enough clothes to get her through the holidays. She had no intention of coming back here.<br /> The door to her bedroom swung open, causing Lily to jump. She turned to see Mira, one of the omegas working in the kitchen. Mira placed her finger on her lips before she slowly closed the door behind her.<br /> "They told you," Mira said. It was more of a statement than a question. It made Lily sick to her stomach. Everyone had been smiling in her face. Did everyone but her know? It was humiliating that this was kept from her. "I was commanded not to tell you. I really wanted to."<br /> "It's fine, Mira. I know you wouldn't betray me," Lily responded. It would be physically impossible for Mira to go against a command. Perhaps if she were a Gamma or even a Beta, but as an Omega, the pain of it would have killed her wolf, which would've killed her.<br /> "I won't let them force me," Lily declared. "I can't let them take one of the only things that have made me happy."<br /> Mira and Lily grew very close growing up. As they were both omegas and Lily was excluded from high-ranking wolf activities, she spent most of her time with Mira. Mira's father, the pack doctor, was the reason she wanted to become a doctor in the first place.<br /> "Then, let me help you," Mira said, "I can get you out of here. They planned to leave you alone for the rest of the weekend."<br /> "You can't. If they find out..."<br /> "They'll assume I helped you even if I didn't. I'll be beaten no matter what, but I won't die," Mira countered, interrupting her. "Dad is already outside with a car to take you wherever you want to go."<br /> Lily hugged Mira tightly. Mira smiled slightly, wanting to go with her, but she was bound to the pack grounds. Leaving or even going rogue would harm her father's position in the pack. She couldn't risk it.<br /> "Thank you, Mira," Lily said.<br /> Tiffany opened her front door to see Lily standing like a beat dog in her doorway. Lily waved to the car that drove away. Tiffany pulled her into her home and quickly closed the door. Lily immediately began sobbing uncontrollably.<br /> "Lily, what's going on? What happened?" Tiffany asked, leading her to the sofa. She had already prepared Lily's favorite meal as well as hot cocoa.<br /> "They are trying to force me into a rejection ceremony," Lily managed to say.<br /> "What? Why? They can't do that. It'd be spitting in the Goddess' face. You could end up cursed or worse," Tiffany exclaimed.<br /> "They don't care. They don't think I'd be a fit for him because I'm an omega," Lily stated.<br /> "That's not up to them. That's up to the Goddess, and the Goddess wants you and Matthew to be together," Tiffany stated.<br /> "They don't see it that way. They..." Lily stopped in mid sentence as a horrible pain gripped her chest. She gasped as she clutched her chest and tried to slow her breathing.<br /> "Lily? Is it one of your panic attacks?" Tiffany asked.<br /> Lily could only nod, unable to speak as she concentrated on breathing as the pain radiated through her. She suffered from panic attacks for a long time. Lily assumed it was because of stress. It would eventually fade, thanks to Dina's assistance.<br /> Lily gasped in relief as the pain began to fade, and she said, "I'm okay now."<br /> "You need to speak with Matthew. You two can elope, and they won't be able to do anything about it,"<br /> "Elope?"<br /> --<br /> "Are you sure you don't want me to come with you?" Tiffany asked as she walked Lily out of her apartment. She didn't want to leave her in such a terrible situation.<br /> "No, I need to do this alone," Lily answered with a weak smile. She couldn't get in contact with Matthew all night. Lily needed to speak with him. Whatever happened between her and Matthew, she would have to deal with it alone. Lily didn't want to get her too caught up in her family drama.<br /> "Well, you know where my spare key is," Tiffany said.<br /> "Don't worry about me. I'll be okay. Matthew and I will elope, and everything will be fine," Lily said.<br /> Tiffany smiled slightly, but Lily noticed that her eyes looked somewhat sad. She had known Tiffany long enough to know that she was holding back. Before Lily could ask Tiffany what she was thinking, Lily's cab arrived.<br /> Tiffany hugged her again and said, "Keep me updated. You know my parents will accept you with open arms. They said the offer is still open if you want to join my pack."<br /> Lily nodded and got into the cab. She waved goodbye before telling the cab driver, "10 Armstead Place." The cab driver nodded and drove off.<br /> The drive didn't take long. All the while, she could feel a stabbing pain in her chance. It was another anxiety attack. She had never felt so bad before.<br /> "Ma'am, are you okay?" the cab driver asked, noticing her distress.<br /> "Yes, I am fine. Thank you," Lily answered. "Just having a little panic attack, I think."<br /> 'It's the stress,' Dina said to her. 'I am doing everything I can to dull it. I can't reach Baldur. I don't know why he isn't responding to me. Do you think our father or maybe his father did something?'<br /> Baldur was Matthew's wolf. He was as happy as Dina when they learned that they were mates. As much as Lily and Matthew talked on the phone, Dina and Baldur communicated more telepathically.<br /> 'It could be. I can't believe it. I don't want to believe that Matthew would agree to this. Maybe he is cutting off all communication because he doesn't want anyone to find him. No one knows about his apartment in the city,' Lily responded.<br /> The city was a neutral zone for all supernatural creatures. Pack hierarchy or mutual dislike of different races wasn't tolerated here. The elders made it a point that all supernatural children grew up aware of others to squash any ignorance. It was a good idea in theory, but many outside factors were at play. People couldn't help but judge one another.<br /> "We're here," the cab driver said, bringing Lily out of her thoughts. She pulled out $40 from her wallet and said, "Keep the change." She got out of the car and rushed up the steps to Matthew's apartment.<br /> Lily had been there more than once over the weekend. Her family never knew when she was home, and she wanted to keep it that way. When it would get bad at home, Matthew was a reprieve for her as Lily didn't want to have to deal with her family any more than she had to.<br /> Lily quickly grabbed the spare key under the mat and opened the door. She stepped into his apartment, and the pain seemed to intensify. Lily gripped her chest and almost fell face-first into the carpet. She used the wall to move further into his apartment.<br /> There was a smell that she couldn't quite place. It made her hackles rise. She felt angry for no reason.<br /> 'Find him now,' Dina growled within her.<br /> 'What's wrong?' Lily asked, but Dina only responded with a growl.<br /> "Oh, Matthew! Pull my hair!"<br /> An all-too-familiar voice broke the silence, and Lily could now hear the slapping of skin. As she approached his bedroom, it became increasingly louder. Lily swallowed hard as she tried to process what she was hearing and what she didn't want to believe was happening. Lily's hand shivered as she was about to place her hand on the door.<br /> 'We must see this,' Dina growled. 'Open the door.'<br /> Lily slowly pushed open the door. There in front of her was Brandy and her sister having intercourse.<br /> The anxiety attacks, the waves of pain were Matthew having intercourse with her.<br /> Lily was almost catatonic as she watched the betrayal before her eyes. This was supposed to be her. She had waited years for him, and here he was having intercourse with this bimbo in front of her.<br /> Lily gripped the side of the door frame, her claws going straight through as she tried to compose herself. The sudden movement caused Matthew to look up. His eyes widened in surprise when he saw her.<br /> "Oh hello, sister. Did you enjoy the show?" Brandy mocked as Lily walked into the room. Lily said nothing as she approached Brandy. With all her might, Lily slapped Brandy hard enough to send her into the headboard.<br /> "You bimbo!" Brandy yelled as she gripped her head in pain. Lily slapped her again before Matthew caught her wrist. She used her other hand to slap Matthew across the face with strength she didn't know she had. Her claws left gashes on the side of his face.<br /> "Lily?!" Matthew exclaimed.<br /> "Don't ever speak to us, you filthy dog," Lily growled out. Her eyes were silver as it was Dina now talking. "All this time, you betrayed us for this bimbo!"<br /> "You have to understand, Lily. I didn't have a choice. I..."<br /> "Enough of your lies! I will go through with the rejection ceremony. We can do it tonight because I want to be rid of you. I'll take whatever curse the Goddess dishes out!" Lily screamed before storming out, leaving the door wide open.<br /> --<br /> "Don't you think that is inappropriate?" Kenneth asked his Luna from the doorway of their bedroom. <br /> "Not at all. It is a joyous occasion," Mandy said as she applied burgundy lipstick and stood up. She brushed the wrinkles out of her blue sweater dress as she looked herself over in the mirror before approaching him with a slight smile. "You should change. That suit is so depressing."<br /> "The suit is proper attire for the custom. You shouldn't take this much glee in her suffering," Kenneth responded, causing Mandy to frown. <br /> Mandy scoffed and said, "Don't try to act like you care about the little brat now. Don't be a hypocrite. You could care less and this arrangement will benefit the both of us."<br /> "At least make it believable in front of the Hunters," Kenneth reasoned. Mandy rolled her eyes. Of course she would behave. What kind of idiot did he take her for?<br /> "Come. You wouldn't want to keep Lily waiting," Mandy said condescendingly. <br /> Again, Kenneth didn't respond and followed Mandy to the entertainment hall. Both packs were in attendance. Both acknowledged their presence, showing their necks to them both. <br /> Alpha Jack and Luna Kelly looked agitated by the entire situation. The Luna of Grey Blood Pack was very against the rejection ceremony. However, she didn't have much say in the situation since both Alphas agreed to it. <br /> "Where is she?" Kenneth asked one of the omegas that were serving spirits. <br /> "She is coming, my Alpha. We are watching her closely. There is no chance she will run away again," the omega answered. <br /> Kenneth nodded and walked to the stage with Jack following behind him. He took a spoon to his spirits glass to get everyone's attention. <br /> "Thank you for joining us here tonight to celebrate the union of two great packs," Kenneth began and turned to Jack, "It is an honor that our packs will be united." <br /> "Yes, we look forward to our unified strength," Jack nodded. <br /> "Lily, Brandy, and Matthew Hunter, please come up here," Kenneth said. <br /> Brandy quickly came to greet her father. Kenneth frowned at her attire as he reluctantly hugged her. She was always scantily clad, even after telling her to dress appropriately for the occasion. <br /> 'Like mother, like daughter,' Kenneth's wolf, Jasper, said before growling in irritation at seeing Matthew. Kenneth had recently learned that Matthew had been sleeping with Brandy behind Lily's back. As a father and a believer of old customs, he wanted to choke him, but it was better this way. At least one of his daughters would be a proper Luna.<br /> 'We should tear his throat out for humiliating Lily,' Jasper growled.<br /> 'Calm down,' Kenneth told him.<br /> 'You're a pathetic father,' Jasper responded before blocking himself from Kenneth like he always did. <br /> After a few minutes, Lily did not show. Kenneth frowned and he spoke over the microphone, "Where is Lily? Bring her here!" He didn't need her defying him in front of both packs. This union had to happen. <br /> "I am here, father!"<br /> Matthew stood on the stage awkwardly. He didn't expect that both packs would be here for this. Matthew assumed that this would be a private affair, but he knew his mother had to have had a hand in this. <br /> Kelly had been horrified and disappointed in Matthew when she discovered that Matthew had been sleeping with Lily's little sister. No one in their line had ever denied the Moon Goddess' will up until now. The only thing that calmed her was that Lily would still marry into the pack. <br /> Matthew didn't really want to be mated with Brandy. He just wanted to have fun before he was forever bound to Lily. However, he understood why his father wanted him to mate Mandy instead. An Alpha had to be seen as strong. A weak Luna was a liability. He could not rule a pack with an omega Luna.<br /> 'It is not the right choice!' Baldur growled within him. 'Why did the Moon Goddess curse me to be bonded to you until death? She is meant for us! You know it!'<br /> 'There is nothing we can do now. It is done,' Matthew responded.<br /> 'You fool. You're going to regret this.' Baldur warned before Matthew suppressed him again like he always did when he didn't want to hear what he had to say. <br /> After Kenneth and his father Jack's speech, there was a pause as they waited for Lily to appear. She had not shown up, which infuriated Kenneth. As he demanded to know where Lily was, her voice rang out. <br /> "I am here, father!"<br /> Lily emerged from the crowd, taking Matthew's breath away. There were murmurs from the crowd as they watched Lily. She wore a simple form-fitting strapless white dress with an overlay of lace. Her hair was pulled up in a bun, and a white veil covered her face. Lily wore her wedding dress to the rejection ceremony. <br /> When she got to the stage, she hugged her father, ignored Mandy, and curtsied to Alpha Jack and Luna Kelly before taking her position in front of Matthew. Lily kept a calm expression, but Matthew could see the fury in Lily's eyes. <br /> "Lily, I..." Matthew started, but she raised her hand, stopping him. <br /> Lily gave her hand to Jack and nodded to him. Jack smirked. This little female had sass. It was a shame that she was not an Alpha. Jack took the ceremonial blade and cut her palm. Matthew gave his hand to Kenneth, and he cut Matthew's hand. <br /> "I... I..." Matthew stammered. He found that he could not bring himself to say the words. Everything in him told him it was wrong. "Father, I can't. I..."<br /> "I, Lily Bray, the first-born daughter of Alpha Kenneth Bray, and my wolf, Dina, reject you, Matthew Hunter, the first-born son of Kenneth Hunter, and your wolf Baldur for your betrayal of our mate bond with my sister, Brandy," Lily said firmly as she grabbed Matthew's hand. "Do you accept?"<br /> There were gasps and murmurs from the audience, as no female in history has willingly rejected their mate. It was such a scandalous affair as both sets of parents wanted to keep it hushed that Matthew had been cheating, which was partly why the rejection ceremony was happening. <br /> Lily wasn't having any of it. They wanted to embarrass her publicly, so she wanted everyone to know the truth.<br /> "I... Matthew Hunter, the first-born son of Kenneth Hunter...accept your rejection," Matthew managed to say. As soon as the words left his mouth, he could feel their mate bond fully snap. Baldur howled in anguish within him as his bond with Dina snapped away even though he refused to accept the rejection. <br /> Lily fought the urge to collapse there on the stage. She welcomed the pain, embraced it as this was nothing compared to the anguish she felt over the betrayal. "I wish Matthew and Brandy well with their upcoming mating ceremony," Lily finally said. She turned to leave but was stopped by Brandy's grip on her wrist. <br /> "We accept your blessings dear sister. We hope to see you at our mating ceremony as I won't be able to go through with it if you aren't there by my side," Brandy said with a smug smile, wanting to see Lily lose her composure. <br /> Lily resisted the urge to scream at Brandy and punch her in the face. She kept her face calm and relaxed despite an eye twitch. Lily pulled her wrist free before grabbing her hand with her bloodied hand. <br /> Lily looked deep into Brandy's eyes trying to convey the hatred and anger she felt for her through her eyes. It didn't go unnoticed that Brandy stepped back due to the intensity of Lily's gaze. "Of course, Brandy. I wouldn't miss it for the world," Lily answered before removing her hand from hers. With another curtsy, Lily left the entertainment hall. She didn't collapse into tears until she reached her bedroom.<br /> "Dad! You can't be serious!" Lily exclaimed as she was dragged down the hallway by her father. <br /> After the rejection ceremony, Lily stayed in her room to mourn the loss of her mating bond for two days. She prayed and begged the Moon Goddess for forgiveness. Lily never wanted to do this, but she didn't have a choice. She couldn't be tied to an unfaithful mate for the rest of her life. <br /> On the second night, her father, Kenneth, kicked the door in to drag her out. Because Garrett didn't attend the rejection ceremony, Kenneth was bent on Lily being bonded to Garrett immediately. <br /> After receiving a phone call that Garrett was back from a business trip and was staying at the Blueberry Suites, Kenneth knew that he had to get Lily to him. He forced her to go to the pack doctor to have every test done to show that she was still pure and genetically tested to show she had no defects before getting her ready to go to the hotel. <br /> "You shut up!" Kenneth exclaimed. "Do you know how your little stunt made us seem to the other packs?"<br /> "You look powerful and smart, right? That's what you wanted!" Lily snapped back and Kenneth slapped her. <br /> "You embarrassed us! You wore your wedding dress. You were supposed to be the regretful mate, not an over zealous harlot!" Kenneth raged. <br /> "Harlot? I'm the harlot? Of course, you wouldn't talk bad about your dear daughter Brandy," Lily retorted. <br /> Kenneth slapped her again and Lily growled in warning at him. "Don't you dare! You're not stupid. You should have known better. No Alpha will want an Omega. Because of your antics, Brandy can't even use your dress. By ensuring your bond to Garrett, Alpha Jack promises to pay for everything," Kenneth retorted. <br /> "What about what I want? You got what you wanted! Brandy will be Matthew's Luna! Why must you do this to me? You could disown me. You could expel me from the pack!" Lily asked as she was brought to a door. She should've taken her friend up on her offer to go out of state with her for the holidays. Perhaps she would've been able to avoid all of this.<br /> "You made your decisions and I have made mine. Maybe if you hadn't tried to keep your money from me, this wouldn't be happening. Your little stunt didn't work," Kenneth sneered. <br /> "No! That money doesn't belong to you! I worked so hard..." <br /> "You have no say! You only received privileges because you are my daughter. You hold no value. You are a tool and nothing else. The quicker you understand that, the better off you'll be!" Kenneth snapped, cutting Lily off. He pried the jacket off his daughter, revealing her attire: a silky white camisole. "Hopefully, he'll teach you how to behave and know your place in the world."<br /> For the first time in her life, she wanted to physically harm her father. Lily wanted to shift and maul her father, but she was still too weak from the broken mate bond. She was helpless as Kenneth opened the door to the room and shoved her inside, causing her to fall hard on her butt. Her father slammed the door in her face, locking it behind him. <br /> Lily beat on the door when she realized she couldn't open it. 'Calm down Lily. Let's see if there is another way we can get out,' Dina said. Lily nodded and began to explore the room.<br /> The room was decorated with honey hues, for they gave a sense of home away from home, of a place of nurturing safety. However, Lily didn't feel safe at all. She felt like her whole world had been turned upside down. <br /> Tonight was her engagement night as her father explained it. It was more like she was being offered up on a silver platter to a predator.<br /> When she realized the windows were locked and couldn't break them, Lily quickly turned the lights off and sat down on the bed. The room was now pitch black and eerily quiet. The only sound that could be heard was the fan that was hiding Lily's rapid breathing. Lily lay stiffly on the bed, feeling like her body was under a spell. She was unable to move. <br /> Lily heard the door opening, and light entered the room, blinding her for a moment. She closed her eyes in fright, afraid of what would happen next.	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1,581,010	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580936}'	No	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	1530498297509387	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…Kelly…I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly's POV<br /> Was it a blessing to marry your best friend?<br /> I was not very sure what Pierce thought but marrying him was a dream come true for me. And now what was more exciting, we were going to welcome our first child.<br /> I closed my eyes recalling the first day we met. His bright smile in the sunlight was so dazzling, he was a Prince. Long before we became best friends, I fell in love with him at first sight. But it was only an unrequited love, I knew it well.<br /> I slid down the car window to get some fresh air but accidentally caught a glimpse of our old high school. That bitter feeling filled my chest once again. Pierce is my first love but I'm not his.<br /> In high school, I was only a boring nerd in other's eyes while Pierce Anderson was the shining Quarterback. Everyone was surprised that we could be friends. Though enmity rose, I enjoyed being around him. I slowly realized that I didn't want just to be his friend.<br /> However, right when I was about to confess my feelings to him, another girl came into his life.<br /> I shook my head trying to get rid of those sad old memories. I gripped the cold wedding ring on my finger, telling myself the past was past. Pierce said they were over and I was his wife now. I was his wife who was carrying his baby now.<br /> I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened the door to our house. My heart calmed down as I breathed in the scent of home. Our home. It wasn't as luxurious as his family's villa but cozy. Pierce and I decorated it together with our own hands. We enjoyed it. Yes, I must have been overthinking. That woman had been out of our lives for a long time and my marriage with Pierce was as beautiful as a fairy tale for the past three years.<br /> I glanced at the clock on the wall. At this point, Pierce should have gotten off the plane. He was over a month of traveling for the sake of our family’s business. Pierce was the President of ADE, the leading fashion magazine company all over Asia, and I was actually the Vice President of the company. We were not only life partners but also good partners at work.<br /> I really missed him. I dialed his number immediately. I really wanted to hear his voice now, to know when he would arrive home. I would prepare a good meal for him and he would prize me with a sweet peck. And then we might have passionate intercourse like what he gave me the night before his business trip. Oops, I almost forgot I was pregnant now. I needed to tell him this first and then we could do something else instead.<br /> I was happily envisioning our lovely reunion and my heart dropped when a woman's voice came over the line.<br /> [Hello?]<br /> I snapped the phone as just one word came out. My phone fell to the floor and my body started shaking uncontrollably. NO! It couldn't be her! It couldn't be Lexi! She was already out of our life! I must have misheard.<br /> I rushed to the fridge in an attempt to calm myself with the aid of some drinks. But the moment I touched the drinks bottle, I was reminded of the doctor's words and my baby. I needed to be cautious for my baby's sake. I turned to get a box of milk and walked toward the sofa.<br /> I didn't know what made me recognize that as Lexi's voice at that moment. I meant Lexi and I were never close. Lexi Gilbert was a typical blonde beauty that men would go crazy for. She was the popular cheerleader in high school while Pierce was the star quarterback. Better match than he and a nerd like me, right? It wasn't surprising that he had fallen for her.<br /> My pride couldn't stand watching the man I loved go crazy for another woman. So I had once tried to stay away from them silently but Pierce refused to quit from my life. Every time I drowned myself in a sea of books and studies to forget them, Pierce would appear at my doorway asking me out. I couldn't say no to his charming smile; I couldn't say no when he claimed it was his duty as my best friend to take me to enjoy the real world.<br /> To not ruin our friendship, I could only hide my broken heart, silently playing the role of his best friend by his side and watching his happy face for another girl. I finally got up the courage to study abroad as I learned that Pierce was planning to propose to Lexi. However, I never expected Grams would call to beg me back.<br /> I returned in a hurry only to see a lifeless Pierce. His heart was harmed badly, by Lexi. My beloved sunshine boy was nowhere to be seen, and my heart was bleeding. I started to hate Lexi from that moment. I gave up my cherished man to her, and how dared she harm him so badly! That witch!<br /> Pierce didn't tell anyone what happened except he was over with Lexi. Grams arranged our marriage. I didn't understand why he agreed until the day I heard him say that marrying anyone but Lexi would be the same for him.<br /> It was so hurt but I still walked into this marriage without a second thought. My cherished boy was broken and I wanted to fix him, not caring if I would ruin myself in the process.<br /> I fell asleep at home feeling so insecure and worried.It was already morning when I opened my eyes again and Pierce was beside me, putting a tray of food on the bedside table.<br /> “Hey!” I greeted and smiled when I realized what he’d done. He prepared breakfast for me. In bed. The sweetest.<br /> He smiled and sat on the bed. “Good morning. I have something to tell you.”<br /> I felt my heart race. I thought about our baby in my womb. He’s got something to tell. I have something to tell him too.<br /> “W-What is it?” I asked as I felt my voice tremble.<br /> He took a deep sigh. “You know you’re important to me, right?”<br /> I slowly nodded with parted lips. I couldn’t answer. I’m scared of what he’s about to say. I have a bad feeling about this.<br /> “You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…”<br /> I hid my balled fists under the sheet. I don’t know why he’s telling me all this but I felt tears pooling in the corner of my eyes already.<br /> “Kelly…” he paused and squeezed his eyes closed before he looked at me again in the eyes. “I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> Kelly’s POV<br /> I got off the bed and tried to leave but Pierce grabbed my hand. I immediately wiped the tears that rolled down my cheeks before he could see them. He stood in front of me and looked at my face as I tried so hard to look down and avoid his eyes.<br /> I felt my heart breaking into pieces. I thought… I thought I could make him fall in love with me within those three years together. I thought his feelings would level up and would see me as a woman rather than just a best friend. I was stupid for hoping and dreaming so high.<br /> I failed. No matter how hard I tried, his heart belonged only to his first love Lexi.<br /> He looked at me worriedly. “You are my best friend. I don’t wanna lose you, Kels. You’re one of my few people…”<br /> “I know,” I said out of frustration. He looked shocked, so I calmed myself down. “I-I know. You don’t have to worry. I’m just stressed about work. It’s not about our divorce.”<br /> His lips parted and he slowly nodded as if he was able to breathe properly. He walked towards me and I froze when he gently pecked my forehead…<br /> “Thank you, Kelly," he whispered. My heart clenched. It had been three years but I was still such a coward. Why couldn't you just tell him that you love him, Kelly? He's your husband and you're carrying his baby! Tell him and he might change his mind!<br /> I swallowed hard and was about to tell him but his phone rang. I didn't miss the caller ID. Again, it was Lexi.<br /> " I gotta go." He scratched his head in apology and I didn't miss the upturned corners of his mouth. "I called Luke and he’s waiting outside. Eat before you go, okay?”<br /> With that, he left our room. The tears I had managed to suppress burst out again. Why would I think I could have a chance? He made his choice already the moment he asked for the divorce, didn't he?<br /> Whenever it came to Lexi, I was always the one he would abandon.<br /> --<br /> I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”<br /> When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his btch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.<br /> “KELLY!”<br /> I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.<br /> “What did you do?”<br /> My forehead creased. “I cooked.”<br /> He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”<br /> “You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”<br /> “Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”<br /> I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”<br /> “No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”<br /> I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.<br /> “If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”<br /> “Don’t turn your back on me—”<br /> “Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”<br /> His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.<br /> “You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”<br /> I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”<br /> “I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”<br /> A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”<br /> “Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”<br /> “I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”<br /> He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”<br /> I tilted my head, “Are you not?”<br /> His forehead creased. “I am not an beast, Kelly. Did you see me pecking her or drilling her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”<br /> “Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”<br /> “Kelly!”<br /> “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”<br /> He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”<br /> I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”<br /> --<br /> He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”<br /> “Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”<br /> He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.<br /> “I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”<br /> I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”<br /> He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”<br /> I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.<br /> *<br /> Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.<br /> “We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.<br /> I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.<br /> We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.<br /> I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.