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Professor in Daylight, s*x Freak in Nighttime | Chapter 1 Next One Rosa Everly and Elijah Sterling's divorce sent shockwaves through their circle. After all, Rosa had seemed utterly captivated by Elijah, chasing him with an almost obsessive devotion for years. But Rosa wasn't bothered by public opinion. Free from that cheating scumbag, she had a slew of admirers eager for their shot with her. Took today, for instance. Rosa arched her back, her cheeks flushed with excitement as she wrapped her legs around a man's waist, directing his every move. With each subtle tightening of her legs, his responses grew more fervent, each thrust feeling like it might tear her apart. She'd never known such raw, passionate intensity before. Elijah had always belittled her, dismissing her advances with scorn and mocking her as if she were some kind of bimbo, demanding that she behave like a dutiful little girl. Now, she was free to indulge her deepest desires and captivate with her full allure. The tipping point for the divorce came two weeks ago. Elijah had the nerve to parade his mistress around the office, and to add insult to injury; he stole Rosa's project to present it to her as a gift! Anyone who saw that project would know the blood, sweat, and tears Rosa poured into it. She'd spent a month burning the midnight oil, working late every single night. Rosa was incandescent with rage. Elijah's brazen infidelity and the betrayal at work pushed her to the edge. She was so furious that she started hurling things around. It was the last straw. Elijah had exploited her love, treating her unwavering dedication as nothing more than a chore she owed him. So, Rosa decided enough was enough. She'd been blinded by her one-sided affection, failing to see Elijah's true colors. Even when she brought up divorce, Elijah dismissed it as a bluff, never taking her seriously. But Rosa was done playing games. She swiftly signed the divorce papers, divided their assets, and walked away, leaving Elijah with no chance to change her mind. She had dealt with similar messes before and knew exactly how to handle them now. After her father's death, Rosa found herself the heir to a substantial fortune. The relatives who once adored her-and whom she had generously supported - revealed their true colors, turning into vultures circling around her and her mother. They used vile words to curse them, hoping to drive them to despair and seize control of the family's assets. But Rosa didn't crumble under the pressure. Instead, she stepped up, taking on the immense responsibility of managing the family business and keeping her father's company afloat. The relatives who had betrayed her soon came crawling back, their previously hostile faces now plastered with insincere smiles as they sought to win her favor. Rosa made sure they paid dearly for their treachery. "Aah..." Rosa's thoughts swirled with ecstasy as waves of pleasure washed over her. As she neared the peak of her c****x, her mind drifted to the idea of teaching her partner a few new tricks to make their next s*x even more exhilarating. The following afternoon, her phone's abrupt ringing pulled her from her dreams. As Rosa reached for it, the man beside her tightened his embrace around her waist, holding her as if she were a precious treasure he was determined to protect. Rosa pushed gently at his arm, feeling the hard, defined muscles beneath her fingers. Her mind wandered back to their passionate night. She recalled the intensity of their s*x, with her legs wrapped around his arms, her hips cradled by his powerful hands as they transitioned from the couch to the floor and finally to the bed. It wasn't just his strength that impressed her. Rosa brushed her lips, remembering how his touch-like that of a skilled magician-had left her tingling with every caress. Her hand wandered down, pleased to find his number two still standing strong, a testament to the pleasure he had given her. Rosa smiled, satisfied with his stamina and the energy he brought to their shared moments. The relentless buzz of her phone cut through the morning haze, prompting Rosa to gently disengage from the entangled sheets and the man's arms. "What's all the fuss about?" Rosa mumbled, her voice a breathless whisper, roughened by the night's c****l delights. Her gaze swept over him, taking in the evidence of the tumultuous night that had brought her to this point. His face was buried in the pillow, only his regal brows and sculpted nose betraying his presence. Rosa's eyes traced the lines of perfection carved into his features, a fleeting thought crossing her mind about perhaps not letting last night's plaything slip through her fingers. But as she was about to resign herself to this whim, her assistant's voice broke the silence. Her assistant said, his words tiptoeing over the line, "Sorry to disturb, Ms. Everly, but Mr. Sterling mentioned something about the company not running as smoothly as it should. He's waiting for you at home. I know he's your ex-husband, but privacy issues aside, it's just a business call..." "I understand. I'll handle it," Rosa said with a cold laugh, her tone dripping with disdain. Their families were still tangled in a web of shared interests. She was more than ready to deal with that piece of trash. With a decisive click, she ended the call and headed to the bathroom. The mirror reflected her image back at her-a vision of delicate beauty, like a flower in bloom. Yet, the soft radiance was marred by the lingering h*****s of last night's passion, each traced a vivid reminder of their intense desire. When she emerged, her hair wrapped in a towel, the man had already stirred. He stood by the window, a towel slung low on his hips, smoking nonchalantly with his back turned. Rosa let her eyes roam over his physique with unabashed admiration. His broad shoulders and narrow waist sculpted a perfect V, muscles rippling under his skin with every slight movement. He resembled a satiated lion, leisurely surveying his territory. She wondered, 'How a man with such allure ends up working at Neon Mirage?' But the thought was quickly brushed aside. Neon Mirage was Phenara City's most prestigious nightclub, renowned for pairing clients with their perfect bedmates. The place was a playground of indulgence and fantasy, where everyone was a star in their own right. "Your name's Samuel, right?" Rosa called out, her tone brisk. The man didn't turn around, still gazing out the window. Rosa, eager to make her exit, didn't let his rudeness bother her. Rosa said, placing a check on the nightstand with a decisive slap. "Last night was quite an experience. I'd give your service a five-star review. And a little tip - next time, keep the smoke away from me." With that, she walked out the door. Once the door clicked shut behind her, the man finally turned. He picked up the check, examining it with a flick of his fingers, his eyes catching sight of the number on the paper. A smirk appeared on his face. "Next time, huh?" Just as he was pondering this, a sharply dressed man entered the room. "Mr. Madox, Mr. Thomas Madox is adamant about throwing a grand party to celebrate your return. He's insisting on inviting all the bigwigs." The so-called Mr. Madox's expression hardened as he dismissed the subordinate. "I have some personal matters to attend to. We'll deal with the party arrangements later." His gaze drifted back to the check with a smirk. He mused, 'Rosa, when we meet again, I'm sure you won't be mistaken about my name, right?' Chapter 2 Wrong Guy Before Rosa went to see her ex-husband, she made a stop at Neon Mirage. She knew the rules—if she wanted to keep that man around, she couldn’t bypass their manager. She had to clear it with the club. But something felt off. Sitting in the VIP lounge, arms crossed tightly, she frowned at the tall, skinny boy in front of her. He looked barely twenty, dressed in a white shirt and jeans, the quintessential image of a well-behaved student. He kept his eyes locked on his sneakers, clearly avoiding her gaze. A headache began to throb at Rosa's temples. "So, you're Samuel?" Rosa asked, her eyes narrowing with skepticism. "Yes," Samuel answered, glancing up momentarily before quickly lowering his head again. Rosa's frustration grew. This was all wrong. She'd been so drunk the previous night that she hadn't paid much attention to the man's appearance. This morning's hasty departure had left her with only a blurry memory of his face. Samuel might have had a similar hair color and profile, but his build and demeanor were entirely different. The man she recalled was a commanding presence - more lion than a kitten. "You're not him," Rosa said decisively. Both Samuel and her assistant were taken aback. The assistant's face went pale, his anxiety palpable. "Ms. Everly, he's the only Samuel listed in Neon Mirage." Surprisingly, the timid Samuel found a sudden surge of courage. He grabbed her hand. "Please, I really need this money. My dad's in the hospital with lung cancer, and I'm still in school, drowning in student loans..." Rosa turned her head, studying the boy's unexpected outburst. Samuel hesitated, like a gun with a jammed barrel, but then pressed on with growing desperation. "Please, don't send me away! I'll be whoever you need me to be. I'll give it my all. I just need the money..." Rosa sighed, her heart twitching with sympathy for the boy's plight. She remembered her own struggles after losing her father, watching her mother fall ill, and feeling utterly powerless. At least the boy's father was still alive. Rosa pulled out her checkbook and lifted the boy’s chin with her finger, making him look at her. His eyes were wide and innocent, like a helpless deer. Rosa scratched his chin playfully, like she was teasing a kitten. “Please me, and I’ll help treat your father.” Gratitude filled the boy’s eyes as he kissed the back of her hand. Rosa was