Confucius Ads Library: ScrapeResults

2273

Scrape	20
Id	2,273
Active	1
Created Epoch	1,737,158,403
Modified Epoch	1,746,806,134
Scrape Epoch	1,737,158,521
Created	1/17/25, 6:00 PM
Modified	5/9/25, 10:55 AM
Status	completed
Notes
Dataset External No	2273
Filename

Related Ads

Id	Active	Status	Created	Modified	Created Epoch	Modified Epoch	Scrape Result Id	Caption	Cta Text	Display Format	Title	Link Description	Link Url	Page Id	Page Name	Page Profile Picture Url	Page Entity Type	Page Is Profile Page	Body	Current Page Name	Page Like Count	Page Profile Uri	Cta Type	Actions
2665132	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:44 AM	1737159148	1749138255	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473618103_626195229824602_479601733323140660_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ovyp3IpCruMQ7kNvgGfGcHS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCSnc56_pHS-z9n195OGsmdOsP7YH9WwIHxpbMMgG9V9g&oe=6790CFE4	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665215	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:45 AM	1737159164	1749138316	2273	link.dice.fm	Learn more	VIDEO			https://link.dice.fm/s5bOvX5kbQb?sharer_id=6763af9585b0440001656a31	1.0034209155967E+14	Citadel Cathedral	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473619307_934901281952629_5276636201117652834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=O9oVwyUK4oEQ7kNvgF1s78z&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYDLILWjfoAV1G4Ay3j4kelOxevlrQG84wnfGPuiC9aK9g&oe=6790C8DF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	This Coming Sunday, January 19th from 7 P.M. to Midnight , Come hang out with us for an Evening of Fun “Gospel Skate Night…Let Freedom Ring!” At The Brand New Xanadu Roller Rink, 262 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237 (L Train to Jefferson St) located in Bushwick! On that Evening, We will have Performances by James Hall, Samantha Howard, and Trevone Perry!! Bring your children out as we will be giving out book-bags (while supplies last)! We also have Door Prizes for the Adults (while supplies last) You can pay using the QR code on the advertisement, or the Link Below: https://link.dice.fm/s5bOvX5kbQb?sharer_id=6763af9585b0440001656a31 #CitadelCathedral #GospelSkateNight #LetFreedomRing #DrKevinBond #JamesHall #SamanthaHoward #TrevonePerry #DJBigBob #WhatsComingProductions See You There!!!	Citadel Cathedral	6539	https://www.facebook.com/CitadelCathedralNY/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665122	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 8:21 PM	1737159144	1749172912	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/wickedgood.marketing	1.124064486092E+14	WickedGood Marketing	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473700152_633961562400773_8096853478828348178_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1p0LEFMl8dsQ7kNvgH1m2v4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCcU3pNsrLJ_JnTOZctfbc36smEN-FO1l6HNQsMBiAYaQ&oe=6790D292	PERSON_PROFILE	0	IT’S TIME FOR A GIVEAWAY! ✨ THE PRIZE -Macrame disco spinner from @best.of.luck.designs -Wax melts and room spray from @themoonandthemagpie -White beaded bow bracelet from @finnies_findings10e -Lotus ring, gold, size 7 from @reemjewelryboutique -Sugar scrub and shower steamer from @explicitessentials TO ENTER: ✨Follow us at @wickedgood.marketing ✨Comment on the giveaway reel and tag your favorite small business! New entry for each comment! That’s it! Good luck! Winner will be chosen and announced on Monday, February 3! Giveaway value is $155+ ✨ This giveaway is not affiliated with instagram. US and Canada only.	WickedGood Marketing	1	https://www.facebook.com/wickedgoodmarketing.co/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665187	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 8:59 PM	1737159156	1749175193	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/omybathandbody	2.4045600270344E+14	O My Goat Milk Bath and Body	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474002401_633899309207036_6155605702186148947_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=85ZsUCyLHOEQ7kNvgHY62Se&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYCqwk1gC72PnnNLr9AdiGcJeTgmPw01x38YeFelCCVIiA&oe=6790A760	PERSON_PROFILE	0	❄️GIVEAWAY TIME❄️ For January’s giveaway we’ve included some beautifully luscious skincare, designed specifically to help you achieve your ✨dream✨ skin. ESPECIALLY in the dead of winter. We’ve created a basket that will be perfect for helping to rid your skin of all the winter imperfections. To enter you must: ~Be following us ~like this post ~comment “snow” below Last day to enter will be next Wednesday, January 22nd. Enjoy and GOOD LUCK!	O My Goat Milk Bath and Body	11260	https://www.facebook.com/omybathandbody/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665158	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 7:28 PM	1737159151	1749169712	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/vincimus_fw	3.9479587372088E+14	Vincimus	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473636651_1981626575663520_2813285337120314575_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=TAhcSRjOnuYQ7kNvgHC5bac&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYAQ6Tx2gpC7JVoEq75Lm9Gd7lS5QEAuLVekw3ZmBBpWIg&oe=6790DC95	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🚨IT IS THAT TIME!!!!🚨GIVEAWAY ALERT🚨 The giveaway rules are simple! 1: You must be following our IG. 2: You must sign up for the VINCIMUS newsletter at Vincimus.co 3: Tag a friend. For every @, you receive one entry! (Which means if you @ a lot of people, you will receive a lot of entries). We will be drawing the winner 1 week from today before the drop on 1/24/25 at 8am PST, to celebrate the capsule A Warriors Bloodline! Good luck 👊🏻🔥 #bjj #jiujitsulifestyle #brazilianjiujitsu #giveaway #nogi #vincimus	Vincimus	32	https://www.facebook.com/61565062918302/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665218	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:24 PM	1737159164	1749180240	2273		Send message	IMAGE				5.034919995216E+14	Southern Cross Soft Washing	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473790993_28263613889920964_6693101575636510613_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DnNOEJCq3S8Q7kNvgFxTTzj&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYCYM08oOzl2oi5YclkTa9AlfoPq-cXnNkH8CJ-W9daX9Q&oe=6790B5A3	PERSON_PROFILE	0	👏🏼Giveaway Alert!👏🏼 We're excited to announce that we're offering a free power washing service for a church in exchange for some footage of the process. As an added bonus, anyone from the church who decides to use our services or recommends us will receive a 10% discount. This is a great way to give back to the community while showcasing our work. Tag your church for a chance to win this! Please invite all your friends to our page and encourage them to tag their churches as well! ⭐️How to Win⭐️ ⭐️Like and share our page ⭐️Invite all of your friends to our page ⭐️Tag your church below (Every tag is an entry) ⭐️Pray over our company!	Southern Cross Soft Washing	27	https://www.facebook.com/61571851012269/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665124	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 4:13 AM	1737159147	1749114810	2273	instagram.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/robertcoweddings	3.4616759857102E+14	Robert & Co. Weddings	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473711148_458776683971827_6995428325858915045_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7zSxLSbZlwQ7kNvgG7yvA6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYBEAg7HA5bIpqR04EDPkYmN_vXy9sDKM8ZURLTM90JfuQ&oe=6790DAAB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Robert & Co. Weddings	1	https://www.facebook.com/61559856867262/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665119	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 11:57 PM	1737159143	1749185878	2273	moxietowns.myflodesk.com	Sign Up	CAROUSEL			https://moxietowns.myflodesk.com/newsletter	1.0784066240583E+14	MoxieTowns	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474009388_596762513102395_6603567390096821432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJYjGV1b4MkQ7kNvgF7zWkE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBcuVc5BXiLBLyjqrYv6OninvJP0RxCrAv-6JY5SpUtDw&oe=6790CBC3	PERSON_PROFILE	0		MoxieTowns	11	https://www.facebook.com/100095426952105/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665057	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 4:19 AM	1737159130	1749201581	2273	windowcleaner.com	Shop Now	DCO	Weekend Giveaway Time!	15 Winners & $6200+ in Prizes	https://windowcleaner.com/pages/contest	22759782977	Window Cleaning Resource	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473703467_588744117457030_5717996904332503221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fKON2W1v75cQ7kNvgGhWkMH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYD_I8sy4hmXKTuBnPZaYOhWPiK25N5hnWtUccCffg36ZQ&oe=6790C66F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Feeling lucky? Place an order and be entered to win up to $6200 in prizes! Drop your order number below for an extra entry! See the full list of prizes: https://windowcleaner.com/pages/contest	Window Cleaning Resource	20921	https://www.facebook.com/windowcleaner/	SHOP_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665161	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 4:15 AM	1737159151	1749201329	2273	synisterspeed.com	Sign Up	DCO	Stop Manifesting. Start Winning. 🏎️💸🔥	🚨 Win a Mercedes G-Wagon + $10K or $100K cash. Only 1 winner. Ultra-limited entries. Don’t wait—enter now! 💥	https://synisterspeed.com/pages/enter-live-main-g550-3x?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term={{ad.name}}	3.8458946473598E+14	Synister Speed	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473560713_1277178960241391_1271628776273802950_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=doMSAg4En9IQ7kNvgGY_Dju&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYANlrctQGOpXPLznJlfJUpSAOmT1wugIpQdSDgLRKxpOg&oe=6790C11F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🚨 STOP SCROLLING. THIS IS HUGE. 🚨 POV: You’re not just dreaming about a G-Wagon… you’re about to own one. And here’s the twist: you pick your prize — G-Wagon plus $10K cash, OR $100K cash instead. 😎 You’ve seen the G-Wagon cruising by, catching everyone’s eye. You’ve imagined it sitting in your driveway and turning heads wherever you go. Now, it's time to make that dream a reality. 💥 And yup — you heard right: we’re sweetening the deal with $10K cash just for fun. 💸 So, what’s it gonna be? The G-Wagon that screams “I’ve arrived,” or the cold hard cash? Either way, you're winning. This isn’t for everyone. This is for the ones who don’t settle, who demand more, and know they deserve it all. 😏 The clock’s ticking... ⏳ 👉 Ultra-limited entries. No time to waste. Enter NOW.	Synister Speed	2112	https://www.facebook.com/61563402209345/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665081	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 7:31 AM	1737159133	1749213101	2273	Casinos.com/us/news/cure-the-january-blues-win-an-...	Sign up	IMAGE	💥 WIN an iPhone 16 – Free Entry!	Click 'Sign Up' To Enter	https://www.casinos.com/us/news/cure-the-january-blues-win-an-iphone-us	1.0546552847371E+14	Casinos.com	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474031100_9252884278101940_5883905482197096393_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cTi_gycOMb0Q7kNvgGbF_uy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYD1jezhWtxknZCeniLeaLUZDFN1v4Kd33s7rEY0DBxL4Q&oe=6790CD29	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🚨 Win an iPhone – FREE ENTRY! 🚨 🔵We're giving the January Blues the middle finger🖕by giving YOU the chance to win a BLUE iPhone 16. 💡 Here’s how to enter: 1️⃣ Click 'Sign Up' below and enter your email in the form on our site. 2️⃣Like and share this post and follow our page. ⏰Entries close January 31st. You don’t want to miss your chance to win this amazing new phone – Enter now! ⏳ #competition #giveaway '#iphonegiveaway	Casinos.com	1578	https://www.facebook.com/casinoscom/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665063	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 8:36 AM	1737159130	1749217014	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473959430_2870479069787283_7007298111392230272_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SB9Jc_K6TIkQ7kNvgGcT-59&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCMhNy4tGOUdDij65nG3y2GbsiStAawWrtONSZd40PS6A&oe=6790C596	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665088	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 5:47 PM	1737159135	1748990829	2273	instagram.com	Send message	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/ameralipmp	4.6150558371502E+14	Ser Alagthad Project Management Services llc	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473766960_1300093014563288_105252463102275477_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Q1OG16s_Y5sQ7kNvgFieyCZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYAHYcV-ZsY57MtaESWhWgNA_TTMbAXhh5epb3RAq-FE-w&oe=6790C40D	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎯 FREE PMP COURSE GIVEAWAY – LIMITED TIME ONLY! 🎯 Yes, you read that right. This week only, I’m giving away my PMP Mastery Series on Udemy (worth $99) absolutely FREE. Here’s how to claim your spot: 1️⃣ Email me at ameralipmp@gmail.com 2️⃣ Drop your email in the comments below 3️⃣ Or inbox me directly ⏳ Act fast! This is for 300 people only, and it’s first come, first served. My team and I will send you the course link within 72 hours, so don’t miss this chance to start your PMP journey with me – FREE of cost! ✅ This offer is only available for THIS WEEK. Share this with friends, colleagues, or anyone looking to elevate their career. 💡 Ready to achieve your PMP goals? The time is NOW. Don’t wait – spots are filling up FAST. Let’s make YOU the next PMP success story! #FreePMP #PMPMastery #PMPCertification #LevelUp	Ser Alagthad Project Management Services llc	1290	https://www.facebook.com/61567708317877/	INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE	View Edit Delete
2665206	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 10:11 AM	1737159163	1749222715	2273	thestickybrand.com	Shop now	IMAGE	Sticky Brand - High Quality Custom Stickers, Labels, and Decals	Sticky Brand offers premium quality stickers, labels, magnets and more -- low minimums, fast turnaround, free shipping, and excellent customer service. Custom stickers are a fast and easy way to promote your business, brand, or event	http://www.thestickybrand.com/	208789130441	The Sticky Brand	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473802751_1602156730660169_4273254239551046878_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=cBSwOnAnFnkQ7kNvgGI-d80&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYCMcENKARczYLyv2B-GXPP3S-gBl7EB0qJhYD012OxCWg&oe=6790D874	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Love your Sticky Brand stickers? We want to hear about it! 🌟 Post an unboxing video or review showing off your favorite stickers, and you could WIN 250 custom 3” Bombproof stickers! 💥 Here’s how to enter: 1️⃣ Share your unboxing or review video. 2️⃣ Tag us @thestickybrand and use #StickyBrandReview. 3️⃣ Follow @thestickybrand The most creative post will win BIG, so show us your sticky style! 🚀 Contest ends on January 31st! 💖 #StickyBrand #Giveaway #StickerUnbox #StickerHaul #CustomStickers	The Sticky Brand	40150	https://www.facebook.com/TheStickyBrand/	SHOP_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665162	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 12:38 PM	1737159151	1749231529	2273		Send message	IMAGE				1.1010631566800E+14	Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473991778_1126858782459251_365557577394609309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=X5Y8c-BP9BgQ7kNvgGA5ci0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCakTDpSAlzA_qCNkxyNvtiJAwMlxQOeQitUtEw-vL_7A&oe=6790DAE2	PERSON_PROFILE	0	The Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills will be hosting a blood drive on Monday January 20 from 3:00 pm to 6:15pm at the Somerset Hills Lutheran Church in Basking Ridge This is Martin Luther King Day so many may be off from work or school Please consider donating and see the attached flyer for more information and to make an appointment You will also be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $10,000 gift cards From Vitalant!!	Rotary Club of the Somerset Hills	1047	https://www.facebook.com/somersethillsrotary/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665046	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/2/25, 11:46 PM	1737159124	1748925974	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	IMAGE	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C632AED2924BFAC3F8A8B41E68E7A6ECD050	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473180153_615253940951566_7470955375108003066_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IDjgvTPV9ugQ7kNvgFKLIKr&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAFiJ2EtzoQtjNqz3ZdRlUbGkQMCe97SfGkHIWPbxetdQ&oe=6790A7D5	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665090	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 2:19 AM	1737159135	1749712769	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458726181_1041301143837429_2931944480091280696_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWeMp-IKNhsQ7kNvgE4K0HO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBFotI06Wka5MIsFWWwlMCJmfQS8-AnloQrJLgM4Er8dw&oe=6790B449	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665109	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 5:21 PM	1737159138	1749248509	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn more	IMAGE	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	1775 Coffee	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473446105_3839023523016809_8002786535700210403_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=JjPC9ScUKVAQ7kNvgEjI82H&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYASmuxue4-miN_YaNU5YttgRkwFpt_thmb9ntp_77FWvA&oe=6790BD27	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665073	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 2:17 PM	1737159131	1749410231	2273		Call Now	CAROUSEL	Forget Me Not Flower Shop			337984795531	Forget Me Not Flower Shop	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473817218_622372020162582_3718660907704681237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D1UUKic53EcQ7kNvgHv7hzc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDsYrcRmPsCHgWT5HKIBL8UZynwapZuNr1H6hoW8uNBEw&oe=6790CB7A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Forget Me Not Flower Shop	1213	https://www.facebook.com/fmnflowershopCT/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665192	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 10:59 PM	1737159159	1749268792	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/hugsngigglesus	4.3195679333885E+14	Hugs & Giggles	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473549817_616898020838173_6819051265125271345_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=E6DK1YDXSP0Q7kNvgFRKxKY&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYDP1uiVFrm2RelhC-gKkjDHo9RTYxEbci-fchWkcDFGEw&oe=6790B37C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Big smiles, big prizes, and BIG fun! 🎁 This 2025, we’re turning up the joy with a monthly giveaway you won’t want to miss. 💖 From gift cards to the coziest PJs and other surprises, there’s so much to win! Here’s how to join the fun: 1️⃣ Follow us 2️⃣ Tag 2 friends who love cute & comfy vibes 3️⃣ Share this post on your story and don’t forget to tag us! 💡 Pro tip: More tags = more chances to WIN! The winners will be announced on Feb 15th! Let’s make this year unforgettable—starting with YOU! 🌟✨ Head to hugsngiggles.com or check our Instagram @hugsngigglesus for all the details. 💌 #hugsngigglesus #bambooproducts #bambooclothes #kids #toddlerlife #kidsclothingboutique #babyfashion #kidsclothingbrand #bamboobabyclothes #momlife	Hugs & Giggles	35	https://www.facebook.com/61567070246373/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665120	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 6:12 AM	1737159143	1749640362	2273	moxietowns.myflodesk.com	Sign Up	CAROUSEL			https://moxietowns.myflodesk.com/newsletter	1.0784066240583E+14	MoxieTowns	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474009388_596762513102395_6603567390096821432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJYjGV1b4MkQ7kNvgF7zWkE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBcuVc5BXiLBLyjqrYv6OninvJP0RxCrAv-6JY5SpUtDw&oe=6790CBC3	PERSON_PROFILE	0		MoxieTowns	11	https://www.facebook.com/100095426952105/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665053	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159125	1748824548	2273	ticketmaster.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	T-shirt Giveaway	2/4 vs Stars	https://www.ticketmaster.com/anaheim-ducks-vs-dallas-stars-anaheim-california-02-04-2025/event/090060DAC13E4D19?brand=ducks&camefrom=cfc_ducks_2425_paidsocial_lny&utm_medium=paidsocial&utm_source=fb/ig&utm_campaign=lny	99917438471	Anaheim Ducks	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473955718_1302820320969711_4550009591496743622_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RUHzkhB_CW4Q7kNvgEfR65q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCDv4yTGAGBkdU1jUCkgBU8K7I4CS0htElrXO9Y45p3rQ&oe=6790AAC6	PERSON_PROFILE	0	2/4 vs Stars	Anaheim Ducks	405905	https://www.facebook.com/anaheimducks/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665050	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/2/25, 10:16 PM	1737159124	1748920599	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	IMAGE	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C63276957AB23E6307D3CBA87FF9FD5785A9	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473328423_966295632064881_1349471132172279626_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=h9wnJxtFLCcQ7kNvgFIE9xu&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYBNIG_BhgeGOjT6mWiyaPMYViWaKy58xlWQVrTyKYdrgg&oe=6790A7DE	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665054	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159125	1748824531	2273	ticketmaster.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	T-shirt Giveaway	2/4 vs Stars	https://www.ticketmaster.com/anaheim-ducks-vs-dallas-stars-anaheim-california-02-04-2025/event/090060DAC13E4D19?brand=ducks&camefrom=cfc_ducks_2425_paidsocial_lny&utm_medium=paidsocial&utm_source=fb/ig&utm_campaign=lny	99917438471	Anaheim Ducks	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473955718_1302820320969711_4550009591496743622_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RUHzkhB_CW4Q7kNvgEfR65q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCDv4yTGAGBkdU1jUCkgBU8K7I4CS0htElrXO9Y45p3rQ&oe=6790AAC6	PERSON_PROFILE	0	2/4 vs Stars	Anaheim Ducks	405905	https://www.facebook.com/anaheimducks/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665189	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/7/25, 1:30 AM	1737159157	1749277837	2273	intellicominc.com	Learn more	IMAGE	Intellicom - Customized IT solutions that fit your business needs.	Intellicom	http://www.intellicominc.com/	42584098303	Intellicom	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473755755_1109821044213229_1563634964631744578_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=5oKSgNMAd2EQ7kNvgFlzrAp&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAhwp_uyygLD3Nb4CugA1EMoPTPYg6moC9KhREqd_jiiQ&oe=6790B020	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉The wait is over, our completely redesigned website is now LIVE! 