<br /> “I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”<br /> “Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.<br /> I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.<br /> “Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a slt?”<br /> Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.<br /> “He’s not cheating, dad.”<br /> “Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.<br /> “I want a divorce, dad.”<br /> “Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.<br /> “LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.<br /> “NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.<br /> “Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”<br /> “I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”<br /> Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”<br /> “Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.<br /> I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”<br /> Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.<br /> "Did you…mean what you said?" His voice sounds tired and lifeless.<br /> I pressed my lips together and tightened my grip on my pouch.<br /> Heaving a sigh, I slowly turned to face him. He was looking straight into my eyes as if he was actually waiting for me to look at him.<br /> "I mean everything I said, Pierce."<br /> He swallowed hard. There was something in his eyes. Confusion, pain, and thankfulness. I don't know why he's being like this but I'm not doing this just for him. I'm doing this for me too. I want a complete family for my baby, but I'm not gonna settle for the small things he can offer. I love him, but I will love my baby more.<br /> "Kels, you're not drifting apart because of this, right?"<br /> My forehead creased. He expects me to stick to him even after all of these? He's selfish.<br /> "Kels…"<br /> "Pierce, I'm tired. Let's talk tomorrow."<br /> --<br /> My phone rang as soon as I stepped out of the bathroom. The family lawyer of the Anderson family is the one calling. I immediately answered the call… "Hello, attorney."<br /> [Mrs. Anderson, I'm on my way to your house now. I have the document with me.]<br /> I nodded as I stared at my own reflection in the mirror. "Thank you, attorney. We'll be waiting."<br /> When I went downstairs, Pierce was already preparing the table for our breakfast. I suddenly felt starving as soon as my eyes landed on the pasta. However, someone rang the bell. I went straight to the door and was welcomed by Attorney Wade Morgan.<br /> “Good morning, Mrs. Anderson.”<br /> I smiled at him. “Good morning, Attorney. Come in.”<br /> “Who’s there, Kelly?”<br /> Pierce appeared behind me even before Attorney Morgan stepped his foot inside the house. Pierce’s lips parted after he saw the person standing in front of us.<br /> “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”<br /> Pierce looked at me so I gave him a smile. “He’s here to deliver and process our divorce papers.”<br /> Pierce didn’t answer. We ate our breakfast and only me and Attorney Morgan were talking. Pierce is strangely silent but I feel like it’s because he’s worried about his grandmother. Our breakfast ended in a deafening silence and when it was time to sign the divorce papers, I felt suffocated.<br /> Now, it's time to end this false happiness.<br /> Taking a deep breath, I signed my name on the divorce paper.<br /> Pierce’s POV<br /> She signed the divorce papers. She signed it without thinking twice. In front of me.<br /> A bitter smile spilled as I downed another glass of spirit.<br /> I should be happy about that when I was the one who asked for the divorce. But…but my heart felt so heavy ever since Kelly signed the papers.<br /> Kelly and I had been friends for over 10 years. The day she transferred to my high school, I accidentally bumped into her by the lake. She looked like a frightened kitten, carefully hiding her true self behind that thick antique eyeglasses. That was interesting.<br /> I didn't realize that nerdy transfer girl in everyone's eyes would be the daughter of my mother's best friend. With that, we grew to be friends. Best friends.<br /> Kelly changed a lot after graduation. When I came back from the first vacation alone with Lexi, I was surprised to find that my best friend was far different. Taking off her heavy glasses and changing out of her baggy hoodies, she learned how to dress up. She was always a fast learner and in an instant, Kelly became a total campus goddess, with her brain and beauty.<br /> More and more suitors gathered around her. I could see how much she was troubled, so as her best friend, I naturally became that escort. Although it caused some rumors, I knew we were only best friends. I already had Lexi.<br /> No one knew why Kelly never had a boyfriend. I once wanted to ask about it but gave up, as I had a feeling that she would leave me once I learned the answer. I never wanted to lose her. She was my best friend.<br /> Everything went well but after the countless argument with Lexi about our future life, we fell into a long cold war. And when I was ready to surrender, Lexi suddenly went to another city after sending me a breakup text. I flew all night to chase her, only to find her sleeping with another man. My heart was broken.<br /> I fell into darkness and spirit became my best partner. Just when I thought I was about to rot in my darkened room, a figure appeared in the doorway, bringing me the only light. It was Kelly.<br /> I broke down with tears in the arms of my best friend. And Kelly suspended her studies abroad to be by my side. Without her, I could never overcome that hardest time. I'd been always grateful for that. I swore to cherish her for my whole life.<br /> But I never expected that Grams would wish us to get married. I agreed to give it a shot. It’s better to marry her than marrying another woman my family chose for me. My family was a fan of arranged marriage. And since they also treated Kelly as family, I felt like if I refused to marry her, my family would set her up with someone. It’s better to be me than anyone else, right? I just want to protect her...<br /> After three years of happy peaceful marriage, I started to consider having a child with Kelly. She always loved kids, I knew. However, it was at that time, that I met Lexi again on my business trip.<br /> My heart was in turmoil when the woman I once loved so deeply cried in my arms. Lexi told me everything that happened to her. Her fate wasn’t good to her and she wants me back. I thought my feelings for her disappeared, but as soon as she came back, everything came back to me too. Our memories and even my feelings for her.<br /> It’s Kelly, my best friend over Lexi, my first love. I don’t know what to do. God knows how much I dreamed of having Lexi because she’s my first love but…losing Kelly should not be a trade to get my first love.<br /> I feel like I’m losing Kelly now just because of that divorce paper.<br /> Can it all start over?	LEARN_MORE	https://b.mylibapps.com/ad/bm92ZWxXb3JsZC8xNjI3Nzc	128522263674865	Libb002	https://facebook.com/61551403614101	48	1	844,040,764,217,699	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Libb002	120210249358040299	b.mylibapps.com	NONE	video		https://b.mylibapps.com/ad/bm92ZWxXb3JsZC8xNjI3NzcvMjAyNDA0MjYxMDAxMzMvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-25 21:09	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439696711_847581197401261_6731151443978060705_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xrDrowxesgcQ7kNvgFIRC7V&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBch6Srh8KgXo6CoiDpRBE0JOJzz45ZTqV1IRTsZPGRcA&oe=66348CB7	person_profile	Libb002	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439639386_747209664227070_5354395521380930517_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TTB7SLyrp6wQ7kNvgF_6Eoh&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBSvRTP_YlilLG92ELPaCwue0Hgcs4_Oyxlrk6GtoiARA&oe=66349004	3	Libb002	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,581,030	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580845}'	No	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	2441074982761683	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	"I Heath Jackson hereby reject you, Jessa Bane as my mate!" Heath said coldly.<br /> "I Jessa Bane accept your rejection! I Jessa Bane reject you, Heath Jackson as my mate!" She spat back.<br /> She had no wolf to heal such a great deal of damage. She was simply Jessa. Born a mystery, hated, abused, and rejected. She could only wonder what the next round of torture would bring. She knew now that she was of age she was in danger of being abused in a whole new way. She could only hope they'd finish her off.<br /> "Alpha James, it seems you've taken a liking to a few of our omegas. It is not uncommon for packs to trade omegas and slaves. These three are quite a set. Their loss would be costly for us. What would you propose?" He said.<br /> "I would spare you the attack I could deliver and still end up with them. I offer you a pass from the justice this girl deserves as well as the punishment your mate certainly does. I'm not a hard man, but this is all I'll do!" He said.<br /> <br /> ————————<br /> Hanny snapped as soon as she entered the room. Her eyes narrowed in on Jessa. Something was different with her scent… she couldn't quite place it. Her eyes widened as she realized that Jessa had come of age already. And what a great amount of money she could gain by selling Jessa off to a pack member. It's forbidden to touch a woman under the age of 18, but now? Oh now she could be sold off. Well, one part of her anyways.<br /> Hanny knew men desired the strange looking omega. She saw their glances and stares. She scented their lust. Yes, she could profit greatly from this mutt. She would speak to the beta of the pack and arrange for her to be auctioned before any of them could get to her. She turned and hurried out towards the Beta's wing of the house. She knocked and waited but received no response. She instead went to look for her mate.<br /> Jessa saw Hanny's reaction and could guess exactly where she was headed and why. She knew from her years of watching other omegas who were unmated or rejected, that she was to have her innocence sold. She swallowed back bile that threatened to make her retch and tears she would not shed pricked her eyes. What was she to do?<br /> She knew what would come for Jessa. She knew she could only stand by and pick up what was left of her and help her put herself together again. If she found her mate, and he somehow accepted her, she would still have to suffer. But that never really happened. Omegas weren't usually accepted, if they were, they were merely for breeding while the males ran around with any woman they wished. It was worse in a way than flat out rejection, it was painful yes, but once accepted it was over for the most part. An unfaithful mate caused pain to their mate every time they slept with another person. And sure, the omega could reject the mate, but he would be unlikely to accept the rejection without delivering harm or death to the omega.<br /> She could only hope her friend would get one of the least malicious males. She herself knew how ruthless they could truly be.<br /> After breakfast was carefully placed in the buffet dishes and the table set, she exited the dining room and nearly ran into Heath. She couldn't believe it. He smelled incredible. Like freshly mown grass and mint. He was her mate. Oh no. What would she do now? He hated her! He turned 18 two weeks ago! She's dead.<br /> "Out of my way you mutt!" Heath spat at her. But as he said it her scent filled his nose. She smelled like fresh strawberries and lilies. So intoxicating. His wolf Regan growled out "Mate!" Heath was disgusted that he'd be paired with such a useless mate! He'd never accept this! He turned on his heel and headed to find Lucian.<br /> "Ah ss-sorry" she mumbled at his back and quickly ran off for her room.<br /> Hanny witnessed this interaction from the staircase. She saw the look that passed the mutts face. Ah, so she's the future beta's mate then… She could waste no time for sure. She went straight to the Beta's office. Knocking she awaited to be let in and smoothed her shirt and hair.<br /> "Enter Hanny" Beta Julien said with his nose stuck in a document.<br /> "Beta, I have some distressing news…" she bowed to him.<br /> "Out with it Hanny! I'm quite busy!" He snapped<br /> "Sir, I've just come from the kitchens. I sought you earlier but you were busy. It seems the omega known as Jessa came of age today. She is 18. As per our tradition she will be auctioned if her mate denies her. But sir, I saw… well, I saw a strange interaction with her and future beta Heath. I have reason to believe she may be his mate!" Hanny stuttered and finally said.<br /> "What? ! ? !" Beta Julien roared out. "How can that be? A lowly omega nobody for MY Heath? Never! Bring the worthless Trollop and my son here immediately. I'll notify the Alpha and Luna. We'll take care of this situation immediately!"<br /> Hanny turned and left the office and headed to the servants quarters to grab Jessa and do as she was instructed. But upon reaching the girls room, she was no where to be found. Displeased at having to track her down she followed her scent down to the servant's exit and then to the lakeside. She found her with Amelia and a bastards of a tramp Caleb. Such a pity he was born with no station, such a handsome face wasted on a nobody.<br /> "Jessa! Come! You've been summoned by the Beta!" Hanny snapped out. "And you two! Don't you have chores to be doing? Get to them!"<br /> "Get one thing straight mutt! You'll NEVER be with Heath! I won't allow it! Heath! Come! Reject this filthy thing and be done with it!" He spat at her.<br /> "I Heath Jackson hereby reject you, Jessa Bane as my mate!" Heath said coldly<br /> Jessa waited for the pain. But nothing came. She felt nothing but relief. She couldn't dwell on that. She needed to accept it before the pain came. Just as she opened her mouth a sharp burning sensation sent her mind reeling. He'd slapped her! He had hit her!<br /> "I Jessa Bane accept your rejection! I Jessa Bane reject you, Heath Jackson as my mate!" She spat back.<br /> Her eyes widened as she watched as the pain brought Heath to his knees. She wasn't sure what happened. She was supposed to be the one in pain, but he was instead. She was smug inside but her face showed no trace of emotion. What had happened?<br /> "Heath, sweetie, it is for you to decide what you want done with her. As she has rejected you, I suggest you accept it then teach her the proper place for an omega." She said gently.<br /> "I Heath Jackson accept your rejection!" The relief washed over him. He still couldn't understand how he came to be the one in pain, but he wouldn't let her get away with it! "Luna, I would like to hand her over to you for punishment as you see fit! Get this worthless bimbo out of my face!" He spat in Jessa's direction.<br /> "Very well, Hanny, take her to the post! Strip her to her waist. She will learn her place today! This arrogance will end today! She'll have no food for a week. She will be on the post for two days then moved to the dungeons!" Luna Kelly decreed. "She will remain in the dungeon until she can learn humility and her place."<br /> With that Jessa was dragged out of the house and forced onto the concrete base that raised the post above the ground for all to see. It was meant to make such things completely public. She had been here several times. But never had she been ordered to be stripped! She knew it was just another type of torture she would be subjected to in order to break her. But she was unbreakable. She wouldn't bend to the will of this evil woman. She would make her escape somehow. Some way she'd get herself, Amelia and Caleb out of this place. She just had to remain strong and endure this bit of pain.<br /> As the Luna left and the crowd dispersed Jessa stood proudly. With the sun burning her fair skin and the blood running down her back, she stood.<br /> After some time Jessa finally made a move. She bent to pick up her shirt though the movement caused her great pains. She put on the torn fabric and tied it together around her breasts and back. It would have to do for now. She still stood. She wouldn't bow anymore.<br /> She had no wolf to heal such a great deal of damage. She was simply Jessa. Born a mystery, hated, abused and rejected. She could only wonder what the next round of torture would bring. She knew now that she was of age she was in danger of being abused in a whole new way. She could only hope they'd finish her off.<br /> As they stepped out the packhouse James's head suddenly snapped up. 'Do you smell blood? ' He asked through the mindlink 'Yes Alpha! I do smell it! How strange. I smell wolvesbane too. Ah jeez just what kinda pack is this? ' 'I don't know but I'm following it. <br /> Someone could be in trouble' Alpha James said as he strode around the side of the house and stopped in his tracks. ' Ah Goddess! What? ' There before them was Jessa bloodied and bruised before their eyes. Her body so heavily scarred and burnt. Her auburn curls tumbling wildly around her face. <br /> Such an exquisite face! She looked like a child with her small stature but her body had all the curves of a woman. She was beautiful.<br /> She reminded him of Joan of Arc, standing before her captors calmly facing torment and surely death with her righteousness as her shield and her fire her sword. In his years he'd never seen such a brave and fearless female. Her wounds however. <br /> They were indeed serious. They still bled slightly and showed signs of reddening and infection. He assessed her condition as her strange colored eyes assessed him. He'd rarely seen eyes that color. She must have come from a far off tribe. <br /> Strangely she didn't smell of a wolf. She must be wolfless. How sad. But there was something about her. James just couldn't place it. Something was different with her. <br /> Finally she opened her mouth to speak to this man staring her down.<br /> "Come to have a look at me? Maybe see what you're buying before you pay your money down?" She sneered<br /> Taken aback by her tone and words James's head snapped up and he met her eyes.<br /> "I beg your pardon miss? Pay? Money? I have no clue what you're saying!" He said in annoyance as much as confusion.<br /> "I'll bet you don't. Hanny knows I'm now of age. Tell me, how much did she offer me up for? What's the bid at now? I'm betting she's asking a lot. I've seen the way they stare. They are all waiting to get their hands on me. But I'll fight back! I don't care if they kill me! I won't let them do it!" She spat out at him.<br /> "What ARE you taking about woman?" Sam finally spoke up.<br /> Jessa's head swung towards him just noticing him for the first time. He was a shorter blond copy of the other man. But his eyes were coffee brown. Not an unpleasant color. He was slightly softer in the middle than his friend. She rolled her eyes.<br /> "It's pack tradition. I'm sure everyone knows by now that I was rejected by Heath. As a rejected omega my first time will be sold to the wolf with the highest bid. Don't play dumb." She retorted with razors dripping off her tongue.<br /> "WHAT? ! ? !" Both men exploded at once.<br /> "Pack tradition? What is this? What do you mean sold? That's barbaric! It's wrong!" James ranted as he paced back and forth. Even Sam was unable to calm himself or the alpha down. Then he happened to notice that her feet were bound with silver shackles.<br /> 'Look at her feet! They've put her in silver shackles! Omg they're burnt completely up!' Sam yelled in mindlink.<br /> "Girl, what is your name?" James demanded in alpha tone.<br /> Jessa's eyes went wide as she realized these weren't members of her pack. These were outsiders and one was an Alpha! She immediately lowered her head and put her eyes to her feet.<br /> "Jessa sir" she replied.<br /> "Jessa I need you to do me a favor. Stay still. My Beta is going to look around for the key and get this chain and shackle off you. Do you know where it is?"<br /> "Hanny has one key and Luna Kelly the other. I'm sorry but there's no way to remove it. I'm used to it sir, please don't trouble yourself. I'm just a lowly omega. A slave. I only have to stay alive to save myself and my siblings." She said sadly.<br /> "You have siblings? Are they also omegas? The warrior said you were found." James questioned<br /> "I was. Another omega took me in. She raised me until her death. She raised me alongside her daughter Amelia. Later we took to looking out for another orphaned boy, Caleb. He's an omega too. His parents were killed in a rogue attack. He's only fifteen and Amelia is eighteen like me. They're all I have. Please, don't trouble yourself." She said her sadness increasing.<br /> They were soon aware of the tapping of heels and a much heavier footfall coming from the stairway behind them. Luna Kelly and Beta Julien stepped forward and stood beside Hanny.<br /> "What's going in here?" Luna Kelly demanded.<br /> "I caught these scum attempting to abduct three of our omegas Luna!" Hanny said.<br /> "I see, Alpha James, Beta Sam, why are you stealing our omegas?" Luna Kelly asked with her voice dripping venom with each word.<br /> "We found this girl chained up outside. Her wounds are extensive and she's clearly been abused. I should ask you exactly why she's been treated so poorly!" Alpha James replied with just as much hatred in his voice.<br /> "This girl is a murderer and a troublemaker. I will punish her as I see fit! Are you questioning my authority as a Luna?" She raged<br /> "I'm questioning your capability as a Luna quite frankly!" He snapped back.<br /> Both Julien and Hanny growled and bared fangs at his words. How dare he? Alpha or not he had no say on this territory and certainly no right to insult their Luna! Julien mindlinked Alpha Mark to come at once.<br /> "How dare you? This is my pack and my territory! You would dare to stand here insulting me to my face?" She seethed.<br /> "I most certainly would. Your actions are cruel and unforgivable! I know of this girls origin. Your evilness has made her life unbelievably miserable. I would suggest you move aside and let us leave or there will be trouble. I don't think I have to remind you that our pack's numbers are much stronger and more powerful." James said threateningly.<br /> Just then from the top of the stairs Alpha Mark appeared. He took note of the scene unfolding below him. It seemed Alpha James has taken to Jessa and her siblings. He secretly smiled inside. Maybe the kid would catch a break now. He was certainly getting too old for this anymore. Lucian would be taking over in just a few short days now and he would be free of all this nonsense!<br /> Mark cleared his throat and descended the stairs. He looked at Kelly and Julien then to Alpha James. After a moment he spoke:<br /> "Alpha James, it seems you've taken a liking to a few of our omegas. It is not uncommon for packs to trade omegas and slaves. These three are quite a set. Their loss would be costly for us. What would you propose?" He said<br /> "I would spare you the attack I could deliver and still end up with them. I offer you a pass from the justice this girl deserves as well as the punishment your mate certainly does. I'm not a hard man, but this is all I'll do!" He said.<br /> "No! She is worth a great deal of money right now!" Luna Kelly spoke up.<br /> "Your woman still doesn't know her place does she?" James mumbled.<br /> "Silence Kelly! I know about the sick bets and bids you have going. I put my foot down here. No more. No more selling the omegas to the highest bidders to do with what they want. No more. You've been abusing this girl far too long. It stops now!" Mark commanded. "As for you Hanny, you're dismissed from the role of training omegas. I don't know how you play into this Julien but you can leave now."<br /> Julien turned and strode away. There was nothing he could do and he certainly didn't want to go down with them. Truth was, he was just a coward underneath it all.<br /> Mark returned his attention back to his wife and Hanny.<br /> 'I'll deal with you two later, and as for the three omegas, I'll just ask that you please reconsider my plea as payment?' He said<br /> James thought a second and decided to answer later once he had Jessa and her siblings safely away. He nodded his head curtly and walked them out the door to his black stretch Expedition.	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1,581,031	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580935}'	No	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	2587306901452958	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	I quietly walked further into my flat, towards my bedroom, almost tripping over his shirt that lay discarded on the floor. It was not the only article of clothing strewn across the floor. There was some woman’s clothing on the floor too. Judging by the size the woman had to be a supermodel or something. The clothing was so small. It had to be the smallest size you could get here in the UK for women.<br /> I suddenly felt so insecure, because that size of clothing would never fit me now, it did when I was in my late teens, but not now.<br /> I arrived at my bedroom, but I made sure to remain hidden out of sight. Thankfully the door was open a little bit, so I could see everything. I could hear his distinct grunts and moans, as well as the moans of another woman.<br /> I peered through the small crack in the door and saw him with another woman in my bed. His back was to me, so he didn’t notice that I had seen what he was doing. The woman looked like a supermodel to me, but I really couldn’t see her very well, except for a little bit of her blonde hair that was spread across the sheets. <br /> ————————<br /> <br /> Eilith’s POV-<br /> I am heading home early from my grandparents’ house. I decided to visit them, because I wanted to see them. I do not see them as much as I would like too, since I finished University and started making my way in the world. You see, I have lived with my grandparents since I was five years old, because my parents sadly died in a car accident, I don’t know much else than that. There was no other family, and my grandparents fought to keep me with them.<br /> My father was the heir to a very powerful business. He had been running it for ten years before he died, but after he passed, my grandparents made the difficult decision of selling the business to the highest bidder. My grandparents focused on investing after that to maintain their wealth.<br /> My family is one of the very wealthy families in the United Kingdom. As the sole heiress to the wealth, my grandparents did not want me to have friends or boyfriends who just wanted me for my money, so I told everyone my name was Eilith Smith, not Eilith Clarke, which is my actual name. I have only told Kelly Roberts, my best friend, because she was a rich girl too, and has been my closest and dearest friend since we were eight years old. I really would not know what I would do without her, she has been there for me through so much.<br /> I had told my boyfriend, Dylan Harrison, that I would be out for most of the day and will not likely be home till the evening. In a note on his bedside, next to his phone, because he was still asleep, as I had woken up very early. I wanted to get to my grandparents before the morning traffic rush. But when I got there, my grandparents were going to visit a friend of theirs for and early dinner, so I had to leave far earlier than expected.<br /> When I usually visit them, I spend all day, sometimes into the next day with them, because they raised me and it is nice to be able to help them out around their home and visit my horse, which they keep at their home, in the stables on their land. When they were ready to leave to go have dinner, that was when I left to go home. I didn’t mention to my boyfriend that I was on the way home. I was thinking I would surprise him.<br /> I returned home, thinking I would be able to have a nice relaxing bath, and then maybe plan a nice romantic dinner for myself and Dylan, if he is home from the football match early enough. It wasn’t something we often did at home. I thought it would be a nice change. I love to cook, but he prefers to eat out at lavish places. He is the type to love to flaunt his wealth. Those plans were soon dashed…<br /> I entered my flat quietly, just in case Dylan was still asleep, which is how I left him this morning when I left to visit my grandparents. What I saw in front of me stopped me in my tracks. My mind went blank. In that moment, I almost forgot to breathe.<br /> I somehow managed to get the front door closed behind me quietly. When I turned around, I focused more on what was going one even though I was already beginning to understand what was going on, and honestly it didn’t feel real. It didn’t feel like it was happening to me.<br /> A cooked breakfast that had been made and eaten by two was left on my dining table. Romantic music played on the radio. I couldn’t quite hear it; I think because this whole thing felt like an out of body experience. I could not believe my eyes; Dylan had never once done anything like this for me. He would never cook for me, I think he even joked that it was a woman’s job once, but he was drunk and with friends, so I never took it to heart. Yet he would do it for a woman, who was not his girlfriend.<br /> I felt pain in my chest, that spread up my throat choking me. I knew I would not be able to say anything to him, but I had to know, was he really cheating on me?<br /> I quietly walked further into my flat, towards my bedroom, almost tripping over his shirt that lay discarded on the floor. It was not the only article of clothing strewn across the floor. There was some woman’s clothing on the floor too. Judging by the size the woman had to be a supermodel or something. The clothing was so small. It had to be the smallest size you could get here in the UK for women.<br /> I suddenly felt so insecure, because that size of clothing would never fit me now, it did when I was in my late teens, but not now.<br /> I arrived at my bedroom, but I made sure to remain hidden out of sight. Thankfully the door was open a little bit, so I could see everything. I could hear his distinct grunts and moans, as well as the moans of another woman.<br /> I peered through the small crack in the door and saw him with another woman in my bed. His back was to me, so he didn’t notice that I had seen what he was doing. The woman looked like a supermodel to me, but I really couldn’t see her very well, except for a little bit of her blonde hair that was spread across the sheets. I didn’t know her, but a hatred grew in my heart almost straight away for her.<br /> I could feel my eyes well with tears, as my hand covered my mouth. I could not stay here any longer, my voice was all but gone. I couldn’t stay there to speak with him, let alone look at him right now. Not to mention, I know he has a temper when someone confronts him, it has happened before when we were out, but it has never been aimed at me before. Something I was always scared of happening. How could he do this to me, after everything I had done for him? How could he cheat on me after all these years? Has he been cheating on me this whole time? Could I really forgive him if he made promises? I just needed to get out of here for now.<br /> So, I left, as quietly and quickly as I could. I didn’t want him to know that I had seen him, because I could not deal with the confrontation right now, and his excuses and temper.