tempted to tease him a little longer, but her ex-husband was already pushing her to meet up. With some regret, she left Neon Mirage. As she pulled out of the parking lot, a sleek black SUV passed by her car. The man in the backseat looked out the window calmly, his hawk-like eyes observing the scene outside. “Sorry, boss, I was driving too slow,” the driver said, feeling a chill run down his spine but still doing his duty. “Should we follow Ms. Everly and tell her that you’re the one she’s spending the night with?” “No need,” the man waved it off. Last night, he had told her a fake name for personal reasons to get into Neon Mirage, and unexpectedly met an interesting woman. They had a wonderful night together, and today he had planned to keep playing the part. Unfortunately, he was late, and this pleasant misunderstanding couldn’t continue. But they would have another chance to meet. He unlocked his phone and looked at an auction catalog, where one of the items up for bid was an estate bearing the name Everly. His voice took on a dangerous edge. "I may have missed my chance this time, but Ms. Everly will be the one begging to see me soon." In the wealthy district of Phenara City, a red sports car pulled up in front of a beautiful villa. Rosa stepped out, looking at her former home with disgust. She hated Elijah’s pretense. When they were still married, no matter how much she cried or yelled, Elijah never came home, always busy playing around outside. Now, after the divorce, Elijah wanted to meet at the house!? “What do you want?” Rosa walked through the door, and asked Elijah bluntly, who was waiting in the living room. To her surprise, the moment he saw her, Elijah suddenly lost it. He jumped up from the couch and shouted, “Rosa, where were you last night? Why didn’t you come home?” Rosa was stunned by her ex-husband’s shamelessness. They were divorced! The house was hers! Not only had he failed to move out on time, but now he dared to accuse her, trying to shift the blame once again!? Furious, Rosa let out a cold laugh. “If you’ve got something to say, just say it already. Just stop this pathetic game.” Elijah was taken aback. He had expected her to explain herself, to apologize, so he could move on to his real request. But there was no going back now, so Elijah forced down his discomfort and explained his reason for calling her. “There’s an issue with the Kayla’s project. I need you to take care of it. You know it’s a very important deal for both our families…” “Me? Take care of it? Have you lost your mind, Elijah?” Rosa was so furious at his audacity that she couldn't help but laugh. “Your girlfriend is the one in charge of the project—I’m just your ex-wife!” “Have you gone crazy?” Rosa pointed a finger at Elijah’s face, shouting. “You stole the project from me and handed it to your sweetheart like a gift!” Elijah frowned, wanting to say something, but before he could, several people in business attire walked through the door, followed by an unfamiliar couple. Shocked by the sudden intrusion, Elijah shifted focus. “Who are you people?” Rosa sneered, brushing her hair back, regaining her composure and elegance. She stood across from Elijah, her tone cool with disgust. “They’re the realtor and buyers here to check out the house. The court awarded me this property, and I’m free to sell it.” “Rosa, you’re selling our lovely home?” Elijah’s disbelief was clear. “What did you expect? We’re divorced. What am I supposed to do, keep it around just to disgust myself?” Rosa raised an eyebrow, pointing to the door. “Now, get out of my house!” Her final warning was sharp. “Now.” Elijah’s face flushed with anger and humiliation, but he had no choice. He handed over the keys and left in a hurry. After dealing with Elijah and wrapping up the sale of the house, Rosa finally felt a bit of relief. But no sooner had she relaxed when her personal cellphone buzzed. The number wasn’t one she recognized. A message popped up from the unfamiliar digits: “How did you enjoy last night?” Rosa couldn’t help but smile, thinking about the fun she had and the mix-up that followed today. “Interesting,” she replied. But in the next moment, she froze. She would never have given a hookup her personal number! That phone number was for family and close friends only. And she was sure this person wasn’t from either group. So who was he, and how had he gotten her private number? A chill crept up Rosa’s spine as she realized this man’s background might be far more complicated than she had thought. Chapter 3 Can't Wait to See the Look The Madox family, Phenara City's most influential clan, was hosting this year's charity auction. They seemed to be in high spirits, throwing an extravagant event and offering several priceless items for bid. The city's elite turned out in droves. Rosa, dazzling in a glamorous evening gown, reveled in the attention she commanded. She'd left her nominal lover, Samuel, at home, choosing instead to bring her assistant, Sebastian Moore. From her second-floor private box, Rosa flipped through the auction catalog. A breathtaking emerald necklace caught her eye. ''That could make a lovely birthday gift for Mom,' Rosa thought, mentally noting it for her shopping list. As she continued flipping through the pages, her finger stopped on the penultimate entry. There it was - Vintage-style Everly Estate, built a century ago by the family's viscount himself. This was the crown jewel of her evening's pursuit. Memories of carefree days spent there before her father's death came flooding back. She could almost feel the lush green lawns underfoot and see the vibrant red roses blooming in the garden. In the adjacent Box 9, a man in a tuxedo turned to the final page of the catalog. The auction house owner hovered nearby, bowing and scraping. "Mr. Madox, as per your instructions, we've replaced the final lot." "Well done." The man nodded in approval. Then, the auction house owner backed out of the box, his face beaming with satisfaction. The bidding for the emerald necklace kicked off at 300 thousand dollars. Rosa, fixated on securing the Everly Estate, decided to expedite the process. She jumped straight to the estimated value of the emerald necklace, hoping to wrap things up quickly. "500 thousand!" Her voice had barely faded when someone raised their paddle again. The auctioneer declared, "One million dollars. Mr. Sterling bids one million." Rosa thought, smirking to herself, 'dayum Elijah!' Without hesitation, she doubled the bid. "Two million." "Two and a half million." Elijah countered swiftly. "Five million." Rosa shot back without hesitation. "Five point five million," Elijah immediately responded. The bids flew back and forth, quickly rocketing well beyond the necklace's estimated value. Sebastian cautiously interjected, "Ms. Everly... You don't need to do this because of a scumbag..." Rosa flashed her assistant a reassuring smile. "I know. But if he's holding a grudge, I don't mind giving him another reason to hate me." The auctioneer's gavel crashed down with a thunderous boom. "Sold! To Mr. Sterling for this exquisite emerald necklace!" Far from crestfallen, Rosa wore a sly smirk as she glanced in Elijah's direction. Her scheme had unfolded flawlessly. The elites of Phenara City had just witnessed Elijah, scion of the Sterling family, tumble headlong into his ex-wife's glaringly obvious snare. He'd paid through the nose - eleven times over - for what amounted to little more than a glittering bauble. The socialites would be tittering behind their hands about this empty-headed fool for weeks to come. As the auction marched on, Rosa nonchalantly lifted her paddle for items that caught her fancy, more for appearances than any genuine desire to win. But when the Everly Estate materialized on the screen, she snapped to attention, her body coiled like a panther ready to pounce. This wasn't just any property. Nestled in one of Phenara City's most iconic parks, the historic Everly Estate was a crown jewel being reluctantly relinquished by its struggling caretakers to keep the wolves from the door. The starting bid flashed up: a cool 88 million. Without missing a beat, Rosa's voice rang out clear and strong. "200 million." Her paddle shot up, a flag of unwavering determination. She thought, 'Come hell or high water, I'll reclaim what is rightfully mine!' A hush fell over the opulent ballroom. The assembled glitterati held their collective breath, not daring to challenge Rosa, the indomitable head of the Everly Group. But then, from the shadows, a familiar voice piped up. It was none other than Elijah, the man Rosa had so ruthlessly cast aside and humiliated. "250 million," Elijah retorted, his tone oozing self-satisfaction. Rosa rolled her eyes. Sure, the Sterling family was swimming in cash, and Elijah was their prized heir. But he was still just a pampered trust-fund kid, barely calling his own shots. Rosa thought, 'How can his pocket change even compete with me, the head of the Everly family?' "500 million." Rosa fired back, unfazed. This was her own money, after all. "550." Elijah countered smoothly, his gaze unflinching. Rosa's instincts were on high alert. Something wasn't right. She thought, 'The Sterling family isn't exactly known for being reckless with their wealth, especially not with their bumbling heir at the helm. Unless... they are really determined to secure this estate?' No way was she letting them edge her out. "560 million," Rosa replied, her voice steady despite the adrenaline surging through her. She was pushing the limits, testing their resolve. Her ceiling was 843.67 million - every last cent she had at her disposal. "561 million." Elijah drawled, nudging the bid up by the smallest increment. Rosa's mind raced. She thought, 'Is the Sterling family stretching their limits too?' "600 million," Rosa declared, hoping to cut through the tension and bring this nerve-wracking game to an end. Every second spent locked