🎉 We’ve been hard at work creating a website that’s not only visually stunning but also makes it easier than ever for you to find what you need. Here’s a snapshot of what's new: 🔍 Improved Navigation – Explore our services with ease! IT Services and Digital Services now have their own dedicated sections, making it simpler to find the solutions that matter to your business. 📚 Fresh Content – Discover updated information about our services, team, and expertise, all presented in a modern, user-friendly layout. ✨ Streamlined Design – Enjoy a sleek, intuitive experience from the moment you land on our homepage. Visit our new site today, and let us know what your favorite feature is! Like, share, and comment under this post for a chance to win a $100 Amazon gift card. We can’t wait to hear what you think: https://intellicominc.com/ #Intellicom #NewWebsite #WebsiteLaunch #Giveaway	Intellicom	1468	https://www.facebook.com/intellicom/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665168	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 5:36 PM	1737159153	1748990191	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/dnamydog	200299316345	DNA My Dog	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473834058_963961039132884_7291889896574307799_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=y7xqNADr2G4Q7kNvgF68TO4&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYD_6hAWpu6NLz1A7-bNqb0aNiSd2GIUUHrzVPysKDXpcA&oe=6790CAFA	PERSON_PROFILE	0	📢📢 We're joining forces with @DreamWorks Animation for the release of the Dog Man movie on January 31st! To celebrate this partnership, we're helping out three lucky animal rescues. Dog Man is part dog, part man, all hero🦸 You can be a hero for your favourite animal rescue by nominating them for a chance to win: 🐾 (1) $3,000.00 gift card or food & supplies 🐾 (5) Essential Breed ID Tests 🐾 Breed results reveal How to enter: 🐾 Like this post 🐾 Follow @DNAmydog and @Dreamworksdogman 🐾 Tag your favourite rescue in the comments and tell us what makes them heroes For an additional entry, share a story tagging your favourite rescue, @dnamydog and @dreamworksdogman, and using hashtags #dnamydog #DogManMovie. Open to rescues located in Canada or the United States. Entry closes January 27, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST. Winning rescues will be selected via a random drawing on or about January 28, 2025, and will be notified via email. Official rules can be found at https://dnamydog.com/rules-for-the-rescue-giveaway/	DNA My Dog	15112	https://www.facebook.com/DnaMyDog/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665117	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:02 PM	1737159141	1748991753	2273	gleam.io	Sign up	IMAGE	Win a pair of tickets to see Destroy Lonely!	Experience Destroy Lonely at The Wellmont Theater on Saturday, January 25th! Atlanta rapper Destroy Lonely typically delivers erratic, speedy rhymes over atmospheric trap beats. He’s released numerous mixtapes and EPs since the late 2010s, and his 2019 single “Bane” became a viral hit two year...	https://gleam.io/Zv9YE/destroy-lonely-giveaway	4.7950263213872E+14	The Wellmont Theater	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473184603_976837451060904_8188678654596696475_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=amdzJARQzIkQ7kNvgGEW4OH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCu_etW_AQoMnzBIdDu9iB5mNMgRMmr56qfJVM-Dm-lkg&oe=6790DA7D	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Enter to win a pair of tickets to see Destroy Lonely in Montclair, NJ on January 25, 2025! Contest ends 1/23 @ 8AM ET.⁠ ➡️ Enter now: https://gleam.io/Zv9YE/destroy-lonely-giveaway	The Wellmont Theater	59822	https://www.facebook.com/TheWellmontTheater/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665115	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:02 PM	1737159141	1748991771	2273	galaxyofstars.org	Apply now	IMAGE	Cash to Grow Your Business 🚀	Enter for a chance to win our new $2,450 Galaxy Grant, brought to you by Hidden Star, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with an 8-year track record.	https://galaxyofstars.org/galaxy-grants/	1.3860427148834E+15	Galaxy of Stars	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473821326_620280320558837_8798344339329718918_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FJaAFf5xiC0Q7kNvgFO0HeC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCeluA-gnhuwJZN18tFp-7aE5FHScmM81FFjFSISmOqqw&oe=6790D251	PERSON_PROFILE	0	📣 Exciting news! We are back with a brand new $2,450 Galaxy Grant Giveaway to kick off 2025! All women & minority business owners are encouraged to apply! New, experienced, or aspiring! ✨ Only takes 30 seconds to enter ✨ Refer a friend - If they win, you BOTH win! ✨ Deadline is March 31st, 2025 and the winner(s) will be announced during the first week of April 2025! Apply today!	Galaxy of Stars	17680	https://www.facebook.com/GalaxyOfStarsHelp/	APPLY_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665134	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:03 PM	1737159148	1748991793	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474073410_2625829797614557_6415064470012950385_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hvfaMCoBir8Q7kNvgE7odsz&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDBTQVIivGkB-LspwSoY_6vGQZgPBE5OTIrxOMyvFx-TA&oe=6790AAA7	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665166	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:03 PM	1737159153	1748991800	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/slpstudios	1.641392799487E+15	Stephanie Lynn Studios	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473779135_1529426794400840_4260299207714672796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DuRsnPEx8GkQ7kNvgHj0Bjk&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYAwIeiwLq8WJL1wVwd7a6JZcPtJxqoSIFB8HL6TJDB5TQ&oe=6790BF24	PERSON_PROFILE	0	It’s GIVEAWAY TIMEEEE for photographers and clients!!!!! Whoo hooooo!!! This is THE biggest giveaway we have ever done! Yay!🥳🎉 We are BEYOND excited to launch our updated stunning all inclusive photo studio located in Wellington🖤🎉We have poured our heart and soul into this. To celebrate our newly updated space with our stunning Mediterranean inspired arches and stairs (yes! Stairs!!! All created by @e-ecreative!), we want to pay it forward for your support with a giveaway!!!! Winner will receive two hour complimentary rental at the SL Studio with SLS or your preferred photographer, a one hour session of your choosing, a headshot mini session AND a holiday mini! What?!?! This giveaway is valued at over $2850.00! We will select two winners, a photographer/ creative and a client! To enter: 1. Share this post on your story, tag three friends. 2. Follow us at BOTH @slpstudios + @theslpstudios 3. Follow us on Facebook at Stephanie Lynn Comment below either: I want to win as a client! Or I want to win as a photographer All three things must be completed to enter! Winner will be chosen Monday at noon! Ready, set, it’s GIVEAWAY TIME!!!! #giveaway #Giveaway #Contest #Win #Freebie #Sweepstakes #GiveawayAlert #InstaGiveaway #EnterToWin #FreeStuff #GiveawayContest #GiftAway #TagToWin #WinIt #GiveawayTime #contestalert	Stephanie Lynn Studios	1841	https://www.facebook.com/SLStudios.FL/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665130	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:03 PM	1737159148	1748991809	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474037195_1744961976354016_5757169179677585148_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tCC46qIQfu4Q7kNvgHhiKR0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDb4ZjTAh5G9rabKdSub3SLiwDOvv9SBl7UrGrdjyYBvQ&oe=6790C261	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665080	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:17 PM	1737159133	1748992679	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471865081_1309904003378867_8666417407436467800_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yHZ6Z__VbpkQ7kNvgGDP0GB&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCfKKmupJOzPHtPcOA_hl9oRNDn01XkLl5RU2ZnB6E4uQ&oe=6790C305	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665062	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:19 PM	1737159130	1748992785	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473959430_2870479069787283_7007298111392230272_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SB9Jc_K6TIkQ7kNvgGcT-59&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCMhNy4tGOUdDij65nG3y2GbsiStAawWrtONSZd40PS6A&oe=6790C596	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665133	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 2:57 AM	1737159148	1749369476	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473618103_626195229824602_479601733323140660_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ovyp3IpCruMQ7kNvgGfGcHS&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCSnc56_pHS-z9n195OGsmdOsP7YH9WwIHxpbMMgG9V9g&oe=6790CFE4	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665111	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:07 PM	1737159139	1748992049	2273	maybellineus.jebbit.com	Sign Up	DCO	Maybe It's a Maybelline Giveaway	Enter Now!	https://maybellineus.jebbit.com/vl1jajv8?L=Facebook	20251700747	Maybelline New York	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473683928_969170861216713_2243268897774920673_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=if83yF8dk0oQ7kNvgEwx3PC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDzM2i-6pmTbNbawyuG_7QSx8hDGjrFD1isQNuTWlM5Fw&oe=6790D789	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Win over $300 in products and merch!	Maybelline New York	34602089	https://www.facebook.com/maybelline/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665087	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:08 PM	1737159134	1748992108	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			https://www.instagram.com/_u/h2goexpresscarwash	1.4682399999817E+15	H2GO Car Wash	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473752755_1832939624177735_2131974203591651952_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=8uk4_cvf3MUQ7kNvgGV2ORs&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYAFsi9o4Pf9DdSgDHntkXlAa9NTjOYlg920dqjZz-oigw&oe=6790D3BC	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉 Win a Year of Unlimited Car Washes! 🎉 H2GO is giving ONE lucky winner a whole year of sparkling clean rides with our Unlimited Wash Club! That’s right—unlimited washes all year long, absolutely FREE! Here’s how to enter:� 1️⃣ Follow @H2GOExpressCarWash� 2️⃣ Like this post ❤️� 3️⃣ Tag a carpool buddy in the comments!� Giveaway Details: * Must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license and registered vehicle. * Winner must provide a valid license plate number. * Open to Orange County, CA residents only. * Winner will be announced on January 31st via our Instagram stories and DMs. 📢 No purchase necessary to enter or win. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram. Don’t miss your chance to make 2025 the cleanest year ever! 🚙💦 Good luck! 🤞✨ #H2GOUnlimited #GiveawayAlert #CleanCarGoals #FreeCarWash #OrangeCounty	H2GO Car Wash	2893	https://www.facebook.com/H2GoExpress/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665113	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:24 PM	1737159140	1748993079	2273		Call now	IMAGE	Creighton's WildFlowers Design Studio	A local Rossville, Georgia florist proudly serving the area since 1946 with a lovely variety of fresh		1.5257202810026E+15	Creighton's WildFlowers Design Studio	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473621801_585787767591279_8500073012554645292_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vaPcKzzMnP4Q7kNvgEKZAmq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBd5EiZtAKL74YwXqYjpz5ehx3KJkuRaHBB_h3FQfZXew&oe=6790C6B5	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🌹 Valentine’s Day Giveaway! 🌹 Spread the love and enter for a chance to win a FREE dozen roses delivered to someone special on Valentine’s Day! (within the Chattanooga area) To enter: 1️⃣ Follow our page 2️⃣ Like and share this post 3️⃣ Tag a friend who would love a free dozen roses! Each tag = one entry! The giveaway ends on February 3rd! The winner will be selected at random and announced on the 4th! #supportsmallbusinessowners #localflorist #chattanoogaflorist #valentinesday #giveaway	Creighton's WildFlowers Design Studio	2491	https://www.facebook.com/creightonsflowers/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665222	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:34 PM	1737159164	1748824479	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473534942_833887418838757_7156265767235611274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=68FJnRjfsD8Q7kNvgEmlrG_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYDRFg3McizSK30yfl2KBjhsLCs8v6wyyu4uw9nT-DYM3w&oe=6790BF53	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Get 4X entries to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ 1200+ HP Chevelle and $50,000 cash 🔑 💵	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665074	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:39 PM	1737159132	1748824775	2273		Call Now	CAROUSEL	Forget Me Not Flower Shop			337984795531	Forget Me Not Flower Shop	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473817218_622372020162582_3718660907704681237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D1UUKic53EcQ7kNvgHv7hzc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDsYrcRmPsCHgWT5HKIBL8UZynwapZuNr1H6hoW8uNBEw&oe=6790CB7A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Forget Me Not Flower Shop	1213	https://www.facebook.com/fmnflowershopCT/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665126	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:42 PM	1737159148	1748824939	2273	instagram.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/robertcoweddings	3.4616759857102E+14	Robert & Co. Weddings	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473711148_458776683971827_6995428325858915045_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=x7zSxLSbZlwQ7kNvgG7yvA6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYBEAg7HA5bIpqR04EDPkYmN_vXy9sDKM8ZURLTM90JfuQ&oe=6790DAAB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Robert & Co. Weddings	1	https://www.facebook.com/61559856867262/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665069	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 11:06 PM	1737159131	1749441966	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			https://www.instagram.com/_u/vdnsuperstores	1.4211041281751E+15	Vegas Discount Nutrition	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473989843_907905084831455_1695367299337541858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=grUOqTPT6YAQ7kNvgEnThOK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYB83aotqVnhVZAQ-UiUIP4tvtblD3zB7jEQdsLps1KllQ&oe=6790D3CE	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Vegas Discount Nutrition	17358	https://www.facebook.com/VDNSUPERSTORES/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665071	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 12:15 AM	1737159131	1749446109	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			https://www.instagram.com/_u/vdnsuperstores	1.4211041281751E+15	Vegas Discount Nutrition	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473989843_907905084831455_1695367299337541858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=grUOqTPT6YAQ7kNvgEnThOK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYB83aotqVnhVZAQ-UiUIP4tvtblD3zB7jEQdsLps1KllQ&oe=6790D3CE	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Vegas Discount Nutrition	17358	https://www.facebook.com/VDNSUPERSTORES/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665075	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 8:33 AM	1737159132	1749130422	2273		Call Now	CAROUSEL	Forget Me Not Flower Shop			337984795531	Forget Me Not Flower Shop	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473817218_622372020162582_3718660907704681237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D1UUKic53EcQ7kNvgHv7hzc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDsYrcRmPsCHgWT5HKIBL8UZynwapZuNr1H6hoW8uNBEw&oe=6790CB7A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Forget Me Not Flower Shop	1213	https://www.facebook.com/fmnflowershopCT/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665096	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 1:49 AM	1737159135	1749451791	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453235203_487678860547090_8902084075905505850_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PXiric0y7-4Q7kNvgEB_oUo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYC2R5Gag4mxSXoY5BAQItDRDZMSTCeaWIS9DqYaA8YxSA&oe=6790BEB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665118	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 8:07 AM	1737159142	1749474469	2273	moxietowns.myflodesk.com	Sign Up	CAROUSEL			https://moxietowns.myflodesk.com/newsletter	1.0784066240583E+14	MoxieTowns	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474009388_596762513102395_6603567390096821432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJYjGV1b4MkQ7kNvgF7zWkE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBcuVc5BXiLBLyjqrYv6OninvJP0RxCrAv-6JY5SpUtDw&oe=6790CBC3	PERSON_PROFILE	0		MoxieTowns	11	https://www.facebook.com/100095426952105/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665121	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159144	1746806134	2273	moxietowns.myflodesk.com	Sign Up	CAROUSEL			https://moxietowns.myflodesk.com/newsletter	1.0784066240583E+14	MoxieTowns	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474009388_596762513102395_6603567390096821432_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UJYjGV1b4MkQ7kNvgF7zWkE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBcuVc5BXiLBLyjqrYv6OninvJP0RxCrAv-6JY5SpUtDw&oe=6790CBC3	PERSON_PROFILE	0		MoxieTowns	11	https://www.facebook.com/100095426952105/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665051	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 5:18 AM	1737159124	1749637081	2273	ticketmaster.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	T-shirt Giveaway	2/4 vs Stars	https://www.ticketmaster.com/anaheim-ducks-vs-dallas-stars-anaheim-california-02-04-2025/event/090060DAC13E4D19?brand=ducks&camefrom=cfc_ducks_2425_paidsocial_lny&utm_medium=paidsocial&utm_source=fb/ig&utm_campaign=lny	99917438471	Anaheim Ducks	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473955718_1302820320969711_4550009591496743622_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RUHzkhB_CW4Q7kNvgEfR65q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCDv4yTGAGBkdU1jUCkgBU8K7I4CS0htElrXO9Y45p3rQ&oe=6790AAC6	PERSON_PROFILE	0	2/4 vs Stars	Anaheim Ducks	405905	https://www.facebook.com/anaheimducks/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665066	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159131	1746806135	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471948411_1356743382030417_7037444832711736659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PknDEC_I9y8Q7kNvgFF4dzh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAEb_zVH17AagmPOOwGHaUoT9uZSHYMhPMfwThV4w7Vgg&oe=6790C753	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665072	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 7:54 PM	1737159131	1749603256	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			https://www.instagram.com/_u/vdnsuperstores	1.4211041281751E+15	Vegas Discount Nutrition	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473989843_907905084831455_1695367299337541858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=grUOqTPT6YAQ7kNvgEnThOK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYB83aotqVnhVZAQ-UiUIP4tvtblD3zB7jEQdsLps1KllQ&oe=6790D3CE	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Vegas Discount Nutrition	17358	https://www.facebook.com/VDNSUPERSTORES/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665077	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 6:42 PM	1737159132	1749426151	2273		Call Now	CAROUSEL	Forget Me Not Flower Shop			337984795531	Forget Me Not Flower Shop	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473817218_622372020162582_3718660907704681237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D1UUKic53EcQ7kNvgHv7hzc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDsYrcRmPsCHgWT5HKIBL8UZynwapZuNr1H6hoW8uNBEw&oe=6790CB7A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Forget Me Not Flower Shop	1213	https://www.facebook.com/fmnflowershopCT/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665078	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 7:02 PM	1737159132	1749427349	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471865081_1309904003378867_8666417407436467800_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yHZ6Z__VbpkQ7kNvgGDP0GB&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCfKKmupJOzPHtPcOA_hl9oRNDn01XkLl5RU2ZnB6E4uQ&oe=6790C305	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665091	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 4:27 AM	1737159135	1749461259	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458726181_1041301143837429_2931944480091280696_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWeMp-IKNhsQ7kNvgE4K0HO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBFotI06Wka5MIsFWWwlMCJmfQS8-AnloQrJLgM4Er8dw&oe=6790B449	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665098	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 5:15 AM	1737159136	1749118502	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453235203_487678860547090_8902084075905505850_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PXiric0y7-4Q7kNvgEB_oUo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYC2R5Gag4mxSXoY5BAQItDRDZMSTCeaWIS9DqYaA8YxSA&oe=6790BEB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665143	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 6:26 PM	1737159149	1749857184	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/kandibychris	1.148474616568E+14	kandibychris	https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/395649613_847523130115912_8589240882013948540_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=IqpAl-xzqAgQ7kNvgGm_5om&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCpIVbm3uDdNZiOKldbj_M7Dh7NPr0jKkD7x3S5MtlbGQ&oe=6790B9CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		kandibychris	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/kandibychris	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665147	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159150	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665146	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159150	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/daisys.guide	3.2070661780225E+14	Daisy's Guide	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473802295_1335732187432729_3176776981834293238_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UpAmARHA1m0Q7kNvgFd74N6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCjUsDHRBAP7Vzpw1QVQaPpQRY36z3mP8pyyCr850_cyg&oe=6790BB18	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Daisy's Guide	23	https://www.facebook.com/61563021244147/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665148	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 2:15 AM	1737159150	1749107721	