<br /> <br /> My best friend, Kelly, had a little while before she started work at the restaurant, she was a manager at. She has dreams of starting her own restaurant chain and wanted to get experience working the lower levels in the restaurant beforehand. I jumped into my car, and headed to the restaurant she works at. I texted her to tell her I was on my way to her, before I left.<br /> “What is wrong? You have me worried.”<br /> “I... I found... Dylan cheating on me,” I choked.<br /> “I am not surprised. I have told you many times, he is not worthy of you. Think about your entire relationship. I have known you far longer than Dylan has known you. You were always so confident and free. You wore what you want, when you wanted. Red is your favourite colour, and you have stopped wearing anything red, because he didn’t like you wearing red. You told me it made him mad if you wore red. You stopped eating pasta, one of your favourite things to eat, because he said you would get fat. He told you to stop hanging around with my brother, who treats you like a sister. I bet he gets mad if he finds out you were with me and my brother. That is controlling behaviour, a major red flag. If you stay with him, he will just keep cheating on you, and this controlling behaviour will just get worse, until you are isolated from your friends and family, and that is when he will start physically abusing you. Eilith, please, you must leave him now,” she said.<br /> I sat in the driver’s seat of my car, thinking about what she said, and as I thought, <br /> “Was he really that bad? I can’t believe I let him do that to me, to do everything that he did to me,” I whimpered.<br /> I was glad she didn’t ask what he did to me, because I wasn’t ready to talk about it. She rubbed my back, and said, “It is okay. One day soon we will sit down and have a long hard talk about everything that he did. Maybe it will be best if you go to therapy too. But I will not leave your side. I will stand by you through this whole ordeal, I promise.”<br /> “How am I going to make it without you? You’re leaving to move to London in a few days,” I whispered, in between my sobs.<br /> “Come with us. Josh and I have brought a three-bed house in London. Josh won’t mind you moving into the spare bedroom, until you get back on your feet. He will understand. He sees you as a little sister,” Kelly suggested.<br /> Josh is Kelly’s older brother. He really did see me as his little sister, just like I see him as my brother. I looked at her, a little shocked about that idea. I whispered, “But, I have nothing packed, and he is at home.”<br /> She nodded, pausing and thinking about what I could do to deal with this situation. I too, was thinking, because I didn’t want things to turn out like this. Dylan was very scary when he was mad. In those moments, I believed that he could hit me, even though he never got angry at me. She cleared her throat, and said, “I am only doing a four-hour shift, to cover the time the other manager can’t be in due to childcare. When she gets here, I will have Josh pick me up and come straight over to help you. Once you know he is out of your flat, go there and pack everything up that you can, as quickly as you can, and leave. Get it done before he gets home. If he does get home, before Josh and I get there, send me our code word. So, I know you are in danger, and need help I will call the police.”<br /> We have had a code word, for a great many years. It was more to ensure our safety while we were out at night. We knew the other would need help if we received HOD by text. It stands for House of Dead, an arcade game that we both loved to play with Kelly’s brother. It was short simple and to the point. Plus, three letters that meant something to the both of us makes a great code word.<br /> “But what if he tries to hurt you or Josh,” I said.<br /> “Do you know why he hates Josh,” she responded.<br /> I shook my head, and asked, “Why?”<br /> “Do you remember that day when we were looking at dresses online, before we went shopping. According to Josh, when I said you would look drop dead gorgeous in that red dress you were looking at, Dylan looked at it, and muttered some vile things about you. Josh heard that, when they were alone, Josh laid into him. Dylan tried to get in Josh’s face, Josh didn’t flinch instead he just smirked. Dylan backed down,” she explained.<br /> Josh was different from Dylan, physically. Josh is taller and has broader shoulders and is more muscular compared to Dylan. Josh is a gym rat. He loves working out and using weights. Dylan, on the other hand, rarely goes to the gym, but is well toned and skinny. Dylan wouldn’t stand against Josh in a fight, not only due to their difference physically, but because Josh is training to be a boxer for the Olympics. I have seen him knock a man out with a single punch. So, he is a strong man. The perfect kind of older brother you want.<br /> “So, that is why he didn’t want me to be around Josh,” I said.<br /> She nodded, “Josh made him feel emasculated. He is toxic, so you need to leave him. I will call Josh and tell him to be ready and get here to pick me up early, in the hopes that I may be able to leave earlier. I must go. Josh and I will be on our way to help you as soon as we can. Stay safe.”<br /> I nodded, “Thank you, Kelly.”<br /> “Be careful and send me text updates. Please make sure that if he comes back, you send me that code word,” she said, as she began climbing out of my car.<br /> I nodded, “I promise.”<br /> I watched as she called Josh and headed inside the restaurant to start her shift. I looked down as my phone, and realised I had a text from Dylan.<br /> Dylan: “Hey babe, I hope you are having fun with your grandparents. I won’t be in when you come home. I am going to watch the football match with the boys. I will be back later tonight. Make yourself dinner. Xx”<br /> I stared down at the text. The football match he was talking about was in two hours, so he would leave the home in thirty minutes to meet with his friends, so he can head to the match with them. I had to reply but keep it as normal as possible to my usual texts, and honestly that was the frightening thing. One mistake and this could go wrong.<br /> Me: “I am just about to leave my grandparents. I will be about an hour, maybe a little longer, as there is some road works near my grandparents’ home. Have fun at the football match. Text me when you are on your way home. Xx”<br /> He read the text message and replied with a simple okay. I grabbed my suitcases out of my wardrobe. I had two sizes a large one and a cabin one. I opened both, leaving them on the floor. I quickly yanked some of my clothing off the hangers and threw them in the suitcase. I emptied my drawers of clothing and just threw them in my suitcase. I chucked in my favourite pairs of shoes. I grabbed my electronics that I wanted to take. Though I could buy replacement electronics, and I probably will once I get settled in, I need to be able to keep a line of communication open with my grandparents and so I can get a new job in London. I grabbed whatever else I could.<br /> <br /> I looked at the time and saw a text from Kelly. She had managed to leave work an hour early, and Josh had picked her up. They were on their way to me. I suddenly had this feeling like someone was behind me. I typed HOD into a text before I turned around. Dylan was standing in the doorway to what was our bedroom. He had his hands clenched into fists by his legs. A rage in his eyes that I have never seen before, far worse than all the other times he was angry.<br /> <br /> “Why are you packing all your things,” he hissed, through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> I took a deep breath, with my finger over the button, readying to hit send. I said, “Because I am leaving you.”<br /> <br /> “No, you are not leaving me,” he yelled.<br /> <br /> “I saw you earlier, with another woman, in what should have been our bed. It was what I needed to see that you were a controlling freak in our whole relationship. So, yes, I am leaving you,” I responded calmly, turning and hitting send.<br /> <br /> His heavy footsteps thunder towards me, making the floor of our flat shake. His hand tangled into my hair, and yanked my head back, before snatching my phone from my hand. Thankfully, I locked it before he could read my texts. He growled, “You are not leaving me! I bet you think this because you are cheating on me. Who is he? Show me who you were sending a text too just now.”<br /> <br /> “Get off of me,” I yelled, trying to push him away from me.<br /> <br /> “Who is he,” spitting as he shouted, pulling my hair harder.<br /> <br /> I pushed him away from me. It surprised him enough to let go of my hair and to stumble backwards away from me, I screamed, “I never cheated. You did. You have restricted me, banned me, belittled me, and treated me harshly on countless occasions. My heart is broken. How I could ever love a man like you, I do not know.”<br /> <br /> Tears welled in my eyes, so I turned around and began to zip up my suitcases. I didn’t want to see his reaction to what I said, I couldn’t deal with him if he started crying. I really might faulter if that happens. That was when I felt something hard hit the back of my head. My head began to pound and ache. I gripped where he hit me on my head with my hand and turned to look at Dylan. But before I could say anything, he raised his fist and slammed it into my face. The blow was hard enough, to knock me backwards into the bedside cabinet. I hit my head on the corner of the bedside cabinet, before hitting the floor. I could feel a wet hot liquid slide across my face. I touched it and looked at my hand. It was blood. I was bleeding from my head. I gripped my head and began to curl up into the fetal position. Before I could curl up, Dylan kicked me in the stomach and ribs, not just once, but many times. I lost count how many times he kicked me. I felt something crack in my rib cage. I tried my best to use my arms to protect my body and head, but there was only so much I could do, while in so much pain. The pain was excruciating. All I could do was cry and whimper the pain made it too hard to move. He grabbed my hair on the back of my head, tearing some hair from my head, and snarled, “If you hadn’t threatened to leave, then none of this would have happened. Do you want to know why I sleep with other girls, because after all the times we have, you were never ready for what I needed to be full satisfied. But now you are going to find out. Remember this is all your fault.”<br /> <br /> He slammed my head into the ground. The impact made my head heavy and made it hard for me to keep myself conscious. My ears were now ringing from the impact. It was because of that, that I did not hear what he was doing. The ringing subsided, only for me to hear a massive crack, and a shocking sting across my back, which made me cry out. I managed to look up and see that he was holding a whip. He hit me with a whip. I was now seeing a completely different side to him, a side that would have made me run for the hills years ago. How did I not see this side to him?<br /> <br /> “This is what I like,” he growled, lust evident in his voice.<br /> <br /> I tried my best to move, to get away. But I was in so much pain. The sound of the crack of the whip came again, just before the impact on my back. I screamed out. This time it was even more painful. The taste of blood filled my mouth, as I felt a trickle of blood pooling on my back. Tears were streaming down my face. I was trying to prepare myself for another blow. But that was when I heard the sirens. In that moment, I had never felt so happy to hear sirens before. Dylan dropped the whip, and muttered.<br /> <br /> That was when he bolted out of the door. I breathed a sigh of relief, even though my chest hurt so much. Pain was all over my body. My head and back were the most painful. With my head hurt, it was getting harder for me to stay awake my consciousness was wavering. My eyes closing slowly, the pain becoming unbearable.	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1,580,910	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580860}'	Yes	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	772311314869278	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…Kelly…I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly's POV<br /> Was it a blessing to marry your best friend?<br /> I was not very sure what Pierce thought but marrying him was a dream come true for me. And now what was more exciting, we were going to welcome our first child.<br /> I closed my eyes recalling the first day we met. His bright smile in the sunlight was so dazzling, he was a Prince. Long before we became best friends, I fell in love with him at first sight. But it was only an unrequited love, I knew it well.<br /> I slid down the car window to get some fresh air but accidentally caught a glimpse of our old high school. That bitter feeling filled my chest once again. Pierce is my first love but I'm not his.<br /> In high school, I was only a boring nerd in other's eyes while Pierce Anderson was the shining Quarterback. Everyone was surprised that we could be friends. Though enmity rose, I enjoyed being around him. I slowly realized that I didn't want just to be his friend.<br /> However, right when I was about to confess my feelings to him, another girl came into his life.<br /> I shook my head trying to get rid of those sad old memories. I gripped the cold wedding ring on my finger, telling myself the past was past. Pierce said they were over and I was his wife now. I was his wife who was carrying his baby now.<br /> I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened the door to our house. My heart calmed down as I breathed in the scent of home. Our home. It wasn't as luxurious as his family's villa but cozy. Pierce and I decorated it together with our own hands. We enjoyed it. Yes, I must have been overthinking. That woman had been out of our lives for a long time and my marriage with Pierce was as beautiful as a fairy tale for the past three years.<br /> I glanced at the clock on the wall. At this point, Pierce should have gotten off the plane. He was over a month of traveling for the sake of our family’s business. Pierce was the President of ADE, the leading fashion magazine company all over Asia, and I was actually the Vice President of the company. We were not only life partners but also good partners at work.<br /> I really missed him. I dialed his number immediately. I really wanted to hear his voice now, to know when he would arrive home. I would prepare a good meal for him and he would prize me with a sweet peck. And then we might have passionate intercourse like what he gave me the night before his business trip. Oops, I almost forgot I was pregnant now. I needed to tell him this first and then we could do something else instead.<br /> I was happily envisioning our lovely reunion and my heart dropped when a woman's voice came over the line.<br /> [Hello?]<br /> I snapped the phone as just one word came out. My phone fell to the floor and my body started shaking uncontrollably. NO! It couldn't be her! It couldn't be Lexi! She was already out of our life! I must have misheard.<br /> I rushed to the fridge in an attempt to calm myself with the aid of some drinks. But the moment I touched the drinks bottle, I was reminded of the doctor's words and my baby. I needed to be cautious for my baby's sake. I turned to get a box of milk and walked toward the sofa.<br /> I didn't know what made me recognize that as Lexi's voice at that moment. I meant Lexi and I were never close. Lexi Gilbert was a typical blonde beauty that men would go crazy for. She was the popular cheerleader in high school while Pierce was the star quarterback. Better match than he and a nerd like me, right? It wasn't surprising that he had fallen for her.<br /> My pride couldn't stand watching the man I loved go crazy for another woman. So I had once tried to stay away from them silently but Pierce refused to quit from my life. Every time I drowned myself in a sea of books and studies to forget them, Pierce would appear at my doorway asking me out. I couldn't say no to his charming smile; I couldn't say no when he claimed it was his duty as my best friend to take me to enjoy the real world.<br /> To not ruin our friendship, I could only hide my broken heart, silently playing the role of his best friend by his side and watching his happy face for another girl. I finally got up the courage to study abroad as I learned that Pierce was planning to propose to Lexi. However, I never expected Grams would call to beg me back.<br /> I returned in a hurry only to see a lifeless Pierce. His heart was harmed badly, by Lexi. My beloved sunshine boy was nowhere to be seen, and my heart was bleeding. I started to hate Lexi from that moment. I gave up my cherished man to her, and how dared she harm him so badly! That witch!<br /> Pierce didn't tell anyone what happened except he was over with Lexi. Grams arranged our marriage. I didn't understand why he agreed until the day I heard him say that marrying anyone but Lexi would be the same for him.<br /> It was so hurt but I still walked into this marriage without a second thought. My cherished boy was broken and I wanted to fix him, not caring if I would ruin myself in the process.<br /> I fell asleep at home feeling so insecure and worried.It was already morning when I opened my eyes again and Pierce was beside me, putting a tray of food on the bedside table.<br /> “Hey!” I greeted and smiled when I realized what he’d done. He prepared breakfast for me. In bed. The sweetest.<br /> He smiled and sat on the bed. “Good morning. I have something to tell you.”<br /> I felt my heart race. I thought about our baby in my womb. He’s got something to tell. I have something to tell him too.<br /> “W-What is it?” I asked as I felt my voice tremble.<br /> He took a deep sigh. “You know you’re important to me, right?”<br /> I slowly nodded with parted lips. I couldn’t answer. I’m scared of what he’s about to say. I have a bad feeling about this.<br /> “You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…”<br /> I hid my balled fists under the sheet. I don’t know why he’s telling me all this but I felt tears pooling in the corner of my eyes already.<br /> “Kelly…” he paused and squeezed his eyes closed before he looked at me again in the eyes. “I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> Kelly’s POV<br /> I got off the bed and tried to leave but Pierce grabbed my hand. I immediately wiped the tears that rolled down my cheeks before he could see them. He stood in front of me and looked at my face as I tried so hard to look down and avoid his eyes.<br /> I felt my heart breaking into pieces. I thought… I thought I could make him fall in love with me within those three years together. I thought his feelings would level up and would see me as a woman rather than just a best friend. I was stupid for hoping and dreaming so high.<br /> I failed. No matter how hard I tried, his heart belonged only to his first love Lexi.<br /> He looked at me worriedly. “You are my best friend. I don’t wanna lose you, Kels. You’re one of my few people…”<br /> “I know,” I said out of frustration. He looked shocked, so I calmed myself down. “I-I know. You don’t have to worry. I’m just stressed about work. It’s not about our divorce.”<br /> His lips parted and he slowly nodded as if he was able to breathe properly. He walked towards me and I froze when he gently pecked my forehead…<br /> “Thank you, Kelly," he whispered. My heart clenched. It had been three years but I was still such a coward. Why couldn't you just tell him that you love him, Kelly? He's your husband and you're carrying his baby! Tell him and he might change his mind!<br /> I swallowed hard and was about to tell him but his phone rang. I didn't miss the caller ID. Again, it was Lexi.<br /> " I gotta go." He scratched his head in apology and I didn't miss the upturned corners of his mouth. "I called Luke and he’s waiting outside. Eat before you go, okay?”<br /> With that, he left our room. The tears I had managed to suppress burst out again. Why would I think I could have a chance? He made his choice already the moment he asked for the divorce, didn't he?<br /> Whenever it came to Lexi, I was always the one he would abandon.<br /> --<br /> I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”<br /> When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his btch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.<br /> “KELLY!”<br /> I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.<br /> “What did you do?”<br /> My forehead creased. “I cooked.”<br /> He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”<br /> “You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”<br /> “Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”<br /> I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”<br /> “No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”<br /> I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.<br /> “If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”<br /> “Don’t turn your back on me—”<br /> “Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”<br /> His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.<br /> “You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”<br /> I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”<br /> “I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”<br /> A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”<br /> “Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”<br /> “I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”<br /> He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”<br /> I tilted my head, “Are you not?”<br /> His forehead creased. “I am not an beast, Kelly. Did you see me pecking her or drilling her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”<br /> “Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”<br /> “Kelly!”<br /> “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”<br /> He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”<br /> I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”<br /> --<br /> He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”<br /> “Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”<br /> He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.<br /> “I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”<br /> I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”<br /> He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”<br /> I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.<br /> *<br /> Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.<br /> “We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.<br /> I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.<br /> We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.<br /> I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.<br /> “I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”<br /> “Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.<br /> I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.<br /> “Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a slt?”<br /> Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.<br /> “He’s not cheating, dad.”<br /> “Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.<br /> “I want a divorce, dad.”<br /> “Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.<br /> “LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.<br /> “NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.<br /> “Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”<br /> “I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”<br /> Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”<br /> “Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.<br /> I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”<br /> Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.<br /> "Did you…mean what you said?" His voice sounds tired and lifeless.<br /> I pressed my lips together and tightened my grip on my pouch.<br /> Heaving a sigh, I slowly turned to face him. He was looking straight into my eyes as if he was actually waiting for me to look at him.<br /> "I mean everything I said, Pierce."<br /> He swallowed hard. There was something in his eyes. Confusion, pain, and thankfulness. I don't know why he's being like this but I'm not doing this just for him. I'm doing this for me too. I want a complete family for my baby, but I'm not gonna settle for the small things he can offer. I love him, but I will love my baby more.<br /> "Kels, you're not drifting apart because of this, right?"<br /> My forehead creased. He expects me to stick to him even after all of these? He's selfish.<br /> "Kels…"<br /> "Pierce, I'm tired. Let's talk tomorrow."<br /> --<br /> My phone rang as soon as I stepped out of the bathroom. The family lawyer of the Anderson family is the one calling. I immediately answered the call… "Hello, attorney."<br /> [Mrs. Anderson, I'm on my way to your house now. I have the document with me.]<br /> I nodded as I stared at my own reflection in the mirror. "Thank you, attorney. We'll be waiting."<br /> When I went downstairs, Pierce was already preparing the table for our breakfast. I suddenly felt starving as soon as my eyes landed on the pasta. However, someone rang the bell. I went straight to the door and was welcomed by Attorney Wade Morgan.<br /> “Good morning, Mrs. Anderson.”<br /> I smiled at him. “Good morning, Attorney. Come in.”<br /> “Who’s there, Kelly?”<br /> Pierce appeared behind me even before Attorney Morgan stepped his foot inside the house. Pierce’s lips parted after he saw the person standing in front of us.<br /> “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”<br /> Pierce looked at me so I gave him a smile. “He’s here to deliver and process our divorce papers.”<br /> Pierce didn’t answer. We ate our breakfast and only me and Attorney Morgan were talking. Pierce is strangely silent but I feel like it’s because he’s worried about his grandmother. Our breakfast ended in a deafening silence and when it was time to sign the divorce papers, I felt suffocated.<br /> Now, it's time to end this false happiness.<br /> Taking a deep breath, I signed my name on the divorce paper.<br /> Pierce’s POV<br /> She signed the divorce papers. She signed it without thinking twice. In front of me.<br /> A bitter smile spilled as I downed another glass of spirit.<br /> I should be happy about that when I was the one who asked for the divorce. But…but my heart felt so heavy ever since Kelly signed the papers.<br /> Kelly and I had been friends for over 10 years. The day she transferred to my high school, I accidentally bumped into her by the lake. She looked like a frightened kitten, carefully hiding her true self behind that thick antique eyeglasses. That was interesting.<br /> I didn't realize that nerdy transfer girl in everyone's eyes would be the daughter of my mother's best friend. With that, we grew to be friends. Best friends.<br /> Kelly changed a lot after graduation. When I came back from the first vacation alone with Lexi, I was surprised to find that my best friend was far different. Taking off her heavy glasses and changing out of her baggy hoodies, she learned how to dress up. She was always a fast learner and in an instant, Kelly became a total campus goddess, with her brain and beauty.<br /> More and more suitors gathered around her. I could see how much she was troubled, so as her best friend, I naturally became that escort. Although it caused some rumors, I knew we were only best friends. I already had Lexi.<br /> No one knew why Kelly never had a boyfriend. I once wanted to ask about it but gave up, as I had a feeling that she would leave me once I learned the answer. I never wanted to lose her. She was my best friend.<br /> Everything went well but after the countless argument with Lexi about our future life, we fell into a long cold war. And when I was ready to surrender, Lexi suddenly went to another city after sending me a breakup text. I flew all night to chase her, only to find her sleeping with another man. My heart was broken.<br /> I fell into darkness and spirit became my best partner. Just when I thought I was about to rot in my darkened room, a figure appeared in the doorway, bringing me the only light. It was Kelly.<br /> I broke down with tears in the arms of my best friend. And Kelly suspended her studies abroad to be by my side. Without her, I could never overcome that hardest time. I'd been always grateful for that. I swore to cherish her for my whole life.<br /> But I never expected that Grams would wish us to get married. I agreed to give it a shot. It’s better to marry her than marrying another woman my family chose for me. My family was a fan of arranged marriage. And since they also treated Kelly as family, I felt like if I refused to marry her, my family would set her up with someone. It’s better to be me than anyone else, right? I just want to protect her...<br /> After three years of happy peaceful marriage, I started to consider having a child with Kelly. She always loved kids, I knew. However, it was at that time, that I met Lexi again on my business trip.<br /> My heart was in turmoil when the woman I once loved so deeply cried in my arms. Lexi told me everything that happened to her. Her fate wasn’t good to her and she wants me back. I thought my feelings for her disappeared, but as soon as she came back, everything came back to me too. Our memories and even my feelings for her.<br /> It’s Kelly, my best friend over Lexi, my first love. I don’t know what to do. God knows how much I dreamed of having Lexi because she’s my first love but…losing Kelly should not be a trade to get my first love.<br /> I feel like I’m losing Kelly now just because of that divorce paper.<br /> Can it all start over?	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1,580,860	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	431640249614602	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…Kelly…I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly's POV<br /> Was it a blessing to marry your best friend?<br /> I was not very sure what Pierce thought but marrying him was a dream come true for me. And now what was more exciting, we were going to welcome our first child.<br /> I closed my eyes recalling the first day we met. His bright smile in the sunlight was so dazzling, he was a Prince. Long before we became best friends, I fell in love with him at first sight. But it was only an unrequited love, I knew it well.<br /> I slid down the car window to get some fresh air but accidentally caught a glimpse of our old high school. That bitter feeling filled my chest once again. Pierce is my first love but I'm not his.<br /> In high school, I was only a boring nerd in other's eyes while Pierce Anderson was the shining Quarterback. Everyone was surprised that we could be friends. Though enmity rose, I enjoyed being around him. I slowly realized that I didn't want just to be his friend.<br /> However, right when I was about to confess my feelings to him, another girl came into his life.<br /> I shook my head trying to get rid of those sad old memories. I gripped the cold wedding ring on my finger, telling myself the past was past. Pierce said they were over and I was his wife now. I was his wife who was carrying his baby now.<br /> I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened the door to our house. My heart calmed down as I breathed in the scent of home. Our home. It wasn't as luxurious as his family's villa but cozy. Pierce and I decorated it together with our own hands. We enjoyed it. Yes, I must have been overthinking. That woman had been out of our lives for a long time and my marriage with Pierce was as beautiful as a fairy tale for the past three years.