in this twisted bidding war with Elijah made her skin crawl. "601 million," Elijah said, inching up the bid by the smallest increment possible. "Go to hell!" Rosa shot back, her patience evaporating. That jerk was playing her like a fool! "850 million!" In a last-ditch effort, Rosa threw everything she had into the pot, including some borrowed funds. She couldn't believe the Sterling family had deeper pockets. "One billion," Elijah said, his tone icy and composed. He knew he had Rosa on the ropes. He silently congratulated himself for his family's foresight in investing in tourism. Elijah was grinning from ear to ear. If he won, Rosa would be left with nothing but embarrassment. A billion-dollar bid made for a far juicier story than a mere five million. Rosa fumed internally, thinking, 'dayum it! At one billion, I'll be forced to sell off shares in my own company - my very leverage within the organization.' She daydreamed of using a baseball bat to smash Elijah's arrogant face. The auctioneer began his countdown. "Going once, one billion." This was her only chance to secure the family estate! If Elijah won, he'd never let it go. It was do or die. Rosa clenched her jaw, preparing to say, "One billion and..." But before she could finish, the auctioneer's voice cut through the tension. "Two billion! The bidder in Box 9 offers two billion." A hush fell over the room. Rosa's heart plummeted. She thought, 'Two billion... There is no way I can scrape together that kind of cash before the auction ends.' She instinctively glanced over at Box 9. Rosa wondered, 'Who is this enigmatic new bidder next to me? As long as it isn't Elijah, there is still a sliver of hope.' "Two billion, going once. Twice. Three times." The auctioneer's gavel came down with finality. "Sold!" Then, the staff brought the deed to Box 9. The man inside accepted it, but instead of sealing the deal immediately, he turned his gaze towards Rosa's box. He murmured with a smirk, "Rosa Everly, I can't wait to see the look on your face when you find out who I am." Rosa, meanwhile, was locked onto the neighboring box. For a brief, charged moment, their eyes locked across the space. Chapter 4 The Invatation Rosa was practically buzzing with impatience as the auction dragged on. Without a moment to spare, she sprinted to the neighboring box, her heart pounding in her chest. She took a steadying breath, plastered on her brightest smile, and knocked on the opulent mahogany door. "Hello, I'm..." Rosa started, but the door swung open silently, revealing a waiter in a tuxedo. Unfazed, Rosa continued, "I'm Rosa Everly from the adjacent box. I happen to share a surname with the estate you just acquired." The waiter gave a courteous bow. "Ms. Everly, I'm sorry, but the occupant has already left." "Oh?" Rosa's smile wavered for a heartbeat before it snapped back into place. She leaned into the box, hoping for a glimpse of any useful details. With practiced ease, she removed her Bulgari bracelet and subtly extended it towards the waiter. "My AC is acting up in my box. Any chance we could switch to this one?" “Sorry.” the attendant said. “I’m here to pass on a message from the owner of this private room. He added the final auction item at the last minute.” Rosa’s eyes brightened, and she turned around, giving the waiter a warm smile. “Thank you!” she replied sincerely. While Rosa was busy talking with the attendant, the owner of room nine had already left the auction house. In the back seat of his car, Julian Madox held his phone at arm’s length, clearly annoyed by the shouting coming from the other end. “Julian Madox! If I don’t see you tonight, don’t bother coming back any more!” The furious voice of an older man rang out before abruptly hanging up. “Turn around,” Julian instructed the driver as he ended the call. His gaze was sharp and intense. After a moment, he leaned back and let out a slow breath. “I forgive you.” If it hadn’t been for his father’s call, he would have been in that room, reconnecting with her. He would’ve brought up that night and playfully teased her about the mix-up. But Rosa Everly—why did you have to be Elijah’s ex-wife? With the complicated relationships between the Madox, Sterling, and Everly families, everything he was planning for this reunion could easily turn into a weapon against them in the future. Back in her private room, Rosa was lost in thought with the new clue she’d just received. Before she could process it all, her phone rang—it was her mother. “Rosa, the Madoxs are hosting a banquet this weekend, and Julian will be there,” her mother’s voice was so gentle. “Even though we’re not in-laws with the Madoxs anymore since your divorce, it’s still important to show up out of respect.” “Sure, Mom, I’ll go,” Rosa replied absentmindedly, still thinking about the auction. Then her mother’s emphasis on the name caught her attention. “Wait, Julian?” “He’s your Grandpa Thomas’ youngest son. You should call him Uncle Julian,” her mother said with a hint of a smile in her voice. “He’s been abroad for years, and now that he’s finally back home, Thomas is thrilled. He sent invitations to everyone in Phenara City.” Her mother continued, “You know, Grandpa Thomas was so good to you all these years isn’t just because you were married into the family.” Rosa understood that. Her relationship with Thomas Madox—and even with the Madox family—was something she had built herself. When she was 17, she’d snuck out with friends and stopped to help someone whose car had broken down. She found the driver unconscious and rushed him to the hospital. It was only when a crowd gathered at the hospital that she realized the man she’d saved was the head of the Madox family, one of the most influential families in Phenara City. Thomas was incredibly grateful, and years later, when Rosa’s father passed away and her relatives from the Everly side tried to take their assets, it was Thomas who stepped in, protecting their wealth with a trust fund and keeping the vultures at bay. “Don’t forget what I said,” her mother reminded her again. Rosa was about to brush it off when the auctioneer’s voice caught her attention. “And now, for our final auction item—a private collection from one of our distinguished guests.” Rosa quickly hung up the phone, straightening up in her seat. But was this person for real? Though the little rabbit was crafted from high-quality rosewood, the craftsmanship left much to be desired. It was a wooden rabbit sculpture that looked like something a child could have carved, yet the starting bid was set at a staggering one million dollars. The crowd murmured in confusion, unsure of the auction house's intentions. However, Rosa stayed sharp. She recognized that the rabbit was a clue from the occupant of Box 9 and couldn't afford to let anyone else snap it up. But, she didn't make a move, wary of provoking Elijah and a few other bored individuals who might create unnecessary trouble for her. As the seconds ticked by with no bids, she raised her paddle just as the auctioneer was about to declare it unsold. "One million," Rosa declared firmly. "Sold!" The gavel came down decisively. The rabbit was quickly delivered to Rosa, who examined it closely. There was something oddly familiar about it, but she pushed that thought aside. Instead, her attention was drawn to the accompanying note: Bach Hotel, Room 3303. Rosa's heart skipped a beat. That room was where she had spent that unforgettable night with the imposing man she could never forget. Rosa's mind was in overdrive. She thought, 'Could the man in Box 9 be the same one I've crossed paths with before? He seems to know all about the Everly Estate and the Sterling family's scheming. Why would he help me? If he has two billion, why was he masquerading as a waiter in Neon Mirage? And if he is so keen to continue our connection, why didn't he come face to face with me when we were just a room apart?' She rubbed her temples, trying to piece it all together. Rosa's thoughts churned as she pondered the situation. 'Is the owner of Room 9 trying to use the night to blackmail me? But why would he? I'm divorced, not involved in any scandalous affair. My reputation and my company are intact. Does he have another reason to keep me away? Was there something more between us?' Her mind was a jumble of confusion. Then, Rosa called out to her assistant, handing over the rabbit and the note, "Sebastian, I need you to dig into this trinket and find out who stayed in that hotel room. Also, keep an eye on my relatives! The Everly Estate isn't up for grabs." Meanwhile, in the parking lot, a sleek black sedan smoothly cruised past Rosa's red sports car. In the backseat, a man held his phone at arm's length, grimacing at the booming voice on the other end. "You ungrateful brat! Get your bottom back here! You've been back for days and haven't even seen your old man!" In stark contrast, Rosa's mother, Alice Everly, spoke with soothing warmth, "The Madox family is throwing a banquet this weekend. Julian will be there, too. Even though you're no longer tied to them after your divorce from Elijah, it's still important to show up." Rosa replied absentmindedly, her thoughts still tangled in the auction, "Sure, Mom. I'll be there." Then, she registered her mother's emphasis. "Julian?" Alice said with a chuckle, "That's right, Thomas' favorite youngest son. He's been overseas for years, but now he's finally back for good. Thomas is ecstatic, throwing a big party and inviting everyone in Phenara City. You know, Rosa, Thomas' kindness to you all these years isn't just because you were married to his adopted daughter's son." Rosa knew her favorable standing with Thomas and the Madox family was entirely her own doing. At seventeen, she'd snuck out to meet friends and stumbled upon a broken-down car. When she stopped to help, she found the driver unconscious. Without a second thought, she rushed him to the hospital, her heart racing. It