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665149	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 4:33 AM	1737159150	1749116010	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665151	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 8:01 PM	1737159150	1749430903	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665150	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 6:57 PM	1737159150	1749772677	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665152	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 12:40 AM	1737159150	1749447613	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665154	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 3:21 PM	1737159150	1749673261	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665156	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 10:37 PM	1737159150	1749440233	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665144	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159149	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/daisys.guide	3.2070661780225E+14	Daisy's Guide	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473802295_1335732187432729_3176776981834293238_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UpAmARHA1m0Q7kNvgFd74N6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCjUsDHRBAP7Vzpw1QVQaPpQRY36z3mP8pyyCr850_cyg&oe=6790BB18	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Daisy's Guide	23	https://www.facebook.com/61563021244147/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665178	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 5:56 AM	1737159154	1749466582	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/themagicfeathershoppe	1.1191905282129E+15	The Magic Feather Shoppe	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473619104_1351614566204676_6506887781852061187_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z4cIzY_ZmU8Q7kNvgGOqq0g&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYBXkKwXD0z-Frf16-5QE7wF-LtuzYRb4IchJdw4j_n6pA&oe=6790D5D7	PERSON_PROFILE	0		The Magic Feather Shoppe	2571	https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicFeatherShoppe/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665176	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 11:07 PM	1737159154	1749701229	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/themagicfeathershoppe	1.1191905282129E+15	The Magic Feather Shoppe	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473619104_1351614566204676_6506887781852061187_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z4cIzY_ZmU8Q7kNvgGOqq0g&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYBXkKwXD0z-Frf16-5QE7wF-LtuzYRb4IchJdw4j_n6pA&oe=6790D5D7	PERSON_PROFILE	0		The Magic Feather Shoppe	2571	https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicFeatherShoppe/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665177	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/14/25, 1:40 AM	1737159154	1749883214	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/themagicfeathershoppe	1.1191905282129E+15	The Magic Feather Shoppe	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473619104_1351614566204676_6506887781852061187_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z4cIzY_ZmU8Q7kNvgGOqq0g&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYBXkKwXD0z-Frf16-5QE7wF-LtuzYRb4IchJdw4j_n6pA&oe=6790D5D7	PERSON_PROFILE	0		The Magic Feather Shoppe	2571	https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicFeatherShoppe/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665179	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 8:17 PM	1737159154	1749431854	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/themagicfeathershoppe	1.1191905282129E+15	The Magic Feather Shoppe	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473619104_1351614566204676_6506887781852061187_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=z4cIzY_ZmU8Q7kNvgGOqq0g&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYBXkKwXD0z-Frf16-5QE7wF-LtuzYRb4IchJdw4j_n6pA&oe=6790D5D7	PERSON_PROFILE	0		The Magic Feather Shoppe	2571	https://www.facebook.com/TheMagicFeatherShoppe/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665185	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 2:56 PM	1737159156	1749585394	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/onlyone.teaceremony	3.4093548911047E+14	onlyone.teaceremony	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/470099758_648713794148864_8332676625622483945_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=ZpVHuODG0NYQ7kNvgFgDTjn&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDZGwcaecwi7VlnizDhUbyrehtILToXR_xLPVolhWKo1w&oe=6790AC5E	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	🚨 Giveaway Alert! 🚨 Want a dream Chinese or Vietnamese Tea Ceremony for your wedding in 2025? 🧧✨ One lucky couple will win our Prosperity rental package which includes our signature gold double happiness sign, a red velvet backdrop, and essential decor items needed for the tea ceremony. This prize package also includes free set-up and breakdown for your 2025 Tea Ceremony (only applies for ceremonies located in the Bay Area and Sacramento area). To enter: -Follow @onlyone.teaceremony -Like and save this reel -Comment the city/location of your Tea Ceremony -Tag 5 friends -Share this post to your story and tag us (@onlyone.teaceremony) (if your profile is private, DM us a screenshot) Want more chances to win? Tag 5 more friends and reshare this reel to your story for each additional entry! Giveaway ends: 1/31/25 at 11:59 PM PST Winner announced: 2/4/25 Good luck! 🍀 #giveaway #teaceremony #chinesewedding #vietnamesewedding #bayarea #sacramento #weddingplanning #weddingideas #freegiveaway	onlyone.teaceremony	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/onlyone.teaceremony	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665191	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 5:36 AM	1737159159	1749551790	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/lamelife.co	4.7738382546074E+14	LameLife	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473829357_1647912782795918_1850260271893335954_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Rv-zkT2syPMQ7kNvgHKPwDo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYCR7r1yR6ob1AvtDxlRJSCnyC34gvsep3xFnBQ3Y_BM7A&oe=6790C5B8	PERSON_PROFILE	0		LameLife	1	https://www.facebook.com/61568789795332/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665196	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 4:24 AM	1737159161	1749461054	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665165	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159152	1746806135	2273	www.dental-day.com	Learn more	VIDEO			https://www.dental-day.com/	1.1551795162692E+14	Dental Day	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474008947_905029651790092_4154599176745073972_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FbcRhTZ8adQQ7kNvgHXIYaA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDBet3p14Tsl5LIdgSYZ0lK7c64isoakK5jBHfmhNgtZg&oe=6790AC35	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉💖 Valentine's Day Giveaway! 💖🎉 We’re celebrating the season of love with a special giveaway for our amazing patients and followers! 💌✨ 💎 Prizes include: ✨ Teeth whitening treatment ✨ $100 Visa gift card ✨ A dental gift bag filled with goodies! 💖 How to Enter: 1. Schedule and attend your appointment 2. Follow us on IG, Like this post ❤️ 3. Tag 3 friends who deserve a brighter smile in the comments, using the #BeMyValentine! 👯‍♀️ 4. For an extra entry, share this post to your story and tag us! 📲 💌 Winner will be announced on February 10th! Don't miss out on the chance to win the gift of a perfect smile just in time for Valentine’s Day! 😁 (You must be 18 years or older to enter. You must reside in the USA to be shipped physical prizes. Prizes do not hold cash value, no cash redemption or substitution is possible) Call to book your appointment today! ☎️ (469) 892-6560 #DentalDayTx #DrDaeOh #DentistInCarrollton #ValentinesDayGiveaway #SmileBright #DentalCare #DentalGiveaway #LoveYourSmile #ValentinesDay2025 #BrightSmile #HealthyTeeth #GiftOfSmiles #SmileMakeover	Dental Day	15	https://www.facebook.com/100095336380313/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665172	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159154	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/pizzaguysofficial	1.064465193891E+14	Pizza Guys	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473800971_1174627034096477_7607205779776492659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nyWfImbsi-MQ7kNvgHNlPTK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAnuj0wJ-VJ68Y3pFCG01cSwm1lyCWYNGxgL-RT9BAobw&oe=6790D822	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Pizza Guys	24840	https://www.facebook.com/pizzaguysofficial/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665207	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 7:38 AM	1737159163	1749559106	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/mikemonti_	1.0448810898225E+14	mikemonti_	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/274302202_511634487001356_5166739798074687309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=Dn31Z-Y6lPoQ7kNvgHaQc39&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDmbs85LsFrCHr7akURnwr8p2ykjfGxPH7pO1g19nc_iw&oe=6790C8CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		mikemonti_	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/mikemonti_	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665208	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:46 PM	1737159163	1748825215	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/mikemonti_	1.0448810898225E+14	mikemonti_	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/274302202_511634487001356_5166739798074687309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=Dn31Z-Y6lPoQ7kNvgHaQc39&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDmbs85LsFrCHr7akURnwr8p2ykjfGxPH7pO1g19nc_iw&oe=6790C8CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		mikemonti_	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/mikemonti_	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665181	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 9:40 AM	1737159155	1749825602	2273	www.instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			https://www.instagram.com/_u/bridgerbowluniversity	4.8302417156342E+14	Bridger Bowl University		PERSON_PROFILE	0	Gawd damn it just keeps comin - 69” of fresh in past 2 weeks making for some serious pow days at Bridger Bowl 🔥 Limited online restock of apparel is live, check the link in bio to get some while it lasts! Get sent the 🔗 and be entered into a shirt giveaway by commenting “BBU” down below⬇️ (*Must follow to enter & get DM) #bbu #bridgerbowl #skiing	Bridger Bowl University	52	https://www.facebook.com/61569490051481/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665211	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 6:07 AM	1737159163	1749812858	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/mikemonti_	1.0448810898225E+14	mikemonti_	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/274302202_511634487001356_5166739798074687309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=Dn31Z-Y6lPoQ7kNvgHaQc39&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDmbs85LsFrCHr7akURnwr8p2ykjfGxPH7pO1g19nc_iw&oe=6790C8CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		mikemonti_	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/mikemonti_	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665216	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159164	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/facefoundrieiowa	1.1008212868206E+14	FACE FOUNDRIÉ	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473984249_904137681877916_7685983404127030369_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CrCJIHiOJ-EQ7kNvgH-9-cJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYDHSnQXm0yKQOk25_Ikujxaip77lo1P_B7YrThq7lK5IA&oe=6790C45A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		FACE FOUNDRIÉ	148	https://www.facebook.com/FACEFOUNDRIEWESTDESMOINES/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665217	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159164	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/facefoundrieiowa	1.1008212868206E+14	FACE FOUNDRIÉ	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473984249_904137681877916_7685983404127030369_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CrCJIHiOJ-EQ7kNvgH-9-cJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYDHSnQXm0yKQOk25_Ikujxaip77lo1P_B7YrThq7lK5IA&oe=6790C45A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		FACE FOUNDRIÉ	148	https://www.facebook.com/FACEFOUNDRIEWESTDESMOINES/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665229	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 6:01 PM	1737159165	1749423714	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473755177_589995630587568_5772165536009860993_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xYMHdOJX_DMQ7kNvgGPEH9l&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYBC5lD1VxCzM2FBCj_Gm8JSmDDuWb5wb2j5GM6rFXQ9-A&oe=6790DB5A	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Why BUY a new car when you could WIN this classic?! 👉 1969 TWIN TURBO CHEVELLE + $50,000 giveaway is LIVE!	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665231	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 8:19 AM	1737159165	1749475180	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473448711_2297320310637383_2478781649747124299_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ad5iGPlv4NUQ7kNvgGOl0wd&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYA--8namAh_eeerjg-Q9kjO5DX3RVzO9TitekH3OsNX5w&oe=6790BCDA	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Why BUY a new car when you could WIN this classic?! 👉 1969 TWIN TURBO CHEVELLE + $50,000 giveaway is LIVE!	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665194	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159161	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665193	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159160	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665202	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 2:07 AM	1737159162	1749452836	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/domain.la	1.0636471581562E+14	domain.la	https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/470900015_1115152913241330_5960917164292313852_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=MukQo2GQmeUQ7kNvgHtsrhi&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYAveyr0u81wgNNj9bill18eKwWp2nc4ycOdlEOhZqa0Pw&oe=6790BB84	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	UPDATE: COWBOY BEBOP TEES ALMOST SOLD OUT 🌟 PREMIUM GARMENT DYED HEAVYWEIGHT TEES $28-32. THANK YOU FOR THE SUPPORT ON THIS DROP! GIVEAWAY SOON AT 10K FOLLOWERS 🔥 . . AVAILABLE IN 6 COLORS SHIPS SAME WEEK ⏩️ . . WEBSITE LINK IN OUR BIO, SHOP THE DROP BEFORE ITS GONE!	domain.la	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/domain.la	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665106	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 4:24 AM	1737159138	1749461044	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/thatguyservicesinc	2.4559954880598E+14	That Guy Services Inc.	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473377888_1124640165879891_2504218120746848273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I2TIR74dbEIQ7kNvgFoGNRw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYAvdUl5r-jiNIlt-0KPfA0ynut2DBkbuOaYkH5OhRuPoA&oe=6790D76A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		That Guy Services Inc.	458	https://www.facebook.com/usethatguy/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665232	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/8/25, 10:45 PM	1737159165	1749440742	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473317192_1064520215342490_6308777452625519423_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gkqq6UVDVT8Q7kNvgE8ix3Y&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYBwu6Wz9PWgswZVqe3580JfSv5kqbtW9F6eYtQyETUKhw&oe=6790D337	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Enter today to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ car + $50,000 cash up for grabs 💵 🤯	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665105	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159138	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/thatguyservicesinc	2.4559954880598E+14	That Guy Services Inc.	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473377888_1124640165879891_2504218120746848273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I2TIR74dbEIQ7kNvgFoGNRw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYAvdUl5r-jiNIlt-0KPfA0ynut2DBkbuOaYkH5OhRuPoA&oe=6790D76A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		That Guy Services Inc.	458	https://www.facebook.com/usethatguy/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
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2665049	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 4:37 AM	1737159124	1749461840	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C91710AEB1A3BD78CF03589CAF2F2CCA26C9	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473218443_1707468516777493_494158343930802559_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=doGK-1KKvCAQ7kNvgF_PPBL&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAqCuzaJ1zYbq32PEFsdmlH4Z9o387yyJOJNJlASjrsYQ&oe=6790C3F8	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665065	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 5:18 AM	1737159131	1749464311	2273	fb.com	Learn more	IMAGE	fb.com		https://fb.com/messenger_doc/	138662191052	Wish Farms	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473617809_2491943177677386_4605302282511456936_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-PXjdSYrgBYQ7kNvgE6Gve5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDtNRhxTcFwLCalwEhHQRdqU8GY0Tl36dJLC1ZdxijABA&oe=6790AF61	PERSON_PROFILE	0	⌚ GIVEAWAY ⌚ Kickstart your health goals with a sweet combo 🍓+🍏! We’re giving away an Apple Watch Series 10 to help you stay on track in 2025! ✨💪 TO ENTER: 1. LIKE this reel (don’t forget this step, we check!!) 2. FOLLOW @wishfarmsberries 3. TAG your friends in the comments! (each comment with a unique tag is an entry) 4. BONUS ENTRY: share this reel to your story and tag @wishfarmsberries so we see it NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Open to legal residents of the United States and the District of Columbia. Void where prohibited. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible Entries received. Sweepstakes starts at 12 p.m. ET 1/14/25 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 1/19/2025. For full Official Rules visit https://wishfarms.com/wish-farms-apple-watch-giveaway-sweepstakes-official-rules-2/. This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. ‼️WARNING: Keep an eye out for FAKE accounts. Do not respond or engage with any account that is not @wishfarmsberries (check the exact spelling). We will direct message the winner and simply ask for mailing address to ship your prize and email for VISA. We will never ask you to click a link or provide credit card info. If you come across a fake Wish Farms account, please help us out and report them. Thank you! #giveaway #giveaways #sweeps #sweepstakes #applewatch #applewatchgiveaway #entertowin #apple #fitness #health #newyearsgiveaway #wishfarms #wishfarmsberries #wishfarmsmagic	Wish Farms	254523	https://www.facebook.com/wishfarms/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665102	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 8:50 AM	1737159137	1749477028	2273	cinepolisusa.com/aptain-america	Get Showtimes	DCO	CAPTAIN AMERICA IMAX EVENT!	🎟 Get Tickets	https://www.cinepolisusa.com/movies/275210-captain-america-brave-new-world/?utm_source=META&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=captain+america	2.21068947917E+14	Cinépolis	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474006740_2037900809967864_121603161853142833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UYR55VfsxH8Q7kNvgElcjLM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDlNpvji-uSO34vZ1no7L2qapu4gnVLIQaolrATVYhYfw&oe=6790C21F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	On Thursday, February 13th, in celebration of it’s opening day, fans can be among the first to see Captain America: Brave New World in IMAX by attending the “Captain America: Brave New World IMAX Fan Event”. Guests attending this event will be able to take home a commemorative collectible coin keychain.	Cinépolis	18980193	https://www.facebook.com/CinepolisUSA/	GET_SHOWTIMES	View Edit Delete
2665068	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 9:22 AM	1737159131	1749478930	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471948411_1356743382030417_7037444832711736659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PknDEC_I9y8Q7kNvgFF4dzh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAEb_zVH17AagmPOOwGHaUoT9uZSHYMhPMfwThV4w7Vgg&oe=6790C753	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665110	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 3:22 PM	1737159139	1749500541	2273			VIDEO				1.0812774176265E+14	UDON Miami	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473597835_2114059319013271_6543550292194719699_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QcpwB_hcQH8Q7kNvgEWmcjv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDH8LdxYOgx4aGLDHJgyBSlNFNTP8R-V0T7vZjbgLi6Tw&oe=6790A772	PERSON_PROFILE	0	NEW YEAR GIVEAWAY 🎉 Start 2025 with a delicious surprise! 🥢 We’re giving away A MEAL FOR TWO worth $50 at UDON 🍜 It’s easy to participate: 1. Follow us at @udon_us 2. Like this post ❤️ 3. Tag the person you’d love to share this experience with (more comments = more chances!) 4. Mention us in your stories to double your chances. 📆 You have until Januray 30th to participate. 🎉 The winner will be announced in our stories. Good luck to everyone, and let’s kick off the year with the best Asian flavors! ✨ --- ¡SORTEO DE AÑO NUEVO 🎉 Comienza el 2025 con una deliciosa sorpresa! 🥢 Estamos regalando UNA CENA PARA DOS valorada en $50 en UDON 🍜 Es muy fácil participar: 1. Síguenos en @udon_us 2. Dale like a esta publicación ❤️ 3. Etiqueta a la persona con la que te encantaría compartir esta experiencia (¡más comentarios = más oportunidades!) 4. Menciónanos en tus historias para duplicar tus posibilidades. 📆 Tienes hasta el 30 de enero para participar. 🎉 El ganador será anunciado en nuestras historias. ¡Buena suerte a todos y comencemos el año con los mejores sabores asiáticos! ✨ #UDON #giveaway #UDONgiveaway #foodie #UDONlovers #asianfood	UDON Miami	1289	https://www.facebook.com/UDONUS/		View Edit Delete