<br /> I glanced at the clock on the wall. At this point, Pierce should have gotten off the plane. He was over a month of traveling for the sake of our family’s business. Pierce was the President of ADE, the leading fashion magazine company all over Asia, and I was actually the Vice President of the company. We were not only life partners but also good partners at work.<br /> I really missed him. I dialed his number immediately. I really wanted to hear his voice now, to know when he would arrive home. I would prepare a good meal for him and he would prize me with a sweet peck. And then we might have passionate intercourse like what he gave me the night before his business trip. Oops, I almost forgot I was pregnant now. I needed to tell him this first and then we could do something else instead.<br /> I was happily envisioning our lovely reunion and my heart dropped when a woman's voice came over the line.<br /> [Hello?]<br /> I snapped the phone as just one word came out. My phone fell to the floor and my body started shaking uncontrollably. NO! It couldn't be her! It couldn't be Lexi! She was already out of our life! I must have misheard.<br /> I rushed to the fridge in an attempt to calm myself with the aid of some drinks. But the moment I touched the drinks bottle, I was reminded of the doctor's words and my baby. I needed to be cautious for my baby's sake. I turned to get a box of milk and walked toward the sofa.<br /> I didn't know what made me recognize that as Lexi's voice at that moment. I meant Lexi and I were never close. Lexi Gilbert was a typical blonde beauty that men would go crazy for. She was the popular cheerleader in high school while Pierce was the star quarterback. Better match than he and a nerd like me, right? It wasn't surprising that he had fallen for her.<br /> My pride couldn't stand watching the man I loved go crazy for another woman. So I had once tried to stay away from them silently but Pierce refused to quit from my life. Every time I drowned myself in a sea of books and studies to forget them, Pierce would appear at my doorway asking me out. I couldn't say no to his charming smile; I couldn't say no when he claimed it was his duty as my best friend to take me to enjoy the real world.<br /> To not ruin our friendship, I could only hide my broken heart, silently playing the role of his best friend by his side and watching his happy face for another girl. I finally got up the courage to study abroad as I learned that Pierce was planning to propose to Lexi. However, I never expected Grams would call to beg me back.<br /> I returned in a hurry only to see a lifeless Pierce. His heart was harmed badly, by Lexi. My beloved sunshine boy was nowhere to be seen, and my heart was bleeding. I started to hate Lexi from that moment. I gave up my cherished man to her, and how dared she harm him so badly! That witch!<br /> Pierce didn't tell anyone what happened except he was over with Lexi. Grams arranged our marriage. I didn't understand why he agreed until the day I heard him say that marrying anyone but Lexi would be the same for him.<br /> It was so hurt but I still walked into this marriage without a second thought. My cherished boy was broken and I wanted to fix him, not caring if I would ruin myself in the process.<br /> I fell asleep at home feeling so insecure and worried.It was already morning when I opened my eyes again and Pierce was beside me, putting a tray of food on the bedside table.<br /> “Hey!” I greeted and smiled when I realized what he’d done. He prepared breakfast for me. In bed. The sweetest.<br /> He smiled and sat on the bed. “Good morning. I have something to tell you.”<br /> I felt my heart race. I thought about our baby in my womb. He’s got something to tell. I have something to tell him too.<br /> “W-What is it?” I asked as I felt my voice tremble.<br /> He took a deep sigh. “You know you’re important to me, right?”<br /> I slowly nodded with parted lips. I couldn’t answer. I’m scared of what he’s about to say. I have a bad feeling about this.<br /> “You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…”<br /> I hid my balled fists under the sheet. I don’t know why he’s telling me all this but I felt tears pooling in the corner of my eyes already.<br /> “Kelly…” he paused and squeezed his eyes closed before he looked at me again in the eyes. “I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> Kelly’s POV<br /> I got off the bed and tried to leave but Pierce grabbed my hand. I immediately wiped the tears that rolled down my cheeks before he could see them. He stood in front of me and looked at my face as I tried so hard to look down and avoid his eyes.<br /> I felt my heart breaking into pieces. I thought… I thought I could make him fall in love with me within those three years together. I thought his feelings would level up and would see me as a woman rather than just a best friend. I was stupid for hoping and dreaming so high.<br /> I failed. No matter how hard I tried, his heart belonged only to his first love Lexi.<br /> He looked at me worriedly. “You are my best friend. I don’t wanna lose you, Kels. You’re one of my few people…”<br /> “I know,” I said out of frustration. He looked shocked, so I calmed myself down. “I-I know. You don’t have to worry. I’m just stressed about work. It’s not about our divorce.”<br /> His lips parted and he slowly nodded as if he was able to breathe properly. He walked towards me and I froze when he gently pecked my forehead…<br /> “Thank you, Kelly," he whispered. My heart clenched. It had been three years but I was still such a coward. Why couldn't you just tell him that you love him, Kelly? He's your husband and you're carrying his baby! Tell him and he might change his mind!<br /> I swallowed hard and was about to tell him but his phone rang. I didn't miss the caller ID. Again, it was Lexi.<br /> " I gotta go." He scratched his head in apology and I didn't miss the upturned corners of his mouth. "I called Luke and he’s waiting outside. Eat before you go, okay?”<br /> With that, he left our room. The tears I had managed to suppress burst out again. Why would I think I could have a chance? He made his choice already the moment he asked for the divorce, didn't he?<br /> Whenever it came to Lexi, I was always the one he would abandon.<br /> --<br /> I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”<br /> When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his btch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.<br /> “KELLY!”<br /> I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.<br /> “What did you do?”<br /> My forehead creased. “I cooked.”<br /> He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”<br /> “You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”<br /> “Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”<br /> I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”<br /> “No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”<br /> I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.<br /> “If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”<br /> “Don’t turn your back on me—”<br /> “Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”<br /> His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.<br /> “You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”<br /> I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”<br /> “I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”<br /> A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”<br /> “Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”<br /> “I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”<br /> He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”<br /> I tilted my head, “Are you not?”<br /> His forehead creased. “I am not an beast, Kelly. Did you see me pecking her or drilling her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”<br /> “Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”<br /> “Kelly!”<br /> “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”<br /> He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”<br /> I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”<br /> --<br /> He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”<br /> “Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”<br /> He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.<br /> “I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”<br /> I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”<br /> He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”<br /> I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.<br /> *<br /> Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.<br /> “We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.<br /> I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.<br /> We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.<br /> I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.<br /> “I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”<br /> “Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.<br /> I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.<br /> “Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a slt?”<br /> Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.<br /> “He’s not cheating, dad.”<br /> “Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.<br /> “I want a divorce, dad.”<br /> “Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.<br /> “LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.<br /> “NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.<br /> “Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”<br /> “I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”<br /> Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”<br /> “Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.<br /> I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”<br /> Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.<br /> "Did you…mean what you said?" His voice sounds tired and lifeless.<br /> I pressed my lips together and tightened my grip on my pouch.<br /> Heaving a sigh, I slowly turned to face him. He was looking straight into my eyes as if he was actually waiting for me to look at him.<br /> "I mean everything I said, Pierce."<br /> He swallowed hard. There was something in his eyes. Confusion, pain, and thankfulness. I don't know why he's being like this but I'm not doing this just for him. I'm doing this for me too. I want a complete family for my baby, but I'm not gonna settle for the small things he can offer. I love him, but I will love my baby more.<br /> "Kels, you're not drifting apart because of this, right?"<br /> My forehead creased. He expects me to stick to him even after all of these? He's selfish.<br /> "Kels…"<br /> "Pierce, I'm tired. Let's talk tomorrow."<br /> --<br /> My phone rang as soon as I stepped out of the bathroom. The family lawyer of the Anderson family is the one calling. I immediately answered the call… "Hello, attorney."<br /> [Mrs. Anderson, I'm on my way to your house now. I have the document with me.]<br /> I nodded as I stared at my own reflection in the mirror. "Thank you, attorney. We'll be waiting."<br /> When I went downstairs, Pierce was already preparing the table for our breakfast. I suddenly felt starving as soon as my eyes landed on the pasta. However, someone rang the bell. I went straight to the door and was welcomed by Attorney Wade Morgan.<br /> “Good morning, Mrs. Anderson.”<br /> I smiled at him. “Good morning, Attorney. Come in.”<br /> “Who’s there, Kelly?”<br /> Pierce appeared behind me even before Attorney Morgan stepped his foot inside the house. Pierce’s lips parted after he saw the person standing in front of us.<br /> “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”<br /> Pierce looked at me so I gave him a smile. “He’s here to deliver and process our divorce papers.”<br /> Pierce didn’t answer. We ate our breakfast and only me and Attorney Morgan were talking. Pierce is strangely silent but I feel like it’s because he’s worried about his grandmother. Our breakfast ended in a deafening silence and when it was time to sign the divorce papers, I felt suffocated.<br /> Now, it's time to end this false happiness.<br /> Taking a deep breath, I signed my name on the divorce paper.<br /> Pierce’s POV<br /> She signed the divorce papers. She signed it without thinking twice. In front of me.<br /> A bitter smile spilled as I downed another glass of spirit.<br /> I should be happy about that when I was the one who asked for the divorce. But…but my heart felt so heavy ever since Kelly signed the papers.<br /> Kelly and I had been friends for over 10 years. The day she transferred to my high school, I accidentally bumped into her by the lake. She looked like a frightened kitten, carefully hiding her true self behind that thick antique eyeglasses. That was interesting.<br /> I didn't realize that nerdy transfer girl in everyone's eyes would be the daughter of my mother's best friend. With that, we grew to be friends. Best friends.<br /> Kelly changed a lot after graduation. When I came back from the first vacation alone with Lexi, I was surprised to find that my best friend was far different. Taking off her heavy glasses and changing out of her baggy hoodies, she learned how to dress up. She was always a fast learner and in an instant, Kelly became a total campus goddess, with her brain and beauty.<br /> More and more suitors gathered around her. I could see how much she was troubled, so as her best friend, I naturally became that escort. Although it caused some rumors, I knew we were only best friends. I already had Lexi.<br /> No one knew why Kelly never had a boyfriend. I once wanted to ask about it but gave up, as I had a feeling that she would leave me once I learned the answer. I never wanted to lose her. She was my best friend.<br /> Everything went well but after the countless argument with Lexi about our future life, we fell into a long cold war. And when I was ready to surrender, Lexi suddenly went to another city after sending me a breakup text. I flew all night to chase her, only to find her sleeping with another man. My heart was broken.<br /> I fell into darkness and spirit became my best partner. Just when I thought I was about to rot in my darkened room, a figure appeared in the doorway, bringing me the only light. It was Kelly.<br /> I broke down with tears in the arms of my best friend. And Kelly suspended her studies abroad to be by my side. Without her, I could never overcome that hardest time. I'd been always grateful for that. I swore to cherish her for my whole life.<br /> But I never expected that Grams would wish us to get married. I agreed to give it a shot. It’s better to marry her than marrying another woman my family chose for me. My family was a fan of arranged marriage. And since they also treated Kelly as family, I felt like if I refused to marry her, my family would set her up with someone. It’s better to be me than anyone else, right? I just want to protect her...<br /> After three years of happy peaceful marriage, I started to consider having a child with Kelly. She always loved kids, I knew. However, it was at that time, that I met Lexi again on my business trip.<br /> My heart was in turmoil when the woman I once loved so deeply cried in my arms. Lexi told me everything that happened to her. Her fate wasn’t good to her and she wants me back. I thought my feelings for her disappeared, but as soon as she came back, everything came back to me too. Our memories and even my feelings for her.<br /> It’s Kelly, my best friend over Lexi, my first love. I don’t know what to do. God knows how much I dreamed of having Lexi because she’s my first love but…losing Kelly should not be a trade to get my first love.<br /> I feel like I’m losing Kelly now just because of that divorce paper.<br /> Can it all start over?	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1,581,029	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580847}'	No	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	2190670794604487	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	I quietly walked further into my flat, towards my bedroom, almost tripping over his shirt that lay discarded on the floor. It was not the only article of clothing strewn across the floor. There was some woman’s clothing on the floor too. Judging by the size the woman had to be a supermodel or something. The clothing was so small. It had to be the smallest size you could get here in the UK for women.<br /> I suddenly felt so insecure, because that size of clothing would never fit me now, it did when I was in my late teens, but not now.<br /> I arrived at my bedroom, but I made sure to remain hidden out of sight. Thankfully the door was open a little bit, so I could see everything. I could hear his distinct grunts and moans, as well as the moans of another woman.<br /> I peered through the small crack in the door and saw him with another woman in my bed. His back was to me, so he didn’t notice that I had seen what he was doing. The woman looked like a supermodel to me, but I really couldn’t see her very well, except for a little bit of her blonde hair that was spread across the sheets. <br /> ————————<br /> <br /> Eilith’s POV-<br /> I am heading home early from my grandparents’ house. I decided to visit them, because I wanted to see them. I do not see them as much as I would like too, since I finished University and started making my way in the world. You see, I have lived with my grandparents since I was five years old, because my parents sadly died in a car accident, I don’t know much else than that. There was no other family, and my grandparents fought to keep me with them.<br /> My father was the heir to a very powerful business. He had been running it for ten years before he died, but after he passed, my grandparents made the difficult decision of selling the business to the highest bidder. My grandparents focused on investing after that to maintain their wealth.<br /> My family is one of the very wealthy families in the United Kingdom. As the sole heiress to the wealth, my grandparents did not want me to have friends or boyfriends who just wanted me for my money, so I told everyone my name was Eilith Smith, not Eilith Clarke, which is my actual name. I have only told Kelly Roberts, my best friend, because she was a rich girl too, and has been my closest and dearest friend since we were eight years old. I really would not know what I would do without her, she has been there for me through so much.<br /> I had told my boyfriend, Dylan Harrison, that I would be out for most of the day and will not likely be home till the evening. In a note on his bedside, next to his phone, because he was still asleep, as I had woken up very early. I wanted to get to my grandparents before the morning traffic rush. But when I got there, my grandparents were going to visit a friend of theirs for and early dinner, so I had to leave far earlier than expected.<br /> When I usually visit them, I spend all day, sometimes into the next day with them, because they raised me and it is nice to be able to help them out around their home and visit my horse, which they keep at their home, in the stables on their land. When they were ready to leave to go have dinner, that was when I left to go home. I didn’t mention to my boyfriend that I was on the way home. I was thinking I would surprise him.<br /> I returned home, thinking I would be able to have a nice relaxing bath, and then maybe plan a nice romantic dinner for myself and Dylan, if he is home from the football match early enough. It wasn’t something we often did at home. I thought it would be a nice change. I love to cook, but he prefers to eat out at lavish places. He is the type to love to flaunt his wealth. Those plans were soon dashed…<br /> I entered my flat quietly, just in case Dylan was still asleep, which is how I left him this morning when I left to visit my grandparents. What I saw in front of me stopped me in my tracks. My mind went blank. In that moment, I almost forgot to breathe.<br /> I somehow managed to get the front door closed behind me quietly. When I turned around, I focused more on what was going one even though I was already beginning to understand what was going on, and honestly it didn’t feel real. It didn’t feel like it was happening to me.<br /> A cooked breakfast that had been made and eaten by two was left on my dining table. Romantic music played on the radio. I couldn’t quite hear it; I think because this whole thing felt like an out of body experience. I could not believe my eyes; Dylan had never once done anything like this for me. He would never cook for me, I think he even joked that it was a woman’s job once, but he was drunk and with friends, so I never took it to heart. Yet he would do it for a woman, who was not his girlfriend.<br /> I felt pain in my chest, that spread up my throat choking me. I knew I would not be able to say anything to him, but I had to know, was he really cheating on me?<br /> I quietly walked further into my flat, towards my bedroom, almost tripping over his shirt that lay discarded on the floor. It was not the only article of clothing strewn across the floor. There was some woman’s clothing on the floor too. Judging by the size the woman had to be a supermodel or something. The clothing was so small. It had to be the smallest size you could get here in the UK for women.<br /> I suddenly felt so insecure, because that size of clothing would never fit me now, it did when I was in my late teens, but not now.<br /> I arrived at my bedroom, but I made sure to remain hidden out of sight. Thankfully the door was open a little bit, so I could see everything. I could hear his distinct grunts and moans, as well as the moans of another woman.<br /> I peered through the small crack in the door and saw him with another woman in my bed. His back was to me, so he didn’t notice that I had seen what he was doing. The woman looked like a supermodel to me, but I really couldn’t see her very well, except for a little bit of her blonde hair that was spread across the sheets. I didn’t know her, but a hatred grew in my heart almost straight away for her.<br /> I could feel my eyes well with tears, as my hand covered my mouth. I could not stay here any longer, my voice was all but gone. I couldn’t stay there to speak with him, let alone look at him right now. Not to mention, I know he has a temper when someone confronts him, it has happened before when we were out, but it has never been aimed at me before. Something I was always scared of happening. How could he do this to me, after everything I had done for him? How could he cheat on me after all these years? Has he been cheating on me this whole time? Could I really forgive him if he made promises? I just needed to get out of here for now.<br /> So, I left, as quietly and quickly as I could. I didn’t want him to know that I had seen him, because I could not deal with the confrontation right now, and his excuses and temper.<br /> <br /> My best friend, Kelly, had a little while before she started work at the restaurant, she was a manager at. She has dreams of starting her own restaurant chain and wanted to get experience working the lower levels in the restaurant beforehand. I jumped into my car, and headed to the restaurant she works at. I texted her to tell her I was on my way to her, before I left.<br /> “What is wrong? You have me worried.”<br /> “I... I found... Dylan cheating on me,” I choked.<br /> “I am not surprised. I have told you many times, he is not worthy of you. Think about your entire relationship. I have known you far longer than Dylan has known you. You were always so confident and free. You wore what you want, when you wanted. Red is your favourite colour, and you have stopped wearing anything red, because he didn’t like you wearing red. You told me it made him mad if you wore red. You stopped eating pasta, one of your favourite things to eat, because he said you would get fat. He told you to stop hanging around with my brother, who treats you like a sister. I bet he gets mad if he finds out you were with me and my brother. That is controlling behaviour, a major red flag. If you stay with him, he will just keep cheating on you, and this controlling behaviour will just get worse, until you are isolated from your friends and family, and that is when he will start physically abusing you. Eilith, please, you must leave him now,” she said.<br /> I sat in the driver’s seat of my car, thinking about what she said, and as I thought, <br /> “Was he really that bad? I can’t believe I let him do that to me, to do everything that he did to me,” I whimpered.<br /> I was glad she didn’t ask what he did to me, because I wasn’t ready to talk about it. She rubbed my back, and said, “It is okay. One day soon we will sit down and have a long hard talk about everything that he did. Maybe it will be best if you go to therapy too. But I will not leave your side. I will stand by you through this whole ordeal, I promise.”<br /> “How am I going to make it without you? You’re leaving to move to London in a few days,” I whispered, in between my sobs.<br /> “Come with us. Josh and I have brought a three-bed house in London. Josh won’t mind you moving into the spare bedroom, until you get back on your feet. He will understand. He sees you as a little sister,” Kelly suggested.<br /> Josh is Kelly’s older brother. He really did see me as his little sister, just like I see him as my brother. I looked at her, a little shocked about that idea. I whispered, “But, I have nothing packed, and he is at home.”<br /> She nodded, pausing and thinking about what I could do to deal with this situation. I too, was thinking, because I didn’t want things to turn out like this. Dylan was very scary when he was mad. In those moments, I believed that he could hit me, even though he never got angry at me. She cleared her throat, and said, “I am only doing a four-hour shift, to cover the time the other manager can’t be in due to childcare. When she gets here, I will have Josh pick me up and come straight over to help you. Once you know he is out of your flat, go there and pack everything up that you can, as quickly as you can, and leave. Get it done before he gets home. If he does get home, before Josh and I get there, send me our code word. So, I know you are in danger, and need help I will call the police.”<br /> We have had a code word, for a great many years. It was more to ensure our safety while we were out at night. We knew the other would need help if we received HOD by text. It stands for House of Dead, an arcade game that we both loved to play with Kelly’s brother. It was short simple and to the point. Plus, three letters that meant something to the both of us makes a great code word.<br /> “But what if he tries to hurt you or Josh,” I said.<br /> “Do you know why he hates Josh,” she responded.<br /> I shook my head, and asked, “Why?”<br /> “Do you remember that day when we were looking at dresses online, before we went shopping. According to Josh, when I said you would look drop dead gorgeous in that red dress you were looking at, Dylan looked at it, and muttered some vile things about you. Josh heard that, when they were alone, Josh laid into him. Dylan tried to get in Josh’s face, Josh didn’t flinch instead he just smirked. Dylan backed down,” she explained.<br /> Josh was different from Dylan, physically. Josh is taller and has broader shoulders and is more muscular compared to Dylan. Josh is a gym rat. He loves working out and using weights. Dylan, on the other hand, rarely goes to the gym, but is well toned and skinny. Dylan wouldn’t stand against Josh in a fight, not only due to their difference physically, but because Josh is training to be a boxer for the Olympics. I have seen him knock a man out with a single punch. So, he is a strong man. The perfect kind of older brother you want.<br /> “So, that is why he didn’t want me to be around Josh,” I said.<br /> She nodded, “Josh made him feel emasculated. He is toxic, so you need to leave him. I will call Josh and tell him to be ready and get here to pick me up early, in the hopes that I may be able to leave earlier. I must go. Josh and I will be on our way to help you as soon as we can. Stay safe.”<br /> I nodded, “Thank you, Kelly.”<br /> “Be careful and send me text updates. Please make sure that if he comes back, you send me that code word,” she said, as she began climbing out of my car.<br /> I nodded, “I promise.”<br /> I watched as she called Josh and headed inside the restaurant to start her shift. I looked down as my phone, and realised I had a text from Dylan.<br /> Dylan: “Hey babe, I hope you are having fun with your grandparents. I won’t be in when you come home. I am going to watch the football match with the boys. I will be back later tonight. Make yourself dinner. Xx”<br /> I stared down at the text. The football match he was talking about was in two hours, so he would leave the home in thirty minutes to meet with his friends, so he can head to the match with them. I had to reply but keep it as normal as possible to my usual texts, and honestly that was the frightening thing. One mistake and this could go wrong.<br /> Me: “I am just about to leave my grandparents. I will be about an hour, maybe a little longer, as there is some road works near my grandparents’ home. Have fun at the football match. Text me when you are on your way home. Xx”<br /> He read the text message and replied with a simple okay. I grabbed my suitcases out of my wardrobe. I had two sizes a large one and a cabin one. I opened both, leaving them on the floor. I quickly yanked some of my clothing off the hangers and threw them in the suitcase. I emptied my drawers of clothing and just threw them in my suitcase. I chucked in my favourite pairs of shoes. I grabbed my electronics that I wanted to take. Though I could buy replacement electronics, and I probably will once I get settled in, I need to be able to keep a line of communication open with my grandparents and so I can get a new job in London. I grabbed whatever else I could.<br /> <br /> I looked at the time and saw a text from Kelly. She had managed to leave work an hour early, and Josh had picked her up. They were on their way to me. I suddenly had this feeling like someone was behind me. I typed HOD into a text before I turned around. Dylan was standing in the doorway to what was our bedroom. He had his hands clenched into fists by his legs. A rage in his eyes that I have never seen before, far worse than all the other times he was angry.<br /> <br /> “Why are you packing all your things,” he hissed, through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> I took a deep breath, with my finger over the button, readying to hit send. I said, “Because I am leaving you.”<br /> <br /> “No, you are not leaving me,” he yelled.<br /> <br /> “I saw you earlier, with another woman, in what should have been our bed. It was what I needed to see that you were a controlling freak in our whole relationship. So, yes, I am leaving you,” I responded calmly, turning and hitting send.<br /> <br /> His heavy footsteps thunder towards me, making the floor of our flat shake. His hand tangled into my hair, and yanked my head back, before snatching my phone from my hand. Thankfully, I locked it before he could read my texts. He growled, “You are not leaving me! I bet you think this because you are cheating on me. Who is he? Show me who you were sending a text too just now.”<br /> <br /> “Get off of me,” I yelled, trying to push him away from me.