wasn't until later, amidst a whirlwind of well-wishers, that she realized she had saved none other than Thomas Madox, the patriarch of Phenara City's oldest and most prestigious family. Thomas never forgot her act of heroism. When Rosa's father passed away and unscrupulous relatives tried to plunder the Everly family's fortune, Thomas stepped in. He ensured the assets were placed in a trust fund, protecting them from greedy hands. "Remember that, dear," Alice said gently. "Don't worry, Mom. Love you." On the other side, however, the atmosphere was far less warm. "If I don't see you tonight, don't even think about coming back!" The old man's voice crackled through the phone before he slammed it down. "Turn around," the man in the backseat said coldly to his driver, closing the call screen. The driver responded with a curt nod, "Yes, sir." As they drove beneath a streetlamp, the driver's face was briefly illuminated. Had Rosa been there, she would have recognized him as the waiter from Box 9. The driver ventured, "Mr. Madox, I'm sorry, but I told Ms. Everly that you added the final auction item." The man's eyes narrowed, his gaze intense. After a protracted silence, he reclined, shut his eyes, and let out a deep breath. "I forgive you." Every step he'd taken to arrange this reunion might potentially be used against them in the future. He realized his folly - he shouldn't have pursued a deeper connection with Rosa beyond their familial ties. Chapter 5 Nightmare The Madox family had spared no expense for Julian's welcome party. Thomas had gone to extremes, wishing he could polish every single leaf on the estate until they gleamed. Rosa, trying to steer clear of the Sterling family, timed her arrival at the Madox Mansion to perfection. But her attempt at a discreet entrance was abruptly interrupted when a splash of vibrant yellow swooped in from behind. Hannah Madox's exuberant voice rang out as she pulled Rosa aside. "Rosa! Sweetie, I need a huge favor. You've got to tell everyone we've been inseparable lately, got it?" Rosa immediately understood. Hannah's tardiness meant she'd been out partying rather than helping with the setup. "Come on, spill it. Where have you been? I need the whole story to cover for you," Rosa urged. Hannah tossed her hair with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Maldiva Islands... Met a few... no, an incredibly charming guy." Rosa said with resignation, "Your family must be used to your lifestyle by now. What are you afraid of?" Hannah's tone shifted to one of dread mixed with admiration. "But Uncle Julian is back! He's the ultimate nightmare for all us kids in the Madox family." "That bad, huh?" Rosa's curiosity was piqued. Hannah looked as though she might explode. "Nightmare doesn't even begin to cover it! He's barely older than me, but I have to call him 'uncle'. At school, his name is practically legendary. Everyone's always comparing me to this perfect Julian, Mr. Untouchable." She ran her fingers through her hair anxiously. "And get this - he's a ruthless tyrant at home and work, but to the outside world, he's practically Prince Charming! The whole school adores him, and he's never even had a scandal. He's been the boogeyman for all us, a nightmare we'd rather forget. You dodged a bullet by not going to our school, Rosa. Otherwise, you'd have been hearing 'Julian this, Julian that' day in, day out. We finally caught a break when he went abroad, but now he's back! I've got to be on my best behavior, or I'll never hear the end of it from my friends about letting Uncle Julian down." “An orange Hermès Kelly in lizard texture,” Rosa said, naming her price. “Done!” Hannah agreed without hesitation. “As long as we can keep it a secret!” “Keep what a secret?” Rosa and Hannah turned to see Grandpa Thomas approaching with a man beside him. Thomas was all smiles. “I heard Hannah got into some trouble, so I rushed right over!” “Grandpa!” Hannah said, clinging to Thomas’s arm and putting on a sweet act. “Your granddaughter has been such a good girl this month, spending all her time with Rosa learning about business.” Rosa didn’t hear what Hannah just had said; all her attention was fixed on the man Thomas had brought over. He looked to be in his thirties, with sharp, defined features and an air of calm authority that made him seem like a god from Greek mythology. When he caught sight of her, surprise flickered in his deep-set eyes, which glimmered with a cold intensity. Rosa's heart started racing for no apparent reason. It wasn’t attraction or admiration; it felt more like being prey in the sights of a predator. Julian Madox. In that instant, Rosa recognized him—the youngest son of Thomas Madox, the most enigmatic second-generation member of the Madox family. Just as Rosa was about to say something, his gaze slid past her. His profile was striking, reminiscent of an ancient Greek sculpture, which felt oddly familiar. Before she could place him, an annoying voice interrupted her thoughts. “Rosa, you finally made it! Elijah and I are getting engaged—hope you’re not upset!” Rosa turned to face the speaker. Kayla, Elijah's lover. With a cold smile, Rosa replied, “You don’t get to call me Rosa.” She knew Kayla’s friendliness was just a way to manipulate her. Kayla, a mistress, was in a tricky position here, and her greeting was meant to show everyone that she and Rosa were on good terms, as if she had earned Rosa’s forgiveness. That way, when she married Elijah, she wouldn’t look too bad in the headlines in Phenara City. Rosa scoffed, “You slept with my husband and now you're pretending like nothing happened? Are you serious?” Kayla’s expression soured as Rosa spoke nothing but the truth. Kayla always claimed that she started pursuing Elijah only after Rosa and Elijah divorced, but Rosa knew they had been an item long before that! In fact, on the night of Rosa’s wedding, Elijah had reached out to Kayla to comfort her! “I didn’t!” Kayla put on her usual facade, feigning innocent. “You can’t just slander us because you have issues with me!” “Really?” Julian chuckled lightly. “Weren’t you two already acquainted long before? In high school, Elijah even had a Sterling family crest ring he wanted to give you.” “How do you know that?” Kayla gasped, taken aback. That was her secret with Elijah! “You shameless bast3rds,” Hannah chimed in, defending her friend. “We don’t want you here!” Julian waved his hand, and a Madox family servant politely escorted Kayla out. “Thank you,” Rosa said to the three Madoxs. “Sorry for causing you trouble.” “Speaking of trouble,” Julian turned to Hannah, “what exactly are you trying to hide from Rosa?” “Don’t mention it” Hannah said. “Let me take a guess,” the man said, smiling and showing off his handsome features. “Is it about drunken nights in Phantasm or couples’ diving in the Maldives?” Bingo. In that moment, Rosa understood why Hannah viewed her uncle as a nightmare. To him, they were practically transparent. Chapter 6 Unknown Shadows Rosa gaped, thinking, 'How could he possibly be so informed? Didn't he just return today?' With a clever feign of ignorance, she smoothly replied, "Oh, it was merely some crucial networking. Phenara City is really pushing to expand its tertiary sector, so we went out to conduct some market research." Julian looked at her with amused disbelief but chose not to press further. Thomas, who was well aware of the younger generation's penchant for fun and games, chuckled indulgently. "As long as you're taking the initiative, that's the main thing." Rosa flashed Thomas a grateful smile, about to respond, when Clara, Thomas' adopted daughter, approached with her son Elijah in tow. "Dad, Julian!" Clara cooed, latching onto Thomas' arm. Her gaze then fell on Rosa, and her voice turned syrupy sweet. "Oh, isn't this Elijah's ex-wife? Elijah, honey, say hello to Rosa." But Elijah seemed oblivious to his mother's urging. His eyes were locked on Rosa and Julian, a storm brewing in his expression. He thought, 'My ex-wife shacking up with that college boy Samuel wasn't enough? Now she's eyeing other men too? Was everything she ever told me a lie?' A cocktail of anger and jealousy roiled in Elijah's gut. Thomas, ever the diplomat, stepped in to defuse the tension. "Rosa, let me make a proper introduction. This is Julian, my youngest son. Since you're a close friend of Hannah's, treat him a family, just like she does." Thomas stepped in to defuse the tension with the Sterling family, making it clear that Rosa's presence at the gala had nothing to do with them. He aimed to prevent the Sterling family from making a fuss or using the situation against her. Rosa said with poise, extending her hand to Julian, "Rosa Everly. Pleasure to meet you, Julian." He shook her hand firmly yet gently. "Julian Madox. The pleasure's all mine, Rosa." To everyone's surprise, Julian then drew Rosa into a light, warm embrace. "It's truly a delight to meet you," Julian murmured, his deep, velvety voice sending a pleasant shiver down Rosa's spine. "May I have this dance?" Julian asked, bowing slightly with one hand extended, the other tucked behind his back in a charming gesture. "I'd be honored," Rosa replied, placing her hand in his. She sensed Julian was offering her a graceful escape from the Sterling family's pettiness. As they floated onto the dance floor, neither of them noticed the fury burning in Elijah's eyes. He thought, 'She was the one who pursued me first! She practically begged for our marriage! And now she can't even look at me?' Elijah's fists clenched in barely contained rage. Rosa whispered as they swayed to the music, "Thank you, Julian. For rescuing me just in time." Julian's rich voice rumbled above her. "My pleasure. Happy to be of service." As the song drew to a close, Julian followed etiquette with a kiss on her hand and gently released her from his embrace. Rosa gracefully stepped back, only to be met by Sebastian, who approached with