2665084	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:33 PM	1737159133	1749000804	2273		Send message	MULTI_IMAGES				3.1603400231184E+14	National Overstock Liquidation of Ohio	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474045627_1633737014184773_1230602802286634308_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CbwMeiqqdewQ7kNvgE2VDDn&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDp37xiHcEQ5NwxhkLn1lr-oHBpKxwd-NzZ2A1Xq0dwDA&oe=6790B81A	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Saturday & Sunday 10 AM - 4 PM ($3 Bins)	National Overstock Liquidation of Ohio	19647	https://www.facebook.com/NOLOPallets/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665203	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 11:15 PM	1737159162	1749528942	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			https://www.instagram.com/_u/thestickybrand	208789130441	The Sticky Brand	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474064263_1114389647077192_5453550496842998970_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=HOyF63n93q0Q7kNvgFIR8NM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAUEY4DDaMj_59IpzvogKbjSGrlksqYhiKP0H9N9g4dqQ&oe=6790BCC2	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Love your Sticky Brand stickers? We want to hear about it! 🌟 Post an unboxing video or review showing off your favorite stickers, and you could WIN 250 custom 3” Bombproof stickers! 💥 Here’s how to enter: 1️⃣ Share your unboxing or review video. 2️⃣ Tag us @thestickybrand and use #StickyBrandReview. 3️⃣ Follow @thestickybrand The most creative post will win BIG, so show us your sticky style! 🚀 Contest ends on January 31st! 💖 #StickyBrand #Giveaway #StickerUnbox #StickerHaul #CustomStickers	The Sticky Brand	40150	https://www.facebook.com/TheStickyBrand/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665136	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 8:08 AM	1737159148	1749560914	2273	kcparent.com	Sign up	IMAGE	Enter to Win!	Don’t miss your chance to kick off the playoffs with this ultimate fan giveaway. Enter here and bring the family fun to the next level!	https://kcparent.com/chiefs-fan-giveaway-enter-to-win/	54953468863	Kansas City Parent Magazine	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473793213_1131666195334001_5346961005425557645_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=macdXouqBwUQ7kNvgG-ybbk&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDNxIemwq5WJLmW_aka-zIEDPu-DdxBV1AZ7J-EqlbYog&oe=6790C4E8	PERSON_PROFILE	0	The Chiefs Are Playoff Bound – Let’s Celebrate! We’re giving one lucky winner the ultimate fan package: 🏈 A Chiefs Sweatshirt – Perfect for showing your team spirit in style. 🏈 A $50 Gift Card – Use it for game-day snacks, gear, or wherever you choose! Don’t miss your chance to join the celebration and kick off the playoffs in style. Follow the link to enter now for your shot at winning! The winner will be contacted via email on Friday, January 24. 🎊 Please note: If the sweatshirt is out of stock, KC Parent reserves the right to substitute an equivalent product.	Kansas City Parent Magazine	55606	https://www.facebook.com/KansasCityParent/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665116	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 6:07 AM	1737159141	1749553656	2273	galaxyofstars.org	Apply now	IMAGE	Cash to Grow Your Business 🚀	Enter for a chance to win our new $2,450 Galaxy Grant, brought to you by Hidden Star, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with an 8-year track record.	https://galaxyofstars.org/galaxy-grants/	1.3860427148834E+15	Galaxy of Stars	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473243662_595618763110308_5515416172030142030_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FCIExRgQ7gkQ7kNvgFepNOm&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYAwz-NnImf44cwwftsWotXCb5_h2uo06QfkNPQN3AtAmA&oe=6790ADF4	PERSON_PROFILE	0	📣 Exciting news! We are back with a brand new $2,450 Galaxy Grant Giveaway to kick off 2025! All women & minority business owners are encouraged to apply! New, experienced, or aspiring! ✨ Only takes 30 seconds to enter ✨ Refer a friend - If they win, you BOTH win! ✨ Deadline is March 31st, 2025 and the winner(s) will be announced during the first week of April 2025! Apply today!	Galaxy of Stars	17680	https://www.facebook.com/GalaxyOfStarsHelp/	APPLY_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665052	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 2:25 AM	1737159125	1749108348	2273	ticketmaster.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	T-shirt Giveaway	2/4 vs Stars	https://www.ticketmaster.com/anaheim-ducks-vs-dallas-stars-anaheim-california-02-04-2025/event/090060DAC13E4D19?brand=ducks&camefrom=cfc_ducks_2425_paidsocial_lny&utm_medium=paidsocial&utm_source=fb/ig&utm_campaign=lny	99917438471	Anaheim Ducks	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473955718_1302820320969711_4550009591496743622_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RUHzkhB_CW4Q7kNvgEfR65q&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCDv4yTGAGBkdU1jUCkgBU8K7I4CS0htElrXO9Y45p3rQ&oe=6790AAC6	PERSON_PROFILE	0	2/4 vs Stars	Anaheim Ducks	405905	https://www.facebook.com/anaheimducks/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665129	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:33 PM	1737159148	1749000805	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473990577_957238825890558_7590743999391038876_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qEXt0TMJ9u8Q7kNvgEvKU39&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDDbHbLjykCbFvVGKklbT0nP1WWNdIHkADqtGWtXm9yjw&oe=6790DBBF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665205	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:47 PM	1737159163	1749001634	2273	linktr.ee	Learn more	VIDEO			https://linktr.ee/luxebridalmn	1.1657945836327E+14	Luxe Bridal	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473801247_4091213154443569_1496524328623754815_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ApDMGD0ZzGQQ7kNvgFIt85Y&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYA7Wi5q5tgJydcEwSoAoFw40oAajkjS-lRN4C9tztaFaw&oe=6790B1B9	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Classic, elegance, detail🤍✨ Grace Kelly's gown is often used as wedding gown inspiration, and now you can have it as a curvy bride! What do you want to see next? Ps don't forget to interact with this post to be entered in our giveaway to win a FREE engagement photo sesh! Details on our pinned post ➡️ #gracekelly #gracekellyweddingdress #2025bride #sizeinclusive #midwestbride #plussizebridal #curvybride #curvybridal #longsleeveweddingdress #2026bride	Luxe Bridal	6106	https://www.facebook.com/luxebridalMN/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665067	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 2:29 AM	1737159131	1749108544	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471948411_1356743382030417_7037444832711736659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PknDEC_I9y8Q7kNvgFF4dzh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAEb_zVH17AagmPOOwGHaUoT9uZSHYMhPMfwThV4w7Vgg&oe=6790C753	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665064	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 5:43 PM	1737159130	1749595401	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473959430_2870479069787283_7007298111392230272_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SB9Jc_K6TIkQ7kNvgGcT-59&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCMhNy4tGOUdDij65nG3y2GbsiStAawWrtONSZd40PS6A&oe=6790C596	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665199	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 9:32 PM	1737159162	1749609151	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665198	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 6:36 AM	1737159162	1749728212	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665195	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159161	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665190	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 12:11 AM	1737159158	1749445867	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/lamelife.co	4.7738382546074E+14	LameLife	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473829357_1647912782795918_1850260271893335954_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Rv-zkT2syPMQ7kNvgHKPwDo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYCR7r1yR6ob1AvtDxlRJSCnyC34gvsep3xFnBQ3Y_BM7A&oe=6790C5B8	PERSON_PROFILE	0		LameLife	1	https://www.facebook.com/61568789795332/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665159	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159151	1746806135	2273	escapology.com	Learn more	IMAGE	Escapology: Premier Private Escape Rooms & Adventures	Escapology: Immersive escape rooms for private groups. Thrilling puzzles, themed adventures. Perfect for team building, parties & more!	https://www.escapology.com/en/pigeon-forge-tn/a-pirates-curse-giveaway	1.0734315530636E+14	Escapology Escape Rooms	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473793528_1026245282862767_6435164854164473527_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XXgoIekmU9EQ7kNvgG1ZbN_&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYBHqZnV5ROYv2VxuRdbME-K2aW6g_kNkboUd86Wvew7QA&oe=6790C3FF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	What’s that in this treasure chest? 💰 It looks a lot like a GIVEAWAY! Our new escape game, A Pirate's Curse, is coming soon to Escapology Pigeon Forge. 🌊 Our timbers are shivering with anticipation…so much so that we’re giving away a grand prize valued at $180! 💰 You and 3 crew members could win the opportunity to play A Pirate’s Curse for FREE. 😄 In this cutting-edge escape room, your quest is to undo a mysterious and deadly curse. That’s the only way to escape an eternity trapped on the high seas! 😱 FB: Enter NOW for your chance to win before our giveaway ends on 2/3: https://www.escapology.com/en/pigeon-forge-tn/a-pirates-curse-giveaway	Escapology Escape Rooms	658	https://www.facebook.com/escapologypigeonforge/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665097	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 9:54 AM	1737159136	1749653698	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453235203_487678860547090_8902084075905505850_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PXiric0y7-4Q7kNvgEB_oUo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYC2R5Gag4mxSXoY5BAQItDRDZMSTCeaWIS9DqYaA8YxSA&oe=6790BEB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665104	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 2:43 AM	1737159138	1749109429	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/thatguyservicesinc	2.4559954880598E+14	That Guy Services Inc.	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473377888_1124640165879891_2504218120746848273_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=I2TIR74dbEIQ7kNvgFoGNRw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYAvdUl5r-jiNIlt-0KPfA0ynut2DBkbuOaYkH5OhRuPoA&oe=6790D76A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		That Guy Services Inc.	458	https://www.facebook.com/usethatguy/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665059	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 7:31 PM	1737159130	1749688309	2273	windowcleaner.com	Shop Now	DCO	Weekend Giveaway Time!	15 Winners & $6200+ in Prizes	https://windowcleaner.com/pages/contest	22759782977	Window Cleaning Resource	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473703467_588744117457030_5717996904332503221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fKON2W1v75cQ7kNvgGhWkMH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYD_I8sy4hmXKTuBnPZaYOhWPiK25N5hnWtUccCffg36ZQ&oe=6790C66F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Feeling lucky? Place an order and be entered to win up to $6200 in prizes! Drop your order number below for an extra entry! See the full list of prizes: https://windowcleaner.com/pages/contest	Window Cleaning Resource	20921	https://www.facebook.com/windowcleaner/	SHOP_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665141	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 10:34 PM	1737159149	1749699268	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/kandibychris	1.148474616568E+14	kandibychris	https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/395649613_847523130115912_8589240882013948540_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=IqpAl-xzqAgQ7kNvgGm_5om&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCpIVbm3uDdNZiOKldbj_M7Dh7NPr0jKkD7x3S5MtlbGQ&oe=6790B9CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		kandibychris	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/kandibychris	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665225	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 2:13 AM	1737159164	1749712394	2273	80eighty.com	Learn more	IMAGE	Dream Car Giveaway #76	You can Win this Lamborghini STO + $60k and join our 75+ Past Winners.	https://80eighty.com/pages/learn-more	3.2079237145058E+14	80eighty	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473749444_968779631783107_3632406451647906295_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rA7Fqt1cLz0Q7kNvgFX3fk8&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYCJm5hBhw-evCHswvoTgRMIVkl4kA82zjqN6PSelF5aHQ&oe=6790AC7C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	This is Lamborghini STO could be yours!	80eighty	589587	https://www.facebook.com/80eightyofficial/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665155	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159150	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/crynowlaughlata	1.0594431515644E+14	Crynowlaughlata	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754537_1325896255498111_3934690658440930902_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wTDQJs3d1CQQ7kNvgEU1kvv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCdlD5QEChDmy6khsYrDUYIZzd8-BB_P1Cke66bxGFg7w&oe=6790CAB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Crynowlaughlata	14	https://www.facebook.com/crynowlaughlata/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665210	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 4:43 PM	1737159163	1749505431	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/mikemonti_	1.0448810898225E+14	mikemonti_	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/274302202_511634487001356_5166739798074687309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=Dn31Z-Y6lPoQ7kNvgHaQc39&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDmbs85LsFrCHr7akURnwr8p2ykjfGxPH7pO1g19nc_iw&oe=6790C8CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		mikemonti_	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/mikemonti_	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665213	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159163	1746806134	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/love.marksthespot	4.4959912156832E+14	love.marksthespot	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/461285430_457332730100137_6672568875254177252_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=zf7uavO54R0Q7kNvgGml8ca&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYA8PMQ-QfPU8z9gBruyB_M6pRqdJan4XLHhJxfUOWH1mQ&oe=6790ADED	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	We're trying something a little different! We're giving away our first ever Exceedingly Difficult Circle Puzzle in Infinite White. To enter, follow @love.marksthespot, like this reel and comment tagging two of your friends. The winner will be announced on MLK Day, and we'll reach out to get your info for mailing your prize straight to your house!! . . . . . . . . . . #giveaway #win #prize #chattanooga #laserengraving #circlepuzzle #infinite #newproduct #limitededition #exclusivereel #mlkday #winnerannounced #instagiveaways	love.marksthespot	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/love.marksthespot	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665048	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159124	1748824511	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C917F464C0267633C3CEAFB2A1DA80A76425	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/472953822_1126649282171190_4140095665354737811_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RK3T0qoZd30Q7kNvgFKUzFG&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCIZrj86KpGlXwQA708MZFNtQ8N1Y7CajOlkHHsUBCEoQ&oe=6790B346	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665142	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:51 PM	1737159149	1749001876	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/kandibychris	1.148474616568E+14	kandibychris	https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/395649613_847523130115912_8589240882013948540_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=IqpAl-xzqAgQ7kNvgGm_5om&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCpIVbm3uDdNZiOKldbj_M7Dh7NPr0jKkD7x3S5MtlbGQ&oe=6790B9CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		kandibychris	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/kandibychris	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665138	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:43 AM	1737159149	1749138214	2273		Call now	IMAGE	Burrata Italian Kitchen	Fresh pasta, pizza, hoagies and more by Executive Chef Frank Hill! Tue-Fri: 11am-8pm, Sat: 2pm-8pm		1.0311928609556E+14	Burrata Italian Kitchen	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473762610_28582812817976368_1592341847665611319_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7sqqgj_xFBQQ7kNvgFL-Tmc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYBls6Jm_-P7SmuJcn9svK21eeJYylIN2q5I-fuTZQqupA&oe=6790D100	PERSON_PROFILE	0	GIVEAWAY! 🔥🇮🇹❤️ A family special on us! Winner will be chosen on Monday, January 20! •Follow our Facebook & Instagram pages •Like this post •Share this post •Tag 3 friends in the comments below go4burrata.com 330.754.6100 3102 Tuscarawas St W, Canton 44708 https://instagram.com/burrataitaliankitchen?igshid=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr BEWARE OF FAKE ACCOUNTS #burrata #italianfood #smallbusiness #shoplocal #canton #ohio #family	Burrata Italian Kitchen	6011	https://www.facebook.com/100091759513043/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665188	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 5:22 AM	1737159156	1749723730	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/actingcoachjeorgi	1.235628850332E+14	Jeorgi Smith	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473748947_562262463471784_8877616825425037240_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=oUTg5HOpblgQ7kNvgFdSeYQ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAXC2WcP-tyYzNjZv5ZJ3dgMwpdP2q9-MNtNQJjo8t_SQ&oe=6790AC24	PERSON_PROFILE	0	‼️COACHING GIVEAWAY‼️ New year, new giveaway! Free 30 minute customizable session! Submissions due by Tuesday 1/21! 1. Follow @actingcoachjeorgi 2. Like this post 3. Tag 2 friends 4. Bonus entry: Share to your story and tag @actingcoachjeorgi #actingcoach #coaching #acting #theater #theatre #performance #voice #auditionprep #selftape #performing #dance #choreography #directing #acting #collegeprep #monologue #songs #musicaltheatre #musicals #njthespians #thespianfestival #thespy #coach	Jeorgi Smith	517	https://www.facebook.com/JeorgiKSmith/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665174	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:30 AM	1737159154	1749137440	2273	saintgallery.us	Shop now	IMAGE	Saintgallery	Saintgallery	https://saintgallery.us/	3.8532523800636E+14	saintgallery.us	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473765156_540645911768594_7131879713290939894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zlDhFK4IPWwQ7kNvgHl2T-2&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAlr68_7ZYfMUhMzhOPFDJb7uLqV99gsMccDEBn8DHbzg&oe=6790DBEF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	SAINT GALLERY ART OF WAR COLLECTION FULL CAPSULE ⚔️ GIVEAWAY RULES -1 WINNER WILL BE SELECTED TO ANY PEICE OF YOUR CHOICE OF YOUR SELECTION HOW TO ENTER -YOU HAVE TO BE FOLLOWING @saintgallery.us -LIKE THE POST -TAG 3 FRIENDS -EVERY TAG IS 1 MORE ENTRY (UNLIMITED ENTRIES) -REPOST ON YOUR STORY FOR AN EXTRA 10 ENTRIES WINNER WILL BE RANDOMLY DRAWN ON JAN 17(WINNER CAN CHOOSE ANY PEICE AND SIZE THAT WE HAVE CURRENTLY PRE-MADE IN STOCK)	saintgallery.us	0	https://www.facebook.com/saintgallery.us/	SHOP_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665079	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:53 PM	1737159132	1749002037	2273	arep.co	Learn More	DCO	NNMF 2025 Glamping Giveaway	Enter Now to Win	https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	5.5705633431554E+14	Northern Nights	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471865081_1309904003378867_8666417407436467800_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yHZ6Z__VbpkQ7kNvgGDP0GB&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYCfKKmupJOzPHtPcOA_hl9oRNDn01XkLl5RU2ZnB6E4uQ&oe=6790C305	PERSON_PROFILE	0	WIN a Redwood Grove 12' Tent w/ 2 Twins (valued at $1,250+!) Limited time remaining - enter now: https://arep.co/c/nnmf-glamping-giveaway	Northern Nights	32626	https://www.facebook.com/NorthernNightsMusicFestival/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665082	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:27 AM	1737159133	1749137276	2273	facebook.com	Join group	IMAGE	FairyTale Clay -by ARAart		https://www.facebook.com/groups/1575589415994744/	3.8376204830609E+14	ARAartistic creations	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473740049_1034677521800918_8286901848538115674_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fjv7igX3BUQQ7kNvgGv0qod&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYB75a0wirRf1f7fmCnvRFA8__AuGgNm7uLFsXDDVDIR0w&oe=6790C26C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	To participate in the current auctions manually visit my group and scroll down to find the auction post! Group link is at the top of this page! There is also a giveaway to get free shipping and a giveaway to win a dragon in the group NOW! #sale #auction #oneofakindart #oneofakindartwork	ARAartistic creations	18111	https://www.facebook.com/AngelaRaeArt/	JOIN_GROUP	View Edit Delete