<br /> <br /> “Who is he,” spitting as he shouted, pulling my hair harder.<br /> <br /> I pushed him away from me. It surprised him enough to let go of my hair and to stumble backwards away from me, I screamed, “I never cheated. You did. You have restricted me, banned me, belittled me, and treated me harshly on countless occasions. My heart is broken. How I could ever love a man like you, I do not know.”<br /> <br /> Tears welled in my eyes, so I turned around and began to zip up my suitcases. I didn’t want to see his reaction to what I said, I couldn’t deal with him if he started crying. I really might faulter if that happens. That was when I felt something hard hit the back of my head. My head began to pound and ache. I gripped where he hit me on my head with my hand and turned to look at Dylan. But before I could say anything, he raised his fist and slammed it into my face. The blow was hard enough, to knock me backwards into the bedside cabinet. I hit my head on the corner of the bedside cabinet, before hitting the floor. I could feel a wet hot liquid slide across my face. I touched it and looked at my hand. It was blood. I was bleeding from my head. I gripped my head and began to curl up into the fetal position. Before I could curl up, Dylan kicked me in the stomach and ribs, not just once, but many times. I lost count how many times he kicked me. I felt something crack in my rib cage. I tried my best to use my arms to protect my body and head, but there was only so much I could do, while in so much pain. The pain was excruciating. All I could do was cry and whimper the pain made it too hard to move. He grabbed my hair on the back of my head, tearing some hair from my head, and snarled, “If you hadn’t threatened to leave, then none of this would have happened. Do you want to know why I sleep with other girls, because after all the times we have, you were never ready for what I needed to be full satisfied. But now you are going to find out. Remember this is all your fault.”<br /> <br /> He slammed my head into the ground. The impact made my head heavy and made it hard for me to keep myself conscious. My ears were now ringing from the impact. It was because of that, that I did not hear what he was doing. The ringing subsided, only for me to hear a massive crack, and a shocking sting across my back, which made me cry out. I managed to look up and see that he was holding a whip. He hit me with a whip. I was now seeing a completely different side to him, a side that would have made me run for the hills years ago. How did I not see this side to him?<br /> <br /> “This is what I like,” he growled, lust evident in his voice.<br /> <br /> I tried my best to move, to get away. But I was in so much pain. The sound of the crack of the whip came again, just before the impact on my back. I screamed out. This time it was even more painful. The taste of blood filled my mouth, as I felt a trickle of blood pooling on my back. Tears were streaming down my face. I was trying to prepare myself for another blow. But that was when I heard the sirens. In that moment, I had never felt so happy to hear sirens before. Dylan dropped the whip, and muttered.<br /> <br /> That was when he bolted out of the door. I breathed a sigh of relief, even though my chest hurt so much. Pain was all over my body. My head and back were the most painful. With my head hurt, it was getting harder for me to stay awake my consciousness was wavering. My eyes closing slowly, the pain becoming unbearable.	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1,580,945	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	979532133607164	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…Kelly…I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly's POV<br /> Was it a blessing to marry your best friend?<br /> I was not very sure what Pierce thought but marrying him was a dream come true for me. And now what was more exciting, we were going to welcome our first child.<br /> I closed my eyes recalling the first day we met. His bright smile in the sunlight was so dazzling, he was a Prince. Long before we became best friends, I fell in love with him at first sight. But it was only an unrequited love, I knew it well.<br /> I slid down the car window to get some fresh air but accidentally caught a glimpse of our old high school. That bitter feeling filled my chest once again. Pierce is my first love but I'm not his.<br /> In high school, I was only a boring nerd in other's eyes while Pierce Anderson was the shining Quarterback. Everyone was surprised that we could be friends. Though enmity rose, I enjoyed being around him. I slowly realized that I didn't want just to be his friend.<br /> However, right when I was about to confess my feelings to him, another girl came into his life.<br /> I shook my head trying to get rid of those sad old memories. I gripped the cold wedding ring on my finger, telling myself the past was past. Pierce said they were over and I was his wife now. I was his wife who was carrying his baby now.<br /> I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened the door to our house. My heart calmed down as I breathed in the scent of home. Our home. It wasn't as luxurious as his family's villa but cozy. Pierce and I decorated it together with our own hands. We enjoyed it. Yes, I must have been overthinking. That woman had been out of our lives for a long time and my marriage with Pierce was as beautiful as a fairy tale for the past three years.<br /> I glanced at the clock on the wall. At this point, Pierce should have gotten off the plane. He was over a month of traveling for the sake of our family’s business. Pierce was the President of ADE, the leading fashion magazine company all over Asia, and I was actually the Vice President of the company. We were not only life partners but also good partners at work.<br /> I really missed him. I dialed his number immediately. I really wanted to hear his voice now, to know when he would arrive home. I would prepare a good meal for him and he would prize me with a sweet peck. And then we might have passionate intercourse like what he gave me the night before his business trip. Oops, I almost forgot I was pregnant now. I needed to tell him this first and then we could do something else instead.<br /> I was happily envisioning our lovely reunion and my heart dropped when a woman's voice came over the line.<br /> [Hello?]<br /> I snapped the phone as just one word came out. My phone fell to the floor and my body started shaking uncontrollably. NO! It couldn't be her! It couldn't be Lexi! She was already out of our life! I must have misheard.<br /> I rushed to the fridge in an attempt to calm myself with the aid of some drinks. But the moment I touched the drinks bottle, I was reminded of the doctor's words and my baby. I needed to be cautious for my baby's sake. I turned to get a box of milk and walked toward the sofa.<br /> I didn't know what made me recognize that as Lexi's voice at that moment. I meant Lexi and I were never close. Lexi Gilbert was a typical blonde beauty that men would go crazy for. She was the popular cheerleader in high school while Pierce was the star quarterback. Better match than he and a nerd like me, right? It wasn't surprising that he had fallen for her.<br /> My pride couldn't stand watching the man I loved go crazy for another woman. So I had once tried to stay away from them silently but Pierce refused to quit from my life. Every time I drowned myself in a sea of books and studies to forget them, Pierce would appear at my doorway asking me out. I couldn't say no to his charming smile; I couldn't say no when he claimed it was his duty as my best friend to take me to enjoy the real world.<br /> To not ruin our friendship, I could only hide my broken heart, silently playing the role of his best friend by his side and watching his happy face for another girl. I finally got up the courage to study abroad as I learned that Pierce was planning to propose to Lexi. However, I never expected Grams would call to beg me back.<br /> I returned in a hurry only to see a lifeless Pierce. His heart was harmed badly, by Lexi. My beloved sunshine boy was nowhere to be seen, and my heart was bleeding. I started to hate Lexi from that moment. I gave up my cherished man to her, and how dared she harm him so badly! That witch!<br /> Pierce didn't tell anyone what happened except he was over with Lexi. Grams arranged our marriage. I didn't understand why he agreed until the day I heard him say that marrying anyone but Lexi would be the same for him.<br /> It was so hurt but I still walked into this marriage without a second thought. My cherished boy was broken and I wanted to fix him, not caring if I would ruin myself in the process.<br /> I fell asleep at home feeling so insecure and worried.It was already morning when I opened my eyes again and Pierce was beside me, putting a tray of food on the bedside table.<br /> “Hey!” I greeted and smiled when I realized what he’d done. He prepared breakfast for me. In bed. The sweetest.<br /> He smiled and sat on the bed. “Good morning. I have something to tell you.”<br /> I felt my heart race. I thought about our baby in my womb. He’s got something to tell. I have something to tell him too.<br /> “W-What is it?” I asked as I felt my voice tremble.<br /> He took a deep sigh. “You know you’re important to me, right?”<br /> I slowly nodded with parted lips. I couldn’t answer. I’m scared of what he’s about to say. I have a bad feeling about this.<br /> “You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…”<br /> I hid my balled fists under the sheet. I don’t know why he’s telling me all this but I felt tears pooling in the corner of my eyes already.<br /> “Kelly…” he paused and squeezed his eyes closed before he looked at me again in the eyes. “I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> Kelly’s POV<br /> I got off the bed and tried to leave but Pierce grabbed my hand. I immediately wiped the tears that rolled down my cheeks before he could see them. He stood in front of me and looked at my face as I tried so hard to look down and avoid his eyes.<br /> I felt my heart breaking into pieces. I thought… I thought I could make him fall in love with me within those three years together. I thought his feelings would level up and would see me as a woman rather than just a best friend. I was stupid for hoping and dreaming so high.<br /> I failed. No matter how hard I tried, his heart belonged only to his first love Lexi.<br /> He looked at me worriedly. “You are my best friend. I don’t wanna lose you, Kels. You’re one of my few people…”<br /> “I know,” I said out of frustration. He looked shocked, so I calmed myself down. “I-I know. You don’t have to worry. I’m just stressed about work. It’s not about our divorce.”<br /> His lips parted and he slowly nodded as if he was able to breathe properly. He walked towards me and I froze when he gently pecked my forehead…<br /> “Thank you, Kelly," he whispered. My heart clenched. It had been three years but I was still such a coward. Why couldn't you just tell him that you love him, Kelly? He's your husband and you're carrying his baby! Tell him and he might change his mind!<br /> I swallowed hard and was about to tell him but his phone rang. I didn't miss the caller ID. Again, it was Lexi.<br /> " I gotta go." He scratched his head in apology and I didn't miss the upturned corners of his mouth. "I called Luke and he’s waiting outside. Eat before you go, okay?”<br /> With that, he left our room. The tears I had managed to suppress burst out again. Why would I think I could have a chance? He made his choice already the moment he asked for the divorce, didn't he?<br /> Whenever it came to Lexi, I was always the one he would abandon.<br /> --<br /> I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”<br /> When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his btch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.<br /> “KELLY!”<br /> I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.<br /> “What did you do?”<br /> My forehead creased. “I cooked.”<br /> He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”<br /> “You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”<br /> “Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”<br /> I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”<br /> “No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”<br /> I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.<br /> “If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”<br /> “Don’t turn your back on me—”<br /> “Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”<br /> His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.<br /> “You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”<br /> I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”<br /> “I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”<br /> A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”<br /> “Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”<br /> “I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”<br /> He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”<br /> I tilted my head, “Are you not?”<br /> His forehead creased. “I am not an beast, Kelly. Did you see me pecking her or drilling her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”<br /> “Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”<br /> “Kelly!”<br /> “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”<br /> He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”<br /> I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”<br /> --<br /> He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”<br /> “Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”<br /> He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.<br /> “I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”<br /> I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”<br /> He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”<br /> I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.<br /> *<br /> Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.<br /> “We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.<br /> I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.<br /> We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.<br /> I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.<br /> “I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”<br /> “Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.<br /> I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.<br /> “Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a slt?”<br /> Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.<br /> “He’s not cheating, dad.”<br /> “Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.<br /> “I want a divorce, dad.”<br /> “Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.<br /> “LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.<br /> “NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.<br /> “Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”<br /> “I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”<br /> Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”<br /> “Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.<br /> I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”<br /> Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.<br /> "Did you…mean what you said?" His voice sounds tired and lifeless.<br /> I pressed my lips together and tightened my grip on my pouch.<br /> Heaving a sigh, I slowly turned to face him. He was looking straight into my eyes as if he was actually waiting for me to look at him.<br /> "I mean everything I said, Pierce."<br /> He swallowed hard. There was something in his eyes. Confusion, pain, and thankfulness. I don't know why he's being like this but I'm not doing this just for him. I'm doing this for me too. I want a complete family for my baby, but I'm not gonna settle for the small things he can offer. I love him, but I will love my baby more.<br /> "Kels, you're not drifting apart because of this, right?"<br /> My forehead creased. He expects me to stick to him even after all of these? He's selfish.<br /> "Kels…"<br /> "Pierce, I'm tired. Let's talk tomorrow."<br /> --<br /> My phone rang as soon as I stepped out of the bathroom. The family lawyer of the Anderson family is the one calling. I immediately answered the call… "Hello, attorney."<br /> [Mrs. Anderson, I'm on my way to your house now. I have the document with me.]<br /> I nodded as I stared at my own reflection in the mirror. "Thank you, attorney. We'll be waiting."<br /> When I went downstairs, Pierce was already preparing the table for our breakfast. I suddenly felt starving as soon as my eyes landed on the pasta. However, someone rang the bell. I went straight to the door and was welcomed by Attorney Wade Morgan.<br /> “Good morning, Mrs. Anderson.”<br /> I smiled at him. “Good morning, Attorney. Come in.”<br /> “Who’s there, Kelly?”<br /> Pierce appeared behind me even before Attorney Morgan stepped his foot inside the house. Pierce’s lips parted after he saw the person standing in front of us.<br /> “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”<br /> Pierce looked at me so I gave him a smile. “He’s here to deliver and process our divorce papers.”<br /> Pierce didn’t answer. We ate our breakfast and only me and Attorney Morgan were talking. Pierce is strangely silent but I feel like it’s because he’s worried about his grandmother. Our breakfast ended in a deafening silence and when it was time to sign the divorce papers, I felt suffocated.<br /> Now, it's time to end this false happiness.<br /> Taking a deep breath, I signed my name on the divorce paper.<br /> Pierce’s POV<br /> She signed the divorce papers. She signed it without thinking twice. In front of me.<br /> A bitter smile spilled as I downed another glass of spirit.<br /> I should be happy about that when I was the one who asked for the divorce. But…but my heart felt so heavy ever since Kelly signed the papers.<br /> Kelly and I had been friends for over 10 years. The day she transferred to my high school, I accidentally bumped into her by the lake. She looked like a frightened kitten, carefully hiding her true self behind that thick antique eyeglasses. That was interesting.<br /> I didn't realize that nerdy transfer girl in everyone's eyes would be the daughter of my mother's best friend. With that, we grew to be friends. Best friends.<br /> Kelly changed a lot after graduation. When I came back from the first vacation alone with Lexi, I was surprised to find that my best friend was far different. Taking off her heavy glasses and changing out of her baggy hoodies, she learned how to dress up. She was always a fast learner and in an instant, Kelly became a total campus goddess, with her brain and beauty.<br /> More and more suitors gathered around her. I could see how much she was troubled, so as her best friend, I naturally became that escort. Although it caused some rumors, I knew we were only best friends. I already had Lexi.<br /> No one knew why Kelly never had a boyfriend. I once wanted to ask about it but gave up, as I had a feeling that she would leave me once I learned the answer. I never wanted to lose her. She was my best friend.<br /> Everything went well but after the countless argument with Lexi about our future life, we fell into a long cold war. And when I was ready to surrender, Lexi suddenly went to another city after sending me a breakup text. I flew all night to chase her, only to find her sleeping with another man. My heart was broken.<br /> I fell into darkness and spirit became my best partner. Just when I thought I was about to rot in my darkened room, a figure appeared in the doorway, bringing me the only light. It was Kelly.<br /> I broke down with tears in the arms of my best friend. And Kelly suspended her studies abroad to be by my side. Without her, I could never overcome that hardest time. I'd been always grateful for that. I swore to cherish her for my whole life.<br /> But I never expected that Grams would wish us to get married. I agreed to give it a shot. It’s better to marry her than marrying another woman my family chose for me. My family was a fan of arranged marriage. And since they also treated Kelly as family, I felt like if I refused to marry her, my family would set her up with someone. It’s better to be me than anyone else, right? I just want to protect her...<br /> After three years of happy peaceful marriage, I started to consider having a child with Kelly. She always loved kids, I knew. However, it was at that time, that I met Lexi again on my business trip.<br /> My heart was in turmoil when the woman I once loved so deeply cried in my arms. Lexi told me everything that happened to her. Her fate wasn’t good to her and she wants me back. I thought my feelings for her disappeared, but as soon as she came back, everything came back to me too. Our memories and even my feelings for her.<br /> It’s Kelly, my best friend over Lexi, my first love. I don’t know what to do. God knows how much I dreamed of having Lexi because she’s my first love but…losing Kelly should not be a trade to get my first love.<br /> I feel like I’m losing Kelly now just because of that divorce paper.<br /> Can it all start over?	LEARN_MORE	https://a.mobobooks.com/ad/TW9ib29rcy8xNjI3MDEvMjA	123910400815364	Mob001	https://facebook.com/61553314005849	53	1	3,677,170,742,558,504	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Mob001	120208693895230415	a.mobobooks.com	NONE	video		https://a.mobobooks.com/ad/TW9ib29rcy8xNjI3MDEvMjAyNDA0MjYwOTU4MzAvcGFnZQ==?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-25 21:04	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439888537_1102799577462673_7891671141495401303_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=s4sUYCVkoFgAb7lC-Bd&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBhhrxrTUWltBvJW0mKcNODoC1pK2ImQk0N2u4ITNamuA&oe=6634AB3D	person_profile	Mob001	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439954063_1168110017422108_5358166442075445693_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Go-6iGqIzJQAb4_CLrt&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBHE_WlwK1OXB_iW4ZkCTCCBV4UA9VKPKB293S1HQzoVg&oe=6634B14B	3	Mob001	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,581,099	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	796053542407091	The Aggression In Dogs Conference 2024	Get ready for the much-anticipated Aggression In Dogs Conference 2024! Registration is now open!<br /> <br /> We're thrilled to announce that we're taking it to the West Coast in Scottsdale, Arizona, from October 11th to October 13th. <br /> <br /> Join us in person or virtually to glean insights from the world’s leading experts on aggression in dogs.<br /> <br /> What? 2024 Aggression In Dogs Conference <br /> Where? Scottsdale, Arizona<br /> When? October 11th to October 13th, 2024<br /> Cost? EARLY BIRD* (effective through May 1st, 2024) In Person - $595 and Virtually - $159<br /> <br /> 2023 Speakers Include<br /> 🐾 Dr. Amy Cook<br /> 🐾 Carmaleta (Carm) Aufderheide<br /> 🐾 Veronica Boutelle<br /> 🐾 Jess Earce<br /> 🐾 Jess Feliciano<br /> 🐾 Sam Freeman <br /> 🐾 Dr. Jessica Hekman<br /> 🐾 Sarah Kalnajs<br /> 🐾 Laurie Lawless<br /> 🐾 Dr. Kelly Moffat<br /> 🐾 Emma Parsons<br /> 🐾 Gina Phairas<br /> 🐾 Sarah Rodriguez <br /> 🐾 Dr. Clive Wynne<br /> 🐾 and your host, Michael Shikashio<br /> <br /> Learn more and register by visiting <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Faggressivedog.com%2Fconference%2F&h=AT3TqNmBZcSp45qAG39ChQHNGic8n9za-I_cWmYbA5Y_a-P7MlDNh51Q93mcFw4tK7-c6PTldi_iZ7NMBndvAYBDH48y3kYcjNgIXRsd1QE3ygYs86gnkHI12LTHAIj5V9dvlt5cr2kfEQxXdIB7u6aLUNsIXQfNx4pMKy3qXKY" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://aggressivedog.com/conference/</a><br /> <br /> *Cost of tickets increase after May 1st, 2024<br /> .<br /> .<br /> #aidc24 #aggressionindogsconference #aggerssivedog #aggressionindogsconference24	BUY_TICKETS	https://aggressivedog.com/checkout-registration/	651995081851553	Aggressive Dog	https://facebook.com/AggressionInDogs	11,640	1	805,785,464,766,786	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Buy tickets	Aggressive Dog	120207501409590179	aggressivedog.com	NONE	event	https://aggressivedog.com/checkout-registration/	https://aggressivedog.com/checkout-registration/	2024-04-28 10:05	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438256205_777783080993127_1003053773137693438_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MlJiNzFMTsgQ7kNvgEoWm54&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCbMgYX_oyBpQ9ya9DgGp1HmMseIDmnzY1UprnS4sqPVw&oe=6634A1B1	person_profile	Michael Shikashio	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438239105_6647759385326983_6124685472433737290_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Yay5UnUp-2EQ7kNvgFC9Y86&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBha-2d5ta7HUwssRLNDprnHmxlw3ZLNBN30CZS13V3MA&oe=6634875F	3	Aggressive Dog	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,580,886	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580843}'	Yes	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	447071214533389	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…Kelly…I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly's POV<br /> Was it a blessing to marry your best friend?<br /> I was not very sure what Pierce thought but marrying him was a dream come true for me. And now what was more exciting, we were going to welcome our first child.<br /> I closed my eyes recalling the first day we met. His bright smile in the sunlight was so dazzling, he was a Prince. Long before we became best friends, I fell in love with him at first sight. But it was only an unrequited love, I knew it well.<br /> I slid down the car window to get some fresh air but accidentally caught a glimpse of our old high school. That bitter feeling filled my chest once again. Pierce is my first love but I'm not his.<br /> In high school, I was only a boring nerd in other's eyes while Pierce Anderson was the shining Quarterback. Everyone was surprised that we could be friends. Though enmity rose, I enjoyed being around him. I slowly realized that I didn't want just to be his friend.<br /> However, right when I was about to confess my feelings to him, another girl came into his life.<br /> I shook my head trying to get rid of those sad old memories. I gripped the cold wedding ring on my finger, telling myself the past was past. Pierce said they were over and I was his wife now. I was his wife who was carrying his baby now.<br /> I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened the door to our house. My heart calmed down as I breathed in the scent of home. Our home. It wasn't as luxurious as his family's villa but cozy. Pierce and I decorated it together with our own hands. We enjoyed it. Yes, I must have been overthinking. That woman had been out of our lives for a long time and my marriage with Pierce was as beautiful as a fairy tale for the past three years.<br /> I glanced at the clock on the wall. At this point, Pierce should have gotten off the plane. He was over a month of traveling for the sake of our family’s business. Pierce was the President of ADE, the leading fashion magazine company all over Asia, and I was actually the Vice President of the company. We were not only life partners but also good partners at work.<br /> I really missed him. I dialed his number immediately. I really wanted to hear his voice now, to know when he would arrive home. I would prepare a good meal for him and he would prize me with a sweet peck. And then we might have passionate intercourse like what he gave me the night before his business trip. Oops, I almost forgot I was pregnant now. I needed to tell him this first and then we could do something else instead.<br /> I was happily envisioning our lovely reunion and my heart dropped when a woman's voice came over the line.<br /> [Hello?]<br /> I snapped the phone as just one word came out. My phone fell to the floor and my body started shaking uncontrollably. NO! It couldn't be her! It couldn't be Lexi! She was already out of our life! I must have misheard.<br /> I rushed to the fridge in an attempt to calm myself with the aid of some drinks. But the moment I touched the drinks bottle, I was reminded of the doctor's words and my baby. I needed to be cautious for my baby's sake. I turned to get a box of milk and walked toward the sofa.<br /> I didn't know what made me recognize that as Lexi's voice at that moment. I meant Lexi and I were never close. Lexi Gilbert was a typical blonde beauty that men would go crazy for. She was the popular cheerleader in high school while Pierce was the star quarterback. Better match than he and a nerd like me, right? It wasn't surprising that he had fallen for her.<br /> My pride couldn't stand watching the man I loved go crazy for another woman. So I had once tried to stay away from them silently but Pierce refused to quit from my life. Every time I drowned myself in a sea of books and studies to forget them, Pierce would appear at my doorway asking me out. I couldn't say no to his charming smile; I couldn't say no when he claimed it was his duty as my best friend to take me to enjoy the real world.<br /> To not ruin our friendship, I could only hide my broken heart, silently playing the role of his best friend by his side and watching his happy face for another girl. I finally got up the courage to study abroad as I learned that Pierce was planning to propose to Lexi. However, I never expected Grams would call to beg me back.<br /> I returned in a hurry only to see a lifeless Pierce. His heart was harmed badly, by Lexi. My beloved sunshine boy was nowhere to be seen, and my heart was bleeding. I started to hate Lexi from that moment. I gave up my cherished man to her, and how dared she harm him so badly! That witch!<br /> Pierce didn't tell anyone what happened except he was over with Lexi. Grams arranged our marriage. I didn't understand why he agreed until the day I heard him say that marrying anyone but Lexi would be the same for him.<br /> It was so hurt but I still walked into this marriage without a second thought. My cherished boy was broken and I wanted to fix him, not caring if I would ruin myself in the process.<br /> I fell asleep at home feeling so insecure and worried.It was already morning when I opened my eyes again and Pierce was beside me, putting a tray of food on the bedside table.<br /> “Hey!” I greeted and smiled when I realized what he’d done. He prepared breakfast for me. In bed. The sweetest.<br /> He smiled and sat on the bed. “Good morning. I have something to tell you.”<br /> I felt my heart race. I thought about our baby in my womb. He’s got something to tell. I have something to tell him too.<br /> “W-What is it?” I asked as I felt my voice tremble.<br /> He took a deep sigh. “You know you’re important to me, right?”<br /> I slowly nodded with parted lips. I couldn’t answer. I’m scared of what he’s about to say. I have a bad feeling about this.<br /> “You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…”<br /> I hid my balled fists under the sheet. I don’t know why he’s telling me all this but I felt tears pooling in the corner of my eyes already.<br /> “Kelly…” he paused and squeezed his eyes closed before he looked at me again in the eyes. “I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> Kelly’s POV<br /> I got off the bed and tried to leave but Pierce grabbed my hand. I immediately wiped the tears that rolled down my cheeks before he could see them. He stood in front of me and looked at my face as I tried so hard to look down and avoid his eyes.