urgency etched into his features. "Ms. Everly, Samuel just called. There's been a break-in at your villa. The place has been ransacked." Her eyes turned to cold steel as she absently reached for a cocktail from a passing tray. "Is Samuel hurt?" Sebastian shook his head. "No, he said he's fine - just some minor injuries he can manage. But he did mention... it was the Sterling family's people who did it." Rosa barked, downing her cocktail in a single gulp before rattling off the address, "Get a doctor over to Emerald Villa, I'm heading there myself." Sebastian's expression turned worried. "What about today's gala?" Rosa's gaze was steely as she looked towards the grand hall. "It's just a party. Samuel's life could be on the line." She added with a glance towards the cheerful Sterling family, "I'll tell Thomas later. They're going to pay for this." At Emerald Villa, Rosa found Samuel battered and bruised, with a broken finger among his injuries. Her personal physician was already at work, tending to his wounds. "I'm staying the night," Rosa declared firmly. She continued, settling beside him, "They won't dare show up again with me here. You need to rest." Samuel's voice was barely audible, tinged with guilt. "I'm so sorry for causing trouble. They told me if I valued my life, I should get as far away from you as possible. They're out to hurt you." Rosa's mind flashed back to the confrontation at the Madox Mansion. "I know. This is on me; they're targeting me. The Sterling family is nothing but bullies who prey on the weak. Once you're healed, there's a job waiting for you at my company." Samuel's eyes widened in disbelief. Rosa said with a playful smirk, "A finance prodigy from Crestwood University, aren't you? You didn't think I'd keep someone around without checking their background, did you? How would you like a chance to get even?" Samuel was overwhelmed by emotion. This woman had not only helped save his father and allowed him to continue his studies but now offered to help him reclaim his dignity. He looked at her as if she were a goddess sent from the heavens. Samuel thought to himself, 'Oh, goddess, please shower me with your mercy.' Rosa, with a phone in one hand and her other gently ruffling his hair, said softly, "Get some rest." Samuel asked, his disappointment palpable, "You're leaving? I thought you said you'd stay." Rosa shook her head, regret in her eyes. "I'm sorry, but I have to break that promise. Sebastian will stay with you; he's just as good as me being here." Changing into a business suit, Rosa left. She couldn't reveal the real reason for her departure to Samuel. Just now, as she prepared to stay, she received a new message from the unknown number. It contained two images: one of the Everly Estate deed and another of a familiar room number. Standing in front of room 3303 at the Bach Hotel, Rosa knocked softly. The door wasn't locked, swinging open a crack at her touch. The room beyond was shrouded in darkness. Taking a deep breath, Rosa gripped the handle, pushed the door open, and stepped into the unknown shadows that awaited her. ... Open the app and continue reading the rest of the story . 👉 (It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app) | INSTALL_MOBILE_APP | https://www.dreame.com/story/646012160-professor-i | Novelclub-online | https://www.facebook.com/100091719427096/ | 4,027 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Install now | 0 | dreame.com | IMAGE | After splitting up with her cheating ex-husband, Anna had a wild and passionate night with a handsome guy and it was just perfect! Anna decided to keep this man by paying him, but the guy was so mysterious and only met her in dark rooms. "Room 3303. You know what I mean." At the same time, an amazin... | https://www.dreame.com/story/646012160-professor-in-daylight--s-x-freak-in-nighttime?utm_source=facebook_ads_wapofficial&utm_campaign=Double-dreame-en-winnie-newtest-facebook-0-cpc-6117846-stfcy-241125周-1129-yw-01-6117846 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468882622_504217449308985_251563625401292552_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cHPI4KevvNIQ7kNvgGpjk5M&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AwlaTFnXnbXVFfpcrE0KArg&oh=00_AYB3eAxX7m8mtl6x7mC8PuQ3RTPwOAHQkCSF85Qo0GC21w&oe=67501612 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Novelclub-online | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-29 18:56 | active | 1938 | 0 | The Vampire And His Blood Wife👉👉👉 | The Vampire And His Blood Wife ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | WATCH_MORE | Romantic Love | https://www.facebook.com/61557838064349/ | 345 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Watch More | 0 | DCO | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/461200830_409103592223043_120534980819975406_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1SaLIklcRYkQ7kNvgFVfJQZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AUt6caSxk3725yw6aV9vOhv&oh=00_AYAE7v58Ok3c7kg2xnbkcMuwSV7VAg9XY5O9T7eRKChwOg&oe=675031EC | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Romantic Love | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-29 18:54 | active | 1938 | 0 | Download Now👉👉👉 | The Vampire And His Blood Wife ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | WATCH_MORE | Romantic Love | https://www.facebook.com/61557838064349/ | 345 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Watch More | 0 | DCO | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459181918_1590259071615106_1149023035939670505_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik5_oMMfK64Q7kNvgHHDK_c&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Aqwul55MNq28VIw8FT4trQM&oh=00_AYAgkScFB3n6QILryeE7J3Eoyki-eeJrNZc4vrbDAp7b9g&oe=67502378 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Romantic Love | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Witchblood | Black Friday specials for the Fantasy Fiend! Dive into the fantastical and shop 40% off. | SHOP_NOW | https://vaultcomics.com/products/witchblood-vol1#v | Vault Comics | https://www.facebook.com/VaultComicsOfficial/ | 9,734 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | vaultcomics.com | DCO | https://vaultcomics.com/products/witchblood-vol1#variant=Paperback%20+%20eBook | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468642614_4011467485742654_1140934501889183781_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=44Sua408Q5oQ7kNvgE9aU73&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=A538-ksnJYhSFr3cjHIoz8_&oh=00_AYCdIKReJ2eKlZBBPRDNU9LDTr8gLhfSFTOWOCpOEIqrhQ&oe=67503E37 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Vault Comics | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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2024 Throwback Vapor Limited Jersey - Est. 1933 Patch | Tradition lies in the threads.🔍😤 Wear the spirit of Philadelphia! 💚🦅 Order here: https://bit.ly/pet-1nw | SHOP_NOW | https://bit.ly/pet-1nw | Kelly Green All Day | https://www.facebook.com/61568767536826/ | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Shop Now | 0 | bit.ly | DCO | All Stitched | https://bit.ly/pet-1nw | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/468812553_574136908756869_6127633113468115998_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qrvMfdoBwPQQ7kNvgFoK8oA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A_yOltgoD0Y4ZJKBtbtWycN&oh=00_AYBBBiHK1fHJPGaSWQZ-Rcxi4iIBU6ltCpDzMOeuqn3-5w&oe=67502817 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Kelly Green All Day | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-29 18:54 | active | 1938 | 0 | Download Now👉👉👉 | The Vampire And His Blood Wife ONLY on Drama Time.🎬 Don't miss out! Watch the series you've been wanting to see. No regrets, just pure entertainment! #Must SeeTV #No Regrets #Watch Now | WATCH_MORE | Romantic Love | https://www.facebook.com/61557838064349/ | 345 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Watch More | 0 | DCO | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/459181918_1590259071615106_1149023035939670505_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ik5_oMMfK64Q7kNvgHHDK_c&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=Aqwul55MNq28VIw8FT4trQM&oh=00_AYAgkScFB3n6QILryeE7J3Eoyki-eeJrNZc4vrbDAp7b9g&oe=67502378 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Romantic Love | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The perfect Zuma tablesetting by Kelly Wearstler | LEARN_MORE | https://us.serax.com/collections/zuma-tableware-by | Serax | https://www.facebook.com/seraxofficial/ | 50,364 | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | Learn More | 0 | us.serax.com | CAROUSEL | https://us.serax.com/collections/zuma-tableware-by-kelly-wearstler-dinnerware?