2665227	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:02 PM	1737159165	1748991757	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473618358_1176518417243225_3000543625499166684_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=msaO6oDdLwYQ7kNvgH8LQoq&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYBHq4bGKySUjzmYcPvSqgxpd3OmBK7ei0b1TJDxZtSAYw&oe=6790BF82	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Get 4X entries to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ 1200+ HP Chevelle and $50,000 cash 🔑 💵	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665086	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:14 PM	1737159134	1748992478	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/inhair.mxl	1.5028030900968E+14	In Hair Center	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473781504_1037174664883899_4509309222658599332_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Gx2Z70NGhxkQ7kNvgH81Z9V&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDDGtC5_C7qTd8EECbH9AjS2lm98ry2YcM5oTDez_Nk5w&oe=6790AB90	PERSON_PROFILE	0	✨ ¡Sorteo de San Valentín con In Hair! 💖 Este San Valentín, ¡dale a tu cabello el cuidado que merece con un tratamiento de PRP Capilar! 🌟 Recupera fuerza, brillo y densidad con este tratamiento especializado que revitaliza tu cuero cabelludo y estimula el crecimiento capilar. ¿Cómo participar? 1️⃣ Dale like a este post. 2️⃣ Sigue estas tres cuentas: 👉 @dr.gutierrezlamadrid 👉 @bloom.clinicalspa 👉 @inhair.mxl 3️⃣ Etiqueta a 2 personas en los comentarios (puedes comentar varias veces para tener más oportunidades). 4️⃣ Asegúrate de que las personas que etiquetes también sigan las cuentas. 📅 Participa del 16 de enero al 13 de febrero. 🎉 El ganador se anunciará el 13 de febrero por la tarde en la cuenta de @dr.gutierrezlamadrid 🌹 ¡Dale a tu cabello el amor que necesita y luce increíble este San Valentín! 🌟 ¡Mucha suerte! #InHair #Mexicali #MexicaliBC #SpaCapilar #PRPcapilar #CuidadoCapilar #CaidaDelCabello	In Hair Center	2278	https://www.facebook.com/100057386352264/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665230	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 11:11 PM	1737159165	1749787874	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473704339_1945356955873748_6745241468576248657_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lf2iiMlsttIQ7kNvgERw-Qv&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYDD6FHMcvDdT2NmN3dLBd4lKk34SgkJzNU3qFFtX_8hHw&oe=6790BD0E	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Why BUY a new car when you could WIN this classic?! 👉 1969 TWIN TURBO CHEVELLE + $50,000 giveaway is LIVE!	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665076	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159132	1748824540	2273		Call Now	CAROUSEL	Forget Me Not Flower Shop			337984795531	Forget Me Not Flower Shop	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473817218_622372020162582_3718660907704681237_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=D1UUKic53EcQ7kNvgHv7hzc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDsYrcRmPsCHgWT5HKIBL8UZynwapZuNr1H6hoW8uNBEw&oe=6790CB7A	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Forget Me Not Flower Shop	1213	https://www.facebook.com/fmnflowershopCT/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665089	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:03 PM	1737159135	1748991825	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458726181_1041301143837429_2931944480091280696_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWeMp-IKNhsQ7kNvgE4K0HO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBFotI06Wka5MIsFWWwlMCJmfQS8-AnloQrJLgM4Er8dw&oe=6790B449	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665184	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:03 PM	1737159155	1748991822	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/candled_with_careus	1.8378350482704E+14	Candled With Care	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474140851_504147412214245_1631787637060172820_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G0etHrMvy-YQ7kNvgFnHs1N&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAOOwuUvtWqEBWr19rRmKF90Niwb3HSOHrgPIGrMBkiIQ&oe=6790AB2F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎯 WEEKEND GIVEAWAY! 🎯 Tag someone who deserves a cozy candle moment and tell us why they're amazing! One lucky winner will receive: ✨ A special surprise from our upcoming Valentine's collection ✨ Early access to shop the new collection ✨ Exclusive discount code Winner announced Monday! 🎉 Rules: • Must follow @candled_with_careus • Tag a friend • Like this post • US residents only •Comment your favorite candle scent! (Mine is the one in the photo) #CandledWithCare #Giveaway #SmallBusiness #smallbusinessowner #smallbusinessownerlife #smallbusinessowners #smallbusinessownersoftiktok #smallbusinessownersofinsta	Candled With Care	77	https://www.facebook.com/61554953165291/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665228	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:03 PM	1737159165	1748991814	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474040158_619973617279792_12725053387898305_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iEbiqWlilq4Q7kNvgHZDKt7&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYCl9YquBwtGXhY25yhtFKVk6YiRjnkeIRKUfv22-OcxwQ&oe=6790BB36	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Enter today to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ car + $50,000 cash up for grabs 💵 🤯	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665114	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 6:05 PM	1737159140	1748991937	2273	galaxyofstars.org	Apply now	IMAGE	Cash to Grow Your Business 🚀	Enter for a chance to win our new $2,450 Galaxy Grant, brought to you by Hidden Star, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with an 8-year track record.	https://galaxyofstars.org/galaxy-grants/	1.3860427148834E+15	Galaxy of Stars	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474028653_1130540221988815_3196234920596996541_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uOC2wVpIbmcQ7kNvgH2gYVE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCYWenoqa_IE4ifu1cZrn3-LukYyfuB1mUS5b1-_T8f7g&oe=6790DAC5	PERSON_PROFILE	0	📣 Exciting news! We are back with a brand new $2,450 Galaxy Grant Giveaway to kick off 2025! All women & minority business owners are encouraged to apply! New, experienced, or aspiring! ✨ Only takes 30 seconds to enter ✨ Refer a friend - If they win, you BOTH win! ✨ Deadline is March 31st, 2025 and the winner(s) will be announced during the first week of April 2025! Apply today!	Galaxy of Stars	17680	https://www.facebook.com/GalaxyOfStarsHelp/	APPLY_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665139	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:27 AM	1737159149	1749137278	2273	nourishedbykate.com	Sign up	IMAGE	Subscribe \| Let’s do this together! — Nourish by Kate	Let’s do this together! Start your wellness journey today. Fill out the form to get 20% off your first toolkit or service!	http://nourishedbykate.com/lets-stay-connected	5.0313608621887E+14	Nourish by Kate	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473829164_1102580714881751_2127407404184315220_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=W8N2_c7xLWkQ7kNvgFIIfMw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYAZMW001cxNpCXiLJa9L4Ho4NZxl27kos_ESgnQ3XPGoA&oe=6790AEA9	PERSON_PROFILE	0	✨ Giveaway Alert! ✨ We’re giving away 1 FREE Essential Health Toolkit of your choice AND a $50 Amazon e-gift card! Whether you're looking to lose weight, improve gut health, or manage your binge / emotional eating, our Essential Health Toolkits are here to help! 🌿💪 How to Enter: 1️⃣ Visit the link and subscribe to Nourish by Kate emails https://www.nourishedbykate.com/lets-stay-connected 2️⃣ Like and follow us on Facebook 3️⃣ Share this post or tag a friend in the comments below 📅 Giveaway ends: January 27th, 2024 ⏳ Winner will be announced on our Facebook and contacted via email! 🎉 Don’t miss this chance to kickstart your health journey and win big! ✨ #Giveaway #NourishByKate #HealthToolkit #AmazonGiftCard #WellnessJourney	Nourish by Kate	76	https://www.facebook.com/61570581073663/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665128	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 2:33 AM	1737159148	1749195195	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473990577_957238825890558_7590743999391038876_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qEXt0TMJ9u8Q7kNvgEvKU39&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDDbHbLjykCbFvVGKklbT0nP1WWNdIHkADqtGWtXm9yjw&oe=6790DBBF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665173	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:28 AM	1737159154	1749137282	2273		Send message	IMAGE				1.1110225820055E+14	Keeney Farms / Benton, PA	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473704656_540688109003053_1848503106642409884_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RkX-_KCDsa4Q7kNvgHZXTDj&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYCErpUycU3Ro8xx6r06IkF9BO18XIJboS3FNpxqpr-vbA&oe=6790D5B2	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🥩🎅 KEENEY BEEF GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎅🥩 Win some delicious, locally farm-raised beef and help Keeney Farms reach 5000 followers! How to Enter: 1. Like and share this post. 2. Must be Following Keeney Farms. 3. Tag two friends. (@ before their names) who would love to win! Prize: One lucky winner will receive an eighth of a cow (valued at approx. $550)! Rules: The winner will be selected once we reach 5,000 followers. Pickup is required at Keeney Farms in Benton, PA 17814. No purchase is necessary. Random selection. The prize is not redeemable for cash. ❤️ Good Luck, Everyone! ❤️ https://keeneyfarms.com/ @followers	Keeney Farms / Benton, PA	3184	https://www.facebook.com/keeneyfarms/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665164	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 1:19 AM	1737159152	1749449995	2273	lgndsupplyco.com	Learn more	VIDEO	60+ past winners saw an ad just like this—and clicked here 👉	Final Week To Enter: WIN This 2025 Denali Duramax + $50,000! 🐳	http://lgndsupplyco.com/	1.923187367761E+15	LGND Supply Co.	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473754007_1312082859988749_8891503754428151106_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ez2HSmIfAUYQ7kNvgGfbigF&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYAzhlCMAVJQUrrvflfFBFBdJ8PuHgQAliELBLAuJ-k9ZA&oe=6790CF9B	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Final Week To WIN a 2025 Duramax! 🥶 Meet our 40th lucky winner, Zach—	LGND Supply Co.	144589	https://www.facebook.com/lgndsupply/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665200	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 1:32 AM	1737159162	1749191524	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/fleurissentskin	2.4895053830406E+14	Fleurissent Skincare	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473750168_1624286924868512_8369642663439444220_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QGJVOiMHtYkQ7kNvgF2G5Cy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYD_TND4MkMKrl3dQOQHq_rwsH1OLq1CTr9ZxTeZ_1Z1bg&oe=6790DC0B	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Fleurissent Skincare	44	https://www.facebook.com/61557131404254/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665197	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 2:32 AM	1737159162	1749195165	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/boiseporcelain	1.161579910722E+14	Boise Porcelain	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474078251_1395782798071482_7661716162050786894_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kaPXj1PAZoIQ7kNvgHDloxw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_RAVWDipQaHkqiSAgPJZXXaxQiFcCXl5W4xP8-_anZw&oe=6790C1EB	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Boise Porcelain	92	https://www.facebook.com/100083293303509/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665175	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 7:15 PM	1737159154	1749168921	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/little.lullaby.boutique	1.004651197706E+14	Little Lullaby	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474206346_1261782111602048_1138441599239033021_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=KpevEh_3Ux4Q7kNvgGP4VZw&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAK99isIyXMw0ARySbX-b2bnnqNAOPKSHPmd4PTZkIqHw&oe=6790C92B	PERSON_PROFILE	0	GIVEAWAY TIME! From now until 1/19 at 11:59! Follow the instructions to win a $100 gift card to @little.lullaby.boutique 🛍️	Little Lullaby	283	https://www.facebook.com/100093604764752/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665209	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159163	1746806135	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/mikemonti_	1.0448810898225E+14	mikemonti_	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/274302202_511634487001356_5166739798074687309_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=Dn31Z-Y6lPoQ7kNvgHaQc39&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYDmbs85LsFrCHr7akURnwr8p2ykjfGxPH7pO1g19nc_iw&oe=6790C8CC	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1		mikemonti_	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/mikemonti_	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665182	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/14/25, 1:24 AM	1737159155	1749882300	2273		Send message	IMAGE	Chat with us			2.0970056223311E+14	Melt Brownie	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473598736_898492052148339_1049946435987843303_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=wy5CqY2jxn8Q7kNvgFcsa20&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYDePUzKEn4DVzs5xd_oHnz_gpof_D1rRwJJS1WWEJWdrw&oe=6790C171	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🥳 Enter to win a $200 catering event or corporate package from Melt Brownie! Entry is simple 👇 - 1 Entry for sending us a message - 5 Entires for following our Instagram account: themeltbrownie - 1 Entry for each friend you @ in this post 📍Location: 5232 Red Bug Lake Rd, Winter Springs, FL 32708 Giveaway Rules: - USA Only - Winner receives a $200 credit for a catering event or corporate package.	Melt Brownie	536	https://www.facebook.com/themeltbrownie/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665186	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 10:30 AM	1737159156	1749137418	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/bakerlyusa	1.6629999005978E+15	bakerly	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473697732_1841200243302735_1163213259902124168_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MBuFCvLUJKMQ7kNvgGbvgfL&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYCm2H91x-yOEmBeFoZypEx6hlwJm5vhYKd1o7DA5L-5Pg&oe=6790B1A7	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉 GIVEAWAY ALERT! 🎉 ENTER AT LINK IN BIO 🔗 We’re spreading some Bakerly love and giving 3 lucky winners a chance to win one of the three prizes: 1. NINJA Crispi and a bakerly self care package 2. Nespresso coffee maker with a Nespresso milk frother, a Simple modern tumbler, and a bakerly self care package 3. Fitbit and a bakerly self care package To enter, participants must complete all of the following steps during the Promotion Period: -Visit the link in bio and submit your email -Follow @bakerlyusa on Instagram -Like the pinned giveaway post on Instagram -Comment on the post telling us how you plan to kick off your self-care in 2025! -Tag two (2) friends in the comments U.S. entries only. Giveaway closes at 11:59 p.m. EST. on January 31st, 2025. The winners will be announced via Instagram DM on February 1st, 2025. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, Instagram. Good luck! 🥐👨‍🍳	bakerly	26383	https://www.facebook.com/bakerlyusa/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665223	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 12:17 PM	1737159164	1749230259	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473650917_580966888123965_2566050782210925996_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FJO19HX8BFgQ7kNvgGQrgwA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYBf-MZizkRmiDogRdVTXS0lqucqt6fvwhtV4xXO2DzfaA&oe=6790D057	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Enter today to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ car + $50,000 cash up for grabs 💵 🤯	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665220	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:33 PM	1737159164	1749000826	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE			http://instagram.com/phay.studios	1.0068009295698E+14	phay.studios	https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.2885-19/470986432_462047506647800_4746466018304654535_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s206x206_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=525117&_nc_ohc=d4Ah4gV86cUQ7kNvgE1X8OJ&_nc_zt=24&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=00_AYCPjamGn9lg_de8SXt66EHQHn4jFa5dyOJ5SwAdmSocbA&oe=6790CBC4	IG_ADS_IDENTITY	1	GIVEAWAY ALERT ‼️ giving away 2 dumpling bags in this dark Cherry red color 🍒 HOW TO ENTER - follow @phay.studios - tag 3 friends in the comments below #giveaway #rhode #timelesspurse #clutch #cherryred	phay.studios	0	https://www.instagram.com/_u/phay.studios	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665100	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 4:50 PM	1737159136	1749678645	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	DCO	Limited Time Offer	Start your Babylist registry. Sign up to add any item from any store. Create an account today.	https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471525021_1115452939650361_80850202759388370_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dmbdJn_fvVAQ7kNvgHIuYZJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCWwUrQvtljui3YeJa8fYP9HZlsGNeK7CUiMgrd2M2SNg&oe=6790C411	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Enter for a chance to win a $250 Babylist gift card when you sign up for a Babylist registry and start adding your baby's must-haves. No purchase necessary; terms and conditions may apply. *Terms and Conditions -Open to all new registrants in the United States only. -To qualify, users must create a Babylist registry and add items to the registry. -No purchase necessary. -One registry per entrant. -Users will qualify for the drawing for the week in which they signed up -One winner will be chosen weekly from the previous week's registry sign-ups. -Winners will be contacted through email. Winners must respond to that email within 7 days to accept the prize. If the winner does not respond within 7 days, a new winner will be selected. -Upon acceptance, winners will be emailed their e-gift card ($250 value). -Gift cards must be redeemed at babylist.com/store. -Gift cards are not exchangeable for cash or replaceable if lost or stolen.	Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665043	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 11:30 AM	1737159124	1749659415	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C9172B11CA1EF77A8ADECD21FAEA001DA732	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473063950_2376389189368279_7306888848146420523_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2jleZOZlWhgQ7kNvgHRUowE&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAig7_05N7yJv56yxZBPGdpOA1PbDhPo9NC78crqBgnSw&oe=6790AB5B	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665040	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 12:34 AM	1737159123	1749188082	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C91726A164C3841544A9E1452F64E9C617B8	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473148108_8938482802910173_7060379590618937508_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CiTed29Ml-QQ7kNvgGzXQ8v&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYAi9Wj1K36k0EzLeGX7gqUbo2Pk7IBgQNbQtAGMMmikCA&oe=6790A987	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
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2665170	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 11:40 PM	1737159153	1749271221	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	IMAGE	instagram.com		http://instagram.com/winniesthebooth	1.0610227246353E+14	Winnie's The Booth	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473452316_1608497440025707_1970428298509725007_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GPPeBtR1sPgQ7kNvgGR4UbB&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYBC6jtJOic-BJ4-LAu1outs7G-vNHzthBTrWZPfnbnTeQ&oe=6790D657	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉 Win a FREE 2-Hour Studio Booth Service in Seattle! 🎉 Planning a wedding, corporate event, or party in Seattle, Bellevue, or Tacoma? Elevate your event with a Studio Booth from Winnie’s The Booth, featuring unlimited photos, unlimited prints, AI experience and fully customizable designs to match your event style! 🎁 How to Enter: 1️⃣ Follow @WinniesTheBooth 2️⃣ Like this post & share it on your story (tag us for credit!) 3️⃣ Tag 3 friends in the comments who’d love this for their event! Tag 6 friends for a second entree. 📅 Winner Announced: February 8th, 2025 ✨ Perfect for weddings, corporate events, and parties. Give your guests a fun, high-tech experience and keepsakes they’ll love, all tailored to your theme! 📸 Enter now to make your Seattle celebration unforgettable! Event Date must be in 2025 Location must be 30 miles from 98003 Location must have at least 10x10ft of space for the booth and 8ft ceiling Event must start 7pm or earlier #SeattlePhotoBooth #giveaway #boost #photobooth #StudioBoothSeattle #UnlimitedPrints #CustomPhotoBoothSeattle #EventPlanningSeattle #WeddingPhotoBoothSeattle #CorporateEventSeattle #seattlegiveaway #eventplanning	Winnie's The Booth	37	https://www.facebook.com/winniesthebooth/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665094	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/11/25, 10:48 PM	1737159135	1749700126	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453235203_487678860547090_8902084075905505850_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PXiric0y7-4Q7kNvgEB_oUo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYC2R5Gag4mxSXoY5BAQItDRDZMSTCeaWIS9DqYaA8YxSA&oe=6790BEB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665083	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 7:36 PM	1737159133	1749170219	2273	fb.me	Learn more	IMAGE			http://fb.me/	3.9328525053388E+14	Pups N Chill	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473768325_1301414504339756_2946229612959071649_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QVNtNRIvHhIQ7kNvgEWuLr5&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDujjRk21EOLuiSSN7XmTLz8eSlq3i7iFzCxd9Y61Jivg&oe=6790B53D	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉 Enter to win free tickets & wellness package from Pups N Chill Miami 🎉 Enter our giveaway by clicking the link and filling out the form. It’s free to enter—no purchase necessary! Open to U.S. residents 18 and older. Entries close weekly. (3 winners will be chosen each week) Your email and phone with be added to our marketing list This giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Facebook.	Pups N Chill	21	https://www.facebook.com/61563853650509/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665180	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 8:57 PM	1737159154	1749175051	2273	instagram.com	Learn more	IMAGE			https://www.instagram.com/miniboo_baby_products?igsh=MWdicnR5Ym5ibmwxeA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr	1.5749237815502E+14	Miniboo	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474049550_1327119538325189_3538525924327713261_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1NX5iPrWgLcQ7kNvgH2G3wz&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYC_gUA8eWRrWkEIoOZWbzyT6wELMR46aDljzPfAvGYh0g&oe=6790AA8A	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉 Miniboo Turns 7! 🎂 We’re celebrating our 7th Anniversary and couldn’t be more grateful for your support over the years. To mark this special occasion, we’re giving you the chance to WIN your entire Miniboo shopping cart! Yes, your cart could be completely on us! 🛒 How to enter: 1️⃣ Tag a friend in the comments who would love Miniboo products. 📩 After tagging, you’ll automatically receive a DM where you can upload a screenshot of your Amazon shopping cart with your favorite Miniboo products. And that’s it. You’re officially entered! 🎉 Want more chances? Share this post on your profile or in your stories, tag us, and earn an extra entry! The giveaway ends January 30. We’ll randomly choose a lucky winner, who will be notified via DM within 3 business days after the giveaway closes. ✨ Open to residents of the US, Canada, and Singapore.	Miniboo	1754	https://www.facebook.com/MinibooBabyProducts/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665163	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/10/25, 10:40 PM	1737159152	1749613244	2273		Send message	IMAGE				4.0001983986915E+14	Nails by Myyia	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473757025_862197745935403_56208408138103169_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=XQKVJ-3-u4oQ7kNvgGkDNwO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCokNNGoyaqlH8iNnwiTt_oP3QeFhSiy9SQAlacSpDTsA&oe=6790B70E	PERSON_PROFILE	0	💖 Valentine’s Day Giveaway: Pamper Yourself with Self-Love! 💖 This Valentine’s, show yourself some love with a chance to win a FREE Deluxe Pedicure – the ultimate treat for your tired feet! 🌹✨ Here’s how to enter: 1️⃣ Like this post. 2️⃣ Share it on your page. 3️⃣ Tag 3 or more friends who deserve some self-care too! 💕 Because you deserve to feel fabulous, no matter your relationship status! 💅 Winner will be announced on February 10th. Don’t wait—spread the love today! Ready to pamper yourself? Start tagging! 🌸 #NailsByMyyia #ValentinesDayNails #SelfLoveGiveaway	Nails by Myyia	17	https://www.facebook.com/NailsbyMyYia/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665131	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 3:24 AM	1737159148	1749457444	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474037195_1744961976354016_5757169179677585148_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=tCC46qIQfu4Q7kNvgHhiKR0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDb4ZjTAh5G9rabKdSub3SLiwDOvv9SBl7UrGrdjyYBvQ&oe=6790C261	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665092	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 11:11 PM	1737159135	1749183109	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458726181_1041301143837429_2931944480091280696_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWeMp-IKNhsQ7kNvgE4K0HO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBFotI06Wka5MIsFWWwlMCJmfQS8-AnloQrJLgM4Er8dw&oe=6790B449	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665095	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 6:46 PM	1737159135	1749253574	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453235203_487678860547090_8902084075905505850_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=PXiric0y7-4Q7kNvgEB_oUo&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYC2R5Gag4mxSXoY5BAQItDRDZMSTCeaWIS9DqYaA8YxSA&oe=6790BEB0	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665060	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 11:37 PM	1737159130	1749184633	2273			IMAGE				3.1773399824332E+14	Trav's Outfitter	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473676920_2061684914293217_3468405526986057733_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=je6splYez5YQ7kNvgEJDlzy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYB80YzEimT5nbOO8kfG_xjIfmw6mLE-5p6sibFnZx7lIw&oe=6790C665	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🚨 WIN A FREE BRUNT FLAG! 🚨 For a limited time when you stop in to buy a pair of BRUNT work boots, you'll get entered for a chance to win a 3' x 5' BRUNT flag, perfect for hanging in the garage, in the shop, or in your man cave! Come try out the hottest work boots on the market today at Trav's Outfitter! Valid in-store only 1/17/25 - 1/31/25. 𝑻𝙧𝒂𝙫'𝙨 𝙊𝒖𝙩𝒇𝙞𝒕𝙩𝒆𝙧. 𝑩𝙚𝒔𝙩 𝙨𝒆𝙡𝒆𝙘𝒕𝙞𝒐𝙣. 𝑩𝙚𝒔𝙩 𝙨𝒆𝙧𝒗𝙞𝒄𝙚. 𝑵𝙤 𝘽.𝙎. #travsoutfitter #watertownsd #brunt #giveaway #bruntfootwear	Trav's Outfitter	9907	https://www.facebook.com/travsoutfitter/		View Edit Delete