<br /> I felt my heart breaking into pieces. I thought… I thought I could make him fall in love with me within those three years together. I thought his feelings would level up and would see me as a woman rather than just a best friend. I was stupid for hoping and dreaming so high.<br /> I failed. No matter how hard I tried, his heart belonged only to his first love Lexi.<br /> He looked at me worriedly. “You are my best friend. I don’t wanna lose you, Kels. You’re one of my few people…”<br /> “I know,” I said out of frustration. He looked shocked, so I calmed myself down. “I-I know. You don’t have to worry. I’m just stressed about work. It’s not about our divorce.”<br /> His lips parted and he slowly nodded as if he was able to breathe properly. He walked towards me and I froze when he gently pecked my forehead…<br /> “Thank you, Kelly," he whispered. My heart clenched. It had been three years but I was still such a coward. Why couldn't you just tell him that you love him, Kelly? He's your husband and you're carrying his baby! Tell him and he might change his mind!<br /> I swallowed hard and was about to tell him but his phone rang. I didn't miss the caller ID. Again, it was Lexi.<br /> " I gotta go." He scratched his head in apology and I didn't miss the upturned corners of his mouth. "I called Luke and he’s waiting outside. Eat before you go, okay?”<br /> With that, he left our room. The tears I had managed to suppress burst out again. Why would I think I could have a chance? He made his choice already the moment he asked for the divorce, didn't he?<br /> Whenever it came to Lexi, I was always the one he would abandon.<br /> --<br /> I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”<br /> When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his btch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.<br /> “KELLY!”<br /> I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.<br /> “What did you do?”<br /> My forehead creased. “I cooked.”<br /> He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”<br /> “You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”<br /> “Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”<br /> I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”<br /> “No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”<br /> I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.<br /> “If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”<br /> “Don’t turn your back on me—”<br /> “Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”<br /> His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.<br /> “You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”<br /> I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”<br /> “I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”<br /> A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”<br /> “Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”<br /> “I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”<br /> He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”<br /> I tilted my head, “Are you not?”<br /> His forehead creased. “I am not an beast, Kelly. Did you see me pecking her or drilling her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”<br /> “Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”<br /> “Kelly!”<br /> “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”<br /> He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”<br /> I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”<br /> --<br /> He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”<br /> “Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”<br /> He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.<br /> “I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”<br /> I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”<br /> He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”<br /> I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.<br /> *<br /> Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.<br /> “We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.<br /> I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.<br /> We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.<br /> I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.<br /> “I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”<br /> “Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.<br /> I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.<br /> “Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a slt?”<br /> Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.<br /> “He’s not cheating, dad.”<br /> “Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.<br /> “I want a divorce, dad.”<br /> “Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.<br /> “LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.<br /> “NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.<br /> “Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”<br /> “I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”<br /> Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”<br /> “Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.<br /> I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”<br /> Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.<br /> "Did you…mean what you said?" His voice sounds tired and lifeless.<br /> I pressed my lips together and tightened my grip on my pouch.<br /> Heaving a sigh, I slowly turned to face him. He was looking straight into my eyes as if he was actually waiting for me to look at him.<br /> "I mean everything I said, Pierce."<br /> He swallowed hard. There was something in his eyes. Confusion, pain, and thankfulness. I don't know why he's being like this but I'm not doing this just for him. I'm doing this for me too. I want a complete family for my baby, but I'm not gonna settle for the small things he can offer. I love him, but I will love my baby more.<br /> "Kels, you're not drifting apart because of this, right?"<br /> My forehead creased. He expects me to stick to him even after all of these? He's selfish.<br /> "Kels…"<br /> "Pierce, I'm tired. Let's talk tomorrow."<br /> --<br /> My phone rang as soon as I stepped out of the bathroom. The family lawyer of the Anderson family is the one calling. I immediately answered the call… "Hello, attorney."<br /> [Mrs. Anderson, I'm on my way to your house now. I have the document with me.]<br /> I nodded as I stared at my own reflection in the mirror. "Thank you, attorney. We'll be waiting."<br /> When I went downstairs, Pierce was already preparing the table for our breakfast. I suddenly felt starving as soon as my eyes landed on the pasta. However, someone rang the bell. I went straight to the door and was welcomed by Attorney Wade Morgan.<br /> “Good morning, Mrs. Anderson.”<br /> I smiled at him. “Good morning, Attorney. Come in.”<br /> “Who’s there, Kelly?”<br /> Pierce appeared behind me even before Attorney Morgan stepped his foot inside the house. Pierce’s lips parted after he saw the person standing in front of us.<br /> “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”<br /> Pierce looked at me so I gave him a smile. “He’s here to deliver and process our divorce papers.”<br /> Pierce didn’t answer. We ate our breakfast and only me and Attorney Morgan were talking. Pierce is strangely silent but I feel like it’s because he’s worried about his grandmother. Our breakfast ended in a deafening silence and when it was time to sign the divorce papers, I felt suffocated.<br /> Now, it's time to end this false happiness.<br /> Taking a deep breath, I signed my name on the divorce paper.<br /> Pierce’s POV<br /> She signed the divorce papers. She signed it without thinking twice. In front of me.<br /> A bitter smile spilled as I downed another glass of spirit.<br /> I should be happy about that when I was the one who asked for the divorce. But…but my heart felt so heavy ever since Kelly signed the papers.<br /> Kelly and I had been friends for over 10 years. The day she transferred to my high school, I accidentally bumped into her by the lake. She looked like a frightened kitten, carefully hiding her true self behind that thick antique eyeglasses. That was interesting.<br /> I didn't realize that nerdy transfer girl in everyone's eyes would be the daughter of my mother's best friend. With that, we grew to be friends. Best friends.<br /> Kelly changed a lot after graduation. When I came back from the first vacation alone with Lexi, I was surprised to find that my best friend was far different. Taking off her heavy glasses and changing out of her baggy hoodies, she learned how to dress up. She was always a fast learner and in an instant, Kelly became a total campus goddess, with her brain and beauty.<br /> More and more suitors gathered around her. I could see how much she was troubled, so as her best friend, I naturally became that escort. Although it caused some rumors, I knew we were only best friends. I already had Lexi.<br /> No one knew why Kelly never had a boyfriend. I once wanted to ask about it but gave up, as I had a feeling that she would leave me once I learned the answer. I never wanted to lose her. She was my best friend.<br /> Everything went well but after the countless argument with Lexi about our future life, we fell into a long cold war. And when I was ready to surrender, Lexi suddenly went to another city after sending me a breakup text. I flew all night to chase her, only to find her sleeping with another man. My heart was broken.<br /> I fell into darkness and spirit became my best partner. Just when I thought I was about to rot in my darkened room, a figure appeared in the doorway, bringing me the only light. It was Kelly.<br /> I broke down with tears in the arms of my best friend. And Kelly suspended her studies abroad to be by my side. Without her, I could never overcome that hardest time. I'd been always grateful for that. I swore to cherish her for my whole life.<br /> But I never expected that Grams would wish us to get married. I agreed to give it a shot. It’s better to marry her than marrying another woman my family chose for me. My family was a fan of arranged marriage. And since they also treated Kelly as family, I felt like if I refused to marry her, my family would set her up with someone. It’s better to be me than anyone else, right? I just want to protect her...<br /> After three years of happy peaceful marriage, I started to consider having a child with Kelly. She always loved kids, I knew. However, it was at that time, that I met Lexi again on my business trip.<br /> My heart was in turmoil when the woman I once loved so deeply cried in my arms. Lexi told me everything that happened to her. Her fate wasn’t good to her and she wants me back. I thought my feelings for her disappeared, but as soon as she came back, everything came back to me too. Our memories and even my feelings for her.<br /> It’s Kelly, my best friend over Lexi, my first love. I don’t know what to do. God knows how much I dreamed of having Lexi because she’s my first love but…losing Kelly should not be a trade to get my first love.<br /> I feel like I’m losing Kelly now just because of that divorce paper.<br /> Can it all start over?	LEARN_MORE	https://a.menovels.com/ad/ZmljZnVuLzE2Mjc2MC8yMDI0	128135990379169	Myno003	https://facebook.com/61550840804079	87	1	846,774,653,940,389	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Myno003	120208213341780442	a.menovels.com	NONE	video		https://a.menovels.com/ad/ZmljZnVuLzE2Mjc2MC8yMDI0MDQyNjEwMDEyNC9wYWdl?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-25 21:12	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439839215_938752114441546_1539018611955141935_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mMBeVsAWULAQ7kNvgGD_6Nd&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC6_js0R1e8r2ZMLn2CqAshe-1OoJC2isIViPOeblfP6A&oe=6634A64C	person_profile	Myno003	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440258663_368665456161445_4313195344400253166_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cPpyIFPqmB8Q7kNvgHgWG42&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDoXlfLjkeG07pk-9-uwDQDinLT397qjofYc-lIGZOIMA&oe=6634AD12	3	Myno003	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,581,122	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1581123}'	Yes	2024-04-28 17:22	active	632	1008392847314953	4.8 stars on Goodreads	The best selling memoir from Emmy nominated writer, Michael Jamin: “I can't remember the last time a book so engrossed me.” “What a masterpiece.” "I wholeheartedly recommend this touching, intelligent, and humorous book."" “Hilarious and touching. Better than Sedaris in my opinion.”	ORDER_NOW	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP6XFLPR?maas=maas_adg	108159270836766	Michael Jamin	https://facebook.com/MichaelJaminWriter	39,292	1	866,647,068,824,694	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Order Now	Michael Jamin	120210201571840231	Amazon.com	NONE	dco	"I'm going to give this book as gifts to those in my life, young and old."	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CP6XFLPR?maas=maas_adg_4396B7CB3861642577019B64989D203D_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas&tag=maas	2024-04-28 10:10	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440321755_7432551196793349_7581587748721080441_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1_jwOx229zsQ7kNvgGXSFlz&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfD_vBlGauUcWzRksfm6ORqRZJ0gQD7YeOZhiwe5n0A0Ng&oe=663490AD	person_profile			3	Michael Jamin	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,580,862	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"is_bh_simple_request":false,"simple_request_ratio":1,"is_bh_selenium":false,"selenium_ratio":1,"ratio_threshold":0.8}'	Yes	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	439160958765718	👉👉Click to read more !👈👈	He said: "Are you sure you want to do this? <br /> Because once I enter your body<br /> you'll officially belong to me.<br /> 🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 🙈 🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 🙈<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Accidentally Provoking The Cold And Distant CEO　　<br /> Up in the sky.<br /> An aircraft glided over layers of puffy clouds, and soared in the azure sky.<br /> In half an hour, Zoe Ball will return to Gallino, the city where she had lived for twenty-two years.<br /> She didn't inform anyone about her return. <br /> She didn’t want to bother her family to make them rush to pick her up in the middle of the night. What’s more, she wanted to surprise Darius Saunders.<br /> Darius was her boyfriend, and tomorrow was his birthday. After staying for five years in love, and three years in a long distance relationship, Zoe counted, their relationship had been on for eight years.<br /> Suddenly, the plane jolted violently, followed by an ear piercing explosion. The items on the table scattered and rolled to the floor, making the passengers on board scream out in panic. <br /> [What's going on?]<br /> [What wrong with the plane?]<br /> [Did it hit something?]<br /> Not waiting for them to calm down, there were a few more piercing noises that were heard. Several large holes were blown out on the plane, with flames blazing brightly. The wind was blowing in, and the passengers screamed unceasingly. <br /> [Oh my God, what's going on?]<br /> [Did something happen to the plane?]<br /> [OMG, I never want to travel by plane again.]<br /> [God bless!]<br /> [Daddy, I'm scared.]<br /> The entire cabin was in chaos. Paper flew, luggage dumped on the ground, with an endless sound of things falling and people panicking. <br /> Zoe was stunned. Was there anything indeed going wrong?<br /> She had experienced a lot, but at this time, her heart still swept through a trace of panic.<br /> Because she was worried about not seeing Darius.<br /> "Passengers on board, please pay attention. Due to external factors, this aircraft is out of control. Please put on your parachute and escape at the designated escape port. This aircraft will crash in ten minutes, so all passengers don’t panic and maintain order…" The captain announced. <br /> The in-flight broadcast repeated those words, and Zoe thought that she was really screwed this time.<br /> According to the authoritative data, there had only been one air crash in 1.2 million flights, so she never thought that the probability of that would happen on her flight. <br /> Many passengers who had unfastened their seat belts rolled from side to side due to the turbulence. Uncontrollable screams rang from them, filling the entire flight.<br /> The plane reeled in every direction, and flew chaotically in the air for about two minutes. Some of the passengers even cried out as they couldn't take it anymore!<br /> Zoe thought that she couldn't just sit around and do nothing, waiting for herself to di&e. <br /> Ordinary passenger aircrafts were not usually equipped with escape tools, but this luxury aircraft Zoe traveled in was different.<br /> Before boarding the plane, Zoe had watched the crew practice parachute-donning methods, and the promotional video also introduced it. At this point, she put on the parachute quickly without panic. Then, she walked to the escape port, ready to leap off.<br /> The wind howled and her thin body swayed.<br /> Zoe had been afraid of heights since her childhood, but at this moment, she knew that if she didn’t jump, she won't have a chance to meet Darius again.<br /> Just then, someone pulled her slender wrist, and the shadow of a tall figure covered her. Before Zoe could react, the man's glittering eyes were staring at her.<br /> "Sir, what do you want to do?" Zoe asked. <br /> Zoe didn't expect to be accosted by a stranger in the nick of time.<br /> Although she was naturally beautiful and there were countless men pursuing her, at that critical moment, wasn't it more important to escape?<br /> "I need to share a parachute with you." The man's voice sounded dulcet.<br /> Zoe had never heard such a unique and handsome voice in her life. Even though she grew up in the upper class, and had met many men with handsome voices, she had heard that kind of chilly, low, and magnetic voice for the first time.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 2 He Suddenly Kissed Her　　<br /> The man had deep eyes, a tall nose, thin lips, and angular jawline. <br /> Apart from his voice, his appearance was eye-catching.<br /> Although Zoe grew up elegant and beautiful, her boyfriend, Darius, was also outstandingly handsome. It was the first time she had ever seen such an unparalleled handsomeness in her life.<br /> The man's strong aura engulfed her, instantly making the air around thinner. <br /> Zoe did not know how to respond at this moment.<br /> Sharing a parachute with him was certainly playing a joke on life!<br /> But without waiting for her to refuse, the man had already leaned over, and his voice carried a compelling magnetism. <br /> "Excuse me," he said. <br /> Before she could react, the man had already unbuckled her seat belt and put the parachute on himself.<br /> Who did he think he was?<br /> Did he think he could do whatever he wanted just because he's good-looking?<br /> Every seat was equipped with a parachute, so why did he have to use hers?<br /> "Sir..." Zoe muttered. Just as Zoe was about to argue with him, the man suddenly kissed her on her lips, and his tall figure pressed her to the hatch in a rapt kiss.<br /> After eight years with Darius, Zoe had yet to give him her first kiss. But the man in front of her, whom she had met the first time, had inexplicably snatched it in advance.<br /> The alluring scent of his body oozed. It was fresh, light, reminiscent of the freezing breeze in winter. Despite stinging cold, it had a refreshing effect on the brain.<br /> Zoe was stunned for a while before she realized that he was kissing her. <br /> Even if he was outstanding, he couldn't do such a thing to her in a public place!<br /> Zoe was furious and was about to raise her hand and slap him on his face, when several tall men approached. They were sweeping around a few times and discussing in a low voice…<br /> [He's not here.]<br /> [Without a parachute, he must not dare to jump off rashly, not to mention that he is seriously injured.]<br /> [He must be hiding in the crowd, let's keep looking!]<br /> Seeing them search for a while and leaving in a rage, Zoe felt a little panic. <br /> Obviously, they were not good people. <br /> “Wasn’t it more important to escape and save themselves at that moment?”she thought to herself.<br /> At that point, another group of women came over. Each of them were dressed ably and looked strictly meticulous, reminiscent of female secret agents in the movies.<br /> Zoe noticed that they put one hand in their clothes and the other hand pressing on the outside. Looking at that posture, she couldn’t help but wonder if there was a gun.<br /> Zoe was stunned.<br /> Suddenly, they ruthlessly gazed at her, as if they were using a laser, sweeping straight towards her. <br /> Zoe was shocked. Damn it, was she being targeted?<br /> One of the women glanced at her, then at the back of the man who was kissing her. The woman’s eyes no longer lingered on them as she continued to look for other targets. <br /> For them, they were a couple facing the prospect of parting forever, making a final kiss before jumping out of the plane, and were posing no threat to them.<br /> The man's back was blocked by the parachute, just enough to conceal his figure.<br /> [He should be hiding somewhere else.]<br /> [If we miss again this time, the boss will never let us go.]<br /> [Looks like we'll have to step up and not let Napoli's people find him first.]<br /> [Let's go!]<br /> Zoe listened to their conversation and couldn't help but think that the passengers on the plane were too weird. The group of mafia-like men were looking for someone. Those "female agents" were also looking for something, and that indiscriminate man in front of her was taking advantage of her.<br /> Damn it!<br /> To think that the man was still kissing her, Zoe folded her knee and kicked the man hard.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 3 Parachute Jumping In Each Other's Arms<br /> However, as if he had expected what she was going to do, the man reached out and blocked her attack.<br /> The man had done too much.<br /> Zoe was so angry that she reached out and tried to push him away, not expecting him to hold her hands. He pressed against the hatch with her fingers clasped together in his.<br /> Zoe's eyes were full of protest. <br /> “Who are you? Get off me! It's about to crash! Do you hear me?”<br /> Once again, the man pressed her hard against the hatch and kissed her with more force and passion.<br /> One of the "female agents" who had just turned to leave, suddenly stood still and looked back at Zoe.<br /> "Boss, what's wrong?" Another agent asked her.<br /> "We don't have much time, those Napoli's-like people are close to finding him. We need to get out of here," the other agent added. <br /> "What are you looking at?" she asked. <br /> Most of the agents followed their boss' gaze which were directed toward Zoe. That was when Zoe realized that those women’s eyes were not on her. Rather, it was more directed at the man who was kissing her.<br /> She must have made too many movements and attracted their attention. <br /> While all that was going on, their "boss" had already taken out a pistol from her coat, and started pulling the trigger.<br /> The man had a sensitive hearing, and just as he heard the sound of the trigger, he threw a guest blanket at them with his backhand.<br /> A few of the women’s sights were blocked by the blanket, and by the time they were done setting it aside, the man had already leapt down with Zoe in his arms. He was so fast that they staggered!<br /> The parachute blossomed in the air, and they floated in the air at once, pulled away a modest distance from the plane.<br /> [Boss, it's him! He got away!]<br /> [Shoot him!]<br /> The sound of thumping g0n&&fire echoed in the air.<br /> The parachute floated farther and farther, so the bullets were useless. The woman called as the boss reluctantly ordered, "After them."<br /> Several people quickly put on their parachutes and leaped down.<br /> Zoe could not have imagined that she would somehow be involved in that kind of chaos. Who was that man in front of her and why was he being hunted by different gangs?<br /> Holding the man's neck in an extremely tight grip, Zoe almost hung her entire body on him.<br /> The group of fierce men, and the meticulous "female agents"... Why were they after that man? What exactly was his identity?<br /> Zoe understood that she was in big trouble. <br /> Just as she wanted to question the man, she saw that his eyes gradually closed, the hand holding her waist weakly loosened, and he passed out. <br /> "Hey! Don't sleep… wake up." Zoe said urgently. She was scared to death and hugged him even tighter. <br /> They were in the mid-air. Her life would be in danger if she didn’t hold on.<br /> "Are you passed out? Our parachute seems broken." Zoe said. <br /> Those sho&ts earlier seemed to have broken her parachute. <br /> The man was unconscious and couldn't hear her.<br /> Zoe looked up and saw a few holes on the parachute as they were rapidly descending.<br /> "Oh my God! Oh my God, I'm not going to fall off here, right?” Zoe prayed.<br /> Below them was the vast sea. Zoe wished the parachute could hold on a little longer. <br /> She did not want to di&e so soon, nor di&e in such a desolate place, and a ridiculous way. That was not what she wanted. <br /> However, the parachute was sparsely descending at a very fast speed.<br /> In her 25 years of life, Zoe had never found herself so unlucky! Everything that happened to her today made everything worse for her.<br /> Without much time for her to think, they both fell heavily into the sea with a thud, and made a huge splash.<br /> Chapter 4 Saved His Life<br /> The seawater was salty, fishy, and bitter. Zoe was caught in a few mouthfuls without any preparation. She quickly floated up and gasped for breath.<br /> Luckily, she could swim, otherwise she would have di&ed there!<br /> After splashing on the sea surface for a few times, Zoe finally calmed down and looked at the vast sea.<br /> A large area of blood had diffused on the sea, as if someone had spilled a red dye, filling the sea with waves of shocking red.<br /> What's going on?<br /> Where did so much blood come from?<br /> Zoe looked around but couldn't find the man. Then she suddenly realized that the group of people earlier said that he was injured. Could that be blood from him?<br /> It seemed that he was badly injured.<br /> Zoe hesitated whether to save him. He was not an ordinary man, and she didn’t know when that group of people would catch up. If she intervened in that matter, she would certainly get into big trouble ...<br /> But if she would not save him, he would definitely sink into the sea and drow%n.<br /> Two thoughts were conflicting inside her mind.<br /> Zoe had a difficult choice to make.<br /> She started to think of her grandfather. Her grandfather had a heart attack when he was walking in the park many years ago, and at that time no one dared to come forward to help him. That incident caused him to miss the best time for treatment.<br /> Her grandfather usually went out with entourage, but that day, his entourage were waiting outside the park, no one knew he suddenly collapsed, and it was too late when he was discovered.<br /> Zoe thought of that and closed her eyes in pain. She knew that she had to save him! Since it was happening in front of her, she couldn't let him die!<br /> Diving into the sea, Zoe quickly found his direction in the water, although she was not a strong swimmer, but the physical training she received as a child allowed her to quickly overcome all difficulties to swim towards him. She struggled to pick him up. Zoe was almost overwhelmed by the heavy man.<br /> Finally she used all her strength to drag him onto shore. She did not know where the place was, but from the fishing nets hung by the residents, it should be a fishing village.<br /> The chimneys of every household were emitting white gas not for away. The smell of rice wafted into her nose, and Zoe's stomach growled spontaneously.<br /> She quickly found one of the homes, which was the closest and the fastest to arrive, and she decided to go to that family for help.<br /> "I'll be back for you soon." Zoe placed the man on the ground and, regardless of whether he heard her or not, ran alone toward the house and knocked on the door.<br /> "Is anyone there, please? I need help! Hello, is anyone there, please open the door."<br /> It didn't take long for the small door to creak open, revealing a kind face and a woman slightly taken aback, "You are?"<br /> "Hello, the plane I was on crashed and now there is a man who fell into the sea and is badly injured. I need your help, I can't pull him by myself."<br /> The woman was slightly surprised, and looked at the figure lying on the shore then shouted into the house, "Honey, come out and help."<br /> The fisherman came out with big steps. After hearing what happened, without saying a word, he carried the man back to the house.<br /> "Miss, your man is badly wounded, is this a gunshot wound?" The fisherman looked at his wound and judged.<br /> Zoe had some resistance inside. He was not her man! In her whole life, she had only one man, that was Darius!<br /> But at that point, Zoe didn't expose the truth and cooperatively said, "Yes, we encountered hijackers on the plane just now. Not only did they rob us, but they also fir**ed several shots at him."<br /> "What's wrong with the World?" The fisherman slapped his thighs in anger, "Wait a moment, I have good ancestral medicine. No matter how big the wound is, as long as you apply it, it will be fine tomorrow."<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 5 Two People In One Room<br /> <br /> "It’s amazing." It was the first time Zoe had heard of such a medicine.<br /> The woman smiled and said, "His family has been fishing for generations, and last time his arm was even bitten down by a big fish, but after applying it, he is now pretty well."<br /> "Okay…." Zoe was a little scared when she heard those words.<br /> The woman brought in a basin of water, "You first wash your man's wounds, and later he has to apply medicine."<br /> Zoe was helpless. She misunderstood their relationship again.<br /> Dropping her gaze to the man, he was sleeping soundly with his arms around her waist, his head resting on her knees as if he were holding a comfortable doll.<br /> Why was the man still taking advantage of her at this critical time?<br /> Wasn’t he in a coma! How could he do such a shameful thing! Zoe's impression of him was even worse!<br /> "Your man seems to really cherish you. Even though he's injured, he won't let go of you. Young people are so good. Our generation would get embarrassed just holding hands..."<br /> "I'm sorry to have embarrassed you..." Zoe maintained a composed smile, but in reality she hated the shameless man to the extreme! With everything in chaos, could he just calm down a bit?<br /> The woman was about to ridicule the young couple, but when her eyes fell on the man's face, she was stunned, "He…"<br /> Seeing the woman's slight surprise, Zoe thought, "Maybe he is a celebrity even if someone in a small fishing village knows him?<br /> "Ma'am, you know him?"<br /> "He…" the woman pondered for a moment and said, "looks familiar, maybe I have seen him somewhere."