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Traffic+-+Always+On+-+%5BUS-EN%5D+%5BP%5D+%5BTHINK%5D | 1969-12-31 18:00 | https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/454233924_3835560480099241_6361771519199561602_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=3wrpI9nv3C0Q7kNvgHk-WEo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=A_yOltgoD0Y4ZJKBtbtWycN&oh=00_AYCstN-p0c5FX-rCn0ynDRiWUMJoHMW1dgpo1XbfybK5hQ&oe=67501827 | PERSON_PROFILE | 0 | 0 | 0 | Serax | 0 | 0 | 1969-12-31 18:00 | View Edit Delete | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Yes | 2024-11-29 19:00 | active | 1938 | 0 | Para ella, casarse con su mejor amigo y quedar embarazada de su hijo fue un sueño hecho realidad. Pero en ese momento feliz, la mujer que amaba su marido regresó... ===== ¿Lo había oído bien? ¿Estoy embarazada? ¡Estoy embarazada de un bebé de Pierce! ¡Mi mejor amigo y mi primer amor! --Qué bueno que haya sido cautelosa, pudo haber perdido a su bebé, señorita Monroe --me dijo el ginecólogo con seriedad al ver la sorpresa en mis ojos. En ese momento, me toqué el vientre inconscientemente, sin poder creer que hubiera un bebé acostado allí. Cuando salí del hospital, no podía esperar para contarle a Pierce sobre nuestro bebé. Me preguntaba cuál sería su reacción. ¿Gritaría de felicidad? ¿Me b**aría y todo eso? ¡Dios! No podía contener mi felicidad. Incluso tomé mi cara roja entre mis manos mientras fantaseaba. Pero en el momento en que sentí el frío del anillo en mi dedo, mi corazón que latía salvajemente se calmó. Casi olvidaba que Pierce no estaba interesado en tener hijos, menos considerando que nuestro matrimonio fue arreglado por su familia. Por supuesto, Pierce era un completo caballero, como amigo y como marido. Cada vez que teníamos relaciones s**uales, él era considerado y cauteloso, y decía que no era necesario agregar más ataduras si no estábamos listos. Este bebé, en cierto modo, estaba fuera de los planes. --Señora, ¿está todo bien? ¿Necesita que llame al jefe? --preguntó mi conductor privado, Luke, preocupado al notar mi ceño fruncido. Luke era confiable como un miembro de la familia, pero no quería contarle porque quería que Pierce fuera el primero en enterarse de esta noticia. Él era el padre de mi bebé. --No --dije y negué con la cabeza, dándole a Luke una sonrisa tranquilizadora--. Está en el vuelo. Hablaré con él más tarde --y así vería su respuesta yo misma en sus crudas expresiones. Siempre fui buena en eso. Finalmente, cerré los ojos y recordé el día en que nos conocimos. Su brillante sonrisa a la luz del sol era tan deslumbrante que parecía un príncipe. Me enamoré de él a primera vista, mucho antes de que nos convirtiéramos en mejores amigos. Pero era sólo un amor no correspondido y yo lo sabía bien. En ese instante, bajé la ventanilla del auto para tomar un poco de aire fresco y, sin quererlo, vislumbré nuestra antigua escuela secundaria. Ese sentimiento amargo llenó mi pecho una vez más... Pierce fue mi primer amor, pero yo no era el suyo. En la escuela secundaria, yo no era más que una nerd aburrida a los ojos de los demás, mientras que Pierce Anderson era el brillante mariscal de campo. Todos se sorprendieron de que pudiéramos ser amigos. Aunque las hostilidades hacia mí aumentaron, disfruté estar cerca de él y poco a poco me di cuenta de que no quería ser sólo su amiga. Sin embargo, justo cuando estaba a punto de confesarle mis sentimientos, otra chica llegó a su vida. Sacudí la cabeza tratando de deshacerme de esos viejos y tristes recuerdos. Luego toqué el frío anillo de bodas en mi dedo y me dije que el pasado ya había pasado. Pierce dijo que habían terminado y que ahora yo era su esposa. Sí, yo era su esposa y además estaba embarazada de su bebé. Pronto, me sequé las lágrimas de las comisuras de los ojos y abrí la puerta de nuestra casa. Mi corazón se calmó al respirar el aroma de mi hogar, nuestra casa. Pierce y yo la decoramos juntos con nuestras propias manos. Lo disfrutamos. Sí, tal vez estaba pensando demasiado. Esa mujer había estado fuera de nuestras vidas durante mucho tiempo y los últimos tres años mi matrimonio con Pierce fueron tan hermosos como un cuento de hadas. Una vez dentro, miré el reloj de la pared. Para ese entonces, Pierce ya debería haberse bajado del avión. Estuvo más de un mes en viajes de negocios de nuestra empresa familiar. Pierce era el presidente de ADE, la empresa de revistas de moda líder en toda Asia, y yo era la vicepresidente de la compañía. No sólo éramos compañeros de vida, sino también buenos socios en el trabajo. En verdad lo extrañaba. De inmediato, marqué su número, pues tenía muchas ganas de escuchar su voz y saber cuándo llegaría a casa. Le prepararía una buena comida y él me premiaría con un dulce beso. Y luego podríamos... Vaya, en ese momento casi olvidé que estaba embarazada. Debía contarle eso primero y luego podríamos hacer otra cosa. Estaba imaginando felizmente nuestra encantadora reunión, pero mi corazón dio un vuelco cuando una voz de mujer cruzó la línea. --¿Hola? Al escuchar esa sola palabra, dejé caer mi teléfono, que se rompió al chocar contra el suelo, y mi cuerpo empezó a temblar incontrolablemente. ¡NO! ¡No podía ser ella! ¡No podía ser Lexi! ¡Ella ya estaba fuera de nuestras vidas! Debí haber escuchado mal. De inmediato, corrí hacia la nevera en un intento por calmarme con la ayuda de un poco de al**hol. Pero en el momento en que toqué la botella de v**o, recordé las palabras del médico sobre mi bebé. Debía tener cuidado por la salud de mi bebé, así que solo agarré una caja de leche y caminé hacia el sofá. En ese entonces, no sabía qué me hizo reconocer esa voz como la de Lexi. Nosotras nunca fuimos cercanas. Lexi Gilbert era la típica belleza rubia por la que los hombres se volvían locos. Ella era una animadora popular en la escuela secundaria, mientras que Pierce era el mariscal de campo estrella. Encajaba mejor con él que una nerd como yo, ¿verdad? No me sorprendió que se haya enamorado de ella. Mi orgullo no soportó ver al hombre que amaba volverse loco por otra mujer, así que una vez intenté alejarme de ellos en silencio, pero Pierce se negó a salirse de mi vida. Cada vez que me ahogaba en un mar de libros y estudios para olvidarlos, Pierce aparecía en mi puerta invitándome a salir. No podía decirle que no a su sonrisa encantadora y tampoco podía decirle que no porque afirmaba que era su deber como mi mejor amigo llevarme a disfrutar del mundo real. Para no arruinar nuestra amistad, oculté mi corazón roto y desempeñé en silencio el papel de su mejor amiga, siempre a su lado y observando su rostro feliz por otra chica. Finalmente, cuando supe que Pierce planeaba proponerle matrimonio a Lexi, me armé de valor y fui a estudiar al extranjero, sin saber que su abuela me llamaría para rogarme que regresara. Por supuesto, volví a toda prisa sólo para ver a Pierce sin vida. Lexi le había herido gravemente el corazón y el mío sufría por mi amado. Empecé a odiar a Lexi desde ese momento. Le había entregado a mi amado hombre, ¡cómo se atrevió a hacerle tanto daño! ¡Esa bruja! Pierce no le contó a nadie lo que pasó, excepto que había terminado con Lexi. Luego, la abuela arregló nuestro matrimonio. No entendí por qué estuvo de acuerdo hasta que un día lo escuché decir que casarse con cualquiera que no fuera Lexi sería lo mismo para él. Aquello me dolió mucho, pero aun así me casé con él sin pensarlo dos veces. Mi amado estaba destrozado y quería recomponerlo, sin importarme si eso me arruinaba a mí en el proceso. Me quedé dormida sintiéndome muy insegura y preocupada. Me desperté en medio de la noche cuando sentí que alguien acariciaba mi mejilla. Lentamente abrí los ojos y me di cuenta de que me había quedado dormida en la sala de estar. Alguien me levantó del sofá e inmediatamente reconocí su olor y tacto mientras lo miraba con los ojos entrecerrados. --Pierce… --Hmm --murmuró mientras caminaba hacia las escaleras--. ¿Por qué te dormiste en el sofá? Yo solo me quedé mirándolo a la cara y luego me dejó suavemente sobre la cama, acarició mi cabello y besó mi frente. Siempre fue tan gentil y por eso lo amaba tanto. Llevábamos más de un mes separados, mi cuerpo lo extrañaba y mi corazón lo anhelaba. --¿Dónde estabas? Te estuve esperando --dije mientras acariciaba su mejilla. --Acabo de encontrarme con un amigo. Dijiste que me estabas esperando, ¿es urgente? Al ver su rostro amable, de repente no quise arruinarle el momento, así que cerré mis labios entreabiertos y tragué la verdad para devolverla a mi estómago. Mañana, tal vez mañana tendría el coraje de afrontar todos los rompecabezas. De modo que solo sacudí la cabeza, hice un puchero y le dije que tenía sueño. Él se rió entre dientes y me dio un beso de buenas noches, pero en el momento en que estuvo a punto de dejarme, por alguna razón entré en pánico. Rápidamente lo agarré y lo b*sé con toda mi pasión... Lo extrañaba y lo quería. --Espera, Kels --dijo y me detuvo, sujetando mis locas manos sobre la cama--. Pensé que habías dicho que tenías sueño y que necesitabas descansar. --Sí, pero te extraño --exclamé y lo miré con inocencia. Pude captar el deseo brillando en sus ojos, pero se desvaneció de pronto y yo no comprendía por qué. Solía ponerse feliz cuando yo tomaba la iniciativa. En ese instante, como si notara mi confusión, se rió entre dientes y me pellizcó juguetonamente la nariz. --Me daré una ducha. Huelo a al**hol --manifestó. Yo solo asentí y lo miré mientras caminaba hacia el baño. Pronto la somnolencia volvió a atacarme, así que cerré los ojos para tomar una siesta. Sin embargo, ya era de mañana cuando abrí los ojos nuevamente y Pierce estaba a mi lado, poniendo una bandeja con comida en la mesita de noche. --¡Ey! --lo saludé y sonreí cuando me di cuenta de lo que había hecho. Me había preparado el desayuno para llevármelo a la cama. Era tan dulce. Él sonrió y se sentó en la cama. --Buen día. Le devolví la sonrisa mientras me sentaba en la cama. En ese momento, agarró la bandeja y la puso a mi lado. Al instante, levanté una ceja e incliné la cabeza mientras miraba su hermoso rostro. Sus cejas espesas y negras enmarcaban sus hermosos ojos de color marrón oscuro. Su nariz era orgullosa y puntiaguda y sus labios eran rojos y finos. Parecía un chico malo y s*xy, incluso Damon Salvatore se avergonzaría de estar a su lado. Nadie tenía posibilidad alguna contra este hombre. --¿Qué es esto? ¿Un soborno? Me dejaste plantada anoche, chico malo --dije. Él no se rió. Exhaló un suspiro y colocó con suavidad mi cabello detrás de mis orejas antes de tomar mi mano y mirarme a los ojos. --Tengo algo que decirte. Al instante, sentí que mi corazón se aceleraba y pensé en nuestro bebé en mi útero. Tenía algo que decirme, yo también tenía algo que contarle. --¿Q-Qué cosa? --pregunté con voz temblorosa. De repente, dio un profundo suspiro y comenzó: --Sabes que eres importante para mí, ¿verdad? Asentí lentamente con los labios entreabiertos. No pude responder, tenía miedo de lo que estaba a punto de decir. Tenía un mal presentimiento. --Eras mi mejor amiga antes de casarnos. Eres una de las pocas personas que valoro… --prosiguió. Mientras