2665183	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/14/25, 5:07 AM	1737159155	1749895643	2273		Send message	IMAGE	Chat with us			2.0970056223311E+14	Melt Brownie	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473321091_575209332062606_1702748880707169853_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7JV7WdMx0oAQ7kNvgG260VK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYBqOnhmlY8tQqxVAlnsC24WZ_lrHkrzhvSnhuUwD2GxrA&oe=6790AB17	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🥳 Enter to win a $200 catering event or corporate package from Melt Brownie! Entry is simple 👇 - 1 Entry for sending us a message - 5 Entires for following our Instagram account: themeltbrownie - 1 Entry for each friend you @ in this post 📍Location: 5232 Red Bug Lake Rd, Winter Springs, FL 32708 Giveaway Rules: - USA Only - Winner receives a $200 credit for a catering event or corporate package.	Melt Brownie	536	https://www.facebook.com/themeltbrownie/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665167	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 8:50 AM	1737159153	1749217850	2273	agapepediatricdentistry.com	Learn more	IMAGE	Giveaway \| Agape Pediatric Dentistry \| Peachtree Corners, GA	Join Agape Pediatric Dentistry at Galentine’s Day on February 13th from 5:30-7:30 PM at The Forum in Peachtree Corners. Enter to win gift cards, goodies, and more! Visit agapepediatricdentistry.com to learn more.	https://www.agapepediatricdentistry.com/giveaway	1.0899983852637E+14	Agapepediatricdentistry	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473674913_638308251877756_1620148600239894219_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zPmdeSBzOdMQ7kNvgGum-i3&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYAAIGd7FonBt6fWuNH8Fd7kcPdEh6RVC-2K_0qB1YkbwQ&oe=6790C0EF	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🌸 Galentine’s Giveaway: Enter to Win! 🌸 Join us at The Forum Peachtree Corners on February 13th from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM for a night of fun, treats, and exciting giveaways hosted by Agape Pediatric Dentistry and Dr. Gia S Grannum ✨ How to Enter: 🔍 Scan our QR code to enter online. 📱 Follow us on social media: @agapepediatricdentistry. 🤝 Like and share this post with a friend to spread the word! 🎁 The raffle is open now, and winners will be announced during the event. Don’t miss your chance to win gift cards, goodies, and more! Event Details: 📅 Date: February 13, 2025 ⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM 📍 Location: The Plaza at The Forum 📬 Address: 5185 Peachtree Pkwy, Peachtree Corners, GA Learn more about the event here: https://theforumpeachtree.com/events/galentines-day 💖 Let’s make this Galentine’s Day one to remember! See you there! #GalentinesDay #Giveaway #AgapeLove #PeachtreeCorners #TheForum #HealthySmiles	Agapepediatricdentistry	60	https://www.facebook.com/apapepediatricdentistry/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665201	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 9:58 PM	1737159162	1749783514	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/fleurissentskin	2.4895053830406E+14	Fleurissent Skincare	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473750168_1624286924868512_8369642663439444220_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QGJVOiMHtYkQ7kNvgF2G5Cy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYD_TND4MkMKrl3dQOQHq_rwsH1OLq1CTr9ZxTeZ_1Z1bg&oe=6790DC0B	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Fleurissent Skincare	44	https://www.facebook.com/61557131404254/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665093	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159135	1746806135	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	CAROUSEL	Get Started Now!		https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/458726181_1041301143837429_2931944480091280696_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MWeMp-IKNhsQ7kNvgE4K0HO&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYBFotI06Wka5MIsFWWwlMCJmfQS8-AnloQrJLgM4Er8dw&oe=6790B449	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665219	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159164	1746806135	2273	www.FIREpreneurship.com/successbundle	Sign up	VIDEO	Win $190 Toward Content Marketing Services!	Feel like your life is upside down as you go to work day in and day out? Let us help you turn that around! Sign up and enter now to win $190 toward professional content marketing services when you spend $500. Plus, you'll have access to our FREE Business Success Toolkit, which includes: ✅A FREE Budgeting Spreadsheet ✅A FREE Editorial Calendar ✅A FREE eBook about Outsourcing ✅A FREE eBook about Entrepreneurial Types ✅A FREE Entrepreneurial Type Quiz ✅A FREE Business Ecosystem Template ✅A FREE Business Structure Template ✅A FREE 20 Questions to Freedom PDF	https://www.firepreneurship.com/successbundle	1.0223742150235E+14	FIREpreneurship.com	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473800267_621319800547782_2283352013314300233_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ceSW4XfCcvoQ7kNvgHH4_NH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYBmi8KQY4IJgyQTBJ05MXiGVM_IfbA7yAdQ9XphP7Hx7Q&oe=6790AF86	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Simplify your business and save time! 🎉 Enter our giveaway for a chance to win $190 toward content marketing services when you spend $500. ✅ Video editing. ✅ Graphic design. ✅ Transcription and more! PLUS: Just for signing up, you’ll receive our FREE Business Success Toolkit to help your business grow.	FIREpreneurship.com	53	https://www.facebook.com/firepreneurship/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665047	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159124	1748824533	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C632802F589FF3A5539AACBDB2DB80D0F7DA	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473138545_504353798801076_7657429417300069196_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=DF7qATyaPc4Q7kNvgHvALCA&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYD8sAshkZU_GcTBCbLlJffhm6jOjb879RoYUIPMbNpY7g&oe=6790B0E0	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665212	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159163	1746806135	2273	Opens Instagram	Send message	IMAGE			https://www.instagram.com/	1.010259754533E+14	Buffalo Regenerative Medicine	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473781539_1342453963870419_1066194915094779945_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=uAq_Oz9gFoEQ7kNvgGUysT0&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYBnoWrVIvwV7wCI287UfLelK0TKUQAkCCuhHTSrEo-pJg&oe=6790B057	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🎉✨ GIVEAWAY ALERT! ✨🎉 Get ready to glow, beauties! We’re thrilled to announce our fabulous giveaway where THREE lucky winners will snag a Noon Aesthetics Peel with the amazing Chrissa! 🌟💖 Why are we so excited? Because these peels come with ZERO downtime thanks to their incredible DermShield technology! 🙌✨ Say goodbye to dull skin and hello to a radiant, fresh-faced YOU! To enter: 1️⃣ Like this post ❤️ 2️⃣ Follow us @buffaloregenmed 3️⃣ Tag 2 friends who need a little glow-up in their lives! 👯‍♀️✨ 4️⃣ Add to your story for EXTRA entries! Winners will be announced on January 22nd! Get ready to pamper yourself and shine bright like the star you are! 🌟💫 #Giveaway #NoonAesthetics #GlowUp #SkincareGoals #RadiantSkin #ChrissaMagic #GoodLuck! 🍀💖	Buffalo Regenerative Medicine	114	https://www.facebook.com/buffaloregenmed/	INSTAGRAM_MESSAGE	View Edit Delete
2665108	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 10:31 PM	1737159138	1749526292	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473874054_623647180347433_8707987569317636848_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rJRrozWd8joQ7kNvgFtqRWC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYD4HqEy6lppxww70uGqJlT0iJGna24FgAIAxpRWpIZXrw&oe=6790B626	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665135	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159148	1746806135	2273	1775coffee.com	Learn More	DCO	This is How You Can Win a Cybertruck	{{product.description}}	https://1775coffee.com/pages/cybertruck-giveaway	1.2690540051670E+14	1775 Coffee	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474073410_2625829797614557_6415064470012950385_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hvfaMCoBir8Q7kNvgE7odsz&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYDBTQVIivGkB-LspwSoY_6vGQZgPBE5OTIrxOMyvFx-TA&oe=6790AAA7	PERSON_PROFILE	0	1775 Coffee is where bold flavor meets freedom, and right now we have a "never-been-done-before" contest at 1775. We're giving away a Cybertruck! Every purchase of 1775 coffee automatically enters you to win a Cybertruck. Multiple entries can be entered from multiple purchases. 1775 is unapologetically crushing woke corporate coffee. Give us a try, and get automatically entered with every purchase to win.	1775 Coffee	268	https://www.facebook.com/1775coffeeco/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665112	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 7:01 AM	1737159140	1749729698	2273	maybellineus.jebbit.com	Sign Up	DCO	Maybe It's a Maybelline Giveaway	Enter Now!	https://maybellineus.jebbit.com/vl1jajv8?L=Facebook	20251700747	Maybelline New York	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473683928_969170861216713_2243268897774920673_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=if83yF8dk0oQ7kNvgEwx3PC&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDzM2i-6pmTbNbawyuG_7QSx8hDGjrFD1isQNuTWlM5Fw&oe=6790D789	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Win over $300 in products and merch!	Maybelline New York	34602089	https://www.facebook.com/maybelline/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665157	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/9/25, 10:55 AM	1737159150	1746806136	2273			IMAGE				1.0291811344186E+14	HomePros Cooling & Heating LLC	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473649902_608977065212412_1548512006720627898_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vz9DPqZW8XMQ7kNvgHYKZDW&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCFGt_tLn-YnsFv3zP-98amdNUxRxUQsqTtkuyt15hlow&oe=6790C1BB	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Want a chance to win FREE MONEY? Enter for your chance to win a $50 gift card to a local restaurant in our monthly drawing! When you change your air conditioners filter just follow a few steps for your chance to win: - First, snap a picture changing your filter - Post the picture to Facebook - Tag HomePros Cooling and Heating in your post and give us a like and follow on our page We will be drawing a winner every month! Less than 5 minutes and you can win $50!!! You do not need to be a customer to qualify	HomePros Cooling & Heating LLC	304	https://www.facebook.com/homeprosair/		View Edit Delete
2665070	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 5:00 PM	1737159131	1749506446	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			https://www.instagram.com/_u/vdnsuperstores	1.4211041281751E+15	Vegas Discount Nutrition	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473989843_907905084831455_1695367299337541858_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=grUOqTPT6YAQ7kNvgEnThOK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYB83aotqVnhVZAQ-UiUIP4tvtblD3zB7jEQdsLps1KllQ&oe=6790D3CE	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Vegas Discount Nutrition	17358	https://www.facebook.com/VDNSUPERSTORES/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665103	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/12/25, 6:55 PM	1737159138	1749772518	2273	cinepolisusa.com/aptain-america	Get Showtimes	DCO	CAPTAIN AMERICA IMAX EVENT!	🎟 Get Tickets	https://www.cinepolisusa.com/movies/275210-captain-america-brave-new-world/?utm_source=META&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=captain+america	2.21068947917E+14	Cinépolis	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474006740_2037900809967864_121603161853142833_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UYR55VfsxH8Q7kNvgElcjLM&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDlNpvji-uSO34vZ1no7L2qapu4gnVLIQaolrATVYhYfw&oe=6790C21F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	On Thursday, February 13th, in celebration of it’s opening day, fans can be among the first to see Captain America: Brave New World in IMAX by attending the “Captain America: Brave New World IMAX Fan Event”. Guests attending this event will be able to take home a commemorative collectible coin keychain.	Cinépolis	18980193	https://www.facebook.com/CinepolisUSA/	GET_SHOWTIMES	View Edit Delete
2665171	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	5/30/25, 10:36 PM	1737159154	1748662577	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/pizzaguysofficial	1.064465193891E+14	Pizza Guys	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473800971_1174627034096477_7607205779776492659_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=nyWfImbsi-MQ7kNvgHNlPTK&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAnuj0wJ-VJ68Y3pFCG01cSwm1lyCWYNGxgL-RT9BAobw&oe=6790D822	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Pizza Guys	24840	https://www.facebook.com/pizzaguysofficial/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665224	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 7:42 AM	1737159164	1749818570	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474006373_602112785886154_3935175773391143537_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CguT-u78tY8Q7kNvgFHj3MV&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYCzACSlpln82U0RptyG2t18JlEBdEJi1KxILDrhXE7zEg&oe=6790CCDE	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Enter today to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ car + $50,000 cash up for grabs 💵 🤯	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665058	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 8:02 AM	1737159130	1749819764	2273	windowcleaner.com	Shop Now	DCO	Weekend Giveaway Time!	15 Winners & $6200+ in Prizes	https://windowcleaner.com/pages/contest	22759782977	Window Cleaning Resource	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473703467_588744117457030_5717996904332503221_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fKON2W1v75cQ7kNvgGhWkMH&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYD_I8sy4hmXKTuBnPZaYOhWPiK25N5hnWtUccCffg36ZQ&oe=6790C66F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Feeling lucky? Place an order and be entered to win up to $6200 in prizes! Drop your order number below for an extra entry! See the full list of prizes: https://windowcleaner.com/pages/contest	Window Cleaning Resource	20921	https://www.facebook.com/windowcleaner/	SHOP_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665101	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 6:57 PM	1737159137	1749859053	2273	babylist.com	Learn More	DCO	Limited Time Offer	Start your Babylist registry. Sign up to add any item from any store. Create an account today.	https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/471525021_1115452939650361_80850202759388370_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dmbdJn_fvVAQ7kNvgHIuYZJ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCWwUrQvtljui3YeJa8fYP9HZlsGNeK7CUiMgrd2M2SNg&oe=6790C411	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Enter for a chance to win a $250 Babylist gift card when you sign up for a Babylist registry and start adding your baby's must-haves. No purchase necessary; terms and conditions may apply. *Terms and Conditions -Open to all new registrants in the United States only. -To qualify, users must create a Babylist registry and add items to the registry. -No purchase necessary. -One registry per entrant. -Users will qualify for the drawing for the week in which they signed up -One winner will be chosen weekly from the previous week's registry sign-ups. -Winners will be contacted through email. Winners must respond to that email within 7 days to accept the prize. If the winner does not respond within 7 days, a new winner will be selected. -Upon acceptance, winners will be emailed their e-gift card ($250 value). -Gift cards must be redeemed at babylist.com/store. -Gift cards are not exchangeable for cash or replaceable if lost or stolen.	Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665160	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 6:59 PM	1737159151	1749859193	2273	synisterspeed.com	Sign Up	DCO	Stop Manifesting. Start Winning. 🏎️💸🔥	🚨 Win a Mercedes G-Wagon + $10K or $100K cash. Only 1 winner. Ultra-limited entries. Don’t wait—enter now! 💥	https://synisterspeed.com/pages/enter-live-main-g550-3x?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term={{ad.name}}	3.8458946473598E+14	Synister Speed	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473560713_1277178960241391_1271628776273802950_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=doMSAg4En9IQ7kNvgGY_Dju&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYANlrctQGOpXPLznJlfJUpSAOmT1wugIpQdSDgLRKxpOg&oe=6790C11F	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🚨 STOP SCROLLING. THIS IS HUGE. 🚨 POV: You’re not just dreaming about a G-Wagon… you’re about to own one. And here’s the twist: you pick your prize — G-Wagon plus $10K cash, OR $100K cash instead. 😎 You’ve seen the G-Wagon cruising by, catching everyone’s eye. You’ve imagined it sitting in your driveway and turning heads wherever you go. Now, it's time to make that dream a reality. 💥 And yup — you heard right: we’re sweetening the deal with $10K cash just for fun. 💸 So, what’s it gonna be? The G-Wagon that screams “I’ve arrived,” or the cold hard cash? Either way, you're winning. This isn’t for everyone. This is for the ones who don’t settle, who demand more, and know they deserve it all. 😏 The clock’s ticking... ⏳ 👉 Ultra-limited entries. No time to waste. Enter NOW.	Synister Speed	2112	https://www.facebook.com/61563402209345/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665038	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:39 PM	1737159123	1748824778	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	IMAGE	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C6320FB6B42E3FD98B9D3CE74B1354BE450F	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473152669_926274216238917_301759397458331473_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9JAXia26GXgQ7kNvgGoYm0v&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDa5DB-Kcz-JgIszC8rGk4Xhj2Je-0kAXduI_HwuvieQA&oe=6790D54B	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
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2665041	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159123	1748824525	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C917124135A370B5B6BA053BF550AFC169B9	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473060766_969568675234094_2644024661242294824_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EslER_P6pfgQ7kNvgHT7I86&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYBsBwA8kv55Jgz1aHxVfvIIkUBWxfGZFfosWj9ncTZU9g&oe=6790B6F4	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665037	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159122	1748824532	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	IMAGE	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C917664418B79E47922F38C7F0529A5A2571	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473337093_956356139258702_4840690522189532567_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G8IW6vnb9mMQ7kNvgHIKC2t&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYBzEyeLhc2BdOgG5WZbs-icELXhY4cubtjyjBAMyvqakw&oe=6790A950	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665039	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159123	1748824535	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=D26638236CE9C917CB30C8A47116D64E1C93DF4234BAAF45	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473079396_1569351047034818_4646725308882047497_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=QWBuMpSvcg8Q7kNvgEittWh&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYADix7VwKRemik_lQLrJsiDM7H7wfS7H7QGwC5veABGAw&oe=6790DB0C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665140	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159149	1748824549	2273		Call now	IMAGE	Blessing Bridge Group	Tax preparation, credit building, real estate consulting, and business structuring		4.4285442891023E+14	Blessing Bridge Group	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474132282_1861966161037715_9011382678412209549_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S9yUVAX4n18Q7kNvgGHNkfb&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYBtTwIjFY6PHGwCbf4Qlers3H8c4sVsXEuZiuWcHLBA5g&oe=6790B4E1	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🚨 IT’S OFFICIAL! IRS acceptance begins today. Be in the FIRST refund batch—file with us NOW! 🎁 Grab your FREE Credit Repair eBook and start earning $$$ with our $10K Referral Giveaway! 💸 ¡$6,000 por un hijo! 17 de enero ¡Los reembolsos comienzan el 27 de enero, así que no esperes más! Trae tu último talón de cheque y asegura tu lugar en el primer lote. 💵 ¡Gana $$$ refiriendo a otros y reclama tu eBook de reparación de crédito GRATIS! ¡TRAIGA SU ÚLTIMO TALÓN DE CHEQUE! #tax #taxseason #taxes #houstontexas #houston	Blessing Bridge Group	8	https://www.facebook.com/61566839786131/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665042	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159123	1748824558	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C63279D9AE1C9E5AAF86C18B05F1F1ACD600	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473335000_939951017769546_5479615994961017985_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=mQ85rnJ7T0AQ7kNvgEw-qoy&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDKnNCbVOzv22KMImCWqmf2zzIbMBkebnviX7J36sbbJA&oe=6790BDA4	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665061	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:45 PM	1737159130	1748825160	2273		Call now	VIDEO				1.0800410520232E+15	Old Gin Creek	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473815015_1110639617505107_5256926612643157757_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=na6hbhqq4uwQ7kNvgG4Kr3y&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDJ4g2F0jlJ7yEZFwbvX8HVclOtrZNFPQdLJCpMgtMWxQ&oe=6790BC00	PERSON_PROFILE	0	What are your three favorite things in life? Russ says “his wife, guns, and groceries”….. we have 2 of his most favorite things here at Old Gin Creek! A Gun give away January 31st and groceries galore! We would love to see you at the creek. Have you been to the creek lately?	Old Gin Creek	3972	https://www.facebook.com/oldgincreek/	CALL_NOW	View Edit Delete