<br /> Zoe was surprised. Could he be the number one criminal often shown on TV or an escap%ed priso&ner from some prison? Judging from the way he was just chased, he must have offended someone!<br /> "Ma'am, please think about it again. Where have you seen him before?"<br /> That was a matter of her life's safety! If he was a criminal, she would call the police as soon as possible! Never would she hide a criminal!<br /> The woman shook her head. "I can't remember. You should be a city girl as you dress like this, right? With such a beautiful appearance you should be a star couple."<br /> "You are flattering.How could a star as dishevelled as us?"<br /> Just then, the fisherman fetched the medicine and warmly came to Zoe, "Miss, you put this powder on his wounds, I'll have my wife call you when dinner is ready. Rest here tonight, make yourself at home."<br /> "Thank you, it's really troublesome for you."<br /> "You are welcome."<br /> Seeing them close the door and go out, Zoe then pushed the man away!<br /> The shameless bastard! Not to mention he took her first kiss, he's still taking advantage of her!<br /> Zoe was furious and punched him in the chest.<br /> Seemingly having been hit on a painful spot, the man grunted, and frowned slightly.<br /> Zoe wondered if she had hit him in the wound.<br /> Seeing black blood spilling out of his suit, Zoe subconsciously took it off for him, not expecting the white shirt inside to be red with blood and a steady stream of blood was constantly pouring out of his chest.<br /> He really hurt badly, Zoe thought.<br /> Just now soaked in seawater, and now hit by her with a punch, she knew that the wound hurt a lot.<br /> Despite her reluctance, Zoe still helped him take off his shirt, not for anything else, but to prevent him from dying there and making things worse.<br /> Seeing the bloody wound, Zoe was shocked!<br /> She first wiped his body, because his whole body was soaked in seawater after all. She had to do that to apply the medicine to him.<br /> After wiping the upper half of his body, a basin of water was already turbid, Zoe dumped the water, went outside to get a new basin of hot water and was about to wipe his lower body. However, she hesitated when her fingers moved to the belt.<br /> In her whole life, she had never taken off any man's clothes before, let alone the pants!<br /> <br /> 👇👇👇>>>>>>>>>>>>>👇👇👇<br /> 💕💕Click the button below to install [RosyRead] <br /> To continue reading 💕💕	LEARN_MORE	https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pix	100344252868372	Kelly White	https://facebook.com/100086485784589	299	1	1,113,014,873,149,106	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Kelly White	120210384585680483	www.rosymance.com	NONE	video		https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pixel_id=713027707555740&page_no=ff8080818f193431018f242a23db09b9&language=en_us&type=2&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}	2024-04-28 05:17	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440808872_1239958790304791_3856615119422330045_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qKfFhVu1YfAQ7kNvgF-AvPL&_nc_oc=AdjSxpmIQg4-7kYfh1LSm9GNgImWnbg_jLAHhkwY0RS1-rpGmJL5bgMM7QdpeZa3OCytOWtDIhZ5_7eR7o7wugy5&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfAo-vfxp_05PdqYx4QH8VD6SBkMlReTvuanrIeARqxN5A&oe=66348C68	person_profile	Kelly White	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440811502_760965319496114_1980377689606952417_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qklHVWTVcCsQ7kNvgEYfyqa&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDwELYS-T4gNltRLHKk218LSWiyKbk5N8Lxgpm8ZRwmQ&oe=6634ABD5	3	Kelly White	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,580,801	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	1625961541508172		“Kelly” a little 9x12. I was playing with some different techniques with this one and I like how it came out. What do you think? 😊<br /> <br /> #mattmillerfineart #arttutor #onlineartclasses #oilportraitpainting #oilpaintingtechniques #arteducator #teachingartist #paintingforsale #portraitartist #artprocess #originalartwork #artjourney	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/mattmillerfineart	115580056869447	Mattmillerfineart	https://facebook.com/mattmillerfineart	234	1	1,615,642,875,867,381	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Visit Instagram profile	Mattmillerfineart	120208539322610235	instagram.com	NONE	image		http://instagram.com/mattmillerfineart	2024-04-28 11:31	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440186069_1893550384416681_526627681661745689_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_kxNpkgqMFkAb6ft6OV&_nc_oc=AdgE97SA-gr_EgiX5QkAk64XWEjWKXliQMKMkhfUu4YucOAv_LzQwC9oi9GE2zAGY9A&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCUBF3ghDshfsbBvfSODpGJW7CnDoTaCZsJ9338z_aVZg&oe=6634934C	person_profile	Matt Miller	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440166828_447160121127038_4439131775417963469_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=f3EArrlq7agAb4NAta-&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBCOUm9nmoFjl6lV1n72whhQjxAmc716gBpSvK-2QjZOQ&oe=6634A7B8	3	Mattmillerfineart	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,580,963	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	1134940901285414	👉👉Click to read more !👈👈	He said: "Are you sure you want to do this? <br /> Because once I enter your body<br /> you'll officially belong to me.<br /> 🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 🙈 🔞 🔥 💕 🔥 😍 🙈<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Accidentally Provoking The Cold And Distant CEO　　<br /> Up in the sky.<br /> An aircraft glided over layers of puffy clouds, and soared in the azure sky.<br /> In half an hour, Zoe Ball will return to Gallino, the city where she had lived for twenty-two years.<br /> She didn't inform anyone about her return. <br /> She didn’t want to bother her family to make them rush to pick her up in the middle of the night. What’s more, she wanted to surprise Darius Saunders.<br /> Darius was her boyfriend, and tomorrow was his birthday. After staying for five years in love, and three years in a long distance relationship, Zoe counted, their relationship had been on for eight years.<br /> Suddenly, the plane jolted violently, followed by an ear piercing explosion. The items on the table scattered and rolled to the floor, making the passengers on board scream out in panic. <br /> [What's going on?]<br /> [What wrong with the plane?]<br /> [Did it hit something?]<br /> Not waiting for them to calm down, there were a few more piercing noises that were heard. Several large holes were blown out on the plane, with flames blazing brightly. The wind was blowing in, and the passengers screamed unceasingly. <br /> [Oh my God, what's going on?]<br /> [Did something happen to the plane?]<br /> [OMG, I never want to travel by plane again.]<br /> [God bless!]<br /> [Daddy, I'm scared.]<br /> The entire cabin was in chaos. Paper flew, luggage dumped on the ground, with an endless sound of things falling and people panicking. <br /> Zoe was stunned. Was there anything indeed going wrong?<br /> She had experienced a lot, but at this time, her heart still swept through a trace of panic.<br /> Because she was worried about not seeing Darius.<br /> "Passengers on board, please pay attention. Due to external factors, this aircraft is out of control. Please put on your parachute and escape at the designated escape port. This aircraft will crash in ten minutes, so all passengers don’t panic and maintain order…" The captain announced. <br /> The in-flight broadcast repeated those words, and Zoe thought that she was really screwed this time.<br /> According to the authoritative data, there had only been one air crash in 1.2 million flights, so she never thought that the probability of that would happen on her flight. <br /> Many passengers who had unfastened their seat belts rolled from side to side due to the turbulence. Uncontrollable screams rang from them, filling the entire flight.<br /> The plane reeled in every direction, and flew chaotically in the air for about two minutes. Some of the passengers even cried out as they couldn't take it anymore!<br /> Zoe thought that she couldn't just sit around and do nothing, waiting for herself to di&e. <br /> Ordinary passenger aircrafts were not usually equipped with escape tools, but this luxury aircraft Zoe traveled in was different.<br /> Before boarding the plane, Zoe had watched the crew practice parachute-donning methods, and the promotional video also introduced it. At this point, she put on the parachute quickly without panic. Then, she walked to the escape port, ready to leap off.<br /> The wind howled and her thin body swayed.<br /> Zoe had been afraid of heights since her childhood, but at this moment, she knew that if she didn’t jump, she won't have a chance to meet Darius again.<br /> Just then, someone pulled her slender wrist, and the shadow of a tall figure covered her. Before Zoe could react, the man's glittering eyes were staring at her.<br /> "Sir, what do you want to do?" Zoe asked. <br /> Zoe didn't expect to be accosted by a stranger in the nick of time.<br /> Although she was naturally beautiful and there were countless men pursuing her, at that critical moment, wasn't it more important to escape?<br /> "I need to share a parachute with you." The man's voice sounded dulcet.<br /> Zoe had never heard such a unique and handsome voice in her life. Even though she grew up in the upper class, and had met many men with handsome voices, she had heard that kind of chilly, low, and magnetic voice for the first time.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 2 He Suddenly Kissed Her　　<br /> The man had deep eyes, a tall nose, thin lips, and angular jawline. <br /> Apart from his voice, his appearance was eye-catching.<br /> Although Zoe grew up elegant and beautiful, her boyfriend, Darius, was also outstandingly handsome. It was the first time she had ever seen such an unparalleled handsomeness in her life.<br /> The man's strong aura engulfed her, instantly making the air around thinner. <br /> Zoe did not know how to respond at this moment.<br /> Sharing a parachute with him was certainly playing a joke on life!<br /> But without waiting for her to refuse, the man had already leaned over, and his voice carried a compelling magnetism. <br /> "Excuse me," he said. <br /> Before she could react, the man had already unbuckled her seat belt and put the parachute on himself.<br /> Who did he think he was?<br /> Did he think he could do whatever he wanted just because he's good-looking?<br /> Every seat was equipped with a parachute, so why did he have to use hers?<br /> "Sir..." Zoe muttered. Just as Zoe was about to argue with him, the man suddenly kissed her on her lips, and his tall figure pressed her to the hatch in a rapt kiss.<br /> After eight years with Darius, Zoe had yet to give him her first kiss. But the man in front of her, whom she had met the first time, had inexplicably snatched it in advance.<br /> The alluring scent of his body oozed. It was fresh, light, reminiscent of the freezing breeze in winter. Despite stinging cold, it had a refreshing effect on the brain.<br /> Zoe was stunned for a while before she realized that he was kissing her. <br /> Even if he was outstanding, he couldn't do such a thing to her in a public place!<br /> Zoe was furious and was about to raise her hand and slap him on his face, when several tall men approached. They were sweeping around a few times and discussing in a low voice…<br /> [He's not here.]<br /> [Without a parachute, he must not dare to jump off rashly, not to mention that he is seriously injured.]<br /> [He must be hiding in the crowd, let's keep looking!]<br /> Seeing them search for a while and leaving in a rage, Zoe felt a little panic. <br /> Obviously, they were not good people. <br /> “Wasn’t it more important to escape and save themselves at that moment?”she thought to herself.<br /> At that point, another group of women came over. Each of them were dressed ably and looked strictly meticulous, reminiscent of female secret agents in the movies.<br /> Zoe noticed that they put one hand in their clothes and the other hand pressing on the outside. Looking at that posture, she couldn’t help but wonder if there was a gun.<br /> Zoe was stunned.<br /> Suddenly, they ruthlessly gazed at her, as if they were using a laser, sweeping straight towards her. <br /> Zoe was shocked. Damn it, was she being targeted?<br /> One of the women glanced at her, then at the back of the man who was kissing her. The woman’s eyes no longer lingered on them as she continued to look for other targets. <br /> For them, they were a couple facing the prospect of parting forever, making a final kiss before jumping out of the plane, and were posing no threat to them.<br /> The man's back was blocked by the parachute, just enough to conceal his figure.<br /> [He should be hiding somewhere else.]<br /> [If we miss again this time, the boss will never let us go.]<br /> [Looks like we'll have to step up and not let Napoli's people find him first.]<br /> [Let's go!]<br /> Zoe listened to their conversation and couldn't help but think that the passengers on the plane were too weird. The group of mafia-like men were looking for someone. Those "female agents" were also looking for something, and that indiscriminate man in front of her was taking advantage of her.<br /> Damn it!<br /> To think that the man was still kissing her, Zoe folded her knee and kicked the man hard.<br /> 　　<br /> Chapter 3 Parachute Jumping In Each Other's Arms<br /> However, as if he had expected what she was going to do, the man reached out and blocked her attack.<br /> The man had done too much.<br /> Zoe was so angry that she reached out and tried to push him away, not expecting him to hold her hands. He pressed against the hatch with her fingers clasped together in his.<br /> Zoe's eyes were full of protest. <br /> “Who are you? Get off me! It's about to crash! Do you hear me?”<br /> Once again, the man pressed her hard against the hatch and kissed her with more force and passion.<br /> One of the "female agents" who had just turned to leave, suddenly stood still and looked back at Zoe.<br /> "Boss, what's wrong?" Another agent asked her.<br /> "We don't have much time, those Napoli's-like people are close to finding him. We need to get out of here," the other agent added. <br /> "What are you looking at?" she asked. <br /> Most of the agents followed their boss' gaze which were directed toward Zoe. That was when Zoe realized that those women’s eyes were not on her. Rather, it was more directed at the man who was kissing her.<br /> She must have made too many movements and attracted their attention. <br /> While all that was going on, their "boss" had already taken out a pistol from her coat, and started pulling the trigger.<br /> The man had a sensitive hearing, and just as he heard the sound of the trigger, he threw a guest blanket at them with his backhand.<br /> A few of the women’s sights were blocked by the blanket, and by the time they were done setting it aside, the man had already leapt down with Zoe in his arms. He was so fast that they staggered!<br /> The parachute blossomed in the air, and they floated in the air at once, pulled away a modest distance from the plane.<br /> [Boss, it's him! He got away!]<br /> [Shoot him!]<br /> The sound of thumping g0n&&fire echoed in the air.<br /> The parachute floated farther and farther, so the bullets were useless. The woman called as the boss reluctantly ordered, "After them."<br /> Several people quickly put on their parachutes and leaped down.<br /> Zoe could not have imagined that she would somehow be involved in that kind of chaos. Who was that man in front of her and why was he being hunted by different gangs?<br /> Holding the man's neck in an extremely tight grip, Zoe almost hung her entire body on him.<br /> The group of fierce men, and the meticulous "female agents"... Why were they after that man? What exactly was his identity?<br /> Zoe understood that she was in big trouble. <br /> Just as she wanted to question the man, she saw that his eyes gradually closed, the hand holding her waist weakly loosened, and he passed out. <br /> "Hey! Don't sleep… wake up." Zoe said urgently. She was scared to death and hugged him even tighter. <br /> They were in the mid-air. Her life would be in danger if she didn’t hold on.<br /> "Are you passed out? Our parachute seems broken." Zoe said. <br /> Those sho&ts earlier seemed to have broken her parachute. <br /> The man was unconscious and couldn't hear her.<br /> Zoe looked up and saw a few holes on the parachute as they were rapidly descending.<br /> "Oh my God! Oh my God, I'm not going to fall off here, right?” Zoe prayed.<br /> Below them was the vast sea. Zoe wished the parachute could hold on a little longer. <br /> She did not want to di&e so soon, nor di&e in such a desolate place, and a ridiculous way. That was not what she wanted. <br /> However, the parachute was sparsely descending at a very fast speed.<br /> In her 25 years of life, Zoe had never found herself so unlucky! Everything that happened to her today made everything worse for her.<br /> Without much time for her to think, they both fell heavily into the sea with a thud, and made a huge splash.<br /> <br /> 👇👇👇>>>>>>>>>>>>>👇👇👇<br /> 💕💕Click the button below to install [RosyRead] <br /> To continue reading 💕💕	LEARN_MORE	https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pix	100344252868372	Kelly White	https://facebook.com/100086485784589	299	1	1,084,204,462,672,987	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Kelly White	120210386869760483	www.rosymance.com	NONE	video		https://www.rosymance.com/landingpage-new.html?pixel_id=713027707555740&page_no=ff8080818f193431018f2480eefd0a23&language=en_us&type=2&ad_id={{ad.id}}&adset_id={{adset.id}}&campaign_id={{campaign.id}}&ad_name={{ad.name}}&adset_name={{adset.name}}&campaign_name={{campaign.name}}	2024-04-28 06:51	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441051734_1339949106679887_7013515107071910566_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DlSa_N-1TMMQ7kNvgHdGFKO&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfByBA4sf1FU_utFjZBZ1v8Y8Mlytt7JK0HwanJI7pL4vg&oe=6634B48B	person_profile	Kelly White	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440864517_384233974607176_7676677157277319416_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=57YZjoBhDG4Q7kNvgHjG5sn&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBqOoPNPiC6js6wF1w_AD9jgnreYluiYrwUth8Ukx-qOg&oe=6634B0B3	3	Kelly White	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,580,891	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580944}'	No	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	451161064079932	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	I quietly walked further into my flat, towards my bedroom, almost tripping over his shirt that lay discarded on the floor. It was not the only article of clothing strewn across the floor. There was some woman’s clothing on the floor too. Judging by the size the woman had to be a supermodel or something. The clothing was so small. It had to be the smallest size you could get here in the UK for women.<br /> I suddenly felt so insecure, because that size of clothing would never fit me now, it did when I was in my late teens, but not now.<br /> I arrived at my bedroom, but I made sure to remain hidden out of sight. Thankfully the door was open a little bit, so I could see everything. I could hear his distinct grunts and moans, as well as the moans of another woman.<br /> I peered through the small crack in the door and saw him with another woman in my bed. His back was to me, so he didn’t notice that I had seen what he was doing. The woman looked like a supermodel to me, but I really couldn’t see her very well, except for a little bit of her blonde hair that was spread across the sheets. <br /> ————————<br /> <br /> Eilith’s POV-<br /> I am heading home early from my grandparents’ house. I decided to visit them, because I wanted to see them. I do not see them as much as I would like too, since I finished University and started making my way in the world. You see, I have lived with my grandparents since I was five years old, because my parents sadly died in a car accident, I don’t know much else than that. There was no other family, and my grandparents fought to keep me with them.<br /> My father was the heir to a very powerful business. He had been running it for ten years before he died, but after he passed, my grandparents made the difficult decision of selling the business to the highest bidder. My grandparents focused on investing after that to maintain their wealth.<br /> My family is one of the very wealthy families in the United Kingdom. As the sole heiress to the wealth, my grandparents did not want me to have friends or boyfriends who just wanted me for my money, so I told everyone my name was Eilith Smith, not Eilith Clarke, which is my actual name. I have only told Kelly Roberts, my best friend, because she was a rich girl too, and has been my closest and dearest friend since we were eight years old. I really would not know what I would do without her, she has been there for me through so much.<br /> I had told my boyfriend, Dylan Harrison, that I would be out for most of the day and will not likely be home till the evening. In a note on his bedside, next to his phone, because he was still asleep, as I had woken up very early. I wanted to get to my grandparents before the morning traffic rush. But when I got there, my grandparents were going to visit a friend of theirs for and early dinner, so I had to leave far earlier than expected.<br /> When I usually visit them, I spend all day, sometimes into the next day with them, because they raised me and it is nice to be able to help them out around their home and visit my horse, which they keep at their home, in the stables on their land. When they were ready to leave to go have dinner, that was when I left to go home. I didn’t mention to my boyfriend that I was on the way home. I was thinking I would surprise him.<br /> I returned home, thinking I would be able to have a nice relaxing bath, and then maybe plan a nice romantic dinner for myself and Dylan, if he is home from the football match early enough. It wasn’t something we often did at home. I thought it would be a nice change. I love to cook, but he prefers to eat out at lavish places. He is the type to love to flaunt his wealth. Those plans were soon dashed…<br /> I entered my flat quietly, just in case Dylan was still asleep, which is how I left him this morning when I left to visit my grandparents. What I saw in front of me stopped me in my tracks. My mind went blank. In that moment, I almost forgot to breathe.<br /> I somehow managed to get the front door closed behind me quietly. When I turned around, I focused more on what was going one even though I was already beginning to understand what was going on, and honestly it didn’t feel real. It didn’t feel like it was happening to me.<br /> A cooked breakfast that had been made and eaten by two was left on my dining table. Romantic music played on the radio. I couldn’t quite hear it; I think because this whole thing felt like an out of body experience. I could not believe my eyes; Dylan had never once done anything like this for me. He would never cook for me, I think he even joked that it was a woman’s job once, but he was drunk and with friends, so I never took it to heart. Yet he would do it for a woman, who was not his girlfriend.<br /> I felt pain in my chest, that spread up my throat choking me. I knew I would not be able to say anything to him, but I had to know, was he really cheating on me?<br /> I quietly walked further into my flat, towards my bedroom, almost tripping over his shirt that lay discarded on the floor. It was not the only article of clothing strewn across the floor. There was some woman’s clothing on the floor too. Judging by the size the woman had to be a supermodel or something. The clothing was so small. It had to be the smallest size you could get here in the UK for women.<br /> I suddenly felt so insecure, because that size of clothing would never fit me now, it did when I was in my late teens, but not now.<br /> I arrived at my bedroom, but I made sure to remain hidden out of sight. Thankfully the door was open a little bit, so I could see everything. I could hear his distinct grunts and moans, as well as the moans of another woman.<br /> I peered through the small crack in the door and saw him with another woman in my bed. His back was to me, so he didn’t notice that I had seen what he was doing. The woman looked like a supermodel to me, but I really couldn’t see her very well, except for a little bit of her blonde hair that was spread across the sheets. I didn’t know her, but a hatred grew in my heart almost straight away for her.<br /> I could feel my eyes well with tears, as my hand covered my mouth. I could not stay here any longer, my voice was all but gone. I couldn’t stay there to speak with him, let alone look at him right now. Not to mention, I know he has a temper when someone confronts him, it has happened before when we were out, but it has never been aimed at me before. Something I was always scared of happening. How could he do this to me, after everything I had done for him? How could he cheat on me after all these years? Has he been cheating on me this whole time? Could I really forgive him if he made promises? I just needed to get out of here for now.<br /> So, I left, as quietly and quickly as I could. I didn’t want him to know that I had seen him, because I could not deal with the confrontation right now, and his excuses and temper.<br /> <br /> My best friend, Kelly, had a little while before she started work at the restaurant, she was a manager at. She has dreams of starting her own restaurant chain and wanted to get experience working the lower levels in the restaurant beforehand. I jumped into my car, and headed to the restaurant she works at. I texted her to tell her I was on my way to her, before I left.<br /> “What is wrong? You have me worried.”<br /> “I... I found... Dylan cheating on me,” I choked.<br /> “I am not surprised. I have told you many times, he is not worthy of you. Think about your entire relationship. I have known you far longer than Dylan has known you. You were always so confident and free. You wore what you want, when you wanted. Red is your favourite colour, and you have stopped wearing anything red, because he didn’t like you wearing red. You told me it made him mad if you wore red. You stopped eating pasta, one of your favourite things to eat, because he said you would get fat. He told you to stop hanging around with my brother, who treats you like a sister. I bet he gets mad if he finds out you were with me and my brother. That is controlling behaviour, a major red flag. If you stay with him, he will just keep cheating on you, and this controlling behaviour will just get worse, until you are isolated from your friends and family, and that is when he will start physically abusing you. Eilith, please, you must leave him now,” she said.<br /> I sat in the driver’s seat of my car, thinking about what she said, and as I thought, <br /> “Was he really that bad? I can’t believe I let him do that to me, to do everything that he did to me,” I whimpered.<br /> I was glad she didn’t ask what he did to me, because I wasn’t ready to talk about it. She rubbed my back, and said, “It is okay. One day soon we will sit down and have a long hard talk about everything that he did. Maybe it will be best if you go to therapy too. But I will not leave your side. I will stand by you through this whole ordeal, I promise.”<br /> “How am I going to make it without you? You’re leaving to move to London in a few days,” I whispered, in between my sobs.<br /> “Come with us. Josh and I have brought a three-bed house in London. Josh won’t mind you moving into the spare bedroom, until you get back on your feet. He will understand. He sees you as a little sister,” Kelly suggested.<br /> Josh is Kelly’s older brother. He really did see me as his little sister, just like I see him as my brother. I looked at her, a little shocked about that idea. I whispered, “But, I have nothing packed, and he is at home.”<br /> She nodded, pausing and thinking about what I could do to deal with this situation. I too, was thinking, because I didn’t want things to turn out like this. Dylan was very scary when he was mad. In those moments, I believed that he could hit me, even though he never got angry at me. She cleared her throat, and said, “I am only doing a four-hour shift, to cover the time the other manager can’t be in due to childcare. When she gets here, I will have Josh pick me up and come straight over to help you. Once you know he is out of your flat, go there and pack everything up that you can, as quickly as you can, and leave. Get it done before he gets home. If he does get home, before Josh and I get there, send me our code word. So, I know you are in danger, and need help I will call the police.”<br /> We have had a code word, for a great many years. It was more to ensure our safety while we were out at night. We knew the other would need help if we received HOD by text. It stands for House of Dead, an arcade game that we both loved to play with Kelly’s brother. It was short simple and to the point. Plus, three letters that meant something to the both of us makes a great code word.<br /> “But what if he tries to hurt you or Josh,” I said.<br /> “Do you know why he hates Josh,” she responded.<br /> I shook my head, and asked, “Why?”<br /> “Do you remember that day when we were looking at dresses online, before we went shopping. According to Josh, when I said you would look drop dead gorgeous in that red dress you were looking at, Dylan looked at it, and muttered some vile things about you. Josh heard that, when they were alone, Josh laid into him. Dylan tried to get in Josh’s face, Josh didn’t flinch instead he just smirked. Dylan backed down,” she explained.<br /> Josh was different from Dylan, physically. Josh is taller and has broader shoulders and is more muscular compared to Dylan. Josh is a gym rat. He loves working out and using weights. Dylan, on the other hand, rarely goes to the gym, but is well toned and skinny. Dylan wouldn’t stand against Josh in a fight, not only due to their difference physically, but because Josh is training to be a boxer for the Olympics. I have seen him knock a man out with a single punch. So, he is a strong man. The perfect kind of older brother you want.<br /> “So, that is why he didn’t want me to be around Josh,” I said.<br /> She nodded, “Josh made him feel emasculated. He is toxic, so you need to leave him. I will call Josh and tell him to be ready and get here to pick me up early, in the hopes that I may be able to leave earlier. I must go. Josh and I will be on our way to help you as soon as we can. Stay safe.”<br /> I nodded, “Thank you, Kelly.”<br /> “Be careful and send me text updates. Please make sure that if he comes back, you send me that code word,” she said, as she began climbing out of my car.<br /> I nodded, “I promise.”<br /> I watched as she called Josh and headed inside the restaurant to start her shift. I looked down as my phone, and realised I had a text from Dylan.