hablaba, escondí mis puños cerrados debajo de la sábana. No sabía por qué me decía todo esto, pero ya podía sentir las lágrimas acumulándose en el rabillo de mis ojos. --Kelly... --hizo una pausa y cerró los ojos con fuerza antes de volver a mirarme a los ojos--. Creo que es hora de que nos divorciemos. --P-Pierce… --exclamé y sentí que mi corazón se apretaba. Él sonrió. --Sé que tú tampoco sientes nada por mí. Te casaste conmigo por mis abuelos, hiciste esto solo porque los amas. Ahora llegó el momento de nuestra verdadera felicidad, Kelly. Al oírlo, no pude evitar sacudir la cabeza. --¿De qué estás hablando, Pierce? --inquirí. --Lexi ha vuelto, Kelly. Mi primer amor ha vuelto. Capítulo 2 Punto de vista de Kelly--Llueve sobre mojado De inmediato, me levanté de la cama e intenté irme, pero Pierce me agarró la mano. Rápidamente me sequé las lágrimas que rodaban por mis mejillas antes de que él pudiera verlas. Luego, se paró frente a mí y me miró a la cara mientras yo intentaba con todas mis fuerzas mirar hacia abajo y evitar verlo a los ojos. Sentí que mi corazón se rompía en pedazos. Pensaba… pensaba que podría hacer que se enamorara de mí en esos tres años que pasamos juntos. Pensaba que sus sentimientos cambiarían y me vería como una mujer en lugar de solo su mejor amiga. Fui estúpida por tener esperanzas y soñar tan alto. Fallé. Sin importar cuánto lo intentara, su corazón pertenecía sólo a su primer amor: Lexi. --Kelly… En ese momento, contuve el aliento y me tragué el dolor mientras lo miraba. Luego fingí una sonrisa y dije: --Debo lavarme las manos antes de comer. Pero él me miró a los ojos como si intentara descubrir lo que estaba pensando. Yo sabía que él me conocía demasiado bien, así que traté con todas mis fuerzas de ocultar mi dolor y le sonreí. Finalmente, suspiró y soltó mi mano. --Bueno. Te esperaré aquí. Comamos y vayamos a trabajar juntos. ¿Juntos? ¿Por qué era tan cruel? ¿Quería que nos siguiéramos llevando bien como si no me hubiera pedido el divorcio? ¿Quería que nos quedáramos como estábamos justo después de decirme que su primer amor había regresado y quería divorciarse de mí? Oh Pierce, ¿qué estaba pasando por tu cabeza? Antes podía obligarme a mí misma a quedarme en el puesto de su mejor amiga mientras le deseaba felicidad, pero ya no tenía ese coraje después de los tres años que habíamos compartido. No había manera de que pudiera soportar esa tortura otra vez, en especial ahora que cargaba a su bebé. El bebé... en un principio pensé que era una buena noticia para nosotros, pero ahora... supongo que sería más bien una carga para él. Una carga que le impediría conseguir su verdadero amor y su libertad. Yo sabía muy bien cómo crecía un niño no deseado. Mis padres se divorciaron antes de que mi madre muriera y la nueva familia de mi padre me odiaba, lo que me dolía muchísimo. Por eso no quería que mi bebé experimentara lo mismo que yo sentí, así que debía mantener a mi bebé alejado de él. --No podemos --dije mientras fingía una nueva sonrisa--. Debo visitar el estudio para la sesión de fotos de nuestros nuevos modelos… --Iré contigo. --No --contesté y aparté su mano. Sus ojos siguieron mi mano antes de levantar la cara para mirarme de nuevo--. Tienes documentos que firmar. Nuestros horarios ya están organizados, ¿recuerdas? --Pero… --Tengo un conductor personal, Pierce. Estaré bien sola --afirmé. Finalmente, suspiró y asintió con calma. En ese momento, le di la espalda y entré al baño. Inmediatamente abrí la ducha y me paré bajo el agua fría. Las lágrimas cayeron en cascada por mis mejillas mientras me cubría la boca para reprimir los sollozos. Mis hombros temblaban mucho y cuando pensé en mi bebé, tragué saliva y traté de calmarme. Luego me limpié la cara y acaricié mi vientre. Debía ser fuerte y mantener la calma. No podía arriesgar la vida de mi bebé sólo porque me habían roto el corazón. Tenía que lidiar con esto de forma inteligente. Unos minutos después, tomé un respiro profundo y terminé mi ducha. Cuando salí del baño, me sorprendió ver que Pierce todavía estaba allí. Estaba luchando por arreglarse la corbata frente al espejo de cuerpo entero. También noté un par de zapatos y un vestido míos sobre la cama. --¡Ey! Elegí tu vestido para hoy --dijo. Como nuestro matrimonio no era público, Pierce dijo que haría pequeñas cosas para mí como marido. De hecho, lo había hecho bien y yo solía disfrutar de estos dulces momentos que me regalaba, pero ahora sentía que eso mismo me m**aría. Al segundo siguiente, agarré el vestido y entré al vestidor, sentiendo que me seguía. Volví a guardar el vestido blanco y elegí uno rojo. Cuando me di vuelta y lo tuve de frente, lo vi con la frente arrugada. --Hoy prefiero el rojo. Me sentiré hermosa con este vestido --expliqué con una sonrisa. Al instante, sus ojos se dirigieron al vestido que sostenía y su rostro inmediatamente se calmó. Al final asintió y caminó hacia mí. --Ya veo. Pero antes ayúdame a arreglar esto --me pidió. Sin dudarlo, puse mi vestido en su brazo y comencé a arreglarle la corbata. Podía sentir sus ojos mirándome intensamente y eso hacía que mi corazón latiera muy rápido. Respiré hondo y me mordí el labio inferior mientras luchaba por arreglar su corbata. De pronto, mi visión se volvió borrosa otra vez. ¡Maldición! --Kelly… No pude evitar sobresaltarme en shock. --¿Mmm? --¿Estás bien? --preguntó. Lo miré y sonreí: --Sí. --Tengo algo más que decirte. En ese instante, terminé de arreglarle la corbata y le quité rápidamente el vestido del brazo. Lo miré antes de pasar junto a él y dije: --Hablaremos después. Voy a llegar tarde. Lo escuché suspirar antes de volver a seguirme. Me vestí mientras él estaba detrás de mí. Estuvo en silencio todo el tiempo, como si estuviera pensando en algo. --Deberías desayunar antes de irte --comentó. Un segundo después, me paré frente a él y asentí. --Lo haré. Deberías irte ahora --respondí. --Kelly, estamos en la misma página, ¿verdad? --preguntó. Lo miré fijamente. No, Pierce. Nunca estuvimos en la misma página. Sólo fueron mis estúpidas fantasías. Pensaba que sentías algo por mí, pero estaba muy equivocada. --Si hablas del divorcio, lo entiendo, Pierce. Sé lo que tengo que hacer. Sólo dame algo de tiempo porque estoy muy ocupada con la empresa. No huiré. --Kelly, no estoy haciendo esto sólo por mí. También lo hago por ti. Has estado encerrada conmigo desde que nos casamos. Sé que no eres feliz porque en el fondo también quieres encontrar al hombre que te mereces. Alguien que realmente te ame, no yo. No alguien indiferente. --Entiendo lo que tratas de decir, Pierce --dije y traté de darle la espalda, pero antes de poder hacerlo, él me sujetó por la cintura y me mantuvo en el lugar. Luego hizo todo lo posible para captar mis ojos hasta que lo consiguió. Su mirada era de preocupación. --Eres mi mejor amiga. No quiero perderte, Kels. Eres una de las pocas personas… --Lo sé --lo interrumpí con frustración. Parecía sorprendido, así que me calmé--. Ya lo sé. No tienes que preocuparte. Simplemente estoy estresada por el trabajo, no es por el divorcio. En ese instante, sus labios se separaron, asintió lentamente y soltó un suspiro. Luego, caminó hacia mí y me congelé cuando besó mi frente con dulzura… --Gracias, Kelly --susurró. Al oírlo, mi corazón se apretó. Habían pasado tres años pero todavía era una cobarde. «¿Por qué no puedes simplemente decirle que lo amas, Kelly? ¡Él es tu esposo y estás llevando su bebé! ¡Díselo y tal vez cambie de opinión!» pensé. Con eso en mente, tragué saliva y estuve a punto de decírselo, pero justo en ese momento su teléfono sonó. Pude ver el identificador de llamadas. Era Lexi. --Me tengo que ir --afirmó y se rascó la cabeza a modo de disculpa, mientras las comisuras de su boca se curvaban hacia arriba--. Llamé a Luke. Te espera afuera. Come antes de irte, ¿sí? Con eso, salió de nuestra habitación. De repente, las lágrimas que había logrado reprimir hasta ese momento volvieron a brotar. ¿Por qué había pensado que podría tener una oportunidad? Él tomó su decisión en el momento en que me pidió el divorcio, ¿verdad? Siempre que se trataba de Lexi me abandonaba. Capítulo 3 Punto de vista de Kelly--Mantener la compostura Entré al estudio con tacones rojos de cinco centímetros y un vestido igualmente rojo. Todos miraron en mi dirección cuando entré caminando por el pasillo y me saludaron con una sonrisa, pero mantuve mi rostro estoico, sin mostrar emoción alguna. La conversación de esa mañana con Pierce todavía estaba en mi cabeza, pero no podía permitir que afectara mi trabajo. No podía fallar en mi trabajo después de haber fracasado en mi matrimonio. De modo que respiré profundamente para recomponerme. Un momento después, cuando entré a la sala de la sesión de fotos, noté que todos estaban sumidos en el caos. --¡No podemos! No responde las llamadas. ¿Qué debemos hacer? La vicepresidente viene hoy, se enojará. --Podemos simplemente decirle la verdad. Ella es amable. --¡No lo será con esta situación, Lily! Nos va a regañar... --¿Qué está pasando aquí? --pregunté mientras entraba a la sala. De inmediato, el personal me miró con expresiones preocupadas y entonces supe que había un problema. --B-Buenos días, señorita Monroe. Señorita Monroe. Por supuesto, nadie sabía que Pierce y yo estábamos casados excepto nuestras familias. Sentí como si pellizcaran mi corazón con esa verdad. Dolía. Rápidamente, la miré sin comprender. --¿Qué ocurre? --T-tenemos un problema, señorita Monroe. La señorita Chen, nuestra modelo, no atiende nuestras llamadas. Dijo que escuchó que íbamos a cambiar de modelo así que… no quiere venir. Incluso... amenazó con presentar una demanda contra nosotros. Después de decir eso, inclinó la cabeza. Yo apreté los dientes y recorrí el lugar con la mirada. --¿Dónde está la directora de marketing? --inquirí. --E-Ella todavía está tratando de convencer a la señorita Chen, señorita Monroe. Luego de escuchar el problema, me masajeé la frente y cerré los ojos con fuerza. Un segundo después, me agarré del pelo y grité de ira. Sentí que todos a mi alrededor se sobresaltaban sorprendidos. Yo solo suspiré y tomé una gran bocanada de aire antes de mirar a mi alrededor. --Señorita Monroe... --¿Qué es todo esto, señorita Hayley? Tú eres la directora de marketing, ¿qué está pasando? --Señorita Monroe, no sé cómo sucedió, pero la señorita Chen escuchó que usted cambiará de modelo. Está a punto de presentar una demanda contra nosotros... ¿Cambiar de modelo? ¿Cómo es que yo no sabía nada al respecto? La señorita Chen siempre había sido nuestra modelo de confianza y, si no era necesario, cambiar de modelo para una sesión comercial con tan poca antelación sólo causaría muchos problemas a la empresa. Nunca permitiría un error como este. --Yo no pedí eso. Debe ser un error --la interrumpí para ahorrar tiempo--. ¡Arregla este desastre o tendré que despedirte! --Señorita Monroe... Fue el presidente quien nos pidió que la cambiáramos --explicó Hayley vacilante--. Lo ordenó ayer tan pronto como regresó de su viaje de negocios. Aquella verdad me golpeó con fuerza. ¿Fue orden de Pierce? ¿Por qué no me lo dijo? Solía discutir conmigo cada decisión importante antes de tomarla. --No puede ser... --exclamé confundida. Pierce no era un hombre de negocios despistado. Siempre mantuvo una clara distinción entre el trabajo y la vida personal, razón por la cual siempre tuvo éxito. Y esa fue también la razón por la que decidió mantener nuestro matrimonio en secreto. --Sí, Kelly. Yo di la orden. --Su voz me hizo retroceder. --S-Señor Presidente… --saludó Hayley y se inclinó con respeto al ver al hombre que apareció de repente detrás de mí. --Pierce, ¡creo que me debes una explicación sobre este cambio de modelo! --dije con los dientes apretados mientras me giraba para interrogarlo. Él sabía perfectamente cuánto esfuerzo puse para ganar este proyecto. Estuve días sin dormir y la señorita Chen era la persona ideal para este trabajo. De hecho, él también estuvo de acuerdo. Pero ahora… simplemente cambió la modelo a su gusto sin avisarme con antelación. Eso fue como abofetearme con fuerza en la cara. --Continúen con el trabajo. Yo se lo aclararé --le indicó él al personal para calmarlos, ignorando la ira que estaba a punto de salir de mis ojos. --¡Contéstame, Pierce! ¿Por qué cambias de modelo tan de repente? --No pude contener mi enojo. Él simplemente me tocó el hombro y me susurró: --Este no es el lugar para discutir al respecto. Te lo explicaré en el auto. En ese momento, miré a mi alrededor y noté que los demás nos miraban furtivamente. Luego me quité sus manos de encima y caminé hacia el estacionamiento, pero durante el camino, sentía mi corazón cada vez más pesado. Tenía la sensación de que su explicación no iba a gustarme. --Vamos, dímelo --exclamé ni bien nos sentamos en su auto. Antes de hablar, me miró a los ojos como si sopesara mis emociones, pero yo aparté la mirada de nuevo. No podía soportar sus miradas, no podía soportar esos ojos que nunca me miraban como yo quería. Él no sentía nada por mí y eso me dolía mucho. --Yo-yo… --hizo una pausa y suspiró--. Reemplacé a la señorita Chen porque Lexi quiere ser nuestra modelo. Ella también encaja en el proyecto, así que estuve de acuerdo... --¿Qué? --pregunté con incredulidad. De pronto, apretó los labios y miró hacia otro lado. Luego se revolvió el cabello antes de sacudir la cabeza y tomar mi mano. --Lamento no haberte dicho antes, fue muy repentino. Ella me pidió un favor, no pude decirle que no. Rápidamente, retiré mi mano y lo miré con dolor y enojo. --No pudiste decirle que no, así que preferiste dañar a la empresa, a nuestra empresa. Me traicionaste, Pierce. --Kels, vamos. Sabes cuánto la amo. Ella es mi primer amor. Al oírlo, cerré los ojos con dolor. «Oh sí, ella es tu primer amor. Siempre la quisiste a ella, sin que te importen los demás. Si ella te frunce el ceño un poco, puedes hacer la vista gorda ante el dolor y el esfuerzo de los demás. Eres tan cruel, Pierce» pensé. --Bueno, ya lo has decidido. No tengo voz y voto en esto ya que tú eres el presidente. Ahora vete, estaré en la oficina --indiqué con frialdad mientras abría la puerta del auto para salir. --Kelly… En ese instante, lo miré a los ojos y dije: --Ve a casa temprano. Hablaremos de nuestro divorcio esta noche. Capítulo 4 Punto de vista de Kelly--Plantada Me encontraba jugueteando con el anillo de bodas en mi dedo mientras lo esperaba. Le había dicho que volviera temprano a casa, pero todavía no regresaba y ni siquiera contestaba mis llamadas. Bueno, ahora que Lexi había vuelto, probablemente ya no veía a esta casa como su hogar. De pronto, mis ojos se dirigieron a mi informe de embarazo que estaba sobre la mesa. Qué gracioso. Todavía era tan ingenua para albergar un rayo de esperanza de que las cosas podrían cambiar si le hablaba del bebé, pero este bebé estaba fuera de sus planes. Me sequé las lágrimas que se acumulaban en el rabillo de mis ojos y agarré el informe. Ya eran las cinco de la mañana cuando miré el reloj de la pared. Intenté marcar su número nuevamente, pero seguía sin responder. ¿En qué estaba tan ocupado? ¿Estaba h**iendo el a**r con Lexi? Debió haberla extrañado mucho, ¿verdad? Pronto, sin saber cuándo, me quedé dormida. Cuando sonó el despertador, inconscientemente toqué la almohada a mi lado. Frío como anoche, no había vuelto a casa todavía. Me burlé de mí misma al ver mi reflejo en el espejo de la cómoda. Los círculos oscuros bajo mis ojos se veían a simple vista y mi cabello era un total desastre, parecía un fantasma. De repente una oleada de náuseas inundó mi estómago y me di cuenta de que no había comido nada la noche anterior. De pronto, me sentí mal otra vez y rápidamente corrí hacia el lavabo y vomité. Escupí un líquido amarillento que sabía muy mal. De inmediato, me lavé la boca y miré mi propio reflejo en el espejo. Al verme, sacudí la cabeza y tomé mi frente en cuanto sentí ganas de vomitar de nuevo. Volví a escupir el líquido amarillento y mientras me lavaba la boca, sentí una cálida mano acariciando mi espalda. Inmediatamente levanté la cara y me encontré con un par de ojos marrones que me miraban a través del espejo. Detrás de mí con cara de preocupación estaba mi esposo Pierce. --¿Estás bien? ¿Te sientes mal? Debiste haberme dicho. Al instante, lo miré a través del espejo. --No respondiste mis llamadas --contesté. Ante aquellas palabras, la culpa apareció en sus ojos. --Lo lamento. Tenía cosas que hacer. Me quedé en la oficina toda la noche --afirmó. Rápidamente, me limpié la cara y pasé junto a él. Pierce me siguió mientras me sentaba frente al tocador y comenzaba a peinarme. --Kels… --Me desperté tarde. No pude preparar el desayuno. Mientras hablaba, intenté evitar sus ojos. Sentía que iba a perder los estribos y gritarle. En ningún momento sentí su egoísmo tan claramente como ahora. Decía que yo era su mejor amiga, pero nunca le habían importado mis necesidades, mis sentimientos. --Kels... sabes que no te pregunté eso. Estoy preocupado por tu salud... Kels, ¿todavía estamos bien? Ante aquella pregunta, dejé de peinarme y lentamente nuestras miradas se encontraron a través del espejo, otra vez. ¿De verdad me estaba preguntando eso? ¿Después de que me pidió el divorcio sin siquiera preguntarme si estaba de acuerdo? Él decidió por su cuenta sólo porque su primer amor había vuelto. No podía creer lo que hacía. Al final, fingí una sonrisa y dije: --No me siento bien hoy, Pierce, eso es todo. Un instante después, se puso de cuclillas a mi lado, lo cual no me resultó sorprendente porque sabía que realmente se preocupaba. Pero lo que sí me sorprendió fue que hacía todo esto después de enterrar una daga en mi corazón. --¿Estás bien? --preguntó mientras tocaba suavemente mi frente y mi cuello--. ¿Estás enferma? Dime cómo te sientes, Kels. --Mis sentimientos no importan --no pude evitar decir y parecía sorprendido por mis palabras. En ese instante, intenté evitarlo, pero me agarró de la muñeca y me hizo mirarlo. Su rostro ahora reflejaba su ira. Había perdido completamente la paciencia. --¿Qué te pasa, Kels? Has estado actuando así desde ayer. ¿Es por Lexi? ¿O porque no volví a casa anoche? --inquirió. Yo lo miré a los ojos, molesta. --¡Tú fuiste quien pidió el divorcio! Te pedí que regresaras temprano para hablar al respecto, pero me dejaste esperando toda la noche. ¿Pretendías que te diera la bienvenida con brazos abiertos después de eso, Pierce? --respondí. Al escucharme, apretó la mandíbula y sacudió la cabeza. --Kels, yo... --Ya basta. Hablaremos del divorcio después del trabajo. --¡Kels! --me llamó y me agarró de los hombros. La confusión y el dolor eran visibles en sus ojos--. ¿Estás... enamorada de mí? Aquello me desconcertó. ¿Enamorada? ¡Sí! Desde que estábamos en la escuela secundaria, desde que se convirtió en mi mejor amigo. ¿Quién no se enamoraría de alguien que te ha estado protegiendo desde entonces? Siempre he estado agradecida de tenerlo como mi mejor amigo y esposo, pero ahora… lo estaba perdiendo. Perdiéndolo irremediablemente. Decidí darle a nuestro matrimonio una última oportunidad, hacer un esfuerzo final... ...... ==== Casarse con su mejor amigo fue un sueño hecho realidad para Kelly, pero todo tiene realmente una limitación. Pierce es el primer amor de Kelly, pero como su mejor amiga, sabía bien que siempre había otra mujer en lo profundo de su corazón. Lexi Gilbert. Kelly finalmente se dio cuenta de que su feliz matrimonio de los últimos tres años era solo un hermoso sueño cuando Pierce pidió el divorcio solo porque Lexi regresó. Ella sólo podría ser su mejor amiga incluso si estuviera encinta de su bebé. ¿Por qué no merecía ser amada? ¿Qué sucederá en adelante? ¿Cómo podría Kelly salvar su corazón en esta batalla de amor y odio? Los capítulos disponibles son limitados aquí, haga click el botón abajo para instalar APP y disfrutar leyendo más contenidos maravillosos. 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