2665045	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:47 PM	1737159124	1748825273	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C63251F4396D7164CBA3845EEBAC2AC66132	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473247826_1282670939732539_8332523119961070398_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=c1pYez2T9doQ7kNvgGGlT5u&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYDoGsplZjeI4b3HlPLJq5azuycySIyZCKV1ZZlouEgrOA&oe=6790B1B7	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665169	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/6/25, 6:45 PM	1737159153	1749253501	2273		No button	IMAGE				1.1205287171461E+14	La Mexicana Salsas	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473637415_8983456885024193_5180956021319507740_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=lznSe53l05AQ7kNvgG3Lzdk&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXcgVDd3qnLW3hL1N1ujmMd&oh=00_AYAf7no3tgs5fSd2Z1jpLQ1m-EQ_jUpTbvhvEOOvRqcNww&oe=6790AFAC	PERSON_PROFILE	0	La Mexicana has partnered with Tailgating Challenge for a loaded Big Game Giveaway on 1/31/25. Enter to win: La Mexicana salsa to fill your fridge and custom salsa/chips bowl Monument Grills 4 burner colorful grill 🔥 Newair 126 can beer fridge 🍺 55 inch flat screen TV 📺 Let us know how you'd use this giveaway package and then enter to win by visiting: https://gleam.io/dgoHP/2025-national-homegating-day-giveaway	La Mexicana Salsas	25655	https://www.facebook.com/lamexicanasalsas/	NO_BUTTON	View Edit Delete
2665145	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/5/25, 3:47 AM	1737159150	1749113225	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram Profile	CAROUSEL			http://instagram.com/daisys.guide	3.2070661780225E+14	Daisy's Guide	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473802295_1335732187432729_3176776981834293238_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=UpAmARHA1m0Q7kNvgFd74N6&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYCjUsDHRBAP7Vzpw1QVQaPpQRY36z3mP8pyyCr850_cyg&oe=6790BB18	PERSON_PROFILE	0		Daisy's Guide	23	https://www.facebook.com/61563021244147/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665085	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/14/25, 5:27 AM	1737159134	1749896831	2273	instagram.com	Visit Instagram profile	VIDEO			http://instagram.com/borderwarsofficial	1.6801167322084E+15	BORDERWARS	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473445026_641404664982904_8907512506026587987_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6RkFb_v16IUQ7kNvgFg7nS9&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYA__24K2TTZYTAaFNQNq1_Z3tdsS87w0zElB1OqwcyXqw&oe=6790A9A1	PERSON_PROFILE	0	How to Win a Diezel Pedal 1. Follow @borderwarsofficial and @diezelamps 2. Tag 2 friends in the comment section 3. Repost as a story tagging @borderwarsofficial x-x-x-x Pedal is owned by @vinzgraham , was used on Borderwars new album and is signed by Borderwars. Give away ends 16th of feb 2025 at 11PM pacific time (US) Winner will be announced on feb 28th 2025 at 3PM pacific time (US) on @diezelamps instagram account. Worlwide Give Away. Anybody can participate. International/national shipping will be paid for by Borderwars. Borderwars/diezel amps are not responsible for additional fees (customs etc), lost or damaged item. It is the winner's responsability to figure out the extra cost (customs etc). A new draw will occur if the winner decides not to be sent the pedal due to extra costs. This is a FREE contest. Rules to participate are simple and nothing else is asked from participants. Only the winner will be asked to provide shipping information. If someone contacts someone pretending to be Borderwars or Diezel Amps, DO NOT RESPOND as it will not be us ! #borderwars #diezelamps #giveaway #musicgear #guitar #guitaramp	BORDERWARS	7754	https://www.facebook.com/BORDERWARSmusic/	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	View Edit Delete
2665044	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/1/25, 7:35 PM	1737159124	1748824545	2273	fbweb.moboreader.net	Learn more	VIDEO	Read next chapter👉		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/65282322-fb_contact-enp26_6-1226-core3.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=2030515880733998&exdata=85BE601C7534C6321FB17B19235E4E5AF6DB79F32C18C709	1.0255616611761E+14	Lime novel-E	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473268799_919405936979384_2208959998674379825_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=SeW4s5-qC5cQ7kNvgGLVtpZ&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AxM59ffkm2_BX_wrcEYj_iX&oh=00_AYBS93fbBEQVpifHGqqHDnBVI7KMVWgStVwqFHCJbkxgVg&oe=6790BB2C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	"He finally remembered the woman waiting for him at home, only to face her divorce papers. Confident she'd regret it, he signed. But post-divorce, she blossomed, turning heads everywhere. Defeated, he begged to win her back! ===== In the bustling, weathered heart of Orkset, flames erupted violently within an ancient apartment building. Propelled by gusts of wind, the fire devoured the structure, belching dense smoke and bright, searing tongues of flame. "Saved! They've been saved." The words echoed amidst the chaos. Firefighters emerged from the smoldering inferno, carrying Carrie Campbell to safety at the roadside. Her features, usually refined and expressive, were now smeared with soot; her sparkling eyes dimmed to a vacant gaze, hollow and lost. As reality seeped back into her consciousness, Carrie felt a rush of gratitude overpower her usual composure. Her voice, hoarse and weak, conveyed a profound "thank you" to her rescuers. Shaking, she fumbled for her phone, her fingertips quivering as they found the familiar number. "Hello, the person you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later..." The automated message played after a few rings, leaving her with a lump in her throat, her unvoiced frustrations and sorrow welling up inside her. Bang! With a deafening roar, the explosion abruptly silenced the cold, mechanical voice echoing through the line. Carrie's head snapped upwards, shock painted on her face as she witnessed the apartment she had just exited erupt into flames. Chunks of debris were hurled into the air by the force of the blast, scattering across the sky. Panic engulfed the crowd as survivors, freshly rescued, screamed in terror. They huddled together, seeking solace in each other's arms, their cries piercing the tumultuous scene. In stark contrast, Carrie lay alone on a stretcher, her isolation magnified amidst the chaos. "Kristopher..." Fighting the dread creeping up her spine, Carrie pressed her lips together tightly and dialed her husband's number again, her resolve unwavering. Yet, the call disconnected after a few short rings, leaving her with a haunting silence. Just then, a Twitter notification flickered on her phone screen. The gossip feed was alive with the latest gossip: #LiseNash #MysteriouBoyfriend. According to the tweet, a producer from a well-known variety show had invited the renowned star Lise Nash to a dinner, which had quickly soured when she declined to partake in a toast. This act of defiance had sparked a confrontation, only to be interrupted by Lise's domineering boyfriend. He stormed into the private dining room, dismissing the producer with a dismissive wave and escorting Lise away. The tweet described the scene vividly, painting a picture of a powerful man defending his beloved partner. Yet, perhaps due to his prominence, only the back of the man was visible in the accompanying photos, preserving his anonymity. Meanwhile, Lise, donning an oversized suit jacket, beamed a smile, reaching out to clasp his hand as they departed together. Carrie's eyes were glued to the screen, her stare intense and unblinking as she absorbed the image before her. There he was--Kristopher Norris! The suit jacket draped carelessly over Lise was a dead giveaway. Every piece of clothing Kristopher owned had been meticulously tailored by a master craftsman abroad, a detail Carrie knew all too well. Her grip on her phone tightened, her knuckles blanching to a stark white, as if her very soul were being squeezed by an invisible hand, the pain sharp and acid-like in its intensity. In her most desperate moment, Kristopher had coldly disconnected their call, choosing instead to be at Lise's side. What was the worth of their two-year marriage? The tears she had been holding back now overwhelmed her, streaming down her face. Even as she tilted her head back in a futile attempt to stem the flow, the tears continued to escape. Lise had always been Kristopher's first love, a fact whispered and gossiped about among their circles. The Norris family had never approved of Lise, seeing her ordinary background as unfitting. Forced apart by family pressures, it had been Lise who ended things, but the past, it seemed, was not easily left behind. Kristopher had diligently pursued the leadership of the Norris family, harboring dreams of finally being with Lise. Yet, when he reached his goal, he discovered that Lise had already chosen another. In defiance of his family's expectations and perhaps out of bitterness, Kristopher turned to Carrie, a woman equally devoid of wealth or status, to become Mrs. Norris, thereby blocking any matchmaking attempts by his relatives. At that time, Carrie faced immense pressure from her father, Tristan Campbell, who was pushing her towards a marriage with a playboy, the son of a business associate, to cover her grandmother's steep medical expenses. Both Kristopher and Carrie, driven by their personal motives, consented to a marriage of convenience. Originally set for just one year, their contractual marriage stretched beyond its term, sustained by a shared understanding between them. Over time, Carrie began to believe in the authenticity of their union, never suspecting that it was merely an extension of her hopes. Just moments ago, a fire had nearly claimed Carrie's life. In that critical moment, she reached out to Kristopher, only to be twice rebuffed as he spent his time with Lise. This harsh reality shattered Carrie's illusions, revealing that her perceived transition from pretense to genuine relationship was nothing but a facade maintained by her own desires. Carrie wasn't even a temporary substitute in Kristopher's life but merely a pawn used to spite his family. After a poignant pause, tears welled up in Carrie's eyes, unstoppable and poignant. It might be time for her to release herself from the shackles of her own hopeful delusions--to stop deceiving herself. Chapter 2 Trending Topics The overwhelming number of injuries from the fire was staggering, straining the already frantic doctors and nurses as they tried to provide aid. Carrie had been merely grazed by a splintered clothes rack, which left a deep, jagged wound on her calf. In comparison to the chaos around her, her wounds seemed almost negligible. She managed to get basic care--a brisk cleaning and a quick wrap of bandages--at a local hospital before catching a cab back to her house. Bayview Villa, a grand property under Kristopher's name, was technically their matrimonial residence. Living alone had become the norm for Carrie, as Kristopher was hardly ever around. She had bid farewell to the housekeeper, discovering that her life could be quite adequately maintained with just takeout, deliveries, and the occasional visit from a part-time cleaner. Now, she found herself the sole occupant of the sprawling living room, sinking into the sofa, her gaze drifting across the empty space. The stark, monochrome decor did nothing to imbue warmth into the atmosphere. A chilling realization crept up on her: this vast, elegant space felt more like a colossal tomb, a silent grave for her lost years of youth and a love that had quietly slipped away. In this cold, echoing house, would anyone even notice if her breath ceased one day? Carrie exhaled a weary sigh, her frame heavy as she leaned against the cold wall for support, struggling up the stairs to her bedroom on the second floor. Each step was a battle, sending stabbing pains shooting through her from the surface of her skin down to her aching bones. The house, stark and hollow, echoed even the smallest sounds, magnifying her sense of isolation. It was today, amidst this profound silence, that Carrie truly grasped the all-encompassing nature of her loneliness--it was almost tangible, enveloping her senses with its texture and mournful whispers, tightening around her heart like a vice, producing a dull, relentless ache. Upon reaching the sanctuary of her bedroom, she collapsed onto the bed, the very embodiment of exhaustion, feeling it both physically and spiritually. Just as she surrendered to this weariness, the sharp ring of the phone pierced the silence. "You reached out to me earlier. What do you need?" Kristopher's voice cut through the line, cold and distant as ever. Carrie was caught off guard by his unexpected call. Words failed her as she parted her lips to respond, but before she could collect her thoughts, a soft, feminine voice floated through from the other end. "Kristopher, will you join me to..." A surge of emotions tightened Carrie's grip on the phone, her heart thumping louder with each second. Overwhelmed and unable to contain her rising panic, she demanded, "Who's there with you?" Kristopher gave no answer, merely stating in a flat, disinterested voice, "If there's something you need, let's catch up when I'm back. I have pressing engagements right now, so I must disconnect." He promptly ended the call, cutting off any chance for Carrie to reply. As the harsh beep of the disconnected line filled her ears, Carrie's lips twisted into a rueful grin. How utterly foolish she felt! Deep down, she knew his response all too well, yet she had clung to the hope of hearing his voice confirm it. With a sense of self-inflicted irony, Carrie activated her tablet and scrolled through the day's hot topics. One headline caught her eye: "A female star shielded from harassment at a dinner by her formidable partner." A wry smile twisted her lips. Carrie knew all too well what it was like to face harassment at those kinds of dinners. She vividly remembered her first major audition after her entering the showbiz; her agent had escorted her to a dinner with the influential director and producer of the drama series "Serene Sighs." As a novice in the dizzying world of showbiz, Carrie had felt incredibly vulnerable, uncertain of how to navigate the murky waters of such gatherings. The producer had eyed her shamelessly, sneering as he asked, "Is this the new talent you're introducing? She appears presentable, but I'm curious to see how she fares with a drink. Here's the deal, if you can gulp down this bottle in one go, I'll secure you an audition for the lead role." Carrie was inclined to decline, but under the relentless pressure from her agent, she found herself compelled to consume the entire bottle. As the evening wore on, she was hurriedly taken to the hospital suffering from a severe stomach ailment. Her agent, fretful about the prospect of the role slipping away to another, quickly settled the hospital charges and departed. At that time, Carrie found herself isolated in a hospital bed for several long days. Yet, even before Carrie could be released from the hospital, the media was abuzz with the announcement that Lise had secured the lead role in "Serene Sighs." Subsequently, her agent rebuked Carrie for her lack of ambition, complaining, "You are more appealing than Lise, so why can't you show more drive? She cozied up to Mr. Norris and hardly had to make an effort. She's surrounded by people eager to cater to her every need. I've heard that Mr. Norris personally orchestrated her landing the lead role in this production!" When the show premiered, Lise was catapulted into stardom, swiftly ascending to the elite echelons of the acting world. From that moment forward, Carrie let her acting aspirations wane and chose instead to devote herself entirely to supporting her husband, Kristopher. After all, no matter her efforts, she could never get the same career opportunities that Lise seemed to receive effortlessly with Kristopher's offhand remarks. At that time, Carrie had believed she was filling the role that was meant to be Lise's as Mrs. Norris, which meant she owed Lise. By giving up the career opportunities to Lise, Carrie thought they would settle their unspoken debt. However, Carrie hadn't foreseen that Lise would claim both the coveted career and Kristopher's affections. As Lise's professional and love life blossomed, Carrie came to the painful realization that she had been overly consumed with her romantic pursuits, at the expense of her career, and now, she found herself bereft of both love and professional fulfillment. With tears streaming down her face, Carrie viewed her past two years as tragically misguided. Given another opportunity, she resolved she wouldn't be so unguarded, letting her heart recklessly fall captive to Kristopher's charm. "Ms. Spencer, the new copyright contract is prepared. Please review it for any discrepancies." Her phone buzzed with the alert, snapping Carrie out of her reverie. She gazed at the PDF file attached in the message, her mind briefly overwhelmed. Under the pseudonym Katrina Spencer, Carrie had once made a name for herself as a budding screenwriter, selling numerous scripts in her early days. During her early career as Katrina, Carrie often sold her work for a pittance, compelled by her urgent need for immediate cash. Over the years, these scripts transformed into blockbuster films and hit series, catapulting Katrina's reputation to new heights. By this time, Carrie had married Kristopher and was no longer plagued by the financial woes that had once driven her to desperation--her grandmother's hefty medical bills were a thing of the past. With her financial crises resolved, Carrie's life had pivoted to domestic responsibilities, striving to be an exemplary wife to Kristopher. Amidst these changes, her pseudonym, Katrina Spencer, gradually receded into the background. However, her past as Katrina wasn't ready to be shelved just yet. Recently, an interested buyer had come forward, ready to pay a handsome sum for one of her old scripts. Carrie, however, was hesitant to sell. She raised several concerns about the contract presented to her, and to her astonishment, the buyer was genuine enough to revise it accordingly. Holding the revised contract in her hands, Carrie inhaled deeply, her resolve hardening. She seemed to have reached a crucial decision. Her fingers danced over her phone's keyboard with swift precision, typing out a firm command. "Create a divorce agreement following my terms and ensure it reaches Kristopher Norris at the Norris Group." Without pausing for a response, she placed her phone aside and limped toward the bathroom, each step echoing a blend of determination and newfound independence. Chapter 3 Exchange Of Conveniences Thirty minutes had passed, Carrie finally heaved herself up from the bathtub, her limbs feeling heavy and uncooperative. As she lifted her gaze, her own image in the mirror halted her movements--her skin appeared as smooth and impeccable as fine porcelain, glowing with an unblemished radiance. Her eyes, deep pools of allure, sparkled with an enchanting, soft warmth, inviting anyone who dared meet her gaze. Despite edging into her late twenties at twenty-five, she reveled in the fact that time had yet to etch its marks upon her flawless complexion. Surely, a woman with such a visage had no place for self-pity. Absorbed in her contemplation, Carrie carelessly extended her right leg onto the cold floor, forgetting it was the very limb she had injured. Wrapped excessively in cling film to shield it from moisture, the tight encasement had stifled her circulation, rendering her leg eerily numb. As her foot touched down, it betrayed her, slipping forward unexpectedly. "Ah!" Carrie gasped, her arms flailing in a frantic ballet, searching for a lifeline in the void. Just as she teetered on the brink of a painful rendezvous with the floor, the bathroom door burst open. Kristopher stood at the entrance, his suit immaculately tailored, creating a striking figure. As their eyes locked, he paused, visibly taken aback, then quickly closed the distance with brisk strides. Carrie's breath caught as Kristopher swept her up in a graceful bridal style, an unexpected tightness wrapping around her waist. Caught off guard by his sudden appearance, Carrie realized with a jolt that she was completely bare. A flush of embarrassment washed over her as she instinctively clutched her hands over her chest. This was their first moment of such intimacy since their wedding, and the discomfort made her toes curl inward, her skin blushing a delicate shade of pink. Kristopher looked down at her with a mischievous grin. "Let's be honest, there's not much to see," he teased gently. Feeling both mortified and slightly irritated, Carrie snapped back, "Oh, Mr. Norris, after all you've seen, I suppose nothing can impress you anymore." She carried her C-cup curves with understated charm, a touch of sensuality that outshone Lise's painfully flat, almost awkwardly rigid build. Yet Carrie knew well that without love, even the most perfect physique paled in comparison to the charm of one dearly cherished. Nonchalantly, Kristopher reached for a bathrobe hanging behind the door and draped it over her. His frown deepened at her comment. "What are you talking about, Carrie?" A thought seemed to strike him, and his expression grew even more impatient. "Tell me, did you send those divorce papers in the dead of night just to lure me back here--to catch you completely bare?" His tone was a mix of disbelief and annoyance. "I told you I was swamped with work. Was this dramatic display really necessary?" Carrie's temper flared at his accusatory tone, reigniting the tension between them. He was always so quick to lose patience with her. She wasn't the type to throw around words like divorce or breakups lightly. In fact, this was the first time she'd ever mentioned divorce in their two-year marriage, yet he seemed indifferent to her turmoil. He simply dismissed her concerns as if she were overreacting about trivial matters. Despite the throbbing pain in her leg, Carrie mustered her strength and said, "Put me down." Kristopher, however, paid no heed, his eyes scanning her leg swathed in bandages. His brow furrowed slightly. "What happened to your leg? Is this some elaborate ploy to lure me back?" At his words, a bitter laugh escaped Carrie. It seemed he viewed her as merely seeking attention, and in failing to capture it, she had likely concocted a story to draw him back, allowing her to dramatize her plight in his presence. With a blank face, she replied untruthfully, "It's a beauty treatment that shouldn't get wet." "Why did you suddenly decide to undergo such a treatment?" Kristopher inquired, his tone casual as he carried her outside, not pressing the issue further. His frame was large, and through his thin shirt, she could distinctly feel the warmth of his body and the defined shape of his chest muscles. The closeness created an uncomfortable tension for Carrie, who had resolved to end things once and for all. Her voice climbed involuntarily, sharper this time. "Oh, since when have you been concerned with such minor things, Mr. Norris?" For the first time, Kristopher witnessed her using biting sarcasm; it struck him as peculiarly amusing. With a calm demeanor, he responded, "You're my wife, it's only natural I'd be concerned about your well-being." "Really?" There was a somber note in Carrie's voice now. "It seems like you've never really regarded me as your wife. I'm scared that if I were to die, you wouldn't even know until much later." After all, at that very moment, Kristopher had been distracted, lost in moments with his first love, too consumed to lend an ear to her desperate pleas. Caught off guard by her accusation, Kristopher's eyes widened with surprise before he let out a disbelieving chuckle. "Carrie, what's brought on this sudden outburst of anger? Just because I was tied up this afternoon and missed your call? Perhaps I've been too indulgent with you lately, and it's made you a bit too presumptuous?" Carrie froze, startled. Was he accusing her of being too presumptuous? She realized their marriage had always been lopsided. In his eyes, she was nothing more than a transactional partner, a woman who had bartered her freedom for financial security. Their union was meant to be a mere exchange of conveniences, yet she had, quite foolishly, fallen deeply in love with him. In the tricky terrain of romance, the one who fell first invariably found themselves at a distinct disadvantage. Kristopher's dismissive reaction left Carrie reeling, her emotions dismissed as trifles, a tight knot of suffocation rising in her chest. "I said to put me down this instant!" Carrie exclaimed, jerking her head to the side, her voice laced with a sharp edge of impatience. Kristopher remained mute, effortlessly carrying her towards the bed before suddenly releasing his hold. Carrie felt a jolt as the support vanished, her heart skipping a beat as she instinctively grasped for him. Their bodies collided on the bed, her bathrobe teetering on the brink of decency, threatening to unravel with any minor shift. Propped on one elbow, Kristopher gazed down at her, his lips curled into a sly, teasing grin. "You wanted to be let go, didn't you? So why cling to me now?" His eyes, deep and sparkling like a midnight lake speckled with stars, captivated her. In those celestial depths, Carrie caught a glimpse of her own reflection. At times like this, she was misled into believing he harbored a deep affection. Sadly, his heart was a fortress reserved for Lise, and all Carrie had left were empty fantasies. "Boring!" she exclaimed, her voice devoid of any enthusiasm as she attempted to rise, her hand inadvertently brushing against something unexpected. The following moment brought a noticeable shift in his cock pressing against her stomach. "Don't move, or I can't promise what might happen next," he warned in a deep, gravelly voice. With a frown, Carrie internally cursed upon hearing the statement. It was an undeniable fact. Primal instincts steered the actions of men. Absence of affection didn't quell their basic desires. Yet, she dared not agitate Kristopher. Angling her face away, her body remained rigid, frozen in place. Carrie, feeling irked, shot back. "Didn't you say there's nothing here to see? What's with the reaction now, Mr. Norris? Are you really that easy to impress?" No sooner had her words flown than she grasped the potential repercussions of her sharp tongue. A wave of regret surged through Carrie, but instead of anger, Kristopher responded with a chuckle, "You are my wife, after all. Since that's something I can't alter, I might as well embrace it. Besides, it's been years since we became husband and wife--it would be a shame to neglect you completely." Chapter 4 Are You Out Of Your Mind? Kristopher slipped his hand beneath the folds of her bathrobe, his touch tracing the curve of Carrie's skin, as smooth and delicate as silk. He encircled her slender waist, drawing her closer with a gentle yet firm grip. Her face, a captivating canvas of defiance and visible irritation, ignited in him an uncontrollable urge to claim victory over her resistance. His breathing grew heavy, yet he remained composed, slowly removing his tailored suit. The fabric of his suit brushed lightly against Carrie's cheek, releasing a mix of scents: a familiar woody aroma intertwined with an unexpected zesty twist of lemon. It was unmistakably Jo Malone's Blue Agava and Cacao--Lise's signature scent. A surge of nausea overwhelmed Carrie at the realization. As Kristopher's eyes, now shaded with a stormy intensity, drew nearer to hers, the proximity conjured unwelcome visions of him with Lise. Her stomach churned violently, and with a sudden movement, she pushed him away, propping herself up with a jolt and a dry retch. "Ugh..." Her stomach had been empty all day, leaving her with nothing to bring up. The desire in Kristopher's gaze flickered out, replaced by a cold, detached expression as he withdrew slightly. Observing the genuine distress and the reddening of Carrie's eyes, Kristopher perceived her reaction for outright disgust at their closeness. He paused, fingers adjusting his shirt cuffs, his voice cold as he confronted her. "Carrie, is this reaction reserved only for me, or is it how you respond to all men?" The air in the room turned frosty, thick with tension. Carrie swallowed the sharp sting in her throat, her eyes widening in shock as she stared up at him. Ever since their marriage, she had cut ties with nearly all her male friends, yet here was Kristopher, casually tossing out comments sharp enough to cut glass. The years of love she had poured into their relationship now seemed utterly futile. Heat crept up her neck, coloring her cheeks a bright scarlet as indignation took hold. Without thinking, her hand flew up and delivered a stinging slap across Kristopher's face. All her suppressed grievances from the day ignited in that swift motion. Her bathrobe, loosened in the heat of the moment, slipped from her shoulders. Ignoring the flush of exposure, she swiftly gathered the fabric and draped it around herself, her movements quick and firm. The impact of her slap had left a light, crimson mark on Kristopher's cheek, marking him with her outrage. His eyes, wide with disbelief, met hers. "Carrie, are you out of your mind?" Out of her mind? Yes, she was clearly insane to ever fall for him in the first place. Carrie fumed silently, her heart pounding in her chest. Suddenly, the sharp buzz of the phone on the table cut through the mounting tension, its vibration bringing a brief respite from their standoff. Kristopher cast a fleeting glance at the message, shut off the phone with a snap, and strode towards the door, his back rigid with tension. Her voice, firm and unwavering, chased after him. "We're getting a divorce! Make sure you sign those papers before you walk out that door!" Kristopher paused briefly and said sharply, "I have something to do now. When I return, do whatever pleases you." With that, he forcefully shut the door. Carrie's eyes followed his unwavering exit, feeling an oppressive weight compressing her chest once again. She disregarded the sharp sting in her leg and hobbled determinedly toward her tablet. Fingers trembling, she hastily navigated to Lise's Twitter page. Lise had just uploaded a new tweet. The photo showed her lying down with a fever patch adhered to her forehead, still enveloped in Kristopher's familiar jacket. The caption read, "Being sick makes me extra clingy. Wishing I had someone here. Stay cozy and take care, everyone!" The simultaneous timing of these two events made it almost impossible for Carrie not to suspect that Kristopher had dashed off to tend to Lise. Carrie's instincts loudly proclaimed that this was no accident; Lise had deliberately sought to tug at Kristopher's heartstrings. It appeared her tactics were effective. Not even Carrie's stark threat of divorce could overshadow Lise's theatrical display of vulnerability. Seething with fury, Carrie quaked like a leaf swept into a storm. She steeled herself against the heartache, forcefully ripping the plastic wrap from her aching leg. After her lengthy soak, the bath's lingering moisture had infiltrated her skin, inflaming the wound until it was a vivid, angry red and painfully swollen. She, too, could be clingy. Even in the harshest times back in the county, she had shown vulnerability, breaking down into soft sobs within the comforting arms of her grandmother, especially that one time she got burned by the scalding kettle. But such vulnerability had its time and place, and it wasn't now. The stark reality of Kristopher's exit forced Carrie to confront her need for self-reliance. Biting down hard on her lip, Carrie cleaned the throbbing wound with a practiced hand before securely wrapping it anew. She rose with a newfound resolve and yanked a black suitcase from the far end of her expansive walk-in closet--it held all the belongings she'd brought into this house as a hopeful bride. She grabbed a fresh set of clothes to slip into and left a bank card neatly on the bedside table. She had transferred every penny she'd earned over the past year onto that card, effectively settling her financial entanglements with Kristopher over the last two years and cutting him out of her life for good. Dragging the heavy suitcase behind her, she limped painfully out of the opulent villa. As she passed through the gate, she wrapped her baseball jacket more tightly around her slight figure, her silhouette hauntingly solitary in the enveloping darkness. The night air of early spring was bitingly cold, devoid of any trace of warmth, a chill that seemed almost faint compared to the ice forming in Carrie's shattered heart. She had arrived here with nothing but a suitcase and a heart full of dreams, and now she was leaving, dreams crumbled, utterly alone. A bitter laugh slipped through her lips. If only she hadn't fallen so hard for him, if only she'd proposed an amicable separation at the end of their agreed year, maybe she wouldn't be wandering now, a lost soul in the shadow of her former self. Lise didn't have to lift a finger, and Carrie had already fallen, utterly broken and beyond redemption. Chapter 5 A Gathering Meanwhile, in the Oasis Club, renowned as the priciest spot in Orkset, the air within the VIP room crackled with excitement. Under the spell of bright lights and thumping music, a diverse group of men and women lounged together, basking in the exclusivity of the setting. Suddenly, the door burst open, revealing Kristopher in the doorway. The karaoke session halted abruptly as the crowd turned to greet him in unison, voices mingling. "Kristopher..." Before they could utter another word, a woman cloaked from head to toe stepped out from behind him. Lise, with a fluid motion, removed her mask and slid her arm through Kristopher's. She addressed the room with a poised charm. "My assistant took a sudden leave, and I found myself without company. Not keen on spending the evening alone, I invited Kristopher to join me. I trust that's alright?" Lise's beauty was without question. Her face was a delicate composition of cherry lips and a sculpted nose, framed by eyes that shimmered with a vulnerable allure, commanding a protective fervor from those around her--her presence, ethereal. In contrast, Carrie's features were more pronounced, her beauty vivid and striking. Lise, by comparison, carried a softer, more understated elegance. Yet, as it often goes, matters of the heart followed no simple paths. While Kristopher and Carrie were married, it was in name only; Kristopher seemed detached and seldom included her in private social events. The group didn't have much of a relationship with Carrie, leading them to feel no obligation to defend her. Upon hearing Lise's comment, a moment of discomfort rippled through the air. Nonetheless, they quickly recovered, offering a congenial smile as they said, "We're all friends here; let's not bother with formalities." Lise offered a subtle, knowing smile, as she gracefully accompanied Kristopher into the bustling room. The event that evening had been meticulously planned to express appreciation for Kristopher's contributions. As they stepped into the room, the crowd parted like the sea, making way for them to proceed to the seats of honor. The group's leader handed Kristopher a glass of wine with a flourish, proclaiming with a broad grin, "We truly owe you a debt of gratitude, Mr. Norris! Your exceptional talents are the talk of the town, and witnessing them firsthand today only confirms it. Without your expertise, securing this contract would have been a fantasy!" Their gathering marked the launch of a novel shopping platform, one that had been in negotiation with numerous local brands in Orkset. But the scenario changed dramatically when the tech giant JoyBuy dramatically entered the scene, stirring up the competitive landscape. Competing with JoyBuy was akin to the classic David versus Goliath tale--hopelessly daunting. In a surge of desperation, they turned to Kristopher, reaching out through a network of connections for his renowned strategic prowess. With his characteristic swiftness, Kristopher hatched an ingenious plan and swiftly secured the deal, snatching it from the clutches of JoyBuy right before the business association could ink their agreement--a masterful coup that reverberated success. This remarkable turnaround only intensified the already deep respect everyone held for Kristopher. Albin Murray, beaming with pride, couldn't help but boast, "Ah, just look at the caliber of his friends! They thought they could steal deals right under our noses, obviously underestimating Kristopher's clout!" Albin, born into the wealthy Murray family, counted himself among Kristopher's closest friends. He was renowned for his sprawling social web--a network through which the desperate plea for help was channeled to Kristopher. Meanwhile, Kristopher himself, the focus of all their discussions, reclined nonchalantly on the couch, bathed in the soft glow of the overhead lights. He was well-versed in the art of receiving compliments; thus, his expression stayed calm and detached. The ambient light sculpted his angular features, casting dramatic shadows that emphasized his high nose bridge and sharply cut jawline, as though he were a living masterpiece. His natural grace and detachment eclipsed any terrestrial magnificence. Following a sequence of celebratory toasts, when it became apparent that Kristopher merely touched his glass without truly drinking, the rest of the company toned down their conversation, allowing him a moment of repose with his eyes gently shut. Lise, slightly feverish, opted not to indulge in the spirits, choosing instead to sit in serene silence next to Kristopher, her eyes lingering on him with a look of deep, unmistakable adoration. Albin, captivated by the seemingly perfect pair, pondered the whims of destiny. He discreetly captured their image with his smartphone and nonchalantly shared it across his social networks. As the evening progressed and the liquor dwindled, the room's door swung open anew. Kristopher's personal assistant, Oliver Brooks, made his entrance, acknowledging the gathering with a courteous nod that bordered on respect but avoided groveling, swiftly positioning himself in front of Kristopher. Silence hung in the air, yet Lise, unable to contain her curiosity, leaned in and whispered, "What's going on?" Oliver, maintaining his focus on Kristopher, chose not to respond directly to her. A flush of embarrassment tinted Lise's cheeks as she turned towards Kristopher, hesitatingly inquiring, "Should I leave?" Kristopher adjusted his posture, his voice low and calm as he instructed, "Go ahead, speak." A shiver of apprehension coursed through Oliver as he tentatively began, "Mr. Norris, Mrs. Norris has departed from Bayview Villa, and..." &9&	Lime novel-E	254	https://www.facebook.com/100090637249756/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665226	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 9:46 AM	1737159165	1749825999	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/474108042_637104025326701_5458354823775825010_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=aeYXPYe2j7QQ7kNvgHwHmGD&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYAbGVCuvgFk9Rjft2tFGQdQoMfP_WUhbM1XfBZno0ObIw&oe=6790C388	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Get 4X entries to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ 1200+ HP Chevelle and $50,000 cash 🔑 💵	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665123	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/9/25, 1:17 AM	1737159146	1749449853	2273		Send message	MULTI_IMAGES				4.5651174421802E+14	The Venue at Meadows	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473992504_566699912875401_820519894682091274_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qcYjnl4OFHEQ7kNvgF8vd71&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYDrTPvHMwDXuXmi7msloN5BYTy9k72cxliNCZ_HSJNuew&oe=6790C7DA	PERSON_PROFILE	0	The SECOND WEEK of contesting with our SIX Semi-Finalist Couples has wrapped up! And while a few couples have swapped ranks, Couple #3, Sara & Kris stay in the lead! Do you have a favorite couple?!???? Tell us! Watch (live on each station's Facebook page) and listen to keep up! The top three couples will proceed to the fan-voting portion, and YOU will determine who wins Vows at The Venue : The Ultimate Wedding Giveaway 2025! The Up Side with Josh & Them My 100.1 New Country 102.9 None of this would be possible without the incredible partners we have throughout Branson! If you're making wedding plans, we know exactly who you need to book: Touch of Class, Tiers by Stephanie, Cater the Ozarks, Rosewood Floral, Branson Party Rentals, Canote Films, Mega Events / Kolmega Kolblooded, Iva & Jude Photography, Cait Coordinates, Kaleidoscope Adventures, Central Bank of Branson & Rick Koenig / Strength Sertified.	The Venue at Meadows	128	https://www.facebook.com/thevenueatmeadows/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete
2665221	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/13/25, 11:15 PM	1737159164	1749874505	2273	restomods.com	Sign up	VIDEO	'69 Chevelle Giveaway	click 'sign up' for specs	https://restomods.com/for-sale/sweepstakes/order?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign={{campaign.name}}&utm_content={{adset.name}}&utm_term=dpl_fb&utm_creative={{ad.name}}	6.0055805664515E+14	Restomods	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473710078_594332289880674_247427988640107367_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EGqe-TP9yrgQ7kNvgFtnx4W&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&_nc_gid=AXtIuzmKAlV-R1VvPSME8gd&oh=00_AYAD5iBgBXdyIr_Q_Z34PjkDNf62bnG1eup4npQVOpQ5Bw&oe=6790AE7C	PERSON_PROFILE	0	🏁 Enter today to WIN this '69 Chevelle 🏁 ✔ spend $1 get 4 entries 🎟️🎟️🎟️🎟️ (limited) ✔ car + $50,000 cash up for grabs 💵 🤯	Restomods	338931	https://www.facebook.com/RestoModsMedia/	SIGN_UP	View Edit Delete
2665099	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:33 PM	1737159136	1749000823	2273	babylist.com	Learn more	IMAGE	Limited Time Offer	Start your Babylist registry. Sign up to add any item from any store. Create an account today.	https://www.babylist.com/registry/new	1.8626846807611E+14	Babylist	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/453506545_1022914556139647_1492550990572064223_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=BuNPeqJ7pacQ7kNvgEcNZxl&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AOLfzcUtTqox6Aci_FIIO_s&oh=00_AYCoMu9I3eSzNwiPDjTm_wnMMX86ewP5M1Uq8z1dYXWDPw&oe=6790C351	PERSON_PROFILE	0	Enter for a chance to win a $250 Babylist gift card when you sign up for a Babylist registry and start adding your baby's must-haves. No purchase necessary; terms and conditions may apply. *Terms and Conditions -Open to all new registrants in the United States only. -To qualify, users must create a Babylist registry and add items to the registry. -No purchase necessary. -One registry per entrant. -Users will qualify for the drawing for the week in which they signed up -One winner will be chosen weekly from the previous week's registry sign-ups. -Winners will be contacted through email. Winners must respond to that email within 7 days to accept the prize. If the winner does not respond within 7 days, a new winner will be selected. -Upon acceptance, winners will be emailed their e-gift card ($250 value). -Gift cards must be redeemed at babylist.com/store. -Gift cards are not exchangeable for cash or replaceable if lost or stolen.	Babylist	311333	https://www.facebook.com/babylist/	LEARN_MORE	View Edit Delete
2665137	1	active	1/17/25, 6:12 PM	6/3/25, 8:33 PM	1737159149	1749000828	2273		Send message	VIDEO				3.1340535519229E+14	Final Touch Tattoo	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/473621858_9172040172888363_3168213515740646897_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gIfP4b8_TbcQ7kNvgGb69cc&_nc_zt=14&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&_nc_gid=AWY_2_Kg8CpWQF67o_aOq-X&oh=00_AYD-cG32Mq_G_yWaBGGI6gM6-VcRw45uUBAnRCT1R5EYzA&oe=6790C6BC	PERSON_PROFILE	0	CUSTOMER APPRECIATION GIVEAWAY HOW TO WIN: 1. Make sure you're subbed to all platforms 2. Share this post and tag 3 friends 3. Be a customer of any of our services between Dec 24th-March 24th. This will be a random drawing of our customer list between the window. Requirement 1 & 2 will be vetted before announcing a winner. Just like the last two giveaways, we will announce the winner the day after the giveaway window ends. With the best collection of artists, the best client experience in Texas, and constant giveaways for our clients, why go anywhere else? (Yes, our piercer WAS harmed in the making of this video. Come get a piercing, she has medical bills) (Kidding) #sanantonio #Giveaway #freetattoo #sweepstakes #fortsamhouston #lacklandafb #militarydiscount #Spurs	Final Touch Tattoo	1590	https://www.facebook.com/61559178578965/	MESSAGE_PAGE	View Edit Delete

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