<br /> Dylan: “Hey babe, I hope you are having fun with your grandparents. I won’t be in when you come home. I am going to watch the football match with the boys. I will be back later tonight. Make yourself dinner. Xx”<br /> I stared down at the text. The football match he was talking about was in two hours, so he would leave the home in thirty minutes to meet with his friends, so he can head to the match with them. I had to reply but keep it as normal as possible to my usual texts, and honestly that was the frightening thing. One mistake and this could go wrong.<br /> Me: “I am just about to leave my grandparents. I will be about an hour, maybe a little longer, as there is some road works near my grandparents’ home. Have fun at the football match. Text me when you are on your way home. Xx”<br /> He read the text message and replied with a simple okay. I grabbed my suitcases out of my wardrobe. I had two sizes a large one and a cabin one. I opened both, leaving them on the floor. I quickly yanked some of my clothing off the hangers and threw them in the suitcase. I emptied my drawers of clothing and just threw them in my suitcase. I chucked in my favourite pairs of shoes. I grabbed my electronics that I wanted to take. Though I could buy replacement electronics, and I probably will once I get settled in, I need to be able to keep a line of communication open with my grandparents and so I can get a new job in London. I grabbed whatever else I could.<br /> <br /> I looked at the time and saw a text from Kelly. She had managed to leave work an hour early, and Josh had picked her up. They were on their way to me. I suddenly had this feeling like someone was behind me. I typed HOD into a text before I turned around. Dylan was standing in the doorway to what was our bedroom. He had his hands clenched into fists by his legs. A rage in his eyes that I have never seen before, far worse than all the other times he was angry.<br /> <br /> “Why are you packing all your things,” he hissed, through gritted teeth.<br /> <br /> I took a deep breath, with my finger over the button, readying to hit send. I said, “Because I am leaving you.”<br /> <br /> “No, you are not leaving me,” he yelled.<br /> <br /> “I saw you earlier, with another woman, in what should have been our bed. It was what I needed to see that you were a controlling freak in our whole relationship. So, yes, I am leaving you,” I responded calmly, turning and hitting send.<br /> <br /> His heavy footsteps thunder towards me, making the floor of our flat shake. His hand tangled into my hair, and yanked my head back, before snatching my phone from my hand. Thankfully, I locked it before he could read my texts. He growled, “You are not leaving me! I bet you think this because you are cheating on me. Who is he? Show me who you were sending a text too just now.”<br /> <br /> “Get off of me,” I yelled, trying to push him away from me.<br /> <br /> “Who is he,” spitting as he shouted, pulling my hair harder.<br /> <br /> I pushed him away from me. It surprised him enough to let go of my hair and to stumble backwards away from me, I screamed, “I never cheated. You did. You have restricted me, banned me, belittled me, and treated me harshly on countless occasions. My heart is broken. How I could ever love a man like you, I do not know.”<br /> <br /> Tears welled in my eyes, so I turned around and began to zip up my suitcases. I didn’t want to see his reaction to what I said, I couldn’t deal with him if he started crying. I really might faulter if that happens. That was when I felt something hard hit the back of my head. My head began to pound and ache. I gripped where he hit me on my head with my hand and turned to look at Dylan. But before I could say anything, he raised his fist and slammed it into my face. The blow was hard enough, to knock me backwards into the bedside cabinet. I hit my head on the corner of the bedside cabinet, before hitting the floor. I could feel a wet hot liquid slide across my face. I touched it and looked at my hand. It was blood. I was bleeding from my head. I gripped my head and began to curl up into the fetal position. Before I could curl up, Dylan kicked me in the stomach and ribs, not just once, but many times. I lost count how many times he kicked me. I felt something crack in my rib cage. I tried my best to use my arms to protect my body and head, but there was only so much I could do, while in so much pain. The pain was excruciating. All I could do was cry and whimper the pain made it too hard to move. He grabbed my hair on the back of my head, tearing some hair from my head, and snarled, “If you hadn’t threatened to leave, then none of this would have happened. Do you want to know why I sleep with other girls, because after all the times we have, you were never ready for what I needed to be full satisfied. But now you are going to find out. Remember this is all your fault.”<br /> <br /> He slammed my head into the ground. The impact made my head heavy and made it hard for me to keep myself conscious. My ears were now ringing from the impact. It was because of that, that I did not hear what he was doing. The ringing subsided, only for me to hear a massive crack, and a shocking sting across my back, which made me cry out. I managed to look up and see that he was holding a whip. He hit me with a whip. I was now seeing a completely different side to him, a side that would have made me run for the hills years ago. How did I not see this side to him?<br /> <br /> “This is what I like,” he growled, lust evident in his voice.<br /> <br /> I tried my best to move, to get away. But I was in so much pain. The sound of the crack of the whip came again, just before the impact on my back. I screamed out. This time it was even more painful. The taste of blood filled my mouth, as I felt a trickle of blood pooling on my back. Tears were streaming down my face. I was trying to prepare myself for another blow. But that was when I heard the sirens. In that moment, I had never felt so happy to hear sirens before. Dylan dropped the whip, and muttered.<br /> <br /> That was when he bolted out of the door. I breathed a sigh of relief, even though my chest hurt so much. Pain was all over my body. My head and back were the most painful. With my head hurt, it was getting harder for me to stay awake my consciousness was wavering. My eyes closing slowly, the pain becoming unbearable.	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1,580,946	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580860}'	Yes	2024-04-28 17:21	active	632	983329910469751	🔥🔥 Click to Read 👉🏻👉🏻	“You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…Kelly…I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> ————————<br /> Kelly's POV<br /> Was it a blessing to marry your best friend?<br /> I was not very sure what Pierce thought but marrying him was a dream come true for me. And now what was more exciting, we were going to welcome our first child.<br /> I closed my eyes recalling the first day we met. His bright smile in the sunlight was so dazzling, he was a Prince. Long before we became best friends, I fell in love with him at first sight. But it was only an unrequited love, I knew it well.<br /> I slid down the car window to get some fresh air but accidentally caught a glimpse of our old high school. That bitter feeling filled my chest once again. Pierce is my first love but I'm not his.<br /> In high school, I was only a boring nerd in other's eyes while Pierce Anderson was the shining Quarterback. Everyone was surprised that we could be friends. Though enmity rose, I enjoyed being around him. I slowly realized that I didn't want just to be his friend.<br /> However, right when I was about to confess my feelings to him, another girl came into his life.<br /> I shook my head trying to get rid of those sad old memories. I gripped the cold wedding ring on my finger, telling myself the past was past. Pierce said they were over and I was his wife now. I was his wife who was carrying his baby now.<br /> I wiped the tears from the corners of my eyes and opened the door to our house. My heart calmed down as I breathed in the scent of home. Our home. It wasn't as luxurious as his family's villa but cozy. Pierce and I decorated it together with our own hands. We enjoyed it. Yes, I must have been overthinking. That woman had been out of our lives for a long time and my marriage with Pierce was as beautiful as a fairy tale for the past three years.<br /> I glanced at the clock on the wall. At this point, Pierce should have gotten off the plane. He was over a month of traveling for the sake of our family’s business. Pierce was the President of ADE, the leading fashion magazine company all over Asia, and I was actually the Vice President of the company. We were not only life partners but also good partners at work.<br /> I really missed him. I dialed his number immediately. I really wanted to hear his voice now, to know when he would arrive home. I would prepare a good meal for him and he would prize me with a sweet peck. And then we might have passionate intercourse like what he gave me the night before his business trip. Oops, I almost forgot I was pregnant now. I needed to tell him this first and then we could do something else instead.<br /> I was happily envisioning our lovely reunion and my heart dropped when a woman's voice came over the line.<br /> [Hello?]<br /> I snapped the phone as just one word came out. My phone fell to the floor and my body started shaking uncontrollably. NO! It couldn't be her! It couldn't be Lexi! She was already out of our life! I must have misheard.<br /> I rushed to the fridge in an attempt to calm myself with the aid of some drinks. But the moment I touched the drinks bottle, I was reminded of the doctor's words and my baby. I needed to be cautious for my baby's sake. I turned to get a box of milk and walked toward the sofa.<br /> I didn't know what made me recognize that as Lexi's voice at that moment. I meant Lexi and I were never close. Lexi Gilbert was a typical blonde beauty that men would go crazy for. She was the popular cheerleader in high school while Pierce was the star quarterback. Better match than he and a nerd like me, right? It wasn't surprising that he had fallen for her.<br /> My pride couldn't stand watching the man I loved go crazy for another woman. So I had once tried to stay away from them silently but Pierce refused to quit from my life. Every time I drowned myself in a sea of books and studies to forget them, Pierce would appear at my doorway asking me out. I couldn't say no to his charming smile; I couldn't say no when he claimed it was his duty as my best friend to take me to enjoy the real world.<br /> To not ruin our friendship, I could only hide my broken heart, silently playing the role of his best friend by his side and watching his happy face for another girl. I finally got up the courage to study abroad as I learned that Pierce was planning to propose to Lexi. However, I never expected Grams would call to beg me back.<br /> I returned in a hurry only to see a lifeless Pierce. His heart was harmed badly, by Lexi. My beloved sunshine boy was nowhere to be seen, and my heart was bleeding. I started to hate Lexi from that moment. I gave up my cherished man to her, and how dared she harm him so badly! That witch!<br /> Pierce didn't tell anyone what happened except he was over with Lexi. Grams arranged our marriage. I didn't understand why he agreed until the day I heard him say that marrying anyone but Lexi would be the same for him.<br /> It was so hurt but I still walked into this marriage without a second thought. My cherished boy was broken and I wanted to fix him, not caring if I would ruin myself in the process.<br /> I fell asleep at home feeling so insecure and worried.It was already morning when I opened my eyes again and Pierce was beside me, putting a tray of food on the bedside table.<br /> “Hey!” I greeted and smiled when I realized what he’d done. He prepared breakfast for me. In bed. The sweetest.<br /> He smiled and sat on the bed. “Good morning. I have something to tell you.”<br /> I felt my heart race. I thought about our baby in my womb. He’s got something to tell. I have something to tell him too.<br /> “W-What is it?” I asked as I felt my voice tremble.<br /> He took a deep sigh. “You know you’re important to me, right?”<br /> I slowly nodded with parted lips. I couldn’t answer. I’m scared of what he’s about to say. I have a bad feeling about this.<br /> “You were my best friend before we got married. You are one of the few people I treasure…”<br /> I hid my balled fists under the sheet. I don’t know why he’s telling me all this but I felt tears pooling in the corner of my eyes already.<br /> “Kelly…” he paused and squeezed his eyes closed before he looked at me again in the eyes. “I-I think it’s time for us to divorce.”<br /> “P-Pierce…” I felt my heart clench.<br /> He smiled. “I know you don’t have feelings for me either. You just married me because of my grandparents. You just did this because you love them. Now it’s time for our real happiness, Kelly.”<br /> I shook my head, “W-What are you talking about, Pierce?”<br /> “Lexi is back, Kelly. My first love is back.”<br /> Kelly’s POV<br /> I got off the bed and tried to leave but Pierce grabbed my hand. I immediately wiped the tears that rolled down my cheeks before he could see them. He stood in front of me and looked at my face as I tried so hard to look down and avoid his eyes.<br /> I felt my heart breaking into pieces. I thought… I thought I could make him fall in love with me within those three years together. I thought his feelings would level up and would see me as a woman rather than just a best friend. I was stupid for hoping and dreaming so high.<br /> I failed. No matter how hard I tried, his heart belonged only to his first love Lexi.<br /> He looked at me worriedly. “You are my best friend. I don’t wanna lose you, Kels. You’re one of my few people…”<br /> “I know,” I said out of frustration. He looked shocked, so I calmed myself down. “I-I know. You don’t have to worry. I’m just stressed about work. It’s not about our divorce.”<br /> His lips parted and he slowly nodded as if he was able to breathe properly. He walked towards me and I froze when he gently pecked my forehead…<br /> “Thank you, Kelly," he whispered. My heart clenched. It had been three years but I was still such a coward. Why couldn't you just tell him that you love him, Kelly? He's your husband and you're carrying his baby! Tell him and he might change his mind!<br /> I swallowed hard and was about to tell him but his phone rang. I didn't miss the caller ID. Again, it was Lexi.<br /> " I gotta go." He scratched his head in apology and I didn't miss the upturned corners of his mouth. "I called Luke and he’s waiting outside. Eat before you go, okay?”<br /> With that, he left our room. The tears I had managed to suppress burst out again. Why would I think I could have a chance? He made his choice already the moment he asked for the divorce, didn't he?<br /> Whenever it came to Lexi, I was always the one he would abandon.<br /> --<br /> I looked outside the window. I sucked my breath and shook my head, “Nothing.”<br /> When I got home, I immediately cleaned myself up. I took a shower and started cooking dinner for myself. I bet Pierce is already eating with his btch of a mistress. It’s making me bitter.<br /> “KELLY!”<br /> I was just about to start eating when I heard Pierce’s angry voice. I lifted my face and looked at him. He rushed to me with an angry face and reddened neck.<br /> “What did you do?”<br /> My forehead creased. “I cooked.”<br /> He pulled his hair and grabbed my shoulders. “You told my father about Lexi! Why did you do that?”<br /> “You recklessly go out with your mistress. Now you’re putting the blame on me? News indeed has wings. Fascinating isn’t it?”<br /> “Don’t go sarcastic on me, Kelly! You know what I truly feel about her. Why are you doing this to me? All I ask is your understanding, Kels! You don’t have to do this!”<br /> I pushed him away angrily. “Why are you taking it out on me? Are you sure that it was me?”<br /> “No one will do this except for you, Kelly! Now I know why something was off. You’re angry with me and now you’re dragging our family into this!”<br /> I laughed sarcastically and pushed the chair away. It fell on the tiled floor, creating a loud thud but I don’t care. I looked him in the eye as I fought the rage in it. He’s acting like this because of his mistress. He’s unbelievable.<br /> “If dumb people could swim, you would be a fish.”<br /> “Don’t turn your back on me—”<br /> “Oh, I will!” I growled angrily as I glared at him. “I would turn my back on you whenever I want, Pierce but you know what? I can’t. I want to but I can’t! Do you understand that? I badly want to leave you now because you’re treating me like trash. You said I’m important to you. You said I’m one of the people you treasure, but this? Is this how you treat your treasure?”<br /> His lips parted as he stared into my eyes. I shook my head with trembling lips.<br /> “You know what? If I were to get rid of her, I would go straight to her and smash her face with a freaking silver baseball bat than play like a stupid housewife. You’re barking at the wrong tree, Pierce.”<br /> I looked at him sharply. “Why do you care?”<br /> “I care because you’re my wife, Kelly!”<br /> A sarcastic laugh came out of my mouth because of what he said. I looked at him with rage. “We’re divorcing anyway.”<br /> “Kelly, you can’t just run away like this. We have to talk about the problem.”<br /> “I don’t have a problem, Pierce. It was you who had a problem and you created it, just to remind you.”<br /> He grabbed my wrists and kept me in place when I tried to leave. His jaws were clenching as his eyes bore at me angrily. “My father is angry, Kelly. He’s accusing me of cheating on you.”<br /> I tilted my head, “Are you not?”<br /> His forehead creased. “I am not an beast, Kelly. Did you see me pecking her or drilling her? I still have my sanity with me. I won’t go intimate with her as long as you’re carrying my name—”<br /> “Frankly speaking, I’m not carrying your name, Pierce,” I cut him off. He was taken aback because of what I said. “No one even knows that we’re married.”<br /> “Kelly!”<br /> “Don’t worry. I’ll talk to your family about this. I will tell them that I’m no longer happy with you and I want a divorce.”<br /> He swallowed hard and stared into my eyes. “Y-You’ll do that for me?”<br /> I laughed without humor. “I’ll do that for myself.”<br /> --<br /> He sighed and put the tray on the bedside table before he looked at me again. “Mom sent me a message. She’s inviting us to dinner tomorrow night. I hope you can come with me.”<br /> “Obviously, it’s about us. They would be suspicious if I didn’t come. It’s also time I should tell them about our divorce.”<br /> He sat on the bed and looked at my face. He did everything so he could catch my eyes. He even used his fingers to lift my chin so our eyes would meet. Even when he’s hurting me, a simple touch, a simple care, a simple stare from him makes me tremble and weak. One soothing word from him and my wound is healing.<br /> “I’m sorry, Kels… Please forgive me. I shouldn’t have agreed to marry you in the first place. I know I’ll just hurt you. I’m sorry…”<br /> I hid my balled fists behind me. “You regret marrying me?”<br /> He shook his head, “I don’t regret marrying you. I’ve been very happy during those three years, Kels. What I regret is I put you in a situation where you’d be the one who’ll get hurt. You are my best friend, I swore to protect you but I was actually the one hurting you.”<br /> I looked away. Good to know that he knows his responsibility. What’s shameful is he doesn’t know what he did to me. He didn’t even realize I had feelings for him. He thought I just saw him as my best friend.<br /> *<br /> Everyone at the long dining table is silent. I’m sitting beside Pierce. At the center of the dining table was Pierce’s father. In front of Pierce was his mother and Phoebe, Pierce’s younger sister, was absent from the family dinner today for her school training.<br /> “We should eat first,” Mrs. Anderson cleared her throat and smiled at me.<br /> I gave her the sweetest of my smile. She’s been the perfect mother-in-law. I respect her and will always respect her even after all of these. She’s my dad’s best friend, actually.<br /> We started eating in silence. I looked at Pierce when he started putting food on my plate. If I don’t know him, I would think he’s acting but I know him well. He’s naturally caring. He’s naturally sweet.<br /> I feel like salivating when I see the food I used to hate before. I badly wanted to eat it but I knew Pierce’s parents would notice it and would think it was strange, so I restrained myself.<br /> “I didn’t know you’re a dirty dog, Pierce.” We were in the middle of dinner when Mr. Anderson spoke with a hint of disgust and anger. He lifted his face and glared at Pierce. “Do you want your grandmother to die early? If she heard about your stupidity, she might die.”<br /> “Honey…” Mrs. Anderson caressed her husband’s arm.<br /> I swallowed hard as I saw Pierce’s balled fists under the table. I know he's been afraid of his father ever since he was a kid. Mr. Anderson is a perfectionist. He’s very strict and he dislikes mess.<br /> “Where did your balls go, Pierce? You’re already married and yet you’re seen somewhere with a slt?”<br /> Pierce was about to say something out of anger when I lifted my arm, stopping them. He’s hurting me but I can’t bear to see him hurting. This is stupidity, but I know my heart will always do everything to protect him, not just because he’s my husband but because we’re best friends before he married me.<br /> “He’s not cheating, dad.”<br /> “Don’t defend him, Kelly!” Mr. Anderson strictly warned me but I shook my head.<br /> “I want a divorce, dad.”<br /> “Oh my God!” Mrs. Anderson gasped and sobbed.<br /> “LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE, PIERCE!” Mr. Anderson shouted and punched Pierce's face.<br /> “NO!” I shouted and blocked Mr. Anderson when he attempted to attack Pierce again.<br /> “Get out of my way, Kelly. I will teach that punk a lesson.”<br /> “I asked for a divorce even before he was seen with Lexi. And Lexi is the company’s new model. They were working when they got spotted together.”<br /> Mr. Anderson looked at me with a creased forehead. “What did you say?”<br /> “Kelly…” Mrs. Anderson sobbed.<br /> I looked at her and smiled. “I love your son, Mom, but not the way you want me to be. He’s my best friend and I’m sorry that I just agreed to marry him for the sake of grandma. I want to correct my mistakes. I was the one who wanted a divorce so don’t blame it on him.”<br /> Everyone went silent after what I said. I was looking at everyone with courage but it slowly faded when I heard someone behind me speak.<br /> "Did you…mean what you said?" His voice sounds tired and lifeless.<br /> I pressed my lips together and tightened my grip on my pouch.<br /> Heaving a sigh, I slowly turned to face him. He was looking straight into my eyes as if he was actually waiting for me to look at him.<br /> "I mean everything I said, Pierce."<br /> He swallowed hard. There was something in his eyes. Confusion, pain, and thankfulness. I don't know why he's being like this but I'm not doing this just for him. I'm doing this for me too. I want a complete family for my baby, but I'm not gonna settle for the small things he can offer. I love him, but I will love my baby more.<br /> "Kels, you're not drifting apart because of this, right?"<br /> My forehead creased. He expects me to stick to him even after all of these? He's selfish.<br /> "Kels…"<br /> "Pierce, I'm tired. Let's talk tomorrow."<br /> --<br /> My phone rang as soon as I stepped out of the bathroom. The family lawyer of the Anderson family is the one calling. I immediately answered the call… "Hello, attorney."<br /> [Mrs. Anderson, I'm on my way to your house now. I have the document with me.]<br /> I nodded as I stared at my own reflection in the mirror. "Thank you, attorney. We'll be waiting."<br /> When I went downstairs, Pierce was already preparing the table for our breakfast. I suddenly felt starving as soon as my eyes landed on the pasta. However, someone rang the bell. I went straight to the door and was welcomed by Attorney Wade Morgan.<br /> “Good morning, Mrs. Anderson.”<br /> I smiled at him. “Good morning, Attorney. Come in.”<br /> “Who’s there, Kelly?”<br /> Pierce appeared behind me even before Attorney Morgan stepped his foot inside the house. Pierce’s lips parted after he saw the person standing in front of us.<br /> “Good morning, Mr. Anderson.”<br /> Pierce looked at me so I gave him a smile. “He’s here to deliver and process our divorce papers.”<br /> Pierce didn’t answer. We ate our breakfast and only me and Attorney Morgan were talking. Pierce is strangely silent but I feel like it’s because he’s worried about his grandmother. Our breakfast ended in a deafening silence and when it was time to sign the divorce papers, I felt suffocated.<br /> Now, it's time to end this false happiness.<br /> Taking a deep breath, I signed my name on the divorce paper.<br /> Pierce’s POV<br /> She signed the divorce papers. She signed it without thinking twice. In front of me.<br /> A bitter smile spilled as I downed another glass of spirit.<br /> I should be happy about that when I was the one who asked for the divorce. But…but my heart felt so heavy ever since Kelly signed the papers.<br /> Kelly and I had been friends for over 10 years. The day she transferred to my high school, I accidentally bumped into her by the lake. She looked like a frightened kitten, carefully hiding her true self behind that thick antique eyeglasses. That was interesting.<br /> I didn't realize that nerdy transfer girl in everyone's eyes would be the daughter of my mother's best friend. With that, we grew to be friends. Best friends.<br /> Kelly changed a lot after graduation. When I came back from the first vacation alone with Lexi, I was surprised to find that my best friend was far different. Taking off her heavy glasses and changing out of her baggy hoodies, she learned how to dress up. She was always a fast learner and in an instant, Kelly became a total campus goddess, with her brain and beauty.<br /> More and more suitors gathered around her. I could see how much she was troubled, so as her best friend, I naturally became that escort. Although it caused some rumors, I knew we were only best friends. I already had Lexi.<br /> No one knew why Kelly never had a boyfriend. I once wanted to ask about it but gave up, as I had a feeling that she would leave me once I learned the answer. I never wanted to lose her. She was my best friend.<br /> Everything went well but after the countless argument with Lexi about our future life, we fell into a long cold war. And when I was ready to surrender, Lexi suddenly went to another city after sending me a breakup text. I flew all night to chase her, only to find her sleeping with another man. My heart was broken.<br /> I fell into darkness and spirit became my best partner. Just when I thought I was about to rot in my darkened room, a figure appeared in the doorway, bringing me the only light. It was Kelly.<br /> I broke down with tears in the arms of my best friend. And Kelly suspended her studies abroad to be by my side. Without her, I could never overcome that hardest time. I'd been always grateful for that. I swore to cherish her for my whole life.<br /> But I never expected that Grams would wish us to get married. I agreed to give it a shot. It’s better to marry her than marrying another woman my family chose for me. My family was a fan of arranged marriage. And since they also treated Kelly as family, I felt like if I refused to marry her, my family would set her up with someone. It’s better to be me than anyone else, right? I just want to protect her...<br /> After three years of happy peaceful marriage, I started to consider having a child with Kelly. She always loved kids, I knew. However, it was at that time, that I met Lexi again on my business trip.<br /> My heart was in turmoil when the woman I once loved so deeply cried in my arms. Lexi told me everything that happened to her. Her fate wasn’t good to her and she wants me back. I thought my feelings for her disappeared, but as soon as she came back, everything came back to me too. Our memories and even my feelings for her.<br /> It’s Kelly, my best friend over Lexi, my first love. I don’t know what to do. God knows how much I dreamed of having Lexi because she’s my first love but…losing Kelly should not be a trade to get my first love.<br /> I feel like I’m losing Kelly now just because of that divorce paper.<br /> Can it all start over?	LEARN_MORE	https://a.deerfiction.com/ad/ZGVlcmZpY3Rpb24vMTYyN	108215462372296	Derf001	https://facebook.com/100095771432063	108	1	1,464,312,740,842,421	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Derf001	120209169590780346	a.deerfiction.com	NONE	video		https://a.deerfiction.com/ad/ZGVlcmZpY3Rpb24vMTYyNzAyLzIwMjQwNDI2MDk1ODMxL3BhZ2U=?adid={{ad.id}}	2024-04-25 21:08	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438815024_7513572265392556_3941326470874041264_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PSZ7AA0CDQwAb5lRJp5&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBj1pbRCLTZcCMlqsjXUOPacOWwWCxKr1jXuWtQlU43RQ&oe=6634A281	person_profile	Derf001	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438762902_985947472362031_1590652698269899178_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ShfxI0zPNG0Ab5YbJV-&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCArQeh_Uts-nVa_qLZy43-9FJnfS3zK7ftzBjED0snVA&oe=6634A837	3	Derf001	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,580,398	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1580342}'	No	2024-04-28 17:17	active	632	792514072457478	🔥 Scorching HOT 6-Book Box Set! Billionaires, Bosses & Babies🔥	Billionaires, Bosses, and Babies - 6-Book Box Set<br /> <br /> Scorching HOT books brimming with Billionaires, Bosses, and Babies in one ULTIMATE 6-book collection!<br /> <br /> This two-complete-series GIANT box set will keep you binge-reading as you laugh, cry, and fall in love all over again with these sometimes grumpy, bossy, but always loveable, handsome, sexy billionaires.<br /> <br /> Check it out! 99¢ or FREE with Kindle Unlimited: <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0CW1HV3P1&h=AT29XJlp6TnxHvfJYoSX39KyKD7SC7WbhhRvrTU9v9SZDXuAcohUN4krBrebYfxFzAt138XIQGnx6rJZTFNPCXnr7ZZamUpZvBRwDrW2h7hBvhVv6pojRLgTlc2bGNNbU6DWHf0qeBszDMth0t9mhLbdh94" rel="nofollow noreferrer" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="origin">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW1HV3P1</a>	LEARN_MORE	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW1HV3P1	106163342471605	Kelly Thomas	https://facebook.com/100092267142796	22	1	820,135,209,986,924	2024-04-28 02:00	regular_page	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Kelly Thomas	120207845897800647	amazon.com	NONE	image	Free on KU! or 99¢	https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CW1HV3P1	2024-04-25 05:15	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224816_420640793934222_559982849260035834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2RfmqF5Nt1MAb7lD4Wc&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC_BURMMi64akNyzQsbxGNTrEzPMphXzslvr-kYkBZikg&oe=6634A951	person_profile	Kelly Thomas	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438224294_978276483908515_8602931504614790248_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2plaaPlNMxMAb4p-Jye&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCYCU3i_11GErWgqchDnT5QT3LdmBtY63qR4Na-k320ug&oe=6634A9F0	3	Kelly Thomas	2024-04-